Page:Tales of old Lusitania.djvu/132

118 would have remained spell-bound to the spot had not an attendant, who was half a sea lion and half a man, and had claws of a crab instead of hands, appeared suddenly, and said, "What has brought you here?"

"I have come to visit my sister, who lives here."

At this the page went inside the cavern to take the message, but soon returned, saying, "The queen of this island, who you must know is the wife of the great king of sea lions, desires me to say that she was not aware that she had a brother. But, as she believes nothing but a fairy or mermaid can have placed you on this island, she has signified a wish to see you, and hear what you have to say for yourself. Follow me."

He was led into the audience chamber, which was solely lit up by glittering masses of little creatures which were attached to the walls and roof, and twinkled in flashes.

The queen was resting on a crystal throne, attired in a robe of seaweeds which resembled lace of the most exquisite pattern and texture. She was surrounded by mermaids, who formed her court. As the young man stood before the queen, she asked him the motive that had directed his steps to the royal abode.

"My anxiety to know your fate after my father sold you to the king of fishes has brought me here, my dearest sister."

"But I never knew a brother," was the queen's reply.