diff options
Diffstat (limited to 'old/68424-0.txt')
| -rw-r--r-- | old/68424-0.txt | 1470 |
1 files changed, 0 insertions, 1470 deletions
diff --git a/old/68424-0.txt b/old/68424-0.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 595f83f..0000000 --- a/old/68424-0.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1470 +0,0 @@ -The Project Gutenberg eBook of Magic words, by Emilie Maceroni - -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 -will have to check the laws of the country where you are located before -using this eBook. - -Title: Magic words - A tale for Christmas time - -Author: Emilie Maceroni - -Illustrator: E. H. Wehnert - -Release Date: June 29, 2022 [eBook #68424] - -Language: English - -Produced by: Charlene Taylor, David E. Brown, and the Online Distributed - Proofreading Team at https://www.pgdp.net (This file was - produced from images generously made available by The - Internet Archive/American Libraries.) - -*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK MAGIC WORDS *** - - - - - -MAGIC WORDS. - - - - -[Illustration: Day & Son, lith^{rs}. to the Queen.] - - - - - MAGIC WORDS; - - A Tale for Christmas Time. - - BY - EMILIE MACERONI. - - “Oh, many a shaft at random sent, - Finds mark the archer little meant; - And many a word at random spoken - May soothe or wound a heart that’s broken.” - - _Scott._ - - WITH FOUR ILLUSTRATIONS BY E. H. WEHNERT. - - [Illustration] - - LONDON: - CUNDALL & ADDEY, 21 OLD BOND STREET. - M.DCCC.LI. - - - - - LONDON: - Printed by G. BARCLAY, Castle St. Leicester Sq. - - - - - TO - MRS. AUSTIN - This Little Volume - IS AFFECTIONATELY INSCRIBED. - - - - -ILLUSTRATIONS. - - - LITTLE MARY AND HER FRIEND TROY 11 - - MARION TEACHING LATIN 25 - - EDITH WATCHING THE DAWN 39 - - MARION AND HER FATHER (_Frontispiece_) 53 - - _From Drawings by_ E. H. WEHNERT. - - - - -MAGIC WORDS. - - - - -CHAPTER I. - - -It was the evening of Christmas Day. The hymn of “Peace upon earth, -good-will towards men,” had been chanted by thousands of voices -throughout the land, from the grand cathedral-choir to the simple -singers of the village church. Charity had extended her munificent -hand to the poor and needy, lighting up smiles on many a care-worn -face. Hospitality welcomed the good, the beautiful, and the great to -the lordly mansions of the rich. Love and Peace sat enthroned in many -a happy home. Poverty, shivering at the present, was consoled by the -glowing figure of Hope, pointing with radiant eyes to the future. -Memory and Sorrow lingered around the grave of many a departed one; -but of all mourners they were the saddest who were estranged from -those they still loved. Yes, amid the pain, the sorrow, the suffering -of life, _their_ hearts were the heaviest; for (to use the oft-quoted -words of the poet) “to be wroth with those we love, doth work like -madness in the brain;” and this hallowed season speaks strongest to our -kindest feelings, and to the tenderness of our better nature. - - * * * * * - -A train had stopped at a rough little village station about thirty -miles from town, and a few country people, on their way home, leaned -over the bridge above to admire the enormous red eyes of the monster -as it moved slowly on through a deep cutting crowned with dark firs. -They lingered yet a moment longer, to mark whom it had borne from the -great city to their quiet village. A beautiful girl of fifteen, glowing -with health and exercise, accompanied by two fine, rough-looking dogs, -rushed down to meet her playfellows and friends. She was breathless -with joy, and with her race over the heath; but her merry laugh and -warm greeting sounded pleasantly enough as the noise of the train died -away in the distance. - -A lady, wrapped in a warm plaid, who had been anxiously waiting for -some time, took the arm of her husband, with a few low words of -delighted welcome, and they walked briskly away. The dogs of the -younger party barked with glee--were patted and caressed. One look at -the dear heath and at the hills beyond, with a thrill of delight at -the thoughts of a long ramble over them on the morrow, and the ponies -were mounted, the dogs whistled to, and away flew the happy trio to -the home-welcome, to the dear old hall, to all the joy of a Christmas -meeting. - -Only two other passengers appeared, winding up the pathway--a gentleman -of tall and commanding aspect, and a buxom, brisk-footed countrywoman, -wrapped in her scarlet cloak, who passed him with a low curtsey and -cheerful good night. She was thinking of the bright fireside, of the -dear little faces round it anxiously awaiting her return, and of the -enormous amount of joy contained in that wicker basket. An event of -great marvel and wonderment is a poor woman’s visit to her friends in -town, and she is ever in a tearful state of ecstasy and excitement on -reaching home again; all of which becomes a matter of grave family -history in the lowly household, and is recounted on many an occasion to -eager and attentive hearers. - -She quickly disappeared up a winding path cut through the furze and -heather, evidently leading to a low-roofed cottage on the skirts of a -fir-wood. Lights twinkled in the casement, and joyful voices were soon -heard approaching to meet and welcome her. The road was now perfectly -solitary. A few deep-red clouds still hung over the west, and here and -there a large bright star shone silently through the sharp, pure air. -Dogs bayed in the distance; the sound came very pleasantly over the -heather through the rough old pines. - -The gentleman walked briskly on, and lights began to appear in the -valley beneath. He stopped as the merry notes of a flageolet struck -his ear, proceeding from a cottage by the road-side. The blaze of a -wood fire within illumined the little rustic porch and neat garden. -Bright branches of glistening holly shone in the tiny casement. The -tune ceased, and was followed by a light-hearted laugh and the sound of -young voices. - -“How happy they seem!” said he. “It is such scenes as these which make -the country so delightful, so cheering to sense and spirit!” - -And yet he sighed heavily as he walked on; and passing through an -avenue of fir and larch leading to one of the prettiest and most -picturesque cottages in the world, he paused when he reached the -garden-gate. It seemed, too, a dear, quiet, sweet-smelling home. Lights -shone from more than one of the windows; and more than one bright young -face might be seen, by the gleam of its golden hair, flitting about -in the uncertain light. A sweet young voice singing as sweet a tune -ceased, as all young voices do, suddenly, when the bell rang out its -summons, and a brisk, rosy little maid appeared, lantern and key in -hand, to admit the traveller, and guide him through the long shadow of -the firs to the house. A favourite dog bounded to meet and gambol round -him with unrepressed joy. The children clustered into the porch to say, -timidly, “How do you do?” and hold out their little hands to shake; -while their mother, advancing with a kindly greeting, expressed her -pleasure at his return. Even the maid looked pleased and happy to see -him. But yet it was not his home. - -After a few minutes’ conversation, the traveller was seated in his own -room, his dog, his sole companion, looking at him with glistening eyes, -as his master fondly stroked his magnificent head. He was a man of -twenty-eight or thirty years of age, with a sad and thoughtful cast of -countenance, yet one that all who looked upon it _must_ instantly love -and respect; it was at once so engaging and so noble. He looked round -his little room at his sketches and his gun with evident pleasure, -placed some books and papers which he had brought on a little table -before him, and drawing his arm-chair close to the blazing pine-logs, -sat watching the golden cones as they crumbled away, one by one, at -the height of their brilliancy. But every reverie must have its end; -and his was brought to a close by the appearance of coffee, borne by -a bright-eyed country maid, smirking and smiling with pleasure, as -country servants are wont to do at every fresh arrival. - -It would seem that the reverie by the bright fireside was not an idle -one, but that among many revolving thoughts, some, at least, were -considered worthy of preservation; for the coffee was soon despatched, -the table covered with books and papers, and the stranger intently -occupied with his pen. - -So absorbed did he become with it, that after one or two long, wistful -glances, the fine hound lay down reproachfully on his comfortable rug, -as if despairing of any further notice that night. - -The wind moaned heavily in the pine-branches round the cottage. -Presently the writer paused and listened to the sound, so like the -rushing of distant waters. He walked slowly to the window, and gazed -long and earnestly into the night. It was moonlight, yet stormy; -and large, glittering stars, looked down through the dark branches, -when the hurrying white clouds had drifted over them. The distant -clock of the old village church, slowly striking the hour, sounded -mournfully over the river; and the lonely man at that little window -thought of years that were gone, of the bright firesides in many a -happy home that night, and turned and put away his papers with a sigh. -He thought how differently he used to work years ago, when, with all -the ardour of his nature and the energy of hope, and yet with intense -fear and anxiety, he strove to render himself worthy of one idolized, -one long-sighed-for object! He thought, too, of the bitterness, the -agony of disappointment; and how long years of his young life would -have been thrown away, had he not struggled hard to save himself from -becoming a useless, melancholy being, given up to the indulgence of -selfish regrets. He had succeeded,--there was some comfort in that -reflection. He knew of what he was capable, and dared not throw away -the power he had acquired, because it no longer availed the idol Self. -So he still worked on. He had become distinguished for his literary -labours, and for his contributions to the improvement and well-being -of his fellow-creatures; but to fame and to the praises of the great -he was now equally indifferent. His happiest hours were passed in his -favourite village, where he was greatly beloved, although he dared not -wholly give himself up to the quiet of a country life. - -He had had the old Gothic church restored, with all possible observance -of its antique ornaments and its fine clustering ivy; and took a kind -of Sir Roger de Coverley delight in seeing the country people, bettered -and improved in every way, flocking to it on Sundays to hear his good -tutor’s sermons, to which he used to listen with so much reverence in -his boyish days. He had learned to believe that the word “happiness” -signifies, the being reconciled to bear, still having courage to -do, and gratitude to enjoy that which remains. Thus, he was usually -cheerful in his various occupations; _but this was Christmas time_: -a time when the lonely heart feels most desolate--a time when many a -tender word spoken by the absent is remembered with sorrow--when all -anger is forgotten in the feeling of peace and love which steals over -the heart. And his head lay buried in his hands, his whole soul given -up to an overwhelming agony of regret. - -[Illustration: Day & Son, lith^{rs}. to the Queen.] - -“This day last year,” he muttered, “who could have believed the change? -Oh, Edith!” he continued, taking up a miniature that lay beside him, -“who could have thought then that we should now be as strangers to -each other? Who could have thought that that bright face, those many -noble qualities, could have wrought so much misery?” Again he looked -at the lovely countenance, smiling on him a thousand of the tenderest -remembrances, and a still gentler expression, a kindlier spirit, came -over him. “Those eyes,” he said, “how softly they have looked on me! -Perhaps even now a thought----but what folly! In the pride of -beauty and prosperity, what is there to remind her of me?” - -A low tap at the door interrupted his meditations. For an instant he -could not say, “Come in!” his heart was so very full; but quickly -recovering himself, he turned with a smile to welcome a little village -child, who timidly advanced to place both her tiny hands in his. - -She looked into his face with eyes beaming with love and gratitude; but -the joyful, sparkling expression soon faded away, for she saw that he -was sadder than usual; and with the quick sympathy and natural grace -of childhood she sat down quietly on the rug, and taking the stately -head of the hound on her lap, pensively stroked his long, shaggy coat. -Presently she ventured to break the silence in her gentle way--“I am so -glad you are come back, sir; I have missed you so!” - -Her companion’s countenance brightened, and he said with -animation--“Have you, though, my poor little Mary? I thought you had -forgotten me, being so long away.” And he stroked her bright brown hair. - -“You should not have thought that,” said the child, earnestly; “I -always remember you, for you taught me all I know. I was longing to -come yesterday, and all day to-day,” she continued, “to hear if you -had arrived. To-day has been so happy that I could not stay away any -longer, and so here I am,” she added, with her merry laugh, which -sounded pleasantly in that usually silent room. These simple words, -that mute caress, had restored the confidence of the two friends. Mary -was herself again, full of fun and prattle. Seated on the extreme edge -of a huge Gothic chair, she balanced her little feet on the back of -her friend Troy, who, far from resenting the liberty, fixed his dark -eyes lovingly on her sweet young face, while she talked on, full of -the details of her simple life. How she had gathered pine-cones for -several evenings, because she knew he loved their cheerful blaze and -sweet smell. How poor Turpin, who was always in trouble, had hunted -a rabbit, and been caught in a trap; of her mad race over the hills -for help; how she nursed the poor, poor foot afterwards; and how -the faithful patient cried because he could not accompany her that -night; the relation of all which very much affected his kind little -mistress. Presently she produced with great glee her “Christmas -present,”--several little bundles of bark, peeled with great care, from -the silver birch-trees, cut into slips, and tied with red worsted. “I -burnt a little bit the other day,” said she, “and the smell was so nice -I thought you would like it, so I got some to light your taper with--do -try it;” and the little creature soon held a blazing piece in her hand. - -“It is delicious, Mary; and how good of you to collect it for me!” - -“I was very happy getting it,” said the child; “but I wish you had not -thought I had forgotten you. I could not forget you!” she continued, -after a pause; “you, who have been so good to me, and taught me so -much! I never looked at a book before you came. Oh, I was sadly wild! -Mother said I made more noise than the boys!” And she laughed heartily. - -The tutor laughed too, and told the often repeated story, which he knew -she loved to hear, of how, in his walks, he had frequently listened to -her little voice singing in a cornfield, while “minding” birds; how he -had been surprised at her sudden disappearance on his nearer approach, -and on making a voyage of discovery, had found her ensconced in the -body of a broken-down post-chaise, that, singularly enough, lay between -two old fir-trees at the foot of the wood! He did not describe to her -how, in imagination, he had pictured the different and exciting scenes -in which the once gay equipage might have borne its part; but went on -to say how he had peeped in unobserved, and had seen her perched on -one of the dilapidated seats, with a little piece of board on her lap, -intently occupied in carving a morsel of meat into divers small pieces, -which she divided, with impartial care, among three ragged starlings -perched on the opposite beam, who watched her with glistening eyes! -How merrily she talked to them, and how perfectly they seemed to love -and understand each other! He reminded her of her surprise on being -discovered, and her frank invitation to the intruder to “look in” on -the wonders of the unique aviary, with its valuable illustrations of -the “History of Red Riding Hood,” its bright jay’s feathers, and other -childish treasures! - -Heartily the little Mary laughed; and so the Christmas evening passed -on. - -“I must go now,” she said; “I promised to read mother the pretty story -you gave me, ‘Simple Susan,’ and they will all sit up for it! Good bye! -You will promise not to be so sad when I am gone as you were when I -came in. You have been thinking of that pretty lady again!” she said, -with a face of anxious love--pointing to the miniature--“that makes you -so, I know! Why don’t you go to her?” - -“Because she does not love me, Mary,” was the faltering reply; “and you -know we are not happy with those who do not love us.” - -“Are you _sure_ of that?” said the child, earnestly. “People often -hide their kindest thoughts--and perhaps she hides hers from you; you -must look for them, as I look for violets, in their thick leaves. Oh, -I was so unhappy once!” she continued, tears starting into her eyes at -the remembrance: “I quarrelled with my brother, and we did not speak -all day--both were so proud: but do you know” (and the sweet little -face sparkled) “that when I put my arms round his neck and kissed him, -and said, ‘Good night, Harry!’ he kissed me, and cried too; and said -how unhappy he had been _all_ the time. I had thought he would _never_, -_never_ love me again! Oh! if my brother had died, as baby did, before -we kissed each other that night!” - -Poor little Mary paused, her heart quite full at the bare idea of such -a thing; but she turned again, with admiring eyes, to the miniature. -“She looks very kind and good, and _so_ beautiful! Did you speak -gently, and ask her to love you again: or were you proud?” - -The child did not notice the agitation of her companion, and little did -she imagine that, long after her head lay softly on her happy pillow, -the simple eloquence of those Magic Words was working powerfully in his -heart! - - - - -CHAPTER II. - - -Over many a mile of hard, frosty road, by snow-clad fields and hills -and woods, by many an ice-bound stream, must we lead the imagination -of our reader on the evening of the same Christmas Day, and peep into -another home, far from that we have just quitted. - -Undrawing the warm crimson curtains of a charming little room--half -drawing-room, half library--the light of a lamp falls brightly on the -figure of a lady reading to her husband. It is manuscript, and he puts -the pages by for her as she goes on. - -She often pauses, to look up with a delighted smile at his praises, and -he thinks that she never looked so beautiful before! She is very like -Correggio’s Magdalen, and has the same lovely countenance and waving -hair. - -Presently she came to the last page, and the praise was repeated. - -“I had no idea I could translate so well,” said she, “and am glad you -like it, for that will give me spirits to go on: I may, in time, become -quite useful to you.” - -“When are you not everything to me?” was the reply. “But, Marion, you -must not work so hard; I cannot afford to see you look one bit less -bright. Besides, it is a kind of reproach to me your working so much; -indeed you must not!” - -“Nonsense!” said Marion, laughing; “you can’t think how happy I am -when helping you, for I am sure you are often very weary! Poor Edward! -what anxiety I have caused you! Now for a volley of protestations!” -said she, laughing again. “But to be serious: I was thinking, to-day, -how much we have to be thankful for; and that with all its anxieties -how happy this year has been--how _infinitely_ happier, working and -striving on together, than droning through an insipid life of ease, -as some do. I don’t know what would become of me if you were ever -to be rich,” she continued; “to be sure, one might always find some -useful employment, some good to be done; but no one knows, except those -who have experienced it, the delight of overcoming difficulties, and -earning home comforts by one’s own exertions.” - -“True, dear Marion! I never knew, until I knew you, how little is -necessary for happiness!” - -“I knew what life was--I had an anxious one at home, even from a -little child,” said Marion, “and adversity taught me to know what is -best worth knowing; what flowers to gather in this great garden, that -many neglect, or do not perceive. How sweet are the uses of adversity! -I love to linger on those words; and if ever I venture to write an -essay,” said she, smiling, “it shall be on that subject. What does it -not teach us?--the practice of almost every virtue.” - -“Nay, not quite so far, enthusiast,” said her husband, smiling; -“remember the effect of almost constant sun on flowers; how splendid -they become--how fully their beauty is developed!” - -“Yes; but they cannot bear the storm that _may_, that _must_ come. -The stout old thistle, reared in cold and sleet, is much better -off--much more useful, and protects many a little plant under its -vigorous leaves. Now, only think what adversity really does for us. -To begin with _my_ early life:--my father and mother treated me as -their friend in all their troubles; I was accustomed to watch their -anxious care-worn faces, to try to cheer them, and to rejoice when -they brightened: this bound us together in the closest affection; I -believe no child, no parents, were ever so dear to each other. No -little home was ever so loved as mine; and I was quite broken-hearted -when away from all its cares, even for a short time, although in the -midst of what people called enjoyment. These were very different -feelings from those of children nursed in the lap of affluence, who -are frequently selfish, and often but little attached to those around -them. I knew what it was to be deprived of many comforts, which made -me grateful for those I had, and taught me to feel for the sufferings -of others infinitely worse off than myself. Naturally impetuous, I -grew up patient; for, as you know, my father was a man of eccentric -genius, who failed in all his efforts to place us in the brilliant -position he dreamed of. I felt and shared in his disappointments, -until disappointment itself became powerless! Sympathy with those I -loved roused me to exertion--taught me the value of time--the dignity -of usefulness! But, above all, the frowns of the world, the sweet -uses of adversity, made me feel the dear necessity of clinging to and -loving one another, and of living in that ‘peace which passeth all -understanding!’” - -Marion paused, and looked with inexpressible tenderness on her husband. - -“I do not believe we should have loved each other half so well if we -had not borne so much anxiety together,” she presently continued, -“although it would be a dangerous experiment for those to try, who -never knew what care was! _We_ very coolly stepped into its troubled -waters. What straits we have been in! There is really some amusement, -though, in looking back to a hundred comical little difficulties, -mingled with graver trials; in peeping into the crowded picture-gallery -of one’s own life--grave and gay! Do you remember when we were so -_very_ poor, and your father’s friends, the Saviles, condescended to -drive over to luncheon with us?” - -“Oh, yes,” said Edward, laughing; “when poor old Jock behaved so -inconsiderately!” - -“Inconsiderately, indeed,” said Marion, laughing too. “I shall never -forget seeing him swallow the delicacies which I had prepared with so -much care, in the coolest manner possible, looking me hard in the face -all the time. I was in an agony to see the ham sandwiches disappear -one after another down his huge throat (knowing there were no more in -the house, too), while the capricious fine lady who took a fancy to -feed him, drawled out, ‘the d-e-a-r d-o-g! _how_ he li-kes them!’ I -should think he did, indeed, with his appetite! I do believe, though, -Mr. Edward, that, like all men, you rather enjoyed the scene than -otherwise; for you never offered to put the cruel old dog out of the -room.” - -“How could I tear him from the flattering attentions of his Patroness? -But let me see; how did you manage it, Marion? I dare say very -ingeniously and gracefully. I remember how proud I felt of you that -day.” - -“Oh, I appeared to enter into the amusement and drollery of his -enormous appetite, but suggested, in the most affectionate manner -possible, that he should _bow_ his thanks to the fair lady before -tasting another morsel! Poor Jock, who had not the slightest -acquaintance with any feat or accomplishment of the kind, was all -amazement at my gestures and commands, and only stared hard for more; -whereupon he was gently ‘_fie-fied_,’ and put out of the room for his -obstinacy and ingratitude!” - -[Illustration: Day & Son, lith^{rs}. to the Queen.] - -They both laughed heartily at the remembrance of Jock’s delinquency and -its punishment; and Marion being in a very merry humour, recounted with -much mirth many other similar incidents, which they _could_ laugh -at now. “We never deceived each other but once,” said she; “the time -when you were so ill, you know, from over-work, and I used to steal -slily into the village to give your Latin lessons to those stupid boys -you were ‘preparing!’ I often wonder how I took courage to ask their -mother to let me take your place: yet I am glad I did, for I don’t know -what we should have done without the money; and I studied the lessons -so well myself, that I did no injustice to your pupils. But then -the _dénouement_! I shall never forget your walking into that dingy -library, pale as death, and your extreme surprise on finding me seated -in the great chair, conjugating a tremendous Latin verb, while the -poor little mamma looked on with amazement at my proficiency! _I_ was -startled too, fully believing you to be quietly resting on the sofa, -_while I took my walk_!” - -“We both looked very guilty for an instant.” - -“Yes, we did indeed; and I thought I never should cease laughing on -our way home, especially as you were half inclined to be angry! But -my mirth soon vanished when I saw how faint you were, and you rested -your head on my shoulder as we sat on the stile. A terrible fear came -over me,” continued Marion, shuddering, and drawing closer to her -husband--“I never felt pain like that before!” - -Both were silent for some time; and Edward tenderly stroked the -beautiful head bent down beside him. “Nay, look up, Marion,” he said; -“I am quite well now, love, and you must not be so sad.” - -“I am not sad,” said Marion, raising her large eyes, and smiling -gently. “I was thinking how grateful I am that you are better, and -how happy this Christmas would be if you were but reconciled to your -father.” - -“Every house has its spectre, Marion, and this haunts ours. I believe -one always feels any kind of estrangement from those near to us most -powerfully on days like these. They seem to have a strange mysterious -power of calling up old recollections and early affections!” - -“Only those which ought never to be broken come at this holy time,” -said Marion; “the gentle thoughts it brings with it seem to me like -the soft warning of angel voices,--to be at peace ere it is too late! -I wish you would read them so, and write to your mother again: she -is of a gentler nature; but they must--yes, they both must, long to -see you again!--Oh, if I could but persuade you!” she continued, with -emotion: “we know not what a day may bring forth--even to the youngest -and strongest among us; and Mrs. Hope says they both seem to ‘age’ very -much. How deeply you would grieve through life if----” - -“Oh, Marion, say no more!” exclaimed her husband in an agitated voice, -“it is that thought which so constantly haunts me. For myself, I could -forget all; but their unkindness to you--to you, of whom they ought to -have been so proud; I cannot forget that!” - -“Do not think of it,” said Marion, in a soothing tone; “we must not -quarrel with people because they are unable to see things in the same -light as ourselves. They knew very little of me, and thought, I dare -say, that I prevented your being much happier with a wealthier bride: -besides, they may love me yet when you have made your peace, as I know -you will,” said she, smiling. “Remember, it is to your parents that you -bend, and I never can feel happy while you are as a stranger to them. -I suppose it would be my turn next,” said she, with her musical laugh, -“if I were to venture to oppose your wishes, or to say a few angry -words.” - -“Marion!” said her husband reproachfully. - -“Well, what security have I,” was the playful retort, “over one who -could be contented under such circumstances? You owe to them infinitely -more than you do to me--they loved you for years and years before I -did. Oh, Edward! your own heart must tell you more than I could ever -speak.” - -“We will not discuss the subject any further, dear Marion,” said he, -and his voice faltered. “Sing to me, will you? The evening never seems -perfect without a song from you.” - -Marion sang the following lines in a rich and lovely voice:-- - - -THE SPIRIT’S WHISPERINGS. - - I roved one morn in a sunlit grove, - Where the mavis was singing his song of love, - Where the wild bee flew on her wing of light, - Flitting o’er moss-cup and blossom bright! - And Nature was blooming so freshly and fair, - Nought fading or dying was resting there; - Yet the light breeze sang, as it wafted by, - “Alas that the Lily and Rose should die!” - - * * * * * - - I sat by the side of a maiden bright, - Radiant with Beauty, and Hope’s soft light; - She sang a lay of our own loved isle, - And my heart beat proudly and high the while. - Fondly I gazed on that lofty brow-- - “What can be lovelier--brighter now?” - Yet Echo replied to her lute’s soft lay, - “The sweetest and fairest must fade away!” - - * * * * * - - I wandered forth, ’neath the moon’s pale ray, - Where the dead in their last long slumbers lay; - Softly and coldly her pure beams shone - On the mouldering urn and the old grey stone; - And I sadly sigh’d, “Must the young and brave, - The loved and the honour’d, all share the grave?” - And a voice replied, in a hollow sigh, - “The bravest and fairest, all--all must die!” - - * * * * * - - I knew it was as the spirit said,-- - That all we love on this earth must fade; - That gently they wither, and slowly decay, - Or are snatch’d in a moment--away, away! - And I said, in deep sorrow, “Alas that strife - Should breathe on this short--this uncertain life! - And, alas for those who, when Life hath fled, - Have Peace to ask of the silent Dead!” - -Marion’s beautiful voice trembled with emotion, and her eyes were -filled with tears as she approached her husband. He leaned his head -thoughtfully on his hand. - -Those Magic Words were thrilling in his heart. - - - - -CHAPTER III. - - -With the exception of the young and thoughtless, who only look -forward to a season of festivity and enjoyment, and of the callous -and indifferent, who seldom think of such matters at all, the varied -feelings which hail the approach of Christmas may be compared to those -occasioned by the contemplation of advancing age--of age so different -in its aspects, whether we behold our fellow-mortals sinking down into -the vale of years alone, neglected and unloved; alienated from kindred -and friends, and still retaining the unholy animosities of earlier -years; unsubdued by religion, unsupported by the contemplation of a -useful and virtuous life; or, on the contrary, surrounded by loved and -loving hearts, looking back with gratitude and pleasure to the past, -and with hope and resignation to the future, in peace, and love, and -charity with all! Many a family in embarrassed circumstances, many a -poor widow with a “limited income,” looks on the increased expenses of -this season of the year, on its bills and various claims, with the same -feelings which anticipate the infirmities of declining years and sharp -attacks of rheumatism and gout. Many look forward to increased domestic -comfort, and brighter firesides. Many a mother smiles with delight on -her children, all assembled round her once more. Many a father rejoices -in their joyous laughter, or in the affection and reverence of maturer -age. Many an old friend is welcomed to the social board. But, alas! -there are many, too, who look back with a dreary regret to the years -that are gone, and think, how different Christmas Day seems now to what -it was! - -Such melancholy thoughts were revolving in the mind of a man of -dignified and venerable aspect, pacing gloomily up and down the -splendid library of a fine old mansion. It was almost dark, and the -glare of the fire played over the rich volumes, and on the antique -carving of the furniture. He looked with a sigh at the hearth, once -crowded with happy faces. One only remained, and ah! how changed from -the blooming figure of earlier days, which rose before him! How feebly -that once beautiful head lay on the rich velvet cushion of her chair! -How much suffering and sorrow might be traced on that furrowed brow! He -felt that her reverie was as sad as his own; and truly too, for she was -thinking of many a fair child that had gone down to the tomb in all the -promise of early youth!--of the pride and joy of seeing them assembled -at Christmas, well and happy!--of the joyous holiday-makings and merry -meetings!--of the tearful partings, and the agony of those final ones, -when the thin, small hand, pressed in its tiny grasp the last life -greeting! - -Still she could think of the departed with the softened and resigned -feelings which religion and time never fail to produce. But that which -fell most heavily on her heart and darkened her declining years, was, -that the last and only surviving one--the boy whom she had loved -best--whom she had watched over with such intense fear and anxiety--was -still a stranger from his father’s home. Month after month passed, -and still both, in their pride, hung back from any attempt at a -reconciliation. She felt that many more might not elapse before she -would be far beyond the reach of mediation, and with a mother’s and -a wife’s love she longed to see them united again ere she departed. -Presently she walked to the window, and laid her thin white hand on the -arm of her husband. - -“I see you still love to watch the rooks going to rest in the old -elm-trees.” - -“Yes,” said Sir John, hastily; “it is amusing to watch their odd -flights, and to imagine you can distinguish the croak of a particular -bird.” He would not say that it was Edward’s favourite pastime when a -boy, but his companion knew well that he _thought_ of the time when -both used to stand there together. “But who is this coming up the -avenue?” he said at length, as if willing to shake off the chain of -thought. “Mrs. Hope, I fancy, by her black dress. I suppose she is -come to tell us all about the dinner, as she promised.” - -No door ever opened on a better, or kinder, or more zealous village -schoolmistress, than did this stately one on the spare, timid little -body who now advanced. No one ever looked more placidly happy, and no -one more pleased and grateful, when she was kindly placed in the most -comfortable of chairs by Sir John, and welcomed with a cordial smile by -his lady. - -“I came up to tell you, sir, that everything was done as you desired. -The children were _so_ happy, it quite did one’s heart good to see -them. They all came in the morning with evergreens and holly, and we -made some beautiful wreaths to set off the room. Their new dresses -look very nice, and they are truly thankful to you for your kindness. -The coals and blankets, and other things, are all sent home too, and -many say they shall thank Sir John for a happy Christmas; which they -wish in return, with all their hearts, I am sure,” continued the good -little woman, with emotion; “for, thank God, _very_ few among them are -ungrateful.” - -Sir John’s benevolent countenance brightened with pleasure as he -listened to the kind schoolmistress’s further recital of the village -festivities, to which he had contributed so largely; and his wife -marvelled how the heart of so good a man could be so unrelenting as she -knew it was. - -Perhaps similar thoughts were passing in the mind of Mrs. Hope; for -after she had told all she ostensibly had to tell, and felt that it was -time for her to depart, she still lingered, and yet hesitated to speak. - -“Is there anything you wish to say to us, Mrs. Hope?” said the lady, -kindly; “pray do not be afraid to mention anything in which we can be -of service to you. Is your son----” - -“I thank your ladyship, I was not thinking of him then, but of some -one very different. I thought you might like to know, and yet was -not sure--but Mr. Edward and his lady came over to the school-house -to-day,” said she, as if from a desperate resolution, “and my heart -was quite full to see them come and go away again like strangers--just -at Christmas time, too!” Poor little Mrs. Hope trembled, for she saw -that Sir John’s brow darkened, and he drew back in his chair in an -agitated manner; but an encouraging look from the lady re-assured her. -“It was very pleasant to see him again,” she continued, “in the little -parlour where he often used to sit years ago, and give the prizes out -to the children, and speak encouragingly to them. I thought he had -forgotten the old place, and all he was so good to; but he told me he -had been longing to see it, and never could feel so happy anywhere -else.” - -“Poor Edward!” said the lady, with emotion. “How does he look?” - -“Very pale and delicate, ma’am; but just the same as ever--just the -same noble look,” said Mrs. Hope, fast gathering courage, “although not -quite so joyful like as it used to be. He made particular inquiries as -to how his father and mother looked, and seemed terribly cast down -when I told him how poorly you had both been.” - -“Did he, indeed!” exclaimed Sir. John, starting from his seat, and -pacing up and down; “why did you not let me know he was with you?” - -“I feared you did not wish to know it,” was the reply. “But oh, Sir -John! in my humble way I did think it strange that, in an erring world -like this, your heart should be turned from two such children!” - -Tears were running fast down the face of the good little -schoolmistress. She hurried away; but her Magic Words were not spoken -in vain. - -[Illustration: Day & Son, lith^{rs}. to the Queen.] - - - - -CHAPTER IV. - - -Beautifully dawned the last morning of the old year. How lovely are -some few winter sunrisings! A cold, grey sky, and dim, glimmering -light, scarcely reveals surrounding objects. Presently a delicate blush -appears, gently stealing over the east. It deepens to a ruddy glow; and -then bright, golden clouds, tinged with many a varied hue, overspread -the sky, lighting up in the strongest relief every leafless tree, even -to the most fibre-like branches. - -Everything is very still. Edith sits silently at the window of her -dressing-room, watching that lovely dawn. Presently a few starlings -appear on the frosty slopes, with their quick, impatient gestures and -rapid movements, seeking a breakfast. A pair of beautiful blackbirds -droop their jetty wings, and seem numbed with cold. A robin, cheerful -even in adversity, trills a few grateful notes on a shrub near the -window, and Edith thinks that no new-year’s serenade could be half as -touching as that low, sweet song. She thinks, too, what a lesson it -teaches; for her melancholy eye had been straying mournfully over the -broad lands stretching far and wide before her, and--“’tis an old tale, -and often told,”--she had almost envied the humblest cottager in those -her lordly possessions. “Farewell, old year!” she exclaimed; “none -other will ever dawn upon me as you did. May the new bear happiness and -joy to many! Oh, Marion! you little thought how desolate I am, when you -prophesied that there was yet much in store for me.” - -Marion’s picturesque cottage could be plainly seen in the distance, -shut in by the blue range of hills above, and sheltered with sweeping -larches. The morning sun now shone brightly upon it, and Edith pictured -to herself the beaming, happy countenance of her friend. - -“May God bless you, Marion!” she continued with emotion; “for to the -example of your gentle goodness I owe all that is now left me,--the -knowledge of that usefulness, that patient love and forbearance, which -makes you so dear to others, so happy in yourself, and without which -all that the world calls beauty and talent is hollow and heartless -indeed! You taught me the value of true affection--the folly and -littleness of the false pride I rejoiced in; and yet so sweetly, that -I was only humbled to myself--not to you. Would that it had been but a -few short months before! Oh, Percy! how willingly would I now confess -myself in the wrong! But now I am forgotten! In your benevolent plans, -in your honourable successes, there is no thought of me; or I am only -remembered as a wilful, imperious woman, whom you once foolishly loved. -I shall never see you again--mine the sorrow, mine the fault! But I am -earning the right to self-esteem; I am doing all that I believe you -would approve of, did you care for me now.” - -Her heart was very full as she descended to the breakfast-room. No -one was there; but on the table lay a simple nosegay. “From Marion,” -was written on a slip of paper. Edith mentally thanked her friend for -the love which she knew was expressed in the fragrant gift; but tears -sprang into her eyes as she looked on it; for a few lovely roses, -the little blue periwinkle, with its shining green leaves and “sweet -remembrances,” and a few early primroses and violets, were arranged -almost exactly as she had received them from a still more beloved hand -the year before. She started as her mother entered the room, and turned -hastily to conceal her emotion; but touched by the look of anxious -love which she caught fixed on herself, exclaimed, while she suffered -the large tears to fall down her face, “Oh, my mother, I will not be -proud to _you_--Heaven knows there would be little merit in that! I was -thinking”--and her beautiful head lay on her mother’s gentle bosom--“of -the happiness which I have thrown away--of one who has forgotten me.” - -“Ah, my dear child!” said her mother, as she tenderly pressed her hand -on the throbbing brow, “in the doubtfulness of our nature we often -accuse those of forgetfulness whose hearts may be breaking for our -sake.” - -Edith looked up, a sudden expression of joy beaming over her -countenance. As she bent again over the flowers, the sweetest gleam of -hope stole over her, and she felt the magic influence of those words. - -Happy are they who in their own interests, joys, and sorrows, forget -not the welfare of others! Edith looked forward with pleasure to the -events of the day; for in the morning the school which she had built -was to be opened, with an appropriate address from the good rector; -and in the evening, young and old, rich and poor, were to be assembled -in her splendid home. She had gaily declared to the gentry her wish to -receive, as lady of the manor, “all good comers,” that New-Year’s Eve; -and to sup in the old hall of her ancestors, after the manner of feudal -times, with the peasantry of her estate “below the salt.” They, of -course, looked forward to the event with unmixed pleasure and delight. -Not so all those of gentler birth; for she had lived but little among -them until of late, and was understood still less. Many thought it a -capricious whim of the spoiled beauty, and many wondered what strange -thing she would do next. “It was not that she cared more than the rest -of them that the poor should enjoy themselves, but that she loved to -do as no one else did. What a pity her uncle’s fine estate was left in -such hands!” - -So charitably reasoned some of the invited guests; but, happily, there -were others who knew Edith better, and welcomed with delight her kind -and benevolent plan for a happy new-year’s eve to them all. - -The important evening at last arrived. The village children could not -have existed much longer. Wide were the park-gates flung open, and -never had the old avenue rung with the sound of so many merry voices -before. Many a little belle startled a sleeping bird by stopping under -his resting-place to admire, by the light of the lantern she carried, -her bran new shoes and pretty frock, wondering if any of the great -ladies would look half as nice, and feel half as happy as she did. Some -timid little creatures clung to their mothers’ skirts, and looked with -mingled feelings of awe and admiration on the stately mansion, blazing -with light in the midst of the dark cedars, half afraid of entering -it until re-assured by the promise of seeing the kind lady whom they -all loved. But when they arrived there, and were welcomed by that -sweet lady herself, who shook hands with all, and wished them a happy -new-year; and when they saw the fine old hall with its bright armour, -and many magnificent rooms all beautifully lighted up and decorated, -and were shown the pictures and other wonderful things, their delight -knew no bounds. But, perhaps, that which charmed them most was a deep -recess at the lower end of the hall, completely filled with rare and -luxuriant plants, in the midst of which stood a beautiful figure of -Peace, joining the hands of Anger and Contention, who were regarding -with a mingled expression of surprise and admiration the heavenly -beauty which they had not perceived when occupied with their unholy -strife. - -The children whispered softly here; for the light was very dim, but a -lovely glow irradiated the beaming countenance of Peace, and here and -there flowers glistened in the dark leaves around them. - -And now tea and cake, such as they had never tasted before, awaited -them in a pretty room, gay with laurel and holly, where our friend Mrs. -Hope presided, half beside herself with joy, yet preserving the most -perfect order and decorum. Then the amusements of the evening began, -which comprised the merriest and oddest of all styles of dancing to the -music of the village band, the wonders of a magic lantern, and many -a childish game beside; but above all, the crowning delight was the -new-year’s gift to each of a pretty little volume, with the name of -each written in it by Edith’s own hand. - -The hours flew too swiftly by--so thought these delighted little -people, as ten o’clock was announced, and Edith wished them all good -night as kindly as she had welcomed them; but in few words, for -carriages were arriving, and she had to receive her guests: they -thanked her in their simple way for the pleasure which she had given -them, and the homely sincerity of their gratitude lighted her sweet -face with happy smiles. - -The spacious picture-gallery, which had been converted into a ball-room -for the occasion, was gay with many a shining wreath. The old family -portraits seemed to look down with pleasure, and to beam a welcome on -all assembled there; so thought several of the wandering villagers, -grouped here and there amid the more brilliant throng, watching the -mazes of the dance with interest and amazement, and listening with -equal surprise to the magnificent band, to the music of which many a -fairy foot was flying. Most, however, thought it very inferior to the -performance of their own village musicians, and wondered how people -could dance to such spiritless tunes on a new-year’s eve like this. - -Edith had anticipated their predilection, their shyness, and their love -of country-dances and hornpipes; so they were soon marshalled by their -gentle chamberlain, Mrs. Hope, into another room, where they could -enjoy all these to their hearts’ content, and yet feel themselves -privileged to look in on the grandees whenever they pleased. Perhaps -this room, with its unrestrained mirth and merry laughter, was happier -than the more splendid one; for though many there were thoroughly -enjoying the beauty and gaiety of the scene, still there were -heart-burnings. In that large assemblage several met, who, though once -friends, had not spoken for years, and who felt startled and uneasy at -being brought into such close proximity. But scarcely a shadow could be -cast where the beautiful hostess moved and spoke-- - - “Thought in each glance, and mind in every smile.” - -There was so much frankness in every kind and earnest word she said, -joined to the charm of her gentle and courtly manners, that the -coldest, the most obtuse, the most reserved, felt moved and interested -beyond themselves, and more cordially inclined to all the world beside. - -And Marion was there, whose flowers were the only ornament on Edith’s -snowy dress; but she, usually so gay, was thoughtful almost to -sadness, and looked anxiously into her husband’s face as they stood for -a few moments apart--“I believed that of late years my father never -mixed in such scenes as these,” said he. “Edith could not have thought -he would come when she invited us.” - -“I knew how it was to be,” said Marion; “there are many here to-night -whom she hopes to bring together again; rich and poor. See, she is -looking towards us now, while speaking to him! Oh, Edward, go up to -them at once, I entreat you!” exclaimed she earnestly. - -“Not before so many people,” said her husband with emotion. “Suppose he -were to refuse my hand?” - -Marion sighed: but her hopeful nature whispered that the New-Year’s Eve -was not yet ended. And now a clock of silvery tone chimed and struck -the hour of midnight. The guests were conducted to supper: unseen -harps, and sweet voices, gave a slow farewell to the old year, as they -were seating themselves at the upper end of the hall, and then burst -forth into a joyful welcome to the new, as the villagers entered -and took their places at the lower range of tables; this again died -away, and a sweet strain arose, of the softest prayer, for peace and -happiness to all! Marion looked round with emotion. - -It was a lovely scene, that huge banquet-hall, with its gay wreaths of -holly and flowers. The bright assemblage of guests; the happy faces of -the villagers below; the beautiful hostess, seated in an antique chair -at the upper end, with the banners of her ancient race, trophies of -ages long gone by, waving behind her; the lovely figure of Peace below, -almost shrouded in the dark leaves, and forming a striking contrast to -those warlike emblems: all these afforded a sight which, once beheld, -would not be easily forgotten. - -After each guest had paid sufficient homage to the choice viands before -them, Edith took up a cup of curious workmanship; her face was radiant -with kindness and love as she looked on those around her. - -“This cup has been possessed, for many a century, by my ancestors,” -she said; “preserved for ages as a venerated relic: doubtless many a -toast has been pledged in it--many a friendly welcome expressed; but I -believe no more cordial and sincere one than that with which I greet -you all this night. I would fain express the usual wish of a new-year -of all imaginable happiness and prosperity, but as such have never -visited this earth, we know it would be vain; and I therefore wish you -the greatest of all blessings--that which cheers and supports us in -the sorrows of life, and heightens beyond measure its pleasures and -enjoyments,--love and harmony in your hearts and homes! There may be -some among us estranged from friends and kindred, grieving over the -fault, (for few, let us hope, in a Christian land, can live unmoved in -enmity one with another,) and yet hanging back, in mistaken pride or -want of moral courage, from the few conciliatory words which would, in -most cases, suffice for a perfect reconciliation. The old year is now -passing away--may it bear with it all anger, all animosity! May those -few healing words be spoken,--and Peace, and Love, and Charity be with -us all!” - -Edith’s voice trembled with emotion, but she did not perceive the -agitation of many of her guests, for her eyes were fixed, as if in a -dream, on the lower end of the hall. There was a movement of surprise -among those seated there: she made her way, she knew not how, through -them all. Yes, it was Percy!--One look, expressing a thousand emotions, -and their hands were clasped in each other! For an instant her lovely -head was bowed before him, while a few large, heavy tears, fell on the -flowers at her feet! But she soon mastered her emotion, and, with a -face radiant with joy, led him through the crowd of sympathising faces -to her mother’s side. In the short silence which ensued, the bells of -the village church were plainly heard ringing-in the new-born year! -When had they ever sounded so sweetly before? - -And now a joyous strain again burst forth, and all returned to the -ball-room. Again the young, the beautiful, the gay, joined in the -dance; and never feet flew more lightly than theirs. But there -were those who felt a deeper joy; the serene, the heavenly one of -Reconciliation! - -And Percy and Edith once more stood side by side,--united, happy! And -Marion told her wondering friend how Percy (who was an old college -friend of her husband’s) had come to see them that morning, and in -their quiet home had confessed that he was drawn to them by the desire -of obtaining news of her, round whom his deep true love still lingered -with so much regret. She had tried to persuade him to accompany them -that night, but still he doubted--still feared. Yet he now confessed to -Edith how, when they were gone, he had longed to see her face again, -how he had concealed himself in the crowd, and how he had been moved, -by what she had just said, to rush forward from the recess where he -stood unobserved, that he might be the first to own the gentle Magic of -those words! - -And many others had felt them too! Marion was leaning on _her father’s_ -arm--her eyes cast down and tearful in their joyfulness, as he spoke -to her in a low tone of the invalid whom she must see on the morrow. - -And all hearts were touched and softened, and rich and poor felt drawn -closer together! And they thought of the voice that had said,--“Love -one another as I have loved you,”--and of the divine lessons of -peacefulness and long-suffering which some had forgotten! And many -blessed to the end of their days the Magic Words spoken by the -Peacemaker[A] on that New-year’s Night. - - - - -MAGIC WORDS. - - - Magic words! magic words! - From holy impulse they are born, - The seeming chance of circumstance, - God’s utterance to hearts forlorn; - Where’er they fall reject them not, - Nor think their mission is in vain; - ’Twixt loving hearts, whom coldness parts, - Let not the dreary silence reign. - Magic words! what are they? - Things the truest soul will say! - - Magic words! magic words! - Ah! dear as to the dying flow’r, - The starry dews that balm infuse, - And whisper of the fallen show’r! - Sweet as the bubbling desert spring - To one who wanders o’er the sands, - Are those chance words, that sow like birds - The flowering seeds of happier lands! - Magic words! what are they? - Things the simplest tongue may say! - - Magic words! magic words! - O let them live on ev’ry lip, - A source of bliss, of holiest kiss, - And bond of fairest fellowship. - And evermore at this blest time, - Tho’ winter’s snows o’erspread the scene, - One magic call, to bind us all, - Shall be old Christmas’ evergreen! - Magic words! are not they - Offerings meet for Christmas Day? - - -London:--Printed by G. BARCLAY, Castle St. Leicester Sq. - - - - -FOOTNOTE: - - [A] Edith, in the Anglo-Saxon language, signifies Peacemaker. - - - - -TRANSCRIBER’S NOTES: - - - Italicized text is surrounded by underscores: _italics_. - - Superscripted characters are preceded by a carat character: lith^{rs}. - - Obvious typographical errors have been corrected. - - Inconsistencies in hyphenation have been standardized. - - Archaic or variant spelling has been retained. - -*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK MAGIC WORDS *** - -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. Special rules, set forth in the General Terms of Use part -of this license, apply to copying and distributing Project -Gutenberg-tm electronic works to protect the PROJECT GUTENBERG-tm -concept and trademark. Project Gutenberg is a registered trademark, -and may not be used if you charge for an eBook, except by following -the terms of the trademark license, including paying royalties for use -of the Project Gutenberg trademark. If you do not charge anything for -copies of this eBook, complying with the trademark license is very -easy. You may use this eBook for nearly any purpose such as creation -of derivative works, reports, performances and research. Project -Gutenberg eBooks may be modified and printed and given away--you may -do practically ANYTHING in the United States with eBooks not protected -by U.S. copyright law. Redistribution is subject to the trademark -license, especially commercial redistribution. - -START: FULL LICENSE - -THE FULL PROJECT GUTENBERG LICENSE -PLEASE READ THIS BEFORE YOU DISTRIBUTE OR USE THIS WORK - -To protect the Project Gutenberg-tm mission of promoting the free -distribution of electronic works, by using or distributing this work -(or any other work associated in any way with the phrase "Project -Gutenberg"), you agree to comply with all the terms of the Full -Project Gutenberg-tm License available with this file or online at -www.gutenberg.org/license. - -Section 1. General Terms of Use and Redistributing Project -Gutenberg-tm electronic works - -1.A. By reading or using any part of this Project Gutenberg-tm -electronic work, you indicate that you have read, understand, agree to -and accept all the terms of this license and intellectual property -(trademark/copyright) agreement. If you do not agree to abide by all -the terms of this agreement, you must cease using and return or -destroy all copies of Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works in your -possession. If you paid a fee for obtaining a copy of or access to a -Project Gutenberg-tm electronic work and you do not agree to be bound -by the terms of this agreement, you may obtain a refund from the -person or entity to whom you paid the fee as set forth in paragraph -1.E.8. - -1.B. "Project Gutenberg" is a registered trademark. It may only be -used on or associated in any way with an electronic work by people who -agree to be bound by the terms of this agreement. There are a few -things that you can do with most Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works -even without complying with the full terms of this agreement. See -paragraph 1.C below. There are a lot of things you can do with Project -Gutenberg-tm electronic works if you follow the terms of this -agreement and help preserve free future access to Project Gutenberg-tm -electronic works. See paragraph 1.E below. - -1.C. The Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation ("the -Foundation" or PGLAF), owns a compilation copyright in the collection -of Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works. Nearly all the individual -works in the collection are in the public domain in the United -States. If an individual work is unprotected by copyright law in the -United States and you are located in the United States, we do not -claim a right to prevent you from copying, distributing, performing, -displaying or creating derivative works based on the work as long as -all references to Project Gutenberg are removed. Of course, we hope -that you will support the Project Gutenberg-tm mission of promoting -free access to electronic works by freely sharing Project Gutenberg-tm -works in compliance with the terms of this agreement for keeping the -Project Gutenberg-tm name associated with the work. You can easily -comply with the terms of this agreement by keeping this work in the -same format with its attached full Project Gutenberg-tm License when -you share it without charge with others. - -1.D. The copyright laws of the place where you are located also govern -what you can do with this work. Copyright laws in most countries are -in a constant state of change. If you are outside the United States, -check the laws of your country in addition to the terms of this -agreement before downloading, copying, displaying, performing, -distributing or creating derivative works based on this work or any -other Project Gutenberg-tm work. The Foundation makes no -representations concerning the copyright status of any work in any -country other than the United States. - -1.E. Unless you have removed all references to Project Gutenberg: - -1.E.1. The following sentence, with active links to, or other -immediate access to, the full Project Gutenberg-tm License must appear -prominently whenever any copy of a Project Gutenberg-tm work (any work -on which the phrase "Project Gutenberg" appears, or with which the -phrase "Project Gutenberg" is associated) is accessed, displayed, -performed, viewed, copied or distributed: - - 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 will have to check the laws of the country where - you are located before using this eBook. - -1.E.2. If an individual Project Gutenberg-tm electronic work is -derived from texts not protected by U.S. copyright law (does not -contain a notice indicating that it is posted with permission of the -copyright holder), the work can be copied and distributed to anyone in -the United States without paying any fees or charges. If you are -redistributing or providing access to a work with the phrase "Project -Gutenberg" associated with or appearing on the work, you must comply -either with the requirements of paragraphs 1.E.1 through 1.E.7 or -obtain permission for the use of the work and the Project Gutenberg-tm -trademark as set forth in paragraphs 1.E.8 or 1.E.9. - -1.E.3. If an individual Project Gutenberg-tm electronic work is posted -with the permission of the copyright holder, your use and distribution -must comply with both paragraphs 1.E.1 through 1.E.7 and any -additional terms imposed by the copyright holder. Additional terms -will be linked to the Project Gutenberg-tm License for all works -posted with the permission of the copyright holder found at the -beginning of this work. - -1.E.4. Do not unlink or detach or remove the full Project Gutenberg-tm -License terms from this work, or any files containing a part of this -work or any other work associated with Project Gutenberg-tm. - -1.E.5. Do not copy, display, perform, distribute or redistribute this -electronic work, or any part of this electronic work, without -prominently displaying the sentence set forth in paragraph 1.E.1 with -active links or immediate access to the full terms of the Project -Gutenberg-tm License. - -1.E.6. You may convert to and distribute this work in any binary, -compressed, marked up, nonproprietary or proprietary form, including -any word processing or hypertext form. However, if you provide access -to or distribute copies of a Project Gutenberg-tm work in a format -other than "Plain Vanilla ASCII" or other format used in the official -version posted on the official Project Gutenberg-tm website -(www.gutenberg.org), you must, at no additional cost, fee or expense -to the user, provide a copy, a means of exporting a copy, or a means -of obtaining a copy upon request, of the work in its original "Plain -Vanilla ASCII" or other form. Any alternate format must include the -full Project Gutenberg-tm License as specified in paragraph 1.E.1. - -1.E.7. Do not charge a fee for access to, viewing, displaying, -performing, copying or distributing any Project Gutenberg-tm works -unless you comply with paragraph 1.E.8 or 1.E.9. - -1.E.8. You may charge a reasonable fee for copies of or providing -access to or distributing Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works -provided that: - -* You pay a royalty fee of 20% of the gross profits you derive from - the use of Project Gutenberg-tm works calculated using the method - you already use to calculate your applicable taxes. The fee is owed - to the owner of the Project Gutenberg-tm trademark, but he has - agreed to donate royalties under this paragraph to the Project - Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation. Royalty payments must be paid - within 60 days following each date on which you prepare (or are - legally required to prepare) your periodic tax returns. Royalty - payments should be clearly marked as such and sent to the Project - Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation at the address specified in - Section 4, "Information about donations to the Project Gutenberg - Literary Archive Foundation." - -* You provide a full refund of any money paid by a user who notifies - you in writing (or by e-mail) within 30 days of receipt that s/he - does not agree to the terms of the full Project Gutenberg-tm - License. You must require such a user to return or destroy all - copies of the works possessed in a physical medium and discontinue - all use of and all access to other copies of Project Gutenberg-tm - works. - -* You provide, in accordance with paragraph 1.F.3, a full refund of - any money paid for a work or a replacement copy, if a defect in the - electronic work is discovered and reported to you within 90 days of - receipt of the work. - -* You comply with all other terms of this agreement for free - distribution of Project Gutenberg-tm works. - -1.E.9. If you wish to charge a fee or distribute a Project -Gutenberg-tm electronic work or group of works on different terms than -are set forth in this agreement, you must obtain permission in writing -from the Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation, the manager of -the Project Gutenberg-tm trademark. Contact the Foundation as set -forth in Section 3 below. - -1.F. - -1.F.1. Project Gutenberg volunteers and employees expend considerable -effort to identify, do copyright research on, transcribe and proofread -works not protected by U.S. copyright law in creating the Project -Gutenberg-tm collection. Despite these efforts, Project Gutenberg-tm -electronic works, and the medium on which they may be stored, may -contain "Defects," such as, but not limited to, incomplete, inaccurate -or corrupt data, transcription errors, a copyright or other -intellectual property infringement, a defective or damaged disk or -other medium, a computer virus, or computer codes that damage or -cannot be read by your equipment. - -1.F.2. LIMITED WARRANTY, DISCLAIMER OF DAMAGES - Except for the "Right -of Replacement or Refund" described in paragraph 1.F.3, the Project -Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation, the owner of the Project -Gutenberg-tm trademark, and any other party distributing a Project -Gutenberg-tm electronic work under this agreement, disclaim all -liability to you for damages, costs and expenses, including legal -fees. YOU AGREE THAT YOU HAVE NO REMEDIES FOR NEGLIGENCE, STRICT -LIABILITY, BREACH OF WARRANTY OR BREACH OF CONTRACT EXCEPT THOSE -PROVIDED IN PARAGRAPH 1.F.3. YOU AGREE THAT THE FOUNDATION, THE -TRADEMARK OWNER, AND ANY DISTRIBUTOR UNDER THIS AGREEMENT WILL NOT BE -LIABLE TO YOU FOR ACTUAL, DIRECT, INDIRECT, CONSEQUENTIAL, PUNITIVE OR -INCIDENTAL DAMAGES EVEN IF YOU GIVE NOTICE OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH -DAMAGE. - -1.F.3. LIMITED RIGHT OF REPLACEMENT OR REFUND - If you discover a -defect in this electronic work within 90 days of receiving it, you can -receive a refund of the money (if any) you paid for it by sending a -written explanation to the person you received the work from. If you -received the work on a physical medium, you must return the medium -with your written explanation. The person or entity that provided you -with the defective work may elect to provide a replacement copy in -lieu of a refund. If you received the work electronically, the person -or entity providing it to you may choose to give you a second -opportunity to receive the work electronically in lieu of a refund. If -the second copy is also defective, you may demand a refund in writing -without further opportunities to fix the problem. - -1.F.4. Except for the limited right of replacement or refund set forth -in paragraph 1.F.3, this work is provided to you 'AS-IS', WITH NO -OTHER WARRANTIES OF ANY KIND, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT -LIMITED TO WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR ANY PURPOSE. - -1.F.5. Some states do not allow disclaimers of certain implied -warranties or the exclusion or limitation of certain types of -damages. If any disclaimer or limitation set forth in this agreement -violates the law of the state applicable to this agreement, the -agreement shall be interpreted to make the maximum disclaimer or -limitation permitted by the applicable state law. The invalidity or -unenforceability of any provision of this agreement shall not void the -remaining provisions. - -1.F.6. INDEMNITY - You agree to indemnify and hold the Foundation, the -trademark owner, any agent or employee of the Foundation, anyone -providing copies of Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works in -accordance with this agreement, and any volunteers associated with the -production, promotion and distribution of Project Gutenberg-tm -electronic works, harmless from all liability, costs and expenses, -including legal fees, that arise directly or indirectly from any of -the following which you do or cause to occur: (a) distribution of this -or any Project Gutenberg-tm work, (b) alteration, modification, or -additions or deletions to any Project Gutenberg-tm work, and (c) any -Defect you cause. - -Section 2. Information about the Mission of Project Gutenberg-tm - -Project Gutenberg-tm is synonymous with the free distribution of -electronic works in formats readable by the widest variety of -computers including obsolete, old, middle-aged and new computers. It -exists because of the efforts of hundreds of volunteers and donations -from people in all walks of life. - -Volunteers and financial support to provide volunteers with the -assistance they need are critical to reaching Project Gutenberg-tm's -goals and ensuring that the Project Gutenberg-tm collection will -remain freely available for generations to come. In 2001, the Project -Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation was created to provide a secure -and permanent future for Project Gutenberg-tm and future -generations. To learn more about the Project Gutenberg Literary -Archive Foundation and how your efforts and donations can help, see -Sections 3 and 4 and the Foundation information page at -www.gutenberg.org - -Section 3. Information about the Project Gutenberg Literary -Archive Foundation - -The Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation is a non-profit -501(c)(3) educational corporation organized under the laws of the -state of Mississippi and granted tax exempt status by the Internal -Revenue Service. The Foundation's EIN or federal tax identification -number is 64-6221541. Contributions to the Project Gutenberg Literary -Archive Foundation are tax deductible to the full extent permitted by -U.S. federal laws and your state's laws. - -The Foundation's business office is located at 809 North 1500 West, -Salt Lake City, UT 84116, (801) 596-1887. Email contact links and up -to date contact information can be found at the Foundation's website -and official page at www.gutenberg.org/contact - -Section 4. Information about Donations to the Project Gutenberg -Literary Archive Foundation - -Project Gutenberg-tm depends upon and cannot survive without -widespread public support and donations to carry out its mission of -increasing the number of public domain and licensed works that can be -freely distributed in machine-readable form accessible by the widest -array of equipment including outdated equipment. Many small donations -($1 to $5,000) are particularly important to maintaining tax exempt -status with the IRS. - -The Foundation is committed to complying with the laws regulating -charities and charitable donations in all 50 states of the United -States. Compliance requirements are not uniform and it takes a -considerable effort, much paperwork and many fees to meet and keep up -with these requirements. We do not solicit donations in locations -where we have not received written confirmation of compliance. To SEND -DONATIONS or determine the status of compliance for any particular -state visit www.gutenberg.org/donate - -While we cannot and do not solicit contributions from states where we -have not met the solicitation requirements, we know of no prohibition -against accepting unsolicited donations from donors in such states who -approach us with offers to donate. - -International donations are gratefully accepted, but we cannot make -any statements concerning tax treatment of donations received from -outside the United States. U.S. laws alone swamp our small staff. - -Please check the Project Gutenberg web pages for current donation -methods and addresses. Donations are accepted in a number of other -ways including checks, online payments and credit card donations. To -donate, please visit: www.gutenberg.org/donate - -Section 5. General Information About Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works - -Professor Michael S. Hart was the originator of the Project -Gutenberg-tm concept of a library of electronic works that could be -freely shared with anyone. For forty years, he produced and -distributed Project Gutenberg-tm eBooks with only a loose network of -volunteer support. - -Project Gutenberg-tm eBooks are often created from several printed -editions, all of which are confirmed as not protected by copyright in -the U.S. unless a copyright notice is included. Thus, we do not -necessarily keep eBooks in compliance with any particular paper -edition. - -Most people start at our website which has the main PG search -facility: www.gutenberg.org - -This website includes information about Project Gutenberg-tm, -including how to make donations to the Project Gutenberg Literary -Archive Foundation, how to help produce our new eBooks, and how to -subscribe to our email newsletter to hear about new eBooks. |