When the company next assemble, Publius greets them with a feast spread in his house. This gives occasion for his explaining the customs of his nation in the matter of recognizing various divinities at feasts. Paul replies, setting forth the Christian doctrine on this point. Mary, in due time about to begin her narrative, is seized with a sudden faintness, which however soon yielding to restoratives supplied by Ruth, she goes on and relates the incidents of the crucifixion of Jesus. THE STORY OF THE CROSS. "'Feast-master,' ye were pleased to call me, friends:" So in a cheerful humor Publius spoke, Bright-hearted welcome radiant on his face As vibrant in his brisk and cordial tones, Then when by concert after interval-- Their appetite the keener from suspense-- The selfsame company again were met Under his ample roof to hear the rest What Mary, or what Krishna, more might tell. They found the mansion furnished as for feast. Garlands of fresh leaf and of fragrant flower Hung everywhere about and frolic laughed A momentary mimicry of spring. A fountain playing in the court without Shot up its curving column to the sun; He caught the shattered capital in air, And, kindling every crystal water-drop Of all the circling shower to which it turned Into a jewel, sent the largess down, Shifting as in a shaken kaleidoscope From form to form of light and rainbow hue-- A glittering evanescence passing price, Sard, topaz, sapphire, opal, diamond-stone, Emerald and ruby, pearl and amethyst. That fountain, to the eye refection such, Plashed gentle-murmuring music in the ear. Couches and chairs about the board disposed Awaited. The guests' feet, as they reclined, Or sat--the woman sat, the men reclined-- Were duly washed and wiped after the wont Of homage in those times and in those climes Accorded ever to the honored guest. While this was passing, the complacent host, Not in quite unpremeditated words Though from his heart, welcomed his guests and said: "'Feast-master' ye were pleased to call me late When of your own ye furnished forth the feast, Invisible viands, yet of savor rare. Then I was helpless, taken by surprise, And could do nothing to deserve my name. If, by your grace, I must feast-master be, Let me in some sort be feast-maker too. Forewarned to-day, I venture to assume Leave of your goodness, and provide this cheer; Too obvious to the sight and touch and taste To be as delicate as yours, yet fruit Of hospitality sincere. Partake, I pray you, freely, and commend the food. With meat and drink refreshed, we shall not less, More rather, relish what of nobler sort May follow, entertainment to the mind."