Alyrus saw that he was higher in position than the others. Around his
forehead was bound a golden circlet, bearing a lizard covered with
jewels. Its eyes were two emeralds and its body blazed with diamonds
and rubies.
"I have."
The porter held up the bronze lizard, similar in form to that on the
priest's forehead.
"It is well. Come forward to the light, and relate to me and these my
brethren, all that thou knowest of thy master."
The spirit of recklessness which makes men daring possessed Alyrus at
this moment. He felt approaching the glad hour of his revenge on those
whom he despised. But he had not lost all caution.
"What do I get as a reward for this knowledge which you so much
desire?"
The priest rose to his full height. His eyes blazed with anger and he
raised his arm to strike Alyrus, who did not cringe but faced him
boldly, though his dark cheeks grew livid.
An aged priest on the superior's right, laid a trembling hand on his
arm.
"Is it wise?" he asked, gently. "If thou frightenest the slave, he
will not give thee correct information.
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