Electra laughed; and a little color came into her face. “How I thank those bulls,” she said naively. “Well are they worthy to be held in honor, and to be kept about the temple!”
The three laughed, their spirits lightening in accordance; and they began to walk with briskness towards the northern slope. As they neared the broad leafy alley that extended downward to the right of the tower, Æole paused to regard this distrustfully.
“We could be followed, and not know it because of the trees.”
“My eyes and ears will be well open,” said Hellen.
Down the alley they hurried to come upon a thicket: and here paused to listen. But no sounds could be heard save the songs of the night birds and the faint chanting of the priests—when the bulls permitted.
As they were about to pass around the thicket, Hellen thought to look backward up the alley—just as a tall slender shape showed itself in entering; and darted for this only to see it vanish. Vainly did he search on all sides, thereupon returning scant of breath, but yet with voice to air his indignation.
“It could but be that Sensel—so fast did he fly. He is an evil spirit!”
“Say not so, Hellen. He is good. Often doth he aid Electra and myself. And the other handmaids never tire of speaking of his kind deeds.”
“Æole, I forget not that he came upon me without noise when I met the red shape.”
“Hellen, I have the thought that good will come of those two,” insisted Electra.