representing only one branch of his business. For the rest he was clad
in a quiet-coloured robe and cap, and to all appearance unarmed.

Having locked the door, he walked to a little table, beneath which stood
a box containing his tablets whereon were entered the amounts of corn
bought and delivered, to come face to face with Nehushta. Instantly she
slid between him and the door.

"Who in the name of Moloch are you?" he asked, stepping back astonished,
to perceive as he did so, Rachel seated on the heap of sacks; "and you,"
he added. "Are you spirits, thieves, ladies in search of a lodging,
or--perchance those two Christians whom the soldiers are looking for in
yonder house?"

"We are the two Christians," said Rachel desperately. "We fled from the
amphitheatre, and have taken refuge here, where they nearly found us."

"This," said Amram solemnly, "comes of not locking one's office. Do not
misunderstand me; it was no fault of mine. A certain apprentice is to
blame, to whom I shall have a word to say. In fact, I think that I will
say it at once," and he stepped towards the door.

"Indeed you will not," interrupted Nehushta.

"And pray, my Libyan friend, how will you prevent me?"

"My putting a knife into your gizzard, as I did through that of the
renegade Rufus an hour or two ago! Ah! I see you have heard the story."

Amram considered, then replied: