"Unless I am greatly in error," said he, "there is a hidden connection between our misfortunes; but where shall I find the key to this riddle?"
"O, Sire," the owl replied, "I suspect that too, for when I was a little child it was foretold me by a soothsayer that a stork would sometime bring me great good fortune. And I think I know a way by which we can accomplish our own rescue."
In great surprise the Caliph asked her in what way she meant.
"The sorcerer who has done this wrong to us both," she answered, "comes once a month to these ruins. Not far from here there is a room in which he is accustomed to hold a banquet with many of his fellows. Many times have I heard them there. On these occasions they relate to each other their shameful deeds. Perhaps then he will divulge the magic word you have forgotten."
"O, dearest Princess," cried the Caliph, "tell us, when does he come, and where is the banqueting hall?"
The owl remained silent for a moment, and then said:
"Do not take it unkindly; but only on one condition can I inform you."
"Speak out! speak out!" exclaimed Chasid. "Whatever your condition it will be acceptable to me."
"Well then, I am also desirous of being set free; but this can only happen by one of you offering me his hand."
The storks were somewhat disconcerted at this proposal; and the Caliph beckoned his follower to leave the room with him.