After this he
increased his assiduities, caressed him in the most engaging manner,
made him some small presents, and often asked him to dine and sup with
him, when he treated him very handsomely.
Ali Baba's son did not choose to lie under such obligation to Cogia
Houssain; but was so much straitened for want of room in his house
that he could not entertain him. He therefore acquainted his father,
Ali Baba, with his wish to invite him in return.
Ali Baba with great pleasure took the treat upon himself. "Son," said
he, "to-morrow being Friday, which is a day that the shops of such
great merchants as Cogia Houssain and yourself are shut, get him to
accompany you, and as you pass by my door, call in. I will go and
order Morgiana to provide a supper."
The next day Ali Baba's son and Cogia Houssain met by appointment,
took their walk, and as they returned, Ali Baba's son led Cogia
Houssain through the street where his father lived, and when they came
to the house, stopped and knocked at the door.
"This, sir," said he, "is my father's house, who, from the account I
have given him of your friendship, charged me to procure him the honor
of your acquaintance; and I desire you to add this pleasure to those
for which I am already indebted to you."
Though it was the sole aim of Cogia Houssain to introduce himself into
Ali Baba's house, that he might kill him without hazarding his own
life or making any noise, yet he excused himself, and offered to take
his leave; but a slave having opened the door, Ali Baba's son took him
obligingly by the hand, and, in a manner, forced him in.
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