permission, would at once return. I have
business only less urgent than the present, because it concerns myself.'

'As you will, noble emir. Benomi, to your post. Farewell, sir.'

The deputation advanced, bowed, and retired. Alroy turned to Jabaster.

'No common person that, Jabaster?'

'A very gracious Turk, sire.'

'Think you he is a Turk?'

'By his dress.'

'It may be so. Asriel, break up the camp. We'll march at once to
Bagdad.'

The chiefs dispersed to make the necessary arrangements for the march.
The news that the army was immediately to advance to Bagdad soon
circulated throughout the camp, and excited the most lively enthusiasm.
Every hand was at work, striking the tents, preparing the arms and
horses. Alroy retired to his pavilion. The curtains were drawn. He was
alone, and plunged in profound meditation.

'Alroy!' a voice sounded.

He started, and looked up. Before him stood Esther the prophetess.

'Esther! is it thou?'

'Alroy! enter not into Babylon.'

'Indeed.'

'As I live, the Lord hath spoken it. Enter not into Babylon.'

'Not enjoy my fairest conquest, maiden?'

'Enter not into Babylon.'

'What affrights thee?'

'Enter not into Babylon.'

'I shall surely change the fortunes of my life without a cause.'

'The Lord hath spoken. Is not that a cause?'

'I am the Lord's anointed. His warning has not reached me.'

'Now it reaches thee. Doth the king despise the prophetess of the Lord?
It is the sin of Ahab.'

'Despise thee! Despise the mouth that is the herald of my victories!
'Twere rank blasphemy. Prophesy triumph, Esther, and Alroy will never
doubt thy inspiration.'

'He doubts it now. I see he doubts it now. O my king, I say again, enter
not into Babylon.'

'Beauteous maiden, those eyes flash lightning. Who can behold their wild
and liquid glance, and doubt that Esther is inspired! Be calm, sweet
girl, some dream disturbs thy fancy.'

'Alroy, Alroy, enter not into Babylon!'

'I have no fear, I bear a charmed life.'

'Ah me! he will not listen.' All is lost!'

'All is gained, my beautiful.'

'I would we were upon the Holy Mount, and gazing on the stars of sacred
Zion.'

'Esther,' said Alroy, advancing, and gently taking her hand, 'the
capital of the East will soon unfold its marvels to thy sight. Prepare
thyself for wonders. Girl, we are no longer in the desert. Forget thy
fitful fancies. Come, choose a husband from my generals, child, and I
will give a kingdom fo