Towards the end of the repast, Sindbad perceiving that his guests had done eating, began to speak; and addressing himself to Hindbad by the title of brother, as is the custom amongst the Arabians when they converse familiarly, he inquired his name and profession. “Sir,” replied he, “my name is Hindbad.”--“I am happy to see you,” said Sindbad, “and can answer for the pleasure the rest of the company also feel at your presence; but I wish to know from your own lips what it was you said just now in the street:” for Sindbad, before he went to dinner, had heard the whole of the discourse from the window, which was the reason of his sending for him. At this request Hindbad, full of confusion, hung down his head and replied, “Sir, I must confess to you that my fatigue had put me so out of humour, that I uttered some indiscreet words, which I entreat you to pardon me.”--“O,” resumed Sindbad, “do not imagine that I am so unjust as to have any resentment on that account. I feel for your situation, and instead of reproaching, I pity you heartily; but I must undeceive you on one point respecting myself, where you seem to be in an error. You suppose, no doubt, that the riches and comforts I enjoy have been obtained without any labour or trouble; you are mistaken. To arrive at this state, I have endured for many years the greatest mental as well as bodily sufferings, that you can possibly conceive. Yes, gentlemen,” continued he, addressing himself to the whole company, “I assure you that my sufferings have been of a nature so extraordinary, as would deprive the greatest miser of his love of riches. Perhaps you have heard only a confused account of my adventures in the seven voyages I have made on different seas; and as an opportunity now offers, I will, with your leave, relate the dangers I have encountered which I think will not be uninteresting to you.” As Sindbad was going to relate his history chiefly on the porter’s account, he gave orders, before he began it, to have his burden, which had been left in the street, brought in, and placed where Hindbad should wish; this done, he spoke in these words:-- THE FIRST VOYAGE OF SINDBAD, THE SAILOR.