The damsel then took a vessel full of water, pronounced over it words that I did not understand, and addressing herself to the calf, “O calf, if thou west created by the almighty and sovereign master of the world such as thou appearest at this time, continue in that form; but if thou be a man, and art changed into a calf by enchantment, return to thy natural shape, by the permission of the sovereign Creator.” As she spoke, she threw water upon him, and in an instant he recovered his natural form. “My son, my dear son,” cried I, immediately
moved by the story of this woman. I could relate many, to persuade you that you ought not to oppose my design. Besides, pardon me for declaring, that your opposition is vain; for if your paternal affection should hinder you from granting my request, I will go and offer myself to the sultan.” In short, the father, being overcome by the resolution of