can you doubt my energy? I have meditated this journey ten
years, in spite of all counsels and all obstacles -- have
you faith in my perseverance? I have this evening sold the
last of my father's diamonds; for I had nothing wherewith to
pay for my lodging and my host was about to turn me out."

Parry made a gesture of indignation, to which the young man
replied by a pressure of the hand and a smile.

"I have still two hundred and seventy-four pistoles left,
and I feel myself rich. I do not despair, Parry; have you
faith in my resignation?"

The old man raised his trembling hands towards heaven.

"Let me know," said the stranger, -- "disguise nothing from
me -- what has happened?"

"My recital will be short, my lord, but in the name of
Heaven do not tremble so."

"It is impatience, Parry. Come, what did the general say to
you?"

"At first the general would not receive me."

"He took you for a spy?"

"Yes, my lord, but I wrote him a letter."