."

The executioner, having withdrawn by the King's order, Aladin
fulfilled the engagement he had come under in the following terms:

[Illustration]

THE HISTORY OF ILLAGE MAHOMET AND HIS SONS.

There was, in the city of Naka in Tartary, a merchant, whose name was
Illage Mahomet, who, wishing to extend his commerce to the most remote
boundaries of the world, constructed a vessel in such a manner as to
be able to endure the longest voyage and carry a considerable burden.
When this ship was ready to go to sea, he filled it with merchandise;
and observing that the wind was favourable, he took leave of his wife,
embraced his three children, went on board, and sailed with a fair
wind for the Indies.

A fortunate voyage having, in a short time, brought him to the port of
the capital of India, he took lodgings, and placed his merchandise in
the _kan_. Quite at ease respecting the fate of his effects, he then
visited the different quarters of the city, accompanied by four
slaves, and soon entered into friendship with the most celebrated
merchants of the place. As his attendants had orders to publish the
nature of his merchandise, and to distribute patterns of them, a crowd
of purchasers resorted to his magazines.

The King of India was accustomed to come out of his palace in order to
walk through the town, and inform himself of what was going on there,
under a disguise which rendered it impossible he should be known.
Chance having directed his steps to the neighbourhood of the _kan_, he
was anxious to know what drew everybody there. He saw this foreign
merchant, whom a happy and engaging physiognomy, with a gracious
address, announced in a very favourable manner. He heard him answer,
with good breeding and perspicuity, the questions that were put to
him, and saw him conduct his affairs with an openness which gained the
confidence of all. He was desirous of having some conversation with
him; but the fear of being discovered made him renounce his design for
the present. He returned to his palace as quickly as he could, resumed
the dress which became his dignity, and sent for this honourable
merchant. The merchant quickly obeyed the will of the monarch. He was
admitted into his presence, and the King expressed his desire to be
acquainted with him.

"Sire," replied the merchant, "I was born and established in Naka,
near Mount Caucasus. Commerce is my profession. The favour and liberty
which your Majesty grants it have