uties of the barber were completed; and Wagner threw down a piece
of gold, saying, "Keep that coin, friend, for your discourse has greatly
interested me, and has indeed well deserved it."

The poor old man had never possessed in all his life so much money at
one time; and so vast was his joy that he could only mutter a few broken
sentences to express his gratitude.

"I require not thanks, my good friend," said Wagner. "But one word ere I
depart. Knowest thou the spot which rumor indicates as the abode of that
sect of whom we have been speaking?"

"Nay, excellent signor," replied the barber; "there your question
masters me; for in this case rumor goes not to such a length as to
afford hints for an investigation which would prove its utter fallacy.
All that I have heard, signor, concerning the Rosicrucians, you have
learnt from my lips; and I know no more."

Wagner, finding that further inquiry in that quarter was useless, took
leave of the old man, and traversing the suburb, entered the town of
Syracuse.

CHAPTER LIX.

Fernand was now at a loss how to act. He felt convinced that it was
useless to institute any further inquiries relative to the whereabouts
of the secret Order of the Rosy Cross; because, had popular rumor ever
hinted at any clew in that respect, the garrulous and inquisitive barber
would have been sure to hear of it. He was not, however, disheartened.
No--very far from that; for he was confident that the same supernal
power that had hitherto directed him, and which was rapidly clearing
away all obstacles in his path toward perfect emancipation from the
influence of the evil one, would carry him to a successful and
triumphant issue. Throwing himself, therefore, entirely on the wisdom
and mercy of Heaven, he roamed about the town of Syracuse, without any
settled object in view, until he was much wearied and it was very late.
He then entered a miserable hostel, or inn--the best, however, that he
could discover; and there, having partaken of some refreshment, he
retired to the chamber allotted to him. Sleep soon visited his eyes; but
he had not long enjoyed the sweets of slumber, when that balmy repose
was interrupted either by a touch or sound, he knew not which. Starting
up in his couch, he perceived a tall figure, muffled in a huge dark
mantle, and wearing a slouched broad-brimmed hat, standing by the side
of the bed.

"Rise, Fernand Wagner," said a mild but masculine voice, "and follow me.