The figures were lighted up by the fires which burned on two altars of ivory and gold.

Beautiful boys, dressed as armed Erotes, fed the flames.
The whole effect was magical and bewildering; but, as she followed her guide, Melissa only felt that she was in the midst of a new world, such as she might perhaps have seen in a dream; till, as they passed the fountain, the cool drops sprinkled her face.
Then she suddenly remembered what had brought her hither.

In a minute she must appear as a supplicant in the presence of Korinna's mother--perhaps even in that of Caesar himself--and the fate of all dear to her depended on her demeanor.

The sense of fulfilling a serious duty was uppermost in her mind.

She drew herself up, and replaced a stray lock of hair; and her heart beat almost to bursting as she saw a number of, men standing on the platform at the top of the steps, round a lady who had just risen from her ivory seat.