Lastly--and this
Amram produced from his own person--there was a purse of gold, enough to
support them for many weeks. Nehushta thanked him with her eyes, and was
about to speak.
"There, say nothing," he interrupted. "I passed my word, and I have kept
it, that is all. Also on this money I shall charge interest, and your
mistress can repay it in happier days. Now listen: I have taken the
passages, and an hour after sunset we will go aboard. Only I warn you,
do not let it be known that you are escaped Christians, for the seamen
think that such folk bring them bad luck. Come, help me carry the food
and wine. After you have eaten you can both of you retire here and robe
yourselves."
Presently they were on the roof.
"Lady," said Nehushta, "we did well to put faith in this man. He has
come back, and see what he has brought us."
"The blessing of God be on you, sir, who help the helpless!" exclaimed
Rachel, looking hungrily at the tempting meats which she so sorely
needed.
"Drink," said Amram cheerfully, as he poured wine and water into a cup;
"it will hearten you, and your faith does not forbid the use of the
grape, for have I not heard you styled the society of drunkards?"
"That is only one bad name among many, sir," said Rachel, as she took
the cup.
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