The Fourth Voyage of Sindbad the Sailor - Page 3

Author: Laurence Housman

As day followed day and time drew on I had cause to rejoice at my arrival in that city, for I found favour with the King, and he magnified me over his people and his great men.

I was yet to learn that he had a further favour in store. One day, while I was sitting at his right hand discussing affairs of state, he looked at me intently and said, "I would marry thee to a woman of high rank among us - one possessed of great beauty and wealth - so that thou mayest continue to dwell with us in pleasure and comfort and with a good heart. Thus shalt thou advantage greatly and receive every good thing at my hands; wherefore, refuse me not, nor oppose my wish."

I remained silent, for I was overwhelmed by his proposal and the stress of bashfulness it brought to my face.

Seeing this, he rallied me and said, "Art thou dumb? Is not thy heart with us ?"

Then of a sudden I replied, "O King! Thy words took away my breath. As thou commandest, so I obey."

Pleased at my compliance the King immediately ordered his officials to bring the lady and the witnesses, and forthwith I was married to her with the King's blessing and the acclamation of all his Court. She was of surpassing loveliness, and she brought me a dowry of abundant wealth and possessions. But there is no strength nor power but in God, and He orders the fates of men as He will. On an evil day a great fear suddenly came to me by reason of a thing which I will make known to you.