Thus stood they absorbed, unheedful of a gliding, noiseless shape that was speeding toward them; that paused when near them to gaze with eyes of pity, love; that, of its magnetism, was quick to draw Hellen’s glance upon itself.
Gently did Hellen release the two clinging figures as he eyed the quivering Sensel. Then, with a bound, he was almost upon him, his hands outstretched to strangle. But, swift as a dart, did Sensel move to one side, there to stand motionless, and regard Hellen with eyes wonderful in their keenness and brilliancy.
Again did Hellen bound almost upon him; and again did the swaying figure, with the same astonishing celerity, change its place.
“Enough of this play, Sensel,” cried Hellen, seeing it was futile to come upon him. “Tell me—what meanest thou by stealing upon us to view our misery?”
Sensel gracefully pointed upward; and, in low, musical tones, answered:
“There are gods in the heavens. Why cease to hope?”
“There are not gods for us. Parents—heaven—gods—are proving myths. The evil spirits, though, have being.” Meaningful was Hellen’s tone and look. “Yea, the evil spirits have being, and to good purpose for this island.”
“Thou hast thrown from thee, then, the warm feeling for the Higher Good, the trust of thine early years. Only the evil spirits have being!” Strong was Sensel in his rebuking. “Because sorrow is thine, there is no Higher Good. Because thou art not happy, only evil ruleth. Look to thyself! For false spirits close about thee. Their thoughts are thine. Therefore cometh thy lack of warmth to the gods, of trust—thy wicked thoughts. Hellen, beware!”
Æole and Electra drank in these words; and then looked furtively at Hellen. Glad were they to see he was touched, that he seemed conscience-stricken. And he was conscience-stricken, for Sensel’s tones were even more forcible than his words. After some moments, he admitted:
“Sensel, I own that thou speakest truth. Of late, I have lost warmth, trust. The Higher Good hath been shunned. But I am wild—torn with fears for these. Therefore, canst thou wonder—blame?”