On our way all was dark, and after traversing many passages we came at length to the door of a cavern as gloomy as the one I had left.

On entering this I found all dark and drear; and a little distance before me there was a light burning, around which was gathered a group of hags hideous beyond all expression.

But these I scarcely noticed; for there amid them, all pale and wan, with her face now lighted up with joyous and eager expectation, I saw my darling--my Almah! I caught her in my arms, and for a few moments neither of us spoke a word.

She sobbed upon my breast, but I knew that the tears which she shed were tears of joy.

Nor was our joy checked by the thought that it was to be so short-lived.