The princess, fearing he might do it in time, and desirous he should owe the discovery to herself only, resolved to put an end to their mutual torments, for she had observed that, as often as she discoursed about the affairs of his office, he fetched such deep sighs as could be applied to nobody but her.  She herself lived in such constraint, that she could endure it no longer.  Add to this the friendship of the emirs and courtiers, and the zeal and affection of the people; in a word, every thing contributed to her putting the crown of the isle of Ebene on his head without any obstacle.

The princess Badoura consulted the princess Haiatalnefous in this, as she had done in the other parts of the adventure; and both agreeing to have it done, she one day took prince Camaralzaman aside, saying, I must talk with you about an affair, Camaralzaman, in which I want your advice:  it will not be so proper to do it by day-light, for our discourse may be long, and I would not be observed.  Come hither in the evening:  do not let us wait for you; I will take care to provide you a bed.

Camaralzaman came punctually to the palace at the hour appointed by the princess:  she took him into the inner apartment; and, having told the chief eunuch, who prepared to follow her, that she had no occasion for his service, but only keep the door shut, she carried him into a private apartment adjoining to the princess Haiatalnefous, where she used to lie.

When she entered the chamber, where was a bed, she shut the door; and, taking the talisman out of her pocket, gave it to Camaralzaman, saying, It is not long since an astrologer presented me with this talisman:  you being skilful in all things, pray tell me for what it is good.

Camaralzanrian took the talisman, and drew near a lamp to view it.  As soon as he knew it to be the princess’s, he was transported with pleasure, and she was no less pleased to see it.  Sir, said the prince, your majesty asked me what this talisman is good for.  Oh, king! it is only good to kill me with grief and despair, if I do not suddenly find the most charming and lovely princess in the world, to whom it belongs; whose loss I was the occasion of, and of a strange adventure to me, the very recital of which will move your majesty to pity such an unfortunate husband and lover, if you have patience to hear it.

You shall tell me that another time, replied the princess; I am very glad I know something of it already.  Stay here a little, and I will return to you in a moment.

At these words she went into her closet, put off her royal turban, and in a few minutes dressed herself like a woman; and, having the girdle round her which she had on the day of their separation, she entered the chamber.

Prince Camaralzaman immediately knew his dear princess; he ran to her, and tenderly embraced her, crying out, Ah! how much am I obliged to the king, who has so agreeably surprised me!—­Do not expect to See the king any more, replied the princess, with tears in her eyes:  Let us sit down, and I will explain the enigma.