“Sensel, thou wilt not look for words. None could speak what I feel.”
“Gracious Queen, the smile thou givest me, speaketh beyond words. And, it was but little.”
“It hath saved Æole and Hellen.” Her low tone was so impressive that the hearers were thrilled. Then, in sprightly fashion she subjoined:
“Now, Sensel, arise. And lead us that we may note the power of this sun.”
Thereupon, they walked about to exclaim, “The wonder of it!” “The wonder of it!” For, so rapid was the drying that clouds of vapor were ascending. Already was the deck as free from moisture as it had been before.
As to the king, long was he in appearing. When he came out to them, his head was drooping, his tones mumbling.
“Atlana, I yield. Hellen and Æole may go. And thou mayest take thy ‘little sail;’ though let it not go beyond a few hours. I look for thee by the wane of the day.”
In the midst of the sudden joy, was felt perplexity, fear. What had come upon him? Was this most alarming interposition of the elements producing effect? Or, was there more beneath?
After some moments’ quiet, the queen of her incredulity, asked, “Atlano, meanest thou—that I can go?”
“I mean it.” Again were the words mumbled: then, with bent head, he turned to leave them.