serious subjects. She played on the harpsichord at her father's command,
but it was hymns with which she accompanied the instrument. At length,
on a sign from the sage, she left the room, turning on the young
stranger, as she departed, a look of inexpressible anxiety and interest.
The old man then conducted the youth to his study, and conversed with
him upon the most important points of religion, to satisfy himself that
he could render a reason for the faith that was in him. During the
examination, the youth, in spite of himself, felt his mind occasionally
wander, and his recollections go in quest of the beautiful vision who
had shared their meal at noon. On such occasions, the astrologer looked
grave, and shook his head at this relaxation of attention; yet, on the
whole, he was pleased with the youth's replies. At sunset the young man
was made to take the bath; and, having done so, he was directed to
attire himself in a robe, somewhat like that worn by Armenians, having
his long hair combed down on his shoulders, and his neck, hands, and
feet bare. In this guise he was conducted into a remote chamber totally
devoid of furniture, excepting a lamp, a chair, and a table, on which
lay a Bible. "Here," said the astrologer, "I must leave you alone, to
pass the most critical period of your life. If you can, by recollection
of the great truths of which we have spoken, repel the attacks which
will be made on your courage and your principles, you have nothing to
apprehend. But the trial will be severe and arduous." His features then
assumed a pathetic solemnity, the tears stood in his eyes, and his voice
faltered with emotion as he said, "Dear child, at whose coming into the
world I foresaw this fatal trial, may God give thee grace to support it
with firmness!" The young man was left alone; and hardly did he find
himself so, when, like a swarm of demons, the recollection of all his
sins of omission and commission, rendered even more terrible by the
scrupulousness with which he had been educated, rushed on his mind, and,
like furies armed with fiery scourges, seemed determined to drive him to