Angels and Women (1924)

178 ANGELS AND WOMEN
and informed Satanas that the water in the
wells had suddenly sunk and the bed of the
river was dry.
"’Strike off the head of the liar,’ commanded
the enraged king. ’My lord,’ interposed
the Counselor, ’death on a wedding
day is but an evil omen.’ Satanas paused:
not so the sword of the executioner. One
swift blow, and the head of the unfortunate
messenger rolled upon the floor.
"A strange light now filled the banquethall,
and on the ceiling ran letters of fire
traced by no mortal hand. The green serpent
in the golden tank threw himself violently
out of the water, his red crest erect,
and with horrible hissing and convulsions expired.
"At this moment Zorabah rushed in---one
of the chiefest of the Devas. His countenance
was distorted by rage, and he roared
like the roar of a mighty cataract. ’Besotted
fools,’ he cried, ’forgetful of our tremendous
emprise, you are wantoning away moments