That is why those of the High Blood endured so long and became the rulers of the world, and that, as I have said, is the greatest of the reasons why the peoples who dwelt in the ancient outer countries and never wished to die, made war upon them, to win this secret fountain.

Have no fear, O Bastin, for see, I will pledge you in this water." Then she lifted a strange-looking, shallow, metal cup whereof the handles were formed of twisted serpents, that lay in the basin, filled it from the trickling stream, bowed to us and drank.

But as she drank I noted with a thrill of joy that her eyes were fixed on mine as though it were me she pledged and me alone.

Again she filled the cup with the sparkling water, for it did sparkle, like that French liqueur in which are mingled little flakes of gold, and handed it to me.
I bowed to her and drank.

I suppose the fluid was water, but to me it tasted more like strong champagne, dashed with Chateau Yquem.