In a certain town of Persia there lived two brothers, Cassim and Ali Baba. Cassim was wealthy and proud, but Ali Baba was poor, and earned his bread by cutting wood in the forest.

One day, whilst gathering timber among the hills, Ali Baba espied forty horsemen riding towards a lonely rock. Fearing robbers, he hid himself in a tree and watched. Their captain cried, “Open, Sesame!” and at once the mountain parted, revealing a secret cavern. When the thieves had departed, Ali Baba repeated the wondrous words, and entered. Within lay heaps of gold, jewels, silks, and treasure beyond all reckoning. He took only what he could carry and returned home in amazement.

But riches are ill companions to secrecy. Cassim discovered his brother’s fortune and, consumed by greed, forced Ali Baba to reveal the cave. He entered alone, but in his excitement forgot the magic words and was found by the returning thieves, who slew him.

The robbers soon learned that another man knew their secret and sought Ali Baba’s life. Yet in his household served Morgiana, a maid of uncommon wit and courage. Again and again she perceived their plots before her master did. When the thieves concealed themselves in oil jars, she discovered them and defeated their scheme. At last their captain entered Ali Baba’s house in disguise, intending murder; but Morgiana recognised him and, during a feast, struck him down before he could draw his blade.

Thus Ali Baba was delivered from danger, not by gold nor strength, but by loyalty, prudence, and a brave heart. He rewarded Morgiana generously, guarded the secret of the cavern wisely, and thereafter enjoyed his fortune in peace.