Even if I had the means to kill myself, it would be a sin; moreover, it might bring another to her death.

Therefore, I await my doom, whatever it may be, with such patience as I can, trusting that my sufferings and ignominy may expiate my crimes in the sight of Him whom I renounced.

But how come you here, Metem ?" "I came under the safe-conduct of Ithobal who gave me leave to visit you, doubtless for some ends of his own.

Have you heard, Prince, that he holds the gates of the city, though as yet no harm has been done to it, and that its inhabitants are crowded within the temple, and upon the heights above; also that in his despair Sakon has fallen on his sword and slain himself ?" "Is it so ?" answered Aziel.

"Well, Issachar foretold as much.