the midday sun
Negligently , tranquilly , he climbed close up to the statue , took the necklace of true pearls from off Anadyomene 's neck , and slipped it into his raiment . He walked very rapidly , hoping to overtake Chrysis in the road which led to the town . He was afraid that if he delayed any further he might once again lose his courage and his power of will . The white , hot road was so luminous that Demetrios closed his eyes as if the midday sun was shining . He was walking in this way without looking in front of him , when he narrowly escaped colliding with four black slaves who were marching at the head of a fresh procession . Suddenly a musical little voice said softly : `` Well-beloved , how glad I am ! '' He raised his head : it was Queen Berenice leaning on her elbow in her litter .