Leonard noticed that the appearance of this woman was that of extreme terror, for she shrank and trembled, whereas that of the flower-crowned bride was jubilant and even haughty.
For a moment the two women stood still while the people gazed upon them.
Then, at a signal from Nam, she who was crowned with flowers was led before the altar, and thrice she bowed the knee to the idol, or rather to Otter who sat upon it.

Now all eyes were fixed on the dwarf, who stared at the girl but made no sign, which was not wonderful, seeing that he had no inkling of the meaning of the ceremony.

As it chanced, he could not have acted more wisely, at least in the interests of the bride, for here, as elsewhere, silence was held to give consent.
"Behold, the god accepts," cried Nam, "the beauty of the maid is pleasing in his eyes.

Stand aside, Saga, the blessed, that the people may look upon you and know you.

Hail to you, wife of the Snake!" Smiling triumphantly the girl moved back to her place by the altar, and turned her proud face to the people.