and
agitated whenever poison approaches; and when Diafer came near me, the
bracelet was very nigh breaking, the poison which he bore had so much
strength and violence. Had he not been recommended by you, his head
should have been struck off that moment. I was the more certain that
Diafer bore that dangerous poison, as my bracelet remained immovable
immediately after his leaving the hall where I gave audience."

Nourgehan loosed it from his arm, and gave it to Damake. She examined
it with great attention, and said to him, "This talisman, my lord, is
doubtless very wonderful; yet this adventure ought to prove to you how
much those who have the sovereign power are obliged to be upon their
guard against appearances, and of what consequence it is for them not
to give judgment rashly."

Damake retired, and Nourgehan commanded the greatest pomp and the most
splendid train to conduct Diafer the next day to an audience. This
order was executed. Nourgehan received him with the utmost affability,
and testified the greatest regret for what had passed. Then there was
presented to him, by the Sultan's command, a standish of gold, a pen
and paper. Immediately he wrote in the most beautiful characters
sublime sentences upon the manner in which a Vizier ought to fulfil
the duties of his important post. Nourgehan admired his talents, made
him clothe himself in the robe of a Vizier, and, to crown his
goodness, confided to him the secret of his bracelet. Diafer
strenuously advised that Prince never to part with it; and in his
admiration, and the pleasure he felt at possessing so great a
treasure, he asked his new Vizier if he believed that through the
whole world there could be found anything so curious.

"Great Prince," replied Diafer to him, "I have seen in the city of
Dioul another miracle of nature, less useful, indeed, but which for
the strength of art and learning with which a sage has composed it,
may be compared to this."

"What is it?" returned Nourgehan. "I should be glad to be informed of
it."

Then Diafer spoke thus:

"When I had received your Majesty's command to repair to your
presence, I departed at once, but was obliged to make some stay at
Dioul, through which I passed in my way to Visiapour, where I knew I
might join your Majesty. Notwithstanding my impatience, I was obliged
to collect several things which were necessary for my journey, and
made use of that time to view the beauties of the city. The Governor,
who