"As I have
worked one crime to-day, I may as well work two, and dare to tell the
lady Miriam, the Queen of the Essenes, that I love her, though she loves
not me--as yet."
"This is madness," faltered Miriam.
"Mayhap, but it is a madness which began when first I saw you--that was
soon after we learned to speak--a madness which will continue until I
cease to see you, and that shall be soon before I grow silent forever.
Listen, Miriam, and do not think my words only those of a foolish boy,
for all my life shall prove them. This love of mine is a thing with
which you must reckon. You love me not--therefore, even had I the power,
I would not force myself upon you against your will; only I warn you,
learn to love no other man, for then it shall go ill either with him or
with me. By this I swear it," and, snatching her to him, Caleb kissed
her on the forehead, then let her go, saying, "Fear not. It is the first
and last time, except by your own will. Or if you fear, tell the story
to the Court of the Essenes, and--to Nehushta, who will right your
wrongs."
"Caleb," she gasped, stamping her foot upon the ground in anger, "Caleb,
you are more wicked than I dreamed, and," she added, as though to
herself--"and greater!"
"Yes," he answered, as he turned to go, "I think that you are right.
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