Already some of the weakest and
most timid of their numbers might be seen passing out hastily into the
gardens by the back gates, like engineers who had fired a train, and
were escaping ere the explosion burst forth. Those among the menials
who still remained in the palace were for the greater part occupied in
drinking from the vases of wine which had been placed before them, to
preserved to the last moment their failing strength.
The mockery of festivity had been extended even to their dresses--green
liveries girt with cherry-coloured girdles arrayed their wasted forms.
They drank in utter silence. Not the slightest appearance of revelry or
intoxication prevailed among their ranks. Confusedly huddled together,
as if for mutual protection, they ever and anon cast quick glances of
suspicion and apprehension upon some six or eight of the superior
attendants of the palace, who walked backwards and forwards at the outer
extremity of the hall occupied by their comrades, and occasionally
advancing along the straight passages before them to the front gates of
the building, appeared to be exchanging furtive signals with some of the
people in the street.
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