you know best," said the Turk.

Then Antonio, who felt himself an outcast from his own pleasant, sunny
Italy, and transported as a captive to Africa, softly lifted his voice,
and sang a song of home and fatherland, with deep tenderness and
soulfulness.

The Turk listened attentively, the smoke rising from his pipe, and said
as soon as the song was ended: "Bravo! your talent exceeds my
expectation."

After plying Antonio with a few more questions, he said, "I think you
possess the necessary qualifications."

Then the Turk counted out one hundred gold pieces to Jesseph and laid
them upon the table. Jesseph counted them and placed them in his leather
bag. "Your honor," said he, turning to the Turk, "will be pleased with
this bargain, I am sure; and you, Antonio, must show by your good works
that you are worthy the price. Live well! Adieu!"

The Turk, Ashmed by name, was a rich merchant who traded extensively
with other countries. He wished Antonio to carry on his correspondence
with French and Italian merchants, and to serve in his house.

As it was now time to dine, he directed Antonio to prepare himself and
then proceed to the dining-room.

[Illustration: "Now you may sing and play for us."]

Here Antonio became acquainted with the other members of the household.