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 "then seeing me near, the Priestess of the Sun beckoned and bade me tell you she would consult with you in the morning."

"I will not see her to-day at all then!" I cried.

Mike shrugged his shoulders.

"She is closeted with her father, deep in discussion of important state matters," he told me.

"Will the Prince visit the city?" I foolishly asked.

Without the least hesitancy he replied: "Certainly; Alpha must mate, the last of her people. Prince Benlial may prove worthy."

This was consoling. I dismissed him and, weary, disappointed, retired. My slumbers were disturbed with lurid visions of Prince Benlial, and one poppy scene more vivid than others roused me with heartache and I awoke moaning. The sun streamed into the room, a slanting flame seared straight across my eyes, but through the blur I saw Mike tip-toeing about with disapproving glances fixed upon a heap of clothing fragrant with newness. He strenuously objected to the new clothing, but curious, and unable to assist me, keenly watched my preparations. When I stood complete before him he turned me around admiringly.

"You look very well," he remarked; "but appeared better yesterday."

"Nonsense!" I retorted. "I look better and feel more like myself now than since entering Centur."

He smiled, bowing deeply.

"Alpha Centauri awaits you," he said. "You were to be so informed the moment of awakening."

I pushed him aside, shaking my fist at his