"In the name of the gods, what has befallen my good friend!" cried the
officer, as he went to the adjoining apartment.
"Be calm," faintly replied the voice of Joram, as the host came to where
he was reclining.
"Barzello," said the guest, "thou hast given me reason these many years
to believe in thy friendship."
"Thou art not in the least mistaken," responded Barzello.
"Then I shall proceed without delay to explain my singular conduct, and,
in making these developments, I am confident I shall share the sympathies
of my kind friend. To-night my heart has been almost rent with contending
emotions. I have been well-nigh overwhelmed with both sadness and joy.
During my long residence in this part of the world a degree of mystery
has hung over myself and family, and even to-day my country and origin
are not known. For many years past I have had strong doubts in regard to
the wisdom of this course of secrecy. The time has at last arrived when
my life history must be divulged.
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