ceased his recitative. He slowed his pace and stopped, in the
fashion of a man who wishes to convey that he intends to go no
farther.

"What is the name of this country?" asked Maskull.

"It is the Lusion Plain."

"Was that music in the nature of a temptation--do you wish me not to
go on?"

"Your work lies before you, and not behind you."

"What was it, then? What work do you allude to?"

"It must have seemed like something to you, Maskull."

"It seemed like Shaping music to me."

The instant he had absently uttered these words, Maskull wondered why
he had done so, as they now appeared meaningless to him.

Panawe, however, showed no surprise. "Shaping you will find
everywhere."

"Am I dreaming, or awake?"

"You are awake."

Maskull fell into deep thought. "So be it," he said, rousing