Page 285 - Bulbul Hezar

he next morning, the princes met the sultan a-hunting,
who, when he came near enough to them to be heard, asked
them if they had remembered to speak to their sister? and was
answered by Prince Bahman, Sir, your majesty may dispose of
us as you please; we are ready to obey you; for we have not only
obtained our sister's consent with a great deal of ease, but she

took it amiss that we should pay her that deference in a matter
wherein our duty to your majesty was concerned: but you are
so good, that if we have offended, we hope you will pardon us.
Do not be uneasy upon that account, replied the sultan; I am so
far from taking what you have done amiss, that I approve of it,
and hope you will have the same deference and attachment to
my person, for the little share I have in your friendship. The
princes, confounded at the sultan's goodness, returned no other
answer but by a low bow, to shew the great respect with which

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