in the monarch's heart in favour of his new page. He
never saw him without feeling emotions which he could by no means
account for. He always wished to have him with him; and that which at
first appeared no more than a rising inclination, soon became a very
warm attachment. An interest which he felt very strongly made him
regard with pleasure the progress both of the young Aladin's mind and
body. He admired his application, prudence, discretion, and fidelity,
and already considered his rare virtues as the fruit of his cares.

After long experience of his abilities and activity, he went so far as
to trust him with the superintendence of his finances, and deprived
his Viziers of an administration in which he suspected them. In short,
he decided every affair of importance, by submitting it to the
sagacity of the young Aladin. The confidence of the Sovereign was not
misplaced. The more he trusted the reason and wisdom of his favourite,
the more the happiness of his people, the prosperity of the realm, and
his revenues were increased. His confidence in a short time knew no
bounds. Aladin became as dear to his father as if he had known himself
to be so in reality, and the influence of the Viziers was lost in that
of the young minister.

Jealous of a power which they had lost, the ten Viziers assembled in
secret for the purpose of contriving the means of gratifying their
ambition and their avarice. They determined, at any rate, to hasten
the ruin of their hated rival; and, unfortunately, he himself seemed
to furnish a favourable opportunity for this purpose.

A grand entertainment was given in the palace. Aladin was naturally
sober; but, while he sought only to participate in the pleasure of the
guests, he indulged himself in drink, with so much the greater
security that he was not accustomed to it, and was ignorant of its
effects. At the end of the repast he wanted to retire to his own
apartment. He staggered, his eyes grew dim, and he lost the use of his
senses. The first apartment which came in his way seemed to be made
ready for him. It was a very rich one, and lighted by a great number
of wax candles set in lustres. But Aladin saw nothing; he only sought
repose, and having found a sofa, he threw himself upon it and fell
asleep.

There were no slaves there to inform him of his mistake. They were
enjoying the feast, and only returned to the apartment, which they had
left open, to fill the pots with perfumes, and prepare