Laodice resented her preservation; old Momus, aside from the wound of personal loss sore in his heart, was stricken with the realization of the grief of his young mistress, which he could not help.

He did not raise his eyes to her face when he turned toward her; there was no speech.

In the young woman's heart the pain was too great for her to venture expression safely.

The silence was poignant with unnatural restraint.
Presently Momus inquired of her by signs if she wished to go on to the lifeless village below the camp.

She did not observe his gestures, and Momus decided for her.