us mind
of a certain personage, may God facilitate his deliverance, will incline
favorably towards us, every possible exertion shall be made to
conciliate his good-will, and the cabinet ministers of this kingdom are
exulting in the prospect of seeing him, and anxious for the answer of
this letter." The minister made himself master of the contents. He
pondered on the danger, wrote such a brief answer as seemed discreet
upon the back of the letter, and returned it. One of the hangers-on at
court had notice of this circumstance. He apprised the king, saying, "A
certain person whom you have put in confinement is corresponding with a
neighboring prince." The king was wroth, and ordered an investigation of
this intelligence. The messenger was seized, and letter read. On the
back of it he had written, stating, "The good opinion of his Majesty
exceeds the merits of this slave; but the honored approbation he has
bestowed upon a servant cannot possibly have his consent, for he is the
fostered gift of this house, and he cannot, on a trifling change of
affection, betray his ancient benefactor and patron.--Though once in his
life he may grate thee with harshness, excuse him who on every occasion
else has soothed thee with kindness." The king commended his fidelity,
bestowed on him an honorary dress and largess, and made his excuses,
saying, "I was to blame, that could do you an injury." He replied, "In
this instance, my lord, your servant sees no blame that attaches to you;
but such was the ordination of God, whose name was glorified, that this
your devoted slave should verily be overtaken with a calamity.
Accordingly, it is more tolerable at the hand of you, who possess the
rights of past good, and have claims of gratitude on this servant:--Be
not offended with mankind should any mischief assail thee, for neither
pleasure nor pain originate with thy fellow-being. Know that the
contrariety of foe and friend proceeds from God, and that the hearts of
both are at his disposal. Though the arrow may seem to issue from the
bow, the intelligent can see that the archer gave it its aim."

XXV

I have heard that one of the kings of Arabia directed the officers of
his treasury, saying, "You will double a certain person's salary,
whatever it may be, for he is constant in attendance and ready for
orders, while the other courtiers are diverted by play, and negligent of
their duty." A good and holy man overheard this, and heaved a sigh and
gro