Atlano and Oltis came forward for inspection; and found confirmation. Oltis said to the people:
“Of a truth, her eyelids quiver. She is not dead.”
Another glad shouting went up. Each felt as thankful as though the young girl was his own. From Queen Atlana, the blessed tears of hope were beginning to flow; whilst Electra, in her revulsion of feeling, so tottered that Hellen darted to her side to sustain her.
Then, while the people were quieting somewhat, and the handmaids were sobbing loud for gladness, the attendants and messenger from the embalmers retired.
Still Æole lay passive. Even the eyelids had ceased to quiver. Yet, the faintest tinge of pink was coming into her cheeks. The great throng about her scarcely pulsated more than herself in its expectation of the unexpected when those beside her proclaimed this new development.
There was a long interval of suspense. Then arose the cry:
“Look! Her lips part!”
Terrible was the hush. Would she speak? Would her soft tones issue forth?
Instead, there came upon them a sound as of the sweeping wind—a sound, that, as it became intelligible, caused the listeners to shake as aspens. This must be the voice of a mighty spirit! And these words none could mistake.
“Atlanteans, I would warn. There are gods! Therefore, call to mind how ye have set aside the olden laws, what mockeries ye have brought upon temple and inner holy place.