"And how about our father and Philip?" interrupted Alexander. "If we follow your advice, it is certain death to them!"
The matron laughed scornfully.
"And that is what you expect from this good, this great and noble sovereign!"
"He proves himself full of favors to his friends," answered Alexander, "but woe betide those who offend him!"
Berenike looked thoughtfully at the ground, and added, more quietly:
"Then try first to release your people, and afterward embark on my ship. It shall be ready for you. Melissa will use it, I know.—My veil, child! The chariot waits for me at the Temple of Isis.—You will accompany me there, Alexander, and we will drive to the harbor. There I will introduce you to the captain. It will be wise. Your father and brother are dearer to you than your sister; she is more important to me. If only I could go away myself—away from here, from the desolate house, and take her with me!"
And she raised her arm, as if she would throw a stone into the distance.
She impetuously embraced the young girl, took leave of her sister-in-law, and left the room with Alexander.
Directly Euryale was alone with Melissa, she comforted the girl in her kind, composed manner; for the unhappy matron's gloomy presentiments had filled Melissa with fresh anxieties.
And what had she not gone through during the day!