here we found ourselves approaching an elevated throne situated in the centre of the apartment , while long rows of brilliantly armoured guards flanked us on either side , and , grouped around the throne , some standing and others reclining upon the flights of steps which appeared to be of solid gold , was an array of martian woman , beautifully and becomingly attired , all of whom greatly astonished us by the singular charm of their faces and bearing , so different from the aspect of most of the martians , whom we had already encountered .