Page:The Book of the Thousand Nights and One Night, Vol 7.djvu/65

47 who survived of the inhabitants of the city, (and they were Muslims), and made them swear fealty to him; after which she and her company took leave of him and returned to their own city. The townsfolk came out to meet them, with drums beating, and decorated the city three days and held high festival, of the greatness of their joy for the return of their king.

After this Bedr said to his mother, ‘O my mother, there remains but that I marry and we be all united.’ ‘Thou sayst well, O my son,’ answered she; ‘but wait till we enquire who befitteth thee among the daughters of the kings.’ And his grandmother and the daughters of his uncle all said, ‘O Bedr, we will help thee to thy wish forthright.’ Then each of them arose and went forth a-questing in the lands, whilst Julnar sent out her waiting-women on the backs of Afrits, bidding them leave not a city nor a king’s palace, without noting all the handsome girls that were therein. But, when Bedr saw their endeavour in the matter, he said to Julnar, ‘O my mother, leave this thing, for none will content me but Jauhereh, daughter of King Es Semendel; for that she is indeed a jewel, according to her name.’ ‘I know that which thou seekest,’ replied Julnar and sent forthright to fetch King Es Semendel. As soon as he was present, she sent for Bedr and acquainted him with the king’s coming, whereupon he went in to him.

When Es Semendel was aware of his presence, he rose to him and saluted him and bade him welcome; and Bedr demanded of him his daughter in marriage. ‘She is thine handmaid and at thy service and disposition,’ replied the king and despatched some of his officers to fetch her. So they flew up into the air and returned, after awhile, with the princess, who, as soon as she saw her father, went up to him and embraced him. Then said he to her, ‘Know,