Page:Jewish Fairy Book (Gerald Friedlander).djvu/115

Rh wife. I hope it will be your daughter. Have I your consent?"

"What is the name of your father's kingdom, and what is your own name?"

"I am called Prince Daring and my father's realm is called the Kingdom of Delight; it is situated far away beyond the hills, across the sea. Probably in such a small kingdom as this your Majesty has never heard of this realm. Do not your subjects say, 'The proof of the pudding is in the eating'? Here I am, at all events, and you can judge what sort of Prince I am. Your own eyes shall have abundant proof as to my enormous wealth. I imagine your experience tells you that you can recognize in me the exterior of a Prince the like of whom you have rarely seen at your court. Kindly tell me now whether I am acceptable to your Majesty as a future son-in-law."

"I will give my decision when I have seen your treasures."

"Will your Majesty accompany me now to my rooms?"

"We will go at once."

The King went with the Prince to his lodging, which was in one of the best hotels in the city. The King was astounded to see in one of the rooms more gold, silver, jewels, and precious material than he had ever seen in all his life.

"Well, I never," observed the King, "expected to see such wealth and treasure; you must be a