.

but I see I am anticipating my story; I must begin at the beginning.

I'll allow you to cry, laugh and scream for joy as much as you will, but you're forbidden to ask a single question until I have finished.

I think really I have deserved these caresses.

There, now I am quite at my ease, and can begin.
Once upon a time there was a great king in Persia, who had many wives, but he loved Phaedime better than the rest, and set her above all the others.