Just then the rope which bound this bundle seemed to come loose; at least, at his master's command, the man set it down and they began to retie it, then advanced slowly towards the archway.

Now Nehushta descended, unlocked the door and admitted Amram, who carried the bundle.
"Where is the slave ?" she asked.
"Have no fear, friend; he is trusty and watches without, not knowing why.

Come, you must both of you be hungry, and I have food.

Help me loose this cord." Presently the package was undone, and within it appeared, first, two flagons of old wine, then meats more tasty then Nehushta had seen for months, then rich cloaks and other garments made in the Phoenician fashion, and a robe of white with coloured edges, such as was worn by the body-slaves of the wealthy among that people.

Lastly--and this Amram produced from his own person--there was a purse of gold, enough to support them for many weeks.