And this handmaid began to sob loud, the others joining with her. So extreme was their grief that Deucalion could obtain no further information, in spite of his many signs. Thus he left them to hasten to the inner sanctuary.
This apartment, upon entering, gave the impression of mystery, luxury, sensuousness—anything save devotion—notwithstanding its golden altar at the eastern end, its sacred fire thereon; notwithstanding its great golden statues of Amen and Poseidon, the one to the altar’s right, the other to its left, and both most wonderful in their size, majesty, and benignity of mien.
Everywhere in this inner sanctuary were gold and silver used lavishly. And, in the available places, were set magnificent gems, that, in their artful clustering, simulated flowers and fruits, thus affording the needful climax to all the splendors.
Glowing with orichalcum and clustering gems was the ceiling, while from it hung golden lamps resplendent in jewels. In corners, smoked silver vessels emitting perfumes whose subtlety overmastered the will. About the greenstone columns, the rarest flowers were wreathed.
Yet, incongruously with the taste displayed, the fitness of the splendors, were the effeminate furnishings. Softest mats covered the tiled floor; couches, stands, and tables of fantastic workmanship were scattered about; whilst, in the center, stood a larger table containing stimulating drinks, fruits and sweetmeats. And elegant hangings fell from the doors.—Could this indeed be a sanctuary?
The vast apartment was a dream of luxury and sensuousness; and, from the half-opened doors at its northern end, could be gained a faint idea of the sumptuousness of its withdrawing rooms. No wonder was it that, upon entering, the mind, instead of concentrating upon things divine, should become enthralled by dreams of sense!
The great Amen was represented as a human being with the head of a ram, for the reason, doubtless, that he was considered as standing in the same relation to the people that the ram does to the flock. He was guide, governor, and protector. And, about his head was a crown simulating the sun’s rays. For, Amen was the Sun God.
Æole had been laid on a couch near this statue; and about her were gathered handmaids and priests. Yes, here, pale and motionless, lay the lovely form hushing the gazers into awe. Here, revelry had given away to a strange quiet. Here, the handmaids, with blanched faces, were restraining their sobbing. Here, priests were looking from the dead to each other, mystified and apprehensive. Here, Atlano and Oltis were ever casting terrified, quickly averted looks at the statue of Amen that seemed to frown in response.
As the ‘Silent Priest’ took his place among the watchers, they turned as one to regard him. But, unmindful of their questioning gaze, his eyes rested long upon the waxen form. Finally, at an impatient movement from Oltis, he raised his head, and flashed from him to Atlano a look so condemnatory that the spectators shook with dismay. Though neither of the ones thus rebuked gave any response, save to turn as if to look upon the dead girl.
Then, the ‘Silent Priest’ moved toward the statue of Amen. But, had scarcely reached it, when attracted by the sudden incoming of Electra. As if beside herself, she ran to kneel before him; and in tones as persuasive as piteous, entreated: