aster of the universe, and die as
they pronounced them. Encouch caused everything to be brought that was
necessary to pay them the last duty, and had them interred in the same
cavern where they had slept so long. When all the people were gone out
of it, by a particular permission of God, the entrance of the cavern
was closed, and since that time it has been impossible for any man to
enter it. The King commanded a column to be erected some paces from
it, upon which he caused to be engraved the history of the Seven
Sleepers, to make known the power of God, to inspire a horror for
ingratitude, and to show by this example the efficacy of prayer.

[Illustration]

The Enchanters.

[Illustration]

At the death of the mighty Dabulcombar, the Lord of the East, Misnar,
the first-born of the Sultan, ascended the throne of India; but,
though he had scarcely arrived at the age of manhood, yet neither the
splendour of his Court nor the flatteries of the East could steal from
the youthful Sultan the knowledge of himself.

His first royal command was to assemble together the wise men
throughout his extensive dominions, from Cabul and Attok in the west
to Kehoa and Thoanoa in the east. The learned and devout accordingly
came from every part of his dominions. On an appointed day the Sultan
ordered the illustrious assembly to meet in the divan, where, being
placed on the throne of his forefathers, he thus opened unto them the
desires of his heart:

"O ye sources of light and fountains of knowledge!" said Misnar,
"more precious are your counsels to me than the mines of Raalconda:
wisdom is the true support of honour, and the Sultan is established by
the counsel of his sages. Say, then, what course shall Misnar pursue
that may secure him on the throne of the mighty Dabulcombar?"

The sages in the divan were struck with astonishment at the
condescension of their young Sultan, and one and all fell prostrate
before his throne. "May wisdom," said they, "guide the footsteps of
the illustrious Misnar! may the mind of our Sultan be as the eye of
day!"

Then arose the prophet Zeuramaund, and said, "I perceive, O mighty
Sultan, the dark clouds of evil are gathering to disturb the hours of
futurity; the spirits of the wicked are preparing the storm and the
tempest against thee!"

The venerable sages looked aghast as Zeuramaund uttered these ominous
predictions; the whole council were dismayed at his words, and all
fell again pros