THE STORY OF SINDBAD THE SAILOR. 385
and during that time we made so many journeys to the hill, that we
filled all our warehouses with ivory. The other merchants who traded
in it did the same, for my master made them partakers of his good
fortune.

The ships arrived at last, and my master himself having made
choice of the ship wherein I was to embark, loaded half of it with ivory
on my account, laid in provisions in abundance for my passage, and
besides obliged me to accept a present of some curiosities of the country
of great value. After I had returned him a thousand thanks for all his
favours I went aboard.

We stopped at some islands to take in fresh provisions. Our vessel
being come to a port on the mainland in the Indies, we touched there,
and, not being willing to venture by sea to Bussorah, I landed my pro-
portion of the ivory, resolving to proceed on my journey by land. I
realized vast sums by my ivory, bought several rarities, which I intended
for presents, and when my equipage was ready, set out in company
with a large caravan of merchants. I was a long time on the journey,
and suffered much, but was happy in thinking that I had nothing to
fear from the seas, from pirates, from serpents, or from the other perils
to which I had been exposed.

I at last arrived safe at Bagdad, and immediately waited upon the
caliph, to give him an account of my embassy. He loaded me with
honours and rich presents, and I have ever since devoted myself to my
family, kindred, and friends.

Sindbad here finished the relation of his seventh and last voyage,
and then addressing himself to Hindbad, ‘ Well, friend,’ said he, ‘ did
you ever hear of any person that suffered sc much as I have done? Is
it not reasonable that, after all this, I should enjoy a quiet and pleasant
life?’ As he said these words, Hindbad kissed his hand, and said,
‘Sir, my afflictions are not to be compared with yours. You not only
deserve a quiet life, but are worthy of all the riches you possess, since
you make so good a use of them. May you live happily for a long time.’
Sindbad ordered him to be paid another hundred sequins, and told him
to give up carrying burdens as a porter, and to eat henceforth at his
table, for he wished that he should all his life have reason to remember
that he henceforth had a friend in Sindbad the Sailor.