\"He’dwriteusdaily，andwe’dseehisfaceOnceeveryyear。\"SuchwashispromisegivenThemornheleft。ButnowtheyearsweresevenSincelasthelookedupontheoldenplace。
He’dbeenthroughcollege，travelledinalllands，Sailedoverseas，andtrodthedesertsands。
Wouldwriteandplanavisit，then，erelong，WouldwriteagainfromEgypt，orHongKong—
Somefancycalledhimthitherunforeseen。
Soyearshadpassed，tillsevenlaybetweenHisgoingandthecomingofthisnote，WhichIhidinmybosom，andrepliedToAuntRuth’squeries，\"Whatthetruantwrote？\"
Bysayinghewasstilluponthewing，Andmerelydroppedaline，whilejourneying，Tosayhelived：andshewassatisfied。
Sometimesithappens，inthisworldsostrange，Ahumanheartwillpassthroughmortalstrife，Andwritheintorture：whiletheoldsweetlife，Sofullofhopeandbeauty，bloomandgrace，IsslowlystrangledbyremorselessPain：
Andonestern，cold，relentless，takesitsplace—
Aghastly，pallidspectreoftheslain。
YetthoseindailyconverseseenochangeNordreamthehearthassuffered。
SothatdayIpassedalongtowardthetroubledwaySterndutypointed，andnomortalguessedAmightyconflicthaddisturbedmybreast。
IhadresolvedtoyielduptomyfriendThemanIloved。Sinceshe，too，lovedhimsoIsawnootherwayinhonourleft。
Shewassoweakandfragile，oncebereftOfthisgreathope，thatheldherwithsuchpower，Shewouldwiltdown，likesomefrost—bittenflower，Andswift，untimelydeathwouldbetheend。
ButIwasstrong；andhardyplants，whichgrowInout—doorsoil，canbearbleakwindsthatblowFromArcticlands，whereofasinglebreathWouldlaythehot—houseblossomlowindeath。
Thehourswentby，tooslow，andyettoofast。
AlldayIarguedwithmyfoolishheartThatbademeplaytheshrinkingcoward’spartAndhidefrompain。AndwhenthedayhadpastAndtimeforVivian’scalldrewnearandnearer，Itpleaded，\"Waituntilthewayseemsclearer；
Sayyouareill——orbusy；keepawayUntilyougatherstrengthenoughtoplayThepartyouhaveresolvedon。\"
\"Nay，notso，\"
Madeanswerclear—eyedReason；\"doyougoAndputyourresolutiontothetest。
Resolve，howevernoblyformed，atbestIsbutastill—bornbabeofThoughtuntilItprovesexistenceofitslifeandwillBysoundoraction。\"
SowhenHelencameAndkneltbyme，herfairfaceallaflameWithsuddenblushes，whispering，\"Mysweet!
Myheartcanhearthemusicofhisfeet，Godownwithmetomeethim，\"Iarose，Andwentwithherallcalmly，asonegoesTolookuponthedearfaceofthedead。
ThateveIknownotwhatIdidorsaid。
Iwasnotcold——mymannerwasnotstrange；
PerchanceItalkedmorefreelythanmywont，Butinmyspeechwasnaughtcouldgiveaffront；
YetIconveyed，asonlywomancan，ThatnamelessSOMETHINGwhichbespeaksachance。
’Tisinthepowerofwoman，ifshebeWhole—souledandnoble，freefromcoquetry—
Hermotivesallunselfish，worthy，good，TomakeherselfandfeelingsunderstoodBynamelessacts，thussparingwhattoman，Howevergentlyanswered，causespain，Theofferingofhishandandheartinvain。
Shecanbefriendly，unrestrained，andkindAssumenoairsofprideorarrogance；
Butinhervoice，hermanner，andherglance，Conveythatmysticsomething，undefined，Whichmenfailnottounderstandandread，And，whennotblindwithegoism，heed。
Mytaskwasharder——’twastheslowundoingOflongsweetmonthsofunimpededwooing。
ItwastohideandcoverandconcealThetruth，assumingwhatIdidnotfeel。
Itwastodamlove’shappysingingtideThatblessedmewithitshopeful，tunefultoneByfeignedindiff’rence，tillitturnedasideAndchangeditschannel，leavingmealoneTowalkparchedplains，andthirstforthatsweetdraughtMylipshadtasted，butanotherquaffed。
Itcouldbedone，fornowordsyetwerespoken—
Nonetorecall——nopledgestobebroken。
\"Hewillbegrieved，thenangry，cold，thencross，\"
Ireasoned，thinkingwhatwouldbehispartInthisstrangedrama。\"Then，becauseheFeelssomethinglacking，tomakegoodhislossHe’llturntoHelen，andhergentlegraceAndlovingactswillwinhersoontheplaceIholdto—day；andlikeatroubleddreamAtlength，ourpast，whenhelooksback，willseem。\"
Thateveningpassedwithmusic，chat，andsong，ButhoursthatoncehadflownonairywingsNowlimpedonweary，achinglimbsalong，EachmomentlikesomedreadedstepthatbringsAtwingeofpain。
AsVivianrosetogo，Slowbendingtomefromhisgreaterheight，Hetookmyhand，and，lookinginmyeyes，Withtenderquestioningandpainedsurprise，Said，\"Maurine，youarenotyourselfto—night；
Whatisit？Areyouailing？\"
\"Ailing？No，\"
Ianswered，laughinglightly，\"Iamnot；
Justseemycheek，sir——isitthin，orpale？
Now，tellme，amIlookingveryfrail？\"
\"Nay，nay，\"heanswered，\"itcannotbeSEEN，ThechangeIspeakof——’twasmoreinyourmien—
Preoccupation，or——Iknownotwhat!
MissHelen，amIwrong，ordoesMaurineSeemtohavesomethingonhermindthiseve？\"
\"Shedoes，\"laughedHelen，\"andIdobelieveIknowwhat’tis!Alettercameto—dayWhichshereadslyly，andthenhidawayClosetoherheart，notknowingIwasnear，Andsinceshe’sbeenasyouhaveseenherhere。
Seehowsheblushes!somyrandomshotWemustbelievehasstruckatenderspot。\"
Herripplinglaughterfloatedthroughtheroom，AndredderyetIfeltthehotbloodrise，Thensurgeaway，toleavemepaleasdeathUnderthedarkandswiftlygatheringgloomOfVivian’squestioning，accusingeyes，Thatsearchedmysoul。IalmostshriekedbeneathThatstern，fixedgaze，andstoodspellbounduntilHeturnedwithsuddenmovement，gavehishandToeachinturn，andsaid：\"YoumustnotstandLonger，youngladies，inthisopendoor。
Theairisheavywithacold，dampchill。
Weshallhaverainto—morrow，orbefore。
Good—night。\"
Hevanishedinthedarklingshade；
Andsothedreadedeveningfoundanend，Thatsawmegrasptheconscience—whettedblade，Andstrikeablowforhonourandforfriend。
\"Howswiftlypassedtheevening!\"Helensighed。
\"Howlongthehours!\"mytorturedheartreplied。
Joy，likeachild，withlightsomestepsdothglideByFatherTime，and，lookinginhisface，Cries，snatchingblossomsfromthefairroadside，\"Icouldpluckmore，butforthyhurriedpace。\"
ThewhileherelderbrotherPain，mangrown，Whosefeetarehurtbymanyathornandstone，Lookstosomedistanthilltop，highandcalm，Whereheshallfindnotonlyrest，butbalmForallhiswounds，andcries，intonesofwoe，\"Oh，FatherTime!whyisthypacesoslow？\"
Twodays，allsadwithlonelywindandrain，Wentsobbingby，repeatingo’erando’erThemiserere，desolateanddrear，Whicheveryhumanheartmustsometimehear。
Painisbutlittlevaried。Itsrefrain，Whate’erthewordsare，isforayethesame。
Thethirddaybroughtachange，forwithitcameNotonlysunnysmilestoNature’sface，ButRoy，ourRoycamebacktous。OncemoreWelookedintohislaughing，handsomeeyes，Which，whiletheygaveAuntRuthagladsurpriseInnowaypuzzledher，foroneglancetoldWhateachsucceedingoneconfirmed，thatheWhobentaboveherwiththelissomegraceOfhisfineform，thoughgrownsotall，couldbeNootherthantheRoyMontaineofold。
Itwasasweetreunion，andhebroughtSomuchofsunshinewithhimthatIcaught，Justfromhissmilealone，enoughofgladnessTomakemyheartforgetatimeitssadness。
Wetalkedtogetherofthedearolddays：
Leavingthepresent，withitsdepthsandheightsOflife’smaturersorrowsanddelights，Iturnedbacktomychildhood’slevelland，AndRoyandI，dearplaymates，handinhand，Wanderedinmem’rythroughtheoldenways。
Itwasthesecondeveningofhiscoming。
Helenwasplayingdreamily，andhummingSomewordlessmelodyofwhite—souledthought，WhileRoyandIsatbytheopendoor，Re—livingchildishincidentsofyore。
Myeyeswereglowing，andmycheekswerehotWithwarmyoungblood；excitement，joy，orpainAlikewouldsendswiftcoursingthrougheachvein。
Roy，alwayseloquent，waswaxingfine，AndbringingvividlybeforemygazeSomeoldadventureofthosehalcyondays，Whensuddenly，inpausesofthetalk，Iheardawell—knownstepuponthewalk，AndlookedupquicklytomeetfullinmineTheeyesofVivianDangerfield。AflashShotfromtheirdepths：—asuddenblazeoflightLikethatswiftfollowedbythethunder’scrash，Whichsaid，\"Suspicionisconfirmedbysight，\"
Astheyfellonthepleasantdoorwayscene。
Theno’erhisclear—cutfaceacold，whitelookCrept，likethepallidmoonlighto’erabrook，And，withaslight，proudbendingofthehead，Hesteppedtowardushaughtily，andsaid：
\"Pleasepardonmyintrusion，MissMaurine，IcalledtoaskMissTrevorforabookShespokeoflendingme；nay，sityoustill，AndI，bygrantofyourpermission，willPassbytowhereIhearherplaying。\"
\"Stay，\"
Isaid，\"onemoment，Vivian，ifyouplease；\"
Andsuddenlybereftofallmyease，Andscarcelyknowingwhattodoorsay，Confusedasanyschoolgirl，Iarose，Andsomewaymadeeachtotheotherknown。
Theybowed，shookhands，thenVivianturnedawayAndsoughtoutHelen，leavingusalone。
\"OneofMissTrevor’sorofMaurine’sbeaux？
Whichmayhebe，whocomethlikeaprinceWithhaughtybearingandaneagleeye？\"
Royqueried，laughing；andIanswered，\"SinceYousawhimpassmeforMissTrevor’sside，Ileaveyourowngoodjudgmenttoreply。\"
AndstraightwaycausedthetideoftalktoglideInotherchannels，strivingtodispelThesuddengloomthato’ermyspiritfell。
Wemortalsaresuchhypocritesatbest!
WhenConsciencetriesourcouragewithatest，Andpointstosomesteeppathway，wesetoutBoldly，denyinganyfearordoubt；
Butpausebeforethefirstrockintheway，And，lookingback，withtears，atConscience，say：
\"Wearesosad，dearConscience!forwewouldMostgladlydowhattotheeseemethgood；
Butlo!thisrock!wecannotclimbit，soThoumustpointoutsomeotherwaytogo。\"
Yetsecretlywearerejoicing：and，Whenrightbeforeourfaces，aswestandInseeminggrief，therockiscleftintwain，Leavingthepathwayclear，weshrinkinpain，And，lothtogo，byeveryactrevealWhatwesotriedfromConsciencetoconceal。
Isawthathour，thewaymadeplain，todoWithscarceaneffortwhathadseemedastrifeThatwouldrequirethestrengthofmywholelife。
Womenhavequickperceptions，andIknewThatVivian’sheartwasfullofjealouspain，Suspecting——nay，BELIEVING——RoyMontaineTobemylover。Firstmyalteredmien—
Andnexttheletter——thenthedoorwayscene—
MyflushedfacegazingintheoneaboveThatbentsonearme，andmystrangeconfusionWhenViviancameallledtooneconclusion：
ThatIhadbutbeenplayingwithhislove，AswomensometimescruellydoplayWithheartswhentheirtrueloversareaway。
TherecouldbenothingeasierthanjustTolethimlingeroninthisbeliefTillhourly—fedSuspicionandDistrustShouldturntoscornandangerallhisgrief。
Comparedwithme，sodoublysweetandpureWouldHelenseem，mypurposewouldbesureAndcertainofcompletionintheend。
Butnow，thewaywasmadesostraightandclear，Mycowardheartshrankbackinguiltyfear，TillConsciencewhisperedwithher\"stillsmallvoice，\"
\"Theprecioustimeispassing——makethychoice—
Resignthylove，orslaythytrustingfriend。\"
Thegrowingmoon，watchedbythemyriadeyesOfcountlessstars，wentsailingthroughtheskies，Likesomeyoungprince，risingtoruleanation，Towhomalleyesareturnedinexpectation。
AwomanwhopossessestactandartAndstrengthofwillcantakethehandofdoom，Andwalkon，smilingsweetlyasshegoes，Withrosylips，androundedcheeksofbloom，Cheatingaloud—tonguedworldthatneverknowsThepainandsorrowofherhiddenheart。
AndsoIjoinedinRoy’sbrightchangingchat；
Answeredhissallies——talkedofthisandthat，Mybrowunruffledasthecalm，stillwaveThattellsnotofthewreckedship，andthegraveBeneathitssurface。
Thenweheard，erelong，ThesoundofHelen’sgentlevoiceinsong，And，rising，enteredwherethesubtlepowerOfVivian’seyes，forgivingwhileaccusing，Findingmeweak，hadwonme，inthathour；
ButRoy，alwayspoliteanddebonairWhereladieswere，nowhungaboutmychairWithnamelessdelicateattentions，usingThatairdevotional，andthosesmallartsAcquaintancewithsocietyimpartsTomengallantbynature。
’TwasmysexAndnotmyselfhebowedto。HadmyplaceBeenfilledthateveningbyadowagerTwicehisownage，hewouldhavegivenherThesameattentions。ButtheyservedtovexWhateverhopeinVivian’sheartremained。
Thecold，whitelookcreptbackuponhisface，Whichtoldhowdeeplyhewashurtandpained。
LittlebylittleallthingshadconspiredTobringeventsIdreaded，yetdesired。
Wewereinconstantintercourse：walks，rides，Picnicsandsails，filledweeksofgoldenweather，Andalmosthourlywewerethrowntogether。
Nowordswerespokenofrebukeorscorn：
Goodfriendsweseemed。ButasagulfdividesThislandandthat，thoughlyingsidebyside，Sorolledagulfbetweenus——deepandwide—
Thegulfofdoubt，whichwidenedslowlymornAndnoonandnight。
FreeandinformalwereThesepicnicsandexcursions。Yet，althoughHelenandIwouldsometimeschoosetogoWithoutourescorts，leavingthemquitefree，IthappenedalwayRoywouldseekoutmeErepassedtheday，whileVivianwalkedwithher。
Ihadnothoughtofflirting。RoywasjustLikesomedearbrother，andIquiteforgotThekinshipwassodistantitwasnotSafetorelyuponinperfecttrust，Withoutreserveorcaution。Manyatime，Whentherewassomesteepmountain—sidetoclimbAndIgrewweary，hewouldsay，\"Maurine，Comerestyouhere。\"AndIwouldgoandleanMyheaduponhisshoulder，orwouldstandAndlethimholdinhismywillinghand，Thewhilehestrokeditgentlywithhisown。
OrIwouldlethimclaspmewithhisarm，Norentertainedathoughtofanyharm，NoroncesupposedbutVivianwasaloneInhissuspicions。ButerelongthetruthIlearnedinconsternation!bothAuntRuthAndHelenhonestly，infaith，believedThatRoyandIwerelovers。
Undeceived，SomecarelesswordsmightopenVivian’seyesAndspoilmyplans。Soreasoninginthiswise，ToalltheirsalliesIinjestreplied，Tonaughtassented，andyetnaughtdenied，WithRoyunchangedremaining，confidentEachunderstoodjustwhattheothermeant。
IfIgrewwearyofthisdoublepart，Andself—imposeddeceptioncausedmyheartSometimestoshrink，IneededbuttogazeOnHelen’sface：thatworealookethereal，AsifshedweltabovethethingsmaterialAndheldcommunionwiththeangels。SoIfedmystrengthandcouragethroughthedays。
WhattimetheharvestmoonrosefullandclearAndcastitsling’ringradianceontheearth，Wemadeafeast；andcalledfromfarandnear，Ourfriends，whocametosharethesceneofmirth。
Fairformsandfacesflittedtoandfro；
ButnonemoresweetthanHelen’s。Robedinwhite，Shefloatedlikeavisionthroughthedance。
Sofraillyfragileandsophantomfair，Sheseemedlikesomestrayspiritoftheair，AndwaspursuedbymanyananxiousglanceThatlookedtoseeherfadingfromthesightLikefiguresthatadreamerseesatnight。
Andnoblemenandgallantsgracedthescene：
YetnonemorenobleormoregrandofmienThanVivian——broadofchestandshoulder，tallAndfinelyformed，asanyGreciangodWhosehigh—archedfootonMountOlympustrod。
Hisclear—cutfacewasbeardless；and，likethoseSameGrecianstatues，whenincalmrepose，Wasitinhueandfeature。FramedinhairDarkandabundant；lightedbylargeeyesThatcouldbecoldassteelinwinterair，OrwarmandsunnyasItalianskies。
Wearyofmirthandmusic，andthesoundOftrippingfeet，Isoughtamoment’srestWithinthelib’ry，whereagroupIfoundOfguests，discussingwithapparentzestSomethemeofinterest——Vivian，nearthewhile，Leaningandlisteningwithhisslow，oddsmile。
\"Now，MissLaPelle，wewillappealtoyou，\"
CriedyoungGuySemple，asIentered。\"WeHavebeendiscussingrightbeforehisface，Allunrebukedbyhim，asyoumaysee，Apoemlatelypublishedbyourfriend：
Andwearequitedivided。IcontendThepoemisalibelanduntrue。
Iholdtheficklewomenarebutfew，ComparedwiththosewhoarelikeyonfairmoonThat，everfaithful，risesinherplaceWhethershe’sgreetedbytheflowersofJuneOrcoldanddrearystretchesofwhitespace。\"
\"Oh!\"criedanother，\"Mr。Dangerfield，Looktoyourlaurels!oryouneedsmustyieldThecrowntoSemple，who，’tisveryplain，HasmountedPegasusandgraspedhismane。\"
Alllaughed：andthen，asGuyappealedtome，Iansweredlightly，\"Myyoungfriend，IfearYouchoseamostunluckysimileToprovethetruthofwoman。ToherplaceThemoondoesrise——butwithadifferentfaceEachtimeshecomes。ButnowIneedsmusthearThepoemread，beforeIcanconsentTopassmyjudgmentonthesentiment。\"
AllclamouredthattheauthorwasthemanToreadthepoem：and，withtonesthatsaidMorethanthecutting，scornfulwordsheread，TakingthebookGuygavehim，hebegan：
HERLOVE。
ThesandsupontheoceansideThatchangeaboutwitheverytide，Andnevertruetooneabide，Awoman’sloveIlikento。
Thesummerzephyrs，lightandvain，ThatsingthesamealluringstrainToeverygrassbladeontheplain—
Awoman’sloveisnothingmore。
ThesunshineofanAprildayThatcomestowarmyouwithitsray，Butwhileyousmilehasflownaway—
Awoman’sloveisliketothis。
Godmadepoorwomanwithnoheart，Butgaveherskill，andtact，andart，Andsoshelives，andplaysherpart。
Wemustnotblame，butpityher。
Sheleanstoman——butjusttohearThepraisehewhispersinherear，Herself，nothim，sheholdethdear—
Oh，fool!tobedeceivedbyher。
TosateherselfishthirstshequaffsTheloveofstrongheartsinsweetdraughts，Thenthrowsthemlightlybyandlaughs，Tooweaktounderstandtheirpain。
AschangefulasthewindsthatblowFromeveryregion，toandfro，Devoidofheart，shecannotknowThesufferingofahumanheart。
Iknewthecold，fixedgazeofVivian’seyesSawtheslowcolourtomyforeheadrise；
Butlightlyanswered，toyingwithmyfan，\"Thatsentimentisverylikeaman!
Mencallusfickle，buttheydouswrong；
We’reonlyfrailandhelpless，menarestrong；
Andwhenlovedies，theytakethepoordeadthingAndmakeashroudoutoftheirsuffering，Anddragthecorpseaboutwiththemforyears。
Butwe？——wemournitforadaywithtears!
Andthenwerobeitforitslastlongrest，Andbeingwomen，feeblethingsatbest，Wecannotdigthegraveourselves。AndsoWecallstrong—limbedNewLovetolayitlow：
Immortalsextonhe!whomVenussendsTodothisserviceforherearthlyfriends，ThetrustyfellowdigsthegravesodeepNothingdisturbsthedeadlaidtheretosleep。\"
ThelaughthatfollowedhadnotdiedawayEreRoyMontainecameseekingmetosayThebandwastuningforourwaltz，andsoBacktotheball—roomboreme。IntheglowAndheatandwhirl，mystrengtherelongwasspent，AndIgrewfaintanddizzy，andwewentOutonthecoolmoonlightedportico，And，sittingthere，RoydrewmylanguidheadUpontheshelterofhisbreast，andbentHissmilingeyesuponme，ashesaid：
\"I’lltrythemesmerismofmytouchToworkacure：beveryquietnow，Andletmemakesomepasseso’eryourbrow。
Why，howitthrobs!you’veexercisedtoomuch!
Ishallnotletyoudanceagainto—night。\"
Justthenbeforeus，inthebroadmoonlight，Twoformsweremirrored：andIturnedmyfaceTocatchtheteasingandmischievousglanceOfHelen’seyes，as，heatedbythedance，LeaningonVivian’sarm，shesoughtthisplace。
\"Ibegyourpardon，\"cameinthatroundtoneOfhislowvoice。\"Ithinkwedointrude。\"
Bowing，theyturned，andleftusquitealoneEreIcouldspeakorchangemyattitude。
PARTV
AvisittoacavesomemilesawayWasnextinorder。So，onesunnyday，FourprancingsteedsconveyedalaughingloadOfmerrypleasure—seekerso’ertheroad。
Abasketpicnic，music，andcroquetWereintheprogramme。Skieswereblueandclear，AndcoolwindswhisperedoftheAutumnnear。
Themerry—makersfilledthetimewithpleasure：
Somefloatedtothemusic’srhythmicmeasure，Someplayed，somepromenadedonthegreen。
Tickedoffbyhappyhearts，themomentspassed。
Theafternoon，allglowandglimmer，came。
HelenandRoywereleadersofsomegame，AndVivianwasnotvisible。
\"Maurine，Ichallengeyoutoclimbyoncliffwithme!
Andwhoshalltire，orreachthesummitlastMustpayaforfeit，\"criedarompingmaid。
\"Come!startatonce，orownyouareafraid。\"
SochallengedImadereadyfortherace，DecidingfirsttheforfeitwastobeAhandsomepairofbooteestoreplaceThevictor’slosswhomadetheroughascent。
Thecliffwassteepandstony。OnwewentAseagerlyasifthepathwasFame，Andwhatweclimbedfor，gloryandaname。
Myhandswerebruised；mygarmentssadlyrent，ButonIclambered。SoonIheardacry，\"Maurine!Maurine!mystrengthiswhollyspent!
You’vewontheboots!I’mgoingback——good—bye!\"
Andbacksheturned，inspiteoflaughandjeer。
Ireachedthesummit：anditssolitude，Whereinnolivingcreaturedidintrude，Savesomesadbirdsthatwheeledandcirclednear，Ifoundfarsweeterthanthescenebelow。
AlonewithOnewhoknewmyhiddenwoe，IdidnotfeelsomuchaloneaswhenImixedwithth’unthinkingthrongsofmen。
Someflowersthatdeckedthebarren，sterileplaceIplucked，andreadthelessontheyconveyed，Thatinourlives，albeitdarkwithshadeAndroughandhardwithlabour，yetmaygrowTheflowersofPatience，Sympathy，andGrace。
AsIwalkedoninmeditativethought，Aserpentwrithedacrossmypathway；notAlargeordeadlyserpent；yetthesightFilledmewithghastlyterrorandaffright。
Ishriekedaloud：adarknessveiledmyeyes—
AndIfellfainting’neaththewatchfulskies。
Iwasnocoward。Country—bredandborn，IhadnofeelingbutthekeenestscornForthosefinelady\"ah’s\"and\"oh’s\"offearSomuchassumed（whenanymanisnear）。
ButGodimplantedineachhumanheartAnaturalhorror，andasicklydreadOfthataccursed，slimy，creepingthingThatsquirmsalimblesscarcasso’ertheground。
AndwherethatinbornloathingisnotfoundYou’llfindtheserpentqualitiesinstead。
Whofearsitnot，himselfisnextofkin，AndinhisbosomholdssometreacherousartWherebytocounteractitsvenomedsting。
AndallaresiredbySatan——ChiefofSin。
Wholoathesnotthatfoulcreatureofthedust，Howeverfairinseeming，Idistrust。
Iwokefrommyunconsciousness，toknowIleaneduponabroadandmanlybreast，AndVivian’svoicewasspeaking，softandlow，Sweetwhisperedwordsofpassion，o’erando’er。
Idarednotbreathe。HadIfoundEden’sshore？
Wasthisaforetasteofeternalbliss？
\"Mylove，\"hesighed，hisvoicelikewindsthatmoanBeforearaininSummer—time，\"myown，Foronesweetstolenmoment，lieandrestUponthisheartthatlovesandhatesyouboth!
Ofairfalseface!Whywereyoumadesofair!
OmouthofSouthernsweetness!thatripekissThathangsuponyou，IdotakeanoathHISlipsshallnevergather。There!——andthere!
Istealitfromhim。Areyouhis——allhis？
Nay，youaremine，thismoment，asIdreamed—
Blindfool——believingyouwerewhatyouseemed—
Youwouldbemineinalltheyearstocome。
Fairfiend!Iloveandhateyouinabreath。
OGod!ifthiswhitepallorwerebutDEATH，AndIwerestretchedbesideyou，coldanddumb，Myarmsaboutyou，so——infondembrace!
Mylipspressed，so——uponyourdyingface!\"
\"Woman，howdareyoubringmetosuchshame!
Howdareyoudrivemetoanactlikethis，TostealfromyourunconsciouslipsthekissYouluredmeontothinkmyrightfulclaim!
Ofrailandpunywoman!couldyouknowThedevilthatyouwakenintheheartsYousnareandbindinyourenticingarts，Thethin，palestuffthatinyourveinsdothflowWouldfreezeinterror。
StrangeyouhavesuchpowerTopleaseorpainus，poor，weak，soullessthings—
Devoidofpassionasasenselessflower!
Likebutterflies，youronlyboast，yourwings。
There，nowIscornyou——scornyoufromthishour，Andhatemyselfforhavingtalkedoflove!\"
Hepushedmefromhim。AndIfeltasthoseDoomedangelsmust，whenpearlygatesaboveAreclosedagainstthem。
WithafeignedsurpriseIstartedupandopenedwidemyeyes，Andlookedabout。TheninconfusionroseAndstoodbeforehim。
\"Pardonme，Ipray!\"
Hesaidquitecoldly。\"HalfanhouragoIleftyouwiththecompanybelow，Andsoughtthiscliff。Amomentsinceyoucried，Itseemed，insuddenterrorandalarm。
Icameintimetoseeyouswoonaway。
You’llneedassistancedowntheruggedsideOfthissteepcliff。Iprayyoutakemyarm。\"
So，formalandconstrained，wepassedalong，Rejoinedourfriends，andmingledwiththethrongTohavenofurtherspeechagainthatday。
Nextmorntherecameabulkydocument，ThelegalfirmofBlankandBlankhadsent，Containingnewsunlookedfor。AnestateWhichprovedacosyfortune——nowisegreatOrprincely——hadinFrancebeenlefttome，Mygrandsire’slastdescendant。AnditbroughtAsenseofjoyandfreedominthethoughtOfforeigntravel，whichIhopedwouldbeApanaceaformytroubledmind，ThatlongedtoleavetheoldenscenesbehindWithalltheirrecollections，andtofleeTosomestrangecountry。
IwasinsuchhasteToputbetweenmeandmynativelandThebrinyocean’sdesolatingwaste，IgaveAuntRuthnopeace，untilsheplannedTosailthatweek，twomonths：thoughshewasfainTowaituntiltheSpringtime。RoyMontaineWouldbeourguideandescort。
NoonedreamedThecauseofmystrangehurry，butallseemedTothinkgoodfortunehadquiteturnedmybrain。
OnebrightOctobermorning，whenthewoodsHaddonnedtheirpurplemantlesandredhoodsInhonouroftheFrostKing，Viviancame，Bringingsomegreenleaves，tippedwithcrimsonflame，—
FirsttrophiesoftheAutumntime。
AndRoyMadeaproposalthatweallshouldgoAndrambleintheforestforawhile。
ButHelensaidshewasnotwell——andsoMuststayathome。ThenVivian，withasmile，Responded，\"Iwillstayandtalktoyou，Andtheymaygo；\"atwhichhertwocheeksgrewLiketwinblushroses——dyedwithlove’sredwave，Herfairfaceshonetransfiguredwithgreatjoy。
AndViviansaw——andsuddenlywasgrave。
RoytookmyarminthatprotectingwayPeculiartosomemen，whichseemstosay，\"Ishieldmyown，\"amannerpleasing，e’enWhenweareconsciousthatitdoesnotmeanMorethanasimplecourtesy。AwomanWhoseheartiswhollyfeminineandhuman，Andnotunsexedbyhobbies，likestobeTheobjectofthattenderchivalry，Thatguardianshipwhichmanbestowsonher，Yetmixedwithdeference；asifshewereHalfchild，halfangel。
Thoughshemaybestrong，Nobleandself—reliant，notafraidToraiseherhandandvoiceagainstallwrongAndalloppression，yetifshebemade，Withalltheindependenceofherthought，Awomanwomanly，asGoddesigned，AlbeitshemayhaveasgreatamindAsman，herbrother，yethisstrengthofarm，Hismuscleandhisboldnessshehasnot，AndcannothavewithoutsheloseswhatIsfarmoreprecious，modestyandgrace。
So，walkingoninherappointedplace，Shedoesnotstrivetoapehim，norpretendButthatsheneedshimforaguideandfriend，Toshieldherwithhisgreaterstrengthfromharm。
Wereachedtheforest；wanderedtoandfroThroughmanyawindingpathanddimretreat，TillIgrewweary：whenIchoseaseatUponanoak—tree，whichhadbeenlaidlowBysomewindstorm，orbysomelightningstroke。
AndRoystoodjustbelowme，wheretheledgeOnwhichIsatslopedsteeplytotheedgeOfsunnymeadowslyingatmyfeet。
Onehandheldmine；theothergraspedalimbThatcastitscheckeredshadowsoverhim；
And，withhisheadthrownback，hisdarkeyesraisedAndfixeduponme，silentlyhegazedUntilI，smiling，turnedtohimandspoke：
\"Givewords，mycousin，tothosethoughtsthatrise，And，likedumbspirits，lookforthfromyoureyes。\"
ThesmoothandevendarknessofhischeekWasstainedonemomentbyaflushofred。
HeswayedhislitheformnearerashestoodStillclingingtothebranchabovehishead。
Hisbrillianteyesgrewdarker；andhesaid，Withsuddenpassion，\"Doyoubidmespeak？
Icannot，then，keepsilenceifIwould。
Thathatefulfortune，comingasitdid，Forbademyspeakingsooner；forIknewAharsh—tonguedworldwouldquicklymisconstrueMymotiveforameanerone。But，sweet，SobigmyhearthasgrownwithloveforyouIcannotshelteritorkeepithid。
AndsoIcastitthrobbingatyourfeet，Foryoutoguardandcherish，ortobreak。
Maurine，Iloveyoubetterthanmylife。
Myfriend——mycousin——bestillmore，mywife!
Maurine，Maurine，whatanswerdoyoumake？\"
Iscarcecouldbreatheforwonderment；andnumbWithtruththatfelltoosuddenly，satdumbWithsheeramaze，andstaredatRoywitheyesThatlookednofeelingbutcompletesurprise。
Heswayedsonearhisbreathwasonmycheek。
\"Maurine，Maurine，\"hewhispered，\"willyouspeak？\"
Thensuddenly，aso’ersomemagicglassOnepictureinascoreofshapeswillpass，IseemedtoseeRoyglidebeforemygaze。
First，astheplaymateofmyearlierdays—
Next，asmykin——andthenmyvaluedfriend，Andlast，mylover。AswhencoloursblendInsomeunlooked—forgroupbeforeoureyes，Weholdtheglass，andlookthemo’erando’er，SonowIgazedonRoyinhisnewguise，Inwhichhene’erappearedtomebefore。
Hisformwaslikeapanther’sinitsgrace，Solitheandsupple，andofmediumheight，Andgarbedinalltheeleganceoffashion。
Hislargeblackeyeswerefulloffireandpassion，Andinexpressionfearless，firm，andbright。
Hishairwasliketheverydeepsofnight，Andhunginravenclusters’roundafaceOfdarkandflashingbeauty。
HewasmoreLikesomeromanticmaiden’sgrandidealThanlikeacommonbeing。AsIgazedUponthehandsomefacetomineupraised，Isawbeforeme，living，breathing，real，Theheroofmyearlyday—dreams：thoughSofullmyheartwaswiththatclear—cutface，Which，allunlike，yetclaimedthehero’splace，Ihadnotrecognisedhimsobefore，Orthoughtofhim，saveasavaluedfriend。
SonowIcalledhim，adding，\"Foolishboy!
EachwordofloveyouutteraimsablowAtthatsweettrustIhadreposedinyou。
IwassocertainIhadfoundatrue，Steadfastmanfriend，onwhomIcoulddepend，Andgoonwhollytrustingtotheend。
Whydidyoushattermydelusion，Roy，Byturningtoalover？\"
\"Why，indeed!
BecauseIlovedyoumorethananybrother，Oranyfriendcouldlove。\"ThenhebeganToarguelikealawyer，andtopleadWithallhiseloquence。And，listening，IstrovetothinkitwasagoodlythingTobesofondlylovedbysuchaman，Anditwerebesttogivehiswooingheed，Andnotdenyhim。Thenbeforemyeyes，Inallitsclear—cutmajesty，thatotherHaughtyandpoet—handsomefacewouldriseAndrobmypurposeofalllifeandstrength。
Royurgedandargued，asRoyonlycould，Withthatimpetuous，boyisheloquence。
Heheldmyhands，andvowedImust，andshouldGivesomeleasthope；till，inmyowndefence，Iturneduponhim，andrepliedatlength：
\"Ithankyouforthenobleheartyouoffer：
Butitdeservesatrueoneinexchange。
IcouldloveyouifIlovednotanotherWhokeepsmyheart；soIhavenonetoproffer。\"
Then，seeinghowhisdarkeyesflashed，Isaid：
\"DearRoy!Iknowmywordsseemverystrange；
ButIloveoneIcannothopetowed。
Ariverrollsbetweenus，darkanddeep。
Tocrossit——weretostainwithbloodmyhand。
YouforcemyspeechonwhatIfainwouldkeepInmyownbosom，butyouunderstand？
Myheartisgiventolovethat’ssanctified，Andnowcanfeelnoother。
Beyoukind，DearRoy，mybrother!speakofthisnomore，LestpleadinganddenyingshoulddivideTheheartssolongunited。LetmefindInyoumycousinandmyfriendofyore。
Andnowcomehome。Themorning，alltoosoonAndunperceived，hasmeltedintonoon。
Helenwillmissus，andwemustreturn。\"
Hetookmyhand，andhelpedmetoarise，Smilinguponmewithhissad，darkeyes，Wherepassion’sfireshad，sudden，ceasedtoburn。
\"Andso，\"hesaid，\"toosoonandunforeseenMyfriendshipmeltedintolove，Maurine。
But，sweet!IamnotwhollyintheblameForwhatyoutermmyfolly。Youforgot，Solongwe’dknowneachother，IhadnotIntruthabrother’soracousin’sclaim。
ButIremembered，whenthrougheverynerveYourlightesttouchwentthrilling；andbeganToloveyouwiththathumanloveofmanForcomelywoman。Byyourcoaxingarts，Youwonyourwayintomyheartofhearts，AndallPlatonicfeelingsputtorout。
AmaidshouldneverlayasidereserveWithonewho’snotherkinsman，outandout。
Butaswenow，withmeasuredsteps，retraceThepathwecame，e’ensomyheartI’llsend，Atyourcommand，backtotheoldenplace，Andstrivetoloveyouonlyasafriend。\"
Ifeltthejusticeofhismildreproof，Butanswered，laughing，\"’Tisthesameoldcry：
’Thewomantemptedme，andIdideat。’
SinceAdam’stimewe’veheardit。ButI’lltryAndbemoreprudent，sir，andholdaloofThefruitIneveroncehadthoughtsosweet’Twouldtemptyouany。Nowgodressfordinner，Thousinnedagainst!asalsowillthesinner。
Andguardeachact，thatnoleastlookbetrayWhat’spassedbetweenus。\"
ThenIturnedawayAndsoughtmyroom，lowhummingsomeoldairThatceaseduponthethreshold；formineeyesFellonafacesoglorifiedandfairAllothersenses，mergedinthatofsight，WerelostincontemplationofthebrightAndwond’rouspicture，whichhadotherwiseMadedimmyvision。
Waitinginmyroom，HerwholefacelitasbyaninwardflameThatsheditshalo’roundher，Helenstood；
Herfairhandsfoldedlikealily’sleavesWeigheddownbyhappydewsofsummereves。
UponhercheekthecolourwentandcameAssunlightflickerso’erabedofbloom；
And，likesomeslimyoungsaplingofthewood，Herslenderformleanedslightly；andherhairFell’roundherloosely，inlongcurlingstrandsAllunconfined，andasbylovinghandsTossedintobrightconfusion。
Standingthere，Herstarryeyesuplifted，shedidseemLikesomeunearthlycreatureofadream；
Untilshestartedforward，glidingslowly，Andbrokethebreathlesssilence，speakinglowly，Asonegrownmeek，andhumbleinanhour，Bowingbeforesomenewandmightypower。
\"Maurine，Maurine!\"shemurmured，andagain，\"Maurine，myownsweetfriend，Maurine!\"
Andthen，Layingherlove—lighthandsuponmyhead，Sheleaned，andlookedintomyeyes，andsaidWithvoicethatboreherjoyinev’rytone，AswindsthatblowacrossagardenbedAreweighedwithfragrance，\"Heisminealone，AndIamhis——allhis——hisveryown。
Sopledgedthishour，bythatmostsacredtieSaveonebeneathGod’sover—archingsky。
Icouldnotwaittotellyouofmybliss：
Iwantyourblessing，sweetheart!andyourkiss。\"
Sohidingmyheart’stroublewithasmile，Ileanedandkissedherdaintymouth；thewhileIfeltaguilt—joy，asofsomesweetsin，Whenmylipsfellwherehissolatehadbeen。
AndalldaylongIboreaboutwithmeAsenseofshame——yetmixedwithsatisfaction，Assomestarvedchildmightstealaloaf，andbeSadwiththeguiltresultingfromheraction，Whileyetthemorselinhermouthwassweet。
Thatev’ningwhenthehousehadsettleddownTosleepandquiet，tomyroomtherecreptAlitheyoungform，robedinalongwhitegown：
Withstepslikefallofthistle—downshecame，Hermouthsmile—wreathed；and，breathinglowmyname，Nestledingracefulbeautyatmyfeet。
\"Sweetheart，\"shemurmuredsoftly，\"ereIsleep，Ineedsmusttellyouallmytaleofjoy。
Beginningwhereyouleftus——youandRoy。
YousawthecolourflameuponmycheekWhenVivianspokeofstaying。Sodidhe；—
And，whenwewerealone，hegazedatmeWithsuchastrangelookinhiswond’rouseyes。
Thesilencedeepened；andItriedtospeakUponsomecommontopic，butcouldnot，Myheartwasinsuchtumult。
InthiswiseFivehappymomentsglidedbyus，fraughtWithhoursoffeeling。Vivianroseupthen，Andcameandstoodbyme，andstrokedmyhair。
And，inhislowvoice，o’erando’eragain，Said，’Helen，littleHelen，frailandfair。’
Thentookmyface，andturnedittothelight，Andlookinginmyeyes，andseeingwhatWasshiningfromthem，murmured，sweetandlow，’Deareyes，youcannotveilthetruthfromsight。
Youloveme，Helen!answer，isitso？’
AndImadeanswerstraightway，’WithmylifeAndsoulandstrengthIloveyou，Omylove!’
Heleanedandtookmegentlytohisbreast，Andsaid，’HerethenthisdaintyheadshallrestHenceforthforever：Omylittledove!
Mylily—bud——myfragileblossom—wife!’
AndthenItoldhimallmythoughts；andheListened，withkissesforhiscomments，tillMytalewasfinished。Thenhesaid，’IwillBefrankwithyou，mydarling，fromthestart，Andhidenosecretfromyouinmyheart。
Iloveyou，Helen，butyouarenotfirstTorousethatlovetobeing。ErewemetIlovedawomanmadly——neverdreamingShewasnotallintruthshewasinseeming。
Enough!sheprovedtobethatthingaccursedOfGodandman——awilyvaincoquette。
Ihatemyselfforhavinglovedher。YetSomuchmyheartspentonher，itmustgiveAlovelessardent，andlessprodigal，Albeitjustastenderandastrue—
Amilder，yetafaithfullovetoyou。
JustassomeevilfortunemightbefallAman’sgreatriches，causinghimtoliveInsomelowcot，allunpretending，stillAsmuchhishome——asmuchhislovedretreat，Aswastheprincelypalaceonthehill，E’ensoIgiveyouallthat’sleft，mysweet!
Ofmyheart—fortune。’
’Thatweremoretome，’
Imadeswiftsmilinganswer，’thantobeTheworshippedconsortofaking。’AndsoOurfaithwaspledged。ButVivianwouldnotgoUntilIvowedtowedhimNewYearday。
AndIamsadbecauseyougoawayBeforethattime。IshallnotfeelhalfwedWithoutyouhere。Postponeyourtripandstay，Andbemybridesmaid。\"
\"Nay，Icannot，dear!
’Twoulddisarrangeourplansforhalfayear。
I’llbeinEuropeNewYearday，\"Isaid，\"Andsendcongratulationsbythecable。\"
AndfrommysoulthankedProvidenceforsparingThepain，tome，ofsharingin，andwearing，Thefestalgarmentsofaweddingscene，Whileallmyheartwashungwithsorrow’ssable。
Forgettingforaseason，thatbetweenThecupandlipliesmanyachanceofloss，Ilivedinmynearfuture，confidentAllwouldbeasIplannedit；and，acrossThebrinywasteofwaters，IshouldfindSomebalmandcomfortformytroubledmind。
ThesadFalldays，likemaidensauburn—tressedAndamber—eyed，inpurplegarmentsdressed，Passedby，anddroppedtheirtearsuponthetombOffairQueenSummer，buriedinherbloom。
Royleftusforatime，andHelenwentTomakethenuptialpreparations。Then，AuntRuthcomplainedonedayoffeelingill：
Herveinsranredwithfever；andtheskillOftwophysicianscouldnotstemthetide。
Thehouse，thatrangsolatewithlaughandjest，Grewghostlywithlowwhisperedsounds：andwhenTheAutumnday，thatIhadthoughttobeBoundinguponthebillowsofthesea，Camesobbingin，itfoundmepaleandworn，StrivingtokeepawaythatunlovedguestWhocomesunbidden，makingheartstomourn。
ThroughalltheanxiousweeksIwatchedbesideThesuff’rer’scouch，Roywasmyhelpandstay；
Otherswerekind，buthealoneeachdayBroughtstrengthandcomfort，byhischeerfulface，Andhopefulwords，thatfellinthatsadplaceLikeraysoflightuponadarkenedway。
Novemberpassed；andWinter，crispandchill，Inrobesoferminewalkedonplainandhill。
ReturninglightandlifedispelledthegloomThatcheatedDeathhadbroughtusfromthetomb。
AuntRuthwassaved，andslowlygettingbetter—
Wasdressedeachday，andwalkedabouttheroom。
ThencameonemorningintheEasternmail，Alittlewhite—wingedbirdlingofaletter。
Ibrokethesealandread，\"Maurine，myown!
IhearAuntRuthisbetter，andamglad。
Ifeltsosorryforyou；andsosadTothinkIleftyouwhenIdid——aloneTobearyourpainandworry，andthosenightsOfweary，anxiouswatching。
VivianwritesYourplansarechangednow，andyouwillnotsailBeforetheSpringtime。Soyou’llcomeandbeMybridesmaid，darling!Donotsaymenay。
Butthreeweeksmoreofgirlhoodlefttome。
Come，ifyoucan，justtwoweeksfromto—day，Andmakeyourpreparationshere。Mysweet!
IndeedIamnotgladAuntRuthwasill—
I’msorryshehassufferedso；andstillI’mthankfulsomethinghappened，soyoustayed。
I’msuremyweddingwouldbeincompleteWithoutyourpresence。Selfish，I’mafraidYou’llthinkyourHelen。ButIloveyouso，HowcanIbequitewillingyoushouldgo？
ComeChristmasEve，orearlier。Letmeknow，AndIwillmeetyou，dearie!atthetrain。
Yourhappy，lovingHelen。\"
ThenthepainThat，hiddenunderlaterpainandcare，Hadmadenomoan，butsilent，seemedtosleep，Wokefromitstrance—likelethargy，tosteepMytorturedheartinanguishanddespair。
IhadreliedtoofullyonmyskillInbendingcircumstancestomywill：
AndnowIwasrebukedandmadetoseeThatGodaloneknowethwhatistobe。
ThencameamessengerfromVivian，whoCamenothimself，ashewaswonttodo，ButsenthisservanteachnewdaytobringAkindlymessage，oranofferingOfjuicyfruitstocoolthelipsoffever，Ordaintyhot—houseblossoms，withtheirbloomTobrightenuptheconvalescent’sroom。
ButnowtheservantonlybroughtalineFromVivianDangerfieldtoRoyMontaine，\"DearSir，andFriend\"——inlettersboldandplain，Writtenoncream—whitepaper，soitran：
\"ItisthewillandpleasureofMissTrevor，Andthereforedoublysoawishofmine，ThatyoushallhonourmenextNewYearEve，Myweddinghour，bystandingasbestman。
MissTrevorhassixbridesmaidsIbelieve。
Beingmyselfanoviceintheart—
IfIshouldfailinactingwellmypart，I’llneedprotection’gainsttheregimentOfoutragedladies。So，Ipray，consentTostandbymeintimeofneed，andshieldYourfriendsincerely，VivianDangerfield。\"
Thelastleasthopehadvanished；Imustdrain，E’entothedregs，thisbittercupofpain。
PARTVI
Therewasaweekofbustleandofhurry；
Astatelyhomeechoedtovoicessweet，Calling，replying；andtotrippingfeetOfbusybridesmaids，runningtoandfro，WithallthatgirlishflutteringandflurryPrecedingsuchoccasions。
Helen’sroomWaslikealily—garden，allinbloom，Deckedwiththedaintyrobesofhertrousseau。
Myrobewasfashionedbyswift，skilfulhands—
Athingofbeauty，elegantandrich，Amysteryofloopings，puffsandbands；
AndasIwatcheditgrowing，stitchbystitch，IfeltasonemightfeelwhoshouldbeholdWithvisiontrance—like，wherehisbodylayIndeathlyslumber，simulatingclay，Hisgrave—clothsewedtogether，foldonfold。
Ilivedwithev’rynerveuponthestrain，Asmengointobattle；andthepain，That，moreandmore，tomysadheartrevealedGrewghastlywithitshorrors，wasconcealedFrommortaleyesbysuperhumanpower，ThatGodbestoweduponme，hourbyhour。
WhatnighttheOldYeargaveuntotheNewThekeyofhumanhappinessandwoe，Thepointedstars，upontheirfieldofblue，Shone，whiteandperfect，o’eraworldbelow，Ofsnow—cladbeauty；allthetreesweredressedIngleaminggarments，deckedwithdiadems，Eachseeminglikeabridal—biddenguest，Comingo’erladenwithagiftofgems。
Thebustleofthedressing—room；thesoundOfeagervoicesindiscourse；theclangOf\"sweetbellsjangled\"；thudofsteel—cladfeetThatbeatswiftmusiconthefrozenground—
Allblenttogetherinmybrain，andrangAmedleyofstrangenoises，incomplete，Andfullofdiscords。
ThenoutonthenightStreamedfromtheopenvestibule，alightThatlitthevelvetblossomswhichwetrod，Withallthehuesofthosethatdeckthesod。
ThegrandcathedralwindowswereablazeWithgorgeouscolours；throughaseaofbloom，Upthelongaisle，tojointhewaitinggroom，Thebridalcortegepassed。
AssomelostsoulMightsurgeonwiththecuriouscrowd，togazeUponitscoffinedbody，soIwentWiththatgladfestalthrong。TheorgansentGreatwavesofmelodyalongtheair，Thatbrokeandfell，inliquiddrops，likespray，Onhappyheartsthatlistened。ButtomeItsoundedfaintly，asifmilesaway，Atroubledspirit，sittingindespairBesidethesadandever—moaningsea，Gaveutterancetosighingsoundsofdole。
Wepausedbeforethealtar。Framedinflowers，Thewhite—robedmanofGodstoodforth。
IheardThesolemnserviceopen；throughlonghoursIseemedtostandandlisten，whileeachwordFellonmyearasfallsthesoundofclayUponthecoffinoftheworshippeddead。
Thestatelyfathergavethebrideaway：
ThebridegroomcircledwithagoldenbandThetaperfingerofherdaintyhand。
Thelastimposing，bindingwordsweresaid—
\"WhatGodhasjoinedletnomanputasunder\"—
Andallmystrifewithselfwasatanend；
Myloverwasthehusbandofmyfriend。
Howstrangely，insomeawfulhourofpain，Externaltrifleswithoursorrowsblend!
Ineverhearthemightyorgan’sthunder，Inevercatchthescentofheliotrope，Norseestainedwindowsallablazewithlight，Withoutthatdizzywhirlingofthebrain，Andalltheghastlyfeelingofthatnight，Whenmysickheartrelinquishedloveandhope。
Thepainwefeelsokeenlymaydepart，Ande’enitsmemoryceasetohaunttheheart：
Butsomeslightthing，aperfume，orasoundWillprobetheclosedrecessesofthewound，Andforamomentbringtheold—timesmart。
Congratulations，kisses，tearsandsmiles，Good—byesandfarewellsgiven；thenacrossThesnowywasteofwearywintrymiles，Backtomygirlhoods’home，where，througheachroom，ForevermorepalephantomsofdelightShouldaimlesswander，alwaysinmysight，Pointing，withghostlyfingers，tothetombWetwiththetearsoflivingpainandloss。
Thesleeplessnightsofwatchingandofcare，Followedbythatoneweekofkeenestpain，Taxingmyweakenedsystem，andmybrain，Broughtonaling’ringillness。
Daybyday，Inthatstrange，apatheticstateIlay，Ofmentalandofphysicaldespair。
Ihadnopain，nofever，andnochill，Butlaywithoutambition，strength，orwill。
Knowingnowishforanythingbutrest，Whichseemed，ofallGod’sstoreofgifts，thebest。
Physicianscameandshooktheirheadsandsighed；
AndtotheirscoreofquestionsIreplied，Withbutonelanguidanswer，o’erando’er，\"Iamsoweary——weary——nothingmore。\"
Islept，anddreamedIwassomefeatheredthing，Flyingthroughspacewithever—achingwing，SeekingashipcalledRestallsnowywhite，Thatsailedandsailedbeforeme，justinsight，Butalwaysoneunchangingdistancekept，AndwokemorewearythanbeforeIslept。
Islept，anddreamedIrantowinaprize，Ahandfromheavenhelddownbeforemyeyes。
AlleagernessIsoughtit——itwasgone，Butshoneinallitsbeautyfartheron。
Iran，andran，andran，ineagerquestOfthatgreatprize，whereonwaswritten\"Rest，\"
Whicheverjustbeyondmyreachdidgleam，Andwakeneddoublywearywithmydream。
IdreamedIwasacrystaldropofrain，Thatsawasnow—whitelilyontheplain，Andleftthecloudtonestleinherbreast。
Ifellandfell，butnevermorefoundrest—
Ifellandfell，butfoundnostoppingplace，Throughleaguesandleaguesofnever—endingspace，Whilespaceillimitablestretchedbefore。
Andallthesedreamsbutweariedmethemore。
Familiarvoicessoundedinmyroom—
AuntRuth’s，andRoy’s，andHelen’s：buttheyseemedApartofsomestrangefancyIhaddreamed，Andnowremembereddimly。
Wrappedingloom，Mymind，o’ertaxed，lostholdoftimeatlast，Ignoreditsfuture，andforgotitspast，Andgropedalongthepresent，asalight，Carried，uncovered，throughthefogsofnight，Willflickerfaintly。
ButIfelt，atlength，WhenMarchwindsbroughtvaguerumoursofthespring，Acertainsenseof\"restlessnesswithrest。\"
Myachingframewaswearyofrepose，Andwantedaction。
Thenslow—creepingstrengthCamebackwithMem’ry，handinhand，tobringAndlayuponmysoreandbleedingbreast，Grim—visagedRecollection’sthornyrose。
Igained，andfailed。Onedaycouldrideandwalk，Thenextwouldfindmeprostrate：whileaflockOfghostlythoughts，likephantombirds，wouldflitAboutthechambersofmyheart，orsit，Palespectresofthepast，withfoldedwings，Perched，silently，uponthevoicelessstrings，ThatonceresoundedtoHope’shappylays。
Sopassedtheever—changingAprildays。
WhenMaycame，lightsomefooted，o’erthelea，AccompaniedbykindAuntRuthandRoy，Ibadefarewelltohomewithsecretjoy，Andturnedmywanfaceeastwardtothesea。
Royplannedourrouteoftravel：foralllandsWereonetohim。OrEgypt’sburningsands，OrAlpsofSwitzerland，orstatelyRome，Allwerefamiliarasthefieldsofhome。
Therewasayearofwand’ringtoandfro，Likerestlessspirits；scalingmountainheights；
Dwellingamongthecountless，raredelightsOflandshistoric；turningdustypages，StampedwiththetragediesofmightyagesGazinguponthescenesofbloodyacts，Ofkingslongburied——bare，unvarnishedfacts，Surpassingwildestfictionsofthebrain；
Rubbingagainstallpeople，highandlow，AndbythiscontactfeelingSelftogrowSmallerandlessimportant，andtheveinOfhumankindnessdeeper，seeingGod，Untothehumbledelverofthesod，Andtotherulingmonarchonthethrone，Hasgivenhope，ambition，joy，andpain，Andthatallheartshavefeelingslikeourown。
Thereisnoschoolthatdisciplinesthemind，Andbroadensthought，likecontactwithmankind。
Thecollege—prisonedgraybeard，whohasburnedThemidnightlamp，andbook—boundknowledgelearned，TillsciencesorclassicsholdnoloreHehasnotconnedandstudied，o’erando’er，Isbutababeinwisdom，whencomparedWithsomeunletteredwand’rer，whohassharedThehospitalitiesofeveryland；
Felttouchofbrotherineachprofferedhand；
Mademanhisstudy，andtheworldhiscollege，Andgainedthisgrandepitomeofknowledge：
Eachhumanbeinghasaheartandsoul，Andselfisbutanatomofthewhole。
IholdheisbestlearnedandmostwiseWhobestandmostcanloveandsympathize。
Book—wisdommakesusvainandself—contained；
Ourbandedmindsgoroundinlittlegrooves；
ButconstantfrictionwiththeworldremovesTheseironfoestofreedom，andweriseTogranderheights，and，alluntrammelled，findAbetteratmosphereandclearerskies；
Andthroughitsbroadenedrealm，nolongerchained，Thoughttravelsfreely，leavingSelfbehind。
Where’erwechancedtowanderortoroam，GladletterscamefromHelen；happythings，Likelittlebirdsthatfollowedonswiftwings，Bringingtheirtendermessagesfromhome。
Herdayswerepoems，beautiful，complete。
Therhythmperfect，andtheburdensweet。
Shewassohappy——happy，andsoblest。
Myhearthadfoundcontentmentinthatyear。
Withhealthrestored，mylifeseemedfullofcheerTheheartofyouthturnsevertothelight；
Sorrowandgloommaycurtainitlikenight，But，initsveryanguishandunrest，Itbeatsandtearsthepall—likefoldsaway，Andfindsagainthesunlightoftheday。
Andyet，despitethechangeswithoutmeasure，Despitesight—seeing，roundonroundofpleasure；
Despitenewfriends，newsuitors，stillmyheartWasconsciousofasomethinglacking，whereLoveoncehaddwelt，andafterwarddespair。
Nowlovewasburied；anddespairhadflownBeforethehealthfulzephyrsthathadblownFromheightssereneandlofty；andtheplaceWherebothhaddweltwasempty，voicelessspace。
AndsoItookmylong—lovedstudy，art，Thedrearyvacuuminmylifetofill，Andworked，andlaboured，witharightgoodwill。
AuntRuthandItookroomsinRome；whileRoyLingeredinScotland，withhisnew—foundjoy。
Adaintylittlelassie，GraceKildare，Hadsnaredhiminherflossy，flaxenhair，Andmadehimcaptive。
Wewerethrown，bychance，IncontactwithherpeoplewhileinFranceThepreviousseason：shewaswhollysweetAndfairandgentle；sonaive，andyetSowomanly，shewasatoncethepetOfallourparty；and，eremanydays，Wonbyherfreshface，andherartlessways，Royfellahelplesscaptiveatherfeet。
HerhomewasintheHighlands；andshecameOfgoodoldstock，offairuntarnishedfame。
ThroughallthesemonthsRoyhadbeentrueassteel；
AndbyhiseveryactionmademefeelHewasmyfriendandbrother，andnomore，Thesamebig—souledandtrustyfriendofyore。
Yet，inmysecretheart，IwishedIknewWhetherthelovehefeltonetimewasdead，Oronlyhidden，formysake，fromview。
Sowhenhecametomeoneday，andsaid，ThevelvetblacknessofhiseyesashineWithlightofloveandtriumph：\"Cousin，mine，Congratulateme!ShewhomIadoreHaspledgedtomethepromiseofherhand；
HerheartIhavealready，\"IwasgladWithdoublegladness，foritfreedmymindOffearthathe，insecret，mightbesad。
FromMarchtillJunehadlefthermoonsbehind，Andmergedherrose—redbeautyinJuly，Therewasnomessagefrommynativeland。
Thencameafewbrieflines，byVivianpenned：
DeathhadbeenneartoHelen，butpassedby；
Thedangerwasnowover。Godwaskind；
Themotherandthechildwerebothalive；
NootherchildwaseverknowntothriveAsthrovethisone，nursehadbeenheardtosay。
Theinfantwasawonder，everyway。
And，atcommandofHelen，hewouldsendAlockofbaby’sgoldenhairtome。
AnddidI，onmyhonour，everseeSuchhairbefore？Helenwouldwrite，erelong：
Shegainedquiteslowly，butwouldsoonbestrong—
Strongerthanever，sothedoctorssaid。
Itookthetinyringlet，golden——fair，MayhaphishandhadseveredfromtheheadOfhisownchild，andpressedittomycheekAndtomylips，andkissedito’erando’er。
Allmymaternalinstinctsseemedtorise，Andclamourfortheirrights，whilemyweteyesRainedtearsuponthesilkentressofhair。
Thewomanstruggledwithherheartbefore!
Itwasthemotherinmenowdidspeak，Moaning，likeRachel，thatherbabeswerenot，Andcryingoutagainstherbarrenlot。
OnceIbemoanedthelongandlonelyyearsThatstretchedbeforeme，darkwithlove’seclipse；
AndthoughthowmyunmatedheartwouldmissTheshelterofabroadandmanlybreast—
Thestrong，boldarm——thetenderclingingkiss—
Andallpurelove’spossessions，manifold；
ButnowIweptafloodofbittertears，Thinkingoflittleheadsofshininggold，Thatwouldnotonmybosomsinktorest；
Oflittlehandsthatwouldnottouchmycheek；
Oflittlelispingvoices，andsweetlips，Thatneverinmylist’ningearwouldspeakTheblessednameofmother。
Oh，inwomanHowmightyistheloveofoffspring!EreUntoherwond’ring，untaughtmindunfoldsThemyst’rythatishalfdivine，halfhuman，Oflifeandbirth，theloveofunbornsoulsWithinher，andthemother—yearningcreepsThroughherwarmheart，andstirsitshiddendeeps，Andgrowsandstrengthenswitheachriperyear。
Asstormsmaygatherinaplacidsky，Andspendtheirfury，andthenpassaway，Leavingagaintheblueofcloudlessday，E’ensothetempestofmygriefpassedby。
’TwasweaktomournforwhatIhadresigned，Withthedeliberatepurposeofmymind，Tomysweetfriend。
Relinquishingmylove，Igavemydearesthopeofjoytoher。
IfGod，fromoutHisboundlessstoreabove，Hadchosenaddedblessingstoconfer，Iwouldrejoice，forhersake——notrepineThatth’immortaltreasureswerenotmine。
Bettermylonelysorrow，thantoknowMyselfishjoyhadbeenanother’swoe；
Bettermygriefandmystrengthtocontrol，Thanthedespairofherfrail—bodiedsoul；
Bettertogoon，loveless，totheend，Thanwearlove’srose，whosethornhadslainmyfriend。
Workisthesalvethathealsthewoundedheart。
WithwillmostresoluteIsetmyaimToenteronthewearyraceforFame，AndifIfailedtoclimbthedizzyheight，Toreachsomepointofexcellenceinart。
E’enastheMakerheldearthincomplete，Tillmanwasformed，andplaceduponthesod，Theperfect，livingimageofhisGod，Alllandscapesceneswerelackinginmysight，Whereinthehumanfigurehadnopart。
Inthat，alllinesofsymmetrydidmeet—
Allhuesofbeautymingle。SoIbroughtEnthusiasminabundance，thought，Muchstudy，andsometalent，daybyday，TohelpmeinmyeffortstoportrayThewond’rouspower，majestyandgraceStampedonsomeform，orlookingfromsomeface。
Thiswastobemyspecialty：TotakeHumanemotionformytheme，andmakeTheunassistedformdivineexpressAngerorSorrow，Pleasure，Pain，Distress；
AndthustobuildFame’smonumentaboveThegraveofmydepartedhopeandlove。
ThisisnotGenius。GeniusspreadsitswingsAndsoarsbeyonditself，orselfishthings。
Talenthasneedofstepping—stones：somecross，Somecheatedpurpose，somegreatpainorloss，Mustlaythegroundwork，andarouseambition，Beforeitlaboursonwardtofruition。
But，asthelarkfrombedsofbloomwillriseAndsailandsingamongtheveryskies，Stillmountingnearandnearertothelight，Impelledwings，toheightssublime。
Impelledalonebyloveofupwardflight，SoGeniussoars——itdoesnotneedtoclimb—
Somesportman’sshot，grazingthesinger’sthroat，Somevenomousassaultofbirdsofprey，Mayspeeditsflighttowardtherealmofday，Andtingewithtriumpheveryliquidnote。
SodeathlessGeniusmountsbuthigheryet，WhenStrifeandEnvythinktoslayorfret。
ThereisnobalkingGenius。OnlydeathCansilenceit，orhinder。Whilethere’sbreathOrsenseoffeeling，itwillspurnthesod，Andliftitselftoglory，andtoGod。
Theacornsprouted——weedsnorflowerscanchokeThecertaingrowthofth’upreachingoak。
Talentwasmine，notGenius；andmymindSeemedboundbychains，andwouldnotleavebehindItsselfishloveandsorrow。
DidIstriveTopicturesomeemotion，lo!HISeyes，Ofemeraldbeauty，darkasoceandyes，Lookedfromthecanvas：andmyburiedpainRosefromitsgrave，andstoodbymealive。
Whate’ermysubject，insomehueorline，Thegloriousbeautyofhisfacewouldshine。
Soforatimemylabourseemedinvain，Sinceitbutfreshened，andmadekeeneryet，Thegriefmyheartwasstrivingtoforget。
WhileinhisformallstrengthandmagnitudeWithgraceandsupplesinewswereentwined，WhileinhisfaceallbeautieswerecombinedOfperfectfeatures，intellectandtruth，Withallthatfinerichcolouringofyouth，HowcouldmybrushportrayaughtgoodorfairWhereinnofatallikenessshouldintrudeOfhimmysoulhadworshipped？
But，atlast，Settingawatchuponmyunwiseheart，Thatthuswouldmixitssorrowwithmyart，Iresolutelyshutawaythepast，AndmadethetoilsomepresentpassingbrightWithdreamsofwhatwashiddenfrommysightInthefardistantfuture，whenthesoilShouldyieldmegoldenfruitforallmytoil。