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You may copy it, give it away or +re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included +with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org + + +Title: The Rise of Iskander + +Author: Benjamin Disraeli + +Release Date: August 9, 2009 [EBook #7842] +Last Updated: September 7, 2016 + +Language: English + +Character set encoding: UTF-8 + +*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE RISE OF ISKANDER *** + + + + +Produced by K. Kay Shearin, and David Widger + + + + + + +</pre> + + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <h1> + THE RISE OF ISKANDER + </h1> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <h2> + By Benjamin Disraeli + </h2> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <blockquote> + <p class="toc"> + <big><b>CONTENTS</b></big> + </p> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0001"> CHAPTER 1 </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0002"> CHAPTER 2 </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0003"> CHAPTER 3 </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0004"> CHAPTER 4 </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0005"> CHAPTER 5 </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0006"> CHAPTER 6 </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0007"> CHAPTER 7 </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0008"> CHAPTER 8 </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0009"> CHAPTER 9 </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0010"> CHAPTER 10 </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0011"> CHAPTER 11 </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0012"> CHAPTER 12 </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0013"> CHAPTER 13 </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0014"> CHAPTER 14 </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0015"> CHAPTER 15 </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0016"> CHAPTER 16 </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0017"> CHAPTER 17 </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0018"> CHAPTER 18 </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0019"> CHAPTER 19 </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0020"> CHAPTER 20 </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0021"> CHAPTER 21 </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0022"> CHAPTER 22 </a> + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="link2HCH0001" id="link2HCH0001"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <h2> + CHAPTER 1 + </h2> + <p> + The sun had set behind the mountains, and the rich plain of Athens was + suffused with the violet glow of a Grecian eye. A light breeze rose; the + olive-groves awoke from their noonday trance, and rustled with returning + animation, and the pennons of the Turkish squadron, that lay at anchor in + the harbour of Piræus, twinkled in the lively air. From one gate of the + city the women came forth in procession to the fountain; from another, a + band of sumptuous horsemen sallied out, and threw their wanton javelins in + the invigorating sky, as they galloped over the plain. The voice of birds, + the buzz of beauteous insects, the breath of fragrant flowers, the + quivering note of the nightingale, the pattering call of the grasshopper, + and the perfume of the violet, shrinking from the embrace of the twilight + breeze, filled the purple air with music and with odour. + </p> + <p> + A solitary being stood upon the towering crag of the Acropolis, amid the + ruins of the Temple of Minerva, and gazed upon the inspiring scene. Around + him rose the matchless memorials of antique art; immortal columns whose + symmetry baffles modern proportion, serene Caryatides, bearing with + greater grace a graceful burthen, carvings of delicate precision, and + friezes breathing with heroic life. Apparently the stranger, though + habited as a Moslemin, was not insensible to the genius of the locality, + nor indeed would his form and countenance have misbecome a contemporary of + Pericles and Phidias. In the prime of life and far above the common + stature, but with a frame the muscular power of which was even exceeded by + its almost ideal symmetry, white forehead, his straight profile, his oval + countenance, and his curling lip, exhibited the same visage that had + inspired the sculptor of the surrounding demigods. + </p> + <p> + The dress of the stranger, although gorgeous, was, however, certainly not + classic. A crimson shawl was wound round his head and glittered with a + trembling aigrette of diamonds. His vest which set tight to his form, was + of green velvet, richly embroidered with gold and pearls. Over this he + wore a very light jacket of crimson velvet, equally embroidered, and lined + with sable. He wore also the full white camese common among the Albanians; + and while his feet were protected by sandals, the lower part of his legs + was guarded by greaves of embroidered green velvet. From a broad belt of + scarlet leather peeped forth the jewelled hilts of a variety of daggers, + and by his side was an enormous scimitar, in a scabbard of chased silver. + </p> + <p> + The stranger gazed upon the wide prospect before him with an air of + pensive abstraction. “Beautiful Greece,” he exclaimed, “thou art still my + country. A mournful lot is mine, a strange and mournful lot, yet not + uncheered by hope. I am at least a warrior; and this arm, though trained + to war against thee, will not well forget, in the quick hour of battle, + the blood that flows within it. Themistocles saved Greece and died a + Satrap: I am bred one, let me reverse our lots, and die at least a + patriot.” + </p> + <p> + At this moment the Evening Hymn to the Virgin arose from a neighbouring + convent. The stranger started as the sacred melody floated towards him, + and taking a small golden cross from his heart, he kissed it with + devotion, and then descending the steep of the citadel, entered the city. + </p> + <p> + He proceeded alone the narrow winding streets of Athens until he at length + arrived in front of a marble palace, in the construction of which the + architect had certainly not consulted the surrounding models which Time + bad spared to him, but which, however, it might have offended a classic + taste, presented altogether a magnificent appearance. Half-a-dozen guards, + whose shields and helmets somewhat oddly contrasted with the two pieces of + cannon, one of which was ostentatiously placed on each side of the portal, + and which had been presented to the Prince of Athens by the Republic of + Venice, lounged before the entrance, and paid their military homage to the + stranger as he passed them. He passed them and entered a large + quadrangular garden, surrounded by arcades, supported by a considerable + number of thin, low pillars, of barbarous workmanship, and + various-coloured marbles. In the midst of the garden rose a fountain, + whence the bubbling waters flowed in artificial channels through vistas of + orange and lemon trees. By the side of the fountain on a luxurious couch, + his eyes fixed upon a richly-illuminated volume, reposed Nicæus, the + youthful Prince of Athens. + </p> + <p> + “Ah! is it you?” said the Prince, looking up with a smile, as the stranger + advanced. “You have arrived just in time to remind me that we must do + something more than read the Persæ, we must act it.” + </p> + <p> + “My dear Nicæus,” replied the stranger, “I have arrived only to bid you + farewell.” + </p> + <p> + “Farewell!” exclaimed the Prince in a tone of surprise and sorrow; and he + rose from the couch. “Why! what is this?” + </p> + <p> + “It is too true;” said the stranger, and he led the way down one of the + walks. “Events have occurred which entirely baffle all our plans and + prospects, and place me in a position as difficult as it is harrowing. + Hunniades has suddenly crossed the Danube in great force, and carried + everything before him. I am ordered to proceed to Albania instantly, and + to repair to the camp at the head of the Epirots.” + </p> + <p> + “Indeed!” said Nicæus, with a thoughtful air. “My letters did not prepare + me for this. ‘Tis sudden! Is Amurath himself in the field?” + </p> + <p> + “No; Karam Bey commands. I have accounted for my delay to the Sultan by + pretended difficulties in our treaty, and have held out the prospect of a + larger tribute.” + </p> + <p> + “When we are plotting that that tribute should be paid no longer!” added + Nicæus, with a smile. + </p> + <p> + “Alas! my dear friend,” replied the Turkish commander, “my situation has + now become critical. Hitherto my services for the Moslemin have been + confined to acting against nations of their own faith. I am now suddenly + summoned to combat against my secret creed, and the best allies of what I + must yet call my secret country. The movement, it appears to me, must be + made now or never, and I cannot conceal from myself, that it never could + have been prosecuted under less auspicious circumstances.” + </p> + <p> + “What, you desponding!” exclaimed Nicæus; “then I must despair. Your + sanguine temper has alone supported me throughout all our dangerous + hopes.” + </p> + <p> + “And Æschylus?” said the stranger, smiling. + </p> + <p> + “And Æschylus, certainly,” replied Nicæus; “but I have lived to find even + Æschylus insipid. I pant for action.” + </p> + <p> + “It may be nearer than we can foresee,” replied the stranger. “There is a + God who fashions all things. He will not desert a righteous cause. He + knoweth that my thoughts are as pure as my situation is difficult. I have + some dim ideas still brooding in my mind, but we will not discuss them + now. I must away, dear Prince. The breeze serves fairly. Have you ever + seen Hunniades?” + </p> + <p> + “I was educated at the Court of Transylvania,” replied Nicæus, looking + down with a somewhat embarrassed air. “He is a famous knight, + Christendom’s chief bulwark.” + </p> + <p> + The Turkish commander sighed. “When we meet again,” he said, “may we meet + with brighter hopes and more buoyant spirits. At present, I must, indeed, + say farewell.” + </p> + <p> + The Prince turned with a dejected countenance, and pressed his companion + to his heart. “‘Tis a sad end,” said he, “to all our happy hours and lofty + plans.” + </p> + <p> + “You are as yet too young to quarrel with Fortune,” replied the stranger, + “and for myself, I have not yet settled my accounts with her. However, for + the present farewell, dear Nicæus!” + </p> + <p> + “Farewell,” replied the Prince of Athens, “farewell, dear Iskander!” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0002" id="link2HCH0002"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER 2 + </h2> + <p> + Iskander was the youngest son of the Prince of Epirus, who, with the other + Grecian princes, had, at the commencement of the reign of Amurath the + Second, in vain resisted the progress of the Turkish arms in Europe. The + Prince of Epirus had obtained peace by yielding his four sons as hostages + to the Turkish sovereign, who engaged that they should be educated in all + the accomplishments of their rank, and with a due deference to their + faith. On the death of the Prince of Epirus, however, Amurath could not + resist the opportunity that then offered itself of adding to his empire + the rich principality he had long coveted. A Turkish force instantly + marched into Epirus, and seized upon Croia, the capital city, and the + children of its late ruler were doomed to death. The beauty, talents, and + valour of the youngest son, saved him, however, from the fate of his + poisoned brothers. Iskander was educated at Adrianople, in the Moslemin + faith, and as he, at a very early age, exceeded in feats of arms all the + Moslemin warriors, he became a prime favourite of the Sultan, and speedily + rose in his service to the highest rank. + </p> + <p> + At this period the irresistible progress of the Turkish arms was the + subject of alarm throughout all Christendom. + </p> + <p> + Constantinople, then the capital of the Greek Empire, had already been + more than once besieged by the predecessors of Amurath, and had only been + preserved by fortunate accidents and humiliating terms. The despots of + Bosnia, Servia, and Bulgaria, and the Grecian princes of Etolia, Macedon, + Epirus, Athens, Phocis, Boeotia, and indeed of all the regions to the + straits of Corinth, were tributaries to Amurath, and the rest of Europe + was only preserved from his grasp by the valour of the Hungarians and the + Poles, whom a fortunate alliance had now united under the sovereignty of + Uladislaus, who, incited by the pious eloquence of the cardinal of St. + Angelo, the legate of the Pope, and, yielding to the tears and + supplications of the despot of Servia, had, at the time our story opens, + quitted Buda, at the head of an immense army, crossed the Danube, and, + joining his valiant viceroy, the famous John Hunniades, vaivode of + Transylvania, defeated the Turks with great slaughter, relieved all + Bulgaria, and pushed on to the base of Mount Hæmus, known in modern times + as the celebrated Balkan. Here the Turkish general, Karam Bey, awaited the + Christians, and hither to his assistance was Iskander commanded to repair + at the head of a body of Janissaries, who had accompanied him to Greece, + and the tributary Epirots. + </p> + <p> + Had Iskander been influenced by vulgar ambition, his loftiest desires + might have been fully gratified by the career which Amurath projected for + him. The Turkish Sultan destined for the Grecian Prince the hand of one of + his daughters, and the principal command of his armies. He lavished upon + him the highest dignities and boundless wealth; and, whether it arose from + a feeling of remorse, or of affection for a warrior whose unexampled + valour and unrivalled skill had already added some of the finest provinces + of Asia to his rule, it is certain that Iskander might have exercised over + Amurath a far greater degree of influence than was enjoyed by any other of + his courtiers. But the heart of Iskander responded with no sympathy to + these flattering favours. His Turkish education could never eradicate from + his memory the consciousness that he was a Greek; and although he was + brought up in the Moslemin faith, he had at an early period of his career, + secretly recurred to the creed of his Christian fathers. He beheld in + Amurath the murderer of his dearest kinsmen, and the oppressor of his + country; and although a certain calmness of temper, and coolness of + judgment, which very early developed themselves in his character, + prevented him from ever giving any indication of his secret feelings, + Iskander had long meditated on the exalted duty of freeing his country. + </p> + <p> + Dispatched to Greece, to arrange the tributes and the treaties of the + Grecian princes, Iskander became acquainted with the young Nicæus; and + their acquaintance soon matured into friendship. Nicæus was inexperienced; + but nature had not intended him for action. The young Prince of Athens + would loll by the side of a fountain, and dream of the wonders of old + days. Surrounded by his eunuchs, his priests, and his courtiers, he envied + Leonidas, and would have emulated Themistocles. He was passionately + devoted to the ancient literature of his country, and had the good taste, + rare at that time, to prefer Demosthenes and Lysias to Chrysostom and + Gregory, and the choruses of the Grecian theatre to the hymns of the Greek + church. The sustained energy and noble simplicity of the character of + Iskander, seemed to recall to the young prince the classic heroes over + whom he was so often musing, while the enthusiasm and fancy of Nicæus, and + all that apparent weakness of will, and those quick vicissitudes of + emotion, to which men of a fine susceptibility are subject, equally + engaged the sympathy of the more vigorous and constant and experienced + mind of his companion. + </p> + <p> + To Nicæus, Iskander had, for the first time in his life, confided much of + his secret heart; and the young Prince fired at the inspiring tale. Often + they consulted over the fortunes of their country, and, excited by their + mutual invention, at length even dared to hope that they might effect its + deliverance, when Iskander was summoned to the army. It was a mournful + parting. Both of them felt that the last few months of their lives had + owed many charms to their companionship. The parting of friends, united by + sympathetic tastes, is always painful; and friends, unless this sympathy + subsist, had much better never meet. Iskander stepped into the ship, + sorrowful, but serene; Nicæus returned to his palace moody and fretful; + lost his temper with his courtiers, and, when he was alone, even shed + tears. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0003" id="link2HCH0003"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER 3 + </h2> + <p> + Three weeks bad elapsed since the parting of Iskander and Nicæus, when the + former, at the head of ten thousand men, entered by a circuitous route the + defiles of Mount Hæmus, and approached the Turkish camp, which had been + pitched, upon a vast and elevated table-ground, commanded on all sides by + superior heights, which, however, were fortified and well-garrisoned by + Janissaries. The Epirots halted, and immediately prepared to raise their + tents, while their commander, attended by a few of his officers, instantly + proceeded to the pavilion of Karam Bey. + </p> + <p> + The arrival of Iskander diffused great joy among the soldiery; and as he + passed through the encampment, the exclamations of the Turkish warriors + announced how ready they were to be led to the charge by a chieftain who + had been ever successful. A guard of honour, by the orders of Karam Bey, + advanced to conduct Iskander to his presence; and soon, entering the + pavilion, the Grecian prince exchanged courtesies with the Turkish + general. After the formal compliments had passed, Karam Bey waved his + hand, and the pavilion was cleared, with the exception of Mousa, the chief + secretary, and favourite of Karam. + </p> + <p> + “You have arrived in good time, Iskander, to assist in the destruction of + the Christian dogs,” said the Bey. “Flushed with their accursed success, + they have advanced too far. Twice they have endeavoured to penetrate the + mountains; and each time they have been forced to retire, with great loss. + The passages are well barricadoed with timber and huge fragments of rock. + The dogs have lost all heart, and are sinking under the joint sufferings + of hunger and cold. Our scouts tell me they exhibit symptoms of retreat. + We must rush down from the mountains, and annihilate them.” + </p> + <p> + “Is Hunniades here in person?” inquired Iskander. + </p> + <p> + “He is here,” replied Karam, “in person, the dog of dogs! Come, Iskander, + his head would be a fine Ramadan present to Amurath. ‘Tis a head worth + three tails, I guess.” + </p> + <p> + Mousa, the chief secretary, indulged in some suppressed laughter at this + joke. Iskander smiled. + </p> + <p> + “If they retreat we must assuredly attack them,” observed Iskander, + musingly. “I have a persuasion that Hunniades and myself will soon meet.” + </p> + <p> + “If there be truth in the Prophet!” exclaimed Karam. “I have no doubt of + it. Hunniades is reserved for you, Bey. We shall hold up our heads at + court yet, Iskander. You have had letters lately?” + </p> + <p> + “Some slight words.” + </p> + <p> + “No mention of us, of course?” + </p> + <p> + “Nothing, except some passing praise of your valour and discretion.” + </p> + <p> + “We do our best, we do our best. Will Isa Bey have Ætolia, think you?” + </p> + <p> + “I have no thoughts. Our royal father will not forget his children, and + Isa Bey is a most valiant chieftain.” + </p> + <p> + “You heard not that he was coming here?” inquired Karam. + </p> + <p> + “Have you?” responded the cautious Iskander. + </p> + <p> + “A rumour, a rumour,” replied Karam. “He is at Adrianople, think you?” + </p> + <p> + “It may be so: I am, you know, from Athens.” + </p> + <p> + “True, true. We shall beat them, Iskander, we shall beat them.” + </p> + <p> + “For myself, I feel sanguine,” replied the Prince, and he arose to retire. + “I must at present to my men. We must ascertain more accurately the + movements of the Christians before we decide on our own. I am inclined + myself to reconnoitre them. How far may it be?” + </p> + <p> + “There is not room to form our array between them and the mountains,” + replied Karam. + </p> + <p> + “‘Tis well. Success attend the true believers! By to-morrow’s dawn we + shall know more.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0004" id="link2HCH0004"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER 4 + </h2> + <p> + Iskander returned to his men. Night was coming on. Fires and lights blazed + and sparkled in every direction. The air was clear, but very cold. He + entered his tent, and muffling himself up in his pelisse of sables, he + mounted his horse, and declining any attendance, rode for some little + distance, until he had escaped from the precincts of the camp. Then he + turned his horse towards one of the wildest passes of the mountain, and + galloping at great speed, never stopped until he had gained a considerable + ascent. The track became steep and rugged. The masses of loose stone + rendered his progress slow; but his Anatolian charger still bore him at + intervals bravely, and in three hours’ time he had gained the summit of + Mount Hæmus. A brilliant moon flooded the broad plains of Bulgaria with + shadowy light. At the base of the mountainous range, the red watch-fires + denoted the situation of the Christian camp. + </p> + <p> + Iskander proceeded down the descent with an audacious rapidity; but his + charger was thorough-bred, and his moments were golden. Ere midnight, he + had reached the outposts of the enemy, and was challenged by a sentinel. + </p> + <p> + “Who goes there?” + </p> + <p> + “A friend to Christendom.” + </p> + <p> + “The word?” + </p> + <p> + “I have it not—nay calmly. I am alone, but I am not unarmed. I do + not know the word. I come from a far country, and bear important tidings + to the great Hunniades; conduct me to that chief.” + </p> + <p> + “May I be crucified if I will,” responded the sentinel, “before I know who + and what you are. Come, keep off, unless you wish to try the effect of a + Polish lance,” continued the sentinel; “‘tis something, I assure you, not + less awkward than your Greek fire, if Greek indeed you be.” + </p> + <p> + “My friend, you are a fool,” said Iskander, “but time is too precious to + argue any longer.” So saying, the Turkish commander dismounted, and taking + up the brawny sentinel in his arms with the greatest ease, threw him over + his shoulder, and threatening the astounded soldier with instant death if + he struggled, covered him with his pelisse, and entered the camp. + </p> + <p> + They approached a watch-fire, around which several soldiers were warming + themselves. + </p> + <p> + “Who goes there?” inquired a second sentinel. + </p> + <p> + “A friend to Christendom,” answered Iskander. + </p> + <p> + “The word?” + </p> + <p> + Iskander hesitated. + </p> + <p> + “The word, or I’ll let fly,” said the sentinel, elevating his cross bow. + </p> + <p> + “The Bridge of Buda,” instantly replied the terrified prisoner beneath the + pelisse of Iskander. + </p> + <p> + “Why did not you answer before, then?” said one of the guards. + </p> + <p> + “And why do you mock us by changing your voice?” said another. “Come, get + on with you, and no more jokes.” + </p> + <p> + Iskander proceeded through a street of tents, in some of which were + lights, but all of which were silent. At length, he met the esquire of a + Polish knight returning from a convivial meeting, not a little elevated. + </p> + <p> + “Who are you?” inquired Iskander. + </p> + <p> + “I am an Esquire,” replied the gentleman. + </p> + <p> + “A shrewd man, I doubt not, who would make his fortune,” replied Iskander. + “You must know great things have happened. Being on guard I have taken a + prisoner, who has deep secrets to divulge to the Lord Hunniades. Thither, + to his pavilion, I am now bearing him. But he is a stout barbarian, and + almost too much for me. Assist me in carrying him to the pavilion of + Hunniades, and you shall have all the reward, and half the fame.” + </p> + <p> + “You are a very civil spoken young gentleman,” said the Esquire. “I think + I know your voice. Your name, if I mistake not, is Leckinski?” + </p> + <p> + “A relative. We had a common ancestor.” + </p> + <p> + “I thought so. I know the Leckinskies ever by their voice. I am free to + help you on the terms you mention—all the reward and half the fame. + ‘Tis a strong barbarian, is it? We cannot cut his throat, or it will not + divulge. All the reward and half the fame! I will be a knight to-morrow. + It seems a sort of fish, and has a smell.” + </p> + <p> + The Esquire seized the Shoulders of the prisoner, who would have spoken + had he not been terrified by the threats of Iskander, who, carrying the + legs of the sentinel, allowed the Polish gentleman to lead the way to the + pavilion of Hunniades. Thither they soon arrived; and Iskander, dropping + his burthen, and leaving the prisoner without to the charge of his + assistant, entered the pavilion of the General of the Hungarians. + </p> + <p> + He was stopped in a small outer apartment by an officer, who inquired his + purpose, and to whom he repeated his desire to see the Hungarian leader, + without loss of time, on important business. The officer hesitated; but, + summoning several guards, left Iskander in their custody, and, stepping + behind a curtain, disappeared. Iskander heard voices, but could + distinguish no words. Soon the officer returned, and, ordering the guards + to disarm and search Iskander, directed the Grecian Prince to follow him. + Drawing aside the curtain, Iskander and his attendant entered a low + apartment of considerable size. It was hung with skins. A variety of + armour and dresses were piled on couches. A middle-aged man, of majestic + appearance, muffled in a pelisse of furs, with long chestnut hair, and a + cap of crimson velvet and ermine, was walking up and down the apartment, + and dictating some instructions to a person who was kneeling on the + ground, and writing by the bright flame of a brazen lamp. The bright flame + of the blazing lamp fell full upon the face of the secretary. Iskander + beheld a most beautiful woman. + </p> + <p> + She looked up as Iskander entered. Her large dark eyes glanced through his + soul. Her raven hair descended to her shoulders in many curls on each side + of her face, and was braided with strings of immense pearls. A broad cap + of white fox-skin crowned her whiter forehead. Her features were very + small, but sharply moulded, and a delicate tint gave animation to her + clear fair cheek. She looked up as Iskander entered, with an air rather of + curiosity than embarrassment. + </p> + <p> + Hunniades stopped, and examined his visitor with a searching inquisition. + “Whence come you?” inquired the Hungarian chieftain. + </p> + <p> + “From the Turkish camp,” was the answer. + </p> + <p> + “An envoy or a deserter?” + </p> + <p> + “Neither.” + </p> + <p> + “What then?” + </p> + <p> + “A convert.” + </p> + <p> + “Your name?” + </p> + <p> + “Lord Hunniades,” said Iskander, “that is for your private ear. I am + unarmed, and were I otherwise, the first knight of Christendom can + scarcely fear. I am one in birth and rank your equal; if not in fame, at + least, I trust, in honour. My time is all-precious: I can scarcely stay + here while my horse breathes. Dismiss your attendant.” + </p> + <p> + Hunniades darted a glance at his visitor which would have baffled a weaker + brain, but Iskander stood the scrutiny calm and undisturbed. “Go, + Stanislaus,” said the Vaivode to the officer. “This lady, sir,” continued + the chieftain, “is my daughter, and one from whom I have no secrets.” + </p> + <p> + Iskander bowed lowly as the officer disappeared. + </p> + <p> + “And now,” said Hunniades, “to business. Your purpose?” + </p> + <p> + “I am a Grecian Prince, and a compulsory ally of the Moslemin. In a word, + my purpose here is to arrange a plan by which we may effect, at the same + time, your triumph, and my freedom.” + </p> + <p> + “To whom, then, have I the honour of speaking?” inquired Hunniades. + </p> + <p> + “My name, great Hunniades, is perhaps not altogether unknown to you: they + call me Iskander.” + </p> + <p> + “What, the right arm of Amurath, the conqueror of Caramania, the flower of + Turkish chivalry? Do I indeed behold that matchless warrior?” exclaimed + Hunniades, and he held forth his hand to his guest, and ungirding his own + sword, offered it to the Prince. “Iduna” continued Hunniades, to his + daughter, “you at length behold Iskander.” + </p> + <p> + “My joy is great, sir,” replied Iduna, “if I indeed rightly understand + that we may count the Prince Iskander a champion of the Cross.” + </p> + <p> + Iskander took from his heart his golden crucifix, and kissed it before + her. “This has been my companion and consolation for long years, lady,” + said Iskander; “you, perhaps, know my mournful history, Hunniades. + Hitherto my pretended sovereign has not required me to bare my scimitar + against my Christian brethren. That hour, however, has at length arrived, + and it has decided me to adopt a line of conduct long meditated. Karam Bey + who is aware of your necessities, the moment you commence your retreat, + will attack you. I shall command his left wing. In spite of his superior + power and position, draw up in array, and meet him with confidence. I + propose, at a convenient moment in the day, to withdraw my troops, and + with the Epirots hasten to my native country, and at once raise the + standard of independence. It is a bold measure, but Success is the child + of Audacity. We must assist each other with mutual diversions. + Single-handed it is in vain for me to commence a struggle, which, with all + adventitious advantages, will require the utmost exertion of energy, + skill, and patience. But if yourself and the King Uladislaus occupy the + armies of Amurath in Bulgaria, I am not without hope of ultimate success, + since I have to inspire me all the most urgent interests of humanity, and + combat, at the same time, for my God, my country, and my lawful crown.” + </p> + <p> + “Brave Prince, I pledge you my troth,” said Hunniades, coming forward and + seizing his hand; “and while Iskander and Hunniades live, they will never + cease until they have achieved their great and holy end.” + </p> + <p> + “It is a solemn compact,” said Iskander, “more sacred than if registered + by all the scribes of Christendom. Lady Iduna, your prayers!” + </p> + <p> + “They are ever with the champions of the Cross,” replied the daughter of + Hunniades. She rose, the large cloak in which she was enveloped fell from + her exquisite form. “Noble Iskander, this rosary is from the Holy + Sepulchre,” continued Iduna; “wear it for the sake and memory of that + blessed Saviour who died for our sins.” + </p> + <p> + Iskander held forth his arm and touched her delicate hand as he received + the rosary, which, pressing to his lips, he placed round his neck. + </p> + <p> + “Great Hunniades,” said the Grecian Prince, “I must cross the mountains + before dawn. Let me venture to entreat that we should hear to-morrow that + the Christian camp is in retreat.” + </p> + <p> + “Let it be even so,” said the Hungarian, after some thought, “and may + to-morrow’s sun bring brighter days to Christendom.” And with these words + terminated the brief and extraordinary visit of Iskander to the Christian + general. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0005" id="link2HCH0005"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER 5 + </h2> + <p> + The intelligence of the breaking up of the Christian camp, and the retreat + of the Christian army, soon reached the Divan of Karam Bey, who + immediately summoned Iskander to consult on the necessary operations. The + chieftains agreed that instant pursuit was indispensable, and soon the + savage Hæmus poured forth from its green bosom swarms of that light + cavalry which was perhaps even a more fatal arm of the Turkish power than + the famous Janissaries themselves. They hovered on the rear of the + retreating Christians, charged the wavering, captured the unwary. It was + impossible to resist their sudden and impetuous movements, which rendered + their escape as secure as their onset was overwhelming. Wearied at length + by the repeated assaults, Hunniades, who, attended by some chosen knights, + had himself repaired to the rear, gave orders for the army to halt and + offer battle. + </p> + <p> + Their pursuers instantly withdrew to a distance, and gradually forming + into two divisions, awaited the arrival of the advancing army of the + Turks. The Moslemin came forward in fierce array, and with the sanguine + courage inspired by expected triumph. Very conspicuous was Iskander + bounding in his crimson vest upon his ebon steed and waving his gleaming + scimitar. + </p> + <p> + The Janissaries charged, calling upon Allah! with an awful shout. The + Christian knights, invoking the Christian saints, received the Turks at + the points of their lances. But many a noble lance was shivered that morn, + and many a bold rider and worthy steed bit the dust of that field, borne + down by the irresistible numbers of their fierce adversaries. Everywhere + the balls and the arrows whistled through the air, and sometimes an + isolated shriek heard amid the general clang, announced another victim to + the fell and mysterious agency of the Greek fire. + </p> + <p> + Hunniades, while he performed all the feats of an approved warrior, + watched with anxiety the disposition of the Turkish troops. Hitherto, from + the nature of their position, but a portion of both armies had interfered + in the contest, and as yet Iskander had kept aloof. But now, as the battle + each instant raged with more fury, and as it was evident that ere long the + main force of both armies must be brought into collision, Hunniades, with + a terrible suspense, watched whether the Grecian prince were willing or + even capable of executing his plan. Without this fulfilment, the Christian + hero could not conceal from himself that the day must be decided against + the Cross. + </p> + <p> + In the meantime Iskander marked the course of events with not less + eagerness than Hunniades. Already Karam Bey had more than once summoned + him to bring the Epirots into action. He assented; but an hour passed away + without changing his position. At length, more from astonishment than + rage, the Turkish commander sent his chief secretary Mousa himself to + impress his wishes upon his colleague, and obtain some explanation of his + views and conduct. Mousa found Iskander surrounded by some of the + principal Epirot nobles, all mounted on horseback, and standing calmly + under a wide-spreading plane tree. The chief secretary of Karam Bey was + too skilful a courtier to permit his countenance to express his feelings, + and he delivered himself of a mission rather as if he had come to request + advice, than to communicate a reprimand. + </p> + <p> + “Your master is a wise man, Mousa,” replied Iskander; “but even Karam Bey + may be mistaken. He deems that a battle is not to be won by loitering + under a shadowy tree. Now I differ with him, and I even mean to win this + day by such a piece of truancy. However, it may certainly now be time for + more active work. You smile encouragement, good Mousa. Giorgio, Demetrius, + to your duty!” + </p> + <p> + At these words, two stout Epirots advanced to the unfortunate secretary, + seized and bound him, and placed him on horseback before one of their + comrades. + </p> + <p> + “Now all who love their country follow me!” exclaimed Iskander. So saying, + and at the head of five thousand horsemen, Iskander quitted the field at a + rapid pace. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0006" id="link2HCH0006"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER 6 + </h2> + <p> + With incredible celerity Iskander and his cavalry dashed over the plains + of Roumelia, and never halted, except for short and hurried intervals of + rest and repose, until they had entered the mountainous borders of Epirus, + and were within fifty miles of its capital, Croia. On the eve of entering + the kingdom of his fathers, Iskander ordered his guards to produce the + chief secretary of Karam Bey. Exhausted with fatigue, vexation, and + terror, the disconsolate Mousa was led forward. + </p> + <p> + “Cheer up, worthy Mousa!” said Iskander, lying his length on the green + turf. “We have had a sharp ride; but I doubt not we shall soon find + ourselves, by the blessing of God, in good quarters. There is a city at + hand which they call Croia, and in which once, as the rumour runs, the son + of my father should not have had to go seek for an entrance. No matter. + Methinks, worthy Mousa, thou art the only man in our society that can sign + thy name. Come now, write me an order signed Karam Bey to the governor of + this said city, for its delivery up to the valiant champion of the + Crescent, Iskander, and thou shalt ride in future at a pace more suitable + to a secretary.” + </p> + <p> + The worthy Mousa humbled himself to the ground, and then talking his + writing materials from his girdle, inscribed the desired order, and + delivered it to Iskander, who, glancing at the inscription, pushed it into + his vest. + </p> + <p> + “I shall proceed at once to Croia, with a few friends,” said Iskander; “do + you, my bold companions, follow me this eve in various parties, and in + various routes. At dead of the second night, collect in silence before the + gates of Croia!” + </p> + <p> + Thus speaking, Iskander called for his now refreshed charger, and, + accompanied by two hundred horsemen, bade farewell for a brief period to + his troops, and soon having crossed the mountains, descended into the + fertile plains of Epirus. + </p> + <p> + When the sun rose in the morning, Iskander and his friends beheld at the + further end of the plain a very fine city shining in the light. It was + surrounded with lofty turreted walls flanked by square towers, and was + built upon a gentle eminence, which gave it a very majestic appearance. + Behind it rose a lofty range of purple mountains of very picturesque form, + and the highest peaks capped with snow. A noble lake, from which troops of + wild fowl occasionally rose, expanded like a sheet of silver on one side + of the city. The green breast of the contiguous hills sparkled with white + houses. + </p> + <p> + “Behold Croia!” exclaimed Iskander. “Our old fathers could choose a site, + comrades. We shall see whether they expended their time and treasure for + strangers, or their own seed.” So saying, he spurred his horse, and with + panting hearts and smiling faces, Iskander and his company had soon + arrived in the vicinity of the city. + </p> + <p> + The city was surrounded by a beautiful region of corn-fields and + fruit-trees. The road was arched with the over-hanging boughs. The birds + chirped on every spray. It was a blithe and merry morn. Iskander plucked a + bunch of olives as he cantered along. “Dear friends,” he said, looking + round with an inspiring smile, “let us gather our first harvest!” And, + thereupon, each putting forth his rapid hand, seized, as he rushed by, the + emblem of possession, and following the example of his leader, placed it + in his cap. + </p> + <p> + They arrived at the gates of the city, which was strongly garrisoned; and + Iskander, followed by his train, galloped up the height of the citadel. + Alighting from his horse, he was ushered into the divan of the governor, + an ancient Pacha, who received the conqueror of Caramania with all the + respect that became so illustrious a champion of the Crescent. After the + usual forms of ceremonious hospitality, Iskander, with a courteous air + presented him the order for delivering up the citadel; and the old Pacha, + resigning himself to the loss of his post with Oriental submission, + instantly delivered the keys of the citadel and town to Iskander, and + requested permission immediately to quit the scene of his late command. + </p> + <p> + Quitting the citadel, Iskander now proceeded through the whole town, and + in the afternoon reviewed the Turkish garrison in the great square. As the + late governor was very anxious to quit Croia that very day, Iskander + insisted on a considerable portion of the garrison accompanying him as a + guard of honour, and returning the next morning. The rest he divided in + several quarters, and placed the gates in charge of his own companions. + </p> + <p> + At midnight the Epirots, faithful to their orders, arrived and united + beneath the walls of the city, and after inter-changing the signals agreed + upon, the gates were opened. A large body instantly marched and secured + the citadel. The rest, conducted by appointed leaders, surrounded the + Turks in their quarters. And suddenly, in the noon of night, in that great + city, arose a clang so dreadful that people leapt up from their sleep and + stared with stupor. Instantly the terrace of every house blazed with + torches, and it became as light as day. Troops of armed men were charging + down the streets, brandishing their scimitars and yataghans, and + exclaiming, “The Cross, the Cross!” “Liberty!” “Greece!” “Iskander and + Epirus!” The townsmen recognised their countrymen by their language and + their dress. The name of Iskander acted as a spell. They stopt not to + inquire. A magic sympathy at once persuaded them that this great man had, + by the grace of Heaven, recurred to the creed and country of his fathers. + And so every townsman, seizing the nearest weapon, with a spirit of + patriotic frenzy, rushed into the streets, crying out, “The Cross, the + Cross!” “Liberty!” “Greece!” “Iskander and Epirus!” Ay! even the women + lost all womanly fears, and stimulated instead of soothing the impulse of + their masters. They fetched them arms, they held the torches, they sent + them forth with vows and prayers and imprecations, their children clinging + to their robes, and repeating with enthusiasm, phrases which they could + not comprehend. + </p> + <p> + The Turks fought with the desperation of men who feel that they are + betrayed, and must be victims. The small and isolated bodies were soon + massacred, all with cold steel, for at this time, although some of the + terrible inventions of modern warfare were introduced, their use was not + general. The citadel, indeed, was fortified with cannon; but the greater + part of the soldiery trusted to their crooked swords, and their unerring + javelins. The main force of the Turkish garrison had been quartered in an + old palace of the Archbishop, situate in the middle of the city on a + slightly rising and open ground, a massy building of rustic stone. Here + the Turks, although surrounded, defended themselves desperately, using + their cross bows with terrible effect; and hither, the rest of the city + being now secured, Iskander himself repaired to achieve its complete + deliverance. + </p> + <p> + The Greeks had endeavoured to carry the principal entrance of the palace + by main force, but the strength of the portal had resisted their utmost + exertions, and the arrows of the besieged had at length forced them to + retire to a distance. Iskander directed that two pieces of cannon should + be dragged down from the citadel, and then played against the entrance. In + the meantime, he ordered immense piles of damp faggots to be lit before + the building, the smoke of which prevented the besieged from taking any + aim. The ardour of the people was so great that the cannon were soon + served against the palace, and their effects were speedily remarked. The + massy portal shook; a few blows of the battering ram, and it fell. The + Turks sallied forth, were received with a shower of Greek fire, and driven + in with agonising yells. Some endeavoured to escape from the windows, and + were speared or cut down; some appeared wringing their hands in despair + upon the terraced roof. Suddenly the palace was announced to be on fire. A + tall white-blueish flame darted up from a cloud of smoke, and soon, as if + by magic, the whole back of the building was encompassed with rising + tongues of red and raging light. Amid a Babel of shrieks, and shouts, and + cheers, and prayers, and curses, the roof of the palace fell in with a + crash, which produced amid the besiegers an awful and momentary silence, + but in an instant they started from their strange inactivity, and rushing + forward, leapt into the smoking ruins, and at the same time completed the + massacre and achieved their freedom. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0007" id="link2HCH0007"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER 7 + </h2> + <p> + At break of dawn Iskander sent couriers throughout all Epirus, announcing + the fall of Croia, and that he had raised the standard of independence in + his ancient country. He also despatched a trusty messenger to Prince + Nicæus at Athens, and to the great Hunniades. The people were so excited + throughout all Epirus, at this great and unthought-of intelligence, that + they simultaneously rose in all the open country, and massacred the Turks, + and the towns were only restrained in a forced submission to Amurath, by + the strong garrisons of the Sultan. + </p> + <p> + Now Iskander was very anxious to effect the removal of these garrisons + without loss of time, in order that if Amurath sent a great power against + him, as he expected, the invading army might have nothing to rely upon but + its own force, and that his attention might not in any way be diverted + from effecting their overthrow. Therefore, as soon as his troops had + rested, and he had formed his new recruits into some order, which, with + their willing spirits, did not demand many days, Iskander set out from + Croia, at the head of twelve thousand men, and marched against the strong + city of Petrella, meeting in his way the remainder of the garrison of + Croia on their return, who surrendered themselves to him at discretion. + Petrella was only one day’s march from Croia, and when Iskander arrived + there he requested a conference with the governor, and told his tale so + well, representing the late overthrow of the Turks by Hunniades, and the + incapacity of Amurath at present to relieve him, that the Turkish + commander agreed to deliver up the place, and leave the country with his + troops, particularly as the alternative of Iskander to these easy terms + was ever conquest without quarter. And thus, by a happy mixture of + audacity and adroitness, the march of Iskander throughout Epirus was + rather like a triumph than a campaign, the Turkish garrisons imitating, + without any exception, the conduct of their comrades at Petrella, and + dreading the fate of their comrades at the capital. In less than a month + Iskander returned to Epirus, having delivered the whole country from the + Moslemin yoke. + </p> + <p> + Hitherto Iskander had heard nothing either of Hunniades or Nicæus. He + learnt, therefore, with great interest, as he passed through the gates of + the city, that the Prince of Athens had arrived at Croia the preceding + eve, and also that his messenger had returned from the Hungarian camp. + Amid the acclamations of an enthusiastic people, Iskander once more + ascended the citadel of Croia. Nicæus received him at the gate. Iskander + sprang from his horse, and embraced his friend. Hand in hand, and followed + by their respective trains, they entered the fortress palace. + </p> + <p> + “Dear friend,” said Iskander, when they were once more alone, “you see we + were right not to despair. Two months have scarcely elapsed since we + parted without prospect, or with the most gloomy one, and now we are in a + fair way of achieving all that we can desire. Epirus is free!” + </p> + <p> + “I came to claim my share in its emancipation,” said Nicæus, with a smile, + “but Iskander is another Cæsar!” + </p> + <p> + “You will have many opportunities yet, believe me, Nicæus, of proving your + courage and your patriotism,” replied Iskander; “Amurath will never allow + this affair to pass over in this quiet manner. I did not commence this + struggle without a conviction that it would demand all the energy and + patience of a long life. I shall be rewarded if I leave freedom as an + heritage to my countrymen; but for the rest, I feel that I bid farewell to + every joy of life, except the ennobling consciousness of performing a + noble duty. In the meantime, I understand a messenger awaits me here from + the great Hunniades. Unless that shield of Christendom maintain himself in + his present position, our chance of ultimate security is feeble. With his + constant diversion in Bulgaria, we may contrive here to struggle into + success. You sometimes laugh at my sanguine temper, Nicæus. To say the + truth, I am more serene than sanguine, and was never more conscious of the + strength of my opponent than now, when it appears that I have beaten him. + Hark! the people cheer. I love the people, Nicæus, who are ever influenced + by genuine and generous feelings. They cheer as if they had once more + gained a country. Alas! they little know what they must endure even at the + best. Nay! look not gloomy; we have done great things, and will do more. + Who waits without there? Demetrius! Call the messenger from Lord + Hunniades.” + </p> + <p> + An Epirot bearing a silken packet was now introduced, which he delivered + to Iskander. Reverently touching the hand of his chieftain, the messenger + then kissed his own and withdrew. Iskander broke the seal, and drew forth + a letter from the silken cover. + </p> + <p> + “So! this is well!” exclaimed the prince, with great animation, as he + threw his quick eye over the letter. “As I hoped and deemed, a most + complete victory. Karam Bey himself a prisoner, baggage, standards, great + guns, treasure. Brave soldier of the Cross! (may I prove so!) Your + perfectly-devised movement, (poh, poh!) Hah! what is this?” exclaimed + Iskander, turning pale; his lip quivered, his eye looked dim. He walked to + an arched window. His companion, who supposed that he was reading, did not + disturb him. + </p> + <p> + “Poor, poor Hunniades!” at length exclaimed Iskander, shaking his head. + </p> + <p> + “What of him?” inquired Nicæus, quickly. + </p> + <p> + “The sharpest accident of war!” replied Iskander. “It quite clouds my + spirit. We must forget these things, we must forget. Epirus! he is not a + patriot who can spare a thought from thee. And yet, so young, so + beautiful, so gifted, so worthy of a hero! when I saw her by her great + father’s side, sharing his toils, aiding his councils, supplying his + necessities, methought I gazed upon a ministering angel! upon—” + </p> + <p> + “Stop, stop in mercy’s name, Iskander!” exclaimed Nicæus, in a very + agitated tone. “What is all this? Surely no, surely not, surely Iduna—” + </p> + <p> + “‘Tis she!” + </p> + <p> + “Dead?” exclaimed Nicæus, rushing up to his companion, and seizing his + arm. + </p> + <p> + “Worse, much worse!” + </p> + <p> + “God of Heaven!” exclaimed the young Prince, with almost a frantic air. + “Tell me all, tell me all! This suspense fires my brain. Iskander, you + know not what this woman is to me; the sole object of my being, the bane, + the blessing of my life! Speak, dear friend, speak! I beseech you! Where + is Iduna?” + </p> + <p> + “A prisoner to the Turk.” + </p> + <p> + “Iduna a prisoner to the Turk. I’ll not believe it! Why do we wear swords? + Where’s chivalry? Iduna, a prisoner to the Turk! ‘Tis false. It cannot be. + Iskander, you are a coward! I am a coward! All are cowards! A prisoner to + the Turk! Iduna! What, the Rose of Christendom! has it been plucked by + such a turbaned dog as Amurath? Farewell, Epirus! Farewell, classic + Athens! Farewell, bright fields of Greece, and dreams that made them + brighter! The sun of all my joy and hope is set, and set for ever!” + </p> + <p> + So saying, Nicæus, tearing his hair and garments, flung himself upon the + floor, and hid his face in his robes. + </p> + <p> + Iskander paced the room with a troubled step and thoughtful brow. After + some minutes he leant down by the Prince of Athens, and endeavoured to + console him. + </p> + <p> + “It is in vain, Iskander, it is in vain,” said Nicæus. “I wish to die.” + </p> + <p> + “Were I a favoured lover, in such a situation,” replied Iskander, “I + should scarcely consider death my duty, unless the sacrifice of myself + preserved my mistress.” + </p> + <p> + “Hah!” exclaimed Nicæus, starting from the ground. “Do you conceive, then, + the possibility of rescuing her?” + </p> + <p> + “If she live, she is a prisoner in the Seraglio at Adrianople. You are as + good a judge as myself of the prospect that awaits your exertions. It is, + without doubt, a difficult adventure, but such, methinks, as a Christian + knight should scarcely shun.” + </p> + <p> + “To horse;” exclaimed Nicæus, “to horse—And yet what can I do? Were + she in any other place but the capital I might rescue her by force, but in + the heart of their empire, it is impossible. Is there no ransom that can + tempt the Turk? My principality would rise in the balance beside this + jewel.” + </p> + <p> + “That were scarcely wise, and certainly not just,” replied Iskander; “but + ransom will be of no avail. Hunniades has already offered to restore Karam + Bey, and all the prisoners of rank, and the chief trophies, and Amurath + has refused to listen to any terms. The truth is, Iduna has found favour + in the eyes of his son, the young Mahomed.” + </p> + <p> + “Holy Virgin! hast thou no pity on this Christian maid?” exclaimed Nicæus. + “The young Mahomed! Shall this licentious infidel—ah! Iskander, + dear, dear Iskander, you who have so much wisdom, and so much courage; you + who can devise all things, and dare all things; help me, help me; on my + knees I do beseech you, take up this trying cause of foul oppression, and + for the sake of all you love and reverence, your creed, your country, and + perchance your friend, let your great genius, like some solemn angel, + haste to the rescue of the sweet Iduna, and save her, save her!” + </p> + <p> + “Some thoughts like these were rising in my mind when first I spoke,” + replied Iskander. “This is a better cue, far more beseeming princes than + boyish tears, and all the outward misery of woe, a tattered garment and + dishevelled locks. Come, Nicæus, we have to struggle with a mighty + fortune. Let us be firm as Fate itself.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0008" id="link2HCH0008"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER 8 + </h2> + <p> + Immediately after his interview with Nicæus, Iskander summoned some of the + chief citizens of Croia to the citadel, and submitting to them his + arrangements for the administration of Epirus, announced the necessity of + his instant departure for a short interval; and the same evening, ere the + moon had risen, himself and the Prince of Athens quitted the city, and + proceeded in the direction of Adrianople. They travelled with great + rapidity until they reached a small town upon the frontiers, where they + halted for one day. Here, in the Bazaar, Iskander purchased for himself + the dress of an Armenian physician. In his long dark robes, and large + round cap of black wool, his face and hands stained, and his beard and + mustachios shaven, it seemed impossible that he could be recognised. + Nicæus was habited as his page, in a dress of coarse red cloth, setting + tight to his form, with a red cap, with a long blue tassel. He carried a + large bag containing drugs, some surgical instruments, and a few books. In + this guise, as soon as the gates were open on the morrow, Iskander, + mounted on a very small mule, and Nicæus on a very large donkey, the two + princes commenced the pass of the mountainous range, an arm of the Balkan + which divided Epirus from Roumelia. + </p> + <p> + “I broke the wind of the finest charger in all Asia when I last ascended + these mountains,” said Iskander; “I hope this day’s journey way be + accepted as a sort of atonement.” + </p> + <p> + “Faith! there is little doubt I am the best mounted of the two,” said + Nicæus. “However, I hope we shall return at a sharper pace.” + </p> + <p> + “How came it, my Nicæus,” said Iskander, “that you never mentioned to me + the name of Iduna when we were at Athens? I little supposed when I made my + sudden visit to Hunniades, that I was about to appeal to so fair a host. + She is a rarely gifted lady.” + </p> + <p> + “I knew of her being at the camp as little as yourself,” replied the + Prince of Athens, “and for the rest, the truth is, Iskander, there are + some slight crosses in our loves, which Time, I hope, will fashion + rightly.” So saying Nicæus pricked on his donkey, and flung his stick at a + bird which was perched on the branch of a tree. Iskander did not resume a + topic to which his companion seemed disinclined. Their journey was + tedious. Towards nightfall they reached the summit of the usual track; and + as the descent was difficult, they were obliged to rest until daybreak. + </p> + <p> + On the morrow they had a magnificent view of the rich plains of Roumelia, + and in the extreme distance, the great city of Adrianople, its cupolas and + minarets blazing and sparkling in the sun. This glorious prospect at once + revived all their energies. It seemed that the moment of peril and of fate + had arrived. They pricked on their sorry steeds; and on the morning of the + next day, presented themselves at the gates of the city. The thorough + knowledge which Iskander possessed of the Turkish character obtained them + an entrance, which was at one time almost doubtful, from the irritability + and impatience of Nicæus. They repaired to a caravansera of good repute in + the neighbourhood of the seraglio; and having engaged their rooms, the + Armenian physician, attended by his page, visited several of the + neighbouring coffee-houses, announcing, at the same time, his arrival, his + profession, and his skill. + </p> + <p> + As Iskander felt pulses, examined tongues, and distributed drugs and + charms, he listened with interest and amusement to the conversation of + which he himself was often the hero. He found that the Turks had not yet + recovered from their consternation at his audacity and success. They were + still wondering, and if possible more astounded than indignant. The + politicians of the coffee-houses, chiefly consisting of Janissaries, were + loud in their murmurs. The popularity of Amurath had vanished before the + triumph of Hunniades, and the rise of Iskander. + </p> + <p> + “But Allah has in some instances favoured the faithful,” remarked + Iskander; “I heard in my travels of your having captured a great princess + of the Giaours.” + </p> + <p> + “God is great!” said an elderly Turk with a long white heard. “The Hakim + congratulates the faithful because they have taken a woman!” + </p> + <p> + “Not so merely,” replied Iskander; “I heard the woman was a princess. If + so, the people of Franguestan will pay any ransom for their great women; + and, by giving up this fair Giaour, you may free many of the faithful.” + </p> + <p> + “Mashallah!” said another ancient Turk, sipping his coffee. “The Hakim + speaks wisely.” + </p> + <p> + “May I murder my mother!” exclaimed a young Janissary, with great + indignation. “But this is the very thing that makes me wild against + Amurath. Is not this princess a daughter of that accursed Giaour, that dog + of dogs, Hunniades? and has he not offered for her ransom our brave Karam + Bey himself, and his chosen warriors? and has not Amurath said nay? And + why has he said nay? Because his son, the Prince of Mahomed, instead of + fighting against the Giaours, has looked upon one of their women, and has + become a Mejnoun. Pah! May I murder my mother, but if the Giaours were in + full march to the city, I’d not fight. And let him tell this to the Cadi + who dares; for there are ten thousand of us, and we have sworn by the + Kettle but we will not fight for Giaours, or those who love Giaours!” + </p> + <p> + “If you mean me, Ali, about going to the Cadi,” said the chief eunuch of + Mahomed, who was standing by, “let me tell you I am no tale-bearer, and + scorn to do an unmanly act. The young prince can beat the Giaours without + the aid of those who are noisy enough in a coffee-house when they are + quiet enough in the field. And, for the rest of the business, you may all + ease your hearts; for the Frangy princess you talk of is pining away, and + will soon die. The Sultan has offered a hundred purses of gold to any one + who cures her; but the gold will never be counted by the Hasnadar, or I + will double it.” + </p> + <p> + “Try your fortune, Hakim,” said several laughing loungers to Iskander. + </p> + <p> + “Allah has stricken the Frangy princess,” said the old Turk with a white + beard. + </p> + <p> + “He will strike all Giaours,” said his ancient companion, sipping his + coffee. “It is so written.” + </p> + <p> + “Well! I do not like to hear of women slaves pining to death,” said the + young Janissary, in a softened tone, “particularly when they are young. + Amurath should have ransomed her, or he might have given her to one of his + officers, or any young fellow that had particularly distinguished + himself.” And so, twirling his mustachios, and flinging down his piastre, + the young Janissary strutted out of the coffee-house. + </p> + <p> + “When we were young,” said the old Turk with the white beard to his + companion, shaking his head, “when we were young—” + </p> + <p> + “We conquered Anatolia, and never opened our mouths,” rejoined his + companion. + </p> + <p> + “I never offered an opinion till I was sixty,” said the old Turk; “and + then it was one which had been in our family for a century.” + </p> + <p> + “No wonder Hunniades carries everything before him,” said his companion. + </p> + <p> + “And that accursed Iskander,” said the old man. + </p> + <p> + The chief eunuch, finishing his vase of sherbet, moved away. The Armenian + physician followed him. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0009" id="link2HCH0009"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER 9 + </h2> + <p> + The chief eunuch turned into a burial-ground, through which a way led, by + an avenue of cypress-trees, to the quarter of the Seraglio. The Armenian + physician, accompanied by his page, followed him. + </p> + <p> + “Noble sir!” said the Armenian physician; “may I trespass for a moment on + your lordship’s attention?” + </p> + <p> + “Worthy Hakim, is it you?” replied the chief eunuch, turning round with an + encouraging smile of courteous condescension, “your pleasure?” + </p> + <p> + “I would speak to you of important matters,” said the physician. + </p> + <p> + The eunuch carelessly seated himself on a richly-carved tomb, and crossing + his legs with an air of pleasant superiority, adjusted a fine emerald that + sparkled on his finger, and bade the Hakim address him without hesitation. + </p> + <p> + “I am a physician,” said the Armenian. + </p> + <p> + The eunuch nodded. + </p> + <p> + “And I heard your lordship in the coffee-house mention that the Sultan, + our sublime Master, had offered a rich reward to any one who could effect + the cure of a favourite captive.” + </p> + <p> + “No less a reward than one hundred purses of gold,” remarked the eunuch. + “The reward is proportioned to the exigency of the cue. Believe me, worthy + sir, it is desperate.” + </p> + <p> + “With mortal means,” replied the Armenian; “but I possess a talisman of + magical influence, which no disorder can resist. I would fain try its + efficacy.” + </p> + <p> + “This is not the first talisman that has been offered us, worthy doctor,” + said the eunuch, smiling incredulously. + </p> + <p> + “But the first that has been offered on these terms,” said the Armenian. + “Let me cure the captive, and of the one hundred purses, a moiety shall + belong to yourself. Ay! so confident am I of success, that I deem it no + hazard to commence our contract by this surety.” And so saying, the + Armenian took from his finger a gorgeous carbuncle, and offered it to the + eunuch. The worthy dependent of the Seraglio had a great taste in + jewellery. He examined the stone with admiration, and placed it on his + finger with complacency. “I require no inducements to promote the + interests of science, and the purposes of charity,” said the eunuch, with + a patronising air. “‘Tis assuredly a pretty stone, and, as the memorial of + an ingenious stranger, whom I respect, I shall, with pleasure, retain it. + You were saying something about a talisman. Are you serious? I doubt not + that there are means which might obtain you the desired trial; but the + Prince Mahomed is as violent when displeased or disappointed as munificent + when gratified. Cure this Christian captive, and we may certainly receive + the promised purses: fail, and your head will as assuredly be flung into + the Seraglio moat, to say nothing of my own.” + </p> + <p> + “Most noble sir!” said the physician, “I am willing to undertake the + experiment on the terms you mention. Rest assured that the patient, if + alive, must, with this remedy, speedily recover. You marvel! Believe me, + had you witnessed the cures which it has already effected, you would only + wonder at its otherwise incredible influence.” + </p> + <p> + “You have the advantage,” replied the eunuch, “of addressing a man who has + seen something of the world. I travel every year to Anatolia with the + Prince Mahomed. Were I a narrow-minded bigot, and had never been five + miles from Adrianople in the whole course of my life, I might indeed be + sceptical. But I am a patron of science, and have heard of talismans. How + much might this ring weigh, think you?” + </p> + <p> + “I have heard it spoken of as a carbuncle of uncommon size,” replied the + Armenian. + </p> + <p> + “Where did you say you lodged, Hakim?” + </p> + <p> + “At the Khan of Bedreddin.” + </p> + <p> + “A very proper dwelling. Well, we shall see. Have you more jewels? I + might, perhaps, put you in the way of parting with some at good prices. + The Khan of Bedreddin is very conveniently situated. I may, perhaps, + towards evening, taste your coffee at the Khan of Bedreddin, and we will + talk of this said talisman. Allah be with you, worthy Hakim!” The eunuch + nodded, not without encouragement, and went his way. + </p> + <p> + “Anxiety alone enabled me to keep my countenance,” said Nicæus. “A patron + of science, forsooth! Of all the insolent, shallow-brained, rapacious + coxcombs—” + </p> + <p> + “Hush, my friend!” said Iskander, with a smile. “The chief eunuch of the + heir apparent of the Turkish empire is a far greater man than a poor + prince, or a proscribed rebel. This worthy can do our business, and I + trust will. He clearly bites, and a richer bait will, perhaps, secure him. + In the meantime, we must be patient, and remember whose destiny is at + stake.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0010" id="link2HCH0010"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER 10 + </h2> + <p> + The chief eunuch did not keep the adventurous companions long in suspense; + for, before the muezzin had announced the close of day from the minarets, + he had reached the Khan of Bedreddin, and inquired for the Armenian + physician. + </p> + <p> + “We have no time to lose,” said the eunuch to Iskander. “Bring with you + whatever you may require, and follow me.” + </p> + <p> + The eunuch led the way, Iskander and Nicæus maintaining a respectful + distance. After proceeding down several streets, they arrived at the + burial-ground, where they had conversed in the morning; and when they had + entered that more retired spot, the eunuch fell back, and addressed his + companion. + </p> + <p> + “Now, worthy Hakim,” he said, “if you deceive me, I will never patronize a + man of science again. I found an opportunity of speaking to the Prince + this afternoon of your talisman, and he has taken from my representations + such a fancy for its immediate proof, that I found it quite impossible to + postpone its trial even until to-morrow. I mentioned the terms. I told the + Prince your life was the pledge. I said nothing of the moiety of the + reward, worthy Hakim. That is an affair between ourselves. I trust to your + honour, and I always act thus with men of science.” + </p> + <p> + “I shall not disgrace my profession or your confidence, rest assured,” + replied Iskander. “And am I to see the captive to-night?” + </p> + <p> + “I doubt it not. Are you prepared? We might, perhaps, gain a little time, + if very necessary.” + </p> + <p> + “By no means, sir; Truth is ever prepared.” + </p> + <p> + Thus conversing, they passed through the burial-ground, and approached + some high, broad walls, forming a terrace, and planted with young + sycamore-trees. The eunuch tapped with his silver stick, at a small gate, + which opened, and admitted them into a garden, full of large clumps of + massy shrubs. Through these a winding walk led for some way, and then + conducted them to an open lawn, on which was situate a vast and irregular + building. As they approached the pile, a young man of very imperious + aspect rushed forward from a gate, and abruptly accosted Iskander. + </p> + <p> + “Are you the Armenian physician?” he inquired. + </p> + <p> + Iskander bowed assent. + </p> + <p> + “Have you got your talisman? You know the terms? Cure this Christian girl + and you shall name your own reward; fail, and I shall claim your forfeit + head.” + </p> + <p> + “The terms are well understood, mighty Prince,” said Iskander, for the + young man was no less a personage than the son of Amurath, and future + conqueror of Constantinople; “but I am confident there will be no + necessity for the terror of Christendom claiming any other heads than + those of his enemies.” + </p> + <p> + “Kaflis will conduct you at once to your patient,” said Mahomed. “For + myself, I cannot rest until I know the result of your visit. I shall + wander about these gardens, and destroy the flowers, which is the only + pleasure now left me.” + </p> + <p> + Kaflis motioned to his companions to advance, and they entered the + Seraglio. + </p> + <p> + At the end of a long gallery they came to a great portal, which Kaflis + opened, and Iskander and Nicæus for a moment supposed that they had + arrived at the chief hall of the Tower of Babel, but they found the shrill + din only proceeded from a large company of women, who were employed in + distilling the rare atar of the jasmine flower. All their voices ceased on + the entrance of the strangers, as if by a miracle; but when they had + examined them, and observed that it was only a physician and his boy, + their awe, or their surprise, disappeared; and they crowded round + Iskander, some holding out their wrists, others lolling out their tongues, + and some asking questions, which perplexed alike the skill and the modesty + of the adventurous dealer in magical medicine. The annoyance, however, was + not of great duration, for Kaflis so belaboured their fair shoulders with + his official baton, that they instantly retreated with precipitation, + uttering the most violent shrieks, and bestowing on the eunuch so many + titles, that Iskander and his page were quite astounded at the intuitive + knowledge which the imprisoned damsels possessed of that vocabulary of + abuse, which is in general mastered only by the experience of active + existence. + </p> + <p> + Quitting this chamber, the eunuch and his companions ascended a lofty + staircase. They halted at length before a door. “This is the chamber of + the tower,” said their guide, “and here we shall find the fair captive.” + He knocked, the door was opened by a female slave, and Iskander and + Nicæus, with an anxiety they could with difficulty conceal, were ushered + into a small but sumptuous apartment. In the extremity was a recess + covered with a light gauzy curtain. The eunuch bidding them keep in the + background, advanced, and cautiously withdrawing the curtain slightly + aside, addressed some words in a low voice to the inmate of the recess. In + a few minutes the eunuch beckoned to Iskander to advance, and whispered to + him: “She would not at first see you, but I have told her you are a + Christian, the more the pity, and she consents.” So saying, he withdrew + the curtain, and exhibited a veiled female figure lying on a couch. + </p> + <p> + “Noble lady,” said the physician in Greek, which he had ascertained the + eunuch did not comprehend; “pardon the zeal of a Christian friend. Though + habited in this garb, I have served under your illustrious sire. I should + deem my life well spent in serving the daughter of the great Hunniades.” + </p> + <p> + “Kind stranger,” replied the captive, “I was ill prepared for such a + meeting. I thank you for your sympathy, but my sad fortunes are beyond + human aid.” + </p> + <p> + “God works by humble instruments, noble lady,” said Iskander, “and with + his blessing we may yet prosper.” + </p> + <p> + “I fear that I must look to death as my only refuge,” replied Iduna, “and + still more, I fear that it is not so present a refuge as my oppressors + themselves imagine. But you are a physician; tell me then how speedily + Nature will make me free.” + </p> + <p> + She held forth her hand, which Iskander took and involuntarily pressed. + “Noble lady,” he said, “my skill is a mere pretence to enter these walls. + The only talisman I bear with me is a message from your friends.” + </p> + <p> + “Indeed!” said Iduna, in an agitated tone. + </p> + <p> + “Restrain yourself, noble lady,” said Iskander, interposing, “restrain + yourself. Were you any other but the daughter of Hunniades I would not + have ventured upon this perilous exploit. But I know that the Lady Iduna + has inherited something more than the name of her great ancestors—their + heroic soul. If ever there were a moment in her life in which it behoved + her to exert all her energies, that moment has arrived. The physician who + addresses her, and his attendant who waits at hand, are two of the Lady + Iduna’s most devoted friends. There is nothing that they will not hazard, + to effect her delivery; and they have matured a plan of escape which they + are sanguine must succeed. Yet its completion will require, on her part, + great anxiety of mind, greater exertion of body, danger, fatigue, + privation. Is the Lady Iduna prepared for all this endurance, and all this + hazard?” + </p> + <p> + “Noble friend,” replied Iduna, “for I cannot deem you a stranger, and none + but a most chivalric knight could have entered upon this almost forlorn + adventure; you have not, I trust, miscalculated my character. I am a + slave, and unless heaven will interpose, must soon be a dishonoured one. + My freedom and my fame are alike at stake. There is no danger, and no + suffering which I will not gladly welcome, provided there be even a remote + chance of regaining my liberty and securing my honour.” + </p> + <p> + “You are in the mind I counted on. Now, mark my words, dear lady. Seize an + opportunity this evening of expressing to your gaolers that you have + already experienced some benefit from my visit, and announce your rising + confidence in my skill. In the meantime I will make such a report that our + daily meetings will not be difficult. For the present, farewell. The + Prince Mahomed waits without, and I would exchange some words with him + before I go.” + </p> + <p> + “And must we part without my being acquainted with the generous friends to + whom I am indebted for an act of devotion which almost reconciles me to my + sad fate?” said Iduna. “You will not, perhaps, deem the implicit trust + reposed in you by one whom you have no interest to deceive, and who, if + deceived, cannot be placed in a worse position than she at present fills, + as a very gratifying mark of confidence, yet that trust is reposed in you; + and let me, at least, soothe the galling dreariness of my solitary hours, + by the recollection of the friends to whom I am indebted for a deed of + friendship which has filled me with a feeling of wonder from which I have + not yet recovered.” + </p> + <p> + “The person who has penetrated the Seraglio of Constantinople in disguise + to rescue the Lady Iduna,” answered Iskander, “is the Prince Nicæus.” + </p> + <p> + “Nicæus!” exclaimed Iduna, in an agitated tone. “The voice to which I + listen is surely not that of the Prince Nicæus; nor the form on which I + gaze,” she added, as she unveiled. Beside her stood the tall figure of the + Armenian physician. She beheld his swarthy and unrecognised countenance. + She cast her dark eyes around with an air of beautiful perplexity. + </p> + <p> + “I am a friend of the Prince Nicæus,” said the physician. “He is here. + Shall he advance? Alexis,” called cut, Iskander, not waiting for her + reply. The page of the physician came forward, but the eunuch accompanied + him. “All is right,” said Iskander to Kaflis. “We are sure of our hundred + purses. But, without doubt, with any other aid, the case were desperate.” + </p> + <p> + “There is but one God,” said the eunuch, polishing his carbuncle, with a + visage radiant as the gem. “I never repented patronizing men of science. + The prince waits without. Come along!” He took Iskander by the arm. “Where + is your boy? What are you doing there, sir?” inquired the eunuch, sharply, + of Nicæus, who, was tarrying behind, and kissing the hand of Iduna. + </p> + <p> + “I was asking the lady for a favour to go to the coffee-house with;” + replied Nicæus, “you forget that I am to have none of the hundred purses.” + </p> + <p> + “True,” said the eunuch; “there is something in that. Here, boy, here is a + piastre for you. I like to encourage men of science, and all that belong + to them. Do not go and spend it all in one morning, boy, and when the fair + captive is cured, if you remind me, boy, perhaps I may give you another.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0011" id="link2HCH0011"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER 11 + </h2> + <p> + Kaflis and his charge again reached the garden. The twilight was nearly + past. A horseman galloped up to them, followed by several running footmen. + It was the prince. + </p> + <p> + “Well, Hakim,” he inquired, in his usual abrupt style, “can you cure her?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes;” answered Iskander, firmly. + </p> + <p> + “Now listen, Hakim,” said Mahomed. “I must very shortly leave the city, + and proceed into Epirus at the head of our troops. I have sworn two + things, and I have sworn them by the holy stone. Ere the new moon, I will + have the heart of Iduna and the head of Iskander!” + </p> + <p> + The physician bowed. + </p> + <p> + “If you can so restore the health of this Frangy girl,” continued Mahomed, + “that she may attend me within ten days into Epirus, you shall claim from + my treasury what sum you like, and become physician to the Seraglio. What + say you?” + </p> + <p> + “My hope and my belief is,” replied Iskander, “that within ten days she + may breathe the air of Epirus.” + </p> + <p> + “By my father’s beard, you are a man after my own heart,” exclaimed the + prince; “and since thou dealest in talismans, Hakim, can you give me a + charm that you will secure me a meeting with this Epirot rebel within the + term, so that I may keep my oath. What say you? what say you?” + </p> + <p> + “There are such spells,” replied Iskander. “But mark, I can only secure + the meeting, not the head.” + </p> + <p> + “That is my part,” said Mahomed, with an arrogant sneer. “But the meeting, + the meeting?” + </p> + <p> + “You know the fountain of Kallista in Epirus. Its virtues are renowned.” + </p> + <p> + “I have beard of it.” + </p> + <p> + “Plunge your scimitar in its midnight waters thrice, on the eve of the new + moon, and each time summon the enemy you would desire to meet. He will not + fail you.” + </p> + <p> + “If you cure the captive, I will credit the legend, and keep the + appointment,” replied Mahomed, thoughtfully. + </p> + <p> + “I have engaged to do that,” replied the physician. + </p> + <p> + “Well, then, I shall redeem my pledge,” said the prince + </p> + <p> + “But mind,” said the physician, “while I engage to cure the lady and + produce the warrior, I can secure your highness neither the heart of the + one nor the head of the other.” + </p> + <p> + “‘Tis understood,” said Mahomed. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0012" id="link2HCH0012"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER 12 + </h2> + <p> + The Armenian physician did not fail to attend his captive patient at an + early hour on the ensuing morn. His patron Kaflis received him with an + encouraging smile. + </p> + <p> + “The talisman already works;” said the eunuch: “she has passed a good + night, and confesses to an improvement. Our purses are safe. Methinks I + already count the gold. But I say, worthy Hakim, come hither, come + hither,” and Kaflis looked around to be sure that no one was within + hearing, “I say,” and here he put on a very mysterious air indeed, “the + prince is generous; you understand? We go shares. We shall not quarrel. I + never yet repented patronizing a man of science, and I am sure I never + shall. The prince, you see, is violent, but generous. I would not cure her + too soon, eh?” + </p> + <p> + “You take a most discreet view of affairs,” responded Iskander, with an + air of complete assent, and they entered the chamber of the tower. + </p> + <p> + Iduna performed her part with great dexterity; but, indeed, it required + less skill than herself and her advisers had at first imagined. Her + malady, although it might have ended fatally, was in its origin entirely + mental, and the sudden prospect of freedom, and of restoration to her + country and her family, at a moment when she had delivered herself up to + despair, afforded her a great and instantaneous benefit. She could not, + indeed, sufficiently restrain her spirits, and smiled incredulously when + Iskander mentioned the impending exertion and fatigues with doubt and + apprehension. His anxiety to return immediately to Epirus, determined him + to adopt the measures for her rescue without loss of time, and on his + third visit, he prepared her for making the great attempt on the ensuing + morn. Hitherto Iskander had refrained from revealing himself to Iduna. He + was induced to adopt this conduct by various considerations. He could no + longer conceal from himself that the daughter of Hunniades exercised an + influence over his feelings which he was unwilling to encourage. His + sincere friendship for Nicæus, and his conviction that It was his present + duty to concentrate all his thought and affection in the cause of his + country, would have rendered him anxious to have resisted any emotions of + the kind, even could he have flattered himself that there was any chance + of their being returned by the object of his rising passion. But Iskander + was as modest as he was brave and gifted. The disparity of age between + himself and Iduna appeared an insuperable barrier to his hopes, even had + there been no other obstacle. Iskander struggled with his love, and with + his strong mind the struggle, though painful, was not without success. He + felt that he was acting in a manner which must ultimately tend to the + advantage of his country, the happiness of his friend, and perhaps the + maintenance of his own self-respect. For he had too much pride not to be + very sensible to the bitterness of rejection. + </p> + <p> + Had he perceived more indications of a very cordial feeling subsisting + between Nicæus and Iduna, he would perhaps not have persisted in + maintaining his disguise. But he had long suspected that the passion of + the Prince of Athens was not too favourably considered by the daughter of + Hunniades, and he was therefore exceedingly anxious that Nicæus should + possess all the credit of the present adventure, which Iskander scarcely + doubted, if successful, would allow Nicæus to urge irresistible claims to + the heart of a mistress whom he had rescued at the peril of his life from + slavery and dishonour, to offer rank, reputation, and love. Iskander took, + therefore, several opportunities of leading Iduna to believe that he was + merely the confidential agent of Nicæus, and that the whole plan of her + rescue from the Seraglio of Adrianople bad been planned by his young + friend. In the meantime, during the three days on which they had for short + intervals met, very few words had been interchanged between Nicæus and his + mistress. Those words, indeed, had been to him of the most inspiring + nature, and expressed such a deep scale of gratitude, and such lively + regard, that Nicæus could no longer resist the delightful conviction that + he had at length created a permanent interest in her heart. Often he + longed to rush to her couch, and press her hand to his lips. Even the + anticipation of future happiness could not prevent him from envying the + good fortune of Iskander, who was allowed to converse with her without + restraint; and bitterly, on their return to the khan, did he execrate the + pompous eunuch for all the torture which he occasioned him by his silly + conversation, and the petty tyranny of office with which Kaflis always + repressed his attempts to converse for a moment with Iduna. + </p> + <p> + In the meantime all Adrianople sounded with the preparations for the + immediate invasion of Epirus, and the return of Iskander to his country + became each hour more urgent. Everything being prepared, the adventurers + determined on the fourth morning to attempt the rescue. They repaired as + usual to the Serail, and were attended by Kaflis to the chamber of the + tower, who congratulated Iskander on their way on the rapid convalescence + of the captive. When they had fairly entered the chamber, the physician + being somewhat in advance, Nicæus, who was behind, commenced proceedings + by knocking down the eunuch, and Iskander instantly turning round to his + assistance, they succeeded in gagging and binding the alarmed and + astonished Kaflis. Iduna then exhibited herself in a costume exactly + similar to that worn by Nicæus, and which her friends had brought to her + in their big. Iskander and Iduna then immediately quitted the Serail + without notice or suspicion, and hurried to the khan, where they mounted + their horses, that were in readiness, and hastened without a moment’s loss + of time to a fountain without the gates, where they awaited the arrival of + Nicæus with anxiety. After remaining a few minutes in the chamber of the + tower, the Prince of Athens stole out, taking care to secure the door upon + Kaflis, he descended the staircase, and escaped through the Serail without + meeting any one, and had nearly reached the gate of the gardens, when he + was challenged by some of the eunuch guard at a little distance. + </p> + <p> + “Hilloa!” exclaimed one; “I thought you passed just now?” + </p> + <p> + “So I did,” replied Nicæus, with nervous effrontery; “but I came back for + my bag, which I left behind,” and, giving them no time to reflect, he + pushed his way through the gate with all the impudence of a page. He + rushed through the burial-ground, hurried through the streets, mounted his + horse, and galloped through the gates. Iskander and Iduna were in sight, + he waved his hand for them at once to proceed, and in a moment, without + exchanging a word, they were all galloping at full speed, nor did they + breathe their horses until sunset. + </p> + <p> + By nightfall they had reached a small wood of chestnut-trees, where they + rested for two hours, more for the sake of their steeds than their own + refreshment, for anxiety prevented Iduna from indulging in any repose, as + much as excitement prevented her from feeling any fatigue. Iskander lit a + fire and prepared their rough meal, unharnessed the horses, and turned + them out to their pasture. Nicæus made Iduna a couch of fern and supported + her head, while, in deference to his entreaties she endeavoured in vain to + sleep. Before midnight they were again on their way, and proceeded at a + rapid pace towards the mountains, until a few hours before noon, when + their horses began to sink under the united influence of their previous + exertions and the increasing heat of the day. Iskander looked serious, and + often threw a backward glance in the direction of Adrianople. + </p> + <p> + “We must be beyond pursuit,” said Nicæus. “I dare say poor Kaflis is still + gagged and bound.” + </p> + <p> + “Could we but reach the mountains,” replied his companion, “I should have + little fear, but I counted upon our steeds carrying us there without + faltering. We cannot reckon upon more than three hours’ start, prince. Our + friend Kaflis is too important a personage to be long missed.” + </p> + <p> + “The Holy Virgin befriend us!” said the Lady Iduna. “I ca urge my poor + horse no more.” + </p> + <p> + They had now ascended a small rising ground, which gave the wide prospect + over the plain. Iskander halted and threw an anxious glance around him. + </p> + <p> + “There are some horsemen in the distance whom I do not like,” said the + physician. + </p> + <p> + “I see them,” said Nicæus; “travellers like ourselves.” + </p> + <p> + “Let us die sooner than be taken,” said Iduna. + </p> + <p> + “Move on,” said the physician, “and let me observe these horsemen alone. I + would there were some forest at hand. In two hours we may gain the + mountains.” + </p> + <p> + The daughter of Hunniades and the Prince of Athens descended the rising + ground. Before them, but at a considerable distance was a broad and rapid + river, crossed by a ruinous Roman bridge. The opposite bank of the river + was the termination of a narrow plain, which led immediately to the + mountains. + </p> + <p> + “Fair Iduna, you are safe,” said the Prince of Athens. + </p> + <p> + “Dear Nicæus,” replied his companion, “imagine what I feel.” + </p> + <p> + “It is too wild a moment to express my gratitude.” + </p> + <p> + “I trust that Iduna will never express her gratitude to Nicæus,” answered + the prince; “it is not, I assure you, a favourite word with him.” + </p> + <p> + Their companion rejoined them, urging his wearied horse to its utmost + speed. + </p> + <p> + “Nicæus!” he called out, “halt.” + </p> + <p> + They stopped their willing horses. + </p> + <p> + “How now! my friend;” said the prince; “you look grave.” + </p> + <p> + “Lady Iduna!” said the Armenian, “we are pursued.” + </p> + <p> + Hitherto the prospect of success, and the consciousness of the terrible + destiny that awaited failure, had supported Iduna under exertions, which + under any other circumstances must have proved fatal. But to learn, at the + very moment that she was congratulating herself on the felicitous + completion of their daring enterprise, that that dreaded failure was + absolutely impending, demanded too great an exertion of her exhausted + energies. She turned pale; she lifted up her imploring hands and eyes to + heaven in speechless agony, and then, bending down her head, wept with + unrestrained and harrowing violence. The distracted Nicæus sprung from his + horse, endeavoured to console the almost insensible Iduna, and then + woefully glancing at his fellow adventurer, wrung his hands in despair. + His fellow adventurer seemed lost in thought. + </p> + <p> + “They come,” said Nicæus, starting; “methinks I see one on the brow of the + hill. Away! fly! Let us at least die fighting. Dear, dear Iduna, would + that my life could ransom thine! O God! this is indeed agony.” + </p> + <p> + “Escape is impossible,” said Iduna, in a tone of calmness which astonished + them. “They must overtake us. Alas! brave friends, I have brought ye to + this! Pardon me, pardon me! I am ashamed of my selfish grief. Ascribe it + to other causes than a narrow spirit and a weak mind. One course alone is + left to us. We must not be taken prisoners. Ye are warriors, and can die + as such. I am only a woman, but I am the daughter of Hunniades. Nicæus, + you are my father’s friend; I beseech you sheathe your dagger in my + breast.” + </p> + <p> + The prince in silent agony pressed his hands to his sight. His limbs + quivered with terrible emotion. Suddenly he advanced and threw himself at + the feet of his hitherto silent comrade. “Oh! Iskander!” exclaimed Nicæus, + “great and glorious friend! my head and heart are both too weak for these + awful trials; save her, save her!” + </p> + <p> + “Iskander! exclaimed the thunderstruck Iduna. Iskander!” + </p> + <p> + “I have, indeed, the misfortune to be Iskander, beloved lady,” he replied. + “This is, indeed, a case almost of desperation, but if I have to endure + more than most men, I have, to inspire me, influences which fall to the + lot of few, yourself and Epirus. Come! Nicæus, there is but one chance, we + must gain the bridge.” Thus speaking, Iskander caught Iduna in his arms, + and remounting his steed, and followed by the Prince of Athens, hurried + towards the river. + </p> + <p> + “The water is not fordable,” said Iskander, when they had arrived at its + bank. “The bridge I shall defend; and it will go hard if I do not keep + them at bay long enough for you and Iduna to gain the mountains. Away; + think no more of me; nay! no tear, dear lady, or you will unman me. An ins + inspiring smile, and all will go well. Hasten to Croia, and let nothing + tempt you to linger in the vicinity, with the hope of my again joining + you. Believe me, we shall meet again, but act upon what I say, as if they + were my dying words. God bless you, Nicæus! No murmuring. For once let the + physician, indeed, command his page. Gentle lady, commend me to your + father. Would I had such a daughter in Epirus, to head my trusty brethren + if I fall. Tell the great Hunniades my legacy to him is my country. + Farewell, farewell!” + </p> + <p> + “I will not say farewell!” exclaimed Iduna; “I too can fight. I will stay + and die with you.” + </p> + <p> + “See they come! Believe me I shall conquer. Fly, fly, thou noble girl! + Guard her well, Nicæus. God bless thee, boy! Live and be happy. Nay, nay, + not another word. The farther ye are both distant, trust me, the stronger + will be my arm. Indeed, indeed, I do beseech ye, fly!” + </p> + <p> + Nicæus placed the weeping Iduna in her saddle, and after leading her horse + over the narrow and broken bridge, mounted his own, and then they ascended + together the hilly and winding track. Iskander watched them as they went. + Often Iduna waved her kerchief to her forlorn champion. In the meantime + Iskander tore off his Armenian robes and flung them into the river, tried + his footing on the position he had taken up, stretched his limbs, examined + his daggers, flourished his scimitar. + </p> + <p> + The bridge would only permit a single rider to pass abreast. It was + supported by three arches, the centre one of very considerable size, the + others small, and rising out of the shallow water on each side. In many + parts the parapet wall was broken, in some even the pathway was almost + impassable from the masses of fallen stone, and the dangerous fissures. In + the centre of the middle arch was an immense key-stone, on which was + sculptured, in high relief, an enormous helmet, which indeed gave, among + the people of the country, a title to the bridge. + </p> + <p> + A band of horsemen dashed at full speed, with a loud shout, down the bill. + They checked their horses, when to their astonishment they found Iskander + with his drawn scimitar, prepared to resist their passage. But they paused + only for a moment, and immediately attempted to swim the river. But their + exhausted horses drew back with a strong instinct from the rushing waters: + one of the band alone, mounted on a magnificent black mare, succeeding in + his purpose. The rider was half-way in the stream, his high-bred steed + snorting and struggling in the strong current. Iskander, with the same + ease as if he were plucking the ripe fruit from a tree, took up a + ponderous stone, and hurled it with fatal precision at his adventurous + enemy. The rider shrieked and fell, and rose no more: the mare, relieved + from her burthen, exerted all her failing energies, and succeeded in + gaining the opposite bank. There, rolling herself in the welcome pasture, + and neighing with a note of triumph, she revelled in her hard escape. + </p> + <p> + “Cut down the Giaour!” exclaimed one of the horsemen, and he dashed at the + bridge. His fragile blade shivered into a thousand pieces as it crossed + the scimitar of Iskander, and in a moment his bleeding head fell over the + parapet. + </p> + <p> + Instantly the whole band, each emulous of revenging his comrades, rushed + without thought at Iskander, and endeavoured to overpower him by their + irresistible charge. His scimitar flashed like lightning. The two foremost + of his enemies fell, but the impulse of the numbers prevailed, and each + instant, although dealing destruction with every blow, he felt himself + losing ground. At length he was on the centre of the centre arch, an + eminent position, which allowed him for a moment to keep them at bay, and + gave him breathing time. Suddenly he made a desperate charge, clove the + head of the leader of the band in two, and beat them back several yards; + then swiftly returning to his former position, he summoned all his + supernatural strength, and stamping on the mighty, but mouldering + keystone, he forced it from its form, and broke the masonry of a thousand + years. Amid a loud and awful shriek, horses and horsemen, and the + dissolving fragments of the scene for a moment mingled as it were in airy + chaos, and then plunged with a horrible plash into the fatal depths below. + Some fell, and, stunned by the massy fragments, rose no more; others + struggled again into light, and gained with difficulty their old shore. + Amid them, Iskander, unhurt, swam like a river god, and stabbed to the + heart the only strong swimmer that was making his way in the direction of + Epirus. Drenched and exhausted, Iskander at length stood upon the opposite + margin, and wrung his garments, while he watched the scene of strange + destruction. + </p> + <p> + Three or four exhausted wretches were lying bruised and breathless on the + opposite bank: one drowned horse was stranded near them, caught by the + rushes. Of all that brave company the rest had vanished, and the broad, + and blue, and sunny waters rushed without a shadow beneath the two + remaining arches. + </p> + <p> + “Iduna! thou art safe,” exclaimed Iskander. “Now for Epirus!” So saying, + he seized the black mare, renovated by her bath and pasture, and vaulting + on her back, was in a few minutes bounding over his native hills. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0013" id="link2HCH0013"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER 13 + </h2> + <p> + In the meantime let us not forget the Prince of Athens and the Lady Iduna. + These adventurous companions soon lost sight of their devoted champion, + and entered a winding ravine, which gradually brought them to the summit + of the first chain of the Epirot mountains. From it they looked down upon + a vast and rocky valley, through which several mule tracks led in various + directions, and entered the highest barrier of the mountains, which rose + before them covered with forests of chestnut and ilex. Nicæus chose the + track which he considered least tempting to pursuit, and towards sunset + they had again entered a ravine washed by a mountain stream. The course of + the waters had made the earth fertile and beautiful. Wild shrubs of gay + and pleasant colours refreshed their wearied eye-sight, and the perfume of + aromatic plants invigorated their jaded senses. Upon the bank of the + river, too, a large cross of roughly-carved wood brought comfort to their + Christian hearts, and while the holy emblem filled them with hope and + consolation, and seemed an omen of refuge from their Moslemin oppressors, + a venerable Eremite, with a long white beard descending over his dark + robes, and leaning on a staff of thorn, came forth from an adjoining + cavern to breathe the evening air and pour forth his evening orisons. + </p> + <p> + Iduna and Nicæus had hitherto prosecuted their sorrowful journey almost in + silence. Exhausted with anxiety, affliction, and bodily fatigue, with + difficulty the daughter of Hunniades could preserve her seat upon her + steed. One thought alone interested her, and by its engrossing influence + maintained her under all her sufferings, the memory of Iskander. Since she + first met him, at the extraordinary interview in her father’s pavilion, + often had the image of the hero recurred to her fancy, often had she mused + over his great qualities and strange career. His fame, so dangerous to + female hearts, was not diminished by his presence. And now, when Iduna + recollected that she was indebted to him for all that she held dear, that + she owed to his disinterested devotion, not only life, but all that + renders life desirable, honour and freedom, country and kindred, that + image was invested with associations and with sentiments, which, had + Iskander himself been conscious of their existence, would have lent + redoubled vigour to his arm, and fresh inspiration to his energy. More + than once Iduna had been on the point of inquiring of Nicæus the reason + which had induced alike him and Iskander to preserve so strictly the + disguise of his companion. But a feeling which she did not choose to + analyse struggled successfully with her curiosity: she felt a reluctance + to speak of Iskander to the Prince of Athens. In the meantime Nicæus + himself was not apparently very anxious of conversing upon the subject, + and after the first rapid expressions of fear and hope as to the situation + of their late comrade, they relapsed into silence, seldom broken by + Nicæus, but to deplore the sufferings of his mistress, lamentations which + Iduna answered with a faint smile. + </p> + <p> + The refreshing scene wherein they had now entered, and the cheering + appearance of the Eremite, were subjects of mutual congratulation; and + Nicæus, somewhat advancing, claimed the attention of the holy man, + announcing their faith, imprisonment, escape, and sufferings, and + entreating hospitality and refuge. The Eremite pointed with his staff to + the winding path, which ascended the bank of the river to the cavern, and + welcomed the pilgrims, in the name of their blessed Saviour, to his wild + abode and simple fare. + </p> + <p> + The cavern widened when they entered, and comprised several small + apartments. It was a work of the early Christians, who had found a refuge + in their days of persecution, and art had completed the beneficent design + of nature. The cavern was fresh, and sweet, and clean. Heaven smiled upon + its pious inmate through an aperture in the roof; the floor was covered + with rushes; in one niche rested a brazen cross, and in another a + perpetual lamp burnt before a picture, where Madonna smiled with meek + tenderness upon her young divinity. + </p> + <p> + The Eremite placed upon a block of wood, the surface of which he had + himself smoothed, some honey, some dried fish and a wooden bowl filled + from the pure stream that flowed beneath them: a simple meal, but welcome. + His guests seated themselves upon a rushy couch, and while they refreshed + themselves, he gently inquired the history of their adventures. As it was + evident that the Eremite, from her apparel, mistook the sex of Iduna, + Nicæus thought fit not to undeceive him, but passed her off as his + brother. He described themselves as two Athenian youths, who had been + captured while serving as volunteers under the great Hunniades, and who + had effected their escape from Adrianople under circumstances of great + peril and difficulty; and when he had gratified the Eremite’s curiosity + respecting their Christian brethren in Paynim lands, and sympathetically + marvelled with him at the advancing fortunes of the Crescent, Nicæus, who + perceived that Iduna stood in great need of rest, mentioned the fatigues + of his more fragile brother, and requested permission for him to retire. + Whereupon the Eremite himself, fetching a load of fresh rushes, arranged + them in one of the cells, and invited the fair Iduna to repose. The + daughter of Hunniades, first humbling herself before the altar of the + Virgin, and offering her gratitude for all the late mercies vouchsafed + unto her, and then bidding a word of peace to her host and her companion, + withdrew to her hard-earned couch, soon was buried in a sleep as sweet and + innocent as herself. + </p> + <p> + But repose fell not upon the eye-lids of Nicæus in spite of all labours. + The heart of the Athenian Prince was distracted by two most powerful of + passions—Love and Jealousy—and when the Eremite, pointing out + to his guest his allotted resting-place, himself retired to his regular + and simple slumbers, Nicæus quitted the cavern, and standing upon the bank + of the river, gazed in abstraction upon the rushing waters foaming in the + moonlight. The Prince of Athens, with many admirable qualities, was one of + those men who are influenced only by their passions, and who, in the + affairs of life, are invariably guided by their imagination instead of + their reason. At present all thought and feeling, all considerations, and + all circumstances, merged in the overpowering love he entertained for + Iduna, his determination to obtain her at all cost and peril, and his + resolution that she should never again meet Iskander, except as the wife + of Nicæus. Compared with this paramount object, the future seemed to + vanish. The emancipation of his country, the welfare of his friend, even + the maintenance of his holy creed, all those great and noble objects for + which, under other circumstances, he would have been prepared to sacrifice + his fortune and his life, no longer interested or influenced him; and + while the legions of the Crescent were on the point of pouring into Greece + to crush that patriotic and Christian cause over which Iskander and + himself had so often mused, whose interests the disinterested absence of + Iskander, occasioned solely by his devotion to Nicæus, had certainly + endangered, and perhaps, could the events of the last few hours be known, + even sacrificed, the Prince of Athens resolved, unless Iduna would consent + to become his, at once to carry off the daughter of Hunniades to some + distant country. Nor indeed, even with his easily excited vanity, was + Nicæus sanguine of obtaining his purpose by less violent means. He was + already a rejected suitor, and under circumstances which scarcely had left + hope. Nothing but the sole credit of her chivalric rescue could perhaps + have obtained for him the interest in the heart of Iduna which he coveted. + For while this exploit proffered an irresistible claim to her deepest + gratitude, it indicated also, on the part of her deliverer, the presence + and possession of all those great qualities, the absence of which in the + character and conduct of her suitor, Iduna had not, at a former period, + endeavoured to conceal to be the principal came of his rejection. And now, + by the unhappy course of circumstances, the very deed on which he counted, + with sanguine hope, as the sure means of his success, seemed as it were to + have placed him in a more inferior situation than before. The constant + society of his mistress had fanned to all its former force and ardour, the + flame which, apart from her, and hopeless, he had endeavoured to repress; + while, on the other hand, he could not conceal from himself, that Iduna + must feel that he had played in these rest proceeding but a secondary + part; that all the genius and all the generosity of the exploit rested + with Iskander, who, after having obtained her freedom by so much energy, + peril, sagacity and skill, had secured it by a devoted courage which might + shame all the knights of Christendom; perhaps, too, had secured it by his + own life. + </p> + <p> + What if Iskander were no more? It was a great contingency. The eternal + servitude of Greece, and the shameful triumph of the Crescent, were + involved, perhaps, in that single event. And could the possession of Iduna + compensate for such disgrace and infamy? Let us not record the wild + response of passion. + </p> + <p> + It was midnight ere the restless Nicæus, more exhausted by his agitating + reverie than by his previous exertions, returned into the cavern, and + found refuge in sleep from all his disquietudes. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0014" id="link2HCH0014"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER 14 + </h2> + <p> + The Eremite rose with the Sun; and while he was yet at matins, was joined + by Iduna, refreshed and cheerful after her unusual slumbers. After + performing their devotions, her venerable host proposed that they should + go forth and enjoy the morning air. So, descending the precipitous bank of + the river, he led the way to a small glen, the bed of a tributary rivulet, + now nearly exhausted. Beautiful clumps of birch-trees and tall thin + poplars, rose on each side among the rocks covered with bright mosses, and + parasitical plants of gay and various colours. One side of the glen was + touched with the golden and grateful beams of the rising sun, and the + other was in deep shadow. + </p> + <p> + “Here you can enjoy nature and freedom in security;” said the Eremite, + “for your enemies, if they have not already given up their pursuit, will + scarcely search this sweet solitude.” + </p> + <p> + “It is indeed sweet, holy father,” said Iduna; “but the captive, who has + escaped from captivity, can alone feel all its sweetness.” + </p> + <p> + “It is true,” said the Eremite; “I also have been a captive.” + </p> + <p> + “Indeed! holy father. To the Infidels?” + </p> + <p> + “To the Infidels, gentle pilgrim.” + </p> + <p> + “Have you been at Adrianople?” + </p> + <p> + “My oppressors were not the Paynim,” replied the Eremite, “but they were + enemies far more dire, my own evil passions. Time was when my eye sparkled + like thine, gentle pilgrim, and my heart was not as pure.” + </p> + <p> + “God is merciful,” said Iduna, “and without His aid, the strongest are but + shadows.” + </p> + <p> + “Ever think so,” replied the Eremite, “and you will deserve rather His + love than His mercy. Thirty long years have I spent in this solitude, + meditating upon the past, and it is a theme yet fertile in instruction. My + hours are never heavy, and memory is to me what action is to other men.” + </p> + <p> + “You have seen much, holy father?” + </p> + <p> + “And felt more. Yet you will perhaps think the result of all my experience + very slight, for I can only say unto thee, trust not in thyself.” + </p> + <p> + “It is a great truth,” remarked Iduna, “and leads to a higher one.” + </p> + <p> + “Even so,” replied the Eremite. “We are full of wisdom in old age, as in + winter this river is full of water, but the fire of youth, like the summer + sun, dries up the stream.” + </p> + <p> + Iduna did not reply. The Eremite attracted her attention to a patch of + cresses on the opposite bank of the stream. “Every morn I rise only to + discover fresh instances of omnipotent benevolence,” he exclaimed. + “Yesterday ye tasted my honey and my fish. To-day I can offer ye a fresh + dainty. We will break our fast in this pleasant glen. Rest thou here, + gentle youth, and I will summon thy brother to our meal. I fear me much he + does not bear so contented a spirit as thyself.” + </p> + <p> + “He is older, and has seen more,” replied Iduna. + </p> + <p> + The Eremite shook his head, and leaning on his staff, returned to the + cavern. Iduna remained, seated on a mossy rock, listening to the awakening + birds, and musing over the fate of Iskander. While she was indulging in + this reverie, her name was called. She looked up with a blush, and beheld + Nicæus. + </p> + <p> + “How fares my gentle comrade?” inquired the Prince of Athens. + </p> + <p> + “As well as I hope you are, dear Nicæus. We have been indeed fortunate in + finding so kind a host.” + </p> + <p> + “I think I may now congratulate you on your safety,” said the Prince. + “This unfrequented pass will lead us in two days to Epirus, nor do I + indeed now fear pursuit.” + </p> + <p> + “Acts and not words must express in future how much we owe to you,” said + Iduna. “My joy would be complete if my father only knew of our safety, and + if our late companion were here to share it.” + </p> + <p> + “Fear not for my friend,” replied Nicæus. “I have faith in the fortune of + Iskander.” + </p> + <p> + “If any one could succeed under such circumstances, he doubtless is the + man,” rejoined Iduna; “but it was indeed an awful crisis in his fate.” + </p> + <p> + “Trust me, dear lady, it is wise to banish gloomy thoughts.” + </p> + <p> + “We can give him only our thoughts,” said Iduna, “and when we remember how + much is dependent on his life, can they be cheerful?” + </p> + <p> + “Mine must be so, when I am in the presence of Iduna,” replied Nicæus. + </p> + <p> + The daughter of Hunniades gathered moss from the rock, and threw it into + the stream. + </p> + <p> + “Dear lady,” said the Prince of Athens, seating himself by her side, and + stealing her gentle hand. “Pardon me, if an irrepressible feeling at this + moment impels me to recur to a subject, which, I would fain hope, were not + so unpleasing to you, as once unhappily you deemed it. O! Iduna, Iduna, + best and dearest, we are once more together; once more I gaze upon that + unrivalled form, and listen to the music of that matchless voice. I sought + you, I perhaps violated my pledge, but I sought you in captivity and + sorrow. Pardon me, pity me, Iduna! Oh! Iduna, if possible, love me!” + </p> + <p> + She turned away her head, she turned away her streaming eyes. “It is + impossible not to love my deliverers,” she replied, in a low and tremulous + voice, “even could he not prefer the many other claims to affection which + are possessed by the Prince of Athens. I was not prepared for this renewal + of a most painful subject, perhaps not under any circumstances, but least + of all under those in which we now find ourselves.” + </p> + <p> + “Alas!” exclaimed the prince, “I can no longer control my passion. My + life, not my happiness merely, depends upon Iduna becoming mine. Bear with + me, my beloved, bear with me! Were you Nicæus, you too would need + forgiveness.” + </p> + <p> + “I beseech you, cease!” exclaimed Iduna, in a firmer voice; and, + withdrawing her hand, she suddenly rose. “This is neither the time nor + place for such conversation. I have not forgotten that, but a few days + back, I was a hopeless captive, and that my life and fame are even now in + danger. Great mercies have been vouchsafed to me; but still I perhaps need + the hourly interposition of heavenly aid. Other than such worldly thoughts + should fill my mind, and do. Dear Nicæus,” she continued, in a more + soothing tone, “you have nobly commenced a most heroic enterprise: fulfil + it in like spirit.” + </p> + <p> + He would have replied; but at this moment the staff of the Eremite sounded + among the rocks. Baffled, and dark with rage and passion, the Prince of + Athens quitted Iduna, and strolled towards the upper part of the glen, to + conceal his anger and disappointment. + </p> + <p> + “Eat, gentle youth,” said the Eremite. “Will not thy brother join us? What + may be his name?” + </p> + <p> + “Nicæus, holy father.” + </p> + <p> + “And thine?” + </p> + <p> + Iduna blushed and hesitated. At length, in her confusion, she replied, + “Iskander.” + </p> + <p> + “Nicæus,” called out the Eremite, “Iskander and myself await thee!” + </p> + <p> + Iduna trembled. She was agreeably surprised when the prince returned with + a smiling countenance, and joined in the meal, with many cheerful words. + </p> + <p> + “Now I propose,” said the Eremite, “that yourself and your brother + Iskander should tarry with me some days, if, indeed, my simple fare have + any temptation.” + </p> + <p> + “I thank thee, holy father,” replied Nicæus, “but our affairs are urgent; + nor indeed could I have tarried here at all, had it not been for my young + Iskander here, who, as you may easily believe, is little accustomed to his + late exertions. But, indeed, towards sunset, we must proceed.” + </p> + <p> + “Bearing with us,” added Iduna, “a most grateful recollection of our + host.” + </p> + <p> + “God be with ye, wherever ye may proceed,” replied the Eremite. + </p> + <p> + “My trust is indeed in Him,” rejoined Iduna. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0015" id="link2HCH0015"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER 15 + </h2> + <p> + And so, two hours before sunset, mounting their refreshed horses, Nicæus + and Iduna quitted, with many kind words, the cavern of the Eremite, and + took their way along the winding bank of the river. Throughout the moonlit + night they travelled, ascending the last and highest chain of mountains + and reaching the summit by dawn. The cheerful light of morning revealed to + them the happy plains of a Christian country. With joyful spirits they + descended into the fertile land, and stopped at a beautiful Greek village, + embowered in orchards and groves of olive-trees. + </p> + <p> + The Prince of Athens instantly inquired for the Primate, or chief + personage of the village, and was conducted to his house; but its master, + he was informed, was without, supervising the commencement of the vintage. + Leaving Iduna with the family of the Primate, Nicæus went in search of + him. The vineyard was full of groups, busied in the most elegant and + joyous of human occupations, gathering, with infinite bursts of merriment, + the harvest of the vine. Some mounted on ladders, fixed against the + festooning branches, plucked the rich bunches, and threw them below, where + girls, singing in chorus, caught them in panniers, or their extended + drapery. In the centre of the vineyard, a middle-aged man watched with a + calm, but vigilant eye, the whole proceedings, and occasionally stimulated + the indolent, or prompted the inexperienced. + </p> + <p> + “Christo,” said the Prince of Athens, when he had approached him. The + Primate turned round, but evidently did not immediately recognise the + person who addressed him. + </p> + <p> + “I see,” continued the prince, “that my meditated caution was unnecessary. + My strange garb is a sufficient disguise.” + </p> + <p> + “The Prince Nicæus!” exclaimed the Primate. “He is, indeed, disguised, but + will, I am sure, pardon his faithful servant.” + </p> + <p> + “Not a word, Christo!” replied the prince. “To be brief, I have crossed + the mountains from Roumelia, and have only within this hour recognised the + spot whither I have chanced to arrive. I have a companion with me. I would + not be known. You comprehend? Affairs of state. I take it for granted that + there are none here who will recognise me, after three years’ absence, in + this dress.” + </p> + <p> + “You may feel secure, my lord,” replied Christo. “If you puzzled me, who + have known you since you were no bigger than this bunch of grapes, you + will quite confound the rest.” + </p> + <p> + “‘Tis well. I shall stay here a day or two, in order to give them an + opportunity to prepare for my reception. In the meantime, it is necessary + to send on a courier at once. You must manage all this for me, Christo. + How are your daughters?” + </p> + <p> + “So, so, please your Highness,” replied Christo. “A man with seven + daughters has got trouble for every day in the week.” + </p> + <p> + “But not when they are so pretty as yours are!” + </p> + <p> + “Poh! poh! handsome is that handsome does; and as for Alexina, she wants + to be married.” + </p> + <p> + “Very natural. Let her marry, by all means.” + </p> + <p> + “But Helena wants to do the same.” + </p> + <p> + “More natural still; for, if possible, she is prettier. For my part, I + could marry them both.” + </p> + <p> + “Ay, ay! that is all very well; but handsome is that handsome does. I have + no objection to Alexina marrying, and even Helena; but then there is Lais—” + </p> + <p> + “Hah! hah! hah!” exclaimed the prince. “I see, my dear Christo, that my + foster sisters give you a very proper portion of trouble. However, I must + be off to my travelling companion. Come in as soon as you can, my dear + fellow, and will settle everything. A good vintage to you, and only as + much mischief as necessary.” So saying, the prince tripped away. + </p> + <p> + “Well! who would have thought of seeing him here!” exclaimed the worthy + Primate. “The same gay dog as ever! What can he have been doing at + Roumelia? Affairs of state, indeed! I’ll wager my new Epiphany scarf, + that, whatever the affairs are, there is a pretty girl in the case.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0016" id="link2HCH0016"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER 16 + </h2> + <p> + The fair Iduna, after all her perils and sufferings, was at length + sheltered in safety under a kind and domestic roof. Alexina, and Helena, + and Lais, and all the other sisters emulated each other in the attentions + which they lavished upon the two brothers, but especially the youngest. + Their kindness, indeed, was only equalled by their ceaseless curiosity, + and had they ever waited for the answers of Iduna to their questions, the + daughter of Hunniades might, perhaps, have been somewhat puzzled to + reconcile her responses with probability. Helena answered the questions of + Alexina; Lais anticipated even Helena. All that Iduna had to do was to + smile and be silent, and it was universally agreed that Iskander was + singularly shy as well as excessively handsome. In the meantime, when + Nicæus met Iduna in the evening of the second day of their visit, he + informed her that he had been so fortunate as to resume an acquaintance + with an old companion in arms in the person of a neighbouring noble, who + had invited them to rest at his castle at the end of their next day’s + journey. He told her likewise that he had dispatched a courier to Croia to + inquire after Iskander, who, he expected, in the course of a few days, + would bring them intelligence to guide their future movements, and decide + whether they should at once proceed to the capital of Epirus, or advance + into Bulgaria, in case Hunniades was still in the field. On the morrow, + therefore, they proceeded on their journey. Nicæus had procured a litter + for Iduna, for which her delicate health was an excuse to Alexina and her + sisters, and they were attended by a small body of well-armed cavalry, + for, according to the accounts which Nicæus had received, the country was + still disturbed. They departed at break of day, Nicæus riding by the side + of the litter, and occasionally making the most anxious inquiries after + the well-being of his fair charge. An hour after noon they rested at a + well, surrounded by olive-trees, until the extreme heat was somewhat + allayed; and then remounting, proceeded in the direction of an undulating + ridge of green hills, that partially intersected the wide plain. Towards + sunset the Prince of Athens withdrew the curtains of the litter, and + called the attention of Iduna to a very fair castle, rising on a fertile + eminence and sparkling in the quivering beams of dying light. + </p> + <p> + “I fear,” said Nicæus, “that my friend Justinian will scarcely have + returned, but we are old comrades, and he desired me to act as his + Seneschal. For your sake I am sorry, Iduna, for I feel convinced that he + would please you.” + </p> + <p> + “It is, indeed, a fair castle,” replied Iduna, “and none but a true knight + deserves such a noble residence.” + </p> + <p> + While she spoke the commander of the escort sounded his bugle, and they + commenced the ascent of the steep, a winding road, cut through a thick + wood of ever-green shrubs. The gradual and easy ascent soon brought them + to a portal flanked with towers, which admitted them into the outworks of + the fortification. Here they found several soldiers on guard, and the + commander again sounding his bugle, the gates of the castle opened, and + the Seneschal, attended by a suite of many domestics, advanced and + welcomed Nicæus and Iduna. The Prince of Athens dismounting, assisted his + fair companion from the litter, and leading her by the band, and preceded + by the Seneschal, entered the castle. + </p> + <p> + They passed through a magnificent hall, hung with choice armour, and + ascending a staircase, of Pentelic marble, were ushered into a suite of + lofty chambers, lined with Oriental tapestry, and furnished with many + costly couches and cabinets. While they admired a spectacle so different + to anything they had recently beheld or experienced, the Seneschal, + followed by a number of slaves in splendid attire, advanced and offered + them rare and choice refreshments, coffee and confectionery, sherbets and + spiced wines. When they had partaken of this elegant cheer, Nicæus + intimated to the Seneschal that the Lady Iduna might probably wish to + retire, and instantly a discreet matron, followed by six most beautiful + girls, each bearing a fragrant torch of cinnamon mind roses, advanced and + offered to conduct the Lady Iduna to her apartments. + </p> + <p> + The matron and her company of maidens conducted the daughter of Hunniades + down a long gallery, which led to a suite of the prettiest chambers in the + world. The first was an antechamber, painted like a bower, but filled with + the music of living birds; the second, which was much larger, was entirely + covered with Venetian mirrors, and resting on a bright Persian carpet were + many couches of crimson velvet, covered with a variety of sumptuous + dresses; the third room was a bath, made in the semblance of a gigantic + shell. Its roof was of transparent alabaster, glowing with shadowy light. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0017" id="link2HCH0017"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER 17 + </h2> + <p> + A flourish of trumpets announced the return of the Lady Iduna and the + Prince of Athens, magnificently attired, came forward with a smile, and + led her, with a compliment on her resuming the dress of her sex, if not of + her country, to the banquet. Iduna was not uninfluenced by that excitement + which is insensibly produced by a sudden change of scene and + circumstances, and especially by an unexpected transition from hardship, + peril, and suffering, to luxury, security, and enjoyment. Their spirits + were elevated and gay: she smiled upon Nicæus with a cheerful sympathy. + They feasted, they listened to sweet music, they talked over their late + adventures, and, animated by their own enjoyment, they became more + sanguine as to the fate of Iskander. + </p> + <p> + “In two or three days we shall know more,” said Nicæus. “In the meantime, + rest is absolutely necessary to you. It is only now that you will begin to + be sensible of the exertion you have made. If Iskander be at Croia, he has + already informed your father of your escape; if he have not arrived, I + have arranged that a courier shall be dispatched to Hunniades from that + city. Do not be anxious. Try to be happy. I am myself sanguine that you + will find all well. Come, pledge me your father’s health, fair lady, in + this goblet of Tenedos!” + </p> + <p> + “How know I that at this moment he may not be at the point of death,” + replied Iduna. “When I am absent from those I love, I dream only of their + unhappiness.” + </p> + <p> + “At this moment also,” rejoined Nicæus, “he dreams perhaps of your + imprisonment among barbarians. Yet how mistaken! Let that consideration + support you. Come! here is to the Eremite.” + </p> + <p> + “As willing, if not as sumptuous, a host as our present one,” said Iduna; + “and when, by-the-bye, do you think that your friend, the Lord Justinian, + will arrive?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! never mind him,” said Nicæus. “He would have arrived to-morrow, but + the great news which I gave him has probably changed his plans. I told him + of the approaching invasion, and he has perhaps found it necessary to + visit the neighbouring chieftains, or even to go on to Croia.” + </p> + <p> + “Well-a-day!” exclaimed Iduna, “I would we were in my father’s camp!” + </p> + <p> + “We shall soon be there, dear lady,” replied the Prince. “Come, worthy + Seneschal,” he added, turning to that functionary, “drink to this noble + lady’s happy meeting with her friends.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0018" id="link2HCH0018"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER 18 + </h2> + <p> + Three or four days passed away at the castle of Justinian, in which Nicæus + used his utmost exertions to divert the anxiety of Iduna. One day was + spent in examining the castle, on another he amused her with a hawking + party, on a third he carried her to the neighbouring ruins of a temple, + and read his favourite Æschylus to her amid its lone and elegant columns. + It was impossible for any one to be more amiable and entertaining, and + Iduna could not resist recognising his many virtues and accomplishments. + The courier had not yet returned from Croia, which Nicæus accounted for by + many satisfactory reasons. The suspense, however, at length became so + painful to Iduna, that she proposed to the Prince of Athens that they + should, without further delay, proceed to that city. As usual, Nicæus was + not wanting in many plausible arguments in favour of their remaining at + the castle, but Iduna was resolute. + </p> + <p> + “Indeed, dear Nicæus,” she said, “my anxiety to see my father, or hear + from him, is so great, that there is scarcely any danger which I would not + encounter to gratify my wish. I feel that I have already taxed your + endurance too much. But we are no longer in a hostile land, and guards and + guides are to be engaged. Let me then depart alone!” + </p> + <p> + “Iduna!” exclaimed Nicæus, reproachfully. “Alas! Iduna, you are cruel, but + I did not expect this!” + </p> + <p> + “Dear Nicæus!” she answered, “you always misinterpret me! It would + infinitely delight me to be restored to Hunniades by yourself, but these + are no common times, and you are no common person. You forget that there + is one that has greater claims upon you even than a forlorn maiden, your + country. And whether Iskander be at Croia or not, Greece requires the + presence and exertions of the Prince of Athens.” + </p> + <p> + “I have no country,” replied Nicæus, mournfully, “and no object for which + to exert myself.” + </p> + <p> + “Nicæus! Is this the poetic patriot who was yesterday envying + Themistocles?” + </p> + <p> + “Alas! Iduna, yesterday you were my muse. I do not wonder you are wearied + of this castle!” continued the prince in a melancholy tone. “This spot + contains nothing to interest you; but for me, it holds all that is dear, + and, O! gentle maiden, one smile from you, one smile of inspiration, and I + would not envy Themistocles, and might perhaps rival him.” + </p> + <p> + They were walking together in the hall of the castle; Iduna stepped aside + and affected to examine a curious buckler, Nicæus followed her, and + placing his arm gently in hers, led her away. + </p> + <p> + “Dearest Iduna,” he said, “pardon me, but men struggle for their fate. + Mine is in your power. It is a contest between misery and happiness, glory + and perhaps infamy. Do not then wonder that I will not yield my chance of + the brighter fortune without an effort. Once more I appeal to your pity, + if not to your love. Were Iduna mine, were she to hold out but the + possibility of her being mine, there is no career, solemnly I avow what + solemnly I feel, there is no career of which I could not be capable, and + no condition to which I would not willingly subscribe. But this certainty, + or this contingency, I must have: I cannot exist without the alternative. + And now upon my knees, I implore her to grant it to me!” + </p> + <p> + “Nicæus,” said Iduna, “this continued recurrence to a forbidden subject is + most ungenerous.” + </p> + <p> + “Alas! Iduna, my life depends upon a word, which you will not speak, and + you talk of generosity. No! Iduna, it is not I that I am ungenerous.” + </p> + <p> + “Let me say then unreasonable, Prince Nicæus.” + </p> + <p> + “Say what you like, Iduna, provided you say that you are mine.” + </p> + <p> + “Pardon me, sir, I am free.” + </p> + <p> + “Free! You have ever underrated me, Iduna. To whom do you owe this boasted + freedom?” + </p> + <p> + “This is not the first time,” remarked Iduna, “that you have reminded me + of an obligation, the memory of which is indelibly impressed upon my + heart, and for which even the present conversation cannot make me feel + less grateful. I can never forget that I owe all that is dear to yourself + and your companion.” + </p> + <p> + “My companion!” replied the Prince of Athens, pale and passionate. “My + companion! Am I ever to be reminded of my companion?” + </p> + <p> + “Nicæus!” said Iduna; “if you forget what is due to me, at least endeavour + to remember what is due to yourself?” + </p> + <p> + “Beautiful being!” said the prince, advancing and passionately seizing her + hand; “pardon me! pardon me! I am not master of my reason; I am nothing, I + am nothing while Iduna hesitates!” + </p> + <p> + “She does not hesitate, Nicæus. I desire, I require, that this + conversation shall cease; shall never, never be renewed.” + </p> + <p> + “And I tell thee, haughty woman,” said the Prince of Athens, grinding his + teeth, and speaking with violent action, “that I will no longer be + despised with impunity. Iduna is mine, or is no one else’s.” + </p> + <p> + “Is it possible?” exclaimed the daughter of Hunniades. “Is it, indeed, + come to this? But why am I surprised! I have long known Nicæus. I quit + this castle instantly.” + </p> + <p> + “You are a prisoner,” replied the prince very calmly, and leaning with + folded arms against the wall. + </p> + <p> + “A prisoner!” exclaimed Iduna, a little alarmed. “A prisoner! I defy you, + sir. You are only a guest like myself. I will appeal to the Seneschal in + the absence of his lord. He will never permit the honour of his master’s + flag to be violated by the irrational caprice of a passionate boy.” + </p> + <p> + “What lord?” inquired Nicæus. + </p> + <p> + “Your friend, the Lord Justinian,” answered Iduna. “He could little + anticipate such an abuse of his hospitality.” + </p> + <p> + “My friend, the Lord Justinian!” replied Nicæus, with a malignant smile. + “I am surprised that a personage of the Lady Iduna’s deep discrimination + should so easily be deceived by ‘a passionate boy!’ Is it possible that + you could have supposed for a moment that there was any other lord of this + castle, save your devoted slave?” + </p> + <p> + “What!” exclaimed Iduna, really frightened. + </p> + <p> + “I have, indeed, the honour of finding the Lady Iduna my guest,” continued + Nicæus, in a tone of bitter raillery. “This castle of Kallista, the + fairest in all Epirus, I inherit from my mother. Of late I have seldom + visited it; but, indeed, it will become a favourite residence of mine, if + it be, as I anticipate, the scene of my nuptial ceremony.” + </p> + <p> + Iduna looked around her with astonishment, then threw herself upon a + couch, and burst into tears. The Prince of Athens walked up and down the + hall with an air of determined coolness. + </p> + <p> + “Perfidious!” exclaimed Iduna between her sobs. + </p> + <p> + “Lady Iduna,” said the prince; and he seated himself by her side. “I will + not attempt to palliate a deception which your charms could alone inspire + and can alone justify. Hear me, Lady Iduna, hear me with calmness. I love + you; I love you with a passion which has been as constant as it is strong. + My birth, my rank, my fortunes, do not disqualify me for an union with the + daughter of the great Hunniades. If my personal claims may sink in + comparison with her surpassing excellence, I am yet to learn that any + other prince in Christendom can urge a more effective plea. I am young; + the ladies of the court have called me handsome; by your great father’s + side I have broken some lances in your honour; and even Iduna once + confessed she thought me clever. Come, come, be merciful! Let my beautiful + Athens receive a fitting mistress! A holy father is in readiness dear + maiden. Come now, one smile! In a few days we shall reach your father’s + camp, and then we will kneel, as I do now, and beg a blessing on our happy + union.” As he spoke, he dropped upon his knee, and stealing her hand, + looked into her face. It was sorrowful and gloomy. + </p> + <p> + “It is in vain, Nicæus,” said Iduna, “to appeal to your generosity; it is + useless to talk of the past; it is idle to reproach you for the present. I + am a woman, alone and persecuted, where I could least anticipate + persecution. Nicæus, I never can be yours; and now I deliver myself to the + mercy of Almighty God.” + </p> + <p> + “‘Tis well,” said Nicæus. “From the tower of the castle you may behold the + waves of the Ionian Sea. You will remain here a close prisoner, until one + of my galleys arrive from Piræus to bear us to Italy. Mine you must be, + Iduna. It remains for you to decide under what circumstances. Continue in + your obstinacy, and you may bid farewell for ever to your country and to + your father. Be reasonable, and a destiny awaits you, which offers + everything that has hitherto been considered the source or cause of + happiness.” Thus speaking, the prince retired, leaving the Lady Iduna to + her own unhappy thoughts. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0019" id="link2HCH0019"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER 19 + </h2> + <p> + The Lady Iduna was at first inclined to view the conduct of the Prince of + Athens as one of those passionate and passing ebullitions in which her + long acquaintance with him had taught her he was accustomed to indulge. + But when on retiring soon after to her apartments, she was informed by her + attendant matron that she must in future consider herself a prisoner, and + not venture again to quit them without permission, she began to tremble at + the possible violence of an ill-regulated mind. She endeavoured to + interest her attendant in her behalf; but the matron was too well schooled + to evince any feeling or express any opinion on the subject; and indeed, + at length, fairly informed Iduna that she was commanded to confine her + conversation to the duties of her office. + </p> + <p> + The Lady Iduna was very unhappy. She thought of her father, she thought of + Iskander. The past seemed a dream; she was often tempted to believe that + she was still, and had ever been, a prisoner in the Serail of Adrianople; + and that all the late wonderful incidents of her life were but the + shifting scenes of some wild slumber. And then some slight incident, the + sound of a bell or the sign of some holy emblem, assured her she was in a + Christian land, and convinced her of the strange truth that she was indeed + in captivity, and a prisoner, above all others, to the fond companion of + her youth. Her indignation at the conduct of Nicæus roused her courage; + she resolved to make an effort to escape. Her rooms were only lighted from + above; she determined to steal forth at night into the gallery; the door + was secured. She hastened back to her chamber in fear and sorrow, and + wept. + </p> + <p> + Twice in the course of the day the stern and silent matron visited Iduna + with her food; and as she retired, secured the door. This was the only + individual that the imprisoned lady ever beheld. And thus heavily rolled + on upwards of a week. On the eve of the ninth day, Iduna was surprised by + the matron presenting her a letter as she quitted the chamber for the + night. Iduna seized it with a feeling of curiosity not unmixed with + pleasure. It was the only incident that had occurred during her captivity. + She recognised the hand-writing of Nicæus, and threw it down with; + vexation at her silliness in supposing, for a moment, that the matron + could have been the emissary of any other person. + </p> + <p> + Yet the letter must be read, and at length she opened it. It informed her + that a ship had arrived from Athens at the coast, and that to-morrow she + must depart for Italy. It told her also, that the Turks, under Mahomed, + had invaded Albania; and that the Hungarians, under the command of her + father, had come to support the Cross. It said nothing of Iskander. But it + reminded her that little more than the same time that would carry her to + the coast to embark for a foreign land, would, were she wise, alike enable + Nicæus to place her in her father’s arms, and allow him to join in the + great struggle for his country and his creed. The letter was written with + firmness, but tenderly. It left, however, on the mind of Iduna an + impression of the desperate resolution of the writer. + </p> + <p> + Now it so happened, that as this unhappy lady jumped from her couch, and + paced the room in the perturbation of her mind, the wind of her drapery + extinguished her lamp. As her attendant, or visitor, had paid her last + visit for the day, there seemed little chance of its being again + illumined. The miserable are always more unhappy in the dark. Light is the + greatest of comforters. And so this little misfortune seemed to the + forlorn Iduna almost overwhelming. And as she attempted to look around, + and wrung her hands in very woe, her attention was attracted by a + brilliant streak of light upon the wall, which greatly surprised her. She + groped her way in its direction, and slowly stretching forth her hand, + observed that it made its way through a chink in the frame of one of the + great mirrors which were inlaid in the wall. And as she pressed the frame, + she felt to her surprise that it sprang forward. Had she not been very + cautious the advancing mirror would have struck her with great force, but + she had presence of mind to withdraw her hand very gradually, repressing + the swiftness of the spring. The aperture occasioned by the opening of the + mirror consisted of a recess, formed by a closed-up window. An old wooden + shutter, or blind, in so ruinous a state, that the light freely made its + way, was the only barrier against the elements. Iduna, seizing the handle + which remained, at once drew it open with little difficulty. + </p> + <p> + The captive gazed with gladdened feelings upon the free and beautiful + scene. Beneath her rose the rich and aromatic shrubs tinged with the soft + and silver light of eve: before her extended wide and fertile champaign, + skirted by the dark and undulating mountains: in the clear sky, glittering + and sharp, sparkled the first crescent of the new moon, an auspicious omen + to the Moslemin invaders. + </p> + <p> + Iduna gazed with, joy upon the landscape, and then hastily descending from + the recess, she placed her hands to her eyes, so long unaccustomed to the + light. Perhaps, too, she indulged in momentary meditation. For suddenly + seizing a number of shawls; which were lying on one of the couches, she + knotted them together, and then striving with all her force, she placed + the heaviest, coach on one end of the costly cord, and then throwing the + other out of the window, and entrusting herself to the merciful care of + the holy Virgin, the brave daughter of Hunniades successfully dropped down + into the garden below. + </p> + <p> + She stopped to breathe, and to revel in her emancipated existence. It was + a bold enterprise gallantly achieved. But the danger had now only + commenced. She found that she had alighted at the back of the castle. She + stole along upon tip-toe, timid as a fawn. She remembered a small + wicket-gate that led into the open country. She arrived at the gate. It + was of course guarded. The single sentinel was kneeling before an image of + St. George, beside him was an empty drinking-cup and an exhausted + wineskin. + </p> + <p> + “Holy Saint!” exclaimed the pious sentinel, “preserve us from all Turkish + infidels!” Iduna stole behind him. “Shall men who drink no wine conquer + true Christians!” continued the sentinel. Iduna placed her hand upon the + lock. “We thank thee for our good vintage,” said the sentinel. Iduna + opened the gate with the noiseless touch which a feminine finger can alone + command. “And for the rise of the Lord Iskander!” added the sentinel. + Iduna escaped! + </p> + <p> + Now she indeed was free. Swiftly she ran over the wide plain. She hoped to + reach some town or village before her escape could be discovered, and she + hurried on for three hours without resting. She came to a beautiful grove + of olive-trees that spread in extensive ramifications about the plain. And + through this beautiful grove of olive-trees her path seemed to lead. So + she entered and advanced. And when she had journeyed for about a mile, she + came to an open and very verdant piece of ground, which was, as it were, + the heart of the grove. In its centre rose a fair and antique structure of + white marble, shrouding from the noon-day sun the perennial flow of a very + famous fountain. It was near midnight. Iduna was wearied, and she sat down + upon the steps of the fountain for rest. And while she was musing over all + the strange adventures of her life, she heard a rustling in the wood, and + being alarmed, she rose and hid herself behind a tree. + </p> + <p> + And while she stood there, with palpitating heart, the figure of a man + advanced to the fountain from an opposite direction of the grove. He went + up the steps, and looked down upon the spring as if he were about to + drink, but instead of doing that, he drew his scimitar, and plunged it + into the water, and called out with a loud voice the name of “Iskander!” + three times. Whereupon Iduna, actuated by an irresistible impulse, came + forward from her hiding-place, but instantly gave a loud shriek when she + beheld the Prince Mahomed! + </p> + <p> + “Oh! night of glory!” exclaimed the prince, advancing. “Do I indeed behold + the fair Iduna! This is truly magic!” + </p> + <p> + “Away! away!” exclaimed the distracted Iduna, as she endeavoured to fly + from him. + </p> + <p> + “He has kept his word, that cunning leech, better than I expected,” said + Mahomed, seizing her. + </p> + <p> + “As well as you deserve, ravisher!” exclaimed a majestic voice. A tall + figure rushed forward from the wood, and dashed back the Turk. + </p> + <p> + “I am here to complete my contract, Prince Mahomed,” said the stranger, + drawing his sword. + </p> + <p> + “Iskander!” exclaimed the prince. + </p> + <p> + “We have met before, prince. Let us so act now that we may meet for the + last time.” + </p> + <p> + “Infamous, infernal traitor,” exclaimed Mahomed, “dost thou, indeed, + imagine that I will sully my imperial blade with the blood of my run-away + slave! No I came here to secure thy punishment, but I cannot condescend to + become thy punisher. Advance, guards, and seize him! Seize them both!” + </p> + <p> + Iduna flew to Iskander, who caught her in one arm, while he waved his + scimitar with the other. The guards of Mahomed poured forth from the side + of the grove whence the prince had issued. + </p> + <p> + “And dost thou indeed think, Mahomed,” said Iskander, “that I have been + educated in the Seraglio to be duped by Moslemin craft. I offer thee + single combat if thou desirest it, but combat as we may, the struggle + shall be equal.” He whistled, and instantly a body of Hungarians, headed + by Hunniades himself, advanced from the side of the grove whence Iskander + had issued. + </p> + <p> + “Come on, then,” said Mahomed; “each to his man.” Their swords clashed, + but the principal attendants of the son of Amurath deeming the affair + under the present circumstances assumed the character of a mere rash + adventure, bore away the Turkish prince. + </p> + <p> + “To-morrow then, this fray shall be decided on the plains of Kallista,” + said Mahomed. + </p> + <p> + “Epirus is prepared,” replied Iskander. + </p> + <p> + The Turks withdrew. Iskander bore the senseless form of Iduna to her + father. Hunniades embraced his long-lost child. They sprinkled her face + with water from the fountain. She revived. + </p> + <p> + “Where is Nicæus?” inquired Iskander; “and how came you again, dear lady, + in the power of Mahomed?” + </p> + <p> + “Alas! noble sir, my twice deliverer,” answered Iduna, “I have, indeed, + again been doomed to captivity, but my persecutor, I blush to say, was + this time a Christian prince.” + </p> + <p> + “Holy Virgin!” exclaimed Iskander. “Who can this villain be?” + </p> + <p> + “The villain, Lord Iskander, is your friend; and your pupil, dear father.” + </p> + <p> + “Nicæus of Athens!” exclaimed Hunniades. + </p> + <p> + Iskander was silent and melancholy. + </p> + <p> + Thereupon the Lady Iduna recounted to her father and Iskander, sitting + between them on the margin of the fount, all that had occurred to her, + since herself and Nicæus parted with Iskander; nor did she omit to relate + to Hunniades all the devotion of Iskander, respecting which, like a truly + brave man, he had himself been silent. The great Hunniades scarcely knew + which rather to do, to lavish his affection on his beloved child, or his + gratitude upon Iskander. Thus they went on conversing for some time, + Iskander placing his own cloak around Iduna, and almost unconsciously + winding his arm around her unresisting form. + </p> + <p> + Just as they were preparing to return to the Christian camp, a great noise + was heard in the grove, and presently, in the direction whence Iduna had + arrived, there came a band of men bearing torches and examining the grove + in all directions in great agitation. Iskander and Hunniades stood upon + their guard, but soon perceived they were Greeks. Their leader, seeing a + group near the fountain, advanced to make inquiries respecting the object + of his search, but when he indeed recognised the persons who formed the + group, the torch fell from his grasp, and he turned away his head and hid + his face in his hands. + </p> + <p> + Iduna clung to her father; Iskander stood with his eyes fixed upon the + ground, but Hunniades, stern and terrible, disembarrassing himself of the + grasp of his daughter, advanced and laid his hand upon the stranger. + </p> + <p> + “Young man,” said the noble father, “were it contrition instead of shame + that inspired this attitude, it might be better. I have often warned you + of the fatal consequences of a reckless indulgence of the passions. More + than once I have predicted to you, that however great might be your + confidence in your ingenuity and your resources, the hour would arrive + when such a career would place you in a position as despicable as it was + shameful. That hour has arrived, and that position is now filled by the + Prince of Athens. You stand before the three individuals in this world + whom you have most injured, and whom you were most bound to love and to + protect. Here is a friend, who hazarded his prosperity and his existence + for your life and your happiness. And you have made him a mere pander to + your lusts, and then deserted him in his greatest necessities. This maiden + was the companion of your youth, and entitled to your kindest offices. You + have treated her infinitely worse than her Turkish captor. And for myself, + sir, your father was my dearest friend. I endeavoured to repay his + friendship by supplying his place to his orphan child. How I discharged my + duty, it becomes not me to say: how you have discharged yours, this lady + here, my daughter, your late prisoner, sir, can best prove.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! spare me, spare me, sir,” said the Prince of Athens, turning and + falling upon his knee. “I am most wretched. Every word cuts to my very + core. Just Providence has baffled all my arts, and I am grateful. Whether + this lady can, indeed, forgive me, I hardly dare to think, or even hope. + And yet forgiveness is a heavenly boon. Perhaps the memory of old days may + melt her. As for yourself, sir—but I’ll not speak, I cannot. Noble + Iskander, if I mistake not, you may whisper words in that fair ear, less + grating than my own. May you be happy! I will not profane your prospects + with my vows. And yet I’ll say farewell!” + </p> + <p> + The Prince of Athens turned away with an air of complete wretchedness, and + slowly withdrew. Iskander followed him. + </p> + <p> + “Nicæus,” said Iskander; but the prince entered the grove, and did not + turn round. + </p> + <p> + “Dear Nicæus,” said Iskander. The prince hesitated. + </p> + <p> + “Let us not part thus,” said Iskander. “Iduna is most unhappy. She bade me + tell you she had forgotten all.” + </p> + <p> + “God bless her, and God bless you, too!” replied Nicæus. “I pray you let + me go.” + </p> + <p> + “Nay! dear Nicæus, are we not friends?” + </p> + <p> + “The best and truest, Iskander. I will to the camp, and meet you in your + tent ere morning break. At present, I would be alone.” + </p> + <p> + “Dear Nicæus, one word. You have said upon one point, what I could well + wish unsaid, and dared to prophesy what may never happen. I am not made + for such supreme felicity. Epirus is my mistress, my Nicæus. As there is a + living God, my friend, most solemnly I vow, I have had no thoughts in this + affair, but for your honour.” + </p> + <p> + “I know it, my dear friend, I know it,” replied Nicæus. “I keenly feel + your admirable worth. Say no more, say no more! She is a fit wife for a + hero, and you are one!” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0020" id="link2HCH0020"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER 20 + </h2> + <p> + After the battle of the bridge, Iskander had hurried to Croia without + delay. In his progress, he had made many fruitless inquiries after Iduna + and Nicæus, but he consoled himself for the unsatisfactory answers he + received by the opinion that they had taken a different course, and the + conviction that all must now be safe. The messenger from Croia that + informed Hunniades of the escape of his daughter, also solicited his aid + in favour of Epirus against the impending invasion of the Turks, and + stimulated by personal gratitude as well as by public duty, Hunniades + answered the solicitation in person at the head of twenty thousand lances. + </p> + <p> + Hunniades and Iskander had mutually flattered themselves, when apart, that + each would be able to quell the anxiety of the other on the subject of + Iduna. The leader of Epirus flattered himself that his late companions had + proceeded at once to Transylvania, and the Vaivode himself had indulged in + the delightful hope that the first person he should embrace at Croia would + be his long-lost child. When, therefore, they met, and were mutually + incapable of imparting any information on the subject to each other, they + were filled with astonishment and disquietude. Events, however, gave them + little opportunity to indulge in anxiety or grief. On the day that + Hunniades and his lances arrived at Croia, the invading army of the Turks + under the Prince Mahomed crossed the mountains, and soon after pitched + their camp on the fertile plain of Kallista. + </p> + <p> + As Iskander, by the aid of Hunniades and the neighbouring princes, and the + patriotic exertions of his countrymen, was at this moment at the head of a + force which the Turkish prince could not have anticipated, he resolved to + march at once to meet the Ottomans, and decide the fate of Greece by a + pitched battle. + </p> + <p> + The night before the arrival of Iduna at the famous fountain, the + Christian army had taken up its position within a few miles of the Turks. + The turbaned warriors wished to delay the engagement until the new moon, + the eve of which was at hand. And it happened on that said eve that + Iskander calling to mind his contract with the Turkish prince made in the + gardens of the Seraglio at Adrianople, and believing from the + superstitious character of Mahomed that he would not fail to be at the + appointed spot, resolved, as we have seen, to repair to the fountain of + Kallista. + </p> + <p> + And now from that fountain the hero retired, bearing with him a prize + scarcely less precious than the freedom of his country, for which he was + to combat on the morrow’s morn. + </p> + <p> + Ere the dawn had broken, the Christian power was in motion. Iskander + commanded the centre, Hunniades the right wing. The left was entrusted at + his urgent request to the Prince of Athens. A mist that hung about the + plain allowed Nicæus to charge the right wing of the Turks almost + unperceived. He charged with irresistible fury, and soon disordered the + ranks of the Moslemin. Mahomed with the reserve hastened to their aid. A + mighty multitude of Janissaries, shouting the name of Allah and his + Prophet, penetrated the Christian centre. Hunniades endeavoured to attack + them on their flank, but was himself charged by the Turkish cavalry. The + battle was now general, and raged with terrible fury. Iskander had + secreted in his centre, a new and powerful battery of cannon, presented to + him by the Pope, and which had just arrived from Venice. This battery + played upon the Janissaries with great destruction. He himself mowed them + down with his irresistible scimitar. Infinite was the slaughter! awful the + uproar! But of all the Christian knights this day, no one performed such + mighty feats of arms as the Prince of Athens. With a reckless desperation + he dashed about the field, and everything seemed to yield to his inspired + impulse. His example animated his men with such a degree of enthusiasm, + that the division to which he was opposed, although encouraged by the + presence of Mahomed himself, could no longer withstand the desperate + courage of the Christians, and fled in all directions. Then, rushing to + the aid of Iskander, Nicæus, at the head of a body of picked men, dashed + upon the rear of the Janissaries, and nearly surrounded them. Hunniades + instantly made a fresh charge upon the left wing of the Turks. A panic + fell upon the Moslemin, who were little prepared for such a demonstration + of strength on the part of their adversaries. In a few minutes, their + order seemed generally broken, and their leaders in vain endeavoured to + rally them. Waving his bloody scimitar, and bounding on his black charger, + Iskander called upon his men to secure the triumph of the Cross and the + freedom of Epirus. Pursuit was now general. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0021" id="link2HCH0021"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER 21 + </h2> + <p> + The Turks were massacred by thousands. Mahomed, when he found that all was + lost, fled to the mountains, with a train of guards and eunuchs, and left + the care of his dispersed host to his Pachas. The hills were covered with + the fugitives and their pursuers. Some fled also to the seashore, where + the Turkish fleet was at anchor. The plain was strewn with corpses and + arms, and tents and standards. The sun was now high in the heavens. The + mist had cleared away; but occasional clouds of smoke still sailed about. + </p> + <p> + A solitary Christian knight entered a winding pass in the green hills, + apart from the scene of strife. The slow and trembling step of his wearied + steed would have ill qualified him to join in the triumphant pursuit, even + had he himself been physically enabled; but the Christian knight was + covered with gore, unhappily not alone that of his enemies. He was, + indeed, streaming, with desperate wounds, and scarcely could his fainting + form retain its tottering seat. + </p> + <p> + The winding pass, which for some singular reason he now pursued in + solitude, instead of returning to the busy camp for aid and assistance, + conducted the knight to a small green valley, covered with sweet herbs, + and entirely surrounded by hanging woods. In the centre rose the ruins of + a Doric fane: three or four columns, grey and majestic. All was still and + silent, save that in the clear blue sky an eagle flew, high in the air, + but whirling round the temple. + </p> + <p> + The knight reached the ruins of the Doric fane, and with difficulty + dismounting from his charger, fell upon the soft and flowery turf, and for + some moments was motionless. His horse stole a few yards away, and though + scarcely less injured than its rider, instantly commenced cropping the + inviting pasture. + </p> + <p> + At length the Christian knight slowly raised his head, and leaning on his + arm, sighed deeply. His face was very pale; but as he looked up, and + perceived the eagle in the heaven, a smile played upon his pallid cheek, + and his beautiful eye gleamed with a sudden flash of light. + </p> + <p> + “Glorious bird!” murmured the Christian warrior, “once I deemed that my + career might resemble thine! ‘Tis over now and Greece, for which I would + have done so much, will soon forget my immemorial name. I have stolen here + to die in silence and in beauty. This blue air, and these green woods, and + these lone columns, which oft to me have been a consolation, breathing of + the poetic past, and of the days wherein I fain had lived, I have escaped + from the fell field of carnage to die among them. Farewell my country! + Farewell to one more beautiful than Greece, farewell, Iduna!” + </p> + <p> + These were the last words of Nicæus, Prince of Athens. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0022" id="link2HCH0022"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER 22 + </h2> + <p> + While the unhappy lover of the daughter of Hunniades breathed his last + words to the solitary elements, his more fortunate friend received, in the + centre of his scene of triumph, the glorious congratulations of his + emancipated country. The discomfiture of the Turks was complete, and this + overthrow, coupled with their recent defeat in Bulgaria, secured + Christendom from their assaults during the remainder of the reign of + Amurath the Second. Surrounded by his princely allies, and the chieftains + of Epirus, the victorious standards of Christendom, and the triumphant + trophies of the Moslemin, Iskander received from the great Hunniades the + hand of his beautiful daughter. “Thanks to these brave warriors,” said the + hero, “I can now offer to your daughter a safe, an honourable, and a + Christian home.” + </p> + <p> + “It is to thee, great sir, that Epirus owes its security,” said an ancient + chieftain, addressing Iskander, “its national existence, and its holy + religion. All that we have to do now is to preserve them; nor indeed do I + see that we can more effectually obtain these great objects than by + entreating thee to mount the redeemed throne of thy ancestors. Therefore I + say GOD SAVE ISKANDER, KING OF EPIRUS!” + </p> + <p> + And all the people shouted and said, “GOD SAVE THE KING! GOD SAVE + ISKANDER, KING OF EPIRUS!” + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + + + + + +End of Project Gutenberg’s The Rise of Iskander, by Benjamin Disraeli + +*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE RISE OF ISKANDER *** + +***** This file should be named 7842-h.htm or 7842-h.zip ***** +This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: + http://www.gutenberg.org/7/8/4/7842/ + +Produced by K. Kay Shearin, and David Widger + + +Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions +will be renamed. + +Creating the works from public domain print editions means that no +one owns a United States copyright in these works, so the Foundation +(and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United States without +permission and without paying copyright royalties. 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