[No. 1.]
“Simonides to Sheik Ilderim.
“O friend!
“Assure thyself first of a place in my inner heart.
“Then—
“There is in thy dowar a youth of fair presence, calling himself the son of Arrius; and such he is by adoption.
“He is very dear to me.
“He hath a wonderful history, which I will tell thee; come thou to-day or to-morrow, that I may tell thee the history, and have thy counsel.
“Meantime, favor all his requests, so they be not against honor. Should there be need of reparation, I am bound to thee for it.
“That I have interest in this youth, keep thou private.