seem to shrink, and yet we know
not how affairs may run; no, we know not. The capital, the surrounding
province: one disaster and these false Moslemin may rise against us. I
should stay here, but if I leave Scherirah, I leave myself. I feel that
deeply; 'tis a consolation. It may be that I must fall back upon the
city. Be prepared, Scherirah. Let me fall back upon supporting friends.
You have a great trust. Oh! use it wisely! Worthily I am sure you must
do.'

'Your Highness may rest assured I have no other thought but for your
weal and glory. Doubt not my devotion, Sire. I am not one of those
mealy-mouthed youths, full of their own deeds and lip-worship, Sire, but
I have a life devoted to your service, and ready at all times to peril
all things.'

'I know that, Scherirah, I know it; I feel it deeply. What think you of
these movements?'

'They are not ill combined, and yet I doubt not your Majesty will prove
your fortunes most triumphant.'

'Think you the soldiery are in good cue?' 'I'll answer for my own.
They are rough fellows, like myself, a little too blunt, perhaps, your
Highness. We are not holiday guards, but we know our duty, and we will
do it.'

'That's well, that's all I want. I shall review the troops before I
go. Let a donative be distributed among them; and, 'by-the-bye, I have
always forgotten it, your legion should be called the Legion of Syria.
We owe our fairest province to their arms.'

'I shall convey to them your Highness' wish. Were it possible, 'twould
add to their devotion.'

'I do not wish it. They are my very children. Sup at the Serail
to-night, Scherirah. We shall be very private. Yet let us drink together
ere we part. We are old friends, you know. Hast not forgotten our ruined
city?'

Alroy entered the apartment of Schirene. 'My soul! thou knowest all?'

She sprang forward and threw her arms around his neck.

'Fear not, my life, we'll not disgrace our Queen. 'Twill be quick work.
Two-thirds of them have been beaten before, and for the new champion,
our laurels must not fade, and his blood shall nourish fresh ones.'

'Dearest, dearest Alroy, go not thyself, I pray thee. May not Asriel
conquer?'

'I hope so, in my company. For a time we part, a short one. 'Tis our
first parting: may it be our last!'

'Oh! no, no, no: oh! say not we must part.'

'The troops are under arms; to-morrow's dawn will hear my trumpet.'

'I will not quit thee, no! I will not quit thee. What business