Chapter 2, The Porter and the Three Ladies of Baghdad Summary

A porter is hired to carry the many purchases of a beautiful woman to her home where she lives with two equally beautiful sisters. The sisters, having no man living with them, invite him to stay awhile on the condition that he 'does not ask questions about that which does not concern him.' The porter enjoys their food and company until three Persian Kalandars arrive, seeking shelter for the night. Each Kalandar is blind in the left eye. The sisters invite them in and feed them. Then three more guests, the Caliph, Ja'afar his Wazir, and the Caliph's Sworder, arrive disguised as merchants. The sisters welcome them in and feed them. After making all swear not to ask questions, the sisters beat and comfort two dogs...