“I hear, and it is Electra,” he returned mockingly. Though it was plain that Sensel’s words had upset him, as he was paling and flushing in a manner distressing to witness; and his eyes were sullen and averted.
The queen was silently giving thanks. Then she arose, her expression most confident.
“Hellen, Æole, Electra, what is this strange heat but the more aid from above. Let us not sink under it, but go out, and look as it drieth everything.”
They arose to follow her, therewith hearing the familiar sound of a body falling. Azu was ready. He again lay flat in expectation of the king.
But when they had passed out, and had waited, and the king came not, Queen Atlana said, “Azu, arise.”
When he was on his feet, she continued, “Azu, I speak the thanks of all. Well hast thou done. May I never forget it!”
Azu’s smile was ecstatic; and, between bows to the ground, and gasps, he managed to reply:
“Most gracious, most glorious Queen, for thee I can never do enough. What hast thou done for me!”
It was a long speech for him, and rather overcoming. Seeing this, the queen said in her kindest tone, “And now, Azu, my robe.”
When he had shuffled behind her, and was holding her train in his loving manner, she beckoned to Sensel who came to kneel gallantly before her. Then she extended to him her hand which he kissed in prince-like fashion—and to her surprise.