第42页 / 共134页

Sarthia's spiritual consciousness was not immediately allowed to

return. The awakening must be gradual to her, for knowing what

was being done, the joy and ecstacy of a prolonged life in the

holy bonds of pure love with Rathunor would be disastrous if

suddenly conveyed to her consciousness.

The High Priest, turning to Rathunor, said, "Our beloved pupil,

return now to your usual duties, but fail not to return to the

Temple a little before twelve o'clock to-morrow night."

Now the bodies of Sarthia and Nu-nah were removed to another part

of the Temple. The Priestesses and Vestals, with the choir and

musicians, were dismissed as the first part of the solemn and

sacred Rites was over, but the Priests remained, never stopping

in their magical work, for yet the vibrations of the new-born

souls were not of sufficient strength and power to remain

unassisted, especially that of Nu-nah's.

CHAPTER VI.

THE AWAKENING.