He no longer lived in the house in which I left
him, and I began to be apprehensive that he was dead, but a porter,
hearing my inquiries, exclaimed, 'Who is there in Constantinople that is
ignorant of the dwelling of Saladin the Lucky? Come with me, and I will
show it to you.'
"The mansion to which he conducted me looked so magnificent that I was
almost afraid to enter lest there should be some mistake. But whilst I
was hesitating the doors opened, and I heard my brother Saladin's voice.
He saw me almost at the same instant that I fixed my eyes upon him, and
immediately sprang forward to embrace me. He was the same good brother
as ever, and I rejoiced in his prosperity with all my heart. 'Brother
Saladin,' said I, 'can you now doubt that some men are born to be
fortunate and others to be unfortunate? How often you used to dispute
this point with me!'
"'Let us not dispute it now in the public street,' said he, smiling; 'but
come in and refresh yourself, and we will consider the question
afterwards at leisure.'
"'No, my dear brother,' said I, drawing back, 'you are too good: Murad
the Unlucky shall not enter your house, lest he should draw down
misfortunes upon you and yours. I come only to ask for my vase.'
"'It is safe,' cried he; 'come in, and you shall see it: but I will not
give it up till I have you in my house. I have none of these
superstitious fears: pardon me the expression, but I have none of these
superstitious fears.
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