ch, was more than he could bear.

His faithful friend's warnings and entreaties did not leave Orion
unmoved; but he clung to his determination, representing to Nilus that
he had pledged his word to Rufinus, and could not now draw back, though
he had already lost all his pleasure in the enterprise. But it went
against him to leave the brave old man to face the danger alone--indeed,
it was out of the question.

Genuine anxiety is fertile in expedient; Orion had scarcely done
speaking, when Nilus had a proposal to make which seemed well calculated
to dispel the youth's last objections. Melampus, the chief shipbuilder,
was a Greek and a zealous Melchite, though he no longer dared to confess
his creed openly. He and his sons, two bold and sturdy ships carpenters,
had often given proof of their daring, and Nilus had no doubt that they
would be more than willing to share in an expedition which had for its
object the rescue of so many pious fellow-believers. They might take
Orion's place, and would be far more helpful to the old man than Orion
himself.

Orion so far approved of this suggestion as to promise himself good aid
from the brave artisans, who were well known to him; and he was willing
to take them with him, though he would not give up his own share in the
business.

Nilus, though he adhered firmly to his objections, was at last
reduced to silence. However, Orion went with his anxious friend to the
ship-yard; the old ship-builder, a kind-hearted giant, was as ready and
glad to undertake the rescue of the Sisters as if each one was his own
mother. It would be a real treat to the youngsters to have a hand in
such a job,--and he was right, for when they were taken into confidence
one flourished his hatchet with enthusiasm, and the tether struck his
horny fist against his left palm as gleefully as though he were bidden
to a dance.

Orion took boat at once with the three men, and was rowed to the
house of Rufinus, to whom he introduced them; the old man was entirely
satisfied.

Orion remained with him after dismissing them. He had promised last
evening to breakfast with him, and the meal was waiting. Paula had gone,
about an hour since, to the convent, and Joanna expected her to return
at any moment. They began without her, however; the various dishes were
carried away, the meal was nearly ended-still she had not returned.
Orion, who had at first been able to conceal his disappointment, was
now so uneasy that his ho