thy son and tell him I give him [my] word that my daughter shall
be in his name; [FN#375] but needs must I take order for her
equipment; [FN#376] wherefore it behoveth him grant us a delay of
three months."

Alaeddin's mother took the answer and thanked the Sultan and
prayed for him, then went forth and fared homeward in haste,
flying of her joy, till she came to the house and entered. Her
son saw her laughing-faced and foreboded good news; more by token
that she returned forthright and tarried not, as on each day
past, neither brought back the dish. Accordingly he asked her and
said to her, "God willing, O my mother, thou bringest me good
news; the jewels and their value have wrought their work and thou
wilt have found acceptance with the Sultan; yea, he will have
shown thee favour and given ear unto thy suit." So she told him
all that had passed and how the Sultan had received her and had
marvelled, both he and his Vizier, at the size and beauty of the
jewels, and how he had promised her that [quoth she] "his
daughter shall be in thy name. But, O my son, ere he promised me,
the Vizier whispered [FN#377] him somewhat, whereupon he appointed
me for three months hence; and I am fearful lest the Vizier be a
man of evil disposition, [FN#378] who will change the King's
mind."

When [FN#379] Alaeddin heard his mother's words and how the Sultan
had appointed her for [FN#380] three months [thence], his heart
was lightened and he rejoiced with an exceeding joy and said,
"Since the Sultan hath promised for [FN#381] three months [hence],
true, it [FN#382] is long, but in any case my joy is great." Then
he thanked her for her kindness and the pains she had