Sinbad and “Aladdin” (The Count of Monte Cristo, Chapter 31 – Part 17)

The mysterious host apologizes with Lucullus-like humor for not having prepared more lavishly, then summons his servant Ali who appears from behind the tapestry to announce that supper is ready. Before leading Franz onward, the host proposes a courtesy: they should exchange names, or at least names for the evening. He refuses to ask Franz’s true identity out of hospitality, offering instead the name by which he is known—“Sinbad the Sailor.” Franz answers in the same playful spirit, calling himself “Aladdin,” fitting for this Arabian Nights setting. Sinbad accepts the jest with elegance and invites “Signor Aladdin” to follow him into the dining room, where their extraordinary supper awaits.   New to the journey? Start from the beginning at: http://countdownofmontecristo.com   Want to talk theories, themes, or betrayals? Join the conversation on our Discord: https://discord.gg/Sg2prdm   Support the project on Patreon and receive full-length, story-only audio after each chapter: https://patreon.com/gruntworkpod   Listen wherever you get your podcasts, or follow along on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCf3vyewhvQugX5M3oREl57A   The Countdown of Monte Cristo is a daily podcast reading one page at a time from Alexandre Dumas’ classic novel — every day, for four years. Whether you’re starting from the beginning or joining mid-journey, each episode brings you deeper into the story of The Count of Monte Cristo.   If you enjoy this show, be sure to check out Odyssey: A Daily Odyssey through Homer's The Odyssey — wherever you listen to podcasts!