Then he asked himself what Uarda's fate would be without her grandparents, and a strange plan which had floated vaguely before him for some hours, began now to take a distinct outline and intelligible form.

He determined if the old man did not return to ask the kolchytes or embalmers to admit him into their guild--and for the sake of his adroitness they were not likely to refuse him--then he would make Uarda his wife, and live apart from the world, for her, for his studies, and for his new calling, in which he hoped to learn a great deal.

What did he care for comfort and proprieties, for recognition from his fellow-men, and a superior position! He could hope to advance more quickly along the new stony path than on the old beaten track.

The impulse to communicate his acquired knowledge to others he did not feel.

Knowledge in itself amply satisfied him, and he thought no more of his ties to the House of Seti.