The mute Momus presently appeared.

Costobarus got into his cloak without help, made inquiry for this detail and that of his business and of his journey, gave instruction to his attendants, and then asked for Laodice.
There was a moment of silence more distressed than embarrassed.

Momus dropped his eyes; Keturah looked at her master with moving lips and sudden flushing of color, as if she were on the point of tears.

Aquila stared absently out of the arch beyond.
Costobarus glanced from one to the other of his company and then went toward the corridor to call his daughter.

As he lifted the curtain, he started and stopped.
[Illustration: At her feet Hannah knelt.] The lifted curtain had revealed Laodice.