gain safe access and to go out again.  The next day I shall spend in concealment at Benjamin Cohen’s, and at night I shall go again to the palace, for the dose must be repeated.  Twice in the course of forty-eight hours must it be administered, if life is to vanquish death.  When I leave the castle the second night, my work will be done, for crime will be taken away from our heads, and our child will not have to suffer for the sins of its parents.  Then, my Gabriel, then we shall return to my beautiful home, then shall we be free and happy!  Think of that, my beloved, and let us patiently bear what must be borne.”

“I will think of that, Rebecca.  But tell me, what shall I do?—­how shall I pass the long, dreary days of our separation?  Do not be cruel.  Let me return to the city with you.  Benjamin Cohen will furnish a safe retreat for me and the child, as well as for yourself.  I swear to you that I will keep myself concealed in the cellar, under the roof, anywhere you will, only let me go with you!”

“It can not be.  The child’s life must not be endangered, nor yours either, that I may maintain the courage needful for action.  Consider your oath, and do what I require.  Now get into the wagon without delay.  David is a good driver, and perfectly devoted to us.  Travel day and night until you reach Brandenburg.  There dwells a brother of Benjamin, little David Cohen’s uncle.  At his house remain in retirement until I join you, and, O Gabriel! then we shall set out together.”

“Rebecca, I can not, indeed I can not leave you!”

“You must, for your crime must be expiated.  Think, Gabriel, a long life of happiness lies before us.  Let us courageously pass through the last cloud of evil, for beyond is day, beyond is the sun, beyond is Italy, the land of love and art!  Now let us part, dearest.  Farewell, till we meet again in joy!”

“Can you, Rebecca, can you so suddenly leave me and be parted from me?”

“I never leave you, for my soul is ever with you.  No leave-takings, Gabriel; they make us weak, and sternly I must go to meet stern fate.  Give me your hand.  Farewell!  Above lives a God for all men.  He will protect me.”

“Rebecca, only give me one parting kiss!”

“I shall kiss you when atonement has been made—­nor until then shall I kiss our child again!  Know this, Gabriel, that my love for you is eternal, it will abide even unto the end of the world!  Now, let us part.  Hark! the child cries.  He calls for his father.  Go to him, Gabriel, and tell our child that his mother loves you both more than her own life!  Go!”

He tried once more to seize her hand and embrace her.  She waved him back, and with an imperious movement pointed to the wagon.

“Remember your oath, Gabriel; you must do what I require of you,” she said firmly.

“But just tell me one thing, Rebecca,” implored he humbly.  “When shall we meet again?”