Angels and Women (1924)

112 ANGELS AND WOMEN
all interest in the scene before me. I was
dimly conscious, as in a confused dream, of
wonderful feats performed by men and wild
beasts, of enchantments, intoxicating odors,
dancing, music and feasting. But one
thought absorbed me: shall I speak with this
young stranger? Does he regard me with
kindness?
The night wore away. I remained motionless
upon the step of the dais, and still
in the doorway the white figure was seen.
But although I had eyes for none other,
I was not myself unobserved. Eldero, a
favorite son of Satanas, stood near, regarding
me with bold and insolent admiration,
often addressing me in language of offensive
flattery. I grew alarmed, and was longing
to change my position, when Hesperus, the
master of ceremonies, accosted me in tones
of melancholy rather than presumption.
"Aloma, wouldst thou go forth from this
place?"
I hesitated to reply, for, more than pres-