It was not until the gray dawn began to peer above the
mountains that he returned from his mousing expedition, and related to
the prince what he had seen.
"As I was prying about one of the loftiest towers of the palace,"
said he, "I beheld through a casement a beautiful princess. She was
reclining on a couch with attendants and physicians around her, but
she would none of their ministry and relief When they retired I beheld
her draw forth a letter from her bosom, and read and kiss it, and give
way to loud lamentations; at which, philosopher as I am, I could but
be greatly moved."
The tender heart of Ahmed was distressed at these tidings. "Too true
were thy words, O sage Eben Bonabben," cried he; "care and sorrow
and sleepless nights are the lot of lovers. Allah preserve the
princess from the blighting influence of this thing called love!"
Further intelligence from Toledo corroborated the report of the owl.
The city was a prey to uneasiness and alarm. The princess was conveyed
to the highest tower of the palace, every avenue to which was strongly
guarded. In the mean time a devouring melancholy had seized upon
her, of which no one could divine the cause- she refused food and
turned a deaf ear to every consolation. The most skilful physicians
had essayed their art in vain; it was thought some magic spell had
been practised upon her, and the king made proclamation, declaring
that whoever should effect her cure should receive the richest jewel
in the royal treasury.
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