'It is the bare historical truth,' said Esther quietly. 'We are so ignorant of our own history--can we wonder at the world's ignorance of it? Think of the part the Jew has played: Moses giving the world its morality, Jesus its religion, Isaiah its millennial visions, Spinoza its cosmic philosophy, Ricardo its political economy, Karl Marx and Lassalle its Socialism, Heine its loveliest poetry, Mendelssohn its most restful music, Rachel its supreme acting; and then think of the stock Jew of the American comic papers! There lies the real comedy, too deep for laughter.' 'Yes; but most of the Jews you mention were outcasts or apostates,' retorted Sidney. 'There lies the real tragedy, too deep for tears. Ah! Heine summed it up best: "Judaism is not a religion--it is a misfortune." But do you wonder at the intolerance of every nation towards its Jews? It is a form of homage. Tolerate them, and they spell "Success"--and patriotism is an ineradicable prejudice. Since when have you developed this extraordinary enthusiasm for Jewish history? I always thought you were an anti-Semite.' Esther blushed, and meditatively sniffed at her bouquet, but fortunately the rise of the curtain relieved her of the necessity for a reply. It was only a temporary relief, however, for the quizzical young artist returned to the subject immediately the act was over. 'I know you're in charge of the æsthetic department of the _Flag_,' he said. 'I had no idea you wrote the leaders.' 'Don't be absurd!' murmured Esther. 'I always told Addie Raphael could never write so eloquently--didn't I, Addie? Ah, I see you're blushing to find it fame, Miss Ansell.' Esther laughed, though a bit annoyed. 'How can you suspect me of writing orthodox leaders?' she asked.