we were right not to despair. Two months have scarcely elapsed since
we parted without prospect, or with the most gloomy one, and now we are
in a fair way of achieving all that we can desire. Epirus is free!"

"I came to claim my share in its emancipation," said Nicaeus, with a
smile, "but Iskander is another Caesar!"

"You will have many opportunities yet, believe me, Nicaeus, of proving
your courage and your patriotism," replied Iskander; "Amurath will
never allow this affair to pass over in this quiet manner. I did not
commence this struggle without a conviction that it would demand all
the energy and patience of a long life. I shall be rewarded if I leave
freedom as an heritage to my countrymen; but for the rest, I feel that
I bid farewell to every joy of life, except the ennobling consciousness
of performing a noble duty. In the meantime, I understand a messenger
awaits me here from the great Hunniades. Unless that shield of
Christendom maintain himself in his present position, our chance of
ultimate security is feeble. With his constant diversion in Bulgaria,
we may contrive here to struggle into success. You sometimes laugh at
my sanguine temper, Nicaeus. To say the truth, I am more serene than
sanguine, and was never more conscious of the strength of my opponent
than now, when it appears that I have beaten him. Hark! the people
cheer. I love the people, Nicaeus, who are ever influenced by genuine
and generous feelings. They cheer as if they had once more gained a
country. Alas! they little know what they must endure even at the
best. Nay! look not gloomy; we have done great things, and will do
more. Who waits without there? Demetrius! Call the messenger from
Lord Hunniades."

An Epirot bearing a silken packet was now introduced, which he