With the evening twilight the lovely lady returned and spent the night in converse with the pious youth, leaving him in the morning with her mind more humble, pure, and devout; and thus matters went on for many days.

"Thy palm-wine and thy dates must be coming to an end," said Zelinda one evening as she presented the youth with a flask of rich wine and some costly fruits.

He, however, gently put aside the gift and said, "Noble lady, I would accept your gift gladly, but I fear some of your magic arts may perhaps cleave to it.

Or could you assure me to the contrary by Him whom you are now beginning to know ?" Zelinda cast down her eyes in silent confusion and took her presents back.

On the following evening, however, she brought similar gifts, and, smiling confidently, gave the desired assurance.