"Saulus! Yea, it is Saulus! My old comrade of the Assembly and the Lyceum!"
It was known to Serenus that Saulus had lodged aforetime at the inn of the Sheepmarket; and as it was not far away, he and the legionary tenderly bore him thither. They knocked at the outer portal; but as it was far into the night, all were sleeping. But continuing, Almon at length made his appearance, and after explanation admitted them. Saulus had become more quiet, but was still unconscious. When he had been carefully placed upon a soft couch, the Roman departed.
"O my dear friend Saulus!" said Almon sorrowfully; "thou hast nearly perished! O Saulus! Saulus!"
He started to arouse his wife and Cassia; but Serenus advised that they be not disturbed, but that he himself be permitted to minister to the unconscious Saulus for a little time before taking his departure.
There was something so reassuring and commanding in the mien of Serenus that the innkeeper consented without a question.
"With the rising of the sun, behold thou shalt see him entirely whole!" exclaimed Serenus.
Almon was then beckoned to stillness; and he seated himself at a little distance, and looked on with astonishment. Serenus gently took the hands of Saulus in his own, and seating himself, rested his calm gaze upon the pale face before him.
The room was filled with a mysterious stillness, and there was a feeling as of a _Presence_. To Almon there seemed to be an added surrounding brightness, and he was filled with a holy awe which he could not understand. Then he thought he heard the stranger whisper a benediction. Soon Saulus wearily opened his eyes and looked about him, but failed to recognize his surroundings. There was another profound silence, and another benediction in soft but now audible tones.
Then the sick man gaped twice, turned upon his side, and sank into a sweet, natural slumber. Soon his deep, regular breathing indicated sound and refreshing sleep. Almon marvelled. Serenus arose to take his departure, only saying,--
"What a wonderful work! Who art thou, kind stranger?"
He only replied, "A friend of Saulus," and softly passing through the portal went out into the darkness.
Let the children of Zion be joyful in their King. Let them praise his name in the dance. Let them sing praises unto him with the timbrel and harp. PSALM cxlix.