Nagato seemed to have forgotten the presence of the young woman; he leaned against a half-open panel, and seemed lost in a dream, at once sweet and poignant.
The rustle of a dress upon the mats that covered the floor drew him from his revery. Iza-Farou returned; she seemed in haste, and soon appeared at the corner of the gallery. Two young boys, magnificently attired, followed her.
"These are the words of the divine Kisaki," said she, as soon as she was within speaking distance of Nagato: "'Let the suppliant make his request in person.'"
At these words Nagato turned so pale, that Iza-Farou, frightened, thinking that he would faint, rushed towards him, to prevent him from falling.
"Prince," she cried, "be calm! Such a favor is, I know, enough to cause your emotion: but are you not used to all honors?"
"Impossible!" muttered Nagato, in a voice which was scarcely audible; "I cannot appear before her."
"What!" said Iza-Farou, "would you disobey her command?"
"I am not in court-dress," said the Prince.
"She will dispense with ceremony for this time only, the reception being secret. Do not keep her waiting longer."
"So be it; lead the way!" suddenly exclaimed Nagato, who had now apparently conquered his emotion.