After that you are at liberty to return. But you
must go; for you know it would be indecent, and not suitable to my
dignity, to be indebted to the king of that island.' Perceiving
that the caliph insisted upon it, I submitted, and told him that I
was willing to obey. He was very well pleased at it, and ordered me
a thousand sequins for the expense of my journey.
I prepared for my departure in a few days, and as soon as the
caliph's letter and present were delivered to me, I went to
Balsora, where I embarked, and had a very happy voyage. I arrived
at the Isle of Serendib, where I acquainted the king's ministers
with my commission, and prayed them to get me speedy audience. They
did so, and I was conducted to the palace in an honourable manner,
where I saluted the king by prostration, according to custom. That
prince knew me immediately, and testified very great joy to see me.
'O Sinbad,' said he, 'you are welcome; I swear to you I have many
times thought of you since you went hence; I bless the day upon
which we see one another once more.' I made my compliment to him,
and after having thanked him for his kindness to me, I delivered
the caliph's letter and present, which he received with all
imaginable satisfaction.
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