⁂ This is very like the story of John the Baptist and Herod.
Voice (Human). The following animals possessed both human voice and articulate speech, speaking in the language of their masters:--
Al Borak, the animal which conveyed Mahomet to the seventh heaven. He not only spoke good Arabic, but had also a human face.
Arion, the wonderful horse which Herculés gave to Adrastos. It not only spoke good Greek, but both his near feet were those of a man.
Balaam’s Ass spoke Hebrew to Balaam on one occasion.--Numb. xxii.
The Black Pigeons, one of which gave the responses in the temple of Ammon, and the other in Dodōna.--Classic Story.
The Bulbul-Hezar, which had not only human speech, but was oracular also.--Arabian Nights (“The Two Sisters”).
Comrade, Fortunio’s horse, spoke with the voice of a man.--Comtesse D’Aunoy, Fairy Tales (“Fortunio”).
The little Green Bird which Fairstar obtained possession of, not only answered in words any questions asked it, but was also prophetic and oracular.--Comtesse D’Aunoy, Fairy Tales (“Cherry and Fairstar”).
Katmîr, the dog of the Seven Sleepers, spoke Greek.--Al Korân, xviii.