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+The Project Gutenberg EBook of Baron Bruno, by Louisa Morgan
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org/license
+
+
+Title: Baron Bruno
+       Or, the Unbelieving Philosopher, and Other Fairy Stories
+
+Author: Louisa Morgan
+
+Illustrator: Randolph Caldecott
+
+Release Date: March 26, 2012 [EBook #39274]
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: ISO-8859-1
+
+*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK BARON BRUNO ***
+
+
+
+
+Produced by Suzanne Shell and the Online Distributed
+Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net (This file was
+produced from images generously made available by The
+Internet Archive/American Libraries.)
+
+
+
+
+
+
+  [Illustration: ESGAIR.
+   _Frontispiece._]
+
+
+
+BARON BRUNO;
+OR,
+THE UNBELIEVING PHILOSOPHER,
+
+And other Fairy Stories.
+
+
+BY
+
+LOUISA MORGAN.
+
+
+_WITH ILLUSTRATIONS BY R. CALDECOTT._
+
+
+London:
+MACMILLAN AND CO.
+1875.
+
+
+
+
+CONTENTS.
+
+
+                                                       PAGE
+
+BARON BRUNO AND THE STARS; OR, THE UNBELIEVING
+PHILOSOPHER                                               3
+
+ESGAIR: THE BRIDE OF LLYN IDWYL                          49
+
+EOTHWALD: THE YOUNG SCULPTOR                             91
+
+FIDO AND FIDUNIA                                        115
+
+EUDÆMON; OR, THE ENCHANTER OF THE NORTH                 199
+
+
+
+
+LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS.
+
+
+                                                       PAGE
+
+ESGAIR                                       _Frontispiece._
+
+VIGNETTE                                            _Title._
+
+"THE DREAMER STARTED FROM HIS CHAIR"                      8
+
+BARON BRUNO AND ALCYONE                                  22
+
+EOTHWALD AND DUVA IN THE CAVE                           102
+
+FIDO AND FIDUNIA                                        123
+
+FIDO AND FIDUNIA                                        170
+
+EUDÆMON                                                 199
+
+
+
+
+BARON BRUNO AND THE STARS;
+
+OR,
+
+The Unbelieving Philosopher.
+
+
+Baron Bruno was the Prime Minister of the Hereditary Grand Duke of
+Rumpel Stiltzein. Besides being Prime Minister, he was the cleverest
+man in the kingdom. This is saying a good deal, for were there not
+(besides all the men of science, the physicians, the literati, and the
+great philosophers of the day) the General-in-Chief of the Grand-Ducal
+army, Prince Edlerkopf; the great High Almoner, Herr von Pfenig; and
+also the accomplished Graf von Wild Kranz, the most able lawyer and the
+politest man about court? So humble and gentle, indeed, were his
+manners, that strangers sometimes took it upon themselves to dispute
+the opinion of their modest neighbour. But such hardy persons seldom
+repeated the experiment after Wild Kranz had completely overturned
+their arguments in his quiet, hesitating tone, with a shrewd glance of
+enjoyment twinkling in his small wary eye; and woe to the man who a
+second time opposed his will or challenged his decision.
+
+Very different was Baron Bruno. Impetuous, fiery, and caustic, gifted
+with inexhaustible memory, and brimming over with barbed sarcasm, he
+was often misunderstood and disliked in the outer world, but invariably
+beloved by those who knew him intimately.
+
+Pfenig and Edlerkopf were devoted friends, as well as ministers at
+court. They had been educated together, and while Edlerkopf lent to the
+counsels of state the aid of wise and deliberate judgment and the
+weight of his nobly impartial character, Pfenig was the most wonderful
+manager of the public purse, and could not only calculate the incoming
+revenue within a hairsbreadth, but could also regulate government
+expenditure so exactly as to keep all departments amply supplied, and
+yet preserve a due regard to economy.
+
+You may well imagine that with four ministers such as these the Grand
+Duke had little difficulty in maintaining peace and contentment in his
+beautiful kingdom of Rumpel Stiltzein; and that from every side
+artisans, labourers, and mechanics flocked to the small domain, within
+whose narrow boundaries prosperity sat enthroned. To add to his
+happiness, the Grand Duchess became the proud mother of twin children,
+the spirited handsome Prince Bertrand and the lovely gentle Princess
+Berta. They were now in their tenth year, and seemed only born to give
+pleasure and hope to their parents and to the whole principality.
+
+Edlerkopf, Wild Kranz and Pfenig were all married, but Bruno had a
+solitary home; and no one without ocular demonstration would have
+believed in what a shabby den this great statesman passed much of his
+time. In his town-house he had magnificent saloons, where all that was
+fair and choice delighted his guests; but near the roof of this
+dwelling, and far above the haunts of men, there, like the eagle, Bruno
+had his eyrie, where, with ill-concealed impatience, he would hardly
+even permit the cleaning incursions of his maids, and few and far
+between were the footsteps that trod those time-worn boards. Here the
+Baron sat surrounded by dusty piles of books, now poring intently over
+the records of the past, now eagerly scanning the papers of the day,
+now striding up and down the narrow chamber, composing his speech for
+the Reichstag, or dashing off answers to his numerous correspondents.
+There also at the threshold would pause the faithful messengers who
+bore from minister to minister the secret boxes of state papers, and
+waited to obtain from each his signature before proceeding on their
+rounds.
+
+A few steps and a small door led from the sanctuary which I have
+described to the roof. Here Bruno had a little observatory on one side
+fitted up with a revolving cupola; so that when he sat in the centre of
+this round miniature house he could turn his telescope, without himself
+moving, upon any part of the heavens, and seek with keen unfaltering
+eye the verification of calculations he had made, or diligently mark
+the alteration and movement among the visible planets. But the rest of
+the roof was a free uncovered space, upon which a comfortable chair and
+rug, generally kept within the observatory, to be safe from the wear
+and tear of the elements, were often placed. From this lonely elevated
+seat the Baron would then study the myriads of stars with his own
+unaided and unerring vision, until they became to him dear and
+well-known companions.
+
+During such silent hours of the night, when all around teemed with
+nature's glorious presence, Bruno indulged in long soliloquies.
+Sometimes he pondered curiously over the strange difference between
+himself and his colleagues. He well knew that, when weary with the
+lengthened debates and vitiated air of the Reichstag (which often
+extended its sittings till long after midnight), Pfenig and Edlerkopf
+hastened home to their faithful wives, and derived from their society a
+pleasure little short of bliss; and found endless interest in watching
+and fostering the mental and physical growth of their children; while
+Wild Kranz, though often delayed in his law chambers till near
+daybreak, (the keenest and hardest lawyer of his day,) considered no
+happiness like the sacred domestic felicity he also experienced when
+surrounded by his family. When these and other similar reflections
+weighed on Bruno's mind, he would lift his piercing eyes heavenward,
+and, shrugging his shoulders, murmur, half aloud: "O, ye stars! ye are
+wife and children to me. As I gaze alone on you by night, I feel a
+secret satisfaction surpassing the keenest emotions experienced by
+these weak dreamers in their so-called felicity. O, immortal heavens!
+enfold me in your vast space, and teach a finite mortal to comprehend
+in faint measure your infinite beauty and eternal unswerving laws."
+Bruno's fervid nature suffered no chill from such midnight exposure;
+his iron frame was proof against fatigue; his restless intellect but
+seldom needed or courted repose.
+
+It was a hot night in July, worried and jaded, after a wearisome debate
+in the Reichstag, the Baron walked through the empty streets. The
+latest revellers were already housed, a strange hush hung over the
+noisy, populous city, and refreshing breezes blew on his burning brow,
+as he at length reached his home, and ascended to his upper chamber.
+With a sigh of contentment he stepped on the roof, and prepared to
+enjoy his well-earned repose. Throwing himself into his easy-chair, and
+drawing his soft rug across his feet, he became absorbed in the
+contemplation of the firmament above.
+
+As the night wore on, thoughts, till now strangers to him, took
+possession of his mind. A new yearning for companionship awoke in his
+world-wearied bosom. In vague, uneasy discontent with his solitary
+condition, he turned restlessly from side to side, and at length
+exclaimed aloud: "To you, distant stars! I nightly offer the homage of
+a constant worshipper; would that you in return could give me to know
+the spell of love, and teach me what it is that inspires the painter,
+the poet, and the lover."
+
+Hardly had the thought crossed his mind, or the half-uttered words
+risen to his lips, when a meteor fell swiftly rushing from the stars on
+which he gazed. He strove to follow it with his eye, but was dazzled by
+the blinding flash of light. For a moment fire seemed to surround him.
+When the bright glow became less intense, lo! upon the roof near at
+hand, where that vivid ray had fallen, shone a shimmering shape. The
+dreamer started from his chair. Bewildered and entranced, he deemed her
+the creature of his imagination; and surely mortal eye had never beheld
+a form so fair. In trailing garments of palest azure there stood the
+perfect ideal of a poet's dream. From her hair gleamed a faint
+effulgence, and her deep tender eyes sent a strange thrill to the
+philosopher's heart.
+
+  [Illustration: THE DREAMER STARTED FROM HIS CHAIR.
+   P. 8.]
+
+The burden of many years fell from Bruno; the ardour of youth rushed
+through his veins; ambition, politics, calculations, all disappeared
+like fallen leaves before the autumn wind; and in agitated tones he
+besought his beautiful visitant to tell him whence she came.
+
+"Son of earth!" replied the fair unknown, "thou hast watched and loved
+our stars for long years. We in our turn have known thee, and have
+guarded thee and thy fortunes in many a time of danger. Thou wouldest
+know the spell of love. It is even now awakening within thy rugged
+breast; but beware! Thou hast disbelieved in immortality, and doubted
+the eternal power of our great Creator. We love thee! we yearn to save
+thy soul! We long to soften thee through human affection; that when thy
+poor earth is no more, thou mayst find an everlasting home, where
+
+    'Infinite day excludes the night,
+    And pleasures banish pain.'
+
+I--Alcyone, sent by my sisters--I am here to speed thine upward way."
+
+Bruno, spell-bound, eagerly listened. Deeply enamoured of the lovely
+messenger, he succeeded in winning from the fair denizen of the stars
+her consent to remain with him on one condition. She stipulated that
+she should be permitted every month to spend the evening hours of this
+self-same night entirely alone beneath the canopy of heaven, without
+interruption or intrusion, for her life depended on the due observance
+of this time of "retreat."
+
+She also added, falteringly, that if her faith were once doubted she
+must quit for ever the pleasant paths of human fellowship, and be
+claimed again by her immortal sisters. The Baron gladly vowed to keep
+what seemed to him such wondrously simple promises by which to gain so
+peerless a bride. The time passed swiftly as these arrangements were
+made, and ere long the first streaks of daylight appeared in the east.
+Alcyone, faint and weary, was conducted to a chamber for rest and
+repose; and the Baron aroused his servants and informed them that he
+was about to be married.
+
+In the country of Rumpel Stiltzein it was customary to celebrate
+marriages in the evening; there were therefore still available a good
+many hours for the requisite preparations.
+
+The court of the Grand Duke was considerably agitated by the unexpected
+news. Strange rumours were set afloat regarding the newly-elected
+bride. The Prime Minister's answer to all inquiries was the same. He
+let it be understood that the Lady Alcyone was an orphan relative
+lately committed to his charge; that she had suddenly arrived from the
+country the evening before, when he came to the conclusion that the
+best way of taking care of her would be to marry her, and having gained
+the lady's consent, all was well.
+
+It is true that Bruno had a private interview with his Prince; but as
+it was held with closed doors, the substance of their conversation is
+unknown. The only thing certain is, that the Grand Duke himself
+consented to give away the bride.
+
+Edlerkopf, Pfenig and Wild Kranz, with their wives and families, and
+all the chief members of the court promised to attend at the ceremony,
+and great were the rejoicings that the solitary philosopher was about
+to enjoy the sweet pleasures of home life. All rejoiced, because they
+believed the change would be for the Baron's happiness; but there was
+one dissentient mind. The Countess Olga von Dunkelherz, one of the
+ladies-in-waiting on the Grand Duchess, was a spinster of a certain
+age, and of undisputed ability; celebrated for her witty tongue and
+smart sayings. She was not displeased when rumour coupled her name with
+that of the Prime Minister, and when the courtiers rallied her about
+the Baron's attentions. The truth was that Bruno had never for a moment
+regarded her in the light of his future Baroness; her manners wanted
+the repose and softness which to him constituted a woman's chief charm.
+In spite of her masterly intellect, her conversation often bored him.
+For in his moments of relaxation he turned to the fair and softer sex
+for sympathy and recreation, not to involve his wearied brain in
+arguments about the last geological discovery, or the newest theory of
+electricity.
+
+But as he remained single, and they were constantly together, the
+Countess Olga had insensibly grown to regard him as her own property.
+Imagine therefore her astonishment and her displeasure when the Grand
+Duchess, summoning her ladies to her apartment, gave them instructions
+to lay out her state robes, and prepare for a grand court ceremonial,
+as Baron Bruno's wedding was to take place that very evening within the
+palace.
+
+All was bustle and confusion; but the labours of the court cook were
+something superhuman. It required, indeed, the utmost efforts of genius
+and industry combined to produce so splendid a feast at such short
+notice. It is only due, however, to Francabelli's reputation as first
+_chef_ of the Grand Duchy, if not of the world at large, to record
+that the execution of his designs was on this occasion carried out with
+peculiar success.
+
+At last the nuptial hour approached, and excited curiosity was
+gratified by the sight of the bride, as she was led slowly through the
+palace by the Grand Duke. Her wondrous beauty amazed every one, as also
+the radiant simplicity of her attire. She wore her robes of flowing
+azure, and over her forehead there sparkled a gem of extraordinary
+brilliancy, which seemed absolutely to blaze with light.
+
+As Alcyone advanced towards the altar, Baron Bruno, clad in his
+splendid court uniform, embroidered with gold, and covered with
+decorations, stepped forth to meet her, and the wedding ceremony was
+soon completed. The priest dipped his hand in the holy water and
+sprinkled some over bride and groom during his final benediction; as he
+did so, the Countess Olga, who stood near with her royal mistress,
+rushed forward, exclaiming, "She is a witch! she is a witch! the holy
+water has scared her!" All eyes turned instantly on Alcyone, who
+shuddered visibly, and would have fallen to the ground where she knelt
+had not her husband's strong arm encircled and held her up. A mortal
+pallor overspread her fair countenance, and, strange to relate, the
+glittering gem on her forehead became opaque, and was clouded over with
+a dim moisture. By the aid of strong perfumes she gradually revived,
+but was thoroughly shaken and overcome. Baron Bruno, therefore, craving
+the indulgence of the Grand Duke, begged permission to retire at once
+with his bride, and entreated that their absence should not be allowed
+to cast a shadow over the rejoicings at court.
+
+Now Bombastes, the Grand Duke, though of a choleric temperament, was
+still at heart a man of just and keen perception. He perceived that the
+newly-made baroness was indisputably overfatigued, and that it was only
+natural her bridegroom should wish to take every care of her. He
+instantly, therefore, granted his Prime Minister's request, and calling
+the other great officers of state around him, invoked their aid to
+carry on the court revels with due spirit and merriment; at the same
+time adding, in an undertone, that he trusted his faithful servant had
+not undone himself by marrying an unknown beauty without parents,
+relations, or antecedents!
+
+The three ministers, Edlerkopf, Pfenig, and Wild Kranz, with their
+wives and children, joined heart and soul in the gaieties of the
+evening. The children, with their friends Prince Bertrand and Princess
+Berta, were, as a great treat, allowed to sit up to supper, and had a
+small side-table to themselves. Here old Donnerfuss, the head butler,
+kept them well supplied with all they demanded, and they behaved with
+decorum for a considerable time. At length, wearied with the protracted
+courses, and finding it impossible to eat any more, the thoughtless
+boys amused themselves by sticking burrs on the footmen's silken calves
+as they passed to and fro. These naughty children had purposely
+provided themselves with a quantity of these instruments of torture, in
+hopes of finding some use for them during the dull state supper. For
+some time they pursued their fun unnoticed during the general bustle,
+and quite undisturbed by the muttered maledictions of their victims. At
+last Bombastes, having an observant eye, became aware of some
+interruption in the serving of the dinner. Looking round the hall, he
+noticed on every side agitated footmen carefully examining their lower
+extremities. In a voice of thunder he demanded of the Lord Chamberlain
+an explanation of such unprecedented behaviour. The Lord Chamberlain
+called up the High Steward of the Household, who, in his turn, required
+Donnerfuss to explain this breach of discipline. Thereupon the fifty
+red-faced footmen, seeing all eyes turned upon them, at once resumed
+their duties, regardless of pricking sensations about the leg and
+unseemly excrescences upon the otherwise fair white proportions of
+their well-filled stockings. Donnerfuss, in a frightened whisper,
+revealed the truth to the High Steward, and he, in his turn, narrated
+the mischievous exploit of the boys to the Lord High Chamberlain.
+Bombastes now impatiently beckoned the latter to his Grand-ducal chair,
+and insisted upon hearing the whole root of the matter. Sanftschriften,
+who was himself a parent, and naturally kind-hearted, tried to soften
+down the affair; but as Bombastes listened, his large, round, prominent
+eyes seemed as if they would absolutely start from his head at the
+recital of this outrage on decorum. He sternly commanded the culprits
+to retire to bed; and, glancing wrathfully at Edlerkopf, Pfenig, and
+Wild Kranz (who sat quaking in their shoes), he added further: "As to
+the well-brought-up sons of these great noblemen, their domestic life
+is beyond the control of their poor sovereign; but for the next month I
+give orders that no dessert of any kind shall pass the lips of Prince
+Bertrand, who has thus misbehaved himself in so shameful and public a
+manner." Princess Berta and the other little girls, distressed at the
+disgrace of their playmates, rose also at once from the table, and
+accompanied them from the hall. Thus it came to pass that the court
+children had no very pleasant associations with the day of Baron
+Bruno's wedding. Indeed, you may be very certain that the three
+ministers gave their sons the same punishment as Prince Bertrand; and
+therefore for a whole month the boys had good reason to remember the
+marriage feast, as their tutors, governesses, and nurses, were strictly
+enjoined to carry out the Grand Duke's peremptory edict. Princess Berta
+and the other small girls, tender and soft-hearted as little maidens
+ever should be, did their best to alleviate the punishment of their
+playmates by voluntarily depriving themselves of all sweet things for
+the same period, which, I am sure you will agree with me, required much
+self-denial, on the part of those dessert-loving damsels, and was no
+small proof of affection.
+
+In the meantime Bruno had taken his bride to a small cottage he owned
+on the borders of a wide and gloomy forest. Here they passed the few
+days which, by the indulgence of his royal master, Bruno was enabled to
+spare from the affairs of state. When they were alone together, his
+wife expressed to him her conviction that some ill-disposed person had
+tampered with the holy water, so as to affect that which was sprinkled
+over them. She had also felt during the ceremony the near presence of
+an anti-pathetic and malign influence. Alcyone furthermore explained to
+her husband that the gem on her forehead was a talisman, which paled
+and grew dim on the approach of danger, or when exposed to poison. The
+Baron at once remembered the dull appearance presented by the jewel
+when the holy water fell near it, but he also became unreasonably vexed
+when his bride refused to loosen it, even for one moment, from her
+hair, to permit him to examine it in his hand.
+
+He gradually grew to regard its brilliance with a certain amount of
+suspicion, and more than once, when the gentle Alcyone laid her head
+upon his shoulder, he felt as if a fiery eye shone guardian over her
+and watched unsleepingly his every movement. When in his vexation Bruno
+allowed himself to speak harshly for the first time to his young wife,
+Alcyone tearfully deprecated his displeasure. She assured him her life
+was bound up in her talisman, and that if she parted with it, for ever
+so brief a space, she must at once return to the regions whence she
+came. After this explanation Bruno rarely referred to the disputed
+point, but it is not too much to say that the lurid ray of the strange
+gem often in their happiest moments sent a sudden thrill to his heart's
+core, and gave a feeling of insecurity to his most private hours of
+retirement.
+
+    "It is the little rift within the lute
+    That by and by will make the music mute,
+    And, ever widening, slowly silence all.
+
+    "The little rift within the lover's lute,
+    Or little pitted speck in garnered fruit,
+    That rotting inwards slowly moulders all."
+
+I have already hinted that Bruno was of a sceptical turn of mind.
+Possessed of rare intellectual powers, he had studied metaphysics to
+such an extent, and become so thoroughly master of the strange theories
+propounded by the deep-thinking German philosophers of the day, that he
+could not bend himself to the simplicity of that religion which only
+demands the faith of a little child; he disbelieved the immortality of
+the soul, and professed to doubt the existence of a future state.
+
+But though he and his bride widely differed in faith, yet day by day
+she became more and more endeared to him, by the lovely nature of her
+mind no less than by the graces of her person. Her exceeding humility
+and true-hearted simplicity showed to him in a new light those
+religious duties at which in less peaceful days he was wont to cavil.
+Well would it have been for both could their lives have been thus spent
+far from the busy world, in the calm retreat, where for the first time
+the gray-haired man recalled soft prayers which a mother's lips (long
+since silent and cold) had murmured over his infant head.
+
+But the calls of duty had to be obeyed, and ere long the prime minister
+and his bride returned to Aronsberg, to take their place at court and
+in society, and to have endless fêtes and receptions given in their
+honour. Here Alcyone's gentle unassuming manners, added to her great
+beauty, made her a universal favourite. The malicious Gräfin von
+Dunkelherz, however, disseminated strange stories concerning the new
+Baroness, and aroused the suspicions of those who were already perhaps
+somewhat jealous of the many charms united in the fair person of the
+young stranger.
+
+Amid the series of festivities given in honour of the newly-married
+couple, it was observed that whenever a storm of thunder and lightning
+broke over the neighbourhood Alcyone was painfully agitated. Wherever
+she and her husband might be, she implored him to convey her home as
+soon as possible; the electric influence so entirely overcame her that
+more than once she seemed completely gone--so utterly did she lose
+colour and consciousness--so deadly pale did she become. To Bruno's
+impetuous nature this unfortunate tendency proved a serious annoyance.
+He considered that by a little firm exercise of moral courage his wife
+could have retained her senses. Often after conveying her home and
+reappearing alone (by her earnest request) at some state banquet, he
+would be universally rallied about her captiousness, and even made to
+see (owing to Olga's kind offices) that his friends considered the
+whole affair in a somewhat mysterious light. It will be remembered that
+Alcyone stipulated for one night of retirement every month, when,
+undisturbed and alone, she spent long solitary hours upon the roof. She
+entreated Bruno, by all his affection for her, neither to approach the
+place himself nor to suffer any one else to intrude upon her privacy.
+Somehow or other this circumstance, with numerous additions, became
+bruited abroad, and it was whispered that the Baron's wife was in
+regular communication with demons. Bribed and listening servants heard
+voices of no earthly _timbre_, speaking in an unknown language. More
+they were unable to say, for Bruno as yet kept faithful guard over his
+wife's hours of mystic retreat.
+
+At last, however, the time approached when the sittings of the
+Reichstag terminated, and when all who could forsook the dusty purlieus
+of the town for the mountains, the sea, or their country dwellings.
+People began to be too busy making their own plans to attend to those
+of their neighbours, and Bruno retired once more with his Baroness to
+Tiefträume Forest. There in their small cottage, with its low long
+veranda covered with creepers, they spent weeks--nay, months--of
+uninterrupted happiness. On one side of their home patches of wild
+moorland were beautifully interspersed with cultivated oases of garden.
+Towards the east rose the dark masses of the pine forest, giving with
+their sombre colouring an ever-fresh beauty to the foreground of lovely
+flowering shrubs. Passing through tangled masses of bramble and fern,
+the path led by bare gray rocks and tufts of purple heather to some
+ivy-covered bower; or you came upon some exquisite smooth-shaven little
+lawn, jewelled in bright patterns of many coloured flowers, and adding
+brilliance and perfume to the scene.
+
+Here Alcyone and her husband wandered together, or, perhaps descending
+the steps at the end of their garden, stood on the brink of the little
+river Naecken, which tumbled and hurried through its narrow rocky
+channel, thus dividing them from the forest. Lower down the streamlet
+formed a small lake, on which a boat was kept, and where Bruno was wont
+to row his wife, and try to teach her unskilful hand to guide the oar.
+He laid these lines beside her one morning towards the end of their
+country sojourn when, fresh and fair as Aurora herself, she took her
+place at their morning meal:--
+
+  [Illustration: BARON BRUNO AND ALCYONE.
+   P. 22.]
+
+    "One moment let me live the time again,
+    The sweet, sweet time when o'er the silvery loch
+    The frail bark sped, or hand-in-hand we climbed
+    Together, where the divided mountain path
+    Stopped like a thing perplexed, or haply stood
+    To watch yon dark blue vault where white clouds sailed
+    Onward and onward through the homeless sky;
+    Or when, returning from a mid-day ride,
+    We turned to gaze where far-off heathery vales
+    Gleamed between shadowy hills, and dark woods rained
+    Transparent sunshine through their golden leaves.
+    And sweet it was to rob the miser night,
+    Of her rich hours, as side by side we sat,
+    Seeking to chain the time that fled too fast,
+    By mazy labyrinths of sweet discourse;
+    These things can never die--there is no death
+    Of happy feelings, gentlest sympathies,
+    And that delicious sadness, whose deep tints
+    Fall like soft shadows o'er the sunny past.
+    Therefore in years to come a calm, clear voice,
+    Like a stray note of some forgotten tune,
+    Shall rise from out these happy autumn days,
+    Waking a melody of gentler thoughts
+    Through all the silent chambers of my heart."
+
+The Baron was often obliged to return to town for a day on important
+business, or to attend his royal master at the Prince's Château; but
+Alcyone never wearied when alone with nature; and these little
+separations lent a new delight to the hour of reunion. Jaded and tired
+from his hot journey, Bruno would then seat himself in the veranda and
+recount to his fondly-listening wife all the little adventures of the
+day, while her cool, soft hand laid on his burning brow, or her gentle
+voice, carolling forth low songs in the silent twilight, soothed and
+refreshed his hard-worked brain. It was at times like these, when
+husband and wife were drawn very near, that Alcyone spoke of her faith,
+and allowed him to see and know the firm unfaltering trust that
+possessed her simple mind. She sometimes referred to the possibility of
+their separation--to her hope of ultimate reunion. When, however, she
+had but half uttered such words, Bruno, enfolding her in his arms, with
+a quivering voice would beseech her to be silent, and not break his
+heart.
+
+Autumn disappeared, and next came winter with all its delightful
+accompaniments of snow and sleighing. Merrily tinkled the bells and
+fast flew the steeds under Bruno's skilful guidance, as their
+gaily-decorated sledge was whirled through the broad thoroughfares and
+snowy parks of Aronsberg. Christmas also passed by, and Santa Klaus
+sent joy to the hearts of myriads of children with his mysterious
+gifts. Months again rolled away, and the glad Easter Feast was in full
+celebration when, with the first sweet violets, came a dear little
+child to bless and brighten the home of Alcyone and her husband. They
+called her Violet because she bloomed into life at the same time as
+those fragrant flowers, and Stella was added in remembrance of the
+sacred mystery known only to her parents. In the fulness of his joy,
+Bruno dismissed, as he thought for ever, from his mind the cruel
+unworthy thoughts he had once been led to entertain of his bride. It
+would be difficult to describe this infant to those who never saw her;
+but let each one think of all the children he has been privileged to
+know. If among such dear ones he can recall some babe of a beauty too
+rare and fair to attain to maturity in this bleak world, then he may in
+some faint degree picture to himself the nameless charm that surrounded
+the little Violet as with a halo.
+
+Various changes now for a time partially relieved the Baron from
+official duties; wrapped up in his domestic happiness, nearly a year
+passed swiftly by before he was once more drawn into the unceasing
+whirl of political and social court life.
+
+It was already June, the busiest season in the Aronsberg world. Plunged
+in the necessary rounds of visiting and receiving, the Baroness had but
+little time to enjoy, as she wished, the society either of her husband
+or of the little Violet, now at a most engaging age. It is true that it
+was totally against her own wish that Alcyone took so active a part in
+the gay world. Bruno, whom nature had formed to shine in society, and
+gifted with marvellous conversational powers, chafed under her
+continual excuses, and, returning with eager zest to his old life,
+insisted upon the Baroness assuming that prominent place in society
+which was hers by right as the wife of the Prime Minister.
+
+It was about this time that the artful Countess Olga began once more to
+drop poisoned words about the court concerning Alcyone. Ever on the
+alert to open the Baron's eyes to the folly of what she called his
+strange infatuation, she eagerly hailed the first signs of coolness
+between him and his wife. In an unguarded moment Bruno let fall some
+hasty expression regarding her absence from a court ball, and Olga,
+with honeyed words, sympathizing in his disappointment, hinted that
+rumour credited the Baroness with some private amusement at home, she
+so rarely vouch-safed to favour the court with her presence for more
+than the briefest possible attendance at the levees of the Grand
+Duchess.
+
+Bruno's conscience smote him while he listened to the Countess von
+Dunkelherz's ill-natured remarks. He answered somewhat shortly that the
+little Violet being an only child and very delicate, absorbed much of
+her mother's attention, and therefore she had the best of excuses for
+remaining at home. A beginning had nevertheless been made, and Olga
+took good care to keep up her renewed intimacy with the Prime Minister.
+
+It may have been the vitiated town air which now affected Violet's
+health; but she sensibly drooped, and caused her mother the keenest
+anxiety. Her father (prompted by his evil adviser,) although
+affectionate and kind, deemed his wife fanciful when she fretted over
+the child's altered appearance, and became more and more displeased if
+Alcyone absented herself from society.
+
+There was to be a grand masked ball in honour of Prince Bertrand and
+Princess Berta's birthday. They were allowed to choose their own
+diversion, and they fixed that their father and the Grand Duchess
+should appear as Oberon and Titania, and that every guest should
+personate some fairy character. All was excitement, while the Grand
+Duke himself, assisted by the court painter, and somewhat guided by the
+predilections of his children, chose the dress to be worn by each
+visitor, and had it written on the card of invitation. Berta and her
+brother settled to represent Prince Hempseed and his sister Olivia.
+Other heroes and heroines too numerous to be recorded were selected.
+Snow-white and Rose-red, the Blue Bird, the Yellow Dwarf, Beauty and
+the Beast, Cinderella, and many others found suitable representatives,
+but the Prime Minister and his wife were requested to become, for the
+time being, Puss in Boots and the White Cat. At one o'clock all masks
+were to be removed, and a complete transformation-scene enacted, as
+regarded many of the characters, who would at that hour, like the White
+Cat and Cinderella, throw off their disguise, and, uncovering their
+faces, shine forth resplendent in garments the most exquisite that
+could be devised for the occasion. Then, marshalled in due rank, the
+King and Queen of Fairyland proposed to lead their motley subjects to
+supper. The fun grew fast and furious in the little court of Rumpel
+Stiltzein. Desperate were the efforts of the tailors, milliners, and
+shoemakers to meet the multifarious demands made on their time, which
+was very short; and on their invention, which was taxed to the utmost.
+
+Alcyone from the first disliked the idea of the ball, and all the
+rampant merriment connected with it. Her ailing child required constant
+care, and she herself felt far from strong. She mooted the question of
+remaining at home, but Bruno would not hear of this, and indeed
+answered her so reproachfully when she proposed it, that she made up
+her mind to sacrifice her own desires, and please him by endeavouring
+to throw herself heartily into the affair. During the many necessary
+discussions with the other court ladies as to the all-important subject
+of dress, the Baroness was left alone with Olga, who of late had, to
+all appearance, been her most sympathizing friend. The crafty Countess
+soon extracted from Alcyone the little history of her own reluctance to
+appear, her husband's consequent displeasure, and her determination to
+gratify him by paying every possible attention to her dress.
+
+The eventful evening at length arrived. Baron Bruno, after an early
+dinner, was compelled to attend for a short period an important sitting
+of the Reichstag. His house was at some distance from the public
+offices of state; he therefore took his fancy ball-dress with him, and
+settled to change his attire in his own small official room, while
+Alcyone should start at a later hour, and call for him on her way to
+the palace. Alcyone felt unusually sad as her husband waved her a hasty
+adieu and speeded off to the Reichstag. He strictly enjoined her to
+observe due punctuality in her engagements, as the Grand Duke wished to
+enter the ballroom in a grand procession formed of all his chief
+ministers and officers of state, court ladies, and hereditary noblemen.
+
+Violet had perceptibly drooped more and more, though her fond father
+refused to see the change. He only, however, saw his little daughter at
+brief intervals of his busy life, when a flush of delight at his
+approach rounded her pale cheeks, and her dark-blue eyes sparkled with
+the keen joy of being tossed or fondled in his arms.
+
+After Bruno's departure, Alcyone ascended the nursery stairs, and found
+Violet already in bed, but restless and uneasy, and tossing to and fro.
+The large windows stood wide open, though very little air seemed as yet
+to stir among the trees of the square in which they lived.
+
+The mother sat down beside her child. The baby was at once comforted,
+and held out its little arms to be taken to her bosom. Alcyone lifted
+her from the cot, and, dismissing the maids, seated herself by the
+window in a low rocking-chair, and crooned soft lullabies to her
+infant. The babe did not yet sleep, but she lay soothed and quiet,
+gazing into her mother's sweet face, and smiling when she caught the
+bright sparkling of the radiant gem.
+
+Suddenly the peaceful scene was changed; with a troubled cry the little
+Violet started up, and at the same instant Lady Olga stood in the
+doorway. Hardly apologising for her unexpected appearance in the
+Baroness's private apartments, Olga unfolded her extraordinary plan.
+After expressing great sympathy for the child's indisposition, and
+professing to understand fully Alcyone's distressing position, she
+asked leave to proceed at once to the Baroness's dressing-room, and
+there and then array herself in the garments of the "White Cat." As she
+and Alcyone were much the same height and size, this change of dress
+could be very easily accomplished, and would form an indistinguishable
+disguise; she then further proposed to set off in the carriage and
+personate the fair young Baroness at the ball. At first Alcyone would
+not listen to her artful suggestion, justly fearing the displeasure of
+her husband; but Olga assured her that long before the deception must
+at any rate cease (on the unmasking at one o'clock) she would, using
+the privilege of an old acquaintance, explain the whole affair to Baron
+Bruno, and represent to him aright the mother's fears for her child.
+Indeed those fears seemed but too well founded, for since Olga's
+entrance the baby had grown wild and feverish, and kept up an incessant
+moaning as if in actual pain. Harassed and perplexed therefore, Alcyone
+at length yielded a reluctant consent, and, ringing the bell, ordered
+lights to be placed in her dressing-room, and attendance to be given to
+aid the Countess von Dunkelherz in her somewhat difficult toilet. One
+consideration which weighed much with Alcyone in her final decision,
+was the unfortunate coincidence that this happened to be the very night
+of her monthly retirement--that mysterious proceeding of which her
+husband had now grown so impatient that she was fain never to mention
+it, but strove to accomplish her purpose as best she might without
+attracting his attention. She had all the time hoped to slip away
+unnoticed from the ball, but she well knew this would be a very
+difficult matter to accomplish, as besides her own timidity about
+leaving the palace by herself, her extreme beauty made her remarkable
+in whatever society she moved.
+
+Still it was with a foreboding of evil she resolved for the first time
+to act without her husband's knowledge, and remain unbidden at home.
+
+It is scarcely necessary to add that Olga, from frequent inquiries and
+a diligent system of espionage, was well aware of the mysterious and
+so-called solitary hours entered upon by the Baroness at stated
+intervals, and she was equally cognisant of the fact that the wonted
+period had arrived for the observance of this strange custom, and had
+laid her plans accordingly.
+
+The evening wore on; after the noisy departure of the carriage
+containing its unusual occupant, all within the house became peaceful
+and silent. Without was heard the ceaseless hum of the busy city, but
+faint, far, and mellowed by distance. Overhead the stars twinkled
+cheerfully forth from the blue bed on which they had lain fast asleep
+during the hot reign of the sun.
+
+    It is twilight in the city,
+      And the sun has sunk afar,
+    Where a brightness gilds the pathway
+      Of the quiet evening star.
+
+    Dimly in the hazy distance
+      Twinkle all the myriad eyes
+    Glittering far into the darkness,
+      Where the mighty city lies.
+
+    Twittering through the leafy branches,
+      Birds are calling soft and low,
+    Scarcely heard amid the humming
+      Of the city's ceaseless flow.
+
+    Yet I hear their gentle voices,
+      And their evening hymn of love,
+    While the stars are clearer shining,
+      From the dark-blue heaven above.
+
+    Happy children! careless playing,
+      In and out beneath the trees,
+    With your childish hair all streaming,
+      Floating on the evening breeze.
+
+    Pure and blissful hours of childhood,
+      Never prized until gone by,
+    Stay, oh! stay a while! and o'er me,
+      Let your lingering radiance lie.
+
+    Leave a gleam of that bright sunshine
+      Which was ours in days of yore,
+    Ere we parted for life's battle,
+      Ere we left home's peaceful shore.
+
+    Voices then with ours were mingling,
+      That on earth are silent now,
+    Arms around us fondly twining,
+      That have long been still and low.
+
+    Yes--in gazing on the starlight,
+      Fancy sometimes strives to trace
+    Forms beloved amid the twilight,
+      Or a well-remembered face.
+
+    Angels now! yet be our guardians,
+      In this tearful vale below,
+    Shedding light around our pathway,
+      Giving comfort as we go.
+
+    So when life's frail chord is loos'ning,
+      And our eyes to sorrow close,
+    When the glorious morn is dawning
+      O'er the long sad night of woes,
+
+    Linger near us--that, when rising,
+      We may--child-like--meet again
+    Where the severed are united,
+      Where the weary have no pain.
+
+Ever and anon the deep musical bell of the Reichstag clock boomed forth
+amid the darkening shadows, telling of time's rapid progress and
+remorseless flight, yet giving to many of the dwellers in Aronsberg a
+feeling of joyful security and safety. For the tall tower stood over
+and among them like some mighty guardian whose ceaseless care and
+unsleeping vigilance kept watch amid the city by day and by night and
+with cheerful voice proclaimed his vicinity--thus oftentime becoming a
+loved companion to weary mortals whom sickness, separation, anxiety, or
+sorrow kept awake through the livelong night.
+
+    Chime, Aronsberg bells, chime ceaselessly on,
+    Till partings be over and weary work done.
+    Boom o'er the broad waters, thou musical tone,
+    Remorseless thy knell, and I sorrow alone,
+    For perchance in my bosom shall waken no more,
+    The rapture that thrilled to thy chiming of yore.
+
+The baby now sank to rest in its tiny cot, a heavenly smile irradiated
+its little countenance, as if in some happy dream it was more than
+compensated for the uneasy hours of pain and unrest so lately
+experienced.
+
+The hour of Alcyone's isolation approached: wrapped in her long flowing
+robes, with her beautiful hair streaming over her shoulders, she bent
+over the sleeping Violet and dropt a kiss and murmured a blessing over
+her child; then slowly ascended the narrow stair which led to Bruno's
+solitary chamber. The small door opened, then closed again with a
+spring, and all was still, while the nurses below, whispering together,
+knew their mistress was alone with the stars.
+
+Nearly an hour passed by, and tranquillity reigned around; most of the
+servants had gone to bed, those who remained up were in the lower and
+more distant parts of the house. Hasty sounds suddenly broke upon the
+still night air; the Baron's champing steeds drew up in the courtyard;
+Bruno himself, flushed and agitated, sprang rapidly up-stairs, followed
+by the ruthless Olga! He pushed past his astonished domestics, noisily
+calling and seeking Alcyone in every room, including the nursery, where
+he roused and startled his sleeping child. Finally he ascended his own
+narrow stair, and entered the study. He paused at the small door so
+often described, and tapping, called his wife's name once or twice; no
+response came; without a moment's compunction, in excited passion, he
+drew the key from an inner pocket, and, unlocking the door he had
+solemnly promised to regard as sacred, threw it violently open.
+
+With a loud grating noise the ill-fated portal swung back on its
+hinges, and disclosed to his bewildered eyes a wondrous sight. Around
+his wife stood five or six maidens of surpassing beauty; like her--yet
+unlike--for oh! how clearly he could see the marks of human sorrow and
+care which cast their shadow over her countenance alone. Each bore on
+her forehead a brilliant jewel resembling Alcyone's; the most delicious
+perfume was wafted on the air, and an indescribable mellow glow of
+light emanated from and yet illuminated the lovely strangers. More than
+this he had not time to observe; a terrible explosion shook the house
+to its foundation, and he became enveloped in a choking impenetrable
+vapour. Olga also, who, unobserved, with a bevy of terrified servants,
+had followed in his footsteps, was half suffocated, seeing, however,
+nothing of those radiant forms.
+
+As the light breeze dissipated the stifling fumes, Alcyone, with sorrow
+and dismay imprinted on her gentle features, stood inquiringly before
+her husband, as if to demand some explanation of this sudden violation
+of their compact. But now a youth, whom Bruno had never before seen,
+stepped from behind Alcyone, with cold and majestic mien. Bowing
+gravely to the Baron, he thus addressed him, in low thrilling tones:
+"Behold in me, Hyas, the brother of Alcyone, come hither to aid and
+defend my sister in the hour of need. I demand a full examination into
+her conduct. Before others you have doubted her and intruded on her
+privacy--before others her character must be cleared!"
+
+Stunned and bewildered by these swiftly succeeding events, Bruno's
+ready tongue for once completely failed him. Now--alas!--when too late,
+he bitterly regretted his precipitation, and the credence he had too
+easily lent to wicked and baseless insinuations.
+
+Instead of keeping her promise to Alcyone, and explaining aright to the
+Baron his wife's unpremeditated absence, Olga had made out that the
+whole affair was a preconceived plot which she had been induced to
+conceal till the last moment. She had furthermore hinted that the
+gravest suspicions were aroused by the Baroness's non-appearance, which
+of course became universally known and commented upon at the hour of
+unmasking. At last she had so worked upon Bruno's ardent temperament
+that, forgetting everything save the jealousy of the moment, he rushed
+wildly home, causing quite a sensation at court and doing irreparable
+mischief to his domestic happiness.
+
+In spite of his sister's tearful remonstrances, Alcyone's brother now
+demanded of the Baron when a public inquiry could be instituted; and on
+hearing that it was possible on the morrow, he instantly cited the
+affrighted Gräfin von Dunkelherz to appear and proffer her charge
+against the fair Alcyone, who for the first time recognised in the
+Countess a deadly enemy.
+
+Hyas furthermore insisted on keeping watch over his sister and her
+child until Alcyone was proved beyond blame in the eyes of the world.
+They were left alone together. The baffled Olga slunk away to her home.
+Bruno, distressed and repentant, unavailingly paced his lonely chamber
+until morning arrived.
+
+At the earliest possible moment (after the late carousals of the night
+before) the Prime Minister demanded an audience of his sovereign, and
+the matter being then fully explained, the Grand Duke commanded that
+the trial of the Baroness should take place at noon, in the Hochplatz,
+a large open space surrounded by public buildings and gardens, and not
+far from the Grand Ducal Palace. Bombastes, at Hyas' request, also sent
+criers in every direction to summon the people to attend, and by twelve
+o'clock the vast square was filled to overflowing.
+
+The Grand Duke and Duchess, with the lords and ladies in waiting and
+other state officials, sat upon a raised platform in the centre,
+surrounded by a guard of honour. Edlerkopf, at the head of a brilliant
+staff of officers, kept the immense assembly from encroaching on the
+crimson dais where accused and accuser were placed near at hand. Bruno,
+pale and heart-stricken, stood there. At some little distance Hyas and
+his sister sat together, their striking resemblance and singular beauty
+attracting every eye. It was observed that Hyas bore on his uncovered
+head a jewel almost surpassing in radiance that which sparkled on his
+sister's brow. Alcyone never raised her head, but bent over her child,
+whom she carried in her arms.
+
+A profound silence reigned over the excited throng as Hyas bending low
+to the Duke, declared that his sister's honour had been tarnished by
+the foul aspersions cast upon it, and that he had traced many of these
+reports to the Countess von Dunkelherz; he therefore demanded that she
+should frankly say of what she accused the Baroness Bruno.
+
+Olga, who by this time had entirely recovered from her previous
+confusion, now advanced. Craning her long neck, and glancing spitefully
+at the drooping form of the suffering Alcyone, she thus answered Hyas'
+summons:
+
+"I charge the Lady Alcyone with being a witch. She cannot part, even
+for one moment, with the gem she bears on her forehead; she keeps
+mysterious assignations with beings from another world; and she has so
+bewitched her husband, the acute and learned Baron Bruno, that he is
+hardly accountable for his actions."
+
+At these cruel words an ominous murmur ran through the crowd, and half
+stifled cries arose.--"Burn the witch!" "Deliver our Baron from her
+spells!" "Cut off root and branch--mother and child!" Such were some of
+the menaces hoarsely muttered by the surging and fickle multitude. It
+was with no small difficulty that Edlerkopf, at the head of his guards,
+restrained the populace from laying violent hands on the Baroness and
+her brother. Hyas, cool and collected, waited until the gathering
+tumult was in some measure quieted; his clear voice then penetrated far
+and wide. "Ye have heard, O people," he exclaimed, "the voice of the
+traducer; ye shall now give ear to unwilling testimony in favour of the
+accused."
+
+So saying he divested himself of his long-flowing outer garment, and
+warning all around to preserve strict silence, he drew a large circle
+round himself and his sister, and also compelled the Countess von
+Dunkelherz, much against her will, to remain within the mystic
+boundary. Taking then a small packet from his breast, he scattered some
+powder on the ground and muttered strange words in an unknown tongue.
+Then arose amid the calm sunshine of that lovely summer day the sound
+of rushing whirlwinds and stormy gusts; a dark cloud intervened between
+the earth and the sun, enveloping all around in sulphureous darkness.
+When it cleared away, lo! high within the magic circle towered a
+gigantic pillar of smoke. From the centre of this terrible apparition
+gleamed forth two fiery eyes. A cold chill of horror ran through the
+spectators, though the air was hot and sultry.
+
+Hyas now motioned to Bruno that his lips must ask the fateful question.
+The Baron, compelled to speak, reluctantly addressed himself thus to
+the hideous shape:--"Dread Spirit, whether of good or of evil, I adjure
+thee to tell me whether the Lady Alcyone has been true and faithful to
+me, and guiltless of the foul deeds ascribed to her."
+
+"Blind mortal!" replied the cloudy phantom, "pure and transparent as
+the dewdrop hath the heart of Alcyone been unto thee; there breathes
+not on your dull earth a spirit more free from guile."
+
+As these words fell from above, a low muttered growl of thunder was
+heard, while Hyas, turning to the silent, awe-struck beholders, cried
+aloud, "The innocence of my sister is proved by the reluctant words of
+Varishka, the dark genie, who could have claimed her for his own had
+her deeds been evil. But, alas! I fear the dread witness has exhausted
+one innocent life in the fierce struggle."
+
+As he spoke thick darkness fell upon them, and when it cleared away the
+mysterious shape had disappeared. The bright sun poured its
+health-giving rays again over the panic-stricken multitude, and a cool
+wind blew away the last traces of the awful Varishka. All eyes were
+bent on Hyas, whose beauty seemed absolutely marvellous, as, tenderly
+embracing his sister, he turned swiftly aside into the crowd, and ere
+they were aware had totally disappeared from view. Loud acclamations in
+favour of Alcyone rang forth from the changeful thousands on either
+side, as they swayed to and fro preparatory to breaking up altogether.
+
+Bruno alone stood irresolute; a thousand conflicting emotions paled his
+usually ruddy cheek; but his wife's sweet voice called to him. He
+approached her; her face was full of anxiety. "Let us return home at
+once," she whispered; "I fear for our babe."
+
+And well she might, for the fragile Violet lay almost lifeless on her
+mother's knee, the laboured breath passing slowly through her cold
+lips. They drove rapidly home. The Baron, full of remorse, would fain
+have thrown himself at his wife's feet, but her thoughts were turned
+only to her suffering child, as she at last bore it into the nursery,
+where in happier days she had so often lulled it to sleep. For some
+time Bruno remained beside her, and aided in trying various
+restoratives. At length, summoned by his official duties, he was forced
+to depart. Several hours elapsed before he could absent himself from
+the Reichstag.
+
+A strange hush pervaded his home as he once more entered its portals.
+He gained the nursery door, and, pausing, gently pushed it aside. In
+the waning light he beheld his wife half kneeling, half lying upon
+their little one's cot. Violet's face, illumined by the last rays of
+daylight, was pale and peaceful. It shone with a solemn light--unlike,
+oh! how unlike, his own playful pet! Her dark blue eyes were heavily
+closed, and her little hands meekly folded on her breast. The mother's
+voice stole on his ear--"Fare thee well, my darling! good-bye, my angel
+child! but only for a brief space I bid thee adieu. Thou art folded now
+in arms that can shelter thee more safely from the passing blast than
+those of thy poor mother. I shall go to thee, my Violet--but never,
+never more shalt thou return to me." These and many similar words were
+poured forth by the weeping mother as Bruno unobserved stood silently
+listening. His heart felt ready to burst; it seemed as if some chord
+within him gave way at that moment with a throb of pain.
+
+For a long time unknown to himself Alcyone's soft influence had
+gradually undermined his harsh scepticism. At that moment a ray of
+heavenly light shot as it were from the upward pathway of his dead
+child into the dark recesses of his soul, and with tender humility he
+knelt by his wife's side and placed his hand on hers. Startled and
+amazed, she turned and met her husband's eye: it shone with a new and
+softened light; there was no need for him to explain to her what he
+felt. Over the death-bed of their fairest hope they for the first time
+experienced the ineffable yet chastened joy of sharing the same
+faith--of worshipping together the same unseen God.
+
+At length Alcyone slowly rose from her knees, and casting a long, fond
+look on the lifeless form of her babe, she led her husband from the
+chamber. Together they ascended the narrow stair; together they opened
+the small, well-known door, and emerged, hand-in-hand, amid the now
+darkened twilight, upon the open roof.
+
+"Bruno," murmured she, "the time for our separation has come; you have
+declared your belief in the immortality of the soul; your poor Alcyone,
+in the midst of her imperfections, has brought you one step nearer the
+gates of Paradise. I now return to my celestial home, but shall there
+await you, my beloved, in the sure and certain hope of a long eternity
+together unchequered by the sorrows that have assailed our path in this
+mortal world."
+
+Thus saying, for the first time, the gentle Alcyone passionately
+strained her arms around her husband; the pressure relaxed, he tottered
+forward; he was--alone! A long trail of light shone for a moment
+athwart the evening sky; the peaceful Pleiades beamed forth in
+brightest beauty; he called aloud, but only silence reigned around; in
+uncontrollable emotion the strong man fell fainting to the ground.
+
+How long he thus remained he never knew; but he woke at last to find
+the midnight moon shining upon him. He raised himself, confused and
+aching; he passed his hand across his brow--Was the past a reality? A
+tear rolled down his time-worn cheek which his keen eye had never shed,
+but it might be the cold dewdrop of the early morn. Beside him lay the
+coat and hat he had worn in returning from the Reichstag. It must be
+some long, strange dream that, coming on him exhausted and weary, had
+harassed his brain through the weird watches of the night.
+
+As these thoughts coursed through his mind his eye fell on his left
+hand; upon it there sparkled a stone of extraordinary brilliancy, which
+recalled to him the gem on Alcyone's forehead. He strove to remove the
+jewel, but, though easily fitting to his finger, the magic circlet
+refused to be taken from its place.
+
+The reality of the past then rushed upon the proud Baron's mind with
+the resistless force of inward conviction. Humbled and sorrowful, the
+great philosopher's wondrous attainments and mighty intellectual
+resources seemed for the moment to become as less than the dust beneath
+his feet. With the simple faith of a little child, he bent his knee
+alone before his Maker, and cried, in tones of repentant sadness,
+"Lord, I believe, help Thou mine unbelief."
+
+
+
+
+ESGAIR: THE BRIDE OF LLYN IDWYL.
+
+
+Among the mountains of Caernarvonshire none are more gloomy and
+precipitous than the dark sister Glydirs Fawr and Bach. Towering
+sublimely above the solitary waters of Llyn Idwyl, they rear their
+proud summits well nigh on a level with that of the loftier but less
+rugged Snowdon.
+
+Where is the wayfarer who can forget a calm autumn sunset seen from
+those barren heights?
+
+Valleys far and near shrouded in dim purpling mists; shadowy gigantic
+forms looming faintly in the deepening twilight; rose-tipped peaks
+floating amid a halo of glory in the evening sky; silver streamlets
+breaking here and there in white lines the dusky shades below; while
+afar, in the distance, the broad slumbering ocean bids a glittering
+farewell to the monarch of the day.
+
+Such was the panorama spread before the young Llewelyn many years ago,
+when in toilsome search after strayed sheep he came suddenly upon the
+highest part of the mountain. To his wearied eyes, however, nature for
+the time had no charm. With hurried and anxious footsteps he leapt from
+rock to rock, dreading to find some of his wandering flock with broken
+limbs. For, as with many other Welsh mountains, the crest of the Glydir
+Fawr is entirely composed of huge boulders roughly hurled together;
+deep treacherous crevices being often entirely concealed from view by
+the luxuriant growth of ferns, heather, and bilberries, which yield
+most unsubstantial footing to the unwary.
+
+Llewelyn's father, "Dafydd ap Gwynant," a well-known chieftain, had
+been slain in battle, and most of his possessions seized by his foes.
+The widowed Gwynneth, in terror for the safety of her only child, fled
+with him to the wild region now known as the pass of Nant Francon.
+There in solitude she reared her boy to habits of frugal simplicity. As
+years rolled on the widow prospered and her flocks increased. Yet still
+Llewelyn remained her only herd, and at eventide the steep sides of
+Llyn Ogwyn and Llyn Idwyl re-echoed with his loud carols and joyous
+shouts, as he summoned the cattle and sheep to their nightly fold.
+
+In these remote times wolves and other wild beasts still lurked among
+the Welsh hills. Nor did they limit their ravages to the destruction of
+animals alone, but when rendered desperate by hunger visited human
+habitations in search of their prey. Witness the touching history of
+Gelert the faithful hound, whose tomb is still to be seen in the little
+valley over which a dog's fidelity has shed undying renown. Hence the
+necessity for carefully collecting the herds at nightfall within some
+place of security.
+
+Llewelyn at length discovered his missing lambs on the steep northern
+sides of the Glydir, and herding them hurriedly together, crossed the
+shoulder of the mountain and descended towards Llyn Idwyl by the rugged
+pathway which leads past the narrow gorge now known as "the Devil's
+Kitchen." It was rapidly growing dark as he reached the plain, and he
+was hastening homewards, when by the waning light he perceived the
+surface of that gloomy lake to be strangely agitated. As he gazed, the
+head of a lovely maiden rose above the ripples, and seemed to his
+excited imagination to regard him with a tender wistful look. He rushed
+to the water's brink, and was about to cast off his coat and swim to
+the aid of the fair unknown, when, soft and clear as an evening bell,
+these words rang through the still air:--
+
+    "Three times lost, and three times won,
+    Canst thou win me, Dafydd's son?
+    Tender must thou be to me,
+    Tender should I be to thee.
+
+    To my mate in bridal hour
+    I can bring a princely dower;
+    But my wooing must be soon,
+    Ere has waned September's moon."
+
+Enraptured by these silvery notes, Llewelyn strained every nerve to
+listen, and as the nymph falteringly uttered the last words he felt a
+magic thrill run through his frame. He became possessed with a sudden
+desire to behold the entire form of the beautiful being whose head
+alone smiled on him across the watery waste; but as he approached
+nearer the sweet face disappeared, the surface of the loch became
+glassy and still. The pale rays of the rising moon illumined only the
+wide level mirror of Llyn Idwyl, and amazed and bewildered the youth
+turned to his home.
+
+After folding the sheep he entered the cottage. His mother had prepared
+a fragrant supper; but through Llewelyn's veins there ran a secret
+fire, and he turned restlessly from the food he was wont to relish in
+his calmer hours.
+
+Gwynneth was a mother in ten thousand. Though she had wandered far to
+obtain the oakleaves over which she had slowly smoked the pink trout;
+though her hands had been stung when she robbed the wild bees of their
+honey for her boy; though when faint and tired from her long ramble she
+had risen with fresh energy to mix and bake for her son the scones he
+loved; yet when she saw his disquietude and lack of appetite, no
+murmur, no query crossed her lips. Patiently she herself partook of the
+humble fare, and strove to cheer her moody child, while her own heart
+ached with vague doubts and fears.
+
+Hardly, however, had she cleared away the last traces of the
+half-consumed meal when Llewelyn extended himself full length on the
+deerskins at her feet, laid his hot head on her soothing lap, and by
+the flickering light of the fire (fed at intervals with cones from the
+pine forest) related to her his strange adventure.
+
+As Gwynneth listened to his words the iron entered into her soul. Every
+mother can sympathize with the pang she then experienced. The child she
+had borne through labour, sorrow, and pain; the infant she alone
+nourished and brought to manly strength; the all upon which every hope,
+every thought of the future is centred--the widow's only son--the idol
+of her heart--his love is passing from her. She is no longer to him the
+first, the dearest. Dreams of a nearer and dearer one are wakening in
+his young bosom. The mother is now his confidant; but well does she
+know that ere long the newly-beloved will be his only thought; that
+into her ear alone will be poured all the aspirations of his life. That
+henceforth and for evermore the mother must resign her son's heart to
+the keeping of another. Gwynneth in that hour felt the cold hand of
+fate clutch her past happiness. Her pulse stood still. But she was a
+noble woman. She knew the law of life was resistless. Come from a race
+of kings, with proud resolve she nerved her wounded spirit, and casting
+all meaner thoughts of self aside, threw herself with ardour into the
+interests of her son.
+
+While Llewelyn described the events of the evening, the mists cleared
+from the past and his mother dimly remembered an ancient tradition
+heard in days gone by. The half-forgotten legend ran thus:--A prince of
+royal Welsh blood fell in love with and wedded a water Nixie. No
+sooner, however, were his espousals accomplished than he, with his
+palace and all his treasures, became enchanted and covered by the
+waters of Llyn Idwyl, which then, at Venedotia's dread command, rose to
+its present height. The water god, through the marriage-tie of his
+beautiful child, had gained a subtle power over her human lover, and
+despite her entreaties worked this cruel spell to secure to her the
+unchanging faith of a mortal. While Gwynneth told this strange story,
+an old prophecy concerning this very prince, which she had often heard
+in her youth, suddenly flashed across her mind. Surprised it should so
+long have escaped her memory, she thus recited it to her listening son--
+
+    "When Rhuddlan's child with man shall mate
+    A light shall break on Rhuddlan's fate;
+    When thrice three wedded years pass by
+    Llyn Idwyl's waters shall run dry;
+    But if that wedded peace be riven,
+    By blows at random three times given,
+    Esgair must seek her father's cave,
+    Nor quit again the gloomy wave;
+    No slow revolving years shall wake
+    The spell-bound slumberers of the lake."
+
+"My son," exclaimed Gwynneth, "all is now clear to me. The fair
+daughter of King Rhuddlan has seen and chosen you to be the deliverer
+of herself and her family, who once owned the greater part of Wales;
+but who fell under Venedotia's spell so long ago that their existence
+is forgotten by the oldest inhabitant. I am proud that my child should
+aid in restoring our ancient line of kings. But Llewelyn," murmured
+she, placing her hand fondly on his brown wavy locks, "you must pray
+for strength, and enter on this strange adventure with the aid of
+heavenly courage." Long into the night sat that gentle mother holding
+counsel with her son, and even when they sought their rude couches but
+scant sleep sealed their eyelids.
+
+Next day Llewelyn fulfilled his various duties with feverish
+impatience, he yearned for the evening hour, and as the moon's rays
+fell over the lone heights of the Glydir he stood once more by Llyn
+Idwyl's brink, and in a low clear voice uttered these words:--
+
+    "By the Glydir's rugged side,
+    By thy father's captive pride,
+    By the strains of mortal love
+    Stealing o'er thee from above,
+    By thine own enchanted lake,
+    Esgair, fairest! hear and wake!"
+
+Scarcely had he finished, when a long train of light shot across the
+loch, and, glittering with a thousand watery diamonds, Esgair half
+arose and stretched forth towards him her lovely arms. A smile of hope
+irradiated her pure countenance, and as Llewelyn knelt awestruck upon
+the beach, she slowly chanted these lines:--
+
+    "Through Llewelyn's devotion deliverance draws near;
+    'Twixt sunset and sunrise to-morrow be here,
+    Though strife be around thee yet suffer no fear
+    If Rhuddlan's poor daughter to thee seemeth dear;
+    Forget not that o'er her the sign must be crossed,
+    Or she and her kindred for ever are lost!"
+
+With a parting wave of her hand Esgair slowly disappeared, and nought
+was visible save the reflection of the moon, which, dancing and
+sparkling across the dark agitated bosom of Llyn Idwyl, ended in a
+pathway of light at Llewelyn's feet. It was an omen of hope for the
+morrow, and with joyful steps he returned to his home. Here, however he
+was somewhat harassed by fears as to the poor accommodation they could
+offer to the bride.
+
+"Dear mother," he urged, "she is a high-born princess; her hair, neck,
+and arms sparkle with priceless jewels. She may scorn our lowly hut,
+and reproach me for bringing her to so humble a home."
+
+"Nay, my son," replied Gwynneth; "the heart of a true maiden seeketh
+ever something more precious than gold or riches; the love of a
+faithful partner is doubtless what Esgair yearns to find. It is,
+moreover, borne in upon me that the daughter of Rhuddlan will not come
+dowerless to the son of Dafydd. Be she poor, however, or be she rich,
+we will give her the best we have; and I tell you she will hold it
+dearer than life."
+
+Heaven that night shed its own peace over the widow and her son, and
+their last evening alone together was long remembered by each as a time
+of holy calm. By day-break next morning they were already astir. Many
+preparations had still to be made. Llewelyn went across the hills to
+petition Saint Tudno to pronounce his bridal benediction. The holy
+father was now making his yearly pilgrimage through Wales, visiting and
+cheering his feeble scattered flock, who clung fast together and
+revered with a passionate tenderness their few and faithful teachers.
+
+It was at an ancient farm upon the slopes of Carnedd Llewelyn that
+Llewelyn and his mother had, only a few days agone, knelt and received
+the good priest's blessing, and Gwynneth doubted not that he would
+consent to partake for one night of their rude hospitality, for the
+purpose of uniting her son and the rescued Esgair in the bands of holy
+wedlock.
+
+Ere the sun had passed its meridian, Gwynneth's hopes were realized.
+The venerable father, guided by Llewelyn, safely reached her door, and
+after partaking with them of their frugal noontide meal retired to rest
+a while, and to resume the devotions broken in upon by his unforeseen
+expedition. It weighed much on his mind that no church was near wherein
+the espousals might be celebrated, but he was fully conscious of the
+difficulties of Llewelyn's position. He shrewdly suspected that until
+holy rites had been performed the wild spirits would do their utmost to
+reclaim and recapture the newly-rescued bride. Ere seeking his chamber
+therefore, the good father carefully sprinkled holy water around the
+dwelling, and fervently besought Heaven's blessing on the approaching
+union.
+
+Some time before the hour of sunset Llewelyn and his mother started for
+the banks of Llyn Idwyl. They followed the rocky course of that little
+stream, which still breaks in foam from the eastern side of the loch,
+and babbling and brawling flows past the very stones where Gwynneth's
+little cottage once stood. The evening was wild and threatening, and
+the sky had strangely changed since Saint Tudno alighted at their
+dwelling. Thunder reverberating through the mountains awakened hoarse
+echoes on every side. Wild clouds in fantastic shapes scudded across
+the lowering heavens, and fitful gleams from the sinking sun threw dark
+shadows across their pathway. Ever and anon drenching showers brushed
+by in short sharp gusts, half blinding them, and causing inexplicable
+terror to the ponies; one of which Gwynneth rode and the other Llewelyn
+led for his bride. More than once, as they pursued their way, Gwynneth
+imagined that white arms and hooded figures waved defiance before her;
+but surprise and doubt held her mute, or perhaps ere she could speak
+the rain dashed on her face and she perceived that her fancy had
+conjured menacing forms from the eddying spindrift around. Llewelyn
+also was haunted by outbursts of mocking laughter, but when, amazed, he
+turned to his mother, the wild turbulence of the little streamlet
+taught him he had mistaken its noisy vehemence for sounds of demoniacal
+mirth.
+
+At last they reached Llyn Idwyl's side. The sky once more grew calm and
+clear. The sun had long since disappeared behind the dark mountain, and
+the stars faintly twinkling overhead had already lit their feeble
+lamps. The lake itself, however, presented a wild scene. Furious gusts
+of wind agitated the surface. Sheets of spray bearing the semblance of
+hideous figures were dashed hither and thither. A rushing noise as of a
+thousand waterfalls drowned every other sound, and Llewelyn in vain
+tried to make his voice audible amid the din of the elements. Again and
+again he endeavoured to shout Esgair's name, but the mad roaring of the
+winds and waves was all that could be heard.
+
+"To your knees, my son, and pray for help," whispered Gwynneth in his
+ear, and in despair Llewelyn sank on the ground and fervently invoked
+the aid of Heaven. As if in answer to his prayer, at this instant the
+moon tipped the frowning mountain; her bright rays irradiated the wild
+scene beneath and diminished in some measure the confusion and uproar.
+Then, white and dripping as a storm-tost waterlily, the lovely figure
+of Rhuddlan's daughter slowly emerged from the lake until her feet were
+visible. She advanced along the moon-lit path, which alone remained
+serene and calm. On either side horrid arms were stretched as if to
+grasp her shrinking form, and rude blasts of spray burst in torrents
+over her defenceless head.
+
+Llewelyn knelt in silent prayer till she neared the water brink, when,
+springing to her side, he drew her tenderly on shore, signing at the
+same time on her brow the holy symbol of the cross; while wild shrieks
+and groans resounded across the lake. He lifted Esgair, trembling and
+exhausted, on the pony, where his strong arm was needed to support her.
+The moon suddenly disappeared behind a cloud; the rain burst forth with
+redoubled vehemence, while such peals of thunder broke around and above
+them that the startled ponies could hardly be restrained from dashing
+madly away. Llewelyn, well-nigh desperate, in vain strove to recognize
+the homeward path. Black darkness encompassed them and hid every
+well-known landmark from view.
+
+Just as he was at his wits' end, suddenly gleamed afar a small bright
+cross, shedding divine lustre through the gloom. At the same instant
+there fell on their ears the faint chime of distant bells--a strange
+unaccustomed sound in those wild regions. They paused not, however, to
+question the cause of the welcome phenomena; but with gladness turned
+in the direction of the cross, which moved before them as they
+advanced; Llewelyn still supporting Esgair, and murmuring words of
+encouragement into her ear. More than once he received rough buffets
+from invisible foes, and wicked threats were whispered by the hoarse
+blasts; but he kept his eyes fixed steadfastly on the sacred symbol
+which guided them in the path of safety, and ere long the unnatural
+tempest spent itself. The fiery cross grew dim, and finally
+disappeared, and the rest of their homeward route was accomplished by
+the returning light of the moon.
+
+Nearer and nearer rang the joyful bells, as if crashing forth a pæan of
+welcome to the belated wanderers; and what was their astonishment on
+coming within sight of the place where their humble dwelling lately
+stood amid unbroken solitudes, to observe innumerable twinkling lights
+borne to and fro, while, by the light of the moon, the tall battlements
+of some huge building rose over the site once covered by their happy
+little home.
+
+Confused and perplexed, Gwynneth thought to chide her son for bringing
+them the wrong way. But now Esgair, with new life, sprang to the
+ground, and, turning towards Gwynneth, said with exceeding grace,
+
+"This was my father's home. He bestows it willingly upon us--it is
+yours. But, oh! take me to your heart, and give me a mother's love."
+
+Gwynneth hastened to alight, and clasping her new daughter to her
+bosom, hesitated no longer to enter the massive portals thrown wide
+open before them. As they stepped beneath the archway, solemn strains
+of music became audible. A long line of priests and choristers moved
+across the lofty hall within; bands of fair maidens robed in white
+approached Esgair, and tenderly saluting her placed her in their midst.
+Last of all the holy Father Tudno drew near and motioned Gwynneth and
+Llewelyn to his side.
+
+Deeply agitated by a thousand conflicting emotions, Gwynneth, Esgair,
+and Llewelyn now beheld before them as they advanced a small chapel
+brilliantly lighted for high festival. With slow and reverend step
+Saint Tudno withdrew within the altar space, and united in holy wedlock
+the strangely-mated pair before him. Long and lowly did they bend
+before the sacred shrine, and when at length they retired down the
+aisles, the clear high voices of the singers rang out in joyful
+strains, while far overhead the jubilant bells told with their iron
+tongues the glad news that the first bar of fate had been undone--the
+condition fulfilled that ran thus in the old legend:
+
+    "When Rhuddlan's child with man shall mate
+    A light shall break on Rhuddlan's fate."
+
+Time fails me to tell of the splendours of that night of rejoicing, or
+the magnificent appointments of the castle. But it is impossible to
+pass by in silence the exceeding beauty of the bride, or the manly
+serious grace of her bridegroom. Esgair's waving nut-brown tresses fell
+over her shoulders, bound here and there by priceless diamonds. Her
+violet eyes, her dazzling complexion, her long robe of silver sheen,
+displaying every motion of her graceful figure, her wondrous charm of
+manner,--all enchanted the beholder. She looked and moved the daughter
+of a hundred kings.
+
+Llewelyn's countenance, even in that deep hour of joy, wore the
+chastened expression of one who has struggled and suffered. In the
+midst of his new-found wealth he was fain to remember, with a feeling
+akin to pain, that this proud castle and all its appurtenances was the
+heritage of his wife and her father. But as Esgair turned her soft eyes
+upon him, the toils of the past and the uncertainty of the future were
+alike forgotten, and love beamed effulgent on his soul.
+
+Night and stillness fell over that great castle. Only alone in an upper
+chamber--the widowed wife--the lonely mother--wrestled in silent prayer
+for her children until the day broke over the east and opened to the
+world once more the golden gates of the sun.
+
+On the morrow all was new and strange to Gwynneth and Llewelyn; but
+Esgair guided them from room to room of the splendid palace, and
+related to them endless tales told her by her father, of what had
+happened within its walls, ere the spell of enchantment consigned him
+and his to the dark waters of oblivion.
+
+To Gwynneth the long corridors and stately chambers with their quaint
+hangings of tapestry recalled her early home. Llewelyn (who though of
+princely race, had been reared in poverty) felt a certain restraint
+amid all this new-found grandeur, and bore with ill-concealed
+impatience the ministrations of the countless servants, whose presence
+fettered his free action and oppressed his simple nature.
+
+Soon, however, the varied interests of his new position became
+all-engrossing. Surrounded by retainers skilled in every kind of sport,
+possessed of the fleetest steeds and truest falcons in the country,
+blessed with the tenderest of wives and mothers, he seldom had time to
+revert even in thought to the fewer and less luxurious pleasures of his
+youth. He and Esgair became passionately fond of hawking, and many
+happy days were thus spent, when, splendidly mounted and attended by a
+numerous train, they would scour the country around and return wearied
+yet joyous at eventide to relate to Gwynneth the adventures of the day.
+
+It was during one of these hunting excursions that Esgair, roused by
+the excitement of the chase, urged her palfrey to its utmost speed, and
+distancing all her companions, came suddenly to a small level plateau
+amid the mountains. Here a little streamlet had its birth, gushing
+forth from the rock itself in cold purity. The hawk was already
+stooping over its quarry, and Esgair finding herself alone, called
+repeatedly to the bird in great fear lest it should fail in its object.
+While she was thus employed, Llewelyn came rapidly in sight, and riding
+up to her, playfully struck her on the shoulder with his gauntlet,
+crying gaily, "Methought, fair lady, you were running away from us all;
+but you have deftly won the race to-day, and yours must be the heron's
+plume."
+
+The rest of the merry party now came up, but while with eager
+excitement they watched the protracted struggles of the two birds,
+Llewelyn turned his own and his wife's palfrey aside, and under
+pretence of arranging her dress whispered to Esgair, "Nay, dearest,
+wherein have I vexed thee? I was only watchful for thy dear sake,
+fearing when out of my sight lest evil should befall thee."
+
+To his great surprise tears dimmed her eyes, and the colour mantled
+higher in her flushed cheek as she murmured in low tones, "You have
+struck the first blow."
+
+Amazed and incredulous, it was some time before Llewelyn could recall
+to mind the weird prophecy his mother had repeated to him. As they
+leant sadly over their panting horses by the little spring, a white arm
+emerged from the mossy bank and waved beckoning towards Esgair, while,
+like a faint sigh of the breeze, fell these chill numbers on their
+ears--
+
+    "One blow hath fallen on Esgair's fate,
+    And grieved Llewelyn's gentle mate."
+
+Thoroughly startled he rushed forward, but the fancied apparition was
+only a little shower of spray which, caught by the eddying wind, dashed
+itself over him, wetting his gay clothes and soaking him to the skin.
+Were the words he had heard but the offspring of his own imagination?
+
+Now with loud cries the victory of the falcon was proclaimed, and the
+gallant esquire, riding up to his mistress, courteously presented her
+with the heron's plume, and craved permission to fasten it in her hat.
+Esgair accepted the gift with her wonted grace, but it was with
+saddened hearts that she and Llewelyn turned homewards. The dispiriting
+influence soon communicated itself to their followers, and in
+melancholy guise the merry party of the morning silently re-entered the
+castle walls.
+
+Ere they retired to rest, however, Esgair and Llewelyn sought the
+little chapel where their marriage vows had been interchanged, and as
+they knelt together in prayer an ineffable calm soothed their troubled
+spirits, and on seeking their chamber a deep joy cradled them to rest.
+
+Their life now passed away in uneventful happiness, until, as the time
+drew near the birth of Christ, Esgair had a son, whose advent was
+hailed with universal rejoicing. Llewelyn with trembling joy welcomed
+his little child, and drew many hopeful auguries for the future from
+his first seeing the light in the glorious holy tide of Christmas.
+Esgair suffered considerably in health, causing her husband great
+anxiety, and it was some time before she could resume her wonted place
+in the castle. But she seemed strangely anxious to have her child
+baptized at the earliest possible moment. They were obliged, however,
+to wait some little time for the holy Father Tudno, who, again
+travelling that way on his stated rounds, promised by a certain day to
+receive the babe into the arms of the Church.
+
+Meanwhile the nurses were forbidden to stray without the precincts of
+the castle, and specially warned against approaching either of the
+lakes which lay within such easy distance--Llyn Ogwyn and Llyn Idwyl.
+It was rumoured that strange forms were to be sometimes seen wandering
+round the castle. Esgair herself, whose gentle ways had endeared her to
+all around, began to be regarded with suspicion, as, when hardly strong
+enough to leave her chamber, she insisted on taking solitary walks, was
+long absent, and frequently returned with traces of tears on her cheek.
+At such times she would redouble her cautions to the nurses, and sit
+for hours watching uneasily over her babe. They told wild tales,
+moreover, of seeing their mistress in the dead of night leaning over
+the little one's cradle and with clasped hands and streaming eyes
+seeming to wrestle in prayer with some invisible power. She would then
+clasp the infant in her arms, sign a cross over its forehead and
+replace it slumbering and unconscious in its cot.
+
+But the slow weeks moved on, St. Valentine's day at last arrived, and
+with it the good Father to perform the promised rite. Every preparation
+made, and the little chapel adorned with the pale flowers of early
+spring time--the drooping snowdrop, and the Christmas rose, nestling in
+rich green moss from the glen--Gwynneth proudly bore her little
+grandson to the font, and the holy service began.
+
+The wind and rain without, hitherto hardly noticed, now dashed with
+such force against the casements as to endanger their frail fastenings,
+while above the chant of the choristers could be distinctly heard the
+wild howling of the tempest. The little child itself moved restlessly
+from side to side, and seemed to feel an adverse influence threatening
+its fate. All eyes, however, were turned on the lady of the castle,
+who, with mortal terror depicted on her countenance, eagerly scanned
+the high windows and shuddered visibly as the storm increased. But now
+the reverend Father took the babe in his arms and ascended the steps of
+the font. Louder and louder roared the fierce winds without, and as one
+mighty gust shook the chapel to its very foundations, Esgair uttered a
+faint moan. Llewelyn impatiently turned for the first time towards her,
+and, angrily touching her shoulder to recall her attention to the
+service, muttered some hasty rebuke about disturbing the people around
+by her ill-timed fears. Father Tudno at this moment formally demanded
+the child's name, and Llewelyn gave him, as had already been agreed
+upon, the name of "Rhiwallon." As the holy Father, repeating over the
+infant the tender words of his faith, was about to sign on its brow the
+sacred symbol of the cross, a terrific blast shattered the casements
+into a thousand pieces, all the lights throughout the chapel were
+instantly extinguished, while a deluging shower fell on the group round
+the font. Eldritch laughter rang through the air, a piercing shriek was
+heard, and phantom forms tried to wrench the little babe from the good
+priest's arms. Undismayed and calm however, Saint Tudno gathered the
+helpless lamb of the fold still closer in his sheltering clasp, and ere
+the strife of the rough elements well-nigh reached him, the little
+Rhiwallon was already a member of the eternal Church. But in Llewelyn's
+awe-struck ear sounded these dread words--
+
+    "Blare wildly ye breezes a blast of delight,
+    A blow hath been struck by Llewelyn this night."
+
+Now with flying footsteps came a page bearing a torch. The wild force
+of the tempest seemed to have spent itself, and comparative peace
+reigned without the castle. Within, the lights were once more kindled,
+but their rays fell upon a cold inanimate form. Poor Esgair had fallen
+forwards, her head lay on the hard stone floor, her hands were still
+raised as if in supplication to some invisible power, while dark red
+blood slowly oozed forth from beneath her luxuriant tresses. With a cry
+of terror Llewelyn raised her in his arms. He found that in falling she
+had struck against the stone step of the font, and a somewhat deep
+wound was made under her thick soft hair. He bore her tenderly to her
+chamber. Through the livelong night with keen anguish he and his mother
+(suffering no meaner hand to tend her) ministered to her wants. At
+times she cried uneasily for her babe, nor could they soothe or appease
+her until the little Rhiwallon was brought and laid beside his
+suffering mother in the great state bed, with its dark gorgeous
+hangings and curious antique carving. Llewelyn, heart-sore and
+grievously conscience-stricken, bent over the half-slumbering pair.
+They seemed to his excited imagination like the flower and the bud
+rudely torn from the parent stem and fading before his very eyes. He
+listened anxiously over their lips to assure himself of their actual
+breathing. Esgair, half-awakened, moved restlessly until feeling her
+babe again cradled in her arms, she murmured low words of endearment
+over him, and sank once more into troubled slumber. Many days she
+struggled between life and death; and as Llewelyn kept the weary
+watches by her side, he mournfully remembered that it was his own
+thoughtless temper which had brought all this upon his faithful wife,
+and recklessly dissolved one more link that bound her life to his. She
+explained to him that her fears had been roused lest the powerful
+Venedotia should gain possession of their boy ere he was christened,
+and hence the strange precautions she had taken and her extreme terror
+in the chapel. She was unable, moreover, to warn those around her, as
+her first word of elucidation would have sealed the death-warrant of
+her babe; so powerful was the spell still exercised by the fierce
+enchanter over Rhuddlan's ill-fated race.
+
+April breezes brought sounds of spring into the land ere Esgair, pale
+and wan--like one who has passed through the valley of the dark
+shadow--was once more borne down the castle stair and carried abroad to
+be invigorated by the reviving vernal air. She had taken a strong
+dislike to the "Castle of the Lakes," as their present home was called.
+Nor can this be wondered at, considering the baneful influence that had
+threatened not only her own but her infant's life. She entreated
+Llewelyn to build another dwelling by the sea-shore, where strength and
+health might more rapidly return to her, and where she hoped to be in a
+measure free from the fell designs of Venedotia.
+
+With eager zest her repentant husband followed the bent of Esgair's
+mind, and, after many pleasant excursions to the neighbouring shores in
+search of a site, they at length resolved to raise the walls of their
+new castle in the centre of the rich plain which then lay between the
+proud headlands of Penmaenmaur and Penmaenbach.
+
+Esgair took intense interest in the progress of the builders, who were
+now set to work with the utmost diligence. Throughout the long summer,
+she, Gwynneth, Llewelyn, and the babe with his nurses, dwelt in a
+little shieling on the steep sides of Penmaenmaur. Daily descending to
+the broad fertile meadows amid which was to be their future home, they
+cheered and encouraged the labourers at their work. Ere the mellow
+September time came round, the walls of the new castle had already
+risen to a considerable height.
+
+It was now two years since the bridal day of Esgair and Llewelyn. Never
+had mortal man been blessed with a gentler, sweeter help-mate. High and
+low worshipped their kind mistress; and the most unruly of their
+half-savage retainers would fly to anticipate her slightest desire.
+
+The little Rhiwallon was a lovely babe; healthy and well tended ever
+since his birth, his firm limbs and rosy cheeks were full of promise.
+His dark eye already beamed with intelligence, and his broad brow bore
+the impress of future intellectual power. What long hours that fond
+mother passed alone with her babe! At eventide she ascended the wooden
+steps of the shieling, and sending the women to make merry with their
+friends without, hungrily watched over her child. Gwynneth and Llewelyn
+perhaps sitting silent below, heard sounds as of a cushat dove cooing
+over its young. Sometimes the tones became more audible, and words
+could be distinguished--the mother crooning to her little one as if he
+could understand.
+
+"Thou art delivered, my baby, from the evil fate that menaces thy poor
+mother. Thy pure forehead bears on it the sign of the holy cross. Over
+thee the angel of darkness hath now no power save through that mother's
+will. How could they think, my child, that to save herself a parent
+would yield up her darling. Nay, nay; when they tempted me to delay thy
+baptismal hour, they fathomed not the undying love Rhiwallon's mother
+bears her beautiful boy--her treasure!"
+
+Such and other dreamy wailing words overheard in the gloaming by
+Gwynneth and her son, revealed to them the unselfish part Esgair had
+played in the events of the past. Pangs of remorse again oppressed
+Llewelyn as he recalled his harsh rebuke in the chapel. He now surmised
+that could the Evil Powers only gain possession of Rhiwallon, Rhuddlan
+and his race, including Esgair herself, would be delivered from all
+future trouble, and freed for ever from the mystic enchantments of
+Venedotia. But while Gwynneth and Llewelyn trembled at the danger to
+which the infant had been exposed, they prized more tenderly than ever
+his fragile mother, whose conduct had throughout been above praise; and
+kneeling down, they offered sincere prayer that through the exceeding
+faith and purity of Esgair's life she might, with heavenly aid, prevent
+the sacrifice of her child, and yet live to accomplish the deliverance
+of her race.
+
+It was a lovely September afternoon, the sun streamed down on the rich
+purple heather, where Esgair, playing with her boy, sat beside a small
+rivulet close to the walls of the rising castle. The workmen, resting
+for their afternoon meal, were refreshed with milk provided for them by
+the kind command of their lady. Gwynneth, busily engaged in some labour
+of love, had remained up at the little shieling, while the solitary
+nurse who accompanied Esgair was seated with her work at some distance
+from the mother and her child.
+
+Llewelyn had gone forth at break of day to hunt the deer, and as yet
+there was no sign of his return. A halo of sylvan peace enshrouded the
+fair scene and the actors therein. Amid autumnal silence the distant
+sea lay smooth as glass. Like a dim blue mist slumbered the far outline
+of the low-lying islands without. On either side rose the frowning
+sentinels of the vale between--the giant Penmaenmaur and the scarcely
+smaller Penmaenbach; while behind the smiling plain rose heathery
+slopes, undulating in successive lines towards the gloomy Tal-y-van.
+
+Stretched on soft furs Esgair played with her beautiful laughter-loving
+babe. Sometimes she tossed him crowing aloft, and caught him tenderly
+again to her heart, then, changing from grave to gay, would whisper
+softly in his little ear strange old tales and legends. (It was
+afterwards asserted that when Rhiwallon grew to be a man many of his
+wondrous gifts came from his unconscious remembrance of that mother
+lore.) After much time thus spent in dallying with her infant, at
+length Esgair raised him in her arms and descended with him to the
+brink of the murmuring streamlet, being thus lost sight of by the
+nurse, who, still within easy hail, did not move from her
+all-engrossing handicraft.
+
+The peaceful afternoon wore onwards, and soon Llewelyn, hot and
+fatigued, and with a somewhat clouded brow (for the day's sport had
+been unsuccessful), came striding down the narrow path, and, accosting
+the nurse, inquired for her mistress and child. The maid pointed out
+the course of the rivulet, and Llewelyn springing forward soon cleared
+the short space between, and gained the little eminence where the furs,
+still scattered in rich profusion, bore witness to the late presence of
+Esgair and the babe. Looking impatiently around in quest of them, to
+his horror and surprise Llewelyn perceived his son in the arms of a
+strange old man with a long hoary beard and white flowing garments. The
+little boy seemed pleased and happy; he was cooing to his mother, while
+she, seated on a rock in the midst of the purling brook, and within a
+stone's-throw of where Llewelyn stood, watched Rhiwallon's every
+movement with keen delight. Llewelyn paused not to observe the majestic
+stature and noble countenance of the unknown (who was, in fact, the
+ancient Rhuddlan, the babe's grandfather), nor remembered till
+afterwards, when it was too late, Esgair's look of entranced happiness.
+So absorbed was she that she did not hear her husband's exclamation of
+anger, did not see his rapid steps down the hillock, knew and felt
+nothing till he roughly smote her on the shoulder and sharply asked
+what she meant by allowing their child (during his absence) to become
+the plaything of any old vagrant about the place, letting him also run
+the risk of every passing infection of illness. He would have added
+more bitter words of reproach, but as he spoke the old man suddenly
+disappeared. The baby gave a loud cry and fell splashing into the
+water. His mother at once caught and drew him out, and, with streaming
+eyes laid him on Llewelyn's breast, while around, above, below, with a
+sound of many rushing waters, could be distinguished these
+hoarsely-muttered words:--
+
+    "The final undoing of Fate hath begun,
+    And Esgair's frail portion of happiness done;
+    Arise and return to us, child of the lake,
+    Nor nursling nor husband thy slumbers shall wake."
+
+Quick as light Esgair turned a strange look of terror on her husband.
+"The waters, the cruel waters!" she cried; "haste to the hills ere it
+be too late--hasten, or they will overwhelm you!" No thought of her own
+fate unnerved the heroic woman. Waving wildly to the workmen, she bade
+them escape for their lives, and indeed the nurse had already seen from
+above, and turned to warn them of an impending tempest. Lurid clouds
+veiled the sun, wild winds sighed around, strange shapes arose in the
+bed of the little river, madly leaping to and fro, while, stranger than
+all, and striking consternation to the bravest heart, with low growls
+as of far thunder, arose a huge black wall of water in the distant sea,
+and seemed ever approaching nearer. Sea gulls and cormorants wheeled in
+the air above, uttering dissonant cries. Affrighted and amazed, the
+terrified workmen left tools, clothes, and implements behind and fled
+in desperate haste towards the mountains.
+
+At this moment Esgair, turning, perceived that Llewelyn, paralyzed with
+terror and remorse, could move neither hand nor foot to save himself or
+the child. Endued for the time being with superhuman strength, she
+snatched the babe from his arms, and crying "Follow me," swept rapidly
+across the uneven ground, sometimes stumbling and nearly falling, but
+never stopping to take breath until, on the slopes of Moel Llys, she
+reached the trembling crowd, who from this vantage-ground watched the
+wild work of destruction below. Breathless and exhausted she flung
+herself down on the soft turf and soothed the bitterly crying and
+frightened infant.
+
+Esgair's hurried flight awoke Llewelyn from the stupor of despair. He
+followed and aided her as best he could, and now stood by her side. In
+silent awe that little assembly beheld the appalling inroad of the
+waters. Like a dark pall, the slow moving mass spread itself over the
+fertile lands below; ere long it reached the castle; the unfinished
+walls disappeared, and soon a wide watery waste covered the whilome
+scene of busy labour and the rich fields around. At length the
+remorseless waves dashed unavailingly beneath the rising ground where
+stood the trembling fugitives. Loud thanksgivings for their safety
+arose from these simple pious men, and they gratefully acknowledged the
+hand of Providence in their wonderful escape from a watery grave.
+
+But now low sobs of anguish were heard, a mother--like Rachel of
+old--weeping over her child, and refusing to be comforted. The gentle
+Esgair, wan and weary, lay prostrate upon the ground. Painfully she
+drew her labouring breath and strained Rhiwallon to her poor aching
+heart. Her eyes were mournfully fixed on Llewelyn, as if to take a last
+farewell. His grief could find no utterance. With gloomy foreboding he
+recalled the words of the ancient legend, and a cold thrill ran through
+him as he remembered that his fatal impatience had not only tempted
+Esgair's fate, but according to the old prophecy had riveted still more
+firmly the spell that bound her hapless kinsmen; for was it not
+written--
+
+    But if that wedded peace be riven,
+    By blows at random three times given,
+    Esgair must seek her father's cave,
+    Nor quit again the gloomy wave,
+    No slow revolving years shall wake
+    The spell-bound slumberers of the lake.
+
+By this time the tempest had gradually died away. A faint melody of
+unearthly beauty fell on their ears--as they listened wondering and
+entranced, they heard these thrilling words:
+
+    Three times lost, and three times won,
+    Thou hast wedded Dafydd's son:
+    Brow that holy sign hath crossed
+    Ne'er can be by witchcraft lost.
+    By thy faith and suffering power
+    Thou hast won the conquering hour;
+    Though the spell on thee must break,
+    Rhuddlan's race from sleep shall wake;
+    Thou and thine shall dwell in light,
+    Saved by glory infinite.
+    Rise, the evil spell is broken,
+    Peace be thine, and this the token.
+
+As the voice ceased the sun broke through the clouds, and from his
+western declivity threw a long radiance across the calming ocean.
+Within this glittering pathway stood an angel of exceeding beauty, and
+of grave and majestic countenance. With his left hand he beckoned to
+Esgair. With his right he pointed to the golden rays behind him, within
+which myriad shapes of brightest loveliness seemed to move. The light
+fell on Esgair's head as she arose with new strength from the earth.
+Already a solemn stillness hushed the grief of her pale features and a
+new expression beamed from her pure face.
+
+"Heaven guard and guide thee, my babe," she said, and placing him
+tenderly in his nurse's arms, turned to Llewellyn imploring him to wish
+her farewell. He approached and wildly cast his arms around her--the
+strong passions of earth still raged uncontrolled in his unchastened
+bosom--but she slowly disengaged herself from his despairing caress and
+hopefully trod the brief steps that divided her from the heavenly
+visitant. The angel took her by the hand--once more with overflowing
+tenderness she waved adieu to her husband, and ere the awestruck
+Llewelyn could move from where he stood, the red sun disappeared with a
+sudden dip behind the distant island. With him also, alas! were gone
+the last faint traces of that pathway of light, wherein had moved, but
+a moment before, those bright blessed forms, connecting earth with the
+upper world.
+
+Breaking from his trancelike despair, Llewelyn madly rushed to the
+water's brink and again and again strove to end his miserable existence
+by flinging himself into the gloomy sea. But his people restrained him,
+and the nurse brought the little Rhiwallon to his side. The unhappy
+father turned to look on his child, then with renewed agony, as he
+remembered how he had for ever deprived that tender nursling of a
+mother's care, he groaned aloud and smote his hands wildly together.
+But now, through the quiet evening air--calm and serene--like dew on
+the parched and weary herb, was borne this soothing message from
+invisible realms:
+
+    Farewell to the home of my brief mortal years,
+    Farewell to the valley of sunshine and tears.
+    Now over our castle on Arvon's pale shore
+    The waters of Meinai shall surge evermore.
+    Llyn Idwyl! sleep calmly--thou desolate lake.
+    Dark Glydirs! no Esgair your echoes shall wake.
+    But mourn not, Llewelyn, the fate of thy love,
+    She smiles still upon thee from regions above.
+    Arise and walk onward, nor idly repine,
+    A mission that angels might sigh for is thine,
+    To guide and to shelter through life's opening days
+    Rhiwallon, whose future all Cymri shall praise.
+    The Spirit Divine hath inclined to my voice,
+    And parents and kindred around me rejoice.
+    My fate is accomplished--the spell overcome,
+    And Paradise opens to Rhuddlan a home.
+
+The sudden shadow that had followed sunset now gave way to gorgeous
+colouring. From the closed western portals of the day emerged rich
+waving lines of gold and roseate hue, and spread far overhead. Behind
+the distant islands where the sun had disappeared glowed an atmosphere
+of living amber. For a brief moment the gates of Paradise were indeed
+"standing ajar" to receive the now immortal Esgair and her long lost
+kindred.
+
+Awhile the watchers on the shore continued on their knees hoping once
+more to see that heavenly visitant or hear again the soul-stirring
+voice that had fallen from unseen lips. At last one by one they arose,
+and gazing seawards by the waning light beheld the broad band of waters
+still covering the fertile plains, the green meadows, and the
+unfinished castle. Little rippling waves broke at their feet and marked
+the boundary line, where to this day, the waves surge and swell between
+the mighty Penmaens upon the Cambrian Coast.
+
+At this moment Gwynneth arrived breathless in their midst and joined
+her lamentations to those of the little babe, who, missing his mother,
+bewailed her loss in heart-rending tones.
+
+The workmen now turned to seek a night's lodging where they could, for
+their temporary dwellings had shared the fate of the more lordly
+castle. Llewelyn, still carrying his child, motioned to his mother to
+draw somewhat aside, and as they slowly remounted the hill, frequently
+pausing to cast wistful glances around, and to strain their eyes in
+vain toward the fading west, he related to her the various occurrences
+of that fatal day and repeated the farewell words of his lost wife.
+"Hear me, mother," exclaimed he, as they gained the door of the
+shieling; "by the remembrance of my Esgair's pure and holy life, I
+devote myself henceforth to the fulfilment of her behest, and while
+life and strength remain I promise so to cherish and bring up our child
+(aided by heavenly power) that he shall renew the memory of his sainted
+mother, and become the benefactor of mankind."
+
+Clasping the babe closer in his arms he turned to enter at the lowly
+door, but with a cry of joy the infant stretched out its little arms,
+and lo! soft and pure in the western sky gleamed through the dusk the
+gentle Evening Star. Then Llewelyn knew in his heart that his vow had
+been heard, and that an angel spirit shone approval of his humble
+resolution.
+
+With mournful resignation, aided by his mother and cheered by the
+ministrations of the good Father Tudno, Llewelyn passed the remainder
+of his days in the careful up-bringing of his son. They never returned
+to the Castle of the Lakes. For at daybreak on the morning which
+succeeded Esgair's translation, a messenger arrived footsore and weary
+bringing strange tidings of devastation. As the last stroke of midnight
+clanged from the castle clock the whole mighty fabric disappeared, and
+with it the numerous servants, the fleet steeds, and the fabulous
+wealth which Esgair's bridal night had brought to Llewelyn.
+
+Gwynneth and Llewelyn now fixed their abode on the giant slopes of
+Penmaenmaur, and often at sunset the father was seen pointing up the
+golden pathway and watching with his little son for the first pale ray
+of the Evening Star.
+
+Rhiwallon grew and flourished apace. His was a fearless nature. He
+loved the sea, the hills, the birds, and the flowers. His childish brow
+only became clouded with pain or sorrow for the sufferings of man and
+beast, which even in earliest boyhood he ever yearned to alleviate.
+
+When still an infant he was often found with a sweet smile upon his
+countenance, and in after years could recall the dim vision of an angel
+form that bent over and lulled him in his dreams, but was ever absent
+when he awoke. Gwynneth and Llewelyn were long spared to foster his
+awakening talents, and ere they were gathered to their fathers the name
+of Rhiwallon had become a household word, for the sweet songs of the
+gentle bard are to this day remembered and sung wherever the Cymri
+tongue is known and loved.[1]
+
+          [1] Founded on an old Welsh legend. There is a submerged
+          half-built castle between Penmaenmaur and Penmaenbach, which
+          can be seen at low tides.
+
+
+
+
+EOTHWALD: THE YOUNG SCULPTOR.
+
+
+It will not surprise you, dear children, to learn that after Hans
+Christian Andersen wrote his touching story of "The Little Mermaid,"
+the whole world sighed with a strong desire to behold the true likeness
+of that loving and lovely heroine.
+
+Painters and sculptors wandered anxiously by the sea-shore; not alone
+in Denmark, but in many other countries, seeking thus to obtain a
+glimpse of one of the mermaidens--whose whole race has been for ever
+immortalized by the gentle Dane--longing to depict on canvas, or to
+carve in marble, the fair lineaments of the faithful sea-child who gave
+her voice and her life for the Prince she loved.
+
+Now for successive ages it has been well known among the denizens of
+the ocean that trouble and misfortune must certainly fall on the
+mermaiden who should visit the shore too frequently, or permit her
+likeness to be taken in any form whatsoever.
+
+Long, long ago, the most beautiful of the sea-nymphs rose in her
+gambols to the surface of the billows; and as in those days mermaids
+wore no tails, and were consequently unable to steer themselves
+properly, she was carried on shore by the force of the waves, where
+such was the confusion caused by her charms, that gods and goddesses
+themselves quarrelled about her, and artists in their enthusiasm
+neglected everything else to depict in all its bewildering beauty the
+sea-born loveliness of "Aphrodite." Great was the indignation excited
+by the appearance of this fair interloper in the aerial courts, and
+"Hera," the Queen of Olympus, persuaded her husband, the awful "Jove,"
+to issue a decree ordaining that henceforth and for evermore all
+mermaidens should bear long tails; thus confining their dangerous
+influence to their own native element; and furthermore forbidding them,
+on pain of severest penalties, to hold communication with the
+inhabitants of earth or sky.
+
+Though centuries have rolled away, this dread command is still
+remembered and obeyed, and hence the extreme difficulty experienced by
+those whose artistic longings had been kindled afresh by the glowing
+descriptions of the sweet Danish writer.
+
+One golden evening during the brief but glorious northern summer, the
+young sculptor, Eothwald, after a weary day of unavailing search for
+the far-famed mermaidens, threw himself down on the soft grass by a
+river's side, and lulled by the soft ceaseless murmur of the rushing
+waters, sank into deep dreamless sleep. As the drowsiness of fatigue
+wore itself away, he became gradually conscious of ravishing strains of
+music, and rousing himself half awakened to listen to the dulcet
+sounds, he still heard the harmonious cadences of some stringed
+instrument swell and thrill in tones of unearthly beauty.
+
+Eothwald arose softly from his grassy couch, and stole noiselessly
+along. Keeping himself carefully concealed behind rocks and brushwood,
+he followed the sound, till at a bend of the stream he beheld the young
+river god Näcken, seated at the entrance to a grotto, playing and
+singing to his harp strains of heaven-born music; while, bathed in the
+evening sunshine, and with their arms lovingly intertwined, there on
+the surface of the water, in rapt attention, floated the lovely
+mermaiden sisters, Duva and Himingläfa, unsuspicious of danger, and
+forgetful of all else, for the spell of love's magic numbers hung over
+them and rivetted their attention.
+
+The inspired Näcken continued his impassioned lay; the blushing
+Himingläfa, to whom his song of homage was addressed, shook her long
+chestnut tresses until they formed a veil around her, and laid her soft
+cheek on the shoulder of the innocent Duva, who, childlike, wondered at
+her sister's excess of emotion.
+
+A while Eothwald remained motionless, overwhelmed by the beauty of the
+scene, but soon the surpassing loveliness of the sea-sisters fired his
+artistic mind with keen ardour; he felt within himself that could he
+but reproduce these enchanting forms in marble, he would die content.
+He resolved to seek his home, and return thence provided with all the
+necessary materials for working. He had noticed during his wanderings,
+not far from this very spot, a cave, where he fancied he could work
+undisturbed. The clay by this river being famous for its plastic
+properties, it would be easy for him to model by day concealed from all
+beholders, and at eventide to steal forth unobserved, and gain new
+ideas of beauty from the fair sisters now before him.
+
+As he silently pondered and matured this plan, a silvery voice was
+heard afar, and, quick as light, Duva and Himingläfa sprang away
+through the darkening waters at their mother's call, while Näcken,
+carrying his harp with him, abruptly disappeared within the shadowy
+entrance of the grotto.
+
+Darkness came suddenly on; the river, cold and black, ran past Eothwald
+with sullen murmurings; the wild owl swept close by where he stood,
+brushing his face with her wing, and uttering her desolate cry. The
+startled sculptor well-nigh missed his footing, and only escaped
+falling into the stream by catching hold of the boughs above his head.
+But undismayed and undaunted, he groped his way successfully out of the
+wood, and then hastened cheerfully homewards, light-hearted and
+content; for what were darkness, danger, or fatigue? The quenchless
+fire of genius burned within his breast; the long dreamt-of ideal was
+no longer a faint, far-off vision, but had become to him a reality of
+dazzling beauty.
+
+Ere daylight returned Eothwald had been to his home and informed his
+old housekeeper that he was bound for a few days' trip into the
+country. He put together his working tools, and having at her earnest
+request taken some provisions in his knapsack, he swallowed a hasty
+meal, and before the sun was yet high in the heavens, was already
+ensconced in the cave and fast asleep in its welcome shade, after all
+the fatigue and excitement of the last few but eventful hours.
+
+And now night after night, sheltered by brushwood, rock, and fern, the
+enthusiastic youth engraved on his heart the exquisite beauty of those
+fair denizens of the sea; nay more, in the ardour of his pursuit he
+became himself enamoured of the lovely childlike Duva. Often while
+Näcken and Himingläfa held sweet converse together, their companion
+unobserved would float silently nearer and nearer to the shore.
+Sometimes she amused herself by twining long wreaths of the ferns and
+creepers which hung over the river bank. Sometimes she laughingly
+lifted small silvery fish from their holes beneath the bank; then
+remembering that air to them was death, she would place them gently
+once more in their native element, and smiling, watch their playful
+movements when they frisked around her, as if in gratitude, before they
+swam away. Sometimes flinging her long tresses of hair over the grass
+by the river margin, clasping her hands above her head, reposing half
+on land and half on water, she would lie with all a maiden's dreamy
+thoughts of the unknown future, her clear blue eyes fixed on the starry
+vault above, her every action a study of grace and poetry, until
+Himingläfa's soft summons roused her, when springing again into life
+and motion, the agile Duva excited new admiration in the sculptor's
+mind as with the swiftness of a startled bird she flitted across the
+water and disappeared with her sweet sister beneath the briny wave.
+
+It is not given to me to say how Duva and Eothwald first became
+acquainted; but it is certain that before the young sculptor had spent
+many nights by the water's side, that innocent child of the sea grew to
+know what it was that made the long hours pass so swiftly to Himingläfa
+and Näcken, when they were together; for a feeling hitherto unknown
+sprang up within her own simple breast, and taught her to welcome with
+beating heart the appearance of her new friend.
+
+What long happy hours they passed together by starlight and moonlight
+on that river brink! How endless were the words they had to say to each
+other in those stolen interviews! and yet, though all seemed so
+untroubled, a secret care disturbed the peace of either loving bosom.
+It is true that Duva had attempted to lighten hers by confiding it to
+her lover, for early in their acquaintance she told him that she longed
+to whisper in her mother's ear the story of her Eothwald, and to find
+in the majestic Ran's motherly bosom a soft pillow whereon to still the
+flutterings of her awakened heart; but in tones of displeasure the
+young sculptor chid her childlike impulse, and went so far as to
+threaten that should she ever breathe to her family the fact of his
+existence, he could never seek her more.
+
+Chilled and frightened at hearing Eothwald address her in accents such
+as he had never used before, the gentle Duva tearfully promised to
+comply with his request, and to conceal from all the knowledge of her
+earthly lover. But the concealment preyed on her mind, and though in
+his presence she forgot all save the bliss of being beloved, yet she
+had for ever lost the joyous serenity of her early youth; while the
+very look which roused her watchful mother's anxiety, gave her in her
+lover's eye, a more etherial air of languor and grace.
+
+Eothwald's secret care was widely different: he knew that his Duva
+might in some terrible unknown manner have to suffer for his love; but
+his anxiety was lest he should not succeed in obtaining her perfect
+likeness, and thence partly came his reluctance to allow her to speak
+of him to her people. He made sure they would remind her of the perils
+of holding intercourse with mankind, and probably put a complete stop
+to their clandestine meetings, now only carried on under the shadow of
+the more legitimate attachment of Himingläfa and Näcken.
+
+While the inexperienced Duva only knew and felt she loved, the more
+worldly Eothwald gazed upon her with a critical and artistic eye, and
+often sent a chill of cold presentiment to her very heart's core, when
+to her gentlest words he vouchsafed no answer; but, absently scanning
+her perfect form, would strive to compare and calculate in his mind the
+accuracy of his progressing model in the cave.
+
+He found it easy to obtain Duva's compliance with all his requests save
+one; but it was for long in vain that he besought her to leave her
+watery home. Many a time and oft they parted almost in anger, and the
+poor little sea-nymph more than once weepingly entreated him sooner to
+quit her for ever, and go back to his own kith and kind. But Eothwald
+always returned afresh to the charge, for, besides his real attachment
+to the gentle maid herself, he knew that could he but once behold her
+fair proportions near him in the cave, he could successfully finish his
+now nearly completed model; and, by imparting to it those life-like
+touches which alone it required, he would be enabled to give to the
+world for the first time the perfect image of a mermaiden. With true
+artistic fervour he forgot his mortal love in the eager pursuit of his
+immortal art, and, brought completely to a standstill by the harassing
+intensity of his longing to have the living form at hand to aid him in
+his work, he grew so unkind towards Duva that with saddened heart the
+poor child promised to comply with his prayer, and arranged to
+accompany him through the wood the following night, when the yellow
+harvest moon would reign in her fullest beauty.
+
+Words cannot paint the overflowing sorrow that oppressed the pale
+mermaiden's heart that eventful day as she joined her parents and
+sisters, for what an inward voice told her, was the last time. Old
+Agir, her father, gathered her to his bosom, and pressed his little
+Duva to tell her trouble, but with a forced smile she first nestled
+closer to that protecting shoulder and then sprang half sobbing away,
+and they thought she grieved over the approaching bridals of Näcken and
+Himingläfa and the prospect of losing her favourite sister.
+
+The wild young Kolga blew through her shell, and in her efforts to
+cheer Duva made such a bubbling amid the water, that people passing in
+boats far above the sea-king's palace, paused on their oars to watch
+the agitated surface and thought they had discovered a new ocean
+spring.
+
+Häfring and Blodughadda caressed their little sister and playfully
+asked her to choose whether they should all wear coral or pearls at
+Himingläfa's wedding, but with trembling lip she turned away, unable to
+trust her voice in answer to their laughing affection, and for the
+first time they deemed their pet Duva was sullen. Ah! how little they
+knew the aching throbs of pain that strangled her sweet voice and
+silenced their sorrow-stricken playmate.
+
+At last the hour of sunset drew near. Together, as usual, Himingläfa
+and Duva rose to the surface of the darkening ocean, and soon were
+greeted by the entrancing strains of Näcken's harp. Slowly Duva
+disengaged herself from her sister's embrace and lingered long near the
+companion, till now the sharer of every joy or care. But time's
+relentless wheel rolled on, and through the woods by the river's brink
+gleamed the golden radiance of the harvest moon, as the mermaiden at
+length approached the shore where her lover kept anxious watch. With
+joyful eagerness Eothwald greeted her, and in low trembling tones
+whispered loving thanks into her ear; even then Duva would have
+withdrawn her consent, but the impatient Eothwald, without pausing,
+threw his strong arms around her, raised his beloved burden from the
+glittering water, and bore her swiftly towards the cave.
+
+A feeling of deadly sickness came over the little sea-maid as she was
+thus lifted from her native element, but the soothing words of her
+lover infused new life into her fainting frame, and in safety they
+reached the cave, where Eothwald joyfully deposited his lovely charge
+on the couch he had so long prepared for her use.
+
+Uttering but scant welcome the sculptor flew rapidly to his work, for
+already fatigue and exhaustion clouded the sweet eyes, that were wont
+to sparkle so merrily, and spread a new languor over the limbs of his
+exquisite model. With passionate energy Eothwald moulded his plastic
+clay, completely forgetting in his ardour the unwonted position of the
+sea-king's daughter, and her need of watchful tenderness.
+
+A stranger in a new and untried world--a timid maiden strayed for the
+first time far beyond the protecting care of parents and brethren, the
+little Duva reclined amazed upon her fragrant bed of leaves. Strange
+thrills were sent through her by the strong night perfumes exhaled on
+every side from earthly leaf, tree, and flower.
+
+At last she was upon that land about which from childhood she had
+dreamed, with an eager desire to explore its forbidden mysteries. But
+she thought not of these things, her whole heart was absorbed in
+Eothwald. The young sculptor no longer gazed on her with the melting
+eye of love. By the flickering light of the torch which shed its ruddy
+glow over the cave, she could perceive the artist's glance now fixed on
+his clay figure, now turned upon herself with a searching look of
+restless dissatisfaction due in reality to the shortcomings of his own
+handiwork, but which chilled and saddened Duva's sensitive heart.
+
+  [Illustration: EOTHWALD AND DUVA IN THE CAVE.
+   P. 102.]
+
+Again and again the gentle maiden nerved her voice to speak, but
+faintness overpowered her, and a dreamless sleep already fanned her
+with its over-shadowing wings. Eothwald's form swam magnified before
+her eyes, and then vanished altogether amid the mist of gathering
+tears. The cave grew dim--the little sea-child again beheld the palace
+of her father--her lovely sisters waved a mute welcome through the
+changing atmosphere. With the tremulous sigh of a repentant child that
+has erred, but returns with glad sorrow to fling itself on its mother's
+breast, Duva, forgetting all save that joyful vision, stretched forth
+her innocent arms with a low murmur of tenderness, and a gesture of
+delight.
+
+"Can you not remain as I placed you?" impatiently muttered the
+sculptor, as the sudden movement of Duva's arms altered her whole
+position, and lost irretrievably the graceful attitude he was striving
+faithfully to immortalise. Even as he spoke, something about his
+beloved alarmed him; he rushed across the cave, but ere he could touch
+her, Duva's fair form had disappeared--she was gone!
+
+The red torch flickered high, and suddenly expired. The moon's ray,
+cold and pale, penetrated within the cave, and lo! upon the spot so
+lately pressed by the enchanting figure of the poor little stranger,
+pure and transparent in the silvery light, glistened a white pearly
+shell, while a tiny rivulet stole silently from beneath it, and
+trickled into the moonlit glen without.
+
+Eothwald threw himself wildly on his knees, and felt the couch all over
+in vain--in vain!--then in desperation he fled out into the wood and
+searched for his lost love, breathing her name in fondest accents
+through the silence of the night, but alas! awakening no response from
+the desolate solitudes around him. Wearied and heart-broken he returned
+at length from his fruitless errand, and sank into heavy slumber.
+
+Hours had passed unheeded away, when with troubled recollection he
+awoke and sprang to his feet. Gradually he remembered that in his
+dreams Duva had again appeared to him. With bitter tears she
+sorrowfully told him that his own thoughtless actions had parted them.
+He first tempted her by mortal love to deceive and leave her fond
+parents and her beloved home; then as he moulded his clay from her
+beautiful form, in the self-abstraction of genius, he half forgot her
+sacrifice, and neglected her tender spirit. Wounded and unable to
+struggle against her altered condition of life without the comforting
+care of her mortal lover, she had fallen a victim to the law that ruled
+supreme over herself and her kindred, and lost her visible shape, which
+became again transformed into the water, whence it originally sprang.
+With streaming eyes she waved a long farewell, then, lovely as a
+morning dream, faded from his view.
+
+Eothwald flew back to his work with fierce energy; he felt indeed a
+high soaring ambition. He yearned to represent worthily, to this and
+future generations, the fair lineaments, the tender immortal beauty of
+the sea-king's daughter, who had given him her simple young heart, and
+whose affection he had so rudely requited. A solemn inward voice told
+him he had no time to spend in useless remorse, or in unavailing
+lamentation. Death's shadowy finger already beckoned him to the "silent
+land." Grief had snapped the first chord of life's hitherto sweet
+melody, and his days on earth were numbered.
+
+He returned in a short space to his native city. His half-finished work
+was slowly removed to the studio. There by day and by night he laboured
+almost ceaselessly, and wove into a wild poetical dream the young life
+of the fair Duva and her family, as she herself in days gone by had
+frequently, half romancing and half in earnest, described it to him.
+
+He designed a lofty fountain, and upon its six sides placed in groups
+of wondrous imagery her parents, their nine lovely daughters, and the
+young river-god Näcken, whose strains had first led him to his beloved.
+As in his lonely studio he ceaselessly toiled, he wrote down at
+intervals this explanation of his labours--that to all futurity might
+be known the names and history of those whose divine beauty he thus
+strove to commemorate.[2]
+
+          [2] The description of the different groups represented on
+          the fountain, is taken from a beautiful work of art, designed
+          and executed by Molin, a young Swedish sculptor of great
+          promise, now dead.
+
+"Agir, the ocean god, who hates mankind, I represent in the prime of
+life, with a long flowing beard, which he holds back with one hand, in
+the other he grasps a sceptre. Enthroned on a gigantic shell, and
+planting his foot on a dolphin, his handsome features wear an
+expression of proud disdain.
+
+"When the winter has passed (as our Northern poets have sung) and the
+May sun melts the ice, the ships in the harbour lift their anchors
+ready to sail, and only the wind is wanting. Thereupon Agir (who
+delights in punishing the pride of mankind by robbing them of their
+treasures--taking husbands from their homes, their wives, and their
+children, and drowning the mourners in floods of bitter tears) calls to
+his youngest daughter Kolga to begin the sport.
+
+"In the next shell-like division of the fountain, I place Kolga, who,
+with short rough hair and hoydenish action, distends to the full her
+rosy cheeks as she blows through the valves of her shell a soft,
+seductive wind, sufficient to swell the sails, and tempt the ill-fated
+ships to sea. Above her, shrouded in her long veil, is the mysterious
+and majestic Ran (Agir's princely consort, and the anxious mother of
+his many children). She encourages Rönn, her second youngest, who
+gently and dreamingly along the blue ripples stirs the first breath on
+the calm waters. Häfring, Unn, and Bylgia, with the little water-elves
+and sprites, help to raise the swelling seas until the waves are
+mountains high.
+
+"Then the hard-hearted and vindictive Boara (once scorned and deserted
+by a mortal lover) crushes the prows to atoms. She delights in the
+destruction of human handiwork, and is therefore portrayed with a
+sternly beautiful though cruel countenance. Next Agir calls on
+Blodughadda, enveloped in her long flowing tresses, to descend through
+the deeper waters and secure the ships' rich treasures, for no lock or
+key any longer protects them.
+
+"But the fond father misses his favourite children, Himingläfa and
+Duva; he loudly calls on Ran to tell him where they are. 'Alas,'
+answers his queen, 'our daughters are held captive in the web of
+Näcken; up there, on the fresh water-stream, they float, like one
+charmed, listening to his melodious song. I have begged and threatened,
+but all in vain. Methinks one or both of them is befooled by first
+love.'
+
+"Then Agir arose in fearful rage, calling upon his remaining daughters
+to entice Näcken forth from the precincts of his grotto (which, being
+in fresh water, was beyond the sea-king's domain) into the deep ocean,
+there to take him captive, and deliver their sisters from his thraldom.
+
+"So they all float on, displaying their charms like roses and lilies
+playing on the waters: their beautiful dishevelled hair, their graceful
+forms, their coral chains, their strings of pearls, triumphantly making
+sure of enticing the hapless youth into the salt waters. But no sooner
+have they reached the entrance to the grotto, than behold! a youth,
+divinely beautiful, is seen. Harp in hand, he sings a soft, melancholy
+strain with the purest of voices. The beauteous sisters, scarce moving,
+tarry on the heaving waters, and listen, entranced, to his
+heart-thrilling song.
+
+"Awakening from his own love-dreams as he marks the approach of
+Himingläfa's lovely sisters, the young river-god sings of his happy
+youth, when amid green meadows, and under verdant trees, he listened
+to the melodies of birds, and learnt from them the sweet art of
+song--until, restless and eager for change, he wandered forth from
+his early home into the wide world, with endless longing for the
+unattainable. To punish his presumption, he was at length condemned
+only to exist in water, and became the genius of running streams.
+Thus he pours out his lament in strains so moving, that even the wild
+swan is arrested in her flight, and the daughters of Agir, deeply
+enthralled, heedless of their parents' call to action, remain
+motionless before the grotto, allowing ships and mariners to sail by
+in perfect calm.
+
+"At length, Agir and Ran, angry and impatient, hasten towards them,
+when, enchanted like their children, by Näcken's exquisite lay, they
+also remain to listen, forgetful of the time and of the passing hours,
+till daylight breaks suddenly upon them. The relentless laws of fate
+forbidding their escape (if found within fresh water at sunrise), they
+all then become spell-bound."
+
+Such was the description Eothwald wrote of his wondrous fountain, on
+which Näcken still dreams on, harp in hand, singing of the days of
+yore. The beautiful Himingläfa leans forward, modestly drawing her
+long tresses across her white shoulders, drinking in, with downcast
+eyes, every intonation of her betrothed. The child-like Duva, adorned
+as when the sculptor first beheld her, with long strands of priceless
+pearls intertwined on hair, neck, and bosom, raises herself from the
+water in the attitude he had studied a thousand times, and half
+surrounds her beloved sister with her arm, listening intently, as on
+that well-remembered evening, to Näcken's heart-thrilling music. No
+shadow of future sorrow clouds Duva's fair brow; but moulded in all
+the fresh innocence of her dewy youth, she remains to this hour the
+loveliest mermaiden that ever gladdened mortal eye.
+
+The shell she left upon the couch of leaves, the artist introduced
+again and again in his labour of love, and indeed took from its shape
+the designs for the six sides of his fountain, the figures on which
+were the size of life.
+
+At last the story of Duva's early life was given. Raised from ocean,
+cavern, and grotto by Eothwald's genius, her family were immortalized
+by his art. The sculptor's task was completed. In a paroxysm of agony,
+he fell on his knees as he realized that though instinct with life his
+inspired work arose in all its chill perfection before him, yet the
+living, loving, lovely mermaiden would never more greet him with her
+warm, shy smile, and her low, tender voice.
+
+At daybreak the old housekeeper came to light the studio fire; for
+it was now winter-time, and the snow lay thick upon the ground. By
+the first dim ray of light she descried Eothwald kneeling before his
+finished sculpture. Her heart misgave her; he was her foster-child--dear
+to her as her own. She stumbled forward and touched his arm; it was
+cold and motionless as his own marble figures. Then a loud cry of grief
+told the tale of death. Eothwald was no more. His immortal spirit had
+fled. Whether in the regions of the unknown invisible world he may once
+more meet and clasp his Duva to his breast by the blessed waters of
+Paradise, we cannot tell, but such may be the merciful will of that
+loving Father who watches unceasingly over the creatures of his hand,
+and feels a divine sympathy in their sorrows.
+
+One of Eothwald's hands rested on the word Duva, which he had finished
+chiselling beneath his beauteous beloved. In his other hand was found,
+fast clasped--so fast indeed that they could not remove it from his
+stiffened fingers--a gleaming white pearly shell.
+
+
+
+
+FIDO AND FIDUNIA.
+
+
+Once within a deep and gloomy forest there dwelt a lonely maiden. She
+had never known any companionship but that of nature, animate and
+inanimate. She loved the birds, the shy playful squirrels, and all the
+various animals, which having always known her there, friendly and
+harmless, regarded her in their turn, with trustful affection.
+
+It made no difference in their feelings towards the young girl that she
+was not beautiful. Her thick sandy hair hung in coarse straight elf
+locks on her shoulders. Her skin looked rough, and her features were
+not prepossessing. But these poor ignorant creatures only noticed that
+her voice was low and exceeding sweet. When she stooped to fondle the
+frolicsome rabbits, or perchance to bind up the leg of some wounded
+hare, they thought her tender fingers wondrous soft, and her warm cheek
+felt very smooth to them as she pressed it against their furry coats,
+and pettingly coaxed them to linger a moment on her lap.
+
+Strange to say, though the little maid had no distinct remembrance of
+human fellowship, yet she spoke in silvery tones a language which you
+or I, dear children, should very well understand.
+
+She dwelt in the hollow of an old tree, and few were the wants of her
+simple life. A clear spring, bubbling up among the rocks near at hand,
+in the centre of an open grassy space, formed a natural bath, where
+every morning, undisturbed by fear of man, she bathed herself, and
+wrung the water from her dripping tresses.
+
+In summer time she often slept high up between the forked branches of a
+mighty cedar-pine, where with sticks and long grass she had woven
+herself a sort of nest. From hence also she could contemplate the
+stars, between whom and herself there ever seemed a link of sympathy.
+To her untaught imagination it appeared that the heavenly luminaries
+were happy in being among others of their kind. Whereas, had she but
+known it, each one of those seemingly tiny lights glowed myriads of
+miles apart from its nearest neighbour.
+
+Fidunia dwelt serene, content with her lot; yet it was only natural
+that in her maturing bosom the yearning instincts of womanhood should
+awake, and that she longed, with an intensity of which she herself was
+hardly aware, for some creature to whom she could recount, and with
+whom she could share, the pleasures and pains of her solitary life.
+
+In the forest where she had her home there were no great alternations
+of heat and cold, nor was the length of the days so different as we
+find it in our own more northerly climate. Still it was spring-time in
+this land of which I speak. The fair soft tread of summer already sent
+a reviving thrill through the woods and glades, and Fidunia's thoughts
+turned anew to her forlorn condition.
+
+She remarked, as was her wont, the habits of the brute-world around.
+Every bird had its mate. The sober rooks perambulated the green sward
+in pairs. The thrush wooed his love in songs of gushing melody. The
+tender turtle-doves cooed ceaselessly to each other. The very mole that
+burrowed by the fountain side, brought a sable bride to enjoy with him
+the hidden comforts of his subterranean dwelling.
+
+Fidunia sat and pondered over these things. Again and again she tried,
+like Narcissus, to see her image in the crystal spring. But kind
+nature, careful to spare the little maid a needless pang, ruffled the
+translucent surface so perpetually, that the young girl's face only
+cast a dancing shadow on the bubbling water amid the rocks.
+
+Baffled in her hopes of even a shadowy companion, Fidunia, with a tear
+in her eye, murmured "Alone, ever alone! Ah, cruel fate! How I sigh for
+something really to love me."
+
+Awhile she remained motionless, gazing moodily into the troubled
+spring, but anon her quick ear caught the pattering sound of little
+feet upon the dead beech-leaves that formed a rich carpet near at hand.
+She thought it was the squirrels, yet theirs was a bounding lighter
+tread. She turned--and, lo! running towards her across the open space,
+she saw a beautiful dog. In colour he was almost golden; his silky hair
+fell soft as feathery down on either side of his little body. His tail
+and ears of darker chestnut tinge imparted piquancy to his shape. His
+paws were exquisitely clean, and covered with lovely hair. His
+brilliant dark brown eyes shone with extraordinary intelligence--at
+least, so Fidunia thought--as the little fellow slowly trotted up and
+stood before her, wagging his bushy tail.
+
+"Art thou come to be my companion?" the maiden joyfully cried. In
+answer to her question, the small quadruped came nearer still, and very
+very gently laid himself down at her feet. His mute gesture was most
+expressive.
+
+Fidunia surveyed him carefully, she thought she saw the marks of
+sadness in his wistful countenance--he gambolled not around her, nor
+attempted to lick her hand, but fixing on her his large anxious eyes,
+seemed to implore permission to remain by her side. Naturally fearless
+and fond of animals, Fidunia drew him upon her knee, and gently
+stroking the while his silky coat she asked him "whence he came, where
+his home, and what his name." The little creature could not reply in
+human tongue, but he continued to wag his eloquent tail, and to gaze
+earnestly in her face.
+
+"If you are going to be my companion, I must know what to call you,"
+said the wondering maiden. "My name is Fidunia," added she
+dreamily--but at this last word the dog sprang from her lap to the
+ground, and assumed a begging attitude in front of the little damsel.
+"Nay, nay, my dear doggie, I cannot call you Fidunia," cried she, but,
+after a moment's reflection, "would not 'Fido' do as well?"
+
+Hardly had this name dropped from her lips than the wise animal bounded
+into the air, and then ran round and round in a manner most expressive
+of joy. Fidunia delighted, clapped her hands, and as at this well-known
+signal all her feathered and furred friends came trooping around to
+enquire her will, she at once introduced Fido to their notice, and an
+alliance offensive and defensive was forthwith agreed upon between the
+community at large, and their mistress's new favourite.
+
+Ere long Fidunia discovered that her comrade was both active and
+playful, and though he could not speak her language nor she understand
+his, and she therefore never discovered his previous history, yet she
+surmised that he must have been separated from some one he dearly
+loved. For this reason she bore patiently with his occasional fits of
+low spirits. Soothed and cheered by her gentle companionship and
+thoughtful sympathy, Fido, before very long forgot his sorrows, and
+became the gayest of the gay.
+
+Echoes hitherto unknown to Fidunia in the solemn forest, were roused by
+his shrilly bark of joy, as capering round his young mistress, they
+wandered together far adown those sylvan glades. Fidunia could now
+indeed venture farther from home, as however long they roamed abroad,
+the dog's wondrous instinct always led them back to the gnarled tree,
+the crystal fountain, and the green velvety lawn, for so many years the
+little maiden's happy abode.
+
+She soon discovered that Fido was very accomplished in various
+ways--and she fancied also that he understood all she said to him--he
+watched so keenly every word that fell from her lips.
+
+About this time strange dreams began to haunt the young girl. Night
+after night she wandered in regions such as she never remembered to
+have seen in her waking hours.
+
+At one time she walked amid beautiful gardens--on either side of her
+bloomed a rich profusion of lovely fragrant flowers. Within each sweet
+floweret lurked a tiny elf, and as she passed along, fairies swung
+themselves forth singing through the perfume laden air in soft musical
+tones, "King Antiphates is blind! King Antiphates is blind! and the
+maid who alone can deliver him knows not her mission!"
+
+At another time she climbed painfully along a steep path, leading
+through scenes perfectly unknown to her. The hot sun beat on her bare
+head, and she toiled on and on, ever ascending, yet never reaching the
+craggy summit towering far above. Beneath her feet, an unfathomable
+ocean surged and swelled, and broke in hoarse grumblings upon the
+frowning iron-bound shore, sending vast sheets of spray aloft, and
+awakening strange terrors in the woodland maiden's breast. White
+screaming sea-birds dashed around her, and as they brushed her face
+with their wings, she heard them cry wildly, "The great king is blind,
+only Fidunia can deliver him--but she knows it not! she knows it not!"
+
+Again the little maiden found herself upon a lonely terrible mountain.
+She stood upon dismal rocks whereon appeared no vestige of life. Tossed
+and wreathed in fantastic shapes, the very stones seemed to bear the
+impress of writhing agony. Though now cold and motionless, they had
+passed through the seething horrors of fire. Scathed and withered,
+repulsive alike to man, beast and herb, amid their desolate clefts,
+only the slimy reptile traced his sinuous course; or the bright-eyed
+lizard peered warily forth on the shuddering beholder. Turning to
+escape, if possible, from this dreary place, Fidunia found herself on
+the very verge of a huge chasm. She felt a burning heat scorch her
+face, and penetrate her feet. Long tongues of horrid flame darted in
+lurid flashes from the thick darkness below. A sulphurous vapour
+enveloped her in its hot and suffocating fumes. She endeavoured to cry
+for help, but could not utter a sound--an echo like the reverberating
+growl of distant thunder filled the air around her with these words,
+"He will never see now, for the maiden dreams away her life in the
+forest, and knows not that she alone can save him."
+
+  [Illustration: FIDO AND FIDUNIA.
+   P. 123.]
+
+From this last and most frightful of all her visions, Fidunia woke
+agitated and confused. Why were words of the same import evermore
+repeated in her slumbers? Whence came these awful voices that sounded
+through the gloom of night? Who was the Antiphates whose misfortune was
+known, as it seemed, to all the world save herself? It was early
+morning as she sat up and pondered over these things. Her feverish
+heart was refreshed by the dewy silence around. Only through the trees
+came the faint twitter of half awakened birds. The sky, brightening
+towards the East, heralded the approach of sunrise.
+
+Her resolve was taken. She would set off that very day and journey
+forth into the unknown world which hitherto she had only visited in
+dreams. She awoke Fido therefore, and explained to him despite his
+melancholy dissuading looks, that they must leave the fountain, the
+lawn, and the tree, and travel far beyond the forest to seek their
+fortunes among the children of men.
+
+Clapping her hands together, she summoned her faithful forest friends,
+who sorrowfully accompanied their beloved mistress and her companion as
+far as their strength would permit, then bade them a melancholy
+farewell.
+
+Quite overcome by losing sight (perchance for ever) of her sylvan home
+and her attached little subjects, Fidunia that night sobbed herself to
+sleep, with Fido in her arms, and half regretted her determination. But
+in her dreams angels hovered over her, and whispered encouragement to
+the weary sad-hearted maiden.
+
+For several days more the adventurers journeyed through the dense wood.
+At night they found shelter in some leaf-strewn cave or upon some mossy
+bank, beneath over-arching trees. Then the innocent pair, under the
+protection of heaven, slumbered until day's reviving beams once more
+cheered them on their way.
+
+At length one afternoon they drew near the out-skirts of the vast
+forest within whose mighty depths they had so long sojourned. The
+setting sun reddened the stems of the tall out-standing firs, and the
+scent of fallen pine leaves hung rich and heavy on the air, as they
+left the shade of the trees and stepped on to a wide stretching common.
+
+Fidunia, bewildered by the apparently illimitable space before her,
+stopped perplexed and half wished to retrace her steps; but Fido
+bounded on, entreating her by unmistakeable signs to follow him.
+
+After crossing some old sand-pits, and scrambling across an expanse of
+furze and heather, they saw before them a small cottage; blue smoke
+curled cosily above it into the still evening sky; an atmosphere of
+peace seemed to surround the lowly walls. As they approached, however,
+a large flock of geese and poultry of all kinds, disturbed by their
+footsteps, made a terrible cackling, and presently a hale old woman
+opened the door, and came out to see what agitated her flock.
+
+Fidunia, accustomed to the ways of birds, had already taken from her
+wallet some of the seeds she was wont to collect for her feathered
+forest friends. The geese, well pleased, quickly gathered round, and
+eagerly fed from her hand.
+
+Meanwhile, Fido gambolled up to the cottage dame, and begged before her
+as if to solicit her good-will. Thus, propitiating mistress and fowls,
+the little maid and her dog were kindly made welcome for the night by
+the ancient hen-wife.
+
+Next morning, refreshed and thankful, they prepared to resume their
+journey. The good dame now asked Fidunia her history, and whither she
+was bound; the young girl replied evasively that she only wished to see
+the world, and was going with her dog to seek their fortunes.
+
+"Nay, my child, that is not all," said the old woman; "tell me, I pray
+you, the exact truth." So saying, she fixed so keen, yet withal so
+friendly a glance upon the maiden's blushing countenance, that moved by
+a sudden impulse, Fidunia poured forth her whole story.
+
+Her hostess listened carefully to her long account, and then resumed:
+"You have done well to confide in me; I am more powerful than my mean
+surroundings would lead you to imagine. I would fain have kept from you
+the dreams that have broken the peaceful charm of the forest, and set
+you wandering. I have, however, sisters who are otherwise minded, and
+they (to work out their own purposes) have sent these visions to harass
+and perplex you. I was anxious to know how much had been revealed, and
+therefore threw myself in your way to help you. My intentions, however,
+would have been frustrated had not you, dear maiden, given me
+straightforward answers.
+
+"The King Antiphates, of whom you have heard in your dreams, dwells, in
+reality, in the great City of Deva. You will come to it in time if you
+travel along the high-road, which you can discover beyond that clump of
+firs," continued she, pointing through the open door to a little hill
+at some distance. "I am unable to render you more assistance at
+present, but if, after reaching the far-off city, you are ever in great
+straits, take this crystal from your bosom (where you must always carry
+it, concealed from every eye, or it will lose its virtue); place it in
+the palm of your hand, fix your eyes steadfastly upon it, repeating,
+meanwhile, in a low tone, these words:--
+
+    "Strange gem! upon thy crystal core
+    I gaze, the while I aid implore;
+    Trembling upon the verge of fate,
+    Oh point my path ere yet too late!
+    I fain would gain the boon I ask,
+    Is mine the strength for such a task?
+    Canst thou unloose the links that bind,
+    Or vanquish powerful foes combined?
+    Then, show whate'er there lurks of art
+    Within thine own mysterious heart;
+    On thee I turn a hopeful eye,
+    Bright stone of silence, make reply!"
+
+So saying, she drew from her own breast a beautiful sparkling prism,
+about the size of a pigeon's egg, and gave it, with some solemnity of
+manner, to her wondering guest. Deeply grateful, Fidunia threw her arms
+round the kind Anna's neck, and warmly thanked her for the precious
+talisman. With the good woman's aid she then committed to memory the
+needful lines.
+
+When she had successfully mastered them, the old wife drew her hand
+across her eyes, and resumed, in a somewhat trembling tone, "I know not
+wherefore you interest me so strangely, my little maid; but if you will
+be advised by one who has drained the cup of earthly pleasure to its
+very dregs, return, as yet innocent and inexperienced, with your
+faithful companion to the quiet joys of your peaceful forest; nor seek,
+amid the busy haunts of men, those more exciting scenes where many a
+grief and anxiety must of necessity be yours."
+
+She paused; how could she cast a blight over the joyousness of that
+poor unsuspecting heart by explaining to Fidunia that maidens, plain in
+feature, and devoid of dowry, have oftentimes, from no fault of their
+own, but a sorry lot in this hard world compared with that of their
+lovelier or more wealthy sisters?
+
+Clothed in her long, grey dress, Fidunia still knelt at Dame Anna's
+knee; the light from the cottage window fell full on her rough sunburnt
+face; her straw-coloured hair contrasted unfavourably with her dark
+reddish skin, and though her eyes were in some measure expressive of
+the gentle spirit within, yet their faint colour, and the absence of
+visible eyebrow or eyelash, detracted seriously from their possible
+charm. Her figure was not ungraceful, but her strangely-fashioned robes
+(which, prettily donned by some fairer being, could have given a
+certain _bizarre_ attraction of their own) were but ill calculated
+to add comeliness to the young girl's unformed limbs and tanned though
+shapely hands.
+
+As the compassionate dame hesitated, unwilling to speak too bitterly to
+Fidunia of nature's apparent injustice, her young guest laughingly
+replied, "Thank you, kind mother; but I could not now remain satisfied
+without seeking my fate in the unknown world. I shall never forget your
+promise, however, but seek your aid with this amulet in the hour of
+need. Yet," added she, "ere I and my dog leave your friendly hearth, we
+will do our best to afford you some small return for the hospitality
+you have shown us."
+
+Fidunia and Fido, who had a thousand times alone together practised
+various little tricks, now went through many evolutions before the
+delighted old woman.
+
+First, said the little maid, "What will you do for your mistress?" No
+sooner had she asked this question, than the dog fell mute, and
+apparently lifeless, at her feet. His stiffened limbs made it plain
+that he would willingly "die" for her dear sake. Bidding him revive,
+Fidunia then drew from her pocket one of the chestnuts she kept for the
+purpose. When the little fellow caught sight of this, he "begged" for
+it, but his mistress was obdurate. He then "jumped" high into the air
+to try and win his plaything; still in vain. Next he "asked" for it in
+doggish fashion, by loudly barking. Fidunia remained relentless. But
+now a sudden thought seemed to strike the clever animal. Raising
+himself once more on his hind-legs, he uttered such a tuneful howl--his
+apology for "singing"--that his mistress, with a pretended sigh, was
+fain to reward him by placing the promised guerdon upon the ground.
+Instead of rushing upon it, however, Fido, in an exceedingly graceful
+attitude, bent his head on one side, and gravely "considered" the
+desired reward. His meditations coinciding with his wishes, at the word
+of command he dashed nimbly forward, seized the round nut, threw it up
+in the air, and caught it again and again; playing, in fact, by himself
+a game of ball. Finally, he laid the prize gently down at his comrade's
+feet to demonstrate that no matter what he won, he would be content to
+surrender all he possessed to her care.
+
+Dame Anna, delighted with the pretty dog's sagacity, caressed and
+praised him, and, after amply provisioning his little mistress for the
+journey, wished them both God-speed on their way. She strictly enjoined
+Fidunia to refrain from mentioning this adventure, and advised her also
+to keep her dreams to herself, and only enquire as she went along, for
+the great city of Deva. Leaning over her low garden-gate, surrounded by
+her long-billed and splay-footed court, the kind henwife long watched
+her late guests as they crossed the bleak common, and reached the small
+clump of trees which she had pointed out to them as a landmark on their
+way to the desired haven.
+
+Soon after passing the summit crowned by these few lonely firs, Fidunia
+stepped on to a broad high-road, which she at once recognized as that
+described by their good friend, and leading to the capital of the
+country.
+
+They now walked on and on for a weary time. The hot sun poured down its
+noontide rays, the dust arose in parching clouds, and followed with the
+wind their flagging footsteps.
+
+At last they came to a part of the road bounded by a stone wall. On the
+other side lay a beautiful green park, stretching far away in upland
+slopes of rich pasturage. Fatigued and footsore, Fidunia and her little
+dog clambered over the fence, and composed themselves comfortably to
+rest in the soft grass. Sheltered from the mid-day heat in their seat
+among low brushwood and high overshadowing trees, they gratefully
+partook of the food pressed on them ere their departure by the worthy
+cottage wife.
+
+Half playing, half teaching her faithful companion, Fidunia held aloft
+a little bit of meat in one hand, while with the other she bent down
+the branch of a neighbouring tree, over which Fido at her gentle
+command, bounded nimbly backwards and forwards.
+
+Suddenly, a loud, harsh voice exclaimed, "What business have you here?
+No tramps are allowed in my park."
+
+Looking timidly round, Fidunia beheld a stout, red-faced,
+grizzle-haired man, in leathern gaiters, who angrily threatened herself
+and Fido with an uplifted stick. Absolutely terrified by this, her
+first experience of man, poor Fidunia felt as if glued to the spot. She
+could not move hand or foot. A surging tide of red blood rushed over
+her face and neck, and covered the poor child of nature with confusion.
+
+Had she looked beautiful in her distress, perhaps the rough proprietor
+might have treated her more tenderly. As it was, increasing in
+violence, he drew nearer still, when Fido, who already bristled with
+rage, flew upon him, and ere he could lay hands upon his trembling
+mistress, fixed his sharp white teeth apparently in the fierce
+stranger's leg; but, luckily for the savage Baron, Fido's jaws only met
+in his legging.
+
+Coward, as well as bully, the rough man changed his tone and implored
+Fidunia to call off her dog. Recovered from her first terror, the
+little maid beckoned to Fido to follow her, and ere this selfish squire
+could look calmly about him, she had flown nimbly over the wall,
+followed by her dog.
+
+They both ran a considerable way in their terror, not knowing that the
+friendly Anna (in reality a good fairy) had thrown so much dust in the
+rude Baron's eyes, that confused and bewildered, he knew not which way
+the intruders had escaped, but continued to search for them with wicked
+words and impotent threats long after they had left him and his
+inhospitable domains behind.
+
+Meantime the travellers pursued their way until, worn out and hungry,
+they came, towards nightfall, into a small hamlet upon the great
+high-road.
+
+The village inn, with its gay painted sign of the "Golden Boar"
+flapping to and fro in the evening breeze, stood invitingly open.
+Fidunia approached its threshold. The spruce landlady, airing herself
+with arms akimbo at the open door, stared hard at the little maiden as
+she paused longingly in front of the steps. "Can you pay for a night's
+lodging?" she asked in a matter of fact tone. Alas, no--poor Fidunia
+possessed not one single piece of that hitherto unneeded money--without
+which she was soon to find she could gain nothing in the pleasant world
+she had so longed to explore.
+
+She sorrowfully passed the cheerful preparations for wayfarers better
+supplied than herself with all-conquering gold, and heart-sore and
+weary sat herself down on an old stump of wood outside the village
+smithy.
+
+Here, however, she soon forgot her fatigue for a while in watching the
+red furnace, and the grimy fire-illumined men who moved briskly to and
+fro, striking bright sparks from the glowing metal. They interested her
+strangely by their easy motions of power, and apparently inexhaustible
+store of latent strength. She was gradually recalled to herself,
+however, by perceiving that she and Fido had become the centre of
+attraction to a gathering crowd. The children accustomed to cluster
+round the entrance of the warm and busy workshop now turned their
+attention to this solitary maiden, and the beautiful dog, which,
+standing before her, ever on the alert, seemed ready to guard his
+mistress to the death.
+
+The heated smith, coming for a moment to cool himself at the
+half-barred entrance, found an inquisitive group pressing round the
+young girl, regardless of Fido's low growls, as with hair on end and
+quivering tail, he prepared to spring on anyone who might touch or
+insult her.
+
+Of a kindly and generous nature, and ever ready to befriend the
+helpless, Master Franz stepped up to the stranger and civilly asked her
+pleasure.
+
+Fidunia, frightened, as well she might be, by the rude remarks of the
+gaping village girls, exclaimed in a tearful voice, "Oh, sir, I know
+not where to go for a night's lodging, I and my poor dog, we are
+travelling to the great city of Deva, but we are tired, and unable to
+journey farther this day." Franz, sorely puzzled, looked around in vain
+for help or counsel. He knew better than the shivering little maid
+before him what rustic gossip meant. A stalwart bachelor living all
+alone above his smithy, he himself, however compassionate, could offer
+no shelter to the poor wanderers. A sudden thought struck him. "Come
+with me," he cried, "to my good friend Dorothy of the "Golden Boar;" I
+warrant me she will blithely give thee food and lodging for the night."
+
+"Kind, sir," answered the poor girl sorrowfully, "I have no money to
+offer to the good lady of the inn, and she has already bidden me from
+her door; but," continued Fidunia timidly, "I and my dog are able to
+make some few passes together, which might give amusement to the worthy
+Dorothy, and even induce her to grant us leave to rest for the night
+beneath her roof."
+
+The friendly Franz chuckled with delight as he exclaimed, "By my
+halidome, damsel, thy words are well-flavoured. Dame Dorothy shall give
+to thee and thy pretty beast a hearty meal; and then, my mates," he
+added, turning to the assembled villagers, "we will step up to the
+"Golden Boar" when our labours for the day are ended, and see whether
+we cannot help the maiden and her dog on their voyage."
+
+At these words Fidunia felt greatly comforted, and she and Fido
+fearlessly retraced their steps in the wake of the burly smith.
+
+Dame Dorothy had long ere this left her door, and was now engaged in
+the great kitchen superintending with her own hands the preparation of
+a savoury pie, which somehow or other she hoped Master Franz would that
+very evening help her to consume. Her old husband had been gathered to
+his fathers many months agone. Since his death the worthy woman often
+felt the hours after dark pass very slowly. No one knew this
+interesting fact better than the shrewd yet simple smith, who, early or
+late, felt sure of a warm welcome whenever he crossed the comfortable
+threshold of the "Golden Boar."
+
+When the landlady heard steps in her passage, a slight cloud of
+annoyance rose to her brow--for what mistress likes to be interrupted
+in her mysterious culinary rites? The incipient frown, however,
+speedily changed to a smile as Franz's broad figure appeared in the
+doorway. With a "welcome, neighbour," she hurriedly stooped to shut the
+oven door, an exertion which called additional colour into her round
+healthy cheek.
+
+"Friend Dorothy," said Franz, "I bring thee this forlorn maiden; for my
+sake thou wilt refresh her and her dog. I must away. I have a coat of
+mail in hand that cannot be left; but anon I will return." So saying,
+and without pausing for queries or doubts, the brawny smith
+disappeared, leaving in his place the weary drooping Fidunia and her
+little comrade.
+
+Dorothy cast a keen scrutinizing glance on the young girl, eagerly
+scanning her form and features. Reassured by the brief inspection, her
+eye travelled back to the polished mirror by the fire which reflected
+her own buxom charms. With some complacency she readjusted the snowy
+coif (slightly disarranged by her labours), over her brilliant black
+hair, and wiping her hands upon the rough apron assumed for
+kitchen-work, she turned towards Fidunia, and in no unkindly voice bade
+her welcome.
+
+Nor did she do this by halves. She exerted herself with real good will.
+Before long, rested, comforted and composed, the little maid sat by her
+new friend, and, while she fondled her faithful Fido, she related her
+adventures (always excepting her possession of the talisman and her
+dreams) to the wondering Dorothy.
+
+But now Franz, true to his promise, returned, bringing with him many of
+the villagers; for the fame of the stranger and her beautiful companion
+had spread apace, and a rumour indeed had been set afloat that the
+animal was gifted with supernatural powers. Refreshed and inspirited,
+Fidunia and her dog went joyfully through all the exercises previously
+described. Besides this, she borrowed a kerchief from Dorothy. She then
+put Fido out of the room and closed the door, carefully concealing the
+white ensign in the blacksmith's wide hanging pocket. She next called
+her favourite; with eager zest he burst open the half-latched door, and
+ran round and round the chamber sniffing in every direction. At last,
+after a long search, he was successful, and amid loud shouts of
+surprise and delight drew forth from the depths of Franz's coat the
+blushing Dorothy's badge, the good man the while looking not one whit
+more composed than his hostess. Fidunia then neatly folded up the
+kerchief; and Fido, bearing it in his mouth, lightly sprang on the
+landlady's knee and placed it gently in her hand.
+
+They repeated similar tricks over and over again. Hearty plaudits were
+showered on the sagacious dog and his youthful mistress, who, flitting
+to and fro in anxious excitement, and finding herself impeded in her
+swift motions by the long folds of her grey robe, drew them in a hasty
+yet picturesque fashion through her waist-belt. Flushed and animated by
+the friendly approval manifested on all sides, she now stooped forward,
+wreathing her arms into a natural hoop, through which Fido flew
+backwards and forwards with frolicsome ardour. Nor was this all, for
+the trim landlady, in answer to an earnest whisper, also rose. Clasping
+hands with the stranger maiden, she soon learnt how to twist and
+retwist beneath her own and Fidunia's arms in a quaint manner that
+Franz and his comrades thought exceedingly bewitching. At the same time
+Fido, watching his opportunity, continually sprang between Dorothy and
+his mistress, thus making a merry third in this pretty exhibition.
+
+As they at last paused, exhausted and laughing over their own
+exertions, the swart blacksmith stood forth in their midst. In sober
+manly tones he addressed his neighbours, and gave them an outline of
+Fidunia's history, as he had gathered it from herself and from Dorothy.
+He explained, that she was travelling to the great city of Deva, but
+that, friendless and forlorn, she was destitute of the money requisite
+to procure for herself and her companion the necessaries of life. He
+added, that since the little maid and her pretty favourite had given
+them so much pleasure, he considered that it would only be making her a
+fair return if he and his fellows collected a small sum to help their
+guest on her way.
+
+His well-timed appeal met with an enthusiastic response. Grey-haired
+old men, tender-hearted mothers carrying their babes, blooming young
+wenches with their awkward rustic swains, all pressed around to deposit
+in Franz's cap their hard-earned yet freely-bestowed mite for the
+astonished maiden. The children whispering their thanks into Fido's
+willing ear, threw their soft little arms around his neck, and pressed
+their chubby faces on his coat of golden silk.
+
+The bustling landlady meantime bestirred herself and her household, and
+ere long set before the company the pie she had already prepared, with
+sundry enticing concomitants. Foaming tankards, moreover, were placed
+on the board, wherein the villagers deeply pledged the wanderer and her
+inseparable companion.
+
+Overcome with gratitude, Fidunia could only murmur half-inarticulate
+thanks to her kind friends, as they warmly shook her by the hand. They
+patted Fido also, as she raised him in her arms to conceal her blushing
+face, and wished them both every success on their journey.
+
+Nothing is so alluring to a man as the sight of the woman in whom his
+heart is already interested, engaged in works of benevolence and
+charity. Dorothy's second thoughts regarding Fidunia stood her in good
+stead on that eventful evening. Her softened voice, as she encouraged
+and soothed Fido and his shy mistress, sounded unusually sweet to the
+rough blacksmith's ear. When she smiled good-night to the villagers,
+placing the while a friendly hand on Fidunia's shoulder, Franz, for the
+first time, thought her face actually beautiful. Though no words passed
+between them, Dorothy, when she laid her head on her pillow, felt a
+glad thrill of joy as she recalled the warm parting clasp of that hard
+and honest hand.
+
+In long after years, when Franz and Dorothy reigned together over the
+far-famed "Golden Boar," surrounded by a blooming family and blessed
+with peace and plenty, the prosperous wife and mother, in the fulness
+of her joy, often wiped a tear from her eye as she remembered the true
+kindness first shown by her husband to the poor stranger. A kindness
+that had melted her own harder heart, and (undeservedly for her) led to
+the happiest days of her life. No wayfarer was ever again turned away
+from the open door of the hostelry. Heaven increased fourfold the
+worldly possessions of the honest couple who liberally shared their
+portion with the poor and the needy.
+
+Followed by the good wishes, and laden with the unexpected gifts
+conferred upon her by her kind benefactors, Fidunia next day set forth
+once more upon her solitary journey--solitary, at least, so far as
+human society was concerned. But this strange girl never considered
+herself lonely while she had her intelligent though canine
+fellow-traveller. Now bounding far before his young mistress, now
+lingering in her rear or trotting quietly along by her side, Fido gave
+her an astonishing sense of companionship and protection.
+
+For many days they continued to traverse long tracts of beautiful
+undulating country. At night they always found shelter in some humble
+farm or cottage. Constant and unfailing were the bounties showered
+around the gentle maiden and her fascinating dog, when in gratitude for
+hospitality received they went through their performances together. The
+money collected by Franz was like the contents of the widow's cruse. As
+fast as the purse grew empty it was refilled.
+
+Fidunia knew not that her ill-favoured countenance protected her from
+many a rough jest and coarse compliment. But it was so; her modest
+demeanour and unassuming ways rendered her less effectual service in
+preserving her from insult than her want of beauty. Nor was the young
+girl as yet conscious that she lacked those personal charms without
+which life may sometimes become so bitter to the sensitive heart.
+
+During the last days of their journey, the high road gradually led the
+travellers towards the ocean. Fidunia paused, therefore, one morning,
+amazed at the beauty and novelty of the scene before her. The road
+emerging from wooded valleys turned abruptly to the right along the
+summit of perpendicular cliffs some two or three hundred feet in
+height. At their base, the blue main, hitherto unknown to the
+forest-bred maiden, broke in tiny ripples on the silver sands. It was a
+tideless expanse of sea, and therefore no unsightly marks of ebbing
+waters strewed the beach. Only a long bright undulating line showed
+where the unstable element found its limits and mother-earth claimed
+her own.
+
+Resting on the bosom of the mighty deep, and looming indistinctly
+through summer haze, Fidunia saw the azure outline of a fair and
+distant island. There also, gleaming faint across the broad bay, her
+eager longing eyes at last discerned the white environs of the
+far-famed city of Deva. After revelling for some moments in the glad
+beautiful prospect, Fidunia hastened her footsteps, well knowing she
+had still several miles to traverse before she could reach the town, in
+which she hoped to sleep that night.
+
+It was very pleasant to trip gaily along the grass by the roadside,
+with a lovely view before her, and fresh sea-breezes to fan her brow as
+she sped swiftly on. But as the day advanced, the heat grew oppressive.
+Again leaving the sea, the pathway led them by degrees from the midst
+of abundant vegetation into an arid and desolate region. Absorbed in
+hopeful musings, Fidunia did not for some time observe the change of
+scene. At last a sense of oppression made her look around. The
+stillness was frightful. No sounds of tuneful ocean saluted her ear; no
+melodious birds charmed, as heretofore, the wayfarer with their
+thrilling notes. All was mute and silent as the grave.
+
+Fido, with drooping tail and disconsolate bearing, paced soberly beside
+her, casting doubtful glances around. With a sudden shudder Fidunia
+recognised some of the horrid features last seen in her forest visions.
+Here were the wreathed and fantastic shapes she remembered too well,
+the wildly tossed, the bare and herbless rocks. There, as she
+doubtfully raised her eyes to its summit (now visible through the
+opening gorge), was a cloud of black smoke, issuing from the very
+mountain round whose base they were journeying.
+
+Appalled by this vivid resemblance, and seeing before her an apparently
+endless continuance of a similar loathly landscape, Fidunia's trembling
+and really wearied limbs refused to carry her farther. Looking around
+for a resting-place, she was compelled to seat herself in the road
+itself, for a creeping sensation came over her as she caught sight of
+the bright-eyed lizards peeping between the rocks near at hand, and
+surmised that the snakes of her dream could not be far off.
+
+Fido came and lay down beside her quite subdued, and she opened their
+little store of cold roast chestnuts and other provisions neatly packed
+in her wallet. While she was thus employed, forcing her thoughts from
+the surrounding desert, by endeavouring to play with her dog over each
+morsel of their food, they all at once heard the tramp of approaching
+horses.
+
+Fido, though seemingly hungry, dropped his untasted meat on the ground.
+Pricking his ears, he listened acutely to the distant sounds, uttering
+the while a low growl. Nearer and nearer rang the iron hoofs along the
+hard metal causeway. At length, sweeping rapidly past the corner
+Fidunia herself had so recently rounded, she beheld a splendid
+cavalcade.
+
+Beckoning to Fido, she sprang alarmed to her feet. Forgetting in her
+haste the dreaded reptiles, she flew quickly to the rocks above, where,
+having gained a vantage ground of comparative safety, she paused to
+mark the unaccustomed pageant below.
+
+But a few moments before, the sun, shorn of his beams by thick vapours
+belched forth from the crater above, rode lustreless aloft like a dim
+red ball.
+
+Now, however, bursting through the mirksome canopy, his rays fell with
+renewed splendour upon the gay accoutrements and glancing arms of a
+troop of mounted soldiers, whose advance was heralded by all the merry
+pomp of prancing steeds and clanging steel.
+
+Fido, instead of obeying his mistress, had remained behind her in the
+centre of the road, and now, regardless of her earnest commands, he
+dashed forward vehemently barking.
+
+Startled by the apparition of a species of animal but little known in
+these parts (the few dogs in that country being smooth-coated, and very
+different in appearance from the long-haired Fido) the horse nearest at
+hand shied to one side, and crushed against his next neighbour. The two
+riders (hitherto sitting careless and at ease) thus nearly came
+together to the ground. Enraged at this misadventure, one of the men
+raised himself in the stirrup, and with his long lance was about to
+make a thrust at Fido; but Fidunia, foreseeing her favourite's danger,
+rushed down and seized him in her arms ere the wrathful trooper had
+time to execute his purpose.
+
+This little by-play could not occur, however, without in some measure
+hindering the onward progress of the whole company; and before Fidunia
+or the irate men could utter one word in explanation or abuse, a loud
+voice from the rear peremptorily demanded the cause of this abrupt
+halt. Fidunia was already escaping as fast as she could with her burden
+up the steep hill-side, when another cavalier, of more pleasing
+appearance, rode up and informed her that "the King" wished to speak
+with her. Reassured by his courteous address, she hesitated in her
+flight, and finally remained rooted to the spot in amazement and
+instinctive expectation.
+
+By this time the procession was once more moving on at a slower pace
+than before, and she now perceived in its midst, surrounded by the
+glittering squadron, a stately chariot, drawn by four grey horses,
+caparisoned in blue and gold. As this carriage drew nearer, Fidunia saw
+seated in it a middle-aged man of singular yet noble bearing.
+Impatience and dissatisfaction were imprinted on his speaking
+countenance as he turned fretfully from side to side. He seemed unable
+to notice surrounding objects, for his eyes, though wide open, stared
+vacantly into space; while the restless motion of his hands betokened a
+mind ill at ease with itself, if not with all the world around.
+
+When this gorgeous equipage reached the spot where Fidunia stood, the
+horses were drawn up in obedience to the signal of Domenichino, the
+official who had previously accosted her. Stepping up to its occupant,
+he now made some deferential communication. With a quick gesture, the
+King (for it was he) leant over the side of the carriage, and demanded,
+in surly tones, who and what had dared to impede his royal progress.
+While he spoke, his eyes gazed aimlessly around, thus revealing to the
+most unobservant bystander the painful fact of his physical defect.
+
+Inspired with sudden forebodings, agitated by these swiftly following
+events, and frightened by the strange looks of her interrogator, the
+maiden knew not what to answer, but stood irresolute, holding her dog
+in her arms. Every eye turned upon her, and the King angrily repeated
+his question before she found courage to reply, tremblingly,
+
+"Oh, sire, if indeed thou art the great monarch Antiphates, pardon the
+imprudence of my faithful dog: he comes with me from the depths of our
+forest home, where gallants and horses are alike unknown, and on the
+approach of thy proud train he sprang forth to defend his poor
+mistress, thus discomfiting in some measure thy brave men-at-arms."
+
+At this curious answer, given in all simplicity, the soldiers exchanged
+doubtful glances, imagining Fidunia to be crazy for thus bearding their
+passionate sovereign. But the King hungrily fastened on her words. He
+threw himself from his chariot with wonderful rapidity, and, half
+groping his way, half guided by Domenichino (who hastily dismounted to
+assist his royal master), seized hold of Fidunia's hand, crying, "Ha!
+from the forest, sayest thou, and by thy voice a fair and gentle
+maiden?" Ere he could utter another word, however, Fido, already
+watching his stumbling movements with considerable mistrust, broke into
+such angry snarling that Fidunia, freeing her hand, stepped backwards,
+and did not see the gestures of merriment exchanged among the cavaliers
+around, as the unfortunate monarch spoke of her being "fair."
+
+Though Fido's repeated interference was decidedly provoking, yet
+Antiphates preserved unusual command over his short, uneven temper. He
+entreated Fidunia to consider herself his guest; to enter his chariot
+and accompany him to his palace, whither he was now returning after a
+noonday drive. She demurred at first, because of her dog, fearing that
+his misbehaviour might be severely visited upon him. As if reading the
+cause of her hesitation, however, and aware of her fatigue, Fido leapt
+from her arms, and, hastily flying past the attendants, bounded upon
+the carriage-seat, wagging his tail, and motioning to his mistress to
+follow. Aided, therefore, by Domenichino, she soon found herself
+ensconced in the carriage, opposite that great potentate, whose
+well-remembered name had first been made known to her in her dreams.
+
+As she mused on his peculiar appearance, unable to discover, as he
+turned on her his dark expressive eyes, whether the King was able to
+scan her countenance or no, he bent suddenly towards her, saying,
+"Maiden, I have more for thine ear than may be heard by others;
+meantime, I bid thee welcome to my kingdom." Ere she could frame a
+reply to this gracious speech, he leant back again and relapsed into
+complete silence, apparently absorbed in unquiet meditations.
+
+The swift onward motion of the chariot was new and strange to Fidunia.
+Leaving the desert region behind them, they descended nearer the
+water's edge, and sped lightly along the smooth high road.
+
+Smiling vineyards clothed the mountain's side on the one hand; on the
+other, the broad blue sea stretched her "ample field." The jangling of
+the military trappings gave forth a sound not unpleasing to the ear, as
+the escort swept merrily on.
+
+Weary with her exertions, and lulled by the monotonous movement of the
+carriage, Fidunia half slumbered as she leant back on the luxurious
+cushions, her mind filled with youth's vague ecstatic visions of future
+happiness. But Fido, wary and watchful, folded lovingly in his
+mistress's arms, turned a vigilant eye alternately upon the uneasy King
+and his glittering body-guard.
+
+It would be impossible adequately to describe the forlorn condition of
+the monarch, in whose stately equipage destiny had thus strangely
+placed the forest maiden and her dog. Surrounded by all the pomp and
+wealth of his splendid court, he was yet debarred by his misfortune
+from enjoying the visible beauties of nature, or the works of art with
+which his palace and kingdom abounded.
+
+Unable to employ his powerful mind in perusing the records of the past,
+or the writings of the poets and philosophers of his own day, incapable
+of discerning the commonest objects in the world around, and conscious
+only of a difference between light and darkness, night and day, the
+great King's melancholy affliction demanded double commiseration in an
+age when comforts for the blind had neither been invented nor studied.
+
+Music became a source of constant pleasure to him; nor was it
+surprising that he invariably judged people by their voices as they
+spoke or sung before him, forming in this unusual way a wonderfully
+accurate conception of character.
+
+It is needless to say that remedies of all sorts had been tried upon
+the eyes of the hapless monarch. Many physicians had exerted their
+utmost skill in endeavouring to ameliorate his condition. He had
+visited in turn not only the most celebrated baths and watering-places,
+but also the various oracles then existing in Europe.
+
+Disheartened and hopeless, he had at last well-nigh succumbed to his
+fate, when a strange incident once more roused the seemingly subdued,
+yet ever dormant passion of hope in his breast.
+
+Antiphon (the foster-brother of the blind King), while wandering on the
+hills surrounding Deva, in his vocation of shepherd, noticed
+sulphureous fumes issuing from a cleft he had never before observed in
+the mountain's side. Taking with him a torch, he cautiously entered the
+yawning aperture, and groped his way along, until he suddenly found
+himself in a lofty subterranean cave. In the centre of this cave lay a
+marble block, fashioned like a huge coffin. Antiphon hastened home to
+tell his neighbours of his discovery and to gain assistance. Returning
+to the cave, he and his fellows succeeded in pushing off the ponderous
+lid, which fell crashing to the ground, and broke into a thousand
+pieces.
+
+Within the sarcophagus was now exposed to view a shrivelled though
+perfect mummy; and an old man of the party recollected having heard an
+ancient prophecy which foretold that answers regarding future events
+should one day issue from "withered lips, dumb with the silence of
+ages, and awful in their semblance to humanity."
+
+Antiphon at once carried the news of this prophecy to King Antiphates,
+who, ready to do anything to vary the horrors of his solitary
+existence, though secretly doubting the efficacy of such attempts,
+disguised himself as a shepherd, and, unknown to his courtiers,
+accompanied his foster-brother to the cave.
+
+Here, after observing the accustomed ceremonies of purification and
+prayer, Antiphates approached the sarcophagus, and kneeling beside it,
+craved some knowledge of his future fate, humbly demanding at the same
+time whether any sacrifice on his part would procure for him the
+priceless gift of sight.
+
+Having made these inquiries, the reluctant monarch, had now to lay low
+his kingly head upon the breast of the long dead, and thus in a
+stifling and constrained attitude await the much-desired response. Each
+moment seemed an age to the afflicted prince. All alone with these
+terrible emblems of mortality (for Antiphon remained without to guard
+the entrance of the cave) he listened for he knew not what.
+
+At last there arose upon the still dank air, as if from echoing vaults
+beneath, an unearthly monotonous voice, chanting slowly the following
+words:
+
+        A mighty King is blind,
+        And severed from his kind;
+    In his proud breast broods dark unrest,
+        No solace can he find.
+
+        The lands he calls his own,
+        His kingdom and his throne,
+    Are his by right; yet that fair sight
+        Is kept from him alone.
+
+        Revolving decades pass,
+        All flesh, we know, is grass;
+    With whitening hair, the king sits there,
+        He groweth old alas!
+
+        No joys of life are his,
+        He tastes no wedded bliss;
+    A monarch born, a man forlorn,
+        Nor wife nor babe to kiss.
+
+        Far, 'mid the forest drear,
+        A maiden without peer
+    His fate shall hear, and wake with fear
+        From dreams of little cheer.
+
+        By long and lonesome way
+        Two loving hearts shall stray,
+    That sovereign blind, in haste to find,
+        And Fate's behest obey.
+
+        Yet guard thyself, oh king!
+        Lest kindness sorrow bring!
+    Forbear to love, or time shall prove
+        That joy may hide a sting.
+
+        That pearl--a woman's love--
+        Might angels' envy move,
+    But powers that be, in wonder see,
+        How mortals changeful prove.
+
+        Joyous and fancy-free
+        Then let the maiden be,
+    Nor teach that child from regions wild
+        The meed of misery.
+    But if thou dost, thine own the cost,
+        And woe shall fall on thee!
+
+The hollow voice ceased, once more all was still. Antiphates in vain
+asked other questions, and listened impatiently for further replies.
+Meeting with no more response, and thoroughly exhausted by the foul
+atmosphere, he hailed his foster-brother, and, aided by him, breathed
+again with thankfulness the pure outer air.
+
+They returned to the palace in silence, for Antiphates, proud and
+reserved, vouchsafed no hint of the mysterious words to which he had
+listened. He had indeed ample food left him for meditation.
+
+This visit to the mummy took place during the night, and the disguised
+King passed and repassed his unslumbering sentinels by means of his own
+signet-ring, occasionally entrusted by him to confidential emissaries.
+
+The apt rhymes he had heard haunted him incessantly. The mere mention
+of a forest was extraordinary--for with the exception of a fair-sized
+plantation in the midst of which Castle Xylina (the king's summer
+palace) stood, no large wood of any kind existed within many miles of
+his capital.
+
+As to love, the poor benighted King knew little about the capricious
+god, save what he gathered from the songs of the minstrels and
+troubadours, birds of passage who, ever certain of kind welcome and
+liberal patronage, flocked in numbers to his court.
+
+Unwilling to display his infirmity unnecessarily, Antiphates kept
+himself aloof in general from his people. His palace was indeed the
+resort of all the most talented and intellectual men of the day. His
+feasts were celebrated for the brilliant conversation and witty
+repartee in which, not only his guests, but the monarch himself,
+occasionally indulged; at the expense of many an aching hour of lonely
+reaction.
+
+But at these banquets no ladies were present, nor had the isolated
+sovereign any opportunity of becoming intimately acquainted with his
+fairer subjects. There were, it is true, the singing-girls, who nightly
+performed before him with guitars and cymbals, and gave the blind king
+some of the happiest hours of his life. Though he could not see their
+graceful forms as they gaily danced to their own music, yet the
+tinkling of the silver bells on their arms and ankles formed a
+rhythmical and tuneful accompaniment to their melodious voices, that
+wafted fourfold enjoyment to the listening monarch. He showered
+generous gifts on these damsels, each of whom he knew apart by her
+voice and step. They were, however, but the toys of the hour.
+
+When in pomp and state the King went abroad in his chariot, his fair
+subjects anxiously pressed together to catch a glimpse of their
+sovereign's stern yet handsome features; but though they gratified
+their own curiosity, no reciprocal vision of bewildering charms crossed
+the darkened vision of their lonely prince, as he was whirled proudly
+by in his dazzling equipage.
+
+Unwonted feelings therefore stirred in Antiphates' bosom as the
+prophecy of the cave again and again rang through his mind. After
+several days spent in musing and reflection, he resolved to return to
+the oracle, and demand more exact particulars concerning the forest
+maiden and the "two loving hearts" mentioned, anxious to set forth in
+pursuit of them, if need be, round the world.
+
+Antiphon therefore, favoured by the darkness, once more led his royal
+foster-brother to the mountain side, but no cave could they discover,
+though for several hours they wandered up and down the very spot where
+the shepherd had carefully noted the entrance by certain landmarks.
+
+Irritated and disappointed, Antiphates at last gave up the useless
+search, and during the succeeding days busied himself in sending forth
+express couriers over the country, north, west, and east, to seek for
+the forest, and to find out and bring to Deva all discoverable denizens
+of woods, forests, and thickets. Besides this, he issued a royal
+mandate, setting forth that every wandering maiden should instantly be
+conducted to his palace. A few strolling gipsies were in consequence
+brought before him, and told innumerable falsehoods concerning their
+previous lives and companions, but none of them were able to throw the
+least light upon the cause of the King's defective eyesight.
+
+Pending the result of more active measures, however, Antiphates was
+roused from the apathy into which he had been plunged for many years
+regarding his misfortune, and taught himself to hope he hardly knew
+what, from the hidden pages of the future. But day after day went by,
+and no fresh event enlivened the dismal tranquillity of the palace
+precincts.
+
+We may thus more readily understand the monarch's abrupt condescension
+and excitement on hearing Fidunia's first words, and learning that she
+had but lately quitted a forest. Her sweetly modulated voice at once
+carried a favourable impression to his sensitive ear, and, conjoined
+with the mysterious and ever-present prophecy, touched a slumbering
+chord in his jaded breast.
+
+Indeed, as they now drove back to the city from whence he had issued so
+short a time before in listless uncertainty, his mind ran riot with
+wild chaotic fancies.
+
+They drew near the frowning gates of Deva. A sudden pause, as the
+massive portals rolled back on their hinges, and the soldiers presented
+arms, awoke Fidunia from her trance. She started and looked around,
+eagerly surveying the splendours of that enchanting capital.
+
+Meanwhile the fairer inhabitants of the town gathering, according to
+primeval custom, by balcony, window, and doorway, to feast their eyes
+on the royal pageant and the gallant escort of cavaliers; passed from
+mouth to mouth the incredible news that a stranger damsel was seated in
+their monarch's chariot. Ere the gaping crowd had time, however, to
+note more than the mere outline of a drooping form, the narrow streets
+were swiftly threaded, and scaling the little hill on which Xylina
+stood, the whole squadron disappeared within the leafy boundaries of
+King Antiphates' summer residence.
+
+Fidunia could not repress an exclamation of delighted wonder as they
+halted at the palace door.
+
+Castle Xylina rose in turreted heights of dazzling whiteness above
+them, pure as the day it was completed. In that favoured climate
+neither smoke nor inclement weather marred the snowy beauties of its
+marble walls and terraces. It was approached by seven broad alleys: six
+of these, carpeted with natural greensward, converged through the small
+wood already mentioned, towards the broad central plateau. The seventh
+avenue, leading from the town, up which the King had just driven, was
+like the city itself, paved with lava.
+
+The castle from its elevated situation, commanded an exquisite prospect
+towards the south across the open bay of Deva. The surrounding trees
+completely shut out the neighbouring town. Only faint, distant sounds,
+and the chiming of church and convent bells borne upon the air,
+betokened the near presence of the busy thousands below. Innumerable
+craft, moreover, moored or moving on the still blue waters, gave an air
+of life to the otherwise dreamy silence, that with mistlike wings
+enfolded the fair prosperous Deva and her environs as Fidunia thus
+first beheld them.
+
+But now a courtly throng pressed around, a hundred eyes were bent on
+the embarrassed stranger and her singular companion, a hundred hands
+out-stretched to assist her in her descent from the carriage. But no
+sooner had the King himself touched the ground in safety, than he
+turned, and taking her hand in his, led her slowly up the broad white
+marble steps into the central hall of his magnificent palace.
+
+She had scarcely time to glance round her ere her royal host, divining
+both her fatigue and her bashfulness, summoned and gave minute
+directions to the women of the palace regarding her welfare, and
+resigned her into their charge. Smiling kindly on their unexpected
+guest, they ushered her along lofty passages to a chamber widely
+different from any the simple maiden had ever beheld either in her
+wanderings or even in her dreams.
+
+Thoroughly overcome by fatigue, and hardly pausing even to partake of
+the tempting fare presented to her, or to survey the beauties of her
+new abode, Fidunia sought her pillow. The neat-handed abigails, after
+preparing a bed for Fido within the recess where stood his mistress's
+couch, retired, first bidding her summon them at will, as their
+apartments were close at hand.
+
+Youth and exhaustion soon closed the stranger's eyes, and it was late
+on the following day before Fidunia could rouse herself completely from
+her heavy slumbers.
+
+At length a continuous plashing sound mingled itself with her dreams.
+She thought she was once more in her forest home, and that the little
+fountain with its clear bubbling waters invited her to her morning
+bath.
+
+She slowly unclosed her eyes. But no leafy branches spread their matted
+foliage above her head; lovely rosy curtains fell instead on either
+side of her soft little couch. She raised herself--surprised and
+wondering--at her first movement, Fido already on the alert, capered
+across the tesselated floor, oddly slipping hither and thither on its
+smooth surface.
+
+She stepped carefully from her alcove, and proceeded on a voyage of
+exploration. She soon ascertained that the sound of running water was
+no vain product of her own imagination, but that it came from a recess
+corresponding to that in which she had slept. Within this niche a
+marble Triton poured through his conch-shell a continuous stream. On
+either side the entrance to the snowy basin beneath, a nymph so stood
+that the roseate curtains could either be held back in their extended
+arms, or loosened completely to shut off the recess from the rest of
+the room.
+
+Overjoyed at discovering this welcome substitute for her oft-regretted
+forest spring, Fidunia swiftly performed her simple toilet.
+
+With all the carelessness of one little accustomed to regard her
+personal appearance, she hardly even glanced at the magnificent
+burnished mirror and its costly accessories, but hastened from window
+to window, eager to become acquainted with her new abode.
+
+Towards the south, connected outside by a shady verandah, three long
+windows fronted the open bay, commanding the same extensive view that
+had delighted her the evening before. Two of similar form opened
+eastward, and Fidunia could scarcely repress a shudder, as raising her
+eyes to scan the more distant horizon, she beheld, frowning behind
+nearer slopes of verdant loveliness, the grim mountain of her dreams,
+whose gloomy boundaries she had skirted on the previous day. A
+slumberous cloud partially shrouded its dark heights. In the vista of
+coast, cape, and blue headland lengthening beyond, earth, sea, and sky,
+melted into one indistinguishable haze of atmospheric beauty.
+
+Easily unfastening one of these eastern windows, Fidunia perceived a
+flight of steps leading thence into the palace gardens below. Followed
+by Fido, the fearless child of nature quickly descended the stairs, and
+plunged into the artificial intricacies of the pleasure grounds
+beneath.
+
+A thrill of remembrance came upon her. Surely she had trodden these
+trim-kept walks before, and inhaled the strange rich odour of the
+blossoming orange that hung heavy on the air?
+
+Stopping, bewildered, she raised her hand to her brow. As she thus
+stood rapt in thought, the noise of approaching voices apprised her
+that Antiphates, leaning on the arm of Domenichino, drew near. Swift as
+lightning, recollection flashed across her. While the impatient monarch
+came towards her, guided by his servant, she half expected to see and
+hear the tiny elves who in her forest dreams had swung and sung their
+eerie refrain amid just such scenes as these.
+
+When the King learned that she had not yet broken her fast, he
+commanded food to be brought to an arbour near at hand, where he
+himself joined his guest. He found much entertainment in trying to
+follow the movements of the little dog, who, summoned by his mistress,
+went through all his pretty tricks.
+
+With unwonted softness in his voice and manner, Antiphates strove to
+set Fidunia at her ease, and to engage her in conversation. He led her
+on to speak of herself and of her previous lonely life. He encouraged
+her to tell him all that had befallen her since she left the forest.
+
+Domenichino oftentimes listened in surprise. His master, hitherto so
+hasty and imperious, with rare patience, endeavoured to overcome
+Fidunia's timidity and reserve. Antiphates even forgot to murmur
+continually at his own affliction--nay, he felt a certain pleasure in
+claiming the young girl's assistance, as they wandered together in the
+gardens, or moved from room to room of the palace.
+
+Day after day glided swiftly away, and life became a fresh pleasure to
+the weary King as he listened to the strange adventures and artless
+sayings of the ingenuous maiden. He derived perpetual amusement from
+her novel descriptions of familiar objects presented to him under a
+widely different aspect by her humorous remarks.
+
+For years upon years he had existed with all of visible beauty veiled
+from his sight; and he now conjured up to himself an exquisite ideal of
+his youthful companion. Her low melodious voice, her gentle touch, and
+her soft light step, full of grace, taught him insensibly to dream of a
+far fairer form than poor Fidunia actually possessed.
+
+He became so deeply interested in his new friend, that ere long that
+interest was merged in love. Morning, noon, and night, he was her
+inseparable companion, nor could he rest quiet when she was absent from
+him. He found in her society a nameless charm that tamed and softened
+his arrogant spirit. With extraordinary humility he learnt to defer to
+her slightest wish. With unwonted self-abnegation, he laid siege to the
+citadel of her heart.
+
+Listening entranced to his tender words, there now ensued a period
+when, for the first time to the guileless Fidunia, if not to her more
+experienced suitor,
+
+    "Love took up the glass of Time, and turned it in his glowing
+        hands;
+    Every moment, lightly shaken, ran itself in golden sands.
+    Love took up the harp of Life, and smote on all the chords with
+        might;
+    Smote the chord of self, that, trembling, passed in music out
+        of sight."
+
+Antiphates soon told the wondering maiden all he had heard in the cave.
+His thoughts turned continually upon the mysterious prophecy, and they
+often held sweet counsel together over those singular but
+well-remembered words.
+
+A dim foreboding of evil in the future, and an intense clinging to the
+peaceful joyous life of the present, led Fidunia to approach this
+subject with secret reluctance. An inward voice told her she possessed
+not beauty's potent charm; yet she felt that to her blind monarch she
+was all in all. Again and again she had to stifle the rising fear of
+possible change in his love, and chided herself for unworthy thoughts
+and lukewarm energy.
+
+With all the eagerness of his impetuous nature, Antiphates constantly
+recurred to the charge, urging Fidunia to do her utmost to deliver him
+from his infirmity. In glowing terms he depicted the pleasures of their
+common existence if he were able, not merely to hear and to feel, but
+to watch and to guide his heart's beloved through her future life.
+
+As he spoke, the forest maid often felt the hidden talisman rise and
+fall with the heavings of her tender bosom. Obedient to the donor, she
+never disclosed its existence, even to Antiphates, or told him of her
+strange dreams. It needed, however, no small resolution on her part to
+avail herself of the charm so solemnly committed to her charge by Dame
+Anna. At length, unable longer to resist the oft-repeated solicitations
+of her royal lover, she faithfully promised him to exert her feeble
+powers to the utmost on his behalf.
+
+With a lingering footstep she sought her chamber that evening, filled
+with awe at the prospect of invoking the aid of her scarce known
+friend. When all was silent for the night, Fidunia trimmed the classic
+lamp by her bedside, for it was the new moon, and no light came from
+without. Watched only by the wakeful Fido, she drew the sparkling prism
+from its accustomed place. Remembering her instructions, she placed it
+in the palm of her hand, then bent (for another's sake), on peering
+into futurity, she resolutely fixed her eyes on the talisman. Swaying
+to and fro with the intensity of her emotions, she chanted the required
+invocation:
+
+    Strange gem, upon thy crystal core
+    I gaze, the while I aid implore;
+    Trembling upon the verge of fate,
+    Oh, point my path ere yet too late!
+    I fain would gain the boon I ask.
+    Is mine the strength for such a task?
+    Canst thou unloose the links that bind,
+    Or vanquish powerful foes combined?
+    Then show whate'er there lurks of art
+    Within thine own mysterious heart;
+    On thee I turn a hopeful eye,
+    Bright stone of silence, make reply.
+
+The magic stone grew larger and larger. Its brilliant centre, like a
+searching eye, returned Fidunia's gaze with dazzling refulgence.
+Heavier and heavier drooped her falling lids, her recumbent form sought
+more and more the support of her little couch, at length borne down by
+resistless force, she lay unnerved and motionless.
+
+The lamp became extinguished. All was dark, silent, and blank. Her
+corporeal frame slumbered inert and passive. But now every spiritual
+faculty throbbed into keen activity. The whole chamber was filled with
+soft penetrating light. The kind Anna's well-remembered form stood
+beside her. With one hand she raised Fidunia on her couch, with the
+other she pointed towards the south.
+
+To Fidunia's intense surprise, she beheld a ray of moonlight illumine
+the sombre waters of the Bay of Deva, reaching in one narrow unbroken
+line to what she well knew as the distant though hitherto unvisited
+island of Spera. She gazed bewildered from her raised alcove, which
+commanded an easy view of the landscape beneath, through the wide, open
+windows.
+
+How could the small silver horn of the newborn moon cast such brilliant
+light on the dark ocean? She turned a troubled glance towards her
+unwonted visitant, but her voice was spell-bound; the questions she
+fain would have uttered died upon her lips. With a sad and solemn
+gesture her protectress still pointed towards the heights of Spera,
+then sighed, rather than said these lines:
+
+    Far, far o'er the depths of that shimm'ring blue sea,
+    The drops trickle slowly so sought for by thee;
+    Enwrapt by the jealous embrace of the deep,
+    A lake without sky, without motion doth sleep.
+    Though distant, and hidden the shrine of the cave
+    By the busy bright waters its entrance that lave,
+    Yet only the touch of an innocent maiden
+    Can e'er give effect to those drops virtue-laden.
+    At midnight a ray shall illumine the portal
+    All sombre and silent, ne'er threaded by mortal.
+    At midnight, by moonlight, that path can be crossed,
+    By her, who heroic, ne'er counteth the cost.
+    Oh, chilly the ocean, and lonely the hour,
+    Or the charm that thou seekest is reft of its power;
+    And voiceless and mute thine endeavours must be,
+    Or fruitless thy labours and harmful to thee.
+    Yet, maiden, forbear! ere thou challenge the spell
+    Remember--with thee and with thine it is well!
+    In thee and thy love the blind monarch is blest:
+    Then dwell in his palace--Fidunia--at rest.
+
+As the last couplet fell on Fidunia's ears all else became as nought.
+The dear thought of her first and faithful lover filled her imaginative
+mind. What recked she of trouble or sorrow to be undergone in his
+service! Would she not even give life itself for the sake of him who
+had first called into existence all the passionate but unknown wealth
+of her unselfish soul! Dreamily she recalled to herself his whispered
+vows, his ardent tones, and thus from waking dreams slowly fell on
+sleep, undisturbed and profound.
+
+It was late the following morning before she awoke to the realities of
+life. As she dressed herself she pondered much over the visions of the
+night. Was all a dream, like her forest fancies?
+
+She looked everywhere for the talisman, but it was nowhere to be seen.
+Its absence weighed somewhat heavily on her mind. The reality of her
+midnight experience was brought home to her, as she perpetually missed
+the shining stone from its wonted hiding-place.
+
+Fidunia now hastened to her monarch's presence. Considering that the
+loss of the talisman released her from her promise of secrecy, she
+confided its whole history to the astonished King. She told him also
+her waking vision of the previous night. She described Dame Anna's
+appearance, and repeated some of her words.
+
+Thoroughly roused Antiphates entreated Fidunia to keep nothing more
+concealed from him. Using all his powers of persuasion he at length
+drew from her unwilling lips the particulars of her three wild forest
+dreams.
+
+  [Illustration: FIDO AND FIDUNIA.
+   "Thoroughly roused, Antiphates entreated Fidunia to keep nothing
+   more concealed from him."--P. 170.]
+
+In a voice trembling with emotion he hailed the forest maiden as his
+predestined deliverer, nor was his eager curiosity satisfied till he
+had asked innumerable questions. Fidunia sighed as she noted his
+feverish agitation. Remembering the warning contained in the last
+rhythmical lines, she feared lest his hopes should be dashed to the
+ground.
+
+As they sat together in his favourite turret above the castle porch, he
+explained to her that rumour spoke of a hidden cave in the Isle of
+Spera. Recalling to mind the line of light she had so distinctly seen
+across the bay, Fidunia pointed it out as having terminated beneath the
+highest peak of the island. Antiphates decided that an endeavour to
+find the cave should be made when the moon next became full. He would
+fain himself have aided in the search; but Fidunia, anxious to have her
+mind steadfastly set on the one object of the expedition, persuaded him
+to remain within the palace, and to allow her to go forth guarded only
+by Domenichino.
+
+Domenichino secretly hired, as for his own use, one of the boats
+belonging to a fisherman of Spera. He carefully questioned the men of
+the place about their island. They all seemed aware of the probable
+existence of a cave only accessible from the sea, but partly from the
+dreamy indolence common to those climes, partly from superstition, no
+one had as yet discovered its entrance. A thousand old legends,
+however, sung of the hidden beauties of this wondrous grotto, a hundred
+wild tales were told among these simple people of the magic and
+wonder-working fountain therein concealed from mortal eyes.
+
+At last the time arrived when, at midnight, Cynthia should reach her
+cold meridian of beauty. Fidunia resolved to leave Fido for the first
+time behind her. She committed him to the willing charge of the King,
+but the little animal, who from the first had taken a dislike to
+Antiphates, could not be got away from his mistress's chamber. There,
+extended on the moonlit verandah, he remained during her absence,
+disconsolate and wakeful.
+
+It was a night of peaceful calm. As the sturdy rowers urged on their
+vessel, her bows parted the waters into a thousand phosphorescent
+ripples, which, widening as the boat moved onward, spread into one
+broad, flaming wake in their rear.
+
+Fidunia carried with her an ancient gold goblet, wherein the King
+besought her to place the precious drops, should she succeed in
+obtaining them. Grasping it tightly in her hand, as if to persuade
+herself she was not dreaming, she gazed awestruck on the overwhelming
+beauty of the landscape, arrayed in night's fairest covering.
+
+Already distant, the City of Deva lay white and ghost-like under the
+moon's pale ray. Here and there a gleam of light showed that there were
+watchers on land, and from the high turret window of Castle Xylina one
+ruddy gleam shot a quivering reflection far along the ever-lengthening
+track of their little craft.
+
+Before them the nearing crags of Spera rose abrupt and beetling towards
+the sky. The boat moved rapidly along. Now became audible the surging
+swell and low muffled boom of the ocean, ever chafing, ever restless,
+even when apparently at peace; and ever repelled by those giant
+sentinels of the deep. Numbers of sea-birds, disturbed by the unwonted
+splash of oars, wheeled screaming above their heads, and suddenly
+brought to Fidunia's mind with agitating distinctness the recollection
+of her second forest dream.
+
+But all other thoughts were merged in the approaching performance of
+her self-imposed task. They had gradually rounded the opening to a
+little bay where the water seemed more shallow, and the sea only broke
+in tiny wavelets upon a small shelf of pearly white sand. Here Fidunia
+stepped from the boat. Leaving human companionship behind, she slowly
+paced along the narrow margin. Finally, following the moon-lit line and
+heedful of Domenichino's oft-repeated instructions, she disappeared
+behind the frowning ledge of rock which bounded the narrow inlet.
+
+Only a very few minutes after she had thus gone from their sight, they
+could hear dimly across the intervening waters, the faint tolling of
+the midnight bells in the great City. In indescribable anxiety
+Domenichino, who alone (among these rude boat-men) knew her peril,
+counted the minutes till Fidunia's return, and resolved that at the
+expiration of a certain time he would at all risks persist in following
+the unprotected maiden.
+
+But, ere the appointed period had elapsed, Fidunia, with buoyant steps,
+turned swiftly the dark boundary and rapidly drew near. High resolve
+sat upon her brow and stamped her features with a noble ardour. Closely
+clasped to her bosom she held the precious vase, but to no mortal ear
+might she unfold the thrilling tale of her solitary experience.
+
+Had she within those mystic precincts heard a warning voice which bade
+her pause ere she dashed the cup of earthly happiness from her lips?
+How and where had she obtained the crystal liquid that leapt and
+sparkled in its golden prison? Had she entered the ice-cold waters and
+braved the wave-engulfing arms of the merry, malicious mer-men, who
+warily watch, and at the midnight hour have power to bear to their
+coral haunts the bold earth-maiden who shall step within their native
+element?
+
+These, and numberless other questions, crowded into Domenichino's mind
+as he sped to meet her; but she raised her finger to her lips, and with
+a mute gesture of entreaty silently took her place in the little
+vessel. The weather-beaten boatmen shrank back as she passed them by,
+her hair and garments glistening with a thousand rainbow-coloured
+drops; yet, as she dreamily took her place in the stern, one, less
+bashful than his compeers, awkwardly placed his rough coat so as to
+shelter and keep her warm.
+
+The wind had arisen. It swept moaningly around, hurrying dark clouds
+across the face of the moon, and presently shrouding her altogether
+from their sight. But the red tower-light from distant Xylina guided
+the homeward-bound crew, and ere very long they were safely landed
+below the slumbering City.
+
+Still voiceless, Fidunia, with lagging footsteps, ascended the steep
+hill. Her energy was gone; she leant heavily on Domenichino's arm, and
+but for his aid must have fallen more than once exhausted by the way.
+At last the castle was reached. In answer to her signal the faithful
+esquire knocked at his master's turret door. An impatient voice bade
+them enter. Antiphates himself, stumbling hastily to meet them, started
+as he took Fidunia's cold hand in his. She gently withstood his eager
+inquiries and solicitude for her health. "Sire," she murmured, "I am
+very weary, but these poor hands must this night bathe your eyes."
+
+At her words the King, obedient, sank on a couch near at hand, and
+Fidunia, dipping her fingers into the golden goblet, timidly pressed
+them again and again over his burning eyelids. Her cool, soft touch
+soothed his irritated nerves and brought refreshing peace to his
+restless mind. A strange calm folded its enshadowing wings around those
+busy brows and wrapt the imperious monarch in a sweet and childlike
+slumber.
+
+Raising her finger again to her lips, in token of silence, and signing
+to Domenichino to leave his sovereign for the night, Fidunia quitted
+the turret chamber and sought her own apartment. Here the listening
+Fido greeted her approaching footsteps with a whine of delight, and
+testified his joy at her return by many expressive gambols.
+
+Long into the night she sat on her balcony, acting over in thought
+again and again the exciting scenes of that eventful evening. It seemed
+to her she had only just fallen asleep when she was suddenly startled
+from her slumbers by a loud pæan of rejoicing blown from the castle
+wall by the silver trumpets.
+
+For a moment recollection failed her, but then glad certainty flashed
+on her mind, and, as if to make assurance doubly sure, some of the
+women of the palace, rushing abruptly into her chamber, confirmed the
+glad tidings. They urged her to arise and dress in haste, for the King
+could not rest till he had seen and thanked his deliverer in person.
+
+Fidunia hurriedly arrayed herself. Accompanied by Fido, she hastened
+along the now well-known passages of the palace. She ascended the broad
+stairs and passed the tall guards in the corridor, with their nodding
+plumes. The doors of the presence chamber were thrown open before her.
+On the threshold she stood a moment irresolute. Then, notwithstanding
+their intimacy, knowing his newly-gained power, she advanced timidly
+towards the great King. There was a pause, she raised her eyes to his.
+The monarch seemed transformed! Instead of half-closed, unseeing eyes,
+and all the accompanying hesitation and uncertainty, two searching orbs
+now bent their dark majesty full on the bashful maiden. In that one
+moment she drank in the fatal secret, which no after-words could
+disguise.
+
+It was but too true!
+
+A passionate adorer of beauty, Antiphates had, during the past months,
+almost unknown to himself, clothed his unseen love with perfect
+loveliness. His heart therefore beat high with expectation as her
+footfall was heard at the door, and when, with her attendant Fido, she
+entered alone, he could not control the impulse of disappointment too
+plainly written on his expressive, speaking countenance.
+
+The dawn of light on his long-darkened orbs revealed to him the
+unattractive colouring and irregular features of the being he had in
+blindness learned to adore, and no self-command on his part could
+conceal from love's unerring instinct his change of mood.
+
+Now, however, with well-simulated alacrity, he rose from his throne.
+Stepping down with a free, unfettered gait, widely different from his
+wonted stumbling manner, he took the maiden's hand in his own. Pouring
+confused and hurried thanks into her ear, he led her to the seat where
+she had passed so many happy hours.
+
+In vain he strove to conjure back the fascination Fidunia once
+possessed for him. Oh! subtle influence! who can accurately define the
+thrilling tie that makes the one we love different from all the world
+beside? who, when the frail chain of enchantment is once severed, can
+join again those mystic links?
+
+The King and Fidunia conversed in low tones, apparently unchanged: the
+gay courtiers around at least observed no cloud on the horizon. Waiting
+within call, they clustered eagerly around Domenichino to hear his
+adventures of the previous night, and to discuss together the
+approaching marriage of the maiden, now beloved by all, with their
+fortune-favoured prince. They recked not of the cold shadow that crept
+slowly into the little maid's heart, and clouded her fair and hitherto
+untroubled sky.
+
+Fido alone, close and vigilant, marked the awakening sorrow of his
+beloved mistress. He felt the hand that caressed him grow cold and
+pulseless. He noted the accent of despair in Fidunia's choking voice.
+His unsophisticated nature rose indignant at the selfishness of the
+human friend, who (after such vows breathed, and responded to by her to
+whom they were addressed), could change and grow indifferent to the
+being who had gone through so much for his sake.
+
+How true it is that maidens, like flowers, expand in the presence of
+him they love, in the warm sunshine of adoration. When that cheering
+beam is withdrawn, how colourless and scentless, how devoid of beauty,
+do their drooping blossoms become!
+
+Even so it was with Fidunia, the happy light that had of late dawned in
+her gray eyes now faded away. Hour after hour she wept alone on her
+sleepless pillow, sadly musing over times departed,
+
+    "Departed never to return."
+
+One wakeful night she poured out her thoughts in these words:
+
+    The silent hour of night prevailed, the Earth
+    Was in her first and dewy slumber, while
+    The Moon unveiled her pure and peerless light,
+    And threw her radiance o'er the dusky haunts
+    Of men.
+          An atom on the world's broad breast
+    Alone, beneath those chilly beams I mused,
+    On Death and Immortality.
+                                My soul
+    Sped swiftly upward on the ethereal ray,
+    And left enthralled the grosser part of self,
+    The slumbering mortal portion of my frame.
+
+    *        *        *        *        *
+
+    The spirit world was gained, and for a space
+    Enchantment wove mine aching heart a strange
+    Bright web of many hued delight. She gave
+    To that brief Dream all the reality
+    That made its flying moments passing sweet.
+    The kindly echoes lent their magic aid,
+    And tones reverberated in mine ear
+    Whose music gently whispered rapture, not
+    Of Earth, but of some far-off lovely Land,
+    A Time when all that is not yet may be.
+
+    *        *        *        *        *
+
+    With trembling sigh, from happiness too great,
+    I all unknowing broke the mystic spell,
+    And shivering back, through dark and dreary ways,
+    No Moon to guide the weary feet, no Light
+    To cheer the falling spirit, once again
+    Within dull clay poor Psyche found her home,
+    And woke to bitter loneliness and woe.
+
+She had in truth a rough awakening from her dream of happiness. As day
+by day the restless monarch showed more and more the change in his
+feelings that perfect vision had wrought, Fidunia not only passed
+through the deep waters of sorrow in realizing his alienation, but
+experienced moreover a fresh and equally poignant pain as the veil of
+illusion fell from her disenchanted eyes, and taught the simple-hearted
+young girl that she could never again regard her monarch with the same
+trusting faith.
+
+To one of hasty impulsive temperament like Antiphates, dissimulation
+proved impossible: however much he was bound, alike by the ties of
+honour and of gratitude, to keep the vows publicly pledged to his
+deliverer, he could not forgive the hapless girl her lack of outward
+beauty. He valued not the delicate refinement of her nature. He marked
+not the ethereal spirit that shone unconquerable through her
+transparent eye. His affection had been of the earth, earthy;
+evanescent as frail mortality itself.
+
+Nor was Fidunia's spirit formed in a mould to sicken and die of
+unrequited affection. In happier days, the happiest of her short life,
+she had, in spite of the vast difference in their ages, learned to
+regard the gifted King with something akin to reverential love. The
+eager wooing of one so talented and fascinating could not fail to
+produce some corresponding effect on the imagination of the forest
+maiden. Not unsolicited she had yielded up her gentle heart, and come
+gradually to centre all the hopes and thoughts of her young life upon
+Antiphates.
+
+She now grew to spend longer hours each day in wandering round the
+precincts of Xylina. The child of nature, she ever found her truest
+solace beneath the wide canopy of heaven. There no walls pent in her
+labouring sobs, no human eye beheld the slowly falling tears, mourners
+over a vanished past, that welled up one by one from her burning heart;
+tears that slowly rising, purified still further her much afflicted
+spirit, and weaned her soul from the earthly love which for a time had
+satisfied that strange immortal portion of mortality.
+
+Fido, ever beside his mistress, grew like her, pensive and forlorn. He
+knew she was in grief, and his mute sympathy gave her comfort, as
+together they climbed through the mazy wood, or explored the hills that
+rose behind the castle.
+
+In these wanderings, Fidunia came frequently to a knoll, commanding the
+lovely expanse of waters beneath. Looking across the broad bay of Deva,
+the horizon was bounded only by the fair island of Spera, so fraught
+with memory's brightest records. Here upon a bank of wild thyme,
+sheltered by the cool olive trees, and fanned by the passing breeze,
+she pondered over her mysterious lot, and shudderingly thought of the
+blank untrodden future.
+
+But counsel and comfort already approached. One day as she thus sat,
+rapt and musing, a gentle voice addressed her; turning half alarmed,
+she beheld the sweetest face her eyes had ever dwelt upon. That
+countenance shone with heaven-born beauty. "Sister Angela" (for thus
+the stranger was called) had also sorrowed, but she had found lasting
+comfort in the convent of Saint Sebastian. This monastery was near at
+hand, though partially concealed by the dense foliage and the masses of
+creepers which clothed its outer walls. Angela had oftentimes seen and
+yearned over the sorrowful young girl, and at last, issuing forth,
+ventured to greet her.
+
+She tenderly saluted Fidunia, who, before long, learnt to love and
+trust her new friend. She soon came daily to seek for guidance and
+comfort at her hands, confiding to Angela's sympathizing ears the
+chequered story of her brief life.
+
+Meantime, to add still further to the griefs of poor Fidunia, her
+little dog disappeared. She first missed him one afternoon as, after
+long converse with her new found friend, she turned to descend the
+grassy slopes to Castle Xylina.
+
+During those hours she had formed a high and holy resolution. Alone in
+the world, she aspired to become one of the sisterhood to whom Angela
+belonged, and to find an asylum for her wearied wounded heart within
+the sacred walls of Saint Sebastian.
+
+On reaching the Castle, Fidunia sought everywhere for Fido, but no one
+had seen him, or could tell whither he had gone. While occupied in
+threading the long passages and calling anxiously for her missing
+companion, she met Domenichino hastening to entreat her attendance on
+the King. Without returning to her chamber to alter her attire, Fidunia
+turned and accompanied him to the royal presence.
+
+Antiphates met her at the entrance of the hall. In kind yet constrained
+tones the monarch condoled with her as he heard of Fido's
+disappearance. He gave orders moreover that the strictest search should
+at once be instituted throughout Deva and its environs for Fidunia's
+dear little favourite.
+
+"But now," continued the King, leading her to a deep embrasure, whence
+could be seen the fair landscape beneath, "I am anxious you should name
+the day for the ceremony that is to unite the debtor to his mistress,
+and thus permit me to fulfil my plighted troth." So saying, he carried
+her hand lightly to his lips, and looked searchingly upon her. But even
+his bold eyes fell rebuked beneath Fidunia's pure enquiring gaze, now
+divested of all hesitation or embarrassment. No word of reproach for
+his altered behaviour towards her, since she had restored his sight,
+fell from her. No murmur escaped her. But her voice quavered as, in a
+few simple sentences, she unfolded to him the purpose she had that day
+formed of taking upon herself the vows of Saint Sebastian.
+
+A sense of momentary shame at his own want of generosity dyed the
+King's rough cheek a deeper hue. He felt his inability to urge Fidunia
+with any zest to renounce her lofty aspirations. He strove to conceal
+his satisfaction, but he knew too well that her voluntary self-devotion
+relieved him from a perplexing dilemma.
+
+Nevertheless he cast about in his mind for some form of remonstrance;
+but before he could frame the words on his unwilling lips, she was
+gone.
+
+Stung to her inmost heart by the inscrutable changes in his variable
+nature, and already overwrought by the day's emotions, the hapless
+Fidunia only reached her chamber in time to shut from every human eye
+her deadly struggle, her last overwhelming battle with wounded mortal
+love.
+
+Days slowly elapsed without intelligence of Fido, and the arrangements
+became gradually completed by which, upon the Festival of All Saints,
+Fidunia was to enter her noviciate.
+
+All Hallow's Eve drew near. On the morrow the lonely Fidunia was to bid
+farewell to the outer world, and rest her wearied tempest-tossed head
+within the peaceful cloistered shades.
+
+She sought her luxurious chamber for the last time, and unfastening the
+window, stepped out on the broad balcony. The glorious full moon once
+more illuminated with clear cold light each beloved object in the
+exquisite panorama so dear to her.
+
+Human sorrow asserted its own in the maiden's breast, as in spirit she
+bade farewell to the slumbering monarch who, for a brief period, had
+been her sun and firmament, the "all" for which in the forest depths
+her innocent soul had insensibly pined.
+
+A sudden pattering footstep sounded near, and looking inwards, lo!
+through the moonlit chamber, approached the truant Fido. In the
+imperfect light he seemed faint and weary; but Fidunia sprang to meet
+him, and raised and fondled the little wanderer in her arms, asking him
+the while many a question about his strange absence, half reproaching
+him for his desertion.
+
+As she held the little dog close to her breast, rejoicing over his
+return, she felt something of a novel character around his neck. She
+gently unfastened a cord, and found attached to it a small phial
+carefully sealed, yet emitting a wondrous fragrance.
+
+Somehow assuming from her companion's quiescent attitude that the flask
+was for her own use, she slipped it into her bosom, and forgetting all
+else, again yielded herself to vague yearnings over the unfulfilled
+visions of the past. It was long before she stepped from the window,
+and placing Fido on the ground prepared for her last night's rest in
+the palace.
+
+As she let down the now lengthened tresses of her thick hair, Fido
+though evidently exhausted, refused to lie down. Seemingly ill at ease,
+he watched her every movement with painful anxiety. When at length she
+drew near the marble bath, wherein she nightly plunged, his agitation
+knew no bounds, and as in undressing she displaced the phial from her
+garments he uttered a series of short sharp barks restlessly springing
+the while backwards and forwards from his mistress to the edge of the
+alcove. So close was the companionship between Fidunia and her faithful
+companion, that she at once divined his meaning, and undoing the seal
+and extracting the stopper from the bottle, she emptied its contents
+into the water. Scarcely had she done so when the whole chamber became
+filled with a delicious perfume. As one in a trance, half overcome by
+the powerful scent, Fidunia entered her bath, and felt at once the
+extraordinary invigorating power which seemed to emanate from those few
+drops of liquid.
+
+All sorrow was lifted from her heart. Already in imagination she joined
+in the sweet praiseful strains of the Sebastian sisters. Angelic forms
+moved around her, and the moon's pale rays at length guided the weary
+maiden to her pillow. Stretching out one soft arm over her faithful
+dog, lying in his cot by her side, and lulled by a foretaste of
+heaven's own music, Fidunia sank into dreams of ecstatic beauty.
+
+The loud pealing of a thousand bells for the Festival of All Saints at
+last awoke the neophyte from her deep repose. For a moment she started
+and half forgot her resting place; but her eye fell upon her little
+dog. Something strange in his attitude struck her. Startled, she sprang
+to her feet and bent over him.
+
+His sleep was surely very deep! Yes, Fidunia! sound are those slumbers
+from which not even the touch of thy beloved hand can rouse his wearied
+form, or call forth a response from the wistful eyes, wont to hang upon
+thy lightest gesture.
+
+With an exceeding bitter cry, Fidunia fell beside her lost favourite
+and vainly chafed his stiffening limbs. As she stooped over him, her
+eyes swimming in tears, she perceived in the morning light a small
+scroll lying on the floor by his couch. She hastily raised it, and
+noted "This for Fidunia" traced upon the outer covering. She tore it
+open, and through the mists of sorrow that perpetually dimmed her
+vision, she read these words:
+
+    "Sweet daughter, when thou readest this, thy faithful servant will
+    be no more. Know that the little dog, Fido, through many past days
+    and nights hath mourned over thine exceeding sorrow and thy low
+    estate.
+
+    "He held thee altogether lovely, but he knew from human fellowship
+    that those who owed most to thy labours, my child, had weighed
+    thine outward beauty in the balance and found it wanting. He
+    watched thine affliction till his own heart went nigh to break; and
+    then, calling to remembrance my counsels and assistance to thee, he
+    left thy side, and through many hardships and with great fatigue he
+    gained once more my little cottage by the wide and spreading
+    common. I made known to him that the gift of earthly beauty could
+    only be thine through the self-sacrifice of one who loved thee to
+    the death. Thy faithful companion hath cheerfully laid down his
+    sinless existence for thy dear sake.
+
+    "Heaven guard thee and guide thee, Fidunia!
+
+    "ANNA."
+
+As Fidunia, penetrated to her very inmost soul by the dying fidelity of
+her beloved dog, sank again over his inanimate frame, a loud and
+persistent knocking made itself heard at her chamber door. She had
+barely time to cast on her outer garments before the palace women,
+alarmed by her first cry, and hearing no response to their summons,
+thrust open the door and drew inquisitively near the weeping maiden.
+
+Fidunia rose from her knees, and casting an indignant look on the
+amazed intruders, she exclaimed, "Behold your thoughtless work! It was
+through you and yours that my poor dog learnt the small esteem in which
+his mistress was held, and has thus been goaded to his death."
+
+No answer came from the gathering throng. Awed and abashed, they herded
+together. Whence came the ineffable beauty that sat upon Fidunia's
+brow, and cast a radiance over her shining hair? That it was the forest
+maiden none could doubt, but how exquisitely soft and fair her
+lineaments, as standing in the morning sun before her dead comrade's
+couch, she gave vent to her feelings of passionate reproach.
+
+At this moment Domenichino, hastily entering, heralded the King's
+approach. The news of the death of Fido and of Fidunia's miraculous and
+new-born beauty had spread like wild-fire through the Castle.
+
+Antiphates, no less bewildered than his subjects, hesitated half
+awe-struck on the threshold of the young girl's chamber, which he now
+for the first time proposed to enter. Recovering himself promptly,
+however, with an imperious gesture he signed to his surrounding people
+to leave the apartment, and then slowly advanced to the now silent but
+still weeping Fidunia.
+
+In bygone days, all unknown to the sightless monarch, the very sound of
+his approaching footsteps had power to suffuse her cheek with blushes.
+Now coldly conscious of his presence, she stood before him without
+responsive sign, the loveliest creature upon God's wide earth, the
+realized ideal of his fairest dreams.
+
+Wrapped in her white morning robe, with her yet unbound hair falling
+back in rich clustering masses from her pure pale brow and pearly skin
+of dazzling whiteness; a solemn depth shone from her dark blue eyes,
+bearing still a wealth of tears unshed; while a faint evanescent colour
+like the transparent petal of the wood anemone played upon her rounded
+cheek.
+
+All unknown to herself, clothed in this wondrous panoply of beauty,
+Fidunia awaited her sovereign's commands. To her unspeakable surprise
+the monarch seemed overcome with some unbidden emotion. Again and again
+he vainly assayed to speak; at length, drawing near, he bent his proud
+knee before her, and in agitated tones besought her pardon.
+
+"Sire," replied Fidunia, "as regards myself, I have little to forgive,
+but would that my dumb companion had been spared the knowledge that
+hath cost him his faithful life."
+
+"Oh, Fidunia!" cried the enamoured Prince, "forget these sad weeks
+wherein we have suffered disquiet, and during which untoward shadows
+have obscured my vision, and consent, as you once promised, to be my
+bride. I swear to you, my darling," continued he, pressing closer to
+the shrinking girl, "that in my love and tender care you shall find
+consolation even for the death of your poor lost favourite."
+
+With an effort Fidunia extricated her hand from his nervous grasp, and
+the red flush of indignation mounting higher and higher, she exclaimed,
+"Nay, my liege, this is neither the time nor the place wherein to renew
+the vows which of late have sat so light on thy heart and conscience.
+Here in the presence of the faithful dead, spare me, I pray thee, all
+reference to the unfaithful past. That chapter is closed for ever. On
+this morning, with thy free consent, I take upon myself new and holy
+vows. Yes," repeated she, raising her speaking eyes to the glorious
+eastern sky, "I am accounted worthy to become the lowly bride of
+Heaven." And as if in confirmation of her words, a gust of wind brought
+faintly to their ears, through the wide open window, the glad chiming
+of the Saint Sebastian bells, ringing in anticipation of the ceremonial
+of the day.
+
+"Now by my crown and kingdom," whispered Antiphates, in burning ardent
+tones, "that thou never shalt become, for mine thou art and mine thou
+shalt remain while I have life and power to keep thee." So saying he
+sprang to his feet and enfolding Fidunia in his arms, pressed her
+fiercely to his breast.
+
+Weary and distraught, and well nigh overcome with the struggle, as she
+felt the loud pulsations of his throbbing heart, and experienced the
+mesmeric influence of strong earthly passion, the sorely bestead maiden
+breathed from her fainting soul an earnest prayer for guidance; and her
+silent petition for aid in the hour of need was answered.
+
+A low strain of music sounded through the chamber, and the reluctant
+King involuntarily released his trembling captive, as the door slowly
+opening admitted two by two the veiled and white arrayed sisters of
+Saint Sebastian coming to adorn their promised novice for the
+approaching ceremony.
+
+In vain the distracted Prince commanded them to pause in their holy
+duties, in vain he implored Fidunia to delay even for a day her
+irrevocable vows.
+
+Borne back by the gentle but resistless force of the sacred band, and
+secretly abashed at the recollection of his own conduct, Antiphates
+stood spell-bound, devouring with hungry eyes the peerless beauty of
+the maid, whom too late, he knew to be the one golden hope of his life.
+They arrayed her in bridal robes of exceeding splendour. They placed a
+coronal of blooming orange flowers upon her faultless head.
+
+When all was completed Fidunia, turning to Domenichino, pleaded with
+him to convey what remained of her devoted servant to the little thymy
+knoll beneath the olive trees, and there within easy reach of her
+convent walls, to lay to rest the still beautiful form of the faithful
+Fido.
+
+Then, stepping aside as if to bid him farewell, she raised and kissed
+the silent Prince's hand, murmuring in tones that he alone could hear,
+"while life lasts I shall pray for thee." Ere he could respond the
+procession slowly re-formed, and descending the broad palace-stairs,
+swept onwards along the avenue of grassy sward, and through the
+orange-scented gardens of Xylina to the hallowed precincts of Saint
+Sebastian on the Hill.
+
+Within the chapel where the holy fathers waited, many had collected to
+witness the ceremony, but the King and his cortége occupied the places
+nearest to the sisters and the young aspirant.
+
+Through his intervention her meditations were yet again disturbed, as
+he besought her once more to turn from her purpose, and to remain amid
+the outer world as his loved and honoured bride. She steadfastly
+refused to listen to his entreaties. The service proceeded, and the
+novice at length prepared to pass through the iron gateway that should
+now close to all eternity between her and the world without. A ray from
+heaven fell on her beautiful figure, and illumined her devout features,
+as she stood waiting to receive the white consecrated veil of the
+sisterhood.
+
+The long enveloping folds shrouded her from head to foot, and as
+Fidunia's golden head disappeared for ever from the sight of man, the
+whole air became filled with the celestial voices of the choir, singing
+these glorious words,
+
+    "She is not dead, but liveth."
+
+
+
+
+EUDÆMON:
+
+OR
+
+_THE ENCHANTER OF THE NORTH_.
+
+
+On the eastern side of the Isle of Raasay there still stands a lonely
+ruin known as Castle Brochel. Perched upon precipitous rocks at the
+very verge of the ocean, it is easy to imagine how, armed and
+provisioned, this fortress held its own amid the perpetual warfare of
+early Celtic times.
+
+  [Illustration: EUDÆMON
+   P. 199.]
+
+Castle Brochel has always borne a doubtful reputation. According to
+tradition, it was originally built with the price of blood, for the
+ancient legend runs somewhat after this fashion.
+
+Shiel Torquil went forth with his dogs one morning to hunt the red deer
+on the wild mountains Blaven and Glamaig, in the neighbouring Island of
+Skye. Shiel Torquil had with him only one retainer, but he was a host
+in himself, being surnamed, from his immense size and strength, the
+Gillie More. After some time they sighted a stag. In the ardour of the
+chase the dogs soon ran out of sight, pursuing their quarry towards the
+shore at Sligachan.
+
+Now it so happened that the young Kreshinish in his galley was anchored
+on that side of the island within sight of the beach. He saw the hunted
+animal about to take to the water, and swim, as deer are often known to
+do, across the narrow strait which lies between Skye and Raasay.
+Kreshinish and his men at once landed and took possession, not only of
+the stag itself, but of the dogs which, panting and exhausted, were
+unable to offer any resistance.
+
+Shiel Torquil presently appeared on the scene and angrily asked for his
+deer and his hounds. Kreshinish refused to deliver them up. A bloody
+struggle ensued, during which the Gillie More inflicted a fatal wound
+upon the ill-fated young chieftain who unwittingly (at first) had
+interfered with the sports of another. This brought the affray to a
+speedy conclusion, and Shiel Torquil with his follower carried off deer
+and dogs in triumph.
+
+Not long after this the poor old father of Kreshinish came to Skye to
+seek for the murderer of his son, and publicly offered the reward of a
+bag of silver to any one who would show him the guilty man. The Gillie
+More, hearing of the promised guerdon, boldly entered the presence of
+the elder Kreshinish. Confessing that he himself had slain the youthful
+chieftain, he urged in self-defence the young man's overbearing conduct
+in attempting to carry off Shiel Torquil's stag-hounds and game.
+
+The bereaved father, obliged by the stringent laws of Highland honour
+to fulfil his solemn promise, reluctantly bestowed the bag of silver on
+the very man who had cut off his only child in the early bloom of
+manhood. The Gillie More, however, haunted by remorse, and still
+fearing the avenger's footstep, entreated his master to accept the
+money and build therewith a retreat for them both.
+
+Shiel Torquil granted his henchman's request. After some time spent in
+searching for a suitable site, they at last selected the wild easterly
+shore of Raasay. Here were speedily raised the frowning walls of Castle
+Brochel. Secured from sudden attack by the inaccessible situation of
+their refuge, the Gillie More and his master lived in peace for many
+years.
+
+Their retired habits, and their dislike to intruders, coupled with this
+strange tale of robbery and murder, caused the Castle, though
+newly-built, to be regarded with no friendly eye. When they died, it
+was left untenanted for a considerable time. Many reports were
+circulated concerning the strange sights and sounds to be seen and
+heard at the eerie hour of twilight, or amid the silent watches of the
+night, by the belated traveller who chanced to pass that way by sea or
+by land.
+
+At the period of which we speak, Castle Brochel had however for some
+time been inhabited by a being whose origin was partially shrouded in
+mystery, the gloomy Eudæmon, known as the "Enchanter of the North."
+
+Long years ago, Valbiorn, the wild sea-king, persuaded the lovely
+Bragela, Sorglan's fair-haired daughter, to fly with him from her home.
+Terrible was Sorglan's wrath when he discovered that his hereditary
+enemy had deprived him of his only child, and undying was his
+resentment. But filial disobedience brought its own punishment. Before
+very long the restless Valbiorn was once more roaming alone on the high
+seas, spreading war and confusion in his wake.
+
+It was next rumoured that the gentle Bragela, heart-broken and
+deserted, had, with her little babe and an old and faithful attendant,
+one-eyed Donald, taken up her abode in the lonely Castle Brochel. Here
+she reared her son, within whose infant mind the powers of good and
+evil seemed to struggle with unwonted energy.
+
+Unceasing were the prayers that the loving mother offered up over her
+child, for his strange nature caused her many tears. At times he would
+sit contented by her side, and fixing on her his large dark eyes,
+listen attentively to her words of instruction and wisdom. Or wandering
+with her, as soon as he could run alone, over the hills near at hand,
+he learnt the names and properties of various medicinal herbs, and the
+hours when they should be gathered to render their use efficacious.
+Wondrously effectual was the healing touch he inherited from his fair
+young mother and brought to light in future years.
+
+On other days a mad spirit of wild wantonness seemed to possess the
+boy. He would destroy everything upon which he could lay his hand, or
+tear along recklessly over the rugged walls and dangerous precipices on
+which the Castle stood, where a single false step would have dashed him
+to pieces on the rocks beneath. If his mother tearfully besought him to
+return to her, he would burst into loud fits of laughter, and shriek
+until the very sea-birds flew affrighted from the spot.
+
+When these strange paroxysms seized him, Bragela found that nothing had
+the least effect upon her wayward child save music. It was wholly by
+accident she first discovered the soothing charm of melody on his
+turbulent nature.
+
+One day, after watching his wild antics till her very heart grew sick
+within her, she re-entered the hall wearied and discouraged. Gradually
+consoling herself as she remembered how often the young rebel had come
+down in safety from his perilous haunts, she drew to her the harp, her
+father's gift in days of yore, which in all her wanderings she had
+carried with her. Striking chord after chord on its well-worn strings,
+she at length began to mingle her sweet voice with its thrilling tones.
+She sang of her childhood's happy home, and her tenderly-loved father,
+of the still beloved though faithless Valbiorn, of the perils they had
+together undergone, of the blissful hours she had once enjoyed when the
+fierce warrior forgot everything save her gentle strains, and lay
+entranced at her feet drinking in every word, and whispering in ardent
+tones that "her voice was as that of the angels in heaven."
+
+She would have sung on of sorrow and forlorn solitude, but voice and
+heart alike failed her. Clasping her arms around her cold harp, the
+forsaken Bragela bowed her head on its shoulder and wept aloud.
+
+But a little rough hand was laid upon her neck. "Mother, mother,"
+whispered her boy; "you must not weep, you are not forlorn or lonely,
+for I am here to care for you, and to protect you."
+
+Surprised and touched, Bragela turned to look upon the child. The wild
+light had died out of his eyes, and in its place shone through those
+brilliant orbs the tender protecting instinct of his sex. He drew
+closer to her, and pressing his little curly head on her soft bosom, he
+murmured, "I am sorry, mother dear; forgive me this time."
+
+Poor Bragela gladly folded the young truant to her heart. Henceforward
+she derived unspeakable comfort from this new influence over his
+boisterous spirit. For his sake she cheerfully resumed the art she had
+deemed laid aside for ever. When the wild fit again and again returned
+upon her boy, she would even carry her harp into the outer court. There
+inuring herself, with all a mother's courage, to behold without
+shuddering his maddest freaks, by her sweet singing and playing she
+gradually lured him to her side, and awakened his better self.
+
+These happy days, however, could not continue for ever. Eudæmon's
+mother had gone through too many trials, and was of too tender a nature
+to endure such grief with impunity. There came a time when the gentle
+Bragela laid down her wearied head to rest; her dim eye kindled not
+with affection when her terrified boy bent over her, her cold hand for
+the first time gave him no responsive caress. Her sorrows were over,
+but loud and long were the lamentations of her child; thus left alone
+with one poor old man and his faithful dog Luachan.
+
+At dead of night strange lights and sounds arose about that rugged
+dwelling. Watchers at a distance beheld the lonely castle enveloped in
+fiery smoke. Amid the wreathing vapours a figure of unearthly
+proportions carried to the sea a white-robed form with long flowing
+hair. The repentant Valbiorn, too late to save, or even to hold
+converse with his neglected Bragela, bore to his immortal home her
+precious remains. There he was able by his magic skill to endow her
+inanimate body with the semblance of life. He mournfully placed the
+beautiful image in the vaulted halls of Thuisto, where he could for
+ever gaze on the fatal beauty that had brought such misfortune on its
+possessor.
+
+Valbiorn tried every art to persuade his son to accompany him; but
+before her death Bragela had warned her child of the cruel nature of
+the sea-kings. She told him of her humble trust that notwithstanding
+her early disobedience (so heartily repented of), her soul might ascend
+to heaven, and though the still heathen Valbiorn could take her body,
+yet she felt her spirit would be safe with Him who gave it.
+
+She explained to Eudæmon that if he came under his dread father's
+influence, the sea-king and his wild companions would strive their
+utmost to make him forget and neglect her careful instructions. She
+entreated him to be steadfast in his resistance to temptation,
+prophesying that eventually he might even have the great happiness of
+rescuing his father from the darkness of heathendom; if only he lived
+on in faith and simplicity, serving his unseen but all-powerful Maker,
+studying the books she left him, and endeavouring as best he might to
+help the poor ignorant Highlanders around.
+
+The crafty Valbiorn finding all his endeavours powerless to persuade
+Eudæmon to quit his abode of safety, resolved to destroy his
+disobedient son and his refuge at the same time. But here the loving
+mother's foresight helped in the preservation of her child. Among the
+other treasures carried by the fugitive Bragela to Castle Brochel, were
+some fowls of the famous breed first reared by the witch Fantunina,
+which by their watchfulness are able to protect their possessors from
+the powers of evil.
+
+Night after night, therefore, when the emissaries of the baffled
+sea-king strove to destroy the Castle by fire, the magic cock, ever on
+the alert, flapped his wings and loudly proclaimed the approach of
+danger. Then Eudæmon arising from his lonely couch, wrestled in silent
+prayer until the first faint streaks of daylight in the eastern sky
+showed him that night's dominion was over. Thus baulked of his prey,
+Valbiorn withdrew in a terrible tempest to Thuisto, nor did his son
+again hear of him for many and many a long day.
+
+A considerable period elapsed, during which Eudæmon grew apace in
+stature and in knowledge. He not only studied the many books of magic
+lore left to him, but he also learnt marvellous lessons from Nature
+herself. In his lonely isolation he had leisure to attend to what our
+common mother is ready to teach us all, would we but tarry awhile in
+our busy lives and hearken to her still small voice.
+
+Separated by his birth and dwelling-place from mankind in general,
+Eudæmon strove to benefit the few he could befriend. The island people,
+as a rule, rarely beheld him. But in sickness or trouble they ever
+turned (tremblingly, it is true) to the Castle gate, where they waited
+while the trusty Donald apprised his master of the presence of the
+suppliants without.
+
+Strange cures were wrought by the simple remedies Eudæmon compounded
+from the various herbs and minerals his mother had shown to him, or
+with which his studies had rendered him familiar. To seek these herbs
+at a propitious time, the youth issued from the Castle at dead of
+night, with his faithful Luachan, and traversed the hills till break of
+day, when, wearied, and full of sleep, he often, on his return, passed
+the daylight hours in repose.
+
+He was, moreover, a keen and unerring marksman, swift and sure of foot,
+and of iron nerve. The shuddering Highlanders sometimes marked his
+eager pursuit of the wild goats, which at that time abounded in the
+island. Master and hound seemed alike dauntless and fearless in the
+chase, and whether from his early love of climbing, or from his mixed
+descent, it is hard to say, but it is very certain that Eudæmon and his
+dog were often seen scrambling across the beetling crags that overhung
+the sea, in places where no human foot has trodden before or since. He
+and Luachan also knew where the golden eagle built her eyrie. He even
+caught and tamed a young nestling, which loved Castle Brochel as its
+home, and would only feed from her master's hand. With Donald's
+assistance moreover he had constructed a rude boat, in which they went
+forth occasionally to seek a portion of their subsistence by fishing.
+
+Passionately fond of companionship, and denied that of his own fellows,
+Eudæmon, by dint of long perseverance, collected around him a motley
+variety of animals. Tame seals lived on the rocks below his dwelling.
+In perfect security around and beneath the Castle walls roosted and
+nested a perfect colony of sea-birds. A little flock of goats amply
+supplied the three inhabitants with milk; while conies, blue hares,
+domestic fowls of various kinds, and last, but not least, serpents,
+from time immemorial the emblems of wisdom, throve and multiplied
+within the precincts or in close proximity to Eudæmon's home.
+
+In those remote times, it is not surprising that old Donald, with his
+queer, misshapen figure, and solitary glaring eye, his youthful master,
+so wise beyond his years, and even the poor collie Luachan, whose
+sagacity was far above the average, were one and all regarded with some
+degree of superstitious mistrust.
+
+It was said, that in the little turret chamber, highest in the Castle
+wall, from which at night streamed forth a ruddy ray of light, Eudæmon
+held converse with visitants from another world, and that many a storm
+was concocted and wafted abroad by their dark agency.
+
+While the young student strove anxiously to benefit the cases of
+sickness brought before him--sometimes, indeed, spending whole nights
+wrestling face to face with death, by the side of some poor peasant's
+bed--a few of the people were ungrateful enough to attribute his cures
+to magic art and to an unholy alliance with the powers of darkness.
+Some humble hearts, however, throbbed with responsive gratitude at the
+very mention of his name; and there was one mother who, though the King
+of Terrors had proved too powerful for his adversary's skill, never
+forgot the tear of sorrow that fell from the young man's eye, as, after
+long watching and many unavailing remedies, her bonnie bairn breathed
+out her innocent life in Eudæmon's arms.
+
+His fame was gradually bruited abroad, and as years rolled on he became
+widely known as "the Enchanter of the North."
+
+From all the surrounding districts the inhabitants flocked in boats to
+seek his advice. Fishermen asked for charms, to ensure a successful
+summer. Ere the sailors put to sea, they deemed themselves lucky if
+they could secure one of Eudæmon's so-called "amulets" against
+disaster. These were, in reality, small bags manufactured and sold (in
+private) by the one-eyed seneschal, whose master would have been sorely
+displeased, had he discovered the chaffering trade driven in "charms"
+by the cunning old man, who thus rivalled Gehazi of ancient times!
+
+Now it chanced that about this time there dwelt on the Lowland Borders,
+a King and Queen of Clutha, whose only daughter was afflicted with a
+terrible misfortune.
+
+The Princess Miranda was beautiful as the day. Her parents, who had
+long lived in the bonds of matrimony without possessing any children,
+felt inexpressible joy as they welcomed their sweet little girl into
+the world. Bells were rung and bonfires lighted upon all the hills on
+either side of the river Clutha, which ran through her father's
+domains. Everything went on propitiously, until, in an hour of woe, it
+was discovered that the infant Princess could not speak!
+
+This dire and unexpected calamity threw the whole Court, and indeed the
+nation at large, into deep distress. All, both high and low, heartily
+sympathized with the grief-stricken parents. Philosophers, astrologers,
+physicians, and wise women were each consulted in their turn; but all,
+alas! in vain. At last, in desperation, the unhappy parents even
+offered the hand and dowry of their daughter as a reward to any man who
+should be fortunate enough to set her tongue at liberty.
+
+Years rolled on. The King and Queen were disappointed in their hope of
+other offspring. Their feelings became more and more bitter, as they
+reflected on the confusion that would inevitably arise, should they
+die, and the dumb Miranda be called to the throne. They feared, with
+reason, that wicked men might take advantage of the Princess's helpless
+condition, and wrest the crown and kingdom from her hands.
+
+Ambassadors from many surrounding countries were attracted by the
+beauty of Miranda's portraits, carefully and widely disseminated by her
+prudent mother. One by one, however, these envoys disappeared, on
+finding that the beautiful Princess, though possessed of every other
+charm, was dumb.
+
+The King and Queen, to soften as far as possible their child's
+misfortune, gave orders that her play-mates and attendants were always
+to address her in writing. All at court were told to conceal from the
+Princess as much as possible the difference between her own condition
+and that of the maidens around her.
+
+The consequence of these ill-judged regulations was that the Court of
+Clutha became almost as silent as the grave. Even musical
+instruments--with the exception of the fife and the drum, necessary for
+military and state occasions--were completely banished from the
+precincts of the palace, to save the youthful Miranda from discovering
+what it was to be without a voice for singing or speaking.
+
+Under these circumstances it is not to be wondered at that foreign
+courtiers found King Murdoch's Court insufferably dull, especially as
+the lovely Princess, herself a prey to melancholy, spent the greater
+part of her time amid the wild moors and glens surrounding her father's
+castle, where at least she could uninterruptedly listen to the sounds
+of Nature. The sweet singing, or startled calls of the various birds,
+the rippling and murmuring of the rushing waters, the ceaseless humming
+of the insects, the sighing of the wind among the leaves and branches
+of the trees--each and all she heard and learnt to love.
+
+Among the ambassadors referred to there was one representing a Prince,
+whose ardour could not be checked by the Princess's cruel misfortune.
+
+Some short time before the period of which we speak, the King and Queen
+of Clutha, accompanied by their daughter, paid a visit to the Queen's
+sister, a powerful Princess in Ireland.
+
+Left early a widow, Queen Hildegonda had long since forgotten all the
+softer charms of womanly nature. Forced, when hardly more than a girl
+herself, to protect her infant son, Prince Eochy, the heir to his
+father's wide domains, from the continued assaults, not only of
+neighbouring chieftains, but also of rebellious and usurping subjects,
+she had become a very amazon. By her wise and judicious regency, she
+had secured a peaceful rule for her son. But when the time came for him
+to take his rightful place, the proud mother could not bring herself to
+resign the reins of power. Eochy, as effeminate and weak as his mother
+was masculine and daring, willingly yielded to her the responsibilities
+of government, and passed his life in idle poetical dreams and
+frivolous amusements.
+
+On Miranda's appearance, however, the susceptible Prince, as might have
+been expected, was captivated by his fair cousin's matchless beauty. In
+vain the maiden's parents bestowed upon Eochy their own approval. In
+vain the enamoured youth besought his mother to favour his suit.
+Hildegonda, inexorable and unyielding, declared that no dumb Queen
+should ever reign in Cashel, and commanded her son to retire to a
+distant province until his relatives had departed.
+
+Murdoch and his spouse lost no time in quitting with their daughter
+these inhospitable shores. When they once more reached home, they were
+roused by Hildegonda's insulting behaviour to attempt still more
+earnestly to unravel the cruel mystery that bound the lips of their
+beautiful daughter.
+
+In the meantime the hapless Eochy utterly failed to make any deep
+impression on his cousin's heart. He languished in all the misery of
+unrequited love, and continually breathed forth his lamentations in
+odes and poems such as this:--
+
+    "What though I be King of the Emerald Isle,
+      And my Court in its Castle with beauty be bright,
+    To me it were brighter by far could the smile
+      Of the one I remember but gladden my sight.
+
+    "Ah yes! I remember too faithfully yet
+      That evening and all its enchantment to me,
+    That silvery wreath I shall never forget,
+      That star-spangled Maiden from over the sea.
+
+    "I had gazed on the snow-mantled vale as it lay
+      In the silence of morning all spotless and white,
+    And I wished that unchanged the fair prospect would stay
+      To delight me, no sunset, no evening, no night:
+
+    "But the evening would come, and with evening a glow
+      So rosy and glorious and delicate shone,
+    Bright Phoebus, I vowed, must be wooing the snow,
+      And I envied the sweet bridal blush he had won.
+
+    "I had gazed on the ocean so calm and serene,
+      The breezes seemed hushed to be watching her sleep:
+    I whispered, could mortal imagine a scene
+      More sweet than the peacefully slumbering deep?
+
+    "But the sun shining forth, on a sudden there grew
+      Such a change, every ripple seemed laughing and glad,
+    Such a dazzling and glancing of golden and blue,
+      I wondered it e'er could seem slumbering or sad.
+
+    "Sweet, when I had met thee the charms were united,
+      The snow of that morn of that evening the glow
+    On thy cheek and thy brow,--Oh, I would they were plighted
+      To me, as they were 'twixt the sun and the snow!
+
+    "And the laughter of ocean I saw in thine eyes,
+      When a light from within had enkindled the flame,--
+    How I wished I knew what might be worthy the prize
+      Those fair joyous glances for ever to claim!
+
+    "Let them boast that the daughters of Erin are bright,
+      Let them sing their wild songs to the maids of Kildare;
+    I'll sing, and I'll sing till they own I am right,
+      There's a maiden in Scotland, a maiden more fair!"
+
+When Miranda received by special messengers these and other similar
+effusions from the love-sick Eochy, she conjured up before her mind's
+eye the sandy locks, the unmeaning grey eyes, the ungraceful lounging
+figure, and the good-natured but facile countenance of the effeminate
+young Prince. She smiled to herself as she contrasted him with the
+ideal hero of her imagination, sprung from the well-remembered tales of
+the dark impetuous sea-kings of the north.
+
+About this time the King and Queen heard of and resolved to consult the
+oracle at Cumbrae for their afflicted daughter. They hoped to gain from
+the shrine of the far-famed lion some insight into her dark destiny.
+
+After they had offered the richest gifts, and personally invoked its
+mysterious aid, the oracle returned the following enigmatical answer to
+their prayers, nor could the utmost entreaties gain from it any further
+explanation:--
+
+    "The Eagle that soared o'er Kyle Akin's swift strait,
+    Hath wooed and hath won the soft dove for his mate;
+    Affliction hath wearied affection to rest,
+    And cold is the heart in that mother's fond breast.
+
+    "The strange freaks of fate in one web have entwined,
+    What the Eaglet and maiden alone can unbind;
+    By chequered adventure, and music's soft thrill,
+    The compass shall aid in deliverance from ill.
+    Arise and speed northward, the prophet hath spoken,
+    Miranda's long silence by love shall be broken."
+
+Enquiries were at once set on foot regarding the mysterious "Eaglet"
+mentioned by the oracle. It was discovered that a certain Enchanter of
+the north named Eudæmon, was sometimes called "the Tamer of the Golden
+Eagle," and was indeed by some supposed to have been reared in an
+eagle's nest. The hopes of the afflicted parents rose high as they
+listened to the wondrous tales told of the great Enchanter's power.
+
+A gorgeous galley was forthwith prepared wherein the King and Queen
+with their daughter embarked, taking with them but a slender retinue,
+for it was rumoured that the wise man lived secluded from his fellows,
+and would not brook intrusion. A small flotilla to protect and watch
+over the royal vessel received orders to hover near, but on no account
+to come within sight of the wizard's castle, for fear of exciting his
+displeasure.
+
+The voyage was long and perilous. Autumn had already far advanced.
+Equinoctial gales lashed the western sea into swelling billows, so that
+after struggling with difficulty up the stormy sounds of Mull and
+Sleat, the galley containing the Princess and her parents, at length
+became separated from all her convoys and stranded on the western coast
+of Raasay. The King, Queen, and Princess barely escaped with their
+lives; their attendants also were saved, but the choice treasures
+intended to propitiate the Enchanter were carried by mermaidens as
+spoil to the palace of the sea gods.
+
+Drenched and perishing with cold, the unfortunate voyagers were rescued
+from the bleak shore, and hospitably entertained by the poor islanders,
+who little imagined that in these storm-beaten mariners they beheld the
+great King Murdoch, the wise Queen Margaret, and the unfortunate
+Princess Miranda.
+
+It is true that the Queen, with that prudence and forethought which
+occasionally guided her smaller actions, had caused her chief dresser
+to sew their three second-best Crowns into a small package, which was
+still attached to her belt and concealed by her dress, but with this
+exception (which seemed of little practical use), nothing remained to
+mark the exalted station of the royal wanderers.
+
+Great, however, was their satisfaction to find that they were
+shipwrecked on the _very_ island where the Enchanter of the North
+had his lonely abode. They made many enquiries concerning him, and
+heard that his actions were beneficent, and his cures almost certain.
+They were, nevertheless, warned by the islanders that nothing more
+excited his indignation than the presence of many people at his gate.
+He had, indeed, been known to refuse aid altogether to their comrades,
+who, from superstition or folly, had gone in numbers to beset the
+Castle entrance.
+
+It was now therefore customary among these simple yet considerate
+people, to convoy the suppliant within a short distance of Castle
+Brochel. They then remained waiting on the hill above, while their
+fellow descended and returned. So universal had this practice become,
+that a small shieling was gradually thrown together stone upon stone by
+islanders waiting on different occasions for some friend below; exposed
+for the time being to all the inclemency of that most variable climate.
+
+Here then the King and Queen waited while their beloved daughter
+(bearing with her the white and silver tablets by means of which she
+was wont to communicate with others) was told to present herself at the
+wicket-gate of the Castle. She was moreover given money wherewith to
+propitiate the much-dreaded Donald--the stern one-eyed guardian of the
+Enchanter's abode.
+
+It was one of those days in early November when the exquisite "Indian
+summer" sometimes casts a perfect halo of beauty over the "soft"
+north-western atmosphere of Scotland. The little group paused on the
+eminence immediately commanding the tall gaunt building below. In
+reality, the Castle top was above them; but to gain access to its
+portals, it was necessary to descend to a considerable depth, and then
+remount by a narrow cause-way to its frowning door.
+
+The afternoon sun gilded the turrets with golden radiance, beyond
+slumbered the blue rippling waters, calm and treacherous, giving no
+sign of their cruel strength. Far in the distance like faint clouds,
+lay the curving outline of the Highland hills, tipped with snow, and
+dimly visible as they blushed pink in the parting rays of the monarch
+of day.
+
+The last farewell spoken, and the afflicted child tenderly pressed to
+her parents' hearts; the gentle Miranda, with slow footstep, descended
+the fateful path.
+
+In the meantime Eudæmon, by his consultations with the stars (an art
+partly taught him by his mother, who had carried away for her child,
+when she escaped from Valbiorn's terrible dwelling, strange manuscripts
+of astrological and magic lore), had become aware of the impending
+visit of a being whose fate was mysteriously connected with his own.
+
+He was absorbed in abstruse calculations when Luachan, suddenly
+pricking up his ears, and impatiently scratching at the door, gave
+notice that some stranger approached the castle. On his master's
+unfastening the latch, the fleet animal made one bound, and disappeared
+down the narrow staircase, while the magician heard old Donald's
+querulous quavering tones raised high, as if to refuse admittance.
+Quick as thought Eudæmon sprang lightly after his dog, and entered the
+hall, where an astonishing sight greeted his bewildered eyes.
+
+A maiden of surpassing beauty had evidently made her way into the
+Castle when the seneschal was off his guard. She now stood irresolute
+in the centre of the apartment. Luachan, contrary to immemorial custom
+(for, as a rule, he was surly to strangers), gambolled around the
+beautiful unknown with extravagant gestures of affectionate welcome,
+while the one-eyed Donald, shaking in his hoary wrath, poured forth an
+incomprehensible flood of Celtic indignation.
+
+Eudæmon rushed forward, and signed to the old man to hold his peace,
+then turning to his fair visitant, he gently asked her will. Miranda,
+amazed to behold in the dreaded Enchanter no ancient, withered seer, no
+venerable prophet, as she had anticipated, but the dark-haired ideal of
+her wild dreams about the sea kings of the north, remained rooted to
+the spot, ashamed of her wilful intrusion and covered with burning
+blushes.
+
+Eudæmon gazed, like one entranced, on his mysterious guest. Her long
+golden tresses, and her exquisite beauty of feature and form, startled
+the recluse of the rock. At first he almost imagined her to be of
+angelic extraction; but her unmistakeable confusion betrayed mortal
+birth, and in bolder tones the Enchanter again requested her to make
+known her wishes.
+
+The Princess, seized with sudden terror, looked towards the door by
+which she had entered, but it was closed, and Donald stood before it,
+glaring at her angrily with his solitary orb. In her distress her hand
+involuntarily sought the tablets, where she now remembered that she
+herself had written the following explanatory lines, during her long
+and tedious journey from the south. With a bashful half-smile,
+therefore, she unclasped the ivory pages from her side, and timidly
+handed them to the Magician, who there beheld inscribed these lines.
+
+    "Hearken mighty seer, Eudæmon,
+    Tamer of the golden Eagle,
+    Aquila the golden Eagle,
+    Hearken, merciful Eudæmon,
+    Measurer of the raging tempest,
+    Of the unseen raging tempest,
+    Hearken to a lowland maiden,
+    To the silent maid Miranda
+    To the sad Princess Miranda.
+
+    "I am come from Clutha's waters,
+    From its distant tranquil waters,
+    Where through changing isles of sunshine,
+    Looms the ocean, where the west wind
+    Rustles through the matted foliage,
+    Or, with a delicious shiver,
+    Sweeps along the silver beeches.
+    I am come to sea-girt Raasay,
+    To the wave-washed island Raasay,
+    To the storm-swept, rugged Raasay,
+    I have braved Kintyre's wild headlands--
+    Braved its mountain-rising billows,
+    Braved dark Cory-Vreckan's whirlpool,
+    Braved the fortress of Artornish,
+    Braved the fabled Ardnamurchan,
+    Ship-engulfing Ardnamurchan,
+    Braved the blasts from Scuir-na-gillean,
+    But to plead with thee for succour,
+    Aid against the fell enchantment,
+    Terrible unknown enchantment,
+    Which hath bound my lips to silence--
+    Gloomy unresponsive silence.
+    Maidens' mouths were made for singing,
+    Song and laughter are their sunshine;
+    Cheering thus the world around them,
+    Wakening mirth with voice melodious.
+    Pity, then! oh, great Enchanter!
+    Pity the poor spell-bound Princess,
+    Silent, sorrowful, dumb maiden,
+    And with pity give assistance,
+    Read the tale she cannot tell thee,
+    Charm the woes no sighs can cure."
+
+Eudæmon perused the tablets with eager attention more than once, then,
+turning a keen, piercing eye on Miranda, he exclaimed.
+
+"Princess! I do not now hear of your misfortune for the first time. I
+knew that you and your parents were in search of me and of my castle.
+During my researches and observations I have discovered that the
+conjunction of stars at your birth left one unfavourable moment. This
+was taken advantage of by Valbiorn to avenge upon your innocent lips a
+grudge he owed to your father, having been, in days gone by, an
+unsuccessful suitor for your mother's hand.
+
+"By much careful study of the heavens I have ascertained that the
+enchantment can only be dissolved by my aid and that under very
+difficult conditions. Rest assured, however, that no effort on my part
+shall be wanting to set you free. But," continued Eudæmon, bending low
+before Miranda, "will your parents consent to remain under my humble
+roof a while, since what we must go through together will take days, if
+not weeks, to accomplish?"
+
+The Princess joyfully clasped her hands, and while tears of joy ran
+down her fair cheeks at the prospect of deliverance, she inclined her
+head over and over again, to intimate that her parents would thankfully
+accept Eudæmon's welcome invitation.
+
+The Enchanter now offered his hand to Miranda, and while Luachan
+testified his delight by bounding around them, led her through the
+Castle gate and accompanied her in search of the King and Queen. With
+all the unreasonableness of human nature, these potentates advancing to
+meet them, half expected to hear their daughter already speaking. They
+graciously accosted Eudæmon, however, and anxiously listened to his
+explanations.
+
+It was finally arranged that the Queen and her daughter, with their
+solitary waiting-maid, (much to Donald's disgust), should be installed
+in a part of the Castle now never used, but where were still to be
+seen, when the doors were unlocked, the last traces of the gentle
+Bragela's feminine occupations. The islanders cheerfully lent what aid
+they could, and King Murdoch with his attendant was permanently fixed
+in the small shieling on the hill. It was impossible to accommodate him
+in the Castle, for though lofty, its proportions were narrow and
+cramped. Except to sleep therefore he very seldom left the precincts of
+Eudæmon's dwelling.
+
+For several days and nights the Enchanter shut himself up alone in his
+high turret, examining dusty old volumes, and reading the heavens, by
+the aid of an instrument he himself had constructed. At the end of that
+time he emerged from his solitary chamber, descending with eager rapid
+step to join his guests at their evening meal. He bore under his arm a
+small box and a piece of board roughly marked in squares of two
+colours. His dark features wore an expression of anxious excitement.
+
+No sooner had the last traces of the repast been cleared away than
+Eudæmon placed his board upon the table. Opening the box he then
+displayed to the Princess's delighted gaze a number of little men of
+various sizes and shapes. These were in fact neither more nor less than
+a set of chessmen which he had laboriously carved in wood with his own
+hands, and stained in two different colours, having ascertained the
+mode of using them from the careful study of ancient manuscripts.
+
+Long before the Princess Miranda appeared in Raasay, Eudæmon had known
+and pondered over the mystic answer returned to her parents by the
+Cumbrae oracle. He diligently sought among his mother's ancient volumes
+of magic lore for some solution of the phrase "chequered adventure." At
+length he came upon the description of the ancient game of chess
+illustrated by rough drawings.
+
+His attention was at once arrested by discovering that this game must
+be played upon a "chequered" board. After careful research he finally
+resolved to make the trial. It took him, however, a considerable time
+to fashion the various pieces from the old pictures he possessed.
+
+The Princess, her countenance lit up with curiosity and interest, was
+soon seated at the little table opposite the Enchanter. Several
+evenings were spent in teaching her the various moves of the different
+pieces, and explaining to her the rules of the game.
+
+Eudæmon was fully aware that only one hour during the twenty-four was
+available for the purpose of disenchantment.
+
+Some evenings later the King and Queen, already grown somewhat sleepy,
+nodded drowsily in their chairs. The faithful Luachan lay between his
+master and the fair young guest, whose bright eyes gleamed with
+unwonted animation. Then the dark Enchanter arising from his seat
+trimmed the torch above their heads, and prepared, at midnight, to play
+in earnest the mystic game, so fraught with meaning to the afflicted
+Princess.
+
+Miranda sat in an old-fashioned chair of curiously carved wood. Her
+white dress and her fair tresses reflected the flickering light, thus
+giving some brightness to the lofty hall, whose gloomy proportions were
+but partially revealed by the blazing fire and the fitful glare of the
+torch. The most profound silence reigned in the chamber, only broken by
+the cheerful crackling of the firewood or an occasional snore from the
+slumbering King.
+
+Fully instructed in the moves by Eudæmon during the previous nights,
+the Princess and the Enchanter played an interesting game. He had cast
+aside his long upper robe of black velvet and showed the tightly
+fitting red under-suit which set off his active form to greatest
+advantage. He placed himself on a somewhat ricketty "creepie," for the
+unwonted number of guests had used up all his available chairs. As he
+bent eagerly forward the ruddy light fell on his swarthy face, and his
+small closely cropped, though curly black head. His burning eyes fixed
+alternately on the game, and on his silent opponent, seemed to pierce
+through all they surveyed.
+
+The hour wore on, they exchanged several pieces. Eudæmon then moving a
+bishop, placed his antagonist's king in "check." He uttered the
+prophetic word. Miranda, thoroughly absorbed, took up her King, and was
+about to place him within range of her enemy's Queen. The Enchanter
+gently motioned her hand aside, pointing to his own piece in
+explanation.
+
+At this moment Miranda broke into such silvery peals of laughter, that
+Luachan, affrighted, sprang barking from his resting place. Eudæmon in
+his surprise and delight moved suddenly and upset the whole board
+incontinently on the floor, ruining the game. Queen Margaret starting
+up, rushed across the hall. She first held her child at arm's length as
+if to examine into and convince herself of her identity, then clasping
+her tightly to her heart, shed tears of gladness over her laughing
+daughter. It was indeed evident that the "chequered adventure" had
+fulfilled its mission, and broken the first link in the silent
+Miranda's chain of enchantment.
+
+The excited parents knew not how to express their feelings of
+gratitude, but listened in wondering astonishment to Miranda's ringing
+peals of laughter, as, enraptured with her newly gained accomplishment,
+she danced round the hall, accompanied by Luachan, who vied with her in
+gambols of ecstatic joy. Eudæmon had never before beheld anything more
+graceful than the young Princess appeared to him in all her unconscious
+beauty of movement.
+
+Inspired by a sudden desire to emulate and join in her mirthful steps,
+he stretched forth his hand as she passed him; she swiftly caught it,
+and drew him merrily on; thus maid, master, and dog together paced a
+wild impromptu measure of delight.
+
+Donald, hastening in to ascertain the cause of this unusual commotion,
+gazed around, rubbed his solitary eye, and looked again and again.
+Where was the gloomy Eudæmon, the dreaded Enchanter of the North? The
+youth heretofore so staid and reserved now flushed and laughing,
+pirouetted round the bewildered old man with the smiling maiden.
+Together they clapped their hands at his amazement.
+
+But now the Queen, with the dignity of manner that she well knew how to
+assume, bade her daughter remember who and what she was. Forgetting her
+late gratitude to their benefactor, she swept haughtily from the
+apartment, followed by her husband and her unwilling child. Miranda's
+pleading eyes, however, gave Eudæmon the thanks he most cared to
+receive, and entirely obliterated from his mind all thought of
+resentment against her uncertain parents. At the same time he
+determined to take no further steps until the King and Queen themselves
+again spoke of their daughter's affliction.
+
+Several days elapsed. The character of the Castle was completely
+changed. The hitherto hermit like Eudæmon felt impelled to try and
+elicit again those silvery peals of laughter that rang on his ear with
+such a curious thrill of pleasure. Nor was he unsuccessful in his
+efforts. Again and again the old walls re-echoed with the welcome
+sound. The Enchanter himself felt once more a boy as he played long
+games of chess with Miranda, or pointed out to her his numerous pets
+and their diverse habits. The Princess, however, was admonished to keep
+carefully within her mother's sight; she wast herefore unable to
+scramble with him as he wished among the wild hills and cliffs around.
+
+But the time flew swiftly by, and at length one morning the King and
+Queen craved an audience of their young host. Laying aside all traces
+of their late assumption of majesty they humbly entreated him to strive
+to work out still farther their daughter's cure.
+
+Eudæmon listened in silence, fixing on them his piercing dark eye,
+until they moved uneasily beneath his searching glance. "I am esteemed
+worthy to aid in your child's disenchantment," he answered sternly,
+"but am too much beneath her in your eyes to tread with her the mazy
+measures of the dance, or to join in her everyday pursuits."
+
+King Murdoch and his wife eagerly disclaimed any idea of making so
+ungenerous a return for his kindness. At length Eudæmon (who completely
+saw through their shallow minds, and only spoke to obtain more freedom
+for their daughter) promised to continue his lucubrations.
+
+That evening for the first time since her death, he drew from a deep
+recess the dust-covered harp that had once quivered in responsive
+melody beneath the musical touch of his fair young mother. Miranda and
+the Queen curiously examined the quaint instrument, and helped to
+disentangle and divest it of its broken strings. Eudæmon, who had often
+studied its mechanism, brought forth new strings he himself had
+manufactured, and showed Miranda where and how they should be placed.
+
+Several evenings passed in putting the harp to rights, then the
+Princess under Eudæmon's magical tuition strove to place aright upon it
+her slender fingers. Morning, noon, and night Miranda strove to play
+the melodies that ever floated before her mind's eye as sung to her by
+Eudæmon, who placed beside her scrolls, on which the words of the songs
+were written out.
+
+One of them ran thus:
+
+    Thou speak'st of to-morrow, yet seemest to sigh,
+    And something there gleams like a tear in thine eye,
+    But though the sweet days of our converse are o'er,
+    The friendship that binds us shall cease nevermore.
+
+    When music entrancing shall steal on thine ear,
+    And songs shall be sung thee thou lovest to hear,
+    Oh, may one wild note of my harp seem to thrill,
+    And recall to thee one who remembers thee still.
+
+    And ever amid the dark shadows of life,
+    When faint from the battle or weary with strife,
+    Ah! then shall arise like the sun through a shower,
+    The remembrance of all we have felt in this hour.
+
+    When moonlight around thee shall flood the pale sea,
+    May thoughts of the north come like visions to thee,
+    And remind thee of hours when we once used to stray,
+    By the ocean's dark verge at the close of the day.
+
+    Roll onwards, roll onwards, thou swift flowing Clyde,
+    Yet may our loved friends ne'er resemble thy tide,
+    But changeless and steadfast look back through long years,
+    To the parting that left us in silence and tears.
+
+This song, which Eudæmon had himself composed, and set to an old tune,
+was an especial favourite of Miranda's. She made the Enchanter sing it
+over again and again; though, strange to say, the master who taught her
+fair hands to stray over the harp, could not himself draw one sound
+from its capricious chords. The Princess, however, soon became enabled
+to accompany all his songs, every day she learnt some new, and to her
+more entrancing, melody. For it will be remembered that her parents had
+hitherto, through mistaken affection, carefully kept all music from her
+knowledge.
+
+The black and gold harp, which Eudæmon and Miranda had together tuned
+and restored, formed a beautiful contrast to the white flowing robes
+and the fair arms of the young Princess. Her long tresses bound only by
+the pale blue snood of the Scottish maiden, waved around her. As she
+raised her eyes to watch every motion of Eudæmon's mouth, she gave one
+the idea of an inspired being, from whose very finger-tips emanated the
+soul of melody. Thus they often sat late into the night, drinking in
+sweet sounds, and poring together over poor Bragela's old manuscripts.
+Meanwhile Miranda's parents, closely guarding as they thought their
+precious daughter, hardly suspected that, while engaged in finding a
+tongue, she might hopelessly lose her heart.
+
+At last, one evening Eudæmon for the hundredth time sang again that
+verse beginning
+
+    When music entrancing shall steal on thine ear.
+
+Just as he reached the end, Miranda suddenly, as if by an irresistible
+impulse, opened her lips. With wonderful pathos, and in a voice which
+seemed to the young man the sweetest that could sound on earth, she
+finished the line:--
+
+    Recall to thee one who remembers thee still.
+
+Amazed at her own daring, and astonished by her unwonted power, the
+fair songstress started blushing from her seat. In an uncontrollable
+burst of emotion she rushed weeping from the chamber. Queen Margaret,
+unable to believe it was her dumb child's voice she had heard give
+utterance to such melodiously thrilling notes, rose also from her
+chair, and cast an eager inquiring glance upon Eudæmon. Himself
+overcome with emotion, the Enchanter did not trust his voice to speak,
+but merely bowed his head; then, filled with yearning sympathy for the
+strangely-afflicted Princess, he opened the outer door of the hall, and
+hastily stepped forth on to the turreted court that overhung the shore.
+
+It was a night of exquisite beauty--the water, calm as a mirror,
+stretched its dark amplitude between the solitary watcher and the far
+mainland of the Ross-shire hills. Orion, in all his resplendent
+grandeur, sparkled before him, and seemed in silent majesty to rebuke
+the feverish turbulence of the Enchanter's too human heart. High and
+cold above his head the silver crescent moon travelled dreamily across
+the vaulted heaven, and, as if to remind Eudæmon of her presence, cast
+her glittering likeness into the deep ocean's embrace, far below his
+feet. One by one, in gentle crashing cadence, the tiny wavelets broke
+beneath the Castle wall.
+
+Insensibly soothed and quieted by nature's wondrous charm, the
+philosopher leant his burning head upon his hands, and absently gazed
+seawards.
+
+Suddenly the casement above was thrown violently open, and Queen
+Margaret, in terror-stricken accents, besought his speedy aid.
+
+He re-entered the hall. It was empty and desolate, the torch was
+extinguished, the fire flickered low upon the hearth. He heard a
+confused murmur of voices, and recognised Luachan's muffled howl of
+distress in the distance.
+
+Following the sounds, he hastened up the narrow stair, and found a
+sorrowful group at the door of the room set apart for the Queen and her
+daughter. Pressing past Murdoch and Donald, and angrily motioning to
+Luachan to be silent, the Enchanter himself uttered a cry of anguish as
+his eye fell upon Miranda's death-like form. Stretched upon the rude
+bed, with her dishevelled tresses tangled around her pale face, on
+which were still the traces of tears, the poor Princess looked as if
+she had for ever closed her eyes to mortal scenes.
+
+On Eudæmon's entrance, the unhappy mother rushed towards him,
+exclaiming, "Save her, save her! restore our darling; all shall be as
+you wish, if but you bring her back to life!" A deep red flush mounted
+to the Enchanter's very temples as the Queen, fervently pressing his
+hand, whispered these words, fraught with so much meaning, into his
+willing ear. But he needed no promised guerdon to urge him to his
+labour of love.
+
+Kneeling beside the low couch, he vainly chafed Miranda's ice-cold
+hands. He listened over her heart--not even the feeblest flutter
+rewarded his strained attention. He placed a tiny polished tablet over
+her parted lips; its surface remained clear and unsullied by mortal
+breath. A sudden thought struck terror to his soul. He turned a keen
+glance on the mother's face; her eye fell before his; a guilty blush
+suffused her cheek. "You have forgotten my earnest charge," he cried,
+"and now it may be too late to save your child."
+
+At this moment the magic cock was heard through the open casement
+crowing loudly in the castle yard. Eudæmon flew to the window and
+anxiously peered into the night. Right above his head, and
+threateningly suspended directly over the Castle, was a meteor of
+unwonted size and brilliancy. He fell on his knees where he stood, and
+stretching forth his arms silently implored Heavenly protection against
+the powers of evil. Again and again the ball of fire grew lurid and
+glowing, as though it were about to descend and bury them beneath
+burning ruins, but each time Chanticleer's warning voice sounded
+cheerfully near at hand, and at length the red globe, with a loud
+hissing noise, fell prone and harmless into the dark ocean depths.
+
+Relieved from the pressing danger without, Eudæmon now turned to the
+sorrow within.
+
+Since the appearance of the Royal wanderers upon the island, he had
+held many private conversations with the Queen concerning her
+daughter's disenchantment.
+
+The anxious mother over and over again informed him that the dearest
+object of their heart, in seeking to free their child from the spell
+which bound her, was that Miranda should be united in marriage with
+some powerful monarch, who would aid her, in due time, to rule over her
+own somewhat troublous kingdom of Clutha.
+
+She little knew that Eudæmon was intimately acquainted with their past
+history, nor did she suspect that he was aware of the vow made by
+herself and King Murdoch in bygone days. Wearied by vain endeavours to
+accomplish their daughter's disenchantment, they had then solemnly
+bound themselves by an oath to bestow Miranda's hand on the man who
+should succeed in releasing her spell-bound voice.
+
+During the long years which had elapsed since Bragela's death,
+Valbiorn's hard heart had gradually softened towards her only child. He
+knew of the promised reward. From afar he watched with keen suspicion
+the movements of the King and Queen. He foresaw that Eudæmon would love
+Miranda, if fate brought them together. For his sake he resolved to
+help the Princess, but, at the same time, he determined that the gift
+of speech should only be restored to render her a more fitting bride
+for his son.
+
+When, therefore, the young Enchanter retired to his turret chamber, he
+often held secret interviews with his dread father, and succeeded in
+gaining a pledge of assistance from Valbiorn. But Eudæmon feared that
+if his vindictive parent once suspected Queen Margaret's intentions, he
+would not only refuse his aid altogether, but would become her
+deadliest foe.
+
+Before the King and Queen set sail for the Highlands, she had resolved
+that their solemn oath should be buried in oblivion. She satisfied her
+conscience by lading their ship with precious gifts destined for the
+propitiation of the Enchanter.
+
+Had Eudæmon been the ancient prophet she thought he was, he would
+probably have accepted golden rewards with delight. The treasures,
+however, never reached the island; they were engulfed in the stormy
+ocean.
+
+As soon as Miranda's mother saw Eudæmon, she perceived that his deep
+interest in her fair daughter might be turned to good account. She
+persuaded her husband to leave the matter in her hands, priding herself
+upon her powers of negociation.
+
+Feeling instinctively the young man's innate delicacy of mind, the wily
+Queen took good care to enlist his sympathies for her afflicted child.
+At the same time she continually alluded to Miranda's exalted station,
+tacitly ignoring the possibility of a suitor for her hand whose
+pretensions were less than royal.
+
+Eudæmon was wont to listen to her words with respectful courtesy,
+though occasionally his skill in necromancy stood him but in poor
+stead, when his rebel heart sent a crimson glow over his dark features.
+Still he invariably replied in measured tones that his own desires
+perfectly coincided with those of the maiden's parents; that his chief
+wish was to promote the welfare and happiness of the young Princess,
+and to render her any assistance in his power.
+
+Latterly, however, during the long hours spent at chess, in rambling
+about the Castle and its precincts, or in singing and playing over the
+harp, the good Queen's heart misgave her, and she took the somewhat
+bold step of directly warning her benefactor and host against engaging
+her daughter's affections.
+
+Notwithstanding his powers of self-control, Eudæmon had to pause a
+moment and curb the hasty impulse of anger, ere he answered in low,
+husky tones,
+
+"Madam, for your child's sake, I have embarked upon the perilous
+undertaking of striving to free her from the well-woven spell which for
+nineteen long years has bound her lips to silence, and cast a blight
+over her young life.
+
+"The Princess Miranda's happiness is at stake. I persevere, therefore,
+in my endeavours to aid her. Absorbed, however, in a struggle to the
+death with the dread powers of darkness, I have now little time to
+regard her in any other light but that of the ill-fated victim of
+enchantment. I will, nevertheless, warn you that your child is
+innocence itself. Her spirit must inevitably be sorely tried during
+coming events, and very little more might serve to unhinge her mind.
+Take heed, therefore, that you suffer no word of what has passed
+between us to reach her unsuspecting ears.
+
+"I have no desire to interfere with the brilliant destiny you have
+mapped out for your daughter, or to tempt her to disobey her parents.
+
+"But though you ignore the vow you took upon yourself in less hopeful
+days, it is remembered by one who never forgets. Within and around this
+Castle exists an invisible agency; nor can what passes here be kept
+from the knowledge of a mightier power than mine.
+
+"More I dare not say. I have no wish to stand before you as a
+suppliant. For the present, I pray you only to remember that you are my
+honoured guests, and that my time and my thoughts are alike devoted to
+your service."
+
+As he spoke, the excited and wounded Enchanter drew himself to his full
+height. Indignant lightning flashed from his eyes, controlled passion
+vibrated in his voice.
+
+The Queen, frightened and conscience-stricken, gazed bewildered upon
+Eudæmon, as, with an abrupt reverence, he turned and quitted her
+presence. For many hours he disappeared from the neighbourhood of the
+Castle, and several days elapsed before he regained his wonted
+equanimity of bearing.
+
+On this eventful night, therefore, the young Seer heard with mingled
+feelings the terrified mother's significant words. But there was now no
+time for further explanation. When the threatened attack from without
+had been warded off, the Enchanter turned from the turret window and
+exclaimed, "Away with you all; you must quit this chamber and leave me
+alone with the maiden and her mother, if it be not already too late to
+attempt to restore her ebbing life."
+
+Thereupon he strode to the threshold, and assuming an air of majesty
+they had never before remarked, he waved them in silence from the
+apartment.
+
+No sooner had they all quitted the room, than Eudæmon drew the bolt
+across the door, and approaching the Queen, who hung weeping over her
+lifeless daughter, he thus sternly addressed her:--
+
+"You have neglected my warning, and by your heedless words have
+awakened a fresh struggle in the breast of this sorely tried child.
+There remains but one chance of recalling her gentle spirit from the
+Valley of the Shadow of Death. But be assured, proud Queen, that
+though, for the sake of the Princess herself, I now lay bare before you
+the inmost secret of my heart; yet she shall never know, until she
+hears the truth from your lips, that for her alone that heart shall
+beat through time and through eternity."
+
+So saying, the young Enchanter drew near Miranda's prostrate form. He
+threw himself on the floor beside her couch, and seizing her resistless
+hands, wildly pressed them in his own. Tenderly and reverently he
+addressed the insensible maiden in tones and words of fondest
+endearment. For long it seemed as though even the electric thrill of
+mortal love was powerless against the magic swoon into which the
+Princess had fallen on hearing for the first time her mother's strange
+accusing words.
+
+At last Eudæmon (who held her hand in his as he fervently prayed for
+her restoration to life) fancied he perceived a feeble movement. He
+arose, and earnestly imprinting on his memory those features so sacred
+to him in their helpless repose, he retired to the window and there
+continued his prayer.
+
+Meanwhile Miranda, quivering back to consciousness, imagined she heard
+a familiar voice addressing her in the wild tones of a passionate love
+hitherto unknown. A strange new pain shot into her innocent soul, and
+awoke her once more to play her part in this world's theatre.
+
+She slowly opened her eyes, and looked around. By the light of the
+feeble lamp she gradually became aware of Eudæmon's presence, as he
+knelt near the open casement, through which faintly glimmered the first
+signs of approaching dawn. She stirred uneasily on her couch. The
+Enchanter arose from his answered prayer. Stepping across the chamber,
+he opened the door to the impatient watchers without. Before Queen
+Margaret could recover from her astonishment, or could indeed realize
+that her child was safe, Eudæmon was gone. He went out silently as the
+others entered. Calling Luachan, he departed thence with his faithful
+dog, to seek amid the solitudes of nature that peace which at present
+was denied him by his wildly throbbing bosom.
+
+Many days elapsed before the Princess, shaken and confused by all she
+had gone through, again descended the stairs and approached once more
+the fated harp. From the moment in which her feelings had found vent in
+song, and escaping from the hall she had sought relief from tears in
+her lonely chamber, all seemed like a dream. Her mother's reproaches on
+discovering her strange agitation, her deep swoon, and the words she
+thought she had heard as she woke, each and all were regarded by her as
+the creatures of her own too vivid imagination.
+
+Queen Margaret, already forgetting her renewed promises, and fondly
+caressing her child, never recurred to the past. The Enchanter,
+entering as before with energy into all that concerned Miranda's
+interests, looked and moved to the awe-struck eyes of the simple
+Princess an exalted being, free from the weaknesses or restless
+anxieties of mortal love.
+
+Miranda's new power gave them all exquisite pleasure. She herself found
+rich stores of unimagined delight, as she poured forth her growing
+aspirations in floods of song. Strange to say, it was in singing alone
+that she gave utterance to her feelings. No spoken word as yet could
+pass the enchanted barrier of her lips.
+
+A visible cloud sat upon Eudæmon's swarthy brow. He foresaw that
+Miranda's disenchantment could only be accomplished amid real dangers
+and difficulties, and his heart misgave him as he realized the faint
+trust that could be placed in the ready promises of the Queen.
+
+Day after day elapsed without further adventure, no allusion was made
+to the remarkable words that had fallen from Miranda's mother when she
+was overwhelmed by the immediate danger of her child.
+
+At length, one evening, after Miranda had retired weary to her couch,
+the young Seer set forth to her parents the only course to be pursued,
+if the Princess were ever to obtain the power of speech.
+
+He explained to them that far away, in the mysterious halls of Thuisto,
+there existed a wondrous compass, with which Miranda's fate was closely
+connected. He told them, moreover, that with the aid of magic he could
+introduce himself, the Princess, and her mother into the weird abode of
+the sea-kings.
+
+But to do this, and to escape in safety, silence and obedience were
+imperatively necessary. Before venturing on so serious a risk, he
+therefore solemnly entreated the Queen sooner to rest content with the
+partial disenchantment of her daughter, and to quit in peace his lonely
+abode, than to enter lightly upon this grave adventure. For when once
+within the enchanted precincts of Thuisto, if they transgressed ever so
+slightly, the rules laid down for their observance, they would draw
+down, not only upon himself--for which he little cared--but perchance
+upon Miranda, the fatal vengeance of the ever-watchful guardians of
+those submarine palaces.
+
+Again and again the eager mother promised, nay, even swore to obey his
+strict injunctions, urging him to make the attempt. At last, with heavy
+foreboding, Eudæmon prepared to encounter the dangers of the coming
+expedition.
+
+Miranda was told of the projected scheme. The Enchanter explained to
+her that in the submerged vaults of Thuisto she would probably first
+find the use of her voice in speech. He warned her, however, that she
+must endeavour to speak only when he bade her, and Queen Margaret was
+once more pledged to maintain strict silence.
+
+The eventful night arrived. The poor forsaken king and the disconsolate
+dog Luachan (too intelligent to move from the shore where his beloved
+master bade him remain and guard the stranger), together strained their
+eyes from the wild beach below Castle Brochel, as the little boat
+containing the travellers became a faint speck on the starlit sea.
+
+Eudæmon and the one-eyed Donald rowed their precious burden quickly on,
+until reaching a barren rock, the Enchanter sprang lightly on shore;
+carefully handing out Queen Margaret and her daughter, he then bade the
+old man row home to the Castle and return again for them at day-break.
+
+Hardly had the regular plash of Donald's retreating oars died away,
+before they became conscious that they were gradually sinking through
+the ocean. The broad, flat surface on which they stood afforded them
+ample footing, and though they heard, on either side, the swift rushing
+of the divided waters, not a drop touched them; not an oscillation
+disturbed their balance, as, supported and cheered by Eudæmon's
+friendly whispers, and fast clinging together, mother and daughter
+descended through the sea to unknown regions, enveloped in a darkness
+that might be felt.
+
+Mindful of her plighted word, the Queen uttered no sound, but she bore
+very heavily upon the young Enchanter's arm, keeping him in constant
+uneasiness. At length a blinding flash of light smote on their dazzled
+eyes; the downward motion ceased, and the stone on which they stood
+sank to its resting-place with a loud clang.
+
+As they became inured to the brightness, they beheld before, behind,
+around them on every side, as far as sight could reach, a vast
+labyrinth of arched and pillared cloisters, stretching into
+interminable distance, and lit by some mysteriously effulgent ray,
+which seemed to their bewildered gaze to proceed from the centre of a
+broader aisle, at one extremity of which they themselves stood.
+
+Eudæmon, motioning them to follow, trod slowly the echoing pavement,
+and advanced towards the distant focus of light.
+
+Now sounded forth music such as earthly ears have seldom heard. It was
+as if all the harmonies of water's various movements swelled into one
+indescribable wave of translucent melody, that penetrated soul and body
+with its enervating power. Relaxed in every fibre by this weird
+influence, Eudæmon with difficulty urged forward his drooping comrades.
+Prepared, however, to resist to the utmost the charms of witchcraft, he
+drew forth his magic horn, and its reviving fragrance quickly restored
+energy to their unstrung frames.
+
+Their interest also was freshly aroused by exquisite statues, which,
+almost endued with life, and perfect in colouring, seemed to smile on
+them from either side as they proceeded. They reached the circle whence
+emanated the diverging rays of light. Before them blazed a dazzling but
+empty throne. From its midst shone those awe-inspiring beams.
+
+Eudæmon uttered a low cry. There, beauteous as he remembered her in his
+boyhood's early days, but with a calm expression of perfect peace she
+had never worn during her child's lifetime, in a marble niche close
+beside the vacant seat, stood the lovely Bragela. Her long golden
+tresses rippled over her shoulders, her flowing robes half showed, half
+concealed her matchless shape, while her azure eyes, with their
+heavily-fringed lids, fell fixed and cold on the eager countenance of
+her son.
+
+A moment he paused, half expectant, dreaming that her loved spirit must
+awake and welcome him, but in that instant her last words flashed
+across his mind. He realized that Valbiorn's skill had only thus been
+able to immortalize the fair, soulless clay. He remembered once more
+why he had sought that dread abode, and he noted that Bragela's
+beautiful motionless hand pointed to a small amber pedestal, which at a
+few paces distant seemed to glow with lambent flame.
+
+He approached: upon its summit lay the object of his search, the magic
+compass of the sea-kings, potent to work weal or woe. Turning to
+Miranda, he gently drew her forward, and placed the timid maiden over
+against himself on the southern side of the mystic pillar.
+
+The whole of the magic compass quivered and shone with the appearance
+of red-hot metal, but Eudæmon whispered to the Princess that she must
+with a firm hand raise the needle from its place, and, turning towards
+the north, pronounce these words in an audible voice,
+
+    "As points the faithful needle to the pole."
+
+Miranda stooped trembling over the flaming altar, but with gentle
+courage she took the fiery needle in her hand; as she did so, she
+raised her eyes trustingly towards her guide, and moved a step nearer
+to him.
+
+Here in the enchanted palace of his fathers, surrounded by mysterious
+influences, and excited by the anticipated victory over Miranda's
+spell, the youth for once forgot his careful self-command. He also
+advanced, and stretched out his eager hands to bound the needle's
+range.
+
+In a low musical tone the Princess pronounced the fateful words; ere
+she finished, she leant insensibly forwards, and the needle almost
+touched the Enchanter's breast. Overcome with mingled emotions,
+Miranda, while she spoke, swayed visibly to and fro, and as if to
+support her, Eudæmon's arms fell on either side of her tottering
+figure.
+
+At this moment the Queen, terribly discomposed, and forgetting in her
+displeasure every solemn promise she had made, rushed forward, loudly
+crying, "Misguided girl!" but ere she could continue her sentence, a
+tremendous peal of thunder shook the ground beneath their feet, and
+vibrated around them. An intensely lurid ray of light darted athwart
+the heretofore empty throne. To Queen Margaret's unspeakable dread, she
+beheld indistinctly amid the dazzling beams an awful form enthroned in
+fire. A rushing noise filled her ears, she became insensible, and as
+she did so, she seemed to fall prone through interminable depths.
+
+                 *       *       *       *       *
+
+It was long before she recovered her consciousness, but at last she was
+aroused by the sound of sweet singing,
+
+    "I would I were a little bird,
+      To build upon his breast,
+    Or if I were a nightingale,
+      To soothe my love to rest.
+    To gaze upon his tender eyes,
+      All my reward should be,
+    For I love, I love, I love my love,
+      Because my love loves me."
+
+Opening her eyes with a shiver at the wild pathos of these tones, the
+Queen, by the chill bright light of the December sun, beheld her
+daughter, with Luachan beside her, seated on the beach of Raasay and
+twining pieces of damp sea-weed into her long hair.
+
+Queen Margaret raised herself from the ground, and drew her hand across
+her brow. What had happened?
+
+She herself lay on the grass close to the sea-shore; and near at hand
+Castle Brochel towered frowning into the morning sky. She called to her
+daughter. Miranda heeded not.
+
+But now the sound of oars was heard, one-eyed Donald roughly grated his
+boat on the shingle, and scrambling out, asked the Queen somewhat
+gruffly how she came there.
+
+Confused and distressed, she could give no satisfactory answer. Donald
+then recounted to her how he had been rowing for hours round and round
+the spot where they had landed the previous night, unable to discover
+any trace of the large flat rock on which they had disembarked. At last
+in despair he had returned to the Island.
+
+When he observed Miranda and her mother on the shore he expected also
+to see Eudæmon near at hand. Disappointed in this hope, he now
+continued, pointing inland with his long, skinny finger. "I wadna say
+but the maister is in the Castle itsel'."
+
+At this moment, however, the Princess approached them, singing, sadly,
+
+    "But should it please the pitying powers,
+      To call him to the sky,
+    I'll plead a guardian angel's charge,
+      Around my love to fly.
+    To guard him from all danger,
+      How happy I should be,
+    For I love, I love, I love my love,
+      Because my love loves me."
+
+As she sang, Luachan uttered a melancholy howl. The perplexed seneschal
+looked from one to another in silent amazement, then muttering to
+himself, "It's no unco canny for the beast to howl that gate," he
+hastened, as fast as his withered limbs would permit, up the steep
+ascent to the Castle gate.
+
+Meantime the Queen gazed fixedly on her daughter. What strange
+alteration had taken place in her beloved child? Those gentle blue
+eyes, wont to rest so placidly on all they surveyed, now restlessly
+turned from side to side, and never looked her straight in the face.
+Her busy fingers plucked nervously at the wet garlands she carried on
+her arms, and her lips moved ceaselessly, though no audible sound came
+from them.
+
+"Miranda, my love," said the anxious mother, "how came we hither?" A
+look of unutterable woe troubled the maiden's face. She drew from her
+bosom a golden needle, and holding it towards the north, she exclaimed,
+
+    "As points the faithful needle to the pole."
+
+Swinging the long slimy sea-weeds around her, she then suddenly gave a
+shrill laugh, and rushed up the castle hill, followed by Luachan, whose
+drooping ears and limp tail, seemed to the Queen's excited imagination
+prophetic of evil.
+
+Stiff and sore in every limb from her unusual exposure, Queen Margaret
+raised herself from the ground and toiled slowly up the steep ascent.
+
+Ere she reached the crest of the rocks upon which the Castle stood, the
+King came forth to meet her. In a terrible voice he cried--"What have
+you done to our child, to my darling Miranda?"
+
+Thoroughly overcome with fatigue and misery, the poor Queen burst into
+tears, and Murdoch forgetting for the moment all save his wife's
+uncontrollable emotion, soothed her as best he could, and led her into
+the Castle hall.
+
+Here she told her husband the strange events of the past night. She
+related their various adventures after Donald left them on the rock,
+and now, when too late, she bitterly lamented over her own hasty
+interference, and her imprudent words. She described how she had only
+time to perceive a being of noble and majestic mien seated on the
+previously empty throne. As his eye fell upon her she became
+unconscious, and could remember nothing more until she found herself on
+the beach at Raasay in the early morning.
+
+The hours of this melancholy day wore slowly on, but no Eudæmon
+appeared. At last, towards evening, they forced open the door of his
+little turret chamber--it was empty. All his books and instruments were
+gone; everything belonging to him or his mother had disappeared from
+the Castle. Even the harp itself, beside which so many pleasant
+evenings had been whiled away, was no longer there.
+
+The only things left, and upon these Miranda flew with eagerness, were
+the chess-board, the wooden men he had so patiently carved for her, and
+the box to contain them. For long hours the poor child would sit as in
+a dream, arranging and re-arranging the motley pieces, softly laughing
+to herself the while; for her mind was hopelessly gone.
+
+Eudæmon had never wholly disclosed the fact that when they entered the
+enchanted precincts of Thuisto, any infringement of the rules
+prescribed must re-act upon himself. In his unselfish devotion, he
+imagined that if he alone fell a victim to the powerful sea-kings, his
+beloved and her mother would be saved. Freed at last from enchantment,
+he trusted that the Princess and her parents would then live on as
+happily as if no forfeit had been paid for Miranda's deliverance.
+
+He fathomed not the unchanging love that had of late struggled into
+existence in the dreamy maiden's breast. In the terrible moment that by
+no fault of his own determined his fate, Eudæmon for once forgot his
+careful self-control, and clasped Miranda to his heart. In his dread
+father's presence he bade her a long farewell; he knew not that the
+sorrow of parting would overwhelm her gentle spirit, and break her
+tender heart.
+
+King Murdoch and his wife took their daughter by slow stages to her
+native country, hoping to benefit her by the change. But no following
+spring should ever re-kindle the roses in those waning cheeks--no
+mortal hand arrest the progress of decay. The faithful Luachan could
+not be separated from her, he was her constant comfort and playmate.
+
+There was a spot on the little Cumbræ where Miranda loved to sit and
+gaze across the Clyde's broad estuary to the blue hills of Arran.
+Perhaps their clear outline reminded her of the Cuchullins, as seen
+from Raasay. Perhaps being on an island, spoke to her of the halcyon
+past.
+
+Be that as it may, one day, towards evening, alarmed by her long
+absence, the attendants sought and found her here, cold and motionless.
+One arm was clasped around Luachan's neck, the other, faithful in
+death, still pointed the golden needle to "the true and tender north."
+
+They buried Miranda where she lay. On that far island you still may see
+the lonely tomb, beneath which the weary one is at rest, and drop,
+perchance, a tear over her untimely fate.
+
+Yes! They are united at last never more to part! Behold, in the regions
+of eternal peace, a youth divinely fair, a maiden serenely beautiful.
+Together they bow before the Almighty Ruler they served on earth, and,
+as they cast their golden crowns at his feet, the tongue of the dumb
+sings sweetly, "God is Love!"
+
+Castle Brochel was never more inhabited. Donald, a sincere mourner for
+his kind young master, could not bear to live by himself within its
+shadowy portals. He transferred what he needed to the shieling near at
+hand, and thence descending every day, kept all in readiness for the
+expected return of the youth he loved so well.
+
+But the old man watched in vain. He was gathered at last to his
+fathers. The lonely, neglected Castle fell into decay, and still,
+through following ages, the well-remembered Enchanter returned not, to
+awaken with his light springing footsteps the echoes of that deserted
+abode. Desolation and solitude spread their wings around its
+time-honoured precincts, and cast a halo of their own over its
+crumbling walls.
+
+    Break gently, ye wavelets, on Raasay's lone shore,
+    Eudæmon shall roam on your mountains no more.
+    As fragrance distilled by the cold air of night,
+    So Absence and Time shall bring forth to the light,
+    The deeds and the virtues of one without guile,
+    Whose genius and wisdom shed light o'er your isle.
+    Mourn wildly, ye seabirds!--all nature make moan!
+    His chamber is empty--his footsteps are gone.
+    He toiled unrewarded--no guerdon he sought,
+    As soothing relief to the weary he brought;
+    But the mother's soft tear, and the infant's glad cry,
+    The blessings of gratitude garnered on high,
+    Shall, e'en in his Home, 'mid the Regions of Light,
+    Add lustre untold to his coronal bright.
+
+
+THE END.
+
+
+  LONDON
+  R. CLAY, SONS, AND TAYLOR, PRINTERS,
+  BREAD STREET HILL.
+
+
+
+
+
+
+End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of Baron Bruno, by Louisa Morgan
+
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+<pre>
+
+The Project Gutenberg EBook of Baron Bruno, by Louisa Morgan
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org/license
+
+
+Title: Baron Bruno
+       Or, the Unbelieving Philosopher, and Other Fairy Stories
+
+Author: Louisa Morgan
+
+Illustrator: Randolph Caldecott
+
+Release Date: March 26, 2012 [EBook #39274]
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: UTF-8
+
+*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK BARON BRUNO ***
+
+
+
+
+Produced by Suzanne Shell and the Online Distributed
+Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net (This file was
+produced from images generously made available by The
+Internet Archive/American Libraries.)
+
+
+
+
+
+
+</pre>
+
+
+<div class="figcenter"><a name="frontis"><img src="images/001.jpg" alt="ESGAIR" width="387" height="550"></a></div>
+<p class="caption">ESGAIR.
+<br><i><small>Frontispiece.</small></i>
+</p>
+
+<br>
+
+<p class="fm1">
+BARON BRUNO;</p>
+
+<p class="fm4">
+OR,
+</p>
+
+<p class="fm2">
+THE UNBELIEVING PHILOSOPHER,
+</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter"><img src="images/fancy1.jpg" alt="And other Fairy Stories." width="444" height="64"></div>
+
+<br><br>
+<p class="fm3">
+BY
+</p>
+
+<p class="fm2">
+LOUISA MORGAN.
+</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter"><a name="title"><img src="images/logo.jpg" alt="Publisher's logo" width="202" height="273"></a></div>
+
+<br>
+<p class="fm3">
+<i>WITH ILLUSTRATIONS BY R. CALDECOTT.</i>
+</p>
+
+<br>
+<p class="fm4">
+London:<br>
+MACMILLAN AND CO.<br>
+1875.
+</p>
+
+
+<hr class="med">
+
+<p class="fm3">
+CONTENTS.
+</p>
+
+<table summary="Contents">
+<tr>
+<td class="txt">&nbsp;</td>
+<td class="pg"><small>PAGE</small></td>
+</tr>
+
+<tr>
+<td class="txt">BARON BRUNO AND THE STARS; OR, THE UNBELIEVING
+PHILOSOPHER</td>
+<td class="pg"><a href="#stars">3</a></td>
+</tr>
+
+<tr>
+<td class="txt">ESGAIR: THE BRIDE OF LLYN IDWYL</td>
+<td class="pg"><a href="#bride">49</a></td>
+</tr>
+
+<tr>
+<td class="txt">EOTHWALD: THE YOUNG SCULPTOR</td>
+<td class="pg"><a href="#young">91</a></td>
+</tr>
+
+<tr>
+<td class="txt">FIDO AND FIDUNIA</td>
+<td class="pg"><a href="#fido">115</a></td>
+</tr>
+
+<tr>
+<td class="txt">EUD&#198;MON; OR, THE ENCHANTER OF THE NORTH</td>
+<td class="pg"><a href="#north">199</a></td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+
+
+
+<br><br>
+<p class="fm3">
+LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS.
+</p>
+
+
+<table summary="List of illustrations">
+<tr>
+<td class="txt">&nbsp;</td>
+<td class="pg"><small>PAGE</small></td>
+</tr>
+
+<tr>
+<td class="txt">ESGAIR</td>
+<td class="pg"><a href="#frontis"><i>Frontispiece.</i></a></td>
+</tr>
+
+<tr>
+<td class="txt">VIGNETTE</td>
+<td class="pg"><a href="#title"><i>Title.</i></a></td>
+</tr>
+
+<tr>
+<td class="txt">"THE DREAMER STARTED FROM HIS CHAIR"</td>
+<td class="pg"><a href="#dreamer">8</a></td>
+</tr>
+
+<tr>
+<td class="txt">BARON BRUNO AND ALCYONE</td>
+<td class="pg"><a href="#bruno">22</a></td>
+</tr>
+
+<tr>
+<td class="txt">EOTHWALD AND DUVA IN THE CAVE</td>
+<td class="pg"><a href="#cave">102</a></td>
+</tr>
+
+<tr>
+<td class="txt">FIDO AND FIDUNIA</td>
+<td class="pg"><a href="#fidoand">123</a></td>
+</tr>
+
+<tr>
+<td class="txt">FIDO AND FIDUNIA</td>
+<td class="pg"><a href="#fidunia">170</a></td>
+</tr>
+
+<tr>
+<td class="txt">EUD&#198;MON</td>
+<td class="pg"><a href="#eudaemon">199</a></td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+
+
+<hr class="med">
+
+<a name="stars">&nbsp;</a>
+<p class="fm2">
+BARON BRUNO AND THE STARS;
+</p>
+
+<p class="fm4">
+OR,
+</p>
+
+<p class="ctr"><img src="images/fancy2.jpg" alt="The Unbelieving Philosopher." width="391" height="58"></p>
+
+
+<br>
+<p>
+Baron Bruno was the Prime Minister of the Hereditary Grand Duke of
+Rumpel Stiltzein. Besides being Prime Minister, he was the cleverest
+man in the kingdom. This is saying a good deal, for were there not
+(besides all the men of science, the physicians, the literati, and the
+great philosophers of the day) the General-in-Chief of the Grand-Ducal
+army, Prince Edlerkopf; the great High Almoner, Herr von Pfenig; and
+also the accomplished Graf von Wild Kranz, the most able lawyer and the
+politest man about court? So humble and gentle, indeed, were his
+manners, that strangers sometimes took it upon themselves to dispute
+the opinion of their modest neighbour. But such hardy persons seldom
+repeated the experiment after Wild Kranz had completely overturned
+their arguments in his quiet, hesitating tone, with a shrewd glance of
+enjoyment twinkling in his small wary eye; and woe to the man who a
+second time opposed his will or challenged his decision.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Very different was Baron Bruno. Impetuous, fiery, and caustic, gifted
+with inexhaustible memory, and brimming over with barbed sarcasm, he
+was often misunderstood and disliked in the outer world, but invariably
+beloved by those who knew him intimately.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Pfenig and Edlerkopf were devoted friends, as well as ministers at
+court. They had been educated together, and while Edlerkopf lent to the
+counsels of state the aid of wise and deliberate judgment and the
+weight of his nobly impartial character, Pfenig was the most wonderful
+manager of the public purse, and could not only calculate the incoming
+revenue within a hairsbreadth, but could also regulate government
+expenditure so exactly as to keep all departments amply supplied, and
+yet preserve a due regard to economy.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+You may well imagine that with four ministers such as these the Grand
+Duke had little difficulty in maintaining peace and contentment in his
+beautiful kingdom of Rumpel Stiltzein; and that from every side
+artisans, labourers, and mechanics flocked to the small domain, within
+whose narrow boundaries prosperity sat enthroned. To add to his
+happiness, the Grand Duchess became the proud mother of twin children,
+the spirited handsome Prince Bertrand and the lovely gentle Princess
+Berta. They were now in their tenth year, and seemed only born to give
+pleasure and hope to their parents and to the whole principality.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Edlerkopf, Wild Kranz and Pfenig were all married, but Bruno had a
+solitary home; and no one without ocular demonstration would have
+believed in what a shabby den this great statesman passed much of his
+time. In his town-house he had magnificent saloons, where all that was
+fair and choice delighted his guests; but near the roof of this
+dwelling, and far above the haunts of men, there, like the eagle, Bruno
+had his eyrie, where, with ill-concealed impatience, he would hardly
+even permit the cleaning incursions of his maids, and few and far
+between were the footsteps that trod those time-worn boards. Here the
+Baron sat surrounded by dusty piles of books, now poring intently over
+the records of the past, now eagerly scanning the papers of the day,
+now striding up and down the narrow chamber, composing his speech for
+the Reichstag, or dashing off answers to his numerous correspondents.
+There also at the threshold would pause the faithful messengers who
+bore from minister to minister the secret boxes of state papers, and
+waited to obtain from each his signature before proceeding on their
+rounds.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+A few steps and a small door led from the sanctuary which I have
+described to the roof. Here Bruno had a little observatory on one side
+fitted up with a revolving cupola; so that when he sat in the centre of
+this round miniature house he could turn his telescope, without himself
+moving, upon any part of the heavens, and seek with keen unfaltering
+eye the verification of calculations he had made, or diligently mark
+the alteration and movement among the visible planets. But the rest of
+the roof was a free uncovered space, upon which a comfortable chair and
+rug, generally kept within the observatory, to be safe from the wear
+and tear of the elements, were often placed. From this lonely elevated
+seat the Baron would then study the myriads of stars with his own
+unaided and unerring vision, until they became to him dear and
+well-known companions.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+During such silent hours of the night, when all around teemed with
+nature's glorious presence, Bruno indulged in long soliloquies.
+Sometimes he pondered curiously over the strange difference between
+himself and his colleagues. He well knew that, when weary with the
+lengthened debates and vitiated air of the Reichstag (which often
+extended its sittings till long after midnight), Pfenig and Edlerkopf
+hastened home to their faithful wives, and derived from their society a
+pleasure little short of bliss; and found endless interest in watching
+and fostering the mental and physical growth of their children; while
+Wild Kranz, though often delayed in his law chambers till near
+daybreak, (the keenest and hardest lawyer of his day,) considered no
+happiness like the sacred domestic felicity he also experienced when
+surrounded by his family. When these and other similar reflections
+weighed on Bruno's mind, he would lift his piercing eyes heavenward,
+and, shrugging his shoulders, murmur, half aloud: "O, ye stars! ye are
+wife and children to me. As I gaze alone on you by night, I feel a
+secret satisfaction surpassing the keenest emotions experienced by
+these weak dreamers in their so-called felicity. O, immortal heavens!
+enfold me in your vast space, and teach a finite mortal to comprehend
+in faint measure your infinite beauty and eternal unswerving laws."
+Bruno's fervid nature suffered no chill from such midnight exposure;
+his iron frame was proof against fatigue; his restless intellect but
+seldom needed or courted repose.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+It was a hot night in July, worried and jaded, after a wearisome debate
+in the Reichstag, the Baron walked through the empty streets. The
+latest revellers were already housed, a strange hush hung over the
+noisy, populous city, and refreshing breezes blew on his burning brow,
+as he at length reached his home, and ascended to his upper chamber.
+With a sigh of contentment he stepped on the roof, and prepared to
+enjoy his well-earned repose. Throwing himself into his easy-chair, and
+drawing his soft rug across his feet, he became absorbed in the
+contemplation of the firmament above.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+As the night wore on, thoughts, till now strangers to him, took
+possession of his mind. A new yearning for companionship awoke in his
+world-wearied bosom. In vague, uneasy discontent with his solitary
+condition, he turned restlessly from side to side, and at length
+exclaimed aloud: "To you, distant stars! I nightly offer the homage of
+a constant worshipper; would that you in return could give me to know
+the spell of love, and teach me what it is that inspires the painter,
+the poet, and the lover."
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Hardly had the thought crossed his mind, or the half-uttered words
+risen to his lips, when a meteor fell swiftly rushing from the stars on
+which he gazed. He strove to follow it with his eye, but was dazzled by
+the blinding flash of light. For a moment fire seemed to surround him.
+When the bright glow became less intense, lo! upon the roof near at
+hand, where that vivid ray had fallen, shone a shimmering shape. The
+dreamer started from his chair. Bewildered and entranced, he deemed her
+the creature of his imagination; and surely mortal eye had never beheld
+a form so fair. In trailing garments of palest azure there stood the
+perfect ideal of a poet's dream. From her hair gleamed a faint
+effulgence, and her deep tender eyes sent a strange thrill to the
+philosopher's heart.
+</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter"><a  name="dreamer"><img src="images/002.jpg" alt="THE DREAMER STARTED FROM HIS CHAIR." width="383" height="550"></a></div>
+<p class="caption">THE DREAMER STARTED FROM HIS CHAIR.
+<br><small>P. 8.</small>
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The burden of many years fell from Bruno; the ardour of youth rushed
+through his veins; ambition, politics, calculations, all disappeared
+like fallen leaves before the autumn wind; and in agitated tones he
+besought his beautiful visitant to tell him whence she came.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+"Son of earth!" replied the fair unknown, "thou hast watched and loved
+our stars for long years. We in our turn have known thee, and have
+guarded thee and thy fortunes in many a time of danger. Thou wouldest
+know the spell of love. It is even now awakening within thy rugged
+breast; but beware! Thou hast disbelieved in immortality, and doubted
+the eternal power of our great Creator. We love thee! we yearn to save
+thy soul! We long to soften thee through human affection; that when thy
+poor earth is no more, thou mayst find an everlasting home, where
+</p>
+
+<div class="poem">
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>'Infinite day excludes the night,</p>
+<p>And pleasures banish pain.'</p></div></div>
+
+<p>
+I&#8212;Alcyone, sent by my sisters&#8212;I am here to speed thine upward way."
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Bruno, spell-bound, eagerly listened. Deeply enamoured of the lovely
+messenger, he succeeded in winning from the fair denizen of the stars
+her consent to remain with him on one condition. She stipulated that
+she should be permitted every month to spend the evening hours of this
+self-same night entirely alone beneath the canopy of heaven, without
+interruption or intrusion, for her life depended on the due observance
+of this time of "retreat."
+</p>
+
+<p>
+She also added, falteringly, that if her faith were once doubted she
+must quit for ever the pleasant paths of human fellowship, and be
+claimed again by her immortal sisters. The Baron gladly vowed to keep
+what seemed to him such wondrously simple promises by which to gain so
+peerless a bride. The time passed swiftly as these arrangements were
+made, and ere long the first streaks of daylight appeared in the east.
+Alcyone, faint and weary, was conducted to a chamber for rest and
+repose; and the Baron aroused his servants and informed them that he
+was about to be married.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+In the country of Rumpel Stiltzein it was customary to celebrate
+marriages in the evening; there were therefore still available a good
+many hours for the requisite preparations.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The court of the Grand Duke was considerably agitated by the unexpected
+news. Strange rumours were set afloat regarding the newly-elected
+bride. The Prime Minister's answer to all inquiries was the same. He
+let it be understood that the Lady Alcyone was an orphan relative
+lately committed to his charge; that she had suddenly arrived from the
+country the evening before, when he came to the conclusion that the
+best way of taking care of her would be to marry her, and having gained
+the lady's consent, all was well.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+It is true that Bruno had a private interview with his Prince; but as
+it was held with closed doors, the substance of their conversation is
+unknown. The only thing certain is, that the Grand Duke himself
+consented to give away the bride.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Edlerkopf, Pfenig and Wild Kranz, with their wives and families, and
+all the chief members of the court promised to attend at the ceremony,
+and great were the rejoicings that the solitary philosopher was about
+to enjoy the sweet pleasures of home life. All rejoiced, because they
+believed the change would be for the Baron's happiness; but there was
+one dissentient mind. The Countess Olga von Dunkelherz, one of the
+ladies-in-waiting on the Grand Duchess, was a spinster of a certain
+age, and of undisputed ability; celebrated for her witty tongue and
+smart sayings. She was not displeased when rumour coupled her name with
+that of the Prime Minister, and when the courtiers rallied her about
+the Baron's attentions. The truth was that Bruno had never for a moment
+regarded her in the light of his future Baroness; her manners wanted
+the repose and softness which to him constituted a woman's chief charm.
+In spite of her masterly intellect, her conversation often bored him.
+For in his moments of relaxation he turned to the fair and softer sex
+for sympathy and recreation, not to involve his wearied brain in
+arguments about the last geological discovery, or the newest theory of
+electricity.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+But as he remained single, and they were constantly together, the
+Countess Olga had insensibly grown to regard him as her own property.
+Imagine therefore her astonishment and her displeasure when the Grand
+Duchess, summoning her ladies to her apartment, gave them instructions
+to lay out her state robes, and prepare for a grand court ceremonial,
+as Baron Bruno's wedding was to take place that very evening within the
+palace.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+All was bustle and confusion; but the labours of the court cook were
+something superhuman. It required, indeed, the utmost efforts of genius
+and industry combined to produce so splendid a feast at such short
+notice. It is only due, however, to Francabelli's reputation as first
+<i>chef</i> of the Grand Duchy, if not of the world at large, to record
+that the execution of his designs was on this occasion carried out with
+peculiar success.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+At last the nuptial hour approached, and excited curiosity was
+gratified by the sight of the bride, as she was led slowly through the
+palace by the Grand Duke. Her wondrous beauty amazed every one, as also
+the radiant simplicity of her attire. She wore her robes of flowing
+azure, and over her forehead there sparkled a gem of extraordinary
+brilliancy, which seemed absolutely to blaze with light.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+As Alcyone advanced towards the altar, Baron Bruno, clad in his
+splendid court uniform, embroidered with gold, and covered with
+decorations, stepped forth to meet her, and the wedding ceremony was
+soon completed. The priest dipped his hand in the holy water and
+sprinkled some over bride and groom during his final benediction; as he
+did so, the Countess Olga, who stood near with her royal mistress,
+rushed forward, exclaiming, "She is a witch! she is a witch! the holy
+water has scared her!" All eyes turned instantly on Alcyone, who
+shuddered visibly, and would have fallen to the ground where she knelt
+had not her husband's strong arm encircled and held her up. A mortal
+pallor overspread her fair countenance, and, strange to relate, the
+glittering gem on her forehead became opaque, and was clouded over with
+a dim moisture. By the aid of strong perfumes she gradually revived,
+but was thoroughly shaken and overcome. Baron Bruno, therefore, craving
+the indulgence of the Grand Duke, begged permission to retire at once
+with his bride, and entreated that their absence should not be allowed
+to cast a shadow over the rejoicings at court.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Now Bombastes, the Grand Duke, though of a choleric temperament, was
+still at heart a man of just and keen perception. He perceived that the
+newly-made baroness was indisputably overfatigued, and that it was only
+natural her bridegroom should wish to take every care of her. He
+instantly, therefore, granted his Prime Minister's request, and calling
+the other great officers of state around him, invoked their aid to
+carry on the court revels with due spirit and merriment; at the same
+time adding, in an undertone, that he trusted his faithful servant had
+not undone himself by marrying an unknown beauty without parents,
+relations, or antecedents!
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The three ministers, Edlerkopf, Pfenig, and Wild Kranz, with their
+wives and children, joined heart and soul in the gaieties of the
+evening. The children, with their friends Prince Bertrand and Princess
+Berta, were, as a great treat, allowed to sit up to supper, and had a
+small side-table to themselves. Here old Donnerfuss, the head butler,
+kept them well supplied with all they demanded, and they behaved with
+decorum for a considerable time. At length, wearied with the protracted
+courses, and finding it impossible to eat any more, the thoughtless
+boys amused themselves by sticking burrs on the footmen's silken calves
+as they passed to and fro. These naughty children had purposely
+provided themselves with a quantity of these instruments of torture, in
+hopes of finding some use for them during the dull state supper. For
+some time they pursued their fun unnoticed during the general bustle,
+and quite undisturbed by the muttered maledictions of their victims. At
+last Bombastes, having an observant eye, became aware of some
+interruption in the serving of the dinner. Looking round the hall, he
+noticed on every side agitated footmen carefully examining their lower
+extremities. In a voice of thunder he demanded of the Lord Chamberlain
+an explanation of such unprecedented behaviour. The Lord Chamberlain
+called up the High Steward of the Household, who, in his turn, required
+Donnerfuss to explain this breach of discipline. Thereupon the fifty
+red-faced footmen, seeing all eyes turned upon them, at once resumed
+their duties, regardless of pricking sensations about the leg and
+unseemly excrescences upon the otherwise fair white proportions of
+their well-filled stockings. Donnerfuss, in a frightened whisper,
+revealed the truth to the High Steward, and he, in his turn, narrated
+the mischievous exploit of the boys to the Lord High Chamberlain.
+Bombastes now impatiently beckoned the latter to his Grand-ducal chair,
+and insisted upon hearing the whole root of the matter. Sanftschriften,
+who was himself a parent, and naturally kind-hearted, tried to soften
+down the affair; but as Bombastes listened, his large, round, prominent
+eyes seemed as if they would absolutely start from his head at the
+recital of this outrage on decorum. He sternly commanded the culprits
+to retire to bed; and, glancing wrathfully at Edlerkopf, Pfenig, and
+Wild Kranz (who sat quaking in their shoes), he added further: "As to
+the well-brought-up sons of these great noblemen, their domestic life
+is beyond the control of their poor sovereign; but for the next month I
+give orders that no dessert of any kind shall pass the lips of Prince
+Bertrand, who has thus misbehaved himself in so shameful and public a
+manner." Princess Berta and the other little girls, distressed at the
+disgrace of their playmates, rose also at once from the table, and
+accompanied them from the hall. Thus it came to pass that the court
+children had no very pleasant associations with the day of Baron
+Bruno's wedding. Indeed, you may be very certain that the three
+ministers gave their sons the same punishment as Prince Bertrand; and
+therefore for a whole month the boys had good reason to remember the
+marriage feast, as their tutors, governesses, and nurses, were strictly
+enjoined to carry out the Grand Duke's peremptory edict. Princess Berta
+and the other small girls, tender and soft-hearted as little maidens
+ever should be, did their best to alleviate the punishment of their
+playmates by voluntarily depriving themselves of all sweet things for
+the same period, which, I am sure you will agree with me, required much
+self-denial, on the part of those dessert-loving damsels, and was no
+small proof of affection.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+In the meantime Bruno had taken his bride to a small cottage he owned
+on the borders of a wide and gloomy forest. Here they passed the few
+days which, by the indulgence of his royal master, Bruno was enabled to
+spare from the affairs of state. When they were alone together, his
+wife expressed to him her conviction that some ill-disposed person had
+tampered with the holy water, so as to affect that which was sprinkled
+over them. She had also felt during the ceremony the near presence of
+an anti-pathetic and malign influence. Alcyone furthermore explained to
+her husband that the gem on her forehead was a talisman, which paled
+and grew dim on the approach of danger, or when exposed to poison. The
+Baron at once remembered the dull appearance presented by the jewel
+when the holy water fell near it, but he also became unreasonably vexed
+when his bride refused to loosen it, even for one moment, from her
+hair, to permit him to examine it in his hand.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+He gradually grew to regard its brilliance with a certain amount of
+suspicion, and more than once, when the gentle Alcyone laid her head
+upon his shoulder, he felt as if a fiery eye shone guardian over her
+and watched unsleepingly his every movement. When in his vexation Bruno
+allowed himself to speak harshly for the first time to his young wife,
+Alcyone tearfully deprecated his displeasure. She assured him her life
+was bound up in her talisman, and that if she parted with it, for ever
+so brief a space, she must at once return to the regions whence she
+came. After this explanation Bruno rarely referred to the disputed
+point, but it is not too much to say that the lurid ray of the strange
+gem often in their happiest moments sent a sudden thrill to his heart's
+core, and gave a feeling of insecurity to his most private hours of
+retirement.
+</p>
+
+<div class="poem">
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>"It is the little rift within the lute</p>
+<p>That by and by will make the music mute,</p>
+<p>And, ever widening, slowly silence all.</p></div>
+
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>"The little rift within the lover's lute,</p>
+<p>Or little pitted speck in garnered fruit,</p>
+<p>That rotting inwards slowly moulders all."</p></div></div>
+
+<p>
+I have already hinted that Bruno was of a sceptical turn of mind.
+Possessed of rare intellectual powers, he had studied metaphysics to
+such an extent, and become so thoroughly master of the strange theories
+propounded by the deep-thinking German philosophers of the day, that he
+could not bend himself to the simplicity of that religion which only
+demands the faith of a little child; he disbelieved the immortality of
+the soul, and professed to doubt the existence of a future state.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+But though he and his bride widely differed in faith, yet day by day
+she became more and more endeared to him, by the lovely nature of her
+mind no less than by the graces of her person. Her exceeding humility
+and true-hearted simplicity showed to him in a new light those
+religious duties at which in less peaceful days he was wont to cavil.
+Well would it have been for both could their lives have been thus spent
+far from the busy world, in the calm retreat, where for the first time
+the gray-haired man recalled soft prayers which a mother's lips (long
+since silent and cold) had murmured over his infant head.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+But the calls of duty had to be obeyed, and ere long the prime minister
+and his bride returned to Aronsberg, to take their place at court and
+in society, and to have endless f&#234;tes and receptions given in their
+honour. Here Alcyone's gentle unassuming manners, added to her great
+beauty, made her a universal favourite. The malicious Gr&#228;fin von
+Dunkelherz, however, disseminated strange stories concerning the new
+Baroness, and aroused the suspicions of those who were already perhaps
+somewhat jealous of the many charms united in the fair person of the
+young stranger.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Amid the series of festivities given in honour of the newly-married
+couple, it was observed that whenever a storm of thunder and lightning
+broke over the neighbourhood Alcyone was painfully agitated. Wherever
+she and her husband might be, she implored him to convey her home as
+soon as possible; the electric influence so entirely overcame her that
+more than once she seemed completely gone&#8212;so utterly did she lose
+colour and consciousness&#8212;so deadly pale did she become. To Bruno's
+impetuous nature this unfortunate tendency proved a serious annoyance.
+He considered that by a little firm exercise of moral courage his wife
+could have retained her senses. Often after conveying her home and
+reappearing alone (by her earnest request) at some state banquet, he
+would be universally rallied about her captiousness, and even made to
+see (owing to Olga's kind offices) that his friends considered the
+whole affair in a somewhat mysterious light. It will be remembered that
+Alcyone stipulated for one night of retirement every month, when,
+undisturbed and alone, she spent long solitary hours upon the roof. She
+entreated Bruno, by all his affection for her, neither to approach the
+place himself nor to suffer any one else to intrude upon her privacy.
+Somehow or other this circumstance, with numerous additions, became
+bruited abroad, and it was whispered that the Baron's wife was in
+regular communication with demons. Bribed and listening servants heard
+voices of no earthly <i>timbre</i>, speaking in an unknown language.
+More they were unable to say, for Bruno as yet kept faithful guard over
+his wife's hours of mystic retreat.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+At last, however, the time approached when the sittings of the
+Reichstag terminated, and when all who could forsook the dusty purlieus
+of the town for the mountains, the sea, or their country dwellings.
+People began to be too busy making their own plans to attend to those
+of their neighbours, and Bruno retired once more with his Baroness to
+Tieftr&#228;ume Forest. There in their small cottage, with its low long
+veranda covered with creepers, they spent weeks&#8212;nay, months&#8212;of
+uninterrupted happiness. On one side of their home patches of wild
+moorland were beautifully interspersed with cultivated oases of garden.
+Towards the east rose the dark masses of the pine forest, giving with
+their sombre colouring an ever-fresh beauty to the foreground of lovely
+flowering shrubs. Passing through tangled masses of bramble and fern,
+the path led by bare gray rocks and tufts of purple heather to some
+ivy-covered bower; or you came upon some exquisite smooth-shaven little
+lawn, jewelled in bright patterns of many coloured flowers, and adding
+brilliance and perfume to the scene.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Here Alcyone and her husband wandered together, or, perhaps descending
+the steps at the end of their garden, stood on the brink of the little
+river Naecken, which tumbled and hurried through its narrow rocky
+channel, thus dividing them from the forest. Lower down the streamlet
+formed a small lake, on which a boat was kept, and where Bruno was wont
+to row his wife, and try to teach her unskilful hand to guide the oar.
+He laid these lines beside her one morning towards the end of their
+country sojourn when, fresh and fair as Aurora herself, she took her
+place at their morning meal:&#8212;
+</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter"><a  name="bruno"><img src="images/003.jpg" alt="BARON BRUNO AND ALCYONE." width="357" height="500"></a></div>
+<p class="caption">BARON BRUNO AND ALCYONE.
+<br><small>P. 22.</small>
+</p>
+
+<div class="poem">
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>"One moment let me live the time again,</p>
+<p>The sweet, sweet time when o'er the silvery loch</p>
+<p>The frail bark sped, or hand-in-hand we climbed</p>
+<p>Together, where the divided mountain path</p>
+<p>Stopped like a thing perplexed, or haply stood</p>
+<p>To watch yon dark blue vault where white clouds sailed</p>
+<p>Onward and onward through the homeless sky;</p>
+<p>Or when, returning from a mid-day ride,</p>
+<p>We turned to gaze where far-off heathery vales</p>
+<p>Gleamed between shadowy hills, and dark woods rained</p>
+<p>Transparent sunshine through their golden leaves.</p>
+<p>And sweet it was to rob the miser night,</p>
+<p>Of her rich hours, as side by side we sat,</p>
+<p>Seeking to chain the time that fled too fast,</p>
+<p>By mazy labyrinths of sweet discourse;</p>
+<p>These things can never die&#8212;there is no death</p>
+<p>Of happy feelings, gentlest sympathies,</p>
+<p>And that delicious sadness, whose deep tints</p>
+<p>Fall like soft shadows o'er the sunny past.</p>
+<p>Therefore in years to come a calm, clear voice,</p>
+<p>Like a stray note of some forgotten tune,</p>
+<p>Shall rise from out these happy autumn days,</p>
+<p>Waking a melody of gentler thoughts</p>
+<p>Through all the silent chambers of my heart."</p></div></div>
+
+<p>
+The Baron was often obliged to return to town for a day on important
+business, or to attend his royal master at the Prince's Ch&#226;teau; but
+Alcyone never wearied when alone with nature; and these little
+separations lent a new delight to the hour of reunion. Jaded and tired
+from his hot journey, Bruno would then seat himself in the veranda and
+recount to his fondly-listening wife all the little adventures of the
+day, while her cool, soft hand laid on his burning brow, or her gentle
+voice, carolling forth low songs in the silent twilight, soothed and
+refreshed his hard-worked brain. It was at times like these, when
+husband and wife were drawn very near, that Alcyone spoke of her faith,
+and allowed him to see and know the firm unfaltering trust that
+possessed her simple mind. She sometimes referred to the possibility of
+their separation&#8212;to her hope of ultimate reunion. When, however, she
+had but half uttered such words, Bruno, enfolding her in his arms, with
+a quivering voice would beseech her to be silent, and not break his
+heart.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Autumn disappeared, and next came winter with all its delightful
+accompaniments of snow and sleighing. Merrily tinkled the bells and
+fast flew the steeds under Bruno's skilful guidance, as their
+gaily-decorated sledge was whirled through the broad thoroughfares and
+snowy parks of Aronsberg. Christmas also passed by, and Santa Klaus
+sent joy to the hearts of myriads of children with his mysterious
+gifts. Months again rolled away, and the glad Easter Feast was in full
+celebration when, with the first sweet violets, came a dear little
+child to bless and brighten the home of Alcyone and her husband. They
+called her Violet because she bloomed into life at the same time as
+those fragrant flowers, and Stella was added in remembrance of the
+sacred mystery known only to her parents. In the fulness of his joy,
+Bruno dismissed, as he thought for ever, from his mind the cruel
+unworthy thoughts he had once been led to entertain of his bride. It
+would be difficult to describe this infant to those who never saw her;
+but let each one think of all the children he has been privileged to
+know. If among such dear ones he can recall some babe of a beauty too
+rare and fair to attain to maturity in this bleak world, then he may in
+some faint degree picture to himself the nameless charm that surrounded
+the little Violet as with a halo.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Various changes now for a time partially relieved the Baron from
+official duties; wrapped up in his domestic happiness, nearly a year
+passed swiftly by before he was once more drawn into the unceasing
+whirl of political and social court life.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+It was already June, the busiest season in the Aronsberg world. Plunged
+in the necessary rounds of visiting and receiving, the Baroness had but
+little time to enjoy, as she wished, the society either of her husband
+or of the little Violet, now at a most engaging age. It is true that it
+was totally against her own wish that Alcyone took so active a part in
+the gay world. Bruno, whom nature had formed to shine in society, and
+gifted with marvellous conversational powers, chafed under her
+continual excuses, and, returning with eager zest to his old life,
+insisted upon the Baroness assuming that prominent place in society
+which was hers by right as the wife of the Prime Minister.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+It was about this time that the artful Countess Olga began once more to
+drop poisoned words about the court concerning Alcyone. Ever on the
+alert to open the Baron's eyes to the folly of what she called his
+strange infatuation, she eagerly hailed the first signs of coolness
+between him and his wife. In an unguarded moment Bruno let fall some
+hasty expression regarding her absence from a court ball, and Olga,
+with honeyed words, sympathizing in his disappointment, hinted that
+rumour credited the Baroness with some private amusement at home, she
+so rarely vouch-safed to favour the court with her presence for more
+than the briefest possible attendance at the levees of the Grand
+Duchess.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Bruno's conscience smote him while he listened to the Countess von
+Dunkelherz's ill-natured remarks. He answered somewhat shortly that the
+little Violet being an only child and very delicate, absorbed much of
+her mother's attention, and therefore she had the best of excuses for
+remaining at home. A beginning had nevertheless been made, and Olga
+took good care to keep up her renewed intimacy with the Prime Minister.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+It may have been the vitiated town air which now affected Violet's
+health; but she sensibly drooped, and caused her mother the keenest
+anxiety. Her father (prompted by his evil adviser,) although
+affectionate and kind, deemed his wife fanciful when she fretted over
+the child's altered appearance, and became more and more displeased if
+Alcyone absented herself from society.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+There was to be a grand masked ball in honour of Prince Bertrand and
+Princess Berta's birthday. They were allowed to choose their own
+diversion, and they fixed that their father and the Grand Duchess
+should appear as Oberon and Titania, and that every guest should
+personate some fairy character. All was excitement, while the Grand
+Duke himself, assisted by the court painter, and somewhat guided by the
+predilections of his children, chose the dress to be worn by each
+visitor, and had it written on the card of invitation. Berta and her
+brother settled to represent Prince Hempseed and his sister Olivia.
+Other heroes and heroines too numerous to be recorded were selected.
+Snow-white and Rose-red, the Blue Bird, the Yellow Dwarf, Beauty and
+the Beast, Cinderella, and many others found suitable representatives,
+but the Prime Minister and his wife were requested to become, for the
+time being, Puss in Boots and the White Cat. At one o'clock all masks
+were to be removed, and a complete transformation-scene enacted, as
+regarded many of the characters, who would at that hour, like the White
+Cat and Cinderella, throw off their disguise, and, uncovering their
+faces, shine forth resplendent in garments the most exquisite that
+could be devised for the occasion. Then, marshalled in due rank, the
+King and Queen of Fairyland proposed to lead their motley subjects to
+supper. The fun grew fast and furious in the little court of Rumpel
+Stiltzein. Desperate were the efforts of the tailors, milliners, and
+shoemakers to meet the multifarious demands made on their time, which
+was very short; and on their invention, which was taxed to the utmost.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Alcyone from the first disliked the idea of the ball, and all the
+rampant merriment connected with it. Her ailing child required constant
+care, and she herself felt far from strong. She mooted the question of
+remaining at home, but Bruno would not hear of this, and indeed
+answered her so reproachfully when she proposed it, that she made up
+her mind to sacrifice her own desires, and please him by endeavouring
+to throw herself heartily into the affair. During the many necessary
+discussions with the other court ladies as to the all-important subject
+of dress, the Baroness was left alone with Olga, who of late had, to
+all appearance, been her most sympathizing friend. The crafty Countess
+soon extracted from Alcyone the little history of her own reluctance to
+appear, her husband's consequent displeasure, and her determination to
+gratify him by paying every possible attention to her dress.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The eventful evening at length arrived. Baron Bruno, after an early
+dinner, was compelled to attend for a short period an important sitting
+of the Reichstag. His house was at some distance from the public
+offices of state; he therefore took his fancy ball-dress with him, and
+settled to change his attire in his own small official room, while
+Alcyone should start at a later hour, and call for him on her way to
+the palace. Alcyone felt unusually sad as her husband waved her a hasty
+adieu and speeded off to the Reichstag. He strictly enjoined her to
+observe due punctuality in her engagements, as the Grand Duke wished to
+enter the ballroom in a grand procession formed of all his chief
+ministers and officers of state, court ladies, and hereditary noblemen.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Violet had perceptibly drooped more and more, though her fond father
+refused to see the change. He only, however, saw his little daughter at
+brief intervals of his busy life, when a flush of delight at his
+approach rounded her pale cheeks, and her dark-blue eyes sparkled with
+the keen joy of being tossed or fondled in his arms.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+After Bruno's departure, Alcyone ascended the nursery stairs, and found
+Violet already in bed, but restless and uneasy, and tossing to and fro.
+The large windows stood wide open, though very little air seemed as yet
+to stir among the trees of the square in which they lived.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The mother sat down beside her child. The baby was at once comforted,
+and held out its little arms to be taken to her bosom. Alcyone lifted
+her from the cot, and, dismissing the maids, seated herself by the
+window in a low rocking-chair, and crooned soft lullabies to her
+infant. The babe did not yet sleep, but she lay soothed and quiet,
+gazing into her mother's sweet face, and smiling when she caught the
+bright sparkling of the radiant gem.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Suddenly the peaceful scene was changed; with a troubled cry the little
+Violet started up, and at the same instant Lady Olga stood in the
+doorway. Hardly apologising for her unexpected appearance in the
+Baroness's private apartments, Olga unfolded her extraordinary plan.
+After expressing great sympathy for the child's indisposition, and
+professing to understand fully Alcyone's distressing position, she
+asked leave to proceed at once to the Baroness's dressing-room, and
+there and then array herself in the garments of the "White Cat." As she
+and Alcyone were much the same height and size, this change of dress
+could be very easily accomplished, and would form an indistinguishable
+disguise; she then further proposed to set off in the carriage and
+personate the fair young Baroness at the ball. At first Alcyone would
+not listen to her artful suggestion, justly fearing the displeasure of
+her husband; but Olga assured her that long before the deception must
+at any rate cease (on the unmasking at one o'clock) she would, using
+the privilege of an old acquaintance, explain the whole affair to Baron
+Bruno, and represent to him aright the mother's fears for her child.
+Indeed those fears seemed but too well founded, for since Olga's
+entrance the baby had grown wild and feverish, and kept up an incessant
+moaning as if in actual pain. Harassed and perplexed therefore, Alcyone
+at length yielded a reluctant consent, and, ringing the bell, ordered
+lights to be placed in her dressing-room, and attendance to be given to
+aid the Countess von Dunkelherz in her somewhat difficult toilet. One
+consideration which weighed much with Alcyone in her final decision,
+was the unfortunate coincidence that this happened to be the very night
+of her monthly retirement&#8212;that mysterious proceeding of which her
+husband had now grown so impatient that she was fain never to mention
+it, but strove to accomplish her purpose as best she might without
+attracting his attention. She had all the time hoped to slip away
+unnoticed from the ball, but she well knew this would be a very
+difficult matter to accomplish, as besides her own timidity about
+leaving the palace by herself, her extreme beauty made her remarkable
+in whatever society she moved.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Still it was with a foreboding of evil she resolved for the first time
+to act without her husband's knowledge, and remain unbidden at home.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+It is scarcely necessary to add that Olga, from frequent inquiries and
+a diligent system of espionage, was well aware of the mysterious and
+so-called solitary hours entered upon by the Baroness at stated
+intervals, and she was equally cognisant of the fact that the wonted
+period had arrived for the observance of this strange custom, and had
+laid her plans accordingly.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The evening wore on; after the noisy departure of the carriage
+containing its unusual occupant, all within the house became peaceful
+and silent. Without was heard the ceaseless hum of the busy city, but
+faint, far, and mellowed by distance. Overhead the stars twinkled
+cheerfully forth from the blue bed on which they had lain fast asleep
+during the hot reign of the sun.
+</p>
+
+<div class="poem">
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>It is twilight in the city,</p>
+<p class="i2">And the sun has sunk afar,</p>
+<p>Where a brightness gilds the pathway</p>
+<p class="i2">Of the quiet evening star.</p></div>
+
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>Dimly in the hazy distance</p>
+<p class="i2">Twinkle all the myriad eyes</p>
+<p>Glittering far into the darkness,</p>
+<p class="i2">Where the mighty city lies.</p></div>
+
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>Twittering through the leafy branches,</p>
+<p class="i2">Birds are calling soft and low,</p>
+<p>Scarcely heard amid the humming</p>
+<p class="i2">Of the city's ceaseless flow.</p></div>
+
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>Yet I hear their gentle voices,</p>
+<p class="i2">And their evening hymn of love,</p>
+<p>While the stars are clearer shining,</p>
+<p class="i2">From the dark-blue heaven above.</p></div>
+
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>Happy children! careless playing,</p>
+<p class="i2">In and out beneath the trees,</p>
+<p>With your childish hair all streaming,</p>
+<p class="i2">Floating on the evening breeze.</p></div>
+
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>Pure and blissful hours of childhood,</p>
+<p class="i2">Never prized until gone by,</p>
+<p>Stay, oh! stay a while! and o'er me,</p>
+<p class="i2">Let your lingering radiance lie.</p></div>
+
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>Leave a gleam of that bright sunshine</p>
+<p class="i2">Which was ours in days of yore,</p>
+<p>Ere we parted for life's battle,</p>
+<p class="i2">Ere we left home's peaceful shore.</p></div>
+
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>Voices then with ours were mingling,</p>
+<p class="i2">That on earth are silent now,</p>
+<p>Arms around us fondly twining,</p>
+<p class="i2">That have long been still and low.</p></div>
+
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>Yes&#8212;in gazing on the starlight,</p>
+<p class="i2">Fancy sometimes strives to trace</p>
+<p>Forms beloved amid the twilight,</p>
+<p class="i2">Or a well-remembered face.</p></div>
+
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>Angels now! yet be our guardians,</p>
+<p class="i2">In this tearful vale below,</p>
+<p>Shedding light around our pathway,</p>
+<p class="i2">Giving comfort as we go.</p></div>
+
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>So when life's frail chord is loos'ning,</p>
+<p class="i2">And our eyes to sorrow close,</p>
+<p>When the glorious morn is dawning</p>
+<p class="i2">O'er the long sad night of woes,</p></div>
+
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>Linger near us&#8212;that, when rising,</p>
+<p class="i2">We may&#8212;child-like&#8212;meet again</p>
+<p>Where the severed are united,</p>
+<p class="i2">Where the weary have no pain.</p></div></div>
+
+<p>
+Ever and anon the deep musical bell of the Reichstag clock boomed forth
+amid the darkening shadows, telling of time's rapid progress and
+remorseless flight, yet giving to many of the dwellers in Aronsberg a
+feeling of joyful security and safety. For the tall tower stood over
+and among them like some mighty guardian whose ceaseless care and
+unsleeping vigilance kept watch amid the city by day and by night and
+with cheerful voice proclaimed his vicinity&#8212;thus oftentime becoming a
+loved companion to weary mortals whom sickness, separation, anxiety, or
+sorrow kept awake through the livelong night.
+</p>
+
+<div class="poem">
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>Chime, Aronsberg bells, chime ceaselessly on,</p>
+<p>Till partings be over and weary work done.</p>
+<p>Boom o'er the broad waters, thou musical tone,</p>
+<p>Remorseless thy knell, and I sorrow alone,</p>
+<p>For perchance in my bosom shall waken no more,</p>
+<p>The rapture that thrilled to thy chiming of yore.</p></div></div>
+
+<p>
+The baby now sank to rest in its tiny cot, a heavenly smile irradiated
+its little countenance, as if in some happy dream it was more than
+compensated for the uneasy hours of pain and unrest so lately
+experienced.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The hour of Alcyone's isolation approached: wrapped in her long flowing
+robes, with her beautiful hair streaming over her shoulders, she bent
+over the sleeping Violet and dropt a kiss and murmured a blessing over
+her child; then slowly ascended the narrow stair which led to Bruno's
+solitary chamber. The small door opened, then closed again with a
+spring, and all was still, while the nurses below, whispering together,
+knew their mistress was alone with the stars.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Nearly an hour passed by, and tranquillity reigned around; most of the
+servants had gone to bed, those who remained up were in the lower and
+more distant parts of the house. Hasty sounds suddenly broke upon the
+still night air; the Baron's champing steeds drew up in the courtyard;
+Bruno himself, flushed and agitated, sprang rapidly up-stairs, followed
+by the ruthless Olga! He pushed past his astonished domestics, noisily
+calling and seeking Alcyone in every room, including the nursery, where
+he roused and startled his sleeping child. Finally he ascended his own
+narrow stair, and entered the study. He paused at the small door so
+often described, and tapping, called his wife's name once or twice; no
+response came; without a moment's compunction, in excited passion, he
+drew the key from an inner pocket, and, unlocking the door he had
+solemnly promised to regard as sacred, threw it violently open.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+With a loud grating noise the ill-fated portal swung back on its
+hinges, and disclosed to his bewildered eyes a wondrous sight. Around
+his wife stood five or six maidens of surpassing beauty; like her&#8212;yet
+unlike&#8212;for oh! how clearly he could see the marks of human sorrow and
+care which cast their shadow over her countenance alone. Each bore on
+her forehead a brilliant jewel resembling Alcyone's; the most delicious
+perfume was wafted on the air, and an indescribable mellow glow of
+light emanated from and yet illuminated the lovely strangers. More than
+this he had not time to observe; a terrible explosion shook the house
+to its foundation, and he became enveloped in a choking impenetrable
+vapour. Olga also, who, unobserved, with a bevy of terrified servants,
+had followed in his footsteps, was half suffocated, seeing, however,
+nothing of those radiant forms.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+As the light breeze dissipated the stifling fumes, Alcyone, with sorrow
+and dismay imprinted on her gentle features, stood inquiringly before
+her husband, as if to demand some explanation of this sudden violation
+of their compact. But now a youth, whom Bruno had never before seen,
+stepped from behind Alcyone, with cold and majestic mien. Bowing
+gravely to the Baron, he thus addressed him, in low thrilling tones:
+"Behold in me, Hyas, the brother of Alcyone, come hither to aid and
+defend my sister in the hour of need. I demand a full examination into
+her conduct. Before others you have doubted her and intruded on her
+privacy&#8212;before others her character must be cleared!"
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Stunned and bewildered by these swiftly succeeding events, Bruno's
+ready tongue for once completely failed him. Now&#8212;alas!&#8212;when too late,
+he bitterly regretted his precipitation, and the credence he had too
+easily lent to wicked and baseless insinuations.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Instead of keeping her promise to Alcyone, and explaining aright to the
+Baron his wife's unpremeditated absence, Olga had made out that the
+whole affair was a preconceived plot which she had been induced to
+conceal till the last moment. She had furthermore hinted that the
+gravest suspicions were aroused by the Baroness's non-appearance, which
+of course became universally known and commented upon at the hour of
+unmasking. At last she had so worked upon Bruno's ardent temperament
+that, forgetting everything save the jealousy of the moment, he rushed
+wildly home, causing quite a sensation at court and doing irreparable
+mischief to his domestic happiness.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+In spite of his sister's tearful remonstrances, Alcyone's brother now
+demanded of the Baron when a public inquiry could be instituted; and on
+hearing that it was possible on the morrow, he instantly cited the
+affrighted Gr&#228;fin von Dunkelherz to appear and proffer her charge
+against the fair Alcyone, who for the first time recognised in the
+Countess a deadly enemy.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Hyas furthermore insisted on keeping watch over his sister and her
+child until Alcyone was proved beyond blame in the eyes of the world.
+They were left alone together. The baffled Olga slunk away to her home.
+Bruno, distressed and repentant, unavailingly paced his lonely chamber
+until morning arrived.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+At the earliest possible moment (after the late carousals of the night
+before) the Prime Minister demanded an audience of his sovereign, and
+the matter being then fully explained, the Grand Duke commanded that
+the trial of the Baroness should take place at noon, in the Hochplatz,
+a large open space surrounded by public buildings and gardens, and not
+far from the Grand Ducal Palace. Bombastes, at Hyas' request, also sent
+criers in every direction to summon the people to attend, and by twelve
+o'clock the vast square was filled to overflowing.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The Grand Duke and Duchess, with the lords and ladies in waiting and
+other state officials, sat upon a raised platform in the centre,
+surrounded by a guard of honour. Edlerkopf, at the head of a brilliant
+staff of officers, kept the immense assembly from encroaching on the
+crimson dais where accused and accuser were placed near at hand. Bruno,
+pale and heart-stricken, stood there. At some little distance Hyas and
+his sister sat together, their striking resemblance and singular beauty
+attracting every eye. It was observed that Hyas bore on his uncovered
+head a jewel almost surpassing in radiance that which sparkled on his
+sister's brow. Alcyone never raised her head, but bent over her child,
+whom she carried in her arms.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+A profound silence reigned over the excited throng as Hyas bending low
+to the Duke, declared that his sister's honour had been tarnished by
+the foul aspersions cast upon it, and that he had traced many of these
+reports to the Countess von Dunkelherz; he therefore demanded that she
+should frankly say of what she accused the Baroness Bruno.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Olga, who by this time had entirely recovered from her previous
+confusion, now advanced. Craning her long neck, and glancing spitefully
+at the drooping form of the suffering Alcyone, she thus answered Hyas'
+summons:
+</p>
+
+<p>
+"I charge the Lady Alcyone with being a witch. She cannot part, even
+for one moment, with the gem she bears on her forehead; she keeps
+mysterious assignations with beings from another world; and she has so
+bewitched her husband, the acute and learned Baron Bruno, that he is
+hardly accountable for his actions."
+</p>
+
+<p>
+At these cruel words an ominous murmur ran through the crowd, and half
+stifled cries arose.&#8212;"Burn the witch!" "Deliver our Baron from her
+spells!" "Cut off root and branch&#8212;mother and child!" Such were some of
+the menaces hoarsely muttered by the surging and fickle multitude. It
+was with no small difficulty that Edlerkopf, at the head of his guards,
+restrained the populace from laying violent hands on the Baroness and
+her brother. Hyas, cool and collected, waited until the gathering
+tumult was in some measure quieted; his clear voice then penetrated far
+and wide. "Ye have heard, O people," he exclaimed, "the voice of the
+traducer; ye shall now give ear to unwilling testimony in favour of the
+accused."
+</p>
+
+<p>
+So saying he divested himself of his long-flowing outer garment, and
+warning all around to preserve strict silence, he drew a large circle
+round himself and his sister, and also compelled the Countess von
+Dunkelherz, much against her will, to remain within the mystic
+boundary. Taking then a small packet from his breast, he scattered some
+powder on the ground and muttered strange words in an unknown tongue.
+Then arose amid the calm sunshine of that lovely summer day the sound
+of rushing whirlwinds and stormy gusts; a dark cloud intervened between
+the earth and the sun, enveloping all around in sulphureous darkness.
+When it cleared away, lo! high within the magic circle towered a
+gigantic pillar of smoke. From the centre of this terrible apparition
+gleamed forth two fiery eyes. A cold chill of horror ran through the
+spectators, though the air was hot and sultry.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Hyas now motioned to Bruno that his lips must ask the fateful question.
+The Baron, compelled to speak, reluctantly addressed himself thus to
+the hideous shape:&#8212;"Dread Spirit, whether of good or of evil, I adjure
+thee to tell me whether the Lady Alcyone has been true and faithful to
+me, and guiltless of the foul deeds ascribed to her."
+</p>
+
+<p>
+"Blind mortal!" replied the cloudy phantom, "pure and transparent as
+the dewdrop hath the heart of Alcyone been unto thee; there breathes
+not on your dull earth a spirit more free from guile."
+</p>
+
+<p>
+As these words fell from above, a low muttered growl of thunder was
+heard, while Hyas, turning to the silent, awe-struck beholders, cried
+aloud, "The innocence of my sister is proved by the reluctant words of
+Varishka, the dark genie, who could have claimed her for his own had
+her deeds been evil. But, alas! I fear the dread witness has exhausted
+one innocent life in the fierce struggle."
+</p>
+
+<p>
+As he spoke thick darkness fell upon them, and when it cleared away the
+mysterious shape had disappeared. The bright sun poured its
+health-giving rays again over the panic-stricken multitude, and a cool
+wind blew away the last traces of the awful Varishka. All eyes were
+bent on Hyas, whose beauty seemed absolutely marvellous, as, tenderly
+embracing his sister, he turned swiftly aside into the crowd, and ere
+they were aware had totally disappeared from view. Loud acclamations in
+favour of Alcyone rang forth from the changeful thousands on either
+side, as they swayed to and fro preparatory to breaking up altogether.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Bruno alone stood irresolute; a thousand conflicting emotions paled his
+usually ruddy cheek; but his wife's sweet voice called to him. He
+approached her; her face was full of anxiety. "Let us return home at
+once," she whispered; "I fear for our babe."
+</p>
+
+<p>
+And well she might, for the fragile Violet lay almost lifeless on her
+mother's knee, the laboured breath passing slowly through her cold
+lips. They drove rapidly home. The Baron, full of remorse, would fain
+have thrown himself at his wife's feet, but her thoughts were turned
+only to her suffering child, as she at last bore it into the nursery,
+where in happier days she had so often lulled it to sleep. For some
+time Bruno remained beside her, and aided in trying various
+restoratives. At length, summoned by his official duties, he was forced
+to depart. Several hours elapsed before he could absent himself from
+the Reichstag.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+A strange hush pervaded his home as he once more entered its portals.
+He gained the nursery door, and, pausing, gently pushed it aside. In
+the waning light he beheld his wife half kneeling, half lying upon
+their little one's cot. Violet's face, illumined by the last rays of
+daylight, was pale and peaceful. It shone with a solemn light&#8212;unlike,
+oh! how unlike, his own playful pet! Her dark blue eyes were heavily
+closed, and her little hands meekly folded on her breast. The mother's
+voice stole on his ear&#8212;"Fare thee well, my darling! good-bye, my angel
+child! but only for a brief space I bid thee adieu. Thou art folded now
+in arms that can shelter thee more safely from the passing blast than
+those of thy poor mother. I shall go to thee, my Violet&#8212;but never,
+never more shalt thou return to me." These and many similar words were
+poured forth by the weeping mother as Bruno unobserved stood silently
+listening. His heart felt ready to burst; it seemed as if some chord
+within him gave way at that moment with a throb of pain.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+For a long time unknown to himself Alcyone's soft influence had
+gradually undermined his harsh scepticism. At that moment a ray of
+heavenly light shot as it were from the upward pathway of his dead
+child into the dark recesses of his soul, and with tender humility he
+knelt by his wife's side and placed his hand on hers. Startled and
+amazed, she turned and met her husband's eye: it shone with a new and
+softened light; there was no need for him to explain to her what he
+felt. Over the death-bed of their fairest hope they for the first time
+experienced the ineffable yet chastened joy of sharing the same
+faith&#8212;of worshipping together the same unseen God.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+At length Alcyone slowly rose from her knees, and casting a long, fond
+look on the lifeless form of her babe, she led her husband from the
+chamber. Together they ascended the narrow stair; together they opened
+the small, well-known door, and emerged, hand-in-hand, amid the now
+darkened twilight, upon the open roof.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+"Bruno," murmured she, "the time for our separation has come; you have
+declared your belief in the immortality of the soul; your poor Alcyone,
+in the midst of her imperfections, has brought you one step nearer the
+gates of Paradise. I now return to my celestial home, but shall there
+await you, my beloved, in the sure and certain hope of a long eternity
+together unchequered by the sorrows that have assailed our path in this
+mortal world."
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Thus saying, for the first time, the gentle Alcyone passionately
+strained her arms around her husband; the pressure relaxed, he tottered
+forward; he was&#8212;alone! A long trail of light shone for a moment
+athwart the evening sky; the peaceful Pleiades beamed forth in
+brightest beauty; he called aloud, but only silence reigned around; in
+uncontrollable emotion the strong man fell fainting to the ground.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+How long he thus remained he never knew; but he woke at last to find
+the midnight moon shining upon him. He raised himself, confused and
+aching; he passed his hand across his brow&#8212;Was the past a reality? A
+tear rolled down his time-worn cheek which his keen eye had never shed,
+but it might be the cold dewdrop of the early morn. Beside him lay the
+coat and hat he had worn in returning from the Reichstag. It must be
+some long, strange dream that, coming on him exhausted and weary, had
+harassed his brain through the weird watches of the night.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+As these thoughts coursed through his mind his eye fell on his left
+hand; upon it there sparkled a stone of extraordinary brilliancy, which
+recalled to him the gem on Alcyone's forehead. He strove to remove the
+jewel, but, though easily fitting to his finger, the magic circlet
+refused to be taken from its place.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The reality of the past then rushed upon the proud Baron's mind with
+the resistless force of inward conviction. Humbled and sorrowful, the
+great philosopher's wondrous attainments and mighty intellectual
+resources seemed for the moment to become as less than the dust beneath
+his feet. With the simple faith of a little child, he bent his knee
+alone before his Maker, and cried, in tones of repentant sadness,
+"Lord, I believe, help Thou mine unbelief."
+</p>
+
+
+<br>
+<a name="bride">&nbsp;</a>
+<p class="fm2">
+ESGAIR: THE BRIDE OF LLYN IDWYL.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Among the mountains of Caernarvonshire none are more gloomy and
+precipitous than the dark sister Glydirs Fawr and Bach. Towering
+sublimely above the solitary waters of Llyn Idwyl, they rear their
+proud summits well nigh on a level with that of the loftier but less
+rugged Snowdon.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Where is the wayfarer who can forget a calm autumn sunset seen from
+those barren heights?
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Valleys far and near shrouded in dim purpling mists; shadowy gigantic
+forms looming faintly in the deepening twilight; rose-tipped peaks
+floating amid a halo of glory in the evening sky; silver streamlets
+breaking here and there in white lines the dusky shades below; while
+afar, in the distance, the broad slumbering ocean bids a glittering
+farewell to the monarch of the day.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Such was the panorama spread before the young Llewelyn many years ago,
+when in toilsome search after strayed sheep he came suddenly upon the
+highest part of the mountain. To his wearied eyes, however, nature for
+the time had no charm. With hurried and anxious footsteps he leapt from
+rock to rock, dreading to find some of his wandering flock with broken
+limbs. For, as with many other Welsh mountains, the crest of the Glydir
+Fawr is entirely composed of huge boulders roughly hurled together;
+deep treacherous crevices being often entirely concealed from view by
+the luxuriant growth of ferns, heather, and bilberries, which yield
+most unsubstantial footing to the unwary.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Llewelyn's father, "Dafydd ap Gwynant," a well-known chieftain, had
+been slain in battle, and most of his possessions seized by his foes.
+The widowed Gwynneth, in terror for the safety of her only child, fled
+with him to the wild region now known as the pass of Nant Francon.
+There in solitude she reared her boy to habits of frugal simplicity. As
+years rolled on the widow prospered and her flocks increased. Yet still
+Llewelyn remained her only herd, and at eventide the steep sides of
+Llyn Ogwyn and Llyn Idwyl re-echoed with his loud carols and joyous
+shouts, as he summoned the cattle and sheep to their nightly fold.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+In these remote times wolves and other wild beasts still lurked among
+the Welsh hills. Nor did they limit their ravages to the destruction of
+animals alone, but when rendered desperate by hunger visited human
+habitations in search of their prey. Witness the touching history of
+Gelert the faithful hound, whose tomb is still to be seen in the little
+valley over which a dog's fidelity has shed undying renown. Hence the
+necessity for carefully collecting the herds at nightfall within some
+place of security.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Llewelyn at length discovered his missing lambs on the steep northern
+sides of the Glydir, and herding them hurriedly together, crossed the
+shoulder of the mountain and descended towards Llyn Idwyl by the rugged
+pathway which leads past the narrow gorge now known as "the Devil's
+Kitchen." It was rapidly growing dark as he reached the plain, and he
+was hastening homewards, when by the waning light he perceived the
+surface of that gloomy lake to be strangely agitated. As he gazed, the
+head of a lovely maiden rose above the ripples, and seemed to his
+excited imagination to regard him with a tender wistful look. He rushed
+to the water's brink, and was about to cast off his coat and swim to
+the aid of the fair unknown, when, soft and clear as an evening bell,
+these words rang through the still air:&#8212;
+</p>
+
+<div class="poem">
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>"Three times lost, and three times won,</p>
+<p>Canst thou win me, Dafydd's son?</p>
+<p>Tender must thou be to me,</p>
+<p>Tender should I be to thee.</p></div>
+
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>To my mate in bridal hour</p>
+<p>I can bring a princely dower;</p>
+<p>But my wooing must be soon,</p>
+<p>Ere has waned September's moon."</p></div></div>
+
+<p>
+Enraptured by these silvery notes, Llewelyn strained every nerve to
+listen, and as the nymph falteringly uttered the last words he felt a
+magic thrill run through his frame. He became possessed with a sudden
+desire to behold the entire form of the beautiful being whose head
+alone smiled on him across the watery waste; but as he approached
+nearer the sweet face disappeared, the surface of the loch became
+glassy and still. The pale rays of the rising moon illumined only the
+wide level mirror of Llyn Idwyl, and amazed and bewildered the youth
+turned to his home.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+After folding the sheep he entered the cottage. His mother had prepared
+a fragrant supper; but through Llewelyn's veins there ran a secret
+fire, and he turned restlessly from the food he was wont to relish in
+his calmer hours.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Gwynneth was a mother in ten thousand. Though she had wandered far to
+obtain the oakleaves over which she had slowly smoked the pink trout;
+though her hands had been stung when she robbed the wild bees of their
+honey for her boy; though when faint and tired from her long ramble she
+had risen with fresh energy to mix and bake for her son the scones he
+loved; yet when she saw his disquietude and lack of appetite, no
+murmur, no query crossed her lips. Patiently she herself partook of the
+humble fare, and strove to cheer her moody child, while her own heart
+ached with vague doubts and fears.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Hardly, however, had she cleared away the last traces of the
+half-consumed meal when Llewelyn extended himself full length on the
+deerskins at her feet, laid his hot head on her soothing lap, and by
+the flickering light of the fire (fed at intervals with cones from the
+pine forest) related to her his strange adventure.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+As Gwynneth listened to his words the iron entered into her soul. Every
+mother can sympathize with the pang she then experienced. The child she
+had borne through labour, sorrow, and pain; the infant she alone
+nourished and brought to manly strength; the all upon which every hope,
+every thought of the future is centred&#8212;the widow's only son&#8212;the idol
+of her heart&#8212;his love is passing from her. She is no longer to him the
+first, the dearest. Dreams of a nearer and dearer one are wakening in
+his young bosom. The mother is now his confidant; but well does she
+know that ere long the newly-beloved will be his only thought; that
+into her ear alone will be poured all the aspirations of his life. That
+henceforth and for evermore the mother must resign her son's heart to
+the keeping of another. Gwynneth in that hour felt the cold hand of
+fate clutch her past happiness. Her pulse stood still. But she was a
+noble woman. She knew the law of life was resistless. Come from a race
+of kings, with proud resolve she nerved her wounded spirit, and casting
+all meaner thoughts of self aside, threw herself with ardour into the
+interests of her son.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+While Llewelyn described the events of the evening, the mists cleared
+from the past and his mother dimly remembered an ancient tradition
+heard in days gone by. The half-forgotten legend ran thus:&#8212;A prince of
+royal Welsh blood fell in love with and wedded a water Nixie. No
+sooner, however, were his espousals accomplished than he, with his
+palace and all his treasures, became enchanted and covered by the
+waters of Llyn Idwyl, which then, at Venedotia's dread command, rose to
+its present height. The water god, through the marriage-tie of his
+beautiful child, had gained a subtle power over her human lover, and
+despite her entreaties worked this cruel spell to secure to her the
+unchanging faith of a mortal. While Gwynneth told this strange story,
+an old prophecy concerning this very prince, which she had often heard
+in her youth, suddenly flashed across her mind. Surprised it should so
+long have escaped her memory, she thus recited it to her listening son&#8212;
+</p>
+
+<div class="poem">
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>"When Rhuddlan's child with man shall mate</p>
+<p>A light shall break on Rhuddlan's fate;</p>
+<p>When thrice three wedded years pass by</p>
+<p>Llyn Idwyl's waters shall run dry;</p>
+<p>But if that wedded peace be riven,</p>
+<p>By blows at random three times given,</p>
+<p>Esgair must seek her father's cave,</p>
+<p>Nor quit again the gloomy wave;</p>
+<p>No slow revolving years shall wake</p>
+<p>The spell-bound slumberers of the lake."</p></div></div>
+
+<p>
+"My son," exclaimed Gwynneth, "all is now clear to me. The fair
+daughter of King Rhuddlan has seen and chosen you to be the deliverer
+of herself and her family, who once owned the greater part of Wales;
+but who fell under Venedotia's spell so long ago that their existence
+is forgotten by the oldest inhabitant. I am proud that my child should
+aid in restoring our ancient line of kings. But Llewelyn," murmured
+she, placing her hand fondly on his brown wavy locks, "you must pray
+for strength, and enter on this strange adventure with the aid of
+heavenly courage." Long into the night sat that gentle mother holding
+counsel with her son, and even when they sought their rude couches but
+scant sleep sealed their eyelids.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Next day Llewelyn fulfilled his various duties with feverish
+impatience, he yearned for the evening hour, and as the moon's rays
+fell over the lone heights of the Glydir he stood once more by Llyn
+Idwyl's brink, and in a low clear voice uttered these words:&#8212;
+</p>
+
+<div class="poem">
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>"By the Glydir's rugged side,</p>
+<p>By thy father's captive pride,</p>
+<p>By the strains of mortal love</p>
+<p>Stealing o'er thee from above,</p>
+<p>By thine own enchanted lake,</p>
+<p>Esgair, fairest! hear and wake!"</p></div></div>
+
+<p>
+Scarcely had he finished, when a long train of light shot across the
+loch, and, glittering with a thousand watery diamonds, Esgair half
+arose and stretched forth towards him her lovely arms. A smile of hope
+irradiated her pure countenance, and as Llewelyn knelt awestruck upon
+the beach, she slowly chanted these lines:&#8212;
+</p>
+
+<div class="poem">
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>"Through Llewelyn's devotion deliverance draws near;</p>
+<p>'Twixt sunset and sunrise to-morrow be here,</p>
+<p>Though strife be around thee yet suffer no fear</p>
+<p>If Rhuddlan's poor daughter to thee seemeth dear;</p>
+<p>Forget not that o'er her the sign must be crossed,</p>
+<p>Or she and her kindred for ever are lost!"</p></div></div>
+
+<p>
+With a parting wave of her hand Esgair slowly disappeared, and nought
+was visible save the reflection of the moon, which, dancing and
+sparkling across the dark agitated bosom of Llyn Idwyl, ended in a
+pathway of light at Llewelyn's feet. It was an omen of hope for the
+morrow, and with joyful steps he returned to his home. Here, however he
+was somewhat harassed by fears as to the poor accommodation they could
+offer to the bride.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+"Dear mother," he urged, "she is a high-born princess; her hair, neck,
+and arms sparkle with priceless jewels. She may scorn our lowly hut,
+and reproach me for bringing her to so humble a home."
+</p>
+
+<p>
+"Nay, my son," replied Gwynneth; "the heart of a true maiden seeketh
+ever something more precious than gold or riches; the love of a
+faithful partner is doubtless what Esgair yearns to find. It is,
+moreover, borne in upon me that the daughter of Rhuddlan will not come
+dowerless to the son of Dafydd. Be she poor, however, or be she rich,
+we will give her the best we have; and I tell you she will hold it
+dearer than life."
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Heaven that night shed its own peace over the widow and her son, and
+their last evening alone together was long remembered by each as a time
+of holy calm. By day-break next morning they were already astir. Many
+preparations had still to be made. Llewelyn went across the hills to
+petition Saint Tudno to pronounce his bridal benediction. The holy
+father was now making his yearly pilgrimage through Wales, visiting and
+cheering his feeble scattered flock, who clung fast together and
+revered with a passionate tenderness their few and faithful teachers.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+It was at an ancient farm upon the slopes of Carnedd Llewelyn that
+Llewelyn and his mother had, only a few days agone, knelt and received
+the good priest's blessing, and Gwynneth doubted not that he would
+consent to partake for one night of their rude hospitality, for the
+purpose of uniting her son and the rescued Esgair in the bands of holy
+wedlock.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Ere the sun had passed its meridian, Gwynneth's hopes were realized.
+The venerable father, guided by Llewelyn, safely reached her door, and
+after partaking with them of their frugal noontide meal retired to rest
+a while, and to resume the devotions broken in upon by his unforeseen
+expedition. It weighed much on his mind that no church was near wherein
+the espousals might be celebrated, but he was fully conscious of the
+difficulties of Llewelyn's position. He shrewdly suspected that until
+holy rites had been performed the wild spirits would do their utmost to
+reclaim and recapture the newly-rescued bride. Ere seeking his chamber
+therefore, the good father carefully sprinkled holy water around the
+dwelling, and fervently besought Heaven's blessing on the approaching
+union.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Some time before the hour of sunset Llewelyn and his mother started for
+the banks of Llyn Idwyl. They followed the rocky course of that little
+stream, which still breaks in foam from the eastern side of the loch,
+and babbling and brawling flows past the very stones where Gwynneth's
+little cottage once stood. The evening was wild and threatening, and
+the sky had strangely changed since Saint Tudno alighted at their
+dwelling. Thunder reverberating through the mountains awakened hoarse
+echoes on every side. Wild clouds in fantastic shapes scudded across
+the lowering heavens, and fitful gleams from the sinking sun threw dark
+shadows across their pathway. Ever and anon drenching showers brushed
+by in short sharp gusts, half blinding them, and causing inexplicable
+terror to the ponies; one of which Gwynneth rode and the other Llewelyn
+led for his bride. More than once, as they pursued their way, Gwynneth
+imagined that white arms and hooded figures waved defiance before her;
+but surprise and doubt held her mute, or perhaps ere she could speak
+the rain dashed on her face and she perceived that her fancy had
+conjured menacing forms from the eddying spindrift around. Llewelyn
+also was haunted by outbursts of mocking laughter, but when, amazed, he
+turned to his mother, the wild turbulence of the little streamlet
+taught him he had mistaken its noisy vehemence for sounds of demoniacal
+mirth.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+At last they reached Llyn Idwyl's side. The sky once more grew calm and
+clear. The sun had long since disappeared behind the dark mountain, and
+the stars faintly twinkling overhead had already lit their feeble
+lamps. The lake itself, however, presented a wild scene. Furious gusts
+of wind agitated the surface. Sheets of spray bearing the semblance of
+hideous figures were dashed hither and thither. A rushing noise as of a
+thousand waterfalls drowned every other sound, and Llewelyn in vain
+tried to make his voice audible amid the din of the elements. Again and
+again he endeavoured to shout Esgair's name, but the mad roaring of the
+winds and waves was all that could be heard.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+"To your knees, my son, and pray for help," whispered Gwynneth in his
+ear, and in despair Llewelyn sank on the ground and fervently invoked
+the aid of Heaven. As if in answer to his prayer, at this instant the
+moon tipped the frowning mountain; her bright rays irradiated the wild
+scene beneath and diminished in some measure the confusion and uproar.
+Then, white and dripping as a storm-tost waterlily, the lovely figure
+of Rhuddlan's daughter slowly emerged from the lake until her feet were
+visible. She advanced along the moon-lit path, which alone remained
+serene and calm. On either side horrid arms were stretched as if to
+grasp her shrinking form, and rude blasts of spray burst in torrents
+over her defenceless head.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Llewelyn knelt in silent prayer till she neared the water brink, when,
+springing to her side, he drew her tenderly on shore, signing at the
+same time on her brow the holy symbol of the cross; while wild shrieks
+and groans resounded across the lake. He lifted Esgair, trembling and
+exhausted, on the pony, where his strong arm was needed to support her.
+The moon suddenly disappeared behind a cloud; the rain burst forth with
+redoubled vehemence, while such peals of thunder broke around and above
+them that the startled ponies could hardly be restrained from dashing
+madly away. Llewelyn, well-nigh desperate, in vain strove to recognize
+the homeward path. Black darkness encompassed them and hid every
+well-known landmark from view.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Just as he was at his wits' end, suddenly gleamed afar a small bright
+cross, shedding divine lustre through the gloom. At the same instant
+there fell on their ears the faint chime of distant bells&#8212;a strange
+unaccustomed sound in those wild regions. They paused not, however, to
+question the cause of the welcome phenomena; but with gladness turned
+in the direction of the cross, which moved before them as they
+advanced; Llewelyn still supporting Esgair, and murmuring words of
+encouragement into her ear. More than once he received rough buffets
+from invisible foes, and wicked threats were whispered by the hoarse
+blasts; but he kept his eyes fixed steadfastly on the sacred symbol
+which guided them in the path of safety, and ere long the unnatural
+tempest spent itself. The fiery cross grew dim, and finally
+disappeared, and the rest of their homeward route was accomplished by
+the returning light of the moon.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Nearer and nearer rang the joyful bells, as if crashing forth a p&#230;an of
+welcome to the belated wanderers; and what was their astonishment on
+coming within sight of the place where their humble dwelling lately
+stood amid unbroken solitudes, to observe innumerable twinkling lights
+borne to and fro, while, by the light of the moon, the tall battlements
+of some huge building rose over the site once covered by their happy
+little home.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Confused and perplexed, Gwynneth thought to chide her son for bringing
+them the wrong way. But now Esgair, with new life, sprang to the
+ground, and, turning towards Gwynneth, said with exceeding grace,
+</p>
+
+<p>
+"This was my father's home. He bestows it willingly upon us&#8212;it is
+yours. But, oh! take me to your heart, and give me a mother's love."
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Gwynneth hastened to alight, and clasping her new daughter to her
+bosom, hesitated no longer to enter the massive portals thrown wide
+open before them. As they stepped beneath the archway, solemn strains
+of music became audible. A long line of priests and choristers moved
+across the lofty hall within; bands of fair maidens robed in white
+approached Esgair, and tenderly saluting her placed her in their midst.
+Last of all the holy Father Tudno drew near and motioned Gwynneth and
+Llewelyn to his side.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Deeply agitated by a thousand conflicting emotions, Gwynneth, Esgair,
+and Llewelyn now beheld before them as they advanced a small chapel
+brilliantly lighted for high festival. With slow and reverend step
+Saint Tudno withdrew within the altar space, and united in holy wedlock
+the strangely-mated pair before him. Long and lowly did they bend
+before the sacred shrine, and when at length they retired down the
+aisles, the clear high voices of the singers rang out in joyful
+strains, while far overhead the jubilant bells told with their iron
+tongues the glad news that the first bar of fate had been undone&#8212;the
+condition fulfilled that ran thus in the old legend:
+</p>
+
+<div class="poem">
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>"When Rhuddlan's child with man shall mate</p>
+<p>A light shall break on Rhuddlan's fate."</p></div></div>
+
+<p>
+Time fails me to tell of the splendours of that night of rejoicing, or
+the magnificent appointments of the castle. But it is impossible to
+pass by in silence the exceeding beauty of the bride, or the manly
+serious grace of her bridegroom. Esgair's waving nut-brown tresses fell
+over her shoulders, bound here and there by priceless diamonds. Her
+violet eyes, her dazzling complexion, her long robe of silver sheen,
+displaying every motion of her graceful figure, her wondrous charm of
+manner,&#8212;all enchanted the beholder. She looked and moved the daughter
+of a hundred kings.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Llewelyn's countenance, even in that deep hour of joy, wore the
+chastened expression of one who has struggled and suffered. In the
+midst of his new-found wealth he was fain to remember, with a feeling
+akin to pain, that this proud castle and all its appurtenances was the
+heritage of his wife and her father. But as Esgair turned her soft eyes
+upon him, the toils of the past and the uncertainty of the future were
+alike forgotten, and love beamed effulgent on his soul.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Night and stillness fell over that great castle. Only alone in an upper
+chamber&#8212;the widowed wife&#8212;the lonely mother&#8212;wrestled in silent prayer
+for her children until the day broke over the east and opened to the
+world once more the golden gates of the sun.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+On the morrow all was new and strange to Gwynneth and Llewelyn; but
+Esgair guided them from room to room of the splendid palace, and
+related to them endless tales told her by her father, of what had
+happened within its walls, ere the spell of enchantment consigned him
+and his to the dark waters of oblivion.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+To Gwynneth the long corridors and stately chambers with their quaint
+hangings of tapestry recalled her early home. Llewelyn (who though of
+princely race, had been reared in poverty) felt a certain restraint
+amid all this new-found grandeur, and bore with ill-concealed
+impatience the ministrations of the countless servants, whose presence
+fettered his free action and oppressed his simple nature.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Soon, however, the varied interests of his new position became
+all-engrossing. Surrounded by retainers skilled in every kind of sport,
+possessed of the fleetest steeds and truest falcons in the country,
+blessed with the tenderest of wives and mothers, he seldom had time to
+revert even in thought to the fewer and less luxurious pleasures of his
+youth. He and Esgair became passionately fond of hawking, and many
+happy days were thus spent, when, splendidly mounted and attended by a
+numerous train, they would scour the country around and return wearied
+yet joyous at eventide to relate to Gwynneth the adventures of the day.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+It was during one of these hunting excursions that Esgair, roused by
+the excitement of the chase, urged her palfrey to its utmost speed, and
+distancing all her companions, came suddenly to a small level plateau
+amid the mountains. Here a little streamlet had its birth, gushing
+forth from the rock itself in cold purity. The hawk was already
+stooping over its quarry, and Esgair finding herself alone, called
+repeatedly to the bird in great fear lest it should fail in its object.
+While she was thus employed, Llewelyn came rapidly in sight, and riding
+up to her, playfully struck her on the shoulder with his gauntlet,
+crying gaily, "Methought, fair lady, you were running away from us all;
+but you have deftly won the race to-day, and yours must be the heron's
+plume."
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The rest of the merry party now came up, but while with eager
+excitement they watched the protracted struggles of the two birds,
+Llewelyn turned his own and his wife's palfrey aside, and under
+pretence of arranging her dress whispered to Esgair, "Nay, dearest,
+wherein have I vexed thee? I was only watchful for thy dear sake,
+fearing when out of my sight lest evil should befall thee."
+</p>
+
+<p>
+To his great surprise tears dimmed her eyes, and the colour mantled
+higher in her flushed cheek as she murmured in low tones, "You have
+struck the first blow."
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Amazed and incredulous, it was some time before Llewelyn could recall
+to mind the weird prophecy his mother had repeated to him. As they
+leant sadly over their panting horses by the little spring, a white arm
+emerged from the mossy bank and waved beckoning towards Esgair, while,
+like a faint sigh of the breeze, fell these chill numbers on their
+ears&#8212;
+</p>
+
+<div class="poem">
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>"One blow hath fallen on Esgair's fate,</p>
+<p>And grieved Llewelyn's gentle mate."</p></div></div>
+
+<p>
+Thoroughly startled he rushed forward, but the fancied apparition was
+only a little shower of spray which, caught by the eddying wind, dashed
+itself over him, wetting his gay clothes and soaking him to the skin.
+Were the words he had heard but the offspring of his own imagination?
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Now with loud cries the victory of the falcon was proclaimed, and the
+gallant esquire, riding up to his mistress, courteously presented her
+with the heron's plume, and craved permission to fasten it in her hat.
+Esgair accepted the gift with her wonted grace, but it was with
+saddened hearts that she and Llewelyn turned homewards. The dispiriting
+influence soon communicated itself to their followers, and in
+melancholy guise the merry party of the morning silently re-entered the
+castle walls.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Ere they retired to rest, however, Esgair and Llewelyn sought the
+little chapel where their marriage vows had been interchanged, and as
+they knelt together in prayer an ineffable calm soothed their troubled
+spirits, and on seeking their chamber a deep joy cradled them to rest.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Their life now passed away in uneventful happiness, until, as the time
+drew near the birth of Christ, Esgair had a son, whose advent was
+hailed with universal rejoicing. Llewelyn with trembling joy welcomed
+his little child, and drew many hopeful auguries for the future from
+his first seeing the light in the glorious holy tide of Christmas.
+Esgair suffered considerably in health, causing her husband great
+anxiety, and it was some time before she could resume her wonted place
+in the castle. But she seemed strangely anxious to have her child
+baptized at the earliest possible moment. They were obliged, however,
+to wait some little time for the holy Father Tudno, who, again
+travelling that way on his stated rounds, promised by a certain day to
+receive the babe into the arms of the Church.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Meanwhile the nurses were forbidden to stray without the precincts of
+the castle, and specially warned against approaching either of the
+lakes which lay within such easy distance&#8212;Llyn Ogwyn and Llyn Idwyl.
+It was rumoured that strange forms were to be sometimes seen wandering
+round the castle. Esgair herself, whose gentle ways had endeared her to
+all around, began to be regarded with suspicion, as, when hardly strong
+enough to leave her chamber, she insisted on taking solitary walks, was
+long absent, and frequently returned with traces of tears on her cheek.
+At such times she would redouble her cautions to the nurses, and sit
+for hours watching uneasily over her babe. They told wild tales,
+moreover, of seeing their mistress in the dead of night leaning over
+the little one's cradle and with clasped hands and streaming eyes
+seeming to wrestle in prayer with some invisible power. She would then
+clasp the infant in her arms, sign a cross over its forehead and
+replace it slumbering and unconscious in its cot.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+But the slow weeks moved on, St. Valentine's day at last arrived, and
+with it the good Father to perform the promised rite. Every preparation
+made, and the little chapel adorned with the pale flowers of early
+spring time&#8212;the drooping snowdrop, and the Christmas rose, nestling in
+rich green moss from the glen&#8212;Gwynneth proudly bore her little
+grandson to the font, and the holy service began.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The wind and rain without, hitherto hardly noticed, now dashed with
+such force against the casements as to endanger their frail fastenings,
+while above the chant of the choristers could be distinctly heard the
+wild howling of the tempest. The little child itself moved restlessly
+from side to side, and seemed to feel an adverse influence threatening
+its fate. All eyes, however, were turned on the lady of the castle,
+who, with mortal terror depicted on her countenance, eagerly scanned
+the high windows and shuddered visibly as the storm increased. But now
+the reverend Father took the babe in his arms and ascended the steps of
+the font. Louder and louder roared the fierce winds without, and as one
+mighty gust shook the chapel to its very foundations, Esgair uttered a
+faint moan. Llewelyn impatiently turned for the first time towards her,
+and, angrily touching her shoulder to recall her attention to the
+service, muttered some hasty rebuke about disturbing the people around
+by her ill-timed fears. Father Tudno at this moment formally demanded
+the child's name, and Llewelyn gave him, as had already been agreed
+upon, the name of "Rhiwallon." As the holy Father, repeating over the
+infant the tender words of his faith, was about to sign on its brow the
+sacred symbol of the cross, a terrific blast shattered the casements
+into a thousand pieces, all the lights throughout the chapel were
+instantly extinguished, while a deluging shower fell on the group round
+the font. Eldritch laughter rang through the air, a piercing shriek was
+heard, and phantom forms tried to wrench the little babe from the good
+priest's arms. Undismayed and calm however, Saint Tudno gathered the
+helpless lamb of the fold still closer in his sheltering clasp, and ere
+the strife of the rough elements well-nigh reached him, the little
+Rhiwallon was already a member of the eternal Church. But in Llewelyn's
+awe-struck ear sounded these dread words&#8212;
+</p>
+
+<div class="poem">
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>"Blare wildly ye breezes a blast of delight,</p>
+<p>A blow hath been struck by Llewelyn this night."</p></div></div>
+
+<p>
+Now with flying footsteps came a page bearing a torch. The wild force
+of the tempest seemed to have spent itself, and comparative peace
+reigned without the castle. Within, the lights were once more kindled,
+but their rays fell upon a cold inanimate form. Poor Esgair had fallen
+forwards, her head lay on the hard stone floor, her hands were still
+raised as if in supplication to some invisible power, while dark red
+blood slowly oozed forth from beneath her luxuriant tresses. With a cry
+of terror Llewelyn raised her in his arms. He found that in falling she
+had struck against the stone step of the font, and a somewhat deep
+wound was made under her thick soft hair. He bore her tenderly to her
+chamber. Through the livelong night with keen anguish he and his mother
+(suffering no meaner hand to tend her) ministered to her wants. At
+times she cried uneasily for her babe, nor could they soothe or appease
+her until the little Rhiwallon was brought and laid beside his
+suffering mother in the great state bed, with its dark gorgeous
+hangings and curious antique carving. Llewelyn, heart-sore and
+grievously conscience-stricken, bent over the half-slumbering pair.
+They seemed to his excited imagination like the flower and the bud
+rudely torn from the parent stem and fading before his very eyes. He
+listened anxiously over their lips to assure himself of their actual
+breathing. Esgair, half-awakened, moved restlessly until feeling her
+babe again cradled in her arms, she murmured low words of endearment
+over him, and sank once more into troubled slumber. Many days she
+struggled between life and death; and as Llewelyn kept the weary
+watches by her side, he mournfully remembered that it was his own
+thoughtless temper which had brought all this upon his faithful wife,
+and recklessly dissolved one more link that bound her life to his. She
+explained to him that her fears had been roused lest the powerful
+Venedotia should gain possession of their boy ere he was christened,
+and hence the strange precautions she had taken and her extreme terror
+in the chapel. She was unable, moreover, to warn those around her, as
+her first word of elucidation would have sealed the death-warrant of
+her babe; so powerful was the spell still exercised by the fierce
+enchanter over Rhuddlan's ill-fated race.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+April breezes brought sounds of spring into the land ere Esgair, pale
+and wan&#8212;like one who has passed through the valley of the dark
+shadow&#8212;was once more borne down the castle stair and carried abroad to
+be invigorated by the reviving vernal air. She had taken a strong
+dislike to the "Castle of the Lakes," as their present home was called.
+Nor can this be wondered at, considering the baneful influence that had
+threatened not only her own but her infant's life. She entreated
+Llewelyn to build another dwelling by the sea-shore, where strength and
+health might more rapidly return to her, and where she hoped to be in a
+measure free from the fell designs of Venedotia.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+With eager zest her repentant husband followed the bent of Esgair's
+mind, and, after many pleasant excursions to the neighbouring shores in
+search of a site, they at length resolved to raise the walls of their
+new castle in the centre of the rich plain which then lay between the
+proud headlands of Penmaenmaur and Penmaenbach.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Esgair took intense interest in the progress of the builders, who were
+now set to work with the utmost diligence. Throughout the long summer,
+she, Gwynneth, Llewelyn, and the babe with his nurses, dwelt in a
+little shieling on the steep sides of Penmaenmaur. Daily descending to
+the broad fertile meadows amid which was to be their future home, they
+cheered and encouraged the labourers at their work. Ere the mellow
+September time came round, the walls of the new castle had already
+risen to a considerable height.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+It was now two years since the bridal day of Esgair and Llewelyn. Never
+had mortal man been blessed with a gentler, sweeter help-mate. High and
+low worshipped their kind mistress; and the most unruly of their
+half-savage retainers would fly to anticipate her slightest desire.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The little Rhiwallon was a lovely babe; healthy and well tended ever
+since his birth, his firm limbs and rosy cheeks were full of promise.
+His dark eye already beamed with intelligence, and his broad brow bore
+the impress of future intellectual power. What long hours that fond
+mother passed alone with her babe! At eventide she ascended the wooden
+steps of the shieling, and sending the women to make merry with their
+friends without, hungrily watched over her child. Gwynneth and Llewelyn
+perhaps sitting silent below, heard sounds as of a cushat dove cooing
+over its young. Sometimes the tones became more audible, and words
+could be distinguished&#8212;the mother crooning to her little one as if he
+could understand.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+"Thou art delivered, my baby, from the evil fate that menaces thy poor
+mother. Thy pure forehead bears on it the sign of the holy cross. Over
+thee the angel of darkness hath now no power save through that mother's
+will. How could they think, my child, that to save herself a parent
+would yield up her darling. Nay, nay; when they tempted me to delay thy
+baptismal hour, they fathomed not the undying love Rhiwallon's mother
+bears her beautiful boy&#8212;her treasure!"
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Such and other dreamy wailing words overheard in the gloaming by
+Gwynneth and her son, revealed to them the unselfish part Esgair had
+played in the events of the past. Pangs of remorse again oppressed
+Llewelyn as he recalled his harsh rebuke in the chapel. He now surmised
+that could the Evil Powers only gain possession of Rhiwallon, Rhuddlan
+and his race, including Esgair herself, would be delivered from all
+future trouble, and freed for ever from the mystic enchantments of
+Venedotia. But while Gwynneth and Llewelyn trembled at the danger to
+which the infant had been exposed, they prized more tenderly than ever
+his fragile mother, whose conduct had throughout been above praise; and
+kneeling down, they offered sincere prayer that through the exceeding
+faith and purity of Esgair's life she might, with heavenly aid, prevent
+the sacrifice of her child, and yet live to accomplish the deliverance
+of her race.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+It was a lovely September afternoon, the sun streamed down on the rich
+purple heather, where Esgair, playing with her boy, sat beside a small
+rivulet close to the walls of the rising castle. The workmen, resting
+for their afternoon meal, were refreshed with milk provided for them by
+the kind command of their lady. Gwynneth, busily engaged in some labour
+of love, had remained up at the little shieling, while the solitary
+nurse who accompanied Esgair was seated with her work at some distance
+from the mother and her child.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Llewelyn had gone forth at break of day to hunt the deer, and as yet
+there was no sign of his return. A halo of sylvan peace enshrouded the
+fair scene and the actors therein. Amid autumnal silence the distant
+sea lay smooth as glass. Like a dim blue mist slumbered the far outline
+of the low-lying islands without. On either side rose the frowning
+sentinels of the vale between&#8212;the giant Penmaenmaur and the scarcely
+smaller Penmaenbach; while behind the smiling plain rose heathery
+slopes, undulating in successive lines towards the gloomy Tal-y-van.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Stretched on soft furs Esgair played with her beautiful laughter-loving
+babe. Sometimes she tossed him crowing aloft, and caught him tenderly
+again to her heart, then, changing from grave to gay, would whisper
+softly in his little ear strange old tales and legends. (It was
+afterwards asserted that when Rhiwallon grew to be a man many of his
+wondrous gifts came from his unconscious remembrance of that mother
+lore.) After much time thus spent in dallying with her infant, at
+length Esgair raised him in her arms and descended with him to the
+brink of the murmuring streamlet, being thus lost sight of by the
+nurse, who, still within easy hail, did not move from her
+all-engrossing handicraft.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The peaceful afternoon wore onwards, and soon Llewelyn, hot and
+fatigued, and with a somewhat clouded brow (for the day's sport had
+been unsuccessful), came striding down the narrow path, and, accosting
+the nurse, inquired for her mistress and child. The maid pointed out
+the course of the rivulet, and Llewelyn springing forward soon cleared
+the short space between, and gained the little eminence where the furs,
+still scattered in rich profusion, bore witness to the late presence of
+Esgair and the babe. Looking impatiently around in quest of them, to
+his horror and surprise Llewelyn perceived his son in the arms of a
+strange old man with a long hoary beard and white flowing garments. The
+little boy seemed pleased and happy; he was cooing to his mother, while
+she, seated on a rock in the midst of the purling brook, and within a
+stone's-throw of where Llewelyn stood, watched Rhiwallon's every
+movement with keen delight. Llewelyn paused not to observe the majestic
+stature and noble countenance of the unknown (who was, in fact, the
+ancient Rhuddlan, the babe's grandfather), nor remembered till
+afterwards, when it was too late, Esgair's look of entranced happiness.
+So absorbed was she that she did not hear her husband's exclamation of
+anger, did not see his rapid steps down the hillock, knew and felt
+nothing till he roughly smote her on the shoulder and sharply asked
+what she meant by allowing their child (during his absence) to become
+the plaything of any old vagrant about the place, letting him also run
+the risk of every passing infection of illness. He would have added
+more bitter words of reproach, but as he spoke the old man suddenly
+disappeared. The baby gave a loud cry and fell splashing into the
+water. His mother at once caught and drew him out, and, with streaming
+eyes laid him on Llewelyn's breast, while around, above, below, with a
+sound of many rushing waters, could be distinguished these
+hoarsely-muttered words:&#8212;
+</p>
+
+<div class="poem">
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>"The final undoing of Fate hath begun,</p>
+<p>And Esgair's frail portion of happiness done;</p>
+<p>Arise and return to us, child of the lake,</p>
+<p>Nor nursling nor husband thy slumbers shall wake."</p></div></div>
+
+<p>
+Quick as light Esgair turned a strange look of terror on her husband.
+"The waters, the cruel waters!" she cried; "haste to the hills ere it
+be too late&#8212;hasten, or they will overwhelm you!" No thought of her own
+fate unnerved the heroic woman. Waving wildly to the workmen, she bade
+them escape for their lives, and indeed the nurse had already seen from
+above, and turned to warn them of an impending tempest. Lurid clouds
+veiled the sun, wild winds sighed around, strange shapes arose in the
+bed of the little river, madly leaping to and fro, while, stranger than
+all, and striking consternation to the bravest heart, with low growls
+as of far thunder, arose a huge black wall of water in the distant sea,
+and seemed ever approaching nearer. Sea gulls and cormorants wheeled in
+the air above, uttering dissonant cries. Affrighted and amazed, the
+terrified workmen left tools, clothes, and implements behind and fled
+in desperate haste towards the mountains.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+At this moment Esgair, turning, perceived that Llewelyn, paralyzed with
+terror and remorse, could move neither hand nor foot to save himself or
+the child. Endued for the time being with superhuman strength, she
+snatched the babe from his arms, and crying "Follow me," swept rapidly
+across the uneven ground, sometimes stumbling and nearly falling, but
+never stopping to take breath until, on the slopes of Moel Llys, she
+reached the trembling crowd, who from this vantage-ground watched the
+wild work of destruction below. Breathless and exhausted she flung
+herself down on the soft turf and soothed the bitterly crying and
+frightened infant.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Esgair's hurried flight awoke Llewelyn from the stupor of despair. He
+followed and aided her as best he could, and now stood by her side. In
+silent awe that little assembly beheld the appalling inroad of the
+waters. Like a dark pall, the slow moving mass spread itself over the
+fertile lands below; ere long it reached the castle; the unfinished
+walls disappeared, and soon a wide watery waste covered the whilome
+scene of busy labour and the rich fields around. At length the
+remorseless waves dashed unavailingly beneath the rising ground where
+stood the trembling fugitives. Loud thanksgivings for their safety
+arose from these simple pious men, and they gratefully acknowledged the
+hand of Providence in their wonderful escape from a watery grave.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+But now low sobs of anguish were heard, a mother&#8212;like Rachel of
+old&#8212;weeping over her child, and refusing to be comforted. The gentle
+Esgair, wan and weary, lay prostrate upon the ground. Painfully she
+drew her labouring breath and strained Rhiwallon to her poor aching
+heart. Her eyes were mournfully fixed on Llewelyn, as if to take a last
+farewell. His grief could find no utterance. With gloomy foreboding he
+recalled the words of the ancient legend, and a cold thrill ran through
+him as he remembered that his fatal impatience had not only tempted
+Esgair's fate, but according to the old prophecy had riveted still more
+firmly the spell that bound her hapless kinsmen; for was it not
+written&#8212;
+</p>
+
+<div class="poem">
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>But if that wedded peace be riven,</p>
+<p>By blows at random three times given,</p>
+<p>Esgair must seek her father's cave,</p>
+<p>Nor quit again the gloomy wave,</p>
+<p>No slow revolving years shall wake</p>
+<p>The spell-bound slumberers of the lake.</p></div></div>
+
+<p>
+By this time the tempest had gradually died away. A faint melody of
+unearthly beauty fell on their ears&#8212;as they listened wondering and
+entranced, they heard these thrilling words:
+</p>
+
+<div class="poem">
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>Three times lost, and three times won,</p>
+<p>Thou hast wedded Dafydd's son:</p>
+<p>Brow that holy sign hath crossed</p>
+<p>Ne'er can be by witchcraft lost.</p>
+<p>By thy faith and suffering power</p>
+<p>Thou hast won the conquering hour;</p>
+<p>Though the spell on thee must break,</p>
+<p>Rhuddlan's race from sleep shall wake;</p>
+<p>Thou and thine shall dwell in light,</p>
+<p>Saved by glory infinite.</p>
+<p>Rise, the evil spell is broken,</p>
+<p>Peace be thine, and this the token.</p></div></div>
+
+<p>
+As the voice ceased the sun broke through the clouds, and from his
+western declivity threw a long radiance across the calming ocean.
+Within this glittering pathway stood an angel of exceeding beauty, and
+of grave and majestic countenance. With his left hand he beckoned to
+Esgair. With his right he pointed to the golden rays behind him, within
+which myriad shapes of brightest loveliness seemed to move. The light
+fell on Esgair's head as she arose with new strength from the earth.
+Already a solemn stillness hushed the grief of her pale features and a
+new expression beamed from her pure face.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+"Heaven guard and guide thee, my babe," she said, and placing him
+tenderly in his nurse's arms, turned to Llewellyn imploring him to wish
+her farewell. He approached and wildly cast his arms around her&#8212;the
+strong passions of earth still raged uncontrolled in his unchastened
+bosom&#8212;but she slowly disengaged herself from his despairing caress and
+hopefully trod the brief steps that divided her from the heavenly
+visitant. The angel took her by the hand&#8212;once more with overflowing
+tenderness she waved adieu to her husband, and ere the awestruck
+Llewelyn could move from where he stood, the red sun disappeared with a
+sudden dip behind the distant island. With him also, alas! were gone
+the last faint traces of that pathway of light, wherein had moved, but
+a moment before, those bright blessed forms, connecting earth with the
+upper world.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Breaking from his trancelike despair, Llewelyn madly rushed to the
+water's brink and again and again strove to end his miserable existence
+by flinging himself into the gloomy sea. But his people restrained him,
+and the nurse brought the little Rhiwallon to his side. The unhappy
+father turned to look on his child, then with renewed agony, as he
+remembered how he had for ever deprived that tender nursling of a
+mother's care, he groaned aloud and smote his hands wildly together.
+But now, through the quiet evening air&#8212;calm and serene&#8212;like dew on
+the parched and weary herb, was borne this soothing message from
+invisible realms:
+</p>
+
+<div class="poem">
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>Farewell to the home of my brief mortal years,</p>
+<p>Farewell to the valley of sunshine and tears.</p>
+<p>Now over our castle on Arvon's pale shore</p>
+<p>The waters of Meinai shall surge evermore.</p>
+<p>Llyn Idwyl! sleep calmly&#8212;thou desolate lake.</p>
+<p>Dark Glydirs! no Esgair your echoes shall wake.</p>
+<p>But mourn not, Llewelyn, the fate of thy love,</p>
+<p>She smiles still upon thee from regions above.</p>
+<p>Arise and walk onward, nor idly repine,</p>
+<p>A mission that angels might sigh for is thine,</p>
+<p>To guide and to shelter through life's opening days</p>
+<p>Rhiwallon, whose future all Cymri shall praise.</p>
+<p>The Spirit Divine hath inclined to my voice,</p>
+<p>And parents and kindred around me rejoice.</p>
+<p>My fate is accomplished&#8212;the spell overcome,</p>
+<p>And Paradise opens to Rhuddlan a home.</p></div></div>
+
+<p>
+The sudden shadow that had followed sunset now gave way to gorgeous
+colouring. From the closed western portals of the day emerged rich
+waving lines of gold and roseate hue, and spread far overhead. Behind
+the distant islands where the sun had disappeared glowed an atmosphere
+of living amber. For a brief moment the gates of Paradise were indeed
+"standing ajar" to receive the now immortal Esgair and her long lost
+kindred.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Awhile the watchers on the shore continued on their knees hoping once
+more to see that heavenly visitant or hear again the soul-stirring
+voice that had fallen from unseen lips. At last one by one they arose,
+and gazing seawards by the waning light beheld the broad band of waters
+still covering the fertile plains, the green meadows, and the
+unfinished castle. Little rippling waves broke at their feet and marked
+the boundary line, where to this day, the waves surge and swell between
+the mighty Penmaens upon the Cambrian Coast.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+At this moment Gwynneth arrived breathless in their midst and joined
+her lamentations to those of the little babe, who, missing his mother,
+bewailed her loss in heart-rending tones.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The workmen now turned to seek a night's lodging where they could, for
+their temporary dwellings had shared the fate of the more lordly
+castle. Llewelyn, still carrying his child, motioned to his mother to
+draw somewhat aside, and as they slowly remounted the hill, frequently
+pausing to cast wistful glances around, and to strain their eyes in
+vain toward the fading west, he related to her the various occurrences
+of that fatal day and repeated the farewell words of his lost wife.
+"Hear me, mother," exclaimed he, as they gained the door of the
+shieling; "by the remembrance of my Esgair's pure and holy life, I
+devote myself henceforth to the fulfilment of her behest, and while
+life and strength remain I promise so to cherish and bring up our child
+(aided by heavenly power) that he shall renew the memory of his sainted
+mother, and become the benefactor of mankind."
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Clasping the babe closer in his arms he turned to enter at the lowly
+door, but with a cry of joy the infant stretched out its little arms,
+and lo! soft and pure in the western sky gleamed through the dusk the
+gentle Evening Star. Then Llewelyn knew in his heart that his vow had
+been heard, and that an angel spirit shone approval of his humble
+resolution.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+With mournful resignation, aided by his mother and cheered by the
+ministrations of the good Father Tudno, Llewelyn passed the remainder
+of his days in the careful up-bringing of his son. They never returned
+to the Castle of the Lakes. For at daybreak on the morning which
+succeeded Esgair's translation, a messenger arrived footsore and weary
+bringing strange tidings of devastation. As the last stroke of midnight
+clanged from the castle clock the whole mighty fabric disappeared, and
+with it the numerous servants, the fleet steeds, and the fabulous
+wealth which Esgair's bridal night had brought to Llewelyn.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Gwynneth and Llewelyn now fixed their abode on the giant slopes of
+Penmaenmaur, and often at sunset the father was seen pointing up the
+golden pathway and watching with his little son for the first pale ray
+of the Evening Star.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Rhiwallon grew and flourished apace. His was a fearless nature. He
+loved the sea, the hills, the birds, and the flowers. His childish brow
+only became clouded with pain or sorrow for the sufferings of man and
+beast, which even in earliest boyhood he ever yearned to alleviate.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+When still an infant he was often found with a sweet smile upon his
+countenance, and in after years could recall the dim vision of an angel
+form that bent over and lulled him in his dreams, but was ever absent
+when he awoke. Gwynneth and Llewelyn were long spared to foster his
+awakening talents, and ere they were gathered to their fathers the name
+of Rhiwallon had become a household word, for the sweet songs of the
+gentle bard are to this day remembered and sung wherever the Cymri
+tongue is known and loved.<a href="#note1" name="noteref1">
+<small>[1]</small></a>
+</p>
+
+
+
+<br>
+<a name="young">&nbsp;</a>
+<p class="fm2">
+EOTHWALD: THE YOUNG SCULPTOR.
+</p>
+
+
+<p>
+It will not surprise you, dear children, to learn that after Hans
+Christian Andersen wrote his touching story of "The Little Mermaid,"
+the whole world sighed with a strong desire to behold the true likeness
+of that loving and lovely heroine.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Painters and sculptors wandered anxiously by the sea-shore; not alone
+in Denmark, but in many other countries, seeking thus to obtain a
+glimpse of one of the mermaidens&#8212;whose whole race has been for ever
+immortalized by the gentle Dane&#8212;longing to depict on canvas, or to
+carve in marble, the fair lineaments of the faithful sea-child who gave
+her voice and her life for the Prince she loved.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Now for successive ages it has been well known among the denizens of
+the ocean that trouble and misfortune must certainly fall on the
+mermaiden who should visit the shore too frequently, or permit her
+likeness to be taken in any form whatsoever.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Long, long ago, the most beautiful of the sea-nymphs rose in her
+gambols to the surface of the billows; and as in those days mermaids
+wore no tails, and were consequently unable to steer themselves
+properly, she was carried on shore by the force of the waves, where
+such was the confusion caused by her charms, that gods and goddesses
+themselves quarrelled about her, and artists in their enthusiasm
+neglected everything else to depict in all its bewildering beauty the
+sea-born loveliness of "Aphrodite." Great was the indignation excited
+by the appearance of this fair interloper in the aerial courts, and
+"Hera," the Queen of Olympus, persuaded her husband, the awful "Jove,"
+to issue a decree ordaining that henceforth and for evermore all
+mermaidens should bear long tails; thus confining their dangerous
+influence to their own native element; and furthermore forbidding them,
+on pain of severest penalties, to hold communication with the
+inhabitants of earth or sky.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Though centuries have rolled away, this dread command is still
+remembered and obeyed, and hence the extreme difficulty experienced by
+those whose artistic longings had been kindled afresh by the glowing
+descriptions of the sweet Danish writer.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+One golden evening during the brief but glorious northern summer, the
+young sculptor, Eothwald, after a weary day of unavailing search for
+the far-famed mermaidens, threw himself down on the soft grass by a
+river's side, and lulled by the soft ceaseless murmur of the rushing
+waters, sank into deep dreamless sleep. As the drowsiness of fatigue
+wore itself away, he became gradually conscious of ravishing strains of
+music, and rousing himself half awakened to listen to the dulcet
+sounds, he still heard the harmonious cadences of some stringed
+instrument swell and thrill in tones of unearthly beauty.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Eothwald arose softly from his grassy couch, and stole noiselessly
+along. Keeping himself carefully concealed behind rocks and brushwood,
+he followed the sound, till at a bend of the stream he beheld the young
+river god N&#228;cken, seated at the entrance to a grotto, playing and
+singing to his harp strains of heaven-born music; while, bathed in the
+evening sunshine, and with their arms lovingly intertwined, there on
+the surface of the water, in rapt attention, floated the lovely
+mermaiden sisters, Duva and Himingl&#228;fa, unsuspicious of danger, and
+forgetful of all else, for the spell of love's magic numbers hung over
+them and rivetted their attention.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The inspired N&#228;cken continued his impassioned lay; the blushing
+Himingl&#228;fa, to whom his song of homage was addressed, shook her long
+chestnut tresses until they formed a veil around her, and laid her soft
+cheek on the shoulder of the innocent Duva, who, childlike, wondered at
+her sister's excess of emotion.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+A while Eothwald remained motionless, overwhelmed by the beauty of the
+scene, but soon the surpassing loveliness of the sea-sisters fired his
+artistic mind with keen ardour; he felt within himself that could he
+but reproduce these enchanting forms in marble, he would die content.
+He resolved to seek his home, and return thence provided with all the
+necessary materials for working. He had noticed during his wanderings,
+not far from this very spot, a cave, where he fancied he could work
+undisturbed. The clay by this river being famous for its plastic
+properties, it would be easy for him to model by day concealed from all
+beholders, and at eventide to steal forth unobserved, and gain new
+ideas of beauty from the fair sisters now before him.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+As he silently pondered and matured this plan, a silvery voice was
+heard afar, and, quick as light, Duva and Himingl&#228;fa sprang away
+through the darkening waters at their mother's call, while N&#228;cken,
+carrying his harp with him, abruptly disappeared within the shadowy
+entrance of the grotto.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Darkness came suddenly on; the river, cold and black, ran past Eothwald
+with sullen murmurings; the wild owl swept close by where he stood,
+brushing his face with her wing, and uttering her desolate cry. The
+startled sculptor well-nigh missed his footing, and only escaped
+falling into the stream by catching hold of the boughs above his head.
+But undismayed and undaunted, he groped his way successfully out of the
+wood, and then hastened cheerfully homewards, light-hearted and
+content; for what were darkness, danger, or fatigue? The quenchless
+fire of genius burned within his breast; the long dreamt-of ideal was
+no longer a faint, far-off vision, but had become to him a reality of
+dazzling beauty.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Ere daylight returned Eothwald had been to his home and informed his
+old housekeeper that he was bound for a few days' trip into the
+country. He put together his working tools, and having at her earnest
+request taken some provisions in his knapsack, he swallowed a hasty
+meal, and before the sun was yet high in the heavens, was already
+ensconced in the cave and fast asleep in its welcome shade, after all
+the fatigue and excitement of the last few but eventful hours.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+And now night after night, sheltered by brushwood, rock, and fern, the
+enthusiastic youth engraved on his heart the exquisite beauty of those
+fair denizens of the sea; nay more, in the ardour of his pursuit he
+became himself enamoured of the lovely childlike Duva. Often while
+N&#228;cken and Himingl&#228;fa held sweet converse together, their companion
+unobserved would float silently nearer and nearer to the shore.
+Sometimes she amused herself by twining long wreaths of the ferns and
+creepers which hung over the river bank. Sometimes she laughingly
+lifted small silvery fish from their holes beneath the bank; then
+remembering that air to them was death, she would place them gently
+once more in their native element, and smiling, watch their playful
+movements when they frisked around her, as if in gratitude, before they
+swam away. Sometimes flinging her long tresses of hair over the grass
+by the river margin, clasping her hands above her head, reposing half
+on land and half on water, she would lie with all a maiden's dreamy
+thoughts of the unknown future, her clear blue eyes fixed on the starry
+vault above, her every action a study of grace and poetry, until
+Himingl&#228;fa's soft summons roused her, when springing again into life
+and motion, the agile Duva excited new admiration in the sculptor's
+mind as with the swiftness of a startled bird she flitted across the
+water and disappeared with her sweet sister beneath the briny wave.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+It is not given to me to say how Duva and Eothwald first became
+acquainted; but it is certain that before the young sculptor had spent
+many nights by the water's side, that innocent child of the sea grew to
+know what it was that made the long hours pass so swiftly to Himingl&#228;fa
+and N&#228;cken, when they were together; for a feeling hitherto unknown
+sprang up within her own simple breast, and taught her to welcome with
+beating heart the appearance of her new friend.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+What long happy hours they passed together by starlight and moonlight
+on that river brink! How endless were the words they had to say to each
+other in those stolen interviews! and yet, though all seemed so
+untroubled, a secret care disturbed the peace of either loving bosom.
+It is true that Duva had attempted to lighten hers by confiding it to
+her lover, for early in their acquaintance she told him that she longed
+to whisper in her mother's ear the story of her Eothwald, and to find
+in the majestic Ran's motherly bosom a soft pillow whereon to still the
+flutterings of her awakened heart; but in tones of displeasure the
+young sculptor chid her childlike impulse, and went so far as to
+threaten that should she ever breathe to her family the fact of his
+existence, he could never seek her more.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Chilled and frightened at hearing Eothwald address her in accents such
+as he had never used before, the gentle Duva tearfully promised to
+comply with his request, and to conceal from all the knowledge of her
+earthly lover. But the concealment preyed on her mind, and though in
+his presence she forgot all save the bliss of being beloved, yet she
+had for ever lost the joyous serenity of her early youth; while the
+very look which roused her watchful mother's anxiety, gave her in her
+lover's eye, a more etherial air of languor and grace.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Eothwald's secret care was widely different: he knew that his Duva
+might in some terrible unknown manner have to suffer for his love; but
+his anxiety was lest he should not succeed in obtaining her perfect
+likeness, and thence partly came his reluctance to allow her to speak
+of him to her people. He made sure they would remind her of the perils
+of holding intercourse with mankind, and probably put a complete stop
+to their clandestine meetings, now only carried on under the shadow of
+the more legitimate attachment of Himingl&#228;fa and N&#228;cken.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+While the inexperienced Duva only knew and felt she loved, the more
+worldly Eothwald gazed upon her with a critical and artistic eye, and
+often sent a chill of cold presentiment to her very heart's core, when
+to her gentlest words he vouchsafed no answer; but, absently scanning
+her perfect form, would strive to compare and calculate in his mind the
+accuracy of his progressing model in the cave.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+He found it easy to obtain Duva's compliance with all his requests save
+one; but it was for long in vain that he besought her to leave her
+watery home. Many a time and oft they parted almost in anger, and the
+poor little sea-nymph more than once weepingly entreated him sooner to
+quit her for ever, and go back to his own kith and kind. But Eothwald
+always returned afresh to the charge, for, besides his real attachment
+to the gentle maid herself, he knew that could he but once behold her
+fair proportions near him in the cave, he could successfully finish his
+now nearly completed model; and, by imparting to it those life-like
+touches which alone it required, he would be enabled to give to the
+world for the first time the perfect image of a mermaiden. With true
+artistic fervour he forgot his mortal love in the eager pursuit of his
+immortal art, and, brought completely to a standstill by the harassing
+intensity of his longing to have the living form at hand to aid him in
+his work, he grew so unkind towards Duva that with saddened heart the
+poor child promised to comply with his prayer, and arranged to
+accompany him through the wood the following night, when the yellow
+harvest moon would reign in her fullest beauty.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Words cannot paint the overflowing sorrow that oppressed the pale
+mermaiden's heart that eventful day as she joined her parents and
+sisters, for what an inward voice told her, was the last time. Old
+Agir, her father, gathered her to his bosom, and pressed his little
+Duva to tell her trouble, but with a forced smile she first nestled
+closer to that protecting shoulder and then sprang half sobbing away,
+and they thought she grieved over the approaching bridals of N&#228;cken and
+Himingl&#228;fa and the prospect of losing her favourite sister.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The wild young Kolga blew through her shell, and in her efforts to
+cheer Duva made such a bubbling amid the water, that people passing in
+boats far above the sea-king's palace, paused on their oars to watch
+the agitated surface and thought they had discovered a new ocean
+spring.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+H&#228;fring and Blodughadda caressed their little sister and playfully
+asked her to choose whether they should all wear coral or pearls at
+Himingl&#228;fa's wedding, but with trembling lip she turned away, unable to
+trust her voice in answer to their laughing affection, and for the
+first time they deemed their pet Duva was sullen. Ah! how little they
+knew the aching throbs of pain that strangled her sweet voice and
+silenced their sorrow-stricken playmate.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+At last the hour of sunset drew near. Together, as usual, Himingl&#228;fa
+and Duva rose to the surface of the darkening ocean, and soon were
+greeted by the entrancing strains of N&#228;cken's harp. Slowly Duva
+disengaged herself from her sister's embrace and lingered long near the
+companion, till now the sharer of every joy or care. But time's
+relentless wheel rolled on, and through the woods by the river's brink
+gleamed the golden radiance of the harvest moon, as the mermaiden at
+length approached the shore where her lover kept anxious watch. With
+joyful eagerness Eothwald greeted her, and in low trembling tones
+whispered loving thanks into her ear; even then Duva would have
+withdrawn her consent, but the impatient Eothwald, without pausing,
+threw his strong arms around her, raised his beloved burden from the
+glittering water, and bore her swiftly towards the cave.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+A feeling of deadly sickness came over the little sea-maid as she was
+thus lifted from her native element, but the soothing words of her
+lover infused new life into her fainting frame, and in safety they
+reached the cave, where Eothwald joyfully deposited his lovely charge
+on the couch he had so long prepared for her use.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Uttering but scant welcome the sculptor flew rapidly to his work, for
+already fatigue and exhaustion clouded the sweet eyes, that were wont
+to sparkle so merrily, and spread a new languor over the limbs of his
+exquisite model. With passionate energy Eothwald moulded his plastic
+clay, completely forgetting in his ardour the unwonted position of the
+sea-king's daughter, and her need of watchful tenderness.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+A stranger in a new and untried world&#8212;a timid maiden strayed for the
+first time far beyond the protecting care of parents and brethren, the
+little Duva reclined amazed upon her fragrant bed of leaves. Strange
+thrills were sent through her by the strong night perfumes exhaled on
+every side from earthly leaf, tree, and flower.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+At last she was upon that land about which from childhood she had
+dreamed, with an eager desire to explore its forbidden mysteries. But
+she thought not of these things, her whole heart was absorbed in
+Eothwald. The young sculptor no longer gazed on her with the melting
+eye of love. By the flickering light of the torch which shed its ruddy
+glow over the cave, she could perceive the artist's glance now fixed on
+his clay figure, now turned upon herself with a searching look of
+restless dissatisfaction due in reality to the shortcomings of his own
+handiwork, but which chilled and saddened Duva's sensitive heart.
+</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter"><a  name="cave"><img src="images/004.jpg" alt="EOTHWALD AND DUVA IN THE CAVE." width="359" height="520"></a></div>
+<p class="caption">EOTHWALD AND DUVA IN THE CAVE.
+<br><small>P. 102.</small>
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Again and again the gentle maiden nerved her voice to speak, but
+faintness overpowered her, and a dreamless sleep already fanned her
+with its over-shadowing wings. Eothwald's form swam magnified before
+her eyes, and then vanished altogether amid the mist of gathering
+tears. The cave grew dim&#8212;the little sea-child again beheld the palace
+of her father&#8212;her lovely sisters waved a mute welcome through the
+changing atmosphere. With the tremulous sigh of a repentant child that
+has erred, but returns with glad sorrow to fling itself on its mother's
+breast, Duva, forgetting all save that joyful vision, stretched forth
+her innocent arms with a low murmur of tenderness, and a gesture of
+delight.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+"Can you not remain as I placed you?" impatiently muttered the
+sculptor, as the sudden movement of Duva's arms altered her whole
+position, and lost irretrievably the graceful attitude he was striving
+faithfully to immortalise. Even as he spoke, something about his
+beloved alarmed him; he rushed across the cave, but ere he could touch
+her, Duva's fair form had disappeared&#8212;she was gone!
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The red torch flickered high, and suddenly expired. The moon's ray,
+cold and pale, penetrated within the cave, and lo! upon the spot so
+lately pressed by the enchanting figure of the poor little stranger,
+pure and transparent in the silvery light, glistened a white pearly
+shell, while a tiny rivulet stole silently from beneath it, and
+trickled into the moonlit glen without.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Eothwald threw himself wildly on his knees, and felt the couch all over
+in vain&#8212;in vain!&#8212;then in desperation he fled out into the wood and
+searched for his lost love, breathing her name in fondest accents
+through the silence of the night, but alas! awakening no response from
+the desolate solitudes around him. Wearied and heart-broken he returned
+at length from his fruitless errand, and sank into heavy slumber.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Hours had passed unheeded away, when with troubled recollection he
+awoke and sprang to his feet. Gradually he remembered that in his
+dreams Duva had again appeared to him. With bitter tears she
+sorrowfully told him that his own thoughtless actions had parted them.
+He first tempted her by mortal love to deceive and leave her fond
+parents and her beloved home; then as he moulded his clay from her
+beautiful form, in the self-abstraction of genius, he half forgot her
+sacrifice, and neglected her tender spirit. Wounded and unable to
+struggle against her altered condition of life without the comforting
+care of her mortal lover, she had fallen a victim to the law that ruled
+supreme over herself and her kindred, and lost her visible shape, which
+became again transformed into the water, whence it originally sprang.
+With streaming eyes she waved a long farewell, then, lovely as a
+morning dream, faded from his view.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Eothwald flew back to his work with fierce energy; he felt indeed a
+high soaring ambition. He yearned to represent worthily, to this and
+future generations, the fair lineaments, the tender immortal beauty of
+the sea-king's daughter, who had given him her simple young heart, and
+whose affection he had so rudely requited. A solemn inward voice told
+him he had no time to spend in useless remorse, or in unavailing
+lamentation. Death's shadowy finger already beckoned him to the "silent
+land." Grief had snapped the first chord of life's hitherto sweet
+melody, and his days on earth were numbered.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+He returned in a short space to his native city. His half-finished work
+was slowly removed to the studio. There by day and by night he laboured
+almost ceaselessly, and wove into a wild poetical dream the young life
+of the fair Duva and her family, as she herself in days gone by had
+frequently, half romancing and half in earnest, described it to him.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+He designed a lofty fountain, and upon its six sides placed in groups
+of wondrous imagery her parents, their nine lovely daughters, and the
+young river-god N&#228;cken, whose strains had first led him to his beloved.
+As in his lonely studio he ceaselessly toiled, he wrote down at
+intervals this explanation of his labours&#8212;that to all futurity might
+be known the names and history of those whose divine beauty he thus
+strove to commemorate.<a href="#note2" name="noteref2">
+<small>[2]</small></a>
+</p>
+
+<p>
+"Agir, the ocean god, who hates mankind, I represent in the prime of
+life, with a long flowing beard, which he holds back with one hand, in
+the other he grasps a sceptre. Enthroned on a gigantic shell, and
+planting his foot on a dolphin, his handsome features wear an
+expression of proud disdain.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+"When the winter has passed (as our Northern poets have sung) and the
+May sun melts the ice, the ships in the harbour lift their anchors
+ready to sail, and only the wind is wanting. Thereupon Agir (who
+delights in punishing the pride of mankind by robbing them of their
+treasures&#8212;taking husbands from their homes, their wives, and their
+children, and drowning the mourners in floods of bitter tears) calls to
+his youngest daughter Kolga to begin the sport.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+"In the next shell-like division of the fountain, I place Kolga, who,
+with short rough hair and hoydenish action, distends to the full her
+rosy cheeks as she blows through the valves of her shell a soft,
+seductive wind, sufficient to swell the sails, and tempt the ill-fated
+ships to sea. Above her, shrouded in her long veil, is the mysterious
+and majestic Ran (Agir's princely consort, and the anxious mother of
+his many children). She encourages R&#246;nn, her second youngest, who
+gently and dreamingly along the blue ripples stirs the first breath on
+the calm waters. H&#228;fring, Unn, and Bylgia, with the little water-elves
+and sprites, help to raise the swelling seas until the waves are
+mountains high.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+"Then the hard-hearted and vindictive Boara (once scorned and deserted
+by a mortal lover) crushes the prows to atoms. She delights in the
+destruction of human handiwork, and is therefore portrayed with a
+sternly beautiful though cruel countenance. Next Agir calls on
+Blodughadda, enveloped in her long flowing tresses, to descend through
+the deeper waters and secure the ships' rich treasures, for no lock or
+key any longer protects them.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+"But the fond father misses his favourite children, Himingl&#228;fa and
+Duva; he loudly calls on Ran to tell him where they are. 'Alas,'
+answers his queen, 'our daughters are held captive in the web of
+N&#228;cken; up there, on the fresh water-stream, they float, like one
+charmed, listening to his melodious song. I have begged and threatened,
+but all in vain. Methinks one or both of them is befooled by first
+love.'
+</p>
+
+<p>
+"Then Agir arose in fearful rage, calling upon his remaining daughters
+to entice N&#228;cken forth from the precincts of his grotto (which, being
+in fresh water, was beyond the sea-king's domain) into the deep ocean,
+there to take him captive, and deliver their sisters from his thraldom.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+"So they all float on, displaying their charms like roses and lilies
+playing on the waters: their beautiful dishevelled hair, their graceful
+forms, their coral chains, their strings of pearls, triumphantly making
+sure of enticing the hapless youth into the salt waters. But no sooner
+have they reached the entrance to the grotto, than behold! a youth,
+divinely beautiful, is seen. Harp in hand, he sings a soft, melancholy
+strain with the purest of voices. The beauteous sisters, scarce moving,
+tarry on the heaving waters, and listen, entranced, to his
+heart-thrilling song.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+"Awakening from his own love-dreams as he marks the approach of
+Himingl&#228;fa's lovely sisters, the young river-god sings of his happy
+youth, when amid green meadows, and under verdant trees, he listened
+to the melodies of birds, and learnt from them the sweet art of
+song&#8212;until, restless and eager for change, he wandered forth from
+his early home into the wide world, with endless longing for the
+unattainable. To punish his presumption, he was at length condemned
+only to exist in water, and became the genius of running streams.
+Thus he pours out his lament in strains so moving, that even the wild
+swan is arrested in her flight, and the daughters of Agir, deeply
+enthralled, heedless of their parents' call to action, remain
+motionless before the grotto, allowing ships and mariners to sail by
+in perfect calm.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+"At length, Agir and Ran, angry and impatient, hasten towards them,
+when, enchanted like their children, by N&#228;cken's exquisite lay, they
+also remain to listen, forgetful of the time and of the passing hours,
+till daylight breaks suddenly upon them. The relentless laws of fate
+forbidding their escape (if found within fresh water at sunrise), they
+all then become spell-bound."
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Such was the description Eothwald wrote of his wondrous fountain, on
+which N&#228;cken still dreams on, harp in hand, singing of the days of
+yore. The beautiful Himingl&#228;fa leans forward, modestly drawing her
+long tresses across her white shoulders, drinking in, with downcast
+eyes, every intonation of her betrothed. The child-like Duva, adorned
+as when the sculptor first beheld her, with long strands of priceless
+pearls intertwined on hair, neck, and bosom, raises herself from the
+water in the attitude he had studied a thousand times, and half
+surrounds her beloved sister with her arm, listening intently, as on
+that well-remembered evening, to N&#228;cken's heart-thrilling music. No
+shadow of future sorrow clouds Duva's fair brow; but moulded in all
+the fresh innocence of her dewy youth, she remains to this hour the
+loveliest mermaiden that ever gladdened mortal eye.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The shell she left upon the couch of leaves, the artist introduced
+again and again in his labour of love, and indeed took from its shape
+the designs for the six sides of his fountain, the figures on which
+were the size of life.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+At last the story of Duva's early life was given. Raised from ocean,
+cavern, and grotto by Eothwald's genius, her family were immortalized
+by his art. The sculptor's task was completed. In a paroxysm of agony,
+he fell on his knees as he realized that though instinct with life his
+inspired work arose in all its chill perfection before him, yet the
+living, loving, lovely mermaiden would never more greet him with her
+warm, shy smile, and her low, tender voice.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+At daybreak the old housekeeper came to light the studio fire; for
+it was now winter-time, and the snow lay thick upon the ground. By
+the first dim ray of light she descried Eothwald kneeling before his
+finished sculpture. Her heart misgave her; he was her foster-child&#8212;dear
+to her as her own. She stumbled forward and touched his arm; it was
+cold and motionless as his own marble figures. Then a loud cry of grief
+told the tale of death. Eothwald was no more. His immortal spirit had
+fled. Whether in the regions of the unknown invisible world he may once
+more meet and clasp his Duva to his breast by the blessed waters of
+Paradise, we cannot tell, but such may be the merciful will of that
+loving Father who watches unceasingly over the creatures of his hand,
+and feels a divine sympathy in their sorrows.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+One of Eothwald's hands rested on the word Duva, which he had finished
+chiselling beneath his beauteous beloved. In his other hand was found,
+fast clasped&#8212;so fast indeed that they could not remove it from his
+stiffened fingers&#8212;a gleaming white pearly shell.
+</p>
+
+
+
+<br>
+<a name="fido">&nbsp;</a>
+<p class="fm2">
+FIDO AND FIDUNIA.
+</p>
+
+
+<p>
+Once within a deep and gloomy forest there dwelt a lonely maiden. She
+had never known any companionship but that of nature, animate and
+inanimate. She loved the birds, the shy playful squirrels, and all the
+various animals, which having always known her there, friendly and
+harmless, regarded her in their turn, with trustful affection.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+It made no difference in their feelings towards the young girl that she
+was not beautiful. Her thick sandy hair hung in coarse straight elf
+locks on her shoulders. Her skin looked rough, and her features were
+not prepossessing. But these poor ignorant creatures only noticed that
+her voice was low and exceeding sweet. When she stooped to fondle the
+frolicsome rabbits, or perchance to bind up the leg of some wounded
+hare, they thought her tender fingers wondrous soft, and her warm cheek
+felt very smooth to them as she pressed it against their furry coats,
+and pettingly coaxed them to linger a moment on her lap.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Strange to say, though the little maid had no distinct remembrance of
+human fellowship, yet she spoke in silvery tones a language which you
+or I, dear children, should very well understand.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+She dwelt in the hollow of an old tree, and few were the wants of her
+simple life. A clear spring, bubbling up among the rocks near at hand,
+in the centre of an open grassy space, formed a natural bath, where
+every morning, undisturbed by fear of man, she bathed herself, and
+wrung the water from her dripping tresses.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+In summer time she often slept high up between the forked branches of a
+mighty cedar-pine, where with sticks and long grass she had woven
+herself a sort of nest. From hence also she could contemplate the
+stars, between whom and herself there ever seemed a link of sympathy.
+To her untaught imagination it appeared that the heavenly luminaries
+were happy in being among others of their kind. Whereas, had she but
+known it, each one of those seemingly tiny lights glowed myriads of
+miles apart from its nearest neighbour.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Fidunia dwelt serene, content with her lot; yet it was only natural
+that in her maturing bosom the yearning instincts of womanhood should
+awake, and that she longed, with an intensity of which she herself was
+hardly aware, for some creature to whom she could recount, and with
+whom she could share, the pleasures and pains of her solitary life.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+In the forest where she had her home there were no great alternations
+of heat and cold, nor was the length of the days so different as we
+find it in our own more northerly climate. Still it was spring-time in
+this land of which I speak. The fair soft tread of summer already sent
+a reviving thrill through the woods and glades, and Fidunia's thoughts
+turned anew to her forlorn condition.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+She remarked, as was her wont, the habits of the brute-world around.
+Every bird had its mate. The sober rooks perambulated the green sward
+in pairs. The thrush wooed his love in songs of gushing melody. The
+tender turtle-doves cooed ceaselessly to each other. The very mole that
+burrowed by the fountain side, brought a sable bride to enjoy with him
+the hidden comforts of his subterranean dwelling.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Fidunia sat and pondered over these things. Again and again she tried,
+like Narcissus, to see her image in the crystal spring. But kind
+nature, careful to spare the little maid a needless pang, ruffled the
+translucent surface so perpetually, that the young girl's face only
+cast a dancing shadow on the bubbling water amid the rocks.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Baffled in her hopes of even a shadowy companion, Fidunia, with a tear
+in her eye, murmured "Alone, ever alone! Ah, cruel fate! How I sigh for
+something really to love me."
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Awhile she remained motionless, gazing moodily into the troubled
+spring, but anon her quick ear caught the pattering sound of little
+feet upon the dead beech-leaves that formed a rich carpet near at hand.
+She thought it was the squirrels, yet theirs was a bounding lighter
+tread. She turned&#8212;and, lo! running towards her across the open space,
+she saw a beautiful dog. In colour he was almost golden; his silky hair
+fell soft as feathery down on either side of his little body. His tail
+and ears of darker chestnut tinge imparted piquancy to his shape. His
+paws were exquisitely clean, and covered with lovely hair. His
+brilliant dark brown eyes shone with extraordinary intelligence&#8212;at
+least, so Fidunia thought&#8212;as the little fellow slowly trotted up and
+stood before her, wagging his bushy tail.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+"Art thou come to be my companion?" the maiden joyfully cried. In
+answer to her question, the small quadruped came nearer still, and very
+very gently laid himself down at her feet. His mute gesture was most
+expressive.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Fidunia surveyed him carefully, she thought she saw the marks of
+sadness in his wistful countenance&#8212;he gambolled not around her, nor
+attempted to lick her hand, but fixing on her his large anxious eyes,
+seemed to implore permission to remain by her side. Naturally fearless
+and fond of animals, Fidunia drew him upon her knee, and gently
+stroking the while his silky coat she asked him "whence he came, where
+his home, and what his name." The little creature could not reply in
+human tongue, but he continued to wag his eloquent tail, and to gaze
+earnestly in her face.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+"If you are going to be my companion, I must know what to call you,"
+said the wondering maiden. "My name is Fidunia," added she
+dreamily&#8212;but at this last word the dog sprang from her lap to the
+ground, and assumed a begging attitude in front of the little damsel.
+"Nay, nay, my dear doggie, I cannot call you Fidunia," cried she, but,
+after a moment's reflection, "would not 'Fido' do as well?"
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Hardly had this name dropped from her lips than the wise animal bounded
+into the air, and then ran round and round in a manner most expressive
+of joy. Fidunia delighted, clapped her hands, and as at this well-known
+signal all her feathered and furred friends came trooping around to
+enquire her will, she at once introduced Fido to their notice, and an
+alliance offensive and defensive was forthwith agreed upon between the
+community at large, and their mistress's new favourite.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Ere long Fidunia discovered that her comrade was both active and
+playful, and though he could not speak her language nor she understand
+his, and she therefore never discovered his previous history, yet she
+surmised that he must have been separated from some one he dearly
+loved. For this reason she bore patiently with his occasional fits of
+low spirits. Soothed and cheered by her gentle companionship and
+thoughtful sympathy, Fido, before very long forgot his sorrows, and
+became the gayest of the gay.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Echoes hitherto unknown to Fidunia in the solemn forest, were roused by
+his shrilly bark of joy, as capering round his young mistress, they
+wandered together far adown those sylvan glades. Fidunia could now
+indeed venture farther from home, as however long they roamed abroad,
+the dog's wondrous instinct always led them back to the gnarled tree,
+the crystal fountain, and the green velvety lawn, for so many years the
+little maiden's happy abode.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+She soon discovered that Fido was very accomplished in various
+ways&#8212;and she fancied also that he understood all she said to him&#8212;he
+watched so keenly every word that fell from her lips.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+About this time strange dreams began to haunt the young girl. Night
+after night she wandered in regions such as she never remembered to
+have seen in her waking hours.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+At one time she walked amid beautiful gardens&#8212;on either side of her
+bloomed a rich profusion of lovely fragrant flowers. Within each sweet
+floweret lurked a tiny elf, and as she passed along, fairies swung
+themselves forth singing through the perfume laden air in soft musical
+tones, "King Antiphates is blind! King Antiphates is blind! and the
+maid who alone can deliver him knows not her mission!"
+</p>
+
+<p>
+At another time she climbed painfully along a steep path, leading
+through scenes perfectly unknown to her. The hot sun beat on her bare
+head, and she toiled on and on, ever ascending, yet never reaching the
+craggy summit towering far above. Beneath her feet, an unfathomable
+ocean surged and swelled, and broke in hoarse grumblings upon the
+frowning iron-bound shore, sending vast sheets of spray aloft, and
+awakening strange terrors in the woodland maiden's breast. White
+screaming sea-birds dashed around her, and as they brushed her face
+with their wings, she heard them cry wildly, "The great king is blind,
+only Fidunia can deliver him&#8212;but she knows it not! she knows it not!"
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Again the little maiden found herself upon a lonely terrible mountain.
+She stood upon dismal rocks whereon appeared no vestige of life. Tossed
+and wreathed in fantastic shapes, the very stones seemed to bear the
+impress of writhing agony. Though now cold and motionless, they had
+passed through the seething horrors of fire. Scathed and withered,
+repulsive alike to man, beast and herb, amid their desolate clefts,
+only the slimy reptile traced his sinuous course; or the bright-eyed
+lizard peered warily forth on the shuddering beholder. Turning to
+escape, if possible, from this dreary place, Fidunia found herself on
+the very verge of a huge chasm. She felt a burning heat scorch her
+face, and penetrate her feet. Long tongues of horrid flame darted in
+lurid flashes from the thick darkness below. A sulphurous vapour
+enveloped her in its hot and suffocating fumes. She endeavoured to cry
+for help, but could not utter a sound&#8212;an echo like the reverberating
+growl of distant thunder filled the air around her with these words,
+"He will never see now, for the maiden dreams away her life in the
+forest, and knows not that she alone can save him."
+</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter"><a  name="fidoand"><img src="images/005.jpg" alt="FIDO AND FIDUNIA." width="364" height="500"></a></div>
+<p class="caption">FIDO AND FIDUNIA.
+<br><small>P. 123.</small>
+</p>
+
+<p>
+From this last and most frightful of all her visions, Fidunia woke
+agitated and confused. Why were words of the same import evermore
+repeated in her slumbers? Whence came these awful voices that sounded
+through the gloom of night? Who was the Antiphates whose misfortune was
+known, as it seemed, to all the world save herself? It was early
+morning as she sat up and pondered over these things. Her feverish
+heart was refreshed by the dewy silence around. Only through the trees
+came the faint twitter of half awakened birds. The sky, brightening
+towards the East, heralded the approach of sunrise.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Her resolve was taken. She would set off that very day and journey
+forth into the unknown world which hitherto she had only visited in
+dreams. She awoke Fido therefore, and explained to him despite his
+melancholy dissuading looks, that they must leave the fountain, the
+lawn, and the tree, and travel far beyond the forest to seek their
+fortunes among the children of men.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Clapping her hands together, she summoned her faithful forest friends,
+who sorrowfully accompanied their beloved mistress and her companion as
+far as their strength would permit, then bade them a melancholy
+farewell.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Quite overcome by losing sight (perchance for ever) of her sylvan home
+and her attached little subjects, Fidunia that night sobbed herself to
+sleep, with Fido in her arms, and half regretted her determination. But
+in her dreams angels hovered over her, and whispered encouragement to
+the weary sad-hearted maiden.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+For several days more the adventurers journeyed through the dense wood.
+At night they found shelter in some leaf-strewn cave or upon some mossy
+bank, beneath over-arching trees. Then the innocent pair, under the
+protection of heaven, slumbered until day's reviving beams once more
+cheered them on their way.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+At length one afternoon they drew near the out-skirts of the vast
+forest within whose mighty depths they had so long sojourned. The
+setting sun reddened the stems of the tall out-standing firs, and the
+scent of fallen pine leaves hung rich and heavy on the air, as they
+left the shade of the trees and stepped on to a wide stretching common.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Fidunia, bewildered by the apparently illimitable space before her,
+stopped perplexed and half wished to retrace her steps; but Fido
+bounded on, entreating her by unmistakeable signs to follow him.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+After crossing some old sand-pits, and scrambling across an expanse of
+furze and heather, they saw before them a small cottage; blue smoke
+curled cosily above it into the still evening sky; an atmosphere of
+peace seemed to surround the lowly walls. As they approached, however,
+a large flock of geese and poultry of all kinds, disturbed by their
+footsteps, made a terrible cackling, and presently a hale old woman
+opened the door, and came out to see what agitated her flock.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Fidunia, accustomed to the ways of birds, had already taken from her
+wallet some of the seeds she was wont to collect for her feathered
+forest friends. The geese, well pleased, quickly gathered round, and
+eagerly fed from her hand.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Meanwhile, Fido gambolled up to the cottage dame, and begged before her
+as if to solicit her good-will. Thus, propitiating mistress and fowls,
+the little maid and her dog were kindly made welcome for the night by
+the ancient hen-wife.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Next morning, refreshed and thankful, they prepared to resume their
+journey. The good dame now asked Fidunia her history, and whither she
+was bound; the young girl replied evasively that she only wished to see
+the world, and was going with her dog to seek their fortunes.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+"Nay, my child, that is not all," said the old woman; "tell me, I pray
+you, the exact truth." So saying, she fixed so keen, yet withal so
+friendly a glance upon the maiden's blushing countenance, that moved by
+a sudden impulse, Fidunia poured forth her whole story.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Her hostess listened carefully to her long account, and then resumed:
+"You have done well to confide in me; I am more powerful than my mean
+surroundings would lead you to imagine. I would fain have kept from you
+the dreams that have broken the peaceful charm of the forest, and set
+you wandering. I have, however, sisters who are otherwise minded, and
+they (to work out their own purposes) have sent these visions to harass
+and perplex you. I was anxious to know how much had been revealed, and
+therefore threw myself in your way to help you. My intentions, however,
+would have been frustrated had not you, dear maiden, given me
+straightforward answers.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+"The King Antiphates, of whom you have heard in your dreams, dwells, in
+reality, in the great City of Deva. You will come to it in time if you
+travel along the high-road, which you can discover beyond that clump of
+firs," continued she, pointing through the open door to a little hill
+at some distance. "I am unable to render you more assistance at
+present, but if, after reaching the far-off city, you are ever in great
+straits, take this crystal from your bosom (where you must always carry
+it, concealed from every eye, or it will lose its virtue); place it in
+the palm of your hand, fix your eyes steadfastly upon it, repeating,
+meanwhile, in a low tone, these words:&#8212;
+</p>
+
+<div class="poem">
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>"Strange gem! upon thy crystal core</p>
+<p>I gaze, the while I aid implore;</p>
+<p>Trembling upon the verge of fate,</p>
+<p>Oh point my path ere yet too late!</p>
+<p>I fain would gain the boon I ask,</p>
+<p>Is mine the strength for such a task?</p>
+<p>Canst thou unloose the links that bind,</p>
+<p>Or vanquish powerful foes combined?</p>
+<p>Then, show whate'er there lurks of art</p>
+<p>Within thine own mysterious heart;</p>
+<p>On thee I turn a hopeful eye,</p>
+<p>Bright stone of silence, make reply!"</p></div></div>
+
+<p>
+So saying, she drew from her own breast a beautiful sparkling prism,
+about the size of a pigeon's egg, and gave it, with some solemnity of
+manner, to her wondering guest. Deeply grateful, Fidunia threw her arms
+round the kind Anna's neck, and warmly thanked her for the precious
+talisman. With the good woman's aid she then committed to memory the
+needful lines.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+When she had successfully mastered them, the old wife drew her hand
+across her eyes, and resumed, in a somewhat trembling tone, "I know not
+wherefore you interest me so strangely, my little maid; but if you will
+be advised by one who has drained the cup of earthly pleasure to its
+very dregs, return, as yet innocent and inexperienced, with your
+faithful companion to the quiet joys of your peaceful forest; nor seek,
+amid the busy haunts of men, those more exciting scenes where many a
+grief and anxiety must of necessity be yours."
+</p>
+
+<p>
+She paused; how could she cast a blight over the joyousness of that
+poor unsuspecting heart by explaining to Fidunia that maidens, plain in
+feature, and devoid of dowry, have oftentimes, from no fault of their
+own, but a sorry lot in this hard world compared with that of their
+lovelier or more wealthy sisters?
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Clothed in her long, grey dress, Fidunia still knelt at Dame Anna's
+knee; the light from the cottage window fell full on her rough sunburnt
+face; her straw-coloured hair contrasted unfavourably with her dark
+reddish skin, and though her eyes were in some measure expressive of
+the gentle spirit within, yet their faint colour, and the absence of
+visible eyebrow or eyelash, detracted seriously from their possible
+charm. Her figure was not ungraceful, but her strangely-fashioned robes
+(which, prettily donned by some fairer being, could have given a
+certain <i>bizarre</i> attraction of their own) were but ill calculated
+to add comeliness to the young girl's unformed limbs and tanned though
+shapely hands.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+As the compassionate dame hesitated, unwilling to speak too bitterly to
+Fidunia of nature's apparent injustice, her young guest laughingly
+replied, "Thank you, kind mother; but I could not now remain satisfied
+without seeking my fate in the unknown world. I shall never forget your
+promise, however, but seek your aid with this amulet in the hour of
+need. Yet," added she, "ere I and my dog leave your friendly hearth, we
+will do our best to afford you some small return for the hospitality
+you have shown us."
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Fidunia and Fido, who had a thousand times alone together practised
+various little tricks, now went through many evolutions before the
+delighted old woman.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+First, said the little maid, "What will you do for your mistress?" No
+sooner had she asked this question, than the dog fell mute, and
+apparently lifeless, at her feet. His stiffened limbs made it plain
+that he would willingly "die" for her dear sake. Bidding him revive,
+Fidunia then drew from her pocket one of the chestnuts she kept for the
+purpose. When the little fellow caught sight of this, he "begged" for
+it, but his mistress was obdurate. He then "jumped" high into the air
+to try and win his plaything; still in vain. Next he "asked" for it in
+doggish fashion, by loudly barking. Fidunia remained relentless. But
+now a sudden thought seemed to strike the clever animal. Raising
+himself once more on his hind-legs, he uttered such a tuneful howl&#8212;his
+apology for "singing"&#8212;that his mistress, with a pretended sigh, was
+fain to reward him by placing the promised guerdon upon the ground.
+Instead of rushing upon it, however, Fido, in an exceedingly graceful
+attitude, bent his head on one side, and gravely "considered" the
+desired reward. His meditations coinciding with his wishes, at the word
+of command he dashed nimbly forward, seized the round nut, threw it up
+in the air, and caught it again and again; playing, in fact, by himself
+a game of ball. Finally, he laid the prize gently down at his comrade's
+feet to demonstrate that no matter what he won, he would be content to
+surrender all he possessed to her care.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Dame Anna, delighted with the pretty dog's sagacity, caressed and
+praised him, and, after amply provisioning his little mistress for the
+journey, wished them both God-speed on their way. She strictly enjoined
+Fidunia to refrain from mentioning this adventure, and advised her also
+to keep her dreams to herself, and only enquire as she went along, for
+the great city of Deva. Leaning over her low garden-gate, surrounded by
+her long-billed and splay-footed court, the kind henwife long watched
+her late guests as they crossed the bleak common, and reached the small
+clump of trees which she had pointed out to them as a landmark on their
+way to the desired haven.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Soon after passing the summit crowned by these few lonely firs, Fidunia
+stepped on to a broad high-road, which she at once recognized as that
+described by their good friend, and leading to the capital of the
+country.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+They now walked on and on for a weary time. The hot sun poured down its
+noontide rays, the dust arose in parching clouds, and followed with the
+wind their flagging footsteps.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+At last they came to a part of the road bounded by a stone wall. On the
+other side lay a beautiful green park, stretching far away in upland
+slopes of rich pasturage. Fatigued and footsore, Fidunia and her little
+dog clambered over the fence, and composed themselves comfortably to
+rest in the soft grass. Sheltered from the mid-day heat in their seat
+among low brushwood and high overshadowing trees, they gratefully
+partook of the food pressed on them ere their departure by the worthy
+cottage wife.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Half playing, half teaching her faithful companion, Fidunia held aloft
+a little bit of meat in one hand, while with the other she bent down
+the branch of a neighbouring tree, over which Fido at her gentle
+command, bounded nimbly backwards and forwards.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Suddenly, a loud, harsh voice exclaimed, "What business have you here?
+No tramps are allowed in my park."
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Looking timidly round, Fidunia beheld a stout, red-faced,
+grizzle-haired man, in leathern gaiters, who angrily threatened herself
+and Fido with an uplifted stick. Absolutely terrified by this, her
+first experience of man, poor Fidunia felt as if glued to the spot. She
+could not move hand or foot. A surging tide of red blood rushed over
+her face and neck, and covered the poor child of nature with confusion.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Had she looked beautiful in her distress, perhaps the rough proprietor
+might have treated her more tenderly. As it was, increasing in
+violence, he drew nearer still, when Fido, who already bristled with
+rage, flew upon him, and ere he could lay hands upon his trembling
+mistress, fixed his sharp white teeth apparently in the fierce
+stranger's leg; but, luckily for the savage Baron, Fido's jaws only met
+in his legging.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Coward, as well as bully, the rough man changed his tone and implored
+Fidunia to call off her dog. Recovered from her first terror, the
+little maid beckoned to Fido to follow her, and ere this selfish squire
+could look calmly about him, she had flown nimbly over the wall,
+followed by her dog.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+They both ran a considerable way in their terror, not knowing that the
+friendly Anna (in reality a good fairy) had thrown so much dust in the
+rude Baron's eyes, that confused and bewildered, he knew not which way
+the intruders had escaped, but continued to search for them with wicked
+words and impotent threats long after they had left him and his
+inhospitable domains behind.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Meantime the travellers pursued their way until, worn out and hungry,
+they came, towards nightfall, into a small hamlet upon the great
+high-road.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The village inn, with its gay painted sign of the "Golden Boar"
+flapping to and fro in the evening breeze, stood invitingly open.
+Fidunia approached its threshold. The spruce landlady, airing herself
+with arms akimbo at the open door, stared hard at the little maiden as
+she paused longingly in front of the steps. "Can you pay for a night's
+lodging?" she asked in a matter of fact tone. Alas, no&#8212;poor Fidunia
+possessed not one single piece of that hitherto unneeded money&#8212;without
+which she was soon to find she could gain nothing in the pleasant world
+she had so longed to explore.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+She sorrowfully passed the cheerful preparations for wayfarers better
+supplied than herself with all-conquering gold, and heart-sore and
+weary sat herself down on an old stump of wood outside the village
+smithy.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Here, however, she soon forgot her fatigue for a while in watching the
+red furnace, and the grimy fire-illumined men who moved briskly to and
+fro, striking bright sparks from the glowing metal. They interested her
+strangely by their easy motions of power, and apparently inexhaustible
+store of latent strength. She was gradually recalled to herself,
+however, by perceiving that she and Fido had become the centre of
+attraction to a gathering crowd. The children accustomed to cluster
+round the entrance of the warm and busy workshop now turned their
+attention to this solitary maiden, and the beautiful dog, which,
+standing before her, ever on the alert, seemed ready to guard his
+mistress to the death.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The heated smith, coming for a moment to cool himself at the
+half-barred entrance, found an inquisitive group pressing round the
+young girl, regardless of Fido's low growls, as with hair on end and
+quivering tail, he prepared to spring on anyone who might touch or
+insult her.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Of a kindly and generous nature, and ever ready to befriend the
+helpless, Master Franz stepped up to the stranger and civilly asked her
+pleasure.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Fidunia, frightened, as well she might be, by the rude remarks of the
+gaping village girls, exclaimed in a tearful voice, "Oh, sir, I know
+not where to go for a night's lodging, I and my poor dog, we are
+travelling to the great city of Deva, but we are tired, and unable to
+journey farther this day." Franz, sorely puzzled, looked around in vain
+for help or counsel. He knew better than the shivering little maid
+before him what rustic gossip meant. A stalwart bachelor living all
+alone above his smithy, he himself, however compassionate, could offer
+no shelter to the poor wanderers. A sudden thought struck him. "Come
+with me," he cried, "to my good friend Dorothy of the "Golden Boar;" I
+warrant me she will blithely give thee food and lodging for the night."
+</p>
+
+<p>
+"Kind, sir," answered the poor girl sorrowfully, "I have no money to
+offer to the good lady of the inn, and she has already bidden me from
+her door; but," continued Fidunia timidly, "I and my dog are able to
+make some few passes together, which might give amusement to the worthy
+Dorothy, and even induce her to grant us leave to rest for the night
+beneath her roof."
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The friendly Franz chuckled with delight as he exclaimed, "By my
+halidome, damsel, thy words are well-flavoured. Dame Dorothy shall give
+to thee and thy pretty beast a hearty meal; and then, my mates," he
+added, turning to the assembled villagers, "we will step up to the
+"Golden Boar" when our labours for the day are ended, and see whether
+we cannot help the maiden and her dog on their voyage."
+</p>
+
+<p>
+At these words Fidunia felt greatly comforted, and she and Fido
+fearlessly retraced their steps in the wake of the burly smith.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Dame Dorothy had long ere this left her door, and was now engaged in
+the great kitchen superintending with her own hands the preparation of
+a savoury pie, which somehow or other she hoped Master Franz would that
+very evening help her to consume. Her old husband had been gathered to
+his fathers many months agone. Since his death the worthy woman often
+felt the hours after dark pass very slowly. No one knew this
+interesting fact better than the shrewd yet simple smith, who, early or
+late, felt sure of a warm welcome whenever he crossed the comfortable
+threshold of the "Golden Boar."
+</p>
+
+<p>
+When the landlady heard steps in her passage, a slight cloud of
+annoyance rose to her brow&#8212;for what mistress likes to be interrupted
+in her mysterious culinary rites? The incipient frown, however,
+speedily changed to a smile as Franz's broad figure appeared in the
+doorway. With a "welcome, neighbour," she hurriedly stooped to shut the
+oven door, an exertion which called additional colour into her round
+healthy cheek.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+"Friend Dorothy," said Franz, "I bring thee this forlorn maiden; for my
+sake thou wilt refresh her and her dog. I must away. I have a coat of
+mail in hand that cannot be left; but anon I will return." So saying,
+and without pausing for queries or doubts, the brawny smith
+disappeared, leaving in his place the weary drooping Fidunia and her
+little comrade.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Dorothy cast a keen scrutinizing glance on the young girl, eagerly
+scanning her form and features. Reassured by the brief inspection, her
+eye travelled back to the polished mirror by the fire which reflected
+her own buxom charms. With some complacency she readjusted the snowy
+coif (slightly disarranged by her labours), over her brilliant black
+hair, and wiping her hands upon the rough apron assumed for
+kitchen-work, she turned towards Fidunia, and in no unkindly voice bade
+her welcome.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Nor did she do this by halves. She exerted herself with real good will.
+Before long, rested, comforted and composed, the little maid sat by her
+new friend, and, while she fondled her faithful Fido, she related her
+adventures (always excepting her possession of the talisman and her
+dreams) to the wondering Dorothy.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+But now Franz, true to his promise, returned, bringing with him many of
+the villagers; for the fame of the stranger and her beautiful companion
+had spread apace, and a rumour indeed had been set afloat that the
+animal was gifted with supernatural powers. Refreshed and inspirited,
+Fidunia and her dog went joyfully through all the exercises previously
+described. Besides this, she borrowed a kerchief from Dorothy. She then
+put Fido out of the room and closed the door, carefully concealing the
+white ensign in the blacksmith's wide hanging pocket. She next called
+her favourite; with eager zest he burst open the half-latched door, and
+ran round and round the chamber sniffing in every direction. At last,
+after a long search, he was successful, and amid loud shouts of
+surprise and delight drew forth from the depths of Franz's coat the
+blushing Dorothy's badge, the good man the while looking not one whit
+more composed than his hostess. Fidunia then neatly folded up the
+kerchief; and Fido, bearing it in his mouth, lightly sprang on the
+landlady's knee and placed it gently in her hand.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+They repeated similar tricks over and over again. Hearty plaudits were
+showered on the sagacious dog and his youthful mistress, who, flitting
+to and fro in anxious excitement, and finding herself impeded in her
+swift motions by the long folds of her grey robe, drew them in a hasty
+yet picturesque fashion through her waist-belt. Flushed and animated by
+the friendly approval manifested on all sides, she now stooped forward,
+wreathing her arms into a natural hoop, through which Fido flew
+backwards and forwards with frolicsome ardour. Nor was this all, for
+the trim landlady, in answer to an earnest whisper, also rose. Clasping
+hands with the stranger maiden, she soon learnt how to twist and
+retwist beneath her own and Fidunia's arms in a quaint manner that
+Franz and his comrades thought exceedingly bewitching. At the same time
+Fido, watching his opportunity, continually sprang between Dorothy and
+his mistress, thus making a merry third in this pretty exhibition.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+As they at last paused, exhausted and laughing over their own
+exertions, the swart blacksmith stood forth in their midst. In sober
+manly tones he addressed his neighbours, and gave them an outline of
+Fidunia's history, as he had gathered it from herself and from Dorothy.
+He explained, that she was travelling to the great city of Deva, but
+that, friendless and forlorn, she was destitute of the money requisite
+to procure for herself and her companion the necessaries of life. He
+added, that since the little maid and her pretty favourite had given
+them so much pleasure, he considered that it would only be making her a
+fair return if he and his fellows collected a small sum to help their
+guest on her way.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+His well-timed appeal met with an enthusiastic response. Grey-haired
+old men, tender-hearted mothers carrying their babes, blooming young
+wenches with their awkward rustic swains, all pressed around to deposit
+in Franz's cap their hard-earned yet freely-bestowed mite for the
+astonished maiden. The children whispering their thanks into Fido's
+willing ear, threw their soft little arms around his neck, and pressed
+their chubby faces on his coat of golden silk.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The bustling landlady meantime bestirred herself and her household, and
+ere long set before the company the pie she had already prepared, with
+sundry enticing concomitants. Foaming tankards, moreover, were placed
+on the board, wherein the villagers deeply pledged the wanderer and her
+inseparable companion.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Overcome with gratitude, Fidunia could only murmur half-inarticulate
+thanks to her kind friends, as they warmly shook her by the hand. They
+patted Fido also, as she raised him in her arms to conceal her blushing
+face, and wished them both every success on their journey.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Nothing is so alluring to a man as the sight of the woman in whom his
+heart is already interested, engaged in works of benevolence and
+charity. Dorothy's second thoughts regarding Fidunia stood her in good
+stead on that eventful evening. Her softened voice, as she encouraged
+and soothed Fido and his shy mistress, sounded unusually sweet to the
+rough blacksmith's ear. When she smiled good-night to the villagers,
+placing the while a friendly hand on Fidunia's shoulder, Franz, for the
+first time, thought her face actually beautiful. Though no words passed
+between them, Dorothy, when she laid her head on her pillow, felt a
+glad thrill of joy as she recalled the warm parting clasp of that hard
+and honest hand.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+In long after years, when Franz and Dorothy reigned together over the
+far-famed "Golden Boar," surrounded by a blooming family and blessed
+with peace and plenty, the prosperous wife and mother, in the fulness
+of her joy, often wiped a tear from her eye as she remembered the true
+kindness first shown by her husband to the poor stranger. A kindness
+that had melted her own harder heart, and (undeservedly for her) led to
+the happiest days of her life. No wayfarer was ever again turned away
+from the open door of the hostelry. Heaven increased fourfold the
+worldly possessions of the honest couple who liberally shared their
+portion with the poor and the needy.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Followed by the good wishes, and laden with the unexpected gifts
+conferred upon her by her kind benefactors, Fidunia next day set forth
+once more upon her solitary journey&#8212;solitary, at least, so far as
+human society was concerned. But this strange girl never considered
+herself lonely while she had her intelligent though canine
+fellow-traveller. Now bounding far before his young mistress, now
+lingering in her rear or trotting quietly along by her side, Fido gave
+her an astonishing sense of companionship and protection.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+For many days they continued to traverse long tracts of beautiful
+undulating country. At night they always found shelter in some humble
+farm or cottage. Constant and unfailing were the bounties showered
+around the gentle maiden and her fascinating dog, when in gratitude for
+hospitality received they went through their performances together. The
+money collected by Franz was like the contents of the widow's cruse. As
+fast as the purse grew empty it was refilled.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Fidunia knew not that her ill-favoured countenance protected her from
+many a rough jest and coarse compliment. But it was so; her modest
+demeanour and unassuming ways rendered her less effectual service in
+preserving her from insult than her want of beauty. Nor was the young
+girl as yet conscious that she lacked those personal charms without
+which life may sometimes become so bitter to the sensitive heart.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+During the last days of their journey, the high road gradually led the
+travellers towards the ocean. Fidunia paused, therefore, one morning,
+amazed at the beauty and novelty of the scene before her. The road
+emerging from wooded valleys turned abruptly to the right along the
+summit of perpendicular cliffs some two or three hundred feet in
+height. At their base, the blue main, hitherto unknown to the
+forest-bred maiden, broke in tiny ripples on the silver sands. It was a
+tideless expanse of sea, and therefore no unsightly marks of ebbing
+waters strewed the beach. Only a long bright undulating line showed
+where the unstable element found its limits and mother-earth claimed
+her own.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Resting on the bosom of the mighty deep, and looming indistinctly
+through summer haze, Fidunia saw the azure outline of a fair and
+distant island. There also, gleaming faint across the broad bay, her
+eager longing eyes at last discerned the white environs of the
+far-famed city of Deva. After revelling for some moments in the glad
+beautiful prospect, Fidunia hastened her footsteps, well knowing she
+had still several miles to traverse before she could reach the town, in
+which she hoped to sleep that night.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+It was very pleasant to trip gaily along the grass by the roadside,
+with a lovely view before her, and fresh sea-breezes to fan her brow as
+she sped swiftly on. But as the day advanced, the heat grew oppressive.
+Again leaving the sea, the pathway led them by degrees from the midst
+of abundant vegetation into an arid and desolate region. Absorbed in
+hopeful musings, Fidunia did not for some time observe the change of
+scene. At last a sense of oppression made her look around. The
+stillness was frightful. No sounds of tuneful ocean saluted her ear; no
+melodious birds charmed, as heretofore, the wayfarer with their
+thrilling notes. All was mute and silent as the grave.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Fido, with drooping tail and disconsolate bearing, paced soberly beside
+her, casting doubtful glances around. With a sudden shudder Fidunia
+recognised some of the horrid features last seen in her forest visions.
+Here were the wreathed and fantastic shapes she remembered too well,
+the wildly tossed, the bare and herbless rocks. There, as she
+doubtfully raised her eyes to its summit (now visible through the
+opening gorge), was a cloud of black smoke, issuing from the very
+mountain round whose base they were journeying.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Appalled by this vivid resemblance, and seeing before her an apparently
+endless continuance of a similar loathly landscape, Fidunia's trembling
+and really wearied limbs refused to carry her farther. Looking around
+for a resting-place, she was compelled to seat herself in the road
+itself, for a creeping sensation came over her as she caught sight of
+the bright-eyed lizards peeping between the rocks near at hand, and
+surmised that the snakes of her dream could not be far off.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Fido came and lay down beside her quite subdued, and she opened their
+little store of cold roast chestnuts and other provisions neatly packed
+in her wallet. While she was thus employed, forcing her thoughts from
+the surrounding desert, by endeavouring to play with her dog over each
+morsel of their food, they all at once heard the tramp of approaching
+horses.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Fido, though seemingly hungry, dropped his untasted meat on the ground.
+Pricking his ears, he listened acutely to the distant sounds, uttering
+the while a low growl. Nearer and nearer rang the iron hoofs along the
+hard metal causeway. At length, sweeping rapidly past the corner
+Fidunia herself had so recently rounded, she beheld a splendid
+cavalcade.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Beckoning to Fido, she sprang alarmed to her feet. Forgetting in her
+haste the dreaded reptiles, she flew quickly to the rocks above, where,
+having gained a vantage ground of comparative safety, she paused to
+mark the unaccustomed pageant below.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+But a few moments before, the sun, shorn of his beams by thick vapours
+belched forth from the crater above, rode lustreless aloft like a dim
+red ball.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Now, however, bursting through the mirksome canopy, his rays fell with
+renewed splendour upon the gay accoutrements and glancing arms of a
+troop of mounted soldiers, whose advance was heralded by all the merry
+pomp of prancing steeds and clanging steel.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Fido, instead of obeying his mistress, had remained behind her in the
+centre of the road, and now, regardless of her earnest commands, he
+dashed forward vehemently barking.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Startled by the apparition of a species of animal but little known in
+these parts (the few dogs in that country being smooth-coated, and very
+different in appearance from the long-haired Fido) the horse nearest at
+hand shied to one side, and crushed against his next neighbour. The two
+riders (hitherto sitting careless and at ease) thus nearly came
+together to the ground. Enraged at this misadventure, one of the men
+raised himself in the stirrup, and with his long lance was about to
+make a thrust at Fido; but Fidunia, foreseeing her favourite's danger,
+rushed down and seized him in her arms ere the wrathful trooper had
+time to execute his purpose.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+This little by-play could not occur, however, without in some measure
+hindering the onward progress of the whole company; and before Fidunia
+or the irate men could utter one word in explanation or abuse, a loud
+voice from the rear peremptorily demanded the cause of this abrupt
+halt. Fidunia was already escaping as fast as she could with her burden
+up the steep hill-side, when another cavalier, of more pleasing
+appearance, rode up and informed her that "the King" wished to speak
+with her. Reassured by his courteous address, she hesitated in her
+flight, and finally remained rooted to the spot in amazement and
+instinctive expectation.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+By this time the procession was once more moving on at a slower pace
+than before, and she now perceived in its midst, surrounded by the
+glittering squadron, a stately chariot, drawn by four grey horses,
+caparisoned in blue and gold. As this carriage drew nearer, Fidunia saw
+seated in it a middle-aged man of singular yet noble bearing.
+Impatience and dissatisfaction were imprinted on his speaking
+countenance as he turned fretfully from side to side. He seemed unable
+to notice surrounding objects, for his eyes, though wide open, stared
+vacantly into space; while the restless motion of his hands betokened a
+mind ill at ease with itself, if not with all the world around.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+When this gorgeous equipage reached the spot where Fidunia stood, the
+horses were drawn up in obedience to the signal of Domenichino, the
+official who had previously accosted her. Stepping up to its occupant,
+he now made some deferential communication. With a quick gesture, the
+King (for it was he) leant over the side of the carriage, and demanded,
+in surly tones, who and what had dared to impede his royal progress.
+While he spoke, his eyes gazed aimlessly around, thus revealing to the
+most unobservant bystander the painful fact of his physical defect.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Inspired with sudden forebodings, agitated by these swiftly following
+events, and frightened by the strange looks of her interrogator, the
+maiden knew not what to answer, but stood irresolute, holding her dog
+in her arms. Every eye turned upon her, and the King angrily repeated
+his question before she found courage to reply, tremblingly,
+</p>
+
+<p>
+"Oh, sire, if indeed thou art the great monarch Antiphates, pardon the
+imprudence of my faithful dog: he comes with me from the depths of our
+forest home, where gallants and horses are alike unknown, and on the
+approach of thy proud train he sprang forth to defend his poor
+mistress, thus discomfiting in some measure thy brave men-at-arms."
+</p>
+
+<p>
+At this curious answer, given in all simplicity, the soldiers exchanged
+doubtful glances, imagining Fidunia to be crazy for thus bearding their
+passionate sovereign. But the King hungrily fastened on her words. He
+threw himself from his chariot with wonderful rapidity, and, half
+groping his way, half guided by Domenichino (who hastily dismounted to
+assist his royal master), seized hold of Fidunia's hand, crying, "Ha!
+from the forest, sayest thou, and by thy voice a fair and gentle
+maiden?" Ere he could utter another word, however, Fido, already
+watching his stumbling movements with considerable mistrust, broke into
+such angry snarling that Fidunia, freeing her hand, stepped backwards,
+and did not see the gestures of merriment exchanged among the cavaliers
+around, as the unfortunate monarch spoke of her being "fair."
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Though Fido's repeated interference was decidedly provoking, yet
+Antiphates preserved unusual command over his short, uneven temper. He
+entreated Fidunia to consider herself his guest; to enter his chariot
+and accompany him to his palace, whither he was now returning after a
+noonday drive. She demurred at first, because of her dog, fearing that
+his misbehaviour might be severely visited upon him. As if reading the
+cause of her hesitation, however, and aware of her fatigue, Fido leapt
+from her arms, and, hastily flying past the attendants, bounded upon
+the carriage-seat, wagging his tail, and motioning to his mistress to
+follow. Aided, therefore, by Domenichino, she soon found herself
+ensconced in the carriage, opposite that great potentate, whose
+well-remembered name had first been made known to her in her dreams.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+As she mused on his peculiar appearance, unable to discover, as he
+turned on her his dark expressive eyes, whether the King was able to
+scan her countenance or no, he bent suddenly towards her, saying,
+"Maiden, I have more for thine ear than may be heard by others;
+meantime, I bid thee welcome to my kingdom." Ere she could frame a
+reply to this gracious speech, he leant back again and relapsed into
+complete silence, apparently absorbed in unquiet meditations.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The swift onward motion of the chariot was new and strange to Fidunia.
+Leaving the desert region behind them, they descended nearer the
+water's edge, and sped lightly along the smooth high road.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Smiling vineyards clothed the mountain's side on the one hand; on the
+other, the broad blue sea stretched her "ample field." The jangling of
+the military trappings gave forth a sound not unpleasing to the ear, as
+the escort swept merrily on.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Weary with her exertions, and lulled by the monotonous movement of the
+carriage, Fidunia half slumbered as she leant back on the luxurious
+cushions, her mind filled with youth's vague ecstatic visions of future
+happiness. But Fido, wary and watchful, folded lovingly in his
+mistress's arms, turned a vigilant eye alternately upon the uneasy King
+and his glittering body-guard.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+It would be impossible adequately to describe the forlorn condition of
+the monarch, in whose stately equipage destiny had thus strangely
+placed the forest maiden and her dog. Surrounded by all the pomp and
+wealth of his splendid court, he was yet debarred by his misfortune
+from enjoying the visible beauties of nature, or the works of art with
+which his palace and kingdom abounded.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Unable to employ his powerful mind in perusing the records of the past,
+or the writings of the poets and philosophers of his own day, incapable
+of discerning the commonest objects in the world around, and conscious
+only of a difference between light and darkness, night and day, the
+great King's melancholy affliction demanded double commiseration in an
+age when comforts for the blind had neither been invented nor studied.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Music became a source of constant pleasure to him; nor was it
+surprising that he invariably judged people by their voices as they
+spoke or sung before him, forming in this unusual way a wonderfully
+accurate conception of character.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+It is needless to say that remedies of all sorts had been tried upon
+the eyes of the hapless monarch. Many physicians had exerted their
+utmost skill in endeavouring to ameliorate his condition. He had
+visited in turn not only the most celebrated baths and watering-places,
+but also the various oracles then existing in Europe.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Disheartened and hopeless, he had at last well-nigh succumbed to his
+fate, when a strange incident once more roused the seemingly subdued,
+yet ever dormant passion of hope in his breast.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Antiphon (the foster-brother of the blind King), while wandering on the
+hills surrounding Deva, in his vocation of shepherd, noticed
+sulphureous fumes issuing from a cleft he had never before observed in
+the mountain's side. Taking with him a torch, he cautiously entered the
+yawning aperture, and groped his way along, until he suddenly found
+himself in a lofty subterranean cave. In the centre of this cave lay a
+marble block, fashioned like a huge coffin. Antiphon hastened home to
+tell his neighbours of his discovery and to gain assistance. Returning
+to the cave, he and his fellows succeeded in pushing off the ponderous
+lid, which fell crashing to the ground, and broke into a thousand
+pieces.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Within the sarcophagus was now exposed to view a shrivelled though
+perfect mummy; and an old man of the party recollected having heard an
+ancient prophecy which foretold that answers regarding future events
+should one day issue from "withered lips, dumb with the silence of
+ages, and awful in their semblance to humanity."
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Antiphon at once carried the news of this prophecy to King Antiphates,
+who, ready to do anything to vary the horrors of his solitary
+existence, though secretly doubting the efficacy of such attempts,
+disguised himself as a shepherd, and, unknown to his courtiers,
+accompanied his foster-brother to the cave.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Here, after observing the accustomed ceremonies of purification and
+prayer, Antiphates approached the sarcophagus, and kneeling beside it,
+craved some knowledge of his future fate, humbly demanding at the same
+time whether any sacrifice on his part would procure for him the
+priceless gift of sight.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Having made these inquiries, the reluctant monarch, had now to lay low
+his kingly head upon the breast of the long dead, and thus in a
+stifling and constrained attitude await the much-desired response. Each
+moment seemed an age to the afflicted prince. All alone with these
+terrible emblems of mortality (for Antiphon remained without to guard
+the entrance of the cave) he listened for he knew not what.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+At last there arose upon the still dank air, as if from echoing vaults
+beneath, an unearthly monotonous voice, chanting slowly the following
+words:
+</p>
+
+<div class="poem">
+<div class="stanza">
+<p class="i4">A mighty King is blind,</p>
+<p class="i4">And severed from his kind;</p>
+<p>In his proud breast broods dark unrest,</p>
+<p class="i4">No solace can he find.</p></div>
+
+<div class="stanza">
+<p class="i4">The lands he calls his own,</p>
+<p class="i4">His kingdom and his throne,</p>
+<p>Are his by right; yet that fair sight</p>
+<p class="i4">Is kept from him alone.</p></div>
+
+<div class="stanza">
+<p class="i4">Revolving decades pass,</p>
+<p class="i4">All flesh, we know, is grass;</p>
+<p>With whitening hair, the king sits there,</p>
+<p class="i4">He groweth old alas!</p></div>
+
+<div class="stanza">
+<p class="i4">No joys of life are his,</p>
+<p class="i4">He tastes no wedded bliss;</p>
+<p>A monarch born, a man forlorn,</p>
+<p class="i4">Nor wife nor babe to kiss.</p></div>
+
+<div class="stanza">
+<p class="i4">Far, 'mid the forest drear,</p>
+<p class="i4">A maiden without peer</p>
+<p>His fate shall hear, and wake with fear</p>
+<p class="i4">From dreams of little cheer.</p></div>
+
+<div class="stanza">
+<p class="i4">By long and lonesome way</p>
+<p class="i4">Two loving hearts shall stray,</p>
+<p>That sovereign blind, in haste to find,</p>
+<p class="i4">And Fate's behest obey.</p></div>
+
+<div class="stanza">
+<p class="i4">Yet guard thyself, oh king!</p>
+<p class="i4">Lest kindness sorrow bring!</p>
+<p>Forbear to love, or time shall prove</p>
+<p class="i4">That joy may hide a sting.</p></div>
+
+<div class="stanza">
+<p class="i4">That pearl&#8212;a woman's love&#8212;</p>
+<p class="i4">Might angels' envy move,</p>
+<p>But powers that be, in wonder see,</p>
+<p class="i4">How mortals changeful prove.</p></div>
+
+<div class="stanza">
+<p class="i4">Joyous and fancy-free</p>
+<p class="i4">Then let the maiden be,</p>
+<p>Nor teach that child from regions wild</p>
+<p class="i4">The meed of misery.</p>
+<p>But if thou dost, thine own the cost,</p>
+<p class="i4">And woe shall fall on thee!</p></div></div>
+
+<p>
+The hollow voice ceased, once more all was still. Antiphates in vain
+asked other questions, and listened impatiently for further replies.
+Meeting with no more response, and thoroughly exhausted by the foul
+atmosphere, he hailed his foster-brother, and, aided by him, breathed
+again with thankfulness the pure outer air.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+They returned to the palace in silence, for Antiphates, proud and
+reserved, vouchsafed no hint of the mysterious words to which he had
+listened. He had indeed ample food left him for meditation.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+This visit to the mummy took place during the night, and the disguised
+King passed and repassed his unslumbering sentinels by means of his own
+signet-ring, occasionally entrusted by him to confidential emissaries.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The apt rhymes he had heard haunted him incessantly. The mere mention
+of a forest was extraordinary&#8212;for with the exception of a fair-sized
+plantation in the midst of which Castle Xylina (the king's summer
+palace) stood, no large wood of any kind existed within many miles of
+his capital.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+As to love, the poor benighted King knew little about the capricious
+god, save what he gathered from the songs of the minstrels and
+troubadours, birds of passage who, ever certain of kind welcome and
+liberal patronage, flocked in numbers to his court.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Unwilling to display his infirmity unnecessarily, Antiphates kept
+himself aloof in general from his people. His palace was indeed the
+resort of all the most talented and intellectual men of the day. His
+feasts were celebrated for the brilliant conversation and witty
+repartee in which, not only his guests, but the monarch himself,
+occasionally indulged; at the expense of many an aching hour of lonely
+reaction.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+But at these banquets no ladies were present, nor had the isolated
+sovereign any opportunity of becoming intimately acquainted with his
+fairer subjects. There were, it is true, the singing-girls, who nightly
+performed before him with guitars and cymbals, and gave the blind king
+some of the happiest hours of his life. Though he could not see their
+graceful forms as they gaily danced to their own music, yet the
+tinkling of the silver bells on their arms and ankles formed a
+rhythmical and tuneful accompaniment to their melodious voices, that
+wafted fourfold enjoyment to the listening monarch. He showered
+generous gifts on these damsels, each of whom he knew apart by her
+voice and step. They were, however, but the toys of the hour.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+When in pomp and state the King went abroad in his chariot, his fair
+subjects anxiously pressed together to catch a glimpse of their
+sovereign's stern yet handsome features; but though they gratified
+their own curiosity, no reciprocal vision of bewildering charms crossed
+the darkened vision of their lonely prince, as he was whirled proudly
+by in his dazzling equipage.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Unwonted feelings therefore stirred in Antiphates' bosom as the
+prophecy of the cave again and again rang through his mind. After
+several days spent in musing and reflection, he resolved to return to
+the oracle, and demand more exact particulars concerning the forest
+maiden and the "two loving hearts" mentioned, anxious to set forth in
+pursuit of them, if need be, round the world.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Antiphon therefore, favoured by the darkness, once more led his royal
+foster-brother to the mountain side, but no cave could they discover,
+though for several hours they wandered up and down the very spot where
+the shepherd had carefully noted the entrance by certain landmarks.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Irritated and disappointed, Antiphates at last gave up the useless
+search, and during the succeeding days busied himself in sending forth
+express couriers over the country, north, west, and east, to seek for
+the forest, and to find out and bring to Deva all discoverable denizens
+of woods, forests, and thickets. Besides this, he issued a royal
+mandate, setting forth that every wandering maiden should instantly be
+conducted to his palace. A few strolling gipsies were in consequence
+brought before him, and told innumerable falsehoods concerning their
+previous lives and companions, but none of them were able to throw the
+least light upon the cause of the King's defective eyesight.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Pending the result of more active measures, however, Antiphates was
+roused from the apathy into which he had been plunged for many years
+regarding his misfortune, and taught himself to hope he hardly knew
+what, from the hidden pages of the future. But day after day went by,
+and no fresh event enlivened the dismal tranquillity of the palace
+precincts.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+We may thus more readily understand the monarch's abrupt condescension
+and excitement on hearing Fidunia's first words, and learning that she
+had but lately quitted a forest. Her sweetly modulated voice at once
+carried a favourable impression to his sensitive ear, and, conjoined
+with the mysterious and ever-present prophecy, touched a slumbering
+chord in his jaded breast.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Indeed, as they now drove back to the city from whence he had issued so
+short a time before in listless uncertainty, his mind ran riot with
+wild chaotic fancies.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+They drew near the frowning gates of Deva. A sudden pause, as the
+massive portals rolled back on their hinges, and the soldiers presented
+arms, awoke Fidunia from her trance. She started and looked around,
+eagerly surveying the splendours of that enchanting capital.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Meanwhile the fairer inhabitants of the town gathering, according to
+primeval custom, by balcony, window, and doorway, to feast their eyes
+on the royal pageant and the gallant escort of cavaliers; passed from
+mouth to mouth the incredible news that a stranger damsel was seated in
+their monarch's chariot. Ere the gaping crowd had time, however, to
+note more than the mere outline of a drooping form, the narrow streets
+were swiftly threaded, and scaling the little hill on which Xylina
+stood, the whole squadron disappeared within the leafy boundaries of
+King Antiphates' summer residence.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Fidunia could not repress an exclamation of delighted wonder as they
+halted at the palace door.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Castle Xylina rose in turreted heights of dazzling whiteness above
+them, pure as the day it was completed. In that favoured climate
+neither smoke nor inclement weather marred the snowy beauties of its
+marble walls and terraces. It was approached by seven broad alleys: six
+of these, carpeted with natural greensward, converged through the small
+wood already mentioned, towards the broad central plateau. The seventh
+avenue, leading from the town, up which the King had just driven, was
+like the city itself, paved with lava.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The castle from its elevated situation, commanded an exquisite prospect
+towards the south across the open bay of Deva. The surrounding trees
+completely shut out the neighbouring town. Only faint, distant sounds,
+and the chiming of church and convent bells borne upon the air,
+betokened the near presence of the busy thousands below. Innumerable
+craft, moreover, moored or moving on the still blue waters, gave an air
+of life to the otherwise dreamy silence, that with mistlike wings
+enfolded the fair prosperous Deva and her environs as Fidunia thus
+first beheld them.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+But now a courtly throng pressed around, a hundred eyes were bent on
+the embarrassed stranger and her singular companion, a hundred hands
+out-stretched to assist her in her descent from the carriage. But no
+sooner had the King himself touched the ground in safety, than he
+turned, and taking her hand in his, led her slowly up the broad white
+marble steps into the central hall of his magnificent palace.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+She had scarcely time to glance round her ere her royal host, divining
+both her fatigue and her bashfulness, summoned and gave minute
+directions to the women of the palace regarding her welfare, and
+resigned her into their charge. Smiling kindly on their unexpected
+guest, they ushered her along lofty passages to a chamber widely
+different from any the simple maiden had ever beheld either in her
+wanderings or even in her dreams.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Thoroughly overcome by fatigue, and hardly pausing even to partake of
+the tempting fare presented to her, or to survey the beauties of her
+new abode, Fidunia sought her pillow. The neat-handed abigails, after
+preparing a bed for Fido within the recess where stood his mistress's
+couch, retired, first bidding her summon them at will, as their
+apartments were close at hand.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Youth and exhaustion soon closed the stranger's eyes, and it was late
+on the following day before Fidunia could rouse herself completely from
+her heavy slumbers.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+At length a continuous plashing sound mingled itself with her dreams.
+She thought she was once more in her forest home, and that the little
+fountain with its clear bubbling waters invited her to her morning
+bath.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+She slowly unclosed her eyes. But no leafy branches spread their matted
+foliage above her head; lovely rosy curtains fell instead on either
+side of her soft little couch. She raised herself&#8212;surprised and
+wondering&#8212;at her first movement, Fido already on the alert, capered
+across the tesselated floor, oddly slipping hither and thither on its
+smooth surface.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+She stepped carefully from her alcove, and proceeded on a voyage of
+exploration. She soon ascertained that the sound of running water was
+no vain product of her own imagination, but that it came from a recess
+corresponding to that in which she had slept. Within this niche a
+marble Triton poured through his conch-shell a continuous stream. On
+either side the entrance to the snowy basin beneath, a nymph so stood
+that the roseate curtains could either be held back in their extended
+arms, or loosened completely to shut off the recess from the rest of
+the room.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Overjoyed at discovering this welcome substitute for her oft-regretted
+forest spring, Fidunia swiftly performed her simple toilet.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+With all the carelessness of one little accustomed to regard her
+personal appearance, she hardly even glanced at the magnificent
+burnished mirror and its costly accessories, but hastened from window
+to window, eager to become acquainted with her new abode.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Towards the south, connected outside by a shady verandah, three long
+windows fronted the open bay, commanding the same extensive view that
+had delighted her the evening before. Two of similar form opened
+eastward, and Fidunia could scarcely repress a shudder, as raising her
+eyes to scan the more distant horizon, she beheld, frowning behind
+nearer slopes of verdant loveliness, the grim mountain of her dreams,
+whose gloomy boundaries she had skirted on the previous day. A
+slumberous cloud partially shrouded its dark heights. In the vista of
+coast, cape, and blue headland lengthening beyond, earth, sea, and sky,
+melted into one indistinguishable haze of atmospheric beauty.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Easily unfastening one of these eastern windows, Fidunia perceived a
+flight of steps leading thence into the palace gardens below. Followed
+by Fido, the fearless child of nature quickly descended the stairs, and
+plunged into the artificial intricacies of the pleasure grounds
+beneath.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+A thrill of remembrance came upon her. Surely she had trodden these
+trim-kept walks before, and inhaled the strange rich odour of the
+blossoming orange that hung heavy on the air?
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Stopping, bewildered, she raised her hand to her brow. As she thus
+stood rapt in thought, the noise of approaching voices apprised her
+that Antiphates, leaning on the arm of Domenichino, drew near. Swift as
+lightning, recollection flashed across her. While the impatient monarch
+came towards her, guided by his servant, she half expected to see and
+hear the tiny elves who in her forest dreams had swung and sung their
+eerie refrain amid just such scenes as these.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+When the King learned that she had not yet broken her fast, he
+commanded food to be brought to an arbour near at hand, where he
+himself joined his guest. He found much entertainment in trying to
+follow the movements of the little dog, who, summoned by his mistress,
+went through all his pretty tricks.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+With unwonted softness in his voice and manner, Antiphates strove to
+set Fidunia at her ease, and to engage her in conversation. He led her
+on to speak of herself and of her previous lonely life. He encouraged
+her to tell him all that had befallen her since she left the forest.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Domenichino oftentimes listened in surprise. His master, hitherto so
+hasty and imperious, with rare patience, endeavoured to overcome
+Fidunia's timidity and reserve. Antiphates even forgot to murmur
+continually at his own affliction&#8212;nay, he felt a certain pleasure in
+claiming the young girl's assistance, as they wandered together in the
+gardens, or moved from room to room of the palace.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Day after day glided swiftly away, and life became a fresh pleasure to
+the weary King as he listened to the strange adventures and artless
+sayings of the ingenuous maiden. He derived perpetual amusement from
+her novel descriptions of familiar objects presented to him under a
+widely different aspect by her humorous remarks.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+For years upon years he had existed with all of visible beauty veiled
+from his sight; and he now conjured up to himself an exquisite ideal of
+his youthful companion. Her low melodious voice, her gentle touch, and
+her soft light step, full of grace, taught him insensibly to dream of a
+far fairer form than poor Fidunia actually possessed.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+He became so deeply interested in his new friend, that ere long that
+interest was merged in love. Morning, noon, and night, he was her
+inseparable companion, nor could he rest quiet when she was absent from
+him. He found in her society a nameless charm that tamed and softened
+his arrogant spirit. With extraordinary humility he learnt to defer to
+her slightest wish. With unwonted self-abnegation, he laid siege to the
+citadel of her heart.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Listening entranced to his tender words, there now ensued a period
+when, for the first time to the guileless Fidunia, if not to her more
+experienced suitor,
+</p>
+
+<div class="poem">
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>"Love took up the glass of Time, and turned it in his glowing hands;</p>
+<p>Every moment, lightly shaken, ran itself in golden sands.</p>
+<p>Love took up the harp of Life, and smote on all the chords with might;</p>
+<p>Smote the chord of self, that, trembling, passed in music out of sight."</p></div></div>
+
+<p>
+Antiphates soon told the wondering maiden all he had heard in the cave.
+His thoughts turned continually upon the mysterious prophecy, and they
+often held sweet counsel together over those singular but
+well-remembered words.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+A dim foreboding of evil in the future, and an intense clinging to the
+peaceful joyous life of the present, led Fidunia to approach this
+subject with secret reluctance. An inward voice told her she possessed
+not beauty's potent charm; yet she felt that to her blind monarch she
+was all in all. Again and again she had to stifle the rising fear of
+possible change in his love, and chided herself for unworthy thoughts
+and lukewarm energy.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+With all the eagerness of his impetuous nature, Antiphates constantly
+recurred to the charge, urging Fidunia to do her utmost to deliver him
+from his infirmity. In glowing terms he depicted the pleasures of their
+common existence if he were able, not merely to hear and to feel, but
+to watch and to guide his heart's beloved through her future life.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+As he spoke, the forest maid often felt the hidden talisman rise and
+fall with the heavings of her tender bosom. Obedient to the donor, she
+never disclosed its existence, even to Antiphates, or told him of her
+strange dreams. It needed, however, no small resolution on her part to
+avail herself of the charm so solemnly committed to her charge by Dame
+Anna. At length, unable longer to resist the oft-repeated solicitations
+of her royal lover, she faithfully promised him to exert her feeble
+powers to the utmost on his behalf.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+With a lingering footstep she sought her chamber that evening, filled
+with awe at the prospect of invoking the aid of her scarce known
+friend. When all was silent for the night, Fidunia trimmed the classic
+lamp by her bedside, for it was the new moon, and no light came from
+without. Watched only by the wakeful Fido, she drew the sparkling prism
+from its accustomed place. Remembering her instructions, she placed it
+in the palm of her hand, then bent (for another's sake), on peering
+into futurity, she resolutely fixed her eyes on the talisman. Swaying
+to and fro with the intensity of her emotions, she chanted the required
+invocation:
+</p>
+
+<div class="poem">
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>Strange gem, upon thy crystal core</p>
+<p>I gaze, the while I aid implore;</p>
+<p>Trembling upon the verge of fate,</p>
+<p>Oh, point my path ere yet too late!</p>
+<p>I fain would gain the boon I ask.</p>
+<p>Is mine the strength for such a task?</p>
+<p>Canst thou unloose the links that bind,</p>
+<p>Or vanquish powerful foes combined?</p>
+<p>Then show whate'er there lurks of art</p>
+<p>Within thine own mysterious heart;</p>
+<p>On thee I turn a hopeful eye,</p>
+<p>Bright stone of silence, make reply.</p></div></div>
+
+<p>
+The magic stone grew larger and larger. Its brilliant centre, like a
+searching eye, returned Fidunia's gaze with dazzling refulgence.
+Heavier and heavier drooped her falling lids, her recumbent form sought
+more and more the support of her little couch, at length borne down by
+resistless force, she lay unnerved and motionless.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The lamp became extinguished. All was dark, silent, and blank. Her
+corporeal frame slumbered inert and passive. But now every spiritual
+faculty throbbed into keen activity. The whole chamber was filled with
+soft penetrating light. The kind Anna's well-remembered form stood
+beside her. With one hand she raised Fidunia on her couch, with the
+other she pointed towards the south.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+To Fidunia's intense surprise, she beheld a ray of moonlight illumine
+the sombre waters of the Bay of Deva, reaching in one narrow unbroken
+line to what she well knew as the distant though hitherto unvisited
+island of Spera. She gazed bewildered from her raised alcove, which
+commanded an easy view of the landscape beneath, through the wide, open
+windows.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+How could the small silver horn of the newborn moon cast such brilliant
+light on the dark ocean? She turned a troubled glance towards her
+unwonted visitant, but her voice was spell-bound; the questions she
+fain would have uttered died upon her lips. With a sad and solemn
+gesture her protectress still pointed towards the heights of Spera,
+then sighed, rather than said these lines:
+</p>
+
+<div class="poem">
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>Far, far o'er the depths of that shimm'ring blue sea,</p>
+<p>The drops trickle slowly so sought for by thee;</p>
+<p>Enwrapt by the jealous embrace of the deep,</p>
+<p>A lake without sky, without motion doth sleep.</p>
+<p>Though distant, and hidden the shrine of the cave</p>
+<p>By the busy bright waters its entrance that lave,</p>
+<p>Yet only the touch of an innocent maiden</p>
+<p>Can e'er give effect to those drops virtue-laden.</p>
+<p>At midnight a ray shall illumine the portal</p>
+<p>All sombre and silent, ne'er threaded by mortal.</p>
+<p>At midnight, by moonlight, that path can be crossed,</p>
+<p>By her, who heroic, ne'er counteth the cost.</p>
+<p>Oh, chilly the ocean, and lonely the hour,</p>
+<p>Or the charm that thou seekest is reft of its power;</p>
+<p>And voiceless and mute thine endeavours must be,</p>
+<p>Or fruitless thy labours and harmful to thee.</p>
+<p>Yet, maiden, forbear! ere thou challenge the spell</p>
+<p>Remember&#8212;with thee and with thine it is well!</p>
+<p>In thee and thy love the blind monarch is blest:</p>
+<p>Then dwell in his palace&#8212;Fidunia&#8212;at rest.</p></div></div>
+
+<p>
+As the last couplet fell on Fidunia's ears all else became as nought.
+The dear thought of her first and faithful lover filled her imaginative
+mind. What recked she of trouble or sorrow to be undergone in his
+service! Would she not even give life itself for the sake of him who
+had first called into existence all the passionate but unknown wealth
+of her unselfish soul! Dreamily she recalled to herself his whispered
+vows, his ardent tones, and thus from waking dreams slowly fell on
+sleep, undisturbed and profound.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+It was late the following morning before she awoke to the realities of
+life. As she dressed herself she pondered much over the visions of the
+night. Was all a dream, like her forest fancies?
+</p>
+
+<p>
+She looked everywhere for the talisman, but it was nowhere to be seen.
+Its absence weighed somewhat heavily on her mind. The reality of her
+midnight experience was brought home to her, as she perpetually missed
+the shining stone from its wonted hiding-place.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Fidunia now hastened to her monarch's presence. Considering that the
+loss of the talisman released her from her promise of secrecy, she
+confided its whole history to the astonished King. She told him also
+her waking vision of the previous night. She described Dame Anna's
+appearance, and repeated some of her words.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Thoroughly roused Antiphates entreated Fidunia to keep nothing more
+concealed from him. Using all his powers of persuasion he at length
+drew from her unwilling lips the particulars of her three wild forest
+dreams.
+</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter"><a  name="fidunia"><img src="images/006.jpg" alt="Thoroughly roused, Antiphates entreated Fidunia to keep nothing
+   more concealed from him" width="329" height="486"></a></div>
+<p class="caption">FIDO AND FIDUNIA.
+<br>"Thoroughly roused, Antiphates entreated Fidunia to keep nothing
+   more concealed from him."&#8212;<small>P. 170.</small>
+</p>
+
+<p>
+In a voice trembling with emotion he hailed the forest maiden as his
+predestined deliverer, nor was his eager curiosity satisfied till he
+had asked innumerable questions. Fidunia sighed as she noted his
+feverish agitation. Remembering the warning contained in the last
+rhythmical lines, she feared lest his hopes should be dashed to the
+ground.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+As they sat together in his favourite turret above the castle porch, he
+explained to her that rumour spoke of a hidden cave in the Isle of
+Spera. Recalling to mind the line of light she had so distinctly seen
+across the bay, Fidunia pointed it out as having terminated beneath the
+highest peak of the island. Antiphates decided that an endeavour to
+find the cave should be made when the moon next became full. He would
+fain himself have aided in the search; but Fidunia, anxious to have her
+mind steadfastly set on the one object of the expedition, persuaded him
+to remain within the palace, and to allow her to go forth guarded only
+by Domenichino.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Domenichino secretly hired, as for his own use, one of the boats
+belonging to a fisherman of Spera. He carefully questioned the men of
+the place about their island. They all seemed aware of the probable
+existence of a cave only accessible from the sea, but partly from the
+dreamy indolence common to those climes, partly from superstition, no
+one had as yet discovered its entrance. A thousand old legends,
+however, sung of the hidden beauties of this wondrous grotto, a hundred
+wild tales were told among these simple people of the magic and
+wonder-working fountain therein concealed from mortal eyes.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+At last the time arrived when, at midnight, Cynthia should reach her
+cold meridian of beauty. Fidunia resolved to leave Fido for the first
+time behind her. She committed him to the willing charge of the King,
+but the little animal, who from the first had taken a dislike to
+Antiphates, could not be got away from his mistress's chamber. There,
+extended on the moonlit verandah, he remained during her absence,
+disconsolate and wakeful.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+It was a night of peaceful calm. As the sturdy rowers urged on their
+vessel, her bows parted the waters into a thousand phosphorescent
+ripples, which, widening as the boat moved onward, spread into one
+broad, flaming wake in their rear.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Fidunia carried with her an ancient gold goblet, wherein the King
+besought her to place the precious drops, should she succeed in
+obtaining them. Grasping it tightly in her hand, as if to persuade
+herself she was not dreaming, she gazed awestruck on the overwhelming
+beauty of the landscape, arrayed in night's fairest covering.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Already distant, the City of Deva lay white and ghost-like under the
+moon's pale ray. Here and there a gleam of light showed that there were
+watchers on land, and from the high turret window of Castle Xylina one
+ruddy gleam shot a quivering reflection far along the ever-lengthening
+track of their little craft.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Before them the nearing crags of Spera rose abrupt and beetling towards
+the sky. The boat moved rapidly along. Now became audible the surging
+swell and low muffled boom of the ocean, ever chafing, ever restless,
+even when apparently at peace; and ever repelled by those giant
+sentinels of the deep. Numbers of sea-birds, disturbed by the unwonted
+splash of oars, wheeled screaming above their heads, and suddenly
+brought to Fidunia's mind with agitating distinctness the recollection
+of her second forest dream.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+But all other thoughts were merged in the approaching performance of
+her self-imposed task. They had gradually rounded the opening to a
+little bay where the water seemed more shallow, and the sea only broke
+in tiny wavelets upon a small shelf of pearly white sand. Here Fidunia
+stepped from the boat. Leaving human companionship behind, she slowly
+paced along the narrow margin. Finally, following the moon-lit line and
+heedful of Domenichino's oft-repeated instructions, she disappeared
+behind the frowning ledge of rock which bounded the narrow inlet.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Only a very few minutes after she had thus gone from their sight, they
+could hear dimly across the intervening waters, the faint tolling of
+the midnight bells in the great City. In indescribable anxiety
+Domenichino, who alone (among these rude boat-men) knew her peril,
+counted the minutes till Fidunia's return, and resolved that at the
+expiration of a certain time he would at all risks persist in following
+the unprotected maiden.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+But, ere the appointed period had elapsed, Fidunia, with buoyant steps,
+turned swiftly the dark boundary and rapidly drew near. High resolve
+sat upon her brow and stamped her features with a noble ardour. Closely
+clasped to her bosom she held the precious vase, but to no mortal ear
+might she unfold the thrilling tale of her solitary experience.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Had she within those mystic precincts heard a warning voice which bade
+her pause ere she dashed the cup of earthly happiness from her lips?
+How and where had she obtained the crystal liquid that leapt and
+sparkled in its golden prison? Had she entered the ice-cold waters and
+braved the wave-engulfing arms of the merry, malicious mer-men, who
+warily watch, and at the midnight hour have power to bear to their
+coral haunts the bold earth-maiden who shall step within their native
+element?
+</p>
+
+<p>
+These, and numberless other questions, crowded into Domenichino's mind
+as he sped to meet her; but she raised her finger to her lips, and with
+a mute gesture of entreaty silently took her place in the little
+vessel. The weather-beaten boatmen shrank back as she passed them by,
+her hair and garments glistening with a thousand rainbow-coloured
+drops; yet, as she dreamily took her place in the stern, one, less
+bashful than his compeers, awkwardly placed his rough coat so as to
+shelter and keep her warm.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The wind had arisen. It swept moaningly around, hurrying dark clouds
+across the face of the moon, and presently shrouding her altogether
+from their sight. But the red tower-light from distant Xylina guided
+the homeward-bound crew, and ere very long they were safely landed
+below the slumbering City.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Still voiceless, Fidunia, with lagging footsteps, ascended the steep
+hill. Her energy was gone; she leant heavily on Domenichino's arm, and
+but for his aid must have fallen more than once exhausted by the way.
+At last the castle was reached. In answer to her signal the faithful
+esquire knocked at his master's turret door. An impatient voice bade
+them enter. Antiphates himself, stumbling hastily to meet them, started
+as he took Fidunia's cold hand in his. She gently withstood his eager
+inquiries and solicitude for her health. "Sire," she murmured, "I am
+very weary, but these poor hands must this night bathe your eyes."
+</p>
+
+<p>
+At her words the King, obedient, sank on a couch near at hand, and
+Fidunia, dipping her fingers into the golden goblet, timidly pressed
+them again and again over his burning eyelids. Her cool, soft touch
+soothed his irritated nerves and brought refreshing peace to his
+restless mind. A strange calm folded its enshadowing wings around those
+busy brows and wrapt the imperious monarch in a sweet and childlike
+slumber.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Raising her finger again to her lips, in token of silence, and signing
+to Domenichino to leave his sovereign for the night, Fidunia quitted
+the turret chamber and sought her own apartment. Here the listening
+Fido greeted her approaching footsteps with a whine of delight, and
+testified his joy at her return by many expressive gambols.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Long into the night she sat on her balcony, acting over in thought
+again and again the exciting scenes of that eventful evening. It seemed
+to her she had only just fallen asleep when she was suddenly startled
+from her slumbers by a loud p&#230;an of rejoicing blown from the castle
+wall by the silver trumpets.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+For a moment recollection failed her, but then glad certainty flashed
+on her mind, and, as if to make assurance doubly sure, some of the
+women of the palace, rushing abruptly into her chamber, confirmed the
+glad tidings. They urged her to arise and dress in haste, for the King
+could not rest till he had seen and thanked his deliverer in person.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Fidunia hurriedly arrayed herself. Accompanied by Fido, she hastened
+along the now well-known passages of the palace. She ascended the broad
+stairs and passed the tall guards in the corridor, with their nodding
+plumes. The doors of the presence chamber were thrown open before her.
+On the threshold she stood a moment irresolute. Then, notwithstanding
+their intimacy, knowing his newly-gained power, she advanced timidly
+towards the great King. There was a pause, she raised her eyes to his.
+The monarch seemed transformed! Instead of half-closed, unseeing eyes,
+and all the accompanying hesitation and uncertainty, two searching orbs
+now bent their dark majesty full on the bashful maiden. In that one
+moment she drank in the fatal secret, which no after-words could
+disguise.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+It was but too true!
+</p>
+
+<p>
+A passionate adorer of beauty, Antiphates had, during the past months,
+almost unknown to himself, clothed his unseen love with perfect
+loveliness. His heart therefore beat high with expectation as her
+footfall was heard at the door, and when, with her attendant Fido, she
+entered alone, he could not control the impulse of disappointment too
+plainly written on his expressive, speaking countenance.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The dawn of light on his long-darkened orbs revealed to him the
+unattractive colouring and irregular features of the being he had in
+blindness learned to adore, and no self-command on his part could
+conceal from love's unerring instinct his change of mood.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Now, however, with well-simulated alacrity, he rose from his throne.
+Stepping down with a free, unfettered gait, widely different from his
+wonted stumbling manner, he took the maiden's hand in his own. Pouring
+confused and hurried thanks into her ear, he led her to the seat where
+she had passed so many happy hours.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+In vain he strove to conjure back the fascination Fidunia once
+possessed for him. Oh! subtle influence! who can accurately define the
+thrilling tie that makes the one we love different from all the world
+beside? who, when the frail chain of enchantment is once severed, can
+join again those mystic links?
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The King and Fidunia conversed in low tones, apparently unchanged: the
+gay courtiers around at least observed no cloud on the horizon. Waiting
+within call, they clustered eagerly around Domenichino to hear his
+adventures of the previous night, and to discuss together the
+approaching marriage of the maiden, now beloved by all, with their
+fortune-favoured prince. They recked not of the cold shadow that crept
+slowly into the little maid's heart, and clouded her fair and hitherto
+untroubled sky.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Fido alone, close and vigilant, marked the awakening sorrow of his
+beloved mistress. He felt the hand that caressed him grow cold and
+pulseless. He noted the accent of despair in Fidunia's choking voice.
+His unsophisticated nature rose indignant at the selfishness of the
+human friend, who (after such vows breathed, and responded to by her to
+whom they were addressed), could change and grow indifferent to the
+being who had gone through so much for his sake.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+How true it is that maidens, like flowers, expand in the presence of
+him they love, in the warm sunshine of adoration. When that cheering
+beam is withdrawn, how colourless and scentless, how devoid of beauty,
+do their drooping blossoms become!
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Even so it was with Fidunia, the happy light that had of late dawned in
+her gray eyes now faded away. Hour after hour she wept alone on her
+sleepless pillow, sadly musing over times departed,
+</p>
+
+<p class="ctr">
+"Departed never to return."</p>
+
+<p>
+One wakeful night she poured out her thoughts in these words:
+</p>
+
+<div class="poem">
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>The silent hour of night prevailed, the Earth</p>
+<p>Was in her first and dewy slumber, while</p>
+<p>The Moon unveiled her pure and peerless light,</p>
+<p>And threw her radiance o'er the dusky haunts</p>
+<p>Of men.</p>
+<p class="i6">An atom on the world's broad breast</p>
+<p>Alone, beneath those chilly beams I mused,</p>
+<p>On Death and Immortality.</p>
+<p class="i20">My soul</p>
+<p>Sped swiftly upward on the ethereal ray,</p>
+<p>And left enthralled the grosser part of self,</p>
+<p>The slumbering mortal portion of my frame.</p></div>
+
+<div class="stanza">
+<p><span class="asterisk">* * * * *</span></p></div>
+
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>The spirit world was gained, and for a space</p>
+<p>Enchantment wove mine aching heart a strange</p>
+<p>Bright web of many hued delight. She gave</p>
+<p>To that brief Dream all the reality</p>
+<p>That made its flying moments passing sweet.</p>
+<p>The kindly echoes lent their magic aid,</p>
+<p>And tones reverberated in mine ear</p>
+<p>Whose music gently whispered rapture, not</p>
+<p>Of Earth, but of some far-off lovely Land,</p>
+<p>A Time when all that is not yet may be.</p></div>
+
+<div class="stanza">
+<p><span class="asterisk">* * * * *</span></p></div>
+
+
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>With trembling sigh, from happiness too great,</p>
+<p>I all unknowing broke the mystic spell,</p>
+<p>And shivering back, through dark and dreary ways,</p>
+<p>No Moon to guide the weary feet, no Light</p>
+<p>To cheer the falling spirit, once again</p>
+<p>Within dull clay poor Psyche found her home,</p>
+<p>And woke to bitter loneliness and woe.</p></div></div>
+
+<p>
+She had in truth a rough awakening from her dream of happiness. As day
+by day the restless monarch showed more and more the change in his
+feelings that perfect vision had wrought, Fidunia not only passed
+through the deep waters of sorrow in realizing his alienation, but
+experienced moreover a fresh and equally poignant pain as the veil of
+illusion fell from her disenchanted eyes, and taught the simple-hearted
+young girl that she could never again regard her monarch with the same
+trusting faith.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+To one of hasty impulsive temperament like Antiphates, dissimulation
+proved impossible: however much he was bound, alike by the ties of
+honour and of gratitude, to keep the vows publicly pledged to his
+deliverer, he could not forgive the hapless girl her lack of outward
+beauty. He valued not the delicate refinement of her nature. He marked
+not the ethereal spirit that shone unconquerable through her
+transparent eye. His affection had been of the earth, earthy;
+evanescent as frail mortality itself.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Nor was Fidunia's spirit formed in a mould to sicken and die of
+unrequited affection. In happier days, the happiest of her short life,
+she had, in spite of the vast difference in their ages, learned to
+regard the gifted King with something akin to reverential love. The
+eager wooing of one so talented and fascinating could not fail to
+produce some corresponding effect on the imagination of the forest
+maiden. Not unsolicited she had yielded up her gentle heart, and come
+gradually to centre all the hopes and thoughts of her young life upon
+Antiphates.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+She now grew to spend longer hours each day in wandering round the
+precincts of Xylina. The child of nature, she ever found her truest
+solace beneath the wide canopy of heaven. There no walls pent in her
+labouring sobs, no human eye beheld the slowly falling tears, mourners
+over a vanished past, that welled up one by one from her burning heart;
+tears that slowly rising, purified still further her much afflicted
+spirit, and weaned her soul from the earthly love which for a time had
+satisfied that strange immortal portion of mortality.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Fido, ever beside his mistress, grew like her, pensive and forlorn. He
+knew she was in grief, and his mute sympathy gave her comfort, as
+together they climbed through the mazy wood, or explored the hills that
+rose behind the castle.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+In these wanderings, Fidunia came frequently to a knoll, commanding the
+lovely expanse of waters beneath. Looking across the broad bay of Deva,
+the horizon was bounded only by the fair island of Spera, so fraught
+with memory's brightest records. Here upon a bank of wild thyme,
+sheltered by the cool olive trees, and fanned by the passing breeze,
+she pondered over her mysterious lot, and shudderingly thought of the
+blank untrodden future.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+But counsel and comfort already approached. One day as she thus sat,
+rapt and musing, a gentle voice addressed her; turning half alarmed,
+she beheld the sweetest face her eyes had ever dwelt upon. That
+countenance shone with heaven-born beauty. "Sister Angela" (for thus
+the stranger was called) had also sorrowed, but she had found lasting
+comfort in the convent of Saint Sebastian. This monastery was near at
+hand, though partially concealed by the dense foliage and the masses of
+creepers which clothed its outer walls. Angela had oftentimes seen and
+yearned over the sorrowful young girl, and at last, issuing forth,
+ventured to greet her.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+She tenderly saluted Fidunia, who, before long, learnt to love and
+trust her new friend. She soon came daily to seek for guidance and
+comfort at her hands, confiding to Angela's sympathizing ears the
+chequered story of her brief life.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Meantime, to add still further to the griefs of poor Fidunia, her
+little dog disappeared. She first missed him one afternoon as, after
+long converse with her new found friend, she turned to descend the
+grassy slopes to Castle Xylina.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+During those hours she had formed a high and holy resolution. Alone in
+the world, she aspired to become one of the sisterhood to whom Angela
+belonged, and to find an asylum for her wearied wounded heart within
+the sacred walls of Saint Sebastian.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+On reaching the Castle, Fidunia sought everywhere for Fido, but no one
+had seen him, or could tell whither he had gone. While occupied in
+threading the long passages and calling anxiously for her missing
+companion, she met Domenichino hastening to entreat her attendance on
+the King. Without returning to her chamber to alter her attire, Fidunia
+turned and accompanied him to the royal presence.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Antiphates met her at the entrance of the hall. In kind yet constrained
+tones the monarch condoled with her as he heard of Fido's
+disappearance. He gave orders moreover that the strictest search should
+at once be instituted throughout Deva and its environs for Fidunia's
+dear little favourite.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+"But now," continued the King, leading her to a deep embrasure, whence
+could be seen the fair landscape beneath, "I am anxious you should name
+the day for the ceremony that is to unite the debtor to his mistress,
+and thus permit me to fulfil my plighted troth." So saying, he carried
+her hand lightly to his lips, and looked searchingly upon her. But even
+his bold eyes fell rebuked beneath Fidunia's pure enquiring gaze, now
+divested of all hesitation or embarrassment. No word of reproach for
+his altered behaviour towards her, since she had restored his sight,
+fell from her. No murmur escaped her. But her voice quavered as, in a
+few simple sentences, she unfolded to him the purpose she had that day
+formed of taking upon herself the vows of Saint Sebastian.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+A sense of momentary shame at his own want of generosity dyed the
+King's rough cheek a deeper hue. He felt his inability to urge Fidunia
+with any zest to renounce her lofty aspirations. He strove to conceal
+his satisfaction, but he knew too well that her voluntary self-devotion
+relieved him from a perplexing dilemma.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Nevertheless he cast about in his mind for some form of remonstrance;
+but before he could frame the words on his unwilling lips, she was
+gone.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Stung to her inmost heart by the inscrutable changes in his variable
+nature, and already overwrought by the day's emotions, the hapless
+Fidunia only reached her chamber in time to shut from every human eye
+her deadly struggle, her last overwhelming battle with wounded mortal
+love.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Days slowly elapsed without intelligence of Fido, and the arrangements
+became gradually completed by which, upon the Festival of All Saints,
+Fidunia was to enter her noviciate.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+All Hallow's Eve drew near. On the morrow the lonely Fidunia was to bid
+farewell to the outer world, and rest her wearied tempest-tossed head
+within the peaceful cloistered shades.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+She sought her luxurious chamber for the last time, and unfastening the
+window, stepped out on the broad balcony. The glorious full moon once
+more illuminated with clear cold light each beloved object in the
+exquisite panorama so dear to her.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Human sorrow asserted its own in the maiden's breast, as in spirit she
+bade farewell to the slumbering monarch who, for a brief period, had
+been her sun and firmament, the "all" for which in the forest depths
+her innocent soul had insensibly pined.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+A sudden pattering footstep sounded near, and looking inwards, lo!
+through the moonlit chamber, approached the truant Fido. In the
+imperfect light he seemed faint and weary; but Fidunia sprang to meet
+him, and raised and fondled the little wanderer in her arms, asking him
+the while many a question about his strange absence, half reproaching
+him for his desertion.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+As she held the little dog close to her breast, rejoicing over his
+return, she felt something of a novel character around his neck. She
+gently unfastened a cord, and found attached to it a small phial
+carefully sealed, yet emitting a wondrous fragrance.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Somehow assuming from her companion's quiescent attitude that the flask
+was for her own use, she slipped it into her bosom, and forgetting all
+else, again yielded herself to vague yearnings over the unfulfilled
+visions of the past. It was long before she stepped from the window,
+and placing Fido on the ground prepared for her last night's rest in
+the palace.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+As she let down the now lengthened tresses of her thick hair, Fido
+though evidently exhausted, refused to lie down. Seemingly ill at ease,
+he watched her every movement with painful anxiety. When at length she
+drew near the marble bath, wherein she nightly plunged, his agitation
+knew no bounds, and as in undressing she displaced the phial from her
+garments he uttered a series of short sharp barks restlessly springing
+the while backwards and forwards from his mistress to the edge of the
+alcove. So close was the companionship between Fidunia and her faithful
+companion, that she at once divined his meaning, and undoing the seal
+and extracting the stopper from the bottle, she emptied its contents
+into the water. Scarcely had she done so when the whole chamber became
+filled with a delicious perfume. As one in a trance, half overcome by
+the powerful scent, Fidunia entered her bath, and felt at once the
+extraordinary invigorating power which seemed to emanate from those few
+drops of liquid.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+All sorrow was lifted from her heart. Already in imagination she joined
+in the sweet praiseful strains of the Sebastian sisters. Angelic forms
+moved around her, and the moon's pale rays at length guided the weary
+maiden to her pillow. Stretching out one soft arm over her faithful
+dog, lying in his cot by her side, and lulled by a foretaste of
+heaven's own music, Fidunia sank into dreams of ecstatic beauty.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The loud pealing of a thousand bells for the Festival of All Saints at
+last awoke the neophyte from her deep repose. For a moment she started
+and half forgot her resting place; but her eye fell upon her little
+dog. Something strange in his attitude struck her. Startled, she sprang
+to her feet and bent over him.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+His sleep was surely very deep! Yes, Fidunia! sound are those slumbers
+from which not even the touch of thy beloved hand can rouse his wearied
+form, or call forth a response from the wistful eyes, wont to hang upon
+thy lightest gesture.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+With an exceeding bitter cry, Fidunia fell beside her lost favourite
+and vainly chafed his stiffening limbs. As she stooped over him, her
+eyes swimming in tears, she perceived in the morning light a small
+scroll lying on the floor by his couch. She hastily raised it, and
+noted "This for Fidunia" traced upon the outer covering. She tore it
+open, and through the mists of sorrow that perpetually dimmed her
+vision, she read these words:
+</p>
+
+<div class="blockquote">
+<p>
+    "Sweet daughter, when thou readest this, thy faithful servant will
+    be no more. Know that the little dog, Fido, through many past days
+    and nights hath mourned over thine exceeding sorrow and thy low
+    estate.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+    "He held thee altogether lovely, but he knew from human fellowship
+    that those who owed most to thy labours, my child, had weighed
+    thine outward beauty in the balance and found it wanting. He
+    watched thine affliction till his own heart went nigh to break; and
+    then, calling to remembrance my counsels and assistance to thee, he
+    left thy side, and through many hardships and with great fatigue he
+    gained once more my little cottage by the wide and spreading
+    common. I made known to him that the gift of earthly beauty could
+    only be thine through the self-sacrifice of one who loved thee to
+    the death. Thy faithful companion hath cheerfully laid down his
+    sinless existence for thy dear sake.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+    "Heaven guard thee and guide thee, Fidunia!
+</p>
+
+<p class="sig">
+    "<span class="sc">Anna.</span>"
+</p>
+</div>
+
+<p>
+As Fidunia, penetrated to her very inmost soul by the dying fidelity of
+her beloved dog, sank again over his inanimate frame, a loud and
+persistent knocking made itself heard at her chamber door. She had
+barely time to cast on her outer garments before the palace women,
+alarmed by her first cry, and hearing no response to their summons,
+thrust open the door and drew inquisitively near the weeping maiden.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Fidunia rose from her knees, and casting an indignant look on the
+amazed intruders, she exclaimed, "Behold your thoughtless work! It was
+through you and yours that my poor dog learnt the small esteem in which
+his mistress was held, and has thus been goaded to his death."
+</p>
+
+<p>
+No answer came from the gathering throng. Awed and abashed, they herded
+together. Whence came the ineffable beauty that sat upon Fidunia's
+brow, and cast a radiance over her shining hair? That it was the forest
+maiden none could doubt, but how exquisitely soft and fair her
+lineaments, as standing in the morning sun before her dead comrade's
+couch, she gave vent to her feelings of passionate reproach.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+At this moment Domenichino, hastily entering, heralded the King's
+approach. The news of the death of Fido and of Fidunia's miraculous and
+new-born beauty had spread like wild-fire through the Castle.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Antiphates, no less bewildered than his subjects, hesitated half
+awe-struck on the threshold of the young girl's chamber, which he now
+for the first time proposed to enter. Recovering himself promptly,
+however, with an imperious gesture he signed to his surrounding people
+to leave the apartment, and then slowly advanced to the now silent but
+still weeping Fidunia.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+In bygone days, all unknown to the sightless monarch, the very sound of
+his approaching footsteps had power to suffuse her cheek with blushes.
+Now coldly conscious of his presence, she stood before him without
+responsive sign, the loveliest creature upon God's wide earth, the
+realized ideal of his fairest dreams.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Wrapped in her white morning robe, with her yet unbound hair falling
+back in rich clustering masses from her pure pale brow and pearly skin
+of dazzling whiteness; a solemn depth shone from her dark blue eyes,
+bearing still a wealth of tears unshed; while a faint evanescent colour
+like the transparent petal of the wood anemone played upon her rounded
+cheek.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+All unknown to herself, clothed in this wondrous panoply of beauty,
+Fidunia awaited her sovereign's commands. To her unspeakable surprise
+the monarch seemed overcome with some unbidden emotion. Again and again
+he vainly assayed to speak; at length, drawing near, he bent his proud
+knee before her, and in agitated tones besought her pardon.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+"Sire," replied Fidunia, "as regards myself, I have little to forgive,
+but would that my dumb companion had been spared the knowledge that
+hath cost him his faithful life."
+</p>
+
+<p>
+"Oh, Fidunia!" cried the enamoured Prince, "forget these sad weeks
+wherein we have suffered disquiet, and during which untoward shadows
+have obscured my vision, and consent, as you once promised, to be my
+bride. I swear to you, my darling," continued he, pressing closer to
+the shrinking girl, "that in my love and tender care you shall find
+consolation even for the death of your poor lost favourite."
+</p>
+
+<p>
+With an effort Fidunia extricated her hand from his nervous grasp, and
+the red flush of indignation mounting higher and higher, she exclaimed,
+"Nay, my liege, this is neither the time nor the place wherein to renew
+the vows which of late have sat so light on thy heart and conscience.
+Here in the presence of the faithful dead, spare me, I pray thee, all
+reference to the unfaithful past. That chapter is closed for ever. On
+this morning, with thy free consent, I take upon myself new and holy
+vows. Yes," repeated she, raising her speaking eyes to the glorious
+eastern sky, "I am accounted worthy to become the lowly bride of
+Heaven." And as if in confirmation of her words, a gust of wind brought
+faintly to their ears, through the wide open window, the glad chiming
+of the Saint Sebastian bells, ringing in anticipation of the ceremonial
+of the day.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+"Now by my crown and kingdom," whispered Antiphates, in burning ardent
+tones, "that thou never shalt become, for mine thou art and mine thou
+shalt remain while I have life and power to keep thee." So saying he
+sprang to his feet and enfolding Fidunia in his arms, pressed her
+fiercely to his breast.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Weary and distraught, and well nigh overcome with the struggle, as she
+felt the loud pulsations of his throbbing heart, and experienced the
+mesmeric influence of strong earthly passion, the sorely bestead maiden
+breathed from her fainting soul an earnest prayer for guidance; and her
+silent petition for aid in the hour of need was answered.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+A low strain of music sounded through the chamber, and the reluctant
+King involuntarily released his trembling captive, as the door slowly
+opening admitted two by two the veiled and white arrayed sisters of
+Saint Sebastian coming to adorn their promised novice for the
+approaching ceremony.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+In vain the distracted Prince commanded them to pause in their holy
+duties, in vain he implored Fidunia to delay even for a day her
+irrevocable vows.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Borne back by the gentle but resistless force of the sacred band, and
+secretly abashed at the recollection of his own conduct, Antiphates
+stood spell-bound, devouring with hungry eyes the peerless beauty of
+the maid, whom too late, he knew to be the one golden hope of his life.
+They arrayed her in bridal robes of exceeding splendour. They placed a
+coronal of blooming orange flowers upon her faultless head.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+When all was completed Fidunia, turning to Domenichino, pleaded with
+him to convey what remained of her devoted servant to the little thymy
+knoll beneath the olive trees, and there within easy reach of her
+convent walls, to lay to rest the still beautiful form of the faithful
+Fido.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Then, stepping aside as if to bid him farewell, she raised and kissed
+the silent Prince's hand, murmuring in tones that he alone could hear,
+"while life lasts I shall pray for thee." Ere he could respond the
+procession slowly re-formed, and descending the broad palace-stairs,
+swept onwards along the avenue of grassy sward, and through the
+orange-scented gardens of Xylina to the hallowed precincts of Saint
+Sebastian on the Hill.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Within the chapel where the holy fathers waited, many had collected to
+witness the ceremony, but the King and his cort&#233;ge occupied the places
+nearest to the sisters and the young aspirant.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Through his intervention her meditations were yet again disturbed, as
+he besought her once more to turn from her purpose, and to remain amid
+the outer world as his loved and honoured bride. She steadfastly
+refused to listen to his entreaties. The service proceeded, and the
+novice at length prepared to pass through the iron gateway that should
+now close to all eternity between her and the world without. A ray from
+heaven fell on her beautiful figure, and illumined her devout features,
+as she stood waiting to receive the white consecrated veil of the
+sisterhood.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The long enveloping folds shrouded her from head to foot, and as
+Fidunia's golden head disappeared for ever from the sight of man, the
+whole air became filled with the celestial voices of the choir, singing
+these glorious words,
+</p>
+
+<p class="ctr">
+    "She is not dead, but liveth."
+</p>
+
+
+
+<br>
+<a name="north">&nbsp;</a>
+<p class="fm2">
+EUD&#198;MON:
+</p>
+
+<p class="fm4">
+OR
+</p>
+
+<p class="fm2">
+<i>THE ENCHANTER OF THE NORTH</i>.
+</p>
+
+
+<p>
+On the eastern side of the Isle of Raasay there still stands a lonely
+ruin known as Castle Brochel. Perched upon precipitous rocks at the
+very verge of the ocean, it is easy to imagine how, armed and
+provisioned, this fortress held its own amid the perpetual warfare of
+early Celtic times.
+</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter"><a  name="eudaemon"><img src="images/007.jpg" alt="EUD&#198;MON" width="370" height="525"></a></div>
+<p class="caption">EUD&#198;MON
+<br><small>P. 199.</small></p>
+
+<p>
+Castle Brochel has always borne a doubtful reputation. According to
+tradition, it was originally built with the price of blood, for the
+ancient legend runs somewhat after this fashion.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Shiel Torquil went forth with his dogs one morning to hunt the red deer
+on the wild mountains Blaven and Glamaig, in the neighbouring Island of
+Skye. Shiel Torquil had with him only one retainer, but he was a host
+in himself, being surnamed, from his immense size and strength, the
+Gillie More. After some time they sighted a stag. In the ardour of the
+chase the dogs soon ran out of sight, pursuing their quarry towards the
+shore at Sligachan.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Now it so happened that the young Kreshinish in his galley was anchored
+on that side of the island within sight of the beach. He saw the hunted
+animal about to take to the water, and swim, as deer are often known to
+do, across the narrow strait which lies between Skye and Raasay.
+Kreshinish and his men at once landed and took possession, not only of
+the stag itself, but of the dogs which, panting and exhausted, were
+unable to offer any resistance.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Shiel Torquil presently appeared on the scene and angrily asked for his
+deer and his hounds. Kreshinish refused to deliver them up. A bloody
+struggle ensued, during which the Gillie More inflicted a fatal wound
+upon the ill-fated young chieftain who unwittingly (at first) had
+interfered with the sports of another. This brought the affray to a
+speedy conclusion, and Shiel Torquil with his follower carried off deer
+and dogs in triumph.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Not long after this the poor old father of Kreshinish came to Skye to
+seek for the murderer of his son, and publicly offered the reward of a
+bag of silver to any one who would show him the guilty man. The Gillie
+More, hearing of the promised guerdon, boldly entered the presence of
+the elder Kreshinish. Confessing that he himself had slain the youthful
+chieftain, he urged in self-defence the young man's overbearing conduct
+in attempting to carry off Shiel Torquil's stag-hounds and game.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The bereaved father, obliged by the stringent laws of Highland honour
+to fulfil his solemn promise, reluctantly bestowed the bag of silver on
+the very man who had cut off his only child in the early bloom of
+manhood. The Gillie More, however, haunted by remorse, and still
+fearing the avenger's footstep, entreated his master to accept the
+money and build therewith a retreat for them both.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Shiel Torquil granted his henchman's request. After some time spent in
+searching for a suitable site, they at last selected the wild easterly
+shore of Raasay. Here were speedily raised the frowning walls of Castle
+Brochel. Secured from sudden attack by the inaccessible situation of
+their refuge, the Gillie More and his master lived in peace for many
+years.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Their retired habits, and their dislike to intruders, coupled with this
+strange tale of robbery and murder, caused the Castle, though
+newly-built, to be regarded with no friendly eye. When they died, it
+was left untenanted for a considerable time. Many reports were
+circulated concerning the strange sights and sounds to be seen and
+heard at the eerie hour of twilight, or amid the silent watches of the
+night, by the belated traveller who chanced to pass that way by sea or
+by land.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+At the period of which we speak, Castle Brochel had however for some
+time been inhabited by a being whose origin was partially shrouded in
+mystery, the gloomy Eud&#230;mon, known as the "Enchanter of the North."
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Long years ago, Valbiorn, the wild sea-king, persuaded the lovely
+Bragela, Sorglan's fair-haired daughter, to fly with him from her home.
+Terrible was Sorglan's wrath when he discovered that his hereditary
+enemy had deprived him of his only child, and undying was his
+resentment. But filial disobedience brought its own punishment. Before
+very long the restless Valbiorn was once more roaming alone on the high
+seas, spreading war and confusion in his wake.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+It was next rumoured that the gentle Bragela, heart-broken and
+deserted, had, with her little babe and an old and faithful attendant,
+one-eyed Donald, taken up her abode in the lonely Castle Brochel. Here
+she reared her son, within whose infant mind the powers of good and
+evil seemed to struggle with unwonted energy.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Unceasing were the prayers that the loving mother offered up over her
+child, for his strange nature caused her many tears. At times he would
+sit contented by her side, and fixing on her his large dark eyes,
+listen attentively to her words of instruction and wisdom. Or wandering
+with her, as soon as he could run alone, over the hills near at hand,
+he learnt the names and properties of various medicinal herbs, and the
+hours when they should be gathered to render their use efficacious.
+Wondrously effectual was the healing touch he inherited from his fair
+young mother and brought to light in future years.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+On other days a mad spirit of wild wantonness seemed to possess the
+boy. He would destroy everything upon which he could lay his hand, or
+tear along recklessly over the rugged walls and dangerous precipices on
+which the Castle stood, where a single false step would have dashed him
+to pieces on the rocks beneath. If his mother tearfully besought him to
+return to her, he would burst into loud fits of laughter, and shriek
+until the very sea-birds flew affrighted from the spot.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+When these strange paroxysms seized him, Bragela found that nothing had
+the least effect upon her wayward child save music. It was wholly by
+accident she first discovered the soothing charm of melody on his
+turbulent nature.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+One day, after watching his wild antics till her very heart grew sick
+within her, she re-entered the hall wearied and discouraged. Gradually
+consoling herself as she remembered how often the young rebel had come
+down in safety from his perilous haunts, she drew to her the harp, her
+father's gift in days of yore, which in all her wanderings she had
+carried with her. Striking chord after chord on its well-worn strings,
+she at length began to mingle her sweet voice with its thrilling tones.
+She sang of her childhood's happy home, and her tenderly-loved father,
+of the still beloved though faithless Valbiorn, of the perils they had
+together undergone, of the blissful hours she had once enjoyed when the
+fierce warrior forgot everything save her gentle strains, and lay
+entranced at her feet drinking in every word, and whispering in ardent
+tones that "her voice was as that of the angels in heaven."
+</p>
+
+<p>
+She would have sung on of sorrow and forlorn solitude, but voice and
+heart alike failed her. Clasping her arms around her cold harp, the
+forsaken Bragela bowed her head on its shoulder and wept aloud.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+But a little rough hand was laid upon her neck. "Mother, mother,"
+whispered her boy; "you must not weep, you are not forlorn or lonely,
+for I am here to care for you, and to protect you."
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Surprised and touched, Bragela turned to look upon the child. The wild
+light had died out of his eyes, and in its place shone through those
+brilliant orbs the tender protecting instinct of his sex. He drew
+closer to her, and pressing his little curly head on her soft bosom, he
+murmured, "I am sorry, mother dear; forgive me this time."
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Poor Bragela gladly folded the young truant to her heart. Henceforward
+she derived unspeakable comfort from this new influence over his
+boisterous spirit. For his sake she cheerfully resumed the art she had
+deemed laid aside for ever. When the wild fit again and again returned
+upon her boy, she would even carry her harp into the outer court. There
+inuring herself, with all a mother's courage, to behold without
+shuddering his maddest freaks, by her sweet singing and playing she
+gradually lured him to her side, and awakened his better self.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+These happy days, however, could not continue for ever. Eud&#230;mon's
+mother had gone through too many trials, and was of too tender a nature
+to endure such grief with impunity. There came a time when the gentle
+Bragela laid down her wearied head to rest; her dim eye kindled not
+with affection when her terrified boy bent over her, her cold hand for
+the first time gave him no responsive caress. Her sorrows were over,
+but loud and long were the lamentations of her child; thus left alone
+with one poor old man and his faithful dog Luachan.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+At dead of night strange lights and sounds arose about that rugged
+dwelling. Watchers at a distance beheld the lonely castle enveloped in
+fiery smoke. Amid the wreathing vapours a figure of unearthly
+proportions carried to the sea a white-robed form with long flowing
+hair. The repentant Valbiorn, too late to save, or even to hold
+converse with his neglected Bragela, bore to his immortal home her
+precious remains. There he was able by his magic skill to endow her
+inanimate body with the semblance of life. He mournfully placed the
+beautiful image in the vaulted halls of Thuisto, where he could for
+ever gaze on the fatal beauty that had brought such misfortune on its
+possessor.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Valbiorn tried every art to persuade his son to accompany him; but
+before her death Bragela had warned her child of the cruel nature of
+the sea-kings. She told him of her humble trust that notwithstanding
+her early disobedience (so heartily repented of), her soul might ascend
+to heaven, and though the still heathen Valbiorn could take her body,
+yet she felt her spirit would be safe with Him who gave it.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+She explained to Eud&#230;mon that if he came under his dread father's
+influence, the sea-king and his wild companions would strive their
+utmost to make him forget and neglect her careful instructions. She
+entreated him to be steadfast in his resistance to temptation,
+prophesying that eventually he might even have the great happiness of
+rescuing his father from the darkness of heathendom; if only he lived
+on in faith and simplicity, serving his unseen but all-powerful Maker,
+studying the books she left him, and endeavouring as best he might to
+help the poor ignorant Highlanders around.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The crafty Valbiorn finding all his endeavours powerless to persuade
+Eud&#230;mon to quit his abode of safety, resolved to destroy his
+disobedient son and his refuge at the same time. But here the loving
+mother's foresight helped in the preservation of her child. Among the
+other treasures carried by the fugitive Bragela to Castle Brochel, were
+some fowls of the famous breed first reared by the witch Fantunina,
+which by their watchfulness are able to protect their possessors from
+the powers of evil.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Night after night, therefore, when the emissaries of the baffled
+sea-king strove to destroy the Castle by fire, the magic cock, ever on
+the alert, flapped his wings and loudly proclaimed the approach of
+danger. Then Eud&#230;mon arising from his lonely couch, wrestled in silent
+prayer until the first faint streaks of daylight in the eastern sky
+showed him that night's dominion was over. Thus baulked of his prey,
+Valbiorn withdrew in a terrible tempest to Thuisto, nor did his son
+again hear of him for many and many a long day.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+A considerable period elapsed, during which Eud&#230;mon grew apace in
+stature and in knowledge. He not only studied the many books of magic
+lore left to him, but he also learnt marvellous lessons from Nature
+herself. In his lonely isolation he had leisure to attend to what our
+common mother is ready to teach us all, would we but tarry awhile in
+our busy lives and hearken to her still small voice.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Separated by his birth and dwelling-place from mankind in general,
+Eud&#230;mon strove to benefit the few he could befriend. The island people,
+as a rule, rarely beheld him. But in sickness or trouble they ever
+turned (tremblingly, it is true) to the Castle gate, where they waited
+while the trusty Donald apprised his master of the presence of the
+suppliants without.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Strange cures were wrought by the simple remedies Eud&#230;mon compounded
+from the various herbs and minerals his mother had shown to him, or
+with which his studies had rendered him familiar. To seek these herbs
+at a propitious time, the youth issued from the Castle at dead of
+night, with his faithful Luachan, and traversed the hills till break of
+day, when, wearied, and full of sleep, he often, on his return, passed
+the daylight hours in repose.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+He was, moreover, a keen and unerring marksman, swift and sure of foot,
+and of iron nerve. The shuddering Highlanders sometimes marked his
+eager pursuit of the wild goats, which at that time abounded in the
+island. Master and hound seemed alike dauntless and fearless in the
+chase, and whether from his early love of climbing, or from his mixed
+descent, it is hard to say, but it is very certain that Eud&#230;mon and his
+dog were often seen scrambling across the beetling crags that overhung
+the sea, in places where no human foot has trodden before or since. He
+and Luachan also knew where the golden eagle built her eyrie. He even
+caught and tamed a young nestling, which loved Castle Brochel as its
+home, and would only feed from her master's hand. With Donald's
+assistance moreover he had constructed a rude boat, in which they went
+forth occasionally to seek a portion of their subsistence by fishing.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Passionately fond of companionship, and denied that of his own fellows,
+Eud&#230;mon, by dint of long perseverance, collected around him a motley
+variety of animals. Tame seals lived on the rocks below his dwelling.
+In perfect security around and beneath the Castle walls roosted and
+nested a perfect colony of sea-birds. A little flock of goats amply
+supplied the three inhabitants with milk; while conies, blue hares,
+domestic fowls of various kinds, and last, but not least, serpents,
+from time immemorial the emblems of wisdom, throve and multiplied
+within the precincts or in close proximity to Eud&#230;mon's home.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+In those remote times, it is not surprising that old Donald, with his
+queer, misshapen figure, and solitary glaring eye, his youthful master,
+so wise beyond his years, and even the poor collie Luachan, whose
+sagacity was far above the average, were one and all regarded with some
+degree of superstitious mistrust.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+It was said, that in the little turret chamber, highest in the Castle
+wall, from which at night streamed forth a ruddy ray of light, Eud&#230;mon
+held converse with visitants from another world, and that many a storm
+was concocted and wafted abroad by their dark agency.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+While the young student strove anxiously to benefit the cases of
+sickness brought before him&#8212;sometimes, indeed, spending whole nights
+wrestling face to face with death, by the side of some poor peasant's
+bed&#8212;a few of the people were ungrateful enough to attribute his cures
+to magic art and to an unholy alliance with the powers of darkness.
+Some humble hearts, however, throbbed with responsive gratitude at the
+very mention of his name; and there was one mother who, though the King
+of Terrors had proved too powerful for his adversary's skill, never
+forgot the tear of sorrow that fell from the young man's eye, as, after
+long watching and many unavailing remedies, her bonnie bairn breathed
+out her innocent life in Eud&#230;mon's arms.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+His fame was gradually bruited abroad, and as years rolled on he became
+widely known as "the Enchanter of the North."
+</p>
+
+<p>
+From all the surrounding districts the inhabitants flocked in boats to
+seek his advice. Fishermen asked for charms, to ensure a successful
+summer. Ere the sailors put to sea, they deemed themselves lucky if
+they could secure one of Eud&#230;mon's so-called "amulets" against
+disaster. These were, in reality, small bags manufactured and sold (in
+private) by the one-eyed seneschal, whose master would have been sorely
+displeased, had he discovered the chaffering trade driven in "charms"
+by the cunning old man, who thus rivalled Gehazi of ancient times!
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Now it chanced that about this time there dwelt on the Lowland Borders,
+a King and Queen of Clutha, whose only daughter was afflicted with a
+terrible misfortune.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The Princess Miranda was beautiful as the day. Her parents, who had
+long lived in the bonds of matrimony without possessing any children,
+felt inexpressible joy as they welcomed their sweet little girl into
+the world. Bells were rung and bonfires lighted upon all the hills on
+either side of the river Clutha, which ran through her father's
+domains. Everything went on propitiously, until, in an hour of woe, it
+was discovered that the infant Princess could not speak!
+</p>
+
+<p>
+This dire and unexpected calamity threw the whole Court, and indeed the
+nation at large, into deep distress. All, both high and low, heartily
+sympathized with the grief-stricken parents. Philosophers, astrologers,
+physicians, and wise women were each consulted in their turn; but all,
+alas! in vain. At last, in desperation, the unhappy parents even
+offered the hand and dowry of their daughter as a reward to any man who
+should be fortunate enough to set her tongue at liberty.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Years rolled on. The King and Queen were disappointed in their hope of
+other offspring. Their feelings became more and more bitter, as they
+reflected on the confusion that would inevitably arise, should they
+die, and the dumb Miranda be called to the throne. They feared, with
+reason, that wicked men might take advantage of the Princess's helpless
+condition, and wrest the crown and kingdom from her hands.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Ambassadors from many surrounding countries were attracted by the
+beauty of Miranda's portraits, carefully and widely disseminated by her
+prudent mother. One by one, however, these envoys disappeared, on
+finding that the beautiful Princess, though possessed of every other
+charm, was dumb.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The King and Queen, to soften as far as possible their child's
+misfortune, gave orders that her play-mates and attendants were always
+to address her in writing. All at court were told to conceal from the
+Princess as much as possible the difference between her own condition
+and that of the maidens around her.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The consequence of these ill-judged regulations was that the Court of
+Clutha became almost as silent as the grave. Even musical
+instruments&#8212;with the exception of the fife and the drum, necessary for
+military and state occasions&#8212;were completely banished from the
+precincts of the palace, to save the youthful Miranda from discovering
+what it was to be without a voice for singing or speaking.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Under these circumstances it is not to be wondered at that foreign
+courtiers found King Murdoch's Court insufferably dull, especially as
+the lovely Princess, herself a prey to melancholy, spent the greater
+part of her time amid the wild moors and glens surrounding her father's
+castle, where at least she could uninterruptedly listen to the sounds
+of Nature. The sweet singing, or startled calls of the various birds,
+the rippling and murmuring of the rushing waters, the ceaseless humming
+of the insects, the sighing of the wind among the leaves and branches
+of the trees&#8212;each and all she heard and learnt to love.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Among the ambassadors referred to there was one representing a Prince,
+whose ardour could not be checked by the Princess's cruel misfortune.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Some short time before the period of which we speak, the King and Queen
+of Clutha, accompanied by their daughter, paid a visit to the Queen's
+sister, a powerful Princess in Ireland.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Left early a widow, Queen Hildegonda had long since forgotten all the
+softer charms of womanly nature. Forced, when hardly more than a girl
+herself, to protect her infant son, Prince Eochy, the heir to his
+father's wide domains, from the continued assaults, not only of
+neighbouring chieftains, but also of rebellious and usurping subjects,
+she had become a very amazon. By her wise and judicious regency, she
+had secured a peaceful rule for her son. But when the time came for him
+to take his rightful place, the proud mother could not bring herself to
+resign the reins of power. Eochy, as effeminate and weak as his mother
+was masculine and daring, willingly yielded to her the responsibilities
+of government, and passed his life in idle poetical dreams and
+frivolous amusements.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+On Miranda's appearance, however, the susceptible Prince, as might have
+been expected, was captivated by his fair cousin's matchless beauty. In
+vain the maiden's parents bestowed upon Eochy their own approval. In
+vain the enamoured youth besought his mother to favour his suit.
+Hildegonda, inexorable and unyielding, declared that no dumb Queen
+should ever reign in Cashel, and commanded her son to retire to a
+distant province until his relatives had departed.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Murdoch and his spouse lost no time in quitting with their daughter
+these inhospitable shores. When they once more reached home, they were
+roused by Hildegonda's insulting behaviour to attempt still more
+earnestly to unravel the cruel mystery that bound the lips of their
+beautiful daughter.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+In the meantime the hapless Eochy utterly failed to make any deep
+impression on his cousin's heart. He languished in all the misery of
+unrequited love, and continually breathed forth his lamentations in
+odes and poems such as this:&#8212;
+</p>
+
+<div class="poem">
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>"What though I be King of the Emerald Isle,</p>
+<p class="i2">And my Court in its Castle with beauty be bright,</p>
+<p>To me it were brighter by far could the smile</p>
+<p class="i2">Of the one I remember but gladden my sight.</p></div>
+
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>"Ah yes! I remember too faithfully yet</p>
+<p class="i2">That evening and all its enchantment to me,</p>
+<p>That silvery wreath I shall never forget,</p>
+<p class="i2">That star-spangled Maiden from over the sea.</p></div>
+
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>"I had gazed on the snow-mantled vale as it lay</p>
+<p class="i2">In the silence of morning all spotless and white,</p>
+<p>And I wished that unchanged the fair prospect would stay</p>
+<p class="i2">To delight me, no sunset, no evening, no night:</p></div>
+
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>"But the evening would come, and with evening a glow</p>
+<p class="i2">So rosy and glorious and delicate shone,</p>
+<p>Bright Ph&#339;bus, I vowed, must be wooing the snow,</p>
+<p class="i2">And I envied the sweet bridal blush he had won.</p></div>
+
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>"I had gazed on the ocean so calm and serene,</p>
+<p class="i2">The breezes seemed hushed to be watching her sleep:</p>
+<p>I whispered, could mortal imagine a scene</p>
+<p class="i2">More sweet than the peacefully slumbering deep?</p></div>
+
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>"But the sun shining forth, on a sudden there grew</p>
+<p class="i2">Such a change, every ripple seemed laughing and glad,</p>
+<p>Such a dazzling and glancing of golden and blue,</p>
+<p class="i2">I wondered it e'er could seem slumbering or sad.</p></div>
+
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>"Sweet, when I had met thee the charms were united,</p>
+<p class="i2">The snow of that morn of that evening the glow</p>
+<p>On thy cheek and thy brow,&#8212;Oh, I would they were plighted</p>
+<p class="i2">To me, as they were 'twixt the sun and the snow!</p></div>
+
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>"And the laughter of ocean I saw in thine eyes,</p>
+<p class="i2">When a light from within had enkindled the flame,&#8212;</p>
+<p>How I wished I knew what might be worthy the prize</p>
+<p class="i2">Those fair joyous glances for ever to claim!</p></div>
+
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>"Let them boast that the daughters of Erin are bright,</p>
+<p class="i2">Let them sing their wild songs to the maids of Kildare;</p>
+<p>I'll sing, and I'll sing till they own I am right,</p>
+<p class="i2">There's a maiden in Scotland, a maiden more fair!"</p></div></div>
+
+<p>
+When Miranda received by special messengers these and other similar
+effusions from the love-sick Eochy, she conjured up before her mind's
+eye the sandy locks, the unmeaning grey eyes, the ungraceful lounging
+figure, and the good-natured but facile countenance of the effeminate
+young Prince. She smiled to herself as she contrasted him with the
+ideal hero of her imagination, sprung from the well-remembered tales of
+the dark impetuous sea-kings of the north.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+About this time the King and Queen heard of and resolved to consult the
+oracle at Cumbrae for their afflicted daughter. They hoped to gain from
+the shrine of the far-famed lion some insight into her dark destiny.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+After they had offered the richest gifts, and personally invoked its
+mysterious aid, the oracle returned the following enigmatical answer to
+their prayers, nor could the utmost entreaties gain from it any further
+explanation:&#8212;
+</p>
+
+<div class="poem">
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>"The Eagle that soared o'er Kyle Akin's swift strait,</p>
+<p>Hath wooed and hath won the soft dove for his mate;</p>
+<p>Affliction hath wearied affection to rest,</p>
+<p>And cold is the heart in that mother's fond breast.</p></div>
+
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>"The strange freaks of fate in one web have entwined,</p>
+<p>What the Eaglet and maiden alone can unbind;</p>
+<p>By chequered adventure, and music's soft thrill,</p>
+<p>The compass shall aid in deliverance from ill.</p>
+<p>Arise and speed northward, the prophet hath spoken,</p>
+<p>Miranda's long silence by love shall be broken."</p></div></div>
+
+<p>
+Enquiries were at once set on foot regarding the mysterious "Eaglet"
+mentioned by the oracle. It was discovered that a certain Enchanter of
+the north named Eud&#230;mon, was sometimes called "the Tamer of the Golden
+Eagle," and was indeed by some supposed to have been reared in an
+eagle's nest. The hopes of the afflicted parents rose high as they
+listened to the wondrous tales told of the great Enchanter's power.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+A gorgeous galley was forthwith prepared wherein the King and Queen
+with their daughter embarked, taking with them but a slender retinue,
+for it was rumoured that the wise man lived secluded from his fellows,
+and would not brook intrusion. A small flotilla to protect and watch
+over the royal vessel received orders to hover near, but on no account
+to come within sight of the wizard's castle, for fear of exciting his
+displeasure.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The voyage was long and perilous. Autumn had already far advanced.
+Equinoctial gales lashed the western sea into swelling billows, so that
+after struggling with difficulty up the stormy sounds of Mull and
+Sleat, the galley containing the Princess and her parents, at length
+became separated from all her convoys and stranded on the western coast
+of Raasay. The King, Queen, and Princess barely escaped with their
+lives; their attendants also were saved, but the choice treasures
+intended to propitiate the Enchanter were carried by mermaidens as
+spoil to the palace of the sea gods.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Drenched and perishing with cold, the unfortunate voyagers were rescued
+from the bleak shore, and hospitably entertained by the poor islanders,
+who little imagined that in these storm-beaten mariners they beheld the
+great King Murdoch, the wise Queen Margaret, and the unfortunate
+Princess Miranda.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+It is true that the Queen, with that prudence and forethought which
+occasionally guided her smaller actions, had caused her chief dresser
+to sew their three second-best Crowns into a small package, which was
+still attached to her belt and concealed by her dress, but with this
+exception (which seemed of little practical use), nothing remained to
+mark the exalted station of the royal wanderers.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Great, however, was their satisfaction to find that they were
+shipwrecked on the <i>very</i> island where the Enchanter of the North
+had his lonely abode. They made many enquiries concerning him, and
+heard that his actions were beneficent, and his cures almost certain.
+They were, nevertheless, warned by the islanders that nothing more
+excited his indignation than the presence of many people at his gate.
+He had, indeed, been known to refuse aid altogether to their comrades,
+who, from superstition or folly, had gone in numbers to beset the
+Castle entrance.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+It was now therefore customary among these simple yet considerate
+people, to convoy the suppliant within a short distance of Castle
+Brochel. They then remained waiting on the hill above, while their
+fellow descended and returned. So universal had this practice become,
+that a small shieling was gradually thrown together stone upon stone by
+islanders waiting on different occasions for some friend below; exposed
+for the time being to all the inclemency of that most variable climate.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Here then the King and Queen waited while their beloved daughter
+(bearing with her the white and silver tablets by means of which she
+was wont to communicate with others) was told to present herself at the
+wicket-gate of the Castle. She was moreover given money wherewith to
+propitiate the much-dreaded Donald&#8212;the stern one-eyed guardian of the
+Enchanter's abode.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+It was one of those days in early November when the exquisite "Indian
+summer" sometimes casts a perfect halo of beauty over the "soft"
+north-western atmosphere of Scotland. The little group paused on the
+eminence immediately commanding the tall gaunt building below. In
+reality, the Castle top was above them; but to gain access to its
+portals, it was necessary to descend to a considerable depth, and then
+remount by a narrow cause-way to its frowning door.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The afternoon sun gilded the turrets with golden radiance, beyond
+slumbered the blue rippling waters, calm and treacherous, giving no
+sign of their cruel strength. Far in the distance like faint clouds,
+lay the curving outline of the Highland hills, tipped with snow, and
+dimly visible as they blushed pink in the parting rays of the monarch
+of day.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The last farewell spoken, and the afflicted child tenderly pressed to
+her parents' hearts; the gentle Miranda, with slow footstep, descended
+the fateful path.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+In the meantime Eud&#230;mon, by his consultations with the stars (an art
+partly taught him by his mother, who had carried away for her child,
+when she escaped from Valbiorn's terrible dwelling, strange manuscripts
+of astrological and magic lore), had become aware of the impending
+visit of a being whose fate was mysteriously connected with his own.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+He was absorbed in abstruse calculations when Luachan, suddenly
+pricking up his ears, and impatiently scratching at the door, gave
+notice that some stranger approached the castle. On his master's
+unfastening the latch, the fleet animal made one bound, and disappeared
+down the narrow staircase, while the magician heard old Donald's
+querulous quavering tones raised high, as if to refuse admittance.
+Quick as thought Eud&#230;mon sprang lightly after his dog, and entered the
+hall, where an astonishing sight greeted his bewildered eyes.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+A maiden of surpassing beauty had evidently made her way into the
+Castle when the seneschal was off his guard. She now stood irresolute
+in the centre of the apartment. Luachan, contrary to immemorial custom
+(for, as a rule, he was surly to strangers), gambolled around the
+beautiful unknown with extravagant gestures of affectionate welcome,
+while the one-eyed Donald, shaking in his hoary wrath, poured forth an
+incomprehensible flood of Celtic indignation.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Eud&#230;mon rushed forward, and signed to the old man to hold his peace,
+then turning to his fair visitant, he gently asked her will. Miranda,
+amazed to behold in the dreaded Enchanter no ancient, withered seer, no
+venerable prophet, as she had anticipated, but the dark-haired ideal of
+her wild dreams about the sea kings of the north, remained rooted to
+the spot, ashamed of her wilful intrusion and covered with burning
+blushes.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Eud&#230;mon gazed, like one entranced, on his mysterious guest. Her long
+golden tresses, and her exquisite beauty of feature and form, startled
+the recluse of the rock. At first he almost imagined her to be of
+angelic extraction; but her unmistakeable confusion betrayed mortal
+birth, and in bolder tones the Enchanter again requested her to make
+known her wishes.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The Princess, seized with sudden terror, looked towards the door by
+which she had entered, but it was closed, and Donald stood before it,
+glaring at her angrily with his solitary orb. In her distress her hand
+involuntarily sought the tablets, where she now remembered that she
+herself had written the following explanatory lines, during her long
+and tedious journey from the south. With a bashful half-smile,
+therefore, she unclasped the ivory pages from her side, and timidly
+handed them to the Magician, who there beheld inscribed these lines.
+</p>
+
+<div class="poem">
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>"Hearken mighty seer, Eud&#230;mon,</p>
+<p>Tamer of the golden Eagle,</p>
+<p>Aquila the golden Eagle,</p>
+<p>Hearken, merciful Eud&#230;mon,</p>
+<p>Measurer of the raging tempest,</p>
+<p>Of the unseen raging tempest,</p>
+<p>Hearken to a lowland maiden,</p>
+<p>To the silent maid Miranda</p>
+<p>To the sad Princess Miranda.</p></div>
+
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>"I am come from Clutha's waters,</p>
+<p>From its distant tranquil waters,</p>
+<p>Where through changing isles of sunshine,</p>
+<p>Looms the ocean, where the west wind</p>
+<p>Rustles through the matted foliage,</p>
+<p>Or, with a delicious shiver,</p>
+<p>Sweeps along the silver beeches.</p>
+<p>I am come to sea-girt Raasay,</p>
+<p>To the wave-washed island Raasay,</p>
+<p>To the storm-swept, rugged Raasay,</p>
+<p>I have braved Kintyre's wild headlands&#8212;</p>
+<p>Braved its mountain-rising billows,</p>
+<p>Braved dark Cory-Vreckan's whirlpool,</p>
+<p>Braved the fortress of Artornish,</p>
+<p>Braved the fabled Ardnamurchan,</p>
+<p>Ship-engulfing Ardnamurchan,</p>
+<p>Braved the blasts from Scuir-na-gillean,</p>
+<p>But to plead with thee for succour,</p>
+<p>Aid against the fell enchantment,</p>
+<p>Terrible unknown enchantment,</p>
+<p>Which hath bound my lips to silence&#8212;</p>
+<p>Gloomy unresponsive silence.</p>
+<p>Maidens' mouths were made for singing,</p>
+<p>Song and laughter are their sunshine;</p>
+<p>Cheering thus the world around them,</p>
+<p>Wakening mirth with voice melodious.</p>
+<p>Pity, then! oh, great Enchanter!</p>
+<p>Pity the poor spell-bound Princess,</p>
+<p>Silent, sorrowful, dumb maiden,</p>
+<p>And with pity give assistance,</p>
+<p>Read the tale she cannot tell thee,</p>
+<p>Charm the woes no sighs can cure."</p></div></div>
+
+<p>
+Eud&#230;mon perused the tablets with eager attention more than once, then,
+turning a keen, piercing eye on Miranda, he exclaimed.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+"Princess! I do not now hear of your misfortune for the first time. I
+knew that you and your parents were in search of me and of my castle.
+During my researches and observations I have discovered that the
+conjunction of stars at your birth left one unfavourable moment. This
+was taken advantage of by Valbiorn to avenge upon your innocent lips a
+grudge he owed to your father, having been, in days gone by, an
+unsuccessful suitor for your mother's hand.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+"By much careful study of the heavens I have ascertained that the
+enchantment can only be dissolved by my aid and that under very
+difficult conditions. Rest assured, however, that no effort on my part
+shall be wanting to set you free. But," continued Eud&#230;mon, bending low
+before Miranda, "will your parents consent to remain under my humble
+roof a while, since what we must go through together will take days, if
+not weeks, to accomplish?"
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The Princess joyfully clasped her hands, and while tears of joy ran
+down her fair cheeks at the prospect of deliverance, she inclined her
+head over and over again, to intimate that her parents would thankfully
+accept Eud&#230;mon's welcome invitation.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The Enchanter now offered his hand to Miranda, and while Luachan
+testified his delight by bounding around them, led her through the
+Castle gate and accompanied her in search of the King and Queen. With
+all the unreasonableness of human nature, these potentates advancing to
+meet them, half expected to hear their daughter already speaking. They
+graciously accosted Eud&#230;mon, however, and anxiously listened to his
+explanations.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+It was finally arranged that the Queen and her daughter, with their
+solitary waiting-maid, (much to Donald's disgust), should be installed
+in a part of the Castle now never used, but where were still to be
+seen, when the doors were unlocked, the last traces of the gentle
+Bragela's feminine occupations. The islanders cheerfully lent what aid
+they could, and King Murdoch with his attendant was permanently fixed
+in the small shieling on the hill. It was impossible to accommodate him
+in the Castle, for though lofty, its proportions were narrow and
+cramped. Except to sleep therefore he very seldom left the precincts of
+Eud&#230;mon's dwelling.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+For several days and nights the Enchanter shut himself up alone in his
+high turret, examining dusty old volumes, and reading the heavens, by
+the aid of an instrument he himself had constructed. At the end of that
+time he emerged from his solitary chamber, descending with eager rapid
+step to join his guests at their evening meal. He bore under his arm a
+small box and a piece of board roughly marked in squares of two
+colours. His dark features wore an expression of anxious excitement.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+No sooner had the last traces of the repast been cleared away than
+Eud&#230;mon placed his board upon the table. Opening the box he then
+displayed to the Princess's delighted gaze a number of little men of
+various sizes and shapes. These were in fact neither more nor less than
+a set of chessmen which he had laboriously carved in wood with his own
+hands, and stained in two different colours, having ascertained the
+mode of using them from the careful study of ancient manuscripts.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Long before the Princess Miranda appeared in Raasay, Eud&#230;mon had known
+and pondered over the mystic answer returned to her parents by the
+Cumbrae oracle. He diligently sought among his mother's ancient volumes
+of magic lore for some solution of the phrase "chequered adventure." At
+length he came upon the description of the ancient game of chess
+illustrated by rough drawings.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+His attention was at once arrested by discovering that this game must
+be played upon a "chequered" board. After careful research he finally
+resolved to make the trial. It took him, however, a considerable time
+to fashion the various pieces from the old pictures he possessed.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The Princess, her countenance lit up with curiosity and interest, was
+soon seated at the little table opposite the Enchanter. Several
+evenings were spent in teaching her the various moves of the different
+pieces, and explaining to her the rules of the game.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Eud&#230;mon was fully aware that only one hour during the twenty-four was
+available for the purpose of disenchantment.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Some evenings later the King and Queen, already grown somewhat sleepy,
+nodded drowsily in their chairs. The faithful Luachan lay between his
+master and the fair young guest, whose bright eyes gleamed with
+unwonted animation. Then the dark Enchanter arising from his seat
+trimmed the torch above their heads, and prepared, at midnight, to play
+in earnest the mystic game, so fraught with meaning to the afflicted
+Princess.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Miranda sat in an old-fashioned chair of curiously carved wood. Her
+white dress and her fair tresses reflected the flickering light, thus
+giving some brightness to the lofty hall, whose gloomy proportions were
+but partially revealed by the blazing fire and the fitful glare of the
+torch. The most profound silence reigned in the chamber, only broken by
+the cheerful crackling of the firewood or an occasional snore from the
+slumbering King.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Fully instructed in the moves by Eud&#230;mon during the previous nights,
+the Princess and the Enchanter played an interesting game. He had cast
+aside his long upper robe of black velvet and showed the tightly
+fitting red under-suit which set off his active form to greatest
+advantage. He placed himself on a somewhat ricketty "creepie," for the
+unwonted number of guests had used up all his available chairs. As he
+bent eagerly forward the ruddy light fell on his swarthy face, and his
+small closely cropped, though curly black head. His burning eyes fixed
+alternately on the game, and on his silent opponent, seemed to pierce
+through all they surveyed.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The hour wore on, they exchanged several pieces. Eud&#230;mon then moving a
+bishop, placed his antagonist's king in "check." He uttered the
+prophetic word. Miranda, thoroughly absorbed, took up her King, and was
+about to place him within range of her enemy's Queen. The Enchanter
+gently motioned her hand aside, pointing to his own piece in
+explanation.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+At this moment Miranda broke into such silvery peals of laughter, that
+Luachan, affrighted, sprang barking from his resting place. Eud&#230;mon in
+his surprise and delight moved suddenly and upset the whole board
+incontinently on the floor, ruining the game. Queen Margaret starting
+up, rushed across the hall. She first held her child at arm's length as
+if to examine into and convince herself of her identity, then clasping
+her tightly to her heart, shed tears of gladness over her laughing
+daughter. It was indeed evident that the "chequered adventure" had
+fulfilled its mission, and broken the first link in the silent
+Miranda's chain of enchantment.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The excited parents knew not how to express their feelings of
+gratitude, but listened in wondering astonishment to Miranda's ringing
+peals of laughter, as, enraptured with her newly gained accomplishment,
+she danced round the hall, accompanied by Luachan, who vied with her in
+gambols of ecstatic joy. Eud&#230;mon had never before beheld anything more
+graceful than the young Princess appeared to him in all her unconscious
+beauty of movement.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Inspired by a sudden desire to emulate and join in her mirthful steps,
+he stretched forth his hand as she passed him; she swiftly caught it,
+and drew him merrily on; thus maid, master, and dog together paced a
+wild impromptu measure of delight.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Donald, hastening in to ascertain the cause of this unusual commotion,
+gazed around, rubbed his solitary eye, and looked again and again.
+Where was the gloomy Eud&#230;mon, the dreaded Enchanter of the North? The
+youth heretofore so staid and reserved now flushed and laughing,
+pirouetted round the bewildered old man with the smiling maiden.
+Together they clapped their hands at his amazement.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+But now the Queen, with the dignity of manner that she well knew how to
+assume, bade her daughter remember who and what she was. Forgetting her
+late gratitude to their benefactor, she swept haughtily from the
+apartment, followed by her husband and her unwilling child. Miranda's
+pleading eyes, however, gave Eud&#230;mon the thanks he most cared to
+receive, and entirely obliterated from his mind all thought of
+resentment against her uncertain parents. At the same time he
+determined to take no further steps until the King and Queen themselves
+again spoke of their daughter's affliction.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Several days elapsed. The character of the Castle was completely
+changed. The hitherto hermit like Eud&#230;mon felt impelled to try and
+elicit again those silvery peals of laughter that rang on his ear with
+such a curious thrill of pleasure. Nor was he unsuccessful in his
+efforts. Again and again the old walls re-echoed with the welcome
+sound. The Enchanter himself felt once more a boy as he played long
+games of chess with Miranda, or pointed out to her his numerous pets
+and their diverse habits. The Princess, however, was admonished to keep
+carefully within her mother's sight; she wast herefore unable to
+scramble with him as he wished among the wild hills and cliffs around.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+But the time flew swiftly by, and at length one morning the King and
+Queen craved an audience of their young host. Laying aside all traces
+of their late assumption of majesty they humbly entreated him to strive
+to work out still farther their daughter's cure.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Eud&#230;mon listened in silence, fixing on them his piercing dark eye,
+until they moved uneasily beneath his searching glance. "I am esteemed
+worthy to aid in your child's disenchantment," he answered sternly,
+"but am too much beneath her in your eyes to tread with her the mazy
+measures of the dance, or to join in her everyday pursuits."
+</p>
+
+<p>
+King Murdoch and his wife eagerly disclaimed any idea of making so
+ungenerous a return for his kindness. At length Eud&#230;mon (who completely
+saw through their shallow minds, and only spoke to obtain more freedom
+for their daughter) promised to continue his lucubrations.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+That evening for the first time since her death, he drew from a deep
+recess the dust-covered harp that had once quivered in responsive
+melody beneath the musical touch of his fair young mother. Miranda and
+the Queen curiously examined the quaint instrument, and helped to
+disentangle and divest it of its broken strings. Eud&#230;mon, who had often
+studied its mechanism, brought forth new strings he himself had
+manufactured, and showed Miranda where and how they should be placed.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Several evenings passed in putting the harp to rights, then the
+Princess under Eud&#230;mon's magical tuition strove to place aright upon it
+her slender fingers. Morning, noon, and night Miranda strove to play
+the melodies that ever floated before her mind's eye as sung to her by
+Eud&#230;mon, who placed beside her scrolls, on which the words of the songs
+were written out.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+One of them ran thus:
+</p>
+
+<div class="poem">
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>Thou speak'st of to-morrow, yet seemest to sigh,</p>
+<p>And something there gleams like a tear in thine eye,</p>
+<p>But though the sweet days of our converse are o'er,</p>
+<p>The friendship that binds us shall cease nevermore.</p></div>
+
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>When music entrancing shall steal on thine ear,</p>
+<p>And songs shall be sung thee thou lovest to hear,</p>
+<p>Oh, may one wild note of my harp seem to thrill,</p>
+<p>And recall to thee one who remembers thee still.</p></div>
+
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>And ever amid the dark shadows of life,</p>
+<p>When faint from the battle or weary with strife,</p>
+<p>Ah! then shall arise like the sun through a shower,</p>
+<p>The remembrance of all we have felt in this hour.</p></div>
+
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>When moonlight around thee shall flood the pale sea,</p>
+<p>May thoughts of the north come like visions to thee,</p>
+<p>And remind thee of hours when we once used to stray,</p>
+<p>By the ocean's dark verge at the close of the day.</p></div>
+
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>Roll onwards, roll onwards, thou swift flowing Clyde,</p>
+<p>Yet may our loved friends ne'er resemble thy tide,</p>
+<p>But changeless and steadfast look back through long years,</p>
+<p>To the parting that left us in silence and tears.</p></div></div>
+
+<p>
+This song, which Eud&#230;mon had himself composed, and set to an old tune,
+was an especial favourite of Miranda's. She made the Enchanter sing it
+over again and again; though, strange to say, the master who taught her
+fair hands to stray over the harp, could not himself draw one sound
+from its capricious chords. The Princess, however, soon became enabled
+to accompany all his songs, every day she learnt some new, and to her
+more entrancing, melody. For it will be remembered that her parents had
+hitherto, through mistaken affection, carefully kept all music from her
+knowledge.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The black and gold harp, which Eud&#230;mon and Miranda had together tuned
+and restored, formed a beautiful contrast to the white flowing robes
+and the fair arms of the young Princess. Her long tresses bound only by
+the pale blue snood of the Scottish maiden, waved around her. As she
+raised her eyes to watch every motion of Eud&#230;mon's mouth, she gave one
+the idea of an inspired being, from whose very finger-tips emanated the
+soul of melody. Thus they often sat late into the night, drinking in
+sweet sounds, and poring together over poor Bragela's old manuscripts.
+Meanwhile Miranda's parents, closely guarding as they thought their
+precious daughter, hardly suspected that, while engaged in finding a
+tongue, she might hopelessly lose her heart.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+At last, one evening Eud&#230;mon for the hundredth time sang again that
+verse beginning
+</p>
+
+<p class="ctr">
+When music entrancing shall steal on thine ear.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Just as he reached the end, Miranda suddenly, as if by an irresistible
+impulse, opened her lips. With wonderful pathos, and in a voice which
+seemed to the young man the sweetest that could sound on earth, she
+finished the line:&#8212;
+</p>
+
+<p class="ctr">
+Recall to thee one who remembers thee still.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Amazed at her own daring, and astonished by her unwonted power, the
+fair songstress started blushing from her seat. In an uncontrollable
+burst of emotion she rushed weeping from the chamber. Queen Margaret,
+unable to believe it was her dumb child's voice she had heard give
+utterance to such melodiously thrilling notes, rose also from her
+chair, and cast an eager inquiring glance upon Eud&#230;mon. Himself
+overcome with emotion, the Enchanter did not trust his voice to speak,
+but merely bowed his head; then, filled with yearning sympathy for the
+strangely-afflicted Princess, he opened the outer door of the hall, and
+hastily stepped forth on to the turreted court that overhung the shore.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+It was a night of exquisite beauty&#8212;the water, calm as a mirror,
+stretched its dark amplitude between the solitary watcher and the far
+mainland of the Ross-shire hills. Orion, in all his resplendent
+grandeur, sparkled before him, and seemed in silent majesty to rebuke
+the feverish turbulence of the Enchanter's too human heart. High and
+cold above his head the silver crescent moon travelled dreamily across
+the vaulted heaven, and, as if to remind Eud&#230;mon of her presence, cast
+her glittering likeness into the deep ocean's embrace, far below his
+feet. One by one, in gentle crashing cadence, the tiny wavelets broke
+beneath the Castle wall.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Insensibly soothed and quieted by nature's wondrous charm, the
+philosopher leant his burning head upon his hands, and absently gazed
+seawards.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Suddenly the casement above was thrown violently open, and Queen
+Margaret, in terror-stricken accents, besought his speedy aid.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+He re-entered the hall. It was empty and desolate, the torch was
+extinguished, the fire flickered low upon the hearth. He heard a
+confused murmur of voices, and recognised Luachan's muffled howl of
+distress in the distance.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Following the sounds, he hastened up the narrow stair, and found a
+sorrowful group at the door of the room set apart for the Queen and her
+daughter. Pressing past Murdoch and Donald, and angrily motioning to
+Luachan to be silent, the Enchanter himself uttered a cry of anguish as
+his eye fell upon Miranda's death-like form. Stretched upon the rude
+bed, with her dishevelled tresses tangled around her pale face, on
+which were still the traces of tears, the poor Princess looked as if
+she had for ever closed her eyes to mortal scenes.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+On Eud&#230;mon's entrance, the unhappy mother rushed towards him,
+exclaiming, "Save her, save her! restore our darling; all shall be as
+you wish, if but you bring her back to life!" A deep red flush mounted
+to the Enchanter's very temples as the Queen, fervently pressing his
+hand, whispered these words, fraught with so much meaning, into his
+willing ear. But he needed no promised guerdon to urge him to his
+labour of love.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Kneeling beside the low couch, he vainly chafed Miranda's ice-cold
+hands. He listened over her heart&#8212;not even the feeblest flutter
+rewarded his strained attention. He placed a tiny polished tablet over
+her parted lips; its surface remained clear and unsullied by mortal
+breath. A sudden thought struck terror to his soul. He turned a keen
+glance on the mother's face; her eye fell before his; a guilty blush
+suffused her cheek. "You have forgotten my earnest charge," he cried,
+"and now it may be too late to save your child."
+</p>
+
+<p>
+At this moment the magic cock was heard through the open casement
+crowing loudly in the castle yard. Eud&#230;mon flew to the window and
+anxiously peered into the night. Right above his head, and
+threateningly suspended directly over the Castle, was a meteor of
+unwonted size and brilliancy. He fell on his knees where he stood, and
+stretching forth his arms silently implored Heavenly protection against
+the powers of evil. Again and again the ball of fire grew lurid and
+glowing, as though it were about to descend and bury them beneath
+burning ruins, but each time Chanticleer's warning voice sounded
+cheerfully near at hand, and at length the red globe, with a loud
+hissing noise, fell prone and harmless into the dark ocean depths.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Relieved from the pressing danger without, Eud&#230;mon now turned to the
+sorrow within.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Since the appearance of the Royal wanderers upon the island, he had
+held many private conversations with the Queen concerning her
+daughter's disenchantment.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The anxious mother over and over again informed him that the dearest
+object of their heart, in seeking to free their child from the spell
+which bound her, was that Miranda should be united in marriage with
+some powerful monarch, who would aid her, in due time, to rule over her
+own somewhat troublous kingdom of Clutha.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+She little knew that Eud&#230;mon was intimately acquainted with their past
+history, nor did she suspect that he was aware of the vow made by
+herself and King Murdoch in bygone days. Wearied by vain endeavours to
+accomplish their daughter's disenchantment, they had then solemnly
+bound themselves by an oath to bestow Miranda's hand on the man who
+should succeed in releasing her spell-bound voice.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+During the long years which had elapsed since Bragela's death,
+Valbiorn's hard heart had gradually softened towards her only child. He
+knew of the promised reward. From afar he watched with keen suspicion
+the movements of the King and Queen. He foresaw that Eud&#230;mon would love
+Miranda, if fate brought them together. For his sake he resolved to
+help the Princess, but, at the same time, he determined that the gift
+of speech should only be restored to render her a more fitting bride
+for his son.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+When, therefore, the young Enchanter retired to his turret chamber, he
+often held secret interviews with his dread father, and succeeded in
+gaining a pledge of assistance from Valbiorn. But Eud&#230;mon feared that
+if his vindictive parent once suspected Queen Margaret's intentions, he
+would not only refuse his aid altogether, but would become her
+deadliest foe.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Before the King and Queen set sail for the Highlands, she had resolved
+that their solemn oath should be buried in oblivion. She satisfied her
+conscience by lading their ship with precious gifts destined for the
+propitiation of the Enchanter.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Had Eud&#230;mon been the ancient prophet she thought he was, he would
+probably have accepted golden rewards with delight. The treasures,
+however, never reached the island; they were engulfed in the stormy
+ocean.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+As soon as Miranda's mother saw Eud&#230;mon, she perceived that his deep
+interest in her fair daughter might be turned to good account. She
+persuaded her husband to leave the matter in her hands, priding herself
+upon her powers of negociation.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Feeling instinctively the young man's innate delicacy of mind, the wily
+Queen took good care to enlist his sympathies for her afflicted child.
+At the same time she continually alluded to Miranda's exalted station,
+tacitly ignoring the possibility of a suitor for her hand whose
+pretensions were less than royal.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Eud&#230;mon was wont to listen to her words with respectful courtesy,
+though occasionally his skill in necromancy stood him but in poor
+stead, when his rebel heart sent a crimson glow over his dark features.
+Still he invariably replied in measured tones that his own desires
+perfectly coincided with those of the maiden's parents; that his chief
+wish was to promote the welfare and happiness of the young Princess,
+and to render her any assistance in his power.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Latterly, however, during the long hours spent at chess, in rambling
+about the Castle and its precincts, or in singing and playing over the
+harp, the good Queen's heart misgave her, and she took the somewhat
+bold step of directly warning her benefactor and host against engaging
+her daughter's affections.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Notwithstanding his powers of self-control, Eud&#230;mon had to pause a
+moment and curb the hasty impulse of anger, ere he answered in low,
+husky tones,
+</p>
+
+<p>
+"Madam, for your child's sake, I have embarked upon the perilous
+undertaking of striving to free her from the well-woven spell which for
+nineteen long years has bound her lips to silence, and cast a blight
+over her young life.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+"The Princess Miranda's happiness is at stake. I persevere, therefore,
+in my endeavours to aid her. Absorbed, however, in a struggle to the
+death with the dread powers of darkness, I have now little time to
+regard her in any other light but that of the ill-fated victim of
+enchantment. I will, nevertheless, warn you that your child is
+innocence itself. Her spirit must inevitably be sorely tried during
+coming events, and very little more might serve to unhinge her mind.
+Take heed, therefore, that you suffer no word of what has passed
+between us to reach her unsuspecting ears.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+"I have no desire to interfere with the brilliant destiny you have
+mapped out for your daughter, or to tempt her to disobey her parents.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+"But though you ignore the vow you took upon yourself in less hopeful
+days, it is remembered by one who never forgets. Within and around this
+Castle exists an invisible agency; nor can what passes here be kept
+from the knowledge of a mightier power than mine.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+"More I dare not say. I have no wish to stand before you as a
+suppliant. For the present, I pray you only to remember that you are my
+honoured guests, and that my time and my thoughts are alike devoted to
+your service."
+</p>
+
+<p>
+As he spoke, the excited and wounded Enchanter drew himself to his full
+height. Indignant lightning flashed from his eyes, controlled passion
+vibrated in his voice.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The Queen, frightened and conscience-stricken, gazed bewildered upon
+Eud&#230;mon, as, with an abrupt reverence, he turned and quitted her
+presence. For many hours he disappeared from the neighbourhood of the
+Castle, and several days elapsed before he regained his wonted
+equanimity of bearing.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+On this eventful night, therefore, the young Seer heard with mingled
+feelings the terrified mother's significant words. But there was now no
+time for further explanation. When the threatened attack from without
+had been warded off, the Enchanter turned from the turret window and
+exclaimed, "Away with you all; you must quit this chamber and leave me
+alone with the maiden and her mother, if it be not already too late to
+attempt to restore her ebbing life."
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Thereupon he strode to the threshold, and assuming an air of majesty
+they had never before remarked, he waved them in silence from the
+apartment.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+No sooner had they all quitted the room, than Eud&#230;mon drew the bolt
+across the door, and approaching the Queen, who hung weeping over her
+lifeless daughter, he thus sternly addressed her:&#8212;
+</p>
+
+<p>
+"You have neglected my warning, and by your heedless words have
+awakened a fresh struggle in the breast of this sorely tried child.
+There remains but one chance of recalling her gentle spirit from the
+Valley of the Shadow of Death. But be assured, proud Queen, that
+though, for the sake of the Princess herself, I now lay bare before you
+the inmost secret of my heart; yet she shall never know, until she
+hears the truth from your lips, that for her alone that heart shall
+beat through time and through eternity."
+</p>
+
+<p>
+So saying, the young Enchanter drew near Miranda's prostrate form. He
+threw himself on the floor beside her couch, and seizing her resistless
+hands, wildly pressed them in his own. Tenderly and reverently he
+addressed the insensible maiden in tones and words of fondest
+endearment. For long it seemed as though even the electric thrill of
+mortal love was powerless against the magic swoon into which the
+Princess had fallen on hearing for the first time her mother's strange
+accusing words.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+At last Eud&#230;mon (who held her hand in his as he fervently prayed for
+her restoration to life) fancied he perceived a feeble movement. He
+arose, and earnestly imprinting on his memory those features so sacred
+to him in their helpless repose, he retired to the window and there
+continued his prayer.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Meanwhile Miranda, quivering back to consciousness, imagined she heard
+a familiar voice addressing her in the wild tones of a passionate love
+hitherto unknown. A strange new pain shot into her innocent soul, and
+awoke her once more to play her part in this world's theatre.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+She slowly opened her eyes, and looked around. By the light of the
+feeble lamp she gradually became aware of Eud&#230;mon's presence, as he
+knelt near the open casement, through which faintly glimmered the first
+signs of approaching dawn. She stirred uneasily on her couch. The
+Enchanter arose from his answered prayer. Stepping across the chamber,
+he opened the door to the impatient watchers without. Before Queen
+Margaret could recover from her astonishment, or could indeed realize
+that her child was safe, Eud&#230;mon was gone. He went out silently as the
+others entered. Calling Luachan, he departed thence with his faithful
+dog, to seek amid the solitudes of nature that peace which at present
+was denied him by his wildly throbbing bosom.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Many days elapsed before the Princess, shaken and confused by all she
+had gone through, again descended the stairs and approached once more
+the fated harp. From the moment in which her feelings had found vent in
+song, and escaping from the hall she had sought relief from tears in
+her lonely chamber, all seemed like a dream. Her mother's reproaches on
+discovering her strange agitation, her deep swoon, and the words she
+thought she had heard as she woke, each and all were regarded by her as
+the creatures of her own too vivid imagination.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Queen Margaret, already forgetting her renewed promises, and fondly
+caressing her child, never recurred to the past. The Enchanter,
+entering as before with energy into all that concerned Miranda's
+interests, looked and moved to the awe-struck eyes of the simple
+Princess an exalted being, free from the weaknesses or restless
+anxieties of mortal love.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Miranda's new power gave them all exquisite pleasure. She herself found
+rich stores of unimagined delight, as she poured forth her growing
+aspirations in floods of song. Strange to say, it was in singing alone
+that she gave utterance to her feelings. No spoken word as yet could
+pass the enchanted barrier of her lips.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+A visible cloud sat upon Eud&#230;mon's swarthy brow. He foresaw that
+Miranda's disenchantment could only be accomplished amid real dangers
+and difficulties, and his heart misgave him as he realized the faint
+trust that could be placed in the ready promises of the Queen.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Day after day elapsed without further adventure, no allusion was made
+to the remarkable words that had fallen from Miranda's mother when she
+was overwhelmed by the immediate danger of her child.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+At length, one evening, after Miranda had retired weary to her couch,
+the young Seer set forth to her parents the only course to be pursued,
+if the Princess were ever to obtain the power of speech.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+He explained to them that far away, in the mysterious halls of Thuisto,
+there existed a wondrous compass, with which Miranda's fate was closely
+connected. He told them, moreover, that with the aid of magic he could
+introduce himself, the Princess, and her mother into the weird abode of
+the sea-kings.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+But to do this, and to escape in safety, silence and obedience were
+imperatively necessary. Before venturing on so serious a risk, he
+therefore solemnly entreated the Queen sooner to rest content with the
+partial disenchantment of her daughter, and to quit in peace his lonely
+abode, than to enter lightly upon this grave adventure. For when once
+within the enchanted precincts of Thuisto, if they transgressed ever so
+slightly, the rules laid down for their observance, they would draw
+down, not only upon himself&#8212;for which he little cared&#8212;but perchance
+upon Miranda, the fatal vengeance of the ever-watchful guardians of
+those submarine palaces.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Again and again the eager mother promised, nay, even swore to obey his
+strict injunctions, urging him to make the attempt. At last, with heavy
+foreboding, Eud&#230;mon prepared to encounter the dangers of the coming
+expedition.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Miranda was told of the projected scheme. The Enchanter explained to
+her that in the submerged vaults of Thuisto she would probably first
+find the use of her voice in speech. He warned her, however, that she
+must endeavour to speak only when he bade her, and Queen Margaret was
+once more pledged to maintain strict silence.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The eventful night arrived. The poor forsaken king and the disconsolate
+dog Luachan (too intelligent to move from the shore where his beloved
+master bade him remain and guard the stranger), together strained their
+eyes from the wild beach below Castle Brochel, as the little boat
+containing the travellers became a faint speck on the starlit sea.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Eud&#230;mon and the one-eyed Donald rowed their precious burden quickly on,
+until reaching a barren rock, the Enchanter sprang lightly on shore;
+carefully handing out Queen Margaret and her daughter, he then bade the
+old man row home to the Castle and return again for them at day-break.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Hardly had the regular plash of Donald's retreating oars died away,
+before they became conscious that they were gradually sinking through
+the ocean. The broad, flat surface on which they stood afforded them
+ample footing, and though they heard, on either side, the swift rushing
+of the divided waters, not a drop touched them; not an oscillation
+disturbed their balance, as, supported and cheered by Eud&#230;mon's
+friendly whispers, and fast clinging together, mother and daughter
+descended through the sea to unknown regions, enveloped in a darkness
+that might be felt.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Mindful of her plighted word, the Queen uttered no sound, but she bore
+very heavily upon the young Enchanter's arm, keeping him in constant
+uneasiness. At length a blinding flash of light smote on their dazzled
+eyes; the downward motion ceased, and the stone on which they stood
+sank to its resting-place with a loud clang.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+As they became inured to the brightness, they beheld before, behind,
+around them on every side, as far as sight could reach, a vast
+labyrinth of arched and pillared cloisters, stretching into
+interminable distance, and lit by some mysteriously effulgent ray,
+which seemed to their bewildered gaze to proceed from the centre of a
+broader aisle, at one extremity of which they themselves stood.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Eud&#230;mon, motioning them to follow, trod slowly the echoing pavement,
+and advanced towards the distant focus of light.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Now sounded forth music such as earthly ears have seldom heard. It was
+as if all the harmonies of water's various movements swelled into one
+indescribable wave of translucent melody, that penetrated soul and body
+with its enervating power. Relaxed in every fibre by this weird
+influence, Eud&#230;mon with difficulty urged forward his drooping comrades.
+Prepared, however, to resist to the utmost the charms of witchcraft, he
+drew forth his magic horn, and its reviving fragrance quickly restored
+energy to their unstrung frames.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Their interest also was freshly aroused by exquisite statues, which,
+almost endued with life, and perfect in colouring, seemed to smile on
+them from either side as they proceeded. They reached the circle whence
+emanated the diverging rays of light. Before them blazed a dazzling but
+empty throne. From its midst shone those awe-inspiring beams.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Eud&#230;mon uttered a low cry. There, beauteous as he remembered her in his
+boyhood's early days, but with a calm expression of perfect peace she
+had never worn during her child's lifetime, in a marble niche close
+beside the vacant seat, stood the lovely Bragela. Her long golden
+tresses rippled over her shoulders, her flowing robes half showed, half
+concealed her matchless shape, while her azure eyes, with their
+heavily-fringed lids, fell fixed and cold on the eager countenance of
+her son.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+A moment he paused, half expectant, dreaming that her loved spirit must
+awake and welcome him, but in that instant her last words flashed
+across his mind. He realized that Valbiorn's skill had only thus been
+able to immortalize the fair, soulless clay. He remembered once more
+why he had sought that dread abode, and he noted that Bragela's
+beautiful motionless hand pointed to a small amber pedestal, which at a
+few paces distant seemed to glow with lambent flame.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+He approached: upon its summit lay the object of his search, the magic
+compass of the sea-kings, potent to work weal or woe. Turning to
+Miranda, he gently drew her forward, and placed the timid maiden over
+against himself on the southern side of the mystic pillar.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The whole of the magic compass quivered and shone with the appearance
+of red-hot metal, but Eud&#230;mon whispered to the Princess that she must
+with a firm hand raise the needle from its place, and, turning towards
+the north, pronounce these words in an audible voice,
+</p>
+
+<p class="ctr">
+  "As points the faithful needle to the pole."
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Miranda stooped trembling over the flaming altar, but with gentle
+courage she took the fiery needle in her hand; as she did so, she
+raised her eyes trustingly towards her guide, and moved a step nearer
+to him.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Here in the enchanted palace of his fathers, surrounded by mysterious
+influences, and excited by the anticipated victory over Miranda's
+spell, the youth for once forgot his careful self-command. He also
+advanced, and stretched out his eager hands to bound the needle's
+range.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+In a low musical tone the Princess pronounced the fateful words; ere
+she finished, she leant insensibly forwards, and the needle almost
+touched the Enchanter's breast. Overcome with mingled emotions,
+Miranda, while she spoke, swayed visibly to and fro, and as if to
+support her, Eud&#230;mon's arms fell on either side of her tottering
+figure.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+At this moment the Queen, terribly discomposed, and forgetting in her
+displeasure every solemn promise she had made, rushed forward, loudly
+crying, "Misguided girl!" but ere she could continue her sentence, a
+tremendous peal of thunder shook the ground beneath their feet, and
+vibrated around them. An intensely lurid ray of light darted athwart
+the heretofore empty throne. To Queen Margaret's unspeakable dread, she
+beheld indistinctly amid the dazzling beams an awful form enthroned in
+fire. A rushing noise filled her ears, she became insensible, and as
+she did so, she seemed to fall prone through interminable depths.
+</p>
+
+<hr class="short">
+
+<p>
+It was long before she recovered her consciousness, but at last she was
+aroused by the sound of sweet singing,
+</p>
+
+<div class="poem">
+<div class="stanza"><p>"I would I were a little bird,</p>
+<p class="i2">To build upon his breast,</p>
+<p>Or if I were a nightingale,</p>
+<p class="i2">To soothe my love to rest.</p>
+<p>To gaze upon his tender eyes,</p>
+<p class="i2">All my reward should be,</p>
+<p>For I love, I love, I love my love,</p>
+<p class="i2">Because my love loves me."</p></div></div>
+
+<p>
+Opening her eyes with a shiver at the wild pathos of these tones, the
+Queen, by the chill bright light of the December sun, beheld her
+daughter, with Luachan beside her, seated on the beach of Raasay and
+twining pieces of damp sea-weed into her long hair.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Queen Margaret raised herself from the ground, and drew her hand across
+her brow. What had happened?
+</p>
+
+<p>
+She herself lay on the grass close to the sea-shore; and near at hand
+Castle Brochel towered frowning into the morning sky. She called to her
+daughter. Miranda heeded not.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+But now the sound of oars was heard, one-eyed Donald roughly grated his
+boat on the shingle, and scrambling out, asked the Queen somewhat
+gruffly how she came there.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Confused and distressed, she could give no satisfactory answer. Donald
+then recounted to her how he had been rowing for hours round and round
+the spot where they had landed the previous night, unable to discover
+any trace of the large flat rock on which they had disembarked. At last
+in despair he had returned to the Island.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+When he observed Miranda and her mother on the shore he expected also
+to see Eud&#230;mon near at hand. Disappointed in this hope, he now
+continued, pointing inland with his long, skinny finger. "I wadna say
+but the maister is in the Castle itsel'."
+</p>
+
+<p>
+At this moment, however, the Princess approached them, singing, sadly,
+</p>
+
+<div class="poem">
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>"But should it please the pitying powers,</p>
+ <p class="i2">     To call him to the sky,</p>
+<p>I'll plead a guardian angel's charge,</p>
+<p class="i2">Around my love to fly.</p>
+<p>To guard him from all danger,</p>
+<p class="i2">How happy I should be,</p>
+<p>For I love, I love, I love my love,</p>
+<p class="i2">Because my love loves me."</p></div></div>
+
+<p>
+As she sang, Luachan uttered a melancholy howl. The perplexed seneschal
+looked from one to another in silent amazement, then muttering to
+himself, "It's no unco canny for the beast to howl that gate," he
+hastened, as fast as his withered limbs would permit, up the steep
+ascent to the Castle gate.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Meantime the Queen gazed fixedly on her daughter. What strange
+alteration had taken place in her beloved child? Those gentle blue
+eyes, wont to rest so placidly on all they surveyed, now restlessly
+turned from side to side, and never looked her straight in the face.
+Her busy fingers plucked nervously at the wet garlands she carried on
+her arms, and her lips moved ceaselessly, though no audible sound came
+from them.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+"Miranda, my love," said the anxious mother, "how came we hither?" A
+look of unutterable woe troubled the maiden's face. She drew from her
+bosom a golden needle, and holding it towards the north, she exclaimed,
+</p>
+
+<p class="ctr">
+    "As points the faithful needle to the pole."
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Swinging the long slimy sea-weeds around her, she then suddenly gave a
+shrill laugh, and rushed up the castle hill, followed by Luachan, whose
+drooping ears and limp tail, seemed to the Queen's excited imagination
+prophetic of evil.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Stiff and sore in every limb from her unusual exposure, Queen Margaret
+raised herself from the ground and toiled slowly up the steep ascent.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Ere she reached the crest of the rocks upon which the Castle stood, the
+King came forth to meet her. In a terrible voice he cried&#8212;"What have
+you done to our child, to my darling Miranda?"
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Thoroughly overcome with fatigue and misery, the poor Queen burst into
+tears, and Murdoch forgetting for the moment all save his wife's
+uncontrollable emotion, soothed her as best he could, and led her into
+the Castle hall.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Here she told her husband the strange events of the past night. She
+related their various adventures after Donald left them on the rock,
+and now, when too late, she bitterly lamented over her own hasty
+interference, and her imprudent words. She described how she had only
+time to perceive a being of noble and majestic mien seated on the
+previously empty throne. As his eye fell upon her she became
+unconscious, and could remember nothing more until she found herself on
+the beach at Raasay in the early morning.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The hours of this melancholy day wore slowly on, but no Eud&#230;mon
+appeared. At last, towards evening, they forced open the door of his
+little turret chamber&#8212;it was empty. All his books and instruments were
+gone; everything belonging to him or his mother had disappeared from
+the Castle. Even the harp itself, beside which so many pleasant
+evenings had been whiled away, was no longer there.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The only things left, and upon these Miranda flew with eagerness, were
+the chess-board, the wooden men he had so patiently carved for her, and
+the box to contain them. For long hours the poor child would sit as in
+a dream, arranging and re-arranging the motley pieces, softly laughing
+to herself the while; for her mind was hopelessly gone.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Eud&#230;mon had never wholly disclosed the fact that when they entered the
+enchanted precincts of Thuisto, any infringement of the rules
+prescribed must re-act upon himself. In his unselfish devotion, he
+imagined that if he alone fell a victim to the powerful sea-kings, his
+beloved and her mother would be saved. Freed at last from enchantment,
+he trusted that the Princess and her parents would then live on as
+happily as if no forfeit had been paid for Miranda's deliverance.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+He fathomed not the unchanging love that had of late struggled into
+existence in the dreamy maiden's breast. In the terrible moment that by
+no fault of his own determined his fate, Eud&#230;mon for once forgot his
+careful self-control, and clasped Miranda to his heart. In his dread
+father's presence he bade her a long farewell; he knew not that the
+sorrow of parting would overwhelm her gentle spirit, and break her
+tender heart.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+King Murdoch and his wife took their daughter by slow stages to her
+native country, hoping to benefit her by the change. But no following
+spring should ever re-kindle the roses in those waning cheeks&#8212;no
+mortal hand arrest the progress of decay. The faithful Luachan could
+not be separated from her, he was her constant comfort and playmate.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+There was a spot on the little Cumbr&#230; where Miranda loved to sit and
+gaze across the Clyde's broad estuary to the blue hills of Arran.
+Perhaps their clear outline reminded her of the Cuchullins, as seen
+from Raasay. Perhaps being on an island, spoke to her of the halcyon
+past.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Be that as it may, one day, towards evening, alarmed by her long
+absence, the attendants sought and found her here, cold and motionless.
+One arm was clasped around Luachan's neck, the other, faithful in
+death, still pointed the golden needle to "the true and tender north."
+</p>
+
+<p>
+They buried Miranda where she lay. On that far island you still may see
+the lonely tomb, beneath which the weary one is at rest, and drop,
+perchance, a tear over her untimely fate.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Yes! They are united at last never more to part! Behold, in the regions
+of eternal peace, a youth divinely fair, a maiden serenely beautiful.
+Together they bow before the Almighty Ruler they served on earth, and,
+as they cast their golden crowns at his feet, the tongue of the dumb
+sings sweetly, "God is Love!"
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Castle Brochel was never more inhabited. Donald, a sincere mourner for
+his kind young master, could not bear to live by himself within its
+shadowy portals. He transferred what he needed to the shieling near at
+hand, and thence descending every day, kept all in readiness for the
+expected return of the youth he loved so well.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+But the old man watched in vain. He was gathered at last to his
+fathers. The lonely, neglected Castle fell into decay, and still,
+through following ages, the well-remembered Enchanter returned not, to
+awaken with his light springing footsteps the echoes of that deserted
+abode. Desolation and solitude spread their wings around its
+time-honoured precincts, and cast a halo of their own over its
+crumbling walls.
+</p>
+
+<div class="poem">
+<div class="stanza">
+<p>Break gently, ye wavelets, on Raasay's lone shore,</p>
+<p>Eud&#230;mon shall roam on your mountains no more.</p>
+<p>As fragrance distilled by the cold air of night,</p>
+<p>So Absence and Time shall bring forth to the light,</p>
+<p>The deeds and the virtues of one without guile,</p>
+<p>Whose genius and wisdom shed light o'er your isle.</p>
+<p>Mourn wildly, ye seabirds!&#8212;all nature make moan!</p>
+<p>His chamber is empty&#8212;his footsteps are gone.</p>
+<p>He toiled unrewarded&#8212;no guerdon he sought,</p>
+<p>As soothing relief to the weary he brought;</p>
+<p>But the mother's soft tear, and the infant's glad cry,</p>
+<p>The blessings of gratitude garnered on high,</p>
+<p>Shall, e'en in his Home, 'mid the Regions of Light,</p>
+<p>Add lustre untold to his coronal bright.</p></div></div>
+
+<br>
+<p class="ctr">
+THE END.
+</p>
+
+<br>
+<p class="ctr">
+  <small>LONDON<br>
+  R. CLAY, SONS, AND TAYLOR, PRINTERS,<br>
+  BREAD STREET HILL.</small>
+</p>
+
+<hr class="med">
+
+<p class="ctr">
+<b>Footnotes</b>
+</p>
+
+
+<a name="note1">&nbsp;</a>
+<p class="foot">
+<a href="#noteref1">[1]</a> Founded on an old Welsh legend. There is a submerged half-built
+castle between Penmaenmaur and Penmaenbach, which can be seen at low
+tides.
+</p>
+
+<a name="note2">&nbsp;</a>
+<p class="foot">
+<a href="#noteref2">[2]</a> The description of the different groups represented on the
+fountain, is taken from a beautiful work of art, designed and executed
+by Molin, a young Swedish sculptor of great promise, now dead.
+</p>
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+<pre>
+
+
+
+
+
+End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of Baron Bruno, by Louisa Morgan
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+The Project Gutenberg EBook of Baron Bruno, by Louisa Morgan
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org/license
+
+
+Title: Baron Bruno
+       Or, the Unbelieving Philosopher, and Other Fairy Stories
+
+Author: Louisa Morgan
+
+Illustrator: Randolph Caldecott
+
+Release Date: March 26, 2012 [EBook #39274]
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: ASCII
+
+*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK BARON BRUNO ***
+
+
+
+
+Produced by Suzanne Shell and the Online Distributed
+Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net (This file was
+produced from images generously made available by The
+Internet Archive/American Libraries.)
+
+
+
+
+
+
+  [Illustration: ESGAIR.
+   _Frontispiece._]
+
+
+
+BARON BRUNO;
+OR,
+THE UNBELIEVING PHILOSOPHER,
+
+And other Fairy Stories.
+
+
+BY
+
+LOUISA MORGAN.
+
+
+_WITH ILLUSTRATIONS BY R. CALDECOTT._
+
+
+London:
+MACMILLAN AND CO.
+1875.
+
+
+
+
+CONTENTS.
+
+
+                                                       PAGE
+
+BARON BRUNO AND THE STARS; OR, THE UNBELIEVING
+PHILOSOPHER                                               3
+
+ESGAIR: THE BRIDE OF LLYN IDWYL                          49
+
+EOTHWALD: THE YOUNG SCULPTOR                             91
+
+FIDO AND FIDUNIA                                        115
+
+EUDAEMON; OR, THE ENCHANTER OF THE NORTH                 199
+
+
+
+
+LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS.
+
+
+                                                       PAGE
+
+ESGAIR                                       _Frontispiece._
+
+VIGNETTE                                            _Title._
+
+"THE DREAMER STARTED FROM HIS CHAIR"                      8
+
+BARON BRUNO AND ALCYONE                                  22
+
+EOTHWALD AND DUVA IN THE CAVE                           102
+
+FIDO AND FIDUNIA                                        123
+
+FIDO AND FIDUNIA                                        170
+
+EUDAEMON                                                 199
+
+
+
+
+BARON BRUNO AND THE STARS;
+
+OR,
+
+The Unbelieving Philosopher.
+
+
+Baron Bruno was the Prime Minister of the Hereditary Grand Duke of
+Rumpel Stiltzein. Besides being Prime Minister, he was the cleverest
+man in the kingdom. This is saying a good deal, for were there not
+(besides all the men of science, the physicians, the literati, and the
+great philosophers of the day) the General-in-Chief of the Grand-Ducal
+army, Prince Edlerkopf; the great High Almoner, Herr von Pfenig; and
+also the accomplished Graf von Wild Kranz, the most able lawyer and the
+politest man about court? So humble and gentle, indeed, were his
+manners, that strangers sometimes took it upon themselves to dispute
+the opinion of their modest neighbour. But such hardy persons seldom
+repeated the experiment after Wild Kranz had completely overturned
+their arguments in his quiet, hesitating tone, with a shrewd glance of
+enjoyment twinkling in his small wary eye; and woe to the man who a
+second time opposed his will or challenged his decision.
+
+Very different was Baron Bruno. Impetuous, fiery, and caustic, gifted
+with inexhaustible memory, and brimming over with barbed sarcasm, he
+was often misunderstood and disliked in the outer world, but invariably
+beloved by those who knew him intimately.
+
+Pfenig and Edlerkopf were devoted friends, as well as ministers at
+court. They had been educated together, and while Edlerkopf lent to the
+counsels of state the aid of wise and deliberate judgment and the
+weight of his nobly impartial character, Pfenig was the most wonderful
+manager of the public purse, and could not only calculate the incoming
+revenue within a hairsbreadth, but could also regulate government
+expenditure so exactly as to keep all departments amply supplied, and
+yet preserve a due regard to economy.
+
+You may well imagine that with four ministers such as these the Grand
+Duke had little difficulty in maintaining peace and contentment in his
+beautiful kingdom of Rumpel Stiltzein; and that from every side
+artisans, labourers, and mechanics flocked to the small domain, within
+whose narrow boundaries prosperity sat enthroned. To add to his
+happiness, the Grand Duchess became the proud mother of twin children,
+the spirited handsome Prince Bertrand and the lovely gentle Princess
+Berta. They were now in their tenth year, and seemed only born to give
+pleasure and hope to their parents and to the whole principality.
+
+Edlerkopf, Wild Kranz and Pfenig were all married, but Bruno had a
+solitary home; and no one without ocular demonstration would have
+believed in what a shabby den this great statesman passed much of his
+time. In his town-house he had magnificent saloons, where all that was
+fair and choice delighted his guests; but near the roof of this
+dwelling, and far above the haunts of men, there, like the eagle, Bruno
+had his eyrie, where, with ill-concealed impatience, he would hardly
+even permit the cleaning incursions of his maids, and few and far
+between were the footsteps that trod those time-worn boards. Here the
+Baron sat surrounded by dusty piles of books, now poring intently over
+the records of the past, now eagerly scanning the papers of the day,
+now striding up and down the narrow chamber, composing his speech for
+the Reichstag, or dashing off answers to his numerous correspondents.
+There also at the threshold would pause the faithful messengers who
+bore from minister to minister the secret boxes of state papers, and
+waited to obtain from each his signature before proceeding on their
+rounds.
+
+A few steps and a small door led from the sanctuary which I have
+described to the roof. Here Bruno had a little observatory on one side
+fitted up with a revolving cupola; so that when he sat in the centre of
+this round miniature house he could turn his telescope, without himself
+moving, upon any part of the heavens, and seek with keen unfaltering
+eye the verification of calculations he had made, or diligently mark
+the alteration and movement among the visible planets. But the rest of
+the roof was a free uncovered space, upon which a comfortable chair and
+rug, generally kept within the observatory, to be safe from the wear
+and tear of the elements, were often placed. From this lonely elevated
+seat the Baron would then study the myriads of stars with his own
+unaided and unerring vision, until they became to him dear and
+well-known companions.
+
+During such silent hours of the night, when all around teemed with
+nature's glorious presence, Bruno indulged in long soliloquies.
+Sometimes he pondered curiously over the strange difference between
+himself and his colleagues. He well knew that, when weary with the
+lengthened debates and vitiated air of the Reichstag (which often
+extended its sittings till long after midnight), Pfenig and Edlerkopf
+hastened home to their faithful wives, and derived from their society a
+pleasure little short of bliss; and found endless interest in watching
+and fostering the mental and physical growth of their children; while
+Wild Kranz, though often delayed in his law chambers till near
+daybreak, (the keenest and hardest lawyer of his day,) considered no
+happiness like the sacred domestic felicity he also experienced when
+surrounded by his family. When these and other similar reflections
+weighed on Bruno's mind, he would lift his piercing eyes heavenward,
+and, shrugging his shoulders, murmur, half aloud: "O, ye stars! ye are
+wife and children to me. As I gaze alone on you by night, I feel a
+secret satisfaction surpassing the keenest emotions experienced by
+these weak dreamers in their so-called felicity. O, immortal heavens!
+enfold me in your vast space, and teach a finite mortal to comprehend
+in faint measure your infinite beauty and eternal unswerving laws."
+Bruno's fervid nature suffered no chill from such midnight exposure;
+his iron frame was proof against fatigue; his restless intellect but
+seldom needed or courted repose.
+
+It was a hot night in July, worried and jaded, after a wearisome debate
+in the Reichstag, the Baron walked through the empty streets. The
+latest revellers were already housed, a strange hush hung over the
+noisy, populous city, and refreshing breezes blew on his burning brow,
+as he at length reached his home, and ascended to his upper chamber.
+With a sigh of contentment he stepped on the roof, and prepared to
+enjoy his well-earned repose. Throwing himself into his easy-chair, and
+drawing his soft rug across his feet, he became absorbed in the
+contemplation of the firmament above.
+
+As the night wore on, thoughts, till now strangers to him, took
+possession of his mind. A new yearning for companionship awoke in his
+world-wearied bosom. In vague, uneasy discontent with his solitary
+condition, he turned restlessly from side to side, and at length
+exclaimed aloud: "To you, distant stars! I nightly offer the homage of
+a constant worshipper; would that you in return could give me to know
+the spell of love, and teach me what it is that inspires the painter,
+the poet, and the lover."
+
+Hardly had the thought crossed his mind, or the half-uttered words
+risen to his lips, when a meteor fell swiftly rushing from the stars on
+which he gazed. He strove to follow it with his eye, but was dazzled by
+the blinding flash of light. For a moment fire seemed to surround him.
+When the bright glow became less intense, lo! upon the roof near at
+hand, where that vivid ray had fallen, shone a shimmering shape. The
+dreamer started from his chair. Bewildered and entranced, he deemed her
+the creature of his imagination; and surely mortal eye had never beheld
+a form so fair. In trailing garments of palest azure there stood the
+perfect ideal of a poet's dream. From her hair gleamed a faint
+effulgence, and her deep tender eyes sent a strange thrill to the
+philosopher's heart.
+
+  [Illustration: THE DREAMER STARTED FROM HIS CHAIR.
+   P. 8.]
+
+The burden of many years fell from Bruno; the ardour of youth rushed
+through his veins; ambition, politics, calculations, all disappeared
+like fallen leaves before the autumn wind; and in agitated tones he
+besought his beautiful visitant to tell him whence she came.
+
+"Son of earth!" replied the fair unknown, "thou hast watched and loved
+our stars for long years. We in our turn have known thee, and have
+guarded thee and thy fortunes in many a time of danger. Thou wouldest
+know the spell of love. It is even now awakening within thy rugged
+breast; but beware! Thou hast disbelieved in immortality, and doubted
+the eternal power of our great Creator. We love thee! we yearn to save
+thy soul! We long to soften thee through human affection; that when thy
+poor earth is no more, thou mayst find an everlasting home, where
+
+    'Infinite day excludes the night,
+    And pleasures banish pain.'
+
+I--Alcyone, sent by my sisters--I am here to speed thine upward way."
+
+Bruno, spell-bound, eagerly listened. Deeply enamoured of the lovely
+messenger, he succeeded in winning from the fair denizen of the stars
+her consent to remain with him on one condition. She stipulated that
+she should be permitted every month to spend the evening hours of this
+self-same night entirely alone beneath the canopy of heaven, without
+interruption or intrusion, for her life depended on the due observance
+of this time of "retreat."
+
+She also added, falteringly, that if her faith were once doubted she
+must quit for ever the pleasant paths of human fellowship, and be
+claimed again by her immortal sisters. The Baron gladly vowed to keep
+what seemed to him such wondrously simple promises by which to gain so
+peerless a bride. The time passed swiftly as these arrangements were
+made, and ere long the first streaks of daylight appeared in the east.
+Alcyone, faint and weary, was conducted to a chamber for rest and
+repose; and the Baron aroused his servants and informed them that he
+was about to be married.
+
+In the country of Rumpel Stiltzein it was customary to celebrate
+marriages in the evening; there were therefore still available a good
+many hours for the requisite preparations.
+
+The court of the Grand Duke was considerably agitated by the unexpected
+news. Strange rumours were set afloat regarding the newly-elected
+bride. The Prime Minister's answer to all inquiries was the same. He
+let it be understood that the Lady Alcyone was an orphan relative
+lately committed to his charge; that she had suddenly arrived from the
+country the evening before, when he came to the conclusion that the
+best way of taking care of her would be to marry her, and having gained
+the lady's consent, all was well.
+
+It is true that Bruno had a private interview with his Prince; but as
+it was held with closed doors, the substance of their conversation is
+unknown. The only thing certain is, that the Grand Duke himself
+consented to give away the bride.
+
+Edlerkopf, Pfenig and Wild Kranz, with their wives and families, and
+all the chief members of the court promised to attend at the ceremony,
+and great were the rejoicings that the solitary philosopher was about
+to enjoy the sweet pleasures of home life. All rejoiced, because they
+believed the change would be for the Baron's happiness; but there was
+one dissentient mind. The Countess Olga von Dunkelherz, one of the
+ladies-in-waiting on the Grand Duchess, was a spinster of a certain
+age, and of undisputed ability; celebrated for her witty tongue and
+smart sayings. She was not displeased when rumour coupled her name with
+that of the Prime Minister, and when the courtiers rallied her about
+the Baron's attentions. The truth was that Bruno had never for a moment
+regarded her in the light of his future Baroness; her manners wanted
+the repose and softness which to him constituted a woman's chief charm.
+In spite of her masterly intellect, her conversation often bored him.
+For in his moments of relaxation he turned to the fair and softer sex
+for sympathy and recreation, not to involve his wearied brain in
+arguments about the last geological discovery, or the newest theory of
+electricity.
+
+But as he remained single, and they were constantly together, the
+Countess Olga had insensibly grown to regard him as her own property.
+Imagine therefore her astonishment and her displeasure when the Grand
+Duchess, summoning her ladies to her apartment, gave them instructions
+to lay out her state robes, and prepare for a grand court ceremonial,
+as Baron Bruno's wedding was to take place that very evening within the
+palace.
+
+All was bustle and confusion; but the labours of the court cook were
+something superhuman. It required, indeed, the utmost efforts of genius
+and industry combined to produce so splendid a feast at such short
+notice. It is only due, however, to Francabelli's reputation as first
+_chef_ of the Grand Duchy, if not of the world at large, to record
+that the execution of his designs was on this occasion carried out with
+peculiar success.
+
+At last the nuptial hour approached, and excited curiosity was
+gratified by the sight of the bride, as she was led slowly through the
+palace by the Grand Duke. Her wondrous beauty amazed every one, as also
+the radiant simplicity of her attire. She wore her robes of flowing
+azure, and over her forehead there sparkled a gem of extraordinary
+brilliancy, which seemed absolutely to blaze with light.
+
+As Alcyone advanced towards the altar, Baron Bruno, clad in his
+splendid court uniform, embroidered with gold, and covered with
+decorations, stepped forth to meet her, and the wedding ceremony was
+soon completed. The priest dipped his hand in the holy water and
+sprinkled some over bride and groom during his final benediction; as he
+did so, the Countess Olga, who stood near with her royal mistress,
+rushed forward, exclaiming, "She is a witch! she is a witch! the holy
+water has scared her!" All eyes turned instantly on Alcyone, who
+shuddered visibly, and would have fallen to the ground where she knelt
+had not her husband's strong arm encircled and held her up. A mortal
+pallor overspread her fair countenance, and, strange to relate, the
+glittering gem on her forehead became opaque, and was clouded over with
+a dim moisture. By the aid of strong perfumes she gradually revived,
+but was thoroughly shaken and overcome. Baron Bruno, therefore, craving
+the indulgence of the Grand Duke, begged permission to retire at once
+with his bride, and entreated that their absence should not be allowed
+to cast a shadow over the rejoicings at court.
+
+Now Bombastes, the Grand Duke, though of a choleric temperament, was
+still at heart a man of just and keen perception. He perceived that the
+newly-made baroness was indisputably overfatigued, and that it was only
+natural her bridegroom should wish to take every care of her. He
+instantly, therefore, granted his Prime Minister's request, and calling
+the other great officers of state around him, invoked their aid to
+carry on the court revels with due spirit and merriment; at the same
+time adding, in an undertone, that he trusted his faithful servant had
+not undone himself by marrying an unknown beauty without parents,
+relations, or antecedents!
+
+The three ministers, Edlerkopf, Pfenig, and Wild Kranz, with their
+wives and children, joined heart and soul in the gaieties of the
+evening. The children, with their friends Prince Bertrand and Princess
+Berta, were, as a great treat, allowed to sit up to supper, and had a
+small side-table to themselves. Here old Donnerfuss, the head butler,
+kept them well supplied with all they demanded, and they behaved with
+decorum for a considerable time. At length, wearied with the protracted
+courses, and finding it impossible to eat any more, the thoughtless
+boys amused themselves by sticking burrs on the footmen's silken calves
+as they passed to and fro. These naughty children had purposely
+provided themselves with a quantity of these instruments of torture, in
+hopes of finding some use for them during the dull state supper. For
+some time they pursued their fun unnoticed during the general bustle,
+and quite undisturbed by the muttered maledictions of their victims. At
+last Bombastes, having an observant eye, became aware of some
+interruption in the serving of the dinner. Looking round the hall, he
+noticed on every side agitated footmen carefully examining their lower
+extremities. In a voice of thunder he demanded of the Lord Chamberlain
+an explanation of such unprecedented behaviour. The Lord Chamberlain
+called up the High Steward of the Household, who, in his turn, required
+Donnerfuss to explain this breach of discipline. Thereupon the fifty
+red-faced footmen, seeing all eyes turned upon them, at once resumed
+their duties, regardless of pricking sensations about the leg and
+unseemly excrescences upon the otherwise fair white proportions of
+their well-filled stockings. Donnerfuss, in a frightened whisper,
+revealed the truth to the High Steward, and he, in his turn, narrated
+the mischievous exploit of the boys to the Lord High Chamberlain.
+Bombastes now impatiently beckoned the latter to his Grand-ducal chair,
+and insisted upon hearing the whole root of the matter. Sanftschriften,
+who was himself a parent, and naturally kind-hearted, tried to soften
+down the affair; but as Bombastes listened, his large, round, prominent
+eyes seemed as if they would absolutely start from his head at the
+recital of this outrage on decorum. He sternly commanded the culprits
+to retire to bed; and, glancing wrathfully at Edlerkopf, Pfenig, and
+Wild Kranz (who sat quaking in their shoes), he added further: "As to
+the well-brought-up sons of these great noblemen, their domestic life
+is beyond the control of their poor sovereign; but for the next month I
+give orders that no dessert of any kind shall pass the lips of Prince
+Bertrand, who has thus misbehaved himself in so shameful and public a
+manner." Princess Berta and the other little girls, distressed at the
+disgrace of their playmates, rose also at once from the table, and
+accompanied them from the hall. Thus it came to pass that the court
+children had no very pleasant associations with the day of Baron
+Bruno's wedding. Indeed, you may be very certain that the three
+ministers gave their sons the same punishment as Prince Bertrand; and
+therefore for a whole month the boys had good reason to remember the
+marriage feast, as their tutors, governesses, and nurses, were strictly
+enjoined to carry out the Grand Duke's peremptory edict. Princess Berta
+and the other small girls, tender and soft-hearted as little maidens
+ever should be, did their best to alleviate the punishment of their
+playmates by voluntarily depriving themselves of all sweet things for
+the same period, which, I am sure you will agree with me, required much
+self-denial, on the part of those dessert-loving damsels, and was no
+small proof of affection.
+
+In the meantime Bruno had taken his bride to a small cottage he owned
+on the borders of a wide and gloomy forest. Here they passed the few
+days which, by the indulgence of his royal master, Bruno was enabled to
+spare from the affairs of state. When they were alone together, his
+wife expressed to him her conviction that some ill-disposed person had
+tampered with the holy water, so as to affect that which was sprinkled
+over them. She had also felt during the ceremony the near presence of
+an anti-pathetic and malign influence. Alcyone furthermore explained to
+her husband that the gem on her forehead was a talisman, which paled
+and grew dim on the approach of danger, or when exposed to poison. The
+Baron at once remembered the dull appearance presented by the jewel
+when the holy water fell near it, but he also became unreasonably vexed
+when his bride refused to loosen it, even for one moment, from her
+hair, to permit him to examine it in his hand.
+
+He gradually grew to regard its brilliance with a certain amount of
+suspicion, and more than once, when the gentle Alcyone laid her head
+upon his shoulder, he felt as if a fiery eye shone guardian over her
+and watched unsleepingly his every movement. When in his vexation Bruno
+allowed himself to speak harshly for the first time to his young wife,
+Alcyone tearfully deprecated his displeasure. She assured him her life
+was bound up in her talisman, and that if she parted with it, for ever
+so brief a space, she must at once return to the regions whence she
+came. After this explanation Bruno rarely referred to the disputed
+point, but it is not too much to say that the lurid ray of the strange
+gem often in their happiest moments sent a sudden thrill to his heart's
+core, and gave a feeling of insecurity to his most private hours of
+retirement.
+
+    "It is the little rift within the lute
+    That by and by will make the music mute,
+    And, ever widening, slowly silence all.
+
+    "The little rift within the lover's lute,
+    Or little pitted speck in garnered fruit,
+    That rotting inwards slowly moulders all."
+
+I have already hinted that Bruno was of a sceptical turn of mind.
+Possessed of rare intellectual powers, he had studied metaphysics to
+such an extent, and become so thoroughly master of the strange theories
+propounded by the deep-thinking German philosophers of the day, that he
+could not bend himself to the simplicity of that religion which only
+demands the faith of a little child; he disbelieved the immortality of
+the soul, and professed to doubt the existence of a future state.
+
+But though he and his bride widely differed in faith, yet day by day
+she became more and more endeared to him, by the lovely nature of her
+mind no less than by the graces of her person. Her exceeding humility
+and true-hearted simplicity showed to him in a new light those
+religious duties at which in less peaceful days he was wont to cavil.
+Well would it have been for both could their lives have been thus spent
+far from the busy world, in the calm retreat, where for the first time
+the gray-haired man recalled soft prayers which a mother's lips (long
+since silent and cold) had murmured over his infant head.
+
+But the calls of duty had to be obeyed, and ere long the prime minister
+and his bride returned to Aronsberg, to take their place at court and
+in society, and to have endless fetes and receptions given in their
+honour. Here Alcyone's gentle unassuming manners, added to her great
+beauty, made her a universal favourite. The malicious Graefin von
+Dunkelherz, however, disseminated strange stories concerning the new
+Baroness, and aroused the suspicions of those who were already perhaps
+somewhat jealous of the many charms united in the fair person of the
+young stranger.
+
+Amid the series of festivities given in honour of the newly-married
+couple, it was observed that whenever a storm of thunder and lightning
+broke over the neighbourhood Alcyone was painfully agitated. Wherever
+she and her husband might be, she implored him to convey her home as
+soon as possible; the electric influence so entirely overcame her that
+more than once she seemed completely gone--so utterly did she lose
+colour and consciousness--so deadly pale did she become. To Bruno's
+impetuous nature this unfortunate tendency proved a serious annoyance.
+He considered that by a little firm exercise of moral courage his wife
+could have retained her senses. Often after conveying her home and
+reappearing alone (by her earnest request) at some state banquet, he
+would be universally rallied about her captiousness, and even made to
+see (owing to Olga's kind offices) that his friends considered the
+whole affair in a somewhat mysterious light. It will be remembered that
+Alcyone stipulated for one night of retirement every month, when,
+undisturbed and alone, she spent long solitary hours upon the roof. She
+entreated Bruno, by all his affection for her, neither to approach the
+place himself nor to suffer any one else to intrude upon her privacy.
+Somehow or other this circumstance, with numerous additions, became
+bruited abroad, and it was whispered that the Baron's wife was in
+regular communication with demons. Bribed and listening servants heard
+voices of no earthly _timbre_, speaking in an unknown language. More
+they were unable to say, for Bruno as yet kept faithful guard over his
+wife's hours of mystic retreat.
+
+At last, however, the time approached when the sittings of the
+Reichstag terminated, and when all who could forsook the dusty purlieus
+of the town for the mountains, the sea, or their country dwellings.
+People began to be too busy making their own plans to attend to those
+of their neighbours, and Bruno retired once more with his Baroness to
+Tieftraeume Forest. There in their small cottage, with its low long
+veranda covered with creepers, they spent weeks--nay, months--of
+uninterrupted happiness. On one side of their home patches of wild
+moorland were beautifully interspersed with cultivated oases of garden.
+Towards the east rose the dark masses of the pine forest, giving with
+their sombre colouring an ever-fresh beauty to the foreground of lovely
+flowering shrubs. Passing through tangled masses of bramble and fern,
+the path led by bare gray rocks and tufts of purple heather to some
+ivy-covered bower; or you came upon some exquisite smooth-shaven little
+lawn, jewelled in bright patterns of many coloured flowers, and adding
+brilliance and perfume to the scene.
+
+Here Alcyone and her husband wandered together, or, perhaps descending
+the steps at the end of their garden, stood on the brink of the little
+river Naecken, which tumbled and hurried through its narrow rocky
+channel, thus dividing them from the forest. Lower down the streamlet
+formed a small lake, on which a boat was kept, and where Bruno was wont
+to row his wife, and try to teach her unskilful hand to guide the oar.
+He laid these lines beside her one morning towards the end of their
+country sojourn when, fresh and fair as Aurora herself, she took her
+place at their morning meal:--
+
+  [Illustration: BARON BRUNO AND ALCYONE.
+   P. 22.]
+
+    "One moment let me live the time again,
+    The sweet, sweet time when o'er the silvery loch
+    The frail bark sped, or hand-in-hand we climbed
+    Together, where the divided mountain path
+    Stopped like a thing perplexed, or haply stood
+    To watch yon dark blue vault where white clouds sailed
+    Onward and onward through the homeless sky;
+    Or when, returning from a mid-day ride,
+    We turned to gaze where far-off heathery vales
+    Gleamed between shadowy hills, and dark woods rained
+    Transparent sunshine through their golden leaves.
+    And sweet it was to rob the miser night,
+    Of her rich hours, as side by side we sat,
+    Seeking to chain the time that fled too fast,
+    By mazy labyrinths of sweet discourse;
+    These things can never die--there is no death
+    Of happy feelings, gentlest sympathies,
+    And that delicious sadness, whose deep tints
+    Fall like soft shadows o'er the sunny past.
+    Therefore in years to come a calm, clear voice,
+    Like a stray note of some forgotten tune,
+    Shall rise from out these happy autumn days,
+    Waking a melody of gentler thoughts
+    Through all the silent chambers of my heart."
+
+The Baron was often obliged to return to town for a day on important
+business, or to attend his royal master at the Prince's Chateau; but
+Alcyone never wearied when alone with nature; and these little
+separations lent a new delight to the hour of reunion. Jaded and tired
+from his hot journey, Bruno would then seat himself in the veranda and
+recount to his fondly-listening wife all the little adventures of the
+day, while her cool, soft hand laid on his burning brow, or her gentle
+voice, carolling forth low songs in the silent twilight, soothed and
+refreshed his hard-worked brain. It was at times like these, when
+husband and wife were drawn very near, that Alcyone spoke of her faith,
+and allowed him to see and know the firm unfaltering trust that
+possessed her simple mind. She sometimes referred to the possibility of
+their separation--to her hope of ultimate reunion. When, however, she
+had but half uttered such words, Bruno, enfolding her in his arms, with
+a quivering voice would beseech her to be silent, and not break his
+heart.
+
+Autumn disappeared, and next came winter with all its delightful
+accompaniments of snow and sleighing. Merrily tinkled the bells and
+fast flew the steeds under Bruno's skilful guidance, as their
+gaily-decorated sledge was whirled through the broad thoroughfares and
+snowy parks of Aronsberg. Christmas also passed by, and Santa Klaus
+sent joy to the hearts of myriads of children with his mysterious
+gifts. Months again rolled away, and the glad Easter Feast was in full
+celebration when, with the first sweet violets, came a dear little
+child to bless and brighten the home of Alcyone and her husband. They
+called her Violet because she bloomed into life at the same time as
+those fragrant flowers, and Stella was added in remembrance of the
+sacred mystery known only to her parents. In the fulness of his joy,
+Bruno dismissed, as he thought for ever, from his mind the cruel
+unworthy thoughts he had once been led to entertain of his bride. It
+would be difficult to describe this infant to those who never saw her;
+but let each one think of all the children he has been privileged to
+know. If among such dear ones he can recall some babe of a beauty too
+rare and fair to attain to maturity in this bleak world, then he may in
+some faint degree picture to himself the nameless charm that surrounded
+the little Violet as with a halo.
+
+Various changes now for a time partially relieved the Baron from
+official duties; wrapped up in his domestic happiness, nearly a year
+passed swiftly by before he was once more drawn into the unceasing
+whirl of political and social court life.
+
+It was already June, the busiest season in the Aronsberg world. Plunged
+in the necessary rounds of visiting and receiving, the Baroness had but
+little time to enjoy, as she wished, the society either of her husband
+or of the little Violet, now at a most engaging age. It is true that it
+was totally against her own wish that Alcyone took so active a part in
+the gay world. Bruno, whom nature had formed to shine in society, and
+gifted with marvellous conversational powers, chafed under her
+continual excuses, and, returning with eager zest to his old life,
+insisted upon the Baroness assuming that prominent place in society
+which was hers by right as the wife of the Prime Minister.
+
+It was about this time that the artful Countess Olga began once more to
+drop poisoned words about the court concerning Alcyone. Ever on the
+alert to open the Baron's eyes to the folly of what she called his
+strange infatuation, she eagerly hailed the first signs of coolness
+between him and his wife. In an unguarded moment Bruno let fall some
+hasty expression regarding her absence from a court ball, and Olga,
+with honeyed words, sympathizing in his disappointment, hinted that
+rumour credited the Baroness with some private amusement at home, she
+so rarely vouch-safed to favour the court with her presence for more
+than the briefest possible attendance at the levees of the Grand
+Duchess.
+
+Bruno's conscience smote him while he listened to the Countess von
+Dunkelherz's ill-natured remarks. He answered somewhat shortly that the
+little Violet being an only child and very delicate, absorbed much of
+her mother's attention, and therefore she had the best of excuses for
+remaining at home. A beginning had nevertheless been made, and Olga
+took good care to keep up her renewed intimacy with the Prime Minister.
+
+It may have been the vitiated town air which now affected Violet's
+health; but she sensibly drooped, and caused her mother the keenest
+anxiety. Her father (prompted by his evil adviser,) although
+affectionate and kind, deemed his wife fanciful when she fretted over
+the child's altered appearance, and became more and more displeased if
+Alcyone absented herself from society.
+
+There was to be a grand masked ball in honour of Prince Bertrand and
+Princess Berta's birthday. They were allowed to choose their own
+diversion, and they fixed that their father and the Grand Duchess
+should appear as Oberon and Titania, and that every guest should
+personate some fairy character. All was excitement, while the Grand
+Duke himself, assisted by the court painter, and somewhat guided by the
+predilections of his children, chose the dress to be worn by each
+visitor, and had it written on the card of invitation. Berta and her
+brother settled to represent Prince Hempseed and his sister Olivia.
+Other heroes and heroines too numerous to be recorded were selected.
+Snow-white and Rose-red, the Blue Bird, the Yellow Dwarf, Beauty and
+the Beast, Cinderella, and many others found suitable representatives,
+but the Prime Minister and his wife were requested to become, for the
+time being, Puss in Boots and the White Cat. At one o'clock all masks
+were to be removed, and a complete transformation-scene enacted, as
+regarded many of the characters, who would at that hour, like the White
+Cat and Cinderella, throw off their disguise, and, uncovering their
+faces, shine forth resplendent in garments the most exquisite that
+could be devised for the occasion. Then, marshalled in due rank, the
+King and Queen of Fairyland proposed to lead their motley subjects to
+supper. The fun grew fast and furious in the little court of Rumpel
+Stiltzein. Desperate were the efforts of the tailors, milliners, and
+shoemakers to meet the multifarious demands made on their time, which
+was very short; and on their invention, which was taxed to the utmost.
+
+Alcyone from the first disliked the idea of the ball, and all the
+rampant merriment connected with it. Her ailing child required constant
+care, and she herself felt far from strong. She mooted the question of
+remaining at home, but Bruno would not hear of this, and indeed
+answered her so reproachfully when she proposed it, that she made up
+her mind to sacrifice her own desires, and please him by endeavouring
+to throw herself heartily into the affair. During the many necessary
+discussions with the other court ladies as to the all-important subject
+of dress, the Baroness was left alone with Olga, who of late had, to
+all appearance, been her most sympathizing friend. The crafty Countess
+soon extracted from Alcyone the little history of her own reluctance to
+appear, her husband's consequent displeasure, and her determination to
+gratify him by paying every possible attention to her dress.
+
+The eventful evening at length arrived. Baron Bruno, after an early
+dinner, was compelled to attend for a short period an important sitting
+of the Reichstag. His house was at some distance from the public
+offices of state; he therefore took his fancy ball-dress with him, and
+settled to change his attire in his own small official room, while
+Alcyone should start at a later hour, and call for him on her way to
+the palace. Alcyone felt unusually sad as her husband waved her a hasty
+adieu and speeded off to the Reichstag. He strictly enjoined her to
+observe due punctuality in her engagements, as the Grand Duke wished to
+enter the ballroom in a grand procession formed of all his chief
+ministers and officers of state, court ladies, and hereditary noblemen.
+
+Violet had perceptibly drooped more and more, though her fond father
+refused to see the change. He only, however, saw his little daughter at
+brief intervals of his busy life, when a flush of delight at his
+approach rounded her pale cheeks, and her dark-blue eyes sparkled with
+the keen joy of being tossed or fondled in his arms.
+
+After Bruno's departure, Alcyone ascended the nursery stairs, and found
+Violet already in bed, but restless and uneasy, and tossing to and fro.
+The large windows stood wide open, though very little air seemed as yet
+to stir among the trees of the square in which they lived.
+
+The mother sat down beside her child. The baby was at once comforted,
+and held out its little arms to be taken to her bosom. Alcyone lifted
+her from the cot, and, dismissing the maids, seated herself by the
+window in a low rocking-chair, and crooned soft lullabies to her
+infant. The babe did not yet sleep, but she lay soothed and quiet,
+gazing into her mother's sweet face, and smiling when she caught the
+bright sparkling of the radiant gem.
+
+Suddenly the peaceful scene was changed; with a troubled cry the little
+Violet started up, and at the same instant Lady Olga stood in the
+doorway. Hardly apologising for her unexpected appearance in the
+Baroness's private apartments, Olga unfolded her extraordinary plan.
+After expressing great sympathy for the child's indisposition, and
+professing to understand fully Alcyone's distressing position, she
+asked leave to proceed at once to the Baroness's dressing-room, and
+there and then array herself in the garments of the "White Cat." As she
+and Alcyone were much the same height and size, this change of dress
+could be very easily accomplished, and would form an indistinguishable
+disguise; she then further proposed to set off in the carriage and
+personate the fair young Baroness at the ball. At first Alcyone would
+not listen to her artful suggestion, justly fearing the displeasure of
+her husband; but Olga assured her that long before the deception must
+at any rate cease (on the unmasking at one o'clock) she would, using
+the privilege of an old acquaintance, explain the whole affair to Baron
+Bruno, and represent to him aright the mother's fears for her child.
+Indeed those fears seemed but too well founded, for since Olga's
+entrance the baby had grown wild and feverish, and kept up an incessant
+moaning as if in actual pain. Harassed and perplexed therefore, Alcyone
+at length yielded a reluctant consent, and, ringing the bell, ordered
+lights to be placed in her dressing-room, and attendance to be given to
+aid the Countess von Dunkelherz in her somewhat difficult toilet. One
+consideration which weighed much with Alcyone in her final decision,
+was the unfortunate coincidence that this happened to be the very night
+of her monthly retirement--that mysterious proceeding of which her
+husband had now grown so impatient that she was fain never to mention
+it, but strove to accomplish her purpose as best she might without
+attracting his attention. She had all the time hoped to slip away
+unnoticed from the ball, but she well knew this would be a very
+difficult matter to accomplish, as besides her own timidity about
+leaving the palace by herself, her extreme beauty made her remarkable
+in whatever society she moved.
+
+Still it was with a foreboding of evil she resolved for the first time
+to act without her husband's knowledge, and remain unbidden at home.
+
+It is scarcely necessary to add that Olga, from frequent inquiries and
+a diligent system of espionage, was well aware of the mysterious and
+so-called solitary hours entered upon by the Baroness at stated
+intervals, and she was equally cognisant of the fact that the wonted
+period had arrived for the observance of this strange custom, and had
+laid her plans accordingly.
+
+The evening wore on; after the noisy departure of the carriage
+containing its unusual occupant, all within the house became peaceful
+and silent. Without was heard the ceaseless hum of the busy city, but
+faint, far, and mellowed by distance. Overhead the stars twinkled
+cheerfully forth from the blue bed on which they had lain fast asleep
+during the hot reign of the sun.
+
+    It is twilight in the city,
+      And the sun has sunk afar,
+    Where a brightness gilds the pathway
+      Of the quiet evening star.
+
+    Dimly in the hazy distance
+      Twinkle all the myriad eyes
+    Glittering far into the darkness,
+      Where the mighty city lies.
+
+    Twittering through the leafy branches,
+      Birds are calling soft and low,
+    Scarcely heard amid the humming
+      Of the city's ceaseless flow.
+
+    Yet I hear their gentle voices,
+      And their evening hymn of love,
+    While the stars are clearer shining,
+      From the dark-blue heaven above.
+
+    Happy children! careless playing,
+      In and out beneath the trees,
+    With your childish hair all streaming,
+      Floating on the evening breeze.
+
+    Pure and blissful hours of childhood,
+      Never prized until gone by,
+    Stay, oh! stay a while! and o'er me,
+      Let your lingering radiance lie.
+
+    Leave a gleam of that bright sunshine
+      Which was ours in days of yore,
+    Ere we parted for life's battle,
+      Ere we left home's peaceful shore.
+
+    Voices then with ours were mingling,
+      That on earth are silent now,
+    Arms around us fondly twining,
+      That have long been still and low.
+
+    Yes--in gazing on the starlight,
+      Fancy sometimes strives to trace
+    Forms beloved amid the twilight,
+      Or a well-remembered face.
+
+    Angels now! yet be our guardians,
+      In this tearful vale below,
+    Shedding light around our pathway,
+      Giving comfort as we go.
+
+    So when life's frail chord is loos'ning,
+      And our eyes to sorrow close,
+    When the glorious morn is dawning
+      O'er the long sad night of woes,
+
+    Linger near us--that, when rising,
+      We may--child-like--meet again
+    Where the severed are united,
+      Where the weary have no pain.
+
+Ever and anon the deep musical bell of the Reichstag clock boomed forth
+amid the darkening shadows, telling of time's rapid progress and
+remorseless flight, yet giving to many of the dwellers in Aronsberg a
+feeling of joyful security and safety. For the tall tower stood over
+and among them like some mighty guardian whose ceaseless care and
+unsleeping vigilance kept watch amid the city by day and by night and
+with cheerful voice proclaimed his vicinity--thus oftentime becoming a
+loved companion to weary mortals whom sickness, separation, anxiety, or
+sorrow kept awake through the livelong night.
+
+    Chime, Aronsberg bells, chime ceaselessly on,
+    Till partings be over and weary work done.
+    Boom o'er the broad waters, thou musical tone,
+    Remorseless thy knell, and I sorrow alone,
+    For perchance in my bosom shall waken no more,
+    The rapture that thrilled to thy chiming of yore.
+
+The baby now sank to rest in its tiny cot, a heavenly smile irradiated
+its little countenance, as if in some happy dream it was more than
+compensated for the uneasy hours of pain and unrest so lately
+experienced.
+
+The hour of Alcyone's isolation approached: wrapped in her long flowing
+robes, with her beautiful hair streaming over her shoulders, she bent
+over the sleeping Violet and dropt a kiss and murmured a blessing over
+her child; then slowly ascended the narrow stair which led to Bruno's
+solitary chamber. The small door opened, then closed again with a
+spring, and all was still, while the nurses below, whispering together,
+knew their mistress was alone with the stars.
+
+Nearly an hour passed by, and tranquillity reigned around; most of the
+servants had gone to bed, those who remained up were in the lower and
+more distant parts of the house. Hasty sounds suddenly broke upon the
+still night air; the Baron's champing steeds drew up in the courtyard;
+Bruno himself, flushed and agitated, sprang rapidly up-stairs, followed
+by the ruthless Olga! He pushed past his astonished domestics, noisily
+calling and seeking Alcyone in every room, including the nursery, where
+he roused and startled his sleeping child. Finally he ascended his own
+narrow stair, and entered the study. He paused at the small door so
+often described, and tapping, called his wife's name once or twice; no
+response came; without a moment's compunction, in excited passion, he
+drew the key from an inner pocket, and, unlocking the door he had
+solemnly promised to regard as sacred, threw it violently open.
+
+With a loud grating noise the ill-fated portal swung back on its
+hinges, and disclosed to his bewildered eyes a wondrous sight. Around
+his wife stood five or six maidens of surpassing beauty; like her--yet
+unlike--for oh! how clearly he could see the marks of human sorrow and
+care which cast their shadow over her countenance alone. Each bore on
+her forehead a brilliant jewel resembling Alcyone's; the most delicious
+perfume was wafted on the air, and an indescribable mellow glow of
+light emanated from and yet illuminated the lovely strangers. More than
+this he had not time to observe; a terrible explosion shook the house
+to its foundation, and he became enveloped in a choking impenetrable
+vapour. Olga also, who, unobserved, with a bevy of terrified servants,
+had followed in his footsteps, was half suffocated, seeing, however,
+nothing of those radiant forms.
+
+As the light breeze dissipated the stifling fumes, Alcyone, with sorrow
+and dismay imprinted on her gentle features, stood inquiringly before
+her husband, as if to demand some explanation of this sudden violation
+of their compact. But now a youth, whom Bruno had never before seen,
+stepped from behind Alcyone, with cold and majestic mien. Bowing
+gravely to the Baron, he thus addressed him, in low thrilling tones:
+"Behold in me, Hyas, the brother of Alcyone, come hither to aid and
+defend my sister in the hour of need. I demand a full examination into
+her conduct. Before others you have doubted her and intruded on her
+privacy--before others her character must be cleared!"
+
+Stunned and bewildered by these swiftly succeeding events, Bruno's
+ready tongue for once completely failed him. Now--alas!--when too late,
+he bitterly regretted his precipitation, and the credence he had too
+easily lent to wicked and baseless insinuations.
+
+Instead of keeping her promise to Alcyone, and explaining aright to the
+Baron his wife's unpremeditated absence, Olga had made out that the
+whole affair was a preconceived plot which she had been induced to
+conceal till the last moment. She had furthermore hinted that the
+gravest suspicions were aroused by the Baroness's non-appearance, which
+of course became universally known and commented upon at the hour of
+unmasking. At last she had so worked upon Bruno's ardent temperament
+that, forgetting everything save the jealousy of the moment, he rushed
+wildly home, causing quite a sensation at court and doing irreparable
+mischief to his domestic happiness.
+
+In spite of his sister's tearful remonstrances, Alcyone's brother now
+demanded of the Baron when a public inquiry could be instituted; and on
+hearing that it was possible on the morrow, he instantly cited the
+affrighted Graefin von Dunkelherz to appear and proffer her charge
+against the fair Alcyone, who for the first time recognised in the
+Countess a deadly enemy.
+
+Hyas furthermore insisted on keeping watch over his sister and her
+child until Alcyone was proved beyond blame in the eyes of the world.
+They were left alone together. The baffled Olga slunk away to her home.
+Bruno, distressed and repentant, unavailingly paced his lonely chamber
+until morning arrived.
+
+At the earliest possible moment (after the late carousals of the night
+before) the Prime Minister demanded an audience of his sovereign, and
+the matter being then fully explained, the Grand Duke commanded that
+the trial of the Baroness should take place at noon, in the Hochplatz,
+a large open space surrounded by public buildings and gardens, and not
+far from the Grand Ducal Palace. Bombastes, at Hyas' request, also sent
+criers in every direction to summon the people to attend, and by twelve
+o'clock the vast square was filled to overflowing.
+
+The Grand Duke and Duchess, with the lords and ladies in waiting and
+other state officials, sat upon a raised platform in the centre,
+surrounded by a guard of honour. Edlerkopf, at the head of a brilliant
+staff of officers, kept the immense assembly from encroaching on the
+crimson dais where accused and accuser were placed near at hand. Bruno,
+pale and heart-stricken, stood there. At some little distance Hyas and
+his sister sat together, their striking resemblance and singular beauty
+attracting every eye. It was observed that Hyas bore on his uncovered
+head a jewel almost surpassing in radiance that which sparkled on his
+sister's brow. Alcyone never raised her head, but bent over her child,
+whom she carried in her arms.
+
+A profound silence reigned over the excited throng as Hyas bending low
+to the Duke, declared that his sister's honour had been tarnished by
+the foul aspersions cast upon it, and that he had traced many of these
+reports to the Countess von Dunkelherz; he therefore demanded that she
+should frankly say of what she accused the Baroness Bruno.
+
+Olga, who by this time had entirely recovered from her previous
+confusion, now advanced. Craning her long neck, and glancing spitefully
+at the drooping form of the suffering Alcyone, she thus answered Hyas'
+summons:
+
+"I charge the Lady Alcyone with being a witch. She cannot part, even
+for one moment, with the gem she bears on her forehead; she keeps
+mysterious assignations with beings from another world; and she has so
+bewitched her husband, the acute and learned Baron Bruno, that he is
+hardly accountable for his actions."
+
+At these cruel words an ominous murmur ran through the crowd, and half
+stifled cries arose.--"Burn the witch!" "Deliver our Baron from her
+spells!" "Cut off root and branch--mother and child!" Such were some of
+the menaces hoarsely muttered by the surging and fickle multitude. It
+was with no small difficulty that Edlerkopf, at the head of his guards,
+restrained the populace from laying violent hands on the Baroness and
+her brother. Hyas, cool and collected, waited until the gathering
+tumult was in some measure quieted; his clear voice then penetrated far
+and wide. "Ye have heard, O people," he exclaimed, "the voice of the
+traducer; ye shall now give ear to unwilling testimony in favour of the
+accused."
+
+So saying he divested himself of his long-flowing outer garment, and
+warning all around to preserve strict silence, he drew a large circle
+round himself and his sister, and also compelled the Countess von
+Dunkelherz, much against her will, to remain within the mystic
+boundary. Taking then a small packet from his breast, he scattered some
+powder on the ground and muttered strange words in an unknown tongue.
+Then arose amid the calm sunshine of that lovely summer day the sound
+of rushing whirlwinds and stormy gusts; a dark cloud intervened between
+the earth and the sun, enveloping all around in sulphureous darkness.
+When it cleared away, lo! high within the magic circle towered a
+gigantic pillar of smoke. From the centre of this terrible apparition
+gleamed forth two fiery eyes. A cold chill of horror ran through the
+spectators, though the air was hot and sultry.
+
+Hyas now motioned to Bruno that his lips must ask the fateful question.
+The Baron, compelled to speak, reluctantly addressed himself thus to
+the hideous shape:--"Dread Spirit, whether of good or of evil, I adjure
+thee to tell me whether the Lady Alcyone has been true and faithful to
+me, and guiltless of the foul deeds ascribed to her."
+
+"Blind mortal!" replied the cloudy phantom, "pure and transparent as
+the dewdrop hath the heart of Alcyone been unto thee; there breathes
+not on your dull earth a spirit more free from guile."
+
+As these words fell from above, a low muttered growl of thunder was
+heard, while Hyas, turning to the silent, awe-struck beholders, cried
+aloud, "The innocence of my sister is proved by the reluctant words of
+Varishka, the dark genie, who could have claimed her for his own had
+her deeds been evil. But, alas! I fear the dread witness has exhausted
+one innocent life in the fierce struggle."
+
+As he spoke thick darkness fell upon them, and when it cleared away the
+mysterious shape had disappeared. The bright sun poured its
+health-giving rays again over the panic-stricken multitude, and a cool
+wind blew away the last traces of the awful Varishka. All eyes were
+bent on Hyas, whose beauty seemed absolutely marvellous, as, tenderly
+embracing his sister, he turned swiftly aside into the crowd, and ere
+they were aware had totally disappeared from view. Loud acclamations in
+favour of Alcyone rang forth from the changeful thousands on either
+side, as they swayed to and fro preparatory to breaking up altogether.
+
+Bruno alone stood irresolute; a thousand conflicting emotions paled his
+usually ruddy cheek; but his wife's sweet voice called to him. He
+approached her; her face was full of anxiety. "Let us return home at
+once," she whispered; "I fear for our babe."
+
+And well she might, for the fragile Violet lay almost lifeless on her
+mother's knee, the laboured breath passing slowly through her cold
+lips. They drove rapidly home. The Baron, full of remorse, would fain
+have thrown himself at his wife's feet, but her thoughts were turned
+only to her suffering child, as she at last bore it into the nursery,
+where in happier days she had so often lulled it to sleep. For some
+time Bruno remained beside her, and aided in trying various
+restoratives. At length, summoned by his official duties, he was forced
+to depart. Several hours elapsed before he could absent himself from
+the Reichstag.
+
+A strange hush pervaded his home as he once more entered its portals.
+He gained the nursery door, and, pausing, gently pushed it aside. In
+the waning light he beheld his wife half kneeling, half lying upon
+their little one's cot. Violet's face, illumined by the last rays of
+daylight, was pale and peaceful. It shone with a solemn light--unlike,
+oh! how unlike, his own playful pet! Her dark blue eyes were heavily
+closed, and her little hands meekly folded on her breast. The mother's
+voice stole on his ear--"Fare thee well, my darling! good-bye, my angel
+child! but only for a brief space I bid thee adieu. Thou art folded now
+in arms that can shelter thee more safely from the passing blast than
+those of thy poor mother. I shall go to thee, my Violet--but never,
+never more shalt thou return to me." These and many similar words were
+poured forth by the weeping mother as Bruno unobserved stood silently
+listening. His heart felt ready to burst; it seemed as if some chord
+within him gave way at that moment with a throb of pain.
+
+For a long time unknown to himself Alcyone's soft influence had
+gradually undermined his harsh scepticism. At that moment a ray of
+heavenly light shot as it were from the upward pathway of his dead
+child into the dark recesses of his soul, and with tender humility he
+knelt by his wife's side and placed his hand on hers. Startled and
+amazed, she turned and met her husband's eye: it shone with a new and
+softened light; there was no need for him to explain to her what he
+felt. Over the death-bed of their fairest hope they for the first time
+experienced the ineffable yet chastened joy of sharing the same
+faith--of worshipping together the same unseen God.
+
+At length Alcyone slowly rose from her knees, and casting a long, fond
+look on the lifeless form of her babe, she led her husband from the
+chamber. Together they ascended the narrow stair; together they opened
+the small, well-known door, and emerged, hand-in-hand, amid the now
+darkened twilight, upon the open roof.
+
+"Bruno," murmured she, "the time for our separation has come; you have
+declared your belief in the immortality of the soul; your poor Alcyone,
+in the midst of her imperfections, has brought you one step nearer the
+gates of Paradise. I now return to my celestial home, but shall there
+await you, my beloved, in the sure and certain hope of a long eternity
+together unchequered by the sorrows that have assailed our path in this
+mortal world."
+
+Thus saying, for the first time, the gentle Alcyone passionately
+strained her arms around her husband; the pressure relaxed, he tottered
+forward; he was--alone! A long trail of light shone for a moment
+athwart the evening sky; the peaceful Pleiades beamed forth in
+brightest beauty; he called aloud, but only silence reigned around; in
+uncontrollable emotion the strong man fell fainting to the ground.
+
+How long he thus remained he never knew; but he woke at last to find
+the midnight moon shining upon him. He raised himself, confused and
+aching; he passed his hand across his brow--Was the past a reality? A
+tear rolled down his time-worn cheek which his keen eye had never shed,
+but it might be the cold dewdrop of the early morn. Beside him lay the
+coat and hat he had worn in returning from the Reichstag. It must be
+some long, strange dream that, coming on him exhausted and weary, had
+harassed his brain through the weird watches of the night.
+
+As these thoughts coursed through his mind his eye fell on his left
+hand; upon it there sparkled a stone of extraordinary brilliancy, which
+recalled to him the gem on Alcyone's forehead. He strove to remove the
+jewel, but, though easily fitting to his finger, the magic circlet
+refused to be taken from its place.
+
+The reality of the past then rushed upon the proud Baron's mind with
+the resistless force of inward conviction. Humbled and sorrowful, the
+great philosopher's wondrous attainments and mighty intellectual
+resources seemed for the moment to become as less than the dust beneath
+his feet. With the simple faith of a little child, he bent his knee
+alone before his Maker, and cried, in tones of repentant sadness,
+"Lord, I believe, help Thou mine unbelief."
+
+
+
+
+ESGAIR: THE BRIDE OF LLYN IDWYL.
+
+
+Among the mountains of Caernarvonshire none are more gloomy and
+precipitous than the dark sister Glydirs Fawr and Bach. Towering
+sublimely above the solitary waters of Llyn Idwyl, they rear their
+proud summits well nigh on a level with that of the loftier but less
+rugged Snowdon.
+
+Where is the wayfarer who can forget a calm autumn sunset seen from
+those barren heights?
+
+Valleys far and near shrouded in dim purpling mists; shadowy gigantic
+forms looming faintly in the deepening twilight; rose-tipped peaks
+floating amid a halo of glory in the evening sky; silver streamlets
+breaking here and there in white lines the dusky shades below; while
+afar, in the distance, the broad slumbering ocean bids a glittering
+farewell to the monarch of the day.
+
+Such was the panorama spread before the young Llewelyn many years ago,
+when in toilsome search after strayed sheep he came suddenly upon the
+highest part of the mountain. To his wearied eyes, however, nature for
+the time had no charm. With hurried and anxious footsteps he leapt from
+rock to rock, dreading to find some of his wandering flock with broken
+limbs. For, as with many other Welsh mountains, the crest of the Glydir
+Fawr is entirely composed of huge boulders roughly hurled together;
+deep treacherous crevices being often entirely concealed from view by
+the luxuriant growth of ferns, heather, and bilberries, which yield
+most unsubstantial footing to the unwary.
+
+Llewelyn's father, "Dafydd ap Gwynant," a well-known chieftain, had
+been slain in battle, and most of his possessions seized by his foes.
+The widowed Gwynneth, in terror for the safety of her only child, fled
+with him to the wild region now known as the pass of Nant Francon.
+There in solitude she reared her boy to habits of frugal simplicity. As
+years rolled on the widow prospered and her flocks increased. Yet still
+Llewelyn remained her only herd, and at eventide the steep sides of
+Llyn Ogwyn and Llyn Idwyl re-echoed with his loud carols and joyous
+shouts, as he summoned the cattle and sheep to their nightly fold.
+
+In these remote times wolves and other wild beasts still lurked among
+the Welsh hills. Nor did they limit their ravages to the destruction of
+animals alone, but when rendered desperate by hunger visited human
+habitations in search of their prey. Witness the touching history of
+Gelert the faithful hound, whose tomb is still to be seen in the little
+valley over which a dog's fidelity has shed undying renown. Hence the
+necessity for carefully collecting the herds at nightfall within some
+place of security.
+
+Llewelyn at length discovered his missing lambs on the steep northern
+sides of the Glydir, and herding them hurriedly together, crossed the
+shoulder of the mountain and descended towards Llyn Idwyl by the rugged
+pathway which leads past the narrow gorge now known as "the Devil's
+Kitchen." It was rapidly growing dark as he reached the plain, and he
+was hastening homewards, when by the waning light he perceived the
+surface of that gloomy lake to be strangely agitated. As he gazed, the
+head of a lovely maiden rose above the ripples, and seemed to his
+excited imagination to regard him with a tender wistful look. He rushed
+to the water's brink, and was about to cast off his coat and swim to
+the aid of the fair unknown, when, soft and clear as an evening bell,
+these words rang through the still air:--
+
+    "Three times lost, and three times won,
+    Canst thou win me, Dafydd's son?
+    Tender must thou be to me,
+    Tender should I be to thee.
+
+    To my mate in bridal hour
+    I can bring a princely dower;
+    But my wooing must be soon,
+    Ere has waned September's moon."
+
+Enraptured by these silvery notes, Llewelyn strained every nerve to
+listen, and as the nymph falteringly uttered the last words he felt a
+magic thrill run through his frame. He became possessed with a sudden
+desire to behold the entire form of the beautiful being whose head
+alone smiled on him across the watery waste; but as he approached
+nearer the sweet face disappeared, the surface of the loch became
+glassy and still. The pale rays of the rising moon illumined only the
+wide level mirror of Llyn Idwyl, and amazed and bewildered the youth
+turned to his home.
+
+After folding the sheep he entered the cottage. His mother had prepared
+a fragrant supper; but through Llewelyn's veins there ran a secret
+fire, and he turned restlessly from the food he was wont to relish in
+his calmer hours.
+
+Gwynneth was a mother in ten thousand. Though she had wandered far to
+obtain the oakleaves over which she had slowly smoked the pink trout;
+though her hands had been stung when she robbed the wild bees of their
+honey for her boy; though when faint and tired from her long ramble she
+had risen with fresh energy to mix and bake for her son the scones he
+loved; yet when she saw his disquietude and lack of appetite, no
+murmur, no query crossed her lips. Patiently she herself partook of the
+humble fare, and strove to cheer her moody child, while her own heart
+ached with vague doubts and fears.
+
+Hardly, however, had she cleared away the last traces of the
+half-consumed meal when Llewelyn extended himself full length on the
+deerskins at her feet, laid his hot head on her soothing lap, and by
+the flickering light of the fire (fed at intervals with cones from the
+pine forest) related to her his strange adventure.
+
+As Gwynneth listened to his words the iron entered into her soul. Every
+mother can sympathize with the pang she then experienced. The child she
+had borne through labour, sorrow, and pain; the infant she alone
+nourished and brought to manly strength; the all upon which every hope,
+every thought of the future is centred--the widow's only son--the idol
+of her heart--his love is passing from her. She is no longer to him the
+first, the dearest. Dreams of a nearer and dearer one are wakening in
+his young bosom. The mother is now his confidant; but well does she
+know that ere long the newly-beloved will be his only thought; that
+into her ear alone will be poured all the aspirations of his life. That
+henceforth and for evermore the mother must resign her son's heart to
+the keeping of another. Gwynneth in that hour felt the cold hand of
+fate clutch her past happiness. Her pulse stood still. But she was a
+noble woman. She knew the law of life was resistless. Come from a race
+of kings, with proud resolve she nerved her wounded spirit, and casting
+all meaner thoughts of self aside, threw herself with ardour into the
+interests of her son.
+
+While Llewelyn described the events of the evening, the mists cleared
+from the past and his mother dimly remembered an ancient tradition
+heard in days gone by. The half-forgotten legend ran thus:--A prince of
+royal Welsh blood fell in love with and wedded a water Nixie. No
+sooner, however, were his espousals accomplished than he, with his
+palace and all his treasures, became enchanted and covered by the
+waters of Llyn Idwyl, which then, at Venedotia's dread command, rose to
+its present height. The water god, through the marriage-tie of his
+beautiful child, had gained a subtle power over her human lover, and
+despite her entreaties worked this cruel spell to secure to her the
+unchanging faith of a mortal. While Gwynneth told this strange story,
+an old prophecy concerning this very prince, which she had often heard
+in her youth, suddenly flashed across her mind. Surprised it should so
+long have escaped her memory, she thus recited it to her listening son--
+
+    "When Rhuddlan's child with man shall mate
+    A light shall break on Rhuddlan's fate;
+    When thrice three wedded years pass by
+    Llyn Idwyl's waters shall run dry;
+    But if that wedded peace be riven,
+    By blows at random three times given,
+    Esgair must seek her father's cave,
+    Nor quit again the gloomy wave;
+    No slow revolving years shall wake
+    The spell-bound slumberers of the lake."
+
+"My son," exclaimed Gwynneth, "all is now clear to me. The fair
+daughter of King Rhuddlan has seen and chosen you to be the deliverer
+of herself and her family, who once owned the greater part of Wales;
+but who fell under Venedotia's spell so long ago that their existence
+is forgotten by the oldest inhabitant. I am proud that my child should
+aid in restoring our ancient line of kings. But Llewelyn," murmured
+she, placing her hand fondly on his brown wavy locks, "you must pray
+for strength, and enter on this strange adventure with the aid of
+heavenly courage." Long into the night sat that gentle mother holding
+counsel with her son, and even when they sought their rude couches but
+scant sleep sealed their eyelids.
+
+Next day Llewelyn fulfilled his various duties with feverish
+impatience, he yearned for the evening hour, and as the moon's rays
+fell over the lone heights of the Glydir he stood once more by Llyn
+Idwyl's brink, and in a low clear voice uttered these words:--
+
+    "By the Glydir's rugged side,
+    By thy father's captive pride,
+    By the strains of mortal love
+    Stealing o'er thee from above,
+    By thine own enchanted lake,
+    Esgair, fairest! hear and wake!"
+
+Scarcely had he finished, when a long train of light shot across the
+loch, and, glittering with a thousand watery diamonds, Esgair half
+arose and stretched forth towards him her lovely arms. A smile of hope
+irradiated her pure countenance, and as Llewelyn knelt awestruck upon
+the beach, she slowly chanted these lines:--
+
+    "Through Llewelyn's devotion deliverance draws near;
+    'Twixt sunset and sunrise to-morrow be here,
+    Though strife be around thee yet suffer no fear
+    If Rhuddlan's poor daughter to thee seemeth dear;
+    Forget not that o'er her the sign must be crossed,
+    Or she and her kindred for ever are lost!"
+
+With a parting wave of her hand Esgair slowly disappeared, and nought
+was visible save the reflection of the moon, which, dancing and
+sparkling across the dark agitated bosom of Llyn Idwyl, ended in a
+pathway of light at Llewelyn's feet. It was an omen of hope for the
+morrow, and with joyful steps he returned to his home. Here, however he
+was somewhat harassed by fears as to the poor accommodation they could
+offer to the bride.
+
+"Dear mother," he urged, "she is a high-born princess; her hair, neck,
+and arms sparkle with priceless jewels. She may scorn our lowly hut,
+and reproach me for bringing her to so humble a home."
+
+"Nay, my son," replied Gwynneth; "the heart of a true maiden seeketh
+ever something more precious than gold or riches; the love of a
+faithful partner is doubtless what Esgair yearns to find. It is,
+moreover, borne in upon me that the daughter of Rhuddlan will not come
+dowerless to the son of Dafydd. Be she poor, however, or be she rich,
+we will give her the best we have; and I tell you she will hold it
+dearer than life."
+
+Heaven that night shed its own peace over the widow and her son, and
+their last evening alone together was long remembered by each as a time
+of holy calm. By day-break next morning they were already astir. Many
+preparations had still to be made. Llewelyn went across the hills to
+petition Saint Tudno to pronounce his bridal benediction. The holy
+father was now making his yearly pilgrimage through Wales, visiting and
+cheering his feeble scattered flock, who clung fast together and
+revered with a passionate tenderness their few and faithful teachers.
+
+It was at an ancient farm upon the slopes of Carnedd Llewelyn that
+Llewelyn and his mother had, only a few days agone, knelt and received
+the good priest's blessing, and Gwynneth doubted not that he would
+consent to partake for one night of their rude hospitality, for the
+purpose of uniting her son and the rescued Esgair in the bands of holy
+wedlock.
+
+Ere the sun had passed its meridian, Gwynneth's hopes were realized.
+The venerable father, guided by Llewelyn, safely reached her door, and
+after partaking with them of their frugal noontide meal retired to rest
+a while, and to resume the devotions broken in upon by his unforeseen
+expedition. It weighed much on his mind that no church was near wherein
+the espousals might be celebrated, but he was fully conscious of the
+difficulties of Llewelyn's position. He shrewdly suspected that until
+holy rites had been performed the wild spirits would do their utmost to
+reclaim and recapture the newly-rescued bride. Ere seeking his chamber
+therefore, the good father carefully sprinkled holy water around the
+dwelling, and fervently besought Heaven's blessing on the approaching
+union.
+
+Some time before the hour of sunset Llewelyn and his mother started for
+the banks of Llyn Idwyl. They followed the rocky course of that little
+stream, which still breaks in foam from the eastern side of the loch,
+and babbling and brawling flows past the very stones where Gwynneth's
+little cottage once stood. The evening was wild and threatening, and
+the sky had strangely changed since Saint Tudno alighted at their
+dwelling. Thunder reverberating through the mountains awakened hoarse
+echoes on every side. Wild clouds in fantastic shapes scudded across
+the lowering heavens, and fitful gleams from the sinking sun threw dark
+shadows across their pathway. Ever and anon drenching showers brushed
+by in short sharp gusts, half blinding them, and causing inexplicable
+terror to the ponies; one of which Gwynneth rode and the other Llewelyn
+led for his bride. More than once, as they pursued their way, Gwynneth
+imagined that white arms and hooded figures waved defiance before her;
+but surprise and doubt held her mute, or perhaps ere she could speak
+the rain dashed on her face and she perceived that her fancy had
+conjured menacing forms from the eddying spindrift around. Llewelyn
+also was haunted by outbursts of mocking laughter, but when, amazed, he
+turned to his mother, the wild turbulence of the little streamlet
+taught him he had mistaken its noisy vehemence for sounds of demoniacal
+mirth.
+
+At last they reached Llyn Idwyl's side. The sky once more grew calm and
+clear. The sun had long since disappeared behind the dark mountain, and
+the stars faintly twinkling overhead had already lit their feeble
+lamps. The lake itself, however, presented a wild scene. Furious gusts
+of wind agitated the surface. Sheets of spray bearing the semblance of
+hideous figures were dashed hither and thither. A rushing noise as of a
+thousand waterfalls drowned every other sound, and Llewelyn in vain
+tried to make his voice audible amid the din of the elements. Again and
+again he endeavoured to shout Esgair's name, but the mad roaring of the
+winds and waves was all that could be heard.
+
+"To your knees, my son, and pray for help," whispered Gwynneth in his
+ear, and in despair Llewelyn sank on the ground and fervently invoked
+the aid of Heaven. As if in answer to his prayer, at this instant the
+moon tipped the frowning mountain; her bright rays irradiated the wild
+scene beneath and diminished in some measure the confusion and uproar.
+Then, white and dripping as a storm-tost waterlily, the lovely figure
+of Rhuddlan's daughter slowly emerged from the lake until her feet were
+visible. She advanced along the moon-lit path, which alone remained
+serene and calm. On either side horrid arms were stretched as if to
+grasp her shrinking form, and rude blasts of spray burst in torrents
+over her defenceless head.
+
+Llewelyn knelt in silent prayer till she neared the water brink, when,
+springing to her side, he drew her tenderly on shore, signing at the
+same time on her brow the holy symbol of the cross; while wild shrieks
+and groans resounded across the lake. He lifted Esgair, trembling and
+exhausted, on the pony, where his strong arm was needed to support her.
+The moon suddenly disappeared behind a cloud; the rain burst forth with
+redoubled vehemence, while such peals of thunder broke around and above
+them that the startled ponies could hardly be restrained from dashing
+madly away. Llewelyn, well-nigh desperate, in vain strove to recognize
+the homeward path. Black darkness encompassed them and hid every
+well-known landmark from view.
+
+Just as he was at his wits' end, suddenly gleamed afar a small bright
+cross, shedding divine lustre through the gloom. At the same instant
+there fell on their ears the faint chime of distant bells--a strange
+unaccustomed sound in those wild regions. They paused not, however, to
+question the cause of the welcome phenomena; but with gladness turned
+in the direction of the cross, which moved before them as they
+advanced; Llewelyn still supporting Esgair, and murmuring words of
+encouragement into her ear. More than once he received rough buffets
+from invisible foes, and wicked threats were whispered by the hoarse
+blasts; but he kept his eyes fixed steadfastly on the sacred symbol
+which guided them in the path of safety, and ere long the unnatural
+tempest spent itself. The fiery cross grew dim, and finally
+disappeared, and the rest of their homeward route was accomplished by
+the returning light of the moon.
+
+Nearer and nearer rang the joyful bells, as if crashing forth a paean of
+welcome to the belated wanderers; and what was their astonishment on
+coming within sight of the place where their humble dwelling lately
+stood amid unbroken solitudes, to observe innumerable twinkling lights
+borne to and fro, while, by the light of the moon, the tall battlements
+of some huge building rose over the site once covered by their happy
+little home.
+
+Confused and perplexed, Gwynneth thought to chide her son for bringing
+them the wrong way. But now Esgair, with new life, sprang to the
+ground, and, turning towards Gwynneth, said with exceeding grace,
+
+"This was my father's home. He bestows it willingly upon us--it is
+yours. But, oh! take me to your heart, and give me a mother's love."
+
+Gwynneth hastened to alight, and clasping her new daughter to her
+bosom, hesitated no longer to enter the massive portals thrown wide
+open before them. As they stepped beneath the archway, solemn strains
+of music became audible. A long line of priests and choristers moved
+across the lofty hall within; bands of fair maidens robed in white
+approached Esgair, and tenderly saluting her placed her in their midst.
+Last of all the holy Father Tudno drew near and motioned Gwynneth and
+Llewelyn to his side.
+
+Deeply agitated by a thousand conflicting emotions, Gwynneth, Esgair,
+and Llewelyn now beheld before them as they advanced a small chapel
+brilliantly lighted for high festival. With slow and reverend step
+Saint Tudno withdrew within the altar space, and united in holy wedlock
+the strangely-mated pair before him. Long and lowly did they bend
+before the sacred shrine, and when at length they retired down the
+aisles, the clear high voices of the singers rang out in joyful
+strains, while far overhead the jubilant bells told with their iron
+tongues the glad news that the first bar of fate had been undone--the
+condition fulfilled that ran thus in the old legend:
+
+    "When Rhuddlan's child with man shall mate
+    A light shall break on Rhuddlan's fate."
+
+Time fails me to tell of the splendours of that night of rejoicing, or
+the magnificent appointments of the castle. But it is impossible to
+pass by in silence the exceeding beauty of the bride, or the manly
+serious grace of her bridegroom. Esgair's waving nut-brown tresses fell
+over her shoulders, bound here and there by priceless diamonds. Her
+violet eyes, her dazzling complexion, her long robe of silver sheen,
+displaying every motion of her graceful figure, her wondrous charm of
+manner,--all enchanted the beholder. She looked and moved the daughter
+of a hundred kings.
+
+Llewelyn's countenance, even in that deep hour of joy, wore the
+chastened expression of one who has struggled and suffered. In the
+midst of his new-found wealth he was fain to remember, with a feeling
+akin to pain, that this proud castle and all its appurtenances was the
+heritage of his wife and her father. But as Esgair turned her soft eyes
+upon him, the toils of the past and the uncertainty of the future were
+alike forgotten, and love beamed effulgent on his soul.
+
+Night and stillness fell over that great castle. Only alone in an upper
+chamber--the widowed wife--the lonely mother--wrestled in silent prayer
+for her children until the day broke over the east and opened to the
+world once more the golden gates of the sun.
+
+On the morrow all was new and strange to Gwynneth and Llewelyn; but
+Esgair guided them from room to room of the splendid palace, and
+related to them endless tales told her by her father, of what had
+happened within its walls, ere the spell of enchantment consigned him
+and his to the dark waters of oblivion.
+
+To Gwynneth the long corridors and stately chambers with their quaint
+hangings of tapestry recalled her early home. Llewelyn (who though of
+princely race, had been reared in poverty) felt a certain restraint
+amid all this new-found grandeur, and bore with ill-concealed
+impatience the ministrations of the countless servants, whose presence
+fettered his free action and oppressed his simple nature.
+
+Soon, however, the varied interests of his new position became
+all-engrossing. Surrounded by retainers skilled in every kind of sport,
+possessed of the fleetest steeds and truest falcons in the country,
+blessed with the tenderest of wives and mothers, he seldom had time to
+revert even in thought to the fewer and less luxurious pleasures of his
+youth. He and Esgair became passionately fond of hawking, and many
+happy days were thus spent, when, splendidly mounted and attended by a
+numerous train, they would scour the country around and return wearied
+yet joyous at eventide to relate to Gwynneth the adventures of the day.
+
+It was during one of these hunting excursions that Esgair, roused by
+the excitement of the chase, urged her palfrey to its utmost speed, and
+distancing all her companions, came suddenly to a small level plateau
+amid the mountains. Here a little streamlet had its birth, gushing
+forth from the rock itself in cold purity. The hawk was already
+stooping over its quarry, and Esgair finding herself alone, called
+repeatedly to the bird in great fear lest it should fail in its object.
+While she was thus employed, Llewelyn came rapidly in sight, and riding
+up to her, playfully struck her on the shoulder with his gauntlet,
+crying gaily, "Methought, fair lady, you were running away from us all;
+but you have deftly won the race to-day, and yours must be the heron's
+plume."
+
+The rest of the merry party now came up, but while with eager
+excitement they watched the protracted struggles of the two birds,
+Llewelyn turned his own and his wife's palfrey aside, and under
+pretence of arranging her dress whispered to Esgair, "Nay, dearest,
+wherein have I vexed thee? I was only watchful for thy dear sake,
+fearing when out of my sight lest evil should befall thee."
+
+To his great surprise tears dimmed her eyes, and the colour mantled
+higher in her flushed cheek as she murmured in low tones, "You have
+struck the first blow."
+
+Amazed and incredulous, it was some time before Llewelyn could recall
+to mind the weird prophecy his mother had repeated to him. As they
+leant sadly over their panting horses by the little spring, a white arm
+emerged from the mossy bank and waved beckoning towards Esgair, while,
+like a faint sigh of the breeze, fell these chill numbers on their
+ears--
+
+    "One blow hath fallen on Esgair's fate,
+    And grieved Llewelyn's gentle mate."
+
+Thoroughly startled he rushed forward, but the fancied apparition was
+only a little shower of spray which, caught by the eddying wind, dashed
+itself over him, wetting his gay clothes and soaking him to the skin.
+Were the words he had heard but the offspring of his own imagination?
+
+Now with loud cries the victory of the falcon was proclaimed, and the
+gallant esquire, riding up to his mistress, courteously presented her
+with the heron's plume, and craved permission to fasten it in her hat.
+Esgair accepted the gift with her wonted grace, but it was with
+saddened hearts that she and Llewelyn turned homewards. The dispiriting
+influence soon communicated itself to their followers, and in
+melancholy guise the merry party of the morning silently re-entered the
+castle walls.
+
+Ere they retired to rest, however, Esgair and Llewelyn sought the
+little chapel where their marriage vows had been interchanged, and as
+they knelt together in prayer an ineffable calm soothed their troubled
+spirits, and on seeking their chamber a deep joy cradled them to rest.
+
+Their life now passed away in uneventful happiness, until, as the time
+drew near the birth of Christ, Esgair had a son, whose advent was
+hailed with universal rejoicing. Llewelyn with trembling joy welcomed
+his little child, and drew many hopeful auguries for the future from
+his first seeing the light in the glorious holy tide of Christmas.
+Esgair suffered considerably in health, causing her husband great
+anxiety, and it was some time before she could resume her wonted place
+in the castle. But she seemed strangely anxious to have her child
+baptized at the earliest possible moment. They were obliged, however,
+to wait some little time for the holy Father Tudno, who, again
+travelling that way on his stated rounds, promised by a certain day to
+receive the babe into the arms of the Church.
+
+Meanwhile the nurses were forbidden to stray without the precincts of
+the castle, and specially warned against approaching either of the
+lakes which lay within such easy distance--Llyn Ogwyn and Llyn Idwyl.
+It was rumoured that strange forms were to be sometimes seen wandering
+round the castle. Esgair herself, whose gentle ways had endeared her to
+all around, began to be regarded with suspicion, as, when hardly strong
+enough to leave her chamber, she insisted on taking solitary walks, was
+long absent, and frequently returned with traces of tears on her cheek.
+At such times she would redouble her cautions to the nurses, and sit
+for hours watching uneasily over her babe. They told wild tales,
+moreover, of seeing their mistress in the dead of night leaning over
+the little one's cradle and with clasped hands and streaming eyes
+seeming to wrestle in prayer with some invisible power. She would then
+clasp the infant in her arms, sign a cross over its forehead and
+replace it slumbering and unconscious in its cot.
+
+But the slow weeks moved on, St. Valentine's day at last arrived, and
+with it the good Father to perform the promised rite. Every preparation
+made, and the little chapel adorned with the pale flowers of early
+spring time--the drooping snowdrop, and the Christmas rose, nestling in
+rich green moss from the glen--Gwynneth proudly bore her little
+grandson to the font, and the holy service began.
+
+The wind and rain without, hitherto hardly noticed, now dashed with
+such force against the casements as to endanger their frail fastenings,
+while above the chant of the choristers could be distinctly heard the
+wild howling of the tempest. The little child itself moved restlessly
+from side to side, and seemed to feel an adverse influence threatening
+its fate. All eyes, however, were turned on the lady of the castle,
+who, with mortal terror depicted on her countenance, eagerly scanned
+the high windows and shuddered visibly as the storm increased. But now
+the reverend Father took the babe in his arms and ascended the steps of
+the font. Louder and louder roared the fierce winds without, and as one
+mighty gust shook the chapel to its very foundations, Esgair uttered a
+faint moan. Llewelyn impatiently turned for the first time towards her,
+and, angrily touching her shoulder to recall her attention to the
+service, muttered some hasty rebuke about disturbing the people around
+by her ill-timed fears. Father Tudno at this moment formally demanded
+the child's name, and Llewelyn gave him, as had already been agreed
+upon, the name of "Rhiwallon." As the holy Father, repeating over the
+infant the tender words of his faith, was about to sign on its brow the
+sacred symbol of the cross, a terrific blast shattered the casements
+into a thousand pieces, all the lights throughout the chapel were
+instantly extinguished, while a deluging shower fell on the group round
+the font. Eldritch laughter rang through the air, a piercing shriek was
+heard, and phantom forms tried to wrench the little babe from the good
+priest's arms. Undismayed and calm however, Saint Tudno gathered the
+helpless lamb of the fold still closer in his sheltering clasp, and ere
+the strife of the rough elements well-nigh reached him, the little
+Rhiwallon was already a member of the eternal Church. But in Llewelyn's
+awe-struck ear sounded these dread words--
+
+    "Blare wildly ye breezes a blast of delight,
+    A blow hath been struck by Llewelyn this night."
+
+Now with flying footsteps came a page bearing a torch. The wild force
+of the tempest seemed to have spent itself, and comparative peace
+reigned without the castle. Within, the lights were once more kindled,
+but their rays fell upon a cold inanimate form. Poor Esgair had fallen
+forwards, her head lay on the hard stone floor, her hands were still
+raised as if in supplication to some invisible power, while dark red
+blood slowly oozed forth from beneath her luxuriant tresses. With a cry
+of terror Llewelyn raised her in his arms. He found that in falling she
+had struck against the stone step of the font, and a somewhat deep
+wound was made under her thick soft hair. He bore her tenderly to her
+chamber. Through the livelong night with keen anguish he and his mother
+(suffering no meaner hand to tend her) ministered to her wants. At
+times she cried uneasily for her babe, nor could they soothe or appease
+her until the little Rhiwallon was brought and laid beside his
+suffering mother in the great state bed, with its dark gorgeous
+hangings and curious antique carving. Llewelyn, heart-sore and
+grievously conscience-stricken, bent over the half-slumbering pair.
+They seemed to his excited imagination like the flower and the bud
+rudely torn from the parent stem and fading before his very eyes. He
+listened anxiously over their lips to assure himself of their actual
+breathing. Esgair, half-awakened, moved restlessly until feeling her
+babe again cradled in her arms, she murmured low words of endearment
+over him, and sank once more into troubled slumber. Many days she
+struggled between life and death; and as Llewelyn kept the weary
+watches by her side, he mournfully remembered that it was his own
+thoughtless temper which had brought all this upon his faithful wife,
+and recklessly dissolved one more link that bound her life to his. She
+explained to him that her fears had been roused lest the powerful
+Venedotia should gain possession of their boy ere he was christened,
+and hence the strange precautions she had taken and her extreme terror
+in the chapel. She was unable, moreover, to warn those around her, as
+her first word of elucidation would have sealed the death-warrant of
+her babe; so powerful was the spell still exercised by the fierce
+enchanter over Rhuddlan's ill-fated race.
+
+April breezes brought sounds of spring into the land ere Esgair, pale
+and wan--like one who has passed through the valley of the dark
+shadow--was once more borne down the castle stair and carried abroad to
+be invigorated by the reviving vernal air. She had taken a strong
+dislike to the "Castle of the Lakes," as their present home was called.
+Nor can this be wondered at, considering the baneful influence that had
+threatened not only her own but her infant's life. She entreated
+Llewelyn to build another dwelling by the sea-shore, where strength and
+health might more rapidly return to her, and where she hoped to be in a
+measure free from the fell designs of Venedotia.
+
+With eager zest her repentant husband followed the bent of Esgair's
+mind, and, after many pleasant excursions to the neighbouring shores in
+search of a site, they at length resolved to raise the walls of their
+new castle in the centre of the rich plain which then lay between the
+proud headlands of Penmaenmaur and Penmaenbach.
+
+Esgair took intense interest in the progress of the builders, who were
+now set to work with the utmost diligence. Throughout the long summer,
+she, Gwynneth, Llewelyn, and the babe with his nurses, dwelt in a
+little shieling on the steep sides of Penmaenmaur. Daily descending to
+the broad fertile meadows amid which was to be their future home, they
+cheered and encouraged the labourers at their work. Ere the mellow
+September time came round, the walls of the new castle had already
+risen to a considerable height.
+
+It was now two years since the bridal day of Esgair and Llewelyn. Never
+had mortal man been blessed with a gentler, sweeter help-mate. High and
+low worshipped their kind mistress; and the most unruly of their
+half-savage retainers would fly to anticipate her slightest desire.
+
+The little Rhiwallon was a lovely babe; healthy and well tended ever
+since his birth, his firm limbs and rosy cheeks were full of promise.
+His dark eye already beamed with intelligence, and his broad brow bore
+the impress of future intellectual power. What long hours that fond
+mother passed alone with her babe! At eventide she ascended the wooden
+steps of the shieling, and sending the women to make merry with their
+friends without, hungrily watched over her child. Gwynneth and Llewelyn
+perhaps sitting silent below, heard sounds as of a cushat dove cooing
+over its young. Sometimes the tones became more audible, and words
+could be distinguished--the mother crooning to her little one as if he
+could understand.
+
+"Thou art delivered, my baby, from the evil fate that menaces thy poor
+mother. Thy pure forehead bears on it the sign of the holy cross. Over
+thee the angel of darkness hath now no power save through that mother's
+will. How could they think, my child, that to save herself a parent
+would yield up her darling. Nay, nay; when they tempted me to delay thy
+baptismal hour, they fathomed not the undying love Rhiwallon's mother
+bears her beautiful boy--her treasure!"
+
+Such and other dreamy wailing words overheard in the gloaming by
+Gwynneth and her son, revealed to them the unselfish part Esgair had
+played in the events of the past. Pangs of remorse again oppressed
+Llewelyn as he recalled his harsh rebuke in the chapel. He now surmised
+that could the Evil Powers only gain possession of Rhiwallon, Rhuddlan
+and his race, including Esgair herself, would be delivered from all
+future trouble, and freed for ever from the mystic enchantments of
+Venedotia. But while Gwynneth and Llewelyn trembled at the danger to
+which the infant had been exposed, they prized more tenderly than ever
+his fragile mother, whose conduct had throughout been above praise; and
+kneeling down, they offered sincere prayer that through the exceeding
+faith and purity of Esgair's life she might, with heavenly aid, prevent
+the sacrifice of her child, and yet live to accomplish the deliverance
+of her race.
+
+It was a lovely September afternoon, the sun streamed down on the rich
+purple heather, where Esgair, playing with her boy, sat beside a small
+rivulet close to the walls of the rising castle. The workmen, resting
+for their afternoon meal, were refreshed with milk provided for them by
+the kind command of their lady. Gwynneth, busily engaged in some labour
+of love, had remained up at the little shieling, while the solitary
+nurse who accompanied Esgair was seated with her work at some distance
+from the mother and her child.
+
+Llewelyn had gone forth at break of day to hunt the deer, and as yet
+there was no sign of his return. A halo of sylvan peace enshrouded the
+fair scene and the actors therein. Amid autumnal silence the distant
+sea lay smooth as glass. Like a dim blue mist slumbered the far outline
+of the low-lying islands without. On either side rose the frowning
+sentinels of the vale between--the giant Penmaenmaur and the scarcely
+smaller Penmaenbach; while behind the smiling plain rose heathery
+slopes, undulating in successive lines towards the gloomy Tal-y-van.
+
+Stretched on soft furs Esgair played with her beautiful laughter-loving
+babe. Sometimes she tossed him crowing aloft, and caught him tenderly
+again to her heart, then, changing from grave to gay, would whisper
+softly in his little ear strange old tales and legends. (It was
+afterwards asserted that when Rhiwallon grew to be a man many of his
+wondrous gifts came from his unconscious remembrance of that mother
+lore.) After much time thus spent in dallying with her infant, at
+length Esgair raised him in her arms and descended with him to the
+brink of the murmuring streamlet, being thus lost sight of by the
+nurse, who, still within easy hail, did not move from her
+all-engrossing handicraft.
+
+The peaceful afternoon wore onwards, and soon Llewelyn, hot and
+fatigued, and with a somewhat clouded brow (for the day's sport had
+been unsuccessful), came striding down the narrow path, and, accosting
+the nurse, inquired for her mistress and child. The maid pointed out
+the course of the rivulet, and Llewelyn springing forward soon cleared
+the short space between, and gained the little eminence where the furs,
+still scattered in rich profusion, bore witness to the late presence of
+Esgair and the babe. Looking impatiently around in quest of them, to
+his horror and surprise Llewelyn perceived his son in the arms of a
+strange old man with a long hoary beard and white flowing garments. The
+little boy seemed pleased and happy; he was cooing to his mother, while
+she, seated on a rock in the midst of the purling brook, and within a
+stone's-throw of where Llewelyn stood, watched Rhiwallon's every
+movement with keen delight. Llewelyn paused not to observe the majestic
+stature and noble countenance of the unknown (who was, in fact, the
+ancient Rhuddlan, the babe's grandfather), nor remembered till
+afterwards, when it was too late, Esgair's look of entranced happiness.
+So absorbed was she that she did not hear her husband's exclamation of
+anger, did not see his rapid steps down the hillock, knew and felt
+nothing till he roughly smote her on the shoulder and sharply asked
+what she meant by allowing their child (during his absence) to become
+the plaything of any old vagrant about the place, letting him also run
+the risk of every passing infection of illness. He would have added
+more bitter words of reproach, but as he spoke the old man suddenly
+disappeared. The baby gave a loud cry and fell splashing into the
+water. His mother at once caught and drew him out, and, with streaming
+eyes laid him on Llewelyn's breast, while around, above, below, with a
+sound of many rushing waters, could be distinguished these
+hoarsely-muttered words:--
+
+    "The final undoing of Fate hath begun,
+    And Esgair's frail portion of happiness done;
+    Arise and return to us, child of the lake,
+    Nor nursling nor husband thy slumbers shall wake."
+
+Quick as light Esgair turned a strange look of terror on her husband.
+"The waters, the cruel waters!" she cried; "haste to the hills ere it
+be too late--hasten, or they will overwhelm you!" No thought of her own
+fate unnerved the heroic woman. Waving wildly to the workmen, she bade
+them escape for their lives, and indeed the nurse had already seen from
+above, and turned to warn them of an impending tempest. Lurid clouds
+veiled the sun, wild winds sighed around, strange shapes arose in the
+bed of the little river, madly leaping to and fro, while, stranger than
+all, and striking consternation to the bravest heart, with low growls
+as of far thunder, arose a huge black wall of water in the distant sea,
+and seemed ever approaching nearer. Sea gulls and cormorants wheeled in
+the air above, uttering dissonant cries. Affrighted and amazed, the
+terrified workmen left tools, clothes, and implements behind and fled
+in desperate haste towards the mountains.
+
+At this moment Esgair, turning, perceived that Llewelyn, paralyzed with
+terror and remorse, could move neither hand nor foot to save himself or
+the child. Endued for the time being with superhuman strength, she
+snatched the babe from his arms, and crying "Follow me," swept rapidly
+across the uneven ground, sometimes stumbling and nearly falling, but
+never stopping to take breath until, on the slopes of Moel Llys, she
+reached the trembling crowd, who from this vantage-ground watched the
+wild work of destruction below. Breathless and exhausted she flung
+herself down on the soft turf and soothed the bitterly crying and
+frightened infant.
+
+Esgair's hurried flight awoke Llewelyn from the stupor of despair. He
+followed and aided her as best he could, and now stood by her side. In
+silent awe that little assembly beheld the appalling inroad of the
+waters. Like a dark pall, the slow moving mass spread itself over the
+fertile lands below; ere long it reached the castle; the unfinished
+walls disappeared, and soon a wide watery waste covered the whilome
+scene of busy labour and the rich fields around. At length the
+remorseless waves dashed unavailingly beneath the rising ground where
+stood the trembling fugitives. Loud thanksgivings for their safety
+arose from these simple pious men, and they gratefully acknowledged the
+hand of Providence in their wonderful escape from a watery grave.
+
+But now low sobs of anguish were heard, a mother--like Rachel of
+old--weeping over her child, and refusing to be comforted. The gentle
+Esgair, wan and weary, lay prostrate upon the ground. Painfully she
+drew her labouring breath and strained Rhiwallon to her poor aching
+heart. Her eyes were mournfully fixed on Llewelyn, as if to take a last
+farewell. His grief could find no utterance. With gloomy foreboding he
+recalled the words of the ancient legend, and a cold thrill ran through
+him as he remembered that his fatal impatience had not only tempted
+Esgair's fate, but according to the old prophecy had riveted still more
+firmly the spell that bound her hapless kinsmen; for was it not
+written--
+
+    But if that wedded peace be riven,
+    By blows at random three times given,
+    Esgair must seek her father's cave,
+    Nor quit again the gloomy wave,
+    No slow revolving years shall wake
+    The spell-bound slumberers of the lake.
+
+By this time the tempest had gradually died away. A faint melody of
+unearthly beauty fell on their ears--as they listened wondering and
+entranced, they heard these thrilling words:
+
+    Three times lost, and three times won,
+    Thou hast wedded Dafydd's son:
+    Brow that holy sign hath crossed
+    Ne'er can be by witchcraft lost.
+    By thy faith and suffering power
+    Thou hast won the conquering hour;
+    Though the spell on thee must break,
+    Rhuddlan's race from sleep shall wake;
+    Thou and thine shall dwell in light,
+    Saved by glory infinite.
+    Rise, the evil spell is broken,
+    Peace be thine, and this the token.
+
+As the voice ceased the sun broke through the clouds, and from his
+western declivity threw a long radiance across the calming ocean.
+Within this glittering pathway stood an angel of exceeding beauty, and
+of grave and majestic countenance. With his left hand he beckoned to
+Esgair. With his right he pointed to the golden rays behind him, within
+which myriad shapes of brightest loveliness seemed to move. The light
+fell on Esgair's head as she arose with new strength from the earth.
+Already a solemn stillness hushed the grief of her pale features and a
+new expression beamed from her pure face.
+
+"Heaven guard and guide thee, my babe," she said, and placing him
+tenderly in his nurse's arms, turned to Llewellyn imploring him to wish
+her farewell. He approached and wildly cast his arms around her--the
+strong passions of earth still raged uncontrolled in his unchastened
+bosom--but she slowly disengaged herself from his despairing caress and
+hopefully trod the brief steps that divided her from the heavenly
+visitant. The angel took her by the hand--once more with overflowing
+tenderness she waved adieu to her husband, and ere the awestruck
+Llewelyn could move from where he stood, the red sun disappeared with a
+sudden dip behind the distant island. With him also, alas! were gone
+the last faint traces of that pathway of light, wherein had moved, but
+a moment before, those bright blessed forms, connecting earth with the
+upper world.
+
+Breaking from his trancelike despair, Llewelyn madly rushed to the
+water's brink and again and again strove to end his miserable existence
+by flinging himself into the gloomy sea. But his people restrained him,
+and the nurse brought the little Rhiwallon to his side. The unhappy
+father turned to look on his child, then with renewed agony, as he
+remembered how he had for ever deprived that tender nursling of a
+mother's care, he groaned aloud and smote his hands wildly together.
+But now, through the quiet evening air--calm and serene--like dew on
+the parched and weary herb, was borne this soothing message from
+invisible realms:
+
+    Farewell to the home of my brief mortal years,
+    Farewell to the valley of sunshine and tears.
+    Now over our castle on Arvon's pale shore
+    The waters of Meinai shall surge evermore.
+    Llyn Idwyl! sleep calmly--thou desolate lake.
+    Dark Glydirs! no Esgair your echoes shall wake.
+    But mourn not, Llewelyn, the fate of thy love,
+    She smiles still upon thee from regions above.
+    Arise and walk onward, nor idly repine,
+    A mission that angels might sigh for is thine,
+    To guide and to shelter through life's opening days
+    Rhiwallon, whose future all Cymri shall praise.
+    The Spirit Divine hath inclined to my voice,
+    And parents and kindred around me rejoice.
+    My fate is accomplished--the spell overcome,
+    And Paradise opens to Rhuddlan a home.
+
+The sudden shadow that had followed sunset now gave way to gorgeous
+colouring. From the closed western portals of the day emerged rich
+waving lines of gold and roseate hue, and spread far overhead. Behind
+the distant islands where the sun had disappeared glowed an atmosphere
+of living amber. For a brief moment the gates of Paradise were indeed
+"standing ajar" to receive the now immortal Esgair and her long lost
+kindred.
+
+Awhile the watchers on the shore continued on their knees hoping once
+more to see that heavenly visitant or hear again the soul-stirring
+voice that had fallen from unseen lips. At last one by one they arose,
+and gazing seawards by the waning light beheld the broad band of waters
+still covering the fertile plains, the green meadows, and the
+unfinished castle. Little rippling waves broke at their feet and marked
+the boundary line, where to this day, the waves surge and swell between
+the mighty Penmaens upon the Cambrian Coast.
+
+At this moment Gwynneth arrived breathless in their midst and joined
+her lamentations to those of the little babe, who, missing his mother,
+bewailed her loss in heart-rending tones.
+
+The workmen now turned to seek a night's lodging where they could, for
+their temporary dwellings had shared the fate of the more lordly
+castle. Llewelyn, still carrying his child, motioned to his mother to
+draw somewhat aside, and as they slowly remounted the hill, frequently
+pausing to cast wistful glances around, and to strain their eyes in
+vain toward the fading west, he related to her the various occurrences
+of that fatal day and repeated the farewell words of his lost wife.
+"Hear me, mother," exclaimed he, as they gained the door of the
+shieling; "by the remembrance of my Esgair's pure and holy life, I
+devote myself henceforth to the fulfilment of her behest, and while
+life and strength remain I promise so to cherish and bring up our child
+(aided by heavenly power) that he shall renew the memory of his sainted
+mother, and become the benefactor of mankind."
+
+Clasping the babe closer in his arms he turned to enter at the lowly
+door, but with a cry of joy the infant stretched out its little arms,
+and lo! soft and pure in the western sky gleamed through the dusk the
+gentle Evening Star. Then Llewelyn knew in his heart that his vow had
+been heard, and that an angel spirit shone approval of his humble
+resolution.
+
+With mournful resignation, aided by his mother and cheered by the
+ministrations of the good Father Tudno, Llewelyn passed the remainder
+of his days in the careful up-bringing of his son. They never returned
+to the Castle of the Lakes. For at daybreak on the morning which
+succeeded Esgair's translation, a messenger arrived footsore and weary
+bringing strange tidings of devastation. As the last stroke of midnight
+clanged from the castle clock the whole mighty fabric disappeared, and
+with it the numerous servants, the fleet steeds, and the fabulous
+wealth which Esgair's bridal night had brought to Llewelyn.
+
+Gwynneth and Llewelyn now fixed their abode on the giant slopes of
+Penmaenmaur, and often at sunset the father was seen pointing up the
+golden pathway and watching with his little son for the first pale ray
+of the Evening Star.
+
+Rhiwallon grew and flourished apace. His was a fearless nature. He
+loved the sea, the hills, the birds, and the flowers. His childish brow
+only became clouded with pain or sorrow for the sufferings of man and
+beast, which even in earliest boyhood he ever yearned to alleviate.
+
+When still an infant he was often found with a sweet smile upon his
+countenance, and in after years could recall the dim vision of an angel
+form that bent over and lulled him in his dreams, but was ever absent
+when he awoke. Gwynneth and Llewelyn were long spared to foster his
+awakening talents, and ere they were gathered to their fathers the name
+of Rhiwallon had become a household word, for the sweet songs of the
+gentle bard are to this day remembered and sung wherever the Cymri
+tongue is known and loved.[1]
+
+          [1] Founded on an old Welsh legend. There is a submerged
+          half-built castle between Penmaenmaur and Penmaenbach, which
+          can be seen at low tides.
+
+
+
+
+EOTHWALD: THE YOUNG SCULPTOR.
+
+
+It will not surprise you, dear children, to learn that after Hans
+Christian Andersen wrote his touching story of "The Little Mermaid,"
+the whole world sighed with a strong desire to behold the true likeness
+of that loving and lovely heroine.
+
+Painters and sculptors wandered anxiously by the sea-shore; not alone
+in Denmark, but in many other countries, seeking thus to obtain a
+glimpse of one of the mermaidens--whose whole race has been for ever
+immortalized by the gentle Dane--longing to depict on canvas, or to
+carve in marble, the fair lineaments of the faithful sea-child who gave
+her voice and her life for the Prince she loved.
+
+Now for successive ages it has been well known among the denizens of
+the ocean that trouble and misfortune must certainly fall on the
+mermaiden who should visit the shore too frequently, or permit her
+likeness to be taken in any form whatsoever.
+
+Long, long ago, the most beautiful of the sea-nymphs rose in her
+gambols to the surface of the billows; and as in those days mermaids
+wore no tails, and were consequently unable to steer themselves
+properly, she was carried on shore by the force of the waves, where
+such was the confusion caused by her charms, that gods and goddesses
+themselves quarrelled about her, and artists in their enthusiasm
+neglected everything else to depict in all its bewildering beauty the
+sea-born loveliness of "Aphrodite." Great was the indignation excited
+by the appearance of this fair interloper in the aerial courts, and
+"Hera," the Queen of Olympus, persuaded her husband, the awful "Jove,"
+to issue a decree ordaining that henceforth and for evermore all
+mermaidens should bear long tails; thus confining their dangerous
+influence to their own native element; and furthermore forbidding them,
+on pain of severest penalties, to hold communication with the
+inhabitants of earth or sky.
+
+Though centuries have rolled away, this dread command is still
+remembered and obeyed, and hence the extreme difficulty experienced by
+those whose artistic longings had been kindled afresh by the glowing
+descriptions of the sweet Danish writer.
+
+One golden evening during the brief but glorious northern summer, the
+young sculptor, Eothwald, after a weary day of unavailing search for
+the far-famed mermaidens, threw himself down on the soft grass by a
+river's side, and lulled by the soft ceaseless murmur of the rushing
+waters, sank into deep dreamless sleep. As the drowsiness of fatigue
+wore itself away, he became gradually conscious of ravishing strains of
+music, and rousing himself half awakened to listen to the dulcet
+sounds, he still heard the harmonious cadences of some stringed
+instrument swell and thrill in tones of unearthly beauty.
+
+Eothwald arose softly from his grassy couch, and stole noiselessly
+along. Keeping himself carefully concealed behind rocks and brushwood,
+he followed the sound, till at a bend of the stream he beheld the young
+river god Naecken, seated at the entrance to a grotto, playing and
+singing to his harp strains of heaven-born music; while, bathed in the
+evening sunshine, and with their arms lovingly intertwined, there on
+the surface of the water, in rapt attention, floated the lovely
+mermaiden sisters, Duva and Himinglaefa, unsuspicious of danger, and
+forgetful of all else, for the spell of love's magic numbers hung over
+them and rivetted their attention.
+
+The inspired Naecken continued his impassioned lay; the blushing
+Himinglaefa, to whom his song of homage was addressed, shook her long
+chestnut tresses until they formed a veil around her, and laid her soft
+cheek on the shoulder of the innocent Duva, who, childlike, wondered at
+her sister's excess of emotion.
+
+A while Eothwald remained motionless, overwhelmed by the beauty of the
+scene, but soon the surpassing loveliness of the sea-sisters fired his
+artistic mind with keen ardour; he felt within himself that could he
+but reproduce these enchanting forms in marble, he would die content.
+He resolved to seek his home, and return thence provided with all the
+necessary materials for working. He had noticed during his wanderings,
+not far from this very spot, a cave, where he fancied he could work
+undisturbed. The clay by this river being famous for its plastic
+properties, it would be easy for him to model by day concealed from all
+beholders, and at eventide to steal forth unobserved, and gain new
+ideas of beauty from the fair sisters now before him.
+
+As he silently pondered and matured this plan, a silvery voice was
+heard afar, and, quick as light, Duva and Himinglaefa sprang away
+through the darkening waters at their mother's call, while Naecken,
+carrying his harp with him, abruptly disappeared within the shadowy
+entrance of the grotto.
+
+Darkness came suddenly on; the river, cold and black, ran past Eothwald
+with sullen murmurings; the wild owl swept close by where he stood,
+brushing his face with her wing, and uttering her desolate cry. The
+startled sculptor well-nigh missed his footing, and only escaped
+falling into the stream by catching hold of the boughs above his head.
+But undismayed and undaunted, he groped his way successfully out of the
+wood, and then hastened cheerfully homewards, light-hearted and
+content; for what were darkness, danger, or fatigue? The quenchless
+fire of genius burned within his breast; the long dreamt-of ideal was
+no longer a faint, far-off vision, but had become to him a reality of
+dazzling beauty.
+
+Ere daylight returned Eothwald had been to his home and informed his
+old housekeeper that he was bound for a few days' trip into the
+country. He put together his working tools, and having at her earnest
+request taken some provisions in his knapsack, he swallowed a hasty
+meal, and before the sun was yet high in the heavens, was already
+ensconced in the cave and fast asleep in its welcome shade, after all
+the fatigue and excitement of the last few but eventful hours.
+
+And now night after night, sheltered by brushwood, rock, and fern, the
+enthusiastic youth engraved on his heart the exquisite beauty of those
+fair denizens of the sea; nay more, in the ardour of his pursuit he
+became himself enamoured of the lovely childlike Duva. Often while
+Naecken and Himinglaefa held sweet converse together, their companion
+unobserved would float silently nearer and nearer to the shore.
+Sometimes she amused herself by twining long wreaths of the ferns and
+creepers which hung over the river bank. Sometimes she laughingly
+lifted small silvery fish from their holes beneath the bank; then
+remembering that air to them was death, she would place them gently
+once more in their native element, and smiling, watch their playful
+movements when they frisked around her, as if in gratitude, before they
+swam away. Sometimes flinging her long tresses of hair over the grass
+by the river margin, clasping her hands above her head, reposing half
+on land and half on water, she would lie with all a maiden's dreamy
+thoughts of the unknown future, her clear blue eyes fixed on the starry
+vault above, her every action a study of grace and poetry, until
+Himinglaefa's soft summons roused her, when springing again into life
+and motion, the agile Duva excited new admiration in the sculptor's
+mind as with the swiftness of a startled bird she flitted across the
+water and disappeared with her sweet sister beneath the briny wave.
+
+It is not given to me to say how Duva and Eothwald first became
+acquainted; but it is certain that before the young sculptor had spent
+many nights by the water's side, that innocent child of the sea grew to
+know what it was that made the long hours pass so swiftly to Himinglaefa
+and Naecken, when they were together; for a feeling hitherto unknown
+sprang up within her own simple breast, and taught her to welcome with
+beating heart the appearance of her new friend.
+
+What long happy hours they passed together by starlight and moonlight
+on that river brink! How endless were the words they had to say to each
+other in those stolen interviews! and yet, though all seemed so
+untroubled, a secret care disturbed the peace of either loving bosom.
+It is true that Duva had attempted to lighten hers by confiding it to
+her lover, for early in their acquaintance she told him that she longed
+to whisper in her mother's ear the story of her Eothwald, and to find
+in the majestic Ran's motherly bosom a soft pillow whereon to still the
+flutterings of her awakened heart; but in tones of displeasure the
+young sculptor chid her childlike impulse, and went so far as to
+threaten that should she ever breathe to her family the fact of his
+existence, he could never seek her more.
+
+Chilled and frightened at hearing Eothwald address her in accents such
+as he had never used before, the gentle Duva tearfully promised to
+comply with his request, and to conceal from all the knowledge of her
+earthly lover. But the concealment preyed on her mind, and though in
+his presence she forgot all save the bliss of being beloved, yet she
+had for ever lost the joyous serenity of her early youth; while the
+very look which roused her watchful mother's anxiety, gave her in her
+lover's eye, a more etherial air of languor and grace.
+
+Eothwald's secret care was widely different: he knew that his Duva
+might in some terrible unknown manner have to suffer for his love; but
+his anxiety was lest he should not succeed in obtaining her perfect
+likeness, and thence partly came his reluctance to allow her to speak
+of him to her people. He made sure they would remind her of the perils
+of holding intercourse with mankind, and probably put a complete stop
+to their clandestine meetings, now only carried on under the shadow of
+the more legitimate attachment of Himinglaefa and Naecken.
+
+While the inexperienced Duva only knew and felt she loved, the more
+worldly Eothwald gazed upon her with a critical and artistic eye, and
+often sent a chill of cold presentiment to her very heart's core, when
+to her gentlest words he vouchsafed no answer; but, absently scanning
+her perfect form, would strive to compare and calculate in his mind the
+accuracy of his progressing model in the cave.
+
+He found it easy to obtain Duva's compliance with all his requests save
+one; but it was for long in vain that he besought her to leave her
+watery home. Many a time and oft they parted almost in anger, and the
+poor little sea-nymph more than once weepingly entreated him sooner to
+quit her for ever, and go back to his own kith and kind. But Eothwald
+always returned afresh to the charge, for, besides his real attachment
+to the gentle maid herself, he knew that could he but once behold her
+fair proportions near him in the cave, he could successfully finish his
+now nearly completed model; and, by imparting to it those life-like
+touches which alone it required, he would be enabled to give to the
+world for the first time the perfect image of a mermaiden. With true
+artistic fervour he forgot his mortal love in the eager pursuit of his
+immortal art, and, brought completely to a standstill by the harassing
+intensity of his longing to have the living form at hand to aid him in
+his work, he grew so unkind towards Duva that with saddened heart the
+poor child promised to comply with his prayer, and arranged to
+accompany him through the wood the following night, when the yellow
+harvest moon would reign in her fullest beauty.
+
+Words cannot paint the overflowing sorrow that oppressed the pale
+mermaiden's heart that eventful day as she joined her parents and
+sisters, for what an inward voice told her, was the last time. Old
+Agir, her father, gathered her to his bosom, and pressed his little
+Duva to tell her trouble, but with a forced smile she first nestled
+closer to that protecting shoulder and then sprang half sobbing away,
+and they thought she grieved over the approaching bridals of Naecken and
+Himinglaefa and the prospect of losing her favourite sister.
+
+The wild young Kolga blew through her shell, and in her efforts to
+cheer Duva made such a bubbling amid the water, that people passing in
+boats far above the sea-king's palace, paused on their oars to watch
+the agitated surface and thought they had discovered a new ocean
+spring.
+
+Haefring and Blodughadda caressed their little sister and playfully
+asked her to choose whether they should all wear coral or pearls at
+Himinglaefa's wedding, but with trembling lip she turned away, unable to
+trust her voice in answer to their laughing affection, and for the
+first time they deemed their pet Duva was sullen. Ah! how little they
+knew the aching throbs of pain that strangled her sweet voice and
+silenced their sorrow-stricken playmate.
+
+At last the hour of sunset drew near. Together, as usual, Himinglaefa
+and Duva rose to the surface of the darkening ocean, and soon were
+greeted by the entrancing strains of Naecken's harp. Slowly Duva
+disengaged herself from her sister's embrace and lingered long near the
+companion, till now the sharer of every joy or care. But time's
+relentless wheel rolled on, and through the woods by the river's brink
+gleamed the golden radiance of the harvest moon, as the mermaiden at
+length approached the shore where her lover kept anxious watch. With
+joyful eagerness Eothwald greeted her, and in low trembling tones
+whispered loving thanks into her ear; even then Duva would have
+withdrawn her consent, but the impatient Eothwald, without pausing,
+threw his strong arms around her, raised his beloved burden from the
+glittering water, and bore her swiftly towards the cave.
+
+A feeling of deadly sickness came over the little sea-maid as she was
+thus lifted from her native element, but the soothing words of her
+lover infused new life into her fainting frame, and in safety they
+reached the cave, where Eothwald joyfully deposited his lovely charge
+on the couch he had so long prepared for her use.
+
+Uttering but scant welcome the sculptor flew rapidly to his work, for
+already fatigue and exhaustion clouded the sweet eyes, that were wont
+to sparkle so merrily, and spread a new languor over the limbs of his
+exquisite model. With passionate energy Eothwald moulded his plastic
+clay, completely forgetting in his ardour the unwonted position of the
+sea-king's daughter, and her need of watchful tenderness.
+
+A stranger in a new and untried world--a timid maiden strayed for the
+first time far beyond the protecting care of parents and brethren, the
+little Duva reclined amazed upon her fragrant bed of leaves. Strange
+thrills were sent through her by the strong night perfumes exhaled on
+every side from earthly leaf, tree, and flower.
+
+At last she was upon that land about which from childhood she had
+dreamed, with an eager desire to explore its forbidden mysteries. But
+she thought not of these things, her whole heart was absorbed in
+Eothwald. The young sculptor no longer gazed on her with the melting
+eye of love. By the flickering light of the torch which shed its ruddy
+glow over the cave, she could perceive the artist's glance now fixed on
+his clay figure, now turned upon herself with a searching look of
+restless dissatisfaction due in reality to the shortcomings of his own
+handiwork, but which chilled and saddened Duva's sensitive heart.
+
+  [Illustration: EOTHWALD AND DUVA IN THE CAVE.
+   P. 102.]
+
+Again and again the gentle maiden nerved her voice to speak, but
+faintness overpowered her, and a dreamless sleep already fanned her
+with its over-shadowing wings. Eothwald's form swam magnified before
+her eyes, and then vanished altogether amid the mist of gathering
+tears. The cave grew dim--the little sea-child again beheld the palace
+of her father--her lovely sisters waved a mute welcome through the
+changing atmosphere. With the tremulous sigh of a repentant child that
+has erred, but returns with glad sorrow to fling itself on its mother's
+breast, Duva, forgetting all save that joyful vision, stretched forth
+her innocent arms with a low murmur of tenderness, and a gesture of
+delight.
+
+"Can you not remain as I placed you?" impatiently muttered the
+sculptor, as the sudden movement of Duva's arms altered her whole
+position, and lost irretrievably the graceful attitude he was striving
+faithfully to immortalise. Even as he spoke, something about his
+beloved alarmed him; he rushed across the cave, but ere he could touch
+her, Duva's fair form had disappeared--she was gone!
+
+The red torch flickered high, and suddenly expired. The moon's ray,
+cold and pale, penetrated within the cave, and lo! upon the spot so
+lately pressed by the enchanting figure of the poor little stranger,
+pure and transparent in the silvery light, glistened a white pearly
+shell, while a tiny rivulet stole silently from beneath it, and
+trickled into the moonlit glen without.
+
+Eothwald threw himself wildly on his knees, and felt the couch all over
+in vain--in vain!--then in desperation he fled out into the wood and
+searched for his lost love, breathing her name in fondest accents
+through the silence of the night, but alas! awakening no response from
+the desolate solitudes around him. Wearied and heart-broken he returned
+at length from his fruitless errand, and sank into heavy slumber.
+
+Hours had passed unheeded away, when with troubled recollection he
+awoke and sprang to his feet. Gradually he remembered that in his
+dreams Duva had again appeared to him. With bitter tears she
+sorrowfully told him that his own thoughtless actions had parted them.
+He first tempted her by mortal love to deceive and leave her fond
+parents and her beloved home; then as he moulded his clay from her
+beautiful form, in the self-abstraction of genius, he half forgot her
+sacrifice, and neglected her tender spirit. Wounded and unable to
+struggle against her altered condition of life without the comforting
+care of her mortal lover, she had fallen a victim to the law that ruled
+supreme over herself and her kindred, and lost her visible shape, which
+became again transformed into the water, whence it originally sprang.
+With streaming eyes she waved a long farewell, then, lovely as a
+morning dream, faded from his view.
+
+Eothwald flew back to his work with fierce energy; he felt indeed a
+high soaring ambition. He yearned to represent worthily, to this and
+future generations, the fair lineaments, the tender immortal beauty of
+the sea-king's daughter, who had given him her simple young heart, and
+whose affection he had so rudely requited. A solemn inward voice told
+him he had no time to spend in useless remorse, or in unavailing
+lamentation. Death's shadowy finger already beckoned him to the "silent
+land." Grief had snapped the first chord of life's hitherto sweet
+melody, and his days on earth were numbered.
+
+He returned in a short space to his native city. His half-finished work
+was slowly removed to the studio. There by day and by night he laboured
+almost ceaselessly, and wove into a wild poetical dream the young life
+of the fair Duva and her family, as she herself in days gone by had
+frequently, half romancing and half in earnest, described it to him.
+
+He designed a lofty fountain, and upon its six sides placed in groups
+of wondrous imagery her parents, their nine lovely daughters, and the
+young river-god Naecken, whose strains had first led him to his beloved.
+As in his lonely studio he ceaselessly toiled, he wrote down at
+intervals this explanation of his labours--that to all futurity might
+be known the names and history of those whose divine beauty he thus
+strove to commemorate.[2]
+
+          [2] The description of the different groups represented on
+          the fountain, is taken from a beautiful work of art, designed
+          and executed by Molin, a young Swedish sculptor of great
+          promise, now dead.
+
+"Agir, the ocean god, who hates mankind, I represent in the prime of
+life, with a long flowing beard, which he holds back with one hand, in
+the other he grasps a sceptre. Enthroned on a gigantic shell, and
+planting his foot on a dolphin, his handsome features wear an
+expression of proud disdain.
+
+"When the winter has passed (as our Northern poets have sung) and the
+May sun melts the ice, the ships in the harbour lift their anchors
+ready to sail, and only the wind is wanting. Thereupon Agir (who
+delights in punishing the pride of mankind by robbing them of their
+treasures--taking husbands from their homes, their wives, and their
+children, and drowning the mourners in floods of bitter tears) calls to
+his youngest daughter Kolga to begin the sport.
+
+"In the next shell-like division of the fountain, I place Kolga, who,
+with short rough hair and hoydenish action, distends to the full her
+rosy cheeks as she blows through the valves of her shell a soft,
+seductive wind, sufficient to swell the sails, and tempt the ill-fated
+ships to sea. Above her, shrouded in her long veil, is the mysterious
+and majestic Ran (Agir's princely consort, and the anxious mother of
+his many children). She encourages Roenn, her second youngest, who
+gently and dreamingly along the blue ripples stirs the first breath on
+the calm waters. Haefring, Unn, and Bylgia, with the little water-elves
+and sprites, help to raise the swelling seas until the waves are
+mountains high.
+
+"Then the hard-hearted and vindictive Boara (once scorned and deserted
+by a mortal lover) crushes the prows to atoms. She delights in the
+destruction of human handiwork, and is therefore portrayed with a
+sternly beautiful though cruel countenance. Next Agir calls on
+Blodughadda, enveloped in her long flowing tresses, to descend through
+the deeper waters and secure the ships' rich treasures, for no lock or
+key any longer protects them.
+
+"But the fond father misses his favourite children, Himinglaefa and
+Duva; he loudly calls on Ran to tell him where they are. 'Alas,'
+answers his queen, 'our daughters are held captive in the web of
+Naecken; up there, on the fresh water-stream, they float, like one
+charmed, listening to his melodious song. I have begged and threatened,
+but all in vain. Methinks one or both of them is befooled by first
+love.'
+
+"Then Agir arose in fearful rage, calling upon his remaining daughters
+to entice Naecken forth from the precincts of his grotto (which, being
+in fresh water, was beyond the sea-king's domain) into the deep ocean,
+there to take him captive, and deliver their sisters from his thraldom.
+
+"So they all float on, displaying their charms like roses and lilies
+playing on the waters: their beautiful dishevelled hair, their graceful
+forms, their coral chains, their strings of pearls, triumphantly making
+sure of enticing the hapless youth into the salt waters. But no sooner
+have they reached the entrance to the grotto, than behold! a youth,
+divinely beautiful, is seen. Harp in hand, he sings a soft, melancholy
+strain with the purest of voices. The beauteous sisters, scarce moving,
+tarry on the heaving waters, and listen, entranced, to his
+heart-thrilling song.
+
+"Awakening from his own love-dreams as he marks the approach of
+Himinglaefa's lovely sisters, the young river-god sings of his happy
+youth, when amid green meadows, and under verdant trees, he listened
+to the melodies of birds, and learnt from them the sweet art of
+song--until, restless and eager for change, he wandered forth from
+his early home into the wide world, with endless longing for the
+unattainable. To punish his presumption, he was at length condemned
+only to exist in water, and became the genius of running streams.
+Thus he pours out his lament in strains so moving, that even the wild
+swan is arrested in her flight, and the daughters of Agir, deeply
+enthralled, heedless of their parents' call to action, remain
+motionless before the grotto, allowing ships and mariners to sail by
+in perfect calm.
+
+"At length, Agir and Ran, angry and impatient, hasten towards them,
+when, enchanted like their children, by Naecken's exquisite lay, they
+also remain to listen, forgetful of the time and of the passing hours,
+till daylight breaks suddenly upon them. The relentless laws of fate
+forbidding their escape (if found within fresh water at sunrise), they
+all then become spell-bound."
+
+Such was the description Eothwald wrote of his wondrous fountain, on
+which Naecken still dreams on, harp in hand, singing of the days of
+yore. The beautiful Himinglaefa leans forward, modestly drawing her
+long tresses across her white shoulders, drinking in, with downcast
+eyes, every intonation of her betrothed. The child-like Duva, adorned
+as when the sculptor first beheld her, with long strands of priceless
+pearls intertwined on hair, neck, and bosom, raises herself from the
+water in the attitude he had studied a thousand times, and half
+surrounds her beloved sister with her arm, listening intently, as on
+that well-remembered evening, to Naecken's heart-thrilling music. No
+shadow of future sorrow clouds Duva's fair brow; but moulded in all
+the fresh innocence of her dewy youth, she remains to this hour the
+loveliest mermaiden that ever gladdened mortal eye.
+
+The shell she left upon the couch of leaves, the artist introduced
+again and again in his labour of love, and indeed took from its shape
+the designs for the six sides of his fountain, the figures on which
+were the size of life.
+
+At last the story of Duva's early life was given. Raised from ocean,
+cavern, and grotto by Eothwald's genius, her family were immortalized
+by his art. The sculptor's task was completed. In a paroxysm of agony,
+he fell on his knees as he realized that though instinct with life his
+inspired work arose in all its chill perfection before him, yet the
+living, loving, lovely mermaiden would never more greet him with her
+warm, shy smile, and her low, tender voice.
+
+At daybreak the old housekeeper came to light the studio fire; for
+it was now winter-time, and the snow lay thick upon the ground. By
+the first dim ray of light she descried Eothwald kneeling before his
+finished sculpture. Her heart misgave her; he was her foster-child--dear
+to her as her own. She stumbled forward and touched his arm; it was
+cold and motionless as his own marble figures. Then a loud cry of grief
+told the tale of death. Eothwald was no more. His immortal spirit had
+fled. Whether in the regions of the unknown invisible world he may once
+more meet and clasp his Duva to his breast by the blessed waters of
+Paradise, we cannot tell, but such may be the merciful will of that
+loving Father who watches unceasingly over the creatures of his hand,
+and feels a divine sympathy in their sorrows.
+
+One of Eothwald's hands rested on the word Duva, which he had finished
+chiselling beneath his beauteous beloved. In his other hand was found,
+fast clasped--so fast indeed that they could not remove it from his
+stiffened fingers--a gleaming white pearly shell.
+
+
+
+
+FIDO AND FIDUNIA.
+
+
+Once within a deep and gloomy forest there dwelt a lonely maiden. She
+had never known any companionship but that of nature, animate and
+inanimate. She loved the birds, the shy playful squirrels, and all the
+various animals, which having always known her there, friendly and
+harmless, regarded her in their turn, with trustful affection.
+
+It made no difference in their feelings towards the young girl that she
+was not beautiful. Her thick sandy hair hung in coarse straight elf
+locks on her shoulders. Her skin looked rough, and her features were
+not prepossessing. But these poor ignorant creatures only noticed that
+her voice was low and exceeding sweet. When she stooped to fondle the
+frolicsome rabbits, or perchance to bind up the leg of some wounded
+hare, they thought her tender fingers wondrous soft, and her warm cheek
+felt very smooth to them as she pressed it against their furry coats,
+and pettingly coaxed them to linger a moment on her lap.
+
+Strange to say, though the little maid had no distinct remembrance of
+human fellowship, yet she spoke in silvery tones a language which you
+or I, dear children, should very well understand.
+
+She dwelt in the hollow of an old tree, and few were the wants of her
+simple life. A clear spring, bubbling up among the rocks near at hand,
+in the centre of an open grassy space, formed a natural bath, where
+every morning, undisturbed by fear of man, she bathed herself, and
+wrung the water from her dripping tresses.
+
+In summer time she often slept high up between the forked branches of a
+mighty cedar-pine, where with sticks and long grass she had woven
+herself a sort of nest. From hence also she could contemplate the
+stars, between whom and herself there ever seemed a link of sympathy.
+To her untaught imagination it appeared that the heavenly luminaries
+were happy in being among others of their kind. Whereas, had she but
+known it, each one of those seemingly tiny lights glowed myriads of
+miles apart from its nearest neighbour.
+
+Fidunia dwelt serene, content with her lot; yet it was only natural
+that in her maturing bosom the yearning instincts of womanhood should
+awake, and that she longed, with an intensity of which she herself was
+hardly aware, for some creature to whom she could recount, and with
+whom she could share, the pleasures and pains of her solitary life.
+
+In the forest where she had her home there were no great alternations
+of heat and cold, nor was the length of the days so different as we
+find it in our own more northerly climate. Still it was spring-time in
+this land of which I speak. The fair soft tread of summer already sent
+a reviving thrill through the woods and glades, and Fidunia's thoughts
+turned anew to her forlorn condition.
+
+She remarked, as was her wont, the habits of the brute-world around.
+Every bird had its mate. The sober rooks perambulated the green sward
+in pairs. The thrush wooed his love in songs of gushing melody. The
+tender turtle-doves cooed ceaselessly to each other. The very mole that
+burrowed by the fountain side, brought a sable bride to enjoy with him
+the hidden comforts of his subterranean dwelling.
+
+Fidunia sat and pondered over these things. Again and again she tried,
+like Narcissus, to see her image in the crystal spring. But kind
+nature, careful to spare the little maid a needless pang, ruffled the
+translucent surface so perpetually, that the young girl's face only
+cast a dancing shadow on the bubbling water amid the rocks.
+
+Baffled in her hopes of even a shadowy companion, Fidunia, with a tear
+in her eye, murmured "Alone, ever alone! Ah, cruel fate! How I sigh for
+something really to love me."
+
+Awhile she remained motionless, gazing moodily into the troubled
+spring, but anon her quick ear caught the pattering sound of little
+feet upon the dead beech-leaves that formed a rich carpet near at hand.
+She thought it was the squirrels, yet theirs was a bounding lighter
+tread. She turned--and, lo! running towards her across the open space,
+she saw a beautiful dog. In colour he was almost golden; his silky hair
+fell soft as feathery down on either side of his little body. His tail
+and ears of darker chestnut tinge imparted piquancy to his shape. His
+paws were exquisitely clean, and covered with lovely hair. His
+brilliant dark brown eyes shone with extraordinary intelligence--at
+least, so Fidunia thought--as the little fellow slowly trotted up and
+stood before her, wagging his bushy tail.
+
+"Art thou come to be my companion?" the maiden joyfully cried. In
+answer to her question, the small quadruped came nearer still, and very
+very gently laid himself down at her feet. His mute gesture was most
+expressive.
+
+Fidunia surveyed him carefully, she thought she saw the marks of
+sadness in his wistful countenance--he gambolled not around her, nor
+attempted to lick her hand, but fixing on her his large anxious eyes,
+seemed to implore permission to remain by her side. Naturally fearless
+and fond of animals, Fidunia drew him upon her knee, and gently
+stroking the while his silky coat she asked him "whence he came, where
+his home, and what his name." The little creature could not reply in
+human tongue, but he continued to wag his eloquent tail, and to gaze
+earnestly in her face.
+
+"If you are going to be my companion, I must know what to call you,"
+said the wondering maiden. "My name is Fidunia," added she
+dreamily--but at this last word the dog sprang from her lap to the
+ground, and assumed a begging attitude in front of the little damsel.
+"Nay, nay, my dear doggie, I cannot call you Fidunia," cried she, but,
+after a moment's reflection, "would not 'Fido' do as well?"
+
+Hardly had this name dropped from her lips than the wise animal bounded
+into the air, and then ran round and round in a manner most expressive
+of joy. Fidunia delighted, clapped her hands, and as at this well-known
+signal all her feathered and furred friends came trooping around to
+enquire her will, she at once introduced Fido to their notice, and an
+alliance offensive and defensive was forthwith agreed upon between the
+community at large, and their mistress's new favourite.
+
+Ere long Fidunia discovered that her comrade was both active and
+playful, and though he could not speak her language nor she understand
+his, and she therefore never discovered his previous history, yet she
+surmised that he must have been separated from some one he dearly
+loved. For this reason she bore patiently with his occasional fits of
+low spirits. Soothed and cheered by her gentle companionship and
+thoughtful sympathy, Fido, before very long forgot his sorrows, and
+became the gayest of the gay.
+
+Echoes hitherto unknown to Fidunia in the solemn forest, were roused by
+his shrilly bark of joy, as capering round his young mistress, they
+wandered together far adown those sylvan glades. Fidunia could now
+indeed venture farther from home, as however long they roamed abroad,
+the dog's wondrous instinct always led them back to the gnarled tree,
+the crystal fountain, and the green velvety lawn, for so many years the
+little maiden's happy abode.
+
+She soon discovered that Fido was very accomplished in various
+ways--and she fancied also that he understood all she said to him--he
+watched so keenly every word that fell from her lips.
+
+About this time strange dreams began to haunt the young girl. Night
+after night she wandered in regions such as she never remembered to
+have seen in her waking hours.
+
+At one time she walked amid beautiful gardens--on either side of her
+bloomed a rich profusion of lovely fragrant flowers. Within each sweet
+floweret lurked a tiny elf, and as she passed along, fairies swung
+themselves forth singing through the perfume laden air in soft musical
+tones, "King Antiphates is blind! King Antiphates is blind! and the
+maid who alone can deliver him knows not her mission!"
+
+At another time she climbed painfully along a steep path, leading
+through scenes perfectly unknown to her. The hot sun beat on her bare
+head, and she toiled on and on, ever ascending, yet never reaching the
+craggy summit towering far above. Beneath her feet, an unfathomable
+ocean surged and swelled, and broke in hoarse grumblings upon the
+frowning iron-bound shore, sending vast sheets of spray aloft, and
+awakening strange terrors in the woodland maiden's breast. White
+screaming sea-birds dashed around her, and as they brushed her face
+with their wings, she heard them cry wildly, "The great king is blind,
+only Fidunia can deliver him--but she knows it not! she knows it not!"
+
+Again the little maiden found herself upon a lonely terrible mountain.
+She stood upon dismal rocks whereon appeared no vestige of life. Tossed
+and wreathed in fantastic shapes, the very stones seemed to bear the
+impress of writhing agony. Though now cold and motionless, they had
+passed through the seething horrors of fire. Scathed and withered,
+repulsive alike to man, beast and herb, amid their desolate clefts,
+only the slimy reptile traced his sinuous course; or the bright-eyed
+lizard peered warily forth on the shuddering beholder. Turning to
+escape, if possible, from this dreary place, Fidunia found herself on
+the very verge of a huge chasm. She felt a burning heat scorch her
+face, and penetrate her feet. Long tongues of horrid flame darted in
+lurid flashes from the thick darkness below. A sulphurous vapour
+enveloped her in its hot and suffocating fumes. She endeavoured to cry
+for help, but could not utter a sound--an echo like the reverberating
+growl of distant thunder filled the air around her with these words,
+"He will never see now, for the maiden dreams away her life in the
+forest, and knows not that she alone can save him."
+
+  [Illustration: FIDO AND FIDUNIA.
+   P. 123.]
+
+From this last and most frightful of all her visions, Fidunia woke
+agitated and confused. Why were words of the same import evermore
+repeated in her slumbers? Whence came these awful voices that sounded
+through the gloom of night? Who was the Antiphates whose misfortune was
+known, as it seemed, to all the world save herself? It was early
+morning as she sat up and pondered over these things. Her feverish
+heart was refreshed by the dewy silence around. Only through the trees
+came the faint twitter of half awakened birds. The sky, brightening
+towards the East, heralded the approach of sunrise.
+
+Her resolve was taken. She would set off that very day and journey
+forth into the unknown world which hitherto she had only visited in
+dreams. She awoke Fido therefore, and explained to him despite his
+melancholy dissuading looks, that they must leave the fountain, the
+lawn, and the tree, and travel far beyond the forest to seek their
+fortunes among the children of men.
+
+Clapping her hands together, she summoned her faithful forest friends,
+who sorrowfully accompanied their beloved mistress and her companion as
+far as their strength would permit, then bade them a melancholy
+farewell.
+
+Quite overcome by losing sight (perchance for ever) of her sylvan home
+and her attached little subjects, Fidunia that night sobbed herself to
+sleep, with Fido in her arms, and half regretted her determination. But
+in her dreams angels hovered over her, and whispered encouragement to
+the weary sad-hearted maiden.
+
+For several days more the adventurers journeyed through the dense wood.
+At night they found shelter in some leaf-strewn cave or upon some mossy
+bank, beneath over-arching trees. Then the innocent pair, under the
+protection of heaven, slumbered until day's reviving beams once more
+cheered them on their way.
+
+At length one afternoon they drew near the out-skirts of the vast
+forest within whose mighty depths they had so long sojourned. The
+setting sun reddened the stems of the tall out-standing firs, and the
+scent of fallen pine leaves hung rich and heavy on the air, as they
+left the shade of the trees and stepped on to a wide stretching common.
+
+Fidunia, bewildered by the apparently illimitable space before her,
+stopped perplexed and half wished to retrace her steps; but Fido
+bounded on, entreating her by unmistakeable signs to follow him.
+
+After crossing some old sand-pits, and scrambling across an expanse of
+furze and heather, they saw before them a small cottage; blue smoke
+curled cosily above it into the still evening sky; an atmosphere of
+peace seemed to surround the lowly walls. As they approached, however,
+a large flock of geese and poultry of all kinds, disturbed by their
+footsteps, made a terrible cackling, and presently a hale old woman
+opened the door, and came out to see what agitated her flock.
+
+Fidunia, accustomed to the ways of birds, had already taken from her
+wallet some of the seeds she was wont to collect for her feathered
+forest friends. The geese, well pleased, quickly gathered round, and
+eagerly fed from her hand.
+
+Meanwhile, Fido gambolled up to the cottage dame, and begged before her
+as if to solicit her good-will. Thus, propitiating mistress and fowls,
+the little maid and her dog were kindly made welcome for the night by
+the ancient hen-wife.
+
+Next morning, refreshed and thankful, they prepared to resume their
+journey. The good dame now asked Fidunia her history, and whither she
+was bound; the young girl replied evasively that she only wished to see
+the world, and was going with her dog to seek their fortunes.
+
+"Nay, my child, that is not all," said the old woman; "tell me, I pray
+you, the exact truth." So saying, she fixed so keen, yet withal so
+friendly a glance upon the maiden's blushing countenance, that moved by
+a sudden impulse, Fidunia poured forth her whole story.
+
+Her hostess listened carefully to her long account, and then resumed:
+"You have done well to confide in me; I am more powerful than my mean
+surroundings would lead you to imagine. I would fain have kept from you
+the dreams that have broken the peaceful charm of the forest, and set
+you wandering. I have, however, sisters who are otherwise minded, and
+they (to work out their own purposes) have sent these visions to harass
+and perplex you. I was anxious to know how much had been revealed, and
+therefore threw myself in your way to help you. My intentions, however,
+would have been frustrated had not you, dear maiden, given me
+straightforward answers.
+
+"The King Antiphates, of whom you have heard in your dreams, dwells, in
+reality, in the great City of Deva. You will come to it in time if you
+travel along the high-road, which you can discover beyond that clump of
+firs," continued she, pointing through the open door to a little hill
+at some distance. "I am unable to render you more assistance at
+present, but if, after reaching the far-off city, you are ever in great
+straits, take this crystal from your bosom (where you must always carry
+it, concealed from every eye, or it will lose its virtue); place it in
+the palm of your hand, fix your eyes steadfastly upon it, repeating,
+meanwhile, in a low tone, these words:--
+
+    "Strange gem! upon thy crystal core
+    I gaze, the while I aid implore;
+    Trembling upon the verge of fate,
+    Oh point my path ere yet too late!
+    I fain would gain the boon I ask,
+    Is mine the strength for such a task?
+    Canst thou unloose the links that bind,
+    Or vanquish powerful foes combined?
+    Then, show whate'er there lurks of art
+    Within thine own mysterious heart;
+    On thee I turn a hopeful eye,
+    Bright stone of silence, make reply!"
+
+So saying, she drew from her own breast a beautiful sparkling prism,
+about the size of a pigeon's egg, and gave it, with some solemnity of
+manner, to her wondering guest. Deeply grateful, Fidunia threw her arms
+round the kind Anna's neck, and warmly thanked her for the precious
+talisman. With the good woman's aid she then committed to memory the
+needful lines.
+
+When she had successfully mastered them, the old wife drew her hand
+across her eyes, and resumed, in a somewhat trembling tone, "I know not
+wherefore you interest me so strangely, my little maid; but if you will
+be advised by one who has drained the cup of earthly pleasure to its
+very dregs, return, as yet innocent and inexperienced, with your
+faithful companion to the quiet joys of your peaceful forest; nor seek,
+amid the busy haunts of men, those more exciting scenes where many a
+grief and anxiety must of necessity be yours."
+
+She paused; how could she cast a blight over the joyousness of that
+poor unsuspecting heart by explaining to Fidunia that maidens, plain in
+feature, and devoid of dowry, have oftentimes, from no fault of their
+own, but a sorry lot in this hard world compared with that of their
+lovelier or more wealthy sisters?
+
+Clothed in her long, grey dress, Fidunia still knelt at Dame Anna's
+knee; the light from the cottage window fell full on her rough sunburnt
+face; her straw-coloured hair contrasted unfavourably with her dark
+reddish skin, and though her eyes were in some measure expressive of
+the gentle spirit within, yet their faint colour, and the absence of
+visible eyebrow or eyelash, detracted seriously from their possible
+charm. Her figure was not ungraceful, but her strangely-fashioned robes
+(which, prettily donned by some fairer being, could have given a
+certain _bizarre_ attraction of their own) were but ill calculated
+to add comeliness to the young girl's unformed limbs and tanned though
+shapely hands.
+
+As the compassionate dame hesitated, unwilling to speak too bitterly to
+Fidunia of nature's apparent injustice, her young guest laughingly
+replied, "Thank you, kind mother; but I could not now remain satisfied
+without seeking my fate in the unknown world. I shall never forget your
+promise, however, but seek your aid with this amulet in the hour of
+need. Yet," added she, "ere I and my dog leave your friendly hearth, we
+will do our best to afford you some small return for the hospitality
+you have shown us."
+
+Fidunia and Fido, who had a thousand times alone together practised
+various little tricks, now went through many evolutions before the
+delighted old woman.
+
+First, said the little maid, "What will you do for your mistress?" No
+sooner had she asked this question, than the dog fell mute, and
+apparently lifeless, at her feet. His stiffened limbs made it plain
+that he would willingly "die" for her dear sake. Bidding him revive,
+Fidunia then drew from her pocket one of the chestnuts she kept for the
+purpose. When the little fellow caught sight of this, he "begged" for
+it, but his mistress was obdurate. He then "jumped" high into the air
+to try and win his plaything; still in vain. Next he "asked" for it in
+doggish fashion, by loudly barking. Fidunia remained relentless. But
+now a sudden thought seemed to strike the clever animal. Raising
+himself once more on his hind-legs, he uttered such a tuneful howl--his
+apology for "singing"--that his mistress, with a pretended sigh, was
+fain to reward him by placing the promised guerdon upon the ground.
+Instead of rushing upon it, however, Fido, in an exceedingly graceful
+attitude, bent his head on one side, and gravely "considered" the
+desired reward. His meditations coinciding with his wishes, at the word
+of command he dashed nimbly forward, seized the round nut, threw it up
+in the air, and caught it again and again; playing, in fact, by himself
+a game of ball. Finally, he laid the prize gently down at his comrade's
+feet to demonstrate that no matter what he won, he would be content to
+surrender all he possessed to her care.
+
+Dame Anna, delighted with the pretty dog's sagacity, caressed and
+praised him, and, after amply provisioning his little mistress for the
+journey, wished them both God-speed on their way. She strictly enjoined
+Fidunia to refrain from mentioning this adventure, and advised her also
+to keep her dreams to herself, and only enquire as she went along, for
+the great city of Deva. Leaning over her low garden-gate, surrounded by
+her long-billed and splay-footed court, the kind henwife long watched
+her late guests as they crossed the bleak common, and reached the small
+clump of trees which she had pointed out to them as a landmark on their
+way to the desired haven.
+
+Soon after passing the summit crowned by these few lonely firs, Fidunia
+stepped on to a broad high-road, which she at once recognized as that
+described by their good friend, and leading to the capital of the
+country.
+
+They now walked on and on for a weary time. The hot sun poured down its
+noontide rays, the dust arose in parching clouds, and followed with the
+wind their flagging footsteps.
+
+At last they came to a part of the road bounded by a stone wall. On the
+other side lay a beautiful green park, stretching far away in upland
+slopes of rich pasturage. Fatigued and footsore, Fidunia and her little
+dog clambered over the fence, and composed themselves comfortably to
+rest in the soft grass. Sheltered from the mid-day heat in their seat
+among low brushwood and high overshadowing trees, they gratefully
+partook of the food pressed on them ere their departure by the worthy
+cottage wife.
+
+Half playing, half teaching her faithful companion, Fidunia held aloft
+a little bit of meat in one hand, while with the other she bent down
+the branch of a neighbouring tree, over which Fido at her gentle
+command, bounded nimbly backwards and forwards.
+
+Suddenly, a loud, harsh voice exclaimed, "What business have you here?
+No tramps are allowed in my park."
+
+Looking timidly round, Fidunia beheld a stout, red-faced,
+grizzle-haired man, in leathern gaiters, who angrily threatened herself
+and Fido with an uplifted stick. Absolutely terrified by this, her
+first experience of man, poor Fidunia felt as if glued to the spot. She
+could not move hand or foot. A surging tide of red blood rushed over
+her face and neck, and covered the poor child of nature with confusion.
+
+Had she looked beautiful in her distress, perhaps the rough proprietor
+might have treated her more tenderly. As it was, increasing in
+violence, he drew nearer still, when Fido, who already bristled with
+rage, flew upon him, and ere he could lay hands upon his trembling
+mistress, fixed his sharp white teeth apparently in the fierce
+stranger's leg; but, luckily for the savage Baron, Fido's jaws only met
+in his legging.
+
+Coward, as well as bully, the rough man changed his tone and implored
+Fidunia to call off her dog. Recovered from her first terror, the
+little maid beckoned to Fido to follow her, and ere this selfish squire
+could look calmly about him, she had flown nimbly over the wall,
+followed by her dog.
+
+They both ran a considerable way in their terror, not knowing that the
+friendly Anna (in reality a good fairy) had thrown so much dust in the
+rude Baron's eyes, that confused and bewildered, he knew not which way
+the intruders had escaped, but continued to search for them with wicked
+words and impotent threats long after they had left him and his
+inhospitable domains behind.
+
+Meantime the travellers pursued their way until, worn out and hungry,
+they came, towards nightfall, into a small hamlet upon the great
+high-road.
+
+The village inn, with its gay painted sign of the "Golden Boar"
+flapping to and fro in the evening breeze, stood invitingly open.
+Fidunia approached its threshold. The spruce landlady, airing herself
+with arms akimbo at the open door, stared hard at the little maiden as
+she paused longingly in front of the steps. "Can you pay for a night's
+lodging?" she asked in a matter of fact tone. Alas, no--poor Fidunia
+possessed not one single piece of that hitherto unneeded money--without
+which she was soon to find she could gain nothing in the pleasant world
+she had so longed to explore.
+
+She sorrowfully passed the cheerful preparations for wayfarers better
+supplied than herself with all-conquering gold, and heart-sore and
+weary sat herself down on an old stump of wood outside the village
+smithy.
+
+Here, however, she soon forgot her fatigue for a while in watching the
+red furnace, and the grimy fire-illumined men who moved briskly to and
+fro, striking bright sparks from the glowing metal. They interested her
+strangely by their easy motions of power, and apparently inexhaustible
+store of latent strength. She was gradually recalled to herself,
+however, by perceiving that she and Fido had become the centre of
+attraction to a gathering crowd. The children accustomed to cluster
+round the entrance of the warm and busy workshop now turned their
+attention to this solitary maiden, and the beautiful dog, which,
+standing before her, ever on the alert, seemed ready to guard his
+mistress to the death.
+
+The heated smith, coming for a moment to cool himself at the
+half-barred entrance, found an inquisitive group pressing round the
+young girl, regardless of Fido's low growls, as with hair on end and
+quivering tail, he prepared to spring on anyone who might touch or
+insult her.
+
+Of a kindly and generous nature, and ever ready to befriend the
+helpless, Master Franz stepped up to the stranger and civilly asked her
+pleasure.
+
+Fidunia, frightened, as well she might be, by the rude remarks of the
+gaping village girls, exclaimed in a tearful voice, "Oh, sir, I know
+not where to go for a night's lodging, I and my poor dog, we are
+travelling to the great city of Deva, but we are tired, and unable to
+journey farther this day." Franz, sorely puzzled, looked around in vain
+for help or counsel. He knew better than the shivering little maid
+before him what rustic gossip meant. A stalwart bachelor living all
+alone above his smithy, he himself, however compassionate, could offer
+no shelter to the poor wanderers. A sudden thought struck him. "Come
+with me," he cried, "to my good friend Dorothy of the "Golden Boar;" I
+warrant me she will blithely give thee food and lodging for the night."
+
+"Kind, sir," answered the poor girl sorrowfully, "I have no money to
+offer to the good lady of the inn, and she has already bidden me from
+her door; but," continued Fidunia timidly, "I and my dog are able to
+make some few passes together, which might give amusement to the worthy
+Dorothy, and even induce her to grant us leave to rest for the night
+beneath her roof."
+
+The friendly Franz chuckled with delight as he exclaimed, "By my
+halidome, damsel, thy words are well-flavoured. Dame Dorothy shall give
+to thee and thy pretty beast a hearty meal; and then, my mates," he
+added, turning to the assembled villagers, "we will step up to the
+"Golden Boar" when our labours for the day are ended, and see whether
+we cannot help the maiden and her dog on their voyage."
+
+At these words Fidunia felt greatly comforted, and she and Fido
+fearlessly retraced their steps in the wake of the burly smith.
+
+Dame Dorothy had long ere this left her door, and was now engaged in
+the great kitchen superintending with her own hands the preparation of
+a savoury pie, which somehow or other she hoped Master Franz would that
+very evening help her to consume. Her old husband had been gathered to
+his fathers many months agone. Since his death the worthy woman often
+felt the hours after dark pass very slowly. No one knew this
+interesting fact better than the shrewd yet simple smith, who, early or
+late, felt sure of a warm welcome whenever he crossed the comfortable
+threshold of the "Golden Boar."
+
+When the landlady heard steps in her passage, a slight cloud of
+annoyance rose to her brow--for what mistress likes to be interrupted
+in her mysterious culinary rites? The incipient frown, however,
+speedily changed to a smile as Franz's broad figure appeared in the
+doorway. With a "welcome, neighbour," she hurriedly stooped to shut the
+oven door, an exertion which called additional colour into her round
+healthy cheek.
+
+"Friend Dorothy," said Franz, "I bring thee this forlorn maiden; for my
+sake thou wilt refresh her and her dog. I must away. I have a coat of
+mail in hand that cannot be left; but anon I will return." So saying,
+and without pausing for queries or doubts, the brawny smith
+disappeared, leaving in his place the weary drooping Fidunia and her
+little comrade.
+
+Dorothy cast a keen scrutinizing glance on the young girl, eagerly
+scanning her form and features. Reassured by the brief inspection, her
+eye travelled back to the polished mirror by the fire which reflected
+her own buxom charms. With some complacency she readjusted the snowy
+coif (slightly disarranged by her labours), over her brilliant black
+hair, and wiping her hands upon the rough apron assumed for
+kitchen-work, she turned towards Fidunia, and in no unkindly voice bade
+her welcome.
+
+Nor did she do this by halves. She exerted herself with real good will.
+Before long, rested, comforted and composed, the little maid sat by her
+new friend, and, while she fondled her faithful Fido, she related her
+adventures (always excepting her possession of the talisman and her
+dreams) to the wondering Dorothy.
+
+But now Franz, true to his promise, returned, bringing with him many of
+the villagers; for the fame of the stranger and her beautiful companion
+had spread apace, and a rumour indeed had been set afloat that the
+animal was gifted with supernatural powers. Refreshed and inspirited,
+Fidunia and her dog went joyfully through all the exercises previously
+described. Besides this, she borrowed a kerchief from Dorothy. She then
+put Fido out of the room and closed the door, carefully concealing the
+white ensign in the blacksmith's wide hanging pocket. She next called
+her favourite; with eager zest he burst open the half-latched door, and
+ran round and round the chamber sniffing in every direction. At last,
+after a long search, he was successful, and amid loud shouts of
+surprise and delight drew forth from the depths of Franz's coat the
+blushing Dorothy's badge, the good man the while looking not one whit
+more composed than his hostess. Fidunia then neatly folded up the
+kerchief; and Fido, bearing it in his mouth, lightly sprang on the
+landlady's knee and placed it gently in her hand.
+
+They repeated similar tricks over and over again. Hearty plaudits were
+showered on the sagacious dog and his youthful mistress, who, flitting
+to and fro in anxious excitement, and finding herself impeded in her
+swift motions by the long folds of her grey robe, drew them in a hasty
+yet picturesque fashion through her waist-belt. Flushed and animated by
+the friendly approval manifested on all sides, she now stooped forward,
+wreathing her arms into a natural hoop, through which Fido flew
+backwards and forwards with frolicsome ardour. Nor was this all, for
+the trim landlady, in answer to an earnest whisper, also rose. Clasping
+hands with the stranger maiden, she soon learnt how to twist and
+retwist beneath her own and Fidunia's arms in a quaint manner that
+Franz and his comrades thought exceedingly bewitching. At the same time
+Fido, watching his opportunity, continually sprang between Dorothy and
+his mistress, thus making a merry third in this pretty exhibition.
+
+As they at last paused, exhausted and laughing over their own
+exertions, the swart blacksmith stood forth in their midst. In sober
+manly tones he addressed his neighbours, and gave them an outline of
+Fidunia's history, as he had gathered it from herself and from Dorothy.
+He explained, that she was travelling to the great city of Deva, but
+that, friendless and forlorn, she was destitute of the money requisite
+to procure for herself and her companion the necessaries of life. He
+added, that since the little maid and her pretty favourite had given
+them so much pleasure, he considered that it would only be making her a
+fair return if he and his fellows collected a small sum to help their
+guest on her way.
+
+His well-timed appeal met with an enthusiastic response. Grey-haired
+old men, tender-hearted mothers carrying their babes, blooming young
+wenches with their awkward rustic swains, all pressed around to deposit
+in Franz's cap their hard-earned yet freely-bestowed mite for the
+astonished maiden. The children whispering their thanks into Fido's
+willing ear, threw their soft little arms around his neck, and pressed
+their chubby faces on his coat of golden silk.
+
+The bustling landlady meantime bestirred herself and her household, and
+ere long set before the company the pie she had already prepared, with
+sundry enticing concomitants. Foaming tankards, moreover, were placed
+on the board, wherein the villagers deeply pledged the wanderer and her
+inseparable companion.
+
+Overcome with gratitude, Fidunia could only murmur half-inarticulate
+thanks to her kind friends, as they warmly shook her by the hand. They
+patted Fido also, as she raised him in her arms to conceal her blushing
+face, and wished them both every success on their journey.
+
+Nothing is so alluring to a man as the sight of the woman in whom his
+heart is already interested, engaged in works of benevolence and
+charity. Dorothy's second thoughts regarding Fidunia stood her in good
+stead on that eventful evening. Her softened voice, as she encouraged
+and soothed Fido and his shy mistress, sounded unusually sweet to the
+rough blacksmith's ear. When she smiled good-night to the villagers,
+placing the while a friendly hand on Fidunia's shoulder, Franz, for the
+first time, thought her face actually beautiful. Though no words passed
+between them, Dorothy, when she laid her head on her pillow, felt a
+glad thrill of joy as she recalled the warm parting clasp of that hard
+and honest hand.
+
+In long after years, when Franz and Dorothy reigned together over the
+far-famed "Golden Boar," surrounded by a blooming family and blessed
+with peace and plenty, the prosperous wife and mother, in the fulness
+of her joy, often wiped a tear from her eye as she remembered the true
+kindness first shown by her husband to the poor stranger. A kindness
+that had melted her own harder heart, and (undeservedly for her) led to
+the happiest days of her life. No wayfarer was ever again turned away
+from the open door of the hostelry. Heaven increased fourfold the
+worldly possessions of the honest couple who liberally shared their
+portion with the poor and the needy.
+
+Followed by the good wishes, and laden with the unexpected gifts
+conferred upon her by her kind benefactors, Fidunia next day set forth
+once more upon her solitary journey--solitary, at least, so far as
+human society was concerned. But this strange girl never considered
+herself lonely while she had her intelligent though canine
+fellow-traveller. Now bounding far before his young mistress, now
+lingering in her rear or trotting quietly along by her side, Fido gave
+her an astonishing sense of companionship and protection.
+
+For many days they continued to traverse long tracts of beautiful
+undulating country. At night they always found shelter in some humble
+farm or cottage. Constant and unfailing were the bounties showered
+around the gentle maiden and her fascinating dog, when in gratitude for
+hospitality received they went through their performances together. The
+money collected by Franz was like the contents of the widow's cruse. As
+fast as the purse grew empty it was refilled.
+
+Fidunia knew not that her ill-favoured countenance protected her from
+many a rough jest and coarse compliment. But it was so; her modest
+demeanour and unassuming ways rendered her less effectual service in
+preserving her from insult than her want of beauty. Nor was the young
+girl as yet conscious that she lacked those personal charms without
+which life may sometimes become so bitter to the sensitive heart.
+
+During the last days of their journey, the high road gradually led the
+travellers towards the ocean. Fidunia paused, therefore, one morning,
+amazed at the beauty and novelty of the scene before her. The road
+emerging from wooded valleys turned abruptly to the right along the
+summit of perpendicular cliffs some two or three hundred feet in
+height. At their base, the blue main, hitherto unknown to the
+forest-bred maiden, broke in tiny ripples on the silver sands. It was a
+tideless expanse of sea, and therefore no unsightly marks of ebbing
+waters strewed the beach. Only a long bright undulating line showed
+where the unstable element found its limits and mother-earth claimed
+her own.
+
+Resting on the bosom of the mighty deep, and looming indistinctly
+through summer haze, Fidunia saw the azure outline of a fair and
+distant island. There also, gleaming faint across the broad bay, her
+eager longing eyes at last discerned the white environs of the
+far-famed city of Deva. After revelling for some moments in the glad
+beautiful prospect, Fidunia hastened her footsteps, well knowing she
+had still several miles to traverse before she could reach the town, in
+which she hoped to sleep that night.
+
+It was very pleasant to trip gaily along the grass by the roadside,
+with a lovely view before her, and fresh sea-breezes to fan her brow as
+she sped swiftly on. But as the day advanced, the heat grew oppressive.
+Again leaving the sea, the pathway led them by degrees from the midst
+of abundant vegetation into an arid and desolate region. Absorbed in
+hopeful musings, Fidunia did not for some time observe the change of
+scene. At last a sense of oppression made her look around. The
+stillness was frightful. No sounds of tuneful ocean saluted her ear; no
+melodious birds charmed, as heretofore, the wayfarer with their
+thrilling notes. All was mute and silent as the grave.
+
+Fido, with drooping tail and disconsolate bearing, paced soberly beside
+her, casting doubtful glances around. With a sudden shudder Fidunia
+recognised some of the horrid features last seen in her forest visions.
+Here were the wreathed and fantastic shapes she remembered too well,
+the wildly tossed, the bare and herbless rocks. There, as she
+doubtfully raised her eyes to its summit (now visible through the
+opening gorge), was a cloud of black smoke, issuing from the very
+mountain round whose base they were journeying.
+
+Appalled by this vivid resemblance, and seeing before her an apparently
+endless continuance of a similar loathly landscape, Fidunia's trembling
+and really wearied limbs refused to carry her farther. Looking around
+for a resting-place, she was compelled to seat herself in the road
+itself, for a creeping sensation came over her as she caught sight of
+the bright-eyed lizards peeping between the rocks near at hand, and
+surmised that the snakes of her dream could not be far off.
+
+Fido came and lay down beside her quite subdued, and she opened their
+little store of cold roast chestnuts and other provisions neatly packed
+in her wallet. While she was thus employed, forcing her thoughts from
+the surrounding desert, by endeavouring to play with her dog over each
+morsel of their food, they all at once heard the tramp of approaching
+horses.
+
+Fido, though seemingly hungry, dropped his untasted meat on the ground.
+Pricking his ears, he listened acutely to the distant sounds, uttering
+the while a low growl. Nearer and nearer rang the iron hoofs along the
+hard metal causeway. At length, sweeping rapidly past the corner
+Fidunia herself had so recently rounded, she beheld a splendid
+cavalcade.
+
+Beckoning to Fido, she sprang alarmed to her feet. Forgetting in her
+haste the dreaded reptiles, she flew quickly to the rocks above, where,
+having gained a vantage ground of comparative safety, she paused to
+mark the unaccustomed pageant below.
+
+But a few moments before, the sun, shorn of his beams by thick vapours
+belched forth from the crater above, rode lustreless aloft like a dim
+red ball.
+
+Now, however, bursting through the mirksome canopy, his rays fell with
+renewed splendour upon the gay accoutrements and glancing arms of a
+troop of mounted soldiers, whose advance was heralded by all the merry
+pomp of prancing steeds and clanging steel.
+
+Fido, instead of obeying his mistress, had remained behind her in the
+centre of the road, and now, regardless of her earnest commands, he
+dashed forward vehemently barking.
+
+Startled by the apparition of a species of animal but little known in
+these parts (the few dogs in that country being smooth-coated, and very
+different in appearance from the long-haired Fido) the horse nearest at
+hand shied to one side, and crushed against his next neighbour. The two
+riders (hitherto sitting careless and at ease) thus nearly came
+together to the ground. Enraged at this misadventure, one of the men
+raised himself in the stirrup, and with his long lance was about to
+make a thrust at Fido; but Fidunia, foreseeing her favourite's danger,
+rushed down and seized him in her arms ere the wrathful trooper had
+time to execute his purpose.
+
+This little by-play could not occur, however, without in some measure
+hindering the onward progress of the whole company; and before Fidunia
+or the irate men could utter one word in explanation or abuse, a loud
+voice from the rear peremptorily demanded the cause of this abrupt
+halt. Fidunia was already escaping as fast as she could with her burden
+up the steep hill-side, when another cavalier, of more pleasing
+appearance, rode up and informed her that "the King" wished to speak
+with her. Reassured by his courteous address, she hesitated in her
+flight, and finally remained rooted to the spot in amazement and
+instinctive expectation.
+
+By this time the procession was once more moving on at a slower pace
+than before, and she now perceived in its midst, surrounded by the
+glittering squadron, a stately chariot, drawn by four grey horses,
+caparisoned in blue and gold. As this carriage drew nearer, Fidunia saw
+seated in it a middle-aged man of singular yet noble bearing.
+Impatience and dissatisfaction were imprinted on his speaking
+countenance as he turned fretfully from side to side. He seemed unable
+to notice surrounding objects, for his eyes, though wide open, stared
+vacantly into space; while the restless motion of his hands betokened a
+mind ill at ease with itself, if not with all the world around.
+
+When this gorgeous equipage reached the spot where Fidunia stood, the
+horses were drawn up in obedience to the signal of Domenichino, the
+official who had previously accosted her. Stepping up to its occupant,
+he now made some deferential communication. With a quick gesture, the
+King (for it was he) leant over the side of the carriage, and demanded,
+in surly tones, who and what had dared to impede his royal progress.
+While he spoke, his eyes gazed aimlessly around, thus revealing to the
+most unobservant bystander the painful fact of his physical defect.
+
+Inspired with sudden forebodings, agitated by these swiftly following
+events, and frightened by the strange looks of her interrogator, the
+maiden knew not what to answer, but stood irresolute, holding her dog
+in her arms. Every eye turned upon her, and the King angrily repeated
+his question before she found courage to reply, tremblingly,
+
+"Oh, sire, if indeed thou art the great monarch Antiphates, pardon the
+imprudence of my faithful dog: he comes with me from the depths of our
+forest home, where gallants and horses are alike unknown, and on the
+approach of thy proud train he sprang forth to defend his poor
+mistress, thus discomfiting in some measure thy brave men-at-arms."
+
+At this curious answer, given in all simplicity, the soldiers exchanged
+doubtful glances, imagining Fidunia to be crazy for thus bearding their
+passionate sovereign. But the King hungrily fastened on her words. He
+threw himself from his chariot with wonderful rapidity, and, half
+groping his way, half guided by Domenichino (who hastily dismounted to
+assist his royal master), seized hold of Fidunia's hand, crying, "Ha!
+from the forest, sayest thou, and by thy voice a fair and gentle
+maiden?" Ere he could utter another word, however, Fido, already
+watching his stumbling movements with considerable mistrust, broke into
+such angry snarling that Fidunia, freeing her hand, stepped backwards,
+and did not see the gestures of merriment exchanged among the cavaliers
+around, as the unfortunate monarch spoke of her being "fair."
+
+Though Fido's repeated interference was decidedly provoking, yet
+Antiphates preserved unusual command over his short, uneven temper. He
+entreated Fidunia to consider herself his guest; to enter his chariot
+and accompany him to his palace, whither he was now returning after a
+noonday drive. She demurred at first, because of her dog, fearing that
+his misbehaviour might be severely visited upon him. As if reading the
+cause of her hesitation, however, and aware of her fatigue, Fido leapt
+from her arms, and, hastily flying past the attendants, bounded upon
+the carriage-seat, wagging his tail, and motioning to his mistress to
+follow. Aided, therefore, by Domenichino, she soon found herself
+ensconced in the carriage, opposite that great potentate, whose
+well-remembered name had first been made known to her in her dreams.
+
+As she mused on his peculiar appearance, unable to discover, as he
+turned on her his dark expressive eyes, whether the King was able to
+scan her countenance or no, he bent suddenly towards her, saying,
+"Maiden, I have more for thine ear than may be heard by others;
+meantime, I bid thee welcome to my kingdom." Ere she could frame a
+reply to this gracious speech, he leant back again and relapsed into
+complete silence, apparently absorbed in unquiet meditations.
+
+The swift onward motion of the chariot was new and strange to Fidunia.
+Leaving the desert region behind them, they descended nearer the
+water's edge, and sped lightly along the smooth high road.
+
+Smiling vineyards clothed the mountain's side on the one hand; on the
+other, the broad blue sea stretched her "ample field." The jangling of
+the military trappings gave forth a sound not unpleasing to the ear, as
+the escort swept merrily on.
+
+Weary with her exertions, and lulled by the monotonous movement of the
+carriage, Fidunia half slumbered as she leant back on the luxurious
+cushions, her mind filled with youth's vague ecstatic visions of future
+happiness. But Fido, wary and watchful, folded lovingly in his
+mistress's arms, turned a vigilant eye alternately upon the uneasy King
+and his glittering body-guard.
+
+It would be impossible adequately to describe the forlorn condition of
+the monarch, in whose stately equipage destiny had thus strangely
+placed the forest maiden and her dog. Surrounded by all the pomp and
+wealth of his splendid court, he was yet debarred by his misfortune
+from enjoying the visible beauties of nature, or the works of art with
+which his palace and kingdom abounded.
+
+Unable to employ his powerful mind in perusing the records of the past,
+or the writings of the poets and philosophers of his own day, incapable
+of discerning the commonest objects in the world around, and conscious
+only of a difference between light and darkness, night and day, the
+great King's melancholy affliction demanded double commiseration in an
+age when comforts for the blind had neither been invented nor studied.
+
+Music became a source of constant pleasure to him; nor was it
+surprising that he invariably judged people by their voices as they
+spoke or sung before him, forming in this unusual way a wonderfully
+accurate conception of character.
+
+It is needless to say that remedies of all sorts had been tried upon
+the eyes of the hapless monarch. Many physicians had exerted their
+utmost skill in endeavouring to ameliorate his condition. He had
+visited in turn not only the most celebrated baths and watering-places,
+but also the various oracles then existing in Europe.
+
+Disheartened and hopeless, he had at last well-nigh succumbed to his
+fate, when a strange incident once more roused the seemingly subdued,
+yet ever dormant passion of hope in his breast.
+
+Antiphon (the foster-brother of the blind King), while wandering on the
+hills surrounding Deva, in his vocation of shepherd, noticed
+sulphureous fumes issuing from a cleft he had never before observed in
+the mountain's side. Taking with him a torch, he cautiously entered the
+yawning aperture, and groped his way along, until he suddenly found
+himself in a lofty subterranean cave. In the centre of this cave lay a
+marble block, fashioned like a huge coffin. Antiphon hastened home to
+tell his neighbours of his discovery and to gain assistance. Returning
+to the cave, he and his fellows succeeded in pushing off the ponderous
+lid, which fell crashing to the ground, and broke into a thousand
+pieces.
+
+Within the sarcophagus was now exposed to view a shrivelled though
+perfect mummy; and an old man of the party recollected having heard an
+ancient prophecy which foretold that answers regarding future events
+should one day issue from "withered lips, dumb with the silence of
+ages, and awful in their semblance to humanity."
+
+Antiphon at once carried the news of this prophecy to King Antiphates,
+who, ready to do anything to vary the horrors of his solitary
+existence, though secretly doubting the efficacy of such attempts,
+disguised himself as a shepherd, and, unknown to his courtiers,
+accompanied his foster-brother to the cave.
+
+Here, after observing the accustomed ceremonies of purification and
+prayer, Antiphates approached the sarcophagus, and kneeling beside it,
+craved some knowledge of his future fate, humbly demanding at the same
+time whether any sacrifice on his part would procure for him the
+priceless gift of sight.
+
+Having made these inquiries, the reluctant monarch, had now to lay low
+his kingly head upon the breast of the long dead, and thus in a
+stifling and constrained attitude await the much-desired response. Each
+moment seemed an age to the afflicted prince. All alone with these
+terrible emblems of mortality (for Antiphon remained without to guard
+the entrance of the cave) he listened for he knew not what.
+
+At last there arose upon the still dank air, as if from echoing vaults
+beneath, an unearthly monotonous voice, chanting slowly the following
+words:
+
+        A mighty King is blind,
+        And severed from his kind;
+    In his proud breast broods dark unrest,
+        No solace can he find.
+
+        The lands he calls his own,
+        His kingdom and his throne,
+    Are his by right; yet that fair sight
+        Is kept from him alone.
+
+        Revolving decades pass,
+        All flesh, we know, is grass;
+    With whitening hair, the king sits there,
+        He groweth old alas!
+
+        No joys of life are his,
+        He tastes no wedded bliss;
+    A monarch born, a man forlorn,
+        Nor wife nor babe to kiss.
+
+        Far, 'mid the forest drear,
+        A maiden without peer
+    His fate shall hear, and wake with fear
+        From dreams of little cheer.
+
+        By long and lonesome way
+        Two loving hearts shall stray,
+    That sovereign blind, in haste to find,
+        And Fate's behest obey.
+
+        Yet guard thyself, oh king!
+        Lest kindness sorrow bring!
+    Forbear to love, or time shall prove
+        That joy may hide a sting.
+
+        That pearl--a woman's love--
+        Might angels' envy move,
+    But powers that be, in wonder see,
+        How mortals changeful prove.
+
+        Joyous and fancy-free
+        Then let the maiden be,
+    Nor teach that child from regions wild
+        The meed of misery.
+    But if thou dost, thine own the cost,
+        And woe shall fall on thee!
+
+The hollow voice ceased, once more all was still. Antiphates in vain
+asked other questions, and listened impatiently for further replies.
+Meeting with no more response, and thoroughly exhausted by the foul
+atmosphere, he hailed his foster-brother, and, aided by him, breathed
+again with thankfulness the pure outer air.
+
+They returned to the palace in silence, for Antiphates, proud and
+reserved, vouchsafed no hint of the mysterious words to which he had
+listened. He had indeed ample food left him for meditation.
+
+This visit to the mummy took place during the night, and the disguised
+King passed and repassed his unslumbering sentinels by means of his own
+signet-ring, occasionally entrusted by him to confidential emissaries.
+
+The apt rhymes he had heard haunted him incessantly. The mere mention
+of a forest was extraordinary--for with the exception of a fair-sized
+plantation in the midst of which Castle Xylina (the king's summer
+palace) stood, no large wood of any kind existed within many miles of
+his capital.
+
+As to love, the poor benighted King knew little about the capricious
+god, save what he gathered from the songs of the minstrels and
+troubadours, birds of passage who, ever certain of kind welcome and
+liberal patronage, flocked in numbers to his court.
+
+Unwilling to display his infirmity unnecessarily, Antiphates kept
+himself aloof in general from his people. His palace was indeed the
+resort of all the most talented and intellectual men of the day. His
+feasts were celebrated for the brilliant conversation and witty
+repartee in which, not only his guests, but the monarch himself,
+occasionally indulged; at the expense of many an aching hour of lonely
+reaction.
+
+But at these banquets no ladies were present, nor had the isolated
+sovereign any opportunity of becoming intimately acquainted with his
+fairer subjects. There were, it is true, the singing-girls, who nightly
+performed before him with guitars and cymbals, and gave the blind king
+some of the happiest hours of his life. Though he could not see their
+graceful forms as they gaily danced to their own music, yet the
+tinkling of the silver bells on their arms and ankles formed a
+rhythmical and tuneful accompaniment to their melodious voices, that
+wafted fourfold enjoyment to the listening monarch. He showered
+generous gifts on these damsels, each of whom he knew apart by her
+voice and step. They were, however, but the toys of the hour.
+
+When in pomp and state the King went abroad in his chariot, his fair
+subjects anxiously pressed together to catch a glimpse of their
+sovereign's stern yet handsome features; but though they gratified
+their own curiosity, no reciprocal vision of bewildering charms crossed
+the darkened vision of their lonely prince, as he was whirled proudly
+by in his dazzling equipage.
+
+Unwonted feelings therefore stirred in Antiphates' bosom as the
+prophecy of the cave again and again rang through his mind. After
+several days spent in musing and reflection, he resolved to return to
+the oracle, and demand more exact particulars concerning the forest
+maiden and the "two loving hearts" mentioned, anxious to set forth in
+pursuit of them, if need be, round the world.
+
+Antiphon therefore, favoured by the darkness, once more led his royal
+foster-brother to the mountain side, but no cave could they discover,
+though for several hours they wandered up and down the very spot where
+the shepherd had carefully noted the entrance by certain landmarks.
+
+Irritated and disappointed, Antiphates at last gave up the useless
+search, and during the succeeding days busied himself in sending forth
+express couriers over the country, north, west, and east, to seek for
+the forest, and to find out and bring to Deva all discoverable denizens
+of woods, forests, and thickets. Besides this, he issued a royal
+mandate, setting forth that every wandering maiden should instantly be
+conducted to his palace. A few strolling gipsies were in consequence
+brought before him, and told innumerable falsehoods concerning their
+previous lives and companions, but none of them were able to throw the
+least light upon the cause of the King's defective eyesight.
+
+Pending the result of more active measures, however, Antiphates was
+roused from the apathy into which he had been plunged for many years
+regarding his misfortune, and taught himself to hope he hardly knew
+what, from the hidden pages of the future. But day after day went by,
+and no fresh event enlivened the dismal tranquillity of the palace
+precincts.
+
+We may thus more readily understand the monarch's abrupt condescension
+and excitement on hearing Fidunia's first words, and learning that she
+had but lately quitted a forest. Her sweetly modulated voice at once
+carried a favourable impression to his sensitive ear, and, conjoined
+with the mysterious and ever-present prophecy, touched a slumbering
+chord in his jaded breast.
+
+Indeed, as they now drove back to the city from whence he had issued so
+short a time before in listless uncertainty, his mind ran riot with
+wild chaotic fancies.
+
+They drew near the frowning gates of Deva. A sudden pause, as the
+massive portals rolled back on their hinges, and the soldiers presented
+arms, awoke Fidunia from her trance. She started and looked around,
+eagerly surveying the splendours of that enchanting capital.
+
+Meanwhile the fairer inhabitants of the town gathering, according to
+primeval custom, by balcony, window, and doorway, to feast their eyes
+on the royal pageant and the gallant escort of cavaliers; passed from
+mouth to mouth the incredible news that a stranger damsel was seated in
+their monarch's chariot. Ere the gaping crowd had time, however, to
+note more than the mere outline of a drooping form, the narrow streets
+were swiftly threaded, and scaling the little hill on which Xylina
+stood, the whole squadron disappeared within the leafy boundaries of
+King Antiphates' summer residence.
+
+Fidunia could not repress an exclamation of delighted wonder as they
+halted at the palace door.
+
+Castle Xylina rose in turreted heights of dazzling whiteness above
+them, pure as the day it was completed. In that favoured climate
+neither smoke nor inclement weather marred the snowy beauties of its
+marble walls and terraces. It was approached by seven broad alleys: six
+of these, carpeted with natural greensward, converged through the small
+wood already mentioned, towards the broad central plateau. The seventh
+avenue, leading from the town, up which the King had just driven, was
+like the city itself, paved with lava.
+
+The castle from its elevated situation, commanded an exquisite prospect
+towards the south across the open bay of Deva. The surrounding trees
+completely shut out the neighbouring town. Only faint, distant sounds,
+and the chiming of church and convent bells borne upon the air,
+betokened the near presence of the busy thousands below. Innumerable
+craft, moreover, moored or moving on the still blue waters, gave an air
+of life to the otherwise dreamy silence, that with mistlike wings
+enfolded the fair prosperous Deva and her environs as Fidunia thus
+first beheld them.
+
+But now a courtly throng pressed around, a hundred eyes were bent on
+the embarrassed stranger and her singular companion, a hundred hands
+out-stretched to assist her in her descent from the carriage. But no
+sooner had the King himself touched the ground in safety, than he
+turned, and taking her hand in his, led her slowly up the broad white
+marble steps into the central hall of his magnificent palace.
+
+She had scarcely time to glance round her ere her royal host, divining
+both her fatigue and her bashfulness, summoned and gave minute
+directions to the women of the palace regarding her welfare, and
+resigned her into their charge. Smiling kindly on their unexpected
+guest, they ushered her along lofty passages to a chamber widely
+different from any the simple maiden had ever beheld either in her
+wanderings or even in her dreams.
+
+Thoroughly overcome by fatigue, and hardly pausing even to partake of
+the tempting fare presented to her, or to survey the beauties of her
+new abode, Fidunia sought her pillow. The neat-handed abigails, after
+preparing a bed for Fido within the recess where stood his mistress's
+couch, retired, first bidding her summon them at will, as their
+apartments were close at hand.
+
+Youth and exhaustion soon closed the stranger's eyes, and it was late
+on the following day before Fidunia could rouse herself completely from
+her heavy slumbers.
+
+At length a continuous plashing sound mingled itself with her dreams.
+She thought she was once more in her forest home, and that the little
+fountain with its clear bubbling waters invited her to her morning
+bath.
+
+She slowly unclosed her eyes. But no leafy branches spread their matted
+foliage above her head; lovely rosy curtains fell instead on either
+side of her soft little couch. She raised herself--surprised and
+wondering--at her first movement, Fido already on the alert, capered
+across the tesselated floor, oddly slipping hither and thither on its
+smooth surface.
+
+She stepped carefully from her alcove, and proceeded on a voyage of
+exploration. She soon ascertained that the sound of running water was
+no vain product of her own imagination, but that it came from a recess
+corresponding to that in which she had slept. Within this niche a
+marble Triton poured through his conch-shell a continuous stream. On
+either side the entrance to the snowy basin beneath, a nymph so stood
+that the roseate curtains could either be held back in their extended
+arms, or loosened completely to shut off the recess from the rest of
+the room.
+
+Overjoyed at discovering this welcome substitute for her oft-regretted
+forest spring, Fidunia swiftly performed her simple toilet.
+
+With all the carelessness of one little accustomed to regard her
+personal appearance, she hardly even glanced at the magnificent
+burnished mirror and its costly accessories, but hastened from window
+to window, eager to become acquainted with her new abode.
+
+Towards the south, connected outside by a shady verandah, three long
+windows fronted the open bay, commanding the same extensive view that
+had delighted her the evening before. Two of similar form opened
+eastward, and Fidunia could scarcely repress a shudder, as raising her
+eyes to scan the more distant horizon, she beheld, frowning behind
+nearer slopes of verdant loveliness, the grim mountain of her dreams,
+whose gloomy boundaries she had skirted on the previous day. A
+slumberous cloud partially shrouded its dark heights. In the vista of
+coast, cape, and blue headland lengthening beyond, earth, sea, and sky,
+melted into one indistinguishable haze of atmospheric beauty.
+
+Easily unfastening one of these eastern windows, Fidunia perceived a
+flight of steps leading thence into the palace gardens below. Followed
+by Fido, the fearless child of nature quickly descended the stairs, and
+plunged into the artificial intricacies of the pleasure grounds
+beneath.
+
+A thrill of remembrance came upon her. Surely she had trodden these
+trim-kept walks before, and inhaled the strange rich odour of the
+blossoming orange that hung heavy on the air?
+
+Stopping, bewildered, she raised her hand to her brow. As she thus
+stood rapt in thought, the noise of approaching voices apprised her
+that Antiphates, leaning on the arm of Domenichino, drew near. Swift as
+lightning, recollection flashed across her. While the impatient monarch
+came towards her, guided by his servant, she half expected to see and
+hear the tiny elves who in her forest dreams had swung and sung their
+eerie refrain amid just such scenes as these.
+
+When the King learned that she had not yet broken her fast, he
+commanded food to be brought to an arbour near at hand, where he
+himself joined his guest. He found much entertainment in trying to
+follow the movements of the little dog, who, summoned by his mistress,
+went through all his pretty tricks.
+
+With unwonted softness in his voice and manner, Antiphates strove to
+set Fidunia at her ease, and to engage her in conversation. He led her
+on to speak of herself and of her previous lonely life. He encouraged
+her to tell him all that had befallen her since she left the forest.
+
+Domenichino oftentimes listened in surprise. His master, hitherto so
+hasty and imperious, with rare patience, endeavoured to overcome
+Fidunia's timidity and reserve. Antiphates even forgot to murmur
+continually at his own affliction--nay, he felt a certain pleasure in
+claiming the young girl's assistance, as they wandered together in the
+gardens, or moved from room to room of the palace.
+
+Day after day glided swiftly away, and life became a fresh pleasure to
+the weary King as he listened to the strange adventures and artless
+sayings of the ingenuous maiden. He derived perpetual amusement from
+her novel descriptions of familiar objects presented to him under a
+widely different aspect by her humorous remarks.
+
+For years upon years he had existed with all of visible beauty veiled
+from his sight; and he now conjured up to himself an exquisite ideal of
+his youthful companion. Her low melodious voice, her gentle touch, and
+her soft light step, full of grace, taught him insensibly to dream of a
+far fairer form than poor Fidunia actually possessed.
+
+He became so deeply interested in his new friend, that ere long that
+interest was merged in love. Morning, noon, and night, he was her
+inseparable companion, nor could he rest quiet when she was absent from
+him. He found in her society a nameless charm that tamed and softened
+his arrogant spirit. With extraordinary humility he learnt to defer to
+her slightest wish. With unwonted self-abnegation, he laid siege to the
+citadel of her heart.
+
+Listening entranced to his tender words, there now ensued a period
+when, for the first time to the guileless Fidunia, if not to her more
+experienced suitor,
+
+    "Love took up the glass of Time, and turned it in his glowing
+        hands;
+    Every moment, lightly shaken, ran itself in golden sands.
+    Love took up the harp of Life, and smote on all the chords with
+        might;
+    Smote the chord of self, that, trembling, passed in music out
+        of sight."
+
+Antiphates soon told the wondering maiden all he had heard in the cave.
+His thoughts turned continually upon the mysterious prophecy, and they
+often held sweet counsel together over those singular but
+well-remembered words.
+
+A dim foreboding of evil in the future, and an intense clinging to the
+peaceful joyous life of the present, led Fidunia to approach this
+subject with secret reluctance. An inward voice told her she possessed
+not beauty's potent charm; yet she felt that to her blind monarch she
+was all in all. Again and again she had to stifle the rising fear of
+possible change in his love, and chided herself for unworthy thoughts
+and lukewarm energy.
+
+With all the eagerness of his impetuous nature, Antiphates constantly
+recurred to the charge, urging Fidunia to do her utmost to deliver him
+from his infirmity. In glowing terms he depicted the pleasures of their
+common existence if he were able, not merely to hear and to feel, but
+to watch and to guide his heart's beloved through her future life.
+
+As he spoke, the forest maid often felt the hidden talisman rise and
+fall with the heavings of her tender bosom. Obedient to the donor, she
+never disclosed its existence, even to Antiphates, or told him of her
+strange dreams. It needed, however, no small resolution on her part to
+avail herself of the charm so solemnly committed to her charge by Dame
+Anna. At length, unable longer to resist the oft-repeated solicitations
+of her royal lover, she faithfully promised him to exert her feeble
+powers to the utmost on his behalf.
+
+With a lingering footstep she sought her chamber that evening, filled
+with awe at the prospect of invoking the aid of her scarce known
+friend. When all was silent for the night, Fidunia trimmed the classic
+lamp by her bedside, for it was the new moon, and no light came from
+without. Watched only by the wakeful Fido, she drew the sparkling prism
+from its accustomed place. Remembering her instructions, she placed it
+in the palm of her hand, then bent (for another's sake), on peering
+into futurity, she resolutely fixed her eyes on the talisman. Swaying
+to and fro with the intensity of her emotions, she chanted the required
+invocation:
+
+    Strange gem, upon thy crystal core
+    I gaze, the while I aid implore;
+    Trembling upon the verge of fate,
+    Oh, point my path ere yet too late!
+    I fain would gain the boon I ask.
+    Is mine the strength for such a task?
+    Canst thou unloose the links that bind,
+    Or vanquish powerful foes combined?
+    Then show whate'er there lurks of art
+    Within thine own mysterious heart;
+    On thee I turn a hopeful eye,
+    Bright stone of silence, make reply.
+
+The magic stone grew larger and larger. Its brilliant centre, like a
+searching eye, returned Fidunia's gaze with dazzling refulgence.
+Heavier and heavier drooped her falling lids, her recumbent form sought
+more and more the support of her little couch, at length borne down by
+resistless force, she lay unnerved and motionless.
+
+The lamp became extinguished. All was dark, silent, and blank. Her
+corporeal frame slumbered inert and passive. But now every spiritual
+faculty throbbed into keen activity. The whole chamber was filled with
+soft penetrating light. The kind Anna's well-remembered form stood
+beside her. With one hand she raised Fidunia on her couch, with the
+other she pointed towards the south.
+
+To Fidunia's intense surprise, she beheld a ray of moonlight illumine
+the sombre waters of the Bay of Deva, reaching in one narrow unbroken
+line to what she well knew as the distant though hitherto unvisited
+island of Spera. She gazed bewildered from her raised alcove, which
+commanded an easy view of the landscape beneath, through the wide, open
+windows.
+
+How could the small silver horn of the newborn moon cast such brilliant
+light on the dark ocean? She turned a troubled glance towards her
+unwonted visitant, but her voice was spell-bound; the questions she
+fain would have uttered died upon her lips. With a sad and solemn
+gesture her protectress still pointed towards the heights of Spera,
+then sighed, rather than said these lines:
+
+    Far, far o'er the depths of that shimm'ring blue sea,
+    The drops trickle slowly so sought for by thee;
+    Enwrapt by the jealous embrace of the deep,
+    A lake without sky, without motion doth sleep.
+    Though distant, and hidden the shrine of the cave
+    By the busy bright waters its entrance that lave,
+    Yet only the touch of an innocent maiden
+    Can e'er give effect to those drops virtue-laden.
+    At midnight a ray shall illumine the portal
+    All sombre and silent, ne'er threaded by mortal.
+    At midnight, by moonlight, that path can be crossed,
+    By her, who heroic, ne'er counteth the cost.
+    Oh, chilly the ocean, and lonely the hour,
+    Or the charm that thou seekest is reft of its power;
+    And voiceless and mute thine endeavours must be,
+    Or fruitless thy labours and harmful to thee.
+    Yet, maiden, forbear! ere thou challenge the spell
+    Remember--with thee and with thine it is well!
+    In thee and thy love the blind monarch is blest:
+    Then dwell in his palace--Fidunia--at rest.
+
+As the last couplet fell on Fidunia's ears all else became as nought.
+The dear thought of her first and faithful lover filled her imaginative
+mind. What recked she of trouble or sorrow to be undergone in his
+service! Would she not even give life itself for the sake of him who
+had first called into existence all the passionate but unknown wealth
+of her unselfish soul! Dreamily she recalled to herself his whispered
+vows, his ardent tones, and thus from waking dreams slowly fell on
+sleep, undisturbed and profound.
+
+It was late the following morning before she awoke to the realities of
+life. As she dressed herself she pondered much over the visions of the
+night. Was all a dream, like her forest fancies?
+
+She looked everywhere for the talisman, but it was nowhere to be seen.
+Its absence weighed somewhat heavily on her mind. The reality of her
+midnight experience was brought home to her, as she perpetually missed
+the shining stone from its wonted hiding-place.
+
+Fidunia now hastened to her monarch's presence. Considering that the
+loss of the talisman released her from her promise of secrecy, she
+confided its whole history to the astonished King. She told him also
+her waking vision of the previous night. She described Dame Anna's
+appearance, and repeated some of her words.
+
+Thoroughly roused Antiphates entreated Fidunia to keep nothing more
+concealed from him. Using all his powers of persuasion he at length
+drew from her unwilling lips the particulars of her three wild forest
+dreams.
+
+  [Illustration: FIDO AND FIDUNIA.
+   "Thoroughly roused, Antiphates entreated Fidunia to keep nothing
+   more concealed from him."--P. 170.]
+
+In a voice trembling with emotion he hailed the forest maiden as his
+predestined deliverer, nor was his eager curiosity satisfied till he
+had asked innumerable questions. Fidunia sighed as she noted his
+feverish agitation. Remembering the warning contained in the last
+rhythmical lines, she feared lest his hopes should be dashed to the
+ground.
+
+As they sat together in his favourite turret above the castle porch, he
+explained to her that rumour spoke of a hidden cave in the Isle of
+Spera. Recalling to mind the line of light she had so distinctly seen
+across the bay, Fidunia pointed it out as having terminated beneath the
+highest peak of the island. Antiphates decided that an endeavour to
+find the cave should be made when the moon next became full. He would
+fain himself have aided in the search; but Fidunia, anxious to have her
+mind steadfastly set on the one object of the expedition, persuaded him
+to remain within the palace, and to allow her to go forth guarded only
+by Domenichino.
+
+Domenichino secretly hired, as for his own use, one of the boats
+belonging to a fisherman of Spera. He carefully questioned the men of
+the place about their island. They all seemed aware of the probable
+existence of a cave only accessible from the sea, but partly from the
+dreamy indolence common to those climes, partly from superstition, no
+one had as yet discovered its entrance. A thousand old legends,
+however, sung of the hidden beauties of this wondrous grotto, a hundred
+wild tales were told among these simple people of the magic and
+wonder-working fountain therein concealed from mortal eyes.
+
+At last the time arrived when, at midnight, Cynthia should reach her
+cold meridian of beauty. Fidunia resolved to leave Fido for the first
+time behind her. She committed him to the willing charge of the King,
+but the little animal, who from the first had taken a dislike to
+Antiphates, could not be got away from his mistress's chamber. There,
+extended on the moonlit verandah, he remained during her absence,
+disconsolate and wakeful.
+
+It was a night of peaceful calm. As the sturdy rowers urged on their
+vessel, her bows parted the waters into a thousand phosphorescent
+ripples, which, widening as the boat moved onward, spread into one
+broad, flaming wake in their rear.
+
+Fidunia carried with her an ancient gold goblet, wherein the King
+besought her to place the precious drops, should she succeed in
+obtaining them. Grasping it tightly in her hand, as if to persuade
+herself she was not dreaming, she gazed awestruck on the overwhelming
+beauty of the landscape, arrayed in night's fairest covering.
+
+Already distant, the City of Deva lay white and ghost-like under the
+moon's pale ray. Here and there a gleam of light showed that there were
+watchers on land, and from the high turret window of Castle Xylina one
+ruddy gleam shot a quivering reflection far along the ever-lengthening
+track of their little craft.
+
+Before them the nearing crags of Spera rose abrupt and beetling towards
+the sky. The boat moved rapidly along. Now became audible the surging
+swell and low muffled boom of the ocean, ever chafing, ever restless,
+even when apparently at peace; and ever repelled by those giant
+sentinels of the deep. Numbers of sea-birds, disturbed by the unwonted
+splash of oars, wheeled screaming above their heads, and suddenly
+brought to Fidunia's mind with agitating distinctness the recollection
+of her second forest dream.
+
+But all other thoughts were merged in the approaching performance of
+her self-imposed task. They had gradually rounded the opening to a
+little bay where the water seemed more shallow, and the sea only broke
+in tiny wavelets upon a small shelf of pearly white sand. Here Fidunia
+stepped from the boat. Leaving human companionship behind, she slowly
+paced along the narrow margin. Finally, following the moon-lit line and
+heedful of Domenichino's oft-repeated instructions, she disappeared
+behind the frowning ledge of rock which bounded the narrow inlet.
+
+Only a very few minutes after she had thus gone from their sight, they
+could hear dimly across the intervening waters, the faint tolling of
+the midnight bells in the great City. In indescribable anxiety
+Domenichino, who alone (among these rude boat-men) knew her peril,
+counted the minutes till Fidunia's return, and resolved that at the
+expiration of a certain time he would at all risks persist in following
+the unprotected maiden.
+
+But, ere the appointed period had elapsed, Fidunia, with buoyant steps,
+turned swiftly the dark boundary and rapidly drew near. High resolve
+sat upon her brow and stamped her features with a noble ardour. Closely
+clasped to her bosom she held the precious vase, but to no mortal ear
+might she unfold the thrilling tale of her solitary experience.
+
+Had she within those mystic precincts heard a warning voice which bade
+her pause ere she dashed the cup of earthly happiness from her lips?
+How and where had she obtained the crystal liquid that leapt and
+sparkled in its golden prison? Had she entered the ice-cold waters and
+braved the wave-engulfing arms of the merry, malicious mer-men, who
+warily watch, and at the midnight hour have power to bear to their
+coral haunts the bold earth-maiden who shall step within their native
+element?
+
+These, and numberless other questions, crowded into Domenichino's mind
+as he sped to meet her; but she raised her finger to her lips, and with
+a mute gesture of entreaty silently took her place in the little
+vessel. The weather-beaten boatmen shrank back as she passed them by,
+her hair and garments glistening with a thousand rainbow-coloured
+drops; yet, as she dreamily took her place in the stern, one, less
+bashful than his compeers, awkwardly placed his rough coat so as to
+shelter and keep her warm.
+
+The wind had arisen. It swept moaningly around, hurrying dark clouds
+across the face of the moon, and presently shrouding her altogether
+from their sight. But the red tower-light from distant Xylina guided
+the homeward-bound crew, and ere very long they were safely landed
+below the slumbering City.
+
+Still voiceless, Fidunia, with lagging footsteps, ascended the steep
+hill. Her energy was gone; she leant heavily on Domenichino's arm, and
+but for his aid must have fallen more than once exhausted by the way.
+At last the castle was reached. In answer to her signal the faithful
+esquire knocked at his master's turret door. An impatient voice bade
+them enter. Antiphates himself, stumbling hastily to meet them, started
+as he took Fidunia's cold hand in his. She gently withstood his eager
+inquiries and solicitude for her health. "Sire," she murmured, "I am
+very weary, but these poor hands must this night bathe your eyes."
+
+At her words the King, obedient, sank on a couch near at hand, and
+Fidunia, dipping her fingers into the golden goblet, timidly pressed
+them again and again over his burning eyelids. Her cool, soft touch
+soothed his irritated nerves and brought refreshing peace to his
+restless mind. A strange calm folded its enshadowing wings around those
+busy brows and wrapt the imperious monarch in a sweet and childlike
+slumber.
+
+Raising her finger again to her lips, in token of silence, and signing
+to Domenichino to leave his sovereign for the night, Fidunia quitted
+the turret chamber and sought her own apartment. Here the listening
+Fido greeted her approaching footsteps with a whine of delight, and
+testified his joy at her return by many expressive gambols.
+
+Long into the night she sat on her balcony, acting over in thought
+again and again the exciting scenes of that eventful evening. It seemed
+to her she had only just fallen asleep when she was suddenly startled
+from her slumbers by a loud paean of rejoicing blown from the castle
+wall by the silver trumpets.
+
+For a moment recollection failed her, but then glad certainty flashed
+on her mind, and, as if to make assurance doubly sure, some of the
+women of the palace, rushing abruptly into her chamber, confirmed the
+glad tidings. They urged her to arise and dress in haste, for the King
+could not rest till he had seen and thanked his deliverer in person.
+
+Fidunia hurriedly arrayed herself. Accompanied by Fido, she hastened
+along the now well-known passages of the palace. She ascended the broad
+stairs and passed the tall guards in the corridor, with their nodding
+plumes. The doors of the presence chamber were thrown open before her.
+On the threshold she stood a moment irresolute. Then, notwithstanding
+their intimacy, knowing his newly-gained power, she advanced timidly
+towards the great King. There was a pause, she raised her eyes to his.
+The monarch seemed transformed! Instead of half-closed, unseeing eyes,
+and all the accompanying hesitation and uncertainty, two searching orbs
+now bent their dark majesty full on the bashful maiden. In that one
+moment she drank in the fatal secret, which no after-words could
+disguise.
+
+It was but too true!
+
+A passionate adorer of beauty, Antiphates had, during the past months,
+almost unknown to himself, clothed his unseen love with perfect
+loveliness. His heart therefore beat high with expectation as her
+footfall was heard at the door, and when, with her attendant Fido, she
+entered alone, he could not control the impulse of disappointment too
+plainly written on his expressive, speaking countenance.
+
+The dawn of light on his long-darkened orbs revealed to him the
+unattractive colouring and irregular features of the being he had in
+blindness learned to adore, and no self-command on his part could
+conceal from love's unerring instinct his change of mood.
+
+Now, however, with well-simulated alacrity, he rose from his throne.
+Stepping down with a free, unfettered gait, widely different from his
+wonted stumbling manner, he took the maiden's hand in his own. Pouring
+confused and hurried thanks into her ear, he led her to the seat where
+she had passed so many happy hours.
+
+In vain he strove to conjure back the fascination Fidunia once
+possessed for him. Oh! subtle influence! who can accurately define the
+thrilling tie that makes the one we love different from all the world
+beside? who, when the frail chain of enchantment is once severed, can
+join again those mystic links?
+
+The King and Fidunia conversed in low tones, apparently unchanged: the
+gay courtiers around at least observed no cloud on the horizon. Waiting
+within call, they clustered eagerly around Domenichino to hear his
+adventures of the previous night, and to discuss together the
+approaching marriage of the maiden, now beloved by all, with their
+fortune-favoured prince. They recked not of the cold shadow that crept
+slowly into the little maid's heart, and clouded her fair and hitherto
+untroubled sky.
+
+Fido alone, close and vigilant, marked the awakening sorrow of his
+beloved mistress. He felt the hand that caressed him grow cold and
+pulseless. He noted the accent of despair in Fidunia's choking voice.
+His unsophisticated nature rose indignant at the selfishness of the
+human friend, who (after such vows breathed, and responded to by her to
+whom they were addressed), could change and grow indifferent to the
+being who had gone through so much for his sake.
+
+How true it is that maidens, like flowers, expand in the presence of
+him they love, in the warm sunshine of adoration. When that cheering
+beam is withdrawn, how colourless and scentless, how devoid of beauty,
+do their drooping blossoms become!
+
+Even so it was with Fidunia, the happy light that had of late dawned in
+her gray eyes now faded away. Hour after hour she wept alone on her
+sleepless pillow, sadly musing over times departed,
+
+    "Departed never to return."
+
+One wakeful night she poured out her thoughts in these words:
+
+    The silent hour of night prevailed, the Earth
+    Was in her first and dewy slumber, while
+    The Moon unveiled her pure and peerless light,
+    And threw her radiance o'er the dusky haunts
+    Of men.
+          An atom on the world's broad breast
+    Alone, beneath those chilly beams I mused,
+    On Death and Immortality.
+                                My soul
+    Sped swiftly upward on the ethereal ray,
+    And left enthralled the grosser part of self,
+    The slumbering mortal portion of my frame.
+
+    *        *        *        *        *
+
+    The spirit world was gained, and for a space
+    Enchantment wove mine aching heart a strange
+    Bright web of many hued delight. She gave
+    To that brief Dream all the reality
+    That made its flying moments passing sweet.
+    The kindly echoes lent their magic aid,
+    And tones reverberated in mine ear
+    Whose music gently whispered rapture, not
+    Of Earth, but of some far-off lovely Land,
+    A Time when all that is not yet may be.
+
+    *        *        *        *        *
+
+    With trembling sigh, from happiness too great,
+    I all unknowing broke the mystic spell,
+    And shivering back, through dark and dreary ways,
+    No Moon to guide the weary feet, no Light
+    To cheer the falling spirit, once again
+    Within dull clay poor Psyche found her home,
+    And woke to bitter loneliness and woe.
+
+She had in truth a rough awakening from her dream of happiness. As day
+by day the restless monarch showed more and more the change in his
+feelings that perfect vision had wrought, Fidunia not only passed
+through the deep waters of sorrow in realizing his alienation, but
+experienced moreover a fresh and equally poignant pain as the veil of
+illusion fell from her disenchanted eyes, and taught the simple-hearted
+young girl that she could never again regard her monarch with the same
+trusting faith.
+
+To one of hasty impulsive temperament like Antiphates, dissimulation
+proved impossible: however much he was bound, alike by the ties of
+honour and of gratitude, to keep the vows publicly pledged to his
+deliverer, he could not forgive the hapless girl her lack of outward
+beauty. He valued not the delicate refinement of her nature. He marked
+not the ethereal spirit that shone unconquerable through her
+transparent eye. His affection had been of the earth, earthy;
+evanescent as frail mortality itself.
+
+Nor was Fidunia's spirit formed in a mould to sicken and die of
+unrequited affection. In happier days, the happiest of her short life,
+she had, in spite of the vast difference in their ages, learned to
+regard the gifted King with something akin to reverential love. The
+eager wooing of one so talented and fascinating could not fail to
+produce some corresponding effect on the imagination of the forest
+maiden. Not unsolicited she had yielded up her gentle heart, and come
+gradually to centre all the hopes and thoughts of her young life upon
+Antiphates.
+
+She now grew to spend longer hours each day in wandering round the
+precincts of Xylina. The child of nature, she ever found her truest
+solace beneath the wide canopy of heaven. There no walls pent in her
+labouring sobs, no human eye beheld the slowly falling tears, mourners
+over a vanished past, that welled up one by one from her burning heart;
+tears that slowly rising, purified still further her much afflicted
+spirit, and weaned her soul from the earthly love which for a time had
+satisfied that strange immortal portion of mortality.
+
+Fido, ever beside his mistress, grew like her, pensive and forlorn. He
+knew she was in grief, and his mute sympathy gave her comfort, as
+together they climbed through the mazy wood, or explored the hills that
+rose behind the castle.
+
+In these wanderings, Fidunia came frequently to a knoll, commanding the
+lovely expanse of waters beneath. Looking across the broad bay of Deva,
+the horizon was bounded only by the fair island of Spera, so fraught
+with memory's brightest records. Here upon a bank of wild thyme,
+sheltered by the cool olive trees, and fanned by the passing breeze,
+she pondered over her mysterious lot, and shudderingly thought of the
+blank untrodden future.
+
+But counsel and comfort already approached. One day as she thus sat,
+rapt and musing, a gentle voice addressed her; turning half alarmed,
+she beheld the sweetest face her eyes had ever dwelt upon. That
+countenance shone with heaven-born beauty. "Sister Angela" (for thus
+the stranger was called) had also sorrowed, but she had found lasting
+comfort in the convent of Saint Sebastian. This monastery was near at
+hand, though partially concealed by the dense foliage and the masses of
+creepers which clothed its outer walls. Angela had oftentimes seen and
+yearned over the sorrowful young girl, and at last, issuing forth,
+ventured to greet her.
+
+She tenderly saluted Fidunia, who, before long, learnt to love and
+trust her new friend. She soon came daily to seek for guidance and
+comfort at her hands, confiding to Angela's sympathizing ears the
+chequered story of her brief life.
+
+Meantime, to add still further to the griefs of poor Fidunia, her
+little dog disappeared. She first missed him one afternoon as, after
+long converse with her new found friend, she turned to descend the
+grassy slopes to Castle Xylina.
+
+During those hours she had formed a high and holy resolution. Alone in
+the world, she aspired to become one of the sisterhood to whom Angela
+belonged, and to find an asylum for her wearied wounded heart within
+the sacred walls of Saint Sebastian.
+
+On reaching the Castle, Fidunia sought everywhere for Fido, but no one
+had seen him, or could tell whither he had gone. While occupied in
+threading the long passages and calling anxiously for her missing
+companion, she met Domenichino hastening to entreat her attendance on
+the King. Without returning to her chamber to alter her attire, Fidunia
+turned and accompanied him to the royal presence.
+
+Antiphates met her at the entrance of the hall. In kind yet constrained
+tones the monarch condoled with her as he heard of Fido's
+disappearance. He gave orders moreover that the strictest search should
+at once be instituted throughout Deva and its environs for Fidunia's
+dear little favourite.
+
+"But now," continued the King, leading her to a deep embrasure, whence
+could be seen the fair landscape beneath, "I am anxious you should name
+the day for the ceremony that is to unite the debtor to his mistress,
+and thus permit me to fulfil my plighted troth." So saying, he carried
+her hand lightly to his lips, and looked searchingly upon her. But even
+his bold eyes fell rebuked beneath Fidunia's pure enquiring gaze, now
+divested of all hesitation or embarrassment. No word of reproach for
+his altered behaviour towards her, since she had restored his sight,
+fell from her. No murmur escaped her. But her voice quavered as, in a
+few simple sentences, she unfolded to him the purpose she had that day
+formed of taking upon herself the vows of Saint Sebastian.
+
+A sense of momentary shame at his own want of generosity dyed the
+King's rough cheek a deeper hue. He felt his inability to urge Fidunia
+with any zest to renounce her lofty aspirations. He strove to conceal
+his satisfaction, but he knew too well that her voluntary self-devotion
+relieved him from a perplexing dilemma.
+
+Nevertheless he cast about in his mind for some form of remonstrance;
+but before he could frame the words on his unwilling lips, she was
+gone.
+
+Stung to her inmost heart by the inscrutable changes in his variable
+nature, and already overwrought by the day's emotions, the hapless
+Fidunia only reached her chamber in time to shut from every human eye
+her deadly struggle, her last overwhelming battle with wounded mortal
+love.
+
+Days slowly elapsed without intelligence of Fido, and the arrangements
+became gradually completed by which, upon the Festival of All Saints,
+Fidunia was to enter her noviciate.
+
+All Hallow's Eve drew near. On the morrow the lonely Fidunia was to bid
+farewell to the outer world, and rest her wearied tempest-tossed head
+within the peaceful cloistered shades.
+
+She sought her luxurious chamber for the last time, and unfastening the
+window, stepped out on the broad balcony. The glorious full moon once
+more illuminated with clear cold light each beloved object in the
+exquisite panorama so dear to her.
+
+Human sorrow asserted its own in the maiden's breast, as in spirit she
+bade farewell to the slumbering monarch who, for a brief period, had
+been her sun and firmament, the "all" for which in the forest depths
+her innocent soul had insensibly pined.
+
+A sudden pattering footstep sounded near, and looking inwards, lo!
+through the moonlit chamber, approached the truant Fido. In the
+imperfect light he seemed faint and weary; but Fidunia sprang to meet
+him, and raised and fondled the little wanderer in her arms, asking him
+the while many a question about his strange absence, half reproaching
+him for his desertion.
+
+As she held the little dog close to her breast, rejoicing over his
+return, she felt something of a novel character around his neck. She
+gently unfastened a cord, and found attached to it a small phial
+carefully sealed, yet emitting a wondrous fragrance.
+
+Somehow assuming from her companion's quiescent attitude that the flask
+was for her own use, she slipped it into her bosom, and forgetting all
+else, again yielded herself to vague yearnings over the unfulfilled
+visions of the past. It was long before she stepped from the window,
+and placing Fido on the ground prepared for her last night's rest in
+the palace.
+
+As she let down the now lengthened tresses of her thick hair, Fido
+though evidently exhausted, refused to lie down. Seemingly ill at ease,
+he watched her every movement with painful anxiety. When at length she
+drew near the marble bath, wherein she nightly plunged, his agitation
+knew no bounds, and as in undressing she displaced the phial from her
+garments he uttered a series of short sharp barks restlessly springing
+the while backwards and forwards from his mistress to the edge of the
+alcove. So close was the companionship between Fidunia and her faithful
+companion, that she at once divined his meaning, and undoing the seal
+and extracting the stopper from the bottle, she emptied its contents
+into the water. Scarcely had she done so when the whole chamber became
+filled with a delicious perfume. As one in a trance, half overcome by
+the powerful scent, Fidunia entered her bath, and felt at once the
+extraordinary invigorating power which seemed to emanate from those few
+drops of liquid.
+
+All sorrow was lifted from her heart. Already in imagination she joined
+in the sweet praiseful strains of the Sebastian sisters. Angelic forms
+moved around her, and the moon's pale rays at length guided the weary
+maiden to her pillow. Stretching out one soft arm over her faithful
+dog, lying in his cot by her side, and lulled by a foretaste of
+heaven's own music, Fidunia sank into dreams of ecstatic beauty.
+
+The loud pealing of a thousand bells for the Festival of All Saints at
+last awoke the neophyte from her deep repose. For a moment she started
+and half forgot her resting place; but her eye fell upon her little
+dog. Something strange in his attitude struck her. Startled, she sprang
+to her feet and bent over him.
+
+His sleep was surely very deep! Yes, Fidunia! sound are those slumbers
+from which not even the touch of thy beloved hand can rouse his wearied
+form, or call forth a response from the wistful eyes, wont to hang upon
+thy lightest gesture.
+
+With an exceeding bitter cry, Fidunia fell beside her lost favourite
+and vainly chafed his stiffening limbs. As she stooped over him, her
+eyes swimming in tears, she perceived in the morning light a small
+scroll lying on the floor by his couch. She hastily raised it, and
+noted "This for Fidunia" traced upon the outer covering. She tore it
+open, and through the mists of sorrow that perpetually dimmed her
+vision, she read these words:
+
+    "Sweet daughter, when thou readest this, thy faithful servant will
+    be no more. Know that the little dog, Fido, through many past days
+    and nights hath mourned over thine exceeding sorrow and thy low
+    estate.
+
+    "He held thee altogether lovely, but he knew from human fellowship
+    that those who owed most to thy labours, my child, had weighed
+    thine outward beauty in the balance and found it wanting. He
+    watched thine affliction till his own heart went nigh to break; and
+    then, calling to remembrance my counsels and assistance to thee, he
+    left thy side, and through many hardships and with great fatigue he
+    gained once more my little cottage by the wide and spreading
+    common. I made known to him that the gift of earthly beauty could
+    only be thine through the self-sacrifice of one who loved thee to
+    the death. Thy faithful companion hath cheerfully laid down his
+    sinless existence for thy dear sake.
+
+    "Heaven guard thee and guide thee, Fidunia!
+
+    "ANNA."
+
+As Fidunia, penetrated to her very inmost soul by the dying fidelity of
+her beloved dog, sank again over his inanimate frame, a loud and
+persistent knocking made itself heard at her chamber door. She had
+barely time to cast on her outer garments before the palace women,
+alarmed by her first cry, and hearing no response to their summons,
+thrust open the door and drew inquisitively near the weeping maiden.
+
+Fidunia rose from her knees, and casting an indignant look on the
+amazed intruders, she exclaimed, "Behold your thoughtless work! It was
+through you and yours that my poor dog learnt the small esteem in which
+his mistress was held, and has thus been goaded to his death."
+
+No answer came from the gathering throng. Awed and abashed, they herded
+together. Whence came the ineffable beauty that sat upon Fidunia's
+brow, and cast a radiance over her shining hair? That it was the forest
+maiden none could doubt, but how exquisitely soft and fair her
+lineaments, as standing in the morning sun before her dead comrade's
+couch, she gave vent to her feelings of passionate reproach.
+
+At this moment Domenichino, hastily entering, heralded the King's
+approach. The news of the death of Fido and of Fidunia's miraculous and
+new-born beauty had spread like wild-fire through the Castle.
+
+Antiphates, no less bewildered than his subjects, hesitated half
+awe-struck on the threshold of the young girl's chamber, which he now
+for the first time proposed to enter. Recovering himself promptly,
+however, with an imperious gesture he signed to his surrounding people
+to leave the apartment, and then slowly advanced to the now silent but
+still weeping Fidunia.
+
+In bygone days, all unknown to the sightless monarch, the very sound of
+his approaching footsteps had power to suffuse her cheek with blushes.
+Now coldly conscious of his presence, she stood before him without
+responsive sign, the loveliest creature upon God's wide earth, the
+realized ideal of his fairest dreams.
+
+Wrapped in her white morning robe, with her yet unbound hair falling
+back in rich clustering masses from her pure pale brow and pearly skin
+of dazzling whiteness; a solemn depth shone from her dark blue eyes,
+bearing still a wealth of tears unshed; while a faint evanescent colour
+like the transparent petal of the wood anemone played upon her rounded
+cheek.
+
+All unknown to herself, clothed in this wondrous panoply of beauty,
+Fidunia awaited her sovereign's commands. To her unspeakable surprise
+the monarch seemed overcome with some unbidden emotion. Again and again
+he vainly assayed to speak; at length, drawing near, he bent his proud
+knee before her, and in agitated tones besought her pardon.
+
+"Sire," replied Fidunia, "as regards myself, I have little to forgive,
+but would that my dumb companion had been spared the knowledge that
+hath cost him his faithful life."
+
+"Oh, Fidunia!" cried the enamoured Prince, "forget these sad weeks
+wherein we have suffered disquiet, and during which untoward shadows
+have obscured my vision, and consent, as you once promised, to be my
+bride. I swear to you, my darling," continued he, pressing closer to
+the shrinking girl, "that in my love and tender care you shall find
+consolation even for the death of your poor lost favourite."
+
+With an effort Fidunia extricated her hand from his nervous grasp, and
+the red flush of indignation mounting higher and higher, she exclaimed,
+"Nay, my liege, this is neither the time nor the place wherein to renew
+the vows which of late have sat so light on thy heart and conscience.
+Here in the presence of the faithful dead, spare me, I pray thee, all
+reference to the unfaithful past. That chapter is closed for ever. On
+this morning, with thy free consent, I take upon myself new and holy
+vows. Yes," repeated she, raising her speaking eyes to the glorious
+eastern sky, "I am accounted worthy to become the lowly bride of
+Heaven." And as if in confirmation of her words, a gust of wind brought
+faintly to their ears, through the wide open window, the glad chiming
+of the Saint Sebastian bells, ringing in anticipation of the ceremonial
+of the day.
+
+"Now by my crown and kingdom," whispered Antiphates, in burning ardent
+tones, "that thou never shalt become, for mine thou art and mine thou
+shalt remain while I have life and power to keep thee." So saying he
+sprang to his feet and enfolding Fidunia in his arms, pressed her
+fiercely to his breast.
+
+Weary and distraught, and well nigh overcome with the struggle, as she
+felt the loud pulsations of his throbbing heart, and experienced the
+mesmeric influence of strong earthly passion, the sorely bestead maiden
+breathed from her fainting soul an earnest prayer for guidance; and her
+silent petition for aid in the hour of need was answered.
+
+A low strain of music sounded through the chamber, and the reluctant
+King involuntarily released his trembling captive, as the door slowly
+opening admitted two by two the veiled and white arrayed sisters of
+Saint Sebastian coming to adorn their promised novice for the
+approaching ceremony.
+
+In vain the distracted Prince commanded them to pause in their holy
+duties, in vain he implored Fidunia to delay even for a day her
+irrevocable vows.
+
+Borne back by the gentle but resistless force of the sacred band, and
+secretly abashed at the recollection of his own conduct, Antiphates
+stood spell-bound, devouring with hungry eyes the peerless beauty of
+the maid, whom too late, he knew to be the one golden hope of his life.
+They arrayed her in bridal robes of exceeding splendour. They placed a
+coronal of blooming orange flowers upon her faultless head.
+
+When all was completed Fidunia, turning to Domenichino, pleaded with
+him to convey what remained of her devoted servant to the little thymy
+knoll beneath the olive trees, and there within easy reach of her
+convent walls, to lay to rest the still beautiful form of the faithful
+Fido.
+
+Then, stepping aside as if to bid him farewell, she raised and kissed
+the silent Prince's hand, murmuring in tones that he alone could hear,
+"while life lasts I shall pray for thee." Ere he could respond the
+procession slowly re-formed, and descending the broad palace-stairs,
+swept onwards along the avenue of grassy sward, and through the
+orange-scented gardens of Xylina to the hallowed precincts of Saint
+Sebastian on the Hill.
+
+Within the chapel where the holy fathers waited, many had collected to
+witness the ceremony, but the King and his cortege occupied the places
+nearest to the sisters and the young aspirant.
+
+Through his intervention her meditations were yet again disturbed, as
+he besought her once more to turn from her purpose, and to remain amid
+the outer world as his loved and honoured bride. She steadfastly
+refused to listen to his entreaties. The service proceeded, and the
+novice at length prepared to pass through the iron gateway that should
+now close to all eternity between her and the world without. A ray from
+heaven fell on her beautiful figure, and illumined her devout features,
+as she stood waiting to receive the white consecrated veil of the
+sisterhood.
+
+The long enveloping folds shrouded her from head to foot, and as
+Fidunia's golden head disappeared for ever from the sight of man, the
+whole air became filled with the celestial voices of the choir, singing
+these glorious words,
+
+    "She is not dead, but liveth."
+
+
+
+
+EUDAEMON:
+
+OR
+
+_THE ENCHANTER OF THE NORTH_.
+
+
+On the eastern side of the Isle of Raasay there still stands a lonely
+ruin known as Castle Brochel. Perched upon precipitous rocks at the
+very verge of the ocean, it is easy to imagine how, armed and
+provisioned, this fortress held its own amid the perpetual warfare of
+early Celtic times.
+
+  [Illustration: EUDAEMON
+   P. 199.]
+
+Castle Brochel has always borne a doubtful reputation. According to
+tradition, it was originally built with the price of blood, for the
+ancient legend runs somewhat after this fashion.
+
+Shiel Torquil went forth with his dogs one morning to hunt the red deer
+on the wild mountains Blaven and Glamaig, in the neighbouring Island of
+Skye. Shiel Torquil had with him only one retainer, but he was a host
+in himself, being surnamed, from his immense size and strength, the
+Gillie More. After some time they sighted a stag. In the ardour of the
+chase the dogs soon ran out of sight, pursuing their quarry towards the
+shore at Sligachan.
+
+Now it so happened that the young Kreshinish in his galley was anchored
+on that side of the island within sight of the beach. He saw the hunted
+animal about to take to the water, and swim, as deer are often known to
+do, across the narrow strait which lies between Skye and Raasay.
+Kreshinish and his men at once landed and took possession, not only of
+the stag itself, but of the dogs which, panting and exhausted, were
+unable to offer any resistance.
+
+Shiel Torquil presently appeared on the scene and angrily asked for his
+deer and his hounds. Kreshinish refused to deliver them up. A bloody
+struggle ensued, during which the Gillie More inflicted a fatal wound
+upon the ill-fated young chieftain who unwittingly (at first) had
+interfered with the sports of another. This brought the affray to a
+speedy conclusion, and Shiel Torquil with his follower carried off deer
+and dogs in triumph.
+
+Not long after this the poor old father of Kreshinish came to Skye to
+seek for the murderer of his son, and publicly offered the reward of a
+bag of silver to any one who would show him the guilty man. The Gillie
+More, hearing of the promised guerdon, boldly entered the presence of
+the elder Kreshinish. Confessing that he himself had slain the youthful
+chieftain, he urged in self-defence the young man's overbearing conduct
+in attempting to carry off Shiel Torquil's stag-hounds and game.
+
+The bereaved father, obliged by the stringent laws of Highland honour
+to fulfil his solemn promise, reluctantly bestowed the bag of silver on
+the very man who had cut off his only child in the early bloom of
+manhood. The Gillie More, however, haunted by remorse, and still
+fearing the avenger's footstep, entreated his master to accept the
+money and build therewith a retreat for them both.
+
+Shiel Torquil granted his henchman's request. After some time spent in
+searching for a suitable site, they at last selected the wild easterly
+shore of Raasay. Here were speedily raised the frowning walls of Castle
+Brochel. Secured from sudden attack by the inaccessible situation of
+their refuge, the Gillie More and his master lived in peace for many
+years.
+
+Their retired habits, and their dislike to intruders, coupled with this
+strange tale of robbery and murder, caused the Castle, though
+newly-built, to be regarded with no friendly eye. When they died, it
+was left untenanted for a considerable time. Many reports were
+circulated concerning the strange sights and sounds to be seen and
+heard at the eerie hour of twilight, or amid the silent watches of the
+night, by the belated traveller who chanced to pass that way by sea or
+by land.
+
+At the period of which we speak, Castle Brochel had however for some
+time been inhabited by a being whose origin was partially shrouded in
+mystery, the gloomy Eudaemon, known as the "Enchanter of the North."
+
+Long years ago, Valbiorn, the wild sea-king, persuaded the lovely
+Bragela, Sorglan's fair-haired daughter, to fly with him from her home.
+Terrible was Sorglan's wrath when he discovered that his hereditary
+enemy had deprived him of his only child, and undying was his
+resentment. But filial disobedience brought its own punishment. Before
+very long the restless Valbiorn was once more roaming alone on the high
+seas, spreading war and confusion in his wake.
+
+It was next rumoured that the gentle Bragela, heart-broken and
+deserted, had, with her little babe and an old and faithful attendant,
+one-eyed Donald, taken up her abode in the lonely Castle Brochel. Here
+she reared her son, within whose infant mind the powers of good and
+evil seemed to struggle with unwonted energy.
+
+Unceasing were the prayers that the loving mother offered up over her
+child, for his strange nature caused her many tears. At times he would
+sit contented by her side, and fixing on her his large dark eyes,
+listen attentively to her words of instruction and wisdom. Or wandering
+with her, as soon as he could run alone, over the hills near at hand,
+he learnt the names and properties of various medicinal herbs, and the
+hours when they should be gathered to render their use efficacious.
+Wondrously effectual was the healing touch he inherited from his fair
+young mother and brought to light in future years.
+
+On other days a mad spirit of wild wantonness seemed to possess the
+boy. He would destroy everything upon which he could lay his hand, or
+tear along recklessly over the rugged walls and dangerous precipices on
+which the Castle stood, where a single false step would have dashed him
+to pieces on the rocks beneath. If his mother tearfully besought him to
+return to her, he would burst into loud fits of laughter, and shriek
+until the very sea-birds flew affrighted from the spot.
+
+When these strange paroxysms seized him, Bragela found that nothing had
+the least effect upon her wayward child save music. It was wholly by
+accident she first discovered the soothing charm of melody on his
+turbulent nature.
+
+One day, after watching his wild antics till her very heart grew sick
+within her, she re-entered the hall wearied and discouraged. Gradually
+consoling herself as she remembered how often the young rebel had come
+down in safety from his perilous haunts, she drew to her the harp, her
+father's gift in days of yore, which in all her wanderings she had
+carried with her. Striking chord after chord on its well-worn strings,
+she at length began to mingle her sweet voice with its thrilling tones.
+She sang of her childhood's happy home, and her tenderly-loved father,
+of the still beloved though faithless Valbiorn, of the perils they had
+together undergone, of the blissful hours she had once enjoyed when the
+fierce warrior forgot everything save her gentle strains, and lay
+entranced at her feet drinking in every word, and whispering in ardent
+tones that "her voice was as that of the angels in heaven."
+
+She would have sung on of sorrow and forlorn solitude, but voice and
+heart alike failed her. Clasping her arms around her cold harp, the
+forsaken Bragela bowed her head on its shoulder and wept aloud.
+
+But a little rough hand was laid upon her neck. "Mother, mother,"
+whispered her boy; "you must not weep, you are not forlorn or lonely,
+for I am here to care for you, and to protect you."
+
+Surprised and touched, Bragela turned to look upon the child. The wild
+light had died out of his eyes, and in its place shone through those
+brilliant orbs the tender protecting instinct of his sex. He drew
+closer to her, and pressing his little curly head on her soft bosom, he
+murmured, "I am sorry, mother dear; forgive me this time."
+
+Poor Bragela gladly folded the young truant to her heart. Henceforward
+she derived unspeakable comfort from this new influence over his
+boisterous spirit. For his sake she cheerfully resumed the art she had
+deemed laid aside for ever. When the wild fit again and again returned
+upon her boy, she would even carry her harp into the outer court. There
+inuring herself, with all a mother's courage, to behold without
+shuddering his maddest freaks, by her sweet singing and playing she
+gradually lured him to her side, and awakened his better self.
+
+These happy days, however, could not continue for ever. Eudaemon's
+mother had gone through too many trials, and was of too tender a nature
+to endure such grief with impunity. There came a time when the gentle
+Bragela laid down her wearied head to rest; her dim eye kindled not
+with affection when her terrified boy bent over her, her cold hand for
+the first time gave him no responsive caress. Her sorrows were over,
+but loud and long were the lamentations of her child; thus left alone
+with one poor old man and his faithful dog Luachan.
+
+At dead of night strange lights and sounds arose about that rugged
+dwelling. Watchers at a distance beheld the lonely castle enveloped in
+fiery smoke. Amid the wreathing vapours a figure of unearthly
+proportions carried to the sea a white-robed form with long flowing
+hair. The repentant Valbiorn, too late to save, or even to hold
+converse with his neglected Bragela, bore to his immortal home her
+precious remains. There he was able by his magic skill to endow her
+inanimate body with the semblance of life. He mournfully placed the
+beautiful image in the vaulted halls of Thuisto, where he could for
+ever gaze on the fatal beauty that had brought such misfortune on its
+possessor.
+
+Valbiorn tried every art to persuade his son to accompany him; but
+before her death Bragela had warned her child of the cruel nature of
+the sea-kings. She told him of her humble trust that notwithstanding
+her early disobedience (so heartily repented of), her soul might ascend
+to heaven, and though the still heathen Valbiorn could take her body,
+yet she felt her spirit would be safe with Him who gave it.
+
+She explained to Eudaemon that if he came under his dread father's
+influence, the sea-king and his wild companions would strive their
+utmost to make him forget and neglect her careful instructions. She
+entreated him to be steadfast in his resistance to temptation,
+prophesying that eventually he might even have the great happiness of
+rescuing his father from the darkness of heathendom; if only he lived
+on in faith and simplicity, serving his unseen but all-powerful Maker,
+studying the books she left him, and endeavouring as best he might to
+help the poor ignorant Highlanders around.
+
+The crafty Valbiorn finding all his endeavours powerless to persuade
+Eudaemon to quit his abode of safety, resolved to destroy his
+disobedient son and his refuge at the same time. But here the loving
+mother's foresight helped in the preservation of her child. Among the
+other treasures carried by the fugitive Bragela to Castle Brochel, were
+some fowls of the famous breed first reared by the witch Fantunina,
+which by their watchfulness are able to protect their possessors from
+the powers of evil.
+
+Night after night, therefore, when the emissaries of the baffled
+sea-king strove to destroy the Castle by fire, the magic cock, ever on
+the alert, flapped his wings and loudly proclaimed the approach of
+danger. Then Eudaemon arising from his lonely couch, wrestled in silent
+prayer until the first faint streaks of daylight in the eastern sky
+showed him that night's dominion was over. Thus baulked of his prey,
+Valbiorn withdrew in a terrible tempest to Thuisto, nor did his son
+again hear of him for many and many a long day.
+
+A considerable period elapsed, during which Eudaemon grew apace in
+stature and in knowledge. He not only studied the many books of magic
+lore left to him, but he also learnt marvellous lessons from Nature
+herself. In his lonely isolation he had leisure to attend to what our
+common mother is ready to teach us all, would we but tarry awhile in
+our busy lives and hearken to her still small voice.
+
+Separated by his birth and dwelling-place from mankind in general,
+Eudaemon strove to benefit the few he could befriend. The island people,
+as a rule, rarely beheld him. But in sickness or trouble they ever
+turned (tremblingly, it is true) to the Castle gate, where they waited
+while the trusty Donald apprised his master of the presence of the
+suppliants without.
+
+Strange cures were wrought by the simple remedies Eudaemon compounded
+from the various herbs and minerals his mother had shown to him, or
+with which his studies had rendered him familiar. To seek these herbs
+at a propitious time, the youth issued from the Castle at dead of
+night, with his faithful Luachan, and traversed the hills till break of
+day, when, wearied, and full of sleep, he often, on his return, passed
+the daylight hours in repose.
+
+He was, moreover, a keen and unerring marksman, swift and sure of foot,
+and of iron nerve. The shuddering Highlanders sometimes marked his
+eager pursuit of the wild goats, which at that time abounded in the
+island. Master and hound seemed alike dauntless and fearless in the
+chase, and whether from his early love of climbing, or from his mixed
+descent, it is hard to say, but it is very certain that Eudaemon and his
+dog were often seen scrambling across the beetling crags that overhung
+the sea, in places where no human foot has trodden before or since. He
+and Luachan also knew where the golden eagle built her eyrie. He even
+caught and tamed a young nestling, which loved Castle Brochel as its
+home, and would only feed from her master's hand. With Donald's
+assistance moreover he had constructed a rude boat, in which they went
+forth occasionally to seek a portion of their subsistence by fishing.
+
+Passionately fond of companionship, and denied that of his own fellows,
+Eudaemon, by dint of long perseverance, collected around him a motley
+variety of animals. Tame seals lived on the rocks below his dwelling.
+In perfect security around and beneath the Castle walls roosted and
+nested a perfect colony of sea-birds. A little flock of goats amply
+supplied the three inhabitants with milk; while conies, blue hares,
+domestic fowls of various kinds, and last, but not least, serpents,
+from time immemorial the emblems of wisdom, throve and multiplied
+within the precincts or in close proximity to Eudaemon's home.
+
+In those remote times, it is not surprising that old Donald, with his
+queer, misshapen figure, and solitary glaring eye, his youthful master,
+so wise beyond his years, and even the poor collie Luachan, whose
+sagacity was far above the average, were one and all regarded with some
+degree of superstitious mistrust.
+
+It was said, that in the little turret chamber, highest in the Castle
+wall, from which at night streamed forth a ruddy ray of light, Eudaemon
+held converse with visitants from another world, and that many a storm
+was concocted and wafted abroad by their dark agency.
+
+While the young student strove anxiously to benefit the cases of
+sickness brought before him--sometimes, indeed, spending whole nights
+wrestling face to face with death, by the side of some poor peasant's
+bed--a few of the people were ungrateful enough to attribute his cures
+to magic art and to an unholy alliance with the powers of darkness.
+Some humble hearts, however, throbbed with responsive gratitude at the
+very mention of his name; and there was one mother who, though the King
+of Terrors had proved too powerful for his adversary's skill, never
+forgot the tear of sorrow that fell from the young man's eye, as, after
+long watching and many unavailing remedies, her bonnie bairn breathed
+out her innocent life in Eudaemon's arms.
+
+His fame was gradually bruited abroad, and as years rolled on he became
+widely known as "the Enchanter of the North."
+
+From all the surrounding districts the inhabitants flocked in boats to
+seek his advice. Fishermen asked for charms, to ensure a successful
+summer. Ere the sailors put to sea, they deemed themselves lucky if
+they could secure one of Eudaemon's so-called "amulets" against
+disaster. These were, in reality, small bags manufactured and sold (in
+private) by the one-eyed seneschal, whose master would have been sorely
+displeased, had he discovered the chaffering trade driven in "charms"
+by the cunning old man, who thus rivalled Gehazi of ancient times!
+
+Now it chanced that about this time there dwelt on the Lowland Borders,
+a King and Queen of Clutha, whose only daughter was afflicted with a
+terrible misfortune.
+
+The Princess Miranda was beautiful as the day. Her parents, who had
+long lived in the bonds of matrimony without possessing any children,
+felt inexpressible joy as they welcomed their sweet little girl into
+the world. Bells were rung and bonfires lighted upon all the hills on
+either side of the river Clutha, which ran through her father's
+domains. Everything went on propitiously, until, in an hour of woe, it
+was discovered that the infant Princess could not speak!
+
+This dire and unexpected calamity threw the whole Court, and indeed the
+nation at large, into deep distress. All, both high and low, heartily
+sympathized with the grief-stricken parents. Philosophers, astrologers,
+physicians, and wise women were each consulted in their turn; but all,
+alas! in vain. At last, in desperation, the unhappy parents even
+offered the hand and dowry of their daughter as a reward to any man who
+should be fortunate enough to set her tongue at liberty.
+
+Years rolled on. The King and Queen were disappointed in their hope of
+other offspring. Their feelings became more and more bitter, as they
+reflected on the confusion that would inevitably arise, should they
+die, and the dumb Miranda be called to the throne. They feared, with
+reason, that wicked men might take advantage of the Princess's helpless
+condition, and wrest the crown and kingdom from her hands.
+
+Ambassadors from many surrounding countries were attracted by the
+beauty of Miranda's portraits, carefully and widely disseminated by her
+prudent mother. One by one, however, these envoys disappeared, on
+finding that the beautiful Princess, though possessed of every other
+charm, was dumb.
+
+The King and Queen, to soften as far as possible their child's
+misfortune, gave orders that her play-mates and attendants were always
+to address her in writing. All at court were told to conceal from the
+Princess as much as possible the difference between her own condition
+and that of the maidens around her.
+
+The consequence of these ill-judged regulations was that the Court of
+Clutha became almost as silent as the grave. Even musical
+instruments--with the exception of the fife and the drum, necessary for
+military and state occasions--were completely banished from the
+precincts of the palace, to save the youthful Miranda from discovering
+what it was to be without a voice for singing or speaking.
+
+Under these circumstances it is not to be wondered at that foreign
+courtiers found King Murdoch's Court insufferably dull, especially as
+the lovely Princess, herself a prey to melancholy, spent the greater
+part of her time amid the wild moors and glens surrounding her father's
+castle, where at least she could uninterruptedly listen to the sounds
+of Nature. The sweet singing, or startled calls of the various birds,
+the rippling and murmuring of the rushing waters, the ceaseless humming
+of the insects, the sighing of the wind among the leaves and branches
+of the trees--each and all she heard and learnt to love.
+
+Among the ambassadors referred to there was one representing a Prince,
+whose ardour could not be checked by the Princess's cruel misfortune.
+
+Some short time before the period of which we speak, the King and Queen
+of Clutha, accompanied by their daughter, paid a visit to the Queen's
+sister, a powerful Princess in Ireland.
+
+Left early a widow, Queen Hildegonda had long since forgotten all the
+softer charms of womanly nature. Forced, when hardly more than a girl
+herself, to protect her infant son, Prince Eochy, the heir to his
+father's wide domains, from the continued assaults, not only of
+neighbouring chieftains, but also of rebellious and usurping subjects,
+she had become a very amazon. By her wise and judicious regency, she
+had secured a peaceful rule for her son. But when the time came for him
+to take his rightful place, the proud mother could not bring herself to
+resign the reins of power. Eochy, as effeminate and weak as his mother
+was masculine and daring, willingly yielded to her the responsibilities
+of government, and passed his life in idle poetical dreams and
+frivolous amusements.
+
+On Miranda's appearance, however, the susceptible Prince, as might have
+been expected, was captivated by his fair cousin's matchless beauty. In
+vain the maiden's parents bestowed upon Eochy their own approval. In
+vain the enamoured youth besought his mother to favour his suit.
+Hildegonda, inexorable and unyielding, declared that no dumb Queen
+should ever reign in Cashel, and commanded her son to retire to a
+distant province until his relatives had departed.
+
+Murdoch and his spouse lost no time in quitting with their daughter
+these inhospitable shores. When they once more reached home, they were
+roused by Hildegonda's insulting behaviour to attempt still more
+earnestly to unravel the cruel mystery that bound the lips of their
+beautiful daughter.
+
+In the meantime the hapless Eochy utterly failed to make any deep
+impression on his cousin's heart. He languished in all the misery of
+unrequited love, and continually breathed forth his lamentations in
+odes and poems such as this:--
+
+    "What though I be King of the Emerald Isle,
+      And my Court in its Castle with beauty be bright,
+    To me it were brighter by far could the smile
+      Of the one I remember but gladden my sight.
+
+    "Ah yes! I remember too faithfully yet
+      That evening and all its enchantment to me,
+    That silvery wreath I shall never forget,
+      That star-spangled Maiden from over the sea.
+
+    "I had gazed on the snow-mantled vale as it lay
+      In the silence of morning all spotless and white,
+    And I wished that unchanged the fair prospect would stay
+      To delight me, no sunset, no evening, no night:
+
+    "But the evening would come, and with evening a glow
+      So rosy and glorious and delicate shone,
+    Bright Phoebus, I vowed, must be wooing the snow,
+      And I envied the sweet bridal blush he had won.
+
+    "I had gazed on the ocean so calm and serene,
+      The breezes seemed hushed to be watching her sleep:
+    I whispered, could mortal imagine a scene
+      More sweet than the peacefully slumbering deep?
+
+    "But the sun shining forth, on a sudden there grew
+      Such a change, every ripple seemed laughing and glad,
+    Such a dazzling and glancing of golden and blue,
+      I wondered it e'er could seem slumbering or sad.
+
+    "Sweet, when I had met thee the charms were united,
+      The snow of that morn of that evening the glow
+    On thy cheek and thy brow,--Oh, I would they were plighted
+      To me, as they were 'twixt the sun and the snow!
+
+    "And the laughter of ocean I saw in thine eyes,
+      When a light from within had enkindled the flame,--
+    How I wished I knew what might be worthy the prize
+      Those fair joyous glances for ever to claim!
+
+    "Let them boast that the daughters of Erin are bright,
+      Let them sing their wild songs to the maids of Kildare;
+    I'll sing, and I'll sing till they own I am right,
+      There's a maiden in Scotland, a maiden more fair!"
+
+When Miranda received by special messengers these and other similar
+effusions from the love-sick Eochy, she conjured up before her mind's
+eye the sandy locks, the unmeaning grey eyes, the ungraceful lounging
+figure, and the good-natured but facile countenance of the effeminate
+young Prince. She smiled to herself as she contrasted him with the
+ideal hero of her imagination, sprung from the well-remembered tales of
+the dark impetuous sea-kings of the north.
+
+About this time the King and Queen heard of and resolved to consult the
+oracle at Cumbrae for their afflicted daughter. They hoped to gain from
+the shrine of the far-famed lion some insight into her dark destiny.
+
+After they had offered the richest gifts, and personally invoked its
+mysterious aid, the oracle returned the following enigmatical answer to
+their prayers, nor could the utmost entreaties gain from it any further
+explanation:--
+
+    "The Eagle that soared o'er Kyle Akin's swift strait,
+    Hath wooed and hath won the soft dove for his mate;
+    Affliction hath wearied affection to rest,
+    And cold is the heart in that mother's fond breast.
+
+    "The strange freaks of fate in one web have entwined,
+    What the Eaglet and maiden alone can unbind;
+    By chequered adventure, and music's soft thrill,
+    The compass shall aid in deliverance from ill.
+    Arise and speed northward, the prophet hath spoken,
+    Miranda's long silence by love shall be broken."
+
+Enquiries were at once set on foot regarding the mysterious "Eaglet"
+mentioned by the oracle. It was discovered that a certain Enchanter of
+the north named Eudaemon, was sometimes called "the Tamer of the Golden
+Eagle," and was indeed by some supposed to have been reared in an
+eagle's nest. The hopes of the afflicted parents rose high as they
+listened to the wondrous tales told of the great Enchanter's power.
+
+A gorgeous galley was forthwith prepared wherein the King and Queen
+with their daughter embarked, taking with them but a slender retinue,
+for it was rumoured that the wise man lived secluded from his fellows,
+and would not brook intrusion. A small flotilla to protect and watch
+over the royal vessel received orders to hover near, but on no account
+to come within sight of the wizard's castle, for fear of exciting his
+displeasure.
+
+The voyage was long and perilous. Autumn had already far advanced.
+Equinoctial gales lashed the western sea into swelling billows, so that
+after struggling with difficulty up the stormy sounds of Mull and
+Sleat, the galley containing the Princess and her parents, at length
+became separated from all her convoys and stranded on the western coast
+of Raasay. The King, Queen, and Princess barely escaped with their
+lives; their attendants also were saved, but the choice treasures
+intended to propitiate the Enchanter were carried by mermaidens as
+spoil to the palace of the sea gods.
+
+Drenched and perishing with cold, the unfortunate voyagers were rescued
+from the bleak shore, and hospitably entertained by the poor islanders,
+who little imagined that in these storm-beaten mariners they beheld the
+great King Murdoch, the wise Queen Margaret, and the unfortunate
+Princess Miranda.
+
+It is true that the Queen, with that prudence and forethought which
+occasionally guided her smaller actions, had caused her chief dresser
+to sew their three second-best Crowns into a small package, which was
+still attached to her belt and concealed by her dress, but with this
+exception (which seemed of little practical use), nothing remained to
+mark the exalted station of the royal wanderers.
+
+Great, however, was their satisfaction to find that they were
+shipwrecked on the _very_ island where the Enchanter of the North
+had his lonely abode. They made many enquiries concerning him, and
+heard that his actions were beneficent, and his cures almost certain.
+They were, nevertheless, warned by the islanders that nothing more
+excited his indignation than the presence of many people at his gate.
+He had, indeed, been known to refuse aid altogether to their comrades,
+who, from superstition or folly, had gone in numbers to beset the
+Castle entrance.
+
+It was now therefore customary among these simple yet considerate
+people, to convoy the suppliant within a short distance of Castle
+Brochel. They then remained waiting on the hill above, while their
+fellow descended and returned. So universal had this practice become,
+that a small shieling was gradually thrown together stone upon stone by
+islanders waiting on different occasions for some friend below; exposed
+for the time being to all the inclemency of that most variable climate.
+
+Here then the King and Queen waited while their beloved daughter
+(bearing with her the white and silver tablets by means of which she
+was wont to communicate with others) was told to present herself at the
+wicket-gate of the Castle. She was moreover given money wherewith to
+propitiate the much-dreaded Donald--the stern one-eyed guardian of the
+Enchanter's abode.
+
+It was one of those days in early November when the exquisite "Indian
+summer" sometimes casts a perfect halo of beauty over the "soft"
+north-western atmosphere of Scotland. The little group paused on the
+eminence immediately commanding the tall gaunt building below. In
+reality, the Castle top was above them; but to gain access to its
+portals, it was necessary to descend to a considerable depth, and then
+remount by a narrow cause-way to its frowning door.
+
+The afternoon sun gilded the turrets with golden radiance, beyond
+slumbered the blue rippling waters, calm and treacherous, giving no
+sign of their cruel strength. Far in the distance like faint clouds,
+lay the curving outline of the Highland hills, tipped with snow, and
+dimly visible as they blushed pink in the parting rays of the monarch
+of day.
+
+The last farewell spoken, and the afflicted child tenderly pressed to
+her parents' hearts; the gentle Miranda, with slow footstep, descended
+the fateful path.
+
+In the meantime Eudaemon, by his consultations with the stars (an art
+partly taught him by his mother, who had carried away for her child,
+when she escaped from Valbiorn's terrible dwelling, strange manuscripts
+of astrological and magic lore), had become aware of the impending
+visit of a being whose fate was mysteriously connected with his own.
+
+He was absorbed in abstruse calculations when Luachan, suddenly
+pricking up his ears, and impatiently scratching at the door, gave
+notice that some stranger approached the castle. On his master's
+unfastening the latch, the fleet animal made one bound, and disappeared
+down the narrow staircase, while the magician heard old Donald's
+querulous quavering tones raised high, as if to refuse admittance.
+Quick as thought Eudaemon sprang lightly after his dog, and entered the
+hall, where an astonishing sight greeted his bewildered eyes.
+
+A maiden of surpassing beauty had evidently made her way into the
+Castle when the seneschal was off his guard. She now stood irresolute
+in the centre of the apartment. Luachan, contrary to immemorial custom
+(for, as a rule, he was surly to strangers), gambolled around the
+beautiful unknown with extravagant gestures of affectionate welcome,
+while the one-eyed Donald, shaking in his hoary wrath, poured forth an
+incomprehensible flood of Celtic indignation.
+
+Eudaemon rushed forward, and signed to the old man to hold his peace,
+then turning to his fair visitant, he gently asked her will. Miranda,
+amazed to behold in the dreaded Enchanter no ancient, withered seer, no
+venerable prophet, as she had anticipated, but the dark-haired ideal of
+her wild dreams about the sea kings of the north, remained rooted to
+the spot, ashamed of her wilful intrusion and covered with burning
+blushes.
+
+Eudaemon gazed, like one entranced, on his mysterious guest. Her long
+golden tresses, and her exquisite beauty of feature and form, startled
+the recluse of the rock. At first he almost imagined her to be of
+angelic extraction; but her unmistakeable confusion betrayed mortal
+birth, and in bolder tones the Enchanter again requested her to make
+known her wishes.
+
+The Princess, seized with sudden terror, looked towards the door by
+which she had entered, but it was closed, and Donald stood before it,
+glaring at her angrily with his solitary orb. In her distress her hand
+involuntarily sought the tablets, where she now remembered that she
+herself had written the following explanatory lines, during her long
+and tedious journey from the south. With a bashful half-smile,
+therefore, she unclasped the ivory pages from her side, and timidly
+handed them to the Magician, who there beheld inscribed these lines.
+
+    "Hearken mighty seer, Eudaemon,
+    Tamer of the golden Eagle,
+    Aquila the golden Eagle,
+    Hearken, merciful Eudaemon,
+    Measurer of the raging tempest,
+    Of the unseen raging tempest,
+    Hearken to a lowland maiden,
+    To the silent maid Miranda
+    To the sad Princess Miranda.
+
+    "I am come from Clutha's waters,
+    From its distant tranquil waters,
+    Where through changing isles of sunshine,
+    Looms the ocean, where the west wind
+    Rustles through the matted foliage,
+    Or, with a delicious shiver,
+    Sweeps along the silver beeches.
+    I am come to sea-girt Raasay,
+    To the wave-washed island Raasay,
+    To the storm-swept, rugged Raasay,
+    I have braved Kintyre's wild headlands--
+    Braved its mountain-rising billows,
+    Braved dark Cory-Vreckan's whirlpool,
+    Braved the fortress of Artornish,
+    Braved the fabled Ardnamurchan,
+    Ship-engulfing Ardnamurchan,
+    Braved the blasts from Scuir-na-gillean,
+    But to plead with thee for succour,
+    Aid against the fell enchantment,
+    Terrible unknown enchantment,
+    Which hath bound my lips to silence--
+    Gloomy unresponsive silence.
+    Maidens' mouths were made for singing,
+    Song and laughter are their sunshine;
+    Cheering thus the world around them,
+    Wakening mirth with voice melodious.
+    Pity, then! oh, great Enchanter!
+    Pity the poor spell-bound Princess,
+    Silent, sorrowful, dumb maiden,
+    And with pity give assistance,
+    Read the tale she cannot tell thee,
+    Charm the woes no sighs can cure."
+
+Eudaemon perused the tablets with eager attention more than once, then,
+turning a keen, piercing eye on Miranda, he exclaimed.
+
+"Princess! I do not now hear of your misfortune for the first time. I
+knew that you and your parents were in search of me and of my castle.
+During my researches and observations I have discovered that the
+conjunction of stars at your birth left one unfavourable moment. This
+was taken advantage of by Valbiorn to avenge upon your innocent lips a
+grudge he owed to your father, having been, in days gone by, an
+unsuccessful suitor for your mother's hand.
+
+"By much careful study of the heavens I have ascertained that the
+enchantment can only be dissolved by my aid and that under very
+difficult conditions. Rest assured, however, that no effort on my part
+shall be wanting to set you free. But," continued Eudaemon, bending low
+before Miranda, "will your parents consent to remain under my humble
+roof a while, since what we must go through together will take days, if
+not weeks, to accomplish?"
+
+The Princess joyfully clasped her hands, and while tears of joy ran
+down her fair cheeks at the prospect of deliverance, she inclined her
+head over and over again, to intimate that her parents would thankfully
+accept Eudaemon's welcome invitation.
+
+The Enchanter now offered his hand to Miranda, and while Luachan
+testified his delight by bounding around them, led her through the
+Castle gate and accompanied her in search of the King and Queen. With
+all the unreasonableness of human nature, these potentates advancing to
+meet them, half expected to hear their daughter already speaking. They
+graciously accosted Eudaemon, however, and anxiously listened to his
+explanations.
+
+It was finally arranged that the Queen and her daughter, with their
+solitary waiting-maid, (much to Donald's disgust), should be installed
+in a part of the Castle now never used, but where were still to be
+seen, when the doors were unlocked, the last traces of the gentle
+Bragela's feminine occupations. The islanders cheerfully lent what aid
+they could, and King Murdoch with his attendant was permanently fixed
+in the small shieling on the hill. It was impossible to accommodate him
+in the Castle, for though lofty, its proportions were narrow and
+cramped. Except to sleep therefore he very seldom left the precincts of
+Eudaemon's dwelling.
+
+For several days and nights the Enchanter shut himself up alone in his
+high turret, examining dusty old volumes, and reading the heavens, by
+the aid of an instrument he himself had constructed. At the end of that
+time he emerged from his solitary chamber, descending with eager rapid
+step to join his guests at their evening meal. He bore under his arm a
+small box and a piece of board roughly marked in squares of two
+colours. His dark features wore an expression of anxious excitement.
+
+No sooner had the last traces of the repast been cleared away than
+Eudaemon placed his board upon the table. Opening the box he then
+displayed to the Princess's delighted gaze a number of little men of
+various sizes and shapes. These were in fact neither more nor less than
+a set of chessmen which he had laboriously carved in wood with his own
+hands, and stained in two different colours, having ascertained the
+mode of using them from the careful study of ancient manuscripts.
+
+Long before the Princess Miranda appeared in Raasay, Eudaemon had known
+and pondered over the mystic answer returned to her parents by the
+Cumbrae oracle. He diligently sought among his mother's ancient volumes
+of magic lore for some solution of the phrase "chequered adventure." At
+length he came upon the description of the ancient game of chess
+illustrated by rough drawings.
+
+His attention was at once arrested by discovering that this game must
+be played upon a "chequered" board. After careful research he finally
+resolved to make the trial. It took him, however, a considerable time
+to fashion the various pieces from the old pictures he possessed.
+
+The Princess, her countenance lit up with curiosity and interest, was
+soon seated at the little table opposite the Enchanter. Several
+evenings were spent in teaching her the various moves of the different
+pieces, and explaining to her the rules of the game.
+
+Eudaemon was fully aware that only one hour during the twenty-four was
+available for the purpose of disenchantment.
+
+Some evenings later the King and Queen, already grown somewhat sleepy,
+nodded drowsily in their chairs. The faithful Luachan lay between his
+master and the fair young guest, whose bright eyes gleamed with
+unwonted animation. Then the dark Enchanter arising from his seat
+trimmed the torch above their heads, and prepared, at midnight, to play
+in earnest the mystic game, so fraught with meaning to the afflicted
+Princess.
+
+Miranda sat in an old-fashioned chair of curiously carved wood. Her
+white dress and her fair tresses reflected the flickering light, thus
+giving some brightness to the lofty hall, whose gloomy proportions were
+but partially revealed by the blazing fire and the fitful glare of the
+torch. The most profound silence reigned in the chamber, only broken by
+the cheerful crackling of the firewood or an occasional snore from the
+slumbering King.
+
+Fully instructed in the moves by Eudaemon during the previous nights,
+the Princess and the Enchanter played an interesting game. He had cast
+aside his long upper robe of black velvet and showed the tightly
+fitting red under-suit which set off his active form to greatest
+advantage. He placed himself on a somewhat ricketty "creepie," for the
+unwonted number of guests had used up all his available chairs. As he
+bent eagerly forward the ruddy light fell on his swarthy face, and his
+small closely cropped, though curly black head. His burning eyes fixed
+alternately on the game, and on his silent opponent, seemed to pierce
+through all they surveyed.
+
+The hour wore on, they exchanged several pieces. Eudaemon then moving a
+bishop, placed his antagonist's king in "check." He uttered the
+prophetic word. Miranda, thoroughly absorbed, took up her King, and was
+about to place him within range of her enemy's Queen. The Enchanter
+gently motioned her hand aside, pointing to his own piece in
+explanation.
+
+At this moment Miranda broke into such silvery peals of laughter, that
+Luachan, affrighted, sprang barking from his resting place. Eudaemon in
+his surprise and delight moved suddenly and upset the whole board
+incontinently on the floor, ruining the game. Queen Margaret starting
+up, rushed across the hall. She first held her child at arm's length as
+if to examine into and convince herself of her identity, then clasping
+her tightly to her heart, shed tears of gladness over her laughing
+daughter. It was indeed evident that the "chequered adventure" had
+fulfilled its mission, and broken the first link in the silent
+Miranda's chain of enchantment.
+
+The excited parents knew not how to express their feelings of
+gratitude, but listened in wondering astonishment to Miranda's ringing
+peals of laughter, as, enraptured with her newly gained accomplishment,
+she danced round the hall, accompanied by Luachan, who vied with her in
+gambols of ecstatic joy. Eudaemon had never before beheld anything more
+graceful than the young Princess appeared to him in all her unconscious
+beauty of movement.
+
+Inspired by a sudden desire to emulate and join in her mirthful steps,
+he stretched forth his hand as she passed him; she swiftly caught it,
+and drew him merrily on; thus maid, master, and dog together paced a
+wild impromptu measure of delight.
+
+Donald, hastening in to ascertain the cause of this unusual commotion,
+gazed around, rubbed his solitary eye, and looked again and again.
+Where was the gloomy Eudaemon, the dreaded Enchanter of the North? The
+youth heretofore so staid and reserved now flushed and laughing,
+pirouetted round the bewildered old man with the smiling maiden.
+Together they clapped their hands at his amazement.
+
+But now the Queen, with the dignity of manner that she well knew how to
+assume, bade her daughter remember who and what she was. Forgetting her
+late gratitude to their benefactor, she swept haughtily from the
+apartment, followed by her husband and her unwilling child. Miranda's
+pleading eyes, however, gave Eudaemon the thanks he most cared to
+receive, and entirely obliterated from his mind all thought of
+resentment against her uncertain parents. At the same time he
+determined to take no further steps until the King and Queen themselves
+again spoke of their daughter's affliction.
+
+Several days elapsed. The character of the Castle was completely
+changed. The hitherto hermit like Eudaemon felt impelled to try and
+elicit again those silvery peals of laughter that rang on his ear with
+such a curious thrill of pleasure. Nor was he unsuccessful in his
+efforts. Again and again the old walls re-echoed with the welcome
+sound. The Enchanter himself felt once more a boy as he played long
+games of chess with Miranda, or pointed out to her his numerous pets
+and their diverse habits. The Princess, however, was admonished to keep
+carefully within her mother's sight; she wast herefore unable to
+scramble with him as he wished among the wild hills and cliffs around.
+
+But the time flew swiftly by, and at length one morning the King and
+Queen craved an audience of their young host. Laying aside all traces
+of their late assumption of majesty they humbly entreated him to strive
+to work out still farther their daughter's cure.
+
+Eudaemon listened in silence, fixing on them his piercing dark eye,
+until they moved uneasily beneath his searching glance. "I am esteemed
+worthy to aid in your child's disenchantment," he answered sternly,
+"but am too much beneath her in your eyes to tread with her the mazy
+measures of the dance, or to join in her everyday pursuits."
+
+King Murdoch and his wife eagerly disclaimed any idea of making so
+ungenerous a return for his kindness. At length Eudaemon (who completely
+saw through their shallow minds, and only spoke to obtain more freedom
+for their daughter) promised to continue his lucubrations.
+
+That evening for the first time since her death, he drew from a deep
+recess the dust-covered harp that had once quivered in responsive
+melody beneath the musical touch of his fair young mother. Miranda and
+the Queen curiously examined the quaint instrument, and helped to
+disentangle and divest it of its broken strings. Eudaemon, who had often
+studied its mechanism, brought forth new strings he himself had
+manufactured, and showed Miranda where and how they should be placed.
+
+Several evenings passed in putting the harp to rights, then the
+Princess under Eudaemon's magical tuition strove to place aright upon it
+her slender fingers. Morning, noon, and night Miranda strove to play
+the melodies that ever floated before her mind's eye as sung to her by
+Eudaemon, who placed beside her scrolls, on which the words of the songs
+were written out.
+
+One of them ran thus:
+
+    Thou speak'st of to-morrow, yet seemest to sigh,
+    And something there gleams like a tear in thine eye,
+    But though the sweet days of our converse are o'er,
+    The friendship that binds us shall cease nevermore.
+
+    When music entrancing shall steal on thine ear,
+    And songs shall be sung thee thou lovest to hear,
+    Oh, may one wild note of my harp seem to thrill,
+    And recall to thee one who remembers thee still.
+
+    And ever amid the dark shadows of life,
+    When faint from the battle or weary with strife,
+    Ah! then shall arise like the sun through a shower,
+    The remembrance of all we have felt in this hour.
+
+    When moonlight around thee shall flood the pale sea,
+    May thoughts of the north come like visions to thee,
+    And remind thee of hours when we once used to stray,
+    By the ocean's dark verge at the close of the day.
+
+    Roll onwards, roll onwards, thou swift flowing Clyde,
+    Yet may our loved friends ne'er resemble thy tide,
+    But changeless and steadfast look back through long years,
+    To the parting that left us in silence and tears.
+
+This song, which Eudaemon had himself composed, and set to an old tune,
+was an especial favourite of Miranda's. She made the Enchanter sing it
+over again and again; though, strange to say, the master who taught her
+fair hands to stray over the harp, could not himself draw one sound
+from its capricious chords. The Princess, however, soon became enabled
+to accompany all his songs, every day she learnt some new, and to her
+more entrancing, melody. For it will be remembered that her parents had
+hitherto, through mistaken affection, carefully kept all music from her
+knowledge.
+
+The black and gold harp, which Eudaemon and Miranda had together tuned
+and restored, formed a beautiful contrast to the white flowing robes
+and the fair arms of the young Princess. Her long tresses bound only by
+the pale blue snood of the Scottish maiden, waved around her. As she
+raised her eyes to watch every motion of Eudaemon's mouth, she gave one
+the idea of an inspired being, from whose very finger-tips emanated the
+soul of melody. Thus they often sat late into the night, drinking in
+sweet sounds, and poring together over poor Bragela's old manuscripts.
+Meanwhile Miranda's parents, closely guarding as they thought their
+precious daughter, hardly suspected that, while engaged in finding a
+tongue, she might hopelessly lose her heart.
+
+At last, one evening Eudaemon for the hundredth time sang again that
+verse beginning
+
+    When music entrancing shall steal on thine ear.
+
+Just as he reached the end, Miranda suddenly, as if by an irresistible
+impulse, opened her lips. With wonderful pathos, and in a voice which
+seemed to the young man the sweetest that could sound on earth, she
+finished the line:--
+
+    Recall to thee one who remembers thee still.
+
+Amazed at her own daring, and astonished by her unwonted power, the
+fair songstress started blushing from her seat. In an uncontrollable
+burst of emotion she rushed weeping from the chamber. Queen Margaret,
+unable to believe it was her dumb child's voice she had heard give
+utterance to such melodiously thrilling notes, rose also from her
+chair, and cast an eager inquiring glance upon Eudaemon. Himself
+overcome with emotion, the Enchanter did not trust his voice to speak,
+but merely bowed his head; then, filled with yearning sympathy for the
+strangely-afflicted Princess, he opened the outer door of the hall, and
+hastily stepped forth on to the turreted court that overhung the shore.
+
+It was a night of exquisite beauty--the water, calm as a mirror,
+stretched its dark amplitude between the solitary watcher and the far
+mainland of the Ross-shire hills. Orion, in all his resplendent
+grandeur, sparkled before him, and seemed in silent majesty to rebuke
+the feverish turbulence of the Enchanter's too human heart. High and
+cold above his head the silver crescent moon travelled dreamily across
+the vaulted heaven, and, as if to remind Eudaemon of her presence, cast
+her glittering likeness into the deep ocean's embrace, far below his
+feet. One by one, in gentle crashing cadence, the tiny wavelets broke
+beneath the Castle wall.
+
+Insensibly soothed and quieted by nature's wondrous charm, the
+philosopher leant his burning head upon his hands, and absently gazed
+seawards.
+
+Suddenly the casement above was thrown violently open, and Queen
+Margaret, in terror-stricken accents, besought his speedy aid.
+
+He re-entered the hall. It was empty and desolate, the torch was
+extinguished, the fire flickered low upon the hearth. He heard a
+confused murmur of voices, and recognised Luachan's muffled howl of
+distress in the distance.
+
+Following the sounds, he hastened up the narrow stair, and found a
+sorrowful group at the door of the room set apart for the Queen and her
+daughter. Pressing past Murdoch and Donald, and angrily motioning to
+Luachan to be silent, the Enchanter himself uttered a cry of anguish as
+his eye fell upon Miranda's death-like form. Stretched upon the rude
+bed, with her dishevelled tresses tangled around her pale face, on
+which were still the traces of tears, the poor Princess looked as if
+she had for ever closed her eyes to mortal scenes.
+
+On Eudaemon's entrance, the unhappy mother rushed towards him,
+exclaiming, "Save her, save her! restore our darling; all shall be as
+you wish, if but you bring her back to life!" A deep red flush mounted
+to the Enchanter's very temples as the Queen, fervently pressing his
+hand, whispered these words, fraught with so much meaning, into his
+willing ear. But he needed no promised guerdon to urge him to his
+labour of love.
+
+Kneeling beside the low couch, he vainly chafed Miranda's ice-cold
+hands. He listened over her heart--not even the feeblest flutter
+rewarded his strained attention. He placed a tiny polished tablet over
+her parted lips; its surface remained clear and unsullied by mortal
+breath. A sudden thought struck terror to his soul. He turned a keen
+glance on the mother's face; her eye fell before his; a guilty blush
+suffused her cheek. "You have forgotten my earnest charge," he cried,
+"and now it may be too late to save your child."
+
+At this moment the magic cock was heard through the open casement
+crowing loudly in the castle yard. Eudaemon flew to the window and
+anxiously peered into the night. Right above his head, and
+threateningly suspended directly over the Castle, was a meteor of
+unwonted size and brilliancy. He fell on his knees where he stood, and
+stretching forth his arms silently implored Heavenly protection against
+the powers of evil. Again and again the ball of fire grew lurid and
+glowing, as though it were about to descend and bury them beneath
+burning ruins, but each time Chanticleer's warning voice sounded
+cheerfully near at hand, and at length the red globe, with a loud
+hissing noise, fell prone and harmless into the dark ocean depths.
+
+Relieved from the pressing danger without, Eudaemon now turned to the
+sorrow within.
+
+Since the appearance of the Royal wanderers upon the island, he had
+held many private conversations with the Queen concerning her
+daughter's disenchantment.
+
+The anxious mother over and over again informed him that the dearest
+object of their heart, in seeking to free their child from the spell
+which bound her, was that Miranda should be united in marriage with
+some powerful monarch, who would aid her, in due time, to rule over her
+own somewhat troublous kingdom of Clutha.
+
+She little knew that Eudaemon was intimately acquainted with their past
+history, nor did she suspect that he was aware of the vow made by
+herself and King Murdoch in bygone days. Wearied by vain endeavours to
+accomplish their daughter's disenchantment, they had then solemnly
+bound themselves by an oath to bestow Miranda's hand on the man who
+should succeed in releasing her spell-bound voice.
+
+During the long years which had elapsed since Bragela's death,
+Valbiorn's hard heart had gradually softened towards her only child. He
+knew of the promised reward. From afar he watched with keen suspicion
+the movements of the King and Queen. He foresaw that Eudaemon would love
+Miranda, if fate brought them together. For his sake he resolved to
+help the Princess, but, at the same time, he determined that the gift
+of speech should only be restored to render her a more fitting bride
+for his son.
+
+When, therefore, the young Enchanter retired to his turret chamber, he
+often held secret interviews with his dread father, and succeeded in
+gaining a pledge of assistance from Valbiorn. But Eudaemon feared that
+if his vindictive parent once suspected Queen Margaret's intentions, he
+would not only refuse his aid altogether, but would become her
+deadliest foe.
+
+Before the King and Queen set sail for the Highlands, she had resolved
+that their solemn oath should be buried in oblivion. She satisfied her
+conscience by lading their ship with precious gifts destined for the
+propitiation of the Enchanter.
+
+Had Eudaemon been the ancient prophet she thought he was, he would
+probably have accepted golden rewards with delight. The treasures,
+however, never reached the island; they were engulfed in the stormy
+ocean.
+
+As soon as Miranda's mother saw Eudaemon, she perceived that his deep
+interest in her fair daughter might be turned to good account. She
+persuaded her husband to leave the matter in her hands, priding herself
+upon her powers of negociation.
+
+Feeling instinctively the young man's innate delicacy of mind, the wily
+Queen took good care to enlist his sympathies for her afflicted child.
+At the same time she continually alluded to Miranda's exalted station,
+tacitly ignoring the possibility of a suitor for her hand whose
+pretensions were less than royal.
+
+Eudaemon was wont to listen to her words with respectful courtesy,
+though occasionally his skill in necromancy stood him but in poor
+stead, when his rebel heart sent a crimson glow over his dark features.
+Still he invariably replied in measured tones that his own desires
+perfectly coincided with those of the maiden's parents; that his chief
+wish was to promote the welfare and happiness of the young Princess,
+and to render her any assistance in his power.
+
+Latterly, however, during the long hours spent at chess, in rambling
+about the Castle and its precincts, or in singing and playing over the
+harp, the good Queen's heart misgave her, and she took the somewhat
+bold step of directly warning her benefactor and host against engaging
+her daughter's affections.
+
+Notwithstanding his powers of self-control, Eudaemon had to pause a
+moment and curb the hasty impulse of anger, ere he answered in low,
+husky tones,
+
+"Madam, for your child's sake, I have embarked upon the perilous
+undertaking of striving to free her from the well-woven spell which for
+nineteen long years has bound her lips to silence, and cast a blight
+over her young life.
+
+"The Princess Miranda's happiness is at stake. I persevere, therefore,
+in my endeavours to aid her. Absorbed, however, in a struggle to the
+death with the dread powers of darkness, I have now little time to
+regard her in any other light but that of the ill-fated victim of
+enchantment. I will, nevertheless, warn you that your child is
+innocence itself. Her spirit must inevitably be sorely tried during
+coming events, and very little more might serve to unhinge her mind.
+Take heed, therefore, that you suffer no word of what has passed
+between us to reach her unsuspecting ears.
+
+"I have no desire to interfere with the brilliant destiny you have
+mapped out for your daughter, or to tempt her to disobey her parents.
+
+"But though you ignore the vow you took upon yourself in less hopeful
+days, it is remembered by one who never forgets. Within and around this
+Castle exists an invisible agency; nor can what passes here be kept
+from the knowledge of a mightier power than mine.
+
+"More I dare not say. I have no wish to stand before you as a
+suppliant. For the present, I pray you only to remember that you are my
+honoured guests, and that my time and my thoughts are alike devoted to
+your service."
+
+As he spoke, the excited and wounded Enchanter drew himself to his full
+height. Indignant lightning flashed from his eyes, controlled passion
+vibrated in his voice.
+
+The Queen, frightened and conscience-stricken, gazed bewildered upon
+Eudaemon, as, with an abrupt reverence, he turned and quitted her
+presence. For many hours he disappeared from the neighbourhood of the
+Castle, and several days elapsed before he regained his wonted
+equanimity of bearing.
+
+On this eventful night, therefore, the young Seer heard with mingled
+feelings the terrified mother's significant words. But there was now no
+time for further explanation. When the threatened attack from without
+had been warded off, the Enchanter turned from the turret window and
+exclaimed, "Away with you all; you must quit this chamber and leave me
+alone with the maiden and her mother, if it be not already too late to
+attempt to restore her ebbing life."
+
+Thereupon he strode to the threshold, and assuming an air of majesty
+they had never before remarked, he waved them in silence from the
+apartment.
+
+No sooner had they all quitted the room, than Eudaemon drew the bolt
+across the door, and approaching the Queen, who hung weeping over her
+lifeless daughter, he thus sternly addressed her:--
+
+"You have neglected my warning, and by your heedless words have
+awakened a fresh struggle in the breast of this sorely tried child.
+There remains but one chance of recalling her gentle spirit from the
+Valley of the Shadow of Death. But be assured, proud Queen, that
+though, for the sake of the Princess herself, I now lay bare before you
+the inmost secret of my heart; yet she shall never know, until she
+hears the truth from your lips, that for her alone that heart shall
+beat through time and through eternity."
+
+So saying, the young Enchanter drew near Miranda's prostrate form. He
+threw himself on the floor beside her couch, and seizing her resistless
+hands, wildly pressed them in his own. Tenderly and reverently he
+addressed the insensible maiden in tones and words of fondest
+endearment. For long it seemed as though even the electric thrill of
+mortal love was powerless against the magic swoon into which the
+Princess had fallen on hearing for the first time her mother's strange
+accusing words.
+
+At last Eudaemon (who held her hand in his as he fervently prayed for
+her restoration to life) fancied he perceived a feeble movement. He
+arose, and earnestly imprinting on his memory those features so sacred
+to him in their helpless repose, he retired to the window and there
+continued his prayer.
+
+Meanwhile Miranda, quivering back to consciousness, imagined she heard
+a familiar voice addressing her in the wild tones of a passionate love
+hitherto unknown. A strange new pain shot into her innocent soul, and
+awoke her once more to play her part in this world's theatre.
+
+She slowly opened her eyes, and looked around. By the light of the
+feeble lamp she gradually became aware of Eudaemon's presence, as he
+knelt near the open casement, through which faintly glimmered the first
+signs of approaching dawn. She stirred uneasily on her couch. The
+Enchanter arose from his answered prayer. Stepping across the chamber,
+he opened the door to the impatient watchers without. Before Queen
+Margaret could recover from her astonishment, or could indeed realize
+that her child was safe, Eudaemon was gone. He went out silently as the
+others entered. Calling Luachan, he departed thence with his faithful
+dog, to seek amid the solitudes of nature that peace which at present
+was denied him by his wildly throbbing bosom.
+
+Many days elapsed before the Princess, shaken and confused by all she
+had gone through, again descended the stairs and approached once more
+the fated harp. From the moment in which her feelings had found vent in
+song, and escaping from the hall she had sought relief from tears in
+her lonely chamber, all seemed like a dream. Her mother's reproaches on
+discovering her strange agitation, her deep swoon, and the words she
+thought she had heard as she woke, each and all were regarded by her as
+the creatures of her own too vivid imagination.
+
+Queen Margaret, already forgetting her renewed promises, and fondly
+caressing her child, never recurred to the past. The Enchanter,
+entering as before with energy into all that concerned Miranda's
+interests, looked and moved to the awe-struck eyes of the simple
+Princess an exalted being, free from the weaknesses or restless
+anxieties of mortal love.
+
+Miranda's new power gave them all exquisite pleasure. She herself found
+rich stores of unimagined delight, as she poured forth her growing
+aspirations in floods of song. Strange to say, it was in singing alone
+that she gave utterance to her feelings. No spoken word as yet could
+pass the enchanted barrier of her lips.
+
+A visible cloud sat upon Eudaemon's swarthy brow. He foresaw that
+Miranda's disenchantment could only be accomplished amid real dangers
+and difficulties, and his heart misgave him as he realized the faint
+trust that could be placed in the ready promises of the Queen.
+
+Day after day elapsed without further adventure, no allusion was made
+to the remarkable words that had fallen from Miranda's mother when she
+was overwhelmed by the immediate danger of her child.
+
+At length, one evening, after Miranda had retired weary to her couch,
+the young Seer set forth to her parents the only course to be pursued,
+if the Princess were ever to obtain the power of speech.
+
+He explained to them that far away, in the mysterious halls of Thuisto,
+there existed a wondrous compass, with which Miranda's fate was closely
+connected. He told them, moreover, that with the aid of magic he could
+introduce himself, the Princess, and her mother into the weird abode of
+the sea-kings.
+
+But to do this, and to escape in safety, silence and obedience were
+imperatively necessary. Before venturing on so serious a risk, he
+therefore solemnly entreated the Queen sooner to rest content with the
+partial disenchantment of her daughter, and to quit in peace his lonely
+abode, than to enter lightly upon this grave adventure. For when once
+within the enchanted precincts of Thuisto, if they transgressed ever so
+slightly, the rules laid down for their observance, they would draw
+down, not only upon himself--for which he little cared--but perchance
+upon Miranda, the fatal vengeance of the ever-watchful guardians of
+those submarine palaces.
+
+Again and again the eager mother promised, nay, even swore to obey his
+strict injunctions, urging him to make the attempt. At last, with heavy
+foreboding, Eudaemon prepared to encounter the dangers of the coming
+expedition.
+
+Miranda was told of the projected scheme. The Enchanter explained to
+her that in the submerged vaults of Thuisto she would probably first
+find the use of her voice in speech. He warned her, however, that she
+must endeavour to speak only when he bade her, and Queen Margaret was
+once more pledged to maintain strict silence.
+
+The eventful night arrived. The poor forsaken king and the disconsolate
+dog Luachan (too intelligent to move from the shore where his beloved
+master bade him remain and guard the stranger), together strained their
+eyes from the wild beach below Castle Brochel, as the little boat
+containing the travellers became a faint speck on the starlit sea.
+
+Eudaemon and the one-eyed Donald rowed their precious burden quickly on,
+until reaching a barren rock, the Enchanter sprang lightly on shore;
+carefully handing out Queen Margaret and her daughter, he then bade the
+old man row home to the Castle and return again for them at day-break.
+
+Hardly had the regular plash of Donald's retreating oars died away,
+before they became conscious that they were gradually sinking through
+the ocean. The broad, flat surface on which they stood afforded them
+ample footing, and though they heard, on either side, the swift rushing
+of the divided waters, not a drop touched them; not an oscillation
+disturbed their balance, as, supported and cheered by Eudaemon's
+friendly whispers, and fast clinging together, mother and daughter
+descended through the sea to unknown regions, enveloped in a darkness
+that might be felt.
+
+Mindful of her plighted word, the Queen uttered no sound, but she bore
+very heavily upon the young Enchanter's arm, keeping him in constant
+uneasiness. At length a blinding flash of light smote on their dazzled
+eyes; the downward motion ceased, and the stone on which they stood
+sank to its resting-place with a loud clang.
+
+As they became inured to the brightness, they beheld before, behind,
+around them on every side, as far as sight could reach, a vast
+labyrinth of arched and pillared cloisters, stretching into
+interminable distance, and lit by some mysteriously effulgent ray,
+which seemed to their bewildered gaze to proceed from the centre of a
+broader aisle, at one extremity of which they themselves stood.
+
+Eudaemon, motioning them to follow, trod slowly the echoing pavement,
+and advanced towards the distant focus of light.
+
+Now sounded forth music such as earthly ears have seldom heard. It was
+as if all the harmonies of water's various movements swelled into one
+indescribable wave of translucent melody, that penetrated soul and body
+with its enervating power. Relaxed in every fibre by this weird
+influence, Eudaemon with difficulty urged forward his drooping comrades.
+Prepared, however, to resist to the utmost the charms of witchcraft, he
+drew forth his magic horn, and its reviving fragrance quickly restored
+energy to their unstrung frames.
+
+Their interest also was freshly aroused by exquisite statues, which,
+almost endued with life, and perfect in colouring, seemed to smile on
+them from either side as they proceeded. They reached the circle whence
+emanated the diverging rays of light. Before them blazed a dazzling but
+empty throne. From its midst shone those awe-inspiring beams.
+
+Eudaemon uttered a low cry. There, beauteous as he remembered her in his
+boyhood's early days, but with a calm expression of perfect peace she
+had never worn during her child's lifetime, in a marble niche close
+beside the vacant seat, stood the lovely Bragela. Her long golden
+tresses rippled over her shoulders, her flowing robes half showed, half
+concealed her matchless shape, while her azure eyes, with their
+heavily-fringed lids, fell fixed and cold on the eager countenance of
+her son.
+
+A moment he paused, half expectant, dreaming that her loved spirit must
+awake and welcome him, but in that instant her last words flashed
+across his mind. He realized that Valbiorn's skill had only thus been
+able to immortalize the fair, soulless clay. He remembered once more
+why he had sought that dread abode, and he noted that Bragela's
+beautiful motionless hand pointed to a small amber pedestal, which at a
+few paces distant seemed to glow with lambent flame.
+
+He approached: upon its summit lay the object of his search, the magic
+compass of the sea-kings, potent to work weal or woe. Turning to
+Miranda, he gently drew her forward, and placed the timid maiden over
+against himself on the southern side of the mystic pillar.
+
+The whole of the magic compass quivered and shone with the appearance
+of red-hot metal, but Eudaemon whispered to the Princess that she must
+with a firm hand raise the needle from its place, and, turning towards
+the north, pronounce these words in an audible voice,
+
+    "As points the faithful needle to the pole."
+
+Miranda stooped trembling over the flaming altar, but with gentle
+courage she took the fiery needle in her hand; as she did so, she
+raised her eyes trustingly towards her guide, and moved a step nearer
+to him.
+
+Here in the enchanted palace of his fathers, surrounded by mysterious
+influences, and excited by the anticipated victory over Miranda's
+spell, the youth for once forgot his careful self-command. He also
+advanced, and stretched out his eager hands to bound the needle's
+range.
+
+In a low musical tone the Princess pronounced the fateful words; ere
+she finished, she leant insensibly forwards, and the needle almost
+touched the Enchanter's breast. Overcome with mingled emotions,
+Miranda, while she spoke, swayed visibly to and fro, and as if to
+support her, Eudaemon's arms fell on either side of her tottering
+figure.
+
+At this moment the Queen, terribly discomposed, and forgetting in her
+displeasure every solemn promise she had made, rushed forward, loudly
+crying, "Misguided girl!" but ere she could continue her sentence, a
+tremendous peal of thunder shook the ground beneath their feet, and
+vibrated around them. An intensely lurid ray of light darted athwart
+the heretofore empty throne. To Queen Margaret's unspeakable dread, she
+beheld indistinctly amid the dazzling beams an awful form enthroned in
+fire. A rushing noise filled her ears, she became insensible, and as
+she did so, she seemed to fall prone through interminable depths.
+
+                 *       *       *       *       *
+
+It was long before she recovered her consciousness, but at last she was
+aroused by the sound of sweet singing,
+
+    "I would I were a little bird,
+      To build upon his breast,
+    Or if I were a nightingale,
+      To soothe my love to rest.
+    To gaze upon his tender eyes,
+      All my reward should be,
+    For I love, I love, I love my love,
+      Because my love loves me."
+
+Opening her eyes with a shiver at the wild pathos of these tones, the
+Queen, by the chill bright light of the December sun, beheld her
+daughter, with Luachan beside her, seated on the beach of Raasay and
+twining pieces of damp sea-weed into her long hair.
+
+Queen Margaret raised herself from the ground, and drew her hand across
+her brow. What had happened?
+
+She herself lay on the grass close to the sea-shore; and near at hand
+Castle Brochel towered frowning into the morning sky. She called to her
+daughter. Miranda heeded not.
+
+But now the sound of oars was heard, one-eyed Donald roughly grated his
+boat on the shingle, and scrambling out, asked the Queen somewhat
+gruffly how she came there.
+
+Confused and distressed, she could give no satisfactory answer. Donald
+then recounted to her how he had been rowing for hours round and round
+the spot where they had landed the previous night, unable to discover
+any trace of the large flat rock on which they had disembarked. At last
+in despair he had returned to the Island.
+
+When he observed Miranda and her mother on the shore he expected also
+to see Eudaemon near at hand. Disappointed in this hope, he now
+continued, pointing inland with his long, skinny finger. "I wadna say
+but the maister is in the Castle itsel'."
+
+At this moment, however, the Princess approached them, singing, sadly,
+
+    "But should it please the pitying powers,
+      To call him to the sky,
+    I'll plead a guardian angel's charge,
+      Around my love to fly.
+    To guard him from all danger,
+      How happy I should be,
+    For I love, I love, I love my love,
+      Because my love loves me."
+
+As she sang, Luachan uttered a melancholy howl. The perplexed seneschal
+looked from one to another in silent amazement, then muttering to
+himself, "It's no unco canny for the beast to howl that gate," he
+hastened, as fast as his withered limbs would permit, up the steep
+ascent to the Castle gate.
+
+Meantime the Queen gazed fixedly on her daughter. What strange
+alteration had taken place in her beloved child? Those gentle blue
+eyes, wont to rest so placidly on all they surveyed, now restlessly
+turned from side to side, and never looked her straight in the face.
+Her busy fingers plucked nervously at the wet garlands she carried on
+her arms, and her lips moved ceaselessly, though no audible sound came
+from them.
+
+"Miranda, my love," said the anxious mother, "how came we hither?" A
+look of unutterable woe troubled the maiden's face. She drew from her
+bosom a golden needle, and holding it towards the north, she exclaimed,
+
+    "As points the faithful needle to the pole."
+
+Swinging the long slimy sea-weeds around her, she then suddenly gave a
+shrill laugh, and rushed up the castle hill, followed by Luachan, whose
+drooping ears and limp tail, seemed to the Queen's excited imagination
+prophetic of evil.
+
+Stiff and sore in every limb from her unusual exposure, Queen Margaret
+raised herself from the ground and toiled slowly up the steep ascent.
+
+Ere she reached the crest of the rocks upon which the Castle stood, the
+King came forth to meet her. In a terrible voice he cried--"What have
+you done to our child, to my darling Miranda?"
+
+Thoroughly overcome with fatigue and misery, the poor Queen burst into
+tears, and Murdoch forgetting for the moment all save his wife's
+uncontrollable emotion, soothed her as best he could, and led her into
+the Castle hall.
+
+Here she told her husband the strange events of the past night. She
+related their various adventures after Donald left them on the rock,
+and now, when too late, she bitterly lamented over her own hasty
+interference, and her imprudent words. She described how she had only
+time to perceive a being of noble and majestic mien seated on the
+previously empty throne. As his eye fell upon her she became
+unconscious, and could remember nothing more until she found herself on
+the beach at Raasay in the early morning.
+
+The hours of this melancholy day wore slowly on, but no Eudaemon
+appeared. At last, towards evening, they forced open the door of his
+little turret chamber--it was empty. All his books and instruments were
+gone; everything belonging to him or his mother had disappeared from
+the Castle. Even the harp itself, beside which so many pleasant
+evenings had been whiled away, was no longer there.
+
+The only things left, and upon these Miranda flew with eagerness, were
+the chess-board, the wooden men he had so patiently carved for her, and
+the box to contain them. For long hours the poor child would sit as in
+a dream, arranging and re-arranging the motley pieces, softly laughing
+to herself the while; for her mind was hopelessly gone.
+
+Eudaemon had never wholly disclosed the fact that when they entered the
+enchanted precincts of Thuisto, any infringement of the rules
+prescribed must re-act upon himself. In his unselfish devotion, he
+imagined that if he alone fell a victim to the powerful sea-kings, his
+beloved and her mother would be saved. Freed at last from enchantment,
+he trusted that the Princess and her parents would then live on as
+happily as if no forfeit had been paid for Miranda's deliverance.
+
+He fathomed not the unchanging love that had of late struggled into
+existence in the dreamy maiden's breast. In the terrible moment that by
+no fault of his own determined his fate, Eudaemon for once forgot his
+careful self-control, and clasped Miranda to his heart. In his dread
+father's presence he bade her a long farewell; he knew not that the
+sorrow of parting would overwhelm her gentle spirit, and break her
+tender heart.
+
+King Murdoch and his wife took their daughter by slow stages to her
+native country, hoping to benefit her by the change. But no following
+spring should ever re-kindle the roses in those waning cheeks--no
+mortal hand arrest the progress of decay. The faithful Luachan could
+not be separated from her, he was her constant comfort and playmate.
+
+There was a spot on the little Cumbrae where Miranda loved to sit and
+gaze across the Clyde's broad estuary to the blue hills of Arran.
+Perhaps their clear outline reminded her of the Cuchullins, as seen
+from Raasay. Perhaps being on an island, spoke to her of the halcyon
+past.
+
+Be that as it may, one day, towards evening, alarmed by her long
+absence, the attendants sought and found her here, cold and motionless.
+One arm was clasped around Luachan's neck, the other, faithful in
+death, still pointed the golden needle to "the true and tender north."
+
+They buried Miranda where she lay. On that far island you still may see
+the lonely tomb, beneath which the weary one is at rest, and drop,
+perchance, a tear over her untimely fate.
+
+Yes! They are united at last never more to part! Behold, in the regions
+of eternal peace, a youth divinely fair, a maiden serenely beautiful.
+Together they bow before the Almighty Ruler they served on earth, and,
+as they cast their golden crowns at his feet, the tongue of the dumb
+sings sweetly, "God is Love!"
+
+Castle Brochel was never more inhabited. Donald, a sincere mourner for
+his kind young master, could not bear to live by himself within its
+shadowy portals. He transferred what he needed to the shieling near at
+hand, and thence descending every day, kept all in readiness for the
+expected return of the youth he loved so well.
+
+But the old man watched in vain. He was gathered at last to his
+fathers. The lonely, neglected Castle fell into decay, and still,
+through following ages, the well-remembered Enchanter returned not, to
+awaken with his light springing footsteps the echoes of that deserted
+abode. Desolation and solitude spread their wings around its
+time-honoured precincts, and cast a halo of their own over its
+crumbling walls.
+
+    Break gently, ye wavelets, on Raasay's lone shore,
+    Eudaemon shall roam on your mountains no more.
+    As fragrance distilled by the cold air of night,
+    So Absence and Time shall bring forth to the light,
+    The deeds and the virtues of one without guile,
+    Whose genius and wisdom shed light o'er your isle.
+    Mourn wildly, ye seabirds!--all nature make moan!
+    His chamber is empty--his footsteps are gone.
+    He toiled unrewarded--no guerdon he sought,
+    As soothing relief to the weary he brought;
+    But the mother's soft tear, and the infant's glad cry,
+    The blessings of gratitude garnered on high,
+    Shall, e'en in his Home, 'mid the Regions of Light,
+    Add lustre untold to his coronal bright.
+
+
+THE END.
+
+
+  LONDON
+  R. CLAY, SONS, AND TAYLOR, PRINTERS,
+  BREAD STREET HILL.
+
+
+
+
+
+
+End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of Baron Bruno, by Louisa Morgan
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