Certainly I belong to them, and those that do not think me good enough for them may keep away." With these words she turned to re-enter the house; but Rameri seized her hand, and held her back, saying: "How cruel you are! I tried to save you, and came to see you before I thought that you might--and, indeed, you are quite unlike the people whom you call your relations.

You must not misunderstand me; but it would be horrible to me to believe that you, who are so beautiful, and as white as a lily, have any part in the hideous curse.

You charm every one, even my mistress, Bent-Anat, and it seems to me impossible--" "That I should belong to the unclean!--say it out," said Uarda softly, and casting down her eyes.
Then she continued more excitedly: "But I tell you, the curse is unjust, for a better man never lived than my grandfather was." Tears sprang from her eyes, and Rameri said: "I fully believe it; and it must be very difficult to continue good when every one despises and scorns one; I at least can be brought to no good by blame, though I can by praise.

Certainly people are obliged to meet me and mine with respect." "And us with contempt!" exclaimed Uarda.

"But I will tell you something.
If a man is sure that he is good, it is all the same to him whether he be despised or honored by other people.