prophesied to me, in my earliest youth, by a wise woman, that a
stork would bring me great good luck; and perhaps I can tell in what
manner we may deliver ourselves."

The caliph was much amazed, and asked in what manner she meant. "The
enchanter," said she, "who has rendered us both unhappy, comes once
every month to these ruins. Not far from this chamber, there is a
hall in which he is accustomed to revel with many comrades; I have
often watched them there. They relate to each other their villanous
deeds, and perhaps he may pronounce the magic word which you
have forgotten."

"O dearest Princess," exclaimed the caliph, "tell me when will he
come, and where is the hall?"

The owl was silent for a moment, and then said,--

"Do not take it ill, but I can fulfil your wish only on one
condition."

"What is it? what is it?" cried Chasid; "whatever you please; I will
agree to any thing."

"Why, I should like to obtain my own liberty also; but this is
possible only on condition that one of you shall marry me."

The storks seemed somewhat embarrassed by this proposal, and the
caliph motioned to his officer to go out with him a moment.

"Grand Vizier," said the caliph, when they got outside of the door,