Moving on through the arched way, the guide led up to the third and last terrace. Near the top there was a cut, and on its right embankment a party of workmen spreading and securing a canopy of red cloth.
"Observe, O Prince," the officer said. "From this position, if I mistake not, you will witness the ceremony I mentioned as in preparation."
The guest had time to express his gratification, when the Palace of Blacherne, the Very High Residence, burst upon him in long extended view, a marvel of imperial prodigality and Byzantine genius.
CHAPTER II
THE AUDIENCE
The sedan was set down before a marble gate on the third terrace.
"My duty is hardly complete. Suffer me to conduct you farther," the officer said, politely, as the Prince stepped from the box.
"And my servants?"
"They will await you."