passerby: "A pretty youngster, and more like a maiden of eighteen than a
man."

The hostelry at which Tu and Wei had taken up their abode was an inn
befitting the dignity of such distinguished scholars. On inquiring at
the door, Jasmine was ushered by a servant through a courtyard to an
inner enclosure, where, under the grateful shade of a wide-spreading
cotton-tree, Tu was reclining at his ease. Jasmine's delight at meeting
her friend was only equalled by the pleasure with which Tu greeted her.
In his strong and gracious presence she became conscious that she was
released from the absorbing care which had haunted her, and her soul
leaped out in new freedom as she asked and answered questions of her
friend. Each had much to say, and it was not for some time, when an
occasional reference brought his name forward that Jasmine noticed the
absence of Wei. When she did, she asked after him.

"He left this some days ago," said Tu, "having some special business
which called for his presence at home. He did not tell me what it was,
but doubtless it was something of importance." Jasmine said nothing, but
felt pretty certain in her mind as to the object of his hasty return.

Tu, attributing her silence to a reflection on Wei for having left the
capital before her father's affair was settled, hastened to add:

"He was very helpful in the matter of your honoured father's difficulty,
and only left when he thought he could not do any more."

"How do matters stand now?" asked Jasmine, eagerly.

"We have posted a memorial at the palace gate," said Tu, "and have