"The Kislar Aga, who stood behind her litter, noted Zara's emotions and their apparent cause, and when he returned to the palace, made his instigatress acquainted with her rival's strange conduct. The wily woman at once perceived that Zara was partially in her power, and instructed her instrument to watch the favorite closely, and gain further information. Meanwhile, their intended victim suffered the pangs of remorse, and old feelings awakened from their long sleep, struggled fiercely with the usurping passions in her bosom. "The sight of the Russian, whom she believed to be in his grave, made her frantic with sorrow, and she resolved to speak with him, although by so doing, she would risk discovery and an ignominious end. "To accomplish her purpose she called upon the Aga, as he had always appeared devoted to her special interests, and, describing the person of her lover, asked him to carry a billet to Garstoff, and thus gain a rich reward. "'Aga,' she said, with composure, 'you must find this man, and ask him if his name is not Garstoff. Should he start, and answer yes, give him this slip of paper, and say no more.' "With many vows of fidelity, the Aga received the billet, and carried it direct to--the queen mother. "The latter person did not hesitate to open it, and read as follows: "'GARSTOFF: I have seen you, and would speak with you. Meet me near the mosque of Omar, to-morrow, at the tenth hour.' 'ZARA.' "'She is caught at last,' said the triumphant plotter; 'but we must let the affair run on, until the Sultan may be convinced by his own eyes of her guilt.' "Accordingly, the slave departed in search of the disguised Russian, whom he soon discovered from the description given him by Zara. "'Is not your name Garstoff?' he asked. "'Great heavens!--yes, it is!' answered the janissary, in great confusion. "'Then here is something for you,' said the Aga; and, handing him the billet, turned upon his heel. "Great was the surprise of Garstoff when he read the letter; but joy quickly overcame wonder, and he hastened to procure a suitable disguise for the strange meeting. "At the appointed hour he stood before the mosque, and presently a muffled figure approached him, whom his beating heart proclaimed to be the long lost object of his adoration. It was indeed Zara, and, in one moment, they were in each other's arms. "The Russian hastened to relate his adventures since they last saw each other, and finished by saying: "'I gave up my commission, dearest Zara, to seek for you, and now that we once more behold each other, let us never part again. This hated uniform I assumed to facilitate my search; it shall be thrown aside now and forever.' "Then Zara commenced her narrative, but was quickly interrupted. "'Zara, tell me, for heaven's sake, have you listened to the Sultan's words of love? Are you, are you--his--slave?' gasped Garstoff, staggering against the wall.