"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.