“There is one outside muffled like oblivion, whose command is to see you in the King’s name.”
Lycabetta gave a cry of joy.
“It is the King! Admit him. Wait!” She turned to Perpetua. “You shall have leisure, my woodfinch, to grow wise in. School yourself into submission ere I send for you again.”
Perpetua folded her arms across her breast.
“I am as changeless as the sun,” she said, proudly.
“The sun sets,” Lycabetta sneered.
“Ay,” Perpetua answered, “to rise again in heaven.”
Chafing at the girl’s obstinacy, Lycabetta clapped her hands and the black slaves entered.
“Take her away,” she commanded, pointing to Perpetua.