'Ah, yes, as to general principles. But out of the lecture-room I
prefer a practical expedient for instance, Cyril writes to me here--
plague on him! he would not let me even have a week's hunting in
peace-that there is a plot on the part of the Jews to murder all the
Christians. Here is the precious document--do look at it, in pity.
For aught I know or care, the plot may be an exactly opposite one,
and the Christians intend to murder all the Jews. But I must take
some notice of the letter.'

'I do not see that, your excellency.'

'Why, if anything did happen, after all, conceive the missives which
would be sent flying off to Constantinople against me!'

'Let them go. If you are secure in the consciousness of innocence,
what matter?'

'Consciousness of innocence? I shall lose my prefecture!'

'Your danger would just be as great if you took notice of it.
Whatever happened, you would be accused of favouring the Jews.'

'And really there might be some truth in the accusation. How the
finances of the provinces would go on without their kind assistance,
I dare not think. If those Christians would but lend me their
money, instead of building alms-houses and hospitals with it, they
might burn the Jews' quarter to-morrow, for aught I care. But
now....'

'But now, you must absolutely take no notice of this letter. The