IN THE COURTYARD The investiture was over, and the guests, thronging from the Hall of Audience, came out beneath arches and saw the whole length of the great marble court spread before them.

A vast canopy roofed it in, and a soft dim light pervaded it.

To those who came from the glitter of the ceremonies it brought a sense of coolness and of peace.

From the arches a broad flight of steps led downwards to the floor, where water gleamed darkly in a marble basin.

Lilies floated upon its surface, and marble paths crossed it to the steps at the far end; and here and there, in its depth, the reflection of a lamp burned steadily.