She could not forbear admiring the prince, till at length, having kissed him gently on both cheeks, and in the middle of the forehead, without waking him, she laid the bed-clothes in the order they were in before, and took her flight into the air.  As she mounted to the middle region, she heard a great clapping of wings, which induced her to fly towards that side; and, when she approached, she saw the genius that made the noise, but he was one of those who are rebellious to God.  As for Maimoune, she belonged to that class whom the great Solomon forced to conform.

This genius, whose name was Danhasch, the son of Schamhourasch, knew Maimoune; but did not dare to take notice of her, being sensible how much power she had over him, by her submission to the Almighty.  He would have avoided her, but she was so near him, that he must either fight or yield.

Brave Maimoune, said Danhasch, in the tone of a supplicant, swear to me, in the name of the Great Power, that you will not hurt me; and I swear also, on my part, not to do you any harm?

Cursed genius! replied Maimoune, what hurt canst thou do me?  I fear thee not; but as thou hast desired this favour of me, I swear not to do thee any harm.  Tell me, then, wandering spirit, whence thou comest, what thou hast seen, and what mischief thou hast done this night?  Fair lady, answered Danhasch, you meet me in a good time to hear something that is very wonderful.

THE HISTORY OF THE PRINCESS OF CHINA.

I am come from the utmost limits of China, which look on the last islands of this hemisphere.  But, charming Maimoune, said Danhasch, who trembled at the sight of this fairy, insomuch that he could hardly speak, promise me at least that you will forgive me, and let me go on in my way, after I have satisfied your demands.

Go on, go on, cursed spirit! replied Maimoune, go on, and fear nothing.  Dost thou think I am as perfidious an elf as thyself, and that I am capable of breaking the serious oath I have made?  No, you may depend on my promise:  but be sure you tell nothing but what is true, or I shall clip your wings, and treat you as you deserve.

Danhasch, a little heartened at the words of Maimoune, said, My dear lady, I will tell you nothing but what is true, if you will have but the goodness to hear me.  You must know, then, the country of China, from whence I come, is one of the largest and most powerful kingdoms of the earth, on which depend the utmost islands of this hemisphere, as I have already said.  The king of this country is at present Gaiour, who has a daughter the finest woman that ever the sun saw.  Neither you nor I, nor your class nor mine, nor all mankind together, have expressions lively enough to give a sufficient description of this bright lady.  Her hair is brown, and of so great a length, that it reaches far below her feet.  Her forehead is as smooth as the best polished mirror,