tent dazzled and bewildered them, as the Ottoman gently gushed them
onward--for they hung back in vague and groundless alarm.

The curtain was instantly closed behind them; and they now found
themselves inside the gorgeous abode of the grand vizier. The pavilion
was decorated in the most sumptuous manner. Crystal chandeliers were
suspended to the spars which supported the canvas ceiling; and the
pillars which supported those spars were gilt and inlaid with
mother-of-pearl. Rich sofas placed around the sides--vases, some
containing flowers and others delicious perfumes--tables laden with
refreshments of the most exquisite kind,--in a word, all the evidences
of enormous wealth and all the accessories of luxurious splendor were
displayed in this sumptuous abode.

At the further end of the pavilion was seated an individual, whom, by
the intimation they had already received, and by the magnificence of his
attire, Flora and her aunt immediately knew to be the grand vizier. He
soon granted them the opportunity they so anxiously awaited, and it was
not a great while ere they found themselves completely reassured, and
conversing with a freedom which they had hardly hoped would characterize
their interview.

But who can describe the wonder and amazement which overwhelmed Flora
and her aunt, when, in the person of the grand vizier, was revealed to
them the long absent brother and nephew, Alessandro Francatelli!

It is needless to give in detail the events which were narrated in their
conversation. After a long and interesting recapitulation of the
thrilling events which had attended them thus far, they turned to that
more immediate matter which lay nearest their hearts.

When the Count of Riverola at length joined the party, the young
nobleman, taking Flora's hand, exclaimed:

"I am anxious to secure this jewel as soon as possible. Our union may be
celebrated privately and without useless pomp and ceremony; a few hours
hence may see us allied to part no more. I have a friend in
Florence--Fernand Wagner----"

"And if he be your friend, count, you cannot possess one more likely to
be sincere!" exclaimed the vizier.

"He has, indeed, proved a warm friend to me," continued Francisco. "Two
days ago I was stretched upon a bed of sickness--delirious, my mind
wandering, and my reason gone----"

"Merciful heavens!" cried Flora, shuddering from head to foot, and
contemplating her intended husband with the deepest solicitude.

"Y