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+      The Project Gutenberg eBook of The Wonderful Story Of Blue Beard And His Last Wife, by George Cruikshank.
+    </title>
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+<body>
+<div>*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 44558 ***</div>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_1" id="Page_1">[1]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 600px;">
+<img src="images/cover.jpg" id="coverpage" width="600" height="1023" alt="Blue Beard Cover" />
+</div>
+
+<hr class="chap" />
+
+<div class="title-page">
+<p class="center"><big>THE</big></p>
+<p class="center"><big>Wonderful Story</big></p>
+<p class="center"><big>OF</big></p>
+<h1>BLUE BEARD,<br />
+AND<br />
+HIS LAST WIFE.</h1>
+
+<p class="center" style="margin-bottom: 1em;"><big>With many illustrations</big></p>
+
+<p class="center" style="margin-bottom: 2em;"><big>BY GEORGE CRUIKSHANK.</big></p>
+
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 350px;">
+<img src="images/image1.jpg" width="350" height="394" alt="Blue Beard and His Last Wife" />
+</div>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 350px;">
+<img style="margin-top: 1em;" src="images/line1.jpg" width="350" height="23" alt="Line" />
+</div>
+
+<p class="center" style="margin-top: 1em;"><em>NEW-YORK</em>:</p>
+<p class="center">PUBLISHED BY HUESTIS &amp; COZANS,</p>
+<p class="center" style="margin-bottom: 2em;">No. 104 Nassau, corner of Ann St.</p>
+
+<p class="center" style="margin-bottom: 2em;"><small>STEREOTYPED BY</small>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<small>VINCENT L. DILL.</small></p>
+</div>
+
+<hr class="chap" />
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_2" id="Page_2">[2]</a></span></p>
+
+
+
+
+<h2>THE WONDERFUL STORY<br />
+OF<br />
+BLUE BEARD.</h2>
+
+<div><img class="drop-cap" src="images/dropcap-m.jpg"
+width="51" height="50" alt="M" />
+</div><p><span class="dropletter">"M</span>ANY
+years ago, a noble castle stood
+on the side of a hill, surrounded by
+the most beautiful gardens, groves,
+and fields. It was the residence of
+a man amazingly rich; and who
+therefore had the rooms of his castle
+furnished with all the elegance that opulence could
+obtain.</p>
+
+<p>Almost every one would suppose, that there could
+hardly be a happier man than the possessor of so much
+wealth, and such a stately dwelling: but it is not in the
+power of riches to give happiness; nor can splendor
+remove every cause of sorrow and discontent.</p>
+
+<p>It was the misfortune of this gentleman to be somewhat
+disfigured, by the extraordinary circumstance of
+having a blue beard. His general complexion was fair;
+and the hair on his head was of a light brown colour.
+It is therefore no wonder that, with a blue beard, his appearance
+should be considered so remarkable as to be
+almost forbidding; indeed it was thought so strange,
+that he was known only by the name of Blue Beard.</p>
+
+<p>One of the chief misfortunes which this deformity produced,
+was the unwillingness which every young lady
+felt, even to be in his company. It was in vain that his
+costly carriages and Arabian horses were continually
+admired; it was in vain that his wealth was constantly
+mentioned in conversation; none of the young ladies
+would speak to him, or meet him.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_3" id="Page_3">[3]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>Perhaps one great cause of this aversion arose from
+a report that he had had several wives; but no one
+seemed to know what had become of any of them.
+They had disappeared, but no one knew how.</p>
+
+<p>Amongst the families that lived within a short distance
+of his castle, there was an elderly lady and her two
+daughters. Both these young ladies were highly accomplished,
+and much admired: but the younger of the two
+was also thought to be unusually handsome, and was
+therefore noticed rather more than her sister. It often
+happens, that beauty is a misfortune; because, if a
+young lady has not good sense, it will make her vain;
+and a vain girl generally falls into some kind of misery
+or trouble.</p>
+
+<p>Blue Beard became acquainted with the mother of
+these young ladies; who having found that he was a
+gentleman of agreeable conversation and pleasing manners,
+told her daughters, she would not allow them to be
+so rude as to shun any person merely on account of a
+circumstance for which he ought not to be blamed nor
+despised. She told them that she did not desire them to
+like this gentleman either for his wealth or his behaviour;
+but that it was improper in them to show such
+weakness, as to avoid any one for such a peculiarity;
+she reminded them how liable we all are to changes of
+appearance, from beauty to ugliness, by diseases which
+we can neither prevent nor remove; and that if they
+shunned one man because he had a blue beard, they
+might also avoid others for having black hair, or grey
+eyes.</p>
+
+<p>The young ladies were convinced of the propriety of
+what their mamma said; and though they were quite
+sure that they could never like Blue Beard, yet they
+resolved to remain in the room when he visited their
+mother, and to speak to him with proper civility.</p>
+
+<p>After a few days he visited the house again, and had
+an opportunity of seeing and conversing with the young<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_4" id="Page_4">[4]</a></span>
+ladies; they treated him with politeness, and their fears
+(for they had been somewhat afraid of him) began to
+subside. He met them in the same manner two or three
+times afterwards; and at length prevailed on the old
+lady to come with her daughters to his castle, and there
+spend with him a few days.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 350px;">
+<img style="margin-top: 2em;" src="images/image2.jpg" width="350" height="422" alt="Mr. Blue Beard has bad dreams" />
+</div>
+
+<p class="center">Mr. Blue Beard has bad dreams, and determines to get</p>
+<p class="center">married again.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 350px;">
+<img src="images/line2.jpg" width="350" height="14" alt="line" />
+</div>
+
+<p>Vanity on their own account, and respect towards Blue
+Beard, induced them to make the greatest preparations
+for the intended visit. The young ladies thought of
+little but the magnificence of the dresses they should
+wear, and the taste which should be displayed in every
+part of their appearance.</p>
+
+<p>Indeed, if both the young ladies had really been extremely
+fond of Blue Beard, they could not have taken
+greater pains to show themselves off, than they employed<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_5" id="Page_5">[5]</a></span>
+in preparing for their appearance at the castle.
+But, in truth, neither of them liked him. Such, however,
+is the thoughtless pride of some young ladies,
+that scarcely any thing pleases them so well as an
+opportunity of surpassing each other in displaying off
+their dress, jewels, or other finery.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 350px;">
+<img style="margin-top: 2em;" src="images/image3.jpg" width="350" height="408" alt="Blue Beard decides to go a courting" />
+</div>
+
+<p class="center">Blue Beard's servant announces his master's intention of coming</p>
+<p class="center">a courting, to an interesting young lady.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 350px;">
+<img src="images/line2.jpg" width="350" height="14" alt="line" />
+</div>
+
+<p>The two young ladies having fully prepared themselves,
+they, accompanied by their mamma, on the day
+that had been appointed, set out for the castle, and at
+length reached the gate that lead through Blue Beard's
+grounds; and, although they had heard a great deal
+of the taste and expence which had been employed to
+improve and decorate the land around the castle, yet
+they were surprised by unexpected beauties. The finest
+trees overshadowed the walks, and shaded them from
+the heat of the sun; the most fragrant shrubs and flowers
+perfumed the air; fountains were playing in every<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_6" id="Page_6">[6]</a></span>
+direction; and alcoves were found in every inviting
+spot. Having passed through these delightful grounds,
+they reached the castle itself; at the entrance of which
+they were received by Blue Beard, and a retinue of servants
+in the most costly dresses. The hall was large and
+very lofty; its roof was supported by pillars of the finest
+marble; the windows were of beautiful stained glass;
+and upon the walls were hanging the portraits of the
+former possessors of this noble building.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 350px;">
+<img style="margin-top: 2em;" src="images/image4.jpg" width="350" height="395" alt="Blue Beard's chosen love" />
+</div>
+
+<p class="center">Blue Beard's chosen love.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 350px;">
+<img src="images/line2.jpg" width="350" height="14" alt="line" />
+</div>
+
+<p>They ascended the staircase, the rails of which were
+of brass work, most curiously wrought, and most richly
+gilt; the stairs themselves were of Egyptian marble,
+covered with crimson velvet. They proceeded into a
+drawing room that completely surpassed their ideas of
+grandeur; almost every piece of furniture was of silver;
+the floor was covered with white velvet, but was
+ornamented with needle-work that must have occupied the<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_7" id="Page_7">[7]</a></span>
+labour of years; the curtains were of satin, but were
+adorned in a manner to correspond with the carpets:
+in short, every thing was more splendid than words
+can describe.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 350px;">
+<img style="margin-top: 2em;" src="images/image5.jpg" width="350" height="393" alt="The happy couple" />
+</div>
+
+<p class="center">The happy couple on their way home from church.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 350px;">
+<img src="images/line2.jpg" width="350" height="14" alt="line" />
+</div>
+
+<p>The party continued in the castle several days;
+during which there was a constant succession of the
+most pleasing amusements. Not an interval was allowed
+to pass without some kind of entertainment; music,
+singing, and dancing; banquets, consisting of every
+luxury, were in constant succession.</p>
+
+<p>Blue Beard had not been inattentive to the ladies
+in his personal services: he seemed to watch every
+look, that he might know how to please his fair visitors.
+Such attentions could not fail to produce some favorable
+effect; for it seldom happens, that the person who
+really desires to please, fails in pleasing.</p>
+
+<p>When they were about to depart, Blue Beard entreated
+the younger of the two ladies that have been mentioned,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_8" id="Page_8">[8]</a></span>
+to consent to become his wife. The splendor
+of every thing around her, the immense wealth she
+would have at command, and the attentions she had
+received during her visit, completely captivated the
+young lady, so that she no longer felt disposed to resist;
+and accordingly, with her mother's approbation,
+they were married. She, however, agreed that her sister
+should live with her in the castle.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 350px;">
+<img style="margin-top: 2em;" src="images/image6.jpg" width="350" height="391" alt="Blue Beard gives his wife the forbidden key." />
+</div>
+
+<p class="center">Blue Beard gives his wife the forbidden key.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 350px;">
+<img src="images/line2.jpg" width="350" height="14" alt="line" />
+</div>
+
+<p>It would be impossible to describe the magnificence
+with which this event was celebrated. The costly additions
+that were made to the furniture; the expensive
+dresses that were provided for the bride; and the sumptuous
+entertainments that were given to the company
+that attended, far exceeded all imaginary description.
+Indeed, there was scarcely any thing wanting for which
+she could have wished.</p>
+
+<p>A new dining hall was prepared; and all the utensils
+of the table used upon the occasion, were manufactured<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_9" id="Page_9">[9]</a></span>
+of pure gold and silver: and persons were sent
+many miles to procure the greatest delicacies that could
+possibly be obtained.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 350px;">
+<img style="margin-top: 2em;" src="images/image7.jpg" width="350" height="412" alt="Mrs. Blue Beard examining her husband's
+treasures." />
+</div>
+
+<p class="center">Mrs. Blue Beard examining her husband's
+treasures.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 350px;">
+<img src="images/line2.jpg" width="350" height="14" alt="line" />
+</div>
+
+<p>But the greatest solicitude was shown in preparing
+the attire of the intended bride. Whatever wealth
+could purchase, or ingenuity contrive, were provided to
+give to her natural charms all the embellishments which
+art could bestow.</p>
+
+<p>Nor was Blue Beard himself unemployed: he not
+only gave orders for himself, but all his servants were
+provided with the richest clothes, according to their respective
+situations.</p>
+
+<p>Numerous as were his horses, additional ones were
+purchased; and new carriages of the grandest designs
+and the most costly materials, were prepared for his
+bride against the approaching happy day.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_10" id="Page_10">[10]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 350px;">
+<img style="margin-top: 2em;" src="images/image8.jpg" width="350" height="388" alt="Mrs. Blue Beard
+opens the door of the forbidden chamber." />
+</div>
+
+<p class="center">Mrs. Blue Beard opens the door of the
+forbidden chamber.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 350px;">
+<img src="images/line2.jpg" width="350" height="14" alt="line" />
+</div>
+
+<p>When the morning arrived on which this interesting
+ceremony was to take place, the day had scarcely dawned
+when sounds of joy were heard. The servants arose
+to prepare for the series of magnificence that was to take
+place; but none of them were moving about earlier than
+the bride and bridegroom; who, as they were the most
+immediately interested, were also the most anxious, and
+therefore among the most early, in preparing for the
+events of the day.</p>
+
+<p>The company assembled to breakfast, and every thing
+marked the magnificence of the occasion; and every
+countenance contributed to the general cheerfulness.
+The church in which the ceremony was to take place
+was at some distance. The company proceeded thither
+in ten carriages, each drawn by six horses, and attended
+by a great retinue of servants. The carriage in which
+the bride and bridegroom were seated, was drawn by
+Arabian horses; the harness was made of white silk,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_11" id="Page_11">[11]</a></span>
+woven on purpose; the trappings were of pure silver;
+the carriage itself was chiefly formed of pearl, ivory,
+and silver; and was lined with white satin, beautifully
+embossed.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 350px;">
+<img style="margin-top: 2em;" src="images/image9.jpg" width="350" height="409" alt="Mrs. Blue Beard and her sister considerably
+astonished." />
+</div>
+
+<p class="center">Mrs. Blue Beard and her sister considerably
+astonished.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 350px;">
+<img src="images/line2.jpg" width="350" height="14" alt="line" />
+</div>
+
+<p>When the procession approached the church, it was
+met by one hundred young maidens, dressed in white,
+singing to a band of the most skilful musicians: and
+when the company alighted, the young maidens strewed
+flowers for them to walk upon.</p>
+
+<p>When the ceremony was over, they returned in the
+same manner, and were treated with the same complimentary
+services: that the hearts of all might rejoice,
+the bride and bridegroom distributed money as they
+passed along.</p>
+
+<p>The dinner far exceeded in sumptuousness all that
+imagination can conceive. In the different recesses of
+this noble apartment, artificial fountains were playing<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_12" id="Page_12">[12]</a></span>
+the most odoriferous waters. The most luxuriant fruit-trees,
+standing in vases of gold, invited the guests to
+pluck the delicious fruits they bore.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 350px;">
+<img style="margin-top: 2em;" src="images/image10.jpg" width="350" height="323" alt="The sight that astonished Mrs. Blue Beard
+and her sister." />
+</div>
+
+<p class="center">The sight that astonished Mrs. Blue Beard
+and her sister.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 350px;">
+<img src="images/line2.jpg" width="350" height="14" alt="line" />
+</div>
+
+<p>In the evening, the company were introduced to a
+ball room. But so resplendent was this saloon, that on
+entering it, the eye was subdued by its incomparable
+radiance.</p>
+
+<p>Transparencies, executed by the most eminent painters,
+charmed the attentive mind on every side; and the
+intervening spaces were filled up with variegated lamps,
+all of which were hung upon the surface of reflecting
+glass; while from the centre of the ceiling, a chandelier,
+suspended by a chain of gold, diffused the splendor
+of five hundred wax-lights. Here, also, were fountains
+of aromatic waters, and groves of exotic fruit-trees.</p>
+
+<p>In this apartment, which seemed to realize the fabled
+stories of enchantment, dancing, and every other
+description of amusement, was continued, until folding<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_13" id="Page_13">[13]</a></span>
+windows opened, as if of their own accord, and disclosed
+a covered path through the most delightful part of the
+gardens, to a room in which supper was prepared: this
+path was entirely illuminated by splendid lamps; and
+the most brilliant fireworks were unremittingly discharged
+by artists engaged for the purpose.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 350px;">
+<img style="margin-top: 2em;" src="images/image11.jpg" width="350" height="484" alt="Blue Beard comes home." />
+</div>
+
+<p class="center">Blue Beard comes home.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 350px;">
+<img src="images/line2.jpg" width="350" height="14" alt="line" />
+</div>
+
+<p>The bride seemed to think that her life must necessarily
+consist of pleasure and happiness: indeed, she
+could imagine nothing that could be wanting to complete
+her wishes.</p>
+
+<p>The utmost expectations of the young wife were fully
+gratified: every thing that she could wish for was hers,
+and her husband behaved with a kindness which made
+her feel truly happy.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_14" id="Page_14">[14]</a></span></p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 350px;">
+<img style="margin-top: 2em;" src="images/image12.jpg" width="350" height="420" alt="Mrs. Blue Beard in a quandary." />
+</div>
+
+<p class="center">Mrs. Blue Beard in a quandary.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 350px;">
+<img src="images/line2.jpg" width="350" height="14" alt="line" />
+</div>
+
+<p>Some time after the marriage had taken place, however,
+Blue Beard informed his wife that he had occasion
+to take a journey on account of some business, to which
+he must attend; "but I beg you, my dearest Fatima,
+(for that was the young lady's name,) to have every
+sort of entertainment that can amuse you during my
+absence. Here are all the keys of the castle; you may
+therefore examine the different apartments which you
+have not seen; and I hope you will find some that will
+surprise and please you as well as those with which
+you are already acquainted. I must however most
+earnestly caution and require you not to open the blue
+closet at the end of the gallery; and although I leave
+the key of it with you, yet I trust you will have the
+prudence to fulfil my wishes in this particular.
+Remember this, as you value my love and your own life<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_15" id="Page_15">[15]</a></span>
+and happiness."</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 350px;">
+<img style="margin-top: 2em;" src="images/image13.jpg" width="350" height="423" alt="Mr. Blue Beard in a passion." />
+</div>
+
+<p class="center">Mr. Blue Beard in a passion.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 350px;">
+<img src="images/line2.jpg" width="350" height="14" alt="line" />
+</div>
+
+<p>Fatima promised that she would obey his desire.
+She thanked her husband for his kind attention to her
+comforts; and again promised that she would not disappoint
+the confidence he had placed in her, but would
+carefully abstain from examining the particular apartment
+he had named.</p>
+
+<p>Blue Beard set off upon his journey; and Fatima
+having informed her sister of every thing that had passed
+in their late conversation, they agreed to invite their
+relatives and friends to an entertainment the next day;
+but more particularly their two brothers, who, having
+been absent from home as military officers, had not yet
+seen their sister's magnificent residence.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_16" id="Page_16">[16]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>Having arranged every thing for their intended party,
+Fatima proposed that they should see the apartments
+of which she now had the keys. They accordingly
+proceeded to that part of the extensive castle which
+they had not as yet seen, and at last arrived at a most
+splendid suit of rooms, far surpassing those to which
+they had been accustomed.</p>
+
+<p>On one side of one of these apartments they perceived
+a door, which they opened, and found behind it an iron
+gate of amazing strength. Among the keys Blue Beard
+had left, they found one which opened this massy portal.</p>
+
+<p>When they entered the room which was before them,
+they were surprised to find it almost full of large iron
+chests: but their surprise was considerably increased
+when they had found, that they were full of gold, silver,
+and jewels; even the costliness of the apartments they
+had just quitted, seemed insignificant when compared
+with the riches which this treasury contained.</p>
+
+<p>Having fastened the entrance to the treasury, they
+sat down and conversed upon what they had seen.
+Fatima could not avoid feeling that the personal
+deformity in Blue Beard was compensated by the vast
+wealth of which she was become the mistress; but
+both she and her sister were almost lost in admiration
+of the immeasurable riches they had lately beheld.</p>
+
+<p>In returning to their usual apartments, they passed
+the door of the mysterious blue closet, which Blue
+Beard had cautioned his wife not to examine. They
+could not help expressing their mutual curiosity upon
+the interior of this particular chamber. It could not
+have been his wish to conceal any articles of value;
+as nothing could be more valuable than the contents of
+the treasury. After some deliberation, Fatima said that
+they could do no harm by merely looking inside; and
+although her sister reminded her of the promise she had
+made her husband, and of his express desire, yet she
+resolved to gratify her irresistible curiosity, and put the<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_17" id="Page_17">[17]</a></span>
+key to the door.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 350px;">
+<img style="margin-top: 2em;" src="images/image14.jpg" width="350" height="400" alt="Miss Anna on top of the tower, on the
+lookout for her brother." />
+</div>
+
+<p class="center">Miss Anna on top of the tower, on the
+lookout for her brother.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 350px;">
+<img src="images/line2.jpg" width="350" height="14" alt="line" />
+</div>
+
+<p>She entered the closet, but it was too dark for her to
+discern any object; however, she could just perceive
+that there was a window, the shutters of which were
+closed: she went forward and removed them. The
+instant that light was admitted, her curiosity was gratified.
+She found herself amidst the severed limbs and
+mutilated bodies of her husband's former wives. The
+scene was frightful! Her own future condition, she
+immediately thought, might add to these dreadful objects!
+Her blood chilled! The very hair rose upon
+her head! Nor was her terror diminished, when she
+saw upon the wall these awful words&mdash;<em>The fate of
+broken promises and disobedient curiosity.</em>&mdash;She
+trembled excessively; and in the alarm of the moment,
+she let fall the key of the closet, which she had brought
+in her hand: she hastily snatched it from the floor;<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_18" id="Page_18">[18]</a></span>
+and having summoned sufficient courage to close the
+shutters, she came out of this dreadful apartment, and
+locked the door.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 350px;">
+<img style="margin-top: 2em;" src="images/image15.jpg" width="350" height="440" alt="The Brother arrives." />
+</div>
+
+<p class="center">The Brother arrives.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 350px;">
+<img src="images/line2.jpg" width="350" height="14" alt="line" />
+</div>
+
+<p>Fatima hastened to her sister, who not choosing to
+partake of her sister's folly, had proceeded to their
+customary sitting-room. She related what she had seen;
+particularly the sentence which was on the wall. Her
+sister partook of her alarm; and feared that evil
+consequences would result from this unfortunate affair.
+She asked Fatima if she had closed the window-shutters
+and brought away the key: and returned every
+thing she had moved to its proper place; Fatima said
+she had; and, in proof of her answer to the inquiry,
+showed the key itself.</p>
+
+<p>The key, however, was no sooner produced than they
+both turned pale with horror. This fatal instrument<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_19" id="Page_19">[19]</a></span>
+was covered with blood! and all their endeavours could
+not clear it of its condemning evidence.</p>
+
+<p>During the remainder of the evening they employed
+themselves in making every sort of exertion to restore
+the key to its former state; but all they could do was
+ineffectual; it still preserved the testimony of Fatima's
+indiscretion. At night they retired to bed; but no sleep
+did the wretched girls obtain. The splendor and riches
+of the castle lost all their charms; Fatima no longer
+prided herself upon her good fortune; she felt that no
+creature could be more miserable than she was. How
+soon Blue Beard would return, she had no means of
+conjecturing; it was not likely, however, that he would
+be at the castle again for some days to come; she therefore
+resolved to escape from this dreadful mansion as
+soon as the entertainment, which was appointed for the
+next day, should have taken place.</p>
+
+<p>When she arose in the morning, she communicated
+to her sister the intention she had formed; and they
+both began to feel less dread than they had experienced
+since the discoveries in the fatal closet. The day advanced,
+and they looked forward to the arrival of the
+relatives and friends whom they had invited to this
+day's entertainment.</p>
+
+<p>However, in the midst of their mutual congratulations
+upon the plan which had been formed, they heard the
+arrival of a carriage at the castle, and in a few moments
+Blue Beard himself entered their apartment. Fatima
+felt all the horror which the remembrance of the closet
+could excite, and all the shame which the consciousness
+of her own impropriety could not fail to produce.</p>
+
+<p>Blue Beard did not seem to notice his wife's uneasiness;
+but with apparent good humour said, "that he
+had not proceeded very far, when he met a messenger
+who was coming to the castle to inform him that it was
+no longer necessary he should proceed on his intended<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_20" id="Page_20">[20]</a></span>
+journey; that he had therefore lost no time in returning
+home; where," he said, "Fatima's presence rendered
+him so peculiarly happy."</p>
+
+<p>Soon afterwards Blue Beard, as though he wanted
+something, asked his wife for the keys. She went to
+the chamber and returned with all of them excepting
+the one which belonged to the dreadful closet; for it
+still preserved the evidence of her disobedience. He
+took them with seeming good-natured indifference, and
+did not pretend to observe how the wretched girl trembled.
+As he held them in his hand, he said to her, with
+affected carelessness, "The key of the blue closet is not
+here; bring it to me in my dressing-room."</p>
+
+<p>He arose and left the apartment in which they were
+sitting; and Fatima and her sister proceeded to her
+chamber. Again they tried to remove the blood with
+which the key was stained; but all their efforts were
+unavailing. At length Blue Beard called his wife, and
+as she and her sister were going to his dressing-room,
+they met him in the gallery, close to the stairs which led
+to the top of the castle.</p>
+
+<p>As soon as she approached him, he threw off the disguise
+of good nature which he had assumed in the sitting
+room, and demanded the key of the closet. The
+tone of voice in which this was uttered, struck upon her
+ear like the knell for her execution; she seemed to be
+deprived of the power of speaking. He became impatient,
+and seizing her hand, took from it the blood-stained
+key. The wretched girl fell upon her knees, the tears
+rushed into her eyes, and enabled her to speak; but by
+this time Blue Beard stood over her with his sword
+unsheathed.</p>
+
+<p>Fatima's sister, as she stood by, almost petrified, gave
+a dreadful shriek when she saw the instrument of death
+raised over her defenceless sister. The sound caught
+the ear of Blue Beard; and for a moment his intention<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_21" id="Page_21">[21]</a></span>
+was suspended. Looking upon his wretched victim,
+"Where," said he, "was your promise, when you were
+fool enough to enter the closet? and where was the obedience
+you promised to pay me, when you suffered your
+curiosity to overcome your duty? But you shall commit
+no more crimes; therefore receive <em>the fate of broken
+promises, and disobedient curiosity</em>."</p>
+
+<p>These last words roused the almost inanimate girl;
+she recollected that she had seen them on the wall of the
+fatal closet. He was now about to fulfil his sentence;
+his arm was again uplifted; when she entreated him to
+spare her for a few minutes, to prepare for this unexpected
+end. He consented, after much entreaty, to allow
+her a quarter of an hour. As soon as this indulgence
+was given her, she begged her sister to ascend the staircase
+to the top of the castle, and see if any of their
+friends were to be seen. She did so; but no signs of a
+human being could be perceived.</p>
+
+<p>At length the short interval which had been allowed
+her came to an end, and Blue Beard approached to complete
+his determination. She again implored mercy, and
+he, knowing that she was in his power, gave her five
+minutes more. She now renewed her frenzied enquiries
+to her sister; "Is no one coming?" asked she.
+After a short time her sister told her that she saw something
+approaching; which cheered the heart of the unhappy
+girl. Alas! it was but transient,&mdash;it was a flock
+of sheep.</p>
+
+<p>Blue Beard's patience was now exhausted; and he
+came to the foot of the tower where Fatima was; when
+her sister called out, "I see two horsemen coming."
+"Make signs for them to hasten," shrieked the miserable
+girl.</p>
+
+<p>Her brutal husband had now caught her by the hair
+of her head, and in spite of her heart-rending cries for
+mercy, was about to strike at her with his scymitar,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_22" id="Page_22">[22]</a></span>
+when two men in soldiers' uniform rushed to the spot,
+and plunged their swords in the breast of the relentless
+Blue Beard.</p>
+
+<p>The monster had still sufficient life to speak: he raised
+himself on one arm, and looking on them all, thus
+spoke: "I am at last justly punished. By the splendor
+of my riches, I have induced many a beautiful woman
+to become my wife; but as soon as I discovered the
+least deviation from truth, or disobedience to my will,
+she suffered death. I put Fatima's veracity to the test,
+by obtaining her promise that she would not open the
+door of the blue closet; and by leaving the key with
+her, she broke her word, and the key, which has the
+property of preserving the stains of blood, until it be
+rubbed with a peculiar oil, afforded the evidence of her
+guilt. By the same means I knew that she had disobeyed
+my orders, and broken her own promises. These
+two faults had incurred my revenge. She has had a
+narrow escape; yet I hope she will in future never
+break a promise, disobey those to whom she promises
+submission, nor give way to the impulse of improper or
+forbidden curiosity."</p>
+
+<p>He grew faint; and having uttered a few prayers for
+forgiveness, he fell back, and expired.</p>
+
+<p>During the day, all the friends who had been invited
+arrived. They were told the occurrences which had
+happened; and such of them as chose it, saw the horrid
+proofs of Blue Beard's cruelty.</p>
+
+<p>Fatima shortly afterwards had a day of great rejoicing;
+she not only gave a magnificent entertainment to
+her relations and friends, but the poor, for miles round,
+were collected together to partake of her hospitality:
+and on this occasion every face glowed with smiles
+of happiness.</p>
+
+<p>Fatima's former days had showed her the sufferings
+and privations of the poor; and now she had the power,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_23" id="Page_23">[23]</a></span>
+she determined to better their condition. With this
+view, instead of the miserable hovels usually inhabited
+by the labouring poor, she had annually several comfortable
+and pleasant cottages built, and to each one she
+added, a large plot of ground. To every labouring
+family upon her extensive estates, she gave one of these
+cottages, and where there were a family of children, she
+added to this gift a cow, and a few sheep. By this
+means, she enabled them, by their own exertions, instead
+of occasional want, always to secure a humble
+competence; and in a very short time, every person
+upon her estate was rendered happy, and became her
+firm friend.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 350px;">
+<img style="margin-top: 4em;" src="images/image16.jpg" width="350" height="222" alt="The Key" />
+</div>
+
+<hr class="chap" />
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_24" id="Page_24">[24]</a></span></p>
+
+
+
+
+<p class="center"><big>PHILIP J. COZANS,</big></p>
+<h3>PUBLISHER AND BOOKSELLER,</h3>
+<p class="center">No. 116 NASSAU STREET,</p>
+<p class="center"><em>NEW-YORK</em>.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 350px;">
+<img src="images/line3.jpg" width="350" height="13" alt="line" />
+</div>
+
+<p class="center"><small>HAS ALWAYS ON HAND</small></p>
+<p class="center">AN EXTENSIVE ASSORTMENT OF</p>
+<h3>VALENTINES,</h3>
+<p class="center">PLAIN AND COLORED TOY BOOKS, SONG BOOKS,</p>
+<p class="center">ALMANACKS, PLAYS, CARDS,</p>
+<p class="center">MOTTO VERSES, BLANK BOOKS, STATIONERY, &amp;c.</p>
+<p class="center">WHOLESALE AND RETAIL.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 350px;">
+<img src="images/line4.jpg" width="350" height="10" alt="line" />
+</div>
+
+<p class="center"><em>ALSO JUST PUBLISHED</em>,</p>
+<p class="center">THE GUIDE TO PAINTING IN WATER COLORS,</p>
+<p class="center">WITH COLORED PLATES,</p>
+<p class="center">PRICE 25 CENTS.</p>
+<p class="center">YOUTH'S NEW DRAWING BOOK,</p>
+<p class="center">AND NEW PROGRESSIVE DRAWING-BOOK,</p>
+<p class="center">PRICE 12&frac12; CENTS, EACH.</p>
+<p class="center">THE ART OF GOOD BEHAVIOUR,</p>
+<p class="center">CONTAINING DIRECTIONS FOR</p>
+<p class="center">Giving and attending Parties, Balls, Weddings,</p>
+<p class="center"><em>DINNERS, Etc.</em></p>
+<p class="center">INCLUDING THE NECESSARY PREPARATIONS AND ARRANGEMENTS</p>
+<p class="center"><small>FOR THE</small></p>
+<p class="center">MARRIAGE CEREMONY.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 350px;">
+<img src="images/line5.jpg" width="350" height="8" alt="line" />
+</div>
+
+<p class="center"><small>Country orders attended to with punctuality&mdash;and liberal Discount</small></p>
+<p class="center">TO THE TRADE.</p>
+
+
+<hr class="chap" />
+
+
+
+
+<div class="transnote">
+
+
+<h3>TRANSCRIBER'S NOTE:</h3>
+
+<p>Obvious printer errors have been corrected. Otherwise, the author's
+original spelling, punctuation, and hyphenation have been left intact.</p>
+
+<p>The word 'expence' has been retained. It is an obsolete
+spelling of 'expense'.</p>
+
+</div>
+
+<div>*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 44558 ***</div>
+</body>
+</html>
+
+
+
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