"I shall never leave the city alone," replied the prisoner, with
firmness.

"Is that your answer?"

"As well thus perhaps as any way. I shall never leave this city
without Komel."

"But if you remain it may cost you your life," continued the
stranger.

"I do not fear death," replied the Circassian, with the utmost
coolness.

"A painful and degrading death," suggested the agent, earnestly.

"I care not. I have faced death in too many forms to fear him in
any."

"Stubborn man!" continued the visiter, irritated in the extreme at
the cool decision and dauntless bravery of the prisoner, adding,
"you tempt your own fate by refusing this generous offer."

"No fate can be worse than to be separated from her I love. If that
is to be done, then welcome death; for life without her would cease
to be desirable."

"Do not be hasty in your decision."

"I am all calmness," was the reply.