"The pit of sacrifice is at your feet." "Yes, yes," he answered, "we walk upon the edge of the pit, and, in truth, I grow fearful, for at the threshold of such places the angel of the Lord deserts us." "There is nothing to fear," said Aziel.

But even as he spoke, although he could not see it, a white face rose above the edge of the pit, like that of some ghost struggling from the tomb, watched them a moment with cold eyes, then disappeared again.
Now they were near the greater pillar, and now from its shadow glided a black-veiled shape.
"Elissa ?" murmured Aziel.
"It is I," whispered a soft voice; "but who comes with you ?" "I, Issachar," said the Levite, "who would not suffer that he of whom I am given charge should seek such company alone.

Now, priestess, say your say with the prince yonder and let us be gone swiftly from this blood-stained place." "You speak harsh words to me, Issachar," she said gently, "yet I am most glad that you have come, for, believe me, I sought no lovers' meeting with the prince Aziel.

Listen, both of you: you know that they have consecrated me high-priestess of Baaltis against my will.

Now, I tell you, Issachar, what I have already told the prince Aziel--that I am no longer a worshipper of Baaltis.