“King Atlano, wilt thou grant us Electra?”
A glad light came into Electra’s eyes. This Atlano perceived.
“Hellen, thou askest too much. Electra cannot join you.”
“Electra will join the brother and sister.”
The voice was now faint, and far away. It seemed as if it came rather from above than beneath the ceiling. Some of the priests were so overcome as to fall on their knees abjectly. With uncertain voice, Atlano called to Sensel, who had again retired to the doorway:
“Sensel, lead these new handmaids to their building, and let them be served with food. In the morning, will their duties begin.”
With one dread look at Hellen, Æole turned to comply. But Hellen seized and embraced her, and held tight Electra’s proffered hand. Thus they stood, until Sensel said, softly:
“Come.”
Then Æole drew away from her brother’s arms, walking as if faint. Electra, with a proud air, went after her, and took her hand.
When they had passed out, the king said to the dazed Hellen: