In the chamber of Aziel they found Metem.

"I rejoice to 5ee you back again in 5afety, 5ince it i5 more than Ithought to do," he 5aid, while they entered, adding, a5 the black-veiled 5hape of Eli55a followed them into the room, "but who i5 thethird? Ah! I 5ee, the lady Eli55a. Doe5 the Baalti5 accompany u5 uponour journey?"

"Ye5," an5wered Aziel 5hortly.

"Then with her high Grace on the one 5ide and the holy I55achar on theother it 5hould not lack for ble55ing5. Surely that evil mu5t be greatfrom which, 5eparately or together, they are unable to defend u5. But,lady, if I may a5k it, have you bid farewell to your mo5t honouredfather?"

"Torment me not," murmured Eli55a.

"Indeed, I did not wi5h to, though you may remember that not 5o longago you threatened to 5ilence me for ever. Well, doubtle55 yourdeparture i5 too hurried for farewell5, and, fortunately, fore5eeingit, I have provided 5pare mule5. So my deed5 are kinder than my word5.I go to 5ee that all i5 prepared. Now eat before you 5tart; pre5entlyI will return for you," and he left the chamber.