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diff --git a/76247-0.txt b/76247-0.txt new file mode 100644 index 0000000..0f081fd --- /dev/null +++ b/76247-0.txt @@ -0,0 +1,4885 @@ + +*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 76247 *** + + + + + +HOW JOY WAS FOUND + + + + + How Joy was Found + + _A Fantasy_ + + BY + ISOBEL W. HUTCHISON + + [Illustration] + + NEW YORK + FREDERICK A. STOKES COMPANY + PUBLISHERS + + COPYRIGHT, 1917, + BY ISOBEL W. HUTCHISON + + + + +PREFACE + + +This study in the psychology of Faith is founded on an old Scottish +folk-tale told me last year at Onich by Mr. Alexander Cameron, who, a +good many years ago, had given it also to the Rev. J. Macdougall of +Duror, in whose volume, _Waifs and Strays of Celtic Tradition_, now out +of print, it is included. Mr. Macdougall’s version is printed in full at +the end of this volume. + +I have used the story as the framework of an allegory, and have not tried +to rival Mr. Macdougall’s narrative, nor have I often kept very close to +the text. Most of these beautiful Highland tales are in such intimate +touch with nature that they lend themselves very readily to further +development, and the story of _How Finn Kept His Children for the Big +Young Hero_ seemed to adapt itself wonderfully to my purpose. + + I. W. H. + +CARLOWRIE, WEST LOTHIAN, _June, 1917_. + + + + +_The Characters_ + + + THE BIG YOUNG HERO: One who goes out at the beginning, comes in at the + end, and appears unexpectedly all through. + FINN: Humanity, a long-suffering man. + THE CARPENTER: Duty, a scientific man. + THE TRACKER: Obedience, a dutiful man. + THE GRIPPER: Constancy, a patient man. + THE CLIMBER: Faith, a girl who is more than quite all there. + THE THIEF: Love, an old woman wearing a chaperon. + THE LISTENER: Hope, a boy wearing a smile. + THE MARKSMAN: Truth, a straightforward man carrying a bow and arrows. + THE GIANT: A mere notion. + THE DOG: Fear (never visible). + HER PUPPY, BRAN: Joy. Given to Hope for the present. + THE BABY: The Rest of Humanity. + GONACHRY: The Heart-wounder, a sarcastic man. + ANGUS: A good-natured lazy man. + TORQUIL } + CONAN } Unemotional men. + CONDHLA } + + + + +ACT I + +THE GREEN ISLE. EVENING + + +_This Earthly Paradise lies across the western main before you come to +the sunset. It is seen imperfectly, like a thought not fully realized, +and shimmers as if through a rainbow. It is thus described by one who has +been there:_ + +_“Fair is that land to all eternity beneath the snowfall of blossoms. The +gleaming walls are bright with many colours, the plains are vocal with +joyous cries, mirth and song are at home on the plain, the silver-clouded +one. No wailing there for judgment, naught but sweet song to be heard. No +pain, no grief, no death, no discord, no sin, no decay, but ever we feast +and need none to serve us, ever we love and no strife ensues. Such is the +land.”_ + +_In this place the Big Young Hero, the most attractive person ever +imagined, is seen vaguely as if through a radiant light. He is seated +alone on the grass watching the flowers in the midst of great beauty. +Far off across the sea the outline of the Hebrides is faintly seen, +and presently a brown-sailed fishing-boat appears on the edge of the +horizon and approaches the shore. As it nears, the figure of a girl is +discerned kneeling up in the bows, shading her eyes with her hand, and +gazing earnestly towards the shore. She carries a coil of rope over her +shoulder. As she draws near her voice is heard saying:_ + + CLIMBER + + My anchorage was not as beautiful as I thought + And I have weighed anchor and sailed away. + I trust that my boat will be brought + Into haven before the end of the day. + I do not wish to voyage till sunset + In this yeasty fret. + Captain! there is no harbour that is beautiful save Thine. + Why dost thou reserve it for the evening mariners? + Their eyes are old and full of brine, + They cannot see the stars. + But mine are young, and I can count them all, + I praise Thee, for they are full of light, + Therefore bring me into Thy harbour before the shadows fall, + That I may praise Thee louder—in the young night. + + [_As the boat nears the isle it comes into calm water. The + big Young Hero goes down to meet it and helps the girl + ashore, drawing up the boat._] + + HERO + + The end of all thought is peace, + And you have found ere night the day’s increase. + The bright and radiant day is loath to die, + Even yet there are hardly any stars in the sky, + Only a soft dim radiance under the moon, + And dark trees on the brightness. Very soon + You will be gathered in a thoughtful rest, + And fall asleep like a bird up there in its nest. + Are you not glad at last to realize + Your insubstantial dream that never dies? + + CLIMBER + + Yes, but I’m wearied. I’ve had rather a fight + To get here all right, + The sea’s so deep. + + HERO + + Take your sleep. + + [_He sits down as before and draws her on to his knee, and + she falls asleep at once with her head on his shoulder, + like a tired child. He also appears to sleep. Presently the + shadow of a man carrying a rainbow falls across his face, + and a dream is heard singing._] + + DREAM + + The gates of Heaven are pearls, and stand four-square, + And people enter in from everywhere. + But when the heather’s on the ben + And the wind races down the glen + And in the wake of Highland ships + The creaking sea-gull wheels and dips, + And on the bogs, the hills below, + The cotton-grass and myrtle blow— + Bog-myrtle, with the spicy breath + Of bitter-sweet and life and death— + I’m glad to think that God has heard + The meaning of the unspoken word, + The stammering whisper of a tongue + That learned no speech the hills among, + The supplication of a hand + Too fierce for men to understand, + And that for such as me He’ll wait + In silence by His northern gate. + + [_The shadow falls across the girl’s face, and she stirs + and smiles in her sleep, and a dream-shadow goes from her + also, singing. The two shadows meet, and passing into each + other, become one._] + + GIRL’S DREAM + + I love to think that, high in Heaven, + Above the stars, the planets seven, + Daybreak and darkness—if I’m there!— + I’ll feel the wind stir in my hair, + And Heaven’s steadfast floor will float + Like water underneath a boat, + And, looking down across the gold + I’ll see the sunset, fold on fold, + Go tumbling down the sky’s wild screes + Beyond the Outer Hebrides. + Then something in my heart will stir + Like earth when spring remembers her, + And I’ll ask, firm but quite polite, + If God will set my compass right, + And if He’ll aiblins help to bail + My old boat with the tattered sail, + And lend a hand to launch her clear + Of Heaven, unless there’s sea like here. + + [_The blended shadow falls across the face of the Big Young + Hero, and he looks up._] + + SHADOW + + [_Stirring restlessly._] + + I need something. + + HERO + + Who touches me? + + SHADOW + + The shadow of a desire. + + HERO + + What do you require? + + SHADOW + + I don’t know. + + HERO + + I have sent you a dream. + + SHADOW + + I will no longer go + After a dream. + I do not want to be a bore, + But I seem + Nowadays to need something more; + I feel + That I have need of something real. + + [_The girl stirs, and gives a little sigh._] + + HERO + + Hush! if you talk so loud you’ll waken her + Before she’s ready. + She needs her rest just now. She mustn’t stir; + She’s got to steady + Her head a bit, for she’s spent hours + Filling her mind with things like flowers, + Till she had sucked out of earth’s genial root + My name like a tender shoot + That was bound to put her in mind + Of something unconfined. + + SHADOW + + Oh, do be quick! + I’m sick + Of standing still. + + HERO + + There’s no use getting ill + About it. I am with you now; + The very first step to Heaven’s inside your brow. + Look there, and tell me your most dear desire, + For it is surely something you require. + + [_The shadow shifts to that of a carpenter._] + + CARPENTER + + I want something to do. + + HERO + + Who are you? + + CARPENTER + + I am a good carpenter. + + HERO + + How good are you? + + CARPENTER + + I had a sense of something due + To someone, though I scarce kent who + (It might have been myself or maybe you), + And so, just at my own expense, + I fashioned out of common sense + A ship that’s bound to carry me + From earth to Heaven, and as far’s I see, + Ought to bring God again to me. + + HERO + + I have need of you. Show me your ship. + + [_The shadow of a large fine ship falls across the sea._] + + She is a very beautiful wide ship. Can you manage her alone? + + CARPENTER + + I would be the better of another, to do my bidding in her. + + HERO + + Send me your brother. + + [_The shadow shifts to that of a tracker._] + + HERO + + Who are you? + + TRACKER + + I am a good tracker. + + HERO + + How good are you? + + TRACKER + + I do what I am told, + I wait and look, + Silent, ready to hold. + It is not true + That I am idle. I am waiting for you. + I hook + Strange fish upon my individual line. + No other hand could take them, they were mine + From all eternity, and in the eternal sea + They would be lost for ever but for me. + + HERO + + You are good enough to take his telling. + + TRACKER + + Yes, but the clouds are swelling, + You might maybe lend us another man forby + To hold the tiller, in case that he and I + Are called to the sheets together + By a sudden change in the weather. + + HERO + + Send me a man off the heather. + + [_The shadow shifts to that of a gripper._] + + HERO + + Who are you? + + SHADOW + + I am a good gripper. + + HERO + + How good are you? + + GRIPPER + + You call me insistently, + Yet when I run blithely to the place + Where your voice deaves be, you bar the door in my face. + What for do you treat me thus and hide? + For still I hear you calling me from the other side. + I am going to hold on to the sneck and wait. + I ken there is something behind the door; early and late + You cry on me still. + If it be your will + Never to open, yet is it meet + That I come + For under the door I can keek at the shadow of your feet + Moving in a larger room. + + HERO + + You are good enough then + To hold the tiller for these men, + In case they are called to the sheets together + By a sudden change in the weather. + + GRIPPER + + No earthly blast can overwhelm + The ship of which I hold the helm + If I have just a kenning more to grip, + Something that will not give me the slip + Like the rudder he has fashioned. + I need something more impassioned, + Something to which a mind can hold + For a body’s apt to grow cold. + + [_The sleeping girl stirs and smiles._] + + HERO + + This is a shade sublimer. + + GRIPPER + + Who are you? + + CLIMBER + + [_Talking in her sleep._] + + I am a good climber. + + GRIPPER + + How good are you? + + CLIMBER + + I have climbed from the mind of man to the mind of God on a nervous + stair. + + GRIPPER + + [_Astonished._] + + Lassie, that’s no canny! Were you no feared to fall? + + CLIMBER + + [_In her sleep._] + + Some day I’ll die, but how, or when, or where + I do not greatly care, + Because I know that with the flowers and weeds + My life proceeds, + If so I will, inside a gracious law. + No flaw + My death will be, nor mischievous accident, + Howe’er besprent + My blood upon the highway or the turf, + Or in the surf + Of thunderous combers on the ungathered sea + But it will be + An obvious hint of a Supreme design, + A little clew of mine + Left huddled by the beach or cliff to tell— + “Pass, friend, all’s well!” + + HERO + + Let him hold fast + The substance of your mind, + So that he’ll find + The evidence of unseen things that last, + And that he’ll still behold + Although his hand grows cold + And cannot any longer feel + The thing he thought was real. + + CLIMBER + + [_Still in her sleep._] + + I said I climbed upon a nervous stair + Into the mind of God, + Yet all the way I trod + On air + Because great Love upheld me there. + I leaned and she resisted, gathering strength + To toss me all that length + Like some tall fountain-shower, + And I have power + To return again and water all the earth, + Giving her second birth, + Weaving her flesh, + Meseems, + Out of the mesh + Of mind, + After the fashion of immediate dreams, + If I can find + And force + All Love into her proper course. + With such support it is quite true + There’s nothing that I cannot do. + + HERO + + Send me something I can see through. + + [_The shadow shifts to that of a bent old woman._] + + HERO + + Who are you? + + SHADOW + + I was old and perfect at the heart + Ere human life could start. + Before the mind conceived of life + I was a wife. + + HERO + + [_Joyfully._] + + What are you good at? + + SHADOW + + I am a good thief. + + HERO + + How good are you? + + THIEF + + Joy in my heart grew strong and very bright, + Luxuriantly fed in the light of stars, + Planets, and suns, the speed of motor-cars, + Fire’s untamed energy, the wireless might + Of telepathy, that burns between the bars. + I recognized her in the lofty spars + Of the rigging, hailing land far out of sight, + And as she leaned and peered entranced, I crept + Into God’s mind, the while He slept, + And stole it bit by bit away, + And packed it in a brain of clay; + But unaccustomed ripples broke + On that calm surface. He awoke, + And I, all trembling to depart, + Was caught a prisoner in His heart. + + HERO + + You are good enough, + If that’s the stuff + Your mind is made on. + Help her to climb higher, + Otherwise she’ll tire, + For she must be stayed on + Such substantial matter + If she’s to get fatter. + + THIEF + + Yes, but I need one to hold the rope + At the other end, to give us both more scope. + I need something full of joy. + + HERO + + Send me a boy. + + [_The shadow shifts to that of a boy, and leaps lightly + about._] + + HERO + + Who are you? + + SHADOW + + [_Sings._] + + I am something always true. + I don’t care twopence what they think; + I know the sky is always blue, + And the rest of life rose-pink. + + HERO + + [_Affectionately._] + + Stand still! Stand still! What are you good at besides singing, eh? + + SHADOW + + [_Standing still suddenly._] + + I am a good listener. + + HERO + + How good are you? + + LISTENER + + [_With his hand cupped to his ear._] + + Oh, well, by now I really think I’m able + To hear folk talking at the other end of the cable + When I lay my ear to the ground. + There’s certainly some sort of sound + Like the noise I hear + In the early part of the year, + When underground the lilies + Whisper: “Hark! There still is + Life in us; don’t look so blue. + To-morrow we’ll be getting through, + If on your side you’ll scrape away + As much earth as you dare to-day.” + + HERO + + You are strong enough to hold the rope + At the other end, since they require more scope. + + LISTENER + + I know I am, quite well; + But they think I’m just a sell. + Can’t you show them that I’m true? + Hullo! Why, who are you? + + [_The Big Young Hero has suddenly lifted his right hand, + and lets fall from it the shadow of a man carrying a bow + and arrows._] + + MARKSMAN + + [_Placidly._] + + I am one too simple to be understood. + + HERO + + At what are you good? + + MARKSMAN + + I am a good marksman. + + HERO + + How good are you? + + MARKSMAN + + From childhood I have had a single aim. + I did not deviate, + I just went straight + Ahead, till, in the place + Where I was standing, I beheld your face, + And found I had transfixed your name. + + LISTENER + + [_With delight._] + + Then I should think he’s good enough + To show them that I’m not mere bluff. + + HERO + + [_Quietly._] + + He is good enough. + + [_The shadows fade, and the girl stirs restlessly in her + sleep._] + + CLIMBER + + I have need of something more than dream. + + HERO + + I have given you something more: + Your dream was real. + + [_The Climber laughs suddenly in her sleep, and wakens up._] + + CLIMBER + + [_Rubbing her eyes, and looking round with delight._] + + I feel + Very happy, everything looks so bright. + I knew it would clear up before to-night, + Because I saw a rainbow very high + Up in the sky. + + HERO + + I am going out fishing before the sun sets. + Will you lend me your boat to gather + In my nets? + + CLIMBER + + [_Eagerly._] + + Rather! + Will you be long away? + + HERO + + I will be back with the first screich of day. + I pray you, if it does not trouble you, + Have breakfast ready in my house for two. + + [_They go down to the beach and launch the boat together, + and the Big Young Hero sails slowly away in her towards the + Hebrides, seen far off in the sunset. Soft twilight falls + on the island, but a phosphorescence shines about the boat, + outlining the figure of the Big Young Hero at the prow, who + is leaning down towards the water setting the nets. Stars + begin to come out in the sky, and on the distant shore a + light suddenly twinkles out every few seconds on a buoy. + The girl’s voice is heard singing as the boat drifts away._] + + CLIMBER’S SONG + + To-night I saw a rainbow; + It hung my way before, + As if the hills were gate-posts + And it was the arch of a door. + The moor stretched all about me, + The heather and the bee; + I longed to trap that rainbow + For all the world to see. + + Perhaps in distant cities, + Perhaps down in the glen, + The rainbow was the signal + Of rain for other men. + But high upon the hilltops + The clouds blow far and free, + And leave behind the rainbow + Blue sky for you and me. + + + + +ACT II + +A MOUNTAIN-SIDE IN ARGYLLSHIRE: MORNING + + +_A Scottish mountain-side covered with heather and bracken. In the +crannies of the rocks oak fern and roseroot are growing. There is a +pebbly brook running down to the sea; the sides are starred with sphagnum +moss. Grass of Parnassus, and butterwort. In its bed the yellow marsh +saxifrage is growing, and up the hillside a silver birch hangs over it. +Farther up the hill there are a rowan and an alder, and on the crest, +against the sky, a Scotch pine. Low down, by a green mound, there is a +yew-tree. In the distance the white breakers of the sea are seen, and +they are heard regularly crashing in upon the shore. There is sunshine +everywhere, and a breeze blowing the heather and chasing the shadows of +clouds across the hillside._ + +_At the back of the wind, behind a great rock, Finn, a middle-aged +man, is sitting, asleep. He is bowed down by a heavy pack containing a +rainbow, whose light escapes from the corners and colours it all. Some +distance off some other men are lying asleep on the heather._ + +_Presently the Big Young Hero’s boat is seen approaching from far out +at sea. As it nears, Finn stirs from his sleep and perceives it, and, +starting to his feet, watches it, with his hand shading his eyes. The Big +Young Hero lands from the boat, and, pulling her well up on the beach, +comes leaping over the mountain to Finn strongly and gaily. As he runs, +flowers spring up under his feet. The other men sleep on undisturbed._ + + HERO + + [_Saluting Finn._] + + Darling of all men in the world! + I give you the greeting in grandeur and splendour! + I bring you glad tidings of great joy! + I publish peace! + + FINN + + [_Utterly bewildered._] + + Loveliest of all heroes that I have ever seen, + I salute you frankly, fluently, and energetically + With the equivalent of the same words, + Though I do not know who you are. + Your feet are beautiful as a star. + I wish that I could sing like the birds, + Or blossom like the green wet earth, + For my heart is full of mirth. + But I can only glower and gaze + While my mind plays, + And sings and tumbles up and down + Inside me, like a clown + That makes me feel quite silly, + Laughing willy-nilly, + Like a man in love. + Do you come from above, + Or round about or below, + Or anywhere I know? + + HERO + +I come through night-watching and tempest of sea where I am, because I am +losing my children, and it has been told me there is not a man in all +the world who can keep them for me but you. + + FINN + + [_Astonished._] + + Why, how can I do that when I must bear + This heavy rainbow with me everywhere, + And all the years + Have found my laughter through a mist of tears? + + HERO + + Since you alone were strong enough to creep + Into my mind, and fetch me out of sleep, + You have attained my stature, and I find + You are a man according to my mind. + + FINN + + [_Crying out, afraid._] + + It was a dream, only a dream I stole! + I never did as much + As touch + Your garment’s hem. + + HERO + + No, but you clasped my soul. + Virtue went out of me immediately + The moment that your love was strong enough + To push aside the earth and find the stuff + That dreams are made on. + Up through the senseless clay + You sprang like some green sappy shoot, + And touched the nervous thoughtful root + That I am stayed on. + + FINN + + [_Dumbfounded._] + + It was a dream—I never knew— + + HERO + + I lay upon you + As crosses and spells + And seven fairy fetters of travelling and straying, + To be with me before you shall eat food, + Or drink a draught, + Or close an eye in sleep. + + [_At his words a delicate web of gossamer covered with + dewdrops, spiders’ webs, and flower seeds falls over Finn. + The Hero leaves him spellbound, and, returning gaily to + his boat, launches her and sails away. When the boat has + vanished the web falls away, and Finn turns round with a + cry which arouses the other men._] + + FINN + + Where is he? + + CONAN + + Who? + + FINN + + The stranger that was here anon. + + CONDHLA + + I never knew. + + CONAN + + Is he gone? + + ANGUS + + Which way did he go? + + FINN + + I do not know. + + GONACHRY + + What was he like? + + FINN + + I can’t tell. + I must find him; he has gone + Off with something I had on. + + CONAN + + You don’t look very well. + + GONACHRY + + [_Sarcastically._] + + I saw him running up the ben, + As swift as a spot of sunlight when + The clouds bend with a cup + To pounce on him and cover him up + Like a wasp inside a glass. + + ANGUS + + Hush! I hear Mactalla pass, + He’s surely singing in his sleep. + Since it’s never very deep, + Let us rouse him up and speir + If the stranger is still here. + + [_All cry aloud, against the rocks: “Mactalla! Mactalla! + Mactalla!” The echo is returned mockingly: “Mactalla! + Mactalla! Mactalla!”_] + + ANGUS + + Tut! He’s in a teasing mood to-day; + We’ll get nothing out of him. I say! + Answer, and I’ll promise you fair, + A big laugh to yourself off the back of Ben Y Bheithir. + + MACTALLA[1] + + [_Mocking from somewhere._] + + I say! I say! A big laugh off the back of Ben Y Bheithir? + + ANGUS + + Ha! ha! You’re there, little fellow! + Yes, at the back of Ben Bheithir, where the yellow + Saxifrage grows out of the crannied rock, + I’ll give you a laugh to yourself that’ll shock + The natives, if you’ll tell us now + Which way the stranger went. + + MACTALLA + + Bow-wow! + I’ll have the big laugh out of you, + But I cannot tell you true + Which one way the stranger went, + For he’s left an echo pent + In everything he came across. + I’m entirely at a loss. + Can’t you catch it here and there? + I think he must be everywhere. + + [_The growing things are heard talking._] + + ALDER-TREE + + Is that you, Grass? + + GRASS + + Yes, I am growing + Under his feet, + If the heather will let me pass. + + HEATHER + + I’ll try to, if you’ll meet + Me half-way. + + SCOTCH PINE + + [_Loftily._] + + I say, + There’s no knowing + What she’ll be up to next. + Take my text, + And scarcely let yourself be seen, + With anyone so very green. + + YEW-TREE + + [_Phlegmatically._] + + I am quite at a loss + To know what came across + My barrowful of withered leaves. + + ROWAN + + [_Gently._] + + A bairnie couped it, coming home from school, + Among the sheaves. + + BIRCH + + [_Whispering._] + + Hush! hush! Softly, softly, my daughters; + I hear the sound of mountain waters. + + BURN + + [_Singing._] + + Bubble! Bubble! Bubble! + Hush! Let me down. + Bubble! Bubble! Bubble! + What a lot of trouble + There is in the world + Before you can get down + To bed-rock, + And stand stock + Still + As reserved, as reserved, as reserved as can be, + Not letting slip + A word over your lip. + Oh! I say! Hurry! Hurry! I must get to the sea! + Bubble! Bubble! Bubble! + Hush! Let me down + Without any more trouble, + Bubble! Bubble! Bubble! Bubble! + + [_All remain listening, wrapt in wonder. Even Finn, who + since the spell has been laid upon him has been sitting in + great heaviness of mind, looks up and listens to the song + with growing delight. Suddenly Angus roars with laughter._] + + MACTALLA + + [_Mocking._] + + Ha! Ha! Ha! Big Angus! Bow-wow! + I said I’d have the big laugh out of you the now. + + ANGUS + + [_Unable to stop laughing._] + + Did ever anybody hear the like of that? + + [_The others look at him half-angrily._] + + CONAN + + What’s taken the fool! + + CONDHLA + + Pat him on the back. + + TORQUIL + + Can’t you hold your tongue. + + GONACHRY + + Did you ever hear of anyone that could! + + ANGUS + + [_In desperation._] + + Hold my tongue! Will that do any good? + + [_He tries to do so. It makes him laugh all the more, and + one by one they all gradually join in his laughter except + Finn, till they are roaring fit to split the rocks. Above + it all Mactalla is heard mocking. At last Angus subsides, + wiping the tears from his eyes._] + + CONAN + + What on earth are you laughing at? + + ANGUS + + Nothing on earth. What are you laughing at? + + CONAN + + How should I know? + + ANGUS + + Well, how should I know what I’m laughing at? + + CONAN + + Because you began, you gomeril. + + ANGUS + + Not I. + + GONACHRY + + Well, then, who did? + + ANGUS + + Mactalla. + + CONAN + + What was Mactalla laughing at? + + ANGUS + + That’s what I’d like to know. + + GONACHRY + + I never heard him. + + ANGUS + + That’s because you’ve no sense of humour. + + GONACHRY + + [_Fiercely._] + + I have a sense of humour. + + ANGUS + + Where is it, then? + + GONACHRY + + Up my sleeve. + + [_He looks up his sleeve and gives a sarcastic grin._] + + ANGUS + + Well, nobody can see it there + But yourself, so you’d better take care. + If folk don’t see what you’re laughing at + They’ll end by laughing at you. + + CONAN + + [_Stooping to pick up a button._] + + What’s that? + A button. Is it anywhere off me? + + [_He looks himself all over._] + + CONDHLA + + What’s it like? + + CONAN + + Greenish-white. No, it’s not off me + As far as I can see. + + ANGUS + + [_Holding out his hand._] + + Here, it’s mine. I burst it laughing. + + [_Conan hands it over to him casually._] + + CONAN + + [_Lighting his pipe._] + + Come on! It’s time we were at work again. + + TORQUIL + + Are you taking the boat out to-day? + + CONAN + + Ay. + + [_Exit Conan, Condhla, and Torquil._] + + ANGUS + + [_To Finn._] + + Aren’t you coming? + + FINN + + [_Abstractedly._] + + Not to-day, not to-day. + + GONACHRY + + [_Laughing carelessly._] + + He looks to me as if he had gone daft. + + [_He slouches off after the others with his hands in his + pockets._] + + ANGUS + + It’s very queer the way he never laughed. + + [_He goes up to Finn and gives him a hearty slap on the + back._] + + Come, man! What ails you? + + FINN + + [_Throwing him off with sudden irritation._] + + Get away, you gomeril! + + ANGUS + + [_Aside._] + + He’s fey! + + [_He makes a sign to keep off the evil eye, and retreats + hurriedly after the others, casting suspicious glances + backwards at Finn._] + + FINN + + [_Seeing himself alone, with a sigh of relief hoists his + rainbow resolutely and tightens his belt._] + + I will prick on my way + Far into the country of my God, + And if it be true, as they say, + That He is calm and unhurried, + Some day I shall break through a gap in the hedge + And come upon Him seated by the road-edge. + Then shall I say to Him these three things, baring my brow: + “Wherefore art Thou, whence didst Thou come, and whither goest Thou? + Answer, I pray, for I ask of Thee + As one traveller of another.” + + [_Enter the Carpenter, unperceived by Finn._] + + CARPENTER + + Good day! + + FINN + + [_Starting violently._] + + Good day! + + CARPENTER + + It’s a fine day. + + FINN + + [_Gloomily._] + + It’s fine as long as this breeze lasts, but I’m thinking + it’ll not be long before there’s a shower coming over + from Badenoch. + + CARPENTER + + Ay! It’s soft; but it’ll not be much with the sun + where it is. + + FINN + + The sun may be as high as it likes, it’ll not make + much difference to the shadow on my mind. + + CARPENTER + + What sort of a shadow is on your mind? + + FINN + + A shadow like the one across the breast + Of Kinlochleven when the sun goes west, + And the Bidean, that great serious Ben, + Stoops to consider men. + + CARPENTER + + That’s a long shadow. + + FINN + +It’s a shadow of crosses and spells and seven fairy fetters of travelling +and straying, to be with the one that considers me before I shall eat +food, or drink a draught, or close an eye in sleep. + + CARPENTER + +It’s a long shadow, but maybe I can help you to the one that considers +you if you’ll consider me. + + FINN + +What are you good at to help me? + + CARPENTER + +I am a good carpenter. + + FINN + +How good are you at carpentry? + + CARPENTER + +With three strokes of this axe I can make a large capacious complete ship +of the alder-stock over yonder. + + FINN + + [_Eagerly._] + + You are good enough then, carpenter, for I am wanting a ship + To go on this trip. + Can you prove me your skill? + + CARPENTER + + Ay, with a will. + + [_The Carpenter goes to the alder-stock, strikes it with + his axe thrice, and, as he says, the ship is ready in the + sea waiting for them._] + + FINN + + [_Delighted._] + + It is a very beautiful wide ship; what can it do? + + CARPENTER + + It can take you to the one that considers you, + If rightly handled, and, as far’s I see, + Brings such a one again to you and me. + + FINN + + [_Eagerly._] + + Will you lend her to me? + + CARPENTER + + [_Pawkily._] + + Ay, if you are willing to engage + My brother too for a trifling wage. + I’ll not can manage her alone. + + FINN + + [_Impatiently._] + + Come on! Come on! Call me your brother; + He’ll do as well as any other. + + [_The Carpenter whistles shrilly on his fingers, and the + Tracker enters._] + + CARPENTER + + You’re wanted for the boat the now; + He needs you at the bow. + + TRACKER + + [_To Finn._] + + What is your will? + + FINN + + What are you good at? + + TRACKER + + I am a good tracker. + + FINN + + How good are you at tracking? + + TRACKER + +I can track the wild duck over the crests of the nine waves within nine +days. + + FINN + + Then you are good enough to track + The one that considers me, and bring him back. + + TRACKER + + That will I blindfold; + But I need another to hold + The tiller, in case we’re called to the sheets together. + Call me that man there, coming across the heather. + + [_The Gripper is seen approaching over the hillside._] + + GRIPPER + + Good day! + + FINN + + Good day! What are you good at? + + GRIPPER + + I am a good gripper. + + FINN + + How good are you? + + GRIPPER + +The hold I once get I will not let go until my two arms come from my +shoulder, or until my hold comes with me. + + FINN + + Then you are good enough to hold until + The one that considers me comes with your hold? + + GRIPPER + + That will I, sitting still; + But as my hand’s apt to grow cold, + I’ll need that lassie there to keep my mind + Off thinking of it. + + [_The Climber has suddenly swung herself down by a golden + rope at Finn’s side._] + + FINN + + [_Astonished._] + + Why, how did you find + Your way down here? + + [_He takes off his cap politely._] + + CLIMBER + + I climbed down. + + FINN + + [_Aside._] + + I don’t see any stair. + I wonder if she’s quite all there! + + CLIMBER + + [_Answering his thought._] + + No, just at present I am mostly here. + + FINN + + [_Aside._] + + Her answer isn’t very clear. + + [_Aloud._] + + And what are you good at? + + CLIMBER + + I am a good climber. + + FINN + + I see that. + How good are you at climbing? + + CLIMBER + +I could climb on a filament of silk to the stars if you were to tie it +there. + + FINN + + [_Looking at her dreamily._] + + Will you be good enough then, please, to stare + Into each star and tell me if He’s there. + + [_He collects himself, and adds hastily._] + + The one that considers me, I mean. + + CLIMBER + + I’ll be your go-between + With pleasure, but I’m young to come alone; + Call me that woman there as a chaperon. + + [_The Thief and the Listener have entered hand in hand. + Finn beckons to the Thief, taking off his cap again + politely._] + + FINN + + What are you good at, dame? + + THIEF + + I am a good thief. + + FINN + + How good are you at thieving? + + THIEF + +I can steal the egg from the heron while her two eyes are looking at me. + + FINN + + Then if you’ll come with me and steal + The one that considers me, I’ll feel + Greatly obliged to you, there is no doubt. + + THIEF + + I’ll take you by a pretty roundabout + If you are also able to employ + My boy. + + FINN + + What is he good at? + + LISTENER + + I am a good listener. + + FINN + + How good are you at listening? + + LISTENER + +I can hear what the people are saying at the extremity of the uttermost +world. + + FINN + + You are good enough, then. Maybe you can hear + Whether the one that considers me is near? + + LISTENER + + [_Putting his hand to his ear._] + + You’re very hot! + + [_Finn, who has been standing beside the Climber, moves + forward hastily._] + + No, now you’re colder! + I’ll find Him ere I am much older, + Only some people are so narrow, + I’ll need that man with the bow and arrow + + [_Enter Marksman._] + + To bear me out ere they’ll agree + That seeing’s believing what I see. + + FINN + + [_To Marksman._] + + What are you good at? + + MARKSMAN + + I am a good marksman. + + FINN + + How good are you? + + MARKSMAN + +I could hit an egg as far off in the sky as bowstring could send or bow +could carry. + + FINN + + If you can hit the place where He + Is hidden who considers me, + We need no longer tarry. + For I am drawn by an insatiable desire, + I am consumed in an impetuous fire, + And I am denied all rest + Until my quest + Is ended. Would that I could find + A lodge for my soul, where I might leave behind + All longing for ever, slumbering complete + At His feet. + Would I could rest in that bright place where I + In spirit lie. + Its light has cast a shadow on the brow + Of this fair “Now.” + Why did He make that garden-place so fair? + My soul, a bird, is there, + With limed wings fast to that apple-bough. + + MARKSMAN + + [_Putting his hand kindly on his shoulder._] + + Come, then, and let’s be gone. + Your fellows will come after you anon. + + [_They launch the ship, and the Gripper takes the helm. + The Tracker, who is at the bow, is seen telling him now + to go this way and now to go that way, and the ship obeys + his hand beautifully. The waves begin to rise as the ship + gets farther from sight, but the Tracker still finds a + smooth path through the waters. The Listener leans over + the side, and sings a song as the boat slips out to sea. + It is a wild and beautiful song, haunting, sweet, and + long-drawn-out._] + + LISTENER’S SONG + + I made a little song, and it was true, + Though nobody heeded it in the press of things; + I left it alone a thousand years, and it grew, + And I heard it again one day in the mouth of kings. + + All as I went I joyed me a mighty joy. + They laughed at me; they said: “You’re still very young”; + But I knew better than that when I was a boy, + And when I was old I found the song I’d sung. + + +FOOTNOTES: + +[1] The Highland “Echo.” + + + + +ACT III. SCENE 1 + +A BEAUTIFUL HIGHLAND SHORE: AFTERNOON + + +_In the distance up the glen there is seen smoke evidently rising +from a house hidden somewhere in the trees. In the foreground there +are heather and rocks and a beautiful alder-tree with thick foliage. +Curlews and sea-gulls are crying, and a breeze is tossing the waves into +white horses. At this moment Finn enters, looking rather wretched and +storm-tossed. He sits down on a boulder, with a weary sigh._ + + FINN + + [_Yawning._] + + Heigh-ho!—Hay-hum-harry! + This box is a weary weight to carry. + + CLIMBER’S VOICE + + [_Calling from the alder-tree._] + + I wish you’d let me take a share! + + FINN + + [_Starting violently, and looking up._] + + Certainly not! What are you doing up there? + + CLIMBER + + [_Pushing her head out through the leaves._] + + I went up after a squirrel. + + FINN + + At your age that’s not proper for a girl. + + CLIMBER + + [_Singing._] + + Oh, to-day I’m twenty-seven! + What delight to rhyme with Heaven! + I’m as happy as can be, + Here inside the alder-tree. + + All my life’s a song that flows + With the river and the rose, + All my life’s a song to me + Like the lovely alder-tree. + + All the years I’ve left behind + Are translated in my mind + Into something new and free, + Like the seed-pod on the tree. + + All that’s past is unforgotten; + I have wrapped it up in cotton, + Like the larva that I see + In the leaf upon the tree. + + It will grow and change and gather + Knowledge of a mind, its Father; + Some morning in its glee + It will float above the tree. + + Oh, to-day I’m twenty-seven! + Just a little nearer Heaven + Than I ever used to be + When I climbed the alder-tree. + + For I feel at last that I, + Like the larva, change and fly + Yet a grander, fuller me, + On the self-same alder-tree. + + FINN + + [_Who has listened with delight to the song._] + + You’re a very eccentric sort of girl. + + CLIMBER + + [_Coming down hastily._] + + No! Eccentricity I hate! + It’s just a name for off the straight; + And, if you’ll only pay me more attention, + You’ll find it’s almost too far off to mention. + + [_Finn looks at her doubtfully._] + + CLIMBER + + [_Coaxingly._] + + I wish you’d let me take a share + Of that old box you’re carrying there. + + FINN + + [_Hastily._] + + I wouldn’t dream of such a thing! + + CLIMBER + + Take care! It needs a stronger piece of string. + And if you drop it, that would be a pity; + It looks as if the contents were so pretty. + What is inside it? May I know? + + FINN + + Guess! + + CLIMBER + + I can’t. It seems to show + All bright about the edge. + + [_She tries the weight._] + + I can’t see quite + What makes it heavy when it looks so light? + + FINN + + Tears of all sorts, and colours to suit each eye. + + CLIMBER + + Then why + Is it so light when it feels such a weight? + + FINN + + Oh! that’s just Fate. + A glint of laughter + Getting through each tear + A little after. + + CLIMBER + + [_Clapping her hands._] + + Oh dear! + How beautiful! I’ve guessed it—a rainbow! + You’ve got a rainbow there, + I knew last night the morning would be fair! + + FINN + + [_Astonished._] + + How did you guess? + + CLIMBER + + I saw the rain-clouds yesterday + Coming up Crianlarich way, + Black as peat and full of dark. + Suddenly God set His mark + Over them all in a rainbow, + And so + I knew + The sun was somewhere getting through, + And, turning, saw him come + Hurriedly over the hills above Tyndrum. + + [_She turns and sees Finn looking at her with a wistful + expression._] + + What are you thinking about? + + FINN + + Nothing at all. A dream. + + CLIMBER + + Look out! They are not what they seem! + + FINN + + They’re harmless enough. They aren’t real. + + CLIMBER + + They’re made of stuff + That’s very apt to steal + Intact + Into actual fact. + For instance, look at these. + + [_She points to some mountain pansies in the grass._] + + FINN + + Explain the connection, please. + + CLIMBER + + Don’t you see it, sumph? + + FINN + + Umph! + They seem to give you a lot of pleasure. + + CLIMBER + + [_Sniffing delightedly._] + + Yes, without measure. + Don’t they give it you? + + FINN + + Oh! Well enough. + Though, as a rule, I think + That I prefer a more substantial stuff, + Something to eat or drink, + Yet somehow now I feel dead beat; + I couldn’t stand the sight of meat. + + CLIMBER + + [_Rapturously._] + + Oh, I could feed + On flowers for ever! + + FINN + + Well, then, you must be very clever. + + CLIMBER + + [_Hastily._] + + Oh no! there is no need. + It happened through a violet’s power, + For that’s my favourite flower. + + [_Shyly, in a burst of sudden confidence._] + + I’ll tell you how it came about + If you’d care to find out. + + FINN + + [_Settling himself on the bank._] + + All right, I don’t mind if you do; + But it won’t be the same for me as you. + + CLIMBER + + [_Sitting up and clasping her hands round her knees shyly._] + + I was attracted by a violet, + For purple’s my favourite colour, and you get + Such a delightful perfume out of these + When the wind makes a breeze + Among the petals. + God said: “That settles + It. Now she’ll come back here + Another year, + And look for me where she has found her pleasure.” + I did not measure + God’s far arrangement thus; but sure enough + (Since purple’s my favourite colour), when the puff + Of spring cast up her wild young flowery wrack, + I looked to see if the violet were blown back. + + [_She begins to lose her self-consciousness. Finn watches + her interestedly._] + + Sufficient she was there! + I pushed my hair + Back from my brow, and on my knees I went + To catch her scent. + Oh, it was joy + I thought would never cloy! + And God, who saw me on the grass beside + That purple pride, + Laughed softly to Himself, and said: “I knew + She’d not resist My blue. + Now I’ll be bound she’ll come again next year + To find my fragrance here.” + + [_She continues with increasing animation, having quite + lost all self-consciousness._] + + In very deed I came, + But now a flame + Of ultra-violet flickered on my thought. + It wasn’t just the scent that brought + Me back like that, nor yet the lovely blue; + It was because I felt that God was true. + And that was how, having had my attention called + To something that came back and never palled, + But seemed each year more lovely than the last, + I passed + To looking for the far-off deeper things + That God had tucked behind the violet’s wings. + I said to myself: “This is some sort of sign + Of constancy divine, + And I expect there must be some such mark + Set on our ultimate dark; + For we are all just one material here— + My heart, the violet clear. + + [_Dreamily, to herself._] + + Oh! Isn’t it delightful thus to grow + Together yet apart a little while? + God needs this time to shape us to the style + Of His eternity, as, strong and slow, + The separate shadows of the flowery prime + Become one purple deep at evening-time. + + [_She takes a violet in her hands and looks at it. To + herself._] + + Here’s all the evidence of things unseen, + Delicious substance of a life to be, + Where maybe I’ll share His identity, + And we’ll be One to all eternity. + + FINN + + What? + + CLIMBER + + [_Who has forgotten that she is not alone, blushing + self-consciously and starting violently._] + + Nothing! It’s not + Meant for you to hear. + + FINN + + Go on about next year. + + CLIMBER + + [_Very shyly, with averted face._] + + Well, in the spring I came, with joyous thirst, + To find the violet where I found her first; + Till, kneeling there one day, I felt my heart + Quicken and start, + And pushing back the lid, to look within, + I saw a thin + Long tongue of lavender amid the red, + And God knelt there, and spread + His strong white hands above the warm, bright stain, + And laughed, and said: “I have found faith again + On earth.” + + [_She pauses, and adds in a whisper._] + + But I, too much amazed for mirth, + Could only gaze and stammer: “Sir, not yet, + It was Your violet.” + + [_There is silence. The Climber remains with shy averted + face._] + + FINN + + [_After an embarrassed pause._] + + I don’t see how a violet’s shown + You that. Tell me it all again. + + CLIMBER + + [_Jumping up, with a nervous laugh._] + + Oh dear! I wish I could explain + Better. But it’s the sort of thing + You’ll have to find alone. I’m off to bring + The others. I’ll be back in a minute. + + [_She runs away, with a very red face. Finn yawns, sighs, + and, picking a violet, sniffs and sniffs again._] + + FINN + + Delicious! I believe there’s something in it! + + [_He puts the violet in his buttonhole._] + + Even if it isn’t much + It’s something I could almost touch + A morsel of just now. + + [_Enter the Listener, whistling, and chipping himself a + whistle out of an alder branch._] + + FINN + + Hallo! Where are the others? + + LISTENER + + Patching up the boat a bit in smothers + Of spray. The wind seems blowing this way. + + [_He waves his hand in the direction in which the Climber + has gone._] + + Still feeling sick? + + FINN + + Certainly not. I wasn’t sick! + + LISTENER + + Oh! I thought that was why + You wouldn’t come down to tea, + When you said you wished we’d let you die. + + FINN + + [_Hastily._] + + Certainly not! + + LISTENER + + Then why—— + + FINN + + [_Hurriedly._] + + There’s a sort of spell on me. + I can’t consider common stuff like tea + Until I have found the one that considers me. + + LISTENER + + [_Sympathetically._] + + I say! How beastly! Worse than being in love. + + FINN + + [_Indignantly._] + + Not at all! It’s not the least the same. + + LISTENER + + [_Innocently._] + + Why? What’s the difference? + + FINN + + [_Crossly._] + + Oh, go away! How should I know? + + LISTENER + + Would you like to hear what I heard up above + The tree-tops, before I came + Out of the wood? + + FINN + + [_Crossly._] + + Not unless it’s easily understood. + + LISTENER + + [_Cheerily._] + + Oh yes! + It’s the sort of thing that any child could guess. + + [_He begins to pipe a very cheery little tune, and then + stops and looks at Finn enquiringly._] + + FINN + + [_Brightening._] + + That’s not bad. Go on! + + LISTENER + + [_Beginning to sing._] + + Tiravee! Tiravee! Tiravee! + The year has heard the spring + In far recesses smouldering. + Tiravee! Tiravee! Tiravee! + The robins sing, + Daffadowndillies and lilies + And crocuses are hiding, + Under the garden abiding, + Soon you’ll see! Soon you’ll see! + Soon you’ll see! + For along the west border, + All in their proper order, + Just like last year— + Look!—the tops of the snowdrops are here! + Tiravee! Tiravee! Tiravee! + Oh, how wonderful it is to see + The spring again just as she used to be! + Showing how the bulbs grow + Under the ground, + Making a sound + Where silence lay low. + Displaying + The beauty of the earth, + Saying: + “There is no death. + For consider the lilies + How they grow, and the daffadowndillies, + Underground + They have found + The spring!” + Oh, Robin, sing! + Oh, come away and see + The tops + Of the first snowdrops! + Tiravee! Tiravee! Tiravee! + + [_During the song the others, drawn by the sound of piping, + all begin to come in one by one, with the exception of the + Climber, beginning with the Marksman and ending with the + Carpenter, dancing and humming the tune. When the Listener + has done they all applaud him delightedly, and the Marksman + lets fly an arrow seaward._] + + LISTENER + + [_Astonished._] + + What’s that for? + + MARKSMAN + + You hit the mark that time. + + LISTENER + + [_Running to look._] + + Where? I didn’t see! + + MARKSMAN + + Nobody did but me. + Who taught you that song sublime? + + LISTENER + + A robin back there in the wood; + I haven’t got it very good. + + FINN + + You have a very fine ear. + Is there anything else you can hear? + + LISTENER + + [_Putting his ear to the ground and listening intently._] + + I can hear the voice of your mother. + + FINN + + [_Eagerly._] + + What is she saying? + + LISTENER + + She’s saying she’s unravelling + Your fetters of travelling + And straying; + She’s saying + She’s sending your father + To help you to gather + The children he’s losing + Through none of her choosing. + + FINN + + [_Bewildered._] + + Talk sense! + + LISTENER + + [_Offended._] + + I do; but it’s too immense + For you to comprehend + With your unenlightened end! + + [_Aside._] + + There! didn’t I tell you she’d send! + + [_At this moment the Climber runs in excitedly._] + + CLIMBER + + I’ve just met a woman in the wood + Who says she’s losing + Her children through none of her choosing, + And that you are the only man + Who can + Help her, if you’ll be so very good. + + FINN + + [_Amazed._] + + That’s what the Big Young Hero said to me + This morning, brought him through the strife + Of night-watching and tempest of sea! + I wonder who this woman can be? + + CLIMBER + + [_Excitedly._] + + I believe she is his wife? + + FINN + + How is she losing the children? + + CLIMBER + + She says she’s losing them in the night + That claps down on men, + For a Hand comes in at the window ere it’s light, + And takes them all away ben. + + FINN + + [_After a pause._] + + I can’t help that! + + CLIMBER + + Yes, she says you can, + If you were half a man. + + FINN + + Why, what must I be at? + + CLIMBER + + She says you must watch through the night + Within her house, until you see daylight. + + FINN + + [_Sighing wearily._] + + I want my supper now. I really couldn’t keep + My eyes open; I’m sure I’d go to sleep. + + CLIMBER + + [_Very earnestly and impressively._] + + Although she has laid supper in her house, + Please do not touch it yet, or you’ll arouse + The Hand + Before you understand + How you must use the body to discern + The proper system of the mind, and learn + You were not built like the bewildered moon, + To dwindle ere you’ve found another face, + Revolving inwards like an old buffoon, + Too much attracted by an earthly grace; + But, on a nervous pivot justly hung, + Bringing your mind to bear upon the clay, + Can turn your sleepy body round among + The starry systems of another day; + For that is how I think we’re meant to gather + Her earthly treasure for a Heavenly Father, + Till He recall us from her dewy field + At evening-time, building a finer bield + For souls returning mindful of earth’s beauty, + Not naked as they came. + + FINN + + I’ll do my duty + If you’ll show me the way + To the place where I’m to stay. + + CLIMBER + + [_Delighted._] + + All right! + We must look sharp as long as there’s this light. + + [_She beckons the others to follow._] + + FINN + + [_Pausing suddenly._] + + Why, what was that that fell? + I believe it was the spell. + + [_He looks about._] + + I feel hungry enough for two + All of a sudden. Aren’t you? + + CLIMBER + + [_Warningly._] + + No, I had something to eat before I came, + And in the morning you will get the same + If only now you’ll try not to eat double; + For if you do we’ll all get into trouble. + + [_Exit all after the Climber._] + + + + +ACT III. SCENE 2 + +THE HOUSE OF THE EARTH-MOTHER: GLOAMING + + +_The kitchen of the Earth-Mother’s house. A big open fire in the middle +of the room, with a hole in the thatch above it to let the smoke out. A +child asleep in a cradle beside it. The remains of a lavish supper on a +table in the corner. The men are all lying about the fire asleep. Finn +alone is sitting in a low chair drowsing. The Climber is lying asleep on +a settle in the corner, near the Thief, who is sitting quietly watchful +by the child. She alone seems wide awake._ + + FINN + + [_Nodding drowsily, starts and falls forward. Shaking + himself up, he looks round, rubbing his eyes and yawning._] + + Heigh-ho!—Heigh-hum-harry! + This rainbow is a weary job to carry. + + [_Looks round._] + + No one seems awake that I can see. + + THIEF + + [_Quietly._] + + You forget me. + + FINN + + [_Startled._] + + Oh! Are you awake? + + THIEF + + [_Quietly._] + + I’m always awake. + + FINN + + Then I can take + A nap. + + THIEF + + [_Calmly._] + + For Heaven’s sake + Keep awake, + Or the child will be taken away in the cap + Of the Hand. + + FINN + + [_Drowsily._] + + Bother! I don’t understand. + + [_Pointing to the Climber._] + + Even she’s sleeping. + + THIEF + + Yes, she has been weeping. + + FINN + + [_Uneasy._] + + Why, whatever’s the matter? + + THIEF + + Everything. + You’ve eaten too much. + + FINN + + [_Defensively._] + + Why, I didn’t touch + More than I ought, + Did I? + + THIEF + + You took a thought + More than she did, that’s why + You have upset her. + + FINN + + [_Sulkily._] + + I wish to goodness I had never met her, + If she’s so very easily upset. + + THIEF + + [_Quietly._] + + I fear she’s very childish for her age. + It’s apt to overbalance her at this stage; + She isn’t up to all God’s ropes as yet. + + FINN + + [_Crossly._] + + I thought she said + That she could climb upon a thread + Up to a star + Were I to tie it there. + + THIEF + + Ay! But it needs more care + To return so far + Trundling the star. + + [_Finn sits silent for a little while, and begins to nod + again. At last he rouses himself with a start._] + + FINN + + I’m much too plastic; + This needs something drastic. + + [_He snatches a brand of wood from the fire, and thrusts + it through the bone of his palm. The Climber immediately + starts up in her sleep with a cry of pain._] + + [_Startled._] + + What’s wrong? Why——? + + CLIMBER + + [_Talking in her sleep, in great distress._] + + You are in pain! + + FINN + + [_Defiantly._] + + Not I! + + CLIMBER + + [_Half asleep._] + + You’re hurting yourself with trying to keep awake! + + FINN + + [_Coldly._] + + You’re making a mistake. + + CLIMBER + + [_Bewildered and dreamy._] + + Oh, I’m sorry! I thought you called me. + + FINN + + [_Stoically._] + + No. + + [_The Marksman turns in his sleep with a groan._] + + CLIMBER + + I beg your pardon. + + THIEF + + [_Quietly._] + + Lie down. If he’s in pain + I’ll call you again. + + [_The Climber lies down again._] + + THIEF SINGS: + + I have a lover in my mind, + And there I stray. + He whispers dreams to me all night; + I dream with him all day. + + We tell each other foreign things, + We dream strange dreams, we two; + Sometimes he whispers He is God, + And I dream I am too. + + [_Finn, nodding, repeats former process. Again the Climber + starts up in her sleep with a loud cry of anguish._] + + CLIMBER + + [_As before, talking half in her sleep._] + + You are in pain? + + FINN + + [_Wiping his brow._] + + Not I, you’re dreaming. + + [_The Marksman again groans in his sleep._] + + THIEF + + [_Quietly._] + + Lie down. If he’s in pain + I’ll call you again. + + CLIMBER + + [_Bewildered and troubled, still asleep._] + + I’m very sorry, indeed I meant no harm; + I feel as if I were under some sort of charm. + + [_She lies down again._] + + THIEF SINGS: + + Love seeketh not a Heaven’s delight. + If her beloved inhabit there, + She is content with outer night, + And finds in Hell no deep despair. + + Yet if the love of God divine + Feel lonely Heaven a grave mistake, + And say: “Is Hell not also mine?” + Love answers: “Yea, Lord, take.” + + [_By this time Finn has fallen quite asleep. The fire + dies low. Suddenly a strange light begins to play about + the Climber. She starts up half-awake, and looks round + bewildered. Then she speaks to the Thief in an awed + whisper._] + + CLIMBER + + Who called me? Was it you? + + THIEF + + I have been sitting quietly by the cradle all this time. + + CLIMBER + + Inside my brain + There’s something tugging me, a sort of strain, + A terrible wistfulness, my mind’s all bruised. + Something calls me that is not amused. + Is it God? + Or is it not God? + + THIEF + + [_Gravely._] + + It is God. + Lie down. He will call you again + If He is in pain. + + [_The Climber lies down again. The fire dies quite low, but + the radiance about her grows bright and brighter; she alone + is left visible. Suddenly, for a moment, as through a veil, + the face of the Big Young Hero is seen looking wistfully + down on her. She starts up with her hands clasped to her + breast, and speaks in an awed whisper._] + + CLIMBER + + Did you call me, sir? + + HERO + + I sent Finn to call you. + + CLIMBER + + I heard him. Do you require us both? + + HERO + + Yes, urgently; make haste. + + [_The vision fades, leaving the Climber alone in the midst + of a great brightness._] + + CLIMBER + + [_Whispering._] + + Always I have known Thou wert there, + But to-night Thou hast revealed Thyself utterly and + Thy face is bare. + I cannot tell how beautiful Thou art. + All of my heart + Is radiant with the fierce surprise + Of Thine eyes, + All of my soul + Stands shuddering at her goal. + + Long ago she knew Thee, yet she feared + To name Thee, ever she peered + Into the darkness, whispering: “Not mine,” + To-night she doth divine + Wholly, and she is very bold, and boasts, and hath good cheer, + Entertaining the love that casts out fear. + + [_The brightness fades, leaving darkness for a moment, then + the fire leaps up again, illuminating the room. The Climber + looks about her, bewildered with ecstasy._] + + Oh, I have had such a wonderful dream! + Why, they all seem + To be asleep! + + THIEF + + [_Quietly._] + + I am not asleep. + + CLIMBER + + [_Radiant._] + + Oh, did you see my dream? + + THIEF + + Yes; I stole it for you. + + CLIMBER + + Where did you get it? + + THIEF + + Out of the mind of God. + + CLIMBER + + It was most beautiful; can’t you find + Another the same? + + THIEF + + Yes, from where that one came; + But it is not for you. + + CLIMBER + + [_Disappointed._] + + Oh! Who’s it for? + + THIEF + + Never mind, + You’ll find + When you make yours come true. + + CLIMBER + + [_Very eagerly._] + + Why, what must I do? + + THIEF + + You must make them believe it. + You must take it and weave it, + By a kind of story, + Into actual glory. + + CLIMBER + + [_Jumping up joyfully._] + + Where shall I begin? + + THIEF + + With Finn. + + CLIMBER + + [_Drawing back nervously._] + + Oh no, I can’t! He’ll think it very queer. + I—I haven’t got the courage to reveal + A dream so very delicate and real. + They’ll laugh at me. They’ll all think I am queer. + + THIEF + + [_Indifferently._] + + I have nothing to do with fear. + Your business is to do just as I tell. + + CLIMBER + + [_Summoning up all her resolution._] + + Very well. + + THIEF + + [_Quietly._] + + If you’re to carry out God’s plan + You must pitch into every man. + + CLIMBER + + [_Trembling with nervousness._] + + All right! To make my dream come true + There’s nothing I’m afraid to do. + + [_She runs quickly over to Finn and takes him eagerly by + the hand to wake him. He starts awake with a quiver of + pain, withdrawing his hand._] + + CLIMBER + + [_Overstrained and very nervous._] + + Oh, are you angry at me? + + FINN + + [_Gently._] + + Why should I be angry? + + CLIMBER + + [_Shyly._] + + For—for waking you up. + + FINN + + Was I asleep? + + CLIMBER + + [_Nervously._] + + Yes; but I’ve brought you something that’ll keep + You awake for ever. + + [_She laughs nervously._] + + FINN + + [_Politely._] + + Never! + What is it? + + CLIMBER + + [_Shyly._] + + N—nothing; just a dream. + + FINN + + [_Embarrassed._] + + Better keep it to yourself. + Dreams are things some folk don’t understand. + + CLIMBER + + [_In distress, catching sight of his hand._] + + Why, what have you done to your hand? + You’ve burnt it all! + You were in pain, I knew! + I heard you call. + Why did you say it wasn’t true? + + FINN + + [_Withdrawing his hand hastily._] + + It’s nothing to do with you. + Go to sleep again; + I never felt the slightest pain. + + [_The Marksman groans in his sleep._] + + CLIMBER + + [_Embarrassed and shy._] + + Don’t you, really? + + FINN + + [_Resolutely._] + + No. I tell you it’s quite numb. + + CLIMBER + + [_Grieved and awkward._] + + Then you didn’t call me to come? + + FINN + + [_Turning his head away with a groan._] + + No. I am in no need. + + [_The Marksman groans in his sleep again. Finn turns and + looks more attentively at the Climber, hesitating. She is + pale and overstrained looking._] + + [_Kindly._] + + I really think you ought to feed + Yourself up a bit. + You’re not looking very fit. + + CLIMBER + + [_Hurriedly._] + + I was asleep. I’m quite all right. + It’s just a silly dream. Good night. + + [_Marksman groans._] + + Be sure you keep awake. + + [_She retreats nervously._] + + FINN + + Good night. Be sure you keep + Asleep. + Don’t worry about me for any sake; + I’m wide enough awake. + + [_The Marksman groans again, and Finn begins to nod heavily + even as he speaks._] + + CLIMBER + + [_To the thief, bursting into tears._] + + They won’t believe my dream. + You’ve made me feel an awful fool. + He’s laughing now. I know I seem + Quite childish! + + THIEF + + [_Aside._] + + To keep cool, + The best way is by letting off some steam. + + [_To the Climber, very sternly._] + + The fault was yours. You have betrayed your dream. + + CLIMBER + + [_Weeps silently for a little, then wipes her eyes and + speaks as if to herself._] + + They tell me that I have my birth + Some other where, + And though indeed I do not greatly care + If this be true or no, + I really think it must be partly so; + For no one understands me in this house, + I am not able all alone to rouse + Them up. They just ignore me everywhere. + I begin to think that I’m not quite all there. + + [_She sinks her head desperately between her hands._] + + THIEF + + [_Quietly._] + + I wasn’t laughing at you. + + CLIMBER + + [_Lifting her head quietly and recovering herself._] + + No, I knew. + + THIEF + + Perhaps I’ve left you rather much alone. + + CLIMBER + + Oh no! I think I’ve just outgrown + My strength. + + THIEF + + [_Quietly._] + + Then if you’ve got that length + You’ve come into your own. Lie down again; + I’ll call you if he is in pain. + + CLIMBER + + No! No! This time I must lie still + Unless he comes himself. He’d take it ill + If I should offer him a change of diet + He’s not accustomed to. I must lie quiet + Unless he says that he’s prepared to try it. + + [_She lies down again. The stage gradually becomes quite + dark, as the Thief sings this song._] + + THIEF’S SONG + + God gave me a little fire, + And, as He did require, + I burnt it all away, + And He gave me more each day. + At last to one most dear + I denied my fire in fear, + And now the light’s gone out, + And God’s nowhere about. + + [_At this moment the eight-day clock in the corner of the + room strikes twelve slowly, and a great Hand comes in at + the hole in the centre of the roof. All have fallen asleep + except the Thief. She springs up with a cry and shakes the + Climber, who does not stir, but all the others start up, + and Finn calls loudly on the Gripper, who lays hold on the + Hand and takes it in to the two eyebrows at the chimney. + The Hand gives a pull on the Gripper, and takes him out to + the top of his two shoulders. The Gripper gives another + pull on the Hand and brings it in to the neck. The Hand + gives a pull on the Gripper, and brings him out to the very + middle. The Gripper gives a pull on the Hand, and brings + it in over the two armpits. The Hand gives a pull on the + Gripper, and takes him out to the smalls of his two feet. + Then the Gripper gives a brave pull on the Hand, and it + comes out of the shoulder, and when it falls on the floor + the pulling of seven geldings is in it. All shout with + joy._] + + FINN + + [_Wiping his brow in unutterable relief._] + + What an escape! I nearly lost the child! + She’d have been wild! + I knew I could hold out + Without having to shout + For aid. + + [_At this moment the Giant, unnoticed, puts in his other + hand and takes the child with him in the cap of the hand. + It screams, awaking the Climber._] + + CLIMBER + + Oh! You’ve let it go! + You’ve been asleep, I know! + + FINN + + [_Desperately, with his head in his hands._] + + What a mistake I’ve made! + + [_Furiously, to the Gripper._] + + You fool! Why couldn’t you + Hold on a little longer? + + GRIPPER + + [_Plaintively and with resignation._] + + Because I never knew + There was another Hand a little stronger. + + FINN + + [_Frantically, to Marksman._] + + You that’s so good at marking eggs, + Why couldn’t you tell other folk + About the yolk? + + MARKSMAN + + [_Tranquilly._] + + You never asked me, or I would have told. + Are you not old + Enough—have you not got two legs, + A pair of hands, a level + Enough head + (When all is done and said) + From which to deduce the devil? + + FINN + + [_Losing all control._] + + Liar! It was your duty to tell! + + MARKSMAN + + [_Quietly and sorrowfully._] + + Go to Hell. + + [_Finn rushes out. The Climber is all this time kneeling by + the settle with her head buried in her hands, and does not + appear to hear anything around her._] + + CARPENTER + + [_Angrily, to Marksman._] + + Didn’t the woman tell her that the Giant + Who steals the children was just like a man? + If we had known we wouldn’t have been so pliant. + + MARKSMAN + + [_Turning to look at him with a strange smile._] + + Why didn’t you ask her about him? She never can + Tell you very much until + You ask her of your own free will. + + CARPENTER + + [_Sneeringly._] + + I don’t believe she knew! + + MARKSMAN + + [_Turning and looking at him._] + + Don’t you? + + CARPENTER + + [_Trying to look him in the face, but getting very red, + drops his eyes and mutters._] + + Well, maybe she did. You needn’t make a stir, + I don’t pretend to understand folk like her. + + MARKSMAN + + [_As before._] + + Don’t you? + + CARPENTER + + [_Defiantly and reluctantly._] + + Well, if I do it’s not because I can’t. + + MARKSMAN + + [_As before._] + + Isn’t it? + + [_Silence._] + + Come, answer me! + + CARPENTER + + [_Defiantly._] + + I shan’t! + + MARKSMAN + + [_Letting him go with a contemptuous kick from behind._] + + Then follow Finn until you’ve learned compliance. + + CARPENTER + + [_Calling Tracker._] + + Come on! Let’s show them we’ve some self-reliance! + + TRACKER + + [_To Gripper, who is still standing quietly holding the arm + he has pulled out._] + + Come on! There’s no use holding any more + To the sneck of _that_ door. + + [_Pointing to arm._] + + GRIPPER + + Where are you going? + + [_He looks undecided._] + + TRACKER + + There’s no knowing, + I’m bound to follow him. + + [_Points to Carpenter._] + + GRIPPER + + [_Looking round doubtfully._] + + The light is very dim, + Where is he taking us? + + CARPENTER + + [_Pulling him by the collar._] + + Come on without any more fuss. + + TRACKER + + [_Pulling at the Hand._] + + Drop it, I say, drop it! + + MARKSMAN + + [_Intervening sternly._] + + Stop it! + + [_The Tracker and the Carpenter fling out after Finn._] + + THIEF + + [_To Marksman._] + + I’ll follow them. I musn’t be inhuman, + They’ll certainly get lost without a woman. + + MARKSMAN + + Take care, they’ve gone to Hell. + + THIEF + + [_Quietly indicating the Climber._] + + Look after this child well, + And I will steal all Heaven before you can tell. + + LISTENER + + [_Eagerly._] + + What fun! May I come too? + + THIEF + + [_Pointing to the Climber._] + + Not yet, she’s need of you. + + [_Exit Thief._] + + LISTENER + + [_Coming forward and gazing up at the hole in the roof with + his hands on his knees._] + + Well, that was a clean sweep! + + [_To Climber._] + + I say, don’t weep! + + MARKSMAN + + [_With his finger on his lips._] + + Hush! She’s saying her prayers! + + LISTENER + + [_Abashed and embarrassed._] + + Oh, sorry! + + [_He crosses to the window and leans out, and then softly + beckons to the Gripper. The Marksman is sitting quietly in + Finn’s chair by the fire._] + + LISTENER + + [_To Gripper, speaking softly not to disturb the Climber._] + + Look at the sky, and that green stretch of clear + Behind the Bidean! There’s really no night here. + + [_He sits astride the window whistling softly, and then + begins to sing this song under his breath._] + + I had a vision of Hope. She came to me + Long before morning came, long ere the day + Had folded night in her bosom and gathered away + The stars in her brightness; + I saw as it were a whiteness + Like a shimmer on the sea; + Long before morning broke + She awoke + And came to me. + + There are some who never see her, + There are some who never hear + Her whisper at their ear. + I was awake and heard + Before the thrushes stirred. + + Deep in her heart she showed me, + Long before it was spring, + A lovely thing. + All the April bulbs unsleeping, + Beneath the garden keeping + Watch for the dawn, + All the eyes of the daisies wide-awake under the lawn. + + There are some who will not trust her, + There are some who blindly thrust her + Out of sight + Into the solitary night. + Grievous souls! They do not know + That her lovely sign is true: + I listened and I knew. + + MARKSMAN + + That’s good enough! + + [_Climber springs up lightly._] + + CLIMBER + + Why! Where’s Finn? + + LISTENER + + [_Coming down._] + + Gone off in the huff + While you were saying your prayers. + + CLIMBER + + [_Desperately, to Marksman._] + + I don’t believe it! Tell me there’s + No truth in what he said. + + MARKSMAN + + [_Quietly._] + + Yes, for the present, Finn is dead. + + CLIMBER + + [_Quietly steadfast._] + + I don’t believe it. + + MARKSMAN + + He has lost his head. + + CLIMBER + + [_Looking round._] + + Where are the others? + + GRIPPER + + [_Sarcastically._] + + They’ve followed him like brothers. + + CLIMBER + + Has the Thief gone with the rest? + + MARKSMAN + + Yes; she thought it best. + She said it was inhuman + To let them go without a woman. + + CLIMBER + + [_Radiantly, with upraised face._] + + Thank you! + + LISTENER + + [_To Marksman._] + + Who’s she speaking to? + + [_The Marksman quietly shoots an arrow out of the window._] + + LISTENER + + Why did you do that? + + MARKSMAN + + Being under my protection + She looked straight in the right direction. + + LISTENER + + [_Who has run to the window to look after the arrow._] + + I say! They’ve put off in the boat + And left us all behind! + + CLIMBER + + [_Anxiously._] + + Has Finn got his coat? + + LISTENER + + No; there it is behind + The press. + + CLIMBER + + Is the Thief there? + + LISTENER + + Yes. + + CLIMBER + + Then never mind. + + [_To Gripper._] + + Come! You must follow + And take the tiller, or the sea will swallow + Them all. + + GRIPPER + + [_Plaintively._] + + It’s no use; I would fall + Without something to grip. + + CLIMBER + + Are you afraid to slip + If I make fast + A rope to the mast? + + GRIPPER + + [_Brightening._] + + Oh no! not if you give me anything + To hold to, even the smallest bit of string. + But how will you get over there? + It’s far too rough to swim. Take care! + + CLIMBER + + [_To Listener._] + + Can you hear + What the Thief is saying? + + LISTENER + + [_Putting his ear to the ground and listening intently._] + + I rather think she’s praying. + + CLIMBER + + [_Clapping her hands delightedly._] + + Then come along, the danger’s past, + I’ve tied a life-line to the mast! + + [_Exit all running eagerly, the Climber carrying Finn’s + coat._] + + + + +ACT III. SCENE 3 + +AT SEA: SUNSET + + +_A stormy dark sunset, late in the gloaming. The ship is seen tossing +wildly on a tempestuous sea. The Thief is sitting quietly in the stern +with her head bowed; her face is invisible. The Carpenter and the Tracker +are whimpering on the floor. Finn is alone at the helm, but the waves are +driving the boat about at their mercy._ + + CARPENTER + + [_Terrified, from bottom of boat._] + + I don’t believe this boat is sound. + + TRACKER + + [_Blubbering with terror._] + + Boohoo! Boohoo! We’s all going to be drowned! + + [_Clutches Finn’s legs._] + + FINN + + [_Spurning him suddenly._] + + Be quiet, you fool! + + [_The Tracker collapses howling in a corner._] + + CARPENTER + + Cheer up! You’ll soon be able to keep cool. + + [_A great shower of spray comes over and drenches them. The + Tracker cries despairingly._] + + CARPENTER + + [_To Finn._] + + I had a sense of something due + To someone, though I scare kent who, + And like a fool I lent my ship to you. + Although I made her at my own expense + I thought you had a little common sense. + Didn’t I tell you she was bound + To carry you quite safe and sound + From earth to Heaven, if you could handle + Her properly. It’s a fair scandal + To see the way you hold the tiller. + You’ll sink her. Look! You’ll sink and fill her! + + [_The ship heels and dips, the Tracker yells again, and + even the Carpenter gasps and moans._] + + I thought that she would even carry + God back again to earth to tarry. + Oh! If she’d had another master + Than you, she would have got on faster, + But with this God-forsaken mind + No other body could I find. + + TRACKER + + [_To Carpenter, blubbering._] + + I’d like to tell you what I think + Of you. + + CARPENTER + + I jalouse we must sink + Our differences for a little; + This boat won’t stand it, she’s too brittle. + + [_The boat gives a wild lurch and appears to founder. Both + cry wildly to Finn. The Tracker clutches the Thief’s knees, + weeping loudly._] + + THIEF + + [_Quietly._] + + Have patience! + + FINN + + [_Looking desperately up to the sky._] + + If there is any Truth in what she said, + If there is any Hope that answers prayer, + If there is any Faith beyond her share + That stretches nervous from a lovelier Head + Than ours, and quickens in the brighter dead, + I summon all my strong human emotion + To stir that Brain to feel what I am feeling, + And rouse a Thought of which I had no notion + Into consideration of my healing, + For though my mind is smaller than That Other + I have enough of sense to call it Brother + If It be there at all. If It be there. + + [_At his words a golden life-line is suddenly whirled on + board and falls at his feet. The Carpenter and the Tracker + cry wildly: “A rope! A rope! Oh, make it fast!”_] + + THIEF + + [_With a sigh of relief._] + + The danger’s past! + + [_She runs hurriedly and makes the rope fast to the mast, + while Finn remains gazing at it as if dazed. In a moment + the Climber is seen swinging along it, immediately followed + by the Gripper, the Listener, and the Marksman. Finn + remains as if spellbound, while the Gripper runs to the + tiller, seizes it from him, and turns the boat completely + round._] + + FINN + + [_To himself, as if bewildered._] + + This is more than any sense deserves! + + CLIMBER + + [_Shaking her head at him._] + + Fancy going off like that in an open boat + Without your coat! + Your state of mind is preying on my nerves. + + [_She helps him into his coat, which he submits to + passively, gazing at her as if dazed; then suddenly falling + on his knees, he snatches her hand, crying exultantly—_] + + FINN + + Before the sun shall rise upon the land + I’ll shake all darkness by this other hand! + + [_The storm gradually abates, and as the ship slips away + the Gripper leans back against the tiller and sings._] + + GRIPPER’S SONG + + I saw above the straining shrouds + No rift nor hint of dawn, + I saw no light beyond the clouds, + But still I carried on. + + I saw the end of the world, Dear Heart, + And I believed it true, + But still I held to my small part, + And so she carried through. + + + + +ACT IV + +THE GIANT’S CASTLE: MIDNIGHT + + +_In a dim twilight of stars a castle is seen upon a rock. It is thatched +with eel-skins, and there appears to be neither door nor window. The dark +figures of Finn, the Climber, the Thief, the Marksman, and the Listener +are presently seen stealing softly over the rocks. The other three have +evidently remained with the boat. They talk in whispers._ + + FINN + + [_To Climber._] + + Is this the place? + + CLIMBER + + I believe so. + + FINN + + It’s very dark, + I cannot see your face. + + LISTENER + + Hark! + + FINN + + [_Nervously._] + + What is it? + + LISTENER + + I hear something inside, + It sounds like children’s voices. + Have you tried + The door? + + FINN + + There isn’t any door. + + LISTENER + + [_Positively._] + + I really hear + Something, I don’t know what. It sounds quite near. + + CLIMBER + + If there’s no front door there must be a stair, + I’m certain he has put the child in there; + And since it must have got inside somehow, + I rather think the door is in the brow. + At any rate, I’m going to climb and see. + + FINN + + [_Anxiously._] + + Take care! The thatch is very slippery! + + LISTENER + + [_Cheerfully._] + + If there’s a way in, then there is no doubt + There must be just the same way to get out. + + [_The Climber’s figure is soon dimly seen silhouetted on + the roof against the stars._] + + CLIMBER + + [_With a delighted exclamation._] + + Just as I thought! + + FINN + + [_Nervously._] + + What? + + CLIMBER + + I’ve found a door just where I thought. + + FINN + + Can you open it? + + CLIMBER + + Oh yes, there’s not + Much difficulty there, + It comes away with prayer. + + [_She is seen kneeling._] + + FINN + + What’s that you’re saying? + + LISTENER + + Be quiet! Can’t you see she’s praying? + + CLIMBER + + [_Presently._] + + It’s opening up! + + FINN + + [_Eagerly._] + + What is inside? + + CLIMBER + + I’m looking, but I haven’t tried + My eyes yet in a night so deep. + + [_She calls down softly presently._] + + The Giant is sound asleep! + + FINN + + Oh! Can you see if he’s still got the child + Inside the cap + Of the other hand? + + CLIMBER + + [_Delighted._] + + It’s there! It’s still taking its little nap! + + FINN + + [_Desperately._] + + If only I were strong enough to creep + Inside and steal it while he is asleep! + But with this heavy box I can’t get up. + + LISTENER + + Why don’t you throw it away then altogether? + + FINN + + [_Arrested._] + + I wonder if I could? I don’t know whether— + + CLIMBER + + [_Calling down._] + + There’s a dog here too besides, and a little pup! + + FINN + + Abominable! They’re sure to bark. + + LISTENER + + [_Delighted._] + + I say! A puppy! What a lark! + Please try and get it for me. Hark! + + FINN + + [_Nervously._] + + What is it? + + LISTENER + + I hear the Giant coming up out of his sleep. + You must be quick, + Or else you’ll stick. + + THIEF + + [_To Climber._] + + I’m almost certain I could creep + And steal the child while he is sleeping, + Only I’m rather old to do much leaping; + You’d have to carry me a bit, + And let me gently down to it. + + CLIMBER + + All right! There is no difficulty there. + With your support I could go anywhere. + + [_She swings down, takes the Thief on her back, and is + presently seen on the roof letting her gently down inside + the castle. The Climber is seen again kneeling._] + + FINN + + [_Anxiously, from below._] + + Oh dear! How slow she is! It’s very dark. + Why is she delaying? + + LISTENER + + Be quiet! Can’t you see she’s praying? + Hark! + + FINN + + [_Nervously._] + + What is it now? + + LISTENER + + [_Joyously._] + + I hear the child coming up out of his sleep. + + CLIMBER + + [_Calling softly down to the Thief._] + + It is so deep + Inside, I can’t see where you are. + + LISTENER + + [_Anxiously._] + + Has she got the puppy? + + CLIMBER + + [_Reassuringly._] + + She’ll get it all right, never fear! + + LISTENER + + [_Whispering loudly._] + + Good man! + I say! Can + You hand it down and let me hold its muzzle? + I guess to both of you it is a puzzle + To know at present where to put it, + And if Finn sees it probably he’ll shoot it. + + FINN + + [_Anxiously._] + + Has she got the child? I can’t endure + To wait like this. + + CLIMBER + + [_A trifle hesitatingly._] + + I think so. I’m not sure. + + LISTENER + + Be quick! I hear the dog coming up out of her sleep. + + THIEF’S VOICE + + [_From within, faintly._] + + Oh! Lower me again to Mother Earth, + For I in spirit have been called as far + As the secret place where her lost children are, + And I now bring them back to second birth, + Rescuing both the body and the soul + Out of the Hand of death entire and whole, + If you are strong enough to bear us back + To the same side from which we came. + + CLIMBER + + [_Reeling with the sudden relaxation of nervous tension._] + + Alack! + I am as wearied as a falling star, + I cannot do it alone. + + [_At this moment the Hand is seen emerging from the roof. + It grips the Climber and takes her in._] + + FINN + + [_With a frantic cry._] + + Where are + They? Oh! My God, what shall I do? + + MARKSMAN + + Put your finger underneath your wisdom tooth + And find what it replies. + + FINN + + [_Doing so._] + + It says that I must tell the truth. + + MARKSMAN + + [_Sternly._] + + Confess your previous lies! + + [_Finn hides his face with a groan._] + + MARKSMAN + + [_Gently._] + + You need fear no disgrace + If you will look me in the face. + + FINN + + [_Trembling._] + + I’m thinking that there are not many here + Can look you in the face without some fear. + + MARKSMAN + + [_Quietly._] + + If you are too shy + I cannot help you at all. You must all die. + + [_He turns away._] + + FINN + + [_Clutching him by the shoulder._] + + No! No! No! + + [_The Marksman turns and gazes at him. Finn remains + upright, his eyes riveted on the Marksman’s._] + + FINN + + [_Steadily._] + + I told her I was wide enough awake. + + MARKSMAN + + [_Quietly._] + + That was a great mistake. + + FINN + + I told her I could quite well do + Without her aid. + + MARKSMAN + + [_Quietly._] + + That was untrue. + + FINN + + I told her that I did not feel + The slightest pain. Her dream was real, + + [_He points to the box._] + + For overburdened with this weight + Of earth, I was in such a state + I really could not recognize + Myself reflected in her eyes. + I felt in such a deep disgrace + I could not look her in the face, + So when she brought her dream by and by + I put her off. Trying to deny + My God, I told a fearful lie. + + MARKSMAN + + [_Tranquilly._] + + She never believed it, and she marked it die + Dwindling slowly away + As the light grew stronger and the grey + Faded for ever from the windows. + + [_He points to the faint line of green, which is now + showing on the horizon._] + + In the cottages they will soon be putting out all the lamps + And going about their work in unreflected light. + + FINN + + [_Springing up with a cry of joy._] + + What! Is it really all right? + + MARKSMAN + + [_Quietly._] + + Yes, quite; + You’ve told me all that I require + To set you free. + + FINN + + [_Now a different man._] + + If God be true no man can be a liar. + Come, follow me. + + LISTENER + + Where are you going? + + FINN + + [_Eagerly and joyously._] + + I’m going after the Climber, + Her point of view’s sublimer. + I’m going to throw away my bow. + + [_He casts the box from him._] + + MARKSMAN + + [_Picking up the box._] + + Take care, you’ve not much yet on which to go! + + FINN + + [_Radiantly._] + + I cannot fall, + The way she chose is practical! + + LISTENER + + Since you have let her in for this, no doubt + You’re bound to find a way to get her out. + + MARKSMAN + + [_Turning on a little electric torch to light Finn._] + + It’s still a little dark to-night. + I’ve put things in the proper light + For you, but it strikes me + I’ll have to clear up more before you’ll see + Her way out of the difficulty. + + [_Finn reaches the roof in safety, and calls down + anxiously._] + + FINN + + Are you there? Are you there? + + CLIMBER + + [_Calling faintly from within._] + + Oh! Have you come? I knew you’d not be long, + I’d noticed you were getting very strong. + He’s tied me hand and foot. I cannot move, + I’ve found the Thief and he are hand in glove! + + FINN + + No matter! I’m entirely of your mind. + I’ll find + My way inside and get you out just now. + + CLIMBER + + [_Anxiously._] + + The door is just behind your brow. + + FINN + + [_Hitting his forehead._] + + I’ve got it! + + [_His figure is seen against the dim twilight kneeling._] + + LISTENER + + Be quick! I hear the Giant coming up out of his sleep! + + [_The Hand takes in Finn._] + + CLIMBER’S VOICE + + [_With a muffled cry of despair._] + + Too late! Too late! My God, what shall I do? + + MARKSMAN + + [_Hurriedly, calling from below._] + + Put your finger under your wisdom tooth and tell me what it replies. + + CLIMBER’S VOICE + + It says that I must tell the truth! + + MARKSMAN + + [_Very sternly._] + + What! You as well! Confess your previous lies! + + CLIMBER’S VOICE + + It is so dark I cannot see your face, + I feel that I’m in very deep disgrace. + Alas! I told him that I was asleep! + + MARKSMAN + + Your error there was truly very deep. + + CLIMBER + + I thought that I was strong enough + To return alone. + + MARKSMAN + + What utter stuff! + + CLIMBER + + [_Desperately._] + + I said I thought he was in pain; + The pain was mine, for in my brain + I felt a tugging and a stress + I could not understand, unless + One in the likeness of a man + Had summoned me to Heaven. I ran, + I climbed, I reached the topmost stair, + And found that I was not all there, + For if I’d left the earth behind + I should have gone out of my mind, + Since God requires a soul and body too + To make the substance of His dream come true. + I understood God did devise + To make this earth His Paradise; + I saw our second birth was got + Just out of earth by happy thought, + But fearful that a Truth so glad + Would seem an impudence half-mad, + I made him think that God’s design + Was just a silly dream of mine. + + MARKSMAN + + [_Quietly._] + + He always believed your dream; + He marked it grow + Out upon his sleep with bewildered joy, + Until at last, just like a little boy, + He put his hand up in the dark to feel + Her face, and found he had touched something real. + + [_He opens the box and takes the rainbow from it._] + + In the cottages they have put out all the lamps, + And go about their work in unreflected light. + + LISTENER + + [_Excitedly._] + +The Giant is coming up out of his sleep for the last time, and he is +bringing the dog with him! + + MARKSMAN + + [_Quietly._] + + I am not afraid of myself, you need not shout, + For I am strong enough to bear them out. + + [_At this moment the Hand rises again from the chimney. + The Marksman is seen stringing the rainbow and letting fly + an arrow, which transfixes the Hand. There is terrible + darkness for a moment, the stars fall from the sky and the + moon turns crimson, leaving pitchy night. With a loud crash + the walls of the castle fall away, and in a serene silent + splendour of purple and crimson the dawn rises over the + sea, revealing the Big Young Hero standing upon the rock + with the child in his arms. The Climber and Finn are in + each other’s arms, the Thief is holding the puppy._] + + MARKSMAN + + They have all come up out of their sleep for ever! + + LISTENER + + [_With a great cry of joy._] + + I always knew this would happen! She’s got the puppy too! + + + + +ACT V + +THE GREEN ISLE REALIZED ON EARTH. DAWN + + +_The same as Act I, but this time there is no rainbow haze between, only +a great rainbow stretching in the sky across the Hebrides seen in the +distance. On a table under the trees the girl has spread all sorts of +delightful fruits and cakes. She is now decorating it with flowers, and +singing as she works._ + + SONG + + I love all lovely things— + The dragon-fly’s wings, + The rainbow and the rain, + The light that comes again + Joyously like a smile, + When for a little while + God disposes the night elsewhere. + + His sun is very fair, + I can catch it in my hair. + Look! It’s there! And there! And there! + Oh! the earth’s a lovely thing, + The mind of a Mighty King, + I cannot help but sing. + I cannot end my song, + God’s thought is very long. + Many years He took to make + The bracken in the brake; + He was a long time building + The fragrant yellow gilding + On the early poplar tree + When no eye was there to see. + + The clouds, the atmosphere, + My breath, the water clear, + How fair and sweet they are! + Oh! hate was very far + From God’s divine intention + When these things He did mention; + When He canopied the earth + With cloud, and fire, and mirth; + When He set the privy shade + For the pheasant in the glade; + When He built the mossy nest + For the wren, His little guest; + When He taught the mind of man + By its love to find His plan. + + For no one shall discover + His science, save the lover. + Oh! Life’s a lovely thing, + The mind of a Mighty King! + Emotion, will, desire, + Earth, water, air, and fire, + The elements intertwined, + With these He built the mind; + The love of green things growing, + The shadows they keep throwing + Across man’s fiery thought + Till they’re fused and merged and wrought + Into the liquid union + Of one divine communion + With God, Who made his college + An earthly place of knowledge. + + I cannot help but sing, + Life’s such a lovely thing! + The catkin and the willow + God’s chosen for His pillow. + I wonder why He fashioned + A Beauty so impassioned; + I wonder why it matters + Which way the raindrop patters, + Or why a God should care + To give His creatures share + Of this delightful song. + His love must be very strong. + + I cannot end my singing, + For still the starling’s winging + With a straw held in her beak + To build in the old tree-peak; + And still across the sky + The compacted clouds go by; + And when God thinks upon it + The lily’s yellow bonnet + Nid-nods delightfully + Beneath the walnut tree. + And clear, and still more clear, + In God’s mind I read and hear + That only Love shall learn + The wherefore of flower and fern, + That only Love alone + Shall live to be full-grown, + That merely Love and Wonder + Shall bring all Heaven hereunder. + + [_Towards the end of the song the brown-sailed fishing-boat + is seen approaching gradually under the rainbow. As it + draws near, Finn and the Big Young Hero are seen in it with + the puppy. It touches the shore, at first unperceived of + the girl. The Big Young Hero leaps lightly from it, and + helps Finn out._] + + FINN + + [_Looking round bewildered._] + + I recognize this place. + + HERO + + You have been here before. + + FINN + + Isn’t that the Bidean’s face? + + [_Pointing to the distant hills._] + + Please tell me, for I can’t stand any more. + + [_He staggers, but the Hero puts an arm round him._] + + There must be some mistake, + I seem + To be asleep and yet I am awake. + Is this a dream? + + HERO + + No, it is real. + Put up your hand and feel + Her face. + + CLIMBER + + [_Perceiving him, calls._] + + The breakfast’s ready, I have set your place. + + [_Catching sight of Finn she puts her hand to her face with + a cry of amazed delight._] + + It is the man I dreamed about last night! + I didn’t know! I’m looking such a sight! + I didn’t know that you would bring a guest. + + [_She puts her hand up to her head as if she were going to + fall, and the Hero puts his other arm round her._] + + I’ll be all right after a little rest. + What a beautiful rainbow! + + [_Pointing._] + + I always knew the morning would be fine. + + FINN + + [_Putting his hand up in amazement to find the box is + gone._] + + It’s mine! + How did it get up there? + + HERO + + You hoisted it on a prayer; + The Marksman’s left it in the sky to show + The right direction to the folk below. + The others are not very far behind; + Presently they will all be of your mind. + + [_He points to where, far off under the bow, the sails of + Conan’s boat are dimly visible on the horizon._] + + FINN + + [_Wild with delight._] + + Oh! I feel strong enough to turn the moon + Right round upon his other face, + And I feel ready now to sup + The stars up with a spoon. + + CLIMBER + + [_In an awed whisper, gazing at Finn._] + + I only know I am aware + Of God for ever, everywhere. + + HERO + + [_Who has still an arm round either, to Finn._] + + It was the Gate of Heaven that you carried. + Now it is time that you and she were married. + Since I have found you strong enough to share + Her faith that I am more than quite all there, + Ask what you will, it shall be given you + As your reward. Tell me, what is your due? + + FINN + + [_In a whisper._] + + I am beginning now to understand! + Lord, I beseech, help Thou mine other hand. + + HERO + + [_Leading the two forward to the table, he takes the + Climber’s hand and places it in Finn’s._] + + It has spread breakfast in my house for two, + The other place was always meant for you; + I pray you, warm it at your hearth hereunder. + What I have joined let no man put asunder. + + + + +APPENDIX + +_HOW FINN KEPT HIS CHILDREN FOR THE BIG YOUNG HERO OF THE SHIP AND HOW +BRAN WAS FOUND._ + + +A day Finn and his men were in the Hunting-hill they killed a great +number of deer; and when they were wearied after the chase they sat down +on a pleasant green knoll, at the back of the wind and at the face of the +sun, where they could see everyone and no one at all could see them. + +While they were sitting in that place Finn lifted his eyes towards the +sea, and saw a ship making straight for the haven beneath the spot on +which they were sitting. When the ship came to land, a Big Young Hero +leaped out of her on the shore, seized her by the bows and drew her +up, her own seven lengths, on the green grass, where the eldest son of +neither landowner nor of holder of large townland dared mock or gibe at +her. Then he ascended the hillside, leaping over the hollows and slanting +the knolls, till he reached the spot on which Finn and his men were +sitting. + +He saluted Finn frankly, energetically, fluently; and Finn saluted him +with the equivalent of the same words. Finn then asked him whence did he +come or what was he wanting? He answered Finn that he had come through +night-watching and tempest of sea where he was, because he was losing his +children, and it had been told him that there was not a man in the world +who could keep his children for him but him, Finn, King of the Feinne. +And he said to Finn, “I lay on thee, as crosses and spells and seven +fairy fetters of travelling and straying, to be with me before thou shalt +eat food or drink a draught or close an eye in sleep.” + +Having said this he turned away from them and descended the hillside +the way he ascended it. When he reached the ship he placed his shoulder +against her bow and put her out. He then leaped into her, and departed in +the direction he came until they lost sight of him. + +Finn was now under great heaviness of mind, because the vows had been +laid on him, and he must fulfil them or travel onwards until he would +die. He knew not whither he should go, or what he should do. But he left +farewell with his men, and descended the hillside to the seaside. When he +reached that he could not go farther on the way in which he saw the Big +Young Hero depart. He therefore began to walk along the shore, but before +he had gone very far forward, he saw a company of seven men coming to +meet him. + +When he reached the men he asked the first of them what was he good at? +The man answered that he was a good Carpenter. Finn asked him how good +was he at carpentry? The man said that, with three strokes of his axe +he could make a large, capacious, complete ship of the alder stock over +yonder. “Thou art good enough,” said Finn; “thou mayest pass by.” + +He then asked of the second man what was he good at? The man said that he +was a good Tracker. “How good art thou?” said Finn. “I can track the wild +duck over the crests of the nine waves within nine days,” said the man. +“Thou art good enough,” said Finn; “thou mayest pass by.” + +Then he said to the third man, “What art thou good at?” The man replied +that he was a good Gripper. “How good art thou?” “The hold I once get I +will not let go until my two arms come from my shoulders or until my +hold comes with me.” “Thou art good enough; thou mayest pass by.” + +Then he said to the fourth man, “What art thou good at?” He answered that +he was a good Climber. “How good art thou?” “I can climb on a filament of +silk to the stars, although thou wert to tie it there.” “Thou art good +enough; thou mayest pass by.” + +He then said to the fifth man, “What art thou good at?” He replied that +he was a good Thief. “How good art thou?” “I can steal the egg from the +heron while her two eyes are looking at me.” “Thou art good enough; thou +mayest pass by.” + +He asked of the sixth man, “What art thou good at?” He answered that he +was a good Listener. “How good art thou?” He said that he could hear what +people were saying at the extremity of the Uttermost World (Domhan Tor). +“Thou art good enough; thou mayest pass by.” + +Then he said to the seventh man, “What art thou good at?” He replied that +he was a good Marksman. “How good art thou?” “I could hit an egg as far +away in the sky as bowstring could send or bow could carry.” “Thou art +good enough; thou mayest pass by.” + +All this gave Finn great encouragement. He turned round and said to the +Carpenter, “Prove thy skill.” The Carpenter went where the stock was, and +struck it with his axe thrice; and as he had said, the Ship was ready. + +When Finn saw the Ship ready he ordered his men to put her out. They did +that and went on board of her. + +Finn now ordered the Tracker to go to the bow and prove himself. At the +same time he told him that yesterday a Big Young Hero left yonder haven +in his ship and that he wanted to follow the Hero to the place in which +he now was. Finn himself went to steer the Ship and they departed. The +Tracker was telling him to keep her this way or to keep her that way. +They sailed a long time forward without seeing land, but they kept on +their course until evening was approaching. In the gloaming they noticed +that land was ahead of them, and they made straight for it. When they +reached the shore they leaped to land and drew up the Ship. + +Then they noticed a large fine house in the glen above the beach. They +took their way up to the house; and when they were nearing it they saw +the Big Young Hero coming to meet them. He ran and placed his two arms +about Finn’s neck and said, “Darling of all men in the world, hast thou +come?” “If I had been thy darling of all men in the world, it is not as +thou didst leave me that thou wouldst have left me,” said Finn. “Oh, it +was not without a way of coming that I left thee,” said the Big Young +Hero. “Did I not send a company of seven men to meet thee?” + +When they reached the house, the Big Young Hero told Finn and his men to +go in. They accepted the invitation and found abundance of meat and drink. + +After they had quenched their hunger and thirst, the Big Young Hero came +in where they were, and said to Finn, “Six years from this night, my wife +was in childbed and a child was born to me. As soon as the child came +into the world, a large Hand came in at the chimney, and took the child +with it in the cap (or hollow) of the Hand. Three years from this night +the same thing happened. And to-night she is going to be in childbed +again. It was told me that thou wert the only man in the world who could +keep my children for me, and now I have courage since I have found thee.” + +Finn and his men were tired and sleepy. Finn said to the men that they +were to stretch themselves on the floor and that he was going to keep +watch. They did as they were told and he remained sitting beside the +fire. At last sleep began to come on him; but he had a bar of iron in the +fire, and as often as his eyes would begin to close with sleep, he would +thrust the bar through the bone of his palm, and that was keeping him +awake. About midnight the woman was delivered, and as soon as the child +came into the world the Hand came in at the chimney. Finn called on the +Gripper to get up. + +The Gripper sprang quickly to his feet and laid hold of the Hand. He gave +a pull on the Hand, and took it in to the two eyebrows at the chimney. + +The Hand gave a pull on the Gripper, and took him out to the top of his +two shoulders. The Gripper gave another pull on the Hand, and brought it +in to the neck. The Hand gave a pull on the Gripper, and brought him out +to the very middle. The Gripper gave a pull on the Hand and took it in +over the two armpits. The Hand gave a pull on the Gripper and took him +out to the smalls of his two feet. Then the Gripper gave a brave pull on +the Hand, and it came out of the shoulder. And when it fell on the floor +the pulling of seven geldings was in it. But the big Giant outside put in +the other hand and took the child with him in the cap of the Hand. + +They were all very sorry that they lost the child. But Finn said, “We +will not yield to this yet. I and my men will go away after the Hand +before a sun shall rise on a dwelling to-morrow.” + +At break of dawn Finn and his men turned out, and reached the beach where +they had left the Ship. + +They launched the Ship, and leaped on board of her. The Tracker went to +the bow, and Finn went to steer her. They departed, and now and again +the Tracker would cry to Finn to keep her in that direction, or to keep +her in this direction. They sailed onward a long distance without seeing +anything before them, except the great sea. At the going down of the sun, +Finn noticed a black spot in the ocean ahead of them. He thought it too +little for an island and too large for a bird, but he made straight for +it; and it was a rock, and a Castle thatched with eel-skins was on its +top. + +They landed on the rock. They looked about the Castle but they saw +neither window nor door at which they could get in. At last they noticed +that it was on the roof the door was. They did not know how they could +get up, because the thatch was so slippery. But the Climber cried, +“Let me over and I will not be long in climbing it.” He sprang quickly +towards the Castle and in an instant was on its roof. He looked in at the +door, and after taking particular notice of everything that he saw, he +descended where the rest were waiting. Finn asked of him what did he see? +He said that he saw a big Giant lying on a bed, a silk covering over him +and a satin covering under him, and his hand stretched out and an infant +asleep in the cap of the Hand; that he saw two boys on the floor playing +with shinties of gold and a ball of silver; and that there was a very +large deer-hound bitch lying beside the fire, and two pups sucking her. + +Then said Finn, “I do not know how we shall get them out.” The Thief +answered and said, “If I get in I will not be long putting them out.” The +Climber said, “Come on my back and I will take thee up to the door.” The +Thief did as he was told and got into the Castle. + +Instantly he began to prove his skill. The first thing he put out was +the child that was in the cap of the Hand. He then put out the two boys +who were playing on the floor. He then stole the silk covering that was +over the Giant and the satin covering that was under him, and put them +out. Then he put out the shinties of gold and the ball of silver. He then +stole the two pups that were sucking the bitch beside the fire. These +were the most valuable things which he saw inside. He left the Giant +asleep and turned out. + +They placed the things which the Thief stole in the Ship and departed. +They were but a short time sailing when the Listener stood up and said, +“’Tis I who am hearing him, ’tis I who am listening to him!” “What art +thou hearing?” said Finn. “He has just awakened,” said the Listener, +“and missed everything that was stolen from him. He is in great wrath +sending away the Bitch, and saying to her if she will not go that he will +go himself. But it is the Bitch that is going.” In a short time they +looked behind them and saw the Bitch coming swimming. She was cleaving +the sea on each side of her in red sparks of fire. They were seized with +fear, and said that they did not know what they should do. But Finn +considered, and then told them to throw out one of the pups; perhaps when +she would see the pup drowning she would return with it. They threw out +the pup, and as Finn said, it happened; the Bitch returned with the pup. +This left them at the time pleased. + +But shortly after that the Listener arose trembling, and said, “’Tis +I who am hearing him, ’tis I who am listening to him!” “What art thou +saying now?” said Finn. “He is sending away the Bitch, and since she will +not go he is coming himself.” + +When they heard this their eye was always behind them. At last they saw +him coming, and the great sea reached not beyond his haunches. They were +seized with fear and great horror, for they knew not what they should +do. But Finn thought of his knowledge set of teeth, and having put his +finger under it, found out that the Giant was immortal except in a mole +which was in a hollow of his palm. The Marksman then stood up and said, +“If I get one look of it I will have him.” The Giant came walking forward +through the sea to the side of the Ship. Then he lifted up his hand to +seize the top of the mast, in order to sink the Ship. But when the Hand +was on high the Marksman noticed the mole, and he let an arrow off in its +direction. The arrow struck the Giant in the death-spot and he fell dead +on the sea. They were now very happy, for there was nothing before them +to make them afraid. They put about and sailed back to the Castle. The +Thief stole the pup again, and they took it with them along with the one +they had. After that they returned to the place of the Big Young Hero. +When they reached the Haven they leaped on land and drew up the Ship on +dry ground. + +Then Finn went away with the family of the Big Young Hero and with +everything which he and his men took out of the Castle to the fine house +of the Big Young Hero. + +The Big Young Hero met him coming, and when he saw his children he +went on his two knees to Finn and said, “What now is thy reward?” Finn +answered and said that he was asking nothing but his choice of the two +pups which they took from the Castle. The Big Young Hero said that he +would get that and a great deal more if he would ask it. But Finn wanted +nothing except the pup. This pup was Bran, and his brother, that the Big +Young Hero got, was the Grey Dog. + +The Big Young Hero took Finn and his men into his house and made for them +a great joyous merry feast, which was kept up for a year and a day, and +if the last day was not the best it was not the worst. + +That is how Finn kept his children for the Big Young Hero of the Ship and +how Bran was found. + + _Waifs and Strays of Celtic Tradition. + Argyllshire series. Rev. J. Macdougall._ + +[Illustration] + + + + +*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 76247 *** |