They sank again upon the couches; and listened with dread to the running off of the water from the galley’s deck.
“My poor galley,” the queen murmured after a little, “in what a state is it. And the food—it is ruined.”
“Thus is it that the gods smile upon me,” triumphed Atlano.
The four confounded ones glanced hopelessly at each other. Even Electra was despairing. What evil fate was this?
Suddenly, footsteps were heard just without the door. Electra arose; and looked out to perceive Sensel.
“What is it, Sensel?”
“Naught is harmed.” And he pointed toward the hold. It was closed and the deck shorn of its baskets. He pointed next to Azu, who like himself was dripping, but whose port was that of a conqueror. Then at Electra’s inquiring look, he continued:
“I was in the hold when the sky darkened. It took scarce a minute to gather the baskets, throw them into the hold and close it. I had ended while ye stood confounded and then began to flee. As ye darted down the stairway, I called Azu; and we leaped from this galley to that of the queen, and threw over her withdrawing room the shield used for showers, and drew in the outer rugs and couches. The awnings and hanging are dripping; but, with this sun, will dry in a few minutes. Thou shouldst have seen Azu work!”
“Sensel, thou hast saved us. Azu, the queen shall know.” Then Electra turned to the eager listeners inside.
“Thou seest,” she said to the king.