human
My father grieved very greatly at this, and ceased not to love me the more throughout my youth. When I was nearing the age of sixteen, he again summoned the astrologers, who told him that the horseman had already been cast down into the sea, and there remained now only ten days of my life. Then my father arose and prepared this place for me, so that I might dwell here in secret until the completion of the days, for the astrologers had said that if, by the will of God, I passed safely out of my sixteenth year, I should live to a great age. And thus it is that I am here, O my brother.
gpt
What strange thing is this? said I within myself on hearing his words.
human
It was I who cast down the horseman, but, by Allah! it will not be I who will slay this gracious youth. Then, turning to him, I said:
gpt
Fear nothing, sweet youth! Here, at least, thou art safe. I myself will protect thee, and, when the term is expired, I will go forth with thee to thy father, and he shall restore me to my country, and so reap a great reward. He rejoiced at my words, and was comforted, and so far was I from wishing him harm that I waited upon him, and during the night slept by his side. Once he awoke from dreams, crying:
human
The horseman is down! He hath fallen into the sea! Whither, oh! whither shall I flee for safety? But I quieted him, and comforted him, saying:
gpt
Never will such a calamity as thou fearest come to thee while I am by thy side.
human
O brother, he said to me,
gpt
human
O brother mine, I replied,
gpt
I see here a melon, but where is the knife? He pointed to the shelf above his head, saying,
human
Thou wilt find one there, O my creditor.