"Perreeza," said Barzello, "from pure love for her three brothers, of
whom I spake, saw fit to leave her native land and venture her future
destiny among strangers."

"I trust," answered Ashpenaz, "they are indeed worthy of such a sister's
pure affection."

"That is a point soon settled in the minds of all who have the pleasure
of their acquaintance."

"Permit me to congratulate my young friend, Jupheena, on the happy
addition to the number of her youthful friends."

"Our beloved Ashpenaz may well congratulate," replied the young beauty;
"and let him be assured that his congratulations are warmly appreciated."

"And how does our young friend from Judah enjoy the society of her
Chaldean friends?"

"Thy young handmaiden enjoys their society much," modestly replied
Perreeza. "If she stands in any danger, it must be from an excess of
kindness."

"I trust the maid of Judah will sustain no material injury from any
amount of kindness received in my house," said Barzello, laughing. "If
she does, she must charge it to herself; for, under the circumstances, to
be less kind is entirely out of our power."

"Barzello," cried the visitor, "thy house is a famous spot for officers