A small tablet fell from the clothing as he was doing this, and he picked it up and put it in his pouch. Then he covered the body, and heaped the sand high above it.
Resting for a little time, he clambered back to the top of the cliff and quickly returned to the city, hastening to the vizier's palace.
His request to have audience with the sultan was immediately granted, and the vizier being about to report to his royal master, Irar was told to accompany him.
Arrived at the palace, the vizier quickly made Irar's wish known.
"The slave I gave your highness for a pearl-fisher desires to speak with you."
"Let him speak, for he has ever done his work well," said the sultan.
Bowing his head low, Irar held out his hand, closed over the pearl.
"Your highness promised freedom and gold to the slave who should bring you the finest pearl on earth; will this one win the gift?" And he unclasped his hand and showed the peerless gem it had hidden.
With a cry of delight, the sultan said:
"Yes, you are free, and the golden pieces shall be paid you when you wish them—now, if it is your choice. More, I appoint you the inspector of my pearl fisheries. Hand me the gem, and do you see our wishes fulfilled."