To see his beloved father, for whose very life he had been in such anxiety, a safe and happy guest at this rich banquet, seemed to rob him of his speech a second time.

At last, however, he was able to say: "The gods be praised, my father, that I see thee safe once more! Think not I forsook my post thoughtlessly.

Alas! I am forced to appear as a bird of evil omen in this cheerful assembly.

Know at once, ye guests, for I dare not lose time in preparing my words, that a treacherous assault awaits ye!" They all sprang up as if struck by lightning.

Aristomachus silently loosened his sword in its scabbard; Phanes extended his arms as if to discern whether the old athletic elasticity still dwelt there.
"What can it be ?--what is their design ?" echoed from all sides.
"This house is surrounded by Ethiopian soldiers!" answered Gyges.