The scene was very strange.

There by the steps stood the Prince against the background of the curtain, his arms folded and a little smile of wonder mixed with contempt upon his face, but not a sign of fear.

On one side of him was I, who knew well that I should share his fate whatever it might be, and indeed desired no other; and on the other the priest Kohath, whose hands shook and whose eyes started from his head.

In front of us old Jabez counted, watching the fierce-faced congregation that in a dead silence waited for the issue.

The count went on.Thirty.Forty.