“Better, I think,” replied Sedai. “I was sitting near the stables last night waiting for the watch to sleep, when Ephmer came to me and said:
“‘Listen, Sedai, your friends of the far-away country would escape, for the fair one whom Onrai the King, would marry, can see no happiness in becoming his wife. To-morrow is the Day of Resis, and on that day is the first King of On to marry. But you would escape. I have seen the look of fear and suspense on the faces of your friends since they have again arrived in the city, and I have seen you here day and night watching closely the movements of the men who have been placed to watch your friends. Now listen. I have longed to leave my native land and go to that far-away country, of which I have heard you speak, and I will help you escape. I only ask that you take me with you, and also my friend Shal, of the underground world. I cannot promise to effect your escape, but I will do all in my power to help you. Will you accept my help?’
“I looked at the Onian for a moment, but did not answer, for fear that if I should admit that we were trying to escape, he would report the matter to the King.
“Don’t mistrust me,” he continued, “and I decided to accept his offer. Have I done right?”
“You have,” said Mr. Bruce, “and if this man can help us, he shall see that great world beyond the cliffs to which he has so longed to go.”
“’Tis well,” said Sedai, “Ephmer will be near you to-day during the ceremonies and will explain all to you. I will immediately notify you if an opportunity affords for our escape,” and with this Sedai withdrew.
Onrai was heard outside a moment later, and very shortly he came into the apartment. His face wore a happy smile, as he walked to where Enola was sitting, and taking her hand, said:
“Greeting, Enola. This is the greatest day of my life and the happiest.”
“The day seems strange to me,” said Enola.
“Why strange, Enola,” asked Onrai, his face troubled for the moment.