Sebastian felt the force of this assertion: he had ever scorned dissembling his thirst for freedom, and therefore believed himself still privileged to attempt obtaining it by any bold measure. Ere he finally digested this sudden plan, he endeavoured to obey the humane injunction of Kara Aziek; from the day on which they first met, he had employed himself after work-hours in visiting the different quarters of the Cassavee, and making such inquiries and observations as were necessary for his purpose. Hafiz accompanied him, completely satisfied with acting in obedience to his mistress. In a short time the King had perfected the theory of a new establishment infinitely more advantageous to the Almoçadem, and far milder for his Christian associates: this project he delivered to Kara Aziek, through Hafiz, who was recommended in it, to be made Governor of the whole. Aziek studied it attentively, and assented to its excellence with all the ardour of her benevolent nature; soon afterwards she sought and obtained her father’s approval. Transported with this success, she urged El Hader to send for that enlightened Christian, who thus united regard for his interest with pity for his own countrymen; El Hader had not forgotten their last interview, but no longer apprehensive of seeing a madman, he yielded to his daughter’s wish. The Almoçadem received Sebastian with his usual good-natured indolence; and after having suggested one or two alterations, and demanded a few explanations, he pronounced the desired acquiescence. Sebastian would not have prostrated himself to any mortal for a favor merely selfish; but at this mercy to so many sufferers, he cast himself at the feet of Kara Aziek, who sat wrapt up in her veil, exclaiming in Italian. “It is to you, amiable Lady! that the Christians owe these blessings; henceforth I will believe myself _your_ slave, and then bondage will be no longer abhorrent.” “Ah Christian!” cried the lovely Moor, and stopping abruptly, she averted her eyes with a palpitating heart. Sebastian knew not the soft confusion his ardent speech had caused; he forgot the woman in Kara Aziek, and saw only the pure and disinterested spirit of an angel. El Hader now made some remarks upon the improvements in his domain, which he was told were the effects of his Portuguese slave’s exertions, adding, “Thou must surely be satisfied with the miraculous kindness with which thou are treated, and consequently pleased with thy situation?”