At Hellen’s stony stare, the king smiled derisively; and asked:
“Why art thou in such haste? Thou camest near falling upon me.”
“King Atlano, I seek my sister and Electra.” For his life Hellen could not bow.
This the king noted. Though he corrected him not, but said, as if indifferent:
“So, here is the place where ye meet.”
“For two nights past have we met here—as thou knowest, King Atlano.” Hellen was now calm, and looking fearlessly at his tormentor. “This third night, they come not.”
“Nay—they come not!” The king laughed as the evil spirits might.
“King Atlano, will they come?”
“They will not come.”
“Why?” The hot blood was surging now.