money and was reduced to the disagreeable employment
of a carrier of dust and rubbish. The gardener's son said
to him:

"What is your name, what is your family, and from
what country do you come?"

"I am the son of the prime minister of a great nation,
and yet see what a degrading occupation I am reduced
to."

"Listen to me; though I don't know anything more
about you, I am willing to help you. I will give you a ship
to take you back to your own country upon one condition."

"Whatever it may be, I accept it willingly."

"Follow me to my palace."

The minister's son followed the rich stranger, whom he
had not recognized. When they reached the palace the
gardener's son made a sign to his slaves, who completely
undressed the new-comer.

"Make this ring red-hot," commanded the master, "and
mark the man with it upon his back."

The slaves obeyed him.

"Now, young man," said the rich stranger, "I am going