Banasel hesitated before accepting the money. He looked Musa over
carefully, then nodded as if satisfied.

"Yes," he said softly, "I was right." He paused, then addressed himself
directly to Musa.

"We must be very careful to whom we sell these enchanted amulets," he
explained, "for they are talismans of the greatest of powers. The wearer
of one of these need never fear the unjust wrath of man, beast, or
demon, for he has powerful protectors at his call. Only wear this charm.
Never let it out of your possession, and you will have nothing to fear
during your voyage. Truly, you will be most favored."

He looked sharply at Musa again, took the money, glanced at it, and
dropped it into a pouch.

"Do you really believe in the powers of your ornaments, then?" Musa
asked skeptically.

Banasel's eyes widened, and he spread his arms. "To be sure," he said in
a devout tone. "How can I believe else, when I have seen their
miraculous workings so often?" He held up a hand. "Why, I could spend
hours telling you of the powers these little ornaments possess, and of
the miracles they have been responsible for. None have ever come to harm
while wearing one of these enchanted talismans. None!" He spread his
arms again.

Musa looked at him curiously. "I should like to hear your stories some
day," he said politely.

He felt uncomfortable, as many people do when confronted by a confessed
fanatic. His feelings were divided between surprise, a mild contempt,
and an unease, born of wonder and uncertainty.

Obviously, the man was not especially favored. He was dressed like any
street peddler. He had the slightly furtive, slightly brazen air of
those who must avoid the anger, and sometimes the notice, of more
powerful people, and yet, who must ply their trade. But he talked
grandly of the immense powers of the baubles he vended, seeming to hold
them in a sort of reverence. And, when he had spread his arms, there had
been a short-lived hint of suppressed power. Musa shuddered a little.

"But I must go to the temple now, if I am to make arrangements for my
voyage," he added apologetically. He turned away, then hurried down the
street.

Banasel watched him go, a slight smile growing on his face.

"I don't blame you, Pal," he chuckled softly. "I'd feel the same way
myself."

He glanced around noting a narrow alley. Casually, he walked into it,
then looked around carefully. No one could observe him. He straightened,
dropping the sl