“ ’Tis fact,” replied the Sultan; “I will regale you with that story some other time: but in the meanwhile seek another string to your bow.”

“Egle, the virtuous Egle, has at length given herself the lie,” says the favorite in a surprise; “indeed I cannot recover myself.”

“I see you are quite unhinged,” replies Mangogul, “and know not whither to turn yourself.”

“Not so,” says the favorite; “but I own to you that I depended much on Egle.”

“Pray think no more about it,” added Mangogul; “only tell us if she was the only virtuous woman that you know.”

“No, Prince, there are a hundred others, and amiable women too, whom I will name to you,” replied Mirzoza. “I will answer, as much as for myself, for⁠—for⁠—”