And besides," she added in a lower tone that only de Sigognac could hear, "I cannot bear to go away and leave you here alone in this dreary place." The soft light that shone in Isabelle's beautiful eyes as she murmured these persuasive words was irresistible to the man who already loved her madly; and the idea of following his divinity in a humble disguise, as many a noble knight had done of old, reconciled him to what would otherwise have seemed too incongruous and humiliating.

It could not be considered derogatory to any gentleman to accompany his lady-love, be she what she might, actress or princess, and to attach himself, for love of her bright eyes, to even a band of strolling players.

The mischievous little boy of the bow had compelled even gods and heroes to submit to all sorts of odd tests and means.

Jupiter himself took the form of a bull to carry off Europa, and swam across the sea with her upon his back to the island of Crete.

Hercules, dressed as a woman, sat spinning meekly at Omphale's feet.