Pagina 163 de 1116

Now when the Sage ceased reciting, the King rose quickly to his

feet and fell on his neck; then, seating him by his side he bade

dress him in a sumptuous dress; for it had so happened that when

the King left the Hammam he looked on his body and saw no trace

of leprosy: the skin was all clean as virgin silver. He joyed

thereat with exceeding joy, his breast broadened[FN#83] with

delight and he felt thoroughly happy. Presently, when it was full

day he entered his audience hall and sat upon the throne of his

kingship whereupon his Chamberlains and Grandees flocked to the

presence and with them the Sage Duban. Seeing the leach the King

rose to him in honour and seated him by his side; then the food

trays furnished with the daintiest viands were brought and the

physician ate with the King, nor did he cease companying him all

that day.