Page:Fairy tales from the Arabian nights.djvu/320

 The sultan, contrary to his usual custom, did not hunt long that day. Presuming that the princes possessed brains equal to their courage and bravery, he longed with impatience to converse with them more at liberty, and make them ride on each side of him. When the sultan entered his capital, the eyes of the people, who stood in crowds in the streets, were fixed only upon the two princes Bahman and Perviz; and they were anxious to know who they were, whether foreigners or natives.

All, however, agreed in wishing that the sultan had been blessed with two such handsome lovely princes, and said, 'He might have had children just their age, if he had been more fortunate.'

The first thing that the sultan did when he arrived was to show the princes over his palace. Afterwards a magnificent repast was served up, and the sultan made them sit at the same table with him, which they at first refused, but finding that it was his wish, they obeyed. The sultan was a clever and learned man; but in whatever direction he turned the conversation, they showed so much judgment and discernment, that he was struck with admiration. 'Were these my own children,' said he to himself, 'and I had improved their talents by suitable education, they could not have been better informed.' In fact, he took such pleasure in their conversation that, after having sat at table longer than usual, he went into his private room, where he talked a long time with them, a concert following, and then dancing. Seeing night drawing on apace, the two princes prostrated themselves at the sultan's feet; and having first thanked him for the favours and honours he had heaped on them, asked his leave to retire, which was granted them by the sultan, who, however, said, 'Remember I brought you to the palace myself only to show you the way; you will always be welcome, and the oftener you come the greater pleasure you will do me.'

Before they went out of the sultan's presence. Prince Bahman said, 'Sir, may we presume to request that your majesty will do us and our sister the favour to pass by our house, and rest and refresh yourself, the first time you go hunting in our neighbourhood? ' It is not worthy of your presence; but monarchs sometimes have condescended to take shelter in a cottage.'