20 questioned us respecting our state, at the same time meaning to take us by treachery. They asked us whence we had come, from heaven or earth or water, and what was our purpose in landing upon the island. By chance I had with me a translator who knew their ruler and the language of the tribe, so I said that I was acquainted with their king Kureim, and wished to be led before him. When they saw that I knew their tongue and their Sultan they were heartily pleased, and told me that my life and that of my men was safe. They slaughtered a cow in hospitable wise and we fell to eating it. But, sooth to say, some of our associates did eat so ravenously, and their satiety became so abundant, that they died in a few minutes. Then I bought eight cows and, after slaughtering them, I sent them piecemeal in the skiff to the rest of my companions that remained behind in the boats. Then they did eat and ceased not to proceed upon their way until they reached the island. Upon this I went to see the King Kureim, and, when I came into his presence, I saluted him, receiving in return his salutations. He questioned me concerning my state, and the reasons which brought me to this island, and I gave him answer to all his enquiries, and related to him all that had befallen from first to last. But when the news of us had spread in the island the grandees began to come in great