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fairies. The wolf played his best. At the proper moment Dea made her
appearance, and, in her voice so tremulous and heavenly, invoked
Gwynplaine. She extended her arms, feeling for that head.
Ursus rushed at the wig, ruffled it, put it on, advanced softly, and
holding his breath, his head bristled thus under the hand of Dea.
Then calling all his art to his aid, and copying Gwynplaine's voice, he
sang with ineffable love the response of the monster to the call of the
spirit. The imitation was so perfect that again the gipsies looked for
Gwynplaine, frightened at hearing without seeing him.
Govicum, filled with astonishment, stamped, applauded, clapped his
hands, producing an Olympian tumult, and himself laughed as if he had
been a chorus of gods. This boy, it must be confessed, developed a rare
talent for acting an audience.
Fibi and Vinos, being automatons of which Ursus pulled the strings,
rattled their instruments, composed of copper and ass's skin--the usual
sign of the performance being over and of the departure of the people.
Ursus arose, covered with perspiration. He said, in a low voice, to
Homo, "You see it was necessary to gain time. I think we have succeeded.
I have not acquitted myself badly--I, who have as much reason as any one
to go distracted. Gwynplaine may perhaps return to-morrow. It is useless
to kill Dea directly. I can explain matters to you."
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