let me know my crime?” “Your crime,” answered the sultan; “perfidious wretch! Do you not know it? Come hither, and I will show it you.” Aladdin went up, when the sultan, going before him without looking at him, said: “Follow me’’; and then led him into his closet. When he came to the door, he said: ‘‘Go in; you ought to know whereabouts your palace stood: look round and tell me what is become of it?”
Aladdin looked, but saw nothing. He perceived the spot upon which his palace had stood; but not being able to divine how it had disappeared, was thrown into such great confusion and amazement that he could not return one word of answer. The sultan, growing impatient, demanded of him again: ‘‘Where is your palace, and what is become of my daughter?’’ Aladdin, breaking silence, replied: “Sir, I perceive and own that the palace which I have built is not in its place, but is vanished; neither can I tell your majesty where it may be, but can assure you I had no concern in its removal.”
“I am not so much concerned about your palace,” replied the sultan; “I value my daughter ten thousand times more, and would have you find her out, otherwise I will cause your head to be struck off, and no consideration shall divert me from my purpose.”
“I beg of your majesty,’’ answered Aladdin, “to grant me forty days to make my inquiries; and if in that time I have not the success I wish, I will offer my head at the foot of your throne, to be disposed of at your pleasure.” ‘‘I give you the forty days you ask,’’ said the sultan; “but think not to escape my resentment if you fail; for I will find you out in whatsoever part of the world you may conceal yourself.”
Aladdin went out of the sultan’s presence with great humiliation, and in a condition worthy of pity. He crossed the courts
[ 174 ]
