"Morgiana need not think to escape. Verily her body shall scorch now, as her false soul hereafter."
Even at that dread moment Richard shuddered at the passion the Egyptian struck forth from Morgiana's eyes; but her only answer was the cry:—
"Then shall my curse light on you forever!" And at that curse, no blame if Iftikhar trembled.
Thicker the smoke, brighter the glare, higher the flame. They felt the pavement under the rugs grow warm. Iftikhar thundered once more:—
"For the last time—choose life and freedom, or the fire!"
Godfrey had leaped beside Richard.
"Ha! This is the end of the hunting. Well, St. George aid us, we will not be grilled here, with that gallery open and fifty cimeters ready to speed us to heaven!"
Richard cast a look forward,—behind.
"There is nothing else!" said he. But Trenchefer shook in his hands, for Mary was standing at his side.
"Dear lord and husband," said she, once more, "you have promised. I know your arm is strong. Let us go away together,—far away, far away,—to the love and light and peace!"