flask from his pocket and held it out. "I'm sorry there's so little, but a
drop will keep the cold out."

The stranger bowed his head; but thanked and declined.

Peter raised the flask to his lips and took a small draught; then returned
it to his pocket. The stranger folded his arms about his knees, and looked
into the fire.

"Are you a Jew?" asked Peter, suddenly; as the firelight fell full on the
stranger's face.

"Yes; I am a Jew."

"Ah," said Peter, "that's why I wasn't able to make out at first what
nation you could be of; your dress, you know--" Then he stopped, and said,
"Trading here, I suppose? Which country do you come from; are you a
Spanish Jew?"

"I am a Jew of Palestine."

"Ah!" said Peter; "I haven't seen many from that part yet. I came out with
a lot on board ship; and I've seen Barnato and Beit; but they're not very
much like you. I suppose it's coming from Palestine makes the difference."

All fear of the stranger had now left Peter Halket. "Come a little nearer
the fire," he said, "you must be cold, you haven't too much wraps. I'm
chill in this big coat." Peter Halket pushed his gun a little further away
from him; and threw another large log on the fire. "I'm sorry I haven't
anything to eat to offer you; but I haven't had anything myself since last