A Strange Manuscript Found in a Copper Cylinder James De Mille

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contempt, and considered unworthy of death and the Mista Kosek, and
other such honors."
"Oh yes," said Layelah; "but that doesn't follow; for you see the
paupers love death so intensely that they long to bestow it on all;
and if they knew that you were afraid of it, they would be tempted to
bestow it upon you immediately, just to show you how delightful a
thing it is. And that was the very thing that I was trying to guard
against."
"Well," said I, "and what is the result? Do you know what their
decision is?"
"Yes," said Layelah.
"What is it?" I asked, eagerly.
Layelah hesitated.
"What is it?" I cried again, full of impatience.
"I'm afraid it will not sound very pleasant to you," said Layelah,
"but at any rate your life is spared for the present. They have
decided to give you what they call the greatest possible honors and
distinctions."
Layelah paused, and looked at me earnestly. For my part these words
sounded ominous, and were full of the darkest meaning.
"Tell me all," I said; "don't keep me in suspense."
"Well," said Layelah, "I'm afraid you will think it hard; but I must
tell you. I will tell it, therefore, as briefly and formally as
possible.
"First, then, they have decreed the blessing of separation. You and
Almah must now be parted, since this is regarded as the highest bliss
of lovers.
"Secondly, they have decreed the blessing of poverty. All these
luxuries will be taken away, and you will be raised to an equality in