The man was past middle age, having a grizzled beard, sharp, hard features and quick eyes, which withal were not unkindly.

He was a Phoenician merchant, much trusted by Hiram, the King of Tyre, who had made him captain of the merchandise of this expedition.
"Ah! is it you, Metem ?" said Aziel.

"Why do you leave your charge to return to me ?" "That I may guard a more precious charge--yourself, Prince," replied the merchant courteously.

"Having brought the child of Israel so far in safety, I desire to hand him safely to the governor of yonder city.
Your servants told me that by your command they had left you alone, so I returned to bear you company, for after nightfall robbers and savages wander without these walls." "I thank you for your care, Metem, though I think there is little danger, and at the worst I can defend myself." "Do not thank me, Prince; I am a merchant, and now, as in the past, I protect you, knowing that for it I shall be paid.

The governor will give me a rich reward when I lead you to him safely, and when in years to come I return with you still safe to the court of Jerusalem, then the great king will fill my ship's hold with gifts." "That depends, Metem," replied the prince.