I perceived fully how completely tame he was, and how docile.

The reins attached to his wings could be pulled with the greatest ease, Just as one would pull the tiller-ropes of a boat.
"Familiarity breeds contempt;" and now, since the first terror had passed away, I felt perfect confidence, and under the encouragement of Layelah I had become like some rustic in a menagerie, who at first is terrified by the sight of the elephant, but soon gains courage enough to mount upon his back.

With my new-found courage and presence of mind I listened most attentively to all of Layelah's explanations, and watched most closely the construction and fastening of the harness; for the thought had occurred to me that this athaleb might be of avail in another way--that if I did not fly with Layelah, I might fly with Almah.

This thought was only of a vague and shadowy character--a dim suggestion, the carrying out of which I scarce dared to think possible; still, it was in my mind, and had sufficient power over me to make me very curious as to the plans of Layelah.

I determined to find out where she proposed to go, and how far; to ask her about the dangers of the way and the means of sustenance.