seen in our Arabian carving! A moving flower, a bird growing on a
branch, a fountain gleaming with fiery sparks, a singing twig--these
are truly no hateful things!" "He must avoid temptation who does not
wish to be overcome by it," said Heimbert very gravely; "I am for the
desert. Will it please you to come out to visit me again?" Zelinda
looked down somewhat displeased. Then suddenly bending her head
still lower she replied, "Yes; toward evening I shall be here again."
And, turning away, she at once disappeared in the rising whirlwind of
the desert.




CHAPTER XII.



With the evening twilight the lovely lady returned and spent the
night in converse with the pious youth, leaving him in the morning
with her mind more humble, pure, and devout; and thus matters went on
for many days. "Thy palm-wine and thy dates must be coming to an
end," said Zelinda one evening as she presented the youth with a
flask of rich wine and some costly fruits. He, however, gently put
aside the gift and said, "Noble lady, I would accept your gift
gladly, but I fear some of your magic arts may perhaps cleave to it.
Or could you assure me to the contrary by Him whom you are now
beginning to know?" Zelinda cast down her eyes in silent confusion
and took her presents back. On the following evening, however, she
brought similar gifts, and, smiling confidently, gave the desired
assurance. Heimbert then partook of them without hesitation, and