第167页 / 共1116页

Wherefore I fear for the King's life." The King, who was much

troubled and changed colour, asked, "Whom dost thou suspect and

anent whom doest thou hint?" and the Minister answered, "O King,

an thou be asleep, wake up! I point to the physician Duban."

Rejoined the King, "Fie upon thee! This is a true friend who is

favoured by me above all men, because he cured me with something

which I held in my hand, and he healed my leprosy which had

baffled all physicians; indeed he is one whose like may not be

found in these days-no, not in the whole world from furthest east

to utmost west! And it is of such a man thou sayest such hard

sayings. Now from this day forward I allot him a settled solde

and allowances, every month a thousand gold pieces; and, were I

to share with him my realm 'twere but a little matter.