Choose then between the vengeance of Atene and her love, since I am not minded to be mocked in my own land as a wanton who sought a stranger and was--refused." Slowly, slowly, in an intense whisper she spoke the words, that fell one by one from her lips like drops of blood from a death wound, and there followed silence.

Never shall I forget the scene.

There the old wizard watched us through his horny eyes, that blinked like those of some night bird.

There stood the imperial woman in her royal robes, with icy rage written on her face and vengeance in her glance.

There, facing her, was the great form of Leo, quiet, alert, determined, holding back his doubts and fears with the iron hand of will.