\"`……SeesmallportionsoftheEternalWorldthatevergroweth’：……
SosangaFairy，mocking，ashesatonastreak’dtulip，Thinkingnonesawhim：whenheceas’dIstartedfromthetrees，Andcaughthiminmyhat，asboysknockdownabutterfly。\"
WilliamBlake。\"Europe。AProphecy。\"
`Thouhastalapfullofseed，Andthisisafinecountry。’
WilliamBlake。
PrefaceThisisabookofstories。ForthatreasonIhaveexcludedallpurelylyricalpoems。Buttheword\"stories\"hasbeenstretchedtoitsfullestapplication。Itincludesbothnarrativepoems，properlysocalled;talesdividedintoscenes;andafewpiecesoflessobviousstory-tellingimportinwhichonemightsaythatthedramatispersonaeareair，clouds，trees，houses，streets，andsuchlikethings。
Ithaslongbeenafavouriteideaofminethattherhythmsof`verslibre’
havenotbeensufficientlyplumbed，thatthereisinthemapowerofvariationwhichhasneveryetbeenbroughttothelightofexperiment。
IthinkitwasthepianopiecesofDebussy，withtheirstrangelikenesstoshortverslibrepoems，whichfirstshowedmetheclosekinshipofmusicandpoetry，andthereflashedintomymindtheideaofusingthemovementofpoetryinsomewhatthesamewaythatthemusicianusesthemovementofmusic。
Itwasquiteevidentthatthiscouldneverbedoneinthestrictpatternofametricalform，buttheflowing，fluctuatingrhythmofverslibreseemedtoopenthedoortosuchanexperiment。First，however，Iconsideredthesamemethodasappliedtothemorepronouncedmovementsofnaturalobjects。Ifthereaderwillturntothepoem，\"ARoxburyGarden\"，hewillfindinthefirsttwosectionsanattempttogivethecircularmovementofahoopbowlingalongtheground，andtheupanddown，ellipticalcurveofaflyingshuttlecock。
Fromtheseexperiments，itisbutasteptotheflowingrhythmofmusic。
In\"TheCremonaViolin\"，Ihavetriedtogivethisflowing，changingrhythmtothepartsinwhichtheviolinisbeingplayed。Theeffectisfartherheightened，becausetherestofthepoemiswritteninthesevenlineChaucerianstanza;and，bydesertingthisorderedpatternfortheundulatinglineofverslibre，Ihopedtoproducesomethingofthesuave，continuoustoneofaviolin。Again，intheviolinpartsthemselves，themovementconstantlychanges，aswillbequiteplaintoanyonereadingthesepassagesaloud。
In\"TheCremonaViolin\"，however，therhythmsarefairlyobviousandregular。
IsetmyselfafarhardertaskintryingtotranscribethevariousmovementsofStravinsky’s\"ThreePieces`Grotesques’，forStringQuartet\"。
Severalmusicians，whohaveseenthepoem，thinkthemovementaccuratelygiven。
Theseexperimentsleadmetobelievethatthereisheremuchfoodforthoughtandmatterforstudy，andIhopemanypoetswillfollowmeinopeningupthestillhardlyexploredpossibilitiesofverslibre。
Agoodmanyofthepoemsinthisbookarewrittenin\"polyphonicprose\"。
AformaboutwhichIhavewrittenandspokensomuchthatitseemshardlynecessarytoexplainithere。Letmehastilyadd，however，thattheword\"prose\"initsnamerefersonlytothetypographicalarrangement，forinnosenseisthisaproseform。
Onlyreaditaloud，GentleReader，Ibeg，andyouwillseewhatyouwillsee。
Forapurelydramaticform，Iknownonebetterinthewholerangeofpoetry。
Itenablesthepoettogivehischaractersthevivid，realeffecttheyhaveinaplay，whileatthesametimewritinginthe`decor’。
OnelastinnovationIhavestilltomention。Itwillbefoundin\"SpringDay\"，andmorefullyenlargeduponintheseries，\"TownsinColour\"。Inthesepoems，Ihaveendeavouredtogivethecolour，andlight，andshade，ofcertainplacesandhours，stressingthepurelypictorialeffect，andwithlittleornoreferencetoanyotheraspectoftheplacesdescribed。Itisanenchantingthingtowanderthroughacitylookingforitsunrelatedbeauty，thebeautybywhichitcaptivatesthesensuoussenseofseeing。
Ihavealwayslovedaquariums，butforyearsIwenttothemandlooked，andlooked，atthoseswirling，shooting，loopingpatternsoffish，whichalwaysdefiedtranscriptiontopaperuntilIhituponthe\"unrelated\"method。Theresultisin\"AnAquarium\"。
IthinkthefirstthingwhichturnedmeinthisdirectionwasJohnGouldFletcher’s\"LondonExcursion\"，in\"SomeImagistPoets\"。
Ihererecordmythanks。
Forthesubstanceofthepoems——why，thepoemsarehere。
Noonewritingto-daycanfailtobeaffectedbythegreatwarraginginEuropeatthistime。Wearetoonearittodomorethantouchuponit。But，obliquely，itissuggestedinmanyofthesepoems，mostnotablythoseinthesection，\"BronzeTablets\"。TheNapoleonicEraisanepicsubject，andwaitsagreatepicpoet。Ihaveonlybeenabletoopenafewwindowsuponithereandthere。Butthescenefromthewindowsisauthentic，andthewatcherhasusedeyes，andears，andheart，inwatching。
AmyLowellJuly10，1916。
ContentsFigurinesinOldSaxePatternsPickthornManorTheCremonaViolinTheCross-RoadsARoxburyGarden1777
BronzeTabletsTheFruitShopMalmaisonTheHammersTwoTravellersinthePlaceVendomeWarPicturesTheAlliesTheBombardmentLeadSoldiersThePainteronSilkABalladofFootmenTheOvergrownPastureReapingOfftheTurnpikeTheGroceryNumber3ontheDocketClocksTickaCenturyNightmare：ATaleforanAutumnEveningThePaperWindmillTheRedLacquerMusic-StandSpringDayTheDinner-PartyStravinsky’sThreePieces\"Grotesques\"，forStringQuartetTownsinColourRedSlippersThompson’sLunchRoom——GrandCentralStationAnOperaHouseAfternoonRaininStateStreetAnAquariumThetwoseasongsquotedin\"TheHammers\"aretakenfrom`Songs：NavalandNautical，ofthelateCharlesDibdin’，London，JohnMurray，1841。The\"HangingJohnny\"refrain，in\"TheCremonaViolin\"，isborrowedfromtheold，well-knownchantyofthatname。
————————————————————-
Men，WomenandGhosts————————————————————-
FigurinesinOldSaxePatternsIwalkdownthegardenpaths，AndallthedaffodilsAreblowing，andthebrightbluesquills。
Iwalkdownthepatternedgarden-pathsInmystiff，brocadedgown。
Withmypowderedhairandjewelledfan，ItooamararePattern。AsIwanderdownThegardenpaths。
Mydressisrichlyfigured，AndthetrainMakesapinkandsilverstainOnthegravel，andthethriftOftheborders。
Justaplateofcurrentfashion，Trippingbyinhigh-heeled，ribbonedshoes。
Notasoftnessanywhereaboutme，Onlywhaleboneandbrocade。
AndIsinkonaseatintheshadeOfalimetree。FormypassionWarsagainstthestiffbrocade。
ThedaffodilsandsquillsFlutterinthebreezeAstheyplease。
AndIweep;
Forthelime-treeisinblossomAndonesmallflowerhasdroppeduponmybosom。
AndtheplashingofwaterdropsInthemarblefountainComesdownthegarden-paths。
Thedrippingneverstops。
UnderneathmystiffenedgownIsthesoftnessofawomanbathinginamarblebasin，AbasininthemidstofhedgesgrownSothick，shecannotseeherloverhiding，Butsheguessesheisnear，AndtheslidingofthewaterSeemsthestrokingofadearHanduponher。
WhatisSummerinafinebrocadedgown！
Ishouldliketoseeitlyinginaheapupontheground。
Allthepinkandsilvercrumpledupontheground。
IwouldbethepinkandsilverasIranalongthepaths，Andhewouldstumbleafter，Bewilderedbymylaughter。
Ishouldseethesunflashingfromhissword-hiltandthebucklesonhisshoes。
IwouldchooseToleadhiminamazealongthepatternedpaths，Abrightandlaughingmazeformyheavy-bootedlover，Tillhecaughtmeintheshade，Andthebuttonsofhiswaistcoatbruisedmybodyasheclaspedme，Aching，melting，unafraid。
Withtheshadowsoftheleavesandthesundrops，Andtheploppingofthewaterdrops，Allaboutusintheopenafternoon——
IamveryliketoswoonWiththeweightofthisbrocade，Forthesunsiftsthroughtheshade。
UnderneaththefallenblossomInmybosom，IsaletterIhavehid。
ItwasbroughttomethismorningbyariderfromtheDuke。
\"Madam，weregrettoinformyouthatLordHartwellDiedinactionThursdayse’nnight。\"
AsIreaditinthewhite，morningsunlight，Theletterssquirmedlikesnakes。
\"Anyanswer，Madam，\"saidmyfootman。
\"No，\"Itoldhim。
\"Seethatthemessengertakessomerefreshment。
No，noanswer。\"
AndIwalkedintothegarden，Upanddownthepatternedpaths，Inmystiff，correctbrocade。
Theblueandyellowflowersstoodupproudlyinthesun，Eachone。
Istooduprighttoo，HeldrigidtothepatternBythestiffnessofmygown。
UpanddownIwalked，Upanddown。
Inamonthhewouldhavebeenmyhusband。
Inamonth，here，underneaththislime，Wewouldhavebrokethepattern;
Heforme，andIforhim，HeasColonel，IasLady，Onthisshadyseat。
HehadawhimThatsunlightcarriedblessing。
AndIanswered，\"Itshallbeasyouhavesaid。\"
Nowheisdead。
InSummerandinWinterIshallwalkUpanddownThepatternedgarden-pathsInmystiff，brocadedgown。
ThesquillsanddaffodilsWillgiveplacetopillaredroses，andtoasters，andtosnow。
IshallgoUpanddown，Inmygown。
Gorgeouslyarrayed，Bonedandstayed。
AndthesoftnessofmybodywillbeguardedfromembraceByeachbutton，hook，andlace。
Forthemanwhoshouldloosemeisdead，FightingwiththeDukeinFlanders，Inapatterncalledawar。
Christ！Whatarepatternsfor？
PickthornManorI
HowfreshtheDartle’slittlewavesthatday！
Asteelysilver，underlinedwithblue，Andflashingwheretheroundclouds，blownaway，LetdroptheyellowsunshinetogleamthroughAndtiptheedgesofthewaveswithshiftsAndspotsofwhitestfire，hardlikegemsCutfromthemidnightmoontheywere，andsharpAswindthroughleaflessstems。
TheLadyEunicewalkedbetweenthedriftsOfbloomingcherry-trees，andwatchedtheriftsOfcloudsdrawnthroughtheriver’sazurewarp。
II
Herlittlefeettappedsoftlydownthepath。
Hersoulwaslistless;eventhemorningbreezeFlutteringthetreesandstrewingalightswathOffallenpetalsonthegrass，couldpleaseHernotatall。ShebrushedahairasideWithaswiftmove，andahalf-angryfrown。
Shestoppedtopulladaffodilortwo，AndheldthemtohergownTotestthecolours;putthematherside，Thenatherbreast，thenloosenedthemandtriedSomenewarrangement，butitwouldnotdo。
III
AladyinaManor-house，alone，WhosehusbandisinFlanderswiththeDukeOfMarlboroughandPrinceEugene，she’sgrownTooapatheticeventorebukeHeridleness。WhatissheonthisEarth？
Nowomansurely，sincesheneithercanBewednorsingle，mustnotlethermindBuildthoughtsuponamanExceptforhers。IndeedthatwerenodearthWereherLordhere，forwellsheknewhisworth，Andwhenshethoughtofhimhereyeswerekind。
IV
Toolatelywedtohaveforgotthewooing。
ToounaccustomedasabridetofeelOtherthanstrangedelightatherwife’sdoing。
EvenatthethoughtagentleblushwouldstealOverherface，andthenherlipswouldframeSomelittlewordofloving，andhereyesWouldbrimandspilltheirtears，whenalltheysawWasthebrightsun，slantwiseThroughburgeoningtrees，andallthemorning’sflameBurningandquiveringroundher。WithquickshameSheshutherheartandbentbeforethelaw。
V
Hewasasoldier，shewasproudofthat。
Thiswashishouseandshewouldkeepitwell。
Hishonourwasinfighting，hersinwhatHe’dleftherhereinchargeof。ThenaspellOfconsciencesentherthroughtheorchardspyingUponthegardeners。Weretheirtoolsabout？
Wereanybranchesbroken？HadtheweedsBeendulytakenoutUnderthe’spalieredpears，andweretheselyingNailedsnugagainstthesunnybricksanddryingTheirleavesandsatisfyingalltheirneeds？
VI
Shepickedastoneupwithalittlepout，Stoneslookedsoillinwell-keptflower-borders。
Whereshouldsheputit？AllthepathsaboutWerestrewnwithfair，redgravelbyherorders。
Nostonecouldmartheirsiftedsmoothness。SoShehurriedtotheriver。AttheedgeShestoodamomentcharmedbytheswiftblueBeyondtheriversedge。
Shewatcheditcurdling，crinkling，andthesnowPurfleduponitswave-tops。Then，\"Hullo，MyBeauty，gently，oryou’llwrigglethrough。\"
VII
TheLadyEunicecaughtawillowsprayTosaveherselffromtumblingintheshallowsWhichrippledtoherfeet。ThenstraightawayShepeereddownstreamamongthebuddingsallows。
AyouthinleatherbreechesandashirtOffinestbroideredlawnlayoutuponAnoverhangingboleanddeftlyswayedAwell-hookedfishwhichshoneInthepalelemonsunshinelikeaspurtOfsilver，bowedanddamascened，andgirtWithcrimsonspotsandmoonswhichwanedandplayed。
VIII
Thefishhungcircledforamoment，ringedAndbright;thenflungitselfout，athinbladeOfspottedlightning，anditstailwaswingedWithchippedandsparkledsunshine。AndtheshadeBrokeupandsplinteredintoshaftsoflightWheelingaboutthefish，whochurnedtheairAndmadethefish-linehum，andbenttherodAlmosttosnapping。CareTheyoungmantookagainstthetwigs，withslight，DeftmovementshekeptfishandlineintightObediencetohiswillwitheveryprod。
IX
Helaythere，andthefishhungjustbeyond。
Heseemeduncertainwhatmoreheshoulddo。
Hedrewback，pulledtherodtocorrespond，Tosseditandcaughtit;everytimehethrew，Hecaughtitnearertothepoint。AtlastThefishwasnearenoughtotouch。Hepaused。
Euniceknewwellthecraft——\"What’sgotthething！\"
Shecried。\"Whatcanhavecaused——
Whereishisnet？Themomentwillbepast。
Thefishwillwrigglefree。\"Shestoppedaghast。
Heturnedandbowed。Onearmwasinasling。
X
Thebroad，blackribbonshehadthoughthisbasketMusthangfrom，heldinsteadauselessarm。
\"Idonotwonder，Madam，thatyouaskit。\"
Hesmiled，forshehadspokealoud。\"ThecharmOftroutfishingisinmyeyesenhancedWhenyoumustplayyourfishonlandaswell。\"
\"Howwillyoutakehim？\"Euniceasked。\"IntruthIreallycannottell。
’Twasstupidofme，butitsimplychancedIneverthoughtofthatuntilheglancedIntothebranches。’Tisabituncouth。\"
XI
Hewatchedthefishagainsttheblowingsky，Writhingandglittering，pullingattheline。
\"Thehookisfast，Imightjustlethimdie，\"
Hemused。\"ButthatwouldjaragainstyourfineSenseoftruesportsmanship，Iknowitwould，\"
CriedEunice。\"Letmedoit。\"SwiftandlightSherantowardshim。\"ItissolongnowSinceIhavefeltabite，Ilostallheartforeverything。\"Shestood，Suppleandstrong，besidehim，andherbloodTingledherlissombodytoaglow。
XII
ShequicklyseizedthefishandwithastoneEndeditsflurry，thenremovedthehook，Untiedtheflywithwell-poisedfingers。Done，Sheaskedhimwherehekepthisfishing-book。
Hepointedtoacoatflungontheground。
Shesearchedthepockets，foundashagreencase，Replacedthefly，noticedagoldenstampFillingthemiddlespace。
Twolettershalfrubbedoutwerethere，androundAboutthemgayrococoflowerswoundAndtossedasprayofrosestotheclamp。
XIII
TheLadyEunicepuzzledoverthese。
\"G。D。\"theyoungmangravelysaid。\"MynameIsGervaseDeane。Yourservant，ifyouplease。\"
\"Oh，Sir，indeedIknowyou，foryourfameForexploitsinthefieldhasreachedmyears。
Ididnotknowyouwoundedandreturned。\"
\"Butjustcomeback，Madam。AsillyprickTogainmesuchunearnedHolidaymaking。Andyou，itappears，MustbeSirEverard’slady。AndmyfearsAtbeingcaughta-trespassingwerequick。\"
XIV
Helookedsoruefulthatshelaughedoutloud。
\"Youareforgiven，Mr。Deane。Evenmore，Iofferyouthefishing，andamproudThatyoushouldfinditpleasantfromthisshore。
Nobodyfishesnow，myhusbandusedToangledaily，andItoowithhim。
Helovedthespottedtrout，andpike，anddace。
HeevenhadawhimThatfliesmyfingerstiedswiftlyconfusedThegreaterfish。Andhemustbeexcused，Loveweavesoddfanciesinalonelyplace。\"
XV
Shesighedbecauseitseemedsolongago，ThosedayswithEverard;unthinkingtookThepathbacktotheorchard。StrollingsoShewalked，andhebesideher。InanookWhereastoneseatwithdrewbeneathlowboughs，Full-blossomed，hummedwithbees，theysatthemdown。
Shequestionedhimaboutthewar，theshareHerhusbandhad，andgrownEagerbyhisclearanswers，straightallowsHerhiddenhopesandfearstospeak，androuseHernumbedlove，whichhadslumberedunaware。
XVI
UndertheorchardtreesdaffodilsdancedAndjostled，turningsidewaystothewind。
AdroppingcherrypetalsoftlyglancedOverherhair，andslidawaybehind。
Atthefarendthroughtwistedcherry-treesTheoldhouseglowed，geranium-hued，withbricksBloomedinthesunlikeroses，lowandlong，Gabled，andwithquainttricksOfchimneyscarvedandfretted。OutoftheseGreysmokewasshaken，whichthefaintSpringbreezeTossedintonothing。Thenathrush’ssongXVII
Needleditswaythroughsoundofbeesandriver。
Thenotesfell，roundandstarred，betweenyoungleaves，Trilledtoaspirallilt，stoppedonaquiver。
TheLadyEunicelistensandbelieves。
GervasehasmanytalesofherdearLord，Hisbravery，hisknowledge，hischarmedlife。
Shequiteforgetswho’sspeakinginthegladnessOfbeingthisman’swife。
Gervaseiswounded，graveindeed，thewordIskindlysaid，buttoasofterchordShestringshervoicetoaskwithwistfulsadness，XVIII
\"AndisSirEverardstillunscathed？IfainWouldknowthetruth。\"\"Quitewell，dearLady，quite。\"
Shesmiledinhercontent。\"Somanyslain，Youmustforgivemeforalittlefright。\"
Andheforgaveher，notaloneforthat，Butbecauseshewasfingeringhisheart，Pressingandsqueezingit，andthinkingsoOnlytoeasehersmartOfpainful，apprehensivelonging。AtTheirfeettheriverswirledandchucked。TheysatAnhourthere。Thethrushflewtoandfro。
XIX
TheLadyEunicesuppedalonethatday，AsalwayssinceSirEverardhadgone，Intheoak-panelledparlour，whosearrayOffadedportraitsincarvedmouldingsshone。
Warriorsandladies，armoured，ruffed，peruked。
VanDykeswithlong，slimfingers;Holbeins，stoutAndheavy-featured;andoneRubensdame，Apeonyjustburstout，Withflaunting，crimsonflesh。EunicerebukedHerthoughtsofgentlerblood，whenthesehaddukedItwiththebest，andscornedtochangetheirname。
XX
Asturdyfamily，andoldbesides，Mucholderthanherown，theEarlsofCrowe。
SinceSaxondays，thesemenhadsoughttheirbridesAmongthehighestborn，butalwaysso，Takingthemtothemselves，theirwealth，theirlands，Butnevertheirtitles。Sternperhaps，butstrong，TheFramptonsfedtheirbloodfromricheststreams，Scorningthecommonthrong。
Gazinguponthesemen，sheunderstandsThetoughnessofthewebwroughtfromsuchstrandsAndprideofEverardcoloursallherdreams。
XXI
Euniceforgetstoeat，watchingtheirfacesFlickeringinthewind-blowncandle’sshine。
Blue-coatedlackeystiptoetotheirplaces，Andsetoutplatesoffruitandjugsofwine。
ThetableglittersblacklikeWinterice。
TheDartle’srushing，andthegentleclashOfblossomedbranches，driftsintoherears。
AndthroughthecasementsashSheseeseachcherrystemapointedsliceOfsplinteredmoonlight，toppedwithallthespiceAndshimmeroftheblossomsituprears。
XXII
\"Insuchanight——\"shelaidthebookaside，Shecouldoutnightthepoetbythinkingback。
Insuchanightshecamehereasabride。
ThedatewasgraveninthealmanackOfherclaspedmemory。InthisveryroomHadEverarduncloakedher。OnthisseatHaddrawnhertohim，badehernotethetrees，HowwhitetheywereandsweetAndlater，comingtoher，herdeargroom，HerLord，hadlainbesideherinthegloomOfmoonandshade，andwhisperedhertoease。
XXIII
Herlittletapermadetheroomseemvast，Cavernedandempty。AndherbeatingheartRappedthroughthesilenceallabouthercastLikesomeloud，dreadfuldeath-watchtakingpartInthissadvigil。Slowlysheundrest，Putoutthelightandcreptintoherbed。
Thelinensheetswerefragrant，butsocold。
Andbrimmingtearssheshed，Sobbingandquiveringinherbarrennest，Herweepinglipsintothepillowprest，Hereyessealedfastwithinitssmotheringfold。
XXIV
Themorningbroughtheramorestoicmind，Andsunshinestruckacrossthepolishedfloor。
ShewonderedwhetherthisdaysheshouldfindGervasea-fishing，andsolistenmore，Muchmoreagain，toallhehadtotell。
Andhewasthere，butwaitingtobeginUntilshecame。Theyfishedawhile，thenwentTotheoldseatwithinThecherry’sshade。HepleasedherverywellByhisdiscourse。ButeverhemustdwellUponSirEverard。EachincidentXXV
Mustberelatedandeachtermexplained。
Howtroopsweresetinbattle，howasiegeWasorderedandconducted。ShecomplainedBecausehebungledatthefallofLiege。
Thecuriousnamesofpartsoffortssheknew，Andairedwithconsciousprideherravelins，Andcounterscarps，andlunes。Thedaydrewon，Andhisdeadfish’sfinsInthehotsunshineturnedamauve-greenhue。
AtlastGervase，guessingthehour，withdrew。
Butshesatlonginstilloblivion。
XXVI
Thenhewouldbringherbooks，andreadtoherThepoemsofDr。Donne，andtheblueriverWouldmurmurthroughthereading，andastirOfbirdsandbeesmakethewhitepetalsshiver，AndoneortwowouldflutterproneandlieSpottingthesmooth-clippedgrass。ThedayswentbyThreadedwithtalkandverses。GreenleavespushedThroughblossomsstubbornly。
Gervase，unconsciousofdishonesty，Fellintostrongandwatchfulloving，freeHethought，sincealwayswouldhislipsbehushed。
XXVII
Butlipsdonotstaysilentatcommand，AndGervasestroveinvaintoorderhis。
LuckilyEunicedidnotunderstandThathebutreadhimselfaloud，forthisTheirfriendshipwouldhavesnapped。ShetreatedhimAndspoilthimlikeabrother。Itwasnow\"Gervase\"and\"Eunice\"withthem，andhedinedWhenevershe’dallow，Intheoakparlour，underneaththedimOldpicturedFramptons，oppositeherslimFigure，sobrightagainstthechairbehind。
XXVIII
EunicewashappierthanshehadbeenFormanydays，andyetthehourswerelong。
AllGervasetoldtoherbutmadeherleanMoreheavilyuponthepast。AmongHerhopesshelived，evenwhenshewasgivingHermorningorders，evenwhenshetwinedNosegaystodeckherparlours。WiththethoughtOfEverard，hermindSolaceditssolitude，andinherstrivingTodoashewouldwishwasallherliving。
ShewelcomedGervaseforthenewshebrought。
XXIX
Black-heartsandwhite-hearts，bubbledwiththesun，Hidintheirleavesandknockedagainsteachother。
Eunicewasstanding，pantingwithherrunUptothetool-housejusttogetanotherBasket。Allthosewhichshehadbroughtwerefilled，AndstillGervasepeltedherfromabove。
ThebucklesofhisshoesflashedhigherandhigherUntilhisshouldersstroveQuitethroughthetop。\"Eunice，yourspirit’sfilledThistree。White-hearts！\"Heshook，andcherriesspilledAndspatoutfromtheleaveslikefallingfire。
XXX
Thewide，sun-wingedJunemorningspreaditselfOverthequietgarden。AndtheypackedFulltwentybasketswiththefruit。\"MyshelfOfcordialswillbestoredwithwhatitlacked。
Infuture，noneofuswilldrinkstrongale，Butcherry-brandy。\"\"Vastlygood，Ivow，\"
AndGervasegavethetreeanothershake。
ThecherriesseemedtoflowOutoftheskyincloudfuls，likeblownhail。
SwiftLadyEuniceran，herfarthingale，Unnoticed，tanglinginafallenrake。
XXXI
ShegavealittlecryandfellquiteproneInthelonggrass，andlaythereverystill。
Gervaseleaptfromthetreeathersoftmoan，Andkneelingoverher，withclumsyskillUnloosedherbodice，fannedherwithhishat，Andhisunguardedlipspronouncedhisheart。
\"Eunice，myDearestGirl，whereareyouhurt？\"
HistremblingfingersdartOverherlimbsseekingsomewound。ShestroveToanswer，openedwidehereyes，aboveHerkneltSirEverard，withfacealert。
XXXII
Hereyelidsfellagainatthatsweetsight，\"MyLove！\"shemurmured，\"Dearest！Oh，myDear！\"
HetookherinhisarmsandboreherrightAndtenderlytotheoldseat，and\"HereIhaveyoumineatlast，\"shesaid，andswoonedUnderhiskisses。WhenshecameoncemoreTosightofhim，shesmiledincomfortknowingHerselflaidasbeforeClosecoveredonhisbreast。AndallherglowingYouthansweredhim，andevernearergrowingShetwinedhiminherarmsandsoftfestoonedXXXIII
Herselfabouthimlikeafloweringvine，Drawinghislipstoclinguponherown。
ArayofsunlightpiercedtheleavestoshineWhereherhalf-openedbodiceletbeshownHerwhitethroatflutteringtohissoftcaress，Half-gaspingwithhergladness。AndherpledgeShewhispers，meltingwithdelight。AtwigSnapsinthehornbeamhedge。
Acacklinglaughtearsthroughthequietness。
Eunicestartsupinterribledistress。
\"MyGod！What’sthat？\"Herstaringeyesarebig。
XXXIV
RevulsedemotionsetherbodyshakingAsthoughshehadanague。Gervaseswore，JumpedtohisfeetinsuchadreadfultakingHisfacewasghastlywiththelookitwore。
Crouchingandslippingthroughthetrees，amanInworn，bluelivery，ahumpbackedthing，Madeoff。ButturnedeveryfewstepstogazeAtEunice，andtoflingVilelooksandgesturesback。\"Theruffian！
ByChrist’sDeath！IwillsplithimtoaspanOfhog’sthongs。\"Shegraspedathissleeve，\"Gervase！
XXXV
Whatareyoudoinghere？Putdownthatsword，That’sonlypooroldTony，crazedandlame。
Wenevernoticehim。WithmydearLordIoughtnottohavemindedthathecame。
But，Gervase，itsurprisesmethatyouShouldsolackgracetostayhere。\"WithonehandSheheldhergapingbodicetoconcealHerbreast。\"ImustdemandYourinstantabsence。Everard，butnewReturned，willhardlycareforguests。Adieu。\"
\"Eunice，you’remad。\"Hisbrainbegantoreel。
XXXVI
Hetriedagaintotakeher，triedtotwistHerarmsabouthim。Truly，shehadsaidNothingshouldeverpartthem。InamistShepushedhimfromher，claspedherachingheadInbothherhands，androckedandsobbedaloud。
\"Oh！WhereisEverard？Whatdoesthismean？
Solatelycometoleavemethusalone！\"
ButGervasehadnotseenSirEverard。Then，gently，toherbowedAndsickeningspirit，hetoldofherproudSurrendertohim。Hecouldhearhermoan。
XXXVII
Thenshamesweptoverherandheldhernumb，Hidingheranguishedfaceagainsttheseat。
Atlastsherose，awomanstricken——dumb——
Andtrailedawaywithslowly-draggingfeet。
Gervaselookedafterher，butfearedtopassThebarriersetbetweenthem。AllhisrareJoybroketofragments——worsethanthat，unreal。
Andstandinglonelythere，Hisswollenheartburstout，andonthegrassHeflunghimselfandwept。Heknew，alas！
Thelosssogreathislifecouldneverheal。
XXXVIII
FordaysthereafterEunicelivedretired，Waiteduponbyoneoldserving-maid。
Shewouldnotleaveherchamber，anddesiredOnlytohideherself。ShewasafraidOfwhathereyesmighttrickherintoseeing，Ofwhatherlongingurgeherthentodo。
WhatwasthisdreadfulillnesssolitudeHadtorturedherinto？
HerhourswentbyinalongconstantfleeingThethoughtofthatonemorning。AndherbeingBruiseditselfonahappeningsorude。
XXXIX
ItgrewripeSummer，whenonemorningcameHertirewomanwithaletter，printedUponthesealweretheDeanecrestandname。
Withutmostgentleness，theletterhintedHisunderstandingandhisdeepregret。
ButwouldshenotpermithimonceagainTopayherhisprofoundrespects？NowordOfwhathadpassedshouldpainHerresolution。OnlyletthemgetBacktheoldcomradeship。HereyeswerewetWithstartingtears，nowtrulyshedeploredXL
Hismisery。Yes，shewaswrongtokeepAwayfromhim。Hehardlywastoblame。
’Twasshe——sheshudderedandbegantoweep。
’Twasherfault！Hers！HereverlastingshameWasthatshesufferedhim，whomnotatallSheloved。PoorBoy！Yes，theymuststillbefriends。
Sheowedhimthattokeepthebalancestraight。
ItwassuchpooramendsWhichshecouldmakeforrousinghopestogallHimwiththeirunfulfilment。TragicalItwas，andshemustleavehimdesolate。
XLI
HardsilencehehadforceduponhislipsForlongandlong，andwouldhavedonesostillHadnotshe——hereshepressedherfingertipsAgainstherheavyeyes。ThenwithforcedwillShewrotethathemightcome，sealedwiththearmsOfCroweandFramptontwined。HerheartfeltlighterWhenthiswasdone。ItseemedherconstantcareMightsomedayceasetofrighther。
Illnesscouldbenocrime，anddreadfulharmsDidcomefromtoomuchsunshine。HeralarmsWouldlessenwhenshesawhimstandingthere，XLII
Simpleandkind，abrotherjustreturnedFromjourneying，andhewouldtreatherso。
Sheknewhishonestheart，andifthereburnedAsparkinithewouldnotletitshow。
Butwhenhereallycame，andstoodbesideHerunderneaththefruitlesscherryboughs，Heseemedatiredman，gaunt，leaden-eyed。
Hemadehernomorevows，NordidhementiononethinghehadtriedToputintohisletter。WarsuppliedHimtopics。Andhismindseemedoccupied。
XLIII
Dailytheymet。Andgravelywalkedandtalked。
Hereadhernomoreverses，andhestayedOnlyuntiltheirconversation，balkedOfeverynaturalchannel，fleddismayed。
Againthenextdayshewouldmeethim，tryingTogivehertonesomehealthysprightliness，ButhisuneagerdignitysoonchilledHerwell-preparedaddress。
ThusSummerwaned，andinthemornings，cryingOfwildgeesestartledEunice，andtheirflyingWhirredoverheadfordaysandneverstilled。
XLIV
Oneafternoonofgreycloudsandwhitewind，EuniceawaitedGervasebytheriver。
TheDartlesplashedamongthereedsandwhinedOverthewillow-roots，andalongsliverOfcakedandslobberedfoamcreptupthebank。
Allthroughthegarden，driftsofskirlingleavesBlewup，andsettleddown，andblewagain。
Thecherry-treeswereweavesOfempty，knottedbranches，andadankMisthidthehouse，mouldyitsmeltandrankWithsoddenwood，andstillunfallingrain。
XLV
Eunicepacedupanddown。NojoyshetookAtmeetingGervase，butthecustomgrownStillheldher。Hewaslate。Shesuddenshook，Andcaughtatherstoppedheart。HereyeshadshownSirEverardemergingfromthemist。
Hisuniformwastravel-stainedandtorn，Hisjackbootsmuddy，andhiseagerstrideJangledhisspurs。AthornEntangled，trailedbehindhim。TothetrystHehastened。Euniceshuddered，ran——atwistRoundasharpturningandshefledtohide。
XLVI
Buthehadseenherassheswiftlyran，Aflashofwhiteagainsttheriver’sgrey。
\"Eunice，\"hecalled。\"MyDarling。Eunice。CanYouhearme？ItisEverard。AlldayIhavebeenridingliketheverydevilToreachyousooner。Areyoustartled，Dear？\"
Hebrokeintoarunandfollowedher，Andcaughther，faintwithfear，CoweringandtremblingasthoughshesomeevilSpiritwereseeing。\"WhatmeansthisuncivilGreeting，DearHeart？\"Hesawhersensesblur。
XLVII
Swayingandcatchingattheseat，shetriedTospeak，butonlygurgledinherthroat。
Atlast，strainingtoholdherself，shecriedTohimforpity，andherstrangewordssmoteAcoldnessthroughhim，forshebeggedGervaseToleaveher，’twastoomuchasecondtime。
Gervasemustgo，alwaysGervase，hermindRepeatedlikearhymeThisnamehedidnotknow。InsadamazeHewatchedher，andthathunted，fearfulgaze，Sounrememberingandsounkind。
XLVIII
Softlyhespoketoher，patientlydealtWithwhathefearedhermadness。ByandbyHepiercedherunderstanding。ThenhekneltUpontheseat，andtookherhands：\"NowtryTothinkaminuteIamcome，myDear，Unharmedandbackonfurlough。AreyougladTohaveyourloverhomeagain？Tome，PickthornhasneverhadAgreaterpleasantness。CouldyounotbearTocomeandsitawhilebesidemehere？
Astonebetweenussurelyshouldnotbe。\"
XLIX
Shesmiledalittlewanandravelledsmile，ThencametohimandonhisshoulderlaidHerhead，andtheytworestedthereawhile，Eachtakingcomfort。Notawordwassaid。
ButwhenheputhishanduponherbreastAndfeltherbeatingheart，andwithhislipsSoughtsolaceforherandhimself。ShestartedAsonesharplashedwithwhips，Andpushedhimfromher，moaning，hisdumbquestDeniedandshudderedfrom。Andhe，distrest，Loosenedhiswife，andlongtheysatthere，parted。
L
Eunicewasveryquietallthatday，Alittledazed，andyetsheseemedcontent。
Atcandle-time，heaskedifshewouldplayUponherharpsichord，atonceshewentAndtinkledairsfromLully’s`Carnival’
And`Bacchus’，newlybroughtawayfromFrance。
ThenjauntedthroughalivelyrigadoonTopleasehimwithadanceByPurcell，forhesaidthatsurelyallGoodEnglishmenhadprideinnationalAccomplishment。ButtiringofitsoonLI
HewhisperedherthatifshehadforgivenHisstartlingherthatafternoon，theclockMarkedearlybed-time。SurelyitwasHeavenHeenteredwhensheopenedtohisknock。
ThehoursrustledinthetrailingwindOverthechimney。ClosetheylayandknewOnlythattheywerewedded。AthistouchAnxietyshethrewAwaylikeashedgarment，andinclinedHerselftocherishhim，herhappymindQuivering，unthinking，lovingovermuch。
LII
EunicelaylongawakeinthecoolnightAfterherhusbandslept。ShegazedwithjoyIntotheshadows，paintingthemwithbrightPicturesofallherfuturelife’semploy。
Twingemstheywere，settoasinglejewel，Eachshiningwiththeother。SoftsheturnedAndfelthisbreathuponherhair，andprayedHerhappinesswasearned。
PastEarlsofCroweshouldgivetheirbloodforfuelTolightthisFrampton’shearth-fire。BynocruelAffrightingswouldsheeverbedismayed。
LIII
WhenEverard，nextday，askedherinjokeWhatnameitwasthatshehadcalledhimby，ShetoldhimofGervase，andasshespokeShehardlyrealizeditwasalie。
Hervisionsherelated，butshehidThefondnessintowhichshehadbeenled。
SirEverardjustlaughedandpinchedherear，AndquiteoutofherheadThematterdrifted。ThenSirEverardchidHimselfforlaziness，andoffheridToseehismenandcounthisfarming-gear。
LIV
Atsupperheseemedoverspreadwithgloom，Butgavenoreasonwhy，heonlyaskedMorequestionsofGervase，androundtheroomHewalkedwithrestlessstrides。AtlasthetaskedHerwithagreaterfeelingforthismanThanshehadgiven。EunicequickdeniedTheslightestinterestotherthanafriendMightclaim。ButherepliedHethoughtsheunderrated。ThenabanHeputontalkandmusic。He’daplanToworkat，drainingswampsatPickthornEnd。
LV
NextmorningEunicefoundherLordstillchanged，Hardandunkind，withburstsofanger。PrideKepthimfromspeakingout。HisprobingsrangedAllroundhistorment。LadyEunicetriedTosoothhim。Soaweekwentby，andthenHisanguishfloodedover;withclenchedhandsStrivingtostemhiswords，hetoldherplainTonyhadseenthem，\"brandsBurninginHell，\"themanhadsaid。AgainEunicedescribedhervision，andhowwhenAwokeatlastshehadknowndreadfulpain。
LVI
Hecouldnotcreditit，andmiseryfedUponhisspirit，daybydayitgrew。
ToGervaseheforbadethehouse，andledTheLadyEunicesuchalifesheflewAthisapproachingfootsteps。WintercameSnowingandblusteringthroughtheManortrees。
Alltheroof-edgesspikedwithiciclesInflutedcompanies。
TheLadyEunicewithhertambour-frameKeptherselfsighingcompany。TheflameOfthebirchfireglitteredonthewalls。
LVII
Aletterwasbroughttoherasshesat，Unsealed，unsigned。Ittoldherthathiswound，Thewriter’s，hadsowellrecoveredthatTojoinhisregimenthefelthimbound。
Butwouldshenotwishhimoneshort\"Godspeed\"，Heaskednomore。Hergreetingwouldsuffice。
Hehadresolvedhenevershouldreturn。
WouldshethissacrificeMakeforadyingman？HowcouldshereadTherest！Butforcinghereyestothedeed，Sheread。Thendroppeditinthefiretoburn。
LVIII
GervasehadsettheriverfortheirmeetingAsfarthestfromthefarmswhereEverardSpentallhisdays。HowshouldheknowsuchcheatingWasquiteexpected，atleastnodullardWasEverardFrampton。HoursbyhourshehidAmongthewillowswatching。Duskhadcome，AndfromtheManorhehadlongbeengone。
EuniceherburdensomeTasksetabout。Hoodedandcloaked，sheslidOvertheslipperypaths，andsoonamidThesallowssawaboattiedtoastone。
LIX
Gervasearose，andkissedherhand，thenpointedIntotheboat。Sheshookherhead，butheBeggedhertorealizewhy，andwithdisjointedWordstoldherofwhatperiltheremightbeFromlistenersalongtheriverbank。
Apushwouldtakethemoutofearshot。TenMinuteswasallheasked，thensheshouldland，Hegoawayagain，Foreverthistime。YethowcouldhethankHerforsomuchcompassion。HereshesankUponathwart，andbidhimquickunstrandLX
Hisboat。Hecasttherope，andshovedthekeelFreeofthegravel;jumped，anddroppedbesideHer;tooktheoars，andtheybegantostealUndertheoverhangingtrees。AwideGashofredlantern-lightcleftlikeabladeIntothegloom，andstruckonEunicesittingRigidandstarkupontheafterthwart。
ItblazedupontheirflittingInmercilesslight。Amomentsoitstayed，Thenwasextinguished，andSirEverardmadeOneleap，andlandedjustafractionshort。
LXI
HisweightuponthegunwaletippedtheboatTostrainingbalance。EverardlurchedandseizedHiswifeandheldhersmotheredtohiscoat。
\"Everard，looseme，weshalldrown——\"andsqueezedAgainsthim，shebeatwithherhands。Hegasped\"Never，byGod！\"ThesliddenboatgavewayAndtheblackfoamywatersplit——andmet。
BubbledupthroughthesprayAwailingroseandinthebranchesrasped，Andcreaked，andstilled。Overthetreetops，claspedIntheblueevening，aclearmoonwasset。
LXII
Theylieentangledinthetwistingroots，Embracedforever。TheircoldmarriagebedClose-canopiedandcurtainedbytheshootsOfwillowsandpalebirches。Atthehead，Whitelilies，likestillswans，placidlyfloatAndswayabovethepebbles。HerearewavesSun-smittenforathreadedcounterpaneGold-wovenontheirgraves。
Inperfectquietnesstheysleep，remoteInthegreen，rippledtwilight。DeathhassmoteThemtoperpetualonenesswhoweretwain。
TheCremonaViolinPartFirstFrauConcert-MeisterAltgeltshutthedoor。
Astormwasrising，heavygustsofwindSwirledthroughthetrees，andscatteredleavesbeforeHerontheclean，flaggedpath。TheskybehindThedistanttownwasblack，andsharpdefinedAgainstitshonethelinesofroofsandtowers，Superimposedandflatlikecardboardflowers。
Apastedcityonapurpleground，Pickedoutwithluminouspaint，itseemed。ThecloudSplitonanedgeoflightning，andasoundOfriversfullandrushingboomedthroughbowed，Tossed，hissingbranches。ThunderrumbledloudBeyondthetownfastswallowingintogloom。
FrauAltgeltclosedthewindowsofeachroom。
ShebustledroundtoshakebyconstantmovingThestrange，weirdatmosphere。Shestirredthefire，Shetwitchedthesupper-clothasthoughimprovingItscarefulsetting，thenherownattireCameinfornotice，tiptoeinghigherandhigherShepeeredintothewall-glass，nowadjustingAstrayinglock，orelsearibbonthrustingThiswayorthattosuither。Atlastsitting，Orratherplumpingdownuponachair，Shetookherwork，thestockingshewasknitting，AndwatchedtherainuponthewindowglareInwhite，brightdrops。ThroughtheblackglassaflareOflightningsquirmedaboutherneedles。\"Oh！\"
Shecried。\"WhatcanbekeepingTheodoreso！\"
Arollofthundersetthecasementsclapping。
FrauAltgeltflungherworkasideandran，Pulledopenthehousedoor，withkerchiefflappingShestoodandgazedalongthestreet。AmanFlungbackthegarden-gateandnearlyranHerdownasshestoodinthedoor。\"Why，Dear，Whatinthenameofpatiencebringsyouhere？
Quick，Lotta，shutthedoor，myviolinIfeariswetted。Now，Dear，bringalight。
Thisclaspisverymuchtoowornandthin。
I’lltaketheotherfiddleoutto-nightIfitstillrains。Tut！Tut！mychild，you’requiteClumsy。Here，helpme，holdthecasewhileI——
Givemethecandle。No，theinside’sdry。
ThankGodforthat！Well，Lotta，howareyou？
Abadstorm，butthehousestillstands，Isee。
Ismypipefilled，myDear？I’llhaveafewPuffsandasnoozebeforeIeatmytea。
Whatdoyousay？Thatyouwerefearedforme？
Nonsense，mychild。Yes，kissme，nowdon’ttalk。
Ineedarest，thetheatre’salongwalk。\"
Herneedlesstill，herhandsuponherlapPatientlylaid，CharlottaAltgeltsatAndwatchedtherain-runwindow。InhisnapHerhusbandstirredandmuttered。Seeingthat，Charlottaroseandsoftly，pit-a-pat，Climbedupthestairs，andinherlittleroomFoundsighingcomfortwithamooninbloom。
Butevenrainywindows，silver-litByanew-burst，storm-whettedmoon，maygiveButpoorcontenttoloneliness，anditWashardforyoungCharlottasotostriveAnddownhereagernessandlearntoliveInplacidquiet。Whileherhusbandslept，Charlottainherupperchamberwept。
HerrConcert-MeisterAltgeltwasamanGentleandunambitious，thataloneHadkepthimback。Heplayedasfewmencan，DrawingoutofhisinstrumentatoneSoshimmering-sweetandpalpitant，itshoneLikeabrightthreadofsoundhungintheair，Afloatandswingingupward，slimandfair。
Aboveallthings，aboveCharlottahiswife，HerrAltgeltlovedhisviolin，afineCremonapattern，Stradivari’slifeWasfloweringoutofearlydisciplineWhenthiswasfashioned。Ofsoft-cuttingpineThebellywas。ThebackofbroadlycurledMaple，theheadmadethickandsharplywhirled。
Theslanting，youthfulsound-holesthroughThebellyoffine，vigorouspineMellowedeachnoteandblewItoutagainwithawoodyflavourTangedandfragrantasfir-treesareWhenbreezesintheirneedlesjar。
Thevarnishwasanorange-brownLusteredlikeglassthat’slonglaiddownUnderacrumblingvillastone。
Purfledstoutly，withmitreswhichpointStraightupthecorners。EachcurveandjointClear，andbold，andthin。
SuchwasHerrTheodore’sviolin。
Seveno’clock，theConcert-MeistergoneWithhisbestviolin，therainbeingstopped，FrauLottainthekitchensataloneWatchingtheemberswhichthefiredropped。
Thechinashoneuponthedresser，toppedBypolishedcoppervesselswhichherskillKeptbrightlyburnished。Itwasverystill。
Anairfrom`Orfeo’hummedinherhead。
HerrAltgelthadbeenpractisingbeforeThenight’sperformance。CharlottahadpleadWithhimtostaywithher。EvenatthedoorShe’dbeggedhimnottogo。\"IdoimploreYouforthisevening，Theodore，\"shehadsaid。
\"Leavethemto-night，andstaywithmeinstead。\"
\"Asillypoppet！\"Theodorepinchedherear。
\"You’dliketohaveourgoodElectorturnMeoutIthink。\"\"But，Theodore，somethingqueerAilsme。Oh，dobutnoticehowtheyburn，Mycheeks！Thethunderworriedme。You’restern，Andcold，andonlyloveyourwork，Iknow。
ButTheodore，forthisevening，donotgo。\"
Buthehadgone，hurriedlyattheend，Forshehadkepthimtalking。NowshesatAloneagain，alwaysalone，thetrendOfallherthinkingbroughtherbacktothatShewishedtobanish。Whatwouldlifebe？What？
Forshewasyoung，andloved，whilehewasmovedOnlybymusic。Eachdaythatwasproved。
Eachdayheroseandpractised。Whileheplayed，Shestoppedherworkandlistened，andherheartSwelledpainfullybeneathherbodice。SwayedAndlonging，shewouldhidefromhimhersmart。
\"Well，Lottchen，willthatdo？\"ThenwhatastartShegave，andshewouldruntohimandcry，Andhewouldgentlychideher，\"Fie，Dear，fie。
I’mgladIplayeditwell。Butsuchataking！
You’llhearthethingenoughbeforeI’vedone。\"
Andshewoulddrawawayfromhim，stillshaking。
Hadhebutguessedshewasanotherone，Anotherviolin。Herstringswereaching，Stretchedtothetouchofhisbowhand，againHeplayedandshealmostbrokeatthestrain。
Wherewastheuseofthinkingofitnow，Sittingaloneandlisteningtotheclock！
She’dbestmakehasteandknitanotherrow。
ThreehoursatleastmustpassbeforehisknockWouldstartleher。Italwayswasashock。
Shelistened——listened——forsolongbefore，Thatwhenitcameherhearingalmosttore。
Shecaughtherselfjuststartingintolisten。
Whatnervesshehad：rattlinglikebrittlesticks！
Shewanderedtothewindow，fortheglistenOfabrightmoonwastempting。SnuffedthewicksOfhertwocandles。StillshecouldnotfixToanything。ThemooninabroadswathBeckonedheroutanddownthegarden-path。
Againstthehouse，herhollyhocksstoodhighAndblack，theirshadowsdoublingthem。ThenightWaswhiteandstillwithmoonlight，andasighOfblowingleaveswasthere，andthedimflightOfinsects，andthesmellofaconite，Andstocks，andMarvelofPeru。SheflittedAlongthepath，whereblocksofshadowpittedTheevenflags。SheletherselfgodreamingOfTheodoreherhusband，andthetuneFrom`Orfeo’swamthroughhermind，butseemingChanged——shriller。Ofasudden，theclearmoonShowedherapasser-by，inopportuneIndeed，butherehewas，whistlingandstriding。
Lottasqueezedinbetweenthecurrants，hiding。
\"Thebestlaidplansofmiceandmen，\"alas！
Thestrangercameindeed，butdidnotpass。
Instead，heleantuponthegarden-gate，Foldinghisarmsandwhistling。Lotta’sstate，Crouchedinthepricklycurrants，onwetgrass，Wasfarfrompleasant。Stillthestrangerstayed，AndLottainhercurrantswatched，dismayed。
HeseemedaproperfellowstandingthereInthebrightmoonshine。HiscockedhatwaslacedWithsilver，andheworehisownbrownhairTied，butunpowdered。HiswholebearinggracedAfineclothcoat，andruffledshirt，andchasedSword-hilt。Charlottalooked，butherpositionWashardlyeasy。WhenwouldhisvolitionSuggesthiswalkingon？Andthenthattune！
Ahalf-a-dozenbarsfrom`Orfeo’
Goneoverandover，andmurdered。WhatFortuneHadbroughthimtheretostareabouthimso？
\"Ach，GottimHimmel！Whywillhenotgo！\"
ThoughtLotta，buttheyoungmanwhistledon，Andseemedinnogreathurrytobegone。
Charlotta，crouchedamongthecurrantbushes，Watchedthemoonslowlydipfromtwigtotwig。
IfTheodoreshouldchancetocome，andblushesStreamedoverher。Hewouldnotcareafig，He’donlylaugh。ShepushedasideasprigOfsharp-edgedleavesandpeered，thensheuproseAmidherbushes。\"Sir，\"saidshe，\"praywhoseGardendoyousupposeyou’rewatching？WhyDoyoustandthere？IreallymustinsistUponyourleaving。’TisunmannerlyTostaysolong。\"TheyoungmangaveatwistAndturnedabout，andintheamethystMoonlighthesawherlikeanymphhalf-risenFromthegreenbusheswhichhadbeenherprison。
Heswepthishatoffinahurriedbow。
\"Yourpardon，Madam，IhadnoideaIwasnotquitealone，andthatishowIcametostay。MytrespasswasnotsheerImpertinence。Ithoughtnoonewashere，Andreallygardenscrytobeadmired。
To-nightespeciallyitseemedrequired。
AndmayIbegtointroducemyself？
HeinrichMarohlofMunich。Andyourname？\"
Charlottatoldhim。AndtheartfulelfPromptlyexclaimedaboutherhusband’sfame。
SoLotta，half-unwilling，slowlycameToconversationwithhim。WhenshewentIntothehouse，shefoundtheeveningspent。
Theodorearrivedquiteweariedoutandteased，Withallexcitementinhimburnedaway。
Ithadgonewell，hesaid，theaudiencepleased，Andhehadplayedhisverybestto-day，ButafterwardshehadbeenforcedtostayAndpractisewiththestupidones。HisheadAchedfuriously，andhemustgettobed。
PartSecondHerrConcert-MeisterAltgeltplayed，AndthefourstringsofhisviolinWerespinninglikebeesonadayinSpring。
Thenotesroseintothewidesun-moteWhichslantedthroughthewindow，Theylaylikecolouredbeadsa-row，Theyknockedtogetherandparted，Andstartedtodance，Skipping，tripping，eachoneslippingUnderandovertheotherssoThatthepolychromefirestreamedlikealanceOracomet’stail，Behindthem。
Thenawailarose——crescendo——
Anddroppedfromofftheendofthebow，Andthedancingstopped。
Ascentofliliesfilledtheroom，Longandslow。EachlargewhitebloomBreathedasoundwhichwasholyperfumefromablessedcenser，Andthehumofanorgantone，AndtheywavedlikefansinahallofstoneOverabierstandingthereinthecentre，alone。
Eachlilybentslowlyasitwasblown。
Likesmoketheyrosefromtheviolin——
ThenfadedasaswifterbowingJumbledthenoteslikewaveletsflowingInasplashing，pashing，ripplingmotionBetweenbroadmeadowstoanoceanWideasadayandblueasaflower，WhereeveryhourGullsdipped，andscattered，andsquawked，andsquealed，AndoverthemarshestheAngeluspealed，Andtheprowsofthefishing-boatswerespatteredWithspray。
AndawayacoupleoffrigateswerestartingToracetoJavawithallsailsset，Topgallants，androyals，andstunsails，andjibs，Andwidemoonsails;andtheshiningrailsWerepolishedsobrighttheysparkedinthesun。
Allthesailswentupwitharun：
\"TheycallmeHangingJohnny，Away-i-oh;
TheycallmeHangingJohnny，Sohang，boys，hang。\"
Andthesunhadsetandthehighmoonwhitened，Andtheshipheeledovertothebreeze。
Hedrewherintotheshadeofthesails，AndwhisperedtalesOfvoyagesintheChinaseas，AndhisarmaroundherHeldandboundher。
Shealmostswooned，WiththebreezeandthemoonAndtheslippingsea，Andhebesideher，Touchingher，leaning——
Theshipcareening，WiththewhitemoonsteadilyshiningoverHerandherlover，Theodore，stillherlover！
Thenaquiverfellonthecrowdednotes，AndslowlyfloatedAsinglenotewhichspreadandspreadTillitfilledtheroomwithashimmerlikegold，Andnoisesshiveredthroughoutitslength，Andtrieditsstrength。
Theypulledit，andtoreit，Andthestuffwanedthinner，butstillitboreit。
ThenawiderentSplitthearchingtent，Andballsoffirespurtedthrough，Spittingyellow，andmauve，andblue。
Onebyonetheywerequenchedastheyfell，Onlytheblueburnedsteadily。
Palerandpaleritgrew，and——faded——away。
HerrAltgeltstopped。
\"Well，Lottachen，myDear，whatdoyousay？
IthinkI’mingoodtrim。Nowlet’shavedinner。
What’sthis，myLove，you’reverysweetto-day。
IwonderhowithappensI’mthewinnerOfsomuchsweetness。ButIthinkyou’rethinner;
You’relikeabagoffeathersonmyknee。
Why，Lottachild，you’realmoststranglingme。
I’mgladyou’regoingoutthisafternoon。
Thedaysaregettingshort，andI’msotiedAttheCourtTheatremypoorlittlebrideHasnotmuchjunketingIfear，butsoonI’llaskourmanagertograntaboon。
To-night，perhaps，I’llgetapassforyou，AndwhenIgo，whyLottacancometoo。
Nowdinner，Love。IwantsomeonionsoupTowhipmeuptillthatrehearsal’sover。
Youknowit’soddhowsomewomencanstoop！
FraeuleinGebnitzhastakenonalover，AJewnamedGoldstein。NoonecandiscoverIfit’shismoney。ButshelivesalonePractically。Gebnitzisastone，Poresoverbooksallday，andhasnoearForhiswife’ssinging。Artistsmusthavemen;
Theyneedappreciation。Butit’squeerWhatmessespeoplemakeoftheirlives，whenTheyshouldknowmore。IfGebnitzfindsout，thenHiswifewillpack。Yes，shutthedooratonce。
Ididnotfeelitcold，Iamadunce。\"
FrauAltgelttiedherbonnetonandwentIntothestreets。Abright，crispAutumnwindFlirtedherskirtsandhair。Aturbulent，Audaciouswinditwas，nowclosebehind，PushingherbonnetforwardtillittwinedThestringsacrossherface，thenfrominfrontSlantinglyswingingatherwithashunt，Untilshelayagainstit，struggling，pushing，DismayedtofindherclothingtightlyboundAroundher，everyfoldandwrinklecrushingItselfuponher，sothatshewaswoundIndraperiesasclingingasthosefoundSuckingaboutaseanymphonthefriezeOfsomeoldGreciantemple。InthebreezeTheshopsandhouseshadaqualityOfhardanddazzlingcolour;somethingsharpAndbuoyant，likewhite，puffingsailsatsea。
Thecitystreetsweretwanginglikeaharp。
Charlottacaughtthemovement，skippinglySheblewalongthepavement，hardlyknowingTowardwhatdestinationshewasgoing。
Shefetchedupoppositeajeweller’sshop，Wherefiligreedtiarasshonelikecrowns，AndnecklacesofemeraldsseemedtodropAndthenfloatupagainwithlightness。BrownsOfstripedagatesstruckherlikecoldfrownsAmidthegaietyoftopazseals，Carvedthoughtheywerewithheads，andarms，andwheels。
ArowofpencilsknobbedwithquartzorsardDelightedher。AndringsofeverysizeTurnedsmartlyroundlikehoopsbeforehereyes，Amethyst-flamedorruby-girdled，jarredTospokesandflashingtriangles，andstarredLikerocketsburstingonafestalday。
Charlottacouldnottearherselfaway。
Witheyesgluedtightlyonagoldenbox，Whoserareenamelpiquedherwithitshue，Changeable，iridescent，shuttlecocksOfshadesandlustresalwaysdartingthroughItslevel，superimposingsheetofblue，Charlottadidnothearfootstepsapproaching。
Shestartedatthewords：\"AmIencroaching？\"
\"Oh，Heinrich，howyoufrightenedme！IthoughtWeweretomeetatthree，isitquitethat？\"
\"No，itisnot，\"heanswered，\"butI’vecaughtThetrickofmissingyou。Onethingisflat，Icannotgoonthisway。LifeiswhatMightbestbeconjuredupbytheword：`Hell’。
Dearest，whenwillyoucome？\"Lotta，toquellHiseffervescence，pointedtothegemsWithinthewindow，askedhimtoadmireAbraceletorabuckle。ButonestemsUneasilytheburningofafire。
Heinrichwaschafing，prickedbyhisdesire。
LittlebylittleshewooedhimtohermoodUntilatlasthepromisedtobegood。
Butherehestartedonanothertack;
Tobuyajewel，whichonewouldLottachoose。
ShevainlyurgedagainsthimallherlackOfothertrinkets。ShouldshedaretouseAringorbroochherhusbandmightaccuseHerofextravagance，andasktoseeAstrictaccounting，orstillworsemightbe。
ButHeinrichwouldnotbepersuaded。WhyShouldhenotgiveherwhatheliked？AndinHewent，determinedcertainlytobuyAthingsobeautifulthatitwouldwinHerwaveringfancy。Altgelt’sviolinHewouldoutscorebysuchahandsomejewelThatLottacouldnolongerbesocruel！
PityCharlotta，tornindiverseways。
Ifshewentinwithhim，theshopmanmightRecognizeher，giveherhername;indaysTocomehecoulddenounceher。InherfrightShealmostfled。ButHeinrichwouldbequiteCapableofpursuing。ByandbyShepushedthedoorandenteredhurriedly。
IttooksomepainstokeephimfrombestowingApairofrubyearrings，carvedlikeroses，ThesettingtwinedtorepresentthegrowingTendrilsandleaves，uponher。\"WhosupposesIcouldobtainsuchthings！ItsimplyclosesAllcomfortforme。\"SohechangedhismindAndboughtasslightagiftashecouldfind。
Alocket，frostedoverwithseedpearls，Oblongandslim，forwearingattheneck，Orhiddeninthebosom;theirjoinedcurlsShouldlieinit。AndfurthertobedeckHislove，Heinrichhadpickedawhiff，afleck，Themerestpuffofathin，linkedchainTohangitfrom。LottacouldnotrefrainFromweepingastheysauntereddownthestreet。
Shedidnotwantthelocket，yetshedid。
Tohavehimlovehershefoundverysweet，Butitishardtokeeplovealwayshid。
ThentherewassomethinginherheartwhichchidHer，toldhershelovedTheodoreinhim，Thatallthesemeetingswereafoolishwhim。
ShethoughtofTheodoreandthelifetheyled，Soneartogether，butsolittlemingled。
Thegreatcloudsbulgedandbelliedoverhead，Andthefreshwindaboutherbodytingled;
Thecraneofalargewarehousecreakedandjingled;
Charlottaheldherbreathforveryfear，Aboutherinthestreetsheseemedtohear：
\"TheycallmeHangingJohnny，Away-i-oh;
TheycallmeHangingJohnny，Sohang，boys，hang。\"
AnditwasTheodore，undertheracingskies，Whoheldherandwhowhisperedinherear。
Sheknewherheartwastellinghernolies，Beatingandhammering。Hewassodear，ThetouchofhimwouldsendherinaqueerSwoonthatwashalfanecstasy。AndyearningForTheodore，shewandered，slowlyturningStreetafterstreetasHeinrichwisheditso。
Hehadsomeaim，shehadforgottenwhat。
Theirprogresswasconfusedandveryslow，Butatthelasttheyreachedalonelyspot，AgardenfarabovethehighestshotOfsoaringsteeple。Attheirfeet，thetownSpreadopenlikeachequer-boardlaiddown。
Lottawasdimlyconsciousoftherest，VaguelyrememberedhowheclaspedthechainAboutherneck。Shetreateditinjest，Andsawhisfacecloudoverwithsharppain。
ThensuddenlyshefeltasthoughastrainWereputuponher，collaredlikeaslave，Leashedinthemeshesofthisthinghegave。
SheseizedtheflimsyringswithbothherhandsTosnapit，buttheyheldwithoddpersistence。
Hereyeswereblindedbytwowind-blownstrandsOfhairwhichhadbeenloosened。HerresistanceMeltedwithinher，fromremotestdistance，Misty，unreal，hisfacegrewwarmandnear，Andgivingwaysheknewhimverydear。
Forlongheheldher，andtheybothgazeddownAtthewidecity，anditsblue，bridgedriver。
Fromwooinghejestedwithher，snippedtheblownStrandsofherhair，andtiedthemwithasliverCutfromhisownhead。ButshegaveashiverWhen，openingthelocket，theywereplacedUndertheglass，commingledandenlaced。
\"Whenwillyouhaveitsowithus？\"Hesighed。
Sheshookherhead。Hepressedherfurther。\"No，No，Heinrich，Theodorelovesme，\"andshetriedTofreeherselfandrise。Heheldherso，Clippedbyhisarms，shecouldnotmovenorgo。
\"Butyouloveme，\"hewhispered，withhisfaceBurningagainstherthroughherkerchief’slace。
FrauAltgeltknewshetoyedwithfire，knewThatwhatherhusbandlitthisothermanFannedtohotflame。ShetoldherselfthatfewWomenweresodiscreetasshe，whoranNodangersincesheknewwhatthingstoban。
Sheopenedherhousedooratfiveo’clock，Ashorthalf-hourbeforeherhusband’sknock。
PartThirdThe`Residenz-Theater’sparkedandhummedWithlightsandpeople。Gebnitzwastosing，Thatraresoprano。AllthefiddlesstrummedWithtuningup;thewood-windsmadearingOfreedybubblingnoises，andthestingOfsharp，redbrasspiercedeveryear-drum;pattingFrommuffledtympanimadeadarkslattingAcrossthesilvershimmeringofflutes;
Abassoongrunted，andanoboewailed;
The’cellipizzicato-edlikegreatlutes，AndmutteringsofdoublebassestrailedAwaytosilence，whileloudharp-stringshailedTheirthin，brightcoloursdowninsuchascatterTheylostthemselvesamidthegeneralclatter。
FrauAltgeltinthegallery，alone，Feltliftedupintoanotherworld。
BeforehereyesathousandcandlesshoneInthegreatchandeliers。AmazeofcurledAndpowderedperiwigspasthereyesswirled。
Shesmeltthesmokeofcandlesguttering，AndcaughttheglintofjewelledfansflutteringAllroundherintheboxes。Redandgold，Thehouse，likerubiessetinfiligree，Fillipedthecandlelightabout，andboldYoungsparkswitheye-glasses，unblushinglyOgledfairbeautiesinthebalcony。
Anofficerwentby，hissteelspursjangling。
BehindCharlottaanoldmanwaswranglingAboutaplay-billhehadboughtandlost。
Threedrunkensoldiershadtobeejected。
FrauAltgelt’seyesstaredatthevacantpostOfConcert-Meister，sheatoncedetectedThestirwhichbroughthim。ButshefeltneglectedWhenwithnoglanceabouthimorherway，Helifteduphisviolintoplay。
Thecurtainwentup？Perhaps。Ifso，Charlottaneversawitgo。
ThefamousFraeuleinGebnitz’singingOnlycametoherliketheringingOfbellsatafestaWhichswingintheairAndnobodyrealizestheyarethere。
Theyjingleandjangle，Andclang，andbang，Andneverasoulcouldtellwhethertheyrang，FortheploppingofgunsandrocketsAndthechinkingofsilvertospend，inone’spockets，Andtheshufflingandclappingoffeet，AndtheloudflappingOfflags，withthedrums，Asthemilitarycomes。
It’safamoustunetowalkto，AndIwonderwherethey’reoffto。
Step-step-steppingtothebeatingofthedrums。
ButtherhythmchangesasthoughamistWerecurlingandtwistingOverthelandscape。
Foramomentarhythmless，tunelessfogEncompassesher。ThenhersensesjogTothebreathofastatelyminuet。
HerrAltgelt’sviolinissetIntunetotheslow，sweepingbows，andretreatsandadvances，TocurtsiesbrushingthewaxenfloorastheCourtdances。
LongandpeacefullikewarmSummernightsWhenstarsshineinthequietriver。AndagainstthelightsBlunderinginsectsknock，Andthe`Rathaus’clockBoomstwice，throughtheshrillsoundsOfflutesandhornsinthelamplitgrounds。
PressedagainsthiminthemazywaveringOfacountrydance，withhershortbreathquaveringSheleansuponthebeating，throbbingMusic。Laughing，sobbing，Feetglidingafterslidingfeet;
His——hers——
Theballroomblurs——
ShefeelstheairLiftingherhair，Andthelappingofwateronthestonestair。
Heisthere！Heisthere！
Twangharps，andsqueal，youthinviolins，Thatthedancersmaydance，andneverdiscoverTheoldstonestairleadingdowntotheriverWiththechestnut-treebrancheshangingoverHerandherlover。
Theodore，stillherlover！
Theeveningpassedlikethis，inahalffaint，DeliriumwithwakingintervalsWhichweretheentr’acts。UndertherestraintOfalargecompany，theconstantcallsFororangesorsyropsfromthestallsOutside，thetalk，thepassingtoandfro，Lottasatillatease，incognito。
SheheardtheGebnitzpraised，thetenorlauded，Themusicvauntedasmostexcellent。
Thesceneryandthecostumeswereapplauded，ThelatteritwaswhisperedhadbeensentFromItaly。TheHerrDirektorspentAfortuneonthem，sothegossipssaid。
Charlottafeltalightnessinherhead。
Whenthenextactbegan，hereyeswereswimming，Herproddedearswereachingandconfused。
ThefirstnotesfromtheorchestrasentskimmingHeroutwardconsciousness。HerbrainwasfusedIntothemusic，Theodore’smusic！UsedTohearhimplay，shecaughthissingletone。
Forallshenoticedtheytwowerealone。
PartFourthFrauAltgeltwaitedinthechillystreet，HustledbylackeyswhoranupanddownShoutingtheircoachmen’snames;forcedtoretreatApaceortwobylurchingchairmen;thrownRudelyasidebylinkboys;boldlyshownTheoglingraptureintwoblearyeyesThrustclosetohersinmostunpleasantwise。
Escapingthese，shehitaliveriedarm，WasswornatbythisglitteringgentlemanAndorderedoff。However，nogreatharmCametoher。ButshelookedatriflewanWhenTheodore，herbelatedguardian，Emerged。Shesnuggledupagainsthim，trembling，Halfoutoffear，halfoutoftheassemblingOfallthethoughtsandneedshisplayinghadgiven。
Hadsheenjoyedherself，hewishedtoknow。
\"Oh！Theodore，can’tyoufeelthatitwasHeaven！\"
\"Heaven！MyLottachen，andwasitso？
Gebnitzwasingoodvoice，butalltheflowOfherlastariawasspoiledbyKlops，Awretchedflutist，shewasmadashops。\"
Hewassosimple，somatter-of-fact，CharlottaAltgeltknewnotwhattosayTobringhimtoherdream。HislackoftactKepthimexplainingallthehomewardwayHowthisthinghadgonewell，thatbadly。\"Stay，Theodore！\"shecriedatlast。\"YouknowtomeNothingwasreal，itwasanecstasy。\"
AndhewasheartilygladshehadenjoyedHerselfsomuch，andsaidso。\"Butit’sgoodTobegothomeagain。\"HewasemployedInlookingathisviolin，thewoodWasold，andeveningairdiditnogood。
ButwhenhedrewuptothetableforteaSomethingabouthiswife’svivacityStruckhimashectic，worriedhiminshort。
Hetalkedofthisandthatbutwatchedherclose。
Teaover，heendeavouredtoextortThecauseofherexcitement。ShearoseAndstoodbesidehim，tryingtocomposeHerself，allwhipttoquivering，curdledlife，Andhe，poorfool，misunderstoodhiswife。
Suddenly，brokenthroughheranxiousgrasp，Hermusic-kindledlovecrashedonhimthere。
Amazed，hefeltherflingagainsthim，claspHerarmsabouthim，weighingdownhischair，Sobbingoutallherhoursofdespair。
\"Theodore，awomanneedstohearthingsproved。
Unlessyoutellme，IfeelI’mnotloved。\"
Theodorewentunderinthistearingwave，Heyieldedtoit，anditsheadlongflowFilledhimwithalltheenergyshegave。
Hewasayouthagain，andthisbrightglow，Thisliving，vividjoyhehadtoshowHerwhatshewastohim。Laughingandcrying，Sheaskedassurancesthere’snodenying。
Overandoveragainherquestions，tillHequiteconvincedher，everynowandthenShekissedhim，shiveringasthoughdoubtingstill。
ButlaterwhentheywerecomposedandwhenShedaredrelaxherprobings，\"Lottachen，\"
Heasked，\"howisityourlovehaswithstoodMyinadvertence？Iwasmadeofwood。\"
Shetoldhim，andnodoubtshemeantittruly，Thathewassun，andgrass，andwind，andskyToher。AndevenifconsciencewereunrulyShesalveditbyneatsophistries，butwhySupposeherinsincere，itwasnolieShesaid，forHeinrichwasasmuchforgotAsthoughhe’dneverbeenwithinearshot。
ButTheodore’shandsinstrayingandcaressingFumbledagainstthelocketwhereitlayUponherneck。\"WhatisthisthingI’mpressing？\"
Heasked。\"Let’sbringittothelightofday。\"
Heliftedupthelocket。\"ItshouldstayOutside，myDear。Yourmotherhasgoodtaste。
Tokeepithiddensurelyisawaste。\"
PityagainCharlotta，straightarousedOutofherhappiness。ThelocketbroughtAchillyjetoftruthuponher，sousedUnderitsicyspurtingshewascaught，Andchoked，andfrozen。SuddenlyshesoughtTheclasp，butwithsuchartwasthiscontrivedHerfumblingfingersneveroncearrivedUponit。Feeling，twisting，roundandround，Shepulledthechainquitethroughthelocket’sringAndstillitheld。Herneck，encompassed，bound，Chafedattheslidingmeshes。SuchathingTohurlheroutofjoy！AgildedstringBindingherfollytoher，andthosecurlsWhichlayentwinedbeneaththeclusteredpearls！
Againshetriedtobreakthecord。Itstood。
\"Unclaspit，Theodore，\"shebegged。ButheRefused，andbeinginahappymood，Twittedherwithherinefficiency，Thenlookingatherveryseriously：
\"Ithink，Charlotta，itiswelltohaveAlwaysaboutonewhatamothergave。
AsshehastakenthegreatpainstosendThisjeweltoyoufromDresden，itwillbeIngratitudeifyoudonotintendTocarryitaboutyouconstantly。
Withherfinetasteyoucannotdisagree，Thelocketismostbeautifullydesigned。\"
Heopeneditandtherethecurlswere，twined。
Charlotta’sheartdroppedbeatslikeknitting-stitches。
Sheburnedamoment，flaming;thenshefroze。
Herfacewasjerkedbylittle，nervoustwitches，Sheheardherhusbandasking：\"Whatarethose？\"
Putoutherhandquicklytointerpose，Butstopped，thegesturehalf-complete，astoundedAtthecalmwaythequestionwaspropounded。
\"Aprettyfancy，Dear，Idodeclare。
IndeedIwillnotletyouputitoff。
Alovelythought：yoursandyourmother’shair！\"
Charlottahidagaspunderacough。
\"NeverwithmyconnivanceshallyoudoffThischarminggift。\"Hekissedheronthecheek，AndLottasufferedhim，quitecrushedandmeek。
Whenlaterintheirroomshelayawake，Watchingthemoonlightslipalongthefloor，ShefeltthechainandweptforTheodore’ssake。
ShehadlovedHeinrichalso，andthecoreOftruth，unlovely，startledher。WhereforeShevowedfromnowtobreakthisdoublelifeAndseeherselfonlyasTheodore’swife。
PartFifthItwasnoeasymattertoconvinceHeinrichthatitwasfinished。HardtosayThatthoughtheycouldnotmeet（hesawherwince）
ShestillmustkeepthelockettoallaySuspicioninherhusband。ShewouldpayHimfromhersavingsbitbybit——theoathHesworeatthatwasstartlingtothemboth。
Herresolutiontaken，FrauAltgeltAdheredtoit，andsufferednoregret。