stuff to the lady:  Madam said I, you may take the stuff with you, and as for the money, you may either send it to-morrow or next day; or, if you will, accept the stuff as a present from me.  I beg your pardon, sir, said she, I mean nothing of that; you use me so very civilly and obligingly, that I ought never to show my face in the world again, if I did not show my gratitude to you.  May God reward you in enlarging your fortune; may you live many years when I am dead; may the gate of heaven be opened to you when you remove to the other world, and may all the city proclaim your generosity.

These words inspired me with some assurance:  Madam, said I, I desire no other reward for any service I have done to you than the happiness of seeing your face; that will repay me with interest.  I had no sooner spoken than she turned towards me, took off the muslin that covered her face, and discovered to my eyes a killing beauty.  I was so struck with the surprising sight, that I could not express my thoughts to her.  I could have looked upon her for ever without being cloyed; but fearing any one should take notice, she quickly covered her face, and pulling down the crape, took up the piece of stuff, and went away, leaving me in a quite different sort of temper from what I was in when I came to the shop.  I continued for some time in great disorder and perplexity.  Before I took leave of the merchant, I asked him if he knew the lady?  Yes, said he, she is the daughter of an emir, who left her an immense fortune at his death.

I went home, and sat down to supper, but could not eat, neither could I shut my eyes during the night; I thought it the longest night in my lifetime.  As soon as it was day, I got up in hopes to see once more the object that disturbed my repose; and, to engage her affection, I dressed myself yet more nicely than I had done the day before.  I had but just got to Bedreddin’s shop, when I saw the lady coming in more magnificent apparel than before, and attended by her slave.  When she came in, she did not regard the merchant; but, addressing herself to me, Sir, said she, you see I am punctual to my word.  I am come on purpose to pay the sum you were so kind as to pass your word for yesterday, though you had no knowledge of me:  such an uncommon piece of generosity I shall never forget.  Madam, said I, you had no occasion to be so hasty; I was well satisfied as to my money, and am sorry you should put yourself to so much trouble about it.  I had been very unjust, answered she, if I had abused your generosity.  With these words, she put the money into my hand, and sat down by me.