The prince Aziel is in love with the lady Elissa, or far upon the road to it, as at his age it is right and proper that he should be, after a twelve months' journey by sea and land with never a pretty face to sigh for.

The holy Issachar, on the other hand, is minded that his charge shall have naught to do with a priestess of Baaltis, as, his age and calling considered, is also right and proper.

Then there is that black savage Ithobal, who wishes to win the girl, and the girl herself, who after the fashion of her sex, will probably play them all off one against the other.

Well, so much the better for me, since I shall be a richer man even than I am before this affair is done with.

I have two hands, and gold is gold whoever be the giver," and smiling craftily to himself Metem passed into the palace..