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Rh of an emissary in duty bound to another. Ben-Hur was actually asserting a claim upon him for his own sake. In other words, Malluch was preparing to serve him with good heart and from downright admiration.

After brief pause, Ben-Hur resumed speaking.

&quot;I would not take his life, good Malluch; against that extreme the possession of the secret is for the present, at least, his safeguard; yet I may punish him, and so you give me help, I will try.&quot;

&quot;He is a Roman,&quot; said Malluch, without hesitation; &quot;and I am of the tribe of Judah. I will help you. If you choose, put me under oath—under the most solemn oath.&quot;

&quot;Give me your hand, that will suffice.&quot;

As their hands fell apart, Ben-Hur said, with lightened feeling, &quot;That I would charge you with is not difficult, good friend; neither is it dreadful to conscience. Let us move on.&quot;

They took the road which led to the right across the meadow spoken of in the description of the coming to the fountain. Ben-Hur was the first to break the silence.

&quot;Do you know Sheik Ilderim the Generous?&quot;

&quot;Yes.&quot;

&quot;Where is his Orchard of Palms? or, rather, Malluch, how far is it beyond the village of Daphne?&quot;

Malluch was touched by a doubt; he recalled the prettiness of the favor shown him by the woman at the fountain, and wondered if he who had the sorrows of a mother in mind was about to forget them for a lure of love; yet he replied, &quot;The Orchard of Palms lies beyond the village two hours by horse, and one by a swift camel.&quot; &quot;Thank you; and to your knowledge once more. Have the games of which you told me been widely published? and when will they take place?&quot;

The questions were suggestive; and if they did not restore Malluch his confidence, they at least stimulated his curiosity.

&quot;Oh yes, they will be of ample splendor. The prefect is rich, and could afford to lose his place; yet, as is the way with successful men, his love of riches is nowise