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diff --git a/.gitattributes b/.gitattributes new file mode 100644 index 0000000..d7b82bc --- /dev/null +++ b/.gitattributes @@ -0,0 +1,4 @@ +*.txt text eol=lf +*.htm text eol=lf +*.html text eol=lf +*.md text eol=lf diff --git a/LICENSE.txt b/LICENSE.txt new file mode 100644 index 0000000..6312041 --- /dev/null +++ b/LICENSE.txt @@ -0,0 +1,11 @@ +This eBook, including all associated images, markup, improvements, +metadata, and any other content or labor, has been confirmed to be +in the PUBLIC DOMAIN IN THE UNITED STATES. + +Procedures for determining public domain status are described in +the "Copyright How-To" at https://www.gutenberg.org. + +No investigation has been made concerning possible copyrights in +jurisdictions other than the United States. Anyone seeking to utilize +this eBook outside of the United States should confirm copyright +status under the laws that apply to them. diff --git a/README.md b/README.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..e9ef68b --- /dev/null +++ b/README.md @@ -0,0 +1,2 @@ +Project Gutenberg (https://www.gutenberg.org) public repository for +eBook #52364 (https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/52364) diff --git a/old/52364-0.txt b/old/52364-0.txt deleted file mode 100644 index b50720d..0000000 --- a/old/52364-0.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,3565 +0,0 @@ -Project Gutenberg's The Romance of a Princess, by Amy Redpath Roddick - -This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and most -other parts of the world 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. If you are not located in the United States, you'll have -to check the laws of the country where you are located before using this ebook. - -Title: The Romance of a Princess - A Comedy, and Other Poems - -Author: Amy Redpath Roddick - -Release Date: June 18, 2016 [EBook #52364] - -Language: English - -Character set encoding: UTF-8 - -*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE ROMANCE OF A PRINCESS *** - - - - -Produced by Richard Tonsing and the Online Distributed -Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net (This file was -produced from images generously made available by The -Internet Archive) - - - - - - - - - - THE ROMANCE OF A PRINCESS - A COMEDY - AND - OTHER POEMS - - - BY - - AMY REDPATH RODDICK - - Author of "The Flag and Other Poems" - "The Armistice and Other Poems" - "The Seekers, and Indian Mystery Play" - "The Birth of Montreal, a Chronicle Play, and Other Poems" - - - (_All Rights Reserved_) - - - =Montreal= - JOHN DOUGALL & SON - 1922 - - - - - CONTENTS - - - THE ROMANCE OF A PRINCESS, A Comedy 1 - - THE TALL PALMETTO 83 - - CHARLESTON 87 - - LAKE GEORGE 89 - - THE EVENING STAR 90 - - - - - _THE ROMANCE OF A PRINCESS_ - _A Comedy._ - - -This play is the outcome of many happy walks in the forests that border -Charlemagne's ancient capital. The writer and her husband would often -pause to view some beauty-spot; at times she would read aloud the rare -legends collected by Joseph Muller. - -She has now tried to catch some of the interest and joy of those gone by -summers to pass on to relatives and friends. If she has failed it is not -the fault of the theme. - -Let none throw doubt on Emma's reality. Who lives in myth, lives for all -time. - - A.R.R. - -Montreal -Christmas, 1922. - - - - - CHARACTERS. - - - Emma _A Daughter of Charles_ - Etta _Her Waiting-woman_ - Charles (Charlemagne) _King-Emperor_ - Eginhardt _Secretary and Director of Public Works_ - Albert _Count of the Palace_ - Hildebold _Archbishop_ - Ernst _A Charcoal-burner_ - Guta _His Wife_ - David _A Precocious Boy_ - Audulf } - Herbert } _Courtiers_ - Courtiers, Wish-maidens, Elves. - - Time: The beginning of the ninth century. - - Place: Aquisgranum, the Capital of Frankland. - - - - - ACT I. - - - _Scene.—Emma's boudoir. A door on the left leads to the palace - courtyard; another, centre back, opens into private apartments, - which have no other entrance. The room is furnished befitting the - dignity of a princess. Emma, in gala-attire, has just returned from - a great function in honour of the Calif Haroun-al-Rashid's - ambassadors. Etta helps remove her cloak. The princess then throws - herself on a couch, while Etta stands before her admiringly._ - - _Emma._ A moment's rest to gather memories - Of what this day has meant; those swarthy Eastern - Ambassadors! the gifts their king has sent. - - _Etta._ How beautiful you are! In Frankland, who - Approaches you in mind or character? - That's what the scholars say. The people though - Dwell on your loveliness. What plaudits when - You rode that bulky beast! the contrast! a Princess, - Alive with happiness. - - _Emma._ 'Twas wonderful - To mount so high, an elephant for steed, - To feel that heavy, ambling gait, to know - Such strength for mischief could be chained to work - Man's will. How kind of great Haroun to give - The King, my Father, this unwieldy proof - Of his affection; to teach such animals - Are real, not fabled monsters, as some of us - Have whispered! 'Twas tremulous that ride, up-perched - Above the marvelling throng; to feel myself, - A Frankish maid, upon that leathery - Ungainliness. An elephant in Europe! - Who'd have thought to see the day? But now - Unbind my hair. [_In a low voice._] I think he will not come - Tonight. [_A knocking is heard._] 'Tis he! but no, my Father's knock, - So tender yet so masterful. Thou may'st - Retire. I'll wait upon his royal pleasure, - Will then disrobe myself. - - [_Etta opens door on the left. - Enter Charles in ceremonial robes, wearing his crown. - Exit Etta through the door at the centre back after - making deep obeisance._] - - You come attired - In majesty. [_Courtesying._] I must acclaim you King, - Not Father. - - _Charles._ [_Pressing her against his breast._] Nay, nay, my - birdling! nestle here; - My dear Fastrada's legacy; a father's - Sweet solace; the Esther of our court. I could - Deny thee nought, unless a lover should - Address thine ears: avaunt the thought! The well - Of our fair intercourse is clear, undimmed. - As cloudless skies of sun-blessed Eastern lands. - - _Emma._ O Father! what dread shapes may lurk beneath - Those Eastern skies! each soul has got some stain, - Some hidden mystery. - - _Charles._ This day's excitement - Has tired, provoked reaction. Once a Bishop - Complained to me that nuns need long confessing. - Imagined sins are culled for penitence; - In baser lives these specks would pass unnoticed. - We'll rid such faults as thine with kisses; perchance - A wayward thought when Holy Words were spoken. - And now uncrown the King, then help remove - This cumbrous mantle.—Cautiously! I've something - Of great import. - - _Emma._ But not as great as that - Great beast, the elephant! - - _Charles._ Far weightier, - As Heaven outvies the earth, as souls are more - Than flesh. See here, my birdling, what I've brought. - - _Emma._ Some ragged silk, a joke!—It cannot be— - - _Charles._ Thine eyes have guessed; the sacred coverings! - O to-day how all have gaped, and cheered - That elephant, at most a curious - Phenomenon, distracting from rich gifts - Of sober worth. In truth now royalty - Resides in this new Western Rome, a fairer - Than earthly crown implies. Haroun, my brother, - Has raised and honoured us. - - _Emma._ Among the Scholars - I've heard some doubts expressed. - - _Charles._ Most ill-advised. - Rank heresy, as well doubt Holy Church - Herself. The proofs are clear; nor flaw, nor break. - These hallowed relics, damped with tears by him - Of Arimathaea, held in sacred trust - By his descendants, traced each step till now - They rest within our great Basilica, - Are here to stay, to gratify, as long - As Franks are true and strong. See! see! my birdling, - This rosy silk was round the cloth that held, - One time, St. John, the Baptist's bleeding head; - This white encased the Virgin's dress; this yellow, - The precious Infant's swaddling clothes; and this - That's dyed with scarlet pomp has clasped within - Its folds the loin-cloth, garment of the cross. - Yes! yes! my lips have pressed those objects, I - Am nearer God. - - _Emma._ This silk? - - _Charles._ The holy relics - Are wrapped afresh in lustrous lengths of rare - Brocade, a further gift brought by Haroun's - Ambassadors—the Church's treasury - Holds them in state. This tattered silk that age - Unfits for service still retains great virtue - From sacredness long stored. And who is pure - Enough to shelter it? I know of none - But thee, Fastrada's living image! - - _Emma._ A father's - Affectionate regard has blinded thee. - O take that stuff! 'Twould shrink to powdered dust - Did I but handle it. - - _Charles._ Nay, nay, my Emma, - There is a point where modesty doth lose - Its charm and gives affront. That point is reached; - So fetch my cloak and fasten its jeweled clasp. - Now crown the Emperor, he prays that angels - May watch thy bed. [_He kisses Emma. Exit left._] - - _Emma._ That silk! how can I keep it? - Its folds have touched what once hath touched God's Prophet, - His Mother, His very Self. O some one come - And take it hence.—Or—or is't possible - To make me worthy? e'en though hearts be crushed. - - [_A light knock is heard._] - - And so the test approaches! May I be strengthened. - - [_Emma opens the door on the left. Enter Eginhardt._] - - _Eginhardt._ It promises a blustery night. Wait Love, - Until I brush these flakes, a sudden swirl - Of snow; but here there's warmth and comfort. [_Extending his arms._] - My Emma— - - _Emma._ Not yours, a Princess speaks, a gulf has widened - Since last we met. You recognize that silk? - It heals the secret breach I've made within - A Father's confidence, it warns that you - Must leave me now and instantly. You are - The King, my Father's trusted friend. - - _Eginhardt._ O Emma! - Thy words bite deep—and yet not deep enough - To overthrow the airy castles hewn - From glowing hope. And see what thing has winged - My steps, has brought me here to-night. - - _Emma._ A ring! - It seems to draw my hand; but no, 'tis for - Some humble maid, who'll taste the happiness - My rank denies. - - _Eginhardt._ Who else can wear this ring - That Queen Fastrada prized? - - _Emma._ [_Taking the ring._] My Mother's ring! - How came it here? - - _Eginhardt._ [_Sitting on the couch._] Thou know'st the - story? - - _Emma._ [_Sitting on a stool near him._] A rumor, - Unmeant to reach the King, my Father's ears, - And so 'twas crushed. But now the ring I hold - Demands the truth. O Eginhardt, tell all, - Omitting nought, e'en though the listening hurts. - - _Eginhardt._ A lesser soul might rather seek relief - From words unsaid; but thou, with thy clear eyes, - Need'st probe beneath like— - - _Emma._ Like that Father; whose - Sweet confidence has been outwitted. - - _Eginhardt._ Rather - Betrayed unwittingly, a force outside - Ourselves. - - _Emma._ That can be crushed; but first we'll hear - Thy story. O Eginhardt, how easily - The dear familiar "thy" slips mouthwards. Let - It be, until the story's told; or as - A master, well-beloved, thou mayest speak; - Whilst I sit here, a mindful pupil. - - _Eginhardt._ Thou hast - Thy Mother's grace, her wit and understanding, - Thy soul surpasses hers. I but repeat - Archbishop Turpin's words. - - _Emma._ I thought at times - She lacked a something, a mother's tenderness; - But then her smile would reassure. - - _Eginhardt._ Her bright - Intelligence, her merry laughter, her fresh - And dazzling beauty so enthralled the King; - If she but raised her little finger, he, - The Lord of millions, hastened to obey. - And thus it went; although her wishes might - Disturb a court, a city or a kingdom; - The erst so pious Charles exalted one; - Who should have grovelled at his feet. - - _Emma._ You speak - About my Mother? - - _Eginhardt._ Whose beauty is thy dower; - Whose baser parts are long forgotten. Death - Came stealthily—the King refused belief. - For days and nights he knelt beside the couch, - His arms supporting one whose soul had fled. - "She is not dead," he cried, "She sweetly slumbers." - He waved aside, as thou rememberest, - All food and drink, became well-nigh demented, - Completely losing that serene composure, - That seemed as much himself as kingly might. - "She is not dead;" his eyes blazed wrathfully, - While honeyed murmurs passed his lips: "Thou wilt - Awaken, little one." None dared suggest - The funeral plans, nor place of burial. - At last his life seemed doomed with hers. A vague - Uneasiness had turned to fear. 'Twas whispered - His death would loosen war and misery, - The century's near-close would end Earth's cycle. - Lamenting moans were heard within the Church - And prayers of intercession. All this thou knowest. - But not what follows, the fruit of supplication. - The good Archbishop Turpin saw, one night, - Amid the Queen's long-braided tresses, the glint - Of hidden gold that shimmered through his dreams. - When daylight broke he stole beside the King - And softly slipped his hand beneath the dead - Fastrada's hair. He drew the visioned ring; - Whose magic power had slaved the mighty Charles. - Relieved, the King looked round in wonderment. - He recognized his loss—and God consoled. - - _Emma._ He never afterwards remembered, nor knew - About the ring, although the story, much - Disguised, had somewhat leaked. Please tell me further. - - _Eginhardt._ The kind Archbishop, ever the King's most trusted - Adviser, now became his closest friend. - He used his influence for good; but Saints - Become discredited when fortune strews - Her favours. Tongues wagged ill-naturedly, until - Such wordy mud was stirred the Prelate felt - Its spatterings and realized the cause— - The fatal talisman. He stood beside - Those stringing ponds that rim so pleasantly - The new-built hunting lodge. A sudden splash - The ring had vanished. - - _Emma._ My Father often sits - And broods beside the larger pond. - - _Eginhardt._ I've noticed; - So had it searched most carefully. Last night - The ring was found. Conceal it 'mid thy pearls, - Then tell the King thou lov'st his servant. He will - Refuse thee nought. - - _Emma._ Can we buy happiness - At such a price? win lasting peace and true, - Sustaining joy? [_She moves and, unnoticing, - brushes the silk from the table._] O see! the silk has - fallen. - I cannot leave it crumpled there, nor can - I touch it, while I touch this charm. I pray thee, - Take it. [_She hands him the ring, then sobbing gathers - up the silk and smooths it._] 'Tis not like thee, my Eginhardt, - To tempt with specious words. Return that ring - To watery depths. May skies reflected cleanse; - May lovers, bending o'er the forest pool, - Gain bliss that's unalloyed with earth-born slime. - - _Eginhardt._ How oft have we exchanged love's vows beside - That selfsame pool, shall we no more, my Emma, - Though others may? - - _Emma._ Suppose I took that ring; - The King, my Father, gave consent; the Church, - Reluctant blessing; how long would'st thou escape - The soot that smudged my Mother's fame, the good - Archbishop? Suppose, without that slender circlet, - We begged the King, my Father; would he not banish - Whom he calls foster-son?—his minister - Of public works, his faithful secretary, - His youngest councillor, and, summing all, - His poet-friend and mine. My fate would be - A convent cell, to meditate on mischief - That can be pushed aside. Dear Eginhardt, - Bid me adieu and when we meet thou'lt be - My teacher, who recites a nation's songs; - But dwells not on his own, nor hers who sends - Him forth. - - _Eginhardt._ O Emma, pray God that I have strength. - Our secret meetings gave fresh life, all else, - Methinks, is death. - - _Emma._ [_holding her finger up._] Hark! - - [_Distant singing is faintly heard.... Emma - opens door, left. Eginhardt throws a cloak - over her. They stand looking out._] - - _A watchman sings without._ - - Here are lodged the sacred clothes; - Bow your heads and stainless be. - Earth is draped with glistening snows, - Garbed anew with purity. - - Let each soul be undefiled, - God and man be reconciled. - Let each soul be undefiled, - God and man be reconciled.—— - - _Emma._ The watchman's song has drifted from his tower. - He steps within. O seize the moment, fly! - - _Eginhardt._ [_He makes a movement, then stops._] But Emma! that - snow—unspotted— - - _Emma._ That glitters 'neath - The moon! It seems a miracle. The day - Was pleasant, almost summer-like, then came - A sudden wind with flurries, and, though scarce - Ten minutes since thou cam'st, the court is now - Completely carpeted and all so still— - So cold—but beautiful. - - _Eginhardt._ A miracle - Whose cost will be my life and thine mayhap. - - _Emma._ Thy words must have some meaning? - - _Eginhardt._ A woeful one. - If I should dare the lightest step, that snow - Would hold its trace, would witness 'gainst this night's - Adventure; and death must be the penalty. - Death!—The chill of winter. Shut it out. - I'll spend my last few hours in warmth by thee. - - _Emma._ I can't believe——let us but think, we'll find - A passage, some how, some where. - - _Eginhardt._ But where? that is - The only path as blocked as though with walls - Of solid masonry. - - _Emma._ A loophole glints, - Nay, now a streaming light. A woman's print - Might track the court and back, 'twould raise no comment. - The Princess Emma's maid has gone betimes - Some errand, has then returned. - - _Eginhardt._ And what of that? - - _Emma._ Hast thou no inkling? Dearest Eginhardt, - I'll carry thee across the court. - - _Eginhardt._ Thou must - Be crazed, suggesting such a thought, an angel - To masquerade as beast of burden. - - _Emma._ But 'tis - Our only chance; remembering, if we - Should fail, the King, my Father, who must pass judgment, - Would suffer consequence as we. We'll seize - The chance! - - _Eginhardt._ O Emma, my sweetheart, beloved Princess, - What ills may happen thee if we should fail. - We'll take the chance. - - _Emma._ Then quickly. - - _Eginhardt._ But art thou strong - Enough to bear my weight so far? wilt thou - Not suffer strain? - - _Emma._ Must I, a Frankish maid, - Explain my strength? Have I not heroes' blood - Within my veins? Are not my sinews those - That show descent from mighty warriors, prompt - In action, swift of purpose? Would I not shame - Such lineage, did I permit myself - To slip or falter? Besides 'tis nought but child's play— - My friend, thou hast a scholar's frame. Now take - A breath! then place thine arms around my neck. - I'll bear thee as a peasant's load upon - My back. - - [_She totters for a second beneath Eginhardt's - weight._] - - _Eginhardt._ Thou stagger'st? - - _Emma._ Nay,—but breathe a prayer, - Twill help. [_She straightens herself._] - - [_Exit Emma with Eginhardt on her back. After a - time she returns, panting, and closes the door._] - - _Emma._ I've left him by the courtyard-gate - And none have seen. And O I feel such strange - Relief that dims the parting pang. Deceit - Is ended. I've freed myself to guard this silk. - May God protect! - - [_She takes up a crucifix and kneels before the silk._] - - - - - ACT II. - - - _Scene.—The same as Act I. The following morning. Emma, in her gala - attire, lies asleep on the couch, a mantle over her feet. Etta - enters abruptly through centre door. She notices the Princess and - seems relieved._ - - _Etta._ Why there she lies and fast asleep. I had - Such fright to find her bed untenanted. - The day's excitement must have tired and then - The King's late visit. I should have stayed or sent - A waiting-maid; but she insists at times - On privacy, the privilege of being - As lesser folk. I have a shrewd suspicion! - Well let it be! Her virtue's proof 'gainst fire - Itself and Master Eginhardt is old - In wisdom. Their talk is but of grammar-rules, - Of ancient days and poetry. They have - My sympathy; though scarce my understanding. - Frivolity would seem more natural, - Would better suit their youthfulness; but learning - Has set its seal on courtly fashion, till even - The cooks and pantry men discuss in terms - Of rhetoric. Well, well the King attends - The palace school and comprehends; while others, - Of weaker wit, absorb the jargon, failing - To delve for sense.——How sweet my Princess looks, - Dear soul; her dimpling smile disarms all envy, - Else might one say 'tis most unfair that she - Should have so much; while houseless beggars crowd - Our narrow streets. Pretence may smirk and strut - And poverty may wince and crawl but here - There's restfulness. A knock! - - [_The door, left, is pushed - open.... Enter Albert._] - - Hist, hist, you must - Not enter. The Princess is asleep. She's there— - Lies there upon that couch. Please slip away. - Go quietly. - - _Albert._ I have a message. You - Must waken her. - - _Etta._ Your tone is somewhat rude, - My Lord; the Princess wakens when she pleases; - And not before. - - _Albert._ The message that I bear - Forbids delay. 'Tis from the King himself, - Of utmost urgency. - - _Etta._ If you but say - The Princess sleeps, the King will pardon us. - He would not wish his bird disturbed. - - _Albert._ His bird - Must wake and spread her wings. The other bird - Has flown. An unexpected play was staged - Last night—I would that I had witnessed it— - The King alone was privileged. He liked - It not. Deep creases line his face, his eyes - Flash steel. The Princess must be wakened, yet - I dread to mar that prettiness with grief. - O why will maids forget the beauty-sleep - That wards away next morning's tears. She fell - Asleep—too late, alas! - - [_Emma wakes up, seems surprised to see her visitors, sits - up and listens unnoticed by them._] - - _Etta._ My Lord, your head - Is turned. I left her here last night 'tis true, - But with the King. To her sweet care he must - Have lent the holy silk, see there it lies - And shimmers trustfully. You have an answer. - 'Twill satisfy the King. - - _Albert._ But Charles himself - Was witness. Listen! last night another came. - Where were your eyes and ears? The King retired - Alone, he practised Greek; when suddenly - A knavish moonbeam danced its mischief through - A chink and blurred the alpha-beta. The King - Threw wide the casement hangings, and sought to wrest - An ode, a monody from night's allurement, - When lo! 'twas farce that greeted him, a farce - That failed to tap his laughter. - - _Etta._ A chill has knifed - My heart. Speak on! - - _Albert._ He clearly saw two forms - That peered; they seemed to shrink beneath the moon's - Cold gaze and then from out this very room - There came a restless prancing jennet, that stayed - Its curveting, that slid and well-nigh stumbled - Beneath the slender weight of whom indeed? - But solemn Master Eginhardt. - - _Etta._ The Princess - Has so demeaned herself! has so abused - Her rank and sex! I'll not believe a word - Of it, e'en though her pretty lips give their - Consent. - - _Emma._ He speaks the truth, dear Etta! 'Twas not - In wanton play! 'twas dire distress. We hoped - To hide our secret from the telltale snow. - But now, that all's discovered; give me the worst, - My Lord. What punishment is meted him - I love? - - _Albert._ 'Tis not so heavy, ease yourself. - - _Emma._ Not death? - - _Albert._ No, no— - - _Emma._ Then tell me all. - - _Albert._ The King - Has seen—— - - _Emma._ Of that you've said enough; but after? - - _Albert._ To-day the court has stirred betimes. A King, - Who spent a sleepless night, would not respect - Another's rest. His messengers flew back - And forth, while rumors faster sped. A council - At such unseemly hour! portending what? - And few but nurse some covert guilt. The King - Was grey with wrath—and fear disturbed. But when - He spoke, recounting all, faint titters rose - Unbidden, soon quelled beneath his iron glance. - And then, with icy voice, he hurled the question: - What judgment should be meted one who so - Forgot—I pray your pardon—her royal rank? - The councillors gazed mournfully at one - Another and then, as though a signal prompted, - They chimed together: "In love affairs we crave - Indulgence." Scarce heeding them the King continued: - "What punishment deserves that man, whom I - Have favoured? who brings my house to shame." Again - The answer came: "In love affairs we crave - Indulgence." But one dissentient voice: "Our laws - Proclaim a speedy death." 'Twas Eginhardt, - The youngest councillor, who spoke. - - _Emma._ You said— - - _Albert._ That death was not the penalty; Ay! listen! - The King replied: "My youngest councillor - Gives wiser judgment. Yes he understands - How stain can spread. Such doings, if left unpunished, - Might influence court customs, Frankish habits; - Deserving death, I pass a lighter sentence: - 'Tis banishment without repeal. Now go, - Nor trouble more mine eyes!" The King had finished, - A quivering silence reigned. Then slowly rose - The one proscribed, nor made obeisance, nor bade - Adieu, unless his footsteps echoed it. - The air was chill as though a wraith had passed. - - _Emma._ None offered him a kindly word? none gave - A friendly glance? - - _Albert._ Before the angered King, - Was't possible? Besides a favorite, - That's fallen from regard, must needs incite - A wonder seldom damped with pity's dew. - - _Emma._ Mayhap the gateman has inquired which way - He went. Etta! go question him. - - _Albert._ He spoke - To none; but strode along, nor visited - His rooms. His writing tools alone he carried, - Unless a book or so that bulged his wallet. - - _Emma._ You may depart, my Lord. Your story's told. - - _Albert._ I would it were. Why are you still? can you - Not ease the telling? Question me. Take you - No interest in your fate? - - _Emma._ 'Tis blank to-day. - - _Albert._ Then woe must color it and I must speak - Unhelped. Prepare yourself for grevious change. - When heavy steps had ceased to echo, all - Within the Council-Hall seemed moulded there - By frost of death. Then spoke the King: "My daughter"— - A moment's pause till words swelled through emotion. - They thickly came as waters that soak their way - From out a sodden, leaf-strewn ridge. "My daughter, - Let her fare forth. The fault's the same and so - The punishment!" and then he turned toward me. - His words now sharply fell as waters freed - That clang 'mid stones. "Go tell the Princess Emma, - Mine eyes must dwell on her no more. Let her - Leave home and friends, henceforth a wanderer. - Bid her begone at once, nor moan her fate - With others. Let her depart for presently - I come to seal a tomb that holds the corpse - Of erstwhile loving memory." His words - Sank deep like waters pooled, his eyelids closed - To stay the signs of grief. He blinked them back, - Then called for state affairs. I hastened here, - You may believe, unwillingly. - - _Emma._ So, finis. - I've heard your message, listened patiently. - Tell the King 'twas well delivered. Now - I pray your absence, go! - - _Albert._ To take with me - Your promise of obedience. Nay rather - To beg a Father's clemency, to wake - His fond indulgence, haply some excuse. - - _Emma._ Did Eginhardt reply? went he not forth - In silence? go! - - [_Exit Albert._] - - _Etta._ My dear, sweet Princess. O - How has it happened? where's the cure? - - _Emma._ The "how" - Is past, a vain inquiry! where's the cure? - The outlet from this coil? I see it not. - - _Etta._ Then haste! gain entrance to the Council-Hall, - Implore the King—not with that stony look. - Let tears entreat and fervent promises. - Speak loving words; those little, winging words, - That search a Father's heart. Let beauty plead, - With clinging arms; till soft embrace wears wrath - Away. My Princess! run, beg mercy! conjure - With woman's art, insist! O pray arouse - Yourself, throw off this bleak November mood, - Weep April drops, and then come singing back, - A lightsome smiling May. - - _Emma._ Impossible, - When Eginhardt has gone. Besides what would - The masses think did he, the new Augustus, - Show weakness, bend beneath a daughter's pleadings. - No Etta, the King is law, its fountain head; - If it be questioned, the nations totter. Yes - 'Tis harvest month and I have harvested. - Unfasten the stringing pearls that bind my hair, - Then help me loose this festive frock, 'tis stiff - With woven gold. A homespun hunting gown - Will better serve the time's occasion. Bring - The russet; 'twas worn that day my ankle twisted. - - [_Exit Etta, centre door.... She soon returns with the - gown. Sighing and shaking her head she helps Emma - make the change._] - - _Etta._ 'Tis torn and stained. - - _Emma._ I know, nor would I part - With it, nor have it mended. The rent will suit - My shifted fortune. Eginhardt went forth - With student's ware. I'll take my bow and arrows, - My spear and ah, this silk, 'twas given me - Last night to guard and am I different? - My place in life may be; but not myself. - So fare thee well, dear Etta, I find no words - For messages. [_She opens the door left._] - - _Etta._ But stay! You cannot go - Like this alone, to face a thieving world. - - _Emma._ What have I here to tempt? - - _Etta._ Those spangled pins, - What's more, your beauty. - - _Emma._ Pull the pins, now let - My hair fall loose; divided o'er each shoulder - It ripples to my feet. Am I not like - The strange wild-women habiting the hills? - I may draw glances; none will venture near. - - _Etta._ Then fairy-folk will seize you trespassing. - - _Emma._ O plague me not with fancied fears; but let - Remembrance follow me and now and then - A whispered prayer. [_A dove flies into the room and lights - on Emma's arm._] What's this? my dear, pet dove. - It nestles faithfully, yet I must part - With it, alas! O guard it, nurture it. - - [_She hands the dove to Etta. Exit, left, hastily. Etta - makes a movement to follow her, then stops and soothes - the bird._] - - _Etta._ Poor fluttering thing that shares unhappiness. - How far doth sorrow spread? and can I stay - Its murky flow? I'll importune the King, - The Royal family. There must be some - Recourse. - - [_Enter, left, Albert._] - - _Albert._ And has the Princess gone? - - _Etta._ But now. - Where is the King? - - _Albert._ He comes this way. He wishes - An empty cage, nor view of hapless bird. - - _Etta._ And I've one here that may remind. - - [_Exit, left, Albert. Etta seeks to soothe the bird. - Enter Charles, in ordinary Frankish attire, attended by - Albert. Etta kneels imploringly._] - - O Sire! - I beg for her. Where are the tears that flowed - Beside her Mother's bier? Do they not force - Forgiveness, if indeed what's pure requires - Such word. O send for her lest harm may come - To one so gently nurtured. - - _Charles._ [_Sitting down heavily._] Harm has come. - If more ensues it scarce can blacken what's - Already black. Begone. I've said enough. - - [_The dove escapes through doorway, left._] - - _Etta._ [_Rising._] The bird! O Sire, the bird! - - _Charles._ What's that? - - _Etta._ Her dove. - She treasured it. - - _Charles._ Then let it follow her. - Sir Count, remove the woman. Fail not to give - My message. None must speak the words proscribed, - Nor hint we had such daughter. - - [_Exuent Etta, door centre; - Albert door left.... Charles stares round moodily. A - knock is heard._] - - Who raps? Can I - The Emperor, Augustus, not have some hours - Alone to toy with grief? - - [_Enter Hildebold, left, closing the - door after him._] - - _Hildebold._ My gracious Lord, - You sent for me? - - _Charles._ And you have tarried long. - The judgment's given. Leave me here in peace. - - _Hildebold._ If peace reigned here, I'd gladly go. Methinks - A wounded soul awaits my help. I missed - You, Sire, at mass. - - _Charles._ I had excuse. You may - Have heard. Respect my sorrow. Leave me now. - - _Hildebold._ [_Sitting down._] One time, long since, you rode with - Eginhardt; - Nor stayed for pomp of retinue, your wish - Was speed, to reach a mother's side; who gasped - Your name while breath still lingered. Not a word - You spoke; but peered the gloom, as on you raced - 'Gainst death itself. The night was dark and still, - The thudding horses woke strange echoes, hark! - That tinkling bell betokens mass, though dawn - Has scarcely greyed the sky. A mother's blessing - Depends on haste and yet God's call was heeded. - You turned aside to find the forest church, - My dear, first charge; and there you humbly knelt. - At that same hour, you later heard, the Queen, - Your Mother's breath came evenly. She smiled - And seemed content to wait. Three days of sweet - Communing God allowed his servants ere - The parting came.—You raced 'gainst death that night - And won. To-day, I fear, God's face is turned, - His help rejected. - - _Charles._ [_Wearily._] My Lord Archbishop, I - Have scarcely followed, have indeed no will - To argue; granting all your premises, - Pray leave me now. - - _Hildebold._ Your rank and mine we'll set - Aside. Consider me that Hildebold - Whom you have raised to be your chosen friend, - Who comes to offer—— - - _Charles._ Not the golden coins - This time but useless words. O would that you - Had kept my largess then, nor parted with - Humility. - - _Hildebold._ [_Reminiscently._] And how surprised I was - To see those gulden left by seeming huntsmen. - I felt such gold might burn a simple monk; - Besides our chapel needed nought and so - I hailed you back and asked instead a doeskin, - Soft and pliable, to bind my mass-book, - That time had sadly ragged. - - _Charles._ Your modesty - Appealed. I sent you one deep-purple dyed - And limned with gold—'twas not enough; a ring, - A staff, a bishopric were further added, - And so a mentor saddles me. Pray take - The hint, begone! - - [_He leans on the table and sinks his head - on his arms, oblivious to everything. Hildebold - advances as though to touch him, then steps back and - sits down, casting pitying glances at him. After a - while Charles looks up._] - - My hints are lost, well stay; - A humbled man may wish an audience. - O yesterday what glory streaked my life. - Those blessed relics brought uplift, a sense - That I, above all others, was indeed - God's chosen vessel, Emperor and Chief - Of millions. Yes, I had a deeper sense - Of His abiding grace and awesome trust - Than even on that Christmas morn when vast - St. Peter's thundered forth the ancient plaudits: - "Long life and victory to Charles, the pious - Augustus, crowned by God, the great, pacific - Emperor!" while on my head there rested - The precious diadem. Ah, then I felt - Some fear, a dread that I perchance usurped - A mighty privilege. But yesterday - 'Twas peace, as though the all-pervading God - Communed with me, not as man talks with man; - But as the angels gain instruction, thought - That comes unvoiced, yet glows with warmth of knowledge. - And so, deluded, I kissed goodnight. Outside - 'Twas bleak, rough winds assailed, snow flurries pricked. - Within my chamber's solitude I sought - Relief through study; tossed my books aside; - Revulsion gripped my soul. What had I done - With power? Some cruel acts grew large and then - The future glowed uncertain. Everywhere - Dissensions rise; they say the brazen cock - That crowns our palace points the spot, so swift - Comes punishment; but age may weaken, have - My sons the force that pushes me? I see - The Northmen's snake-like galleys nosing, feel - The Saracens' sharp sword; to meet them warriors - With discipline relaxed, disordered laws, - False judges, ignorance, a church debased. - - _Hildebold._ Hold, hold, my Son, mirage is in your eyes - To-day, transforming faults to giant-size. - - _Charles._ And then I pulled the curtain back and saw - God's eye of night, the lustrous moon, that stared - Suggestive quiet. Prophet of storms, it failed - To prophesy; but shed meek rays along - Fresh-fallen, smirch-less snow, ay spotless! spotless! - My thoughts now strayed to her, my youngest daughter, - Her baby hands that clutched my beard, her soul - Developing; her proud, young ways and later - Her matchless maidenhood, her sweet accord - With all my moods, her soothing charm, ah then - A door was opened furtively, I saw— - - [_Covering his face with his hands._] - - Are we God's care or Devil's sport? - - _Hildebold._ My Son, - You saw not far enough; but thus it is - And God is blamed. Was't love of justice made - You banish her; or jealousy, or fret - That things went not to please your wishes? - - _Charles._ You'd - Excuse such conduct? - - _Hildebold._ I'd seek its cause and seek - The cure. The cause, those two so thrown together; - The cure to separate or sanction. - - _Charles._ Let winds - Draw them apart or close. They blow without. - I've said my say. And now give orders that - This room be sealed, a memory that's ended. - My Lord Archbishop, take the silk, I know - Of none else worthy. - - [_Exit, left, hastily._] - - _Hildebold._ Take the silk? I see - It not. Poor Princess! Poor Emperor! [_He opens centre - door, against which Etta has evidently been leaning._] But Etta, - Thou stumblest! Is't sympathy that holds thee near? - Well let it be. Thy reddened eyes do penance. - Now beg the Palace Count to seal this room, - That none may enter. Would the deed were done - With lowered head and lips that move in prayer. - But give me first the sacred silk. - - _Etta._ The Princess - Has taken it. - - _Hildebold._ That proves her innocence. - 'Twas but a youthful prank. I'll follow her. - A convent wall will guard her charm until - The King relents. - - [_Exit, left._] - - _Etta._ I fear his mind is set. - And what can change whom all obey?—who has - So changed himself. - - - - - ACT III. - - - _Scene.—A clearing in the forest near Aquisgranum. At the back, amid - trees, a charcoal-burner's hut and a kiln. On the left a linden and - copse leading to a grove once sacred to heathen deities; but now - feared and shunned. On the right a barricade of logs and fallen - trees so placed in one part to form steps. Ernst advances from his - kiln, looks over the barricade as though expecting some one. He is - joined by Guta who comes out of the hut._ - - _Ernst._ 'Tis mild for harvest-moon and yet the wind's - Unsettled, portending what? How strange the snow - That came so suddenly then disappeared - As some night wraith that fears clear-visioned day. - - _Guta._ The Devil must have pinched his wife she dropped - Such frozen tears. 'Tis most unfair that when - She's disciplined poor folk should feel so oft - The dripping moisture of her grief; 'tis bad - For rheumatism. - - _Ernst._ And good for forest trees. - The witch deserves to spill some tears, she has - So often damaged them; what branches crunch - And fall, when she, amount her broomstick, rides - A gale through serpent-hissing, midnight skies. - - _Guta._ And so thou'rt in the skies and never wilt - Thou heed my limping gait, that cries a life - In town, some gaiety before a coffin - Completes this stiffening. - - _Ernst._ And leave our home? - - _Guta._ That hovel! - - _Ernst._ What could I do? - - _Guta._ Thou might'st instruct - The palace school, save Master Eginhardt - These many visits here. - - _Ernst._ If I had been - A cleric, had learnt to read and write, maybe, - May be— - - _Guta._ Thou hast a head well stacked with knowledge. - Do books all boast as much? 'Tis odd that thou, - A peasant, hast such stuff within, that courtiers - Must come to pump it out then serve it for - The King. - - _Ernst._ The King loves ancient hero-tales. - A proper King! a proper Emperor! - What's more, a proper man. I wonder why - Good Master Eginhardt delays; I promised - Some verse, it quivers on my lips. That's just - The way, he comes when I am disinclined - And now he dallies. - - _Guta._ Last night I dreamt of death, - Royal mourners wailed. In fright I woke. The wind - Blew fluted dirge-like notes; but dreams are ay - Contrariwise. Most like 'twas wedding bells. - I wish good Master Eginhardt would come; - I thirst to hear Court gossip, e'en the bits - He doles with grudging tongue. And he could tell - Us of the long-nosed beast with dragon skin - That I so dread, yet wish to see. - - _Ernst._ A crackling! - Hist! but not our scholar's steed, nor yet - A wandering huntsman's. Such a footfall, quiet - And even, forewarns at least a Bishop's palfrey. - As I'm alive 'tis Father Hildebold; - Who now dismounts and ties his horse. [_He mounts the - barricade and stoops to help Hildebold up._] The steps - Are steep so have a care. We welcome you. - - [_Enter Hildebold, appearing over the barricade._] - - _Hildebold._ Thou bar'st thy citadel, good friend. - - _Ernst._ Against - Four-footed beasts, not two. Step gingerly. - I beg your Lordship's pardon. Come Guta, kneel - And kiss the ring. Our old Confessor climbs - Too high for peasant jokes; so let us help - Him down. - - [_After helping him, the peasants kneel to receive a - blessing._] - - _Hildebold._ My children, it pleases me to greet - Old friends. Receive God's blessing.—Tell me now - Has Master Eginhardt been lately here? - Or Princess Emma? - - _Ernst._ The Princess once was here, - While hunting with the King; who has himself - Broke fast with me and stayed awhile to rest. - He talked of Master Eginhardt, whom both - Call foster-son, which makes a kind of sweet - Relationship between our Lord, the King, - And me, his servant. - - _Hildebold._ And dost thou soon expect - This gifted foster-son? - - _Ernst._ Ay, surely, unless - He fails to come. - - _Hildebold._ Hark then! If he should come - Or Princess Emma, use a kind detention, - Some artifice, then steal away and bring - Me news or send a trusty messenger. - Remember as thou valuest salvation.— - Is there no easier exit? well, thy hand. - Remember! and beg thy wife to curb her tongue. - - [_Exit with Ernst who soon returns. Guta mutters - to herself._] - - _Guta._ 'Tis always thus, a woman's tongue, a woman's— - Depend upon it, some ill has chanced; my dream, - The winds have prophesied; but what indeed? - Why should the Princess visit us? There is - No reason; nor that Master Eginhardt - Should be detained; for that is what, through love - Of company, we ever strive; nor is - Their reason to inform 'gainst her or him - Or them. Canst thou, good man, make ought of this? - - _Ernst._ Why puzzle, when time brings plain solution. - Let time - Then bear the brunt and weight of ravelling riddles, - Nor goad ourselves with useless questionings. - - [_A cry for help is heard. It dies down, then comes again._] - - But hark, that erie cry! or is't the wind? - Hark! Some poor soul has missed her path and dreads - The forest loneliness. I'll succour her. - - _Guta._ Thou must not go, that cry is not from tongue - Made true through taste of Holy Sacrament. - Such shrilling gentleness is not the moan - Of fagot-picker in distress. 'Tis like - The dirge of last night's dream. I recognize; - 'Tis some wild woman of the woods that seeks - To lure a Christian soul—Nay husband, stay! - I warn thee. [_Clutching his coat, then wringing her hands. - Exit Ernst, by the steps. He soon returns supporting - Emma._] O the foolish man and worse - Than foolish—what will come of this? He brings - Her here, alas! our happiness has flown. - - _Ernst._ Quick Guta, fetch some water, haste, she faints. - - _Guta._ Then let her lie; but no; discourtesy - Might bring revenge. They say 'tis best to flatter, - To wheedle with fair words and deeds. [_She goes into the hut - and brings out some water in a horn mug._] My pretty! - A sip will freshen thee; another! See - Thy colour comes and delicate as that - Pink robe that's bundled 'neath thy mantle, frayed - And torn most like in some uproarious - Fandango, some brawling midnight junketing, - Some screech-owl revels. - - _Emma._ [_Reviving._] Thou dost forget thyself - To so address—I had forgot!—but this - Is holy silk. - - _Guta._ If I should contradict - 'Twould be for sake of bickering. The holes - Are plain enough. Thou seem'st to treasure them, - And yet the hole thou comest from is lined - With gold, they say. - - _Emma._ The woman's mad! - - _Ernst._ Thou talk'st - Too much, my wife. - - _Guta._ [_Addressing Emma._] 'Tis true. Take no affront. - But if I may not talk, who will? a silence - Is often more discourteous than words - And gives the Devil chance— - - [_The noise of some one - approaching is heard._] - - _Ernst._ To show his horns. - And thou hast said it! hush! hush— - - [_Enter Eginhardt._] - - _Emma._ Eginhardt! - O Eginhardt! - - _Guta._ The devil in disguise! - Or is't our friend in troth? I know not friend - From enemy. - - _Eginhardt._ [_Embracing Emma._] My sweetheart, how cam'st thou here? - Alone? without a following? thy hair - Unbound, a rivulet of gold! Or art - Thou but a bloodless figment, a fancy born - Of seething thought? Nay, nay, 'tis Paradise - My lagging steps have mounted unawares - And thou'rt my angel guide. - - _Emma._ [_Sinking in his arms._] O Eginhardt, - 'Tis peace at last! - - _Ernst._ [_Addressing Guta._] She seeks a younger prey - Than us old folk and one, methinks, that's more - Susceptible; but we must warn— - - _Guta._ Let us - Away, advise good Father Hildebold. - He'll exorcise with book and candle. - - _Ernst._ And while - Our backs are turned what harm may come. I'll pluck - His sleeve and warn. Dear Master Eginhardt, - I'd speak with you. - - _Eginhardt._ [_Testily._] Well! well! - - _Ernst._ Not here, but step - Aside; one moment! pray. - - _Eginhardt._ Think'st thou I'd tempt - The winds? All day they've strangely whirled. But now - The air is still, this precious burden rests - With me. If I should loose my grasp might not - Some mischievous air-current spirit her - Afar. - - _Ernst._ If only such could happen! - - _Eginhardt._ Man, - Thou must be mad to e'en suggest the thought. - Has dotage crept thus suddenly? Begone, - Let thy old wife coax reason back. - - _Emma._ A poor - Instructor! She's mad as he. - - _Guta._ O Master, you - Alone are crazed. Quick cross yourself, break loose, - Use Latin words, delve deep within your learning; - From useless lumber pluck some magic art; - Whose strength will free from love's bewitching power, - From spectral glamour. - - _Eginhardt._ Break loose from love? O Guta; - Each golden hair, that showers its wealth about - This yielding form, holds me in closer bondage - Than shackling chains of adamant. Break loose - From love? this head, that leans its gentle weight, - Impresses more than all the rolling skies - That bowed great-shouldered Atlas, steadying. - Break loose from love? 'Twould be a harsher fall, - Than Satan's fierce descent from Heaven's peace - To Hell's contentious flame. Break loose from love? - Not while there's breath to seal its troth, to pledge - Its honour. [_He kisses Emma._] - - _Guta._ [_Addressing Ernst._] Pray come! let us obey! seek - help - From Father Hildebold, lest worse should follow. - If that most sober scholar is thus enmeshed - By magic wile, what hope is there for thee? - Who spinnest love tales as others gossip. Come! - A lengthy walk! - - _Ernst._ And leave the youth? O youth! - First love! sweet raptures, mine no more—no more— - - _Guta._ Come, come away; thou moonstruck fool! white hairs - Are no safe shielding 'gainst man's foolish bent. - - [_Ernst and Guta mount the steps but as they descend - the other side they pause and look round unnoticed by - Emma and Eginhardt._] - - _Emma._ They speak of Father Hildebold, most like - The Bishop. Would that he or some poor monk - Were here to give God's blessing. - - _Eginhardt._ My Lord Archbishop - Would give such duteous advice that we, - In following, might find ourselves constrained - To cloistered cells; to hold, apart, sad vigils, - Remembering the happiness that's ours - To grasp. But I, like thee, would have God's blessing. - See Love! two lengthy sticks! we'll form them crosswise; - So notched, this silken cord will serve. [_He gathers two heavy sticks - to make a cross, using some string that bound the silk._] I'll plant - The longest end; how easily it slides! - And firm as though God truly wished it here. - And now we'll drape with this most blessed silk. - See Love, 'tis woman's work. - - [_Emma drapes the cross with the white silk._] - - _Ernst._ [_Whispering to Guta._] A solemn rite, - And e'en a pious, stay! 'tis worth the watching. - - _Guta._ Nay, let us fly! 'tis impious, a wild - Hill-woman to hide the sign of Christendom - 'Neath tattered rags of vile debauchery. - A worn ball gown that's torn in lengths. - - _Ernst._ Whist! Silence! - - [_Some leaves of the linden rustle slightly._] - - _Emma._ A sound, a fluttering sound, and voices! no, - All's quiet. O would that we had witnesses, - Those mad-brained peasants if none else and yet - We're kindly rid of them.—The forest hush - Breathes thoughts of God. This mellowed silk was once - Around the Virgin's dress and now it decks - The marriage cross. O we have audience. - - [_Emma and Eginhardt kneel before the cross and repeat - together._] - - O Lord! be witness to our mutual vow. - - _Emma._ My husband! - - _Eginhardt._ My treasured wife! - - _Together._ Whom none may part. - - [_They kneel in silent prayer. Suddenly from the - linden tree a dove flits down and lights on Emma's - shoulder._] - - _Emma._ My dove, my own pet dove. O God has sent - This sign. - - _Ernst._ [_Whispering to Guta._] It seems like some strange - miracle; - Yet what it is I fail to grasp; yes, yes, - We'll go to Father Hildebold. He'll straight - This tangle, if any can. - - [_Exuent Ernst and Guta._] - - _Emma._ [_Resting with Eginhardt against a log._] O Eginhardt, - To think the bird has followed us! It links - The past and present, soothes the sting, and brings - A sweet assurance. Soft, wee nestler! a bit - Of pampered yesterday; that tears with us - The veiling morrow, fearing nought for love - Encompasses. O husband of my dreams, - Thou art reality. No tempest can - Disturb—And see, look round, 'twas here those dreams - Grew strong from sudden birth. Incredible - That chance has drifted us to this same spot. - A higher agency methinks has forced - Our steps. They say this world is evil, 'tis but - A tottery stepping stone; I say 'tis wrought - Of solid bliss; whence beauty springs and all - That holds and satisfies. - - _Eginhardt._ Thou speak'st the truth, - My Emma, the world is passing good; whate'er - Its slips and fallacies some moments since. - Ay, here it was that Love surprised. Unasked - The lusty teaser flashed his bolt, exciting - The carmine to thy cheeks, a shining moist - To soft thine eyes, a shrinking tenderness - Through all thy being. - - _Emma._ But thou wert bold, my friend. - - _Eginhardt._ So saved a nasty fall. I see thee now - As then. Thou stood'st upon that fallen oak - In this same garb methinks. Thy hair neat-tucked - Within a huntsman's cap, some tendrils though - Fell gently loose, thy lips were curved to smile. - Asudden there came a stir from out the black - Of those deep woods that yonder lie, a stag - Brushed by, sprang lightly forward; ere the dogs - Caught scent or vision, an arrow whirred; thy sister, - The Princess Bertha's aim was good, beside - Thee lay the struggling beast. To end its pain - Thou raisedst thy hunting spear, but stumbling would - Have wrenched I know not what of this most dear - Anatomy, had I not seized thine arm - And righted thee. In that same flash of time - Two lives were changed, our eyes had met. Pray God - The ill averted may not lead to worse. - - _Emma._ Who speaks of ill upon his wedding day - Deserves the same. Fie, shame, my Eginhardt. - Must we not fashion plans together, "together." - Ay, a precious word! what matters else? - "Together; together"—Hark! a stir! are we - Repeating history? Another stag! - Quick! my bow. [_She shoots toward the copse, a heavy - animal falls at its entrance. She and Eginhardt walk - over and examine it._] I've brought him down. There is - No need to spear. He's dead, quite dead. See here - An ancient wound that's scabbed and healed. Indeed - The very stag. He must have 'scaped that day - But we, enamoured, had no thought to spare. - What ages since that hunting party; so - It seems, my sister's merry laughter, the King, - My Father's kind solicitude.—And now - This cruel break—but Eginhardt, I'll wink - Salt drops away, lest one should fall to splash - Our luck, to mar our wedding-day. Why is't - When joy is keenest, there lurks beneath a pool - Of woe? Well, well 'tis far beneath, we'll lid - It with a stern forgetfulness. "Together;" - That's the word, "together;" and now we'll plan - To make a wild and beautiful adventure. - - _Eginhardt._ Brave Heart, together, yes together we'll stem - The tide; but 'tis for thee I fear, for one - So gently nurtured. - - _Emma._ Remember, Eginhardt, - My ancestors: the Pepin of Landen, the Pepin - Of Herestal; iron-handed Charles who cowed - The Saracen; his son who trembled not - From royal power; and his, in turn, my Father, - Who scaled fresh heights and slipped not back when offered - Imperial pomp and dignity. Each rose - To circumstance. Shall I, who boast such race, - Grow pale, show fear, lay down my arms before - So slight a foe as seeming poverty. - For poverty, what is't? but just a nought, - A nothingness and I have thee so I - Am rich. - - _Eginhardt._ And I far richer! So let us shape - Our future. This stag will nourish us and more - Whence it has come. For shelter here's a hut - With fire, utensils—poor but clean. - - _Emma._ Could we - Not further go from those old folk? I liked - Them not! A something calls me toward the thickets, - As though the inky depth they fringe held safe - Asylum. There must be entrance where the stag - Came forth. Let us push through the coppice, search - What lies beyond. - - _Eginhardt._ 'Tis mystery, unsafe - To penetrate. The peasants say that dwarfs - Dwell there, that wild hill-women dance. They say - Some few of mortal birth have forced a way; - But what they saw none know, for none have since - Returned. - - _Emma._ Ay, peasants' talk; but e'en if true— - St. Augustine, I've heard, hath not denied - There may be other hidden agencies - Than those of scriptural warrant—yet this silk - Will serve as amulet. I have no fear. - Hast thou? - - _Eginhardt._ I'd be ashamed to so confess - And once indeed I peeped. - - _Emma._ And saw? - - _Eginhardt._ We'll let - It be for now. Thou'rt weak and famished. Rest - Thee here. I'll do some foraging. - - [_Exit through door of hut._] - - _Emma._ [_After a pause, gathering up the silk._] Yes, yes - We must go further then. A call from out - Those tangled depths comes loud, insistent. There - Solution lies. But first this precious silk - Must he repacked, the cross unwound. What's here? - A shimmering droplet, a gem that must have slipped - Its setting. Eginhardt! please come! - - [_Enter Eginhardt - with some hunks of bread and a mug of milk._] - - A jewel - Has fallen from its royal resting place. - Last night I handled the King, my Father's crown. - It lay beside the holy silk, whose folds - Have not disdained earth's wealth though they were used - To fairer things. The sun gives warmth; but this - Pale imitation chills my hand, what shall - We do with it? and how return? - - _Eginhardt._ Now eat - This bread, and drink; then we'll consider. - - [_They both eat hastily._] - - _Emma._ Listen! - For our adventure in those mazy woods, - For go we must, we need some wherewithal, - Some first provisions, some household stuff. We'll leave - This gem, and in its place take our requirements; - Reward, that's offered, would more than pay for such - Poor odds and ends as we may choose to plunder. - - _Eginhardt._ Thou'st said the word. If thou'rt refreshed, we'll make - A kindly start before the day grows late; - But I must bear this stag, so wilt thou help - As would a peasant woman? - - _Emma._ With joyous heart! - My life has seemingly begun—so free. - I'll take deep breaths. - - [_They go into the hut and come out laden._] - - _Eginhardt._ [_Laughing._] Dost think we have enough? - - _Emma._ Enough and e'en to spare! 'Tis laughable - The troubles ta'en preparing 'gainst one's wedding; - The puckered brow, the oft vexatious thought, - The wondering if this or that becomes - One most; what furnishings are suitable; - What friends invited. Well, we're saved some burdens. - Compared, this sack is light; but canst thou manage? - Then sling the stag upon thy back. Now let - Us venture? Where's my dove? Ah here still perched - Upon my shoulder, our only wedding guest; - Who shows the confidence we feel. - - _Eginhardt._ I would - 'Twere better witnessed. - - _Emma._ Tush, Eginhardt, lead on. - - _Eginhardt._ Then bend thy head, protect the bird, protect - Our confidence against recoiling twigs. - 'Twas by this linden tree I one time found - A path; but thou must stoop, be careful! Love. - - [_Exuent, the trees closing on them._] - - - - - ACT IV. - - - _Scene.—The same as Act III, six years later. It has a more deserted - appearance. Some smoke escapes the kiln. The steps of the barricade - are broken down, leaving a narrow passage, through which enter - Charles in hunting attire and Albert, whose court finery is - somewhat dishevelled._ - - _Charles._ Why, Albert, see, there's smoke, haste thee! - Inquire! - - _Albert._ [_Looks into the hut._] No sign of life within the hut, my - Lord. - Nor little else. An emptiness that weighs - Like what's inside my belt. Will you not blow - Your horn, my Lord, that baskets may be brought. - - _Charles._ My courtiers think of food, of clothes; thou'rt dressed - As for a festival and so the rest. - Indeed 'twould shock our simple ancestors - Could they but see the follies prevalent - To-day, the love of luxury, the splurge, - The flaunt of silk and jewels, the rich-piled velvets, - The pranking plumes, the strut and swagger. Yet - Methinks, on closer view, thy feathers have - A languid droop, thy coat has lost its vain - Bravado, thy ribboned finery agrees - But ill with huntsman's sport. - - _Albert._ My Lord, if I - Am privileged to speak, we dressed prepared - For Council work; but you withdrew, changed plans, - Made call for dogs and horses, spears and bows; - Gave us no time to change. - - _Charles._ Do I want fops - For Councillors? Grave work needs grave attire. - Ye came arrayed for dance and spectacle - So I was forced to holiday. The chase - Has made some spectacles, I trow. [_Laughing._] Nay stay - Thy sulks, seek now thy friends, beg them retain - This morning's lesson; hark! and come not back - Until my horn wakes echoes. - - _Albert._ [_Turns to go, then stops._] But is it wise - To leave you here alone, my Lord; this place - Is ill reputed. - - _Charles._ See that rustic cross, - Some pious pilgrim's work. Six years ago - 'Twas noticed first; since then long winters have - Unloaded snow and whipped the biting blast, - Yet there it stands assuringly. How oft, - When unsought vigils have distressed, my mind - Has flown to this same spot, has tried to pierce - Its mystery, has lingered round those branchlets, - Gleaned a strange relief; and now again - Smoke floats above the charcoal kiln. All haste, - Count Albert, comb the woods, make nearby search, - Discover him who caused that smoke, who stirs - A smouldering hope; but still my heart! the flame - May yet die down as has so oft occurred. - Haste, haste Count Albert, I would know the worst - Or best. - - [_Albert starts to go. Enter Ernst who collides with him._] - - _Ernst._ Dost wish to murder me? a bandit! - Ho! Help! - - _Albert._ [_Holding Ernst by his collar._] Didst thou cause yonder - smoke? - - _Ernst._ And if - I did, where is the crime? the kiln is mine, - Though long deserted. Unhand me pray. - - _Albert._ The King - Desires thy presence. - - _Ernst._ A fitter one I'd show, - Didst thou remove thy knuckles; though, in truth, - Thou flatterest. To hold me so presumes that I - Have still the nerve and mettle of rash youth, - His racing-wind, his wiry limbs unfettered - By time's harsh reckoning. Ay, that is better, - I breathe again. A nobleman! it seems. - I must have dreamt a cutthroat throttled me, - But, by our Lady, thy dress belongs to neither. - Gentility cast-off and mired. May be - Thou art some actor who practises his part. - - _Albert._ Thou shouldst have studied thine. Servility - Becomes a peasant's tongue. - - _Charles._ Polite to whom? - To dainty nobles who presume on birth - And wide possessions, whose love of play and sport - Bids them forget the useful arts, the work - That makes life passable, their Emperor's - Renown, the safety of the realm? No, no. - My love is for the striving man whate'er - His station be. Is not the peasants' wisdom, - His industry, the backbone of our nation? - Ah woe the day when he forgets his high - Estate and seeks to ape his so-called betters. - - _Ernst._ Great King, I kneel to you, the peasants' friend. - - _Charles._ And thou art truly Ernst whom we have sought - These many years. Tell me, where is my daughter, - The Princess Emma? My foster-son? whom we - In sport called "ours." - - _Ernst._ How should I know? - - _Charles._ Why did'st - Thou disappear? - - _Ernst._ My Guta was afraid. - - _Charles._ Afraid? Speak on! Impatience frets, afraid - Of what? - - _Ernst._ Of telling tales. - - _Charles._ Thy trade of yore; - But now I ask the simple truth unvarnished. - - _Ernst._ My Lord, 'twas truth we feared; when witchcraft plays, - A silent tongue is safest. We had seen - Too much. We slipped away. And now, alas! - Poor Guta! [_He weeps._] - - _Charles._ If she be dead I pity thee. - 'Tis heartfelt! I have drained the bitter cup. - I understand. A worthy woman! a dear - Companion! Friend Ernst thou hast my sympathy, - But grief with thee is indexed, chapter and verse, - Each last sad smile, each parting word. Thou mayst - Read slowly this remembrance, skip the next, - Avoid what is most harassing. It can't - Be changed, the book is writ; but mine is blank. - Where is my daughter? write the lines for me. - - _Ernst._ My Lord, why ask a charcoal-burner? If she - Be missing, those of higher rank will know, - Not I. - - _Charles._ But thou hast just confessed a knowledge. - Shall I stand longer here and wheedle words, - Or shall I blow my horn? Let torture bring - Some sense. - - _Ernst._ My Lord, have mercy! - - _Charles._ Then out with it! - Why did'st thou fly six years ago? nor bring - The Lord Archbishop news. - - _Ernst._ My Lord, that is - A simple question, simple as thin ice, - That skins the depth, yet holds till rudely struck. - Let us reach shallows far from here before - We test its brittleness. - - _Charles._ Nay speak, and promptly. - - _Ernst._ Then take the onus, Sire, I've warned. For me - Nought matters now, my Guta's dead. Besides - A king's hot temper may extrude more sparks - Than witch's fell bedevilment. So listen! - Six years ago a semblance, a strange wild woman, - Not of mortal birth, escaped the hills, - Came moaning here, cast amorous glances, trapping - With beauty's mesh the soul of our dear friend, - Our foster-son. Before this feeble cross, - Whose magic keeps it firm spite time's decay, - An awesome rite took place; those two exchanged - The marriage oath, scarce said the words, when skies - Blew open, a bird descended, 'twas like a dove; - But well we knew 'twas come from Odin's shoulder - To perch upon the smiling hag. - - _Charles._ Thou darest - So call my child, insulting her as me. - It was the Princess Emma. - - _Ernst._ Nay, my Lord, - Although methinks there was some likeness, still - She came without attendants, her hair dishevelled, - Her garments torn; besides I've proof. But patience! - We sought good Father Hildebold, mistook - The way, took council, agreed 'twas well to wait - Developments, so found an ancient friend - And visited the elephant, a beast - Of weirdest size, whose arm-like nose, whose trunk, - Was sucking from a bucket, then mouthwards curved - And poured the flow until we heard the water - Gushing through his mighty stomach. O— - - _Charles._ Away with rounding O's. Keep straight thy tale. - - _Ernst._ 'Twas late one night when we crept back, the place - Was still, no movement, deserted; ay and more; - The hut was vacant, our belongings gone. - A light though strangely gleamed, a moon ray or— - We plucked it, troth a goblin stone; 'twas left - As pay; but could it pay for goods endeared - By use? No, no, a thousand times. We wept; - So passed the hours till ruthless day affirmed - Our loss. Provisions, tools, utensils, all - Were gone, and e'en some garnered seeds. If such - Could happen, why not worse? Our lives? We'd find - A safe asylum, work elsewhere, poor Guta! - And now my proofs: the goblin stone, this bit - Of beldame finery, a scrap, the cross - Had kept. [_He unwraps his treasures._] - - _Charles._ Why Ernst, thou hast a royal stone. - 'Tis worth a noble's ransom, and thou dost cry - For peasant chattels, a royal stone indeed! - It must have slipped my crown that night six years - Ago. What corners have been swept for it. - What countries searched for them; who left it here. - And this frayed scrap is holy silk; I feel - Its texture. Where? O where can they have gone? - - _Ernst._ Those thickets yonder hide the secret. Fierce - Carousing, banqueting from golden plate - Or grave-yard bones, who knows? No mortal has - Retraced his steps though more than they have dared - The bosky growth. Far, far within are dwarfs, - Wild women of the hills and mystic stags - That lure to doom. O Sire, return! it is - Not safe to meddle, nor speak where trees have ears. - - [_A rustling is heard 'mid the trees._] - - What's that? a rustling breath that warns. - - _Charles._ More like - A prying zephyr. The woodman's axe will fell - This mystery. I'll give prompt orders—yet - A pause—to think, prepare myself for what? - Hope fanned afresh? or chilled to ash? So leave me - Ernst, and thou Count Albert, a moment's rest - Before we prize the lock. I would be strong. - - _Albert._ 'Tis injudicious, most unsafe, my Lord. - We've heard enough to fright the staunchest saint - Of Holy Church. - - _Charles._ And thou art far from that. - Well cross thyself, tell beads, or what thou wilt; - But leave me here. Go, quiet the horses. Hark! - They champ impatience. I must curb myself. - If kingdoms fell would I be so disturbed? - - _Albert._ Come Ernst, we'll tarry near, thou must know more, - I'd hear it all. - - [_Exuent Albert and Ernst._] - - _Charles._ I'm strangely tired, this bank - Affords repose, though peace is far. - - [_He falls asleep. The scene grows perfectly dark. After - a time the twinkling light of candles gradually discloses - three mushroom-shaped tables, on which the candles stand - among golden goblets and dishes. Around each table sits - a group of three Wish-maidens, aethereally dressed, with - long flowing locks._] - - _Wish-maidens._ - - Sisters, we quaff to the past, - When forests were thick and daylight dim. - Sisters, we quaff to the past. - Once sacred this grove, here heard Woden's hymn. - Sisters, we quaff to the past. - The past! the past! [_They drink deeply._] - - Wind-spirits are we, wild women called, - Substance of water and air, - Of fabric whence breathed the ancient scald - Verses that seize and ensnare. - - Through tempests we ride, upheaval's din, - Light as a figment of dreams, - And sometimes we flash a visioned sin, - Sometimes a virtue that gleams. - - The bubbles of thought we puff at night - Enter the soul that is cursed, - Awaking a shameless appetite, - Perfidy, shuffling, war-thirst. - - The bubbles of thought we throw from light - Enter the soul that is blessed, - Like dust of the rainbow, pearled and bright, - Singing of hope and of quest. - - But Sisters the future stores for us - Obloquy, exile, and wrong; - Already the signs grow ominous, - Seldom man hearkens to song. - - So spill from our cups—earth honouring, - Earth that will triumph one day; - Let earth play the tune round faery ring, - Twanging the strings we obey. - - [_Where the wine is spilt on the ground dwarfs spring up, - each clad in green and bearing a golden harp._] - - Clear tables away, come dwarfs, come elves - Harp for us, harp long and loud! - Let fingers that grasp the golden helves - Work strings with music endowed. - - [_The tables are pushed back. In front sit the dwarfs - who first play slow dance music, gradually quickening the - time. The Wish-maidens dance in three groups. From a - slow gliding step they arrive at a dizzy whirl. Then - suddenly they stop, break up their groups and sing - while making steps and motions to imitate weaving._] - - We dance to the past while weaving tales, - Rosy with mist of the dawn, - Astir with the mood of wilful gales, - Lightsome as leap of a fawn. - - We dance to the present, weaving fears. - Daylight strews shadows behind; - The dazzle of noon dissolves in tears, - Man is the sport of the wind. - - We dance to the future, weaving death, - Purpled with evening sky; - A knowledge has come with failing breath, - The courts of Valhalla on high. - - So round and around we faster spin, - Straightening the tangles of time; - We dance to the earth, find spirit within, - Hark! to the music sublime. - - [_They stand prettily poised listening, each with the right - forefinger raised. The scene grows quite dark again - while delightful strains of heavenly music are heard. - After a time they die away. The scene lightens, Charles is - discovered still sleeping. All trace of Wish-maidens, tables - and dwarfs have disappeared unless it be David, a little - green-clad figure, who enters from the copse, losing his - hat on a thornbush. He looks round wonderingly, then - comes and examines Charles._] - - _David._ Goliath as my name is David, Giant - Goliath. Indeed I've found adventure. Yet - I have no sling. Might I not steal his sword, - To carry home a giant's head, would not - The ancients envy me? My Father, though - A mighty hunter, has never brought such game. - Soft, soft, he sleeps. I'll lightly pull. The sword - Slips loose from out its sheath, a bolder tug; - Ah now it comes. - - [_Enter Ernst. He sees David and stands transfixed._] - - _Charles._ [_Waking._] What's that? who drags my sword. - Am I asleep? do I still dream? a dwarf, - A tiny green-clad man like those who harped - The magic tune. Have pagan times returned? - My Lord Archbishop warned me 'gainst the tales - Of ancient days. An old man's mind should steep - Itself in gospel truth; what troubles have - I brewed? And yet the sky seems natural, - The sun and trees. What art thou? elf or child? - Of goblin birth or Christian ancestry? - - David. [_Singing._] - - Pass the loving cup, - Kling, klang, klung. - Let us brightly sup, - Ting, tang, tung. - - What's disturbed by light, - Ting, tang, tung. - Let us mend at night, - Kling, klang, klung. - - _Ernst._ That song has answered you. My mother heard - It in her youth and hers before and alway - A little man like this made music. See, - Thorn-caught, there hangs the hat that blurs and hides - Its goblin wearer. Never have I seen - Such mannikin until to-day; though oft - On winter nights annoyed by raps and creaks; - Strange pranks they play, themselves invisible. - - _David._ 'Tis true, my hat was flicked away. This sword - Will help recovery. Alack the tear! - A nasty rent. - - _Charles._ Before thou fad'st in space, - Return my sword. - - _David._ Nay, nay, Goliath, we'll - Consult my mother. - - _Charles._ Thy Mother? - - _David._ Ay, my Mother. - Her favoured stag, the one she trained and petted, - Came flagging home to die, a pool of blood - Around. - - _Charles._ A wounded stag but lately 'scaped - Our dogs. - - _David._ I knew thou wert the culprit, Giant - Goliath. If thou hadst not waked, I would - Have sawed thy neck as Father saws great logs, - Then carried home thy gory head, that long - White beard would serve as handle. Instead I'll take - Thee prisoner! so follow, march. They call - Me David, a name that strikes some fear. - - _Charles._ Indeed, - My little man, it does, and some have called - Me David too and some have shrunk from me. - But I will follow thee. Lead on! - - _David._ If thou'lt - Play fair, will promise not to snatch the sword, - I'll lend my help, hold back the twigs that else - Might blind; but thou must make a giant's promise. - - _Charles._ I promise! - - _David._ And I can trust thy word for giants - Like dwarfs and elves must speak what's in their hearts. - They are all through as clear as bright spring-water. - 'Tis otherwise with man, my Father says, - His lips may smile the softest "yes" while "no" - Is boring through his heart. There's one who plucks - Thy coat. He has a baneful eye. Come shake - Him off, I wait. - - _Ernst._ [_Holding Charles' coat._] My Lord, consider, I pray you. - Remember your high station. You are the Star; - Whose rays shed peace on countless millions. O - Imperil not the light of Christendom! - My voice may crack and quiver from the strain - Of time. It carries though authority, - Thy peoples' need! - - _Charles._ [_Shaking Ernst off._] Back Ernst, my mind is set. - I'll sift the matter through, take consequence. - Lead on my boy; let briars, thorns and nettles - Prick doubt to shreds. Lead on! Give me that peace - My humblest subject craves. - - _David._ [_Parting the shrubs by the linden._] Then stoop, Goliath, - Stoop. Here is the secret entrance. Canst thou - Bend low enough? - - _Charles._ [_Stooping._] Ay low enough, God knows, - May He protect! - - [_As Charles disappears, following David, - enter Albert._] - - _Albert._ The King? - - _Ernst._ Enticed away - Like Master Eginhardt. Those woods have closed - On Majesty, ah woe the day! - - _Albert._ Ah woe - Indeed! where shall we turn? Old man, come steer - My course; the ship is rudderless, the captain - Has gone. - - _Ernst._ And so you call on me, a peasant; - Forgetting noble birth and heritage! - Go search your prized gentility, your schooling, - Your war-time prowess, your hunting skill, your pride, - Vain-glory, your anything. Leave me. I have - A friend—another friend, to mourn. When one - Is old and poorly circumstanced, good friends - Are sadly missed, alas! - - _Albert._ Thou weep'st a friend— - The surging ocean 'broils the land and thou - Dost cower above a puddle! A friend, nay, nay; - A King, an Emperor, the one strong man. - - _Ernst._ Did I not plead?—but grief digs as it will. - - _Albert._ And thou art right. Have I not cause for fear? - Who is responsible? will I be blamed? - Old man dry up thy tears, give thought, help break - This hush that tantalizes. Hark! a rumble! - The clash of horses; our friends arrive. Ho there! - Come help!—The King is lost. - - [_Enter Audulf, Herbert and other courtiers scrambling - over the barricade. Their rich attire, like Albert's, - has suffered somewhat from the chase._] - - _Audulf._ Is lost? How can - That be when you Lord Count are found? Ay hang - Your head, 'twill need explaining. Is lost? but here's - His hunting-spear. You jest, Lord Count, he can't - Be far. Is this a game? - - _Albert._ I would it were! - - _Audulf._ Then let us search; which way went he? - - _Ernst._ Where ways - Are none, whence none have yet returned. - - _Audulf._ Thou mean'st - The King is dead. Impossible! - - _Ernst._ See there - That tanglement. Could you alone, unweaponed - Pierce far? And yet those branches swung apart - As once the Red Sea waves, then swiftly closed - Upon our Charles as surged the swelling tide - O'er Egypt's host. Alas! no fiery pillar - Has guided him; there skipped before a dwarf, - Green-hued, a morsel from the nether world, - A thievish imp, an elf-enchanter. - - _Albert._ It seemed - As though the King stooped low, 'twas here he went. - - _Audulf._ I see no passage. - - _Herbert._ Let us break through with swords - And spears. - - _Ernst._ Take heed for magic dwells within. - 'Twere pity to impair those silken fabrics; - Though somewhat rent and smeared, still maids might find - Some trimmings. Your lives no doubt concern yourselves. - Who else would grieve? - - _Albert._ If we were lost or dead - Would majesty let fall a scalding tear? - The King has oft rebuked. This morning too - He led a wilful chase. Indeed our clothes - Can testify. Have we not cause for quarrel? - Upbraiding us forsooth because times change - And fashions too. Is he not Emperor? - Why prate of ancient days? of meek, out-worn, - Out-lived simplicity? Instead should we - Not rival Eastern Courts in luxury, - In pomp and ease? the trappings of success— - Success! and there's the jolt, has he not paved - Its way? whate'er his faults he must be found - And that right speedily. Will none suggest? - If we but had a charm of Baltic amber, - A phial of spittal, at least some pungent herbs. - There's Ernst, whose mind is stored with peasant-tales - Who tunes the old heroic sagas; who - Pretends a knowledge of those deities - That cradled our great race. Does he not know - Some runic sign, some spell, some heathen rite - To drown this vile uncertainty? If age - Has not undone thy wit, give us some nostrum, - Some countenance from out the crafty past. - - _Ernst._ My Lord, you sport with words, have you not said - Times change and fashions too? Has daily Mass, - The Palace School left you thus weaponless? - Must you, of this ninth century, turn back - To pagan thought to fight the power of ill? - O fie! fie! fie! a peasant must accoutre, - Must offer arms to noblemen? If help - There be, 'tis by that cross. Fall on your knees - In humble supplication, tell your beads, - Make Christian vows, invoke the Saints, wake Heaven - With moans and pleading sobs. But he, whose horse - Outstrips the rest, must foam its mouth and froth - Its flanks until good Father Hildebold - Be traced,—our Lord Archbishop. Say to him - That Ernst has sent—six years may be too late. - - [_Exit Audulf. The rest kneel round the cross._] - - - - - ACT V. - - - _Scene—The interior of a log hut. The walls are draped with rare skins - and decorated with horns and heads. The furniture is covered with - skins. There are interesting collections of curios, dried grasses - and ferns; and everywhere freshly gathered asters in horn mugs. The - whole presents a most artistic appearance. Emma sits on a couch - beside a cradle, crooning a slumber song to the infant in her arms. - Beside her sits Eginhardt, attaching feathers to his arrows. - Through the door, centre back, fruit trees are seen. Six years have - greatly changed Emma and Eginhardt. The latter has a long black - beard; both are tanned and seem stouter._ - - _Emma._ - - Little one, close fast thine eyes, - Thy guardian angel near thee flies; - Close thy rosebud-mouth, thine ears - To all want and needless fears. - - Little one, lie still and rest, - Mother holds thee at her breast, - Like a flower by lover plucked, - Kissed and in maid's kerchief tucked. - - Little one, thou'rt sweeter far - Than any petal-textured star, - Sweeter than a lover's gift; - Thou art joy that God hath whiffed. - - Little one, keep pure and true, - Let no taint thy heart bedew. - Mother's prayer is spent for thee, - Now and through eternity. - - Little one, if dreams should come, - Hurt, or aught that's troublesome, - Put thy trust in God above - As now thou lean'st on mother-love. - - Little one, thy cradle's here, - Mother stays and watches near. - Swansdown-pillowed, slumber long, - Mother ends her drowsy song. - - [_Emma gently rocks the cradle in which she has laid the - sleeping child._] - - _Emma._ O Eginhardt, he's fast asleep, nought will - Disturb. I never knew so good a child. - He's like his father, his dumpy nose upturned; - A smile that lingers through his sleep as though - His spirit babbled angel-talk. - - _Eginhardt._ Thou may'st - Revile my nose, in troth it doth admit - Plebeian birth; but what of that? when thou, - Who own'st the straightest nose in Christendom, - Art well content with it. As for my smile, - I must demur, has it not character, - When thou art cause? and yet thou liken'st it - To that which flushes this wee bit of soft Inanity. - - _Emma._ Away with thee, rude scoffer. - Nay, look again. Admire as we have done - These hundred times, the long, black silky lashes, - That fringe so restfully; a modish damsel - Would give her soul for such possession. Ay - 'Tis true the smile resembles thine, the same - Calm confidence, a hint of humour, yes, - A tryst with higher things that leaves me far - Behind. Now David's smile is like the King, - My Father's, a flash of wit or merriment - Or tender love, or pleased concern that fades - As graver thoughts come uppermost. 'Tis strange - Of late my Father's face has haunted me. - It bears a wistful look. Dost think he grieves - For us? - - _Eginhardt._ Six years should act as poppy balm, - Besides his Jove-like mind has such to grapple, - That private woes are soon reduced to pricks, - Scarce felt and then forgotten. If thou had'st kept - The magic ring—but that is long ago. - I see it now upon the frozen pond. - I could not sleep that night and so stole forth— - A walk might ease my pain. Unrealized - The hunting-lodge was reached and I had thrown - The ring. It glittered 'neath the moon, then I - Would have it back; but suddenly, a crack; - It disappeared, black water bubbled—my dream - Seemed over. - - _Emma._ To begin! dear Eginhardt! - If we, through magic, had secured the king's - Affection; courtly pomp, its undercurrents - Of jealousy and constant bickerings - Had swallowed us and what we hold most dear, - Our liberty and close companionship. - How free we are! how happy! this wondrous home - With nought superfluous to hamper; but just - Enough for daily needs—a little more - To please one's sense of beauty, and all has grown - With married life. There's not a skin that decks - Those walls; but 'tis the fruit of hardy chase, - No graceful antler, but thou hast bent the bow; - Each has its story. As for curios, - Have I not helped discover them? and David - Has rooted well. The mountain-dwarfs must scatter - Rarities to satisfy the lad, - To hear his piping notes of childish triumph, - His chubby hand tight-clutching some gay stone, - Or weathered fossil, spotted egg, or fern, - Or tufted grass for drying, or rusty lichen; - Each a worthwhile specimen. 'Tis strange - That blindfold avarice should grope in towns, - While forests are thus generous with gifts. - - _Eginhardt._ True, true, the forest is man's natural home, - And yet at times ambition stirs. Was I - Not once great Charles' youngest councillor? - Have I not planned his palaces? laid out - His gardens? supervised his public works? - The ever-famed basilica; have I - Not felt his love? He called me foster-son. - - [_He drops his head in his hands._] - - _Emma._ Weep not, dear Eginhardt, we are content. - - _Eginhardt._ Ay wife, we are content and happiness - Doth flood; still far beneath strange eddies surge, - Nay rather purl; but there they are—a vague - Uneasiness— - - _Emma._ Thou frighten'st me. - - _Eginhardt._ Then lay - Thy cheek 'gainst mine and smile, the mood has passed. - But let us talk of him whose towering genius - Projects such sparks that lesser minds are fired, - A galaxy illumes the sky, great deeds - Are done!—and we stay trifling here. The mood - I said had passed—and we are quite content. - But still we'll talk of him, our Charles, whose fame - Will ring throughout the centuries while we, - Dear Emma, are forgot or sunk to myth. - His age we've known, when fires are somewhat dimmed, - What must his ardent youth have been! surpassing - Hannibal, yea Caesar, in art of war; - Manoeuvering, until a tiny force, - Thrown here and there, has downed a mighty host. - Persistency through good, through evil fortune, - Till restive Europe feels the curb of peace, - Acknowledging its blessing. The Saxon idol - Has crumbled, the Arab-crescent stays its distance; - The Northman dares not venture. One man, one mind - Accomplishing so much! and now he seeks - To cleanse the Church, to make a roadway 'mid - The brambles of divergent laws, to wake - A nation's pride, reviving tales, rude songs - Of hero-ancestry. With pause, he would - Himself have ventured more than playful verse. - There is that vibrant hymn he wrote, asserting - The Holy Ghost comes from the Son as Father. - In truth he hath a poet's soul and that - Maybe explains! An autocrat and yet - The servant of his people; fathoming - Their needs, to satisfy or wisely guide. - - _Emma._ Some say he hath worked miracles, thou know'st - The story of the flowers. - - _Eginhardt._ Ay, but let - It fall again from thy sweet lips. - - _Emma._ The King, - My Father, had shamed the Saracen; but O - At what a cost! Archbishop Turpin, brave Roland, - And many another paladin returned - No more. O war, it is a ghastly thing! - The victor suffers as the vanquished, though pride - May not acknowledge it. Our hardy troops, - Who struggled past the Pyrenees, brought plague, - That Southern ill. It spread through Rhenish towns, - Death stalked from house to house, all nostrums failed. - The learned Doctors could but shake their heads, - Fear seized each heart—and then man turned to God. - He fasted, prayed and promised. The King, my Father, - Nor slept, nor eat, imploring constantly, - Until celestial voices spoke: "The Lord - Hath heard thy prayer. The meadow holds reply; - Ride forth, His name upon thy lips, then string - Thy bow and upward shoot." The King arose, - Nor felt the chilling dawn, a silent figure, - Upon his great black charger, he passed the gate; - His lips were mumbling prayer and so he went. - The open reached, they say, a wondrous light - Passed o'er his face as looking heavenward, - He sprung the bow. High winged the shaft as though - To pierce the firmament, then wavering fell, - And lo its blunted end had crushed the stem - Of that small golden flower, whose thistle-bloom - Has since been called "carlina," bearing thus - The King, my Father's name to blazon through - The centuries how God lent heed to prayer. - The arrow-head was damped with juice, so found - The remedy. Again was laughter heard, - As eager children gathered plants; a flush - Returned to pallid cheeks, the light of hope - To sunken eyes. And so the plague was stayed - And death slunk off disconsolate.—But where's - Our David? and this his special tale, why at - This point he likes to thrust his wooden sword - As though to stab a threatening foe. Ay youth - Can combat death; but what of age? - - _Eginhardt._ Talk'st thou - Of age? whose cheeks are soft and round. I will - Admit thou hast enough of woman's wisdom - To delve some crisscross lines or tiny crows-feet. - But none I see, not one wee crease and that - Reflects some credit on thy husband's care; - Six years! and lovers still! was ever known - Such foolish pair. [_He kisses her._] - - _Emma._ Was ever? Eginhardt. - But not of self I thought, a father's face! - That may have deeper lines because of us. - Ah, 'tis ever so, that face obtrudes— - But where has David gone? I now remember, - He asked to gather acorns—and oaks are near - The zigzag path that leads—that leads beyond - The realms of happiness, O let us search - And quickly, if harm should come— - - _David._ [_Without._] Ting, tang! - - _Emma._ His voice, - Thank God, his clear shrill treble. - - [_Enter David._] - - O David, thou - Hast frightened me! - - _David._ [_Twirling the sword._] That's nought but play-pretence; - But now thy hair shall stand on end, see what - I brandish here. - - _Emma._ My son, pray heed, take care! - A real sword! and one of consequence? - It is, it is— - - _David._ A giant's sword! O Mother! - Thy son's a dauntless hero, as those thou sing'st - About. - - _Eginhardt._ A naughty vagabond, more like, - Where hast thou been? Give me the sword. - - _David._ [_Handing the sword to Emma._] Nay, nay! - 'Tis mother's; but I've outrun the prisoner, - An honest giant, although he killed our stag. - Hi there! Goliath! - - [_Enter Charles, who stoops to pass the - doorway. He does not recognize his hosts._] - - See Mother the captive I - Have taken. Now proudly smile and call me hero. - - _Charles._ This door was never built for captive giants - But gladly I'll acknowledge, dame, thou hast - A stalwart hero! a splendid boy! - - _David._ [_Clapping his hands and dancing round._] There! there! - I said as much, a hero! a hero! a hero! - - _Emma._ - - [_Who, with Eginhardt, recognizes Charles, laying - her hand on her heart as though to still its throbbings._] - - Quiet boy! let others sing thy praise. - I welcome you, my Lord, your face, this weapon - Proclaim nobility; we are unused - To strangers here. Forgive a trembling voice. - - _Charles._ [_Looking round._] But not a peasant's voice, I swear, and - this - No peasant's hovel: such skins, so well arranged, - Such forest wealth would grace our hunting lodge. - I've never seen a room so strangely decked, - Nor one that suits me better. If magic's here, - Then let it be, I'm well content. - - [_He sits by the central table._] - - _David._ Without - Thy sword, Goliath? - - _Charles._ [_Receiving his sword._] Ay, without my sword, - And yet I'd handle it. Joyeuse! thy title - Becomes thee well to-day. Dear blade; a sweet - Adventure has wiped thee clean. Thy name is freed - From irony. Joyeuse! Joyeuse! Joyeuse— - A happy languor steals. - - _David._ O Mother, Goliath - Seems quite at home. His head is nodding sleep; - 'Tis well I did not sever it. A tame, - Old giant for playmate, how the boys in tales - Would envy me! We'll feed and treat him well. - O Mother! Father! say that I may keep - My prisoner. - - _Emma._ Indeed my son thou mayst. - If there be strength in human love, 'twill hold - Him close. [_David jumps delight._] But softly boy, thou must be more - Polite, more circumspect. O Eginhardt! - He looks so peaceful. Think you that mood will change, - That passion will distort his brow when he - Discovers? - - _Eginhardt._ He has not realized and yet - Has felt thy soothing presence. O 'twould be - Impossible to meet thy tender gaze - And then to break from it. Ay love will hold - Him here; but let the truth come leaking out, - Lest joy disturb his age. - - _Emma._ Thou hast more hope - Than I, who am his daughter. - - _David._ The giant's daughter? - - _Eginhardt._ Hush David, help bring the dishes, not one word - Until I give consent. [_Addressing Emma._] Hast thou prepared - The venison? - - _Emma._ The way he likes it, ay, - Well seasoned, with relish and proper garnishings - That blend with forest wine. I've but to serve. - - _Eginhardt._ Then haste thee, Wife, while I make search within - This precious book, "God's City," to find the place - Left off six years ago, when last I read - At meal-time. Ah, 'tis here; a tiny mark - Bears witness, blurred with tears, with frequent handling. - - [_While Emma places the venison on the table, David, - who has his eyes on Charles, drops a dish, waking the - latter._] - - _Charles._ By all the Saints, a feast! the table set - As at the palace e'en though wood and horn - Replace our silver ware. And venison - That smells like roasted meat, not boiled to shreds - As my dull doctors have prescribed. I smell - An old time flavour. Surely, Dame, thou hast - Not been at court? - - _Emma._ My Lord, some years ago - I served as kitchen-wench. The Princess Emma— - - _Charles._ Talk not of her—unless thou knowest aught. - - _Emma._ My Lord, you come from court; why question then - My ignorance? But see the venison - Awaits, we wish a kind report; we trust - Our cheer will strengthen you. - - _Charles._ Then sit ye here - And eat. Consider me a humble guest. - My lad, canst thou say grace? - - _David._ Indeed, Sir Giant, - A Latin Ave too. - - [_He mumbles an Ave Maria while all cross - themselves and sit down. Emma carves the venison, - Eginhardt opens his book. Charles stares wonderingly - round._] - - _Charles._ Such culture so far removed from influence, - In this unknown retreat is surely most - Uncommon, an element of mystery - That suits me well. I feel a living part - Of it—untrammelled, so much at home. Good people! - Ye practise kindly spells, weave on! weave on! - Nor let me wake. - - _Eginhardt._ Then taste our venison, - My Lord. [_Addressing Emma._] A goodly helping! whilst I do read - A passage as our custom—once— - - [_He reads from Chapter XII. of the Nineteenth Book of - "The City of God."_] - - "For joy and peace are desired alike of all men. The - warrior would but conquer: war's aim is nothing but a glorious peace; - what is victory but a suppression of resistants, which being done, - peace follows? So that peace is war's purpose, the scope of all - military discipline, and the limit at which all just contentions level. - All men seek peace by war, but none seek war by peace. For they that - perturb the peace they live in, do it not for hate of it, but to show - their power in alteration of it. They would not disannul it; but they - would have it as they like;"— - - _Charles._ "As they like;"—and so they suffer! but that - Is past. O Eginhardt, 'tis thee! thy voice! - Thy gesture! and Emma, my daughter Emma, I know - Thee now. Come let me feel, make certain, my dear, - Dear child, ay, ay; 'tis not a dream. O God - Is good to my old age. My pet, lean here. - These arms have ached for thee. O dearest one, - Why hast thou been so cruel? nor understood - A father's love, when time elapsed, would conquer - A moment's ire.—To hide from me, it was - Not kind, not Emma-like. My child! my child— - - _Emma._ Then Father thou dost love me still? but what - Of him who kneels imploringly, yet not - Repenting, for am I not his wife? - - _Charles._ If I - Have missed him once, 'twas every day, for six - Long years and is there more to say? The earth - Was combed for him and thee, our agents sent - To foreign courts, to seats of learning; alway - A "no" came back that pierced my heart with stabs - Of pain! 'Tis easier to face the slaps - Of life when punishment is undeserved; - When one can say at least: "'twas not my fault;" - But O the lingering torture, when one's own act - Has brought fell consequence. If only one - Could backwards turn, how different! Emma! - Eginhardt! help kill the memory - Of those six years, make glad the few that stretch - Before me. Ah my children! dear children! dear children! - - _David._ Goliath! hast thou forgotten me? - - _Charles._ Nay, nay - Brave lad. [_The baby cries._] but hark! a cry. - - _Emma._ [_Takes the baby from the cradle._] Our youngest son - Awakes, bids welcome, completes our happy group. - - _Charles._ 'Twould test an artist's brush to paint such bliss; - But let me look, a healthy child, well-formed, - Most promising; but not a David! I - Have never seen a finer lad, a braver! - Pray God, court life will keep him so, and that - Reminds there is a court and etiquette - And problems, eternal problems! well, so be! - If duty weighs, good Eginhardt, we'll lean - On younger arms; so take my horn and blow - A lusty blast, we have the heart to work; - And God will aid. - - [_Eginhardt blows the horn, while Charles turns to his - venison and Emma quiets the baby. An answering call - comes faint, then louder._] - - _Eginhardt._ Run David, run, and point - The way. [_Exit David._] I'll go a step to greet old friends, - Prepare their minds. - - [_Exit._] - - _Emma._ [_Laying the baby in his cradle._] Hush, hush— - - [_She pours some wine for Charles._] - - _Charles._ [_Drinking._] Thy health, dear Emma. - - _Emma._ [_Pointing to the holy silk that drapes an altar._] - Perhaps this holy silk has helped with thought - Beyond our daily round. See Father, I - Have guarded it—no harm has come to us - In this old pagan grove. - - _Charles._ Nor will it come, - While simple faith dwells here. I tell thee, Emma, - We'll build a castle round this shrine-like home, - Protecting it and all that love has reared - Within and here, at times, we'll seek respite. - - _Emma._ And laughter too! O Father, those first few nights. - How silently we stole without and emptied - The charcoal-burner's deserted hut; the jewel - We left reward enough for paltry stuff— - The wedding dower of Princess Emma—but hark! - - [_After a pause enter Hildebold, Eginhardt, David, - Albert, Ernst and Courtiers._] - - _Charles._ What Hildebold! our dear disheveled court, - And old man Ernst and none afraid to venture! - My Lord Archbishop, the Church has proved its strength - To lead through lanes of mystery and soon - My children here will ask its further blessing. - But later, when we are more composed and now - A hunting song to make all seem more real. - - _Courtiers._ - - Ya ho! ya ho! let Frankland ring - With daring deeds, with battles won; - Great Lords submit to Charles, our King, - As stars that fear the rising sun. - - Ya ho! ya ho! for Victory! - Now Frankland's voice is heard afar, - It trumpets peace o'er land and sea, - The War God lists and stays his car. - - Ya ho! ya ho! for huntsman's horn - Awakes once more the forest glade, - With mirth and joy that put to scorn - The battle scar, the murky blade. - - Ya ho! ya ho! the quarry's traced, - Six years of search have ended now, - The fairest doe that ere was chased, - To her we make a lowly bow. - - [_The courtiers all make obeisance to Emma._] - - _Emma._ And I do thank you, friends; my husband, - The King permitting, will speak for me. - - _Charles._ Nay I - Myself will speak. Good people, listen all, - I oft have chided, seeking the City of God - On earth, an Empire as St. Augustine - Once visioned—I have failed—but in this home, - I clearly see the germ. - - - - - THE TALL PALMETTO - and - OTHER POEMS - - - - - THE TALL PALMETTO - - - The dense live-oaks were swept with wrath, - The rubber trees swung roots in mire, - A fine-leafed cedar tittered spite, - Magnolias were flushed with ire. - - Alone within the garden pale - A tall palmetto gently swayed, - Serenely straight its feathered head - Above all else had skywards strayed, - - To catch the first, faint blush of dawn, - To linger long with sunset's glow, - To trace the moon's illusive course - From orange disc to silvery bow. - - So strove the palm and was content - To glimpse at times a furtive clue, - To pierce the haze of mystery, - Emerging thence with leaflet new. - - And as the leaf, fanlike, unfurled, - Its green was showered with radiance, - Eternal truth had shed fresh light, - Another phaze! another glance. - - And so the palm in stature grew, - In lofty thought and vision wide, - Unmindful of a carping world, - Outdistancing the trees beside. - - Nor hearkened to their small-leafed tones, - The rustling of close-quartered boughs, - Nor dreamt of murky depths beneath - Whose dark no errant sunbeam ploughs. - - An ancient oak, misshapen, knarled, - Whose prideful age man's care had crutched, - Whose groaning branches bent toward earth - Until the barren soil was touched, - - Spoke low with mirthless muttering: - "A scrub palmetto! cabbage palm! - A worthless sprout but yesterday - Disdaining us with saucy calm!" - - The rubber tree now sputtered back - While dropping rootlets scratched the dirt: - "The palm makes bold to grasp the clouds, - With gauzy forms it seeks to flirt." - - The rounded cedar, clipped and dwarfed, - Agreed with snickers scarce-repressed: - "A slender form might tempt the clouds, - But never earthlings verdure dressed." - - The richly decked magnolias, - Who boasted cultured lineage - And garden-birth in foreign climes, - Made inward flutterings of rage. - - A country yokel! cabbage palm! - To air itself in heaven's blue! - So far above their august heads, - What was this new world coming to? - - The slim palmetto gave no sign - And yet at last these murmurings - Had forced attention, drawn its thoughts - From godly height to baser things. - - It sought the reason, paused awhile; - Though skies had greyed there pearled some light; - Then flashed the truth, itself could see; - Those other trees had vision slight. - - And then the palm began to talk - And told of dawn and afterglow. - How skies touched earth with brilliancy, - It traced the seven-coloured bow. - - It spoke of rifts in frothy clouds, - Of silent lakes illumed with stars, - Of earth-mirage in misty air, - Of spirit force that light unbars. - - The trees were still and hearkened now; - But shallow cups hold little draught - And soon the weary listeners tired, - Some curled their leaves, while others laughed. - - Then beauty spilled and fell to earth - Where tiny flowers sucked up the drops. - No single thought had gone awaste, - From some there came rich harvest crops. - - Long afterward, when death had chilled, - A fallen log lay swathed in vine, - Whence sword-like cacti pushed their blades - And orchids peered 'mid tufted pine. - - Such beauteous decay still blessed - As once the wishful, dreamy palm - And trees, that erst reviled, made boast - That they had heard its twilight psalm. - - And little flowers that humbly trail, - Content to star unseen, unsought, - 'Neath grass to spread their milky-way, - Remember what the palm once taught. - -Florida, - January, 1922. - - - - - CHARLESTON. - - - I. - - An ancient house, thrice tiered its galleries - And sideways placed, its gardens tucked behind - High walls and iron gates, with taste designed, - Whence peeps are caught of palms and mossy trees; - The passion-flamed poinsettia at ease - With quiet pansy bloom, and jonquils lined - In stiff array, and rose that holds enshrined - Man's love, and English ivy trailing these. - - Within the stately home such tales unfold - As flowers and weathered brick have writ without: - Adventure, proud success, war's agony, - And now the gentle calm that cloaks the old, - That stills the heart and gives a sense devout; - So, Charleston, thou reveal'st thyself to me. - - II. - - I've wandered much through Charleston's cobbled streets - And found each corner's turn a fresh delight; - Old churches, with their memories, invite, - Their yards, grave-strewn, suggestive, calm retreats. - A court, with one-time slave annex, completes - The tale of life gone by, while gardens bright - Make known a Southern town; whose homes unite - This land with charm of English country seats. - - Gay cavaliers imprint their rank and mirth - And courage proven well; sad [1]Huguenots - Bequeath the virtue tried by terror's reign; - And Charleston folk are proud to trace their birth, - When forefathers such gracious gifts bestow; - Through changing times the days long past remain. - - III. - - Now hark! those slow-drawled cries: "Fine chucks, pecans!" - "Crabs, crabs!—live crabs!" then, "Cabage, cabagees!" - "Yes ma-am! raw shrimps, yes ma-am." Still further pleas: - "Sweet potats. I-rish´ potats!" "Banans." - And so each passing vendor stays and scans - Some friendly gate, whose ancient hinges wheeze; - There's soft-voiced bargaining 'neath spiky trees; - The turbaned cook and tempter—Africans. - - Africans! nay, nay, Americans! - Their comeliness well suits this smiling clime; - Unwilling captives once, now citizens, - Whose hearts hold scarce a trace of savage clans; - If childlike still, so be! the hand of time - Is stretched past legacies to shape and cleanse. - -Footnote 1: - - _Pronounced as in French._ - - - - - LAKE GEORGE. - - - Where cedars taper, there's a lake beyond; - Once visioned from the hill, it beckons me; - Soft-hazed with heat's grey, slumbrous canopy, - Or bright with glittering dust of diamond, - Or calmed when waning day wafts glances fond, - Or freighted with the moon's pale poesy, - Or blown till sobbing wavelets plash the lea, - Or sunk in starless night like fabled pond. - - Whate'er thy mood, O dream-kissed, mountain lake; - It lingers still, my inmost self replies; - But where's the song that plumbs the depth of thought? - The lyre has lost its strings, the words forsake. - What Art's so high; but Nature far outvies? - In silent wonderment, God's voice is caught. - - - - - THE EVENING STAR. - - - Beneath a weight of glistening snow each bough was bent, - Ice-glued the crystal cushions took strange form, - Like ghosts of prehistoric ferns whose palour blent - With earth and sky—the aftermath of storm. - - The splattering rain had stayed its noisy, windblown course - And now the padding flakes had ceased to come. - A silent world that stilled all passion and remorse, - Heart-throbbings, grief, thoughts dull and burthensome. - - And in the shanty's warmth a child lay stretched at rest, - As delicate as winter tracery. - A mother's eyes sought hers in anxious, tender quest, - Then turned with prayerful light toward western sky, - - As though to wrest the secret of the universe - From silver drapery and peeps beyond, - As though one added effort would avail to pierce - The cloaking space, that something must respond. - - A something e'en more wonderful than branchlets sprayed - In weird fantastic tire 'gainst heaven's deep; - And lo the mystic blush of evening gently rayed, - Wee cloudlets strayed from mist like flocks of sheep. - - A wind! or was't a cry? The infant gasped for breath. - Belike soft bleating lambs had wakened her, - Belike the new-born soul was lured toward lanes of death, - The rosy flush had held a messenger. - - Ah woe that Mother's heart as close she pressed her child; - Poor quivering nameless thing and O so frail - To penetrate that void—her thoughts grew fierce and wild. - An infant unbaptised, what fears assail? - - An erie wind had risen; hark its shrilling cry I - A flickering candle loosed deep shadows round - That emphasized despair and cruel misery; - The night had come, a sullen night that frowned. - - And nought remained but burning love for help was far, - Nor remedies; and grief had surged and ebbed. - Again the Mother sought the sky and lo a star - Had forced the clouds; it peered through boughs close-webbed. - - A bright and steadfast star that shot its friendly rays. - "O Evening Star," the woman softly sobbed, - "Be sponsor, shed celestial light through trackless haze." - Asudden within her heart the answer throbbed, - - Or winds had drifted: "Innocence." She hearkened, yes - "Innocence," the Star had sanctioned it: - Her baby's name! Upon its brow with fond caress - And moistened touch the crossing sign was writ. - - And Innocence looked up and smiled and caught the light - That streamed from Evening Star and breathed a sigh - That held content; a faint, sweet sigh that put to flight - A mother's fear, that hushed anxiety. - - And so the Babe was named and Innocence still cheered - The lonely hut. A father heard the tale; - How Evening Star had given aid as he had steered - Through her his homeward course, obscured by gale. - - And oft at sunset hour the parents sat and watched - Receding day with grave expectancy, - At times through lattice work of branches gaunt and notched, - At times through leafy boughs that swathed the sky. - - And when the rosy prelude, orchestra of tint, - Had dimmed; with deep, upwelling thought that strives - And gladsome awe, they faced the Evening Star; whose print - Was on their baby's brow, had marked their lives. - - Then Innocence would laugh and stretch her hands and prayer - Half-breathed would rise that happiness remain. - The Evening Star flung beams of trust and through the air - Oft "Innocence" was voiced by winds again. - - And Innocence grew tall as passed the years; but frail - At times she seemed, still more when strangers neared. - Ah then she'd seek some ferny haunt, 'mid flowerlets pale - She'd cower, nor knew what dreaded ill she feared. - - A lily-maid in homespun garb of softest white, - Her winter coat of silky rabbit skin - Or ermine brought by Indian guide. Her cheeks as white - Unless the flush to evening skies akin. - - And so time passed, the nearby settlement became - A village, then a boastful town and road - And searching railway broke the still and helped defame - Sequestered charm that God, through Grace, bestowed. - - And Innocence would shrink from noise and close her eyes - When drifting smoke showed progress near, like plant - That's sensitive, that shrivels from man's touch and lies - So piteous with tremulous leaves aslant. - - Too weak for woodland stroll, a hammock-couch was strung - 'Neath lofty pines and there the young girl lay - And watched a robin's second brood, or chipmunk swung - On sapling bent, or butterflies at play. - - One heavy night she stayed without, till Evening Star - Had blown a kiss, then dipped beneath some clouds. - A silence crept, scarce broke by owlet's hoot afar, - While mists arose like ghosts in flaunting shrouds. - - A rustling sound! but Innocence had dropped asleep; - Within her hand a dangling lily stem, - Whose cool, white bud unfolded tales that willows weep - Where broad green leaves and starry petals gem, - - Where waters pause from maddened rush to catch the calm - That slips through foliage, to rest awhile - In reedy bays as man fatigued might search for calm - 'Neath roofing church, immunity from guile. - - A rustling sound, a stealthy tread, some broken twigs, - And Guilt peeped low through scrubby briar growth, - Then pushed his ruthless way, nor cared that tender sprigs - Refused to bloom, once heard his muttered oath. - - He plucked a burr that pulled his coat askew, then brushed - Aside some pollen dust, some larva-thread; - His outward garb so sleek and glossed, with step that hushed - He fast approached—above dark clouds had spread; - - But through the gloom, the lily bud was visible, - The pallid curve of maiden's cheek; one stride, - He stood befogged, a something stayed against his will. - A something childlike, Godlike that defied. - - For Innocence had wakened now and unabashed, - Unharmed she gazed at Guilt and pity lay - Within her eyes, a pity blent with pain that lashed, - Till Guilt one blinding moment felt its play. - - He sank to earth beseeching what? He scarcely knew. - Respite? was pardon past? He felt a touch - As light as though from highest Heaven a Seraph blew - A kiss that floated downwards bringing much. - - And on his heart he pressed the flower that Innocence - Had proferred him, the lily bud that erst - Had lain on waters cool and clear. It brought from thence - Some mirrored truth that Nature's self had nursed. - - But Innocence had breathed her last, one gasp, 'twas all, - While Guilt affright, scarce pausing, fled; once more - The Evening Star shone forth, winds sobbed a lingering call, - The parents listened—useless to implore. - - The grave awoke with crimson flowers; new birth attained, - The Evening Star had guided faithfully; - For ever since no grovelling soul has been so stained - But moments come that give some chance to free. - - 'Twas long ago, in our old Province of Quebec, - This tale at evenfall was whispered me. - One spoke—and was that one alive? or but a speck - Of spirit-world, of God's Eternity? - - THE END. - - - - - TRANSCRIBER'S NOTES - - - 1. Silently corrected simple spelling, grammar, and typographical - errors. - 2. Retained anachronistic and non-standard spellings as printed. - 3. Enclosed italics font in _underscores_. - 4. 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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. If you are not located in the United States, you'll have -to check the laws of the country where you are located before using this ebook. - -Title: The Romance of a Princess - A Comedy, and Other Poems - -Author: Amy Redpath Roddick - -Release Date: June 18, 2016 [EBook #52364] - -Language: English - -Character set encoding: UTF-8 - -*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE ROMANCE OF A PRINCESS *** - - - - -Produced by Richard Tonsing and the Online Distributed -Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net (This file was -produced from images generously made available by The -Internet Archive) - - - - - - -</pre> - - -<div class='tnotes covernote'> - -<p class='c000'> <strong>Transcriber's Note:</strong></p> - -<p class='c000'> The cover image was created by the transcriber and is placed in the public domain.</p> - -</div> - -<div> - <h1 class='c001'>THE ROMANCE OF A PRINCESS<br /> <span class='xlarge'>A COMEDY</span><br /> <span class='large'>AND<br /> OTHER POEMS</span></h1> -</div> - -<div class='nf-center-c1'> -<div class='nf-center c002'> - <div><span class='large'>BY</span></div> - <div class='c003'><span class='large'>AMY REDPATH RODDICK</span></div> - <div class='c003'>Author of "The Flag and Other Poems"</div> - <div>"The Armistice and Other Poems"</div> - <div>"The Seekers, and Indian Mystery Play"</div> - <div>"The Birth of Montreal, a Chronicle Play, and Other Poems"</div> - <div class='c002'>(<em>All Rights Reserved</em>)</div> - <div class='c002'><span class='small'><strong>Montreal</strong></span></div> - <div><span class='small'>JOHN DOUGALL & SON</span></div> - <div><span class='small'>1922</span></div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='chapter'> - <h2 class='c004'>CONTENTS</h2> -</div> - -<table class='table0' summary='CONTENTS'> - <tr> - <td class='c005'>THE ROMANCE OF A PRINCESS, A Comedy</td> - <td class='c006'><a href='#Page_1'>1</a></td> - </tr> - <tr><td> </td></tr> - <tr> - <td class='c005'>THE TALL PALMETTO</td> - <td class='c006'><a href='#Page_83'>83</a></td> - </tr> - <tr><td> </td></tr> - <tr> - <td class='c005'>CHARLESTON</td> - <td class='c006'><a href='#Page_87'>87</a></td> - </tr> - <tr><td> </td></tr> - <tr> - <td class='c005'>LAKE GEORGE</td> - <td class='c006'><a href='#Page_89'>89</a></td> - </tr> - <tr><td> </td></tr> - <tr> - <td class='c005'>THE EVENING STAR</td> - <td class='c006'><a href='#Page_90'>90</a></td> - </tr> -</table> - -<div class='chapter'> - <span class='pageno' id='Page_1'>1</span> - <h2 class='c004'><em>THE ROMANCE OF A PRINCESS</em><br /> <em>A Comedy.</em></h2> -</div> - -<p class='c007'><span class='pageno' id='Page_2'>2</span>This play is the outcome of many happy walks in the forests -that border Charlemagne's ancient capital. The writer -and her husband would often pause to view some beauty-spot; -at times she would read aloud the rare legends collected by -Joseph Muller.</p> - -<p class='c000'>She has now tried to catch some of the interest and joy of -those gone by summers to pass on to relatives and friends. If -she has failed it is not the fault of the theme.</p> - -<p class='c000'>Let none throw doubt on Emma's reality. Who lives in -myth, lives for all time.</p> - -<div class='c008'>A.R.R.</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Montreal</div> - <div class='line'>Christmas, 1922.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div> - <span class='pageno' id='Page_3'>3</span> - <h3 class='c001'>CHARACTERS.</h3> -</div> - -<table class='table0' summary='CHARACTERS'> - <tr> - <td class='c005'>Emma</td> - <td class='c006'><em>A Daughter of Charles</em></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c005'>Etta</td> - <td class='c006'><em>Her Waiting-woman</em></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c005'>Charles (Charlemagne)</td> - <td class='c006'><em>King-Emperor</em></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c005'>Eginhardt</td> - <td class='c006'><em>Secretary and Director of Public Works</em></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c005'>Albert</td> - <td class='c006'><em>Count of the Palace</em></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c005'>Hildebold</td> - <td class='c006'><em>Archbishop</em></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c005'>Ernst</td> - <td class='c006'><em>A Charcoal-burner</em></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c005'>Guta</td> - <td class='c006'><em>His Wife</em></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c005'>David</td> - <td class='c006'><em>A Precocious Boy</em></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c005'>Audulf  }</td> - <td class='c006'> </td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c005'>Herbert }</td> - <td class='c006'><em>Courtiers</em></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class='c005' colspan='2'>Courtiers, Wish-maidens, Elves.</td> - </tr> -</table> - -<div class='lg-container-b'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Time: The beginning of the ninth century.</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Place: Aquisgranum, the Capital of Frankland.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div> - <span class='pageno' id='Page_4'>4</span> - <h3 class='c001'>ACT I.</h3> -</div> - -<p class='c009'><em>Scene.—Emma's boudoir. A door on the left leads to the palace -courtyard; another, centre back, opens into private -apartments, which have no other entrance. The room is -furnished befitting the dignity of a princess. Emma, in -gala-attire, has just returned from a great function in -honour of the Calif Haroun-al-Rashid's ambassadors. -Etta helps remove her cloak. The princess then throws -herself on a couch, while Etta stands before her admiringly.</em></p> - - <dl class='dl_1'> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd>A moment's rest to gather memories<br />Of what this day has meant; those swarthy - Eastern<br />Ambassadors! the gifts their king has sent. - </dd> - <dt><em>Etta.</em></dt> - <dd>How beautiful you are! In Frankland, who<br />Approaches you in mind or character?<br - />That's what the scholars say. The people though<br />Dwell on your loveliness. What - plaudits when<br />You rode that bulky beast! the contrast! a Princess,<br />Alive with - happiness. - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">'Twas wonderful</span><br />To mount so high, an elephant for steed,<br />To feel that - heavy, ambling gait, to know<br />Such strength for mischief could be chained to work<br - />Man's will. How kind of great Haroun to give<br /><span class='pageno' id='Page_5'>5</span>The King, my Father, this - unwieldy proof<br />Of his affection; to teach such animals<br />Are real, not fabled - monsters, as some of us<br />Have whispered! 'Twas tremulous that ride, up-perched<br - />Above the marvelling throng; to feel myself,<br />A Frankish maid, upon that - leathery<br />Ungainliness. An elephant in Europe!<br />Who'd have thought to see the - day? But now<br />Unbind my hair. [<em>In a low voice.</em>] I think he will not come<br - />Tonight. [<em>A knocking is heard.</em>] 'Tis he! but no, my Father's knock,<br />So - tender yet so masterful. Thou may'st<br />Retire. I'll wait upon his royal pleasure,<br - />Will then disrobe myself. -<div class='lg-container-b c003'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in20'>[<em>Etta opens door on the left.</em></div> - <div class='line'><em>Enter Charles in ceremonial robes, wearing his crown.</em></div> - <div class='line'><em>Exit Etta through the door at the centre back after</em></div> - <div class='line'><em>making deep obeisance.</em>]</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - - </dd> - <dt> </dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">You come attired</span><br />In majesty. [<em>Courtesying.</em>] I must acclaim you - King,<br />Not Father. - </dd> - <dt><em>Charles.</em></dt> - <dd>[<em>Pressing her against his breast.</em>] Nay, nay, my birdling! nestle here;<br />My - dear Fastrada's legacy; a father's<br />Sweet solace; the Esther of our court. I could<br - />Deny thee nought, unless a lover should<br />Address thine ears: avaunt the thought! - The well<br />Of our fair intercourse is clear, undimmed.<br />As cloudless skies of - sun-blessed Eastern lands. - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd>O Father! what dread shapes may lurk beneath<br />Those Eastern skies! each soul has got - some stain,<br />Some hidden mystery. -<div><span class='pageno' id='Page_6'>6</span></div> - </dd> - <dt><em>Charles.</em></dt> - <dd>This day's excitement<br />Has tired, provoked reaction. Once a Bishop<br />Complained to - me that nuns need long confessing.<br />Imagined sins are culled for penitence;<br />In - baser lives these specks would pass unnoticed.<br />We'll rid such faults as thine with - kisses; perchance<br />A wayward thought when Holy Words were spoken.<br />And now - uncrown the King, then help remove<br />This cumbrous mantle.—Cautiously! I've - something<br />Of great import. - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd>But not as great as that<br />Great beast, the elephant! - </dd> - <dt><em>Charles.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">Far weightier,</span><br />As Heaven outvies the earth, as souls are more<br />Than flesh. - See here, my birdling, what I've brought. - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd>Some ragged silk, a joke!—It cannot be— - </dd> - <dt><em>Charles.</em></dt> - <dd>Thine eyes have guessed; the sacred coverings!<br />O to-day how all have gaped, and - cheered<br />That elephant, at most a curious<br />Phenomenon, distracting from rich - gifts<br />Of sober worth. In truth now royalty<br />Resides in this new Western Rome, a - fairer<br />Than earthly crown implies. Haroun, my brother,<br />Has raised and honoured - us. - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">Among the Scholars</span><br />I've heard some doubts expressed. - </dd> - <dt><em>Charles.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">Most ill-advised.</span><br />Rank heresy, as well doubt Holy Church<br />Herself. The - proofs are clear; nor flaw, nor break.<br />These hallowed relics, damped with tears by - him<br /><span class='pageno' id='Page_7'>7</span>Of Arimathaea, held in sacred trust<br />By his descendants, traced each - step till now<br />They rest within our great Basilica,<br />Are here to stay, to - gratify, as long<br />As Franks are true and strong. See! see! my birdling,<br />This - rosy silk was round the cloth that held,<br />One time, St. John, the Baptist's bleeding - head;<br />This white encased the Virgin's dress; this yellow,<br />The precious Infant's - swaddling clothes; and this<br />That's dyed with scarlet pomp has clasped within<br - />Its folds the loin-cloth, garment of the cross.<br />Yes! yes! my lips have pressed - those objects, I<br />Am nearer God. - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd>This silk? - </dd> - <dt><em>Charles.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">The holy relics</span><br />Are wrapped afresh in lustrous lengths of rare<br />Brocade, a - further gift brought by Haroun's<br />Ambassadors—the Church's treasury<br />Holds them - in state. This tattered silk that age<br />Unfits for service still retains great - virtue<br />From sacredness long stored. And who is pure<br />Enough to shelter it? I - know of none<br />But thee, Fastrada's living image! - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">A father's</span><br />Affectionate regard has blinded thee.<br />O take that stuff! - 'Twould shrink to powdered dust<br />Did I but handle it. - </dd> - <dt><em>Charles.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">Nay, nay, my Emma,</span><br />There is a point where modesty doth lose<br />Its charm and - gives affront. That point is reached;<br />So fetch my cloak and fasten its jeweled - clasp.<br />Now crown the Emperor, he prays that angels<br /><span class='pageno' id='Page_8'>8</span>May watch thy bed. - [<em>He kisses Emma. Exit left.</em>] - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">That silk! how can I keep it?</span><br />Its folds have touched what once hath touched - God's Prophet,<br />His Mother, His very Self. O some one come<br />And take it - hence.—Or—or is't possible<br />To make me worthy? e'en though hearts be crushed. -<div class='lg-container-r c003'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>[<em>A light knock is heard.</em>]</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - - </dd> - <dt> </dt> - <dd>And so the test approaches! May I be strengthened. -<div class='lg-container-b c003'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>[<em>Emma opens the door on the left. Enter Eginhardt.</em>]</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - - </dd> - <dt><em>Eginhardt.</em></dt> - <dd>It promises a blustery night. Wait Love,<br />Until I brush these flakes, a sudden - swirl<br />Of snow; but here there's warmth and comfort. [<em>Extending his arms.</em>] - My Emma— - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd>Not yours, a Princess speaks, a gulf has widened<br />Since last we met. You recognize - that silk?<br />It heals the secret breach I've made within<br />A Father's confidence, - it warns that you<br />Must leave me now and instantly. You are<br />The King, my - Father's trusted friend. - </dd> - <dt><em>Eginhardt.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">O Emma!</span><br />Thy words bite deep—and yet not deep enough<br />To overthrow the airy - castles hewn<br />From glowing hope. And see what thing has winged<br />My steps, has - brought me here to-night. - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">A ring!</span><br />It seems to draw my hand; but no, 'tis for<br />Some humble maid, - who'll taste the happiness<br />My rank denies. - </dd> - <dt><em>Eginhardt.</em></dt> - <dd>Who else can wear this ring<br /><span class='pageno' id='Page_9'>9</span>That Queen Fastrada prized? - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd>[<em>Taking the ring.</em>] My Mother's ring!<br />How came it here? - </dd> - <dt><em>Eginhardt.</em></dt> - <dd>[<em>Sitting on the couch.</em>] Thou know'st the<br />story? - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd>[<em>Sitting on a stool near him.</em>]<span class="dialogright">A rumor,</span><br />Unmeant to reach the King, my - Father's ears,<br />And so 'twas crushed. But now the ring I hold<br />Demands the truth. - O Eginhardt, tell all,<br />Omitting nought, e'en though the listening hurts. - </dd> - <dt><em>Eginhardt.</em></dt> - <dd>A lesser soul might rather seek relief<br />From words unsaid; but thou, with thy clear - eyes,<br />Need'st probe beneath like— - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">Like that Father; whose</span><br />Sweet confidence has been outwitted. - </dd> - <dt><em>Eginhardt.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">Rather</span><br />Betrayed unwittingly, a force outside<br />Ourselves. - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd>That can be crushed; but first we'll hear<br />Thy story. O Eginhardt, how easily<br - />The dear familiar "thy" slips mouthwards. Let<br />It be, until the story's told; or - as<br />A master, well-beloved, thou mayest speak;<br />Whilst I sit here, a mindful - pupil. - </dd> - <dt><em>Eginhardt.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">Thou hast</span><br />Thy Mother's grace, her wit and understanding,<br />Thy soul - surpasses hers. I but repeat<br />Archbishop Turpin's words. -<div><span class='pageno' id='Page_10'>10</span></div> - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">I thought at times</span><br />She lacked a something, a mother's tenderness;<br />But - then her smile would reassure. - </dd> - <dt><em>Eginhardt.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">Her bright</span><br />Intelligence, her merry laughter, her fresh<br />And dazzling - beauty so enthralled the King;<br />If she but raised her little finger, he,<br />The - Lord of millions, hastened to obey.<br />And thus it went; although her wishes might<br - />Disturb a court, a city or a kingdom;<br />The erst so pious Charles exalted one;<br - />Who should have grovelled at his feet. - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">You speak</span><br />About my Mother? - </dd> - <dt><em>Eginhardt.</em></dt> - <dd>Whose beauty is thy dower;<br />Whose baser parts are long forgotten. Death<br />Came - stealthily—the King refused belief.<br />For days and nights he knelt beside the - couch,<br />His arms supporting one whose soul had fled.<br />"She is not dead," he - cried, "She sweetly slumbers."<br />He waved aside, as thou rememberest,<br />All food - and drink, became well-nigh demented,<br />Completely losing that serene composure,<br - />That seemed as much himself as kingly might.<br />"She is not dead;" his eyes blazed - wrathfully,<br />While honeyed murmurs passed his lips: "Thou wilt<br />Awaken, little - one." None dared suggest<br />The funeral plans, nor place of burial.<br />At last his - life seemed doomed with hers. A vague<br />Uneasiness had turned to fear. 'Twas - whispered<br />His death would loosen war and misery,<br />The century's near-close would - end Earth's cycle.<br />Lamenting moans were heard within the Church<br /><span class='pageno' id='Page_11'>11</span>And - prayers of intercession. All this thou knowest.<br />But not what follows, the fruit of - supplication.<br />The good Archbishop Turpin saw, one night,<br />Amid the Queen's - long-braided tresses, the glint<br />Of hidden gold that shimmered through his dreams.<br - />When daylight broke he stole beside the King<br />And softly slipped his hand beneath - the dead<br />Fastrada's hair. He drew the visioned ring;<br />Whose magic power had - slaved the mighty Charles.<br />Relieved, the King looked round in wonderment.<br />He - recognized his loss—and God consoled. - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd>He never afterwards remembered, nor knew<br />About the ring, although the story, much<br - />Disguised, had somewhat leaked. Please tell me further. - </dd> - <dt><em>Eginhardt.</em></dt> - <dd>The kind Archbishop, ever the King's most trusted<br />Adviser, now became his closest - friend.<br />He used his influence for good; but Saints<br />Become discredited when - fortune strews<br />Her favours. Tongues wagged ill-naturedly, until<br />Such wordy mud - was stirred the Prelate felt<br />Its spatterings and realized the cause—<br />The fatal - talisman. He stood beside<br />Those stringing ponds that rim so pleasantly<br />The - new-built hunting lodge. A sudden splash<br />The ring had vanished. - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">My Father often sits</span><br />And broods beside the larger pond. - </dd> - <dt><em>Eginhardt.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">I've noticed;</span><br />So had it searched most carefully. Last night<br />The ring was - found. Conceal it 'mid thy pearls,<br />Then tell the King thou lov'st his servant. He - will<br />Refuse thee nought. -<div><span class='pageno' id='Page_12'>12</span></div> - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">Can we buy happiness</span><br />At such a price? win lasting peace and true,<br - />Sustaining joy? [<em>She moves and, unnoticing,<br />    brushes the silk from the - table.</em>] O see! the silk has<br />    fallen.<br />I cannot leave it crumpled there, - nor can<br />I touch it, while I touch this charm. I pray thee,<br />Take it. [<em>She - hands him the ring, then sobbing gathers<br />up the silk and smooths it.</em>] 'Tis not - like thee, my Eginhardt,<br />To tempt with specious words. Return that ring<br />To - watery depths. May skies reflected cleanse;<br />May lovers, bending o'er the forest - pool,<br />Gain bliss that's unalloyed with earth-born slime. - </dd> - <dt><em>Eginhardt.</em></dt> - <dd>How oft have we exchanged love's vows beside<br />That selfsame pool, shall we no more, - my Emma,<br />Though others may? - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">Suppose I took that ring;</span><br />The King, my Father, gave consent; the Church,<br - />Reluctant blessing; how long would'st thou escape<br />The soot that smudged my - Mother's fame, the good<br />Archbishop? Suppose, without that slender circlet,<br />We - begged the King, my Father; would he not banish<br />Whom he calls foster-son?—his - minister<br />Of public works, his faithful secretary,<br />His youngest councillor, and, - summing all,<br />His poet-friend and mine. My fate would be<br />A convent cell, to - meditate on mischief<br />That can be pushed aside. Dear Eginhardt,<br />Bid me adieu and - when we meet thou'lt be<br />My teacher, who recites a nation's songs;<br />But dwells - not on his own, nor hers who sends<br />Him forth. - </dd> - <dt><em>Eginhardt.</em></dt> - <dd>O Emma, pray God that I have strength.<br />Our secret meetings gave fresh life, all - else,<br /><span class='pageno' id='Page_13'>13</span>Methinks, is death. - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd>[<em>holding her finger up.</em>] Hark! -<div class='lg-container-b c003'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>[<em>Distant singing is faintly heard.... Emma</em></div> - <div class='line'><em>opens door, left. Eginhardt throws a cloak</em></div> - <div class='line'><em>over her. They stand looking out.</em>]</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - - </dd> - <dt><em>A watchman sings without.</em></dt> - <dd> -<div class='lg-container-b'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in4'>Here are lodged the sacred clothes;</div> - <div class='line in6'>Bow your heads and stainless be.</div> - <div class='line in4'>Earth is draped with glistening snows,</div> - <div class='line in6'>Garbed anew with purity.</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in4'>Let each soul be undefiled,</div> - <div class='line in4'>God and man be reconciled.</div> - <div class='line in4'>Let each soul be undefiled,</div> - <div class='line in4'>God and man be reconciled.——</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd>The watchman's song has drifted from his tower.<br />He steps within. O seize the moment, - fly! - </dd> - <dt><em>Eginhardt.</em></dt> - <dd>[<em>He makes a movement, then stops.</em>] But Emma! that snow—unspotted— - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">That glitters 'neath</span><br />The moon! It seems a miracle. The day<br />Was pleasant, - almost summer-like, then came<br />A sudden wind with flurries, and, though scarce<br - />Ten minutes since thou cam'st, the court is now<br />Completely carpeted and all so - still—<br />So cold—but beautiful. - </dd> - <dt><em>Eginhardt.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">A miracle</span><br />Whose cost will be my life and thine mayhap. - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd>Thy words must have some meaning? -<div><span class='pageno' id='Page_14'>14</span></div> - </dd> - <dt><em>Eginhardt.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">A woeful one.</span><br />If I should dare the lightest step, that snow<br />Would hold - its trace, would witness 'gainst this night's<br />Adventure; and death must be the - penalty.<br />Death!—The chill of winter. Shut it out.<br />I'll spend my last few hours - in warmth by thee. - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd>I can't believe——let us but think, we'll find<br />A passage, some how, some where. - </dd> - <dt><em>Eginhardt.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">But where? that is</span><br />The only path as blocked as though with walls<br />Of solid - masonry. - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">A loophole glints,</span><br />Nay, now a streaming light. A woman's print<br />Might - track the court and back, 'twould raise no comment.<br />The Princess Emma's maid has - gone betimes<br />Some errand, has then returned. - </dd> - <dt><em>Eginhardt.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">And what of that?</span><br /> </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd>Hast thou no inkling? Dearest Eginhardt,<br />I'll carry thee across the court. - </dd> - <dt><em>Eginhardt.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">Thou must</span><br />Be crazed, suggesting such a thought, an angel<br />To masquerade as - beast of burden. - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">But 'tis</span><br />Our only chance; remembering, if we<br />Should fail, the King, my - Father, who must pass judgment,<br />Would suffer consequence as we. We'll seize<br />The - chance! - </dd> - <dt><em>Eginhardt.</em></dt> - <dd>O Emma, my sweetheart, beloved Princess,<br />What ills may happen thee if we should - fail.<br /><span class='pageno' id='Page_15'>15</span>We'll take the chance. - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">Then quickly.</span><br /> </dd> - <dt><em>Eginhardt.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">But art thou strong</span><br />Enough to bear my weight so far? wilt thou<br />Not suffer - strain? - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">Must I, a Frankish maid,</span><br />Explain my strength? Have I not heroes' blood<br - />Within my veins? Are not my sinews those<br />That show descent from mighty warriors, - prompt<br />In action, swift of purpose? Would I not shame<br />Such lineage, did I - permit myself<br />To slip or falter? Besides 'tis nought but child's play—<br />My - friend, thou hast a scholar's frame. Now take<br />A breath! then place thine arms around - my neck.<br />I'll bear thee as a peasant's load upon<br />My back. -<div class='lg-container-b c003'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in7'>[<em>She totters for a second beneath Eginhardt's</em></div> - <div class='line'><em>weight.</em>]</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - - </dd> - <dt><em>Eginhardt.</em></dt> - <dd>Thou stagger'st? - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">Nay,—but breathe a prayer,</span><br />Twill help. [<em>She straightens herself.</em>] -<div class='lg-container-b c003'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>[<em>Exit Emma with Eginhardt on her back. After a</em></div> - <div class='line'><em>time she returns, panting, and closes the door.</em>]</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd>I've left him by the courtyard-gate<br />And none have seen. And O I feel such strange<br - />Relief that dims the parting pang. Deceit<br />Is ended. I've freed myself to guard - this silk.<br />May God protect! - </dd> - </dl> - -<div class='lg-container-b c003'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>[<em>She takes up a crucifix and kneels before the silk.</em>]</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div> - <span class='pageno' id='Page_16'>16</span> - <h3 class='c001'>ACT II.</h3> -</div> - -<p class='c009'><em>Scene.—The same as Act I. The following morning. Emma, -in her gala attire, lies asleep on the couch, a mantle over -her feet. Etta enters abruptly through centre door. She -notices the Princess and seems relieved.</em></p> - - <dl class='dl_1'> - <dt> </dt> - <dd><em>Etta.</em> Why there she lies and fast asleep. I had<br />Such fright to find her bed - untenanted.<br />The day's excitement must have tired and then<br />The King's late - visit. I should have stayed or sent<br />A waiting-maid; but she insists at times<br />On - privacy, the privilege of being<br />As lesser folk. I have a shrewd suspicion!<br />Well - let it be! Her virtue's proof 'gainst fire<br />Itself and Master Eginhardt is old<br - />In wisdom. Their talk is but of grammar-rules,<br />Of ancient days and poetry. They - have<br />My sympathy; though scarce my understanding.<br />Frivolity would seem more - natural,<br />Would better suit their youthfulness; but learning<br />Has set its seal on - courtly fashion, till even<br />The cooks and pantry men discuss in terms<br />Of - rhetoric. Well, well the King attends<br />The palace school and comprehends; while - others,<br />Of weaker wit, absorb the jargon, failing<br />To delve for sense.——How - sweet my Princess looks,<br />Dear soul; her dimpling smile disarms all envy,<br - /><span class='pageno' id='Page_17'>17</span>Else might one say 'tis most unfair that she<br />Should have so much; while - houseless beggars crowd<br />Our narrow streets. Pretence may smirk and strut<br />And - poverty may wince and crawl but here<br />There's restfulness. A knock! -<div class='lg-container-b c003'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in29'>[<em>The door, left, is pushed</em></div> - <div class='line'><em>open.... Enter Albert.</em>]</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - - </dd> - <dt> </dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">Hist, hist, you must</span><br />Not enter. The Princess is asleep. She's there—<br />Lies - there upon that couch. Please slip away.<br />Go quietly. - </dd> - <dt><em>Albert.</em></dt> - <dd>I have a message. You<br />Must waken her. - </dd> - <dt><em>Etta.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">Your tone is somewhat rude,</span><br />My Lord; the Princess wakens when she pleases;<br - />And not before. - </dd> - <dt><em>Albert.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">The message that I bear</span><br />Forbids delay. 'Tis from the King himself,<br />Of - utmost urgency. - </dd> - <dt><em>Etta.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">If you but say</span><br />The Princess sleeps, the King will pardon us.<br />He would not - wish his bird disturbed. - </dd> - <dt><em>Albert.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">His bird</span><br />Must wake and spread her wings. The other bird<br />Has flown. An - unexpected play was staged<br />Last night—I would that I had witnessed it—<br />The King - alone was privileged. He liked<br />It not. Deep creases line his face, his eyes<br - />Flash steel. The Princess must be wakened, yet<br />I dread to mar that prettiness with - grief.<br />O why will maids forget the beauty-sleep<br />That wards away next morning's - tears. She fell<br /> Asleep—too late, alas! -<div class='lg-container-b c003'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_18'>18</span>[<em>Emma wakes up, seems surprised to see her visitors, sits</em></div> - <div class='line'><em>up and listens unnoticed by them.</em>]</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - - </dd> - <dt><em>Etta.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">My Lord, your head</span><br />Is turned. I left her here last night 'tis true,<br />But - with the King. To her sweet care he must<br />Have lent the holy silk, see there it - lies<br />And shimmers trustfully. You have an answer.<br />'Twill satisfy the King. - </dd> - <dt><em>Albert.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">But Charles himself</span><br />Was witness. Listen! last night another came.<br />Where - were your eyes and ears? The King retired<br />Alone, he practised Greek; when - suddenly<br />A knavish moonbeam danced its mischief through<br />A chink and blurred the - alpha-beta. The King<br />Threw wide the casement hangings, and sought to wrest<br />An - ode, a monody from night's allurement,<br />When lo! 'twas farce that greeted him, a - farce<br />That failed to tap his laughter. - </dd> - <dt><em>Etta.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">A chill has knifed</span><br />My heart. Speak on! - </dd> - <dt><em>Albert.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">He clearly saw two forms</span><br />That peered; they seemed to shrink beneath the - moon's<br />Cold gaze and then from out this very room<br />There came a restless - prancing jennet, that stayed<br />Its curveting, that slid and well-nigh stumbled<br - />Beneath the slender weight of whom indeed?<br />But solemn Master Eginhardt. - </dd> - <dt><em>Etta.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">The Princess</span><br />Has so demeaned herself! has so abused<br />Her rank and sex! - I'll not believe a word<br />Of it, e'en though her pretty lips give their<br />Consent. -<div><span class='pageno' id='Page_19'>19</span></div> - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd>He speaks the truth, dear Etta! 'Twas not<br />In wanton play! 'twas dire distress. We - hoped<br />To hide our secret from the telltale snow.<br />But now, that all's - discovered; give me the worst,<br />My Lord. What punishment is meted him<br />I love? - </dd> - <dt><em>Albert.</em></dt> - <dd>'Tis not so heavy, ease yourself. - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd>Not death? - </dd> - <dt><em>Albert.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">No, no—</span><br /> </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">Then tell me all.</span><br /> </dd> - <dt><em>Albert.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">The King</span><br />Has seen—— - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd>Of that you've said enough; but after? - </dd> - <dt><em>Albert.</em></dt> - <dd>To-day the court has stirred betimes. A King,<br />Who spent a sleepless night, would not - respect<br />Another's rest. His messengers flew back<br />And forth, while rumors faster - sped. A council<br />At such unseemly hour! portending what?<br />And few but nurse some - covert guilt. The King<br />Was grey with wrath—and fear disturbed. But when<br />He - spoke, recounting all, faint titters rose<br />Unbidden, soon quelled beneath his iron - glance.<br />And then, with icy voice, he hurled the question:<br />What judgment should - be meted one who so<br />Forgot—I pray your pardon—her royal rank?<br />The councillors - gazed mournfully at one<br />Another and then, as though a signal prompted,<br />They - chimed together: "In love affairs we crave<br />Indulgence." Scarce heeding them the King - continued:<br />"What punishment deserves that man, whom I<br /><span class='pageno' id='Page_20'>20</span>Have favoured? - who brings my house to shame." Again<br />The answer came: "In love affairs we crave<br - />Indulgence." But one dissentient voice: "Our laws<br />Proclaim a speedy death." 'Twas - Eginhardt,<br />The youngest councillor, who spoke. - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">You said—</span><br /> </dd> - <dt><em>Albert.</em></dt> - <dd>That death was not the penalty; Ay! listen!<br />The King replied: "My youngest - councillor<br />Gives wiser judgment. Yes he understands<br />How stain can spread. Such - doings, if left unpunished,<br />Might influence court customs, Frankish habits;<br - />Deserving death, I pass a lighter sentence:<br />'Tis banishment without repeal. Now - go,<br />Nor trouble more mine eyes!" The King had finished,<br />A quivering silence - reigned. Then slowly rose<br />The one proscribed, nor made obeisance, nor bade<br - />Adieu, unless his footsteps echoed it.<br />The air was chill as though a wraith had - passed. - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd>None offered him a kindly word? none gave<br />A friendly glance? - </dd> - <dt><em>Albert.</em></dt> - <dd>Before the angered King,<br />Was't possible? Besides a favorite,<br />That's fallen from - regard, must needs incite<br />A wonder seldom damped with pity's dew. - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd>Mayhap the gateman has inquired which way<br />He went. Etta! go question him. - </dd> - <dt><em>Albert.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">He spoke</span><br />To none; but strode along, nor visited<br />His rooms. His writing - tools alone he carried,<br />Unless a book or so that bulged his wallet. - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd>You may depart, my Lord. Your story's told. -<div><span class='pageno' id='Page_21'>21</span></div> - </dd> - <dt><em>Albert.</em></dt> - <dd>I would it were. Why are you still? can you<br />Not ease the telling? Question me. Take - you<br />No interest in your fate? - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd>'Tis blank to-day. - </dd> - <dt><em>Albert.</em></dt> - <dd>Then woe must color it and I must speak<br />Unhelped. Prepare yourself for grevious - change.<br />When heavy steps had ceased to echo, all<br />Within the Council-Hall seemed - moulded there<br />By frost of death. Then spoke the King: "My daughter"—<br />A moment's - pause till words swelled through emotion.<br />They thickly came as waters that soak - their way<br />From out a sodden, leaf-strewn ridge. "My daughter,<br />Let her fare - forth. The fault's the same and so<br />The punishment!" and then he turned toward me.<br - />His words now sharply fell as waters freed<br />That clang 'mid stones. "Go tell the - Princess Emma,<br />Mine eyes must dwell on her no more. Let her<br />Leave home and - friends, henceforth a wanderer.<br />Bid her begone at once, nor moan her fate<br />With - others. Let her depart for presently<br />I come to seal a tomb that holds the corpse<br - />Of erstwhile loving memory." His words<br />Sank deep like waters pooled, his eyelids - closed<br />To stay the signs of grief. He blinked them back,<br />Then called for state - affairs. I hastened here,<br />You may believe, unwillingly. - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">So, finis.</span><br />I've heard your message, listened patiently.<br />Tell the King - 'twas well delivered. Now<br />I pray your absence, go! - </dd> - <dt><em>Albert.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">To take with me</span><br />Your promise of obedience. Nay rather<br />To beg a Father's - clemency, to wake<br /><span class='pageno' id='Page_22'>22</span>His fond indulgence, haply some excuse. - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd>Did Eginhardt reply? went he not forth<br />In silence? go! -<div class='lg-container-r c003'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>[<em>Exit Albert.</em>]</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - - </dd> - <dt><em>Etta.</em></dt> - <dd>My dear, sweet Princess. O<br />How has it happened? where's the cure? - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">The "how"</span><br />Is past, a vain inquiry! where's the cure?<br />The outlet from this - coil? I see it not. - </dd> - <dt><em>Etta.</em></dt> - <dd>Then haste! gain entrance to the Council-Hall,<br />Implore the King—not with that stony - look.<br />Let tears entreat and fervent promises.<br />Speak loving words; those little, - winging words,<br />That search a Father's heart. Let beauty plead,<br />With clinging - arms; till soft embrace wears wrath<br />Away. My Princess! run, beg mercy! conjure<br - />With woman's art, insist! O pray arouse<br />Yourself, throw off this bleak November - mood,<br />Weep April drops, and then come singing back,<br />A lightsome smiling May. - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">Impossible,</span><br />When Eginhardt has gone. Besides what would<br />The masses think - did he, the new Augustus,<br />Show weakness, bend beneath a daughter's pleadings.<br - />No Etta, the King is law, its fountain head;<br />If it be questioned, the nations - totter. Yes<br />'Tis harvest month and I have harvested.<br />Unfasten the stringing - pearls that bind my hair,<br />Then help me loose this festive frock, 'tis stiff<br - />With woven gold. A homespun hunting gown<br />Will better serve the time's occasion. - Bring<br />The russet; 'twas worn that day my ankle twisted. -<div class='lg-container-b c003'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_23'>23</span>[<em>Exit Etta, centre door.... She soon returns with the</em></div> - <div class='line'><em>gown. Sighing and shaking her head she helps Emma</em></div> - <div class='line'><em>make the change.</em>]</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - - </dd> - <dt><em>Etta.</em></dt> - <dd>'Tis torn and stained. - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">I know, nor would I part</span><br />With it, nor have it mended. The rent will suit<br - />My shifted fortune. Eginhardt went forth<br />With student's ware. I'll take my bow and - arrows,<br />My spear and ah, this silk, 'twas given me<br />Last night to guard and am I - different?<br />My place in life may be; but not myself.<br />So fare thee well, dear - Etta, I find no words<br />For messages. [<em>She opens the door left.</em>] - </dd> - <dt><em>Etta.</em></dt> - <dd>But stay! You cannot go<br />Like this alone, to face a thieving world. - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd>What have I here to tempt? - </dd> - <dt><em>Etta.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">Those spangled pins,</span><br />What's more, your beauty. - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">Pull the pins, now let</span><br />My hair fall loose; divided o'er each shoulder<br />It - ripples to my feet. Am I not like<br />The strange wild-women habiting the hills?<br />I - may draw glances; none will venture near. - </dd> - <dt><em>Etta.</em></dt> - <dd>Then fairy-folk will seize you trespassing. - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd>O plague me not with fancied fears; but let<br />Remembrance follow me and now and - then<br />A whispered prayer. [<em>A dove flies into the room and lights<br />    on - Emma's arm.</em>] What's this? my dear, pet dove.<br />It nestles faithfully, yet I must - part<br /><span class='pageno' id='Page_24'>24</span>With it, alas! O guard it, nurture it. -<div class='lg-container-b c003'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>[<em>She hands the dove to Etta. Exit, left, hastily. Etta</em></div> - <div class='line'><em>makes a movement to follow her, then stops and soothes</em></div> - <div class='line'><em>the bird.</em>]</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - - </dd> - <dt><em>Etta.</em></dt> - <dd>Poor fluttering thing that shares unhappiness.<br />How far doth sorrow spread? and can I - stay<br />Its murky flow? I'll importune the King,<br />The Royal family. There must be - some<br />Recourse. -<div class='lg-container-r c003'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>[<em>Enter, left, Albert.</em>]</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - - </dd> - <dt><em>Albert.</em></dt> - <dd>And has the Princess gone? - </dd> - <dt><em>Etta.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">But now.</span><br />Where is the King? - </dd> - <dt><em>Albert.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">He comes this way. He wishes</span><br />An empty cage, nor view of hapless bird. - </dd> - <dt><em>Etta.</em></dt> - <dd>And I've one here that may remind. -<div class='lg-container-b c003'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>[<em>Exit, left, Albert. Etta seeks to soothe the bird.</em></div> - <div class='line'><em>Enter Charles, in ordinary Frankish attire, attended by</em></div> - <div class='line'><em>Albert. Etta kneels imploringly.</em>]</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - - </dd> - <dt> </dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">O Sire!</span><br />I beg for her. Where are the tears that flowed<br />Beside her - Mother's bier? Do they not force<br />Forgiveness, if indeed what's pure requires<br - />Such word. O send for her lest harm may come<br />To one so gently nurtured. - </dd> - <dt><em>Charles.</em></dt> - <dd>[<em>Sitting down heavily.</em>] Harm has come.<br />If more ensues it scarce can blacken - what's<br />Already black. Begone. I've said enough. -<div class='lg-container-b c003'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>[<em>The dove escapes through doorway, left.</em>]</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div><span class='pageno' id='Page_25'>25</span></div> - </dd> - <dt><em>Etta.</em></dt> - <dd>[<em>Rising.</em>] The bird! O Sire, the bird! - </dd> - <dt><em>Charles.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">What's that?</span><br /> </dd> - <dt><em>Etta.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">Her dove.</span><br />She treasured it. - </dd> - <dt><em>Charles.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">Then let it follow her.</span><br />Sir Count, remove the woman. Fail not to give<br />My - message. None must speak the words proscribed,<br />Nor hint we had such daughter. -<div class='lg-container-b c003'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in29'>[<em><span lang="la" xml:lang="la">Exuent</span> Etta, door centre;</em></div> - <div class='line'><em>Albert door left.... Charles stares round moodily. A</em></div> - <div class='line'><em>knock is heard.</em>]</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - - </dd> - <dt> </dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">Who raps? Can I</span><br />The Emperor, Augustus, not have some hours<br />Alone to toy - with grief? -<div class='lg-container-b c003'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in27'>[<em>Enter Hildebold, left, closing the</em></div> - <div class='line'><em>door after him.</em>]</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - - </dd> - <dt><em>Hildebold.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">My gracious Lord,</span><br />You sent for me? - </dd> - <dt><em>Charles.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">And you have tarried long.</span><br />The judgment's given. Leave me here in peace. - </dd> - <dt><em>Hildebold.</em></dt> - <dd>If peace reigned here, I'd gladly go. Methinks<br />A wounded soul awaits my help. I - missed<br />You, Sire, at mass. - </dd> - <dt><em>Charles.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">I had excuse. You may</span><br />Have heard. Respect my sorrow. Leave me now. - </dd> - <dt><em>Hildebold.</em></dt> - <dd>[<em>Sitting down.</em>] One time, long since, you rode with Eginhardt;<br /><span class='pageno' id='Page_26'>26</span>Nor - stayed for pomp of retinue, your wish<br />Was speed, to reach a mother's side; who - gasped<br />Your name while breath still lingered. Not a word<br />You spoke; but peered - the gloom, as on you raced<br />'Gainst death itself. The night was dark and still,<br - />The thudding horses woke strange echoes, hark!<br />That tinkling bell betokens mass, - though dawn<br />Has scarcely greyed the sky. A mother's blessing<br />Depends on haste - and yet God's call was heeded.<br />You turned aside to find the forest church,<br />My - dear, first charge; and there you humbly knelt.<br />At that same hour, you later heard, - the Queen,<br />Your Mother's breath came evenly. She smiled<br />And seemed content to - wait. Three days of sweet<br />Communing God allowed his servants ere<br />The parting - came.—You raced 'gainst death that night<br />And won. To-day, I fear, God's face is - turned,<br />His help rejected. - </dd> - <dt><em>Charles.</em></dt> - <dd>[<em>Wearily.</em>] My Lord Archbishop, I<br />Have scarcely followed, have indeed no - will<br />To argue; granting all your premises,<br />Pray leave me now. - </dd> - <dt><em>Hildebold.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">Your rank and mine we'll set</span><br />Aside. Consider me that Hildebold<br />Whom you - have raised to be your chosen friend,<br />Who comes to offer—— - </dd> - <dt><em>Charles.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">Not the golden coins</span><br />This time but useless words. O would that you<br />Had - kept my largess then, nor parted with<br />Humility. - </dd> - <dt><em>Hildebold.</em></dt> - <dd>[<em>Reminiscently.</em>] And how surprised I was<br />To see those gulden left by - seeming huntsmen.<br /><span class='pageno' id='Page_27'>27</span>I felt such gold might burn a simple monk;<br />Besides - our chapel needed nought and so<br />I hailed you back and asked instead a doeskin,<br - />Soft and pliable, to bind my mass-book,<br />That time had sadly ragged. - </dd> - <dt><em>Charles.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">Your modesty</span><br />Appealed. I sent you one deep-purple dyed<br />And limned with - gold—'twas not enough; a ring,<br />A staff, a bishopric were further added,<br />And so - a mentor saddles me. Pray take<br />The hint, begone! -<div class='lg-container-r c003'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>[<em>He leans on the table and sinks his head</em></div> - <div class='line'><em>on his arms, oblivious to everything. Hildebold</em></div> - <div class='line'><em>advances as though to touch him, then steps back and</em></div> - <div class='line'><em>sits down, casting pitying glances at him. After a</em></div> - <div class='line'><em>while Charles looks up.</em>]</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - - </dd> - <dt> </dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">My hints are lost, well stay;</span><br />A humbled man may wish an audience.<br />O - yesterday what glory streaked my life.<br />Those blessed relics brought uplift, a - sense<br />That I, above all others, was indeed<br />God's chosen vessel, Emperor and - Chief<br />Of millions. Yes, I had a deeper sense<br />Of His abiding grace and awesome - trust<br />Than even on that Christmas morn when vast<br />St. Peter's thundered forth - the ancient plaudits:<br />"Long life and victory to Charles, the pious<br />Augustus, - crowned by God, the great, pacific<br />Emperor!" while on my head there rested<br />The - precious diadem. Ah, then I felt<br />Some fear, a dread that I perchance usurped<br />A - mighty privilege. But yesterday<br />'Twas peace, as though the all-pervading God<br - />Communed with me, not as man talks with man;<br />But as the angels gain instruction, - thought<br />That comes unvoiced, yet glows with warmth of knowledge.<br /><span class='pageno' id='Page_28'>28</span>And - so, deluded, I kissed goodnight. Outside<br />'Twas bleak, rough winds assailed, snow - flurries pricked.<br />Within my chamber's solitude I sought<br />Relief through study; - tossed my books aside;<br />Revulsion gripped my soul. What had I done<br />With power? - Some cruel acts grew large and then<br />The future glowed uncertain. Everywhere<br - />Dissensions rise; they say the brazen cock<br />That crowns our palace points the spot, - so swift<br />Comes punishment; but age may weaken, have<br />My sons the force that - pushes me? I see<br />The Northmen's snake-like galleys nosing, feel<br />The Saracens' - sharp sword; to meet them warriors<br />With discipline relaxed, disordered laws,<br - />False judges, ignorance, a church debased. - </dd> - <dt><em>Hildebold.</em></dt> - <dd>Hold, hold, my Son, mirage is in your eyes<br />To-day, transforming faults to giant-size. - </dd> - <dt><em>Charles.</em></dt> - <dd>And then I pulled the curtain back and saw<br />God's eye of night, the lustrous moon, - that stared<br />Suggestive quiet. Prophet of storms, it failed<br />To prophesy; but - shed meek rays along<br />Fresh-fallen, smirch-less snow, ay spotless! spotless!<br />My - thoughts now strayed to her, my youngest daughter,<br />Her baby hands that clutched my - beard, her soul<br />Developing; her proud, young ways and later<br />Her matchless - maidenhood, her sweet accord<br />With all my moods, her soothing charm, ah then<br />A - door was opened furtively, I saw— -<div class='lg-container-b c003'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>[<em>Covering his face with his hands.</em>]</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - - </dd> - <dt> </dt> - <dd>Are we God's care or Devil's sport? - </dd> - <dt><em>Hildebold.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">My Son,</span><br />You saw not far enough; but thus it is<br />And God is blamed. Was't - love of justice made<br /><span class='pageno' id='Page_29'>29</span>You banish her; or jealousy, or fret<br />That things - went not to please your wishes? - </dd> - <dt><em>Charles.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">You'd</span><br />Excuse such conduct? - </dd> - <dt><em>Hildebold.</em></dt> - <dd>I'd seek its cause and seek<br />The cure. The cause, those two so thrown together;<br - />The cure to separate or sanction. - </dd> - <dt><em>Charles.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">Let winds</span><br />Draw them apart or close. They blow without.<br />I've said my say. - And now give orders that<br />This room be sealed, a memory that's ended.<br />My Lord - Archbishop, take the silk, I know<br />Of none else worthy. -<div class='lg-container-r c003'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>[<em>Exit, left, hastily.</em>]</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - - </dd> - <dt><em>Hildebold.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">Take the silk? I see</span><br />It not. Poor Princess! Poor Emperor! [<em>He opens - centre<br />    door, against which Etta has evidently been leaning.</em>] But Etta,<br - />Thou stumblest! Is't sympathy that holds thee near?<br />Well let it be. Thy reddened - eyes do penance.<br />Now beg the Palace Count to seal this room,<br />That none may - enter. Would the deed were done<br />With lowered head and lips that move in prayer.<br - />But give me first the sacred silk. - </dd> - <dt><em>Etta.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">The Princess</span><br />Has taken it. - </dd> - <dt><em>Hildebold.</em></dt> - <dd>That proves her innocence.<br />'Twas but a youthful prank. I'll follow her.<br />A - convent wall will guard her charm until<br />The King relents. -<div class='lg-container-r c003'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>[<em>Exit, left.</em>]</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div><span class='pageno' id='Page_30'>30</span></div> - </dd> - <dt><em>Etta.</em></dt> - <dd>I fear his mind is set.<br />And what can change whom all obey?—who has<br />So changed - himself. - </dd> - </dl> - -<div> - <span class='pageno' id='Page_31'>31</span> - <h3 class='c001'>ACT III.</h3> -</div> - -<p class='c009'><em>Scene.—A clearing in the forest near Aquisgranum. At the -back, amid trees, a charcoal-burner's hut and a kiln. -On the left a linden and copse leading to a grove -once sacred to heathen deities; but now feared and -shunned. On the right a barricade of logs and fallen -trees so placed in one part to form steps. Ernst -advances from his kiln, looks over the barricade as -though expecting some one. He is joined by Guta -who comes out of the hut.</em></p> - - <dl class='dl_1'> - <dt> </dt> - <dd><em>Ernst.</em> 'Tis mild for harvest-moon and yet the wind's<br />Unsettled, portending - what? How strange the snow<br />That came so suddenly then disappeared<br />As some night - wraith that fears clear-visioned day. - </dd> - <dt><em>Guta.</em></dt> - <dd>The Devil must have pinched his wife she dropped<br />Such frozen tears. 'Tis most unfair - that when<br />She's disciplined poor folk should feel so oft<br /> The dripping - moisture of her grief; 'tis bad<br />For rheumatism. - </dd> - <dt><em>Ernst.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">And good for forest trees.</span><br />The witch deserves to spill some tears, she - has<br /><span class='pageno' id='Page_32'>32</span>So often damaged them; what branches crunch<br />And fall, when she, - amount her broomstick, rides<br />A gale through serpent-hissing, midnight skies. - </dd> - <dt><em>Guta.</em></dt> - <dd>And so thou'rt in the skies and never wilt<br />Thou heed my limping gait, that cries a - life<br />In town, some gaiety before a coffin<br />Completes this stiffening. - </dd> - <dt><em>Ernst.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">And leave our home?</span><br /> </dd> - <dt><em>Guta.</em></dt> - <dd>That hovel! - </dd> - <dt><em>Ernst.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">What could I do?</span><br /> </dd> - <dt><em>Guta.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">Thou might'st instruct</span><br />The palace school, save Master Eginhardt<br />These - many visits here. - </dd> - <dt><em>Ernst.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">If I had been</span><br />A cleric, had learnt to read and write, maybe,<br />May be— - </dd> - <dt><em>Guta.</em></dt> - <dd>Thou hast a head well stacked with knowledge.<br />Do books all boast as much? 'Tis odd - that thou,<br />A peasant, hast such stuff within, that courtiers<br />Must come to pump - it out then serve it for<br />The King. - </dd> - <dt><em>Ernst.</em></dt> - <dd>The King loves ancient hero-tales.<br />A proper King! a proper Emperor!<br />What's - more, a proper man. I wonder why<br />Good Master Eginhardt delays; I promised<br />Some - verse, it quivers on my lips. That's just<br />The way, he comes when I am disinclined<br - />And now he dallies. - </dd> - <dt><em>Guta.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">Last night I dreamt of death,</span><br /><span class='pageno' id='Page_33'>33</span>Royal mourners wailed. In fright I - woke. The wind<br />Blew fluted dirge-like notes; but dreams are ay<br />Contrariwise. - Most like 'twas wedding bells.<br />I wish good Master Eginhardt would come;<br />I - thirst to hear Court gossip, e'en the bits<br />He doles with grudging tongue. And he - could tell<br />Us of the long-nosed beast with dragon skin<br />That I so dread, yet - wish to see. - </dd> - <dt><em>Ernst.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">A crackling!</span><br />Hist! but not our scholar's steed, nor yet<br />A wandering - huntsman's. Such a footfall, quiet<br />And even, forewarns at least a Bishop's - palfrey.<br />As I'm alive 'tis Father Hildebold;<br />Who now dismounts and ties his - horse. [<em>He mounts the<br />    barricade and stoops to help Hildebold up.</em>] The - steps<br />Are steep so have a care. We welcome you. -<div class='lg-container-r c003'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>[<em>Enter Hildebold, appearing over the barricade.</em>]</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - - </dd> - <dt><em>Hildebold.</em></dt> - <dd>Thou bar'st thy citadel, good friend. - </dd> - <dt><em>Ernst.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">Against</span><br />Four-footed beasts, not two. Step gingerly.<br />I beg your Lordship's - pardon. Come Guta, kneel<br />And kiss the ring. Our old Confessor climbs<br />Too high - for peasant jokes; so let us help<br />Him down. -<div class='lg-container-b c003'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>[<em>After helping him, the peasants kneel to receive a</em></div> - <div class='line'><em>blessing.</em>]</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - - </dd> - <dt><em>Hildebold.</em></dt> - <dd>My children, it pleases me to greet<br />Old friends. Receive God's blessing.—Tell me - now<br />Has Master Eginhardt been lately here?<br />Or Princess Emma? - </dd> - <dt><em>Ernst.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">The Princess once was here,</span><br /><span class='pageno' id='Page_34'>34</span>While hunting with the King; who has - himself<br />Broke fast with me and stayed awhile to rest.<br />He talked of Master - Eginhardt, whom both<br />Call foster-son, which makes a kind of sweet<br />Relationship - between our Lord, the King,<br />And me, his servant. - </dd> - <dt><em>Hildebold.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">And dost thou soon expect</span><br />This gifted foster-son? - </dd> - <dt><em>Ernst.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">Ay, surely, unless</span><br />He fails to come. - </dd> - <dt><em>Hildebold.</em></dt> - <dd>Hark then! If he should come<br />Or Princess Emma, use a kind detention,<br />Some - artifice, then steal away and bring<br />Me news or send a trusty messenger.<br - />Remember as thou valuest salvation.—<br />Is there no easier exit? well, thy hand.<br - />Remember! and beg thy wife to curb her tongue. -<div class='lg-container-b c003'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>[<em>Exit with Ernst who soon returns. Guta mutters</em></div> - <div class='line'><em>to herself.</em>]</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - - </dd> - <dt><em>Guta.</em></dt> - <dd>'Tis always thus, a woman's tongue, a woman's—<br />Depend upon it, some ill has chanced; - my dream,<br />The winds have prophesied; but what indeed?<br />Why should the Princess - visit us? There is<br />No reason; nor that Master Eginhardt<br />Should be detained; for - that is what, through love<br />Of company, we ever strive; nor is<br />Their reason to - inform 'gainst her or him<br />Or them. Canst thou, good man, make ought of this? - </dd> - <dt><em>Ernst.</em></dt> - <dd>Why puzzle, when time brings plain solution.<br />Let time<br />Then bear the brunt and - weight of ravelling riddles,<br /><span class='pageno' id='Page_35'>35</span>Nor goad ourselves with useless questionings. -<div class='lg-container-b c003'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>[<em>A cry for help is heard. It dies down, then comes again.</em>]</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - - </dd> - <dt> </dt> - <dd>But hark, that erie cry! or is't the wind?<br />Hark! Some poor soul has missed her path - and dreads<br />The forest loneliness. I'll succour her. - </dd> - <dt><em>Guta.</em></dt> - <dd>Thou must not go, that cry is not from tongue<br />Made true through taste of Holy - Sacrament.<br />Such shrilling gentleness is not the moan<br />Of fagot-picker in - distress. 'Tis like<br />The dirge of last night's dream. I recognize;<br />'Tis some - wild woman of the woods that seeks<br />To lure a Christian soul—Nay husband, stay!<br - />I warn thee. [<em>Clutching his coat, then wringing her hands.<br />    Exit Ernst, by - the steps. He soon returns supporting<br />    Emma.</em>] O the foolish man and worse<br - />Than foolish—what will come of this? He brings<br />Her here, alas! our happiness has - flown. - </dd> - <dt><em>Ernst.</em></dt> - <dd>Quick Guta, fetch some water, haste, she faints. - </dd> - <dt><em>Guta.</em></dt> - <dd>Then let her lie; but no; discourtesy<br />Might bring revenge. They say 'tis best to - flatter,<br />To wheedle with fair words and deeds. [<em>She goes into the hut<br />    - and brings out some water in a horn mug.</em>] My pretty!<br />A sip will freshen thee; - another! See<br />Thy colour comes and delicate as that<br />Pink robe that's bundled - 'neath thy mantle, frayed<br />And torn most like in some uproarious<br />Fandango, some - brawling midnight junketing,<br />Some screech-owl revels. - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd>[<em>Reviving.</em>] Thou dost forget thyself<br /><span class='pageno' id='Page_36'>36</span>To so address—I had - forgot!—but this<br />Is holy silk. - </dd> - <dt><em>Guta.</em></dt> - <dd>If I should contradict<br />'Twould be for sake of bickering. The holes<br />Are plain - enough. Thou seem'st to treasure them,<br />And yet the hole thou comest from is lined<br - />With gold, they say. - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">The woman's mad!</span><br /> </dd> - <dt><em>Ernst.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">Thou talk'st</span><br />Too much, my wife. - </dd> - <dt><em>Guta.</em></dt> - <dd>[<em>Addressing Emma.</em>] 'Tis true. Take no affront.<br />But if I may not talk, who - will? a silence<br />Is often more discourteous than words<br />And gives the Devil - chance— -<div class='lg-container-r c003'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>[<em>The noise of some one</em></div> - <div class='line in4'><em>approaching is heard.</em>]</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - - </dd> - <dt><em>Ernst.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">To show his horns.</span><br />And thou hast said it! hush! hush— -<div class='lg-container-r c003'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>[<em>Enter Eginhardt.</em>]</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">Eginhardt!</span><br />O Eginhardt! - </dd> - <dt><em>Guta.</em></dt> - <dd>The devil in disguise!<br />Or is't our friend in troth? I know not friend<br />From - enemy. - </dd> - <dt><em>Eginhardt.</em></dt> - <dd>[<em>Embracing Emma.</em>] My sweetheart, how cam'st thou here?<br />Alone? without a - following? thy hair<br />Unbound, a rivulet of gold! Or art<br />Thou but a bloodless - figment, a fancy born<br />Of seething thought? Nay, nay, 'tis Paradise<br />My lagging - steps have mounted unawares<br /><span class='pageno' id='Page_37'>37</span>And thou'rt my angel guide. - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd>[<em>Sinking in his arms.</em>] O Eginhardt,<br />'Tis peace at last! - </dd> - <dt><em>Ernst.</em></dt> - <dd>[<em>Addressing Guta.</em>] She seeks a younger prey<br />Than us old folk and one, - methinks, that's more<br />Susceptible; but we must warn— - </dd> - <dt><em>Guta.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">Let us</span><br />Away, advise good Father Hildebold.<br />He'll exorcise with book and - candle. - </dd> - <dt><em>Ernst.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">And while</span><br />Our backs are turned what harm may come. I'll pluck<br />His sleeve - and warn. Dear Master Eginhardt,<br />I'd speak with you. - </dd> - <dt><em>Eginhardt.</em></dt> - <dd>[<em>Testily.</em>] Well! well! - </dd> - <dt><em>Ernst.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">Not here, but step</span><br />Aside; one moment! pray. - </dd> - <dt><em>Eginhardt.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">Think'st thou I'd tempt</span><br />The winds? All day they've strangely whirled. But - now<br />The air is still, this precious burden rests<br />With me. If I should loose my - grasp might not<br />Some mischievous air-current spirit her<br />Afar. - </dd> - <dt><em>Ernst.</em></dt> - <dd>If only such could happen! - </dd> - <dt><em>Eginhardt.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">Man,</span><br />Thou must be mad to e'en suggest the thought.<br />Has dotage crept thus - suddenly? Begone,<br />Let thy old wife coax reason back. -<div><span class='pageno' id='Page_38'>38</span></div> - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">A poor</span><br />Instructor! She's mad as he. - </dd> - <dt><em>Guta.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">O Master, you</span><br />Alone are crazed. Quick cross yourself, break loose,<br />Use - Latin words, delve deep within your learning;<br />From useless lumber pluck some magic - art;<br />Whose strength will free from love's bewitching power,<br />From spectral - glamour. - </dd> - <dt><em>Eginhardt.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">Break loose from love? O Guta;</span><br />Each golden hair, that showers its wealth - about<br />This yielding form, holds me in closer bondage<br />Than shackling chains of - adamant. Break loose<br />From love? this head, that leans its gentle weight,<br - />Impresses more than all the rolling skies<br />That bowed great-shouldered Atlas, - steadying.<br />Break loose from love? 'Twould be a harsher fall,<br />Than Satan's - fierce descent from Heaven's peace<br />To Hell's contentious flame. Break loose from - love?<br />Not while there's breath to seal its troth, to pledge<br />Its honour. [<em>He - kisses Emma.</em>] - </dd> - <dt><em>Guta.</em></dt> - <dd>[<em>Addressing Ernst.</em>]<span class="dialogright">Pray come! let us obey! seek help</span><br />From Father - Hildebold, lest worse should follow.<br />If that most sober scholar is thus enmeshed<br - />By magic wile, what hope is there for thee?<br />Who spinnest love tales as others - gossip. Come!<br />A lengthy walk! - </dd> - <dt><em>Ernst.</em></dt> - <dd>And leave the youth? O youth!<br />First love! sweet raptures, mine no more—no more— - </dd> - <dt><em>Guta.</em></dt> - <dd>Come, come away; thou moonstruck fool! white hairs<br />Are no safe shielding 'gainst - man's foolish bent. -<div class='lg-container-b c003'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_39'>39</span>[<em>Ernst and Guta mount the steps but as they descend</em></div> - <div class='line'><em>the other side they pause and look round unnoticed by</em></div> - <div class='line'><em>Emma and Eginhardt.</em>]</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd>They speak of Father Hildebold, most like<br />The Bishop. Would that he or some poor - monk<br />Were here to give God's blessing. - </dd> - <dt><em>Eginhardt.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">My Lord Archbishop</span><br />Would give such duteous advice that we,<br />In following, - might find ourselves constrained<br />To cloistered cells; to hold, apart, sad vigils,<br - />Remembering the happiness that's ours<br />To grasp. But I, like thee, would have God's - blessing.<br />See Love! two lengthy sticks! we'll form them crosswise;<br />So notched, - this silken cord will serve. [<em>He gathers two heavy sticks to make a cross, using some - string that bound the silk.</em>] I'll plant<br />The longest end; how easily it - slides!<br />And firm as though God truly wished it here.<br />And now we'll drape with - this most blessed silk.<br />See Love, 'tis woman's work. -<div class='lg-container-b c003'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>[<em>Emma drapes the cross with the white silk.</em>]</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - - </dd> - <dt><em>Ernst.</em></dt> - <dd>[<em>Whispering to Guta.</em>]<span class="dialogright">A solemn rite,</span><br />And e'en a pious, stay! 'tis - worth the watching. - </dd> - <dt><em>Guta.</em></dt> - <dd>Nay, let us fly! 'tis impious, a wild<br />Hill-woman to hide the sign of Christendom<br - />'Neath tattered rags of vile debauchery.<br />A worn ball gown that's torn in lengths. - </dd> - <dt><em>Ernst.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">Whist! Silence!</span><br /><div class='lg-container-b c003'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>[<em>Some leaves of the linden rustle slightly.</em>]</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd>A sound, a fluttering sound, and voices! no,<br /><span class='pageno' id='Page_40'>40</span>All's quiet. O would that we - had witnesses,<br />Those mad-brained peasants if none else and yet<br />We're kindly rid - of them.—The forest hush<br />Breathes thoughts of God. This mellowed silk was once<br - />Around the Virgin's dress and now it decks<br />The marriage cross. O we have audience. -<div class='lg-container-b c003'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>[<em>Emma and Eginhardt kneel before the cross and repeat</em></div> - <div class='line'><em>together.</em>]</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - - </dd> - <dt> </dt> - <dd>O Lord! be witness to our mutual vow. - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd>My husband! - </dd> - <dt><em>Eginhardt.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">My treasured wife!</span><br /> </dd> - <dt><em>Together.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">Whom none may part.</span><br /><div class='lg-container-b c003'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>[<em>They kneel in silent prayer. Suddenly from the</em></div> - <div class='line'><em>linden tree a dove flits down and lights on Emma's</em></div> - <div class='line'><em>shoulder.</em>]</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd>My dove, my own pet dove. O God has sent<br />This sign. - </dd> - <dt><em>Ernst.</em></dt> - <dd>[<em>Whispering to Guta.</em>] It seems like some strange miracle;<br />Yet what it is I - fail to grasp; yes, yes,<br />We'll go to Father Hildebold. He'll straight<br />This - tangle, if any can. -<div class='lg-container-r c003'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>[<em><span lang="la" xml:lang="la">Exuent</span> Ernst and Guta.</em>]</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd>[<em>Resting with Eginhardt against a log.</em>] O Eginhardt,<br />To think the bird has - followed us! It links<br />The past and present, soothes the sting, and brings<br - /><span class='pageno' id='Page_41'>41</span>A sweet assurance. Soft, wee nestler! a bit<br />Of pampered yesterday; that tears - with us<br />The veiling morrow, fearing nought for love<br />Encompasses. O husband of - my dreams,<br />Thou art reality. No tempest can<br />Disturb—And see, look round, 'twas - here those dreams<br />Grew strong from sudden birth. Incredible<br />That chance has - drifted us to this same spot.<br />A higher agency methinks has forced<br />Our steps. - They say this world is evil, 'tis but<br />A tottery stepping stone; I say 'tis - wrought<br />Of solid bliss; whence beauty springs and all<br />That holds and satisfies. - </dd> - <dt><em>Eginhardt.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">Thou speak'st the truth,</span><br />My Emma, the world is passing good; whate'er<br />Its - slips and fallacies some moments since.<br />Ay, here it was that Love surprised. - Unasked<br />The lusty teaser flashed his bolt, exciting<br />The carmine to thy cheeks, - a shining moist<br />To soft thine eyes, a shrinking tenderness<br />Through all thy - being. - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">But thou wert bold, my friend.</span><br /> </dd> - <dt><em>Eginhardt.</em></dt> - <dd>So saved a nasty fall. I see thee now<br />As then. Thou stood'st upon that fallen oak<br - />In this same garb methinks. Thy hair neat-tucked<br />Within a huntsman's cap, some - tendrils though<br />Fell gently loose, thy lips were curved to smile.<br />Asudden there - came a stir from out the black<br />Of those deep woods that yonder lie, a stag<br - />Brushed by, sprang lightly forward; ere the dogs<br />Caught scent or vision, an arrow - whirred; thy sister,<br />The Princess Bertha's aim was good, beside<br />Thee lay the - struggling beast. To end its pain<br />Thou raisedst thy hunting spear, but stumbling - would<br /><span class='pageno' id='Page_42'>42</span>Have wrenched I know not what of this most dear<br />Anatomy, had I - not seized thine arm<br />And righted thee. In that same flash of time<br />Two lives - were changed, our eyes had met. Pray God<br />The ill averted may not lead to worse. - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd>Who speaks of ill upon his wedding day<br />Deserves the same. Fie, shame, my - Eginhardt.<br />Must we not fashion plans together, "together."<br />Ay, a precious word! - what matters else?<br />"Together; together"—Hark! a stir! are we<br />Repeating history? - Another stag!<br />Quick! my bow. [<em>She shoots toward the copse, a heavy<br />    - animal falls at its entrance. She and Eginhardt walk<br />    over and examine it.</em>] - I've brought him down. There is<br />No need to spear. He's dead, quite dead. See here<br - />An ancient wound that's scabbed and healed. Indeed<br />The very stag. He must have - 'scaped that day<br />But we, enamoured, had no thought to spare.<br />What ages since - that hunting party; so<br />It seems, my sister's merry laughter, the King,<br />My - Father's kind solicitude.—And now<br />This cruel break—but Eginhardt, I'll wink<br - />Salt drops away, lest one should fall to splash<br />Our luck, to mar our wedding-day. - Why is't<br />When joy is keenest, there lurks beneath a pool<br />Of woe? Well, well - 'tis far beneath, we'll lid<br />It with a stern forgetfulness. "Together;"<br />That's - the word, "together;" and now we'll plan<br />To make a wild and beautiful adventure. - </dd> - <dt><em>Eginhardt.</em></dt> - <dd>Brave Heart, together, yes together we'll stem<br />The tide; but 'tis for thee I fear, - for one<br />So gently nurtured. - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">Remember, Eginhardt,</span><br /><span class='pageno' id='Page_43'>43</span>My ancestors: the Pepin of Landen, the Pepin<br - />Of Herestal; iron-handed Charles who cowed<br />The Saracen; his son who trembled - not<br />From royal power; and his, in turn, my Father,<br />Who scaled fresh heights and - slipped not back when offered<br />Imperial pomp and dignity. Each rose<br />To - circumstance. Shall I, who boast such race,<br />Grow pale, show fear, lay down my arms - before<br />So slight a foe as seeming poverty.<br />For poverty, what is't? but just a - nought,<br />A nothingness and I have thee so I<br />Am rich. - </dd> - <dt><em>Eginhardt.</em></dt> - <dd>And I far richer! So let us shape<br />Our future. This stag will nourish us and more<br - />Whence it has come. For shelter here's a hut<br />With fire, utensils—poor but clean. - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">Could we</span><br />Not further go from those old folk? I liked<br />Them not! A - something calls me toward the thickets,<br />As though the inky depth they fringe held - safe<br />Asylum. There must be entrance where the stag<br />Came forth. Let us push - through the coppice, search<br />What lies beyond. - </dd> - <dt><em>Eginhardt.</em></dt> - <dd>'Tis mystery, unsafe<br />To penetrate. The peasants say that dwarfs<br />Dwell there, - that wild hill-women dance. They say<br />Some few of mortal birth have forced a way;<br - />But what they saw none know, for none have since<br />Returned. - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd>Ay, peasants' talk; but e'en if true—<br />St. Augustine, I've heard, hath not denied<br - />There may be other hidden agencies<br />Than those of scriptural warrant—yet this - silk<br /><span class='pageno' id='Page_44'>44</span>Will serve as amulet. I have no fear.<br />Hast thou? - </dd> - <dt><em>Eginhardt.</em></dt> - <dd>I'd be ashamed to so confess<br />And once indeed I peeped. - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">And saw?</span><br /> </dd> - <dt><em>Eginhardt.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">We'll let</span><br />It be for now. Thou'rt weak and famished. Rest<br />Thee here. I'll - do some foraging. -<div class='lg-container-r c003'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>[<em>Exit through door of hut.</em>]</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd>[<em>After a pause, gathering up the silk.</em>] Yes, yes<br />We must go further then. A - call from out<br />Those tangled depths comes loud, insistent. There<br />Solution lies. - But first this precious silk<br />Must he repacked, the cross unwound. What's here?<br - />A shimmering droplet, a gem that must have slipped<br />Its setting. Eginhardt! please - come! -<div class='lg-container-b c003'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in34'>[<em>Enter Eginhardt</em></div> - <div class='line'><em>with some hunks of bread and a mug of milk.</em>]</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - - </dd> - <dt> </dt> - <dd> A jewel<br />Has fallen from its royal resting - place.<br />Last night I handled the King, my Father's crown.<br />It lay beside the holy - silk, whose folds<br />Have not disdained earth's wealth though they were used<br />To - fairer things. The sun gives warmth; but this<br />Pale imitation chills my hand, what - shall<br />We do with it? and how return? - </dd> - <dt><em>Eginhardt.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">Now eat</span><br />This bread, and drink; then we'll consider. -<div class='lg-container-b c003'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>[<em>They both eat hastily.</em>]</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div><span class='pageno' id='Page_45'>45</span></div> - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">Listen!</span><br />For our adventure in those mazy woods,<br />For go we must, we need - some wherewithal,<br />Some first provisions, some household stuff. We'll leave<br />This - gem, and in its place take our requirements;<br />Reward, that's offered, would more than - pay for such<br />Poor odds and ends as we may choose to plunder. - </dd> - <dt><em>Eginhardt.</em></dt> - <dd>Thou'st said the word. If thou'rt refreshed, we'll make<br />A kindly start before the - day grows late;<br />But I must bear this stag, so wilt thou help<br />As would a peasant - woman? - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">With joyous heart!</span><br />My life has seemingly begun—so free.<br />I'll take deep - breaths. -<div class='lg-container-b c003'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>[<em>They go into the hut and come out laden.</em>]</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - - </dd> - <dt><em>Eginhardt.</em></dt> - <dd>[<em>Laughing.</em>]<span class="dialogright">Dost think we have enough?</span><br /> </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd>Enough and e'en to spare! 'Tis laughable<br />The troubles ta'en preparing 'gainst one's - wedding;<br />The puckered brow, the oft vexatious thought,<br />The wondering if this or - that becomes<br />One most; what furnishings are suitable;<br />What friends invited. - Well, we're saved some burdens.<br />Compared, this sack is light; but canst thou - manage?<br />Then sling the stag upon thy back. Now let<br />Us venture? Where's my dove? - Ah here still perched<br />Upon my shoulder, our only wedding guest;<br />Who shows the - confidence we feel. - </dd> - <dt><em>Eginhardt.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">I would</span><br />'Twere better witnessed. - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">Tush, Eginhardt, lead on.</span><br /><div><span class='pageno' id='Page_46'>46</span></div> - </dd> - <dt><em>Eginhardt.</em></dt> - <dd>Then bend thy head, protect the bird, protect<br />Our confidence against recoiling - twigs.<br />'Twas by this linden tree I one time found<br />A path; but thou must stoop, - be careful! Love. - </dd> - </dl> - -<div class='lg-container-b c003'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>[<em><span lang="la" xml:lang="la">Exuent</span>, the trees closing on them.</em>]</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div> - <span class='pageno' id='Page_47'>47</span> - <h3 class='c001'>ACT IV.</h3> -</div> - -<p class='c009'><em>Scene.—The same as Act III, six years later. It has a more -deserted appearance. Some smoke escapes the kiln. -The steps of the barricade are broken down, leaving a -narrow passage, through which enter Charles in hunting -attire and Albert, whose court finery is somewhat -dishevelled.</em></p> - - <dl class='dl_1'> - <dt> </dt> - <dd><em>Charles.</em> Why, Albert, see, there's smoke, haste thee! Inquire! - </dd> - <dt><em>Albert.</em></dt> - <dd>[<em>Looks into the hut.</em>] No sign of life within the hut, my Lord.<br />Nor little - else. An emptiness that weighs<br />Like what's inside my belt. Will you not blow<br - />Your horn, my Lord, that baskets may be brought. - </dd> - <dt><em>Charles.</em></dt> - <dd>My courtiers think of food, of clothes; thou'rt dressed<br />As for a festival and so the - rest.<br />Indeed 'twould shock our simple ancestors<br />Could they but see the follies - prevalent<br />To-day, the love of luxury, the splurge,<br />The flaunt of silk and - jewels, the rich-piled velvets,<br /><span class='pageno' id='Page_48'>48</span>The pranking plumes, the strut and swagger. - Yet<br />Methinks, on closer view, thy feathers have<br />A languid droop, thy coat has - lost its vain<br />Bravado, thy ribboned finery agrees<br />But ill with huntsman's sport. - </dd> - <dt><em>Albert.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">My Lord, if I</span><br />Am privileged to speak, we dressed prepared<br />For Council - work; but you withdrew, changed plans,<br />Made call for dogs and horses, spears and - bows;<br />Gave us no time to change. - </dd> - <dt><em>Charles.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">Do I want fops</span><br />For Councillors? Grave work needs grave attire.<br />Ye came - arrayed for dance and spectacle<br />So I was forced to holiday. The chase<br />Has made - some spectacles, I trow. [<em>Laughing.</em>] Nay stay<br />Thy sulks, seek now thy - friends, beg them retain<br />This morning's lesson; hark! and come not back<br />Until - my horn wakes echoes. - </dd> - <dt><em>Albert.</em></dt> - <dd>[<em>Turns to go, then stops.</em>] But is it wise<br />To leave you here alone, my Lord; - this place<br />Is ill reputed. - </dd> - <dt><em>Charles.</em></dt> - <dd>See that rustic cross,<br />Some pious pilgrim's work. Six years ago<br />'Twas noticed - first; since then long winters have<br />Unloaded snow and whipped the biting blast,<br - />Yet there it stands assuringly. How oft,<br />When unsought vigils have distressed, my - mind<br />Has flown to this same spot, has tried to pierce<br />Its mystery, has lingered - round those branchlets,<br />Gleaned a strange relief; and now again<br />Smoke floats - above the charcoal kiln. All haste,<br />Count Albert, comb the woods, make nearby - search,<br />Discover him who caused that smoke, who stirs<br /><span class='pageno' id='Page_49'>49</span>A smouldering - hope; but still my heart! the flame<br />May yet die down as has so oft occurred.<br - />Haste, haste Count Albert, I would know the worst<br />Or best. -<div class='lg-container-b c003'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>[<em>Albert starts to go. Enter Ernst who collides with him.</em>]</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - - </dd> - <dt><em>Ernst.</em></dt> - <dd>Dost wish to murder me? a bandit!<br />Ho! Help! - </dd> - <dt><em>Albert.</em></dt> - <dd>[<em>Holding Ernst by his collar.</em>] Didst thou cause yonder smoke? - </dd> - <dt><em>Ernst.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">And if</span><br />I did, where is the crime? the kiln is mine,<br />Though long deserted. - Unhand me pray. - </dd> - <dt><em>Albert.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">The King</span><br />Desires thy presence. - </dd> - <dt><em>Ernst.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">A fitter one I'd show,</span><br />Didst thou remove thy knuckles; though, in truth,<br - />Thou flatterest. To hold me so presumes that I<br />Have still the nerve and mettle of - rash youth,<br />His racing-wind, his wiry limbs unfettered<br />By time's harsh - reckoning. Ay, that is better,<br />I breathe again. A nobleman! it seems.<br />I must - have dreamt a cutthroat throttled me,<br />But, by our Lady, thy dress belongs to - neither.<br />Gentility cast-off and mired. May be<br />Thou art some actor who practises - his part. - </dd> - <dt><em>Albert.</em></dt> - <dd>Thou shouldst have studied thine. Servility<br />Becomes a peasant's tongue. - </dd> - <dt><em>Charles.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">Polite to whom?</span><br />To dainty nobles who presume on birth<br /><span class='pageno' id='Page_50'>50</span>And wide - possessions, whose love of play and sport<br />Bids them forget the useful arts, the - work<br />That makes life passable, their Emperor's<br />Renown, the safety of the realm? - No, no.<br />My love is for the striving man whate'er<br />His station be. Is not the - peasants' wisdom,<br />His industry, the backbone of our nation?<br />Ah woe the day when - he forgets his high<br />Estate and seeks to ape his so-called betters. - </dd> - <dt><em>Ernst.</em></dt> - <dd>Great King, I kneel to you, the peasants' friend. - </dd> - <dt><em>Charles.</em></dt> - <dd>And thou art truly Ernst whom we have sought<br />These many years. Tell me, where is my - daughter,<br />The Princess Emma? My foster-son? whom we<br />In sport called "ours." - </dd> - <dt><em>Ernst.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">How should I know?</span><br /> </dd> - <dt><em>Charles.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">Why did'st</span><br />Thou disappear? - </dd> - <dt><em>Ernst.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">My Guta was afraid.</span><br /> </dd> - <dt><em>Charles.</em></dt> - <dd>Afraid? Speak on! Impatience frets, afraid<br />Of what? - </dd> - <dt><em>Ernst.</em></dt> - <dd>Of telling tales. - </dd> - <dt><em>Charles.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">Thy trade of yore;</span><br />But now I ask the simple truth unvarnished. - </dd> - <dt><em>Ernst.</em></dt> - <dd>My Lord, 'twas truth we feared; when witchcraft plays,<br />A silent tongue is safest. We - had seen<br />Too much. We slipped away. And now, alas!<br />Poor Guta! [<em>He - weeps.</em>] -<div><span class='pageno' id='Page_51'>51</span></div> - </dd> - <dt><em>Charles.</em></dt> - <dd>If she be dead I pity thee.<br />'Tis heartfelt! I have drained the bitter cup.<br />I - understand. A worthy woman! a dear<br />Companion! Friend Ernst thou hast my sympathy,<br - />But grief with thee is indexed, chapter and verse,<br />Each last sad smile, each - parting word. Thou mayst<br />Read slowly this remembrance, skip the next,<br />Avoid - what is most harassing. It can't<br />Be changed, the book is writ; but mine is blank.<br - />Where is my daughter? write the lines for me. - </dd> - <dt><em>Ernst.</em></dt> - <dd>My Lord, why ask a charcoal-burner? If she<br />Be missing, those of higher rank will - know,<br />Not I. - </dd> - <dt><em>Charles.</em></dt> - <dd>But thou hast just confessed a knowledge.<br />Shall I stand longer here and wheedle - words,<br />Or shall I blow my horn? Let torture bring<br />Some sense. - </dd> - <dt><em>Ernst.</em></dt> - <dd>My Lord, have mercy! - </dd> - <dt><em>Charles.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">Then out with it!</span><br />Why did'st thou fly six years ago? nor bring<br />The Lord - Archbishop news. - </dd> - <dt><em>Ernst.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">My Lord, that is</span><br />A simple question, simple as thin ice,<br />That skins the - depth, yet holds till rudely struck.<br />Let us reach shallows far from here before<br - />We test its brittleness. - </dd> - <dt><em>Charles.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">Nay speak, and promptly.</span><br /> </dd> - <dt><em>Ernst.</em></dt> - <dd>Then take the onus, Sire, I've warned. For me<br />Nought matters now, my Guta's dead. - Besides<br />A king's hot temper may extrude more sparks<br />Than witch's fell - bedevilment. So listen!<br /><span class='pageno' id='Page_52'>52</span>Six years ago a semblance, a strange wild woman,<br - />Not of mortal birth, escaped the hills,<br />Came moaning here, cast amorous glances, - trapping<br />With beauty's mesh the soul of our dear friend,<br />Our foster-son. Before - this feeble cross,<br />Whose magic keeps it firm spite time's decay,<br />An awesome - rite took place; those two exchanged<br />The marriage oath, scarce said the words, when - skies<br />Blew open, a bird descended, 'twas like a dove;<br />But well we knew 'twas - come from Odin's shoulder<br />To perch upon the smiling hag. - </dd> - <dt><em>Charles.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">Thou darest</span><br />So call my child, insulting her as me.<br />It was the Princess - Emma. - </dd> - <dt><em>Ernst.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">Nay, my Lord,</span><br />Although methinks there was some likeness, still<br />She came - without attendants, her hair dishevelled,<br />Her garments torn; besides I've proof. But - patience!<br />We sought good Father Hildebold, mistook<br />The way, took council, - agreed 'twas well to wait<br />Developments, so found an ancient friend<br />And visited - the elephant, a beast<br />Of weirdest size, whose arm-like nose, whose trunk,<br />Was - sucking from a bucket, then mouthwards curved<br />And poured the flow until we heard the - water<br />Gushing through his mighty stomach. O— - </dd> - <dt><em>Charles.</em></dt> - <dd>Away with rounding O's. Keep straight thy tale. - </dd> - <dt><em>Ernst.</em></dt> - <dd>'Twas late one night when we crept back, the place<br />Was still, no movement, deserted; - ay and more;<br />The hut was vacant, our belongings gone.<br />A light though strangely - gleamed, a moon ray or—<br />We plucked it, troth a goblin stone; 'twas left<br />As pay; - but could it pay for goods endeared<br /><span class='pageno' id='Page_53'>53</span>By use? No, no, a thousand times. We - wept;<br />So passed the hours till ruthless day affirmed<br />Our loss. Provisions, - tools, utensils, all<br />Were gone, and e'en some garnered seeds. If such<br />Could - happen, why not worse? Our lives? We'd find<br />A safe asylum, work elsewhere, poor - Guta!<br />And now my proofs: the goblin stone, this bit<br />Of beldame finery, a scrap, - the cross<br />Had kept. [<em>He unwraps his treasures.</em>] - </dd> - <dt><em>Charles.</em></dt> - <dd>Why Ernst, thou hast a royal stone.<br />'Tis worth a noble's ransom, and thou dost - cry<br />For peasant chattels, a royal stone indeed!<br />It must have slipped my crown - that night six years<br />Ago. What corners have been swept for it.<br />What countries - searched for them; who left it here.<br />And this frayed scrap is holy silk; I feel<br - />Its texture. Where? O where can they have gone? - </dd> - <dt><em>Ernst.</em></dt> - <dd>Those thickets yonder hide the secret. Fierce<br />Carousing, banqueting from golden - plate<br />Or grave-yard bones, who knows? No mortal has<br />Retraced his steps though - more than they have dared<br />The bosky growth. Far, far within are dwarfs,<br />Wild - women of the hills and mystic stags<br />That lure to doom. O Sire, return! it is<br - />Not safe to meddle, nor speak where trees have ears. -<div class='lg-container-b c003'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>[<em>A rustling is heard 'mid the trees.</em>]</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - - </dd> - <dt> </dt> - <dd>What's that? a rustling breath that warns. - </dd> - <dt><em>Charles.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">More like</span><br />A prying zephyr. The woodman's axe will fell<br />This mystery. I'll - give prompt orders—yet<br />A pause—to think, prepare myself for what?<br />Hope fanned - afresh? or chilled to ash? So leave me<br />Ernst, and thou Count Albert, a moment's - rest<br /><span class='pageno' id='Page_54'>54</span>Before we prize the lock. I would be strong. - </dd> - <dt><em>Albert.</em></dt> - <dd>'Tis injudicious, most unsafe, my Lord.<br />We've heard enough to fright the staunchest - saint<br />Of Holy Church. - </dd> - <dt><em>Charles.</em></dt> - <dd>And thou art far from that.<br />Well cross thyself, tell beads, or what thou wilt;<br - />But leave me here. Go, quiet the horses. Hark!<br />They champ impatience. I must curb - myself.<br />If kingdoms fell would I be so disturbed? - </dd> - <dt><em>Albert.</em></dt> - <dd>Come Ernst, we'll tarry near, thou must know more,<br />I'd hear it all. -<div class='lg-container-r c003'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>[<em><span lang="la" xml:lang="la">Exuent</span> Albert and Ernst.</em>]</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - - </dd> - <dt><em>Charles.</em></dt> - <dd>I'm strangely tired, this bank<br />Affords repose, though peace is far. -<div class='lg-container-b c003'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>[<em>He falls asleep. The scene grows perfectly dark. After</em></div> - <div class='line'><em>a time the twinkling light of candles gradually discloses</em></div> - <div class='line'><em>three mushroom-shaped tables, on which the candles stand</em></div> - <div class='line'><em>among golden goblets and dishes. Around each table sits</em></div> - <div class='line'><em>a group of three Wish-maidens, aethereally dressed, with</em></div> - <div class='line'><em>long flowing locks.</em>]</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - - </dd> - <dt><em>Wish-maidens.</em></dt> - <dd> -<div class='lg-container-b'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in2'>Sisters, we quaff to the past,</div> - <div class='line'>When forests were thick and daylight dim.</div> - <div class='line in2'>Sisters, we quaff to the past.</div> - <div class='line'>Once sacred this grove, here heard Woden's hymn.</div> - <div class='line in2'>Sisters, we quaff to the past.</div> - <div class='line in2'>The past! the past! [<em>They drink deeply.</em>]</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Wind-spirits are we, wild women called,</div> - <div class='line in2'>Substance of water and air,</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_55'>55</span>Of fabric whence breathed the ancient scald</div> - <div class='line in2'>Verses that seize and ensnare.</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Through tempests we ride, upheaval's din,</div> - <div class='line in2'>Light as a figment of dreams,</div> - <div class='line'>And sometimes we flash a visioned sin,</div> - <div class='line in2'>Sometimes a virtue that gleams.</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>The bubbles of thought we puff at night</div> - <div class='line in2'>Enter the soul that is cursed,</div> - <div class='line'>Awaking a shameless appetite,</div> - <div class='line in2'>Perfidy, shuffling, war-thirst.</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>The bubbles of thought we throw from light</div> - <div class='line in2'>Enter the soul that is blessed,</div> - <div class='line'>Like dust of the rainbow, pearled and bright,</div> - <div class='line in2'>Singing of hope and of quest.</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>But Sisters the future stores for us</div> - <div class='line in2'>Obloquy, exile, and wrong;</div> - <div class='line'>Already the signs grow ominous,</div> - <div class='line in2'>Seldom man hearkens to song.</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>So spill from our cups—earth honouring,</div> - <div class='line in2'>Earth that will triumph one day;</div> - <div class='line'>Let earth play the tune round faery ring,</div> - <div class='line in2'>Twanging the strings we obey.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-b c003'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>[<em>Where the wine is spilt on the ground dwarfs spring up,</em></div> - <div class='line'><em>each clad in green and bearing a golden harp.</em>]</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-b'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Clear tables away, come dwarfs, come elves</div> - <div class='line in2'>Harp for us, harp long and loud!</div> - <div class='line'>Let fingers that grasp the golden helves</div> - <div class='line in2'>Work strings with music endowed.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-b c003'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_56'>56</span>[<em>The tables are pushed back. In front sit the dwarfs</em></div> - <div class='line'><em>who first play slow dance music, gradually quickening the</em></div> - <div class='line'><em>time. The Wish-maidens dance in three groups. From a</em></div> - <div class='line'><em>slow gliding step they arrive at a dizzy whirl. Then</em></div> - <div class='line'><em>suddenly they stop, break up their groups and sing</em></div> - <div class='line'><em>while making steps and motions to imitate weaving.</em>]</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-b'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>We dance to the past while weaving tales,</div> - <div class='line in2'>Rosy with mist of the dawn,</div> - <div class='line'>Astir with the mood of wilful gales,</div> - <div class='line in2'>Lightsome as leap of a fawn.</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>We dance to the present, weaving fears.</div> - <div class='line in2'>Daylight strews shadows behind;</div> - <div class='line'>The dazzle of noon dissolves in tears,</div> - <div class='line in2'>Man is the sport of the wind.</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>We dance to the future, weaving death,</div> - <div class='line in2'>Purpled with evening sky;</div> - <div class='line'>A knowledge has come with failing breath,</div> - <div class='line in2'>The courts of Valhalla on high.</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>So round and around we faster spin,</div> - <div class='line in2'>Straightening the tangles of time;</div> - <div class='line'>We dance to the earth, find spirit within,</div> - <div class='line in2'>Hark! to the music sublime.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-b c003'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>[<em>They stand prettily poised listening, each with the right</em></div> - <div class='line'><em>forefinger raised. The scene grows quite dark again</em></div> - <div class='line'><em>while delightful strains of heavenly music are heard.</em></div> - <div class='line'><em>After a time they die away. The scene lightens, Charles is</em></div> - <div class='line'><em>discovered still sleeping. All trace of Wish-maidens, tables</em></div> - <div class='line'><em>and dwarfs have disappeared unless it be David, a little</em></div> - <div class='line'><em>green-clad figure, who enters from the copse, losing his</em></div> - <div class='line'><em>hat on a thornbush. He looks round wonderingly, then</em></div> - <div class='line'><em>comes and examines Charles.</em>]</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - - </dd> - <dt><em>David.</em></dt> - <dd>Goliath as my name is David, Giant<br /><span class='pageno' id='Page_57'>57</span>Goliath. Indeed I've found adventure. - Yet<br />I have no sling. Might I not steal his sword,<br />To carry home a giant's head, - would not<br />The ancients envy me? My Father, though<br />A mighty hunter, has never - brought such game.<br />Soft, soft, he sleeps. I'll lightly pull. The sword<br />Slips - loose from out its sheath, a bolder tug;<br />Ah now it comes. -<div class='lg-container-b c003'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>[<em>Enter Ernst. He sees David and stands transfixed.</em>]</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - - </dd> - <dt><em>Charles.</em></dt> - <dd>[<em>Waking.</em>] What's that? who drags my sword.<br />Am I asleep? do I still dream? a - dwarf,<br />A tiny green-clad man like those who harped<br />The magic tune. Have pagan - times returned?<br />My Lord Archbishop warned me 'gainst the tales<br />Of ancient days. - An old man's mind should steep<br />Itself in gospel truth; what troubles have<br />I - brewed? And yet the sky seems natural,<br />The sun and trees. What art thou? elf or - child?<br />Of goblin birth or Christian ancestry? - </dd> - <dt>David.</dt> - <dd>[<em>Singing.</em>] -<div class='lg-container-b'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in10'>Pass the loving cup,</div> - <div class='line in12'>Kling, klang, klung.</div> - <div class='line in10'>Let us brightly sup,</div> - <div class='line in12'>Ting, tang, tung.</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in10'>What's disturbed by light,</div> - <div class='line in12'>Ting, tang, tung.</div> - <div class='line in10'>Let us mend at night,</div> - <div class='line in12'>Kling, klang, klung.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - - </dd> - <dt><em>Ernst.</em></dt> - <dd>That song has answered you. My mother heard<br />It in her youth and hers before and - alway<br />A little man like this made music. See,<br /><span class='pageno' id='Page_58'>58</span>Thorn-caught, there - hangs the hat that blurs and hides<br />Its goblin wearer. Never have I seen<br />Such - mannikin until to-day; though oft<br />On winter nights annoyed by raps and creaks;<br - />Strange pranks they play, themselves invisible. - </dd> - <dt><em>David.</em></dt> - <dd>'Tis true, my hat was flicked away. This sword<br />Will help recovery. Alack the - tear!<br />A nasty rent. - </dd> - <dt><em>Charles.</em></dt> - <dd>Before thou fad'st in space,<br />Return my sword. - </dd> - <dt><em>David.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">Nay, nay, Goliath, we'll</span><br />Consult my mother. - </dd> - <dt><em>Charles.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">Thy Mother?</span><br /> </dd> - <dt><em>David.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">Ay, my Mother.</span><br />Her favoured stag, the one she trained and petted,<br />Came - flagging home to die, a pool of blood<br />Around. - </dd> - <dt><em>Charles.</em></dt> - <dd>A wounded stag but lately 'scaped<br />Our dogs. - </dd> - <dt><em>David.</em></dt> - <dd>I knew thou wert the culprit, Giant<br />Goliath. If thou hadst not waked, I would<br - />Have sawed thy neck as Father saws great logs,<br />Then carried home thy gory head, - that long<br />White beard would serve as handle. Instead I'll take<br />Thee prisoner! - so follow, march. They call<br />Me David, a name that strikes some fear. - </dd> - <dt><em>Charles.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">Indeed,</span><br />My little man, it does, and some have called<br />Me David too and - some have shrunk from me.<br /><span class='pageno' id='Page_59'>59</span>But I will follow thee. Lead on! - </dd> - <dt><em>David.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">If thou'lt</span><br />Play fair, will promise not to snatch the sword,<br />I'll lend my - help, hold back the twigs that else<br />Might blind; but thou must make a giant's - promise. - </dd> - <dt><em>Charles.</em></dt> - <dd>I promise! - </dd> - <dt><em>David.</em></dt> - <dd>And I can trust thy word for giants<br />Like dwarfs and elves must speak what's in their - hearts.<br />They are all through as clear as bright spring-water.<br />'Tis otherwise - with man, my Father says,<br />His lips may smile the softest "yes" while "no"<br />Is - boring through his heart. There's one who plucks<br />Thy coat. He has a baneful eye. - Come shake<br />Him off, I wait. - </dd> - <dt><em>Ernst.</em></dt> - <dd>[<em>Holding Charles' coat.</em>] My Lord, consider, I pray you.<br />Remember your high - station. You are the Star;<br />Whose rays shed peace on countless millions. O<br - />Imperil not the light of Christendom!<br />My voice may crack and quiver from the - strain<br />Of time. It carries though authority,<br />Thy peoples' need! - </dd> - <dt><em>Charles.</em></dt> - <dd>[<em>Shaking Ernst off.</em>] Back Ernst, my mind is set.<br />I'll sift the matter - through, take consequence.<br />Lead on my boy; let briars, thorns and nettles<br />Prick - doubt to shreds. Lead on! Give me that peace<br />My humblest subject craves. - </dd> - <dt><em>David.</em></dt> - <dd>[<em>Parting the shrubs by the linden.</em>] Then stoop, Goliath,<br />Stoop. Here is the - secret entrance. Canst thou<br />Bend low enough? -<div><span class='pageno' id='Page_60'>60</span></div> - </dd> - <dt><em>Charles.</em></dt> - <dd>[<em>Stooping.</em>] Ay low enough, God knows,<br />May He protect! -<div class='lg-container-r c003'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>[<em>As Charles disappears, following David,</em></div> - <div class='line in4'><em>enter Albert.</em>]</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - - </dd> - <dt><em>Albert.</em></dt> - <dd>The King? - </dd> - <dt><em>Ernst.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">Enticed away</span><br />Like Master Eginhardt. Those woods have closed<br />On Majesty, - ah woe the day! - </dd> - <dt><em>Albert.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">Ah woe</span><br />Indeed! where shall we turn? Old man, come steer<br />My course; the - ship is rudderless, the captain<br />Has gone. - </dd> - <dt><em>Ernst.</em></dt> - <dd>And so you call on me, a peasant;<br />Forgetting noble birth and heritage!<br />Go - search your prized gentility, your schooling,<br />Your war-time prowess, your hunting - skill, your pride,<br />Vain-glory, your anything. Leave me. I have<br />A friend—another - friend, to mourn. When one<br />Is old and poorly circumstanced, good friends<br />Are - sadly missed, alas! - </dd> - <dt><em>Albert.</em></dt> - <dd>Thou weep'st a friend—<br />The surging ocean 'broils the land and thou<br />Dost cower - above a puddle! A friend, nay, nay;<br />A King, an Emperor, the one strong man. - </dd> - <dt><em>Ernst.</em></dt> - <dd>Did I not plead?—but grief digs as it will. - </dd> - <dt><em>Albert.</em></dt> - <dd>And thou art right. Have I not cause for fear?<br />Who is responsible? will I be - blamed?<br />Old man dry up thy tears, give thought, help break<br />This hush that - tantalizes. Hark! a rumble!<br />The clash of horses; our friends arrive. Ho - there!<br /><span class='pageno' id='Page_61'>61</span>Come help!—The King is lost. -<div class='lg-container-r c003'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>[<em>Enter Audulf, Herbert and other courtiers scrambling</em></div> - <div class='line'><em>over the barricade. Their rich attire, like Albert's,</em></div> - <div class='line'><em>has suffered somewhat from the chase.</em>]</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - - </dd> - <dt><em>Audulf.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">Is lost? How can</span><br />That be when you Lord Count are found? Ay hang<br />Your - head, 'twill need explaining. Is lost? but here's<br />His hunting-spear. You jest, Lord - Count, he can't<br />Be far. Is this a game? - </dd> - <dt><em>Albert.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">I would it were!</span><br /> </dd> - <dt><em>Audulf.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">Then let us search; which way went he?</span><br /> </dd> - <dt><em>Ernst.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">Where ways</span><br />Are none, whence none have yet returned. - </dd> - <dt><em>Audulf.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">Thou mean'st</span><br />The King is dead. Impossible! - </dd> - <dt><em>Ernst.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">See there</span><br />That tanglement. Could you alone, unweaponed<br />Pierce far? And - yet those branches swung apart<br />As once the Red Sea waves, then swiftly closed<br - />Upon our Charles as surged the swelling tide<br />O'er Egypt's host. Alas! no fiery - pillar<br />Has guided him; there skipped before a dwarf,<br />Green-hued, a morsel from - the nether world,<br />A thievish imp, an elf-enchanter. - </dd> - <dt><em>Albert.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">It seemed</span><br />As though the King stooped low, 'twas here he went. - </dd> - <dt><em>Audulf.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">I see no passage.</span><br /> </dd> - <dt><em>Herbert.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">Let us break through with swords</span><br /><span class='pageno' id='Page_62'>62</span>And spears. - </dd> - <dt><em>Ernst.</em></dt> - <dd>Take heed for magic dwells within.<br />'Twere pity to impair those silken fabrics;<br - />Though somewhat rent and smeared, still maids might find<br />Some trimmings. Your - lives no doubt concern yourselves.<br />Who else would grieve? - </dd> - <dt><em>Albert.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">If we were lost or dead</span><br />Would majesty let fall a scalding tear?<br />The King - has oft rebuked. This morning too<br />He led a wilful chase. Indeed our clothes<br />Can - testify. Have we not cause for quarrel?<br />Upbraiding us forsooth because times - change<br />And fashions too. Is he not Emperor?<br />Why prate of ancient days? of meek, - out-worn,<br />Out-lived simplicity? Instead should we<br />Not rival Eastern Courts in - luxury,<br />In pomp and ease? the trappings of success—<br />Success! and there's the - jolt, has he not paved<br />Its way? whate'er his faults he must be found<br />And that - right speedily. Will none suggest?<br />If we but had a charm of Baltic amber,<br />A - phial of spittal, at least some pungent herbs.<br />There's Ernst, whose mind is stored - with peasant-tales<br />Who tunes the old heroic sagas; who<br />Pretends a knowledge of - those deities<br />That cradled our great race. Does he not know<br />Some runic sign, - some spell, some heathen rite<br />To drown this vile uncertainty? If age<br />Has not - undone thy wit, give us some nostrum,<br />Some countenance from out the crafty past. - </dd> - <dt><em>Ernst.</em></dt> - <dd>My Lord, you sport with words, have you not said<br />Times change and fashions too? Has - daily Mass,<br />The Palace School left you thus weaponless?<br /><span class='pageno' id='Page_63'>63</span>Must you, of - this ninth century, turn back<br />To pagan thought to fight the power of ill?<br />O - fie! fie! fie! a peasant must accoutre,<br />Must offer arms to noblemen? If help<br - />There be, 'tis by that cross. Fall on your knees<br />In humble supplication, tell your - beads,<br />Make Christian vows, invoke the Saints, wake Heaven<br />With moans and - pleading sobs. But he, whose horse<br />Outstrips the rest, must foam its mouth and - froth<br />Its flanks until good Father Hildebold<br />Be traced,—our Lord Archbishop. - Say to him<br />That Ernst has sent—six years may be too late. - </dd> - </dl> - -<div class='lg-container-b c003'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>[<em>Exit Audulf. The rest kneel round the cross.</em>]</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div> - <span class='pageno' id='Page_64'>64</span> - <h3 class='c001'>ACT V.</h3> -</div> - -<p class='c009'><em>Scene—The interior of a log hut. The walls are draped with -rare skins and decorated with horns and heads. The -furniture is covered with skins. There are interesting -collections of curios, dried grasses and ferns; and -everywhere freshly gathered asters in horn mugs. The -whole presents a most artistic appearance. Emma -sits on a couch beside a cradle, crooning a slumber -song to the infant in her arms. Beside her sits Eginhardt, -attaching feathers to his arrows. Through -the door, centre back, fruit trees are seen. Six years -have greatly changed Emma and Eginhardt. The -latter has a long black beard; both are tanned and -seem stouter.</em></p> - - <dl class='dl_1'> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd> -<div class='lg-container-b'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in4'>Little one, close fast thine eyes,</div> - <div class='line in4'>Thy guardian angel near thee flies;</div> - <div class='line in4'>Close thy rosebud-mouth, thine ears</div> - <div class='line in4'>To all want and needless fears.</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in4'>Little one, lie still and rest,</div> - <div class='line in4'>Mother holds thee at her breast,</div> - <div class='line in4'>Like a flower by lover plucked,</div> - <div class='line in4'>Kissed and in maid's kerchief tucked.</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in4'><span class='pageno' id='Page_65'>65</span>Little one, thou'rt sweeter far</div> - <div class='line in4'>Than any petal-textured star,</div> - <div class='line in4'>Sweeter than a lover's gift;</div> - <div class='line in4'>Thou art joy that God hath whiffed.</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in4'>Little one, keep pure and true,</div> - <div class='line in4'>Let no taint thy heart bedew.</div> - <div class='line in4'>Mother's prayer is spent for thee,</div> - <div class='line in4'>Now and through eternity.</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in4'>Little one, if dreams should come,</div> - <div class='line in4'>Hurt, or aught that's troublesome,</div> - <div class='line in4'>Put thy trust in God above</div> - <div class='line in4'>As now thou lean'st on mother-love.</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in4'>Little one, thy cradle's here,</div> - <div class='line in4'>Mother stays and watches near.</div> - <div class='line in4'>Swansdown-pillowed, slumber long,</div> - <div class='line in4'>Mother ends her drowsy song.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-b c003'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>[<em>Emma gently rocks the cradle in which she has laid the</em></div> - <div class='line in43'><em>sleeping child.</em>]</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd>O Eginhardt, he's fast asleep, nought will<br />Disturb. I never knew so good a child.<br - />He's like his father, his dumpy nose upturned;<br />A smile that lingers through his - sleep as though<br />His spirit babbled angel-talk. - </dd> - <dt><em>Eginhardt.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">Thou may'st</span><br />Revile my nose, in troth it doth admit<br />Plebeian birth; but - what of that? when thou,<br />Who own'st the straightest nose in Christendom,<br />Art - well content with it. As for my smile,<br />I must demur, has it not character,<br />When - thou art cause? and yet thou liken'st it<br />To that which flushes this wee bit of soft - Inanity. -<div><span class='pageno' id='Page_66'>66</span></div> - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd>Away with thee, rude scoffer.<br />Nay, look again. Admire as we have done<br />These - hundred times, the long, black silky lashes,<br />That fringe so restfully; a modish - damsel<br />Would give her soul for such possession. Ay<br />'Tis true the smile - resembles thine, the same<br />Calm confidence, a hint of humour, yes,<br />A tryst with - higher things that leaves me far<br />Behind. Now David's smile is like the King,<br />My - Father's, a flash of wit or merriment<br />Or tender love, or pleased concern that - fades<br />As graver thoughts come uppermost. 'Tis strange<br />Of late my Father's face - has haunted me.<br />It bears a wistful look. Dost think he grieves<br />For us? - </dd> - <dt><em>Eginhardt.</em></dt> - <dd>Six years should act as poppy balm,<br />Besides his Jove-like mind has such to - grapple,<br />That private woes are soon reduced to pricks,<br />Scarce felt and then - forgotten. If thou had'st kept<br />The magic ring—but that is long ago.<br />I see it - now upon the frozen pond.<br />I could not sleep that night and so stole forth—<br />A - walk might ease my pain. Unrealized<br />The hunting-lodge was reached and I had - thrown<br />The ring. It glittered 'neath the moon, then I<br />Would have it back; but - suddenly, a crack;<br />It disappeared, black water bubbled—my dream<br />Seemed over. - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd>To begin! dear Eginhardt!<br />If we, through magic, had secured the king's<br - />Affection; courtly pomp, its undercurrents<br />Of jealousy and constant bickerings<br - />Had swallowed us and what we hold most dear,<br /><span class='pageno' id='Page_67'>67</span>Our liberty and close - companionship.<br />How free we are! how happy! this wondrous home<br />With nought - superfluous to hamper; but just<br />Enough for daily needs—a little more<br />To please - one's sense of beauty, and all has grown<br />With married life. There's not a skin that - decks<br />Those walls; but 'tis the fruit of hardy chase,<br />No graceful antler, but - thou hast bent the bow;<br />Each has its story. As for curios,<br />Have I not helped - discover them? and David<br />Has rooted well. The mountain-dwarfs must scatter<br - />Rarities to satisfy the lad,<br />To hear his piping notes of childish triumph,<br - />His chubby hand tight-clutching some gay stone,<br />Or weathered fossil, spotted egg, - or fern,<br />Or tufted grass for drying, or rusty lichen;<br />Each a worthwhile - specimen. 'Tis strange<br />That blindfold avarice should grope in towns,<br />While - forests are thus generous with gifts. - </dd> - <dt><em>Eginhardt.</em></dt> - <dd>True, true, the forest is man's natural home,<br />And yet at times ambition stirs. Was - I<br />Not once great Charles' youngest councillor?<br />Have I not planned his palaces? - laid out<br />His gardens? supervised his public works?<br />The ever-famed basilica; - have I<br />Not felt his love? He called me foster-son. -<div class='lg-container-b c003'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>[<em>He drops his head in his hands.</em>]</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd>Weep not, dear Eginhardt, we are content. - </dd> - <dt><em>Eginhardt.</em></dt> - <dd>Ay wife, we are content and happiness<br />Doth flood; still far beneath strange eddies - surge,<br />Nay rather purl; but there they are—a vague<br />Uneasiness— - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">Thou frighten'st me.</span><br /><div><span class='pageno' id='Page_68'>68</span></div> - </dd> - <dt><em>Eginhardt.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">Then lay</span><br />Thy cheek 'gainst mine and smile, the mood has passed.<br />But let - us talk of him whose towering genius<br />Projects such sparks that lesser minds are - fired,<br />A galaxy illumes the sky, great deeds<br />Are done!—and we stay trifling - here. The mood<br />I said had passed—and we are quite content.<br />But still we'll talk - of him, our Charles, whose fame<br />Will ring throughout the centuries while we,<br - />Dear Emma, are forgot or sunk to myth.<br />His age we've known, when fires are - somewhat dimmed,<br />What must his ardent youth have been! surpassing<br />Hannibal, yea - Caesar, in art of war;<br />Manoeuvering, until a tiny force,<br />Thrown here and there, - has downed a mighty host.<br />Persistency through good, through evil fortune,<br />Till - restive Europe feels the curb of peace,<br />Acknowledging its blessing. The Saxon - idol<br />Has crumbled, the Arab-crescent stays its distance;<br />The Northman dares not - venture. One man, one mind<br />Accomplishing so much! and now he seeks<br />To cleanse - the Church, to make a roadway 'mid<br />The brambles of divergent laws, to wake<br />A - nation's pride, reviving tales, rude songs<br />Of hero-ancestry. With pause, he would<br - />Himself have ventured more than playful verse.<br />There is that vibrant hymn he - wrote, asserting<br />The Holy Ghost comes from the Son as Father.<br />In truth he hath - a poet's soul and that<br />Maybe explains! An autocrat and yet<br />The servant of his - people; fathoming<br />Their needs, to satisfy or wisely guide. - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd>Some say he hath worked miracles, thou know'st<br />The story of the flowers. - </dd> - <dt><em>Eginhardt.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">Ay, but let</span><br /><span class='pageno' id='Page_69'>69</span>It fall again from thy sweet lips. - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">The King,</span><br />My Father, had shamed the Saracen; but O<br />At what a cost! - Archbishop Turpin, brave Roland,<br />And many another paladin returned<br />No more. O - war, it is a ghastly thing!<br />The victor suffers as the vanquished, though pride<br - />May not acknowledge it. Our hardy troops,<br />Who struggled past the Pyrenees, brought - plague,<br />That Southern ill. It spread through Rhenish towns,<br />Death stalked from - house to house, all nostrums failed.<br />The learned Doctors could but shake their - heads,<br />Fear seized each heart—and then man turned to God.<br />He fasted, prayed and - promised. The King, my Father,<br />Nor slept, nor eat, imploring constantly,<br />Until - celestial voices spoke: "The Lord<br />Hath heard thy prayer. The meadow holds reply;<br - />Ride forth, His name upon thy lips, then string<br />Thy bow and upward shoot." The - King arose,<br />Nor felt the chilling dawn, a silent figure,<br />Upon his great black - charger, he passed the gate;<br />His lips were mumbling prayer and so he went.<br />The - open reached, they say, a wondrous light<br />Passed o'er his face as looking - heavenward,<br />He sprung the bow. High winged the shaft as though<br />To pierce the - firmament, then wavering fell,<br />And lo its blunted end had crushed the stem<br />Of - that small golden flower, whose thistle-bloom<br />Has since been called "carlina," - bearing thus<br />The King, my Father's name to blazon through<br />The centuries how God - lent heed to prayer.<br />The arrow-head was damped with juice, so found<br />The remedy. - Again was laughter heard,<br />As eager children gathered plants; a flush<br />Returned - to pallid cheeks, the light of hope<br />To sunken eyes. And so the plague was - stayed<br /><span class='pageno' id='Page_70'>70</span>And death slunk off disconsolate.—But where's<br />Our David? and - this his special tale, why at<br />This point he likes to thrust his wooden sword<br />As - though to stab a threatening foe. Ay youth<br />Can combat death; but what of age? - </dd> - <dt><em>Eginhardt.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">Talk'st thou</span><br />Of age? whose cheeks are soft and round. I will<br />Admit thou - hast enough of woman's wisdom<br />To delve some crisscross lines or tiny crows-feet.<br - />But none I see, not one wee crease and that<br />Reflects some credit on thy husband's - care;<br />Six years! and lovers still! was ever known<br />Such foolish pair. [<em>He - kisses her.</em>] - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">Was ever? Eginhardt.</span><br />But not of self I thought, a father's face!<br />That may - have deeper lines because of us.<br />Ah, 'tis ever so, that face obtrudes—<br />But - where has David gone? I now remember,<br />He asked to gather acorns—and oaks are near<br - />The zigzag path that leads—that leads beyond<br />The realms of happiness, O let us - search<br />And quickly, if harm should come— - </dd> - <dt><em>David.</em></dt> - <dd>[<em>Without.</em>]<span class="dialogright">Ting, tang!</span><br /> </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">His voice,</span><br />Thank God, his clear shrill treble. -<div class='lg-container-r c003'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>[<em>Enter David.</em>]</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - - </dd> - <dt> </dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">O David, thou</span><br />Hast frightened me! - </dd> - <dt><em>David.</em></dt> - <dd>[<em>Twirling the sword.</em>] That's nought but play-pretence;<br />But now thy hair - shall stand on end, see what<br />I brandish here. -<div><span class='pageno' id='Page_71'>71</span></div> - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">My son, pray heed, take care!</span><br />A real sword! and one of consequence?<br />It - is, it is— - </dd> - <dt><em>David.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">A giant's sword! O Mother!</span><br />Thy son's a dauntless hero, as those thou - sing'st<br />About. - </dd> - <dt><em>Eginhardt.</em></dt> - <dd>A naughty vagabond, more like,<br />Where hast thou been? Give me the sword. - </dd> - <dt><em>David.</em></dt> - <dd>[<em>Handing the sword to Emma.</em>]<span class="dialogright">Nay, nay!</span><br />'Tis mother's; but I've outrun - the prisoner,<br />An honest giant, although he killed our stag.<br />Hi there! Goliath! -<div class='lg-container-b c003'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in12'>[<em>Enter Charles, who stoops to pass the</em></div> - <div class='line'><em>doorway. He does not recognize his hosts.</em>]</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - - </dd> - <dt> </dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">See Mother the captive I</span><br />Have taken. Now proudly smile and call me hero. - </dd> - <dt><em>Charles.</em></dt> - <dd>This door was never built for captive giants<br />But gladly I'll acknowledge, dame, thou - hast<br />A stalwart hero! a splendid boy! - </dd> - <dt><em>David.</em></dt> - <dd>[<em>Clapping his hands and dancing round.</em>] There! there!<br />I said as much, a - hero! a hero! a hero! - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd> -<div class='lg-container-b c003'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>[<em>Who, with Eginhardt, recognizes Charles, laying</em></div> - <div class='line'><em>her hand on her heart as though to still its throbbings.</em>]</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - - </dd> - <dt> </dt> - <dd> Quiet boy! let others sing thy praise.<br />I welcome you, my Lord, your face, this - weapon<br />Proclaim nobility; we are unused<br />To strangers here. Forgive a trembling - voice. - </dd> - <dt><em>Charles.</em></dt> - <dd>[<em>Looking round.</em>] But not a peasant's voice, I swear, and this<br /><span class='pageno' id='Page_72'>72</span>No - peasant's hovel: such skins, so well arranged,<br />Such forest wealth would grace our - hunting lodge.<br />I've never seen a room so strangely decked,<br />Nor one that suits - me better. If magic's here,<br />Then let it be, I'm well content. -<div class='lg-container-r c003'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>[<em>He sits by the central table.</em>]</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - - </dd> - <dt><em>David.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">Without</span><br />Thy sword, Goliath? - </dd> - <dt><em>Charles.</em></dt> - <dd>[<em>Receiving his sword.</em>] Ay, without my sword,<br />And yet I'd handle it. - Joyeuse! thy title<br />Becomes thee well to-day. Dear blade; a sweet<br />Adventure has - wiped thee clean. Thy name is freed<br />From irony. Joyeuse! Joyeuse! Joyeuse—<br />A - happy languor steals. - </dd> - <dt><em>David.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">O Mother, Goliath</span><br />Seems quite at home. His head is nodding sleep;<br />'Tis - well I did not sever it. A tame,<br />Old giant for playmate, how the boys in tales<br - />Would envy me! We'll feed and treat him well.<br />O Mother! Father! say that I may - keep<br />My prisoner. - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd>Indeed my son thou mayst.<br />If there be strength in human love, 'twill hold<br />Him - close. [<em>David jumps delight.</em>] But softly boy, thou must be more<br />Polite, - more circumspect. O Eginhardt!<br />He looks so peaceful. Think you that mood will - change,<br />That passion will distort his brow when he<br />Discovers? - </dd> - <dt><em>Eginhardt.</em></dt> - <dd>He has not realized and yet<br />Has felt thy soothing presence. O 'twould be<br - />Impossible to meet thy tender gaze<br /><span class='pageno' id='Page_73'>73</span>And then to break from it. Ay love - will hold<br />Him here; but let the truth come leaking out,<br />Lest joy disturb his - age. - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">Thou hast more hope</span><br />Than I, who am his daughter. - </dd> - <dt><em>David.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">The giant's daughter?</span><br /> </dd> - <dt><em>Eginhardt.</em></dt> - <dd>Hush David, help bring the dishes, not one word<br />Until I give consent. - [<em>Addressing Emma.</em>] Hast thou prepared<br />The venison? - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd>The way he likes it, ay,<br />Well seasoned, with relish and proper garnishings<br />That - blend with forest wine. I've but to serve. - </dd> - <dt><em>Eginhardt.</em></dt> - <dd>Then haste thee, Wife, while I make search within<br />This precious book, "God's City," - to find the place<br />Left off six years ago, when last I read<br />At meal-time. Ah, - 'tis here; a tiny mark<br />Bears witness, blurred with tears, with frequent handling. -<div class='lg-container-b c003'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>[<em>While Emma places the venison on the table, David,</em></div> - <div class='line'><em>who has his eyes on Charles, drops a dish, waking the</em></div> - <div class='line'><em>latter.</em>]</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - - </dd> - <dt><em>Charles.</em></dt> - <dd>By all the Saints, a feast! the table set<br />As at the palace e'en though wood and - horn<br />Replace our silver ware. And venison<br />That smells like roasted meat, not - boiled to shreds<br />As my dull doctors have prescribed. I smell<br />An old time - flavour. Surely, Dame, thou hast<br />Not been at court? -<div><span class='pageno' id='Page_74'>74</span></div> - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd>My Lord, some years ago<br />I served as kitchen-wench. The Princess Emma— - </dd> - <dt><em>Charles.</em></dt> - <dd>Talk not of her—unless thou knowest aught. - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd>My Lord, you come from court; why question then<br />My ignorance? But see the venison<br - />Awaits, we wish a kind report; we trust<br />Our cheer will strengthen you. - </dd> - <dt><em>Charles.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">Then sit ye here</span><br />And eat. Consider me a humble guest.<br />My lad, canst thou - say grace? - </dd> - <dt><em>David.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">Indeed, Sir Giant,</span><br />A Latin Ave too. -<div class='lg-container-b c003'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in12'>[<em>He mumbles an Ave Maria while all cross</em></div> - <div class='line'><em>themselves and sit down. Emma carves the venison,</em></div> - <div class='line'><em>Eginhardt opens his book. Charles stares wonderingly</em></div> - <div class='line'><em>round.</em>]</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - - </dd> - <dt><em>Charles.</em></dt> - <dd>Such culture so far removed from influence,<br />In this unknown retreat is surely - most<br />Uncommon, an element of mystery<br />That suits me well. I feel a living - part<br />Of it—untrammelled, so much at home. Good people!<br />Ye practise kindly - spells, weave on! weave on!<br />Nor let me wake. - </dd> - <dt><em>Eginhardt.</em></dt> - <dd>Then taste our venison,<br />My Lord. [<em>Addressing Emma.</em>] A goodly helping! - whilst I do read<br />A passage as our custom—once— -<div class='lg-container-b c003'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>[<em>He reads from Chapter XII. of the Nineteenth Book of</em></div> - <div class='line'><em>"The City of God."</em>]</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - - </dd> - <dt> </dt> - <dd><span class='pageno' id='Page_75'>75</span>"For joy and peace are desired alike of all men. The warrior would but conquer: war's - aim is nothing but a glorious peace; what is victory but a suppression of resistants, - which being done, peace follows? So that peace is war's purpose, the scope of all - military discipline, and the limit at which all just contentions level. All men seek - peace by war, but none seek war by peace. For they that perturb the peace they live in, - do it not for hate of it, but to show their power in alteration of it. They would not - disannul it; but they would have it as they like;"— - </dd> - <dt><em>Charles.</em></dt> - <dd>"As they like;"—and so they suffer! but that<br />Is past. O Eginhardt, 'tis thee! thy - voice!<br />Thy gesture! and Emma, my daughter Emma, I know<br />Thee now. Come let me - feel, make certain, my dear,<br />Dear child, ay, ay; 'tis not a dream. O God<br />Is - good to my old age. My pet, lean here.<br />These arms have ached for thee. O dearest - one,<br />Why hast thou been so cruel? nor understood<br />A father's love, when time - elapsed, would conquer<br />A moment's ire.—To hide from me, it was<br />Not kind, not - Emma-like. My child! my child— - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd>Then Father thou dost love me still? but what<br />Of him who kneels imploringly, yet - not<br />Repenting, for am I not his wife? - </dd> - <dt><em>Charles.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">If I</span><br />Have missed him once, 'twas every day, for six<br />Long years and is - there more to say? The earth<br />Was combed for him and thee, our agents sent<br />To - foreign courts, to seats of learning; alway<br />A "no" came back that pierced my heart - with stabs<br />Of pain! 'Tis easier to face the slaps<br />Of life when punishment is - undeserved;<br />When one can say at least: "'twas not my fault;"<br />But O the - lingering torture, when one's own act<br /><span class='pageno' id='Page_76'>76</span>Has brought fell consequence. If only - one<br />Could backwards turn, how different! Emma!<br />Eginhardt! help kill the - memory<br />Of those six years, make glad the few that stretch<br />Before me. Ah my - children! dear children! dear children! - </dd> - <dt><em>David.</em></dt> - <dd>Goliath! hast thou forgotten me? - </dd> - <dt><em>Charles.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">Nay, nay</span><br />Brave lad. [<em>The baby cries.</em>] but hark! a cry. - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd>[<em>Takes the baby from the cradle.</em>] Our youngest son<br />Awakes, bids welcome, - completes our happy group. - </dd> - <dt><em>Charles.</em></dt> - <dd>'Twould test an artist's brush to paint such bliss;<br />But let me look, a healthy - child, well-formed,<br />Most promising; but not a David! I<br />Have never seen a finer - lad, a braver!<br />Pray God, court life will keep him so, and that<br />Reminds there is - a court and etiquette<br />And problems, eternal problems! well, so be!<br />If duty - weighs, good Eginhardt, we'll lean<br />On younger arms; so take my horn and blow<br />A - lusty blast, we have the heart to work;<br />And God will aid. -<div class='lg-container-b c003'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>[<em>Eginhardt blows the horn, while Charles turns to his</em></div> - <div class='line'><em>venison and Emma quiets the baby. An answering call</em></div> - <div class='line'><em>comes faint, then louder.</em>]</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - - </dd> - <dt><em>Eginhardt.</em></dt> - <dd>Run David, run, and point<br />The way. [<em>Exit David.</em>] I'll go a step to greet - old friends,<br />Prepare their minds. -<div class='lg-container-r c003'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>[<em>Exit.</em>]</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd>[<em>Laying the baby in his cradle.</em>] Hush, hush— -<div class='lg-container-b c003'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>[<em>She pours some wine for Charles.</em>]</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div><span class='pageno' id='Page_77'>77</span></div> - </dd> - <dt><em>Charles.</em></dt> - <dd>[<em>Drinking.</em>] Thy health, dear Emma. - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd>[<em>Pointing to the holy silk that drapes an altar.</em>]<br />Perhaps this holy silk - has helped with thought<br />Beyond our daily round. See Father, I<br />Have guarded - it—no harm has come to us<br />In this old pagan grove. - </dd> - <dt><em>Charles.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">Nor will it come,</span><br />While simple faith dwells here. I tell thee, Emma,<br - />We'll build a castle round this shrine-like home,<br />Protecting it and all that love - has reared<br />Within and here, at times, we'll seek respite. - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd>And laughter too! O Father, those first few nights.<br />How silently we stole without - and emptied<br />The charcoal-burner's deserted hut; the jewel<br />We left reward enough - for paltry stuff—<br />The wedding dower of Princess Emma—but hark! -<div class='lg-container-b c003'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>[<em>After a pause enter Hildebold, Eginhardt, David,</em></div> - <div class='line'><em>Albert, Ernst and Courtiers.</em>]</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - - </dd> - <dt><em>Charles.</em></dt> - <dd>What Hildebold! our dear disheveled court,<br />And old man Ernst and none afraid to - venture!<br />My Lord Archbishop, the Church has proved its strength<br />To lead through - lanes of mystery and soon<br />My children here will ask its further blessing.<br />But - later, when we are more composed and now<br />A hunting song to make all seem more real. - </dd> - <dt><em>Courtiers.</em></dt> - <dd> -<div class='lg-container-b'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in4'>Ya ho! ya ho! let Frankland ring</div> - <div class='line in6'>With daring deeds, with battles won;</div> - <div class='line in4'>Great Lords submit to Charles, our King,</div> - <div class='line in6'>As stars that fear the rising sun.</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in4'><span class='pageno' id='Page_78'>78</span>Ya ho! ya ho! for Victory!</div> - <div class='line in6'>Now Frankland's voice is heard afar,</div> - <div class='line in4'>It trumpets peace o'er land and sea,</div> - <div class='line in6'>The War God lists and stays his car.</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in4'>Ya ho! ya ho! for huntsman's horn</div> - <div class='line in6'>Awakes once more the forest glade,</div> - <div class='line in4'>With mirth and joy that put to scorn</div> - <div class='line in6'>The battle scar, the murky blade.</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in4'>Ya ho! ya ho! the quarry's traced,</div> - <div class='line in6'>Six years of search have ended now,</div> - <div class='line in4'>The fairest doe that ere was chased,</div> - <div class='line in6'>To her we make a lowly bow.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-b c003'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>[<em>The courtiers all make obeisance to Emma.</em>]</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - - </dd> - <dt><em>Emma.</em></dt> - <dd>And I do thank you, friends; my husband,<br />The King permitting, will speak for me. - </dd> - <dt><em>Charles.</em></dt> - <dd><span class="dialogright">Nay I</span><br />Myself will speak. Good people, listen all,<br />I oft have chided, - seeking the City of God<br />On earth, an Empire as St. Augustine<br />Once visioned—I - have failed—but in this home,<br />I clearly see the germ. - </dd> - </dl> - -<div class='chapter'> - <h2 class='c004'>THE TALL PALMETTO<br /> and<br /> OTHER POEMS</h2> -</div> - -<div> - <span class='pageno' id='Page_83'>83</span> - <h3 class='c001'>THE TALL PALMETTO</h3> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-b c002'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>The dense live-oaks were swept with wrath,</div> - <div class='line in2'>The rubber trees swung roots in mire,</div> - <div class='line'>A fine-leafed cedar tittered spite,</div> - <div class='line in2'>Magnolias were flushed with ire.</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Alone within the garden pale</div> - <div class='line in2'>A tall palmetto gently swayed,</div> - <div class='line'>Serenely straight its feathered head</div> - <div class='line in2'>Above all else had skywards strayed,</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>To catch the first, faint blush of dawn,</div> - <div class='line in2'>To linger long with sunset's glow,</div> - <div class='line'>To trace the moon's illusive course</div> - <div class='line in2'>From orange disc to silvery bow.</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>So strove the palm and was content</div> - <div class='line in2'>To glimpse at times a furtive clue,</div> - <div class='line'>To pierce the haze of mystery,</div> - <div class='line in2'>Emerging thence with leaflet new.</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And as the leaf, fanlike, unfurled,</div> - <div class='line in2'>Its green was showered with radiance,</div> - <div class='line'>Eternal truth had shed fresh light,</div> - <div class='line in2'>Another phaze! another glance.</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And so the palm in stature grew,</div> - <div class='line in2'>In lofty thought and vision wide,</div> - <div class='line'>Unmindful of a carping world,</div> - <div class='line in2'>Outdistancing the trees beside.</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_84'>84</span>Nor hearkened to their small-leafed tones,</div> - <div class='line in2'>The rustling of close-quartered boughs,</div> - <div class='line'>Nor dreamt of murky depths beneath</div> - <div class='line in2'>Whose dark no errant sunbeam ploughs.</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>An ancient oak, misshapen, knarled,</div> - <div class='line in2'>Whose prideful age man's care had crutched,</div> - <div class='line'>Whose groaning branches bent toward earth</div> - <div class='line in2'>Until the barren soil was touched,</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Spoke low with mirthless muttering:</div> - <div class='line in2'>"A scrub palmetto! cabbage palm!</div> - <div class='line'>A worthless sprout but yesterday</div> - <div class='line in2'>Disdaining us with saucy calm!"</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>The rubber tree now sputtered back</div> - <div class='line in2'>While dropping rootlets scratched the dirt:</div> - <div class='line'>"The palm makes bold to grasp the clouds,</div> - <div class='line in2'>With gauzy forms it seeks to flirt."</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>The rounded cedar, clipped and dwarfed,</div> - <div class='line in2'>Agreed with snickers scarce-repressed:</div> - <div class='line'>"A slender form might tempt the clouds,</div> - <div class='line in2'>But never earthlings verdure dressed."</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>The richly decked magnolias,</div> - <div class='line in2'>Who boasted cultured lineage</div> - <div class='line'>And garden-birth in foreign climes,</div> - <div class='line in2'>Made inward flutterings of rage.</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>A country yokel! cabbage palm!</div> - <div class='line in2'>To air itself in heaven's blue!</div> - <div class='line'>So far above their august heads,</div> - <div class='line in2'>What was this new world coming to?</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>The slim palmetto gave no sign</div> - <div class='line in2'>And yet at last these murmurings</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_85'>85</span>Had forced attention, drawn its thoughts</div> - <div class='line in2'>From godly height to baser things.</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>It sought the reason, paused awhile;</div> - <div class='line in2'>Though skies had greyed there pearled some light;</div> - <div class='line'>Then flashed the truth, itself could see;</div> - <div class='line in2'>Those other trees had vision slight.</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And then the palm began to talk</div> - <div class='line in2'>And told of dawn and afterglow.</div> - <div class='line'>How skies touched earth with brilliancy,</div> - <div class='line in2'>It traced the seven-coloured bow.</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>It spoke of rifts in frothy clouds,</div> - <div class='line in2'>Of silent lakes illumed with stars,</div> - <div class='line'>Of earth-mirage in misty air,</div> - <div class='line in2'>Of spirit force that light unbars.</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>The trees were still and hearkened now;</div> - <div class='line in2'>But shallow cups hold little draught</div> - <div class='line'>And soon the weary listeners tired,</div> - <div class='line in2'>Some curled their leaves, while others laughed.</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Then beauty spilled and fell to earth</div> - <div class='line in2'>Where tiny flowers sucked up the drops.</div> - <div class='line'>No single thought had gone awaste,</div> - <div class='line in2'>From some there came rich harvest crops.</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Long afterward, when death had chilled,</div> - <div class='line in2'>A fallen log lay swathed in vine,</div> - <div class='line'>Whence sword-like cacti pushed their blades</div> - <div class='line in2'>And orchids peered 'mid tufted pine.</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Such beauteous decay still blessed</div> - <div class='line in2'>As once the wishful, dreamy palm</div> - <div class='line'>And trees, that erst reviled, made boast</div> - <div class='line in2'>That they had heard its twilight psalm.</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_86'>86</span>And little flowers that humbly trail,</div> - <div class='line in2'>Content to star unseen, unsought,</div> - <div class='line'>'Neath grass to spread their milky-way,</div> - <div class='line in2'>Remember what the palm once taught.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-l'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Florida,</div> - <div class='line in2'>January, 1922.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div> - <span class='pageno' id='Page_87'>87</span> - <h3 class='c001'>CHARLESTON.</h3> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-b c002'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in28'>I.</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>An ancient house, thrice tiered its galleries</div> - <div class='line in2'>And sideways placed, its gardens tucked behind</div> - <div class='line in2'>High walls and iron gates, with taste designed,</div> - <div class='line'>Whence peeps are caught of palms and mossy trees;</div> - <div class='line'>The passion-flamed poinsettia at ease</div> - <div class='line in2'>With quiet pansy bloom, and jonquils lined</div> - <div class='line in2'>In stiff array, and rose that holds enshrined</div> - <div class='line'>Man's love, and English ivy trailing these.</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Within the stately home such tales unfold</div> - <div class='line in2'>As flowers and weathered brick have writ without:</div> - <div class='line in4'>Adventure, proud success, war's agony,</div> - <div class='line'>And now the gentle calm that cloaks the old,</div> - <div class='line in2'>That stills the heart and gives a sense devout;</div> - <div class='line in4'>So, Charleston, thou reveal'st thyself to me.</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in27'>II.</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>I've wandered much through Charleston's cobbled streets</div> - <div class='line in2'>And found each corner's turn a fresh delight;</div> - <div class='line in2'>Old churches, with their memories, invite,</div> - <div class='line'>Their yards, grave-strewn, suggestive, calm retreats.</div> - <div class='line'>A court, with one-time slave annex, completes</div> - <div class='line in2'>The tale of life gone by, while gardens bright</div> - <div class='line in2'>Make known a Southern town; whose homes unite</div> - <div class='line'>This land with charm of English country seats.</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Gay cavaliers imprint their rank and mirth</div> - <div class='line in2'>And courage proven well; sad <a id='r1' /><a href='#f1' class='c010'><sup>[1]</sup></a><span lang="fr" xml:lang="fr">Huguenots</span></div> - <div class='line in4'>Bequeath the virtue tried by terror's reign;</div> - <div class='line'>And Charleston folk are proud to trace their birth,</div> - <div class='line in2'>When forefathers such gracious gifts bestow;</div> - <div class='line in4'>Through changing times the days long past remain.</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line in26'><span class='pageno' id='Page_88'>88</span>III.</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Now hark! those slow-drawled cries: "Fine chucks, pecans!"</div> - <div class='line in2'>"Crabs, crabs!—live crabs!" then, "Cabage, cabagees!"</div> - <div class='line in2'>"Yes ma-am! raw shrimps, yes ma-am." Still further pleas:</div> - <div class='line'>"Sweet potats. I-rish´ potats!" "Banans."</div> - <div class='line'>And so each passing vendor stays and scans</div> - <div class='line in2'>Some friendly gate, whose ancient hinges wheeze;</div> - <div class='line in2'>There's soft-voiced bargaining 'neath spiky trees;</div> - <div class='line'>The turbaned cook and tempter—Africans.</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Africans! nay, nay, Americans!</div> - <div class='line in2'>Their comeliness well suits this smiling clime;</div> - <div class='line in4'>Unwilling captives once, now citizens,</div> - <div class='line'>Whose hearts hold scarce a trace of savage clans;</div> - <div class='line in2'>If childlike still, so be! the hand of time</div> - <div class='line in4'>Is stretched past legacies to shape and cleanse.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='footnote' id='f1'> -<p class='c000'><span class='label'><a href='#r1'>1</a>. </span><em>Pronounced as in French.</em></p> -</div> - -<div> - <span class='pageno' id='Page_89'>89</span> - <h3 class='c001'>LAKE GEORGE.</h3> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-b c002'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Where cedars taper, there's a lake beyond;</div> - <div class='line in2'>Once visioned from the hill, it beckons me;</div> - <div class='line in2'>Soft-hazed with heat's grey, slumbrous canopy,</div> - <div class='line'>Or bright with glittering dust of diamond,</div> - <div class='line'>Or calmed when waning day wafts glances fond,</div> - <div class='line in2'>Or freighted with the moon's pale poesy,</div> - <div class='line in2'>Or blown till sobbing wavelets plash the lea,</div> - <div class='line'>Or sunk in starless night like fabled pond.</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Whate'er thy mood, O dream-kissed, mountain lake;</div> - <div class='line in2'>It lingers still, my inmost self replies;</div> - <div class='line in4'>But where's the song that plumbs the depth of thought?</div> - <div class='line'>The lyre has lost its strings, the words forsake.</div> - <div class='line in2'>What Art's so high; but Nature far outvies?</div> - <div class='line in4'>In silent wonderment, God's voice is caught.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div> - <span class='pageno' id='Page_90'>90</span> - <h3 class='c001'>THE EVENING STAR.</h3> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-b c002'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Beneath a weight of glistening snow each bough was bent,</div> - <div class='line in2'>Ice-glued the crystal cushions took strange form,</div> - <div class='line'>Like ghosts of prehistoric ferns whose palour blent</div> - <div class='line in2'>With earth and sky—the aftermath of storm.</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>The splattering rain had stayed its noisy, windblown course</div> - <div class='line in2'>And now the padding flakes had ceased to come.</div> - <div class='line'>A silent world that stilled all passion and remorse,</div> - <div class='line in2'>Heart-throbbings, grief, thoughts dull and burthensome.</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And in the shanty's warmth a child lay stretched at rest,</div> - <div class='line in2'>As delicate as winter tracery.</div> - <div class='line'>A mother's eyes sought hers in anxious, tender quest,</div> - <div class='line in2'>Then turned with prayerful light toward western sky,</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>As though to wrest the secret of the universe</div> - <div class='line in2'>From silver drapery and peeps beyond,</div> - <div class='line'>As though one added effort would avail to pierce</div> - <div class='line in2'>The cloaking space, that something must respond.</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>A something e'en more wonderful than branchlets sprayed</div> - <div class='line in2'>In weird fantastic tire 'gainst heaven's deep;</div> - <div class='line'>And lo the mystic blush of evening gently rayed,</div> - <div class='line in2'>Wee cloudlets strayed from mist like flocks of sheep.</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>A wind! or was't a cry? The infant gasped for breath.</div> - <div class='line in2'>Belike soft bleating lambs had wakened her,</div> - <div class='line'>Belike the new-born soul was lured toward lanes of death,</div> - <div class='line in2'>The rosy flush had held a messenger.</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Ah woe that Mother's heart as close she pressed her child;</div> - <div class='line in2'>Poor quivering nameless thing and O so frail</div> - <div class='line'>To penetrate that void—her thoughts grew fierce and wild.</div> - <div class='line in2'>An infant unbaptised, what fears assail?</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_91'>91</span>An erie wind had risen; hark its shrilling cry I</div> - <div class='line in2'>A flickering candle loosed deep shadows round</div> - <div class='line'>That emphasized despair and cruel misery;</div> - <div class='line in2'>The night had come, a sullen night that frowned.</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And nought remained but burning love for help was far,</div> - <div class='line in2'>Nor remedies; and grief had surged and ebbed.</div> - <div class='line'>Again the Mother sought the sky and lo a star</div> - <div class='line in2'>Had forced the clouds; it peered through boughs close-webbed.</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>A bright and steadfast star that shot its friendly rays.</div> - <div class='line in2'>"O Evening Star," the woman softly sobbed,</div> - <div class='line'>"Be sponsor, shed celestial light through trackless haze."</div> - <div class='line in2'>Asudden within her heart the answer throbbed,</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Or winds had drifted: "Innocence." She hearkened, yes</div> - <div class='line in2'>"Innocence," the Star had sanctioned it:</div> - <div class='line'>Her baby's name! Upon its brow with fond caress</div> - <div class='line in2'>And moistened touch the crossing sign was writ.</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And Innocence looked up and smiled and caught the light</div> - <div class='line in2'>That streamed from Evening Star and breathed a sigh</div> - <div class='line'>That held content; a faint, sweet sigh that put to flight</div> - <div class='line in2'>A mother's fear, that hushed anxiety.</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And so the Babe was named and Innocence still cheered</div> - <div class='line in2'>The lonely hut. A father heard the tale;</div> - <div class='line'>How Evening Star had given aid as he had steered</div> - <div class='line in2'>Through her his homeward course, obscured by gale.</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And oft at sunset hour the parents sat and watched</div> - <div class='line in2'>Receding day with grave expectancy,</div> - <div class='line'>At times through lattice work of branches gaunt and notched,</div> - <div class='line in2'>At times through leafy boughs that swathed the sky.</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_92'>92</span>And when the rosy prelude, orchestra of tint,</div> - <div class='line in2'>Had dimmed; with deep, upwelling thought that strives</div> - <div class='line'>And gladsome awe, they faced the Evening Star; whose print</div> - <div class='line in2'>Was on their baby's brow, had marked their lives.</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Then Innocence would laugh and stretch her hands and prayer</div> - <div class='line in2'>Half-breathed would rise that happiness remain.</div> - <div class='line'>The Evening Star flung beams of trust and through the air</div> - <div class='line in2'>Oft "Innocence" was voiced by winds again.</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And Innocence grew tall as passed the years; but frail</div> - <div class='line in2'>At times she seemed, still more when strangers neared.</div> - <div class='line'>Ah then she'd seek some ferny haunt, 'mid flowerlets pale</div> - <div class='line in2'>She'd cower, nor knew what dreaded ill she feared.</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>A lily-maid in homespun garb of softest white,</div> - <div class='line in2'>Her winter coat of silky rabbit skin</div> - <div class='line'>Or ermine brought by Indian guide. Her cheeks as white</div> - <div class='line in2'>Unless the flush to evening skies akin.</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And so time passed, the nearby settlement became</div> - <div class='line in2'>A village, then a boastful town and road</div> - <div class='line'>And searching railway broke the still and helped defame</div> - <div class='line in2'>Sequestered charm that God, through Grace, bestowed.</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>And Innocence would shrink from noise and close her eyes</div> - <div class='line in2'>When drifting smoke showed progress near, like plant</div> - <div class='line'>That's sensitive, that shrivels from man's touch and lies</div> - <div class='line in2'>So piteous with tremulous leaves aslant.</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Too weak for woodland stroll, a hammock-couch was strung</div> - <div class='line in2'>'Neath lofty pines and there the young girl lay</div> - <div class='line'>And watched a robin's second brood, or chipmunk swung</div> - <div class='line in2'>On sapling bent, or butterflies at play.</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>One heavy night she stayed without, till Evening Star</div> - <div class='line in2'>Had blown a kiss, then dipped beneath some clouds.</div> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_93'>93</span>A silence crept, scarce broke by owlet's hoot afar,</div> - <div class='line in2'>While mists arose like ghosts in flaunting shrouds.</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>A rustling sound! but Innocence had dropped asleep;</div> - <div class='line in2'>Within her hand a dangling lily stem,</div> - <div class='line'>Whose cool, white bud unfolded tales that willows weep</div> - <div class='line in2'>Where broad green leaves and starry petals gem,</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>Where waters pause from maddened rush to catch the calm</div> - <div class='line in2'>That slips through foliage, to rest awhile</div> - <div class='line'>In reedy bays as man fatigued might search for calm</div> - <div class='line in2'>'Neath roofing church, immunity from guile.</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>A rustling sound, a stealthy tread, some broken twigs,</div> - <div class='line in2'>And Guilt peeped low through scrubby briar growth,</div> - <div class='line'>Then pushed his ruthless way, nor cared that tender sprigs</div> - <div class='line in2'>Refused to bloom, once heard his muttered oath.</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>He plucked a burr that pulled his coat askew, then brushed</div> - <div class='line in2'>Aside some pollen dust, some larva-thread;</div> - <div class='line'>His outward garb so sleek and glossed, with step that hushed</div> - <div class='line in2'>He fast approached—above dark clouds had spread;</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>But through the gloom, the lily bud was visible,</div> - <div class='line in2'>The pallid curve of maiden's cheek; one stride,</div> - <div class='line'>He stood befogged, a something stayed against his will.</div> - <div class='line in2'>A something childlike, Godlike that defied.</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>For Innocence had wakened now and unabashed,</div> - <div class='line in2'>Unharmed she gazed at Guilt and pity lay</div> - <div class='line'>Within her eyes, a pity blent with pain that lashed,</div> - <div class='line in2'>Till Guilt one blinding moment felt its play.</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>He sank to earth beseeching what? He scarcely knew.</div> - <div class='line in2'>Respite? was pardon past? He felt a touch</div> - <div class='line'>As light as though from highest Heaven a Seraph blew</div> - <div class='line in2'>A kiss that floated downwards bringing much.</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'><span class='pageno' id='Page_94'>94</span>And on his heart he pressed the flower that Innocence</div> - <div class='line in2'>Had proferred him, the lily bud that erst</div> - <div class='line'>Had lain on waters cool and clear. It brought from thence</div> - <div class='line in2'>Some mirrored truth that Nature's self had nursed.</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>But Innocence had breathed her last, one gasp, 'twas all,</div> - <div class='line in2'>While Guilt affright, scarce pausing, fled; once more</div> - <div class='line'>The Evening Star shone forth, winds sobbed a lingering call,</div> - <div class='line in2'>The parents listened—useless to implore.</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>The grave awoke with crimson flowers; new birth attained,</div> - <div class='line in2'>The Evening Star had guided faithfully;</div> - <div class='line'>For ever since no grovelling soul has been so stained</div> - <div class='line in2'>But moments come that give some chance to free.</div> - </div> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>'Twas long ago, in our old Province of Quebec,</div> - <div class='line in2'>This tale at evenfall was whispered me.</div> - <div class='line'>One spoke—and was that one alive? or but a speck</div> - <div class='line in2'>Of spirit-world, of God's Eternity?</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='lg-container-b c003'> - <div class='linegroup'> - <div class='group'> - <div class='line'>THE END.</div> - </div> - </div> -</div> - -<div class='tnotes'> - -<div class='chapter'> - <h2 class='c004'>TRANSCRIBER'S NOTES</h2> -</div> - <ol class='ol_1 c002'> - <li>Silently corrected simple spelling, grammar, and typographical errors. - - </li> - <li>Retained anachronistic and non-standard spellings as printed. - - </li> - </ol> - -</div> - - - - - - - - -<pre> - - - - - -End of Project Gutenberg's The Romance of a Princess, by Amy Redpath Roddick - -*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE ROMANCE OF A PRINCESS *** - -***** This file should be named 52364-h.htm or 52364-h.zip ***** -This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: - http://www.gutenberg.org/5/2/3/6/52364/ - -Produced by Richard Tonsing and the Online Distributed -Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net (This file was -produced from images generously made available by The -Internet Archive) - -Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions will -be renamed. - -Creating the works from print editions not protected by U.S. copyright -law means that no one owns a United States copyright in these works, -so the Foundation (and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United -States without permission and without paying copyright -royalties. 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