"I ask your pardon, Lady Miriam," said Marcus, bowing gravely, "for
breaking in thus upon your privacy; but time presses with me so that I
lacked any to give notice to your guardians of my visit."
"Are you leaving us?" she faltered.
"Yes, I am leaving you."
Miriam turned aside and picked up the cloth, then answered, "Well, the
work is done, or will be in a few minutes; so if you think it worth the
trouble, take it."
"That is my intention. The price I will settle with your uncles."
She nodded. "Yes, yes, but if you will permit me, I should like to pack
it myself, so that it comes to no harm upon the journey. Also with your
leave I will retain the model, which by right belongs to you. I am not
pleased with this marble; I wish to make another."
"The marble is perfect; but keep the model if you will. I am very glad
that you should keep it."
She glanced at him, a question in her eyes, then looked away.
"When do you go?" she asked.
"Three hours after noon. My task is finished, my report--which is to
the effect that the Essenes are a most worthy and harmless people who
deserve to be encouraged, not molested--is written. Also I am called
hence in haste by a messenger who reached me from Jerusalem an hour ago.
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