Page 291 - Bulbul Hezar

The sultan no sooner spoke for them, but the musicians, who
had orders to attend, entered, and answered very well the

expectations the princes had entertained of their abilities. After
the concert, an extraordinary play was acted, and the
entertainment was concluded by some excellent dancers, both
men and women.
The two princes seeing night draw on apace, prostrated
themselves at the sultan's feet, and having first thanked him for
the favours and honours they had received, asked his leave to

retire; which was granted them by the sultan, who said, I give
you my leave to go; but remember, I brought you to my palace
myself to shew you the way, and the oftener you come, the
welcome you shall be, and you will do me the greater pleasure.
Before they went out of the sultan's presence, Prince Bahman
said, Sir, shall we be so bold as to beg of your majesty to do us
and our sister the favour, next time you pass near our house a-
hunting, to call to rest and refresh yourself after your fatigue? It
is not worthy your presence; but monarchs sometimes have

vouchsafed to take shelter in a hut. Gentlemen, replied the
sultan, your house cannot be otherwise than beautiful, and
worthy of you. I will call and see it with pleasure, which will be
the greater, to have you and your fair sister to be my hosts,
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