I observed that, as he was going to unlock the chest, he stuffed his nose with some aromatic herbs.

He told me that he did so to prevent his smelling the musk with which the chest was perfumed; musk, he said, had an extraordinary effect upon his nerves.

I begged to have some of the herbs which he used himself, declaring that musk was likewise offensive to me.
"The Jew, either struck by his own conscience or observing my suspicions, turned as pale as death.

He pretended he had not the right key, and could not unlock the chest; said he must go in search of it, and that he would call on me again.
"After he had left me, I examined some writing upon the lid of the chest that had been nearly effaced.

I made out the word 'Smyrna,' and this was sufficient to confirm all my suspicions.