The fair Cyrene was entertaining a company of congenial spirits.
Gradually the noise in the street grew louder, until it seemed as if a cage of wild animals had been let loose before the Cagliari palace.
Suddenly, as Blanka stood before her fire, all her senses alert, she saw the glowing phoenix rise from its position, and her fair neighbour stood in the opening.
"Put out your fire, and let me in," bade the marchioness.

"I have emptied my extinguisher.

Don't you hear the mob storming my palace gates?
The soldiery who were summoned to restore order have made common cause with the rioters, and we are in frightful peril.

Quick! Out with your fire, and let me and my guests through.

We can make our escape by your rear door, and so gain the riverside in safety." Blanka could not refuse this appeal.