Zulaikha, sick through hope deferred, falls into her old dejection, and her fond father, in his anxiety and perplexity, determines to offer her in marriage to the Grand-Vizier of Egypt. With this view, he selects a trusty and discreet messenger, and sends him on his mission. The Grand-Vizier, in great delight, accepts the offer, but excuses himself for not returning with the messenger to fetch his bride on the ground of his duties and the requirements of his office, the King, his master, not allowing him a term of absence. Her father, nevertheless, decides to send her, and prepares a magnificent dowry, and a suitable retinue of attendants and companions.