It was like the fascination of the basilisk.

He held out his hand to Zicci, saying, "Well, then, if we are to be rivals, our swords must settle our rights; till then I would fain be friends." "Friends! Pardon me, I like you too well to give you my friendship.

You know not what you ask." "Enigmas again!" "Enigmas!" cried Zicci, passionately, "Nay: can you dare to solve them! Would you brave all that human heart can conceive of peril and of horror, so that you at last might stand separated from this visible universe side by side with me?
When you can dare this, and when you are fit to dare it, I may give you my right hand and call you friend." "I could dare everything and all things for the attainment of superhuman wisdom," said Glyndon; and his countenance was lighted up with wild and intense enthusiasm.
Zicci observed him in thoughtful silence.
"He may be worthy," he muttered; "he may, yet--" He broke off abruptly; then, speaking aloud, "Go, Glyndon," said he; "in three days we shall meet again." "Where ?" "Perhaps where you can least anticipate.

In any case, we shall meet.".