THE FORTY THIEVES 221

You see, therefore, the impossibility of my doing
what you desire.”

“Well,” replied the robber, “you may, how-
ever, remember a little of the way that you
were led blindfolded. Come, let me blind your
eyes at the same place. We will walk together.
Perhaps you may recognise some part; and as
everybody ought to be paid for their trouble,
there is another piece of gold for you. Gratify
me in what I ask you.” So saying, he put
another piece of gold into his hand.

The two pieces of gold were great temptations
to Baba Mustapha. He looked at them a long
time in his hand, without saying a word, thinking
with himself what he should do; but at last
he pulled out his purse, and put them in. ‘I
cannot assure you,” said he to the robber, “that
I can remember the way exactly; but since you
desire, I will try what I can do.” At these
words Baba Mustapha rose up, to the great
joy of the robber, and, without shutting his shop,
where he had nothing valuable to lose, he led
the robber to the place where Morgiana had

bound his eyes. “It was here,” said Baba
Mustapha, “I was blindfolded; and I turned
as you see me.” . The robber, who had his

handkerchief ready, tied it over his eyes, walked