before nerveless hands grasped those of Heliobas with force
and fervour, and still meeting that steady look which seemed to pierce
the very centre of his system, Prince Ivan, like Lazarus of old, arose
and stood erect. As he did so, Heliobas withdrew his eyes, dropped his
hands and smiled.

"You are better, Ivan?" he inquired kindly.

The Prince looked about him, bewildered. He passed one hand across his
forehead without replying. Then he turned slightly and perceived me in
the window-embrasure, whither I had retreated in fear and wonderment at
the marvellous power of Heliobas, thus openly and plainly displayed.

"Tell me," he said, addressing me, "have I been dreaming?"

I could not answer him. I was glad to see him recover, yet I was a
little afraid. Heliobas pushed a chair gently towards him.

"Sit down, Ivan," he said quietly.

The Prince obeyed, and covered his face with his hand as though in deep
and earnest meditation. I looked on in silence and wonderment. Heliobas
spoke not another word, and together we watched the pensive figure in
the chair, so absorbed in serious thought. Some minutes passed. The
gentle tick of the clock in the outer hall grew almost obtrusive, so
loud did it seem in the utter stillness that surrounded us. I longed to
speak--to ask questions--to proffer sympathy--but dared not move or
utter a syllable. Suddenly the Prince rose; his manner was calm and
dignified, yet touched with a strange humility. He advanced to
Heliobas, holding out his hand.

"Forgive me, Casimir!" he said simply.

Heliobas at once grasped the proffered palm within his own, and looked
at the young man with an almost fatherly tenderness.

"Say no more, Ivan," he returned, his rich voice sounding more than
usually mellow in its warmth and heartiness. "We must all learn before
we can know, and some of our lessons are sharp and difficult. Whatever
you have thought of me, remember I have not, and do not, blame you. To
be offended with unbelievers is to show that you are not yourself quite
sure of the faith to which you would compel them."

"I would ask you one thing," went on the Prince, speaking in a low
tone. "Do not let me stay to fall into fresh errors. Teach me--guide
me, Casimir; I will be the most docile of your pupils. As for Zara--"

He paused, as if overcome.

"Come with me," said Heliobas, taking his arm; "a glass of good wine
will invigorate you. It is better to see Zara no more for a time. Let
me tak