“There would be no time to get out should the heavy shock that we look for come whilst thou wert within.—Here is it now!”
But this proved light also. However, Atlano said, as if to himself: “I will wait a little.—But—it doth trouble me.”
Thus, he fidgeted, and looked most anxious. And at last whispered to Urgis, who stood at his right, “Well would it be if the silent one were lying stark—stiffer than Oltis!”
“Gracious king, have a care.”—Urgis looked in fear about him.
“I am having a care—a care for myself—for all of us. While he liveth, I cannot breathe. Of that, am I sure. Ah—to see him on the altar!”
Then, because of Urgis’ terrified look, he laughed recklessly. And subjoined:
“I wonder how are the queen and her children. At eve, when I asked after the sleeping one, I was told that herself and Electra were fastened within the inner room of the queen, where they were resting. Even the queen denied me, being therein also. In meek manner did I come away. But this day—that now is beginning—will they learn the power of the king!”
Again he laughed recklessly. Though Urgis and the others hearing this laugh could but shudder.
CHAPTER XIII.
IN THE ‘DEEPS.’
As Kluto said, the ‘Silent Priest’ had remained in the inner sanctuary to gaze upon Oltis who still showed no life save in the eyes, that of his agony, were almost bursting from their sockets.