nd
vizier, who was much mortified to see them preferred before him.

When the emperor entered his capital, the eyes of the people, who
stood in crowds in the streets, were fixed upon the two Princes Bahman
and Perviz; and they were earnest to know who they might be,
whether foreigners or natives, and many wished that the emperor had
been blessed with two such handsome princes.

[Illustration: _He presently discovered a gold box, about a foot
square, which he gave into the princess's hands Page 147_]

The first thing that the emperor did when he arrived at his palace was
to conduct the princes into the principal apartments. With due
discrimination, like persons conversant in such matters, they praised
the beauty and symmetry of the rooms, and the richness of the
furniture and ornaments. Afterward, a magnificent repast was served
up, and the emperor made them sit with him, and was so much pleased
with the wit, judgment, and discernment shown by the two princes that
he said, "Were these my own children, and I had improved their talents
by suitable education, they could not have been more accomplished or
better informed."

When night approached, the two princes prostrated themselves at the
emperor's feet; and having thanked him for the favors he had heaped
upon them, asked his permission to retire, which was granted by the
emperor.

Before they went out of the emperor's presence, Prince Bahman said,
"Sire, may we presume to request that you will do us and our sister
the honor to visit us the first time you take the diversion of hunting
in that neighborhood? Our house is not worthy your presence; but
monarchs sometimes have vouchsafed to take shelter in a cottage."

"My children," replied the emperor, "your house cannot be otherwise
than beautiful, and worthy of its owners. I will call and see it with
pleasure, which will be the greater for having for my hosts you and
your sister, who is already dear to me from the accounts you give me
of the rare qualities with which she is endowed; and this
satisfaction I will defer no longer than to-morrow. Early in the
morning I will be at the place where I shall never forget that I first
saw you. Meet me, and you shall be my guides."

When the Princes Bahman and Perviz had returned home they gave the
princess an account of the distinguished reception the emperor had
accorded them, and told her that he would call at their house the next
day.

"If it be so," replied the princes