Scheherazade. Scheherazade was possessed of a degree of courage beyond her sex. She had read much, and had so great a memory, that she never forgot anything once learned; her beauty was only equaled by her virtuous disposition.
The vizier was passionately fond of so deserving a daughter.
As they were together one day, she begged, to his great astonishment, that she might have the honor of becoming the sultan’s bride. The grand vizier endeavored to dissuade his daughter from her intention by pointing out the fearful penalty of the immediate death attached to the favor which she sought. Scheherazade, however, persisted in her request, telling her father that she had in mind a plan, which she thought might be successful in putting a stop to the dreadful cruelty exercised by the Sultan toward his subjects. “Yes, my father,” said this heroic woman, “I am aware of the danger I run, but it does not deter me from my purpose. If I die, my death will be glorious; and if I succeed, I shall render my country a great service.” The vizier was most reluctant to allow his beloved child to enter on so dangerous an enterprise, and endeavored to dissuade her from her purpose but all in vain.
“Do not, sir,” pleaded Scheherazade, “think ill of me if I still persist in my sentiments. Pardon me, too, if I add, that your opposition will be useless; for if your paternal tender-
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