THE MARTYRDOM OF ISSACHAR It was done, and from the mouths of the circle of priests and priestesses leapt a shrill and sudden cry of triumph.

For had not their gods conquered?
Had not this high-placed servant of the hated Lord of Israel been caught by the bait of a priestess of Baaltis, and seduced by her distress to deny and reject Him?
Was not evil once more triumphant, and must not they, its ministers, rejoice?
Again the Shadid raised his wand and they were silent.
"Brother you have, indeed, done well and wisely," he said, addressing Aziel.

"Now take to wife the divine lady who has chosen you," and he pointed to Elissa, who lay prostrated on the rock.

"Yes, take her and be happy in her love, sitting in my seat, which henceforth is yours, as ruler of the priests of El and master of their mysteries, forgetting the follies of your former faith, and spitting on its altars.

Hail to you, Shadid, Lord of the Baaltis and chosen of El! Take him, you priests, and with him the divine lady, his wife, to bear them in triumph to their high house." "What of the Levite ?" asked the woman Mesa.
The Shadid glanced at Issachar, who all this while had stood like one stricken to the soul, woe stamped upon his face, and a stare of horror in his eyes.