This plan suited Aladdin, who hated manual work. He told the magician he had a greater inclination to that business than to any other, and that he would be much obliged to him for his kindness. “Well then,” said the African magician, “I will carry you with me to-morrow, clothe you as handsomely as the best merchants in the city, and afterward we will open a shop as I mentioned.”
The widow, after his promises of kindness to her son, no longer doubted that the magician was her husband’s brother. She thanked him for his good intentions; and after having exhorted Aladdin to render himself worthy of his uncle’s favor, served up supper, at which they talked of indifferent matters; then the magician took his leave.
He came the next day, as he had promised, and took Aladdin with him to a merchant, who sold all sorts of clothes and bade Aladdin choose those he preferred, which he paid for.
When Aladdin found himself so handsomely equipped, he returned his uncle thanks, who answered him: “As you are soon to be a merchant, it is proper you should frequent these shops, and be acquainted with them.” He then showed him the largest and finest mosques, carried him to the khans or inns where the merchants and travelers lodged, and afterward to the sultan’s palace, where he had free access; and at last brought him to his own khan, where, meeting with some merchants he had become acquainted with since his arrival,
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