Above all, there was the Kohen, so benevolent, so self-denying, so amiable, so sympathetic.

I could not forget all that he had said during Almah's illness, and it seemed more than probable that an appeal to his better nature might not be without effect.

I said as much to Almah.
"The Kohen," said she; "why, he can do nothing." "Why not?
He is the chief man here, and ought to have great influence." "You don't understand," said she, with a sigh.

"The Kohen is the lowest and least influential man in the city." "Why, who are influential if he is not ?" I asked.
"The paupers," said Almah.
"The paupers!" I exclaimed, in amazement.
"Yes," said Almah.

"Here among these people the paupers form the most honored, influential, and envied portion of the community." This was incomprehensible.