What were these mighty edifices in the bowels of the world?
Whence came this wondrous, all-pervading and translucent light, whereof we could see no origin?
Whither had vanished those who had reared and inhabited them?
How did it happen that of them all, this man, if he were a man; and this lovely woman at my side, who, if I might trust my senses and instincts, was certainly a woman, alone survived of their departed multitudes?
The thing was crushing.

I looked at Bickley for encouragement, but got none, for he only shook his head.

Even Bastin, now that the first effects of the Life-water had departed, seemed overwhelmed, and muttered something about the halls of Hades.
Only the little dog Tommy remained quite cheerful.

He trotted down the hall, jumped on to the dais and sat himself comfortably at the feet of its occupant.
"I greet you," Oro said in his slow, resonant voice.

"Daughter, lead these strangers to me; I would speak with them.".