moment,--Alwyn was watching him with a close intentness that
bordered on fascination and presently he continued, "It is best
from all points of view, that you should consider the matter more
thoroughly than you have yet done; think it over well and
carefully until this time to-morrow--then, if you are quite
resolved--"

"I am resolved NOW!" said Alwyn slowly and determinately. "If you
are so certain of your influence, come! ... unbar my chains! ...
open the prison-door! Let me go hence to-night; there is no time
like the present!"

"To night!" and Heliobas turned his keen, bright eyes full upon
him, with a look of amazement and reproach--"To night' without
faith, preparation or prayer, you are willing to be tossed through
the realms of space like a grain of dust in a whirling tempest?
Beyond the glittering gyration of unnumbered stars--through the
sword-like flash of streaming comets--through darkness--through
light--through depths of profoundest silence--over heights of
vibrating sound--you--YOU will dare to wander in these God-
invested regions--you a blasphemer and a doubter of God!"

His voice thrilled with passion,--his aspect was so solemn, and
earnest, and imposing that Alwyn, awed and startled, remained for
a moment mute--then, lifting his head proudly, answered--

"Yes, I DARE! If I am immortal I will test my immortality! I will
face God and find these angels you talk about! What shall prevent
me?"