That
false and wicked magician would not have undertaken so long a journey
to secure this wonderful lamp if he had not known its value to exceed
that of gold and silver. And since we have honestly come by it, let us
make a profitable use of it, without making any great show and
exciting the envy and jealousy of our neighbors. However, since the
genies frighten you so much, I will take it out of your sight, and put
it where I may find it when I want it. The ring I cannot resolve to
part with; for without that you had never seen me again; and though I
am alive now, perhaps, if it were gone, I might not be so some moments
hence. Therefore I hope you will give me leave to keep it, and to wear
it always on my finger."
Aladdin's mother replied that he might do what he pleased; for her
part, she would have nothing to do with genies, and never say anything
more about them.
By the next night they had eaten all the provisions the genie had
brought; and the next day Aladdin, who could not bear the thought of
hunger, putting one of the silver dishes under his vest, went out
early to sell it. Addressing himself to a Jew whom he met in the
streets, he took him aside, and pulling out the plate, asked him if he
would buy it.
The cunning Jew took the dish, examined it, and as soon as he found
that it was good silver, asked Aladdin at how much he valued it.
Aladdin, who had never been used to such traffic, told him he would
trust to his judgment and honor.
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