Chapter II: Introduction: Plaint of the Reed-Flute 1

TALE
I. The Prince and the Handmaid 4

II. The Oilman and the Parrot 19

III. The Jewish King, Persecutor of Christians 25

IV. Another Jewish King, Persecutor of Christians 55

V. The Lion and the Beasts 67

VI. The Greater (Spiritual) Warfare 101

VII. The Merchant and the Parrot 114

VIII. The Harper 139

IX. The Poor Scenite Arab and his Wife 165

X. Patience and Perseverance 212

XI. The Lion’s Hunt 218

XII. Joseph and the Mirror 228

XIII. The Prophet’s Amanuensis 234

XIV. The Chinese and Roman Artists 248

XV. Zeyd’s Inspiration 254

XVI. ‘Ali’s Forbearance 270