Whether he were influenced by drink or strong excitement, his voice at any rate showed no sign of weakness or deterioration.

Never had I heard him sing so magnificently.
He seemed possessed not by an angel but by a demon of song.

It was impossible not to listen to him, and while listening, equally impossible not to admire him.

Even Zara, who was generally indifferent to his music, became, on this particular night, fascinated into a sort of dreamy attention.

He perceived this, and suddenly addressed himself to her in softened tones which bore no trace of their previous loudness.
"Madame, you honour me to-night by listening to my poor efforts.