that nothing? There was a bargain, you know. Half was to be mine."
Antar reflected. Then he drew back. "Very well," he said. "Go in first. If he is there it is but fair that you should be the first to meet him." And he laughed sneeringly; but the old man, instead of heeding, crept in eagerly, and disappeared in the darkness. Soon Antar heard his feeble voice calling him to follow, and he also entered.
The beggar had already provided him-self with a light, and was setting fire to a pine-torch with which he had come provided. By its smoky glare Antar saw that they were standing in a long and lofty gallery, from the dim roof of which hung fantastic stalactites, that glistened like gems. The old man cautiously made his way inwards, making sure with his staff of his footing; and soon disappeared in a recess. Antar hurried after him, and found his guide speechless before the wealth and jewels that lay piled upon the stone floor of the cavern. Several large earthenware jars stood heaped to
