The greatest difficulty, however, was the fast to which the good
Padre had to subject himself. Twice he attempted it, and twice the
flesh was too strong for the spirit. It was only on the third day that
he was enabled to withstand the temptations of the cupboard; but it
was still a question whether he would hold out until the spell was
broken.
At a late hour of the night the party groped their way up the ravine
by the light of a lantern, and bearing a basket with provisions for
exorcising the demon of hunger so soon as the other demons should be
laid in the Red Sea.
The seal of Solomon opened their way into the tower. They found
the soldier seated on the enchanted strong-box, awaiting their
arrival. The exorcism was performed in due style. The damsel
advanced and touched the locks of the coffer with the seal of Solomon.
The lid flew open, and such treasures of gold and jewels and
precious stones as flashed upon the eye!
"Here's cut and come again!" cried the student, exultingly, as he
proceeded to cram his pockets.
"Fairly and softly," exclaimed the soldier. "Let us get the coffer
out entire, and then divide."
They accordingly went to work with might and main, but it was a
difficult task; the chest was enormously heavy, and had been
imbedded there for centuries. While they were thus employed the good
dominie drew on one side and made a vigorous onslaught on the
basket, by way of exorcising the demon of hunger which was raging in
his entrails.
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