"How is this," said the prince to one of the bystanders, "that so
many grave persons can be delighted with the garrulity of a chattering
bird?"
"You know not whom you speak of," said the other; "this parrot is
a descendant of the famous parrot of Persia, renowned for his
story-telling talent. He has all the learning of the East at the tip
of his tongue, and can quote poetry as fast as he can talk. He has
visited various foreign courts, where he has been considered an oracle
of erudition. He has been a universal favorite also with the fair sex,
who have a vast admiration for erudite parrots that can quote poetry."
"Enough," said the prince, "I will have some private talk with
this distinguished traveller."
He sought a private interview, and expounded the nature of his
errand. He had scarcely mentioned it when the parrot burst into a
fit of dry rickety laughter that absolutely brought tears in his eyes.
"Excuse my merriment," said he, "but the mere mention of love always
sets me laughing."
The prince was shocked at this ill-timed mirth. "Is not love,"
said he, "the great mystery of nature, the secret principle of life,
the universal bond of sympathy?"
"A fig's end!" cried the parrot, interrupting him; "prithee where
hast thou learned this sentimental jargon? trust me, love is quite out
of vogue; one never hears of it in the company of wits and people of
refinement.
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