I was wondering which type I admired when startled by the sudden flare of lights in the building—the signal of the setting sun—and instantly forgot all types but one and hurried away in happy anticipation. I found Mike greatly perturbed. He told me every one in the palace had been thrown in great confusion by the tempestuous King of the Vespa Belt. “Alpha Centauri honors the traditions of her family,” he informed me. “She proclaims herself Priestess of the Sun, and that her celestial duties do not include the unification of the white race. King Benlial departed at sun-down. Friendly relations between the two countries are at an end. Centauri and his daughter escorted the wrathy King to his ship. In loud, excited tones, he told them the Prince would visit Centur. ‘Greetings,’ Alpha replied, ‘the people of Centur will welcome the Prince when honored by his presence.’ Her stateliness, serenity, superiority to the man before her—it was sacrilegious to dream of mating her with the son of such a barbarian!” Mike waxed indignant. “Centauri watched the departure of their royal visitor till the ship was out of sight,” he continued, “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 chuckle and hurried to meet the sweet woman who was certainly making life a very unhappy problem for me. She received me with a veiled glance and smiled tenderly as I raised her hand to my lips. I chided her for breaking her appointments.