Once upon a time, there was a rich Caliph in Baghdad.
He was very famous because he was wise and kind.
One morning he sent his servant, Abdul, to the market to by some fruit. As Abdul was walking through the market, he suddenly felt very cold. He knew that somebody was behind him. He turned round and saw a tall man, dressed in black. He couldnt see the mans face, only his eyes. The man was staring at him, and Abdul began to shiver.
Who are you? What do you want? Abdul asked.
The man in black didnt reply.
Whats your name? Abdul asked nervously.
I am Death, the stranger replied coldly and turned away.
Abdul dropped his basket and ran all the way back to the Caliphs house. He rushed into the Caliphs room.
Excuse me, master. I have to leave Baghdad immediately, Abdul said.
But why? Whats happened? the Caliph asked.
Ive just met Death in the market, Abdul replied.
Are you certain? said the Caliph.
Yes, Im certain. He was dressed in black, and he stared at me. Im going to my fathers house in Samarra. If I go at once, Ill be there before sunset.
The Caliph could see that Abdul was terrified and gave him permission to go to Samarra.
The Caliph was puzzled. He was fond of Abdul and he was angry because Abdul had been badly frightened by the stranger in the market. He decided to go to the market and investigate. When he found the man in black, he spoke to him angrily.
Why did you frighten my servant?
Who is your servant? the stranger replied.
His name is Abdul answered the Caliph.
I didnt want to frighten him. I was just surprised to see him in Baghdad.'
Why were you surprised? the Caliph asked.
I was surprised because Ive got an appointment with him tonight in Samarra!'
