Her heart sank at the thought of all that might happen before he returned, and the tears stood in her eyes.
"Are you here alone, dear princess ?" said a soft, clear voice behind her.

Nehushta started, as though something had stung her, as she recognised Atossa's tones.

There was nothing of her assumed cordiality of the previous day as she answered.

She was too unhappy, too weary of the thought that her lover was gone, to be able to act a part, or pretend a friendliness she did not feel.
"Yes--I am alone," she said quietly.
"So am I," answered Atossa, her blue eyes sparkling with the sunshine she brought in with her, and all her wonderful beauty beaming, as it were, with an overflowing happiness.

"The ladies of the court are gone in state to the city, in the Great King's train, and you and I are alone in the palace.