said he, 'assume the figure of HAMET; and my love, in all its ardour,
shall be returned by ALMEIDA.' As his fancy kindled at the anticipation
of his happiness, he stood musing in a pleasing suspense, and indulged
himself in the contemplation of the several gradations, by which he
would ascend to the summit of his wishes.

Just at this moment, Osmyn, whom he had commanded to attend him at this
hour, approached his apartment: ALMORAN was roused by the sound of his
foot, and supposed it to be OMAR, who had again intruded upon his
privacy; he was enraged at the interruption which had broken a series of
imaginations so flattering and luxurious; he snatched out his poignard,
and lifting up his arm for the stroke, hastily turned round to have
stabbed him; but seeing Osmyn, he discovered his mistake just in time to
prevent the blow.

Osmyn, who was not conscious of any crime, nor indeed of any act that
could have given occasion of offence; started back terrified and
amazed, and stood trembling in suspense whether to remain or to
withdraw. ALMORAN, in the mean time, sheathed the instrument of death,
and bid him fear nothing, for he should not be hurt. He then turned
about; and putting, his hand to his forehead, stood again, silent in a
musing posture: he recollected, that if he assumed the figure of HAMET,
it was necessary he should give orders for HAMET to be admitted to
ALMEIDA, as he would otherwise be excluded by the delegates of his own
authority; turning, therefore, to Osmyn, 'Remember,' said he, 'that
whenever HAMET shall return, it is my command, that he be admitted to
ALMEIDA.'

Osmyn; who was pleased with an opportunity of recommending himself to
ALMORAN, by praising an act of generous virtue which he supposed him now