We have now to think of your journey to Alexandria." "But it seems to me," replied Sirona, blushing, "that I am safely hidden in your cave, and just now you yourself said--" "I warned you against the dangers of the expedition," interrupted Paulus.

"But since that it has occurred to me that I know of a shelter, and of a safe protector for you.

There, we are at home again.

Now go into the cave, for very probably some one may have heard you calling, and if other anchorites were to discover you here, they would compel me to take you back to your husband." "I will go directly," sighed Sirona, "but first explain to me--for I heard all that you said to each other--" and she colored, "how it happened that Phoebicius took Hermas' sheepskin for yours, and why you let him beat you without giving any explanation." "Because my back is even broader than that great fellow's," replied the Alexandrian quickly.

"I will tell you all about it in some quiet hour, perhaps on our journey to Klysma.