“My wife is staying, too,” replied Nikander, not without pride.
“Then I advise you to bring all up within the Precinct walls as soon as possible,” urged his kinsman.
CHAPTER XXXVI
REFUGE IN THE PRECINCT
In Delphi, where all was danger, the Precinct was perhaps the most dangerous place, yet Nikander with his faith did not think this, nor would any other Greek think it.
He hurried home and sought Melantho.
“We must go up to the Precinct at once,” he said. “Make ready as soon as you can.”
In an hour’s time they were all gathered with the slaves in the men’s aula. Bundles of clothes and little treasures were in their hands. Some of the slaves were weeping, but the family stood in that awed silence which precedes departure.
Theria seemed even yet but distantly touched by the world’s alarms. The calm of the vision mood was still upon her. Nikander believed that she would never wholly recede from this but would always retain that serenity of mind which marks one who has beheld a god.
Eëtíon came in asking for Dryas, but, seeing Theria there in her cloak, of course forgot all else. Theria was shy, but Eëtíon took her in his arms quite frankly and kissed her. Nikander looked upon them with an aching heart, thinking how many a hedge shut out happiness from these two.