Classic Audiobook Collection - Anne of Geierstein, Volume 1 by Sir Walter Scott ~ Full Audiobook [history]

Episode Date: February 2, 2024

Anne of Geierstein, Volume 1 by Sir Walter Scott audiobook. Genre: history In Anne of Geierstein, Volume 1, Sir Walter Scott transports listeners to late-15th-century Europe, where the clash between the rising Swiss Confederacy and the power of Burgundy turns travel into peril and diplomacy into a game of survival. A young English traveler, Arthur Philipson, and his older companion and guide, Dr. Hendrik, set out across the Alps on a journey that is part pilgrimage, part secret errand, and wholly dangerous in a continent fractured by war, shifting loyalties, and suspicious borders. Their path leads them to the rugged stronghold of Geierstein and to Anne, the Baron's remarkable daughter, whose courage and enigmatic reputation draw Arthur into a world where local custom, fierce independence, and whispered legends carry real political weight. As Arthur and his mentor seek safe passage and trustworthy allies, they must navigate hostile soldiers, wary towns, and the long reach of Burgundian ambition, all while guarding their own purpose from prying eyes. Volume 1 lays the groundwork for a sweeping historical romance and adventure about identity, honor, and the price of freedom. For ad-free listening try our premium subscription Chapters (Approximate) (00:00:00) Chapter 01 (00:38:55) Chapter 02 (01:24:13) Chapter 03 (02:20:00) Chapter 04 (02:41:08) Chapter 05 (03:20:45) Chapter 06 (03:47:24) Chapter 07 (04:22:22) Chapter 08 (04:38:04) Chapter 09 (05:14:58) Chapter 10 (05:54:46) Chapter 11 (06:36:15) Chapter 12 (07:19:14) Chapter 13 (07:50:39) Chapter 14 (08:31:19) Chapter 15 (09:13:42) Chapter 16 (10:02:29) Chapter 17 (11:06:27) Chapter 18 (11:53:46) Chapter 19 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Anne of Geierstein, or The Maiden of the Mist, by Sir Walter Scott, Chapter 1. The mists boil up around the glaciers. Clouds rise curling fast beneath me, white and sulphurous, like foam from the roused ocean. I am giddy, Manfred. The course of four centuries has well-nigh elapsed since the series of events, which are are related in the following chapters took place on the continent. The records which contained the outlines of the history and might be referred to as proof of its veracity were long preserved in the superb library of the monastery of St. Gall, but perished with many of the literary

treasures of that establishment when the convent was plundered by the French Revolution armies. The events are fixed by historical date to the middle of the 15th century, that important period when chivalry still shone with a setting ray soon about to be totally obscured. In some countries, by the establishment of free institutions, in others by that of arbitrary power, which alike rendered useless the interference of those. self-endowed redressers of wrongs whose only warrant of authority was the sword. Amid the general light which had recently shown upon Europe, France, Burgundy, and Italy, but more especially Austria had been made acquainted with the character of a people of whose

very existence they had before been scarcely conscious. It is true that the inhabitants of of those countries which lie in the vicinity of the Alps, that immense barrier were not ignorant that, notwithstanding their rugged and desolate appearance, the secluded valleys which winded among those gigantic mountains nourished a race of hunters and shepherds, men who living in a state of primeval simplicity compelled from the soil a subsistence gained by severe

labor, followed the chase over the most savage precipices and through the darkest pine forests, or drove their cattle to spots which afforded them a scanty pasturage, even in the vicinage of eternal snows. But the existence of such a people, or rather of a number of small communities who followed nearly the same poor and hearty course of life had seemed to the rich and powerful princes in the neighborhood a matter of as little consequence as it is to the stately herds which repose in a fertile meadow that a few half-starved goats find their scanty food among the rocks

which overlook their rich domain. But wonder and attention began to be attracted towards these mountaineers about the middle of the 14th century, when reports were spread abroad of severe contests in which the German chivalry, endeavoring to suppress insurrections among their alpine vassals, had sustained, repeated, and bloody defeats, although having on their side numbers and discipline, and the advantage of the most perfect military,

equipment then known and confided in. Great was the wonder that cavalry, which made the only efficient part of the feudal armies of these ages, should be routed by men on foot, that warriors sheathed in complete steel should be overpowered by naked peasants who wore no defensive armor and were irregularly provided with pikes, halberts, and clubs. for the purpose of attack. Above all, it seemed a species of miracle that knights and nobles of the highest birth should be defeated by mountaineers and shepherds, but the repeated victories of the Swiss at Lopin, Sempak, and on other less distinguished occasions, plainly intimated that a new

principle of civil organization as well as of military movements had arisen amid the stormy regions of Helvetia. Still, although the decisive victories which obtained liberty for the Swiss cantons, as well as the spirit of resolution and wisdom, with which the members of the little Confederation had maintained themselves against the utmost exertions of Austria, had spread their fame abroad through all the neighboring countries, and although they themselves were conscious of the character and actual power, which repeated victories had acquired for themselves and their country, yet down to the middle of the 15th century and at a later date, the Swiss retained in a great measure the wisdom, moderation, and simplicity of their ancient manners, so much so that those

who were entrusted with the command of the troops of the Republic in battle were want to resume the shepherd's staff when they laid down the truncheon, and like the Roman dictators to retire to complete equality with their fellow citizens from the eminence of military, command to which their talents and the call of their country had raised them. It is then in the forest cantons of Switzerland in the autumn of 1474, while these districts were in the rude and simple state we have described that our tale opens two travelers, one considerably passed the prime of life, the other probably two or three and twenty years old, had passed the night at the little town of Lucerne, the capital of the Swiss state of the same name,

and beautifully situated on the lake of the four cantons. Their dress and character seemed those of merchants of a higher class, and while they themselves journeyed on foot, the character of the country rendering that by far the most easy mode of pursuing their route. A young peasant lad from the Italian side of the Alps followed them with a sumter mule laden apparently with men's wares and baggage, which he sometimes mounted, but more frequently led by the bridle. The travelers were uncommonly fine-looking men and seemed connected by some very near relationship. probably that of father and son. For at the little inn where they lodged on the preceding evening,

the great deference and respect paid by the younger to the elder had not escaped the observation of the natives who, like other, sequestered beings, were curious in proportion to the limited means of information which they possessed. They observed also that the merchants under pretense of haste declined opening their bails or proposing traffic to the inhabitants of Lucerne, alleging in excuse that they had no commodities fitted for the market.

The females of the town were the more displeased with the reserve of the mercantile travelers because they were given to understand that it was occasioned by the wares in which they dealt being too costly to find customers among the Helvetian Mountains, for it had transpired by means of their attendant that the strangers had visited Venice and had there made many purchases of rich commodities, which were brought from India and Egypt to that celebrated emporium as to the common mart of the Western world, and thence dispersed into all quarters of Europe. Now, the Swiss maidens had of late made the discovery that gods and gems were fair to look upon, and though without the hope of being able to possess themselves of such ornaments, they felt a natural

desire to review and handle the rich stores of the merchants and some displeasure at being prevented from doing so. It was also observed that, though the strangers were sufficiently courteous in their demeanor, they did not evince that studious anxiety to please displayed by the traveling peddlers or merchants of Lombardi or Savoy, by whom the inhabitants of the mountains were occasionally visited and who had been more frequent in their rounds of late years since the spoils of victory had invested the Swiss with some wealth and had taught many of them new wants. Those parapetetic traders were civil and assiduous as their calling required, but the new visitors seemed men who were indifferent to traffic, or at least to such slender

gains as could be gathered in Switzerland. Curiosity was further excited by the circumstance that they spoke to each other in a language which was certainly neither German, Italian, nor French, but from which an old man, serving in the cabaret, who had once been as far as Paris, supposed they might be English, a people of whom it was only known in these mountains, that they were a fierce insular race at war with the French for many years, and a large body of whom had long since invaded the forest cantons and sustained such a defeat in the valley of rest. wheel, as was well remembered by the gray-haired men of Lucerne, who received the tale from their

fathers. The lad who attended the strangers was soon ascertained to be a youth from the Grissons country who acted as their guide so far as his knowledge of the mountains permitted. He said they designed to go to bail, but seemed desirous to travel by circuitous and unfrequent. routes. The circumstances just mentioned increased the general desire to know more of the travelers and of their merchandise. Not a bail, however, was unpacked, and the merchants, leaving Lucerne next morning, resumed their toilsome journey, preferring a circuitous route and bad roads through the peaceful cantons of Switzerland, to encountering the exactions and rapine of the robber chivalry of Germany, who, like so many sovereigns, made war each at his own pleasure,

and levied tolls and taxes on everyone who passed their domains of a mile's breadth, with all the insolence of petty tyranny. For several hours after leaving Lucerne, the journey of our travelers was successfully prosecuted. The road, though precipitous and difficult, was rendered interesting, those splendid phenomena which no country exhibits in a more astonishing manner than the mountains of Switzerland, where the rocky pass, the verdant valley, the broad lake, and the rushing torrent, the attributes of other hills as well as these are interspersed with the magnificent and yet fearful horrors of the glaciers, a feature peculiar to themselves. It was not an age in which the beauties or grandeur of a landscape made much impression either on the minds of those

who traveled through the country or who resided in it. To the latter, the objects, however dignified, were familiar and associated with daily habits and with daily toil, and the former saw, perhaps more terror than beauty in the wild region through which they passed, and were rather solicitous to get safe to their night's quarters than to comment on the grandeur of the scenes which lay between them and their place of rest. Yet our merchants, as they proceeded on their journey, could not help being strongly impressed by the character of the scenery around them. Their road lay along the side of the lake at times level and close on its very margin, at times rising to a great height on the side of the mountain and winding along the verge of precipices,

which sank down to the water as sharp and sheer as the wall of a castle descending upon the ditch, which defends it. At other times, it traversed spots of a milder character, delightful green slopes, and lowly retired valleys affording both pasturage and arable ground, sometimes watered by small streams, which winded by the hamlet of wooden huts with their fantastic little church and steeple, meandered round the orchard and the mount of vines, and murmuring gently as they flowed, found a quiet passage into the lake. That stream, Arthur, said the elder traveler, as with one consent, they stopped to gaze on such a scene, as I have described, resembles the life of a good and a happy man.

And the brook, which hurries itself headlong down yon distant hill, marking its course by a streak of white foam, answered Arthur. What does that resemble? That of a brave and unfortunate one, replied his father. The torrent for me, said Arthur, a headlong course which no human force can oppose, and then let it be as brief as it is glorious. It is a young man's thought, replied his father, but I am well aware that it is so rooted in thy heart

that nothing but the rude hand of adversity can pluck it up. As yet, the root clings fast to my heartstrings, said the young man, and methinks adversity's hand have had a fair grasp of it. You speak, my son, of what you little understand, said his father. Know that till the middle of life be past, men scarce distinguish true prosperity from adversity, or rather they court as the favors of fortune what they should more justly regard as the marks of her displeasure. Look at yonder mountain, which wears on its shaggy brow a diadem of clouds, now raised and now depressed, while the sun glances upon but is unable to dispel it. A child might believe it to be a

crown of glory. A man knows it to be the signal of tempest. Arthur followed the direction of his father's eye to the dark and shadowy eminence of Mount Pilatus. Is the mist on yonder wild mountain so ominous then? asked the young man. Demand of Antonio. said his father, he will tell you the legend. The young merchant addressed himself to the Swiss lad, who acted as their attendant, desiring to know the name of the gloomy height, which in that quarter seems the Leviathan of the huge congregation of mountains assembled about Lucerne. The lad crossed himself devoutly as he recounted the popular legend that the wicked Pontius pilot, pro-consul of Judea, had here found the termination of his impious life, having after spent years in the recesses of that

mountain, which bears his name at length in remorse and despair, rather than in penitence, plunged into the dismal lake, which occupies the summit, whether water refused to do the executioner's duty upon such a wretch, or whether his body being drowned, his vexed, spirit continued to haunt the place where he committed suicide, Antonio did not pretend to explain. But a form was often, he said, seemed to emerge from the gloomy waters and go through the action of one washing his hands. And when he did so, dark clouds of mist gathered first round the bosom of the infernal lake, such it had been styled of old, and then, wrapping the whole upper part of the mountain in darkness, presaged a tempest or hurricane, which was sure to follow in a short space.

He added that the evil spirit was peculiarly exasperated at the audacity of such strangers as ascended the mountain to gaze at his place of punishment, and that, in consequence, the magistrates of Lucerne had prohibited anyone from approaching Mount Pilatus under severe penalties. Antonio once more crossed himself as he finished his legend, in which act of devotion he was imitated by his hearers to good Catholics to entertain any doubt of the truth of the story. how the accursed heathen scowls upon us said the younger of the merchants while the cloud darkened and seemed to settle on the brow of mount pilatus

vade retro be thou defied sinner a rising wind rather heard than felt seemed to groan forth in the tone of a dying lion the acceptance of the suffering spirit to the rash challenge of the young englishman The mountain was seen to send down its rugged sides, thick wreaths of heaving mist, which, rolling through the rugged chasms that seemed the grisly hill, resembled torrents of rushing lava, pouring down from a volcano. The ridgy precipices, which formed the sides of these huge ravines, showed their splintery and rugged edges over the vapor, as if dividing from each other the descending streams of mist which rolled around them. As a strong contrast to this gloomy and threatening scene, the more distant mountain range of Riggie shone brilliant with all the hues of an autumnal sun. While the travelers watched this striking and varied contrast,

which resembled an approaching combat between the powers of light and darkness, their guide in his mixed jargon of Italian and German, exhorted them to make haste on their journey. The village to which he proposed to conduct them, he said, was yet distant, the road bad and difficult to find, and if the evil one, looking to Mount Pilatus and crossing himself, should send his darkness upon the valley, the path would be both doubtful and dangerous. The travel colors thus admonished, gathered the capes of their cloaks close round their throats, pulled their bonnets, resolvedly over their brows, drew the buckle of the broad belts which fastened their mantles, and each with a mountain staff in his hand, well shod with an iron spike,

they pursued their journey, with unabated strength and undaunted spirit. With every step, the scenes around them appeared to change. Each mountain, as if its firm and immutable form, were flexible and varying, altered in appearance like that of a shadowy apparition as the position of the strangers relative to them changed with their motions, and as the mist, which continued slowly, though constantly to descend, influenced the rugged aspect of the hills and valleys which it shrouded with its vapory mantle. The nature of their progress, too, never direct, but winding by a narrow path along the sinuosities of the valley and making many a circuit round precipices and other obstacles, which it was impossible to surmount, added to the

wild variety of a journey in which, at last, the travelers totally lost any vague idea which they had previously entertained concerning the direction in which the road led them. I would, said the elder, we had that mystical needle which mariners talk of that points ever to the north and enables them to keep their way on the waters when there is neither Cape nor headland, sun, moon, nor stars, nor any mark in heaven or earth, to tell them how to steer. It would scarce avail us among these mountains, answered the youth, for though that wonderful needle may keep its point to the northern pole star when it is on a flat surface like the sea, it is not to be thought.

It would do so when these huge mountains arise like walls betwixt the steel and the object of its sympathy. I fear me, replied the father. We shall find our guide, who has been growing hourly more stupid since he left his own valley, as useless, as you suppose the compass would be among the hills of this wild country. Canst tell, my boy, said he, addressing Antonio in bad Italian, if we be in the road we purposed. If it please, St. Antonio, said the guide. The guide, who was obviously too much confused to answer the question directly. And that water, half covered with mist, which glimmers through the fog at the foot of this huge black precipice, is it still a part of the Lake of Lucerne?

Or have we lighted upon another since we ascended that last hill? Antonio could only answer that they ought to be on the Lake of Lucerne still, and that he hoped that what they saw below them was only a winding branch of the same sheet of water, but he could say nothing with certainty. Dog of an Italian, exclaimed the younger traveler, thou deservest to have thy bones broken for undertaking a charge which thou art as incapable to perform as thou art to guide us to heaven. Peace, Arthur, said his father,

if you frighten the lad, he runs off, and we lose the small advantage we might have by his knowledge. If you use your baton, he rewards you with the stab of a knife, for such is the humor of a revengeful Lombard. Either way, you are marred instead of helped. Hark thee, hither, my boy, he continued, in his indifferent Italian. Be not afraid of that hot youngster whom I will not permit to injure thee, but tell me, if thou canst, the names of the villages by which we are to make our journey today. The gentle mode in which the elder traveller spoke reassured the lad who had been somewhat alarmed at the harsh tone and menacing expressions of his younger companion, and he poured forth in his patois a flood of names in which the German guttural sounds were

strangely intermixed with the soft accents of the Italian, but which carried to the hearer no intelligible information concerning the object of his question, so that at length he was forced to conclude, even lead on in our lady's name, or in St. Antonio's, if you like it better, we shall but lose time, I see, in trying to understand each other. They moved on as before, with this difference that the guide leading the mule now went first and was followed by the other two, whose motions he had formerly directed by calling to them from behind. The clouds, meantime, became thicker and thicker, and the mist which had at first been a thin vapor, now began to descend in the form of a small thick rain, which gathered like dew upon the capots of the

the travelers. Distant wrestling and groaning sounds were heard among the remote mountains, similar to those by which the evil spirit of Mount Pilatus had seemed to announce the storm. The boy again pressed his companions to advance, but at the same time through impediments in the way of their doing so by the slowness and indecision which he showed in leading them on. Having proceeded in this manner for three or four miles, which uncertainty rendered doubly tedious, the travelers were at length engaged in a narrow path running along the verge of a precipice. Beneath was water, but of what description they could not ascertain, the wind indeed, which began to be felt in sudden gusts, sometimes swept aside the mist so completely as to show the waves glimmering.

below. But whether they were those of the same lake on which their morning journey had commenced, whether it was another and separate sheet of water of a similar character, or whether it was a river or large brook, the view afforded was too indistinct to determine. Thus far was certain that they were not on the shores of the Lake of Lucerne, where it displays its usual expanse of waters. For the same hurricane gusts, which showed them water in the bottom of the glen, gave them a transient view of the opposite side at what exact distance they could not well discern, but near enough to show tall, abrupt rocks and shaggy pine trees here united in groups and there singly anchored among the cliffs, which overhung the water. This was a more distinct landscape than the farther

side of the lake would have offered had they been on the right road. Hitherto the path, though steep and rugged, was plainly enough indicated and showed traces of having been used both by riders and foot passengers. But suddenly, as Antonio, with the loaded mule, had reached a projecting eminence around the peak of which the path made a sharp turn, he stopped short with his usual exclamation, addressed to his patron saint. It appeared to Arthur that the mule shared the terrors of the guide, for it started back, put forwards its forefeet, separated from each other, and seemed by the attitude which it assumed to intimate a determination to resist every proposal to advance, at the same time, expressing horror and fear at the prospect which lay before it. Arthur pressed

forward not only from curiosity, but that he might, if possible, bear the brunt of any danger before his father came up to share it. In less time than we have taken to tell the story, the young man stood beside Antonio and the mule upon a platform of rock on which the road seemed absolutely to terminate, and from the farther side of which a precipice sank sheer down to what depth the mist did not permit him to discern, but certainly uninterrupted for more than 300 feet. The blank expression which overcast the visage of the younger traveler and traces of which might be discerned in the physiognomy of the beast of burden announced alarm and mortification at this unexpected and, as it seemed, insurmountable obstacle. Nor did the

looks of the father, who presently after, came up to the same spot, convey either hope or comfort. He stood with the others gazing on the misty gulf beneath them, and looking all around, but in vain, for some continuation of the path, which certainly had never been originally designed to terminate in this summary manner. As they stood uncertain what to do next, the son in vain attempting to discover some mode of passing onward, and the father about to propose that they should return by the road, which had brought them hither, a loud howl of the wind, more wild than they had yet heard, swept down the valley. All, being aware of the danger of being hurled from the precarious station which they occupied, snatched at bushes and rocks by which to

secure themselves, and even the poor mule seemed to steady itself in order to withstand the approaching hurricane. The gust came with such unexpected fury that it appeared to the travelers to shake the very rock on which they stood, and would have swept them from its surface, like so many dry leaves, had it not been for the momentary precautions which they had taken for their safety. But as the wind rushed down the glen, it completely removed for the space of three or four minutes, the veil of mist which former Gus had only served to agitate or discompose and showed them the nature and cause of the interruption which they had met with so unexpectedly. The rapid but correct eye of Arthur was then able to ascertain that the path, after

leaving the platform of rock on which they stood had originally passed upwards in the same direction along the edge of a steep bank of earth, which had then formed the upper covering of a stratum of precipitous rocks, but it had chanced in some of the convulsions of nature which take place in those wild regions where she works upon a scale so formidable that the earth had made a slip, or almost a precipitous descent from the rock and been hurled downwards with the path, which was traced along the top, and with bushes, trees, or whatever grew upon it, into the channel of the stream. For such they could now discern the water beneath them to be, and not a lake, or an arm of a lake, as they had hitherto supposed. The immediate cause of this phenomenon

might probably have been an earthquake, not unfrequent in that country. The bank of earth, now a confused mass of ruins, inverted in its fall, showed some trees growing in a horizontal position, and others which, having pitched on their heads in their descent, were at once inverted and shattered to pieces, and lay a sport to the streams of the river, which they had hitherto covered with gloomy, shadow. The gaunt precipice, which remained behind, like the skeleton of some huge monster,

divested of its flesh, formed the wall of a fearful abyss, resembling the face of a newly wrought quarry, more dismal of aspect from the rawness of its recent formation, and from its being as yet uncovered with any of the vegetation, with which nature speedily mantles over, the bare surface, of her sternest crags and precipices. Besides remarking these appearances, which tended to show that this interruption of the road had been of recent occurrence, Arthur was able to observe on the farther side of the river, higher up the valley, and rising out of the pine forests, interspersed with rocks, a square building of considerable height, like the ruins of a Gothic tower. He pointed out this remarkable object to Antonio and demanded if he knew it, justly conjecturing

that from the peculiarity of the site, it was a landmark not easily to be forgotten by any who had seen it before. Accordingly, it was gladly and promptly recognized by the lad who called out cheerfully that the place was Geierstein. That is, as he explained it, the rock of the vultures. He knew it, he said, by the old tower, as well as by a huge pinnacle of rock, which arose near it, almost in the form of a steeple, to the top of which the Lamergeier, one of the largest birds of prey known to exist, had in former days transported the child of an ancient lord of the castle. He proceeded to recount the vow, which was made by the night of Geyerstein to Our Lady of Ensidlen, and while he spoke, the castle, rocks, woods,

and precipices again faded in mist. But as he concluded his wonderful narrative with the miracle which restored the infant again to its father's arms, he cried out suddenly, look to yourselves, the storm, the storm. It came accordingly, and sweeping the mist before it, again, stowed on the travelers a view of the horrors around them. I, quote Antonio triumphantly, as the gust abated, old Pontius loves little to hear of our lady of Ensidlin, but she will keep her own with him, Ave Maria. That tower, said the young traveler, seems uninhabited. I can descry no smoke, and the battlement appears ruinous. It has not been inhabited, for many a day, answered the guide, but I would, I were at it for all that. Honest Arnold

Biederman, the Londaman, chief magistrate of the Canton of Unterwalden, dwells near, and I warrant you, distressed strangers will not want the best that cupboard and cellar can find them wherever he holds rule. I have heard of him, said the elder traveler, whom Antonio had been and taught to call Signor Philipson, a good and hospitable man and one who enjoys deserved weight with his countrymen. You have spoken him right, Signor, answered the guide, and I would. We could reach his house where you should be sure of hospitable treatment and a good direction for your next day's journey. But how we are to get to the vulture's castle, unless we had wings like the vulture is a question hard to answer. Arthur replied by a daring proposal,

which the reader will find in the next chapter. End of chapter one. Chapter 2 of Anne of Geierstein by Sir Walter Scott. This Librevox recording is in the public domain. Recording by Dion John's Salt Lake City, Utah. Away with me. The clouds grow thicker. The clouds grow thicker. there, now lean on me, place your foot here. Here, take this staff and cling a moment to that shrub. Now give me your hand. The chalet will be gained within an hour, Manfred. After surveying the desolate scene, as accurately as the stormy state of the atmosphere would permit, the younger of the travelers observed, in any other country, I should say the tempest begins to abate. But what to expect in this land of desolation, it were rash to decide. If the apostate spirit of pilot be actually on the blast, these lingering and more distant howls seem to intimate that he is returning to his place of punishment. The pathway has sunk with the ground on which it was traced.

I can see part of it lying down in the abyss, marking as with a streak of clay yonder mass of earth and stone. But I think it possible, with your permission, my father, that I could still scramble forward along the edge of the precipice till I come in sight of the habitation, which the lad tells us of, if there be actually such a one, there must be an access to it somewhere. And if I cannot find the path out, I can at least make a signal to those who dwell near the vulture's nest yonder and obtain some friendly guidance. I cannot consent to your incurring such a risk. said his father, let the lad go forward if he can and will. He is mountain-bred, and I will

reward him richly. But Antonio declined the proposal absolutely and decidedly. I am mountain-bred, he said, but I am no shammie hunter, and I have no wings to transport me from cliff to cliff like a raven. Gold is not worth life. And God forbid, said Signor Philipson, that I should tempt thee to weigh them against each other. Go on then, my son, I follow thee. Under your favor, dearest sir, no, replied the young man, it is enough to endanger the life of one, and mine far the most worthless should by all the rules of wisdom, as well as nature, be put first in hazard. No, Arthur, replied his father, in a determined voice. No, my son, I have survived much, but I will not survive thee. I fear not for

the issue, father, if you permit me to go alone, but I cannot, dare not undertake a task so perilous if you persist in attempting to share it with no better aid than mine. While I endeavored to make a new advance, I should be ever looking back to see how you might attain the station, which I was about to leave, and bethink you, dearest father, that if I fall, I fall an unregarded thing of as little moment as the stone or tree which has toppled head long down before me. But you, should your foot slip or your hand fail, bethink you what and how much. much must needs fall with you. Thou art right, my child, said the father.

I still have that which binds me to life, even though I were to lose in thee all that is dear to me. Our lady and our lady's night, bless thee and prosper thee, my child. Thy foot is young, thy hand is strong, thou hast not climbed plin lemon in vain. Be bold, but be wary. Remember, there is a man who, failing thee, has but one act of duty to bind him to the earth, and that discharged will soon follow thee. The young man accordingly prepared for his journey, and stripping himself of his cumbrous cloak,

showed his well-proportioned limbs in a jerkin of gray cloth, which sat close to his person. The father's resolution gave way when his son turned round to bid him farewell. He recalled his permission and, in a peremptory tone, forbade him to proceed. But without listening to the prohibition, Arthur had commenced his perilous adventure, descending from the platform on which he stood by the boughs of an old ash tree, which thrust itself out of the cleft of a rock, the youth was enabled to gain, though at great risk, a narrow ledge, the very brink of the precipice,

by creeping along which he hoped to pass on till he made himself heard or seen from the habitation, of whose existence the guide had informed him. His situation, as he pursued this bold purpose, appeared so precarious that even the hired attendant hardly dared to draw breath as he gazed on him. The ledge, which supported him, seemed to grow so narrow as he passed along it as to become altogether invisible, while sometimes with his face to the precipice, sometimes looking forward, sometimes glancing his eyes upward, but never venturing to cast a look below, lest his brain should grow giddy at a sight so appalling.

He wound his way onward. To his father and the attendant who beheld his progress, it was less that of a man advancing in the ordinary manner and resting by aught connected with the firm earth than that of an insect crawling along the face of a perpendicular. wall of whose progressive movement we are indeed sensible but cannot perceive the means of its support. And bitterly, most bitterly, did the miserable parent now lament that he had not persisted in his purpose to encounter the baffling and even perilous measure of retracing his steps to the habitation of the preceding night. He should then, at least, have partaken the fate of the son of his love.

Meanwhile, the young man's spirits were strongly braced for the performance of his perilous task. He laid a powerful restraint on his imagination, which in general was sufficiently active, and refused to listen, even for an instant, to any of the horrible insinue. by which fancy augments actual danger. He endeavored manfully to reduce all around him to the scale of right reason as the best support of true courage. This ledge of rock, he urged to himself, is but narrow, yet it has breadth enough to support me. These cliffs and crevices in the surface are small and distant, but the one affords as secure a resting place to my feet, the other as available a grasp to my hands as if I stood on a platform of a

cubit broad and rested my arm on a balustrade of marble. My safety, therefore, depends on myself. If I move with decision, step firmly and hold fast, what signifies how near I am to the mouth of an abyss? Thus estimating the extent of the extent of the extent of the way of the best, of his danger, by the measure of sound sense and reality, and supported by some degree of practice in such exercise, the brave youth went forward on his awful journey, step by step, winning his way with a caution and fortitude and presence of mind, which alone could have saved him from instant destruction. At length, he gained a point where a projecting rock formed the angle of the precipice so far as it had been visible to him from the platform. This, therefore, was the critical

point of his undertaking, but it was also the most perilous part of it. The rock projected more than six feet forward over the torrent, which he heard raging at the depth of a hundred yards beneath with a noise like subterranean thunder. He examined the spot with the utmost care and was led by the existence of shrubs, grass, and even stunted trees to believe that this rock marked the farthest extent of the slip or slide of earth, and that could he but turn round the angle of which it was the termination he might hope to attain the continued. of the path, which had been so strangely interrupted by this convulsion of nature. But the crag jutted out so much as to afford no possibility of passing either under or around it,

and as it rose several feet above the position which Arthur had attained, it was no easy matter to climb over it. This was, however, the course which he chose, the only mode of surmounting what he hoped might prove the last obstacle to his voyage of discovery. A projecting tree afforded him the means of raising and swinging himself up to the top of the crag, but he had scarcely planted himself on it, had scarcely a moment to congratulate himself on seeing amid a wild chaos of cliffs and wood, the gloomy ruins. of Geyerstein, with smoke arising and indicating something like a human habitation beside them, when to his extreme terror, he felt the huge cliff on which he stood, tremble,

stoop slowly forward, and gradually sink from its position, projecting as it was and shaken as its equilibrium had been by the recent earthquake, it lay now so insecure, poised that its balance was entirely destroyed even by the addition of the young man's weight. Aroused by the imminence of the danger, Arthur, by an instinctive attempt at self-preservation, drew cautiously back from the falling crag into the tree by which he had ascended, and turned his head back as if spellbound to watch the descent of the fatal rock from which he had just retreated. It tottered for two or three seconds, as if uncertain which way to fall, and had it taken a sidelong direction must have dashed the adventurer from his place of refuge

or borne both the tree and him headlong down into the river. After a moment of horrible uncertainty, the power of gravitation determined a direct and forward descent. Down went the huge fragment, which must have weighed at least 20 tons, rending and splintering in its precipitate course, the trees and bushes which it encountered, and settling at length in the channel of the torrent, with a din equal to the discharge of a hundred pieces of artillery. The sound was re-echoed from bank to bank, from precipice to precipice, with emulative thunders,

nor was the tumult silent till it rose into the region of eternal snows, which, equally insensible to terrestrial sounds and unfavorable to animal life, heard the roar in their majestic solitude, but suffered it to die away without a response. voice. What in the meanwhile were the thoughts of the distracted father, who saw the ponderous rock descend, but could not mark whether his only son had borne it company in its dreadful fall? His first impulse was to rush forward along the face of the precipice which he had seen Arthur so lately traverse, and when the lad Antonio withheld him by throwing his arms, around him, he turned on the guide with the fury of a bear which had been robbed of her cubs.

Unhand me, base peasant, he exclaimed, or thou diest on the spot. Alas, said the poor boy, dropping on his knees before him, I too have a father. The appeal went to the heart of the traveler who instantly let the lad go, and holding up his hands and lifting his eyes towards heaven, said in accents of the deepest agony, mingled with devout resignation, Fiat Volontas Tua. He was my last and loveliest and best-beloved and most worthy of my love. And yonder, he added, yonder over the glen sore the birds of prey who are to feast on his young blood. But I will see him, one more exclaimed the miserable parent as the huge carrion vulture floated past him on the thick air i will see my arthur once more air the wolf and the eagle mingle him i will see all of him that earth still holds detain me not but abide here and watch me as i advance if i fall as is most likely i charge you to take the sealed paper

which you will find in the valise and carry them to the person to whom they are addressed with the least possible delay. There is money enough in the purse to bury me with my poor boy and to cause masses to be said for our souls and yet leave you a rich recompense for your journey. The honest Swiss lad, obtuse in his understanding, but kind and faithful in his his disposition, blubbered as his employer spoke, and afraid to offer further remonstrance or opposition, saw his temporary master prepare himself to traverse the same fatal precipice over the verge of which his ill-fated son had seemed to pass to the fate which, with all the wildness of a parent's anguish his father was hastening to share.

suddenly there was heard from beyond the fatal angle from which the mass of stone had been displaced by Arthur's rash assent, the loud hoarse cry of one of those huge horns made out of the spoils of the Euras or wild bull of Switzerland, which in ancient times announced the terrors of the charge of these mountaineers, and indeed serve them in war instead of all musical instruments. Hold, sir, hold, exclaimed the Grisson. Yonder is a signal from Geierstein. Someone will presently come to our assistance and show us the safer way to seek for your son. And look you at yon green bush that is glimmering through the mist, St. Antonio preserves. me as I see a white cloth displayed there. It is just beyond the point where the rock fell.

The father endeavored to fix his eyes on the spot, but they filled so fast with tears that they could not discern the object, which the guide pointed out. It is all in vain, he said, dashing the tears from his eyes, I shall never see more of him than his lifeless remains. You will. You will see him in life, said the Grisson. St. Antonio wills it so. See, the white cloth waves again. Some remnant of his garments, said the despairing father, some wretched memorial of his fate. No, my eyes see it not. I have beheld the fall of my house. Would that the vultures of these crags had rather torn them from their sockets? Yet look again, said the Swiss, the cloth hangs not loose upon a bow.

I can see that it is raised on the end of a staff and is distinctly waved to and fro. Your son makes a signal that he is safe. And if it be so, said the traveler, clasping his hands together, Blessed be the eyes that see it and the tongue that tells it. if we find my son and find him alive, this day shall be a lucky one for thee too. Nay, answered the lad, I only ask that you will abide still and act by counsel, and I will hold myself quit for my services, only it is not creditable to an honest lad to have people lose themselves by their own willfulness, for the blame, after all, is sure to

fall upon the guide as if he could prevent old Pontius from shaking the mist from his brow, or banks of earth, from slipping down into the valley at a time, or young hair-brained gallants from walking upon precipices as narrow as the edge of a knife, or madmen whose gray hairs might make them wiser from drawing daggers like bravos in Lombardy. Thus the guide ran on, And in that vein, he might have long continued, for Signor Philipson heard him not. Each throb of his pulse, each thought of his heart, was directed towards the object, which the lad referred to as a signal of his son's safety. He became at length, satisfied that the signal was actually waved by a human hand,

and as eager in the glow of reviving hope as he had of late been under the influence of desperate grief, he again prepared for the attempt of advancing towards his son and assisting him, if possible, in regaining a place of safety. But the entreaties and reiterated assurances of his guide induced him to pause. Are you fit, he said, to go on. the crag can you repeat your credo and aave without missing or misplacing a word for without that our old men say your neck had you a score of them would be in danger is your eye clear and your feet firm i trow the one streams like a fountain and the other shakes like the aspen which overhangs it rest here till those arrive who are more able to give your son help than either you or I are. I judge by the fashion of his blowing that yonder is the horn of the good man of Geierstein, Arnold Biederman. He hath seen your son's danger and is even now providing for his safety and ours. There are cases in which

the aid of one stranger well acquainted with the country is worth that of three brothers. who know not the crags. But if yonder horn really sounded a signal, said the traveler, how chanced it that my son replied not? And if he did so, as is most likely he did, rejoined the grisson, how should we have heard him? The bugle of Yuri itself sounded amid these horrible dins of water and tempest like the reed of a shepherd boy, and how think you we should hear the hollowah of a man? Yet me thinks, said Signor Philipson, I do hear something amid this roar of elements, which is like a human voice, but it is not Arthur's. I what well know, answered the gristin. That is a woman's voice. The maidens will converse with each other in that manner,

from cliff to cliff through storm and tempest, were there a mile between. Now heaven be praised for this providential relief, said Signor Philipson, I trust we shall yet see this dreadful day safely ended. I will halloa in answer. He attempted to do so, but inexperienced in the art of making himself heard in such a country. He pitched his voice. in the same key with that of the roar of wave and wind, so that even at 20 yards from the place where he was speaking, it must have been totally indistinguishable from that of the elemental

war around them. The lad smiled at his patrons in effectual attempts, and then raised his voice himself in a high, wild, and prolonged scream, which, while produced with apparently much less effort than that of the Englishman, was nevertheless a distinct sound separated from others by the key to which it was pitched and was probably audible to a very considerable distance, It was presently answered by distant cries of the same nature, which gradually approached the platform, bringing renovated hope to the anxious traveler. If the distress of the father rendered his condition, an object of deep compassion, that of the son at the same moment was sufficiently perilous, we have already stated that Arthur Philipson

had commenced his precarious journey along the precipice with all the coolness, resolution, and unshaken determination of mind, which was most essential to a task where all must depend upon firmness of nerve. But the formidable accident, which checked his onward progress, was of a character so dreadful, as made him feel all the bitterness of a death, instant, horrible and as it seemed inevitable. The solid rock had trembled and rent beneath his footsteps, and although by an effort rather mechanical than voluntary, he had withdrawn himself from the instant ruin attending its descent, he felt as if the better part of him, his firmness of mind and strength of body,

had been rent away with the descending rock, as if it was a better part of him, as if the better part of him, his firmness of mind and strength of body, as it fell thundering with clouds of dust and smoke into the torrents and whirlpools of the vexed gulf beneath. In fact, the seamen swept from the deck of a wrecked vessel, drenched in the waves and battered against the rocks on the shore, does not differ more from the same mariner when at the commencement of the gale he stood upon the deck of his favorite ship, proud of her strength and his own dexterity. Then Arthur, when commencing his journey from the same Arthur, while clinging to the decayed trunk of an old tree,

from which, suspended between heaven and earth, he saw the fall of the crag, which he had so nearly accompanied. The effects of his terror, indeed, were physical as well as moral, for a thousand colors played before his eyes. He was attacked by a sick dizziness and deprived at once of the obedience of those limbs, which had hitherto served him so admirably. His arms and hands, as if no longer at his own command,

now clung to the branches of the tree with a cramp-like tenacity over which he seemed to possess no power. and now trembled in a state of such complete nervous relaxation, as led him to fear that they were becoming unable to support him longer in his position. An incident in itself trifling added to the distress occasioned by this alienation of his powers. All living things in the neighborhood had, as might be supposed, been startled by the tremendous fall to which his progress had given occasion. Flights of owls, bats, and other birds of darkness,

compelled to betake themselves to the air, had lost no time in returning into their bowers of ivy, or the harbor afforded them by the rifts and holes of the neighboring rocks. One of this ill-omened flight chanced to be a Lamergeier or alpine vulture, a bird larger and more voracious than the eagle himself, and which Arthur had not been accustomed to see, or at least to look upon closely. With the instinct of most birds of prey,

it is the custom of this creature, when gorged with food, to assume some station of inaccessible security, and there remain stationary and motionless for days together, till the work of digestion has been accomplished, and activity returns with the pressure of appetite. Disturbed from such a state of repose, one of these terrific birds had risen from the ravine to which the species gives its name, and having circled unwillingly round with a ghastly scream and a flagging wing, it had sunk down upon the pinnacle of a crag, not for,

yards from the tree in which Arthur held his precarious station. Although still in some degree stupefied by torpor, it seemed encouraged by the motionless state of the young man to suppose him dead or dying and sat there and gazed at him without displaying any of that apprehension which the fiercest animals usually entertain from the vicinity of man. As Arthur, endeavoring to shake off the incapacitating effects of his panic fear, raised his eyes to look gradually and cautiously around, he encountered those of the voracious and obscene bird, whose head and neck denuded of feathers.

Her eyes surrounded by an iris of an orange tawny color and a position more horizontal than erect, distinguished her as much from the noble carriage and graceful proportions of the eagle, as those of the lion plays him in the ranks of creation above the gaunt, ravenous, grisly, yet dastard wolf. As if arrested by a charm, the eyes of young Philipson remained bent on this ill-omened and ill-favored bird without his having the power to remove them. The apprehension of dangers, ideal as well as real, weighed upon his weakened mind, disabled as it was,

by the circumstances of his situation. The near approach of a creature, not more loathsome to the human race, than averse to come within their reach, seemed as ominous as it was unusual. Why did it gaze on, him with such glaring earnestness projecting its disgusting form as if presently to alight upon his person. The foul bird was she the demon of the place to which her name referred?

And did she come to exult that an intruder on her haunts seemed involved amid their perils with little hope or chance of deliverance? or was it a native vulture of the rocks whose suggestity foresaw that the rash traveler was soon destined to become its victim? Could the creature whose senses are said to be so acute argue from circumstances the strangers approaching death and wait like a raven or hooded crow by a dying sheep for the earliest opportunity to commence her ravenous banquet? Was he doomed to feel its beak and talons before his heart's blood should cease to beat? Had he already lost the dignity of humanity, the awe which the being formed in the image of his maker inspires into all inferior creatures? Apprehensions so painful served more than all that reason could suggest to renew in some degree

the elasticity of the young man's mind. By waving his handkerchief, using, however, the greatest precaution in his movements, he succeeded in scaring the vulture from his vicinity. It rose from its resting place, screaming harshly and dolefully, and sailed on its expanded pinions to seek a place of more undisturbed repose, while the adventurous traveler felt a sensible pleasure. at being relieved of its disgusting presence. With more collected ideas, the young man, who could obtain from his position, a partial view of the platform he had left,

endeavored to testify his safety to his father, by displaying as high as he could, the banner by which he had chased off the vulture. Like them too, he heard, but at a less distance, the burst of, the great Swiss horn, which seemed to announce some near succor. He replied by shouting and waving his flag to direct assistance to the spot where it was so much required, and recalling his faculties, which had almost deserted him, he labored mentally to recover hope, and with hope, the means

and motive for exertion. A faithful Catholic, he eagerly recommend. himself in prayer to our lady of Ensedlen, and making vows of propitiation, besought her intercession that he might be delivered from his dreadful condition. Or gracious lady, he concluded his orison, if it is my doom to lose my life like a hunted fox amidst this savage wilderness of tottering crags, restore at least my natural sense of patience and courage, and let not one who has lived like a man, though a sinful one, meet death like a timid hair. Having devoutly recommended himself to that protectress of whom the legends of the Catholic Church form a picture so amiable, Arthur, though every nerve still shook with his late agitation and his heart throbbed with a violence that threatened to suffocate him, turned his thoughts and observation to the means of affecting his escape.

But as he looked around him, he became more and more sensible how much he was enervated by the bodily injuries and the mental agony which he had sustained. during his late peril. He could not, by any effort of which he was capable, fix his giddy and bewildered eyes on the scene around him. They seemed to reel till the landscape danced along with them, and a motley chaos of thickets and tall cliffs, which interposed between him and the ruinous castle of Geierstein, mixed and whirled round in such confusion. that nothing save the consciousness that such an idea was the suggestion of partial insanity prevented him from throwing himself from the tree as if to join the wild dance to which his disturbed brain had given motion. Heaven be my protection, said the unfortunate young man,

closing his eyes in hopes by abstracting himself from the terrors of his situation, to compose his too active imagination. My senses are abandoning me. He became still more convinced that this was the case when a female voice in a high-pitched but eminently musical accent was heard at no great distance,

as if calling to him. He opened his eyes once more, raised his head, and looked towards the place whence the sounds seemed to come, though far from being certain that they existed, saving in his own disordered imagination. The vision which appeared had almost confirmed him in the opinion that his mind was unsettled and his senses in no state to serve him accurately. Upon the very summit of a pyramidal rock that rose out of the depth of the valley was seen.

a female figure so obscured by mist that only the outline could be traced. The form, reflected against the sky, appeared rather the undefined lineaments of a spirit than of a mortal maiden, for her person seemed as light and scarcely more opaque than the thin cloud that surrounded her pedestal. Arthur's first belief was that the Virgin had heard his vows and had descended in person to his rescue. And he was about to recite his Ave Maria when the voice again called to him with the singular shrill modulation of the mountain Hulu, by which the natives of the Alps can hold conference with each other from one mountain ridge to another across ravines of great depth and width. While he debated how to address this,

unexpected apparition. It disappeared from the point which it at first occupied, and presently after, became again visible, perched on the cliff, out of which projected the tree in which Arthur had taken refuge. Her personal appearance, as well as her dress, made it then apparent that she was a maiden of these mountains, familiar with their dangerous paths. He saw that a beautiful young woman stood before him, who regarded him with a mixture of pity and wonder. Stranger, she at length said, who are you, and whence come you? I am a stranger, maiden, as you justly term me, answered the young man, raising himself as well as he could.

I left Lucerne this morning with my father and a guide. I parted from them, not three furlongs from hence. May it please you, gentle maiden, to warn them of my safety, for I know my father will be in despair upon my account. Willingly, said the maiden, but I think my uncle, or some one of my kinsmen, must have already found them, and will prove faithful guides. Can I not aid you? Are you wounded?

Are you hurt? We were alarmed by the fall of Iraq. aye, and yonder it lies, a mass of no ordinary size. As the Swiss maiden spoke thus, she approached so close to the verge of the precipice, and looked with such indifference into the Gulf, that the sympathy, which connects the actor and spectator upon such occasions, brought back the sickness and vertigo from which Arthur had just recovered, and he sank back into his former, more recumbent posture with something like a faint groan. You are then ill, said the maiden, who observed him turn pale.

Where and what is the harm you have received? None, gentle maiden, saving some bruises of little import, but my head turns and my heart grows sick when I see you so near the verge of the cliff. Is that all? replied the Swiss maiden. No, stranger, that I do not stand on my uncle's hearth with more security than I have stood upon precipices compared to which this is a child's leap. You too, stranger, if, as I judge from the traces, you have come along the edge of the precipice, which the earth-slide hath laid bare, ought to be far beyond such weakness, since surely you

must be well entitled to call yourself a cragsman. I might have called myself so half an hour since, answered Arthur, but I think I shall hardly venture to assume the name in future. Be not downcast, said his kind, advisor, for a passing qualm, which will at times cloud the spirit and dazzle the eyesight of the bravest and most experienced. Raise yourself upon the trunk of the tree and advance closer to the rock out of which it grows. Observe the place well. It is easy for you when you have attained the lower part of the projecting stem to gain by one bold step the solid rock upon which I stand, after which there is no danger or difficulty worthy of mention to a young man whose limbs are whole and whose courage is actually.

my limbs are indeed sound replied the youth but I am ashamed to think how much my courage is broken yet I will not disgrace the interest you have taken in an unhappy wanderer by listening longer to the dastardly suggestions of a feeling which till today has been a stranger to my bosom the maiden looked on him anxiously and with much interest as raised raising himself cautiously and moving along the trunk of the tree, which lay nearly horizontal from the rock and seemed to bend as he changed his posture, the youth at length stood upright within what on level ground had been but an extended stride to the cliff on which the Swiss maiden stood. But instead of being a step to be taken on the level and firm earth,

it was one which must cross a dark abyss at the bottom of which a torrent surged and boiled with incredible fury. Arthur's knees knocked against each other. His feet became of lead and seemed no longer at his command. And he experienced in a stronger degree than ever that unnerving influence, which those who have been overwhelmed by it in a situation, of like peril never can forget, and which others, happily strangers to its power, may have difficulty even in comprehending. The young woman discerned his emotion and foresaw its probable consequences. As the only mode in her power to restore his confidence, she sprang lightly from the rock to the stem of the tree on which she alighted with the ease and security of a bird. and in the same instant back to the cliff, and extending her hand to the stranger,

my arm, she said, is but a slight balustrade, yet do but step forward with resolution, and you will find it as secure as the battlement of Bern. But shame now overcame terror so much that Arthur declining assistance, which he could not have accepted without feeling lowered, in his own eyes, took heart of grace, and successfully achieved the formidable step, which placed him upon the same cliff with his kind assistant. To seize her hand and raise it to his lips, in affectionate token of gratitude and respect, was naturally the youth's first action, nor was it possible for the maiden to have prevented him from doing so, without assuming,

a degree of prudery foreign to her character and occasioning a ceremonious debate upon a matter of no great consequence where the scene of action was a rock scarce five feet long by three in width and which looked down upon a torrent roaring some three hundred feet below end of chapter two Chapter 3 of Anne of Guyurstein by Sir Walter Scott. This Libravox recording is in the public domain, recording by Dionne's Salt Lake City, Utah. Cursed be the gold and silver, which persuade weak men to follow far fatiguing trade. The lily, peace, outshines the silver store, and life is dearer than the golden ore. Yet money tempts us, or the desert brown, to every distant mart and wealthy town.

Hassan or the Hamel driver. Arthur Philipson and Anne of Geierstein, thus placed together in a situation which brought them into the closest possible contiguity, felt a slight degree of embarrassment. the young man doubtless from the fear of being judged a paltroon in the eyes of the maiden by whom he had been rescued, and the young woman, perhaps, in consequence of the exertion she had made, or a sense of being placed suddenly in a situation of such proximity to the youth whose life she had probably saved. And now, Maiden, said Arthur, I must repair to my father. The life which I owe to your assistance can scarce be called welcome to me, unless I am permitted to hasten to his rescue. He was here interrupted by another bugle blast, which seemed to come from the quarter in which the elder Philipson and his guide had been left by their young and, and daring companion. Arthur looked in that direction, but the platform which he had seen but imperfectly from the tree when he was perched in that place of refuge was invisible from the rock on which they now stood. It would cost me nothing to step back on yonder route, said the young woman, to spy from

thence whether I could see aught of your friends, but I am convinced they are under safer guidance than either yours or mine. For the horn announces that my uncle, or some of my young kinsmen, have reached them. They are by this time on their way to the Geierstein, to which, with your permission, I will become your guide. For you may be assured that my uncle Arnold will not allow you to pass farther today, and we shall but lose time by endeavoring to find your friends who situated where you say you left them will reach the Geierstein sooner than we shall. Follow me then, or I must suppose you weary of my guidance. Sooner suppose me weary of the life which your guidance has in all probability

saved, replied Arthur, and prepared to attend her. At the same time, taking a view of her dress and person, which confirmed the satisfaction he had in following such a conductor, and which we shall take the liberty to detail somewhat more minutely than he could do at that time. An upper vest, neither so close as to display the person, a habit forbidden by the sumptuary laws of the canton, nor so loose as to be an encumbrance in walking or climbing covered a close tunic of a different color and came down beneath the middle of the leg but suffered the ankle in all its fine proportions to be completely visible. The foot was defended by a sandal, the point of which was turned upwards, and the crossings and knots of the strings, which secured it on the front of the leg,

were garnished with silver rings. The upper vest was gathered round the middle by a sash of party-colored silk ornamented with twisted threads of gold, while the tunic open at the throat, permitted the shape and exquisite whiteness of a well-formed neck to be visible at the collar, and for an inch or two beneath. The small portion of the throat and bosom, thus exposed, was even more brilliantly fair than was promised by the countenance, which last bore some marks of having been freely exposed to the sun and air, by no means in a degree to diminish its beauty, but just so far as to show that the maiden possessed the health. which is purchased by habits of rural exercise.

Her long, fair hair fell down in a profusion of curls on each side of a face whose blue eyes, lovely features, and dignified simplicity of expression, implied at once a character of gentleness and of the self-relying resolution of a mind too virtuous to suspect evil and too noble to fear it. Above these locks, beauty's natural and most beceaming ornament, or rather, I should say amongst them, was placed the small bonnet, which from its size little answered the purpose of protecting the head, but served to exercise the ingenuity of the fair wearer who had not failed, according to the prevailing custom of the mountain maidens to decorate the tiny cap with a heron's feather, and the then-unusual luxury of a small

and thin chain of gold long enough to encircle the cap four or five times, and having the ends secured under a broad metal of the same costly metal. have only to add that the stature of the young person was something above the common size, and that the whole contour of her form, without being in the slightest degree masculine, resembled that of Minerva rather than the proud beauties of Juno, or the yielding graces of Venus, the noble brow, the well-formed and active limbs, the firm and yet light step, above all the total absence of anything resembling the consciousness of personal beauty, and the open and candid look, which seemed desirous of knowing nothing that was hidden, and conscious that she

herself had nothing to hide, were traits not unworthy of the goddess of wisdom and of chastity. The road which the young Englishman pursued under the guidance of this beautiful young woman was difficult and unequal, but could not be termed dangerous, at least in comparison to those precipices over which Arthur had recently passed. It was, in fact, a continuation of the path which the slip or slide of earth so often mentioned had interrupted, and although it had sustained damage in several places at the period of the same earthquake, yet there were marked, of these having been already repaired in such a rude manner as made the way sufficient for the necessary intercourse of a people so indifferent as the Swiss to smooth or level paths. The maiden also gave

Arthur to understand that the present road took a circuit for the purpose of gaining that on which he was lately traveling, and that if he and his companions had turned off at the place where this new track united with the old pathway, they would have escaped the danger which had attended their keeping the road by the verge of the precipice. The path which they now pursued was rather averted from the torrent, though still within hearing of its sullen thunders, which seemed to increase as they ascended parallel to its course, till suddenly the road, turning short, and directing itself straight upon the old castle, brought them within sight of one of the most splendid and awful scenes of that mountainous region. The ancient tower of Geyerstein,

though neither extensive nor distinguished by architectural ornament, possessed an air of terrible dignity by its position on the very verge of the opposite bank of the torrent, which just at the angle of the rock on which the ruins are situated falls sheer over a cascade of nearly a hundred feet in height, and then rushes down the defile through a trough of living rock, which perhaps its waves have been deepening since time itself. had a commencement facing, and at the same time, looking down upon this eternal roar of waters, stood the old tower, built so close to the verge of the precipice, that the buttresses, with which the architect had strengthened the foundation, seemed a part of the solid rock itself,

and a continuation of its perpendicular ascent. As usual, throughout, Europe in the feudal times, the principal part of the building was a massive square pile, the decayed summit of which was rendered picturesque by flanking turrets of different sizes and heights, some round, some angular, some ruinous, some tolerably entire, varying the outline of the building as seen against the stormy sky. A projecting Sallyport, descending by a flight of steps from the tower had in former times given access to a bridge, connecting the castle with that side of the stream on which Arthur Philipson and his fair guide now stood. A single arch, or rather one rib of an arch, consisting of single stones, still remained,

and spanned the river immediately in front of the waterfall. In former times, this arch had served for the support of a wooden drawbridge of more convenient breadth, and of such length and weight as must have been rather unmanageable had it not been lowered on some solid resting place. It is true, the device was attended with this inconvenience that even when the drawbridge was up, there remained a possibility of approaching the castle gate by means of this narrow rib of stone, but as it was not above 18 inches broad and could only admit the daring foe who should traverse it to a doorway regularly defended by gate and Port Cullis, and having flanked turrets

and projections from which stones, darts, melted lead, and scalding, water might be poured down on the soldiery who should venture to approach Geierstein by this precarious access, the possibility of such an attempt was not considered as diminishing the security of the garrison. In the time we treat of the castle being entirely ruined and dismantled, and the door, drawbridge, and Port Collis gone, the dilapidated gateway and the slender, arch, which connected the two sides of the stream, were used as a means of communication between the banks of the river by the inhabitants of the neighborhood, whom Habit had familiarized with the dangerous nature of the passage. Arthur Phillipson had, in the meantime,

like a good bow when New Strong, regained the elasticity of feeling and character, which was natural to him. It was not indeed with perfect composure that he followed his guide as she tripped lightly over the narrow arch composed of rugged stones and rendered wet and slippery with the perpetual drizzle of the mist issuing from the neighboring cascade. Nor was it without apprehension that he found himself performing this perilous feat in the neighborhood of the waterfall itself, whose deafening roar he could not exclude from his ears, though he took care not to turn his head towards its terrors, lest his brain should again be dizzyed by the tumult of the waters as they shot forward from the precipice above, and plunged themselves into what.

what seemed the fathomless gulf below. But notwithstanding these feelings of agitation, the natural shame to show cowardice where a beautiful young female exhibited so much indifference and the desire to regain his character in the eyes of his guide prevented Arthur from again giving way to the appalling feelings by which he had been overwhelmed, a short time before. Stepping firmly on, yet cautiously supporting himself with his piped staff, he traced the light footsteps of his guide along the bridge of dread, and followed her through the ruined Salliport, to which they ascended by stairs, which were equally dilapidated. The gateway admitted them into a mass of ruins, formerly a sort of courtyard to the donjon, which,

which rose in gloomy dignity above the rack of what had been works destined for external defense or buildings for internal accommodation. They quickly passed through these ruins over which vegetation had thrown a wild mantle of ivy and other creeping shrubs and issued from them through the main gate of the castle into one of those spots in which nature often embosoms her sweetest charms in the myths of districts chiefly characterized by waste and desolation. The castle in this aspect also rose considerably above the neighboring ground, but the elevation of the site, which towards the torrent was an abrupt rock, was on this side a steep eminence which had been scarped like a modern glaces to render the building more secure.

It was now covered with young trees and bushes, out of which the tower itself seemed to rise in ruined dignity. Beyond this hanging thicket, the view was of a very different character. A piece of ground, amounting to more than a hundred acres, seemed scooped out of the rock. and mountains, which retaining the same savage character with the tract in which the travelers had been that morning bewildered and closed, and, as it were, defended, a limited space of a mild and fertile character. The surface of this little domain was considerably varied, but its general aspect was a gentle slope to the southwest. The principal object which it presented, was a large house composed of huge logs without any pretense to form or symmetry,

but indicating by the smoke which arose from it, as well as the extent of the neighboring offices and the improved and cultivated character of the fields around, that it was the abode, not of splendor, certainly, but of ease and competence. An orchard of thriving fruit trees extended to the southward of the dwelling. Groves of walnut and chestnut grew in stately array, and even a vineyard of three or four acres showed that the cultivation of the grape was understood and practiced. It is now universal in Switzerland, but was in those early days almost exclusively confined to a few more fortunate proprietors who had the rare advantage of uniting intelligence with opulent or at least easy circumstances.

There were fair ranges of pasture fields into which the fine race of cattle, which constitute the pride and wealth of the Swiss mountaineers, had been brought down from the more alpine grazing where they had fed during the summer to be near shelter and protection when the autumnal storms might be expected. On some selected spots, the lambs of the last season fed in plenty and security, and in others huge trees, the natural growth of the soil were suffered to remain from motives of convenience, probably, that they might be at hand when timber was required. for domestic use, but giving at the same time a woodland character to a scene otherwise agricultural. Through this mountain paradise, the course of a small brook might be traced, now showing itself

to the sun, which had by this time dispelled the fogs, now intimating its course by its gently sloping banks clothed in some places with lofty trees or concealing itself under thickets of hawthorn and nut bushes. This stream by a devious and gentle course which seemed to indicate a reluctance to leave this quiet region found its way at length out of the sequestered domain and like a youth hurrying from the gay and tranquil sports of boyhood into the wild career of active life, finally united itself with the boisterous torrent, which, breaking down tumultuously from the mountains, shook the ancient tower of Geierstein as it rolled down the adjacent rock, and then rushed howling through the defile in which our youthful traveler had well nigh.

lost his life. Eager as the younger Philipson was to rejoin his father, he could not help pausing for a moment to wonder how so much beauty should be found amid such scenes of horror and to look back on the Tower of Geierstein and on the huge cliff from which it derived its name as if to ascertain by the sight of these distinguished landmarks that he was actually in the neighborhood of the savage wild, where he had encountered so much danger and terror. Yet so narrow were the limits of this cultivated farm that it hardly required such a retrospect to satisfy the spectator that the spot susceptible of human industry, and on which it seemed that a considerable,

degree of labor had been bestowed bore a very small proportion to the wilderness in which it was situated. It was on all sides surrounded by lofty hills in some places rising into walls of rock, and others clothed with dark and savage forests of the pine and the large of primeval antiquity, Above these from the eminence on which the tower was situated could be seen the almost rosy hue in which an immense glacier threw back the sun, and still higher over the frozen surface of that icy sea arose in silent dignity the pale peaks of those countless mountains on which the snow eternally rests. What we have taken some time to describe occupied young Philipson only for one or two hurried minutes, for on a sloping lawn which was in front of the farmhouse, as the mansion might properly be styled, he saw five or six persons, the foremost of whom, from his gate, his dress, and the form of his cap, he could easily distinguish as the parent whom he hardly expected at one time to have again be held.

He followed, therefore, his conductress with a glad step as she led the way down this steep ascent on which the ruined tower was situated. They approached the group whom Arthur had noticed, the foremost of which was his father, who hastily came forward. to meet him in company with another person of advanced age and stature well-nigh gigantic, and who, from his simple yet majestic bearing, seemed the worthy countryman of William Tell, Stoffaker, and Winkle-Reed, and other Swiss worthies whose stout hearts and hardy arms had in the preceding age vindicated against countless hosts their personal liberty and the independence of their country, with a natural courtesy as if to spare the father and son, many

witnesses, to a meeting which must be attended with a motion. The Landaman himself, in walking forward with the elder Philipson, signed to those by whom he was attended. all of whom seemed young men to remain behind. They remained accordingly examining as it seemed, the guide Antonio, upon the adventures of the strangers. Anne, the conductress of Arthur Philipson, had but time to say to him, yonder old man is my uncle, Arnold Biederman,

and these young men are my kinsmen. When the former with the elder traveler were close before them, The Landam men with the same propriety of feeling, which he had before displayed, signed to his niece to move a little aside. Yet while requiring from her an account of her morning's expedition, he watched the interview of the father and son with as much curiosity as his natural sense of complacence permitted him to testify. It was of a character different, from what he had expected. We have already described the elder Philipson as a father devotedly attached to his son, ready to rush on death when he had expected to lose him, and equally overjoyed

at heart, doubtless, to see him again restored to his affections. It might have been, therefore, expected that the father and son would have rushed into each other's arms, and such probably was the scene which Arnold Biederman expected to have witnessed. But the English traveler, in common with many of his countrymen, covered keen and quick feelings with much appearance of coldness and reserve, and thought it a weakness to give unlimited sway even to the influence of the most amiable and most natural emotions, eminently handsome in youth, his countenance, still fine in his more advanced years, had an expression which intimated an unwillingness either to yield to passion or encourage confidence. His pace when he first beheld his son

had been quickened by the natural wish to meet him, but he slackened it as they drew near to each other, and when they met, said in a tone rather of censure and admonition than affection, Arthur, may the saints forgive the pain, thou hast this day given me. Amen, said the youth, I must need pardon since I have given you pain. Believe, however, that I acted for the best. It is well, Arthur, that in acting for the best, according to your forward will, you have not encountered the worst, that I have not answered the son, with the same devoted and patient submission, is owing to this maiden, pointing to Anne, who stood at a few paces distance, desirous perhaps of avoiding to witness the reproof of the father, which might seem to her,

rather ill-timed and unreasonable. To the maiden, my thanks shall be rendered, said his father, when I can study how to pay them in an adequate manner. But is it well or comely think you that you should receive from a maiden the succor, which it is your duty as a man, to extend to the weaker sex? Arthur held down his head and blushed deeply, while Arnold Biederman, sympathizing with his feelings, stepped forward and mingled in the conversation. Never be abashed, my young guest, that you have been indebted for aught of counsel or assistance to a maiden of Untrowaldon. Know that the freedom of their country owes no less to the firmness and wisdom of her daughters

than to that of her sons. And you, my elder guest, who have, I judge, seen many years and various lands, must have often known examples how the strong are saved by the help of the weak, the proud, by the aid of the humble. I have at least learned, said the Englishman, to debate no point unnecessarily with the host who has kindly harbored me. And after one, glance at his son, which seemed to kindle with the fondest affection, he resumed as the party turned back towards the house, a conversation which he had been maintaining with his new acquaintance before Arthur and the maiden had joined them. Arthur had in the meantime an opportunity of observing the figure and features of their Swiss landlord, which I have already hinted, exhibited a

primeval simplicity, mixed with a certain rude dignity arising out of its masculine and unaffected character. The dress did not greatly differ in form from the habit of the female, which we have described. It consisted of an upper frock, shaped like the modern shirt, and only open at the bosom, worn above a tunic or underdublet. But the man's vest was considerably short. in the skirts, which did not come lower down than the kilt of the Scottish Highlander. A species of boots or buskins rose above the knee, and the person was thus entirely clothed. A bonnet made of the fur of the martin, and garnished with a silver metal, was the only part of the dress which displayed anything like ornament.

the broad belt which gathered the garment together was of buff leather, secured by a large brass buckle. But the figure of him who wore this homely attire, which seemed almost wholly composed of the fleeces of the mountain sheep and the spoils of animals of the chase, would have commanded respect wherever the wear had presented himself, especially in those warlike days when men were judged of according to the promising or unpromising qualities of their thews and sinews. To those who looked at Arnold Biederman from this point of view, he displayed the size and form, the broad shoulders and prominent muscles of a Hercules. But to such as looked rather at his countenance, the steady, sagacious features, open front, large blue eyes, and deliberate resolution, which it expressed, more resembled the

character of the fabled king of gods and men. He was attended by several sons and relatives, young men, among whom he walked, receiving, as his undeniable due, respect and obedience, similar to that which a herd of deer are observed to render to the monarch's stag. While Arthur Biederman walked and spoke with the elder stranger, the young men seemed closely to scrutinize Arthur and occasionally interrogated in whispers their relation, Anne, receiving from her brief and impatient answers, which rather excited than appeased the vein of merriment in which the mountaineers indulged very much, as it seemed to the young Englishmen, at the expense of their guest, To feel himself exposed to derision was not softened by the reflection that in such a society

it would probably be attached to all who could not tread on the edge of a precipice with a step as firm and undismayed as if they walked the street of a city. However unreasonable ridicule may be, it is always unpleasing to be subjected to it, but more particularly, It is distressing to a young man where beauty is a listener. It was some consolation to Arthur that he thought the maiden certainly did not enjoy the jest and seemed by word and look to reprove the rudeness of her companions. But this he feared was only from a sense of humanity. She too must despise me, he thought, though civility, unknown to these.

ill-taught boers has enabled her to conceal contempt under the guise of pity. She can but judge of me from that which she has seen, if she could know me better. Such was his proud thought, she might perhaps rank me more highly. As the travelers entered the habitation of Arnold Biederman, they found preparations made in a large apartment which served the purpose of general accommodation for a homely but plentiful meal. A glance round the walls showed the implements of agriculture and the chase, but the eyes of the elder Philipson rested upon a leathern corselet, a long, heavy halberd, and a two-handed sword, which were displayed as a sort of trophy. Near these, but covered with dust, unfurbished and neglected, hung a helmet, with

a visor, such as was used by knights and men at arms. The golden garland, or coronal, twisted around it, though sorely tarnished, indicated noble birth and rank, and the crest, which was a vulture of the species which gave name to the old castle and its adjacent cliff, suggested various conjectures to the English guest, who acquainted in a great measure with the history, which of the Swiss Revolution made little doubt that in this relic he saw some trophy of the ancient warfare between the inhabitants of these mountains and the feudal lord to whom they had of your appertained. As summons to the hospitable board disturbed the train of the English merchant's reflections and a large company comprising the whole inhabitants of every description that

lived under Biedermann's roof, sat down to a plentiful repast of goats, flesh, fish, preparations of milk, of various kinds, cheese, and for the upper mess, the venison of a young shammie. The landa man himself did the honors of the table with great kindness and simplicity, and urged the strangers to show by their appetite that they thought themselves as welcome as he desired to make them. During the repast, he carried on a conversation with his elder guest, while the younger people at table, as well as the menials, ate in modesty and silence. ere the dinner was finished, a figure crossed on the outside of the large window, which lighted the eating hall, the sight of which seemed to occasion a lively sensation

amongst such as observed it. Who passed, said Old Biederman, to those seated opposite to the window. It is our cousin, Rudolph, of Donorhugel, answered one of Arnold's sons eagerly. The enunciation seemed to give great pleasure to the younger part of the company, especially the sons of the Landamann,

while the head of the family only said with a grave, calm voice, your kinsman is welcome. Tell him so, and let him come hither. Two or three arose for this purpose, as if there had been a contention among them who should do the honors of the house to the new guest. He entered presently a young man, unusually tall, well-proportioned and active, with a quantity of dark brown locks curling around his face, together with mustaches of the same, or rather a still darker hue. His cap was small, considering the quantity of his thickly clustering hair, and rather might be said to hang upon one side of his head than to cover it.

His clothes were of the same form and general fashion as those of Arnold, but made of much finer cloth, the manufacture of the German loom, and ornamented in a rich and fanciful manner. One sleeve of his vest was dark green, curiously laced, and embroidered with devices in silver, while the rest of the garment was scarlet. His sash was twisted and netted with gold, and besides answering the purpose of a belt, by securing the upper garment round his waist, sustained a silver, hilted poniard, his finery was. his finery was completed by boots, the tips of which were so long as to turn upwards with a peak after a prevailing fashion in the Middle Ages. A golden chain hung round his neck and sustained a large

medallion of the same metal. This young gallant was instantly surrounded by the race of Biedermann, among whom he appeared to be considered as the model upon which the Swiss youth ought to build themselves, and whose gate, opinions, dress, and manners all ought to follow who would keep pace with the fashion of the day, in which he reigned and acknowledged and unrivaled example. By two persons in the company, however, it seemed to Arthur Philipson that this young man was received, with less distinguished marks of regard than those with which he was hailed by the general voice of the youth's present. Arnold Biederman himself was at least no way warm in welcoming the young Bernese, for such was Rudolf's country. The young man drew from his bosom a sealed packet which he delivered to the landaman with demonstrations of great respect and seemed to expect.

that Arnold, when he had broken the seal and purused the contents, would say something to him on the subject, but the patriarch only bade him be seated and partake of their meal, and Rudolph found a place accordingly next to Anne of Geierstein, which was yielded to him by one of the sons of Arnold with ready courtesy. It seemed also to the observant, young Englishmen, that the newcomer was received with marked coldness by the maiden, to whom he appeared eager and solicitous to pay his compliments, by whose side he had contrived to seat himself at the well-furnished board, and to whom he seemed more anxious to recommend himself than to partake of the food which it offered. He observed the gallant whisper, her, and look towards him, and, and,

gave a very brief reply, but one of the young Betermans, who sat on his other hand, was probably more communicative, as the youths both laughed, and the maiden again seemed disconcerted, and blushed with displeasure. Had I either of these sons of the mountain, thought young Philipson, upon six yards of level Greensward, if there be so much flat ground in this country, methinks I were more likely to spoil their mirth than to furnish food for it. It is as marvelous to see such conceited boars under the same roof with so courteous and amiable a damsel, as it would be to see one of their shaggy bears dance a rigadoon with a maiden like the daughter of our host. Well, I need not concern myself more than I can help about her.

beauty or their breeding, since morning will separate me from them forever. As these reflections passed through the young guest's mind, the father of the family called for a cup of wine, and having required the two strangers to pledge him in a maple cup of considerable size, he sent a similar goblet to Rudolph, Donorhugel. Yet you, he said, kinsmen, are used to more highly. flavored wine than the half-ripened grapes of Geyerstein can supply. Would you think it, Sir Merchant, he continued, addressing Philipson, there are burgers of Bern who send for wine for their own drinking, both to France and Germany. My kinsman disapproves of that, replied

Rudolph, yet every place is not blessed with vineyards like Geyerstein, which produces all that heart and I can desire. This was said with a glance at his fair companion, who did not appear to take the compliment while the envoy of Byrne proceeded, but our wealthier burgers, having some superfluous crowns, think it no extravagance to barter them for a goblet of better wine than our own mountains can produce. But we will be more frugal when we have at our disposal, tunes of the wine of Burgundy for the mere trouble of transporting them. How mean you by that, cousin Rudolph, said Arnold Biedermann. Methinks, respected Kinsman, answered the Bernese.

Your letters must have told you that our deit is likely to declare war against Burgundy. Ah, and you know then the contents of my letters, said Arnold, another mark how times are changed at Byrne and with the Diet of Switzerland, when did all her gray-haired statesmen die that our allies should have brought beardless boys into their councils? The Senate of Byrne and the deat of the Confederacy, said the young man, partly abashed, partly in vindication of what he had before spoken, allow the young men to know their purposes, since it is they by whom they must be executed, the head which thinks may well confide in the hand that strikes. Not till the moment of dealing the blow, young man, said Arnold Biederman sternly. What kind of counselor is he who talks

loosely the secrets of state affairs before women and strangers? Go, Rudolph, and all of ye, and try by manly exercises which is best fitted to serve your country, rather than then give your judgment upon her measures. Hold, young man, he continued addressing Arthur, who had risen. This does not apply to you, who are unused to mountain travel, and require rest after it. Under your favor, sir, not so, said the elder stranger, we hold in England that the best refreshment after we have been exhausted by one species of exercise is to betake ourselves to another, as writing, for example, affords more relief to one fatigued by walking than a bed of down would. So if your young men will permit, my son will join their exercises.

He will find them rough playmates, answered the Switzer, but be it at your pleasure. The young men went out accordingly to the open lawn in front of the house, Anne of Geyerstein and some females of the household sat down on a bank to judge which performed best and shouts, loud laughing, and all that announces the riot of juvenile spirits occupied by manly sports, was soon after heard by the two seniors as they sat together in the hall. The master of the house resumed the wine flask, and having filled the cup of his guest, poured the remainder into his own. At an age-worthy stranger, he said, when the blood grows colder and the feelings heavier, a moderate cup of wine brings back light thoughts and makes the limbs supple. Yet I almost wish that Noah had never planted the grape, when of late years I have seen with my own eyes, my countrymen swill wine like very Germans, till they were like gorged swine,

incapable of sense, thought, or motion. It is a vice, said the Englishman, which I have observed gains ground in your country, where within a century I have heard it was totally unknown. It was so, said the Swiss, for wine was seldom made at home and never imported for. from abroad, for indeed, none possessed the means of purchasing that or odd else, which our valleys produced not, but our wars and our victories have gained us wealth as well as fame, and in the poor thoughts of one Switzer, at least, we had been better without both had we not also gained liberty by the same exertion. It is something, however, that commerce may occasionally send into our remote mountains a sensible visitor like yourself, worthy guest, whose discourse

shows him to be a man of sagacity and discernment. For though I love not the increasing taste for trinkets and gougas which you merchants introduce, yet I acknowledge that we simple mountaineers learn from men like you more of the world around us than we could acquire by our own exertions. You are bound, you say, to bail, and thence to the Duke of Burgundy's Ligger. I am so, my worthy host, said the merchant, that is, providing I can perform my journey with safety. Your safety, good friend, may be assured if you list to Terry for two or three days, for in that space I shall myself take the journey, and with such an escort, as we will, will prevent any risk of danger. You will find in me a sure and faithful guide, and I shall learn from

you much of other countries, which it concerns me to know better than I do. Is it a bargain? The proposal is too much to my advantage to be refused, said the Englishman. But may I ask the purpose of your journey? I should yonder, boy, but now, answered Beterman, for speaking on public affairs without reflection and before the whole family. But our tidings and my errand need not be concealed from a considerate person like you, who must indeed soon learn it from public rumor. You know doubtless the mutual hatred which subsists between Louis XIteenth of France and Charles of Burgundy, whom men call the bold,

and having seen these countries as, as I understand from your former discourse, you are probably well aware of the various contending interests, which besides the personal hatred of the sovereigns, make them irreconcilable enemies. Now, Louis, whom the world cannot match for craft and subtlety, is using all his influence

by distributions of large sums amongst some of the counselors of our neighbors of Bern. By pouring treasures, into the exchequer of that state itself by holding out the bait of emolument to the old men and encouraging the violence of the young to urge the Bernese into a war with the Duke. Charles, on the other hand, is acting as he frequently does exactly as Louis could have wished. Our neighbors and allies of Bern do not, like us of the Forest cantons, confined themselves to pasture or agriculture, but carry on considerable commerce, which the Duke

of Burgundy has, in various instances, interrupted by the exactions and violence of his officers in the frontier towns, as is doubtless well known to you. Unquestionably answered the merchant, they are universally regarded as vexatious. You will not then be surprised that solicited by the one sovereign and aggrieved by the other, proud of past victories and ambitious of additional power, Bern and the city cantons of our Confederacy, whose representatives from their superior wealth and better education have more to say in our deit than we of the forests should be bent upon war, from which it has hitherto happened that the Republic has always derived victory. wealth and increase of territory.

I worthy host, and of glory, said Philipson, interrupting him with some enthusiasm. I wonder not that the brave youths of your states are willing to thrust themselves upon new wars since their past victories have been so brilliant and so far famed. You are no wise merchant, kind guest, answered the host,

if you regard success in former desperate undertakings as an encouragement to future rashness. Let us make a better use of past victories. When we fought for our liberties, God blessed our arms, but will he do so if we fight either for aggrandizement or for the gold of France? Your doubt is just, said the merchant, more sedately, but suppose you draw the sword to put an end to the vexatious, exactions of Burgundy.

Hear me, good friend, answered the Switzer. It may be that we of the forest cantons think too little of those matters of trade, which so much engross the attention of the Burgers of Bern. Yet we will not desert our neighbors and allies in a just quarrel, and it is well-nigh-settled that a deputation shall be sent to the Duke of Burgundy to request redress. In this embassy, the General Diet now assembled at Bern have requested that I should take some share, and hence the journey in which I propose that you should accompany me. It will be much to my satisfaction to travel in your company, where the host, said the Englishman,

but as I am a true man, methinks your port and figure resemble an envoy of defyifying. rather than a messenger of peace. And I, too, might say, replied the Switzer, that your language and sentiments, my honored guest, rather belong to the sword than the measuring wand. I was bred to the sword, worthy, sir, before I took the cloth yard in my hand, replied Philipson, smiling, and it may be I am still more partial to my old trade than wisdom would ultimately. together recommend. I thought so, said Arnold, but then you fought most likely under your country's banners against a foreign and national enemy, and in that case, I will admit that war has something in it which elevates the heart above the due sense it should entertain of the calamity inflicted

and endured by God's creatures on each side. But the warfare in which I was engaged, had no such gilding. It was the miserable war of Zurich, where Swetzer's leveled their pikes against the bosoms of their own countrymen, and quarter was asked and refused in the same kindly mountain language. From such remembrances, your warlike recollections are probably free. The merchant hung down his head and pressed his forehead with his hand as one to whom the most painful thoughts were suddenly recalled. Alas, he said, I deserve to fill the pain which your words inflict. What nation can know the woes of England that has not felt them? What I can estimate them which has not seen a land torn and bleeding with a strife of two desperate factions? Battles fought in every

province, planes heaped with slain, and scaffolds drenched in blood. Even in your quiet valleys, methinks, you may have heard of the civil wars of England. I do indeed bethink me, said the Switzer, that England had lost her possessions in France during many years of bloody internal wars concerning the color of a rose. Was it not? But these are ended. For the present, answered Philip it would seem so. As he spoke, there was a knock at the door. The master of the house said, Come in. The door opened, and with the reverence, which was expected from young persons, towards their elders in these pastoral regions, the fine form of Anne of Geyerstein presented itself. End of Chapter 3. Chapter 4 of Anne of Geierstein by Sir Walter Scott.

This Libravox recording is in the public domain, recording by Dionne's Salt Lake City, Utah. And now the well-known beau, the master bore, turned on all sides and viewed it or and or, whilst some deriding how he turns the bow. Some other like it, sure, the man must know, or else would copy, or in bows he deals, perhaps. he makes them, or perhaps he steals, Pope's Homer's Odyssey. The fair maiden approached with the half-mashful, half-important look, which sits so well on a young

housekeeper when she is at once proud and ashamed of the matronly duties she is called upon to discharge and whispered something in her uncle's ear. And could not the idle-pated boys have brought their own errand? What is it they want, that they cannot ask themselves, but must send thee to beg it for them? Had it been anything reasonable, I should have heard it dined into my ears by forty voices. So modest are our Swiss youths become nowadays. She stooped forward, and again whispered in his ear. as he fondly stroked her curling tresses with his ample hand and replied, The bow of Butus Holtz, my dear, why the youths surely are not grown stronger since last year, when none of them could bend it. But yonder it hangs with its three arrows. Who is the wise champion that is challenger at a game where he is sure to be foiled?

It is this gentleman's son, sir, said the maiden, who, not being able to contend with my cousins in running, leaping, hurling the bar, or pitching the stone, has challenged them to ride, or to shoot with the English long-bow. To ride, said the venerable Swiss, were difficult where there are no horses, and no level ground to career upon if there were, but an English bow he shall have, since we happen to possess one. Take it to the young men, my niece, with the three arrows, and say to them from me that he who bends it will do more than William Tell, or the renowned Stoffaker, could have done. As the maiden went to take the weapon from the place where it hung amid the grubes, amid the

group of arms, which Philipson had formerly remarked, the English merchant observed that were the minstrels of his land to assign her occupation, so fair a maiden should be bow-bearer to none but the little blind God Cupid. I will have nothing of the blind God Cupid, said Arnold hastily, yet half-laughing at the same time. We have been deafened with the foolery of minstrels and strolling miniserings ever since the wandering knaves have found there were pence to be gathered among us. A Swiss maiden should only sing Albert Ischutie's ballads, or the merry lay of the going out and return of the cows to and from the mountain pastures. While he spoke, the damsel had selected from the arms a bow of extraordinary strength.

considerably above six feet in length, with three shafts of a cloth yard long. Philipson asked to look at the weapons and examine them closely. It is a tough piece of you, he said, I should know it, since I have dealt in such commodities in my time. But when I was of Arthur's age, I could have bent it as easily as a boy bends a willow. We are too old to boast like boys, said Arnold Beterman, with something of a reproving glance at his companion. Carry the bow to thy kinsman, Anne, and let him, who can bend it, say he beat Arnold Beterman. As he spoke, he turned his eyes on the spare, yet muscular figure of the Englishman,

then again glanced down on his own stately person. You must remember, good my host, said Philipson, that weapons are wielded not by strength, but by art and sleight of hand. What most I wonder at is to see in this place a bow made by Matthew of Doncaster, a boyer who lived at least a hundred years ago, remarkable for the great toughness and strength. of the weapons which he made, and which are now become somewhat unmanageable even by an English yeoman. How are you assured of the maker's name, worthy guest, replied the Swiss, by old Matthews Mark, answered the Englishman, and his initials cut upon the bow.

I wonder not a little to find such a weapon here, and in such good preservation. It has been regularly waxed, oiled, and kept in good order, said the Landman, being preserved as a trophy of a memorable day. It would but grieve you to recount its early history since it was taken in a day fatal to your country. My country, said the Englishman, composedly, has gained so many victories that her children may well afford to hear of a single defeat, but I knew not that the English ever wore'd in Switzerland. Not precisely as a nation, answered Biedermann, but it was in my grandsire's days that a large body of roving soldiers composed of men from almost all countries, but especially Englishmen, Normans, and Gaskins poured down on the Argo and the districts adjacent. They were headed,

by a great warrior called Engelrum de Kusi, who pretended some claims upon the Duke of Austria, to satisfy which he ravaged indifferently the Austrian territory and that of our Confederacy. His soldiers were hired warriors, free companions they called themselves, that seemed to belong to no country, and were as brave in the fight as they were cruel in their depredations. Some paws in the constant wars betwixt France and England had deprived many of those bands of their ordinary employment, and battle being their element. They came to seek it among our valleys. The air seemed on fire with the blaze of their armor, and the very sun was darkened at the flight of their arrows. They did us much evil, and we sustained the loss of more than one battle.

But we met them at Buddhist Holtz and mingled the blood of many a rider, noble as they were called and esteemed, with that of their horses. The huge mound that covers the bones of man and steed is still called the English Barrow. Philipson was silent for a minute or two, and then replied, Then let them sleep in peace. If they did wrong, they paid for it with their lives, And that is all the ransom that mortal men can render for his transgressions. Heaven pardon their souls.

Amen, replied the Landaman, and those of all brave men. My grandson was at the battle and was held to have demeaned himself like a good soldier. And this bow has been ever since carefully preserved in our family. There is a prophecy about it, but I hold it not worthy of remark. Philipson was about to inquire further, but was interrupted by a loud cry of surprise and astonishment from without. I must go out, said Beterman, and see what these wild lads are doing. It is not now, as formerly in this land, when the young dared not judge for themselves, till the old man's voice. had been heard. He went forth from the lodge, followed by his guest. The company who had witnessed the

games were all talking, shouting, and disputing in the same breath, while Arthur Philipson stood a little apart from the rest, leaning on the unbent bow with apparent indifference. At the sight of the Landaman, all were silent. What means this unwanted clamor? He said, raising a voice to which all were accustomed to listen with reverence. Rudiger, addressing the eldest of his sons, has the young stranger bent the bow? He has father, said Rudiger, and he has hit the mark. Three such shots were never shot by William Tell.

It was chance, pure chance, said the young Swiss from Bern. No human skill could have done it, much less a puny lad. baffled in all, besides that he attempted among us. But what has been done, said the landaman, nay, speak not all at once, and of Geierstein, thou hast more sense and breeding than these boys. Tell me how the game has gone. The maiden seemed a little confused at this appeal, but answered with a composed and downcast look. The mark was, as usual, a pigeon to a pole, all the young men, except the stranger, had practiced at it with the crossbow and long bow without hitting it. When I brought out the bow of Buddhist holes, I offered it first to my kinsman.

None would accept of it, saying, respected uncle, that a task too great for you must be far too difficult for them. They said, well, answered Arnold Biederman, and the stranger, did he string the He did, my uncle, but first he wrote something on a piece of paper and placed it in my hands. And did he shoot and hit the mark? Continue the surprised Switzer. He first, said the maiden, removed the pole a hundred yards further than the post where it stood. Singular, said the landman. That is double the usual distance.

He then drew the bow, continued the maiden, and shot off one after. another, with incredible rapidity, the three arrows which he had stuck into his belt. The first cleft the pole, the second cut the string, the third killed the poor bird as it rose into the air. By St. Mary of Ensodlin, said the old man, looking up in a maze. If your eyes really saw this, they saw such archery as was never before witnessed in the forest state. I say nay to that, my Reverend Kinsman, replied Rudolph, Donner-Hughal, whose vexation was apparent. It was mere chance, if not illusion, or witchery. What sayeth thou of it thyself, Arthur, said his father, half-smiling, was thy success by chance or skill?

My father, said the young man, I need not tell you that I have done but an ordinary feat for an English bowman, nor do I speak to gratify that Miss Proud and ignorant young man But to our worthy host and his family I make answer This youth charges me With having diluted men's eyes Or hit the mark by chance

For illusion Yonder is the pierced pole The severed string and the slain bird They will endure a sight and handling And besides if that fair maiden will open the note which I put into her hand, she will find evidence to assure you that even before I drew the bow, I had fixed upon the three marks which I designed to aim at. Produce the scroll, good niece, said her uncle, and end the controversy. Nay, under your favor, my worthy host,

said Arthur, it is but some foolish rhymes addressed to the maiden's own eye. And, your favor, sir, said the landaman. Whatsoever is fit for my niece's eyes may greet my ears. He took the scroll from the maiden, who blushed deeply when she resigned it. The character in which it was written was so fine that the landaman, in surprise, exclaimed, no clerk of St. Gall could have written more fairly. Strange, he again repeated, that a hand which could draw so true a bow should have the cunning to form characters so fair. He then exclaimed a new, Ha! Verses by our lady, what? Have we minstrels disguised as traitors?

He then opened the scroll and read the following lines. If I hit mast and line and bird, an English archer keeps his word, ah, maiden, didst thou aim at me a single glance, were worth the three? Here is rare rhyming, my worthy guest, said the landaman, shaking his head, fine words to make foolish maidens feign, but do not excuse it. It is your country fashion, and we know how to treat it as such. And without further allusion to the concluding couplet, the reading of which through the poet, as well as the object of the verses into some discomposure. He added gravely,

You must now allow, Rudolph, Donner-Hughal, that the stranger has fairly attained the three marks, which he proposed to himself. That he has attained them is plain, answered the party, to whom the appeal was made, but that he has done this fairly may be doubted, if there are such things as witchery and magic in this world. Shame, shame, Rudolph, said the landman. Can spleen and envy have weight with so brave a man as you, from whom my sons ought to learn temperance, forbearance, and candor, as well as manly courage and dexterity?

The Bernice colored high under this rebut, to which he ventured not to attempt a reply. to your sports till sunset, my children, continued Arnold, while I and my worthy friend occupy our time with a walk, for which the evening is now favorable. Methinks, said the English merchant, I should like to visit the ruins of yonder castle, situated by the waterfall. There is something of melancholy dignity in such a scene, which reconciles us to the misfortunes of our own. time by showing that our ancestors who were perhaps more intelligent or more powerful have nevertheless in their days encountered cares and distresses similar to those which we now grown under have with you my worthy sir replied his host there will be time also upon the road to talk of things

that you should know the slow step of the two elderly men carried them by degrees from the limits of the lawn, where shout and laugh and halloo were again revived. Young Philipson, whose success as an archer, had obliterated all recollection of former failure, made other attempts to mingle in the manly pastimes of the country, and gained a considerable portion of applause. The young men, who had but lately been so ready to join in ridiculing him, now began to consider him as a person to be looked up and appealed to, while Rudolph Donorhugel saw with resentment that he was no longer without a rival, in the opinion of his male cousins, perhaps of his kinswoman also.

The proud young Swiss reflected with bitterness that he had fallen under the Landman's displeasure, declined in reputation with his companions of whom he had been hitherto the leader, and even hazarded a more mortifying disappointment, all as his swelling heart expressed it through the means of a stranger stripling of neither blood nor fame, who could not step from one rock to another without the encouragement of a girl. In this irritated mood, he drew near the young Englishman. and while he seemed to address him on the chances of the sports which were still proceeding, he conveyed in a whisper matter of a far different tendency.

Striking Arthur's shoulder with the frank bluntness of a mountaineer, he said aloud, yonder bolt of earnest whistled through the air like a falcon when she stooped down the wind, and then proceeded in a deep low voice, you merchant sell gloves. Do you ever deal in single gauntlets or only in pairs? I sell no single glove, said Arthur, instantly apprehending him and sufficiently disposed to resent the scornful looks of the Bernese champion during the time of their meal and his having, but lately imputed his successful shooting to chance or sorcery. I sell no single gun. I sell no single gloves, sir, but never refuse to exchange one. You are apt, I see, said Rudolph, look at the players

while I speak, or our purpose will be suspected. You are quicker, I say, of apprehension than I expected. If we exchange our gloves, how shall we each redeem his own? With our good swords, said Arthur Philipson, in armor, or as we stand. Even as we stand, said Arthur, I have no better garment of proof than this doublet, no other weapon than my sword, and these Sir Switzer, I hold enough for the purpose, name time and place. The old castle court at Geierstein replied Rudolph, the time sunrise, but we are watched. I have lost my wager. stranger, he added, speaking aloud, and in an indifferent tone of voice, since Ulrich has made

a cast beyond earnest, there is my glove. In token, I shall not forget the flask of wine. And there is mine, said Arthur, in token, I will drink it with you merrily. Thus amid the peaceful, though rough sports of their companions, did these two hot-headed youths contrived to, indulge their hostile inclinations towards each other by settling a meeting of deadly purpose. End of Chapter 4. Chapter 5 of Anne of Geierstein by Sir Walter Scott. This Libravox recording is in the public domain. Recording by Dionne's Salt Lake City, Utah.

I was one who loved the Greenwood Bank and Lowing Herd. the russet prize, the lowly peasant's life, seasoned with sweet content, more than the halls where revelers feast to fever height. Believe me, there never was poison mixed in Maple Bowl. Anonymous. Leaving the young persons engaged with their sports, the landman of Unterwalden and the elder Philipson walked on in company conversing chiefly on the political relations of France, England, and Burgundy,

until the conversation was changed as they entered the gate of the old castle yard of Guyurstein, where arose the lonely and dismantled keep, surrounded by the ruins of other buildings. This has been a proud and a strong habitation in its time, said Philipson. they were a proud and powerful race who held it, replied the Landman. The counts of Geierstein have a history which runs back to the times of the old Helvetians, and their deeds are reported to have matched their antiquity. But all earthly grandeur has an end, and free men tread the ruins of their feudal castle at the most distant sight of whose turrets serfs were formally obliged to veil their bonnets

if they would escape the chastisement of contumacious rebels. I observe, said the merchant engraved on a stone under yonder turret, the crest I conceive of the last family, a vulture perched on a rock, descriptive doubtless of the word Geyerstein. is the ancient cognizance of the family, replied Arnold Biederman, and as you say, expresses the name of the castle, being the same with that of the knights who so long held it. I also remarked in your hall, continued the merchant, a helmet bearing the same crest or cognizance. It is, I suppose, a trophy of the triumph of the Swiss peasants over the nobles of Geyerstein,

as the English bow is preserved in remembrance of the Battle of Butusholz. And you, fair sir, replied the Landman, would I perceive, from the prejudices of your education, regard the one victory with as unpleasant feelings as the other? Strange that the veneration for rank should be rooted, even in the minds of those who have no claim to share it. But clear up your downcast brows, my worthy guest, and be assured that, though many a proud Baron's castle, when Switzerland threw off the bonds of feudal slavery, was plundered and destroyed by the just vengeance of an incensed people. Such was not the lot of Geierstein. The blood of the old possessors of these towers still flows in the veins of him by whom these lands are occupied.

What am I to understand by that, Sir Landaman? said Philipson, are not you yourself the occupant of this place? And you think, probably, answered Arnold, because I live like the other shepherds where homespun gray and hold the plow with my own hands. I cannot be deceptive. from a line of ancient nobility. This land holds many such gentle peasants, surmerchant, nor is there a more ancient nobility than that of which the remains are to be found in my native country, but they have voluntarily resigned the oppressive part of their feudal power and are no longer regarded as wolves amongst the flock, but as sagacious, who attend the sheep in time of peace and are prompt in their defense when war threatens our community.

But repeated the merchant, who could not yet reconcile himself to the idea that his plain and peasant-seeming host was a man of distinguished birth. You bear not the name worthy, sir, of your fathers. They were, you say, the counts of Geyerstein. and you are Arnold Biederman at your command, answered the magistrate. But no, if the knowledge can make you sup with more sense of dignity or comfort, I need but put on yonder old helmet, or if that were too much trouble, I have only to stick a falcon's feather into my cap and call myself Arnold, count of Geierstein. No man could gainsay me,

though whether it would become my Lord Count to drive his bullocks to the pasture, and whether His Excellency, the High and Well-Born, could without derogation, so a field or reap it, are questions which should be settled beforehand. I see you are confounded, my respected guest, at my degeneracy, but the state of my family is very soon explained. My lordly fathers ruled this same domain of Geierstein, which in their time was very extensive, much after the mode of feudal barons. That is, they were sometimes the protectors and patrons, but oftener the oppressors of their subjects. But when my grandfather, Heinrich of Geierstein,

flourished, he not only joined the Confederates to repel Ingleham de Cousie and his roving bands, as I already told you, but when the wars with Austria were renewed and many of his degree joined with the host of the Emperor Leopold, my ancestor adopted the opposite side, fought in front of the Confederates, and contributed by his skill and valor to the decisive. victory at Sempak, in which Leopold lost his life, and the flower of Austrian chivalry fell around him. My father, Count Willowald, followed the same course, both from inclination and policy. He united himself closely with the state of Unterwalden, became a citizen of the Confederacy, and distinguished himself so much that he was chosen, land-a-mendarmamented.

of the Republic. He had two sons, myself and a younger brother, Albert, and possessed, as he felt himself of a species of double character. He was desirous, perhaps unwisely, if I may censure the purpose of a deceased parent, that one of his sons should succeed him in his lordship of Geierstein, and the other support the less ostentatious, though not in my thought, less honorable condition of a free citizen of Untrawaldon, possessing such influence among his equals in the canton as might be acquired by his father's merits and his own. When Albert was 12 years old,

our father took us on a short excursion to Germany where the form, pomp, and magnificence, which we witnessed, made a very different impression on the most. mind of my brother and on my own. What appeared to Albert, the consummation of earthly splendor, seemed to me a weary display of tiresome and useless ceremonials. Our father explained his purpose and offered to me as his eldest son, the large estate belonging to Geierstein, reserving such a portion of the most fertile ground as might make my brother one of the wealthiest citizens in a district where competence is esteemed wealth. The tears gushed from

Albert's eyes, and must my brother, he said, be a noble count, honored and followed by vassals and attendance, and I, a homespun peasant among the gray-bearded shepherds of Unterwalden. No, father, I respect your will, but I will not sacrifice my own rights. Geyerstein is a thief held of the empire, and the laws entitle me to my equal half of the lands. If my brother be Count of Geyerstein, I am not the less Count Albert of Geyerstein, and I will appeal to the emperor, rather than that the arbitrary will of one ancestor, though he be my father, shall cancel in me the rank and rights, which I have derived from a hundred. My father was greatly incensed.

Go, he said, proud boy, give the enemy of thy country a pretext to interfere in her affairs, appeal to the will of a foreign prince from the pleasure of thy father. Go, but never again look me in the face and dread my eternal malediction. Albert was about to reply with the Hemans,

when I entreated him to be silent and hear me speak. I had, I said, all my life, loved the mountain better than the plain, had been more pleased to walk than to ride, more proud to contend with shepherds in their sports than with nobles in the lists, and happier in the village dance than among the feasts of the German nobles. Let me, therefore, I said, be a citizen of the Republic of Untruwalden, you will relieve me of a thousand cares,

and let my brother, Albert, wear the coronet and bear the honors of Geierstein. After some further discussion, my father was at length contented to adopt my proposal in order to attain the object which he had so much at heart. Albert was declared heir of his castle and his rank

by the title of Count Albert of Geierstein, and I was placed in possession of these fields and fertile meadows, amiss which my house is situated, and my neighbors called me Arnold Biedermann. And if Beterman, said the merchant, means, as I understand the word, a man of worth, candor, and generosity, I know none on whom the epitat could be so justly conferred.

yet let me observe that I praise the conduct which, in your circumstances, I could not have bowed my spirit to practice. Proceed, I pray you, with the history of your house, if the recital be not painful to you. I have little more to say, replied the landaman. My father died soon after the settlement of his estate, in the manner I have told you. My brother had other possessions in Swabia and Westphalia, and seldom visited his paternal castle, which was chiefly occupied by a seneschal, a man so obnoxious to the vassals of the family that but for the protection afforded by my near residence and relationship with his lord, he would have been plucked out of the vulture's nest,

and treated with as little ceremony as if he had been the vulture himself. Neither to say the truth did my brother's occasional visits to Geyerstein afford his vassals much relief or acquire any popularity for himself. He heard with the ears and saw with the eyes of his cruel and interested steward, Ital, Shreckenwald, and would not listen even to my interference and admonition. Indeed, though he always demeaned himself with personal kindness towards me, I believe he considered me as a dull and poor-spirited clown, who had disgraced my noble blood by my mean propensities. He showed contempt on every occasion for the prejudices of his countrymen,

and particularly by wearing a peacock's feather in public, and causing his followers to display the same badge, though the cognizance of the House of Austria and so unpopular in this country that men have been put to death for no better reason than for carrying it in their caps. In the meantime, I was married to my Bertha, now a saint in heaven, by whom I had six stately sons, five of whom you saw surrounding my table this day. Albert also married. His wife was a lady of rank in Westphalia, but his bridal bed was less fruitful. He had only one daughter, Anne of Geierstein. Then came on the wars between the city of Zurich and our forest cantons, in which so much blood was shed. And when our brethren of Zurich were so ill advised as to embrace the alliance of Austria, Their emperor strained every nerve to avail himself of the favorable opportunity afforded by the disunion of the Swiss, and engaged all with whom he had influence to second his efforts.

With my brother, he was but too successful. For Albert not only took arms in the emperor's cause, but admitted into the strong fortress of Geierstein, a band of Austrian soldiers, with whom the wicked Ital Schreckenwald laid waste the whole country, accepting my little patrimony. It came to a severe pass with you, my worthy host, said the merchant, since you were to decide against the cause of your country or that of your brother. I did not hesitate, continued Arnold Biederman. My brother was in the Emperor's army, and I was not, therefore, reduced to act personally against him, but I denounced war against the robbers and thieves, with whom Shrekkenwald had filled my father's house. It was waged with various fortune. The Seneschal,

during my absence, burnt down my house and slew my youngest son, who died, alas, in defense of his father's hearth. It is little to add that my lands were wasted, and my flocks destroyed. On the other hand, I succeeded with help of a body of the peasants of Unterwalden in storming the castle of Geierstein. It was offered back to me by the Confederates, but I had no desire to sully the fair cause in which I had assumed arms by enriching myself at the expense of my brother. And besides, to have dwelt in that guarded hold would have been a penance, to one the sole protectors of whose house of late years had been a latch and a shepherd's cur. The castle was therefore dismantled, as you see, by the order of the elders of the canton, and I even think that considering the uses it was too often put to,

I look with more pleasure on the rugged remains of Geierstein than I ever did when it was entire and apparently impregnable. I can understand your feelings, said the Englishman, though I repeat, my virtue would not perhaps have extended so far beyond the circle of my family affections. Your brother, what said he to your patriotic exertions? He was, as I learned, answered the landman, dreadfully incensed, having no doubt been informed,

that I had taken his castle with a view to my own aggrandizement. He even swore he would renounce my kindred, seek me through the battle, and slay me with his own hand. We were, in fact, both at the battle of Freyenbach, but my brother was prevented from attempting the execution of his vindictive purpose by a wound from an arrow which occasioned his being carried out of the Malay. I was afterwards in the bloody and melancholy fight at Mount Herzl, and that other onslaught at the Chapel of St. Jacob, which brought our brethren of Zurich to terms and reduced Austria once more to the necessity of making peace with us. After this war of 13 years, the Diet passed sentence of banishment for life on my brother Albert and would have deprived him of his possessions,

but forbore in consideration of what they thought my good service. When the sentence was intimated to the Count of Geierstein, he returned an answer of defiance, yet a singular circumstance showed us not long afterwards that he retained an attachment to his country and amiss his resentment against me, his brother, did justice to my unaltered affection for him. I would pledge my credit, said the merchant, that what follows relates to yonder fair maiden, your niece. You guess rightly, said the landman, for some time we heard, though indistinctly, for we have, as you know, but little communication with foreign countries, that my brother was high, in favor at the court of the emperor, but latterly that he had fallen under suspicion,

and in the course of some of those revolutions common at the courts of princes had been driven into exile, it was shortly after this news, and as I think, more than seven years ago, that I was returning from hunting on the farther side of the river, had passed the narrow bridge, as usual, and was walking through the courtyard, which we have lately left, for their walk was now turned homeward, when a voice said, in the German language, Uncle, have compassion upon me. As I looked around, I beheld a girl of ten years old, approached timidly from the shelter of the ruins, and kneel down at my feet. Uncle, spare my life, she said, holding up her little hands in the act of supplication, while mortal terror was painted upon her countenance.

Am I your uncle, little maiden? said I, and if I am, why should you fear me? Because you are the head of the wicked and base clowns who delight to spill noble blood, replied the girl, with a courage which surprised me. What is your name, my little maiden, said I, and who, having planted in your mind, opinions so unfavorable to your kinsman, has brought you hither to see if he resembles the picture you have received of him. It was Ital Schreckenwald that brought me hither, said the girl, only half-comprehending the nature of my question. Ital Shrekenwald, I repeat it, shocked at the name of a wretch I have so much reason to hate. A voice from the ruins,

like that of a sullen echo from the grave, answered, Ital Shreckenwald, and the kative issued from his place of concealment and stood before me, with that singular indifference to danger, which he unites to his atrocity of character. I had my spiked mountain staff in my hand. What should I have done? Or what would you have done under like circumstances? I would have laid him on the earth, with his skull shivered like an icicle, said the Englishman fiercely.

I had well nigh done so, replied the Swiss, but he was unarmed, a messenger from my brother, and therefore no object of revenge. His own undismayed and audacious conduct contributed to save him. Let the vassal of the noble and high-born count of Geierstein hear the words of his. his master, and let him look that they are obeyed, said the insolent ruff thy cap and listen, for though the voice is mine, the words are those of the noble count. God and man know, replied I, if I owe my brother respect or homage, it is much if, in respect for him, I defer, paying to his messenger, the mead I dearly owe him. Proceed with thy tale.

and rid me of thy hateful presence. Albert Count of Geyerstein, thy Lord and my Lord, proceeded Shreckenwald, having on his hand wars and other affairs of weight, sends his daughter, the Countess Anne,

to thy charge, and graces thee so far as to entrust to thee her support and nurture, until it shall suit his purposes to require her back from thee. And he desired, that thou apply to her maintenance the rents and profits of the lands of Geierstein,

which thou hast usurped from him. Ital Shrekenwald, I replied, I will not stop to ask if this mode of addressing me be according to my brother's directions or thine own insolent pleasure. If circumstances have, as thou sayest, deprived my niece of her natural protector. I shall be to her as a father, nor shall she want aught which I have to give her. The lands of Geierstein are forfeited to the state. The castle is ruinous as thou seest, and it is much of thy crimes that the house of my fathers is desolate.

But where I dwell, Anne of Geierstein shall dwell, as my children fair shall she feel. As my children fair, fair, and she shall be to me as a daughter, and now thou hast thine errand. Go hence, if thou lovest thy life, for it is unsafe, parlaying with the father, when thy hands are stained with the blood of the son. The wretch retired as I spoke, but took his leave with his usual determined insolence of manner. Farewell, he said, Count of the plough and harrow. Farewell, noble companion of paltry burgers. He disappeared and released me from the strong temptation under which I labored, and which urged me to stain with his blood,

the place which had witnessed his cruelty and his crimes. I conveyed my niece to my house and soon convinced her that I was her sincere friend. I inert her as if she had been my daughter to all our mountain exercises, and while she excels in these the damsels of the district. There burst from her such sparkles of sense and courage mingled with delicacy as belong not, I must needs own the truth to the simple maidens of these wild hills, but relish of a nobler stem and higher breeding. yet they are so happily mixed with simplicity and courtesy that Anne of Geyerstein is justly considered as the pride of the district, nor do I doubt but that if she should make a worthy choice of a husband, the state would assign her a large dower out of her father's possessions, since it is not our maxim to punish the child for the faults of the parent. It will natural, be your anxious desire, my worthy host, replied the Englishman, to secure to your niece,

in whose praises I have deep cause to join with a grateful voice, such a suitable match as her birth and expectations, but above all her merit, demand. It is, my good guest, said the landman, that which hath often occupied my thoughts, the over-near relationship, prohibit what would have been my most earnest desire, the hope of seeing her wedded to one of my own sons. This young man, Rudolph, Donor Hugel, is brave and highly esteemed by his fellow citizens, but more ambitious and more desirous of distinction than I would desire for my niece's companion through life. His temper is violent, though his heart I trust is good, but I am like, to be unpleasantly released from all care on this score, since my brother, having, as it seemed,

forgotten and for seven years and upwards, has by a letter which I have lately received, demanded that she shall be restored to him. You can read, my worthy sir, for your profession requires it. See, here is the scroll, coldly worded, but far less unkindly than his, his unbrotherly message by Ital Shrekkenwald. Read it, I pray you aloud. The merchant read accordingly, Brother, I thank you for the care you have taken of my daughter, for she has been in safety when she would otherwise have been in peril, and kindly used when she would have been in hardship. I now entreat you to restore her to me and trust that she will come with the virtues which become a woman in every station and a disposition to lay aside the habits of a Swiss villager

for the graces of a high-born maiden. Adieu, I thank you once more for your care and would repay it were it in my power, but you need nothing I can give having renounce. the rank to which you were born, and made your nest on the ground where the storm passes over you. I rest your brother, Geierstein. It is addressed to Count Arnold of Geierstein, called Arnold Biederman. A postscript requires you to send the maiden to the court of the Duke of Burgundy. This good sir appears to me the language of a haughty man divided betwixt the record. collection of old offense and recent obligation. The speech of his messenger was that of a malicious

vassal, desirous of venting his own spite under pretense of doing his lord's errand. I so receive both, replied Arnold Biederman. And do you intend, continued the merchant, to resign this beautiful and interesting creature to the conduct of her father, willful as he seems to be without knowing what his condition is or what his power of protecting her. The landman hastened to reply, the tie which unites the parent to the child is the earliest and the most hallowed that binds the human race. The difficulty of her traveling in safety has hitherto prevented my attempting to carry my brother's instructions into execution. But as, as I am now likely to journey in person towards the court of Charles, I have determined that Anne

shall accompany me. And as I will myself converse with my brother whom I have not seen for many years, I shall learn his purpose respecting his daughter, and it may be I may prevail on Albert to suffer her to remain under my charge. And now, sir, having told you, of my family affairs at some greater length than was necessary. I must crave your attention as a wise man to what further I have to say. You know the disposition which young men and women naturally have to talk, just and sport with each other, out of which practice arise often more serious attachments which they call loving par amours. I trust if we are to travel to together, you will so school your young man as to make him aware that Anne of Geyerstein cannot,

with propriety on her part, be made the object of his thoughts or attentions. The merchant colored with resentment or something like it, I asked not to join your company, Sir Landman. It was you who requested mine. He said, if my son and I have since become in any respect the objects of your suspicion, we will gladly pursue our way separately. Nay, be not angry, worthy guest, said the Landman. We Switzers do not rashly harbor suspicions, and that we may not harbor them. We speak, respecting the circumstances out of which they might arise more plainly

than is the want of more civilized countries. When I proposed to you to be my companion on the journey to speak the truth, though it may displease of father's ear, I regarded your son as a soft, faint-hearted youth who was, as yet at least, too timid and milk-blooded to attract either respect or regard from the maidens. But a few hours have presented him to us in the character of such a one as is sure. to interest them. He has accomplished the empries of the bow, long thought unattainable, and with which a popular report connects an idle prophecy. He has wit to make verses and knows doubtless how to recommend himself by other accomplishments

which bind young persons to each other, though they are lightly esteemed by men, whose beards are mixed with gray, like yours, friend merchant and mine own. Now, you must be aware that since my brother broke terms with me, simply for preferring the freedom of a Swiss citizen to the tawdry and servile condition of a German courtier, he will not approve of anyone looking towards his daughter, who hath not the advantage of noble blood, or who hath, what he would call, debased himself by attention to merchandise, to the cultivation of land, in a word, to any art that is useful.

Should your son love Anne of Geierstein, he prepares for himself danger and disappointment. And now you know the whole. I ask you, do we travel together or apart? Even as ye list, my worthy host, said Philipson, in an indifferent tone, for me I can but say that such an attachment as you speak of would be as contrary to my wishes as to those of your brother, or what I suppose are your own. Arthur Philipson has duties to perform totally inconsistent with his playing the gentle bachelor

to any maiden in Switzerland, take Germany to boot, whether of high or low degree. He is an obedient son, besides, hath never seriously disobeyed my. commands, and I will have an eye upon his motions. Enough, my friend, said the Landman. We travel together then, and I willingly keep my original purpose, being both pleased and instructed by your discourse. Then changing the conversation, he began to ask whether his acquaintance thought that the League entered into by the King of England and the Duke of Burgundy would continue

stable. We hear much, continued the Swiss of the immense army with which King Edward proposes the recovery of the English dominions in France. I am well aware, said Philipson, that nothing can be so popular in my country as the invasion of France and the attempt to reconquer Normandy, Maine, and Gascony, the ancient uponages of our English crown. But I greatly doubt whether the voluptuous usurper, who now calls himself king, will be graced by heaven with success in such an adventure. This fourth Edward is brave indeed, and has gained every battle in which he drew his sword, and they have been many in number. But since he reached through a bloody path to the summit of his ambition, he has shown himself rather a sentient. debauchee than a valiant night, and it is my firm belief that not even the chance of recovering

all the fair dominions which were lost during the civil wars, excited by his ambitious house, will tempt him to exchange the soft beds of London with sheets of silk and pillows of down, and the music of a dying lute to lull him to rest, for the turf of France, and the revely of an alarm trumpet. It is the better for us, should it prove so, said the landman, for if England and Burgundy were to dismember France, as in our father's days was nearly accomplished, Duke Charles would then have leisure to exhaust his long,

hoarded vengeance against our Confederacy. As they conversed thus, they attained once more, the lawn in front of Arnold Biedermann's mansion, where the contention of the young men had given place to the dance performed by the young persons of both sexes. The dance was led by Anne of Geierstein and the youthful stranger, which, although it was the most natural arrangement, where the one was a guest and the other represented the mistress of the family, occasioned the Landemans exchanging a glance with the elder Philipson, as if it had held some relation to these suspicions he had recently expressed. But so soon as her uncle and his elder guest appeared,

Anne of Geierstein took the earliest opportunity of a pause to break off the dance and to enter into conversation with her kinsman, as if on the domestic affairs under her attendance. Philipson observed that his host listened seriously to his niece's communication, and nodding in his frank manner seemed to intimate that her request should receive a favorable consideration. The family were presently afterwards summoned to attend the evening meal, which consisted chiefly of the excellent fish afforded by the neighboring streams and lakes. A large cup containing what was called the schlough trunk or sleeping drink, then went round, which was first quaffed by the master of the household, then modestly tasted by the maiden, next pledged by the two strangers, and finally emptied by the rest of the

company. Such were then the sober manners of the Swiss, afterwards much corrupted by the two strangers, their intercourse with more luxurious regions. The guests were conducted to the sleeping apartments where Philipson and Young Arthur occupied the same couch, and shortly after the whole inhabitants of the household were locked in sound repose. End of Chapter 5. Chapter 6 of Anne of Geierstein by Sir Walter Scott. This Liprovax recording is in the public domain. recording by Dionne's Salt Lake City, Utah. When we two meet, we meet like rushing torrents, like warring winds, like flames from various points that made each other's fury. There is not

of elemental strife where fiends to guide it can match the wrath of man. Frenod The elder of our two travelers, though a strong man and familiar with fatigue, slept sounder and longer than usual on the morning which was now beginning to dawn, but his son Arthur had that upon his mind, which early interrupted his repose. The encounter with the bold Switzer, a chosen man of a renowned race of warriors, was an engagement which, in the opinion of the period in which he lived, was not to be delayed or broken. He left his father's side, avoiding as much as possible the risk of disturbing him, though even in that case the circumstance would not have excited any attention

as he was in the habit of rising early in order to make preparations for the day's journey. to see that the guide was on his duty, and that the mule had his provender, and to discharge similar offices, which might otherwise have given trouble to his father. The old man, however, fatigued with the exertions of the preceding day, slept, as we have said, more soundly than his want, and Arthur, arming himself with his good sword, sallied out to the law, in front of the Landman's dwelling amid the magic dawn of a beautiful harvest morning in the Swiss mountains. The sun was just about to kiss the top of the most gigantic of that race of

Titans, though the long shadows still lay on the rough grass, which crisped under the young man's feet with a strong intimation of frost. But Arthur looked not round on the land. landscape, however lovely, which lay waiting one flash from the orb of day to start into brilliant existence. He drew the belt of his trusty sword, which he was in the act of fastening when he left the house, and ere he had secured the buckle, he was many paces on his way towards the place where he was to use it. It was still the custom of that military period, to regard a summons to combat as a sacred engagement, preferable to all others which could be formed,

and stifling whatever inward feelings of reluctance nature might oppose to the dictates of fashion, the step of a gallant to the place of encounter was required to be as free and steady as if he had been going to a bridle. I do not know whether, this alacrity was altogether real on the part of Arthur Philipson, but if it were otherwise, neither his look nor Pace betrayed the secret. Having hastily traversed the fields and groves, which

separated the landman's residence from the old castle of Geyerstein, he entered the courtyard from the side where the castle overlooked the land, and nearly in the same instant his almost gigantic antagonist, who looked yet more tall and burly by the pale morning light than he had seemed the preceding evening, appeared ascending from the precarious bridge beside the torrent, having reached Geierstein by a different route from that pursued by the Englishman. The young champion of Byrne had hanging along his back, one of those huge two-handed swords, the blade of which measured five feet and which were wielded with both hands. These were almost universally used by the Swiss,

for besides the impression which such weapons were calculated to make upon the array of the German men-at-arms, whose armor was impenetrable to lighter swords, they were also well-calculated to defend mountain passes, where the great bodily strength and agility of those who bore them enabled the combatants, in spite of their weight and length, to use them with much address and effect. One of these gigantic swords hung round Rudolph, Donnerhugel's neck,

the point rattling against his heel, and the handle extending itself over his left shoulder, considerably above his head. he carried another in his hand. Thou art punctual, he called out to Arthur Philipson, in a voice which was distinctly heard above the roar of the waterfall, which it seemed to rival in sullen force. But I judged thou wouldst come without a two-handed sword.

There is my kinsman, Ernest, he said, throwing on the ground the weapon which he carried, with the hilt towards the young Englishman. Look, stranger, that thou disgrace it not, for my kinsman will never forgive me if thou dost, or thou mayest have mine if thou likest it better. The Englishman looked at the weapon with some surprise, to the use of which he was totally unaccustomed.

The challenger, he said, in all countries where honor is known, accepts the arms of the challenged. He who fights on a Swiss mountain fights with a Swiss brand, answered Rudolph, Think you our hands are made to handle pen knives, nor are ours made to wield sides, said Arthur, and muttered betwixt his teeth as he looked at the sword, which the Swiss continued to offer him. Usum non-habio, I have not proved the weapon. Do you repent the bargain you have made?

said the Swiss, if so, cry craven, and return in safety. Speak plainly, instead of prattling Latin like a clerk or a shaven monk. No, proud man, replied the Englishman, I ask thee no forbearance. I thought but of a combat between a shepherd and a giant in which God gave the victory to him who had worse odds of weapons than falls to my lot to I will fight as I stand. My own good sword shall serve my need now, as it has done before. Content, but blame me not, who offered the equality of weapons, said the mountaineer. And now hear me, this is a fight for life or death. Yon waterfall sounds the alarm for our conflict. Yes, old bellower, he continued, looking back. It is long since.

thou hast heard the noise of battle, and look at it ere we begin, stranger, for if you fall, I will commit your body to its waters. And if thou fallest, proud Swiss, answered Arthur, as well I trust thy presumption leads to destruction, I will have thee buried in the church at Ensodlin, where the priests shall sing masses for thy soul, thy two-handed sword, shall be displayed above thy grave, and a scroll shall tell the passenger, here lies a bear's cub of burn, slain by Arthur the Englishman. The stone is not in Switzerland, rocky as it is, said Rudolph scornfully, that shall bear that inscription. Prepare thyself for battle. The Englishman cast a calm and deliberate glance around the scene of action, a courtyard partly open,

partly encumbered with ruins, in less and larger masses. Methinks, said he to himself, a master of his weapon, with the instructions of Bataferma of Florence in his remembrance, a light heart, a good blade, a firm hand, and a just cause might make up a worse odds than two feet of steel. Thinking thus and imprinting on his mind as much as the time would permit, every circumstance of the locality around him, which promised advantage in the combat, and taking his station in the middle of the courtyard where the ground was entirely clear, he flung his cloak from him

and drew his sword. Rudolf had at first believed that his foreign antagonist was an effeminate youth who would be swept from before him at the first flourish of his tremendous weapon. But the firm and watchful attitude assumed by the young man reminded the Swiss of the deficiencies of his own unwieldy implement and made him determine to avoid any precipitation, which might give advantage to an enemy who seemed both daring and vigilant. He unsheathed his huge sword by drawing it over the left shoulder, an operation which required some little time, and might have offered formidable advantage to his antagonist, had Arthur's sense of honor permitted him to begin the attack ere it was completed. The Englishman remained firm,

however, till the Swiss, displaying his bright brand to the morning sun, made three or four flourishes, as if to prove its weight, and the facility with which he wielded it, then stood firm within swordstroke of his adversary, grasping his weapon with both hands and advancing it a little before his body, with the blade pointed straight upwards. The Englishman, on the contrary, carried his sword in one hand, holding it across his face in a horizontal position, so as to be at once ready to strike, thrust, or parry. Strike, Englishman, said the Switzer, after they had confronted each other in this manner for about a minute, the longest sword should strike first, said Arthur, and the words had not left his mouth when the Swiss sword rose

and descended with a rapidity which the weight and size of the weapon considered appeared portentous. No Perry, however dexterously interposed, could have baffled the ruinous descent of that dreadful weapon by which the champion of Byrne had hoped at once to begin the battle and end it. But young Philipson had not overestimated the justice of his own eye or the activity of his limbs. Air the blade descended, a sudden spring to one side carried him from beneath its heavy sway, and before the Swiss could again raise his sword aloft, he received a wound, though a slight one upon the left arm. Irritated at the failure and at the wound, the Switzer heaved up his sword once more and availing himself of a strength corresponding to his size. He discharged towards his

adversary a succession of blows downright, athwart, horizontal, and from left to right, with such surprising strength and velocity that it required all the address of the young Englishman. by parrying, shifting, eluding, or retreating, to evade a storm of which every individual blow seemed sufficient to cleave a solid rock. The Englishman was compelled to give ground, now backwards, now swerving to the one side or the other, now availing himself of the fragments of the ruins,

but watching all the while with the utmost composure, the moment when the strength of his enraised, enemy might become somewhat exhausted, or when by some improvident or furious blow, he might again lay himself open to a close attack. The latter of these advantages had nearly occurred, for in the middle of his headlong charge, the Switzer stumbled over a large stone concealed among the long grass, and ere he could recover himself, received a severe blow across the head. head from his antagonist. It lighted upon his bonnet, the lining of which enclosed a small steel cap, so that he escaped unwounded, and springing up, renewed the battle with unabated fury,

though it seemed to the young Englishman, with breath somewhat short, and blows dealt with more caution. They were still contending with equal fortune, when a stern voice rising over the clash of swords, as well as the roar of waters, called out in a commanding tone. On your lives, forbearer. The two combatants sank the points of their swords, not very sorry, perhaps, for the interruption of a strife, which must otherwise have had a deadly termination. They looked round, and the landaman stood before them,

with anger frowning on his broad and expressive forehead. how now, boys, he said, are you guests of Arnold Biederman, and do you dishonor his house by acts of violence more becoming the wolves of the mountains than beings to whom the great creator has given a form after his own likeness and an immortal soul to be saved by penance and repentance? Arthur, said the elder Philipson, who had come up at the same time with their host, what frenzy is this, are your duties of so light and heedless a nature, as to give time and place for quarrels and combats with every idle boar, who chances to be boastful at once and bullheaded? The young man whose strife had ceased at the entrance of these unexpected spectators, stood looking at each other and resting on their swords.

Rudolph Donorhugel, said the landman, give thy sword to me, to me the owner of this ground, the master of this family, and magistrate of the canton. And which is more, answered Rudolph, submissively, to you who are Arnold Beterman, at whose command every native of these mountains

draws his sword or sheaths it. He gave his two-handed sword, to the landman. Now, by my honest word, said Beterman, it is the same with which thy father, Stephen, fought so gloriously at Sempac, abreast with the famous de Winkle-Reed. Shame it is that it should be drawn on a helpless stranger. And you, young sir, continued the Swiss, addressing Arthur, while his father said at the same time, young man, yield up your sword to the landa man. It shall not need, sir, replied the young Englishman, since for my part I hold our strife at an end. This gallant gentleman called me hither on a trial as I conceive of courage.

I can give my unqualified testimony to his gallantry and swordsmanship, and as I trust he will say nothing to the shame of my manhood. I think our strife has lasted long enough for the purpose which gave rise to it. Too long for me, said Rudolf frankly, the green sleeve of my doublet which I wore of that color out of my love to the forest canton's is now stained into as dirty a crimson as could have been done by any dyer in Iprous or Ghent. But I heartily forgive the brave stranger who has spoiled me. my jerkin, and given its master a lesson, he will not soon forget. Had all Englishmen been like your guest, worthy kinsman, methinks the mound at butus-holes had hardly risen so high.

Cousin Rudolph, said the landman, smoothing his brow, as his kinsman spoke, I have never thought thee as generous as thou art hairbrained and quarrelsome. And you, my young guest, may rely, that when a Swiss says the quarrel is over, there is no chance of it being renewed. We are not like the men of the valleys to the eastward who nurse revenge as if it were a favorite child. And now join hands, my children, and let us forget this foolish feud. Here is my hand, brave stranger, said Donner Hugel. Thou hast taught me a trick of fence, and when we have broken our fast, we will, by your leave, to the forest, where I will teach you a trick of woodcraft in return. When your foot hath half the experience of your hand and your eye have gained a portion of the

steadiness of your heart, you will not find many hunters to match you. Arthur, with all the ready confidence of youth, readily embraced a proposition so frankly made, and before they reached the house, various subjects of sport were eagerly discussed between them, with as much cordiality as if no disturbance of their concord had taken place. Now this, said the Landman, is as it should be. I am ever ready to forgive the headlong impetuosity of our youth if they will be but manly and open in their reconciliation, and bear their heart on their tongue as a true Swiss should.

These two youths had made but wild work of it, however, said Philipson, had not your care, my worthy host, learned of their rendezvous, and called me to assist in breaking their purpose. May I ask how it came to your knowledge so opportunely? It was even through the means of my domestic fairy, answered, Arnold Beterman, who seems born for the good luck of my family. I mean my niece, Anne, who had observed a glove exchanged betwixt the two young braggadocios and heard them mention Geirstein and break of day. Oh, sir, it is much to see a woman's sharpness of wit. It would have been

long enough ere any of my thick-headed sons had shown themselves so apprehensive. I think I see our propitious, protectress peeping at us from yonder high ground, said Philipson, but it seems as if she would willingly observe us without being seen in return. I, said the landman, she has been looking out to see that there has been no hurt done, and now, I warrant me, the foolish girl is ashamed of having shown such a laudable degree of interest in a matter of the kind. Methinks, said the Englishman, I would willingly return my thanks in your presence to the fair maiden, to whom I have been so highly indebted.

There can be no better time than the present, said the landman, and he sent through the groves the maiden's name in one of those shrilly accented tones which we have already noticed. Anne of Geyerstein, as Philipson had before observed, was stationed upon a knoll at some distance, and concealed, as she thought, from notice, by a screen of brushwood. She started at her uncle's summons, therefore, but presently obeyed it, and avoiding the young men, who passed on foremost, she joined the Landman and Philipson by a circuitous path through the woods. My worthy friend and guest would speak with you, Anne, said the Landman, so soon as the morning greeting had been exchanged, the Swiss maiden colored overbrow as well as cheek, when Philipson, with a grace which seemed beyond his calling, addressed her in these words. It happens sometimes to us merchants, my fair young friend, that we are unlucky enough not to possess means. for the instant defraying of our debts,

but he is justly held amongst us as the meanest of mankind who does not acknowledge them, except, therefore, the thanks of a father whose son your courage only yesterday saved from destruction, and whom your prudence has this very morning rescued from a great danger, and grieve me not by refusing to wear these earrings, he added, producing a small jewel case, which he opened as he spoke.

They are, it is true, only of pearls, but they have not been thought unworthy, the ears of a countess. And must, therefore, said the old landman, show misplaced on the person of a Swiss maiden of Unterwalden, for such and no more is my niece Anne, while she resides in my solitude. methinks, good Master Philipson, you display less than your usual judgment in matching the quality of your gifts with the rank of her on whom they are bestowed. As a merchant, too, you should remember that large gerdons will lighten your gains. Let me crave your pardon, my good host, answered the Englishman, while I reply, that at least I have consulted my own sense of the

obligation under which I labor, and have chosen out of what I have at my free disposal, that which I thought might best express it. I trust the host whom I have found hitherto so kind, will not prevent this young maiden from accepting what is at least not unbecoming the rank she is born to, and you will judge me unjustly if you think me capable of doing either myself or you the wrong of offering any token of a value beyond what I can well spare. The Landman took the jewel case into his own hand. I have ever set my countenance, he said, against gaudy gems, which are leading us daily further astray from the simplicity of our fathers and mothers.

And yet, he added, with a good-humored smile, and holding one of the earrings closed, to his relations face, the ornaments do set off the wench rarely, and they say girls have more pleasure in wearing such toys than gray-haired men can comprehend. Wherefore, dear Anne, as thou hast deserved a dearer trust in a greater matter, I refer thee entirely to thine own wisdom to accept of our good friends costly present, and wear it or not, as the way. thou thinkest fit. Since such is your pleasure, my best friend and kinsman, said the young maiden, blushing as she spoke, I will not give pain to our valued guest by refusing what he desires so earnestly that I should accept. But by his leave, good uncle, and yours, I will bestow these

splendid earrings on the shrine of Our Lady of Ensodlin to express our general gratitude to her protecting favor, which has been around us in the terrors of yesterday's storm and the alarms of this morning's discord by our lady, the wench speaks sensibly, said the landman, and her wisdom has applied the bounty well, my good guest, to bespeak prayers for thy family and mine, and for the general peace of Untra Walden. Go, too, Anne, thou shalt have a necklace of you. jet at next sharing feast if our fleeces bear any price in the market. End of Chapter 6. Chapter 7 of Anne of Geierstein by Sir Walter Scott.

This Libravox recording is in the public domain, recording by Dionne's Salt Lake City, Utah. Let him who will not proffered peace receive be sated with the plagues which war can give, and well, thy hatred of the peace is known, if now thy soul reject the friendship shown, Hul's Tosso. The confidence betwixt the Landaman and the English merchant appeared to increase during the course of a few busy days, which occurred before that appointed for the commencement of their journey to the court of Charles of Burgundy. The state of Europe and of the Helvetian Confederacy

has been already alluded to, but for the distinct explanation of our story may be here briefly recapitulated. In the interval of a week, whilst the English travelers remained at Geierstein, meetings or deits were held as well of the city cantons of the Confederacy as of those of the forest. The former, aggrieved by the taxes imposed on their

commerce by the Duke of Burgundy, rendered yet more intolerable by the violence of the agents whom he employed in such oppression, were eager for war, in which they had hitherto uniformly found victory and wealth. Many of them were also privately instigated to arms by the largest of Louis the 11th, who spared neither intrigues nor gold to effect a breach betwixt these dauntless confederates and his formidable enemy, Charles the Bold. On the other hand, there were many reasons which appeared to render it impolitic for the Switzers to engage in war with one of the most wealthy, most obstinate and most powerful princes in Europe. For such, unquestionably, was Charles of Burgundy, without the existence of some strong reason affecting their own honor and

independence. Every day brought fresh intelligence from the interior that Edward V. the 4th of England had entered into a strict and intimate alliance, offensive and defensive, with the Duke of Burgundy, and that it was the purpose of the English king, renowned for his numerous victories over the rival house of Lancaster, by which, after various reverses, he had obtained undisputed possession of the throne to reassert his claims to those provinces of France so long held by his ancestors. It seemed as if this alone were wanting to his fame and that having subdued his internal enemies, he now turned his eyes to the regaining of those rich and valuable foreign possessions which had been lost during the administration of the feeble Henry

the 6th, and the civil discords so dreadfully prosecuted in the wars of the white and red roses. It was universally known that throughout England, generally the loss of the French provinces was felt as a national degradation, and that not only the nobility, who had in consequence been deprived of the large thieves which they had held in Normandy, Gascany, Maine, and Enjew, but the warlike gentry accustomed to gain both fame and wealth at the expense of France and the fiery yeomanry, whose bows had decided so many fatal battles, were as eager to renew the conflict as their ancestors of Cressions. Poitier and Agincourt had been to follow their sovereign to the fields of victory on which their deeds had conferred deathless renown.

The latest and most authentic intelligence bore that the King of England was on the point of passing to France in person, an invasion rendered easy by his possession of Calais, with an army superior in number of, and discipline to any with which an English monarch had ever before entered that kingdom, that all the hostile preparations were completed, and that the arrival of Edward might instantly be expected, whilst the powerful cooperation of the Duke of Burgundy and the assistance of numerous disaffected French nobleman in the provinces, which had been so long, under the English dominion, threatened a fearful issue of the war to Louis XVI, sagacious, wise and powerful, as that prince unquestionably was. It would no doubt have been

the wisest policy of Charles of Burgundy when thus engaging in an alliance against his most formidable neighbor and hereditary as well as personal enemy, to have a voice. all cause of quarrel with the Helvetian Confederacy, a poor but most warlike people who already had been taught by repeated successes to feel that their hardy infantry could, if necessary, engage on terms of equality or even of advantage, the flower of that chivalry which had hitherto been considered as forming the strength of European battle. But the measures of Charles, whom fortune had opposed to the most astutious and politic monarch of his time, were always dictated by passionate feeling and impulse, rather than by a judicious consideration of the circumstances in which he stood.

Hottie, proud, and uncompromising, though neither destitute of honor nor generosity, he decided. despised and hated what he termed the paltry associations of herdsmen and shepherds, united with a few towns which subsisted chiefly by commerce, and instead of courting the Helvetian cantons like his crafty enemy, or at least affording them no ostensible pretense of quarrel, he omitted no opportunity of showing the disregard and contempt, in which he held their upstart consequence, and of evincing the secret longing which he entertained, to take vengeance upon them for the quantity of noble blood which they had shed,

and to compensate the repeated successes they had gained over the feudal lords, of whom he imagined himself the destined avenger. The Duke of Burgundy's possessions in the Alsatian territory afforded him many opportunities for wreaking his displeasure upon the Swiss League. The little castle and town of Ferret lying within 10 or 11 miles of bail served as a thoroughfare to the traffic of Bern and Solor, the two principal towns of the Confederation. In this place, the Duke posted, a governor or Seneschal, who was also an administrator of the revenue and seemed born on purpose

to be the plague and scourge of his Republican neighbors. Archibald von Hagenbach was a German noble whose possessions lay in Swabia and was universally esteemed one of the fiercest and most lawless of that frontier nobility known by the name of robber knights and robber counts. These dignitaries, because they held their feasts of the Holy Roman Empire, claimed as complete sovereignty within their territories of a mile square as any reigning prince of Germany in his more extended dominions, they levied tolls and taxes on strangers and imprisoned trillions. tried and executed those who, as they alleged, had committed offenses within their petty domains,

but especially, and in further exercise of their seignorial privileges, they made war on each other and on the free cities of the empire, attacking and plundering without mercy, the caravans or large trains of wagons by which the internal commerce of Germany was carried on. A succession of injuries done and received by Archibald of Hagenbach, who had been one of the fiercest sticklers for this privilege of fostracht or club law, as it may be termed, had ended in his being obliged, though somewhat advanced in life, to leave a country where his tenure of existence was become extremely precarious and to, to, engage in the service of the Duke of Burgundy, who willingly employed him as he was a man of

high descent and proved valor, and not the less, perhaps, that he was sure to find in a man of Hagenbach's fierce, rapacious, and haughty disposition, the unscrupulous executioner of whatsoever severities it might be his master's pleasure to enjoin. The traders of Byrne and Salor, accordingly, made loud and violent complaints of Hagenbach's exactions. The impositions laid on commodities, which passed through his district of Laferret, to whatever place they might be ultimately bound, were arbitrarily increased, and the merchants and traders who hesitated to make instant payment of what was demanded were exposed to

to imprisonment and personal punishment. The commercial towns of Germany appealed to the Duke against this iniquitous conduct on the part of the governor of Lafarette and requested of his graces goodness that he would withdraw von Hagenbach from their neighborhood. But the Duke treated their complaints with contempt. The Swiss League carried their remonstrances higher and required that justice,

should be done on the governor of Lafaret as having offended against the law of nations, but they were equally unable to attract attention or obtain redress. At length, the Diet of the Confederation determined to send the solemn deputation, which has been repeatedly mentioned. One or two of these envoys joined with the calm and prudent Arnold Biederman in the hope, that so solemn a measure might open the eyes of the Duke to the wicked injustice of his representatives. Others among the deputies, having no such peaceful views, were determined by this resolute remonstrance to pave the way for hostilities. Arnold Biederman was an especial advocate for peace, while its preservation was compatible with national independence and the honor of the

Confederacy. But the younger Philipson soon discovered that the landman alone of all his family cherished these moderate views. The opinion of his sons had been swayed and seduced by the impetuous eloquence and overbearing influence of Rudolph of Donnerhugel, who by some feats of peculiar gallantry and the consideration due to the merit of his ancestors, had acquired an influence in the councils of his native canton, and with the youth of the League in general, beyond what was usually yielded by these wise Republicans to men of his early age. Arthur, who was now an acceptable and welcome companion

of all their hunting parties and other sports, heard nothing among the young men but anticipations of war, rendered delightful by the hopes of booty and of distinction, which were to be obtained by the Switzers. The feats of their ancestors against the Germans had been so wonderful as to realize the fabulous victories of romance, and while the present race possessed the same hearty limbs and the same inflexible courage, they eagerly anticipated the same distinguished success. When the governor of Lafaret was mentioned in the conversation, he was usually spoken of as the band-dog of Burgundy, or the Alsatian Mastiff, and intimations were openly given that if his course were not instantly checked by his master, and he himself, withdrawn from the frontiers of Switzerland, Archibald of Hagenbach, would find his fortress no protection. from the awakened indignation of the wronged inhabitants of Solor, and particularly of those of Bern.

This general disposition to war among the young Switzers was reported to the elder Philipson by his son and led him at one time to hesitate whether he ought not rather to resume all the inconveniences and dangers of a journey accompanied only by Arthur, then run the risk of the quarrels in which he might be involved by the unruly conduct of these fierce mountain youths. After they should have left their own frontiers, such an event would have had, in a peculiar degree, the effect of destroying every purpose of his journey. But respected as Arnold Biederman was by his family and countrymen, the English merchant concluded upon the whole that his influence would be able to restrain his companions until the great question of peace or war should be determined, and especially until they should have discharged

their commission by obtaining an audience of the Duke of Burgundy, and after this, he should be separated from their society and not liable to be engaged in any responsibility for their ulterior measures. After a delay of about ten days, the deputation commissioned to remonstrate with the Duke on the aggressions and exactions of Archibald of Hagenbach at length assembled at Geierstein, whence the members were to journey forth together. They were three in number besides the young Bernese and the landman of Unterwaldin. One was like Arnold, a proprietor from the forest cantons wearing a dress scarcely handsomer than that of a common herdsman, but distinguished by the beauty and size of his long silvery beard. His name was Nicholas Bonstetten,

Melchior Sturmthal, banner-bearer of Bern, a man of middle age, and as soldier of distinguished courage with Adam Zimmerman, a Burgess of Soler, who was considerably older, completed the number of the envoys. Each was dressed after his best fashion, but notwithstanding that the severe eye of Arnold Biedermann censured one or two silver belt buckles, as well as a chain of the same metal, which decorated the portly person of the Burgess of Soler, it seemed that a powerful and victorious people, for such the Swiss were now to be esteemed, were never represented by an embassy of such patriarchal simplicity. The deputies traveled on foot, with their piped staves in their hands like pilgrims bound for some place of devotion. Two mules, which bore their

little stock of baggage, were led by young lads, sons or cousins of members of the embassy, who had obtained permission in this manner to get such a glance of the world beyond the mountains as this journey promised to afford. But although their retinue was small, so far as respected either state or personal attendance and accommodation, the dangerous circumstances of the times and the very unsettled state of the country beyond their own territories did not permit men charged with affairs of such importance to travel without a guard, even the danger arising from the wolves, which, when pinched by the approach of winter, have been known to descend from their mountain fastnesses into open villages, such as those the travelers might choose

to quarter in, rendered the presence of some escort necessary, and the bands of deserters from various services who formed parties of Banditti on the frontiers of Alsatia and Germany, combined to recommend such a precaution. Accordingly, about 20 of these selected youth from the various Swiss cantons, including Rudiger, Ernest, and Sigismund, Arnold's three oldest sons, attended upon the deputation. They did not, however, observe any military order or march close or near to the patriarchal train. On the contrary, they formed hunting parties of five or six together, who explored the rocks, woods, and passes of the mountains through which the envoys journeyed. Their slower pace allowed the active young men who were accompanied by their large,

shaggy dogs, full-time to destroy wolves and bears, or occasionally to surprise a shammie among the cliffs, while the hunters, even while in pursuit of their sport, were careful to examine such places as might afford opportunity for ambush, and thus ascertained the safety of the party whom they escorted more securely than if they had attended close on their train. A peculiar note on the huge Swiss bugle before described formed of the horn of the mountain bull was the signal agreed upon for collecting in a body should danger occur. Rudolph Donner-Hughal, so much younger than his brethren, in this same important commission, took the command of this mountain bodyguard whom he usually accompanied in their sportive excursions.

In point of arms, they were well provided, bearing two-handed swords, long partisans and spears, as well as both cross and longbows, short cutlasses, and huntsmen's knives. The heavier weapons, as impeding their activity, were carried with the baggage, but were ready to be assumed on the slightest alarm. Arthur Philipson, like his late antagonist, naturally preferred the company and sports of the younger men to the grave conversation and slow pace of the fathers of the mountain Commonwealth There was, however, one temptation to loiter with the baggage, which had other circumstances

permitted, might have reconciled the young Englishman to forego the opportunities of sport which the Swiss youth so eagerly sought after and endure the slow pace and grave conversation of the elders of the party. In a word, Anne of Geyerstein, accompanied by a Swiss girl, her attendant, traveled in the rear of the deputation. The two females were mounted upon asses, whose slow step hardly kept pace with the baggage mules, and it may be fairly suspected that Arthur Philipson, in requital of the important services, which he had received from that beautiful and interesting young woman, would have deemed it no extreme hardship to have

afforded her occasionally his assistance on the journey and the advantage of his conversation to relieve the tediousness of the way. But he dared not presume to offer attentions which the customs of the country did not seem to permit, since they were not attempted by any of the maiden's cousins or even by Rudolph Donorhuegel, who certainly had hitherto appeared to neglect no opportunity to recommend himself to his fair cousin. Besides, Arthur had reflection enough to be convinced that in yielding to the feelings which impelled him to cultivate the acquaintance of this amiable young person, he would certainly incur the serious displeasure of his father and probably also that of her uncle, by whose hospitality they had profited, and who,

whose safe conduct they were in the act of enjoying. The young Englishman, therefore, pursued the same amusements which interested the other young men of the party, managing only as frequently as their halts permitted, to venture upon offering to the maiden such marks of courtesy as could afford no room for remark or censure. And his character as a sportsman, being now well established, he sometimes permitted himself, even when the game was afoot,

to loiter in the vicinity of the path on which he could at least mark the flutter of the gray wimple of Anne of Geierstein, and the outline of the form which it shrouded. This indolence, as it seemed, was not unfavorably construed by his companions, being only accounted an indifference to the less noble or less dangerous game. For when the object was a bear, wolf or other animal of prey, no spear, cutlass, or bow of the party, not even those of Rudolf Donorhugel, were so prompt in the chase as those of the young Englishmen. Meantime, the elder Philipson had other and more serious subjects of consideration. He was a man, as a man, as the reader must have already seen of much acquaintance with the world in which he had acted

parts different from that which he now sustained. Former feelings were recalled and awakened by the view of sports familiar to his early years, the clamor of the hounds, echoing from the wild hills and dark forests through which they traveled, the sight of the gallant young huntsman appearing as they brought the object of their chase to bay amid airy cliffs and profound precipices, which seemed impervious to the human foot. The sounds of halloo and horn reverberating from hill to hill had more than once well-nigh impelled him to take a share in the hazardous but animating amusement, which next to war was then in most parts of Europe,

the most serious occupation of life. But the feeling was transient, and he became yet more deeply interested in studying the manners and opinions of the persons with whom he was traveling. They seemed to be all colored with the same downright and blunt simplicity, which characterized Arnold Biederman, although it was in none of them elevated by the same dignity of thought or profound. profound sagacity. In speaking of the political state of their country, they affected no secrecy, and although, with the exception of Rudolph, their own young men were not admitted into their councils, the exclusions seemed only adopted with a view to the necessary subordination of youth to age, and not for the purpose of observing any mystery. In the presence of the elder

Philipson, they freely discussed the pretensions of the Duke of Burgundy, the means which their country possessed of maintaining her independence, and the firm resolution of the Helvetian League to bid defiance to the utmost force the world could bring against it, rather than submit to the slightest insult. In other respects, their views appeared wise and moderate, although both the Bannarette of Byrne and the consequential Berger of Salor seemed to hold the consequences of war more lightly than they were viewed by the cautious Landemann of Unterwaldin and his venerable companion, Nicholas Bonstetten, who subscribed to all his opinions. It frequently happened that quitting these subjects, the conversation turned on such as were less attractive to their fellow

traveler, the signs of the weather, the comparative fertility of recent seasons, the most advantageous mode of managing their orchards and rearing their crops, though interesting to the mountaineers themselves, gave Phillipson slender amusement, and notwithstanding that the excellent minehair Zimmerman of Seleur would fain have joined with him in conversation, respecting trade and merchandise, yet the Englishman who dealt in articles of small bulk and considerable value and traversed sea and land to carry on his traffic could find few mutual topics to discuss with the Swiss trader, whose commerce only extended into the neighboring districts of Burgundy and Germany, and whose goods consisted of coarse woolen cloths, Fustian, hides, hides,

paltry, and such ordinary articles. But ever and on, while the Switzers were discussing some paltry interests of trade, or describing some process of rude cultivation, or speaking of blights in grain, and the murane amongst cattle, with all the dull minuteness of petty farmers and traders met at a country fair, a well-known spot would recall the name and story of a battle. in which some of them had served, for there were none of the party who had not been repeatedly in arms, and the military details which in other countries were only the theme of knights and squires who had acted their part in them, or of learned clerks who labored to record them, were in this singular region the familiar and intimate subjects of discussion with men whose peaceful

occupations seemed to place them at an immeasurable distance from the profession of a soldier. This led the Englishman to think of the ancient inhabitants of Rome, where the plow was so readily exchanged for the sword and the cultivation of a rude farm for the management of public affairs. He hinted this resemblance to the landman, who was naturally gratified with the compliment to his country, but presently replied, may heaven continue among us the home-bred virtues of the Romans, and preserve us from their lust of conquest and love of foreign luxuries. The slow pace of the travelers, with various causes of delay, which it is unnecessary to dwell upon, occasioned the deputation, spending two nights on the road before they reached bail.

The small towns or villages in which they quartered received them with such marks of respectful hospitality as they had the means to bestow, and their arrival was a signal for a little feast, with which the heads of the community uniformly regaled them. On such occasions, while the elders of the village entertained the deputies of the Confederation, the young men of the escort were provided for by those of their own age, several of whom, usually aware of their approach, were accustomed to join in the chase of the day, and made the strangers acquainted with the spots where game was most plenty. These feasts were never prolonged to excess, and the most special dainties which composed them were kids, lambs, and game, the produce, of the mountains. Yet it seemed, both to Arthur Philipson and his father, that the advantages of good cheer were more prized by the Bannarette of Bern and the Burgess of Solor than by their host,

the Landman, and the deputy of Schwitz. There was no excess committed, as we have already said, but the deputies first mentioned, obviously, understood the art of selecting the choicest morsels, and were connoisseurs in the good wine, chiefly of foreign growth, with which they freely washed it down. Arnold was too wise to censure what he had no means of amending. He contented himself by observing in his own person a rigorous diet, living indeed almost entirely upon vegetables and fair water, in which he was closely imitated by the old gray-bearded Nicholas von Stettin, who seemed to make it his principal object to follow the Landman's example in everything. It was, as we have already said, the third day after the commencement of their journey,

before the Swiss deputation reached the vicinity of Bale, in which city, then one of the largest in the southwestern extremity of Germany, they proposed taking up their abode for the evening, nothing doubting, a friendly reception. The town, it is true, was not then, nor till about 30 years afterwards, a part of the Swiss Confederation, to which it was only joined in 1501, but it was a free imperial city connected with Bern, Salor, Lucerne, and other towns of Switzerland by mutual interests and constant intercourse. It was the object of the deputation to negotiate, if possible, a peace which could not be more useful to themselves than to the city of bail, considering the interruptions of commerce, which must be occasioned by the

a rupture between the Duke of Burgundy and the cantons, and the great advantage which that city would derive by preserving a neutrality situated as it was betwixt these two hostile powers. They anticipated, therefore, as welcome a reception from the authorities of bail as they had received while in the bounds of their own confederation, since the interests of that city were so deeply concerned in the objects of their mission. The next chapter will show how far these expectations were realized. End of Chapter 7. Chapter 8 of Anne of Geierstein by Sir Walter Scott.

This Librovoc's recording is in the public domain, recording by Dion Gines, Salt Lake City, Utah. They saw that city welcoming the Rhine, as from his mountain heritage he bursts as purposed proud orgatorics of yore leaving the desert region of the hills to lord it o'er the fertile plains of gaul helvetia the eyes of the english travellers wearied with a succession of wild mountainous scenery now gazed with pleasure upon a country still indeed irregular and hilly in its surface, but capable of high cultivation, and adorned with cornfields and vineyards. The Rhine, a broad and large river, poured its gray stream in a huge sweep through the landscape and divided into two portions the city of Bale, which is situated on its banks,

the southern part to which the path of the Swiss deputies conducted them, displayed the celebrated cathedral and the lofty terrace which runs in front of it, and seemed to remind the travelers that they now approached a country in which the operations of man could make themselves distinguished, even among the works of nature, instead of being lost, as the fate of the most splendid efforts of human labor must have been, among those tremendous mountains which they had so lately traversed. They were yet a mile from the entrance of the city

when the party was met by one of the magistrates, attended by two or three citizens mounted on mules, the velvet housings of which expressed wealth and quality. They greeted the landman of Unterwalden and his party in a respectful manner, and the latter prepared themselves to hear and make a suitable reply to, the hospitable invitation, which they naturally expected to receive. The message of the community of Bale was, however, diametrically opposite to what they had anticipated. It was delivered with a good deal of diffidence and hesitation by the functionary who met them, and who certainly, while discharging,

his commission did not appear to consider it as the most respectable which he might have born. There were many professions of the most profound and fraternal regard for the cities of the Helvetian League, with whom the orator of Bale declared his own state to be united in friendship and interests. But he ended by intimating that on account of certain cogent and weighty reasons which should be satisfactorily explained at more leisure. The free city of Bale could not, this evening, receive within its walls the highly respected deputies who were traveling at the command of the Helvetian Diet to the court of the Duke of Burgundy. Philipson marked with much interest the effect which this most unexpected intimation produced

on the members of the embossage. Rudolf Donnerhugel, who had joined their company as they approached bail, appeared less surprised than his associates, and while he remained perfectly silent, seemed rather anxious to penetrate their sentiments than disposed to express his own. It was not the first time the sagacious merchant had observed that this bold and fiery young man could, when his purposes required it, place a strong constraint upon the natural impetuosity of his temper. For the others, the Bannarette's brow darkened. The face of the Burgess of Solor became flushed, like the moon when rising in the northwest. The gray-bearded deputy of

Schwetz looked anxiously on Arnold Biedermann, and the Landemann himself, seemed more moved than was usual in a person of his equanimity. At length, he replied to the functionary of bail in a voice somewhat altered by his feelings. This is a singular message to the deputies of the Swiss Confederacy bound as we are upon an amicable mission on which depends the interest of the good citizens of bail, whom we have always treated, as our good friends, and who still professed to be so. The shelter of their roofs, the protection of their walls, the wanted intercourse of hospitality, is what no friendly state hath a right to refuse to the inhabitants of another, nor is it with their will, that the community of bail refuse

it, worthy landman, replied the magistrate, not you alone and your worthy associate, but your escort and your very beasts of burden should be entertained with all the kindness which the citizens of bail could bestow. But we act under constraint. And by whom exercised, said the Bannarette, bursting out into passion, has the emperor Sigismund profited so little by the example of his predecessors? The emperor replied the delegate of bail, interrupting the Bannarette is a well-intentioned and peaceful monarch, as he has been ever. But there are Burgundian troops of late marched into the Sangha, and messages have been sent to our state from Count Archibald of Hagenbach.

Enough said, replied the landman, draw not farther the veil from a weakness for which you blush. I comprehend you entirely. bail lies too near the citadel of Lafaret to permit its citizens to consult their own inclinations. Brother, we see where your difficulty lies. We pity you, and we forgive you your in-hospitality. Nay, but hear me to an end, worthy landman answered the magistrate. There is here in the vicinity and old hunting seat of the counts of Falkenstein. called Graf's lust, which, though ruinous, yet may afford better lodgings than the open air,

and is capable of some defense, though heaven forbid that anyone should dare to intrude upon your repose, and hark ye hither, my worthy friends, if you find in the old place some refreshments, as wine, beer, and the like, use them without scruple, for they are there for your accommodation. I do not refuse to occupy a place of security, said the Landman, for although the causing us to be excluded from bail may be only done in the spirit of petty insolence and malice, yet it may also, for what we can tell, be connected with some purpose of violence. Your provisions we thank you for, but we will not, with my consent, feed at the of friends who are ashamed to own us unless by stealth. One thing more, my worthy sir, said the

official of bail, you have a maiden in company, who I presume to think is your daughter. There is but rough accommodation where you are going, even for men. For women, there is little better, though what we could, we have done to arrange matters as well as may be. But rather, Let your daughter go with us back to Bail, where my dame will be a mother to her until next morning, when I will bring her to your camp in safety. We promise to shut our gates against the men of the Confederacy, but the women were not mentioned. You are subtle, casuous, you men of Bale, answered the Landman, but know that from the time in which the Helvetians sallied forth to

encounter Caesar down to the present hour, the women of Switzerland in the press of danger have had their abode in the camp of their fathers, brothers, and husbands, and sought no further safety than they might find in the courage of their relations. We have enough of men to protect our women, and my niece shall remain with us, and take the fate which heaven may send us. Adieu, then, worthy friend, said the magistrate of Bale. It grieves me to part with you thus, but evil fate will have it so. Yonder grassy avenue will conduct you to the old hunting seat, where heaven send that you may pass a quiet night, for apart from other risks, men say that these ruins have no good name. Will you yet permit your niece, since such the young person is, to pass,

to bail for the night in my company. If we are disturbed by beings like ourselves, said Arnold Biederman, we have strong arms and heavy partisans. If we should be visited, as your words would imply, by those of a different description, we have or should have good consciences and confidence in heaven. Good friends, my brethren on this embassy, have I spoken your sentiments as well as mine own. The other deputies intimated their assent to what their companion had said, and the citizens of Bail took a courteous farewell of their guests, endeavoring by the excess of civility to atone for their deficiency in effective hospitality.

After their departure, Rudolph was the first to express his sense of their pusillanimous behavior, on which he had been silent during their presence. Coward dogs, he said, may the butcher of Burgundy flay the very skins from them with his exactions to teach them to disown old friendships rather than abide the lightest blast

of a tyrant's anger. And not even their own tyrant either, said another of the group, for several of the young men had gathered round their seniors, to hear the welcome which they expected from the magistrates of bail no replied ernest one of arnold bitermann's sons they do not pretend that their own prince the emperor hath interfered with them but a word of the duke of burgundy which should be no more to them than a breath of wind from the west is sufficient to stir them to such brutal in hospitality it were well to mark to the city and compel them at the sword's point to give us shelter. A murmur of applause

arose amongst the youth around which awakened the displeasure of Arnold Biedermann. Did I hear, he said, the tongue of a son of mine, or was it that of a brutish landsnecked who has no pleasure but in battle or violence? Where is the modesty of the youth of Switzerland, who were wont to wait the signal for action till it pleased the elders of the canton to give it, and were as gentle as maidens, till the voice of their patriarchs bade them be bold as lions. I meant no harm, father, said Ernest, abashed with this rebuke, far less any slight toward you, but I must need say. Say not a word, my son, replied Arnold, but leave our can't, tomorrow by break of day, and as thou takest thy way back to Geierstein, to which I command

thine instant return, remember that he is not fit to visit strange countries who cannot rule his tongue before his own countrymen and to his own father. The Bannarette of Bern, the Burgess of Solor, even the long-bearded deputy from Switz, endeavored to intercede for the offender and obtain a remission of his banishment, but it was in vain. No, my good friends and brethren, no, replied Arnold, these young men require an example, and though I am grieved in one sense that the offense has chanced within my own family, yet I am pleased in another light that the delinquent should be one over whom I can exercise full authority without suspicion of partiality.

Ernest, my son, thou hast heard my commands, return to Geierstein with the morning's light, and let me find thee an altered man when I return thither. The young Swiss, who was evidently much hurt and shocked at this public affront, placed one knee on the ground, and kissed the father's right hand,

while Arnold, without the slightest sign of anger, bestowed his blessing upon him, and earnest, without a word of remonstrance, fell into the rear of the party. The deputation then proceeded down the avenue, which had been pointed out to them, and at the bottom of which arose the massy ruins of Graff's lust, but there was not enough of daylight remaining to discern their exact form. They could observe as they drew nearer and as the night became darker that three or four windows were lighted up, while the rest of the front remained obscured in gloom. When they arrived at the place, they perceived it was surrounded by a large and deep moat, the sullen surface of which reflected, though faintly, the glimmer of the lights within.

End of Chapter 8. Chapter 9 of Anne of Guyurstein by Sir Walter Scott. This Libravox recording is in the public domain, recording by Dionne's Salt Lake City, Utah. Francisco, give you good night. Marcellus, oh, farewell, honest soldier, who hath relieved you. Francisco, give you good night. Bernardo hath my place, Hamlet. The first occupation of our travelers was to find the means of crossing the moat,

and they were not long of discovering the Tate-de-Pont on which the drawbridge, when lowered, had formerly rusted. The bridge itself had been long decayed, but a temporary passage of fir-trees and planks had been constructed apparently very lately, which admitted them to the chief entrance of the castle. On entering it, they found a wicket opening under the archway, which, glimmering with light, served to guide them to a hall prepared evidently for their accommodation, as well as circumstances had admitted of. A large fire of well-seasoned wood burned blithelythel. in the chimney and had been maintained so long there that the air of the hall, notwithstanding its

great size and somewhat ruinous aspect felt mild and genial. There was also, at the end of the apartment, a stack of wood large enough to maintain the fire had they been to remain there a week. Two or three long tables in the hall stood cover. and ready for their reception, and on looking more closely, several large hampers were found in a corner containing cold provisions of every kind, prepared with great care for their immediate use. The eyes of the good Burgess of Zoller twinkled when he beheld the young men in the act of transferring the supper from the hampers and arranging it on the table. well said he these poor men of bail have saved their character since if they have fallen short in welcome they have abounded in good cheer ah friend said arnold beaterman the absence of the landlord is a great deduction from the entertainment better half an apple from the hand of your host than a bridal feast without his company we owe them

the less for their banquet, said the Bannarette, but from the doubtful language they held, I should judge it meet, to keep a strong guard tonight, and even that some of our young men should, from time to time, patrol around the old ruins. The place is strong and defensible, and so far our thanks are due to those who have acted as our quartermasters. We will, however, With your permission, my honored brethren, examine the house within, and then arrange regular guards and patrols. To your duty, then, young men, and search these ruins carefully. They may perchance contain more than ourselves, for we are now near one who, like a pilfering fox,

moves more willingly by night than by day, and seeks his prey amissor. ruins and wildernesses rather than in the open field. All agreed to this proposal. The young men took torches, of which a good provision had been left for their use, and made a strict search through the ruins. The greater part of the castle was much more wasted and ruinous than the portion which the citizens of bail seemed to have destined for the accommodation of the embassy. Some parts were roofless and the whole desolate, the glare of light, the gleam of arms, the sound of the human voice and echoes of mortal tread, startled from their dark recesses, bats, owls, and other birds of ill omen. The usual inhabitants of such time-worn edifices,

whose flight through the desolate chambers repeatedly occasioned alarm amongst those who heard the noise without seeing the cause and shouts of laughter when it became known. They discovered that the deep moat surrounded their place of retreat on all sides, and of course that they were in safety against any attack which could be made from without, except it was attempted by the main entrance, which it was easy to barricade and guard with sentinels. They also ascertained by strict search that though it was possible an individual might be concealed amid such a waste of ruins, yet it was altogether impossible that any number which might be formidable to so large a party as their own could have remained there without a certainty of discovery. These particulars were reported to the Bannarette,

who directed Donnerhuegel, to take charge. of a body of six of the young men, such as he should himself choose to patrol on the outside of the building till the first cock growing, and at that hour to return to the castle when the same number were to take the duty till morning dawned and then be relieved in their turn. Rudolph declared his own intention to remain on guard the whole night, and as he was equally remarkable for vigilance as for strength and courage. The external watch was considered as safely provided for, it being subtle that in the case of any sudden re-encounter, the deep and hoarse sound of the Swiss bugle should be the signal for sending support to the patrolling party.

Within side the castle, the precautions were taken with equal vigilance. A sentinel, to be relieved every two hours, was appointed to take post at the principal gate, and other two kept watch on the other side of the castle, although the moat appeared to ensure safety in that quarter. These precautions being taken, the remainder of the party set down to refresh themselves, the deputies occupying the upper part of the hall, while those of their escort modestly arranged themselves in the lower end of the same large apartment. Quantities of hay and straw, which were left piled in the wide castle, were put to the purpose for which, undoubtedly, they had been destined by the citizens of bail, and with the aid of cloaks and mantles, were judged excellent,

good betting by a hearty race who in war or the chase were often well satisfied with a much worse knight's lair. The attention of the Belize had even gone so far as to provide for Anne of Geyerstein separate accommodation more suitable to her use than that assigned to the men of the party. an apartment, which had probably been the buttery of the castle, entered from the hall, and had also a doorway leading out into a passage connected with the ruins, but this last had hastily, yet carefully, been built up with large cune stones taken from the ruins, without mortar, indeed, or any other cement, but so well secured by their own weight that, an attempt to displace them must have alarmed not only anyone who might be in the apartment

itself, but also those who were in the hall adjacent, or indeed in any part of the castle. In this small room, thus carefully arranged and secured, there were two pallet beds and a large fire which blazed on the hearth and gave warmth and comfort to the apartment. even the means of devotion were not forgotten, a small crucifix of bronze being hung over a table on which lay a breviary. Those who first discovered this little place of retreat came back loud in praise of the delicacy of the citizens of bail, who, while preparing for the general accommodation of the strangers, had not failed to provide separately and peculiarly. for that of their female companion.

Arnold Biederman felt the kindness of this conduct. We should pity our friends of Bail and not nourish resentment against them, he said, they have stretched their kindness towards us as far as their personal apprehensions permitted. And that is saying no small matter for them, my masters, for no passion is so unutterably selfish. as that of fear. Anne, my love, thou art fatigued.

Go to the retreat provided for you, and Lizette shall bring you from this abundant mass of provisions what will be fittest for your evening meal. So saying, he led his knees into the little bedroom and looking round, with an air of complacency, wished her good repose, but there was something on the maiden's brow,

which seemed to augur that her uncle's wishes would not be fulfilled. From the moment she had loved Switzerland, her looks had become clouded. Her intercourse with those who approached her had grown more brief and rare. Her whole appearance was marked with secret anxiety or secret sorrow. This did not escape her uncle, who naturally imputed it to the pain of parting from him. which was probably soon to take place, and to her regret at leaving the tranquil spot in which so many years of her youth had been spent. But Anne of Geierstein had no sooner entered the apartment than her whole frame trembled violently, and the color leaving her cheeks entirely she sank down on one of the pallets,

where resting her elbows on her knees and pressing her hands. hands on her forehead, she rather resembled a person borne down by mental distress or oppressed by some severe illness than one who, tired with a journey, was in haste to betake herself to needful rest. Arnold was not quick-sighted as to the many sources of female passion. He saw that his niece suffered, but imputing it only to the causes already mentioned, augmented by the hysterical effects often produced by fatigue, he gently blamed her for having departed from her character of a Swiss maiden ere she was yet out of reach of a Swiss breeze of wind. Thou must not let the dames of Germany or Flanders think that our daughters have degenerated

from their mothers. else must we fight the battles of Sempac and Lopin over again to convince the Emperor and this haughty Duke of Burgundy that our men are of the same medal with their forefathers. And as for our parting, I do not fear it. My brother is a count of the Empire indeed, and therefore he must need satisfy himself that everything over which he possesses, any title shall be at his command, and sense for thee to prove his right of doing so. But I know him well. He will no sooner be satisfied that he may command thy attendance at pleasure than he will concern himself about thee no more. The, alas, poor thing, in what couldst thou aid his courtly intrigues and ambitious plans. no, no, thou art not for the noble Count's purpose, and must be content to trudge back to rule the dairy at Geyerstein, and be the darling of thine old peasant-like uncle.

Would to God we were there even now, said the maiden, in a tone of wretchedness which she strove in vain to conceal or suppress. that may hardly be till we have executed the purpose which brought us hither said the literal landman but lay thee on thy palate anne take a morsel of food and three drops of wine and thou wilt wake to-morrow as gay as on a swiss holiday when the pipe sounds threvelly anne was now able to plead a severe headache and declining all refreshment which she declared herself incapable of tasting, she bade her uncle good-night. She then desired Lizette to get some food for herself, cautioning her as she returned to make as little noise as possible, and not to break her repose if she should have the good fortune to fall asleep. Arnold Biederman then kissed his niece and returned to the hall where his colleagues in office were in impatient to commence an attack on the provisions which were in readiness, to which the escort of young men diminished by the patrols and sentinels were no less disposed than their seniors.

The signal of assault was given by the deputy from Schwitz, the eldest of the party, pronouncing in patriarchal form a benediction over the meal. The travelers then commenced their operations with a vivacity which showed that the uncertainty whether they should get any food and the delays which had occurred in arranging themselves in their quarters had infinitely increased their appetites. Even the Landman, whose moderation sometimes approached to abstinence, seemed that night in a more genial humor than ordinary. His friend of Schwetz, after his example, ate, drank, and spoke more than usual, while the rest of the deputies pushed their meal to the verge of a carousal. The elder Philipson marked the scene with an attentive and anxious eye,

confining his applications to the wine cup to such pledges as the politeness of the times called upon him to reply to. His son had left the hall just as the banquet began in the manner which we are now to relate. Arthur had proposed to himself to join the youths who were to perform the duty of sentinels within or patrols on the outside of their place of repose, and had indeed made some arrangement for that purpose with Sigismund, the third of the Landemann's sons. But while about to steal a parting glance at Anne of Geierstein before offering his service as he proposed, there appeared on her brow such a deep and solemn expression, as diverted his thoughts from every other subject, accepting the anxious doubts as to what could

possibly have given rise to such a change, the placid openness of brow, the eye which expressed conscious and fearless innocence, the lips which seconded by a look as frank as her words seemed ever ready to speak in kindness and in confidence that which the heart dictated were for the moment entirely changed in character and expression and in a degree and manner for which no ordinary cause could satisfactorily account fatigue might have banished the rose from the maiden's beautiful complexion and sickness or pain might have dimmed her eye and clouded her brow, but the look of deep dejection with which she fixed her eyes at times on the ground, and the startled and terrified glance which she cast around her at other intervals must have had

their rise in some different source. Neither could illness or weariness explain the manner in which her lips were contracted or compressed together, like one who makes up her mind to act or behold something that is fearful, or account for the tremor which seemed at times to steal over her insensibly, though by a strong effort she was able at intervals to throw it off, for this change of expression there must be in the heart some deeply melancholy and afflicting cause. What could that cause be? It is dangerous for youth to be. It is dangerous for youth to be. behold beauty in the pomp of all her charms, with every look bent upon conquest, more dangerous to see her in the hour of unaffected and unapprehensive ease and simplicity, yielding herself to the graceful

whim of the moment, and as willing to be pleased, as desirous of pleasing. There are minds which may be still more affected by gazing on beauty in sorrow, and feeling that pity, that desire of comforting the lovely mourner, which the poet has described as so nearly akin to love. But to a spirit of that romantic and adventurous cast, which the Middle Ages frequently produced, the sight of a young and amiable person, evidently in a state of terror and suffering, which had no visible cause, was perhaps still more impressive than beauty in her pride, her tenderness, or her sorrow. Such sentiments, it must be remembered, were not confined to the highest ranks only, but might then be found in all classes of society,

which were raised above the mere peasant or artisan. Young Philipson gazed on Anne of Geierstein, with such intense curiosity, mingled with pity and tenderness, that the bustling scene around him seemed to vanish from his eyes and leave no one in the noisy hall, save himself, and the object of his interest. What could it be that so evidently oppressed and almost quailed a spirit so well-balanced, and a courage so well-tempered, when being guarded, by the swords of the bravest men, perhaps to be found in Europe, and lodged in a place of strength, even the most timid of her sex might have found confidence. Surely, if an attack were to be made upon them, the clamor of a conflict in such circumstances could scarce be more terrific

than the roar of those cataracts which he had seen her despise. At least he thought she ought to to be aware that there is one who is bound by friendship and gratitude to fight to the death in her defense. Would to heaven, he continued in the same reverie it were possible to convey to her without sign or speech the assurance of my unalterable resolution to protect her in the worst of perils. As such thoughts streamed through his mind, Anne raised her eyes in one of the those fits of deep feeling, which seemed to overwhelm her, and while she cast them round the hall with a look of apprehension, as if she expected to see amid the well-known companions of her journey, some strange and unwelcome apparition, they encountered the fixed and anxious gaze of

young Philipson. They were instantly bent on the ground, while a deep blush showed how much she was conscious of having attracted his attention by her previous deportment. Arthur, on his part, with equal consciousness, blushed as deeply as the maiden herself, and drew himself back from her observation. But when Anne rose up and was escorted by her uncle to her bedchamber in the manner we have already mentioned, it seemed to Philipson as if she had carried with her from, the apartment, the lights with which it was illuminated, and left it in the twilight melancholy of some funeral hall. His deep musings were pursuing the subject which occupied them thus anxiously

when the manly voice of Donner-Hughal spoke close in his ear. What, Comrade, has our journey today fatigued you so much that you go to sleep upon your feet. Now, heaven forbid, Hopman, said the Englishman, starting from his reverie, and addressing Rudolph by this name, signifying captain, or literally headman, which the youth of the expedition had by unanimous consent bestowed on him, heaven forbid I should sleep if there be aught like action in the wind. where dost thou propose to be at cock-crow said the swiss where duties shall call me or your experience noble hopman shall appoint replied arthur but with your leave i purposed to take sigismund's guard on the bridge till midnight or morning dawn he still feels the spring which he received in his spring after yonder shammie and i persuaded him to take some uninterrupted rest as the best mode of restoring his strength. He will do well to keep his counsel then.

Again, whispered Donner-Hughal, the old landman is not a man to make allowances for mishaps when they interfere with duty. Those who are under his orders should have as few brains as a bull, as strong limbs as a bear, and be as impassable as lead or iron to all. the casualties of life and all the weaknesses of humanity. Arthur replied in the same tone, I have been the Landman's guest for some time and have seen no specimens of any such rigid discipline. You are a stranger, said the Swiss,

and the old man has too much hospitality to lay you under the least restraint. You are a volunteer, too, in whatever share you should. choose to take in our sports or our military duty, and therefore, when I ask you to walk abroad with me at the first cock-crowing, it is only in the event that such exercise shall entirely consist with your own pleasure. I consider myself as under your command for the time, said Philipson, but not to bandy courtesy at Cockcrow, I shall be relieved from my watch on the

drawbridge, and will be by that time glad to exchange the post for a more extended walk. Do you not choose more of this fatiguing and probably unnecessary duty than may befit your strength, said Rudolph. I take no more than you do, said Arthur, as you proposed not to take rest. morning. True, answered Donner-Hughal, but I am a Swiss, and I answered Philipson, quickly, am an Englishman. I did not mean what I said in the sense you take it, said Rudolph laughing. I only meant that I am more interested in this matter than you can be, who are a stranger to the cause in which we are personally engaged. I am a stranger, no doubt, replied Arthur, but a stranger who has enjoyed your hospitality, and who therefore claims a right while with you

to share in your labors and dangers. Be it so, said Rudolf Donor-Hughal, I shall have finished my first rounds at the hour when the sentinels at the castle are relieved, and shall be ready to recommence them in your good company. Content, said the Englishman, and now I will to my post, for I suspect Sigismund is blaming me already as oblivious of my promise. They hastened together to the gate, where Sigismund willingly yielded up his weapon and his guard to young Philipson, confirming the idea sometimes entertained of him that he was the most indolent and least spirited of the family of Geierstein. Rudolph could not suppress his displeasure. What would the landman say, he demanded, if he saw thee thus quietly yield a post and partisan

to a stranger? He would say, I did well, answered the young man, nothing daunted, for he is forever reminding us to let the stranger have his own way in everything. And English Arthur stands on this bridge by his own wish, and no asking of mine. Therefore, kind Arthur, since thou wilt barter warm straw and a sound sleep for frosty air and a clear moonlight, I make thee welcome with all my heart. Hear your duty. You are to stop all who enter, or attempt to enter, or till they give the password. If they are strangers, you must give alarm, but you will suffer such of our friends as are known to you to pass outwards without,

challenge or alarm, because the deputation may find occasion to send messengers abroad. A murrain on thee, thou lazy lossel, said Rudolf, thou art the only sluggard of thy kin. Then am I the only wise man of them all, said the youth. Hark ye, brave hopphtman, ye have supped this evening, have ye not? It is a point of wisdom, ye owl, answered the Bernese, not. to go into the forest fasting. If it is wisdom to eat when we are hungry, answered Sigismund, there can be no folly in sleeping when we are weary. So saying, and after a desperate yawn or two, the relieved sentinel halted off, giving full effect to the sprain of which he complained.

Yet there is strength in those loitering limbs and valor in that indolent and sluggish. spirit, said Rudolph, to the Englishman. But it is time that I, who censor others, should betake me to my own task. Hither, comrades of the watch, hither. The Bernese accompanied these words with a whistle, which brought from within six young men, whom he had previously chosen for the duty, and who, after a hurried supper, now waited his summons. One or two of them had large bloodhounds or lime dogs, which, though usually employed in the pursuit of animals of chase, were also excellent for discovering ambuscades in which duty their services were now to be employed. One of these animals was held in a leash by the person who, forming the advance of the party,

went about 20 yards in front of them. A second was the property of Donner, Bugel himself, who had the creature singularly under command. Three of his companions attended him closely, and the two others followed, one of whom bore a horn of the Bernese wild bull by way of Bugal. This little party crossed the moat by the temporary bridge and moved on to the verge of the forest, which lay adjacent to the castle, and the skirts of which were most likely. to conceal any ambuscade that could be apprehended. The moon was now up and near the full, so that Arthur, from the elevation on which the castle stood,

could trace their slow, cautious march amid the broad silver light, until they were lost in the depths of the forest. When this object had ceased to occupy his eyes, the thoughts of his lonely watch again returned to Anne, of Geyerstein, and to the singular expression of distress and apprehension, which had that evening clouded her beautiful features. Then the blush which had chased for the moment, paleness and terror from her countenance at the instant his eyes encountered hers. Was it anger? Was it modesty?

Was it some softer feeling more gentle than the one, more tender than the other? Young Phillips who, like Chaucer, Squire, was as modest as a maid, almost trembled to give that look the favorable interpretation, which a more self-satisfied gallant would have applied to it without scruple. No hue of rising or setting day was ever so lovely in the eyes of the young man as that blush was in his recollection. Nor did ever enthusiastic visionary or poetical dreamer find out so many fanciful forms in the clouds as Arthur divined various interpretations from the indications of interest which had passed over the beautiful countenance of the Swiss maiden. In the meantime, the thought suddenly burst on his reverie that it could little concern him

what was the cause of the perturbation she had exhibited. They had met at no distant period for the first time, they must soon part forever. She could be nothing more to him than the remembrance of a beautiful vision, and he could have no other part in her memory, save as a stranger from a foreign land who had been a sojourner for a season in her uncle's house, but whom she could never expect to see again. When this idea intruded on the train of romantic visions, which agitated him, it was like the sharp stroke of the harpoon which awakens the whale from slumbering torpidity into violent action. The gateway in which the young soldier kept his watch seemed suddenly too narrow for him. He rushed across the temporary bridge and hastily traversed a short space of

ground in front of the Tate-de-Pont or defensive work on which its outer extremity rested. Here for a time he paced the narrow extent to which he was confined by his duty as a sentinel, with long and rapid strides as if he had been engaged by vow to take the greatest possible quantity of exercise upon that limited space of ground. His exertion, however, produced the effect of, in some degree, composing his mind, recalling him to himself and reminding him of the numerous reasons which prohibited his fixing his attention, much more his affections, upon this young person, however fascinating she was. I have surely, he thought, as he slackened his pace and shouldered his heavy partisan, since enough left, to recollect my condition and my duties,

to think of my father, to whom I am all in all, and to think also on the dishonor which must accrue to me were I capable of winning the affections of a frank-hearted and confiding girl, to whom I could never do justice by dedicating my life to return them, No, he said to himself, she will soon forget me, and I will study to remember her no otherwise than I would a pleasing dream, which hath for a moment crossed a night of perils and dangers, such as my life seems doomed to be. As he spoke, he stopped short in his walk, and as he rested on his weapon, a tear rose unbidden to his eye and stole down his cheek without being wiped away. But he combated this gentler mood of passion as he had formerly battled with that, which was of a wilder and more desperate character, shaking off the dejection and sinking of spirit, which he felt. creeping upon him, he resumed at the same time the air and attitude of an attentive sentinel and recalled his mind to the duties of his watch, which in the tumult of his feelings he had

almost forgotten. But what was his astonishment when, as he looked out on the clear landscape, there passed from the bridge towards the forest, crossing him in the broad moonlight, the living and moving likeness of Anne of Geyerstein. End of Chapter 9. Chapter 10, Part 1 of Anne of Geyerstein by Sir Walter Scott. This Libravox recording is in the public domain, recording by Dionne's Salt Lake City, Utah. We know not when we sleep, nor when we wake. Visions distinct and perfect cross our.

eye, which to the slumberer seem realities, and while they waked, some men have seen such sights as set at naught, the evidence of sense, and left them well persuaded they were dreaming. Anonymous. The apparition of Anne of Geierstein crossed her lover, her admirer, at least we must call him, within shorter time than we can tell the story. But it was distinct, perfect, and undoubted. In the very instant when the young Englishman, shaking off his fond despondency,

raised his head to look out upon the scene of his watch, she came from the nearer end of the bridge, crossing the path of the sentinel, upon whom she did not even cast a low. and passed with a rapid yet steady pace towards the verge of the woodland. It would have been natural, though Arthur had been directed not to challenge persons who left the castle, but only such as might approach it, that he should, nevertheless, had it only been in mere civility, have held some communication, however slight with the maiden as she crossed his post.

But the suddenness of her appearance took from him, for the instant, both speech and motion. It seemed as if his own imagination had raised up a phantom, presenting to his outward senses the form and features which engrossed his mind, and he was silent, partly at least from the idea that what he gazed upon was immaterial and not of this world. It would have been no less natural that Anne of Geyerstein should have in some manner, acknowledged the person who had spent a considerable time under the same roof with her, had been often her partner in the dance and her companion in the field. But she did not evince the slightest token of recognition, nor even looked towards him as she passed. Her eye was on the wood, to which she advanced swiftly and steadily,

and she was hidden by its bows, Air Arthur had recollected himself sufficiently to determine what to do. His first feeling was anger at himself for suffering her to pass unquestioned when it might well chance that upon any errand which called her forth at so extraordinary a time and place

he might have been enabled to afford her assistance or at least advice. This sentiment was for a short time so predominant that he ran towards the place where he had seen the skirt of her dress disappear, and whispering her name as loud as the fear of alarming the castle permitted, conjured her to return and hear him but for a brief few moments. No answer, however, was returned, and when the branched, of the trees began to darken over his head and to intercept the moonlight, he recollected that he was leaving his post and exposing his fellow travelers who were trusting in his vigilance to the danger of surprise. He hastened, therefore, back to the castle gate with matter for

deeper and more inextricable doubt and anxiety than had occupied him during the commencement of his watch. He asked himself in vain with what purpose that modest young maiden, whose manners were frank, but whose conduct had always seemed so delicate and reserved, could sally forth at midnight like a damsel errant in romance when she was in a strange country and suspicious neighborhood. Yet he rejected, as he would have shrunk from blasphemy, any interpretation, which could have thrown censure upon Anne of Geyerstein. No, nothing was she capable of doing for which a friend could have to blush, but connecting her previous agitation with the extraordinary fact of her leaving the castle alone and defenseless

at such an hour. Arthur necessarily concluded it must argue some cogent reason, and as was most likely of an unpleasant nature. I will watch her return, he internally uttered, and if she will give me an opportunity, I will convey to her the assurance that there is one faithful bosom in her neighborhood, which is bound in honor and gratitude to pour out every drop of its blood. If by doing so, it can protect her. from the slightest inconvenience. This is no silly flight of romance, for which common sense has a right to reproach me. It is only what I ought to do, what I must do, or forego every claim to be termed a man of honesty or honor. Yet scarce did the young man think himself anchored on a resolution,

which seemed unobjectionable, then his thoughts were again adrift. He reflected that Anne might have a desire to visit the neighboring town of Bale, to which she had been invited the day before and where her uncle had friends. It was indeed an uncommon hour to select for such a purpose, but Arthur was aware that the Swiss maidens feared neither solitary, walks, nor late hours, and that Anne would have walked among her own hills by moonlight much farther than the distance betwixt their place of encampment and bail, to see a sick friend or for any similar purpose. To press himself on her confidence then might be impertinence, not kindness,

and as she had passed him without taking the slightest notice, of his presence, it was evident she did not mean voluntarily to make him her confidant, and probably she was involved in no difficulties where his aid could be useful. In that case, the duty of a gentleman was to permit her to return as she had gone forth, unnoticed and unquestioned, leaving it with herself to hold communication with him or not. as she should choose. Another idea, belonging to the age, also passed through his mind, though it made no strong impression upon it. This form, so perfectly resembling Anne of Geierstein, might be a deception of the sight, or it might be one of those fantastic apparitions

concerning which there were so many tales told in all countries, and of which, Switzerland and Germany had, as Arthur well knew, their full share. The internal and undefinable feelings which restrained him from accosting the maiden, as might have been natural for him to have done, are easily explained on the supposition that his mortal frame shrank from an encounter with a being of a different nature. There had also been some expression of the magistrate of bail, which might apply to the castles being liable to be haunted by beings from another world. But though the general belief in such ghostly apparitions prevented the Englishman from being positively incredulous on the subject, yet the instructions of his father,

a man of great intrepidity and distinguished good sense, had taught him to be extremely unwilling to refer anything to supernatural interferences, which was capable of explanation by ordinary rules. And he, therefore, shook off without difficulty, any feelings of superstitious fear, which, for an instant, connected itself with his nocturnal adventure. He resolved finally to suppress all disquieting conjecture on the subject, and to, to, to await firmly, if not patiently, the return of the fair vision, which, if it should not fully explain the mystery, seemed at least to afford the only chance of throwing light upon it. Fixed, therefore, in purpose, he traversed the walk which his duty permitted, with his eyes

fixed on the part of the forest where he had seen the beloved form disappear, and forgetful for the moment that his watch had any other purpose than to observe her return. But from this abstraction of mind, he was roused by a distant sound in the forest, which seemed the clash of armor, recalled at once to a sense of his duty and its importance to his father and his fellow travelers, Arthur planted himself on the temporary bridge, where a stand could best be made and turned both eyes and ears to watch for approaching danger. The sound of arms and footsteps came nearer, spears and helmets advanced from the Greenwood Glade and twinkled in the moonlight. But the stately form of Rudolph Donnerhuegel,

marching in front, was easily recognized and announced to our sentinel the return of the patrol. Upon their approach to the bridge, the challenge and interchange of sign and counter-sign, which is usual on such occasions, took place in due form. And as Rudolph's party filed off one after another into the castle, he commanded them to wake their companions with whom he intended to renew the patrol, and at the same time to send a relief to Arthur Philipson, whose watch on the bridge was now ended. This last fact was confirmed by the deep and distant toll of the minster clock from the town of Bale,

which, prolonging its sullen sound over field and forest, announced that midnight was passed. And now, Comrade, continued Rudolph to the Englishman, have the cold air and long watch, determined thee to retire, to food and food, and rest, or dost thou still hold the intention of partaking our rounds? In very truth, it would have been Arthur's choice to have remained in the place where he was for the purpose of watching Anne of Geierstein's return from her mysterious excursion. He could not easily have found an excuse for this, however, and he was unwilling to give the haughty Donner-Hughal the least suspicion that he was inferior in hardihood or in the power of enduring fatigue to any of the

tall mountaineers whose companion he chanced to be for the present. He did not, therefore, indulge even a moment's hesitation, but while he restored the borrowed partisan to the sluggish sigismund who came from the castle yawning and stretching himself like one whose slumbers have been broken by no welcome summons. When they were deepest and sweetest, he acquainted Rudolph that he retained his purpose of partaking in his reconnoitering duty. They were speedily joined by the rest of the patrolling party, amongst whom was Rudiger, the eldest son of the landman of Unterwalden, and when led by the Bernese champion, they had reached the skirts of the forest, Rudolf commanded three of them to attend Rudiger Biederman.

Thou wilt make thy round to the left side, said the Bernese. I will draw off to the right. See thou keepest a good lookout, and we will meet merrily at the place appointed. Take one of the hounds with you. I will keep Wolffinger, who will open on a Burgundian as readily as on a bear. Rudiger moved off with his party to the left, according to the directions received, and Rudolph, having sent forward one of his number in front and stationed another in the rear, commanded the third to follow himself and Arthur Philipson, who thus constituted the main body of the patrol,

having intimated to their immediate attendant to keep at such distance as to allow them freedom of conversation, Rudolph addressed the Englishman with the familiarity which their recent friendship had created. And now, King Arthur, what thinks the majesty of England of our Helvetian youth? Could they win Gerdin in Tilt or Terny, thinkest thou noble prince? Or would they rank but amongst the coward knights of Cornuels? For Tilt and Ternie, I cannot answer, said Arthur, summoning up his spirits to reply, because I never beheld one of you mounted on a steed or having spear in rest. But if strong limbs and stout hearts are to be considered, I would match you Swiss gallants with those of any country in the universe,

where manhood is to be looked for, whether it be in heart or hand. Thou speakest as fair. and young Englishman, said Rudolph, know that we think as highly of thee, of which I will presently afford thee a proof. Thou talkest but now of horses. I know but little of them, yet I judge thou wouldst not by a steed which thou hast only seen covered with trappings, or encumbered with saddle and bridle, but Wood's desire to look at him when stripped and in his natural state of freedom. I, Mary, would I, said Arthur, thou hast spoken on that as if thou hadst been born in a district called Yorkshire, which men call the merriest part of Mary England. Then I tell thee, said Rudolf Donorhugel, that thou hast seen our Swiss youth but half since thou hast thou hadst seen our

Swiss youth but half, since thou hast observed them, as yet, only in their submissive attendance upon the elders of their cantons, or at most in their mountain sports, which, though they may show men's outward strength and activity, can throw no light on the spirit and disposition by which that strength and activity are to be guided and directed in matters of high and enterprise. This was probably designed that these remarks should excite the curiosity of the stranger, but the Englishman had the image, look, and form of Anne of Geierstein as she had passed him in the silent hours of his watch, too constantly before him, to enter willingly upon a subject of conversation totally foreign to what agitated his mind.

He, therefore, only compelled himself to reply in civility that he had no doubt his esteem for the Swiss, both aged and young, would increase in proportion with his more intimate knowledge of the nation. He was then silent, and Donner-Hughal, disappointed perhaps, at having failed to excite his curiosity, walked also in silence by his side. Arthur, meanwhile, was considering with himself whether he should mention to his companion the circumstance which occupied his own mind in the hope that the kinsman of Anne of Geierstein and ancient friend of her house might be able to throw some light on the subject. But he felt within his mind an insurmountable objection to converse with the Swiss on a subject in which Anne was concerned. That Rudolph made pretensions to her favor could hardly be doubted, and though Arthur had the question been put to him must in common consistency have resigned all competition

on the subject. Still, he could not bear to think on the possibility of his rival's success and would not willingly have endured to hear him pronounce her name. Perhaps, it was owing to this secret irritability that Arthur, though he made every effort to conceal and to overcome the sensation, still felt a secret dislike to Rudolph Donorhugel, who's frank, but somewhat coarse familiarity, was mingled with a certain air of protection and patronage, which the Englishman thought was by no means called for. He met the openness of the Bernese indeed, with equal frankness, but he was ever and anon tempted to reject or repelled the tone of superiority by which it was accompanied. The circumstances of their duel

had given the Swiss no ground for such triumph, nor did Arthur feel himself included in that role of the Swiss youth over whom Rudolph exercised domination by general consent. So little did Philipson relish this affectation of superiority that the poor just that termed him King Arthur, although quite indifferent to him when applied by any of the Biedermans, was rather offensive when Rudolph took the same liberty, so that he often found himself in the awkward condition of one who is internally irritated, without having to be. any outward manner of testifying it with propriety. Undoubtedly, the root of all this tacit dislike to the young Bernese was a feeling of rivalry, but it was a feeling which Arthur dared not

a vow even to himself. It was sufficiently powerful, however, to suppress the slight inclination he had felt to speak with Rudolph on the passage of the night, which, had most interested him. And as the topic of conversation introduced by his companion had been suffered to drop, they walked on side by side in silence with the beard on the shoulder, as the Spaniard says, looking round, that is, on all hands, and thus performing the duty of a vigilant watch. At length, after they had walked nearly a mile through forest and field, making a circuit around the ruins of Graff's lust of such an extent as to leave no room for an ambush betwixt them and the place, the old hound, led by the Vedet, who was foremost, stopped and

uttered a low growl. How now, Wolf-Fanger, said Rudolph, advancing. What, old fellow, dost thou not know friends from foes? Come, what sayest thou on better thoughts? Thou must not lose character in thy old age. Try it again. The dog raised his head, snuffed the air all around, as if he understood what his master had said, then shook his head and tail as if answering to his voice. Why, there it is now, said Donner-Hughal, patting the animal's shaggy back, second thoughts are worth gold. Thou seest it is a friend after all. The dog again shook his tail and moved forward with the same unconcern as before. Rudolph fell back into his place, and his companion said to him,

We are about to meet Rudiger, and our companions, I suppose, and the dog hears their footsteps, though we cannot. It can scarcely yet be Rudiger, said the Bernese. His walk around the castle is of a wider circumference than ours. someone approaches. However, for Wolfinger is again dissatisfied, look sharply out on all sides. As Rudolph gave his party the word to be on the alert, they reached an open glade in which were scattered at considerable distance from each other some old pine trees of gigantic size, which seemed yet huger and blacker than ordinary, from their broad sable top.

and shattered branches being displayed against the clear and white moonlight. We shall hear, at least, said the Swiss, have the advantage of seeing clearly whatever approaches. But I judge, said he, after looking around for a minute, it is but some wolf or deer that has crossed our path, and the scent disturbs the hound. Hold, stop. Yes, it must be so. He goes on. The dog accordingly proceeded after having given some signs of doubt, uncertainty, and even anxiety. Apparently, however, he became reconciled to what had disturbed him, and proceeded once more in the ordinary manner. This is singular, said Arthur Philipson, and to my thinking, I saw an object close by yonder patch of thicket, where, as well as

as I can guess, a few thorn and hazel bushes around the stems of four or five large trees. My eye has been on that very thicket for these five minutes past, and I saw nothing, said Rudolph. Nay, but, answered the young Englishman, I saw the object, whatever it was, while you were engaged in attending to the dog, and by your permission, I will forward and examine the spot. Were you, strictly speaking, under my command, said Donner-Hughal, I would command you to keep your place. If they be foes, it is essential that we should remain together. But you are a volunteer in our watch, and therefore may use your freedom. I thank you, answered Arthur,

and sprang quickly forward. He felt indeed at the moment that he was not acting courteously as an individual, nor perhaps correctly as a soldier, and that he ought to have rendered obedience for the time to the captain of the party in which he had enlisted himself. But on the other hand, the object which he had seen, though at a distance and imperfectly, seemed to bear a resemblance to the retiring form of Anne of Geierstein as she had vanished from his eyes, an out of or two before under the cover of the forest, and his ungovernable curiosity to ascertain whether it might not be the maiden in person, allowed him to listen to no other consideration. Err Rudolph had spoken out his few words of reply. Arthur was halfway to the thicket. It was, as it had seemed at a distance of small extent,

and not fitted to hide any person who did not actually couch down amongst the dwarf bushes and underwood. Anything white also, which bore the human size and form, must, he thought, have been discovered among the dark red stems and swarthy colored bushes, which were before him. These observations were mingled with other thoughts. If it was Anne of Geierstein, whom he had a second time seen, she must have left the more open path, desirous probably of avoiding notice, and what right or title had he to direct upon her the observation of the patrol? He had, he thought, observed that, in general, the maiden rather repelled than encouraged the attentions of Rudolph Donnerhugel, or where it would have been discourteous to have rejected them

entirely that she endured without encouraging them. What then could be the propriety of his intruding upon her private walk, singular indeed, from time and place, but which on that account she might be more desirous to keep secret from the observation of one who was disagreeable to her? Nay, was it not possible that Rudolph might derive advantage to his otherwise unacceptable suit by possessing the knowledge of something which the maiden desired to be concealed. As these thoughts pressed upon him, Arthur made a pause with his eyes fixed on the thicket from which he was now scarce 30 yards distant, and although scrutinizing it with all the keen accuracy which his uncertainty and anxiety dictated, he was actuated by a strong feeling that it would be wisest to turn back to his companions

and report to Rudolph that his eyes had deceived him. But while he was yet undecided whether to advance or return, the object which he had seen became again visible on the verge. of the thicket and advanced straight towards him, bearing as on the former occasion, the exact dress and figure of Anne of Geierstein. This vision, for the time, place, and suddenness of the appearance made it seem rather an illusion than a reality, struck Arthur with surprise, which amounted to terror. The figure passed within a spear's length, unchallenged by him, and giving not the slightest sign of recognition, and directing its course to the right hand of Rudolph

and the two or three who were with him, was again lost among the broken ground and bushes. Once more the young man was reduced to a state of the most inextricable doubt, nor was he roused from the stupor into which he was thrown till the voice of the Bernese sounded in his evening, hear why how now king arthur art thou asleep or art thou wounded neither said philipson collecting himself only much surprised surprised and at what most royal forbear foolery said arthur somewhat sternly and answer as thou art a man did she not meet thee didst thou not see her see her see whom said donner hugel i saw no one and I could have sworn you had seen no one either, for I had you in my eye the whole time of your

absence, accepting two or three moments. If you saw aught, why gave you not the alarm? Because it was only a woman, answered Arthur faintly. Only a woman, repeated Rudolph, in a tone of contempt. By my honest word, King Arthur, if I had not seen pretty flashes of valor fly from thee at times, I should be apt to think that thou hast only a woman's courage thyself, strange, that a shadow by night, or a precipice in the day, should quell so bold a spirit as thou hast often shown. And as I will ever show, when occasion demands it, interrupted the Englishman, with recovered spirit. But I swear to you that if I be now daunted, it is by no mere earthly fears that my mind have been for a moment subdued. Let us proceed on our walk, said Rudolph,

we must not neglect the safety of our friends. This appearance of which thou speakest may be but a trick to interrupt our duty. They moved on through the moonlight glades, a minute's reflection, restored young Philipson to his full recollection, and with that, to the painful consciousness that he had played a ridiculous and unworthy part in the presence of the person whom, of the male sex, at least, he would the very last have chosen as a witness of his weakness. He ran his hastily over the relations which stood betwixt himself, Donorhugel, the Landman, his niece, and the rest of that family. And contrary to the opinion which he had entertained but a short while before settled in his own mind that it was his duty to mention to the immediate leader

under whom he had placed himself the appearance which he had twice observed in the course of that night's duty. There might be family circumstances, the payment of a vow, perhaps, or some such reason, which might render intelligible to her connections, the behavior of this young lady. Besides, he was for the present a soldier on duty, and these mysteries might be fraught with evils to be anticipated or guarded against. In either case, his companions were in time. In titled to be made aware of what he had seen. It must be supposed that this resolution was adopted when the sense of duty and of shame for the weakness which he had exhibited had for the moment subdued Arthur's personal feelings towards Anne of Geierstein, feelings also liable to be

chilled by the mysterious uncertainty which the events of that evening had cast like a thick mist around the object of them. While the Englishman's reflections were taking this turn, his captain or companion, after a silence of several minutes, at length addressed him, I believe he said, my dear comrade, that as being at present your officer, I have some title to hear from you the report of what you have just now seen,

since it must be something of importance which could so strongly agitate a mind so firm as yours. But if, in your own opinion, it consists with the general safety to delay your report of what you have seen until we return to the castle and then deliver it to the private ear of the landman, you have only to intimate your purpose, and far from urging you to place confidence in me personally, though I hope I am not undeserving of it, I will authorize your leaving us and returning instantly to the castle. This proposal touched him to whom it was made exactly in the right place. An absolute demand of his confidence might perhaps have been declined. the tone of moderate request and conciliation fell presently in with the Englishman's own reflections.

I am sensible, he said, Hopman, that I ought to mention to you, that which I have seen tonight. But on the first occasion, it did not fall within my duty to do so. And now that I have a second time witnessed the same appearance I have felt for these few seconds, so much surprised at what I have seen, that even yet I can scarce find words to express it. As I cannot guess what you may have to say, replied the Bernese, I must beseech you to be explicit. We are but poor readers of riddles, we thick-headed Switzers. Yet it is but a riddle which I have to place before you, Rudolph Donner-Hughal, answered the Englishman, and a riddle which is far beyond my own guessing at.

He then proceeded, though not without hesitation. While you were performing your first patrol amongst the ruins, a female crossed the bridge from within the castle, walked by my post without saying a single word, and vanished under the shadows of the forest. Ha! exclaimed Donner-Hughal, and made no further answer. Arthur proceeded, within these five minutes the same female form passed me a second time issuing from the little thicket and clump of furs and disappeared without exchanging a word

no further this apparition bore the form face gait and dress of your kinswoman anne of geirstein singular enough said rudolph in a tone of incredulity i must not i suppose despise your word, for you would receive doubt, on my part, as a mortal injury. Such is your northern chivalry. Yet let me say, I have eyes as well as you, and I scarce think they quitted you for a minute. We were not 50 yards from the place where I found you standing in amazement. How, therefore, should not we also have seen that which you say and think? you saw. To that I can give no answer, said Arthur. Perhaps your eyes were not exactly turned upon me during the short space in which I saw this form. Perhaps it might be visible, as they say fantastic appearances sometimes are, to only one person at a time. You suppose then that the appearance was

imaginary or fantastic, said the Bernice, can I tell you? replied the Englishman. The church gives its warrant that there are such things, and surely it is more natural to believe this apparition to be an illusion than to suppose that Anne of Geierstein, a gentle and well-nurtured maiden, should be traversing the woods at this wild hour when safety and propriety so strong recommend her being within doors. There is much in what you say, said Rudolph, and yet there are stories afloat, though few care to mention them, which seem to allege that Anne of Geierstein is not altogether such as other maidens, and that she has been met with in body and spirit, where she could hardly have come by her own unassisted efforts. Ha, said Ardard.

Arthur, so young, so beautiful, and already in league with the destroyer of mankind, it is impossible. I said not so, replied the Bernese, nor have I leisure at present to explain my meaning more fully. As we return to the castle of Graf's lust, I may have an opportunity to tell you more, but I chiefly brought you on this patrol to introduce you to some friends whom you will be pleased to know and who desire your acquaintance, and it is here I expect to meet them. End of Chapter 10, Part 1. Chapter 10, Part 2 of Anne of Guyersstein by Sir Walter Scott. This Librevox recording is in the public domain, recording by Deon. Gines, Salt Lake City, Utah. So saying, he turned round the projecting corner of a rock,

and an unexpected scene was presented to the eyes of the young Englishman. In a sort of nook or corner screened by the rocky projection, there burned a large fire of wood, and around it sat, reclined, or lay, 12 or 15 young men in the Swiss garb, but decorated. with ornaments and embroidery, which reflected back the light of the fire. The same red gleam was returned by silver wine cups, which circulated from hand to hand, with the flasks which filled them. Arthur could also observe the relics of a banquet, to which due honor seemed to have been lately rendered. The revelers started joyfully up at the sight of Donner Hugel and his companions and saluted him, easily distinguished as he was by his stature, by the title of

captain, warmly and exultingly uttered, while at the same time every tendency to noisy acclamation was cautiously suppressed. The zeal indicated that Rudolph came most welcome, the caution that he came in secret and was to be received with mystery. To the general greeting, he answered, I thank you, my brave comrades. Has Rudeger yet reached you? Thou seest he has not, said one of the party. Had it been so, we would have detained him here till you're coming, brave captain.

He has loitered on his patrol, said thee, Bernese. We too were delayed, yet we are here before him. I bring with me, comrades, the brave Englishman, whom I mentioned to you as a desirable associate in our daring purpose. He is welcome, most welcome to us, said a young man whose richly embroidered dress of azure blue gave him an air of authority. Most welcome is he if he brings with him a heart and a hand to serve our noble task. For both I will be responsible, said Rudolph, passed the wine cup then to the success of our glorious enterprise and the health of this our new associate.

While they were replenishing the cups with wine of a quality far superior to any which Arthur had yet tasted in these regions, he thought it right before engaging himself in the pledge to learn the secret object of the association, which seemed desirous of adopting him. Before I engage my poor services to you, fair sirs, since it pleases you to desire them, permit me, he said, to ask the purpose and character of the undertaking in which they are to be employed. Shouldst thou have brought him hither, said the cavalier in blue, to Rudolph, without satisfying him and thyself on that point, care not thou about it, Lawrence, replied the Bernese, I know my man. Be it known then to you, my good friend, he continued, addressing the Englishman,

that my comrades and I are determined at once to declare the freedom of the Swiss commerce and to resist to the death, if it be necessary, all unlawful and extortionate demands on the part of our neighbors. I understand so much, said the young Englishman, and that the present deputation proceeds to the Duke of Burgundy, with remonstrances to that effect. Hear me, replied Rudolph, the question is like to be brought to a bloody determination, long ere we see the Duke of Burgundy's most august and most gracious countenance, that his influence should be used. to exclude us from bail, a neutral town, and pertaining to the empire, gives us cause to expect the worst reception when we enter his own dominions. We have even reason to think that we might have suffered from his hatred already, but for the vigilance of the ward which we have kept,

Horsemen, from the direction of Laferrette, have this night reconnoitered our posts, and had they not found us prepared, we had, without question, been attacked in our quarters. But since we have escaped tonight, we must take care for tomorrow. For this purpose, a number of the bravest youth of the city of Bale incensed at the pusillanimity of their magistrates, are determined to join us in order to wipe away the disgrace which the cowardly in hospitality of their majesty has brought on their native place. That we will do, ere the sun that will rise two hours hence, shall sink into the western sky, said the cavalier in blue, and those around joined him in stern ascent. Gentle sirs, replied Arthur, When there was a pause, let me remind you that the embassy which you attend is a peaceful one,

and that those who act as its escort ought to avoid anything which can augment the differences which it comes to reconcile. You cannot expect to receive offense in the Duke's dominions, the privileges of envoys being respected in all civilized countries, and you will, I am sure, desire to offer none. We may be subjected to insult, however, replied the Bernese, and that through your concerns, Arthur Philipson, and those of thy father. I understand you not, replied Philipson. Your father, answered Doner Hugel, is a merchant, and bears with him, wears of small bulk, but high value.

He does so, answered Arthur, and, what of that? Mary answered Rudolph, that, if it be not better look to, the band-dog of Burgundy is like to fall air to a large proportion of your silks, satins, and jewelry work. Silk, satins and jewels exclaimed another of the revelers, such wares will not pass toll-free, where Archibald of Hagenbach hath authority. Fair sirs resumed our third. after a moment's consideration. These wares are my father's property, not mine, and it is for him, not me, to pronounce how much of them he might be content to part with in the way of toll, rather than give occasion to a fray in which his companions who have received him into their

society must be exposed to injury as well as himself. I can only say, that he has weighty affairs at the court of Burgundy, which must render him desirous of reaching it in peace with all men. And it is my private belief that rather than incur the loss and danger of a broil with the garrison of Lafaret, he would be contented to sacrifice all the property which he has at present with him. Therefore, I must request of you, gentlemen, a space to consult his pleasure on this occasion, assuring you that if it be his will to resist the payment of these duties to Burgundy, you shall find in me one who is fully determined to fight to the last drop of his blood.

Good King Arthur, said Rudolf, thou art a dutiful observer of the Fifth Commandment, and thy days shall be long in the land. do not suppose us neglectful of this same duty, although for the present we conceive ourselves bound in the first place to attend to the wheel of our country, the common parent of our fathers and ourselves. But as you know our profound respect for the landman, you need not fear that we shall willingly offer him offense by rashly engaging in hostilities or without some weighty reason. And an attempt to plunder his guest would have been met on his part with resistance to the death. I had hoped to find both you and your father prompt enough to resent such a gross injury.

Nevertheless, if your father inclines to present his fleece to be shorn by Archibald of Hagenbach, whose scissors he will find clip pretty closely, it would be unnecessary and uncivil in us to interpose. Meantime, you have the advantage of knowing that in case the governor of Lafaret should be disposed to strip you of skin as well as fleece, there are more men close at hand than you looked for whom you will find both able and willing to render you

prompt assistance. On these terms, said the Englishman, I make my acknowledgments to these gentlemen of bail, or whatever other country, have sent them forth, and pledge them in a brotherly cup to our further and more intimate acquaintance. Health and prosperity to the United cantons and their friends, answered the blue cavalier, and death and confusion to all besides. The cups were, replenished and instead of a shout of applause the young men around testified their devoted determination to the cause which was thus announced by grasping each other's hands and then brandishing their weapons with a fierce yet noiseless gesture thus said rudolph doner hugel our illustrious ancestors the fathers of swiss independence met in the immortal field

of Rutley between Yuri and Unterwalden. Thus they swore to each other under the blue firmament of heaven that they would restore the liberty of their oppressed country, and history can tell how well they kept their word. And she shall record, said the blue cavalier, how well the present Switzers can preserve the freedom which their fathers won. Proceed in your rounds, could Rudolph, and be assured that at the signal of the hoppment, the soldiers will not be far absent. All is arranged as formerly, unless you have new orders to give us. Hark thee hither, Lawrence, said Rudolph to the blue cavalier, and Arthur could hear him say, Beware, my friend, that the Rhine wine be not abused. If there is too much provision of it,

managed to destroy the flasks. A mule may stumble, thou knowest or so. Give not way to Rudiger in this. He is grown a wine-bibber since he joined us. We must bring both heart and hand to what may be done tomorrow. They then whispered so low that Arthur could hear nothing of their further conference and bid each other adieu after clasping hands as if they were renewing some solid, pledge of union. Rudolph and his party then moved forward and were scarce out of sight of their new associates when the Vedet, or foremost of their patrol, gave the signal of alarm. Arthur's heart leaped to his lips. It is Anne of Geierstein, he said internally. The dogs are silent, said the Bernese. Those who approach must be the companions of our watch. They prove,

accordingly to be Rudiger and his party, who, halting on the appearance of their comrades, made and underwent a formal challenge. Such advance had the Swiss already made in military discipline, which was but little and rudely studied by the infantry in other parts of Europe. Arthur could hear Rudolph take his friend Rudiger to task for not meeting him at the halting place appointed. It leads to new revelry on your arrival, he said, And tomorrow must find us cool and determined. Cool as an icicle, noble hoppment, answered the son of the landaman, and determined as the rock it hangs upon.

Rudolph again recommended temperance, and the young Biedermann promised compliance. The two parties passed each other with friendly, those silent greeting, and there was soon a considerable distance between them. The country was more open on the side of the castle around which their duty now led them than where it lay opposite to the principal gate. The glades were broad, the trees thinly scattered over pasture land, and there were no thickets, ravines, or similar places of ambush, so that the eye might, in the clear moonlight, well, command the country. Here, said Rudolph, we may judge ourselves secure enough for some

conference, and therefore may I ask thee, Arthur of England, now thou hast seen us more closely, what thinkest thou of the Switzer youth? If thou hast learned less than I could have wished, thank thine own uncommunicative temper, which retired in some degree from our confidence. insofar as I could not have answered, and therefore ought not to have received it, said Arthur. The judgment I have been enabled to form amounts in few words to this. Your purposes are lofty and noble as your mountains, but the stranger from the low country is not accustomed to tread the circuitous path by which you ascend them. My foot has always been accustomed to, custom to move straight forward upon the Greensworth. You speak in riddles, answered the Bernese.

Not so, returned the Englishman. I think you ought plainly to mention to your seniors, the nominal leaders of young men, who seem well disposed to take their own road, that you expect an attack in the neighborhood of Lafaret and hope for assistance from some of the townsmen of Bale. I truly, answered Donner-Hughal, and the landman would stop his journey till he dispatched a messenger for a safe conduct to the Duke of Burgundy, and should he grant it, there would be an end of all hope of war. True, replied Arthur, but the landaman would thereby obtain his own principal object and the sole purpose of the mission, that is, the establishment of peace,

Peace, peace, answered the Bernese hastily. Were my wishes alone to be opposed to those of Arnold Biederman, I know so much of his honor and faith, I respect so highly his valor and patriotism, that at his voice I would sheath my sword, even if my most mortal enemy stood before me. But mine is not the single wish of a single man, the whole of my canton and that of solor are determined on war it was by war noble war that our fathers came forth from the house of their captivity it was by war successful and glorious war that a race who had been held scarce so much worth thinking on as the oxen which they goaded emerged at once into liberty and consequence and were on

because they were feared, as much as they had been formerly despised, because they were unresisting. This may be all very true, said the young Englishman, but in my opinion, the object of your mission has been determined by your Deut or House of Commons. They have resolved to send you with others as messengers of peace, but you are secretly blowing the coals of war, and while all or most of your senior colleagues are setting out tomorrow in expectation of a peaceful journey, you stand prepared for a combat and look for the means of giving cause for it. And is it not well that I do stand so prepared, answered Rudolph, if our reception in Burgundy's dependencies be peaceful, as you say the rest of the deputation expect,

my precautions will be needless, but at least they can do no harm. If it prove otherwise, I shall be the means of averting a great misfortune from my colleagues, my kinsman, Arnold Biederman, my fair cousin, Anne, your father, yourself, from all of us, in short, who are joyously traveling together. Arthur shook his head. There is something in all this, he said, which I understand not, and will not seek to understand. I only pray that you will not make my father's concerns the subject of breaking truth. It may, as you hint, involve the Landman in a quarrel which he might otherwise have avoided. I am sure my father will never forgive it. I have pledged my word, said Rudolph, already to that effect. But if he should like the usage of the

band-dog of Burgundy, less than you seem to apprehend he will, there is no harm in your knowing that, in time of need, he may be well and actively supported. I am greatly obliged by the assurance, replied the Englishman, and thou mayest thyself, my friend, continued Rudolf, take a warning from what thou hast heard. Men go not to a bridle in armor, nor to a brawl in silken doublet. I will be clad to meet the worst, said Arthur, and for that purpose I will don a light hobark of well-tempered steel, proof against spear or arrow, and I thank you for your kindly counsel. Nay, thank me not, said Rudolph. I were ill deserving to be a leader. Did I not make those who are to follow me, more especially so trusty a follower?

as thou art, aware of the time when they should buckle on their armor and prepare for hard blows. Here the conversation paused for a moment or two, neither of the speakers being entirely contented with his companion, although neither pressed any further remark. The Bernese, judging from the feelings which he had seen predominate among the traitors of his own country, had entertained little out that the Englishman, finding himself powerfully supported in point of force, would have caught at the opportunity to resist paying the exorbitant imposes with which he was threatened at the next town, which would probably, without any effort on Rudolph's part, have led to breaking off the truce on the part of Arnold Biedermann himself and to an instant declaration

of hostilities. On the other hand, young Philipson could not understand or approve of Donner Hugel's conduct, who himself, a member of a peaceful deputation, seemed to be animated with the purpose of seizing an opportunity to kindle the flames of war. Occupied by these various reflections, they walked side by side for some time without speaking together until Rudolph broke silence. Your curiosity is then ended, Sir Englishman, said he, respecting the apparition of Anne of Geierstein. Far from it, replied Philipson, but I would unwillingly intrude any questions on you while you are busy with the duties of your patrol. That may be considered as over, said the Bernese, for there is not a bush near us to cover a Burgundian knave, and a glance around us,

time to time is all that is now needful to prevent surprise. And so listen while I tell a tale never sung or harped in hall or bower, and which I begin to think deserves as much credit at least as is due to the tales of the round table, which ancient troubadours and mine singers dole out to us as the authentic chronicles of your renowned namesake. Of Anne's ancestors on the male side of the house, continued Rudolph, I dare say you have heard enough and are well aware how they dwelt

in the old walls at Geierstein, beside the cascade, grinding their vassals, devouring the substance of their less powerful neighbors, and plundering the goods of the travelers whom ill luck sent within Ken of the vultures airy, the one year, and in the next, wearying the shrines for mercy for their trespasses, overwhelming the priests with the wealth which they showered upon them, and finally vowing vows and making pilgrimages, sometimes as

palmer, sometimes as crusaders, as far as Jerusalem itself, to atone for the iniquities which they had committed without hesitation or struggle of conscience. Such, I have understood, replied the young Englishman, was the history of the House of Geierstein, till Arnold, or his immediate ancestors, exchanged the lance for the sheep hook. But it is said, replied the Bernese, that the powerful and wealthy barons of Arnheim of Swabia,

whose only female descendant became the wife, to Count Albert of Geyerstein, and the mother of this young person, whom Swiss calls simply Anne, and Germans, Countess Anne of Geyerstein, were nobles of a different caste. They did not restrict their lives within the limits of sinning and repenting, of plundering harmless peasants, and pampering fat monks, but were distinguished for something more than building castles with dungeons, and falter camers or torture chambers, and founding monasteries with galilees and refractories. These same barons of Arnheim were men who strove to enlarge the boundaries of human knowledge and converted their castle into a species of college where there were more ancient volumes

than the monks have piled together in the library of St. Gall, nor were there still. in books alone. Deep buried in their private laboratories, they attained secrets, which were afterwards transmitted through the race from father to son, and were supposed to have approached nearly to the deepest recesses of alchemy. The report of their wisdom and their wealth was often brought to the imperial footstool, and in the frequent disputes which the emperors maintain with the popes of old. It is said they were encouraged, if not instigated, by the councils of the barons of Arnheim, and supported by their treasures. It was perhaps such a course of politics joined to the unusual and mysterious studies which the family of Arnheim so long pursued,

which excited against them the generally received opinion that they were assisted in their superhuman researches by supernatural influences. The priests were active in forwarding this cry against men who perhaps had no other fault than that of being wiser than themselves. Look what guests, they said, are received in the halls of Arnheim. Let a Christian knight, crippled in war with the Saracens, present himself on the drawbridge. He is gerdin'd with a crust and a cup of wine, and required to pass on his way. If a palmer, retellant of the sanctity, acquired by his recent visits to the most holy shrines, and by the sacred relics, which attest and reward his toil, approach the unhallowed walls, the warder bends his crossbow,

and the porter shuts the gate, as if the wandering saint brought the plague with him from Palestine. But comes there a gray-bearded, glib-tonged Greek, with his parchment scrolls, the very letters of which are painful to Christian eyes, comes there a Jewish rabban with his talmud and cabala, comes there a swarthy sunburnt moor who can boast of having read the language of the stars in Caldea, the cradle of astrological science, though the wandering imposter or sorcerer, occupies the highest seat at the Baron of Arnhim's board, shares with him the labors of the Alambic and the furnace, learns from him mystic knowledge like that of which our first parents

participated to the overthrow of their race and requites it with lessons more dreadful than he receives till the profane host has added to his hoard of unholy wisdom all that the pagan visitor can communicate. And these things are done in Alman, which is called the Holy Roman Empire, of which so many priests are princes. They are done, and neither ban nor munition is issued against a race of sorcerers

who, from age to age, go on triumphing in their necromancy. Such arguments which were echoed from miters, abbots to the cell of anchorites seems nevertheless to have made little impression on the imperial council. But they served to excite the zeal of many a baron and free count of the empire who were taught by them to esteem a war or feud with the barons of Arnheim as partaking of the nature and entitled to the immunities of a crusade against the enemies of the faith, and to regard an attack upon these obnoxious potentates as a mode of clearing off their deep scores with the Christian Church. But the Lords of Arnhheim, though not seeking for quarrel, were by no means

unwarlike or averse to maintaining their own defense. Some, on the contrary, belonging to this obnoxious race, were not the less distinguished as gallant knights and good men at arms. They were besides wealthy, secured and strengthened by great alliances, and in an eminent degree wise and provident. This the parties who assailed them learned to their cost. The Confederacies formed against the lords of Arnheim were broken up. The attacks which their enemies meditated were anticipated and disconcerted, and those who employed actual violence were repelled with signal loss to the assailants, until at length an impression was produced in their neighborhood that, by their accurate information concerning meditated violence and their extraordinary powers of

resisting and defeating it, the obnoxious barons must have brought to their defense means which merely human force was incapable of overthrowing, so that becoming as much feared as hated, they were suffered for the last generation to remain unmolested. And this was the rather the case that the numerous vassals of this great house were perfectly satisfied with their feudal superiors abundantly ready to rise in their defense and disposed to believe that whether their lords were sorcerers or no, their own condition would not be mended by exchanging their government either for the rule of the crusaders in this holy warfare or that of the churchmen by whom it was instigated. The race of these barons ended in Hermann von Arnhheim,

the maternal grandfather of Anne of Geierstein. He was buried with his helmet, sword, and shield, as is the German custom with the last male of a noble family. But he left an only daughter, Sibilla of Arnheim, to inherit a considerable portion of his estate. and I never heard that the strong imputation of sorcery, which attached to her house, prevented numerous applications from persons of the highest distinction in the empire to her legal guardian, the emperor, for the rich heiress's hand in marriage.

Albert of Geierstein, however, though an exile, obtained the preference. He was gallant and handsome, which recommended he, him to Sabilla, and the emperor, bent at the time on the vain idea of recovering his authority in the Swiss mountains, was desirous to show himself generous to Albert, whom he considered as a fugitive from his country for espousing the imperial cause. You may thus see, most noble King Arthur, that Anne of Geyerstein, the only child of their marriage, descends from no ordinary stock,

and that circumstances in which she may be concerned are not to be explained or judged of so easily or upon the same grounds of reasoning as in the case of ordinary persons. By my honest word, Sir Rudolf of Donorhugel, said Arthur, studiously laboring to keep, keep a command upon his feelings, I can see nothing in your narrative and understand nothing from it, unless it be that because in Germany, as in other countries, there have been fools who have annexed

the idea of witchcraft and sorcery to the possession of knowledge and wisdom. You are therefore disposed to stigmatize a young maiden who has always been respected and beloved by those around her as a disciple of arts, which, I trust, are as uncommon as unlawful. Rudolph paused ere, he replied, I could have wished, he said, that you had been satisfied with the general character of Anne of Geyerstein's maternal family, as offering some circumstances which may account for what you have, according to your own report, this night witnessed, and I am really unwilling to go into more particular details. To no one can Anne of Geyerstein's fame be so dear as to me.

I am after her uncle's family, her nearest relative, and had she remained in Switzerland, or should she, as is most probable, return thither after the present visit to her father, perhaps our connection might be drawn yet closer. This has indeed only been prevented by certain prejudices of her uncles respecting her father's authority and the nearness of our relationship, which, however, comes within reach of a license very frequently obtained. But I only mention these things to show you how much more tender I must necessarily hold. and of Geierstein's reputation, then it is possible for you to do, being a stranger known to her

but a short while since, and soon to part with her, as I understand your purpose, forever. The turn taken in this kind of apology irritated Arthur so highly that it required all the reasons which recommended coolness to enable him to answer with a question. assumed composure. I can have no ground, Sir Hopman, he said, to challenge any opinion which you may entertain of a young person with whom you are so closely connected as you appear to be with Anne of Geierstein. I only wonder that with such regard for her as your relationship implies you should be disposed to receive on popular and trivial traditions, a blue, which must injuriously affect your kinswoman, more especially one with whom you intimate,

a wish to form a still more close connection. Bethink you, sir, that in all Christian lands the imputation of sorcery is the most foul, which can be thrown on Christian man or woman. And I am so far from intimating such an imputation, said Rudolph, somewhat fiercely. that by the good sword I wear, he that dared give breath to such a thought against Anne of Geierstein must undergo my challenge and take my life or lose his own. But the question is not whether the maiden herself practices sorcery, which he who averts had better get ready his tomb, and provide for his soul safety. The doubt lies here whether as the descendant of a family whose relations with the

unseen world are reported to have been of the closest degree, elfish and fantastical beings may not have power to imitate her form and to present her appearance where she is not personally present in fine, whether they have permission to play at her expense fantastical tricks which they cannot exercise over other mortals whose forefathers have ever regulated their lives by the rules of the church and died in regular communion with it. And as I sincerely desire to retain your esteem, I have no objection to communicate to you more particular circumstances respecting her genealogy, confirming the idea I have now expressed. But you will understand they are of the most private nature, and that I expect secrecy under the strictest personal penalty.

I shall be silent, sir, replied the young Englishman, still struggling with suppressed passion, on everything respecting the character of a maiden whom I am bound to respect so high, but the fear of no man's displeasure can add a feather's weight to the guarantee of my own honor. Be it so, said Rudolph, it is not my wish to awake angry feelings, but I am desirous, both for the sake of your good opinion, which I value, and also for the plainer explanation of what I have darkly intimated to communicate to you what otherwise I would. much rather have left untold. You must be guided by your own sense of what is necessary and proper in the case, answered Philipson. But remember, I press not on your confidence for the

communication of anything that ought to remain secret, far less where that young lady is the subject. Rudolph answered after a minute's pause, thou hast seen and heard too much, Arthur, not to learn the or at least all that I know or apprehend on the mysterious subject. It is impossible, but the circumstances must at times recur to your recollection, and I am desirous that you should possess all the information necessary to understand them as clearly as the nature of the facts will permit. We have yet keeping leftward to view the bog upwards of a mile to make air the circuit of the castle is accomplished. It will afford leisure enough for the tale I have

to tell. Speak on. I listen, answered the Englishman, divided between his desire to know all that it was possible to learn concerning Anne of Geierstein and his dislike to hear her name pronounced with such pretensions as those of Donner-Hughal, together with the revival of his original prejudices against the gigantic Swiss, whose manners, always blunt, nearly to coarseness, seemed now marked by assumed superiority and presumption. Arthur listened, however, to his wild tale, and the interest which he took in it soon overpowered all other sensations. End of Chapter 10, Part 2. Chapter 11 of Anne of Geyerstein by Sir Walter Scott.

This Libravox recording is in the public domain. Recording by Dionne's Salt Lake City, Utah. Donner-Hughal's narrative. These be the adept's doctrines. Every element is peopled with its separate race of spirits, the airy silfs on the blue ether float deep in the earthy cavern skulks the gnome the sea-green naid skims the ocean billow and the fierce fire is yet a friendly home to its peculiar sprite the salamander anonymous i told you said rudolph that the lords of arnheim though from father to son, they were notoriously addicted to secret studies, were nevertheless, like the other German nobles, followers of war and the chase. This was peculiarly the case with Anne's maternal

grandfather, Herman of Arnheim, who prided himself on possessing a splendid stud of horses, and one steed in particular the noblest ever known in these circles of Germany. I should make wild work were I to attempt a description of such an animal, so I will content myself with saying his color was jet black without a hair of white either on his face or feet. For this reason, and the wildness of his disposition, his master had termed him Apollyon, a circumstance which was secretly considered as tending to sanction the evil reports which touched the house of Arnheim, being it was said, the naming of a favorite animal after a foul fiend. It chanced one November day that the Baron had been hunting in the forest and did not reach home till nightfall.

There were no guess with him, for as I hinted to you before, the Castle of Arnhheim seldom received any other than those from whom its inhabitants hoped to gain augmentation of knowledge. The Baron was seated alone in his hall, illuminated with crescents and torches. His one hand held a volume covered with characters unintelligible to all save himself. The other rested on the marble table, on which was placed a flask of toque wine. A page stood in respectful attendance near the bottom of the large and dim apartment, and no sound was heard save that of the night wind, when it sighed mournfully through the rusty coats of mail, and waved the tattered banners,

which were the tapestry of the feudal hall. At once, the footstep of a person was heard ascending the stairs in haste and trepidation. The door of the hall was thrown violently open, and terrified to a degree of ecstasy, Casper, the head of the baron's stable, or his master of horse, stumbled up almost to the foot of the table, at which his lord was seated,

with the exclamation in his mouth. My lord, my lord, a fiend is in the stable. What means this folly? Said the baron, arising, surprised and displeased, at an interruption so unusual. Let me endure your displeasure, said Casper. If I speak not truth, Apollyon.

Here he paused. Speak out, thou frightened fool, said the Baron. Is my horse sick or injured? The master of the stalls again gasped forth the word Apollion. Say on, said the Baron. Were Apollion in presence personally, it were nothing to shake a brave man's mind. The devil, answered the master of the horse, is in Apollyon's stall.

Fool, exclaimed the nobleman, snatching a torch from the wall. What is it that could have turned thy brain in such silly fashion? Things like thee that are born to serve us should hold their brains on a firmer tenure. For our sakes, if not, for that of their worthless selves. As he spoke, he descended to the court of the castle to visit the stately range of stables, which occupied all the lower part of the quadrangle on one side. He entered where 50-gallant steeds stood in rows on each side of the ample hall. At the side of each stall hung the weapons of offense and defense of America.

man at arms, as bright as constant attention could make them, together with the buff coat, which formed the trooper's undergarment. The baron, followed by one or two of the domestics, who had assembled full of astonishment at the unusual alarm, hastened up to the head of the stable betwixt the rows of steeds, as he approached the stall of his favorite horse, which was the uppermost of the right-hand row, the gallant steed neither knade nor shook his head, nor stamped with his foot, nor gave the usual signs of joy at his lord's approach.

A faint moaning, as if he implored assistance, was the only acknowledgement he gave of the Baron's presence. Sir Herman held up the torch and discovered that there was indeed a time, tall, dark figure standing in the stall, resting his hand on the horse's shoulder. Who art thou, said the Baron, and what dost thou hear? I seek refuge and hospitality, replied the stranger, and I conjure thee to grant it me by the shoulder of thy horse, and by the edge of thy sword, and so as they may never fail thee when thy need is at the at most. Thou art then a brother of the sacred fire, said Baron Herman of Arnheim,

and I may not refuse thee the refuge which thou requirest of me after the ritual of the Persian Magi, from whom, and for what length of time dost thou crave my protection? From those, replied the stranger, who shall arrive in quest of me before the morning cock. shall crow, and for the full space of a year and a day from this period. I may not refuse thee, said the Baron, consistently with my oath and my honor. For a year and a day, I will be thy pledge, and thou shalt share with me roof and chamber, wine and food, but thou too must obey the law of Zoro Esther, which, as it says, let the stronger protect the weaker brother, says also, let the wiser instruct the brother

who have less knowledge. I am the stronger, and thou shalt be safe under my protection. But thou art the wiser, and must instruct me in the more secret mysteries. You mock your servant, said the strange visitor. But if aught is known to Dana Shaman, which can avail Herman, His instructions shall be as those of a father to a son. Come forth then from thy place of refuge, said the Baron of Arnheim. I swear to thee by the sacred fire which lives without terrestrial fuel, and by the fraternity which is betwixt us, and by the shoulder of my horse and the edge of my good sword.

I will be thy warrant for a year and a day, if so far my power shall extend. The stranger came forth accordingly, and those who saw the singularity of his appearance scarce wondered at the fears of Casper, the stalemaster, when he found such a person in the stable. By what mode of entrance he was unable to conceive, when he reached the light at hall to which the baron conducted him, as he would have done a welcome and honored guest, the stranger appeared to be very tall and of a dignified aspect. His dress was Asiatic, being a long black caftan or gown, like that worn by Armenians, with a lofty square cap covered with the wool of astrakhan lambs. Every article of the

dress was black, which gave relief to the long white beard, that flew. flowed down over his bosom. His gown was fastened by a sash of black silk network, in which, instead of a poniard or sword, was stuck a silver case containing writing materials and a roll of parchment. The only ornament of his apparel consisted in a large ruby of uncommon brilliancy, which when he approached the light seemed to glow with such liveliness as if the gem itself had emitted the rays which it only reflected back. To the offer of refreshment, the stranger replied, Bread I may not eat, water shall not moisten my lips, until the Avenger shall have passed by the threshold. The baron commanded the lamps to be trimmed, and,

fresh torches to be lighted, and sending his whole household to rest, remain seated in the hall, along with the stranger, his suppliant. At the dead hour of midnight, the gates of the castle were shaken as by a whirlwind, and a voice as of a herald, was heard to demand a herald's lawful prisoner. Dana Shumman, the son of Holly. The warder then her. a lower window of the hall thrown open and could distinguish his master's voice addressing the person who had thus summoned the castle. But the night was so dark that he might not see the speakers, and the language which they used was either entirely foreign or so largely interspersed with strange words that he could not understand a syllable which they said. Scarce-futerned.

minutes had elapsed when he who was without again elevated his voice as before and said in German, for a year and a day then I forbear my forfeiture, but coming for it when that time shall elapse, I come for my right and will no longer be withstood. From that period, Dana Shemond, the Persian, was a constant guest at the Catholic. of Arnheim, and indeed never for any visible purpose crossed the drawbridge. His amusements or studies seemed centered in the library of the castle and in the laboratory, where the baron sometimes toiled in conjunction with him for many hours together. The inhabitants of the castle could find no fault in the Magis or Persian, accepting his apparent.

dispensing with the ordinances of religion, since he neither went to Mass nor confession, nor attended upon other religious ceremonies. The chaplain did indeed profess himself satisfied with the state of the stranger's conscience, but it had been long suspected that the worthy ecclesiastic held his easy office on the very reasonable condition of approving the principal and asserting the orthodoxy of all guests whom the Baron invited to share his hospitality. It was observed that Danes Shumman was rigid in paying his devotions by prostrating himself in the first rays of the rising sun, and that he constructed a silver lamp of the most beautiful proportions, which he placed on a pedestal, representing a truncated.

column of marble, having its base sculptured with hieroglyphical imagery. With what essences he fed this flame was unknown to all, unless perhaps to the baron, but the flame was more steady, pure, and lustrous than any which was ever seen, accepting the Son of Heaven itself, and it was generally believed that the Magian made it an object of worship. in the absence of that blessed luminary. Nothing else was observed of him unless that his morals seemed severe, his gravity extreme, his general mode of life, very temperate, and his fasts and vigils of frequent recurrence. Except on particular occasions, he spoke to no one of the castle, but the baron. But as he had money and was liberal,

He was regarded by the domestics with awe, indeed, but without fear or dislike. Winter was succeeded by spring. Summer brought her flowers, and autumn her fruits, which ripened and were fading, when a footpage, who sometimes attended them in the laboratory, to render manual assistance, when required, heard the Persian say to the Baron of Arnheim, you will do well, my son, to mark my words, for my lessons to you are drawing to an end, and there is no power on earth which can longer postpone my fate. Alas, my master, said the Baron, and must I then lose the benefit of your direction,

just when your guiding hand becomes necessary to place me on the very pinnacle of the Temple of Wisdom? Be not discouraged, my son, answered the sage, I will bequeath the task of perfecting you in your studies to my daughter, who will come hither on purpose. But remember, if you value the permanence of your family, look not upon her as ought else than a helpmate in your studies. For if you forget the instructress in the beauty of the maiden, you will be buried with your sword, and your shield as the last male of your house, and further evil, believe me, will arise, for such alliances never come to a happy issue, of which my own is an example. But hush,

we are observed. The household of the castle of Arnheim, having but few things to interest them, were the more eager observers of those which came under their notice, and when the termination of the period when the Persian was to receive shelter in the castle began to approach some of the inmates under various pretexts, but which resolved into very terror absconded, while others held themselves in expectation of some striking and terrible catastrophe. None such, however, took place, and on the expected anniversary, long ere the witching hour of midnight, Danes Shemond terminated his visit in the castle of Arnheim

by riding away from the gate in the guise of an ordinary traveler. The baron had, meantime, taken leave of his tutor with many marks of regret, and some which amounted even to sorrow. The sage Persian comforted him by a long whisper, of which the last part only was heard, By the first beam of sunshine, she will be with you. Be kind to her, but not overkind. He then departed and was never again seen or heard of in the vicinity of Arnheim. The Baron was observed during all the day after the departure of the stranger to be particularly melancholy. He remained contrary to

his custom in the Great Hall, and neither visited the library nor the laboratory where he could no longer enjoy the company of his departed instructor. At dawn of the ensuing morning, Sir Herman summoned his page, and contrary to his habits, which used to be rather careless in respect of apparel, he dressed himself with great accuracy, and as he was in the prime of life and of a noble figure, he had reason to be satisfied with his appearance. Having performed his toilet, he waited till the sun had just appeared above the horizon, and taking from the table the key of the laboratory which the page believed must have lain there all night, he walked fither, followed by his attendant. At the door, the Baron made a pause and seemed at one time

to doubt whether he should not send away the page, at another to hesitate whether he should open the door, as one might do, who expected some strange sight within. He pulled up resolution, however, turned the key, through the door open, and entered. The page followed, close. The page followed, close behind his master, and was astonished to the point of extreme terror at what he beheld, although the sight, however extraordinary, had in it nothing save what was agreeable and lovely. The silver lamp was extinguished or removed from its pedestal, where stood in place of it a most beautiful female figure in the Persian costume, in which the color of pink predominated, but she wore no turban or headdress of any kind, save a blue riband, drawn through her

auburn hair, and secured by a gold clasp, the outer side of which was ornamented by a superb opal, which, amid the changing lights, peculiar to that gem, displayed internally a slight tinge of red, like a spark of fire. The figure of this young person was rather under the middle size, but perfectly well-formed. The eastern dress, with the wide trousers gathered round the ankles, made visible the smallest and most beautiful feet, which had ever been seen. The eastern dress, while hands and arms of the most perfect symmetry were partly seen from under the folds of the robe, the little lady's countenance was of a lively and expressive character, in which spirit and wit seemed to predominate, and the quick dark eye with its beautifully formed

eyebrow seemed to presage the arch remark to which the rosy and have smiled. smiling lip appeared ready to give utterance. The pedestal on which she stood, or rather was perched, would have appeared unsafe had any figure heavier than her own been placed there. But however, she had been transported thither, she seemed to rest on it as lightly and safely as a linnet, when it has dropped from the sky on the tendril of a rosebud. The first beam of the rising sun, falling through a window directly opposite to the pedestal, increased the effect of this beautiful figure, which remained as motionless as if it had been carved in marble. She only expressed her sense of the Baron of Arnheim's presence by something of a quicker respiration and a deep blush,

accompanied by a slight smile. whatever reason the Baron of Arnheim might have for expecting to see some such object as now exhibited its actual presence, the degree of beauty which it presented was so much beyond his expectation that for an instant he stood without breath or emotion. At once, however, he seemed to recollect that it was his duty to welcome the fair stranger to his and to relieve her from her precarious situation. He stepped forward accordingly with the words of welcome on his tongue and was extending his arms to lift her from the pedestal, which was nearly six feet high, but the light and active stranger merely accepted the support of his hand and descended on the floor, as light and as safe as if she had been formed of Gossamer. It was indeed only by the momentary pressure of her little hand that the Baron of Arnheim was finally made sensible that he had to do with a being of flesh and blood. I am come as I have been commanded,

she said, looking around her, you must expect a strict and diligent mistress, and I hope for the credit of an attentive pupil. After the arrival of this singular and interesting being in the castle of Arnhem, various alterations took place within the interior of the household, a lady of high rank and small fortune, the respectable widow of a count of the empire who was the Baron's blood relation, received and accepted an invitation to preside over her kinsman's domestic affairs and remove by her countenance any suspicion which might arise from the presence of Hermione as the beautiful Persian was generally called. The Countess Walstead's. Detton carried her complacence so far as to be present on almost all occasions, whether in the

laboratory or library, when the Baron of Arnheim received lessons from or pursued studies with the young and lovely tutor, who had been thus strangely substituted for the aged magists. If this lady's report was to be trusted, their pursuits were of a very good judge. of a most extraordinary nature, and the results which she sometimes witnessed were such as to create fear as well as surprise, but she strongly vindicated them from practicing unlawful arts

or overstepping the boundaries of natural science. A better judge of such matters, the bishop of Bamberg himself, made a visit to Arnheim on purpose to witness the wisdom of which so much was reported through the whole Rhine country. He conversed with Hermione and found her deeply impressed with the truths of religion and so perfectly acquainted with its doctrines that he compared her to a doctor of theology in the dress of an Eastern dancing girl.

When asked regarding her knowledge of languages and science, he answered that he had been attracted to Arnheim by the most extravagant reports on these points, but that he must return confessing the half thereof had not been told unto him. In consequence of this indisputable testimony, the sinister reports which had been occasioned by the singular appearance of the fair stranger were in a great measure lulled to sleep. especially as her amiable manners won the involuntary goodwill of everyone that approached her. Meantime, a marked alteration began to take place in the interviews between the lovely Tudor and her pupil. These were conducted with the same caution as before, and never, so far as could be observed, took place without the presence of the Countess of Waldstetten,

or some other third person of respectability. But the scenes of these meetings were no longer the Scholar's Library or the Chemist Laboratory. The gardens, the groves, were resorted to for amusement, and parties of hunting and fishing with evenings spent in the dance seemed to announce that the studies of wisdom were for a time abandoned for the pursuits of pleasure. It was not, not difficult to guess the meaning of this. The Baron of Arnhem and his fair guest, speaking a language different from all others, could enjoy their private conversation, even amid all the tumult of gaiety around them. And no one was surprised to hear it formally announced after a few weeks of gaiety that the fair Persian was to be wedded to the Baron of Arnheim.

The manners of this fascinating young person were so pleasing, her conversation so animated, her wit so keen, yet so well-tempered with good nature and modesty, that notwithstanding her unknown origin, her high fortune attracted less envy than might have been expected in a case so singular. Above all, her generosity amazed and won the hearts of all the young persons who approached her. Her wealth seemed to be measureless, for the many rich jewels which she distributed among her fair friends would otherwise have left her without ornaments for herself. These good qualities, her liberality above all, together with a simplicity of thought, and character, which formed a beautiful contrast to the depth of acquired knowledge which she was

well known to possess. These, with her total want of ostentation, made her superiority be pardoned among her companions. Still, there was notice taken of some peculiarities, exaggerated perhaps by envy, which seemed to draw a mystical distinction between the beautiful Hermione and the mere mortals with whom she lived and conversed. In the merry dance, she was so unrivaled in lightness and agility that her performance seemed that of an aerial being. She could, without suffering from her exertion, continue the pleasure till she had tired out the most active revelers, and even the young Duke of Hockspringen, who was reckoned the most indefatigable at that exercise in Germany, having been her partner for half an hour, was compelled to break off

the dance and throw himself totally exhausted on a couch, exclaiming, he had been dancing, not with a woman, but with an ignis fatuous. Other whispers of veer. that while she played with her young companions in the labyrinth and mazes of the castle gardens at hide and seek or similar games of activity, she became animated with the same supernatural alertness, which was supposed to inspire her in the dance. She appeared amongst her companions and vanished from them with a degree of rapidity, which was inconceivable, and Hedges, trellage or such-like obstructions were surmounted by her in a manner which the most vigilant eye could not detect. For after being observed on the side of the barrier at one instant,

in another she was beheld close beside the spectator. In such moments, when her eyes sparkled, her cheeks reddened, and her whole frame became animated, it was pretended that the opal clasp amid her tresses. The ornament which she never laid aside shot forth the little spark or tongue of flame, which it always displayed with an increased vivacity. In the same manner, if in the half-darkened hall the conversation of Hermione became unusually animated, it was believed that the jewel became brilliant and even displayed a twinkling. and flashing gleam, which seemed to be emitted by the gem itself, and not produced in the usual manner, by the reflection of some external light. Her maidens were also heard to surmise that when

their mistress was agitated by any hasty or brief resentment, the only weakness of temper which she was sometimes observed to display, they could observe dark red sparks. flash from the mystic brooch, as if it sympathized with the wearer's emotions. The women who attended on her toilet further reported that this jam was never removed but for a few minutes when the baroness's hair was combed out, that she was unusually pensive and silent during the time it was laid aside and particularly apprehensive when any liquid was brought near it. Even in the use of holy water at the door of the church, she was observed to omit the sign of the cross on the forehead for fear it was supposed of the water touching the valued jewel.

These singular reports did not prevent the marriage of the Baron of Arnheim from proceeding, as had been arranged. It was celebrated in the usual form, and with the utmost splendor, and the young couple seemed to commence a life of happiness rarely to be found on earth. In the course of 12 months, the lovely baroness presented her husband with a daughter, which was to be christened, Sibylla, after the Count's mother. As the health of the child was excellent, the ceremony was postponed till the recovery of the mother from her confinement. Many were invited, to be present on the occasion, and the castle was thronged with company. It happened that amongst the guests was an old lady, notorious for playing in private society, the part of a malicious

fairy in a minstrel's tail. This was the Baroness of Steinfeld, famous in the neighborhood for her insatiable curiosity and overweening pride. She had not been many, days in the castle, ere by the aid of a female attendant who acted as an intelligentser, she had made herself mistress of all that was heard, said, or suspected, concerning the peculiarities of the Baroness Hermione. It was on the morning of the day appointed for the christening, while the whole company were assembled in the hall and waiting till the Baroness should appear to pass with them to the chapel, that there arose between the censorious and haughty dame, whom we have just mentioned, and the Countess Waldstetten, a violent discussion concerning some point

of disputed precedence. It was referred to the Baron von Arnheim, who decided in favor of the Countess. Madame de Steinfeld instantly ordered her palfrey to be prepared and her attendance to mount. I leave this place, she said, which a good Christian ought never to have entered. I leave a house of which the master is a sorcerer, the mistress, a demon, who dares not cross her brow with holy water, and their trencher companion, one who, for a wretched pittance, is willing to act as matchmaker between a wizard and an incarnate fiend. She then departed with rage in her countenance and spite in her heart. The Baron of Arnheim then stepped forward and demanded of the knights and gentlemen around

if there were any among them who would dare to make good with his sword the infamous falsehoods thrown upon himself, his spouse, and his kinswoman. There was a general answer utterly refusing to defend the barreness of Steinfeld's words in so bad a cause and universally testifying the belief of the company that she spoke in the spirit of calumny and falsehood. Then let that lie fall to the ground which no man of courage will hold up, said the Baron of Arnheim. Only all who are here this morning shall be satisfied whether the Baroness Hermione doth or doth not share the rights of Christianity. The Countess of Walsdetten made anxious signs to him while he spoke thus, and when the crowd

permitted her to approach near him, she was heard to whisper, oh, be not rash, try no experiment. There is something mysterious about that opal talisman. Be prudent, and let the matter pass by. The baron who was in a more towering passion than well became the wisdom to which he made pretense, although it will be perhaps allowed that an affront so public and in such a time and place was enough to shake the prudence of the most. stayed, and the philosophy of the most wise, answered sternly and briefly, Are you two such a fool, and retained his purpose? The Baroness of Arnheim at this moment entered the hall, looking just so pale from her late

confinement as to render her lovely countenance more interesting, if less animated than usual, having paid her compliments to the assembled company with the most graceful and condescending attention, she was beginning to inquire why Madame de Steinfeld was not present when her husband made the signal for the company to move forward to the chapel and lent the baroness his arm to bring up the rear. The chapel was nearly filled by the splendid company, and all, eyes were bent on their host and hostess as they entered the place of devotion, immediately after four young ladies who supported the infant babe in a light and beautiful litter. As they passed the threshold, the baron dipped his finger in the font stone and offered holy water to his lady,

who accepted it, as usual, by touching his finger with her own. But then, as if to confute the calumnies of the malevolent lady of Steinfeld with an air of sportive familiarity, which was rather unwarranted by the time and place, he flirted on her beautiful forehead, a drop or two of the moisture which remained on his own hand. The opal, on which one of these drops had lighted, shot out a brilliant spark like a falling star, and became the instant afterwards lightless and colorless as a common pebble, while the beautiful baroness sank on the floor of the chapel with a deep sigh of pain, all crowded around her in dismay.

The unfortunate Hermione was raised from the ground and conveyed to her chamber, and so much did her countenance and Paul's altar within the short time, necessary to do this, that those who looked upon her pronounced her a dying woman. She was no sooner in her own apartment than she requested to be left alone with her husband. He remained an hour in the room, and when he came out, he locked and double-locked the door behind him. He then betook himself to the chapel, and remained there for an hour or more prostrated before. for the altar. In the meantime, most of the guests had dispersed in dismay, though some abode out of courtesy or curiosity, there was a general sense of impropriety in suffering the door of the sick

lady's apartment to remain locked. But alarmed at the whole circumstances of her illness, It was some time ere anyone dared disturb the devotions of the baron. At length, medical aid arrived, and the Countess of Walsdenton took upon her to demand the key. She spoke more than once to a man who seemed incapable of hearing, at least of understanding what she said. At length he gave her the key, and added sternly as he did so, that all aid was unavailing, and that it was his pleasure that all strangers should leave the castle. There were few who inclined to stay when upon opening the door of the chamber in which the baroness had been deposited little more than two hours before, no traces of her could

be discovered, unless that there was about a handful of light gray ashes, like such as might have been produced by burning fine paper found on the bed where she had been laid. A solemn funeral was nevertheless performed with masses and all other spiritual rights for the soul of the high and noble Lady Hermione of Arnheim. And it was exactly on that same day three years that the Baron himself was laid in the grave of the same chapel of Arnheim. with sword, shield, and helmet as the last male of his family. Here the Swiss paused, for they were approaching the bridge of the castle of Graf's Lust. End of Chapter 11. Chapter 12 of Anne of Geierstein by Sir Walter Scott. This Libravox recording is in the public domain,

recording by Dionne's Salt Lake City, Utah. Believe me, sir, it carries a rare form, but tis a spirit, the tempest. There was a short silence after the Bernese had concluded his singular tale. Arthur Philipson's attention had been gradually and intensely attracted by a story which was too much in unison with the received ideas of the age. to be encountered by the unhesitating incredulity with which it must have been heard in later and more enlightened times. He was also considerably struck by the manner in which it had been told by the narrator whom he had hitherto only regarded in the light of a rude huntsman or soldier,

whereas he now allowed Donnerhugel credit for a more extensive acquaintance with the general manners of the world than he had previously anticipated. The Swiss rose in his opinion as a man of talent, but without making the slightest progress in his affections. The swashbuckler, he said to himself, has brains as well as bronze. and bones and is fitter for the office of commanding others than I formerly thought him. Then turning to his companion, he thanked him for the tale, which had shortened the way in so interesting a manner. And it is from this singular marriage, he continued, that Anne of Geierstein derives her origin. Her mother, answered the Swiss, was Sibela. of Arnheim, the infant at whose christening the mother died, disappeared, or whatever you may list

to call it. The barony of Arnheim being a male thief, reverted to the emperor. The castle has never been inhabited since the death of the last Lord, and has, as I have heard, become in some sort ruinous. The occupations of its ancient proprietors, and above all, the catastrophe of its last inhabitant have been thought to render it no eligible place of residence. Did there appear anything preternatural, said the Englishman, about the young baroness, who married the brother of the landman? So far as I have heard, replied Rudolph, there were strange, stories, it was said that the nurses at the dead of night have seen Hermione, the last Baroness of Arnheim, stand weeping by the side of the child's cradle and other things

to the same purpose. But here I speak from less correct information than that from which I drew my former narrative. And since the credibility of a story not very probable in its self must needs be granted or withheld according to the evidence on which it is given may i ask you said arthur to tell me what is the authority on which you have so much reliance willingly answered the swiss know that theodore doner hugel the favorite page of the last baron of arnheim was my father's brother upon the his master's death, he retired to his native town of Bern, and most of his time was employed in training me up to arms and martial exercises, as well according to the fashion of Germany, as of Switzerland, for he was master of all. He witnessed with his own eyes and heard with his own ears, great part of the melancholy and mysterious events which I have detailed to you. Should you ever visit Byrne, you may see the good old man.

You think, then, said Arthur, that the appearance which I have this night seen is connected with the mysterious marriage of Anne of Geierstein's grandfather. Nay, replied Rudolph, think not. that I can lay down any positive explanation of a thing so strange. I can only say that unless I did you the injustice to disbelieve your testimony, respecting the apparition of this evening, I know no way to account for it, except by remembering that there is a portion of the young lady's blood, which is thought not to be derived from the race of Adam, but more or less directly from one of those elementary spirits, which have been talked of both in ancient and modern times.

But I may be mistaken. We will see how she bears herself in the morning, and whether she carries in her looks, the weariness and paleness of a midnight watcher. If she doth not, we may be authorized in thinking, either that your eyes have strangely deceived you, or that they have been cheated by some spectral appearance, which is not of this world. To this, the young Englishman attempted no reply, nor was there time for any, for they were immediately afterwards challenged by the sentinel from the drawbridge. The question, who goes there, was twice satisfactorily answered before Sigismund would admit the patrol

to cross the drawbridge. As and mule that thou art, said Rudolf, what was the meaning of thy delay? As and mule thyself, Hauptmann, said the Swiss, in answer to this objurgation. I have been surprised by a goblin on my post once tonight already, and I have got so much experience upon that matter that I will not easily be caught a second time. What goblin, thou fool, said Donor Hugel, would be idle enough to play his gambols at the expense of so very poor an animal as thou art.

Thou art as cross as my father, Hopman, replied Sigismund, who cries fool and blockhead at every word I speak, and yet I have lips, teeth, and tongue to speak with, just like other folk. We will not contest the matter, Sigismund, said Rudolf. It is clear that if thou dost differ from other people, it is in a particular which thou canst hardly be expected to find out or acknowledge. But what in the name of simplicity is it which hath alarmed thee on thy post? Mary, thus it was, Hoptman, returned Sigismund, Biederman. I was something tired, you see, with looking up at the broad moon and thinking what in the universe it could be made of and how we came to see it just as well here as at home.

This place being so many miles from Geierstein, I was tired, I say, of this and other perplexing thoughts, so I drew my fur cap down over my ears, for I promise you the wind blew shrill, and then I planted myself firm on my feet. with one of my legs a little advanced, and both my hands resting on my partisan, which I placed upright before me to rest upon, and so I shut mine eyes. Shut thine eyes, Sigismund, and thou upon thy watch, exclaimed Donner-Hughgal. Care not thou for that, answered Sigismund, I kept my ears open, and yet it was too little purpose for something came upon the bridge with a step as stealthy as that of a mouse.

I looked up with a start at the moment it was opposite to me, and when I looked up, whom think you I saw. Some fool like thyself, said Rudolph, at the same time, pressing Philipson's foot to make him attend to the answer, a hint which was little necessary, since he waited for it in the utmost agitation. Out it came at last. By St. Mark, it was our own Anne of Geierstein. It is impossible, replied the Bernese.

I should have said so too, quoth Sigismund, for I had peeped into her bedroom before she went thither, and it was so bedizened that a queen or a princess might have slipped in it. And why should the wench get out of her good quarters with all her friends about her to guard her and go out to wander in the forest? Maybe, said Rudolph, she only looked from the bridge to see how the night wand. No, said Sigismund, she was returning from the forest. I saw her when she reached the end of the bridge and thought of striking at her, conceiving it to be the devil in her likeness. But I remembered my hallbird is no birch switch to chastise boys and girls with,

and I had done, and any harm you would all have been angry with me. And to speak truth, I should have been ill-pleased with myself. For, although she, She doth make a jest of me now and then, yet it were a dull house. Ours were we to lose Anne? As answered thee, Bernice, didst thou speak to this form, or goblin, as you call it? Indeed, I did not, Captain Wiseacre. My father is ever angry with me when I speak without thinking, and I could not, at that particular moment, think on anything.

to the purpose. Neither was there time to think, for she passed me like a snowflake upon a whirlwind. I marched into the castle after her, however, calling on her by name. So the sleepers were awakened, and men flew to their arms, and there was as much confusion as if Archibald of Hagenbach had been among us with sword and pike. And who, should come out of her little bedroom, as much startled, and as much in a bustle as any of us, but Mrs. Anne herself. And as she protested, she had never left her room that night, why I, Sigismund Biederman, was made to stand the whole blame as if I could prevent people's ghosts from walking. But I told her my mind when I saw them all,

so sat against me. And Mistress Anne, quote I, it's well known the kindred you come of. And after this fair notice, if you send any of your double-gangers to me, let them put iron skull-caps on their heads, for I will give them the length and weight of a Swiss halberd come in what shape they list. However, they all cried shame on me, and my father drove me out again with as little remorse as if I had been the old house dog which had stolen in from his watch to the fireside. The Bernese replied, with an air of coldness approaching to contempt, you have slept on your watch, Sigismund, a high military offense, and you have dreamed, while you slept. You were in good luck that the landman did not suspect your negligence, or instead of being sent back to your duty, like a lazy watchdog, you might have been scourged back like a faithless one to your kennel at Geierstein as chanced to pour Ernest for a less

matter. Ernest has not yet gone back, though, said Sigismund, and I think, he may pass as far into Burgundy as we shall do in this journey. I pray you, however, Hopman, to treat me not dog-like, but as a man, and send someone to relieve me instead of prating here in the cold night air. If there be anything to do tomorrow, as I well guess, there may, a mouthful of food and a minute of sleep, will be but a fitting, preparative, and I have stood watch here these two mortal hours. With that, the young giant yawned portentiously, as if to enforce the reasons of his appeal. A mouthful and a minute, said Rudolph, a roasted ox, and a lethargy like that of the seven sleepers, would

scarce restore you to the use of your refreshed and waking senses. But I am your friend Sigismund, and you are secure in my favorable report. You shall be instantly relieved that you may sleep, if it be possible without disturbances from dreams. Pass on, young men, addressing the others who by this time had come up and go to your rest. Arthur, of England and I will report to the landman and the Bannarette, the account of our patrol. The patrol accordingly entered the castle and were soon heard joining their slumbering companions. Rudolph Donnerhugel seized Arthur's arm, and while they went towards the hall, whispered in his ear, These are strange passages.

How thank you we should report them to the deputation. That I must refer to yourself, said Arthur, you are the captain of our watch. I have done my duty in telling you what I saw or thought I saw. It is for you to judge how far it is fitting to communicate it to the Landaman, only as it concerns the honor of his family, to his ear alone, I think it should be confided. I see no occasion for that, said the Bernese hastily. It cannot affect or interest our general safety, but I may take occasion hereafter to speak with Anne on this subject.

This latter hint gave as much pain to Arthur as the general proposal of silence on an affair so delicate had afforded him satisfaction. but his uneasiness was of a kind which he felt it necessary to suppress, and he therefore replied with as much composure as he could assume. You will act, Sir Hauptmann, as your sense of duty and delicacy shall dictate. For me, I shall be silent on what you call the strange passages of the night, rendered doubly wonderful. by the report of Sigismund Biedermann, and also on what you have seen and heard concerning our

auxiliaries of Bern, said Rudolf. On that I shall certainly be silent, said Arthur, unless thus far that I mean to communicate to my father the risk of his baggage being liable to examination and seizure at La Forette. It is needless, said Rudolph, I will answer with head and hand for the safety of everything belonging to him. I thank you in his name, said Arthur, but we are peaceful travelers to whom it must be much more desirable to avoid a broil than to give occasion for one, even when secure of coming out of it triumphantly. These are the sentiments of a merchant, but not of a soldier, said Rudolph, in a cold and displeased tone. But the matter is your own, and you must act in it as you think best. Only remember, if you go to Lafaret,

without our assistance, you hazard both goods and life. They entered, as he spoke, the apartment of their fellow travelers. The companions of their patrol had already laid themselves down amongst their sleeping comrades at the lower end of the room. The Landman and the Bannerman of Byrne heard Donnerhugel make a report that his patrol, both before and after midnight had been made in safety and without any encounter which expressed either danger or suspicion. The Bernese then wrapped him in his cloak and lying down on the straw with that happy indifference to accommodation and promptitude to seize the moment of repose, which is acquired by a life of vigilance and hardship, was in a few minutes.

fast asleep. Arthur remained on foot, but a little longer, to dart an earnest look on the door of Anne of Geyerstein's apartment and to reflect on the wonderful occurrences of the evening. But they formed a chaotic mystery for which he could see no clue, and the necessity of holding instant communication with his father compelled him forcibly to turn his thoughts, in that direction. He was obliged to observe caution and secrecy in accomplishing his purpose. For this, he laid himself down beside his parent, whose couch with the hospitality, which he had experienced from the beginning of his intercourse with the kind-hearted Swiss, had been arranged in what was thought the most convenient place of the apartment, and somewhat

apart from all others. He slept sound, but awoke at the touch of his son, who whispered to him in English, for the greater precaution, that he had important tidings for his private ear. An attack on our post, said the elder Philipson, must we take to our weapons? Not now, said Arthur, and I pray of you not to rise or make alarm. This matter concerns us alone. Tell it instantly, my son, replied his father. You speak to one, too much use to danger, to be startled at it. It is a case for your wisdom to consider, said Arthur. I had information, while upon the patrol, that the governor of Lafaret will unquestionably seize upon your baggage and merchandise under pretext of levying dues claimed by the Duke of Burgundy.

I have also been informed that our escort of Swiss youth are determined to resist this exaction and conceive themselves possessed of the numbers and means sufficient to do so successfully. By St. George, that must not be, said the elder Philipson. It would be an evil requital to the true-hearted landman to give the fiery Duke a pretext for that war, which the excellent old man is so anxiously desirous to avoid if it be possible. Any exactions, however unreasonable, I will gladly pay. But to have my papers seized on were utter ruin. I partly feared this, and it made me unwilling to join myself to the Landemann's party. We must now break off from it. This rapacious governor will not surely lay hands on the deputation, which seeks his master's court

under protection of the law of nations, but I can easily see how he might make our presence with them a pretext for quarrel, which will equally suit his own avaricious spirit and the humor of these fiery young men who are seeking for matter of offense. This shall not be taken for our sake. We will separate ourselves from the deputies and remain behind till they are passed on. If this de Hagenbach be not the most unreasonable of men, I will find a way to content him so far as we are individually concerned. Meanwhile, I will instantly wake the landman, he said, and acquaint him with our purpose. This was immediately done, for Philipson was not slow in the execution of his resolutions. In a minute, he was standing by the side of Arnold Biederman, who raised on his elbow, was listening to his communication, while over the shoulder of the landman rose the head and long beard of the deputy from Schwitz, his large, clear blue eyes gleaming from beneath a fur cap,

bent on the Englishman's face, but stealing a glance aside now and then to mark the impression which what was said made upon his colleague. Good friend and host, said the elder Philipson, we have heard for a certainty that our poor merchandise will be subjected to taxation or seizure on our passage through Laferret, and I would gladly avoid all cause of quarrel. for your sake as well as our own. You do not doubt that we can and will protect you, replied the Landman, I tell you, Englishman, that the guest of a Swiss is as safe by his side as an eaglet under the wing of its dam, and to leave us, because danger approaches, is but a poor compliment to our courage or constancy. I am desirous of peace, but not the due,

of Burgundy himself should wrong a guest of mine so far as my power might prevent it at this the deputy from Schwetzed a fist like a bull's knuckles and showed it above the shoulders of his friend it is even to avoid this my worthy host replied philipson that i intend to separate from your friendly company sooner than i desire or purposed be think you my worthy host replied philipson that i intend to separate from your friendly company sooner than i desire or purposed be think you my brave and worthy host, you are an ambassador seeking a national peace. I, a traitor, seeking private gain. War or quarrels which may cause war are alike ruinous to your purpose and mine. I confess to you, frankly, that I am willing and able to pay a large ransom, and when you are departed, I will negotiate for the amount. I will abide in the town of Beaux, till I have made fair terms with Archibald de Hagenbach, and even if he is the avaricious extortioner, you describe him, he will be somewhat moderate with me rather than run the risk of losing his booty entirely by my turning back or taking another route. You speak wisely,

Sir Englishman, said the Landman, and I thank you for recalling my duty to my remembrance. but you must not, nevertheless, be exposed to danger. So soon as we move forward, the country will be again open to the devastations of the Burgundian riders and Lansnecks, who will sweep the roads in every direction. The people of bail are unhappily too timorous to protect you. They would yield you up upon the governor's first hint. And for justice or lenity, you might as well expect it in hell as from Hagenbach. There are conjurations it is said that can make hell itself tremble, said Philipson, and I have means to propitiate even this de Hagenbach, providing I can get to private speech with him, but I own I can expect nothing

from his wild writers but to be put to death for the value of my cloak. If that be the case, said the Landman, and if you must need separate from us, for which I deny not, that you have alleged wise and worthy reasons, wherefore, should you not leave Graf's lust two hours before us, the roads will be safe as our escort is expected, and you will probably, if you travel early, find Da Hagenbach sober, and as capable as he ever. ever is of hearing reason, that is of perceiving his own interest. But after his breakfast is washed down with rind wine, which he drinks every morning before he hears mass, his fury blinds even his avarice. All I want in order to execute this scheme, said Philipson, is the loan of a mule

to carry my valise, which is packed up with your baggage. Take the she-mule, said the landman, she belongs to my brother here from Schwitz. He will gladly bestow her on thee. If she were worth twenty crowns and my comrade Arnold desired me to do so, said the old white beard. I will accept her as alone, with gratitude, said the Englishman. But how can you dispense with the use of the creature? You have only one left. We can easily supply our want from bail. said the landman, nay, we can make this little delay, serve your purpose, Sir Englishman. I named for our time of departure the first hour after daybreak.

We will postpone it to the second hour, which will give us enough time to get a horse or mule. And you, Sir Philipson, space to reach Laforette, where I trust you will have achieved your business with de Hagenbach to your content. and will join company again with us as we travel through Burgundy. If our mutual objects will permit our traveling together, worthy landman, answered the merchant, I shall esteem myself most happy in becoming the partner of your journey, and now resume the repose which I have interrupted. God bless you, wise and true-hearted man, said the landman,

rising and embracing the Englishman. Should we never meet again, I will still remember the merchant who neglected thoughts of gain that he might keep the path of wisdom and rectitude. I know not another who would not have risked the shedding a lake of blood to save five ounces of gold.

Farewell thou too, gallant young man. Thou hast learned among us to keep thy foot firm. while on the edge of a Helvetian crag, but none can teach thee so well as thy father to keep an upright path among the morasses and precipices of human life. He then embraced and took a kind farewell of his friends, in which, as usual, he was imitated by his friend of Schwitz,

who swept with his long beard the right and left cheeks of both the Englishmen, and again made them heartily welcome to the use of his mule. All then once more composed themselves to rest for the space which remained before the appearance of the autumnal dawn. End of Chapter 12. Chapter 13 of Anne of Guyurstein by Sir Walter Scott. This Librevox recording is in the public domain. recording by Dionne's Sutlick City, Utah.

The enmity and discord, which of late, sprung from the rancorous outrage of your due to merchants, our well-dealing countrymen, who wanting guilders to redeem their lives have sealed his rigorous statutes with their bloods, excludes all pity from our threatening looks. Comedy of Errors. The dawn had scarce begun to touch the distant horizon when Arthur Philipson was on foot to prepare for his father's departure and his own, which, as arranged on

the preceding night, was to take place two hours before the landman and his attendance proposed to leave the ruinous castle of Graff's lust. It was no difficult. matter for him to separate the neatly arranged packages which contained his father's effects from the clumsy bundles in which the baggage of the Swiss was deposited. The one set of males was made up with the neatness of men accustomed to long and perilous journeys. The other, with the rude carelessness of those who rarely left their home and who were altogether, inexperienced. A servant of the landman assisted Arthur in this task and in placing his father's baggage on the mule belonging to the bearded deputy from

Switz. From this man also he received instructions concerning the road from Graf's lust to Brissac the chief citadel of Laferrette which was to plain and direct to render it likely that they should incur any risk of losing their way, as had befallen them when traveling on the Swiss mountains. Everything being now prepared for their departure, the young Englishman awakened his father and acquainted him that all was ready. He then retired towards the chimney, while his father, according to his daily custom, repeated the prayer of St. Julian, the patron of travelers and adjusted his dress for the journey. It will not be wondered at that while the father went through

his devotions and equipped himself for travel, Arthur, with his heart full of what he had seen of Anne of Geierstein for some time before, and his brain dizzy with the recollection of the incidence of the preceding night should have kept his eyes riveted on the door of the sleeping apartment at which he had last seen that young person disappear. That is, unless the pale and seemingly fantastic form, which had twice crossed him so strangely, should prove no wandering spirit of the elements, but the living substance of the person whose appearance it bore. So eager was his curiosity on this subject that he strained his eyes to the utmost as if it had been possible for them to have penetrated through wood and walls into the

chamber of the slumbering maiden in order to discover whether her eye or cheek bore any mark that she had last night been a watcher or a wanderer but that was the proof to which rudolph appealed he said internally, and Rudolph alone will have the opportunity of remarking the result, who knows what advantage my communication may give him in his suit with yonder, lovely creature, and what must she think of me save as one light of thought and loose of tongue to whom nothing extraordinary can chance, but he must hasten to babble. it into the ears of those who are nearest to him at the moment. I would my tongue have been palsied ere I said a syllable to yonder proud yet wily prize-fighter. I shall never see her more.

That is to be counted for certain. I shall never know the true interpretation of those mysteries which hang around her. But to think I may have pratted something. tending to throw her into the power of yonder ferocious bore will be a subject of remorse to me while i live here he was startled out of his reverie by the voice of his father why how now boy art thou waking arthur or sleeping on thy feet from the fatigue of last night's service not so my father answered arthur at once recollecting himself some somewhat drowsy, perhaps, but the fresh morning air will soon put that to flight. Walking with precaution through the group of sleepers who lay around, the elder Philipson, when they had gained the door of the apartment, turned back, and looking on the straw couch, which the large form of the landman and the silvery beard

of his constant companion, touched by the earliest beams of light, Distinguished as that of Arnold Biederman, he muttered between his lips and involuntary, adieu. Farewell, mirror of ancient faith and integrity. Farewell, noble Arnold, farewell, soul of truth and candor, to whom cowardice, selfishness, and falsehood are alike unknown. And farewell thought his son to the loveliest and most candid, yet most most misconductness. mysterious of maidens. But the adieu, as may well be believed, was not like that of his father, expressed in words. They were soon after on the outside of the gate. The Swiss domestic was liberally recompensed and charged with a thousand kind words of farewell and of remembrance

to the landman from his English guests mingled with hopes and wishes that they might soon meet again in the Burgundian territory. The young man then took the bridle of the mule and led the animal forward on their journey at an easy pace, his father walking by his side. After a silence of some minutes, the elder Philipson addressed Arthur, I fear me, he said, we shall see the worthy landman no more. The youths who attend him are bent upon taking offense, the Duke of Burgundy will not fail, I fear, to give them ample occasion, and the peace which the excellent man desires for the land of his fathers will be shipwrecked ere they reach the Duke's presence, though even were it otherwise how the proudest prince in Europe

will brook the moody looks of Burgesses and peasants. So will Charles of Burgundy term the friends we have parted. we have pardoned from, is a question too easily answered. A war, fatal to the interests of all concerned, save Louis of France, will certainly take place, and dreadful must be the contest if the ranks of the Burgundian chivalry shall encounter those iron sons of the mountains, before whom so many of the Austrian nobility have been repeatedly prostitution. I am so much convinced of the truth of what you say, my father, replied Arthur, that I judge even this day will not pass over without a breach of truth.

I have already put on my shirt of mail in case we should meet bad company betwixt Graf's Loss and Brissac, and I would to heaven that you would observe this same precaution. it will not delay our journey, and I confess to you that I, at least, will travel with much greater consciousness of safety should you do so. I understand you, my son, replied the elder Philipson, but I am a peaceful traveler in the Duke of Burgundy's territories and must not willingly suppose that, while under the shadow of his banner, I must guard myself against Banditti, as if I were in the wilds of Palestine. As for the authority of his officers and the extent of their exactions, I need not tell you that they are, in our circumstances, things to be submitted

to without grief or grudging. Leaving the two travelers to journey towards Brissac at their leisure, I must transport my readers to the eastern gate of that small town. which situated on an eminence had a commanding prospect on every side but especially towards bail it did not properly make a part of the dominions of the duke of burgundy but had been placed in his hands in pawn or in pledge for the repayment of a considerable sum of money due to charles by the emperor sigismund of austria to whom the signory of the place belonged in property, but the town lay so conveniently for distressing the commerce of the Swiss and inflicting on that people whom he at once hated and despised similar marks of his malevolence as to encourage a general opinion that the Duke of Burgundy, the implacable and unreasonable enemy of these mountaineers, would never listen to any turrets.

of redemption however equitable or advantageous which might have the effect of restoring to the emperor an advanced post of such consequence to the gratification of his dislike as Brissach the situation of the little town was in itself strong but the fortifications which surrounded it were barely sufficient to repel any sudden attack and not adequate to resist, for any length of time, a formal siege. The morning beams had shone on the spire of the church for more than an hour when a tall, thin, elderly man wrapped in a morning gown, over which was buckled a broad belt, supporting on the left side a sword on the right a dagger,

approached the barbacom of the eastern gate. His bonnet displayed a feather, which, or the tail of a fox in lieu of it, was the emblem of gentle blood throughout all Germany, and a badge highly prized by those who had a right to wear it. The small party of soldiers who had kept watch there during the course of the preceding night, and supplied sentinels both for Ward and Outlook took arms on the appearance of this. individual and drew themselves up in the form of a guard which receives with military reverence an officer of importance archibald de hagenbach's countenance for it was the governor himself expressed that settled peevishness and ill-temper which characterized the morning hours of a valitudinary debauchee his head throbbed his pulse was feverish and his cheek was pale. Symptoms of his having spent the last night, as was his usual

custom amid wine stoops and flaggants, judging from the haste with which his soldiers fell into their ranks and the awe and silence which reigned among them, it appeared that they were accustomed to expect and dread his ill-humor on such occasions. He glanced at them. He glanced at them, accordingly an inquisitive and dissatisfied look as if he sought something on which to vent his peevishness and then asked for the loitering dog Killian Killian presently made his appearance a stout hard-favored man-at-arms a Bavarian by birth and by rank the personal squire of the governor what news of the Swiss churls Killian

demanded archibald de hogginbach they should by their thrifty habits have been on the road two hours since have the peasant clods presumed to ape the manners of gentlemen and stuck by the flask till cock-crow by my faith it may well be answered killian the burghers of bale gave them full means of carousal how killian they dared not offer hospitality to the swiss drove of bullocks after the charge we sent them to the contrary nay the baileys received them not into the town replied the squire but i learned by sure espiel that they afforded them means of quartering at graft's lust which was furnished with many of fair gammon and pastry to speak not of flasks of rind wine barrels of beer and stewed of strong waters. The Belize shall answer this, Killian, said the governor. Do they think I am forever to be thrusting myself between the Duke and his pleasure on their behalf? The fat porkers have presumed too much since we accepted some trifling gifts at their hands. More for gracing of them than for any advantage we could make of their paltry donations. Was it not the wine from bail, which we were obliged to drink out in pint goblets,

lest it should become sour before morning? It was drunk out, and in pint goblets, too, said Killian, so much I can well remember. Why, go to then, said the governor, they shall know these beasts of bale, that I hold myself no way obliged by such donations. as these, and that my remembrance of the wines which I carouse rest no longer than the headache, which the mixtures they drugged me with, never fail of late years to leave behind for the next morning's pastime. Your excellency, replied the squire, will make it, then, a quarrel between the Duke of Burgundy and the city of Bale, that they gave this indirect degree.

of comfort and assistance to the Swiss deputation. I marry will I, said to Hagenbach, unless there be wise men among them who shall show me good reasons for protecting them. Oh, the Baileys do not know our noble Duke, nor the gift he hath for chastising the gutter-blooded citizens of a free town. Thou canst tell them, Killian, as well as any man how he dealt with the villains of liege when they would needs be pragmatical i will apprise them of the matter said killian when opportunity shall serve and i trust i shall find them in a temper disposed to cultivate your honorable friendship nay if it is the same to them it is quite indifferent to me killian continued the governor but me think hank's whole and sound throats are worth some purchase were it only to swallow black puddings and schwartz beer to say nothing of westphalian hams and nirenstiner i say a slashed throat is a useless thing i will make the fat citizens to understand their danger and the necessity of making interest answered killian sure i am not now to learn how to turn the ball into your excellency's lap you speak well said sir archibald but how chanced it thou hast so little to say to the switzer's leaguer i should have thought an old trooper like

thee would have made their opinions flutter amidst the good cheer thou tellest me of i might as well have annoyed and angry hedgehog with my bare finger said killian i surveyed graft's lust myself there were sentinels on the castle walls a sentinel on the bridge besides a regular patrol of these swiss fellows who kept strict watch so that there was nothing to be done otherwise knowing your excellency's ancient quarrel i would have had a hit at them when they should never have known who hurt them i will tell you however fairly that these churls are acquiring better knowledge in the art of war than the best ritter knight well they will be the better worth the looking after when they arrive said to hogginbach they come forth in state doubtless, with all their finery, their wives' chains of silver, their own metals, and rings of lead and copper. Ah, the base hinds, they are unworthy that a man of noble blood should ease them of their trash. There is better wear among them, if my intelligence hath not deceived me, replied Killian, there are merchants. Shaw, the packcourses of Bern and Soler, said the governor, with their paltry lumber, cloth to coarse to make covers for horses of any breeding,

and linen that is more like haircloth than any composition of flax. I will strip them, however, were it but to vex the knaves? What? Not content with claiming to be treated like an independent people, and sending forth deputies and embassies forsooth. they expect, I warrant, to make the indemnities of ambassadors cover the introduction of a cargo of their contraband commodities, and thus insult the noble duke of Burgundy, and cheat him at the same time. But de Hagenbach is neither knight nor gentleman if he allow them to pass unchallenged. And they are better worth being stopped, said Killian, than your excellent.

supposes for they have english merchants along with them and under their protection english merchants exclaimed to hogginbach his eyes sparkling with joy english merchants killian men talk of cafe and end where there are mines of silver and gold and diamonds but on the faith of a gentleman i believe these brutish islanders have the caves of treasure holy within their own foggy land, and then the variety of their rich merchandise. Ha, Killian, is it a long train of mules, a jolly tinkling team by our lady's glove? The sound of it is already jingling in my ears more musically than all the harps of all the mine singers at Helbron. Nay, my lord, there is no great train, replied the squire, only two men, as I am given to understand, with scarce so much baggage as loads a mule. But it is sad of infinite value, silk and semi-l, lace and furs, pearls and jewelry work, perfumes from the east, and gold-work from Venice. Raptures and paradise say not a word more, exclaimed the rapacious knight of Hagenbach,

They are all our own, Killian. Why, these are the very men I have dreamed of twice a week for this month past. I, two men of middle stature, or somewhat under it, with smooth, round, fair, comely visages, having stomachs as plump as partridges and purses as plump as their stomachs. Ha, what sayest thou to my dream, Killian? only that to be quite soothfast answered the squire it should have included the presence of a score or thereabouts of sturdy young giants as ever climbed cliff or carried bolt to whistle at a chamois a lusty plump of clubs bills and partisans such as make shields crack like oaken cakes and helmets ring like church bells the better knave the better exclaimed the governor rubbing his hands english peddlers to plunder swiss bullies to beat into submission i wot well we can have nothing of the helvetian swine save their beastly bristles it is likely they bring these two island sheep along with them but we must get ready our boar spears and clear the clipping pens for exercise of our craft

here, Lieutenant Schoenfeld. An officer stepped forth, how many men are here on duty? About 60, replied the officer, 20 out on parties in different directions, and there may be 40 or 50 in their quarters. Order them all under arms instantly, harky, not by trumpet or bugle, but by warning them individually in their quarters to draw to arms as quietly as possible. and rendezvous here at the Eastern Gate. Tell the villains there is booty to be gained, and they shall have their share. On these terms, said Schoenfeld, they will walk over a spider's web without startling the insect that wove it. I will collect them without loss of an instant. I tell thee, Killian, continued the exulting commandant, again speaking apart with his confidential

attendant. Nothing could come so luckily as the chance of this onslaught. Duke Charles desires to affront the Swiss, not look you, that he cares to act towards them by his own direct orders, in such a manner as might be termed a breach of public faith towards a peaceful embassy. But the gallant follower who shall save his prince this scandal of such an affair, and whose actions may be termed a mistake or misapprehension, shall, I warrant you, be accounted to have done nightly service. Forchance a frown may be passed upon him in public, but in private the Duke will know how to esteem him.

Why standest thou so silent, man, and what ails thy ugly, ill-looking aspect? Thou art not afraid of twenty Switzer-Boers. and we at the head of such a band of spears the swiss answered killian will give and take good blows yet i have no fear of them but i like not that we should trust too much to duke charles that he would be in the first instance pleased with any dishonour done the swiss is likely enough but if as your excellency hints he finds it afterwards to disown the action. He is a prince, likely to give a lively color to his disavowl by hanging up the actors. Shah, said the commandant, I know where I stand. Such a trick were like enough to be played by Louis of France, but it is foreign to the blunt character of our bold one of Burgundy. Why the devil standest thou still, man, simpering like an abe at a roasted chestnut, which he thinks too warm for his fingers.

Your excellency is wise, as well as warlike, said the esquire, and it is not for me to contest your pleasure. But this peaceful embassy, these English merchants, if Charles goes to war with Louis as the rumor is current, what he should most of all desire is the neutrality, of Switzerland and the assistance of England, whose king is crossing the sea with a great army. Now you, Sir Archibald of Hagenbach, may well do that in the course of this very morning, which will put the confederated cantons in arms against Charles and turn the English from

allies into enemies. I care not, said the commandant. I know the Duke's humor well. and if he, the master of so many provinces, is willing to risk them in a self-willed frolic, what is it to Archibald de Hagenbach, who has not a foot of land to lose in the cause? But you have life, my lord, said the esquire. I, life, replied the knight, a paltry right to exist, which I have been ready to stake every day of my life for dollars, I and for cruxers, and think you, I will hesitate to pledge it for broad pieces, jewels of the east,

and goldsmith's work of Venice? No, Killian, these English must be eased of their bales, that Archibald de Hagenbach may drink a pure flask than their thin, moselle, and wear a brocade doublet instead of greasy velvet. Nor is it less necessary, that Killian should have a seemly new jerkin and a purse of Ducats to jingle at his girdle. By my faith, said Killian, that last argument hath disarmed my scruples, and I give up the point, since it ill befits me to dispute with your excellency. To the work then, said his leader, but stay, we must first take the church along with us, the priest of st paul's hath been moody of late and spread abroad strange things from the pulpit as if we were little better than common pillagers and robbers nay he have had the insolence to warn me as he termed it twice in strange form

it were well to break the growling mastiff's bald head but since that might be ill taken by the duke the next point of wisdom is to fling him a bone. He may be a dangerous enemy, said the squire dubiously. His power is great with the people. Tosh, replied Hagenbach, I know how to disarm the shaveling. Sent to him and tell him to come hither to speak with me. Meanwhile, have all our force under arms. Let the barbecan and barrier be well manned with archers. Stationed spearmen in the houses. on each hand of the gateway, and let the street be barricaded with carts well bound together. But placed as if they had been there by accident, place a body of determined fellows in these carts and behind them. So soon as the merchants and their mules enter, for that is the main point.

Up with your drawbridge, down with the portcullis, send a volley of arrows among those who are with out if they make any scuffle. Disarm and secure those who have entered and are cooped up between the barricade before and the ambush behind and around them. And then, Killian, and then, said his esquire, shall we, like merry free companions, be knuckle-deep in the English budgets? And like jovial hunters, replied the knight, elbow-deep in Swiss blood. The game, will stand at bay though answered Killian they are led by that Donnerhugel whom we have heard of whom they call the young bear of Byrne they will turn to their defense the better man wouldst thou kill sheep rather than hunt wolves besides our toils are set and the whole garrison shall assist shame on thee Killian thou wert not want to have so many scruples nor have have I now, said Killian, but these Swiss bills and two-handed swords of the breadth of four inches are no child's play. And then if you call all our garrison to the attack, to whom will your

excellency entrust the defense of the other gates and the circuit of the walls, lock, bold, and chain up the gates, replied the governor, and bring the keys hither. There shall no one leave the place till this affair is over. Let some score of the citizens take arms for the duty of guarding the walls, and look they discharge it well, or I will lay a fine on them, which they shall discharge to purpose. They will grumble, said Killian. They say that not being the Duke's subjects, though the place is in pledged to his grace, they are not liable to military service. They lie, the cowardly slaves, answered to Hagenbach. If I have not employed them much hitherto, it is because I scorn their assistance, nor would I now use their help, were it for

anything save to keep a watch by looking out straight before them. Let them obey as they respect their property, persons, and families. A deep voice behind them repeated the emphatic language of scripture. I have seen the wicked man flourish in his power, even like unto a laurel, but I returned, and he was not. Yay, I sought him, but he was not to be found. Sir Archibald de Hagenbach turned sternly and encountered the dark and ominous looks of the priest of St. Paul's, dressed in the vestments of his order. We are busy, father. said the governor, and will hear your preachment another time. I come by your summons, Sir Governor, said the priest, or I had not intruded myself where I well knew my

preachments, if you term them so, will do no good. Oh, I crave your mercy, Reverend Father, said to Hagenbach, yes, it is true that I did send for you to desire your prayers and kind intercession with our lady and St. Paul in some transactions which are likely to occur this morning, and in which, as the Lombard says, I do espy roba de Guadogno. Sir Archibald answered the priest calmly, I will hope and trust that you do not forget the nature of the glorified saints so far as to ask them for their blessing upon such exploits as you have been too oft engaged in since your arrival amongst us,

an event which of itself gave token of the divine anger. Nay, let me say, humble as I am, that decency to a servant of the altar should check you from proposing to me to put up prayers for the success of pillage and robbery. I understand you, Father, said the, rapacious, governor, and you shall see, I do. While you are the Duke subject, you must, by your office, put up your prayers for his success in matters that are fairly managed. You acknowledge this

with a graceful bend of your reverend head. Well, then, I will be as reasonable as you are. Say, we desire the intercession of the good saints, and of you, their pious or orator in something a little out of the ordinary path, and, if you will, somewhat of a doubtful complexion. Are we entitled to ask you or them for their pains and trouble without a just consideration? Surely no. Therefore, I vow and solemnly promise that if I have good fortune in this morning's adventure, St. Paul shall have an altar-cloth and a basis of a basic of silver, large or little, as my booty will permit. Our lady, a web of satin for a full suit, with a necklace of pearl for holidays, and thou, priest, some twenty pieces of broad English

gold, for acting as go-between betwixt ourselves and the blessed apostles, whom we acknowledge ourselves unworthy to negotiate with in our profane person. And now, Sir Priest, do we understand each other? For I have little time to lose. I know you have hard thoughts of me, but you see, the devil is not quite so horrible as he is painted. Do we understand each other? answered the black priest of St. Paul's, repeating the governor's question. Alas, no. and I fear me we never shall. Hasth thou never heard the words spoken by the holy hermit, Birch told of Offeringen, to the implacable Queen Agnes, who had revenged with such dreadful severity the assassination of her father, the Emperor Albert. Not I, returned the night,

I have neither studied the chronicles of emperors nor the legends of hermits, and therefore sir priest and you like not my proposal let us have no further words on the matter I am and want to press my favors or to deal with priests who require entreaty when gifts are held out to them here yet the words of the holy man said the priest that time may come and that shortly when you would gladly desire to hear what you scornfully reject, speak on, but be brief, said Archibald the Hagenbach, and no, though thou mayest terrify or cajole the multitude, thou now speakest to one whose resolution is fixed, far beyond the power of thy eloquence to melt. No, then, said the priest of St. Paul's, that Agnes,

daughter of the murdered Albert, after shedding oceans of blood, in avenging his bloody death, founded at length, the rich abbey of Connicksfeld, and that it might have a superior claim to renowned sanctity, made a pilgrimage in person to the cell of the Holy Hermit, and besought of him to honor her abbey by taking up his residence there. But what was his reply? Mark it and tremble. Be gone, ruthless woman, said the Holy man, God will not be served with blood-guiltiness, and rejects the gifts which are obtained by violence and robbery. The Almighty loves mercy, justice, and humanity, and by the lovers of these only, will he be worshipped? And now, Archibald of Hagenbach, once, twice, thrice, hast thou had warning.

live as becomes a man on whom sentence is passed and who must expect execution. Having spoken these words with a menacing tone and frowning aspect, the priest of St. Paul's turned away from the governor, whose first impulse was to command him to be arrested. But when he recollected the serious consequences, which attached to the laying violent hands, on a priest, he suffered him to depart in peace, conscious that his own unpopularity might render any attempt to revenge himself an act of great rashness. He called, therefore, for a beaker of

Burgundy, in which he swallowed down his displeasure, and had just returned to Killian, the cub, which he had drained to the bottom, when the warden winded a blast, from the watchtower, which betokened the arrival of strangers at the gate of the city. End of Chapter 13. Chapter 14 of Anne of Geierstein by Sir Walter Scott. This Librevox recording is in the public domain, recording by Dionne's Salt Lake City, Utah. I will resist such entertainment till my enemy has more power. The Tempest.

That blast was but feebly blown, said to Hagenbach, ascending to the ramparts, from which he could see what passed on the outside of the gate. Who approaches Killian? The trusty squire was hastening to meet him with the news, two men with a mule, and it pleased your excellency, and merchants, I presume them to be. merchants, sedath villain, peddlers, you mean, heard ever man of English merchants tramping it on foot, with no more baggage than one mule can manage to carry. They must be beggarly bohemians, or those whom the French people call escosace. The knaves, they shall pay with the pining of their punches

for the poverty of their purses. Do not be too hasty and please your excellency, quote the squire, small budgets, hold rich goods, but rich or poor, they are our men. At least they have all the marks, the elder, well-sized and dark-visaged, may write fifty and five years,

a beard somewhat grizzled. The younger, some two and twenty, taller than the first and a well-favored lad with a smooth chin and light brown mustaches. Let them be admitted, said the governor, turning back in order again to descend to the street, and bring them into the falter comer of the toll-house. So saying, he betook himself to the place appointed, which was an apartment in the large tower that protected. That protected, he betooked him. the eastern gateway, in which were deposited the rack with various other instruments of torture, which the cruel and rapacious governor was in the habit of applying to such prisoners

from whom he was desirous of extorting either booty or information. He entered the apartment, which was dimly lighted, and had a lofty, gothic roof, which could be but imperfectly seen, while nooses and cords hanging down from fence announced a fearful connection with various implements of rusted iron that hung around the walls or lay scattered on the floor. A faint stream of light through one of the numerous and narrow slits or shot holes with which the walls were garnished fell directly upon the person and visage of a tall, swarthy man, seated in what but for the partial illumination would have been an obscure corner of this evil boating apartment. His features were regular and even handsome, but of a character

peculiarly stern and sinister. This person, person's dress was a cloak of scarlet. His head was bare and surrounded by shaggy locks of black, which time had partly grizzled. He was busily employed in furbishing and burnishing a broad two-handed sword of a peculiar shape and considerably shorter than the weapons of that kind, which we have described as used by the Swiss. He was so deeply engaged in his task that he started as the heavy door opened with a jarring noise, and the sword, escaping from his hold, rolled on the stone floor with a heavy clash. Ha! Schwerfger Richter, said the night, as he entered the fultrecomer, thou art preparing for thy duty. It would ill become your excellency servant, answered the man,

in a harsh, deep tone, to be found idle. But the prisoner is not far off, as I can judge by the fall of my sword, which infallibly announces the presence of him who shall feel its edge. The prisoners are at hand, Francis, replied the governor, but, thy omen has deceived thee for once. They are fellows for whom a good rope will suffice, and thy sword drinks only noble blood. The worse, for Francis Steinerhirds, replied the official in Scarlet, I trusted that your excellency, who have ever been a bountiful patron, should this day have made me noble. Noble, said the governor,

thou art mad, thou noble, the common executioner, and wherefore not, Sir Archibald the Hagenbach, I think the name of Francis Sturnern-Hurts, von Blutacker,

will suit nobility, being fairly and legally one, as well as another. Nay, do not stare on me thus, if one of my prefer, shall do his grim office on nine men of noble birth with the same weapon and with a single blow to each patient, hath he not a right to his freedom from taxes and his nobility by patent. So says the law, said Sir Archibald, after reflecting for a moment, but rather more in scorn than

seriously, I should judge, since no one was ever known to claim the benefit of it. The prouder boast for him, said the functionary, that shall be the first to demand the honors due to a sharp sword and a clean stroke. I, Francis Steinerhurtz, will be the first noble of my profession when I shall have dispatched one more night of the empire. Thou hast been ever in my service, hast thou not? demanded de Hagenbach. Under what other master, replied the executioner, could I have enjoyed such constant practice?

I have executed your decrees on condemned sinners since I could swing a scourge, lift a crowbar, or wield this trusty weapon, and who can say I ever for? failed of my first blow or needed to deal a second. Tristram of the hospital and his famous assistants, Petit Andre, and Troy Eskolas, are novices compared with me in the use of the noble and knightly sword. Mary, I should be ashamed to match myself with them in the field practice with bowstring and dagger. These are no feats worthy of a Christian man who would rise to honor and nobility.

Thou art a fellow of excellent address, and I do not deny it, replied de Hagenbach, but it cannot be. I trust it cannot be that when noble blood is becoming scarce in the land, and proud churls are lording it over knights and barrens, I myself should have caused so much to be spilled. I will number the patience to your excellency by name and title, said Francis, drawing out a scroll of parchment and reading it with a commentary as he went on. There was Count William of Elvershoe. He was my essay piece, a sweet youth, and died most like a Christian. I remember. he was indeed a most smart youth and courted my mistress, said Sir Archibald. He died on St. Jude's

in the year of Grace 1455, said the executioner. Go on, but name no dates, said the governor. Sir Miles of Stockenborg. He drove off my cattle, observed his excellency. Sir Lewis of Reisenfeld, continued the executioner. He made love to my wife, commented the governor. The three young heron of Lamerborg, you made their father the count childless in one day. And he made me landless, said Sir Archibald, so that account is settled. Thou needest read no further, he continued, I admit thy record, though it is written in letters, some of the record. Some what of the reddest. I had counted these three young gentlemen as one execution. You did me the greater wrong, said Francis. They cost three good separate blows of this good

sword. Be it so, and God be with their souls, said Hagenbach, but thy ambition must go to sleep for a while. Sharp, Gurekter. For the stuff that came hither today is for dungeon. and cord, or perhaps a touch of the rack or strappado. There is no honor to win on them. The worse luck mine, said the executioner, I had dreamed so surely that your honor had made me noble, and then the fall of my sword. Take a bowl of wine and forget your auguries. With your honor's permission, no, said the executioner, drink before noon were to endanger the nicety of my hand. Be silent then, and mind your duty, said to Hagenbach.

Francis took up his sheathless sword, wiped the dust reverently from it, and withdrew into a corner of the chamber where he stood leaning with his hands on the pommel of the fatal weapon. Almost immediately afterwards, Killian entered. at the head of five or six soldiers conducting the two Philipsons, whose arms were tied down with cords. Approach me a chair, said the governor, and took his place gravely beside a table on which stood writing materials. Who are these men, Killian, and wherefore are they bound? So please, Your Excellency, said Killian, with a deep respect of manner, which entirely differed from the tone, approaching

to familiarity, with which he communicated with his master in private. We thought it well that these two strangers should not appear armed in your gracious presence, and when we required of them to surrender their weapons at the gate, as is the custom of the garrison, this is the young gallant must needs offer resistance. I admit he gave up his weapon at his father's command. It is false, exclaimed young Philipson, but his father, making a sign to him to be silent, he obeyed instantly. Noble sir, said the elder Philipson, we are strangers and unacquainted with the rules of this citadel. We are Englishmen and unaccustomed to submit to personal mishandling. We trust you will have excuse for us when we found ourselves

without any explanation of the cause rudely seized on by we knew not whom. My son, who is young and unthinking, did partly draw his weapon, but desisted at my command, without having altogether unsheathed his sword, far less made a blow. For myself, I am a merchant, accustomed to submit to the laws and customs of the countries in which I traffic. I am in the territories of the Duke of Burgundy, and I know his laws and customs must be just and equitable. He is the powerful and faithful ally of England, and I fear nothing while under his banner. Hem, hem, replied to Hagenbach, a little disconcerted by the Englishman's composure, and perhaps recollecting that unless his passions were awakened, as in the case of the

Swiss, whom he detested, Charles of Burgundy, deserved the character of a just, though severe Prince. Fair words are well, but hardly make amends for foul actions. You have drawn swords in riot and opposition to the Duke's soldiers when obeying the mandates which regulate their watch. Surely, sir, answered Philipson, this is a severe construction of a most natural action. But in a word, if you are disposed to be rigorous, The simple action of drawing or attempting to draw a sword in a garrisoned town is only punishable by pecuniary fine, and such we must pay if it be your will. Now here is a silly sheep, said Killian to the executioner, beside whom he had stationed himself somewhat apart from the

group, who voluntarily offers his own fleece to the clipper. It will scarcely serve as a ransom for his throat, Sir Squire, answered Francis Steinerhurst. For look you, I dreamed last night that our master made me noble, and I knew by the fall of my sword that this is the man by whom I am to mount to gentility. I must, his very day, deal on him with my good sword. Why, thou ambitious fool, said the esquire, this is no noble, but an island peddler, a mere English citizen. Thou art deceived, said the executioner, and hast never looked on men when they are about to die. Have I not, said the squire, have I not looked on five pips. fields besides skirmishes and ambuscades innumerable. That tries not the courage,

said the Schwarker. All men will fight when pitched against each other. So will the most paltry curse. So will the dunghill fowls. But he is brave and noble, who can look on a scaffold and a block, a priest to give him absolution, and the headsman and good sword, which is to mow him down in his strength, as he would look upon things indifferent. And such a man is that whom we now behold. Yes, answered Killian, but that man looks not on such an apparatus. He only sees our illustrious patron, Sir Archibald de Hagenbach. And he who looks upon Sir Archibald, said the executioner, being as yonder man assuredly is, a person of sense and apprehension, looks he not upon sword and headsman. Assuredly, that prisoner apprehends as much, and being so composed as he is, under such

conviction. It shows him to be a nobleman by blood, or may I myself never win nobility. Our master will come to compromise with him, I judge, replied Killian. He looks smilingly on him. Never trust to me then, said the man in Scarlet. There is a glance in Sir Archibald's eye which betokens blood, as surely as the dog star bodes pestilence. While these dependents of Sir Archibald de Hagenbach were thus conversing apart, their master had engaged the prisoners in a long train of captious interrogatories concerning their business in Switzerland, their connection with the landaman, and the cause of their traveling into Burgundy to all which the senior Philip Heelbson gave direct and plain answers, accepting to the last.

He was going, he said, into Burgundy for the purpose of his traffic. His wares were at the disposal of the governor, who might detain all or any part of them, as he might be disposed to make himself answerable to his master. But his business with the Duke was of a private nature, respecting some particular matters of commerce in which others as well as he himself were interested. To the Duke alone, he declared, would he communicate the affair? And he pressed it strongly on the governor that if he should sustain any damage in his own person or that of his son, the Duke's severe displeasure would be the inevitable consequence. De Hagenbach was evidently,

embarrassed by the steady tone of his prisoner, and more than once held counsel with the bottle, his never-failing Oracle, in cases of extreme difficulty. Philipson had readily surrendered to the governor a list or invoice of his merchandise, which was of so inviting a character that Sir Archibald absolutely gloated over it, after remaining in deep meditation for some time, he raised his head and spoke thus. You must be well aware, Sir Merchant, that it is the Duke's pleasure that no Swiss merchandise shall pass through his territories, and that, nevertheless, you having been, by your own account, some time in that country, and having also accompanied a body of men calling themselves Swiss deputies, I am authorized to believe that these

valuable articles are rather the property of those persons than of a single individual of so poor an appearance as yourself, and that should I demand pecuniary satisfaction, 300 pieces of gold would not be an extravagant fine for so bold a practice, and you might wander where you will with the rest of your wares, so you bring them not into Burgundy. But it is to Burgundy, and to the Duke's presence, that I am expressly bound, said the Englishman, if I go not thither, my journey is wrecked, and the Duke's displeasure is certain to light. on those who may molest me. For I make your excellency aware that your gracious prince already knows of my journey, and will make strict inquiry where and by whom I have been intercepted. Again, the governor was silent,

endeavoring to decide how he might best reconcile the gratification of his rapacity with precaution for his safety, After a few minutes' consideration, he again addressed his prisoner. Thou art very positive in thy tale, my good friend, but my orders are equally so to exclude merchandise coming from Switzerland. What if I put thy mule and baggage under arrest? I cannot withstand your power, my lord, to do what you will. I will, in that case, go to the duke's footstool and do my errand there. I and my errand also, answered the governor. That is, thou will carry thy complaint to the Duke against the governor of Lafarette for executing his orders too strictly. On my life and honest word, answered the Englishman, I will make no complaint.

Leave me but my ready money, without which I can hardly travel to the Duke. court, and I will look no more after these goods and wares than the stag looks after the antlers, which he shed last year. Again, the governor of Lafarette looked doubtful and shook his head. Men in such a case as yours, he said, cannot be trusted, nor, to say the truth, is it reasonable to expect they should be trustworthy? These same wares, does signed for the Duke's private hand, in what do they consist? They are under seal, replied the Englishman. They are of rare value, doubtless, continued the governor.

I cannot tell, answered the elder Philipson. I know the Duke sets great store by them, but your excellency knows that great princes sometimes place a high value on trifles. Bear you them about you? said the governor, take heed how you answer. Look around you on these engines, which can bring a dumb man to speak, and consider, I have the power to employ them. And I, the courage to support their worst infliction, answered Philipson, with the same impenetrable coolness which he had maintained throughout the whole conference. Remember also, said Hagenbach, that I

can have your person searched as thoroughly as your mails and budgets. I do remember that I am holy in thy power, and that I may leave thee no excuse for employing force on a peaceful traveler. I will own to you, said Philipson, that I have the Duke's packet in the bosom of my doublet. Bring it forth, answered the governor. My hands are tied, both in honor. and literally, said the Englishman, Pluck it from his bosom, Killian, said Sir Archibald. Let us see this gear he talks of. Could resistance avail, replied the stout merchant,

You should pluck forth my heart first, but I pray all who are present to observe that the seals are every one whole and unbroken at this moment when it is forcibly taken from my person. As he spoke thus, he looked around on the soldiers, whose presence to Hagenbach had perhaps forgotten. How, dog, said Sir Archibald, giving way to his passion. Would you stir up mutiny among my men-at-arms? Killian, let the soldiers wait without, so saying, he hastily placed under cover of his own robe, the small but remarkably well-secured package.

which Killian had taken from the merchant's person. The soldiers withdrew, lingering, however, and looking back, like children brought away from a show before its final conclusion. So, fellow, again began to Hagenbach, we are now more private. Wilt thou deal more on the level with me, and tell me what this packet is, and whence it comes. all your garrison be crowded into this room, I can only answer as before. The contents I do not precisely know. The person by whom it was sent, I am determined not to name. Perhaps your son, said the governor, may be more compliant. He cannot tell you that of which he is himself ignorant, answered the merchant. Perchance the rack may make you both find

your tongues, and we will try it on the young fellow first, Killian, since thou knowest, we have seen men shrink from beholding the wretched joints of their children, that would have committed their own old sinews to the stretching with much endurance. You may make the trial, said Arthur, and heaven will give me strength to endure. And me courage to behold, added his father. All this while the governor was turning and returning the little packet in his hand, curiously inspecting every fold and regretting doubtless in secret that a few patches of wax placed under an envelope of crimson satin and ligatures of twisted silk cord should prevent his eager eyes from ascertaining the nature of the treasure, which he doubted not it concealed.

At length, he again called in the soldiers and delivered up the two prisoners to their charge, commanding that they should be kept safely and in separate holes, and that the father, in particular, should be most carefully looked after. I take you all here to witness, exclaimed the elder Philipson, despising the menacing signs of de Hagenbach that the governor detains from me a packet addressed to his most gracious Lord and master, the Duke of Burgundy. De Hagenbach actually foamed at the mouth with passion, and should I not detain it, he exclaimed, in a voice inarticulate with rage, may there not be some foul practice against the life of our most gracious sovereign by poison or otherwise in this suspicious packet brought by a most

suspicious bearer. Have we never heard of poisons which do their work by the smell? And shall we, who keep the gate, as I may say, of his grace of Burgundy's dominions, give access to what may rob Europe of its pride of chivalry, burgundy of its prince, and Flanders of her father. No, away with these miscreants, soldiers, down to the lowest dungeons with them. Keep them separate and watch them carefully. This treasonable practice has been meditated with the connivance of Bern and Soule. Thus Sir Archibald de Hagenbach raved with a a raised voice and inflamed countenance, lashing himself, as it were, into passion, until the steps of the soldiers and the clash of their arms, as they retired with the prisoners,

were no longer audible. His complexion, when these had ceased, waxed paler than was natural to him. His brow was furrowed with anxious wrinkles, and his voice became lower and more hesitating than ordinary, as turning to his esquire, he said, Killian, we stand upon a slippery plank with a raging torrent beneath us. What is to be done? Mary, to move forward with a resolved yet prudent step, answered the crafty Killian, it is unlucky that all these fellows should have seen the packet and heard the appearance. heel of yonder iron-nerved traitor. But this ill luck has befallen us, and the packet, having been

in your excellency's hands, you will have all the credit of having broken the seals, for though you leave them as entire as the moment they were impressed, it will only be supposed that they have been ingeniously replaced. Let us see what are the contents before we determine what is to be done with them. They must be of rare value since the churl merchant was well contented to leave behind all his rich mulesload of merchandise so that this precious packet might pass unexamined. They may be papers on some political matter. Many such. and of high importance passed secretly between edward of england and our bold duke such was the reply of de hagenbach if they be papers of consequence to the duke answered killian we can forward them to de jean or they may be such as louis of france would purchase with their weight of gold for shame killian said the knight wouldst thou have me betray my master's secrets to the king of france sooner would i lay my head on the block

indeed and yet your excellency hesitates not to hear the squire stopped apparently for fear of giving offence by affixing a name too broad and intelligible to the practices of his patron to plunder the due thou wouldst say thou impudent slave, and saying so, thou wouldst be as dull as thou art want to be, answered to Hagenbach. I partake, indeed, in the plunder, which the duke takes from aliens, and reason good. Even so the hound and the hawk have their share of the quarry they bring down. I, and the lions share too, unless the huntsman or falconer be all the nearer to them. Such are the perquisites of my rank, and the Duke who placed me here for the gratification of his resentment and the bettering of my fortune does not grudge them to a faithful servant. And indeed, I may term myself in so far as this territory,

of la fere d'est the duke's full representative or as it may be termed alter ego and thereupon i will open this packet which being addressed to him is hereby equally addressed to me having thus in a manner talked himself up to an idea of his own high authority he cut the strings of the packet which he had all this while held in his hand and undoing the outer coverings produced a very small case made of sandalwood the contents he said had need to be valuable as they lie in so little compass so saying he pressed the spring and the casket opening displayed a necklace of diamonds distinguished by brilliancy and size and apparently of extraordinary value the eyes of the avaricious governor and his no less rapacious attendant were so dazzled with the unusual splendor that for some time they could express nothing save joy and surprise. I, Mary, sir, said Killian, the obstinate old knave had reasons for his hardihood. My own joints should have stood a strain or two, ere I surrendered such sparklers as these. And now, Sir Archibald, may your trusty follower ask you how this booty is to be divided between the Duke

and his governor, according to the most approved rules of garrison towns. Faith, we will suppose the garrison stormed, Killian, and in a storm thou knowest the first finder takes all, with due consideration always of his trusty followers. As myself, for example, said Killian, I and myself, for example, answered a voice which sounded like the echoed, of the Esquire's words from the remote corner of the ancient apartment. Sedef, we are overheard, exclaimed the governor, starting, and laying his hand on his dagger. Only by a faithful follower, as the worthy Esquire observes, said the executioner, moving slowly forward. Villan, how didst thou dare watch me? said Sir Archibald de Hagenbach.

trouble not yourself for that sir said killian honest dinernherds has no tongue to speak or ear to hear save according to your pleasure indeed we must shortly have taken him into our councils seeing these men must be dealt upon and that speedily indeed said to hoggumbach i had thought they might be spared to tell the duke of burgundy how the governor of Laferret accounts to his treasurer for the duties and forfeitures at his custom-house, demanded Killian. Tis true, said the night, dead men have neither teeth nor tongue. They bite not, and they tell no tales. Thou will take order with them. Sharf Ger Richter. I will, my lord, answered the executioner, on condition that if this must be in the way of dungeon execution, which I call seller practice, my privilege to claim nobility shall be saved and reserved to me, and the execution shall be declared to be as effectual to my claim,

as it might have been if the blow had been dealt in broad daylight with my honorable blade of office. De Hagenbach stared at the executioner as not understanding what he meant, on which Killian took occasion to explain that the Scharfger Richter was strongly impressed from the free and dauntless conduct of the elder prisoner that he was a man of noble blood from whose decapitation he would himself derive all the advantages proposed to the headsman who should execute his function on nine men of a lustreux. extraction. He may be right, said Sir Archibald, for here is a slip of parchment, commending the bearer of this carcannet to the Duke, desiring him to accept it as a true

token from one well known to him, and to give the bearer full credence in all that he should say on the part of those by whom he is sent, by whom is the note. signed, if I may make bold to ask, said Killian. There is no name. The Duke must be supposed to collect that information from the gems, or perhaps the handwriting, on neither of which he is likely to have a speedy opportunity of exercising his ingenuity, said Killian. De Hagenbach looked at the diamonds and smiled darkly. The Scherfger Richter encouraged. by the familiarity into which he had in a manner forced himself returned to his plea and insisted on the nobility of the supposed merchant such a trust and such a letter of unlimited credence could never he contended be entrusted to a man meanly born thou art deceived thou fool said the knight kings now use the lowest the lowest

tools to do their dearest offices. Louis has set the example of putting his barber and the valets of his chamber to do the work formally entrusted to dukes and peers, and other monarchs begin to think that it is better in choosing their agents for important affairs to judge rather by the quality of men's brains than that of their blood. And as for the a stately look and bold bearing which distinguish yonder fellow in the eyes of cravens like thee it belongs to his country not his rank thou thinkest it is in england as in flanders where a city-bred burger of ghent liege or ipras is as distinct an animal from a knight of henald as a flanders wagon-horse from a spanish jennet but thou art deceived. England has many a merchant as haughty of heart and as prompt of hand as any noble-born son of her rich bosom. But be not dejected, thou foolish man, do thy business well on this merchant, and we shall presently have on our hands the landman of Untruwolden, who, though a churl by his

choice is yet a nobleman by blood, and shall by his well-deserved death aid thee to get rid of the peasant slough which thou art so weary of. Were not your excellency better adjourn these men's fate, said Killian, till you hear something of them from the Swiss prisoners whom we shall presently have in our power. Be it as you will, said Hagenbach, waving his hand, as if putting aside some disagreeable task, but let all be finished ere I hear of it again. The stern satellites bowed obedience, and the deadly conclave broke up, their chief carefully securing the valuable gems, which he was willing to purchase at the expense of treachery to the sovereign, in whose employment he had enlisted himself,

as well as the blood of two innocent men yet with a weakness of mind not uncommon to great criminals he shrank from the thoughts of his own baseness and cruelty and endeavored to banish the feeling of dishonor from his mind by devolving the immediate execution of his villainy upon his subordinate agents end of chapter fourteen Chapter 15 of Anne of Geierstein by Sir Walter Scott. This Librovox recording is in the public domain. Recording by Dionne's Salt Lake City, Utah. And this place our forefathers built for man. Old play. The dungeon in which the younger Philipson was immured was one of those gloomy caverns which cry shame on the inhumanity of our ancestors. They seem to have been almost insensible to the distinction betwixt innocence and guilt,

as the consequences of mere accusation must have been far more severe in those days than is in our own that species of imprisonment, which is adjudged as an express punishment, for crime. The cell of Arthur Philipson was of considerable length, but dark and narrow, and dug out of the solid rock upon which the tower was founded. A small lamp was allowing him, not however, without some grumbling, but his arms were still kept bound. And when he asked for a draft of water, one of the grimm's satellites by whom he was thrust into this cell answered surlily that he might endure his thirst for

all the time his life was likely to last, a gloomy response, which augured that his privations would continue as long as his life, yet neither be of long duration. By the dim lamp, he had groped his way to a bench or rough seat cut in the rock, and as his eyes got gradually accustomed to the obscurity of the region in which he was immured, he became aware of a ghastly cleft in the floor of his dungeon, somewhat resembling the opening of a draw well, but irregular in its aperture, and apparently the mouth of a gulf of nature's confirmation, slightly assisted by the labor of human art. Here then is my deathbed, he said,

and that gulf perhaps the grave, which yawns for my remains. Nay, I have heard of prisoners being plunged into such horrid abysses while they were yet alive, to die at leisure, crushed with wounds, their groans unheard, and their fate unpitied. He approached his head to the dismal cavity and heard as at a great depth the sound of a sullen and, as it seemed, subterranean stream. The sunless waves appeared murmuring for their victim. Death is dreadful at all ages, but in the first springtide of youth, with all the feelings of enjoyment afloat and eager for gratification,

to be snatched forcibly from the banquet to which the individual has but just sat down, is peculiarly appalling, even when the change comes in the ordinary course of nature. But to sit like young Philipson on the brink of the subterranean abyss and ruminate in hoarse. doubt concerning the mode in which death was to be inflicted was a situation which might break the spirit of the boldest, and the unfortunate captive was wholly unable to suppress the natural tears that flowed from his eyes in torrents, and which his bound arms did not permit him to wipe away. We have already noticed that although a gallant young man in aught of danger, which was to be phased and overcome by active exertion, the youth was strongly imaginative and sensitive to a powerful

extent to all those exaggerations which, in a situation of helpless uncertainty, fancy lens to distract the soul of him who must passively expect an approaching evil. Yet the feelings of Arthur Philipson were not selfish. They reverted to his father, whose just and noble character was as much formed to attract veneration as his unceasing paternal care and affection to excite love and gratitude. He too was in the hands of remorseless villains who were determined to conceal robbery by secret murder. He, too, undaunted in so many dangers, resolute in so many encounters, lay bound and defenseless, exposed to the dagger of the meanest stabber. Arthur remembered, too, the giddy peak of the rock near Geierstein, and the grim vulture,

which claimed him as its prey. Here was no angel to burst through the mist and marshal him on a path of safety. Here the darkness was subterranean and eternal, saving when the captive should behold the knife of the ruffian flash against the lamp, which lent him light to aim the fatal blow. This agony of mind lasted until the feelings of the unhappy prisoner arose to ecstasy. He started up and struggled so hard to free himself of his bonds that it seemed they should have fallen from him as from the arms of the mighty Nazarene. But the cords were. of too firm a texture. And after a violent and unavailing struggle in which the ligatures seemed to

enter his flesh, the prisoner lost his balance. And while the feeling thrilled through him that he was tumbling backward into the subterranean abyss, he fell to the ground with great force. Fortunately, he escaped the danger which in his agony he apprehended, but so narrowly that his head struck against the low and broken fence, with which the mouth of the horrible pit was partly surrounded. here he lay stunned and motionless, and as the lamp was extinguished in his fall, immersed in absolute and total darkness, he was recalled to sensation by a jarring noise. They come, they come, the murderers, O Lady of Mercy, and O gracious heaven, forgive my transgressions. He looked up and observed with dazzled eyes. that a dark form approached him with a knife in one hand and a torch in the other. He might well

have seemed the man who was to do the last deed upon the unhappy prisoner if he had come alone. But he came not alone. His torch gleamed upon the white dress of a female, which was so much illuminated by it that Arthur could discover a form and had even a glimpse of features, never to be forgotten, though now seen under circumstances least of all to be expected. The prisoner's unutterable astonishment impressed him with a degree of awe which overcame even his personal fear. Can these things be? Was his muttered reflection? Has she really the power of an elementary spirit, has she conjured up this earth-like and dark demon to concur with her in my deliverance? It appeared as if his guess were real for the figure in black,

giving the light to Anne of Geierstein, or at least the form which bore her perfect resemblance, stooped over the prisoner and cut the cord that bound his arms with so much dispatch that it seemed as if it fell from his person at a touch. Arthur's first attempt to arise was unsuccessful, and a second time it was the hand of Anne of Geierstein, a living hand sensible to touch as to sight, which aided to raise and to support him, as it had formerly done when the tormented waters of the river thundered at their feet. Her touch produced an effect far beyond that of the slight personal aid which the maiden's strength could have rendered. Courage was restored to his heart, vigor and animation to his benumbed and bruised limbs.

Such influence does the human mind, when excited, to energy possess over the infirmities of the human body. He was about to address Anne in accents of the deepest gratitude, but the accents died away on his tongue when the mysterious female, laying her finger on her lips, made him a sign to be silent, and at the same time beckoned him to follow her. He obeyed in silent amazement. They passed the entrance of the melancholy dungeon, and through one or two short, but intricate passages, which cut out of the rock in some places, and built in others with hewn stone of the same kind, probably led to holes similar to that in which Arthur was so lately a captive. The recollection that his father might be immured in some

such horrid cell as he himself had just quitted, induced Arthur to pause as they reached the bottom of a small winding staircase, which conducted apparently from this region of the building. Come, he said, dearest Anne, lead me to his deliverance. I must not leave my father. She shook her head impatiently and beckoned him on. If your power extends not to save my father's life, I will remain and save him or die. Anne, dearest Anne, she answered not, but her companion replied in a deep voice, not unsuitable to his appearance. Speak, young man, to those who are permitted to answer you, or rather be silent and listen,

to my instructions which direct to the only course which can bring thy father to freedom and safety. They ascended the stair, Anne of Geierstein going first, while Arthur, who followed close behind, could not help thinking that her form gave existence to a part of the light which her garment reflected from the torch. This was probably the effect of the superstitious. belief, impressed on his mind by Rudolph's tale, respecting her mother, and which was confirmed by her sudden appearance in a place and situation where she was so little to have been expected. He had not much time, however, to speculate upon her appearance or demeanor for mounting the stare with a lighter pace than he was able at the time to follow closely. She was no longer to be

seen when he reached the landing place. But whether she had melted into the air or turned aside into some other passage, he was not permitted a moment's leisure to examine. Here lies your way, said his sable guide, and at the same time, dashing out the light and seizing Philipson by the arm, he led him along a dark gallery of considerable length. The young man was not without some momentary misgivings, while he recollected the ominous looks of his conductor, and that he was armed with a dagger or knife, which he could plunge of a sudden. into his bosom, but he could not bring himself to dread treachery from anyone whom he had seen in company with Anne of Geierstein, and in his heart he demanded her pardon for the fear which had

flashed across him, and resigned himself to the guidance of his companion who advanced with hasty but light footsteps, and cautioned him by a whisper to do the same. same. Our journey, he at length said, ends here. As he spoke, a door gave way and admitted them into a gloomy Gothic apartment, furnished with large oaken presses, apparently filled with books and manuscripts. As Arthur looked round, with eyes dazzled with the sudden gleam of daylight, from which he had been for some time excluded, the door by which they had entered, disappeared. This, however, did not greatly surprise him, who judged that being formed in appearance to correspond with the presses around the entrance which they had used, it could not, when shut,

be distinguished from them. A device sometimes then practiced, as indeed it often is at the present day. He had now a full view of his deliverer, who, when seen by daylight, showed only the vestments and features of a clergyman without any of that expression of supernatural horror, which the partial light and the melancholy appearance of all in the dungeon had combined to impress on him. young Philipson once more breathed with freedom as one awakened from a hideous dream, and the supernatural qualities with which his imagination had invested Anne of Geierstein, having begun to vanish, he addressed his deliverer thus, that I may testify my thanks, Holy Father, where they are so especially due, let me inquire of you if Anne of Geyerstein speak of that which pertains to your house and family answered the priest as briefly as before hast thou so soon forgot thy father's danger by heavens no replied the youth tell me but how to act for his deliverance and thou shalt see how a son can fight for a parent it is well for it is need

said the priest, Don thou this vestment, and follow me. The vestment presented was the gown and hood of a novice. Draw the cowl over thy face, said the priest, and return no answer to any man who meets thee. I will say, thou art under a vow. May heaven forgive the unworthy tyrant who imposes on us the necessity of such profane, dissimulation follow me close and near beware that you speak not the business of disguise was soon accomplished and the priest of st paul's for such he was moving on arthur followed him a pace or two behind assuming as well as he could the modest step and humble demeanor of a spiritual novice on leaving the library or study and descending a short stair, he found himself on the street of Brissach, irresistibly tempted to look back. He had only time, however, to see that the house he had left

was a very small building of a Gothic character on the one side of which rose the church of St. Paul's and on the other, the stern black gatehouse or entrance tower. Follow me, Melchior, said the deep voice of the priest, and his keen eyes were at the same time fixed upon the supposed novice with a look which instantly recalled Arthur to a sense of his situation. They passed along, nobody noticing them, unless to greet the priest with a silent abescence or muttered phrase of salutation, until having nearly gained the middle of the village, the guide turned abruptly off from the street, and moving northward by a short lane, reached a flight of steps, which, as usual, in fortified towns, led to the banquet, or walk behind

the parapet, which was of the old Gothic fashion, flanked with towers from space. to space of different forms and various heights at different angles. There were sentinels on the walls, but the watch, as it seemed, was kept not by regular soldiers, but by burghers with spears or swords in their hands. The first whom they passed said to the priest, in a half-whispered tone, holds our purpose. It holds, replied the priest of St. Paul's Benedicticite. Dio Groscius replied the armed citizen and continued his walk upon the battlements. The other sentinels seemed to avoid them, for they disappeared when they came near, or passed them without looking or seeming to observe them.

At last their walk brought them to an ancient turret, which raised its head above the wall, and in which there was a small door opening from the battlement. it was in a corner distinct from and uncommanded by any of the angles of the fortification. In a well-guarded fortress, such a point ought to have had a sentinel for its special protection, but no one was there upon duty. Now mark me, said the priest, for your father's life, and it may be that of many a man besides depends upon your attention. and no less upon your dispatch. You can run, you can leap. I feel no weariness, father,

since you freed me, answered Arthur, and the dun dear that I have often chased shall not beat me in such a wager. Observe, then, replied the black priest of St. Paul's, this turret contains a staircase, which descends to a small sally port. I will give you entrance to it. The sally port is barred on the inside, but not locked. It will give you access to the moat, which is almost entirely dry. On crossing it, you will find yourself in the circuit of the outer barriers. You may see sentinels, but they will not see you. Speak not to them, but make your way over the palisade as you can. I trust you can climb over an undefended rampart. I have surmounted a defended one, said Arthur,

what is my next charge? All this is easy. You will see a species of thicket or stretch of low bushes, make for it with all speed. When you are there, turn to the eastward. But beware, while holding that course that you are not seen by the Burgundian free companions, who are on watch on that part of the walls,

A volley of arrows and the sally of a body of cavalry in pursuit will be the consequence if they get sight of you. And their eyes are those of the eagle that spy the carnage of far off. I will be heedful, said the young Englishman. You will find continued the priest upon the outer side of the thicket, a path, or rather a sheep track, which, sweeping at some distance from the walls, will conduct you at last into the road, leading from Brissach to bail. Hasten forward to meet the Swiss who are advancing. Tell them your father's hours are counted, and that they must press on if they would save him. And say to Rudolph, Donerhugel, in a special, that the black priest of St. Paul's waits to bestow

upon him his blessing at the northern sallyport. Dost thou understand me? Perfectly, answered the young man. The priest of St. Paul's then pushed open the low-browed gate of the turret, and Arthur was about to precipitate himself down the stair, which opened before him. Stay yet a moment, said the priest, and doff the novice's habit, which can only encumber thee. Arthur in a trice threw it from him and was again about to start. Stay yet a moment longer, continued the black priest.

This gown may be a tell-tale. Stay, therefore, and help me to pull off my upper garment. Inwardly glowing with impatience, Arthur yet saw the necessity of obeying his guide, and when he had pulled the long and loose upper vestment, from the old man, he stood before him in a cassock of black surge, befitting his order and profession, but begirt not with a suitable sash such as clergyman wear, but with a most uncanonical buff belt supporting a short two-edged sword, calculated alike to stab and to smite. Give me now the novices habit, said the venerable father, and over,

that I will put the priestly vestment, since for the present I have some tokens of the laity about me, it is fitting it should be covered with a double portion of the clerical habit. As he spoke thus, he smiled grimly, and his smile had something more frightful and withering than the stern frown, which suited better with his features and was their usual expression. And now, said he, what does the fool tarry for when life and death are in his speed? The young messenger waited not a second hint, but at once descended the stairs as if it had been by a single step, found the portal, as the priest had said, only secured by bars on the inside, offering little resistance save from their rusted state, which made it difficult. to draw them. Arthur succeeded, however, and found himself at the side of the moat, which presented a green and marshy appearance. Without stopping to examine whether it was deep or shallow, and almost

without being sensible of the tenacity of the morass, the young Englishman forced his way through it and attained the opposite side without attracting the attention of two worthy burgers of Brissach, who were the guardians of the barriers. One of them, indeed, was deeply employed in the perusal of some profane chronicle or religious legend. The other was as anxiously engaged in examining the margin of the moat in search of eels, perhaps, or frogs, for he wore over his shoulder a script for securing some such amphibious booty. Seeing that, as the priest foretold, he had nothing to apprehend from the vigilance of the sentinels. Arthur dashed at the palisade in hope to catch hold of the top of the stockade,

and so to clear it by one bold leap. He overrated his powers of activity, however, or they were diminished by his recent bonds and imprisonment. He fell lightly backward on the ground, and as he got to his feet, became aware of the presence of a soldier in yellow and blue, the livery of de Hagenbach, who came running towards him, crying to the slothful and unobservant sentinels, alarm, alarm, you lazy swine, stop the dog, or you are both dead men. The fisherman, who was on the farther side, laid down his eel spear, drew his sword,

and flourishing it over his head advanced toward Philipson with very moderate haste. The student was yet more unfortunate, for in his hurry to fold up his book and attend to his duty, he contrived to throw himself inadvertently doubtless, full in the soldier's way. The latter who was running at top speed encountered the burger with a severe shock, which threw both down. But the citizen, being a solid and substantial man, lay still where he fell, while the other, less weighty and probably less prepared for the collision, lost his balance and the command of his limbs at once, and rolling over the edge of the moat was immersed in the mud and marsh. the Fisher and the student went with deliberate speed to assist the unexpected and unwelcome partner of their watch,

while Arthur, stimulated by the imminent sense of danger, sprang at the barrier with more address and vigor than before, and succeeding in his leap, made as he had been directed, with his utmost speed for the covert of the adjacent bushes. he reached them without hearing any alarm from the walls, but he was conscious that his situation had become extremely precarious since his escape from the town was known to one man, at least, who would not fail to give the alarm in case he was able to extricate himself from the marsh. A feat, however, in which it seemed to Arthur that the armed citizens were like, to prove rather his apparent than actual assistance. While such thoughts shot across his mind,

they served to augment his natural speed of foot, so that in less space than could have been thought possible, he reached the thinner extremity of the thicket, once as intimated by the black priest, he could see the eastern tower and the adjoining battlements of the town, with hostile faces thronged and fiery arms. It required at the same time some address on the part of the fugitive to keep so much under shelter as to prevent himself from being seen in his turn by those whom he saw so plainly. He therefore expected every moment to hear a bugle wind, or to behold that bustle and commotion among the defenders which might prognosticate a sally. Neither, however, took place,

and heedfully observing the footpath or track which the priest had pointed out to him, young Philipson wheeled his course out of sight of the guarded towers, and soon falling into the public and frequented road, by which his father and he had approached the town in the morning. He had the happiness by the dust and flash of arms to see a small body of armed men advancing towards Brissach, whom he justly concluded to be the van of the Swiss deputation. He soon met the party, which consisted of about ten men, with Rudolph Donnerhugel at their head, The figure of Philipson, covered with mud, and in some places stained with blood, for his fall in the dungeon had caused him a slight wound, attracted the wonder of everyone who crowded around to hear the news. Drudolph alone appeared unmoved, like the visage on the ancient statues of Hercules,

the physiognomy of the bulky Bernese was large and massive, having an air of indifferent and almost sullen composure, which did not change but in moments of the fiercest agitation. He listened without emotion to the breathless tale of Arthur Philipson that his father was in prison and adjudged to death. And what else did you expect? said the Bernese coldly. Were you not warned? It had been easy to have foreseen the misfortune, but it may be impossible to prevent it. I own, I own, said Arthur, wringing his hands, that you were wise and that we were foolish. But, oh, do not think of our folly in the moment of our extremity. Be the gallant and generous champion, which your cantons proclaim you.

Give us your aid in this deadly strait. But how, or in what manner, said Rudolph, still hesitating? We have dismissed the Belize, who were willing to have given assistance. So much did your dutiful example weigh with us. We are now scarce above a score of men. How can you ask us to attack? a garrison town secured by fortifications, and where there are six times our number. You have friends within the fortifications, replied Arthur. I am sure you have. Hark in your ear,

the black priest sent to you, to you, Rudolph Donner-Hughal of Bern, that he waits to give you his blessing at the northern Salliport. I, doubtless, said Rudolph, shaking himself free of Arthur's attempt to engage him in private conference, and speaking so that all around might hear him, there is little doubt on it. I will find a priest at the northern Salliport to confess and absolve me, and a block, axe, and headsman to strike my throat asunder when he has done. But I will scarce put the neck of my father's son into such risk. If they assassinate, an English peddler who has never offended them. What will they do with the bear of Bern, whose fangs and talons Archibald the Hagenbach has felt ere now? Young Philipson at these words

clasped his hands together and held them up to heaven as one who abandons hope, accepting fence. The tears started to his eyes and clenching his hands and setting his teeth, He turned his back abruptly upon the Swiss. What means this passion? said Rudolph, whither would you now, to rescue my father or perish with him? said Arthur,

and was about to run wildly back to Lafaret when a strong but kindly grasp detained him. Terry a little till I tie my garter, said Sigismund, Biederman, and I will go with you, King Arthur. you, Oaf, exclaimed Rudolph, you, and without orders. Why look you, cousin Rudolph, said the youth, continuing with great composure, to fasten his garter, which, after the fashion of the time, was somewhat intricately secured.

You are always telling us that we are Swiss and free men, and what is the advantage of being a free man, if one is not at liberty to do what he has a mind. You are my hopped man, look you, so long as it pleases me, and no longer. And why shouldst thou desert me now, thou fool? Why at this minute of all other minutes in the year? Demanded thee, Bernese, Look you, replied the insubordinate follower, I have hunted with Arthur for this month past, and I love him.

He never called me fool or idiot because my thoughts came slower, maybe, and somewhat duller, than those of other folk. And I love his father. The old man gave me this baldric and this horn, which I warrant caused many a cruitzer. He told me, too, not to be discouraged, for that it was better to think justly than to think fast, and that I had sense enough for the one, if not for the other. And the kind old man is now in Hagenbach's butcher shambles, but we will free him, Arthur, if two men may. Thou shalt see me fight, while steel blade and ashen shaft will hold together. So saying he shook in the air his enormous

partisan, which quivered in his grasp like a slip of willow. Indeed, if iniquity was to be struck down like an ox, there was not one in that chosen band more likely to perform the feet than Sigismund, for those somewhat shorter in stature than his brethren, and of a less animated spirit, yet his breadth of shoulders and strength of muscles were enormous. and if thoroughly aroused and disposed for the contest, which was very rarely the case, perhaps Rudolph himself might, as far as sheer force went, have had difficulty in matching him. Truth of sentiment and energy of expression always produce an effect on natural and generous characters. Several of the youths around began to exclaim that Sigismund said well,

that if the old man had put himself in danger, it was because he thought more of the success of their negotiation than of his own safety, and had taken himself from under their protection, rather than involve them in quarrels on his account. We are the more bound, they said, to see him unscathed, and we will do so. Peace, all you wiseacres, said Rudolph, looking round with an air of superiority. And you, Arthur of England, pass on to the landman, who is close behind. You know he is our chief commander. He is, no less, your father's sincere friend, and whatever he may determine in your father's favor, you will find most ready, executors of his pleasure in all of us. His companions appeared to concur in this advice.

and young Philipson saw that his own compliance with the recommendation was indispensable. Indeed, although he still suspected that the Bernese by his various intrigues, as well with the Swiss youth as with those of bail, and as might be inferred from the priest of St. Paul's, by communication, even within the town of Lafourette, possessed the greater power of assisting him at such a conjuncture, yet he trusted far more in the simple candor and perfect faith of Arnold Biederman, and pressed forward to tell to him his mournful tale and crave his assistance. From the top of a bank which he reached in a few minutes after he parted from Rudolph and the advanced guard, he saw beneath him the venerable Landman and his associate.

attended by a few of the youths who no longer were dispersed upon the flanks of the party, but attended on them closely and in military array as men prepared to repel any sudden attack. Behind came a mule or two with baggage, together with the animals which, in the ordinary course of their march, supported Anne of Geierstein and her attendant. Both were occupied, by female figures as usual, and to the best of Arthur's Ken, the foremost had the well-known dress of Anne, from the gray mantle to a small heron's plume, which since entering Germany, she had worn in compliance with the custom of the country, and in evidence of her rank as a maiden of birth and distinction. Yet if the youth's eyes brought him true tidings at present,

What was the character of their former information, when scarce more than half an hour since they had beheld in the subterranean dungeon of Brissach the same form which they now rested upon in circumstances so very different? The feeling excited by this thought was powerful, but it was momentary, like the lightning which blazes through a midnight sky, which is but just seen ere it vanishes into darkness, or rather the wonder excited by this marvelous incident, only maintained its ground in his thoughts by allying itself with the anxiety for his father's safety, which was their predominant occupation. If there be indeed a spirit, he said, which wears that beautiful form, it must be beneficent as well as lovely, and will extend to my far

more deserving father the protection which his son has twice experienced. But ere he had time to prosecute such a thought further, he had met the Landman and his party. Here his appearance and his condition excited the same surprise as they had formerly occasioned to Rudolph and the vanguard. To the repeated interrogatories of the Landman, he gave a brief account of his own imprisonment and of his escape, of which he suffered the whole glory to rest with the black priest of St. Paul's, without mentioning one word of the more interesting female apparition, by which he had been attended and assisted in his charitable task. On another point also Arthur was silent,

he saw no propriety in communicating to Arnold Biederman, the message which the priest had addressed to Rudolph's ear alone. Whether good should come of it or no, he held sacred, the obligation of silence imposed upon him by a man from who, he had just received the most important assistance. The Landman was struck dumb for a moment with sorrow and surprise at the news which he heard. The elder Philipson had gained his respect, as well by the purity and steadiness of the principles which he expressed as by the extent and depth of his information, which was peculiarly valuable and interesting.

to the Switzer, who felt his admirable judgment considerably fettered for want of that knowledge of countries, times, and manners, with which his English friend often supplied him. Let us press forward, he said to the Bannarette of Byrne and the other deputies. Let us offer our mediation betwixt the tyrant de Hagenbach and our friend whose life is in danger. He must listen to us. I know his master expects to see this Philipson at his court. The old man hinted to me so much. As we are possessed of such a secret, Archibald de Hagenbach will not dare to brave our vengeance, since we might easily send to Duke Charles information how the governor of Lafourette abuses his power

in matters where not only the Swiss, but where the Duke himself is concerned. Under your reverend favor, my worthy sir, answered the Bannarette of Bern, we are Swiss deputies and go to represent the injuries of Switzerland alone. If we embroil ourselves with the quarrels of strangers, we shall find it more difficult to settle advantageously those of our own country. and if the Duke should by this villainy done upon English merchants bring upon him the resentment of the English monarch, such breach will only render it more a matter of peremptory necessity for him to make a treaty advantageous to the Swiss cantons. There was so much worldly policy in this advice that Adam Zimmerman of Seleur instantly accepted.

expressed his assent with the additional argument that their brother Biederman had told them scarce two hours before how these English merchants had, by his advice and their own free desire, parted company with them that morning on purpose that they might not involve the deputies in the quarrels which might be raised by the governor's exactions on his merchandise. Now, what advantage he said shall we derive from this same parting of company? Supposing, as my brother seems to urge, we are still to consider this Englishman's interest as if he were our fellow traveler and under our special protection. This personal reasoning pinched the Landman somewhat closely,

for he had but a short while before discanted on the general, of the elder Philipson, who had freely exposed himself to danger, rather than that he should embarrass their negotiation by remaining one of their company. And it completely shook the fealty of the white-bearded Nicholas Bonstettin, whose eyes wandered from the face of Zimmerman, which expressed triumphant confidence in his argument, to that of his friend, the Landemann, which was rather more embarrassed than usual. Brethren, said Arnold at length, with firmness and animation, I erred in priding myself upon the worldly policy,

which I taught to you this morning. This man is not of our country, doubtless, but he is of our blood, a copy of the common creator's image and the more worthy of being called so as he is a man of integrity and worth, we might not, without grievous sin, pass such a person being in danger without affording him relief, even if he lay accidentally by the side of our path, much less should we abandon him if the danger has been incurred in our own cause,

and that we might escape the net in which he is himself caught. Be not, therefore, downcast, we do God's will in succoring and oppressed man. If we succeed, by mild means, as I trust we shall, we do a good action at a cheap rate. If not, God can't assert the cause of humanity by the hands of few as well as of many. Such is your opinion, said the Bannerman of Byrne. Not a man here will shrink from you. For me, I pleaded against my own inclinations when I advised you to avoid a breach with the Burgundian. But as a soldier, I must need say I would rather fight the garrison, where they double the number they talk of in a fair field, then undertake to storm their defenses.

Nay, said the landman, I sincerely hope we shall both enter and depart from the town of Brasak without deviating from the Pacific character with which our mission from the Diet invests us. End of Chapter 15. Chapter 16 of Anne of Geierstein by Sir Walter Scott. This Librevox recording is in the public domain recording by Dionne Gines, Salt Lake City, Utah. For Somerset off with his guilty

head, third part of Henry the Sixth. The governor of Laferrette stood on the battlements of the eastern entrance tower of his fortress and looked out on the road to bail when first the vanguard of the Swiss mission, then the center and rear, appeared in the distance. At the same moment, the van halting, the main body closed with it, while the females and baggage and mules in the rear moved in their turn up to the main body, and the whole were united in one group. A messenger then stepped forth and winded one of those tremendous horns. The spoil of the spoils of the wild bulls so numerous in the canton of Uri that they are supposed to have given rise to its name. They demand admittance, said the esquire.

They shall have it, answered Sir Archibald de Hagenbach. Mary, how they may pass out again, is another and a deeper question. Think yet a moment, noble sir, continued the esquire, bink you these switzers are very fiends in fight and have besides no booty to repay the conquest some paltry chains of good copper perchance or adulterated silver you have knocked out the marrow do not damage your teeth by trying to grind the bone thou art of fool killian answered to hoggumbach and it may be a coward besides the The approach of some score, or at most some score and a half, of Swiss partisans, makes thee draw in thy horns like a snail at a child's finger. Mine are strong and inflexible, as those of the Eurus, of whom they talk so much, and on which they blow so boldly.

Keep in mind, thou timid creature, that if the Swiss deputies, as the Swiss deputies, as they presume to call themselves are permitted to pass free, they carry to the Duke, stories of merchants bound to his court and fraught with precious commodities specially addressed to his grace. Charles has them at once to endure the presence of the ambassadors whom he contends and hates and learns by them that the governor of Laferrette, permitting such to pass has nevertheless presumed to stop those whom he would full gladly see for what prince would not blithely welcome such a casket as that which we have taken from yonder strolling english pedlar i see not how the assault on these ambassadors lament your excellency's plea for despoiling the englishman said Killian, because thou art a blind mole, Killian, answered his chief. If Burgundy hears of a

ruffle between my garrison and the mountain shurls whom he scorns and yet hates, it will drown all notice of the two peddlers who have perished in the fray, if after inquiry should come, an hour's ride transports me with my confidants into the imperial dominions, where though the emperor be a spiritless fool, the rich prize I have found on these islanders will ensure me a good reception. I will stick by your excellency to the last, returned the esquire, and you shall yourself witness that, if a fool, I am at least no coward. I never thought thee such when it came to hand blows, said to Hagenbach, but in policy thou art timid and irresolute.

Hand me mine armor, Killian, and beware thou brace it well. The Swiss pikes and swords are no wasp-stings. May your excellency wear it with honor and profit, said Killian, and according to the duty of his office, he buckled. upon his principle the complete panoply of a knight of the empire. Your purpose of assaulting the Swiss then holds firm, said Killian, but what pretext will your excellency assign? Let me alone, said Archibald de Hagenbach, to take one or to make one. Do you only have Schoenfeld and the soldiers on their stations? And remember the words are,

burgundy to the rescue when these words are first spoken let the soldiers show themselves when repeated let them fall on and now that i am a kuterd away to the churls and admit them killian bowed and withdrew the bugle of the switzers had repeatedly emitted its angry roar exasperated by the delay of nearly half an hour without an answer from the guarded gate of Brissach, and every blast declared by the prolonged echoes which it awakened, the increased impatience of those who summoned the town. At length the Port Cullis arose, the gate opened, the drawbridge fell, and Killian, in the equipage of a man-at-arms, a raid for fight, rode forth on an ambling, What bold men are ye, sirs, who are here in arms before the fortress of Brissac, appertaining in right and signory to the thrice noble Duke of Burgundy and Lorraine, and garrisoned for his cause and interest by the excellent Sir Archibald, Lord of Hagenbach,

knight of the most holy Roman Empire? So please you, Sir Esquire, said the landman, for such I conjecture you to be by the feather in your bonnet. We are here with no hostile intentions, though armed, as you see, to defend us in a perilous journey where we are something unsafe by day and cannot always repose by night in places of security. But our arms have no offensive purpose. If they had such, our numbers had not been so few as you see them. What then is your character and purpose, said Killian, who had learned to use in his master's absence, the lordly and insolent tone of the governor himself? We are delegates, answered the landman,

in a calm and even tone of voice, without appearing to take offense at or to observe the insolent demeanor of the Esquire, from the free and confederated cantons of the Swiss states and provinces, and from the good town of Seleur, who are accredited from our deit of legislature to travel to the presence of his grace, the Duke of Burgundy, on an errand of high importance to both countries, and with the hope of establishing, your master's lord i mean with the noble duke of burgundy a sure and steadfast peace upon such terms as shall be to the mutual honor and advantage of both countries and to avert disputes and the effusion of christian blood which may otherwise be shed for want of timely and good understanding show me your letters of credence said the esquire under your forgiveness sir esquire replied the landman it will be time enough to exhibit these when we are admitted to the presence of your master the governor this is as much as to say willful will to it

it is well my masters and yet you may take this advice from killian of kursberg it is sometimes better to rail backwards than to run forwards. My master and my master's master are more ticklish persons than the dealers of bail, to whom you sell your cheeses. Home, honest man, home. Your way lies before you, and you are fairly warned. We thank thee for thy counsel, said the landman, interrupting the bannerette of Byrne, who had commenced an angry reply, supposing it kindly meant. If not, an uncivil jest is like an overcharged gun, which recoils on the cannoneer. Our road lies onward through Brissac, and onward we propose to go and take such hap as that which we may find before us. Go onward, then, in the devil's name, said the squire.

who had entertained some hope of deterring them from pursuing their journey, but found himself effectually foiled. The Switzers entered the town and stopped by the barricade of cars, which the governor had formed across the street at about 20 yards from the gate. They drew themselves up in military order, with their little body formed into three lines. the two females and the fathers of the deputation being in the center. The little phalanx presented a double front, one to each side of the street, while the center line faced so as to move forward and only waited for the removal of the barricade in order to do so. But while they stood thus inactive, a knight in complete armor appeared from a side door

of the great tower under the arch of which they had entered into the town. His visor was raised, and he walked along the front of the little line formed by the Swiss with a stern and frowning aspect. Who are you, he said, who have thus far intruded yourselves in arms into a Burgundian garrison? With your excellencies leave, said the Landman, we are men who come. on a peaceful errand though we carry arms for our own defense deputies we are from the towns of Bern and Soler the cantons of Yuri Switz and Unterwalden come to adjust matters of importance with the gracious Duke of Burgundy and Lorraine

what towns what cantons said the governor of Lafferette I have heard no such names among the free cities of Germany, Bern truly, when became Bern a free state? Since the 21st day of June, said Arnold Biedermann in the Year of Grace, 1,339, on which day the Battle of Lopin was fought, away vain, old man, said the night, thinkest thou that such Isle Boasts can avail thee here? We have heard indeed of some insurgent villages and communities among the Alps and how they rebelled against the Emperor, and by the advantage of fastnesses, ambuscades, and lurking places, how they have murdered some knights and gentlemen sent against them by the Duke of Austria. But we little thought that such paltry townships,

and insignificant bands of mutineers have the insolence to turn themselves free states and propose to enter into negotiation as such with a mighty prince like charles of burgundy may it please your excellency replied the landman with perfect temper your own laws of chivalry declare that if the stronger wrong the weaker or the noble does injury to the less gentle the very act levels distinctions between them and the doer of an injury becomes bound to give condyne satisfaction of such kind as the wrong party shall demand hence to thy hills churl exclaimed the haughty knight there comb thy beard and roast thy chestnuts what because a few rats and mice find retreat about among the walls and wainscotting of our dwelling-houses shall we therefore allow them to intrude their disgusting presence and their errors of freedom and independence into our personal presence no we will rather crush them beneath the heel of our iron-shod boots we are not men to be trodden on said arnold beaterman calmly those who have attempted it

have found us stumbling blocks lay sir knight lay aside for an instant this haughty language which can only lead to warfare and listen to the words of peace dismiss our comrade the english merchant philipson on whom you have this morning laid unlawful hands let him pay a moderate sum for his ransom and we who are bound instantly to the duke's presence will bear a fair report to him of his governor of Lafaret. You will be so generous, will you? said Sir Archibald in a tone of ridicule, and what pledge shall I have that you will favor me so kindly as you propose? The word of a man who never broke his promise answered the stoical Lendeman. Insolent hind, replied the knight, dost thou stipulate? Thou offer thy paltry word as a pledge betwixt the Duke of Burgundy and Archibald the Hoggambach?

Know that ye go not to Burgundy at all, or you go thither with fetters on your hands and halters round your necks. So ho, Burgundy, to the rescue. Instantly as he spoke, the soldiers showed themselves before, behind and around the narrow space where the Swiss had drawn themselves up. The battlements of the town were lined with men. Others presented themselves at the doors of each house in the street, prepared to sally, and at the windows prepared to shoot, as well with guns as with bows and crossbows. The soldiers who defended the barricade also started up and seemed ready to dispute the passage in front. The little band encompassed and overmatched, but neither startled nor disheartened,

stood to their arms. The center rank under the landman prepared to force their way over the barricade. The two fronts stood back to back, ready to dispute the street with those that should issue from the houses. It could not fail to prove a work of no small blood and toil. to subdue this handful of determined men, even with five times their number. Some sense of this, perhaps, made Sir Archibald delay giving the signal for onset, when suddenly behind arose a cry of treason, treason. A soldier covered with mud rushed before the governor and said in hurried accents that as he endeavored to stop a prisoner who had made his escape some short time since he had been seized

by the burghers of the town and well-nigh drowned in the moat he added that the citizens were even now admitting the enemy into the place killian said the knight take two score of men hasten to the northern sallyport stab cut down or throw from the battlements whom soever you meet in arms, townsmen or strangers, leave me to settle with these peasants by fair means or foul. But Erykilean could obey his master's commands, a shout arose in the rear, where they cried, Bale, Bail, freedom, freedom, the day is our own. Onward came the youth of Bale, who had not been at such a distance, but that Rudolph had contrived to recall them. Onward came many Swiss who had hovered around the embassy, holding themselves in readiness for such a

peace of service, and onward came the armed citizens of Laferret, who compelled to take arms and Mount Guard by the tyranny of de Hottombach had availed themselves of the opportunity to admit the Belize at the Salliport, through which Philipson had lately made his escape. The garrison somewhat discouraged before by the firm aspect of the Swiss, who had held their numbers at defiance, were totally disconcerted by this new and unexpected insurrection. most of them prepared rather to fly than to fight and they threw themselves in numbers from the walls as the best chance of escaping killian and some others whom pride prevented from flying and despair from asking quarter fought with fury and were killed on the spot in the midst of this confusion the landman kept his own bands unmoved permitting them to take no share in the action, save to repel such violence as was offered to them.

Stand fast all, sounded the deep voice of Arnold Biederman along their little body. Where is Rudolph? Save lives that take none. Why, how now, Arthur Philipson, stand fast, I say, I cannot stand fast, said Arthur, who was in the act of leaving the ranks. I must seek my father in the dungeons. They may be slaying him in this confusion while I stand idle here. By our lady of Ensidlin, you say well, answered the Lendeman, that I should have forgot my noble guest. I will help thee to search for him, Arthur. The affray seems well nigh ended. Ho there, Sir Bannarette, worthy Adam Zimmerman, my good friend Nicholas von Stetton. keep our men standing firm have nothing to do with this affray but leave the man of bail to answer their own deeds i return in a few minutes

so saying he hurried after arthur phillipson whose recollection conducted him with sufficient accuracy to the head of the dungeon stairs there they met an ill-looking man clad in a buff jerkin who bore or at his girdle a bunch of rusted keys, which intimated the nature of his calling. Show me the prison of the English merchant, said Arthur Philipson, or thou diest by my hand. Which of them desire you to see? answered the official, the old man, or the young one? The old, said young Philipson, his son has escaped thee. Enter here then, gentlemen, said the jailer, undoing the story. spring bolt of a heavy door. At the upper end of the apartment lay the man they came to seek for, who was instantly raised from the ground and loaded with their embraces. My dear father,

my worthy guest, said his son and friend at the same moment. How fares it with you? Well, answered the elder Philipson, if you, my friend and son, come as I judge from your arms and countenance as conquerors and at liberty. Ill, if you come to share my prison house. Have no fear of that, said the landman. We have been in danger, but are remarkably delivered. Your evil layer has been numbed you. Lean on me, my noble guest, and let me assist you to better quarters. Here he was interrupted by a heavy clash as it seemed of iron, and differing from the distant roar of the popular tumult, which they still heard from the open street, as men hear the deep voice of a remote and tempestuous ocean. By St. Peter of the fetters,

said Arthur, who instantly discovered the cause of the sound, the jailer has cast the door to the staple, or it has escaped his grasp. The springlock has closed upon us, and we can't cannot be liberated, saving from the outside. Ho! jailer, dog, villain, open the door, or thou diest. He is probably out of hearing of your threats, said the elder Philipson, and your cries avail you nothing. But are you sure the Swiss are in possession of the town? We are peaceful occupants of it, answered the landman, though without a blow given on our side.

then, said the Englishman, your followers will soon find you out. Arthur and I are paltry ciphers, and our absence might easily pass over, unobserved, but you are too important a figure not to be missed and looked after when the sum of your number is taken. I well hope it will prove so, said the landman, though methinks I show but scurvilly, shut up here, like a cat in a cupboard when he has been stealing cream. Arthur, my brave boy, dost thou see no means of shooting back the bolt? Arthur, who had been minutely examining the lock, replied in the negative, and added that they must take patience per force and arm themselves to wait calmly their deliverance, which they could do nothing to accelerate. Arnold Beterman, however,

felt somewhat severely the neglect of his sons and companions all my youths uncertain whether I am alive or dead are taking the opportunity of my absence doubtless for pillage and license and the politic Rudolph I presume cares not if I should never reappear on the stage the Bannarette and the white-bearded fool Bonstettin who calls me his friend, every neighbor has deserted me, and yet they know that I am anxious for the safety of the most insignificant of them all, as dearer to me than my own. By heavens, it looks like stratagem and shows as if the rash young men desired to get rid of a rule too regular and peaceful, to be pleasing to those who are eager for war and conquest. The landman fretted out of his

usual serenity of temper and afraid of the misbehavior of his countryman in his absence, thus reflected upon his friends and companions, while the distant noise soon died away into the most absolute and total silence. What is to do now, said Arles. I trust they will take the opportunity of quiet to go through the roll call and inquire them who are a missing. It seemed as if the young man's wish had some efficacy, for he had scarce uttered it before the lock was turned, and the door set ajar by someone who escaped upstairs from behind it before those who were set at liberty could obtain a

glance of their deliverer. It is the jailer, doubtless, said the Landman, who may be apprehensive, as he has some reason, that we might prove more incensed at our detention in the dungeon than grateful for our deliverance. As they spoke thus, they ascended the narrow stairs and issued from the door of the gatehouse tower, where a singular spectacle awaited them. The Swiss deputies and their escort still remained standing fast and firm on the very spot where Hagenbach had proposed to assail them. A few of the late governor's soldiers disarmed and cowering from the rage of a multitude of the citizens who now filled the streets, stood with downcast looks behind the phalanx of the mountaineers as their safest place of retreat. But this was not all. But this was not all,

the cars so lately placed to obstruct the passage of the street were now joined together and served to support a platform or scaffold which had been hastily constructed of planks. On this was placed a chair in which sat a tall man with his head, neck, and shoulders bare. The rest of his body clothed in bright armor. His countenance was as pale as death, yet young, Philipson recognized the hard-hearted governor, Sir Archibald Hoganbach. He appeared to be bound to the chair on his right, and close beside him stood the priest of St. Paul's muttering prayers with his breviary in his hand, while on his left and somewhat behind the captive appeared a tall man attired in red, and leaning with both hands on the naked sword, which has been described on a former occasion. The instant that Arnold Biederman appeared and before the Landaman could open his lips to demand

the meaning of what he saw, the priest drew back, the executioner stepped forward, the sword was brandished, the blow was struck, and the victims had rolled on the scaffold. A general acclamation and clapping of hands like that by which a crowded theater approves of some well-graced performer followed this feat of dexterity, while the headless corpse shot streams from the arteries,

which were drunk up by the sawdust that strewed the scaffold. The executioner gracefully presented himself alternately at the four corners of the stage, modestly bowing as the multitude greeted him with, cheers of approbation. Nobles, knights, gentlemen of free-born blood, and good citizens, he said, who have assisted at this act of high justice, I pray you to bear me witness that this judgment have been executed after the form of the sentence at one blow, and without stroke missed or repeated. The acclamations were reiterated. Long live our sharp. scherfger richter steinernherz and many a tyrant may he do his duty on noble friends said the executioner with the deepest obeisance i have yet another word to say and it must be a proud one

god be gracious to the soul of this good and noble knight sir archibald de hagenbach he was the patron of my youth and my guide to the path of honor eight steps have I made towards freedom and nobility on the heads of freeborn knights and nobles who have fallen by his authority and command. And the ninth by which I have attained it is upon his own, in grateful memory of which I will expend this purse of gold, which but an hour since he bestowed on me in masses for his soul. gentlemen, noble friends, and now my equals, Laferrette has lost a nobleman and gained one. Our lady be gracious to the departed knight, Sir Archibald the Hagenbach, and bless and prosper

the progress of Stephen Steinerhurtz von Blitzacher, now free and noble of right. With that, he took the feather out of the cap of the deceased, which soiled with the blood of the wearer lay near his body upon the scaffold, and putting it into his own official bonnet, received the homage of the crowd in loud huzzas, which were partly in earnest, partly in ridicule of such an unusual transformation. Arnold Biederman at length found breath, which the extremity of surprise had at first denied him. Indeed, the whole execution had passed, much too rapidly for the possibility of his interference. Who has dared to act this tragedy, he said indignantly, and by what right has it taken place? A cavalier richly dressed in blue

replied to the question, the free citizens of Bale have acted for themselves as the fathers of Swiss liberty set them an example, and the tyrant de Hagenbach has fallen by the same right which put to death the tyrant, Gaisler. We bore with him till his cup was brimming over, and then we bore no longer. I say not but that he deserved death, replied the landman, but for your own sake, and for hours, you should have forborne him till the Duke's pleasure was known. What tell you us of the Duke? answered Lauren's Nippurk, the same, blue cavalier whom Arthur had seen at the secret rendezvous of the Belize youth in company with Rudolph. Why talk you of Burgundy to us who are none of his subjects? The emperor, our only

rightful Lord, had no title to pawn the town and fortifications of Lafarette, being as it is, a dependency of bail, to the prejudice of our free city. He might have pledged, the revenue indeed, and supposing him to have done so, the debt has been paid twice over by the exactions levied by yonder oppressor, who has now received his due. But pass on, Landemann of Untrulden. If our actions displease you, abjure them at the footstool of the Duke of Burgundy, but in doing so, abjure the memory of William Tell and stoffing. of first and Melttal, the fathers of Swiss freedom. You speak truth, said the Landman, but it is in an ill-chosen and unhappy time.

Patients would have remedied your evils, which none felt more deeply, or would have redressed more willingly than I. But, oh, imprudent young man, you have thrown aside the modesty of your age and the subjections. you owe to your elders. William Tell and his brethren were men of years and judgment, husbands and fathers having a right to be heard in counsel and to be foremost in action. Enough, I'd leave it with the fathers and senators of your own city to acknowledge or to reprove your actions. But you, my friends, you, Bannoretta Byrne, you, Rudolph, above all, you, Nicholas Bonstetten, my comrade, and my friend, why did you not take this miserable man

under your protection? The action would have shown Burgundy that we were slandered by those who have declared us desirous of seeking a quarrel with him or of inciting his subjects to revolt. Now all these prejudices will be confirmed in the minds of men, naturally more tenacious, of evil impressions than of those which are favorable as i live by bread good gossip and neighbor answered nicholas bonstaten i thought to obey your injunctions to a tittle so much so that i once thought of breaking in and protecting the man when rudolph donor hugel reminded me that your last orders were to stand firm and let the man of bale answer for their own actions, and surely, said I to myself, my gossip, Arnold, knows better than all of us what is fitting to be done. Ah, Rudolph, Rudolph, said the Landaman, looking on him with a displeased countenance, weren't thou not ashamed thus to deceive an old man? To say I deceived him is a hard charge, but from you, Landemann answered the Bernese, with his usual deference, I can bear anything.

I will only say that, being a member of this embassy, I am obliged to think and to give my opinion as such, especially when he is not present, who is wise enough to lead and direct us all. Thy words are always fair, Rudolph, replied Arnold Biederman, and I try to try to, So is thy meaning. Yet there are times when I somewhat doubt it. But let disputes pass, and let me have your advice, my friends, and for that purpose go we where it may best profit us, even to the church, where we will first return our thanks for our deliverance from assassination, and then hold counsel what next is to be done. The Landman led the way accordingly to the Church of St. Paul's, while his companions and associates followed in their order.

This gave Rudolph, who as youngest, suffered the others to precede him, an opportunity to beckon to him, the Landman's eldest son, Rudiger, and whisper to him to get rid of the two English merchants. Away with them, my dear Rudiger, by fair means if possible, but away with them direct. thy father is besotted with these two English peddlers and will listen to no other counsel, and thou and I know, dearest Rudiger, that such men as these are unfit to give laws to free-born Switzers. Get the trumpery they have been robbed of, or as much of it as is extant, together as fast as thou canst, and send them a traveling in heaven's name. Rudiger nodded intelligently and went to offer his services to expedite the departure of the elder Philipson.

He found the sagacious merchant as desirous to escape from the scene of confusion, now presented in the town, as the young Swiss could be to urge his departure. He only waited to recover the casket of which de Hagenbach had positioned. possessed himself, and Rudiger Biederman set on foot a strict search after it, which was the more likely to be successful than the simplicity of the Swiss prevented them from setting the true value upon its contents. A strict and hasty search was immediately instituted, both on the person of the dead de Hagenbach, on which the precious packet was not to be found, and on all who had approached him at his execution or were supposed to enjoy his confidence young arthur phillipson would gladly have availed himself of a few moments to bid farewell to anne of geirstein but the gray wimple was no longer seen in the ranks of the switzers and it was reasonable to think that in the confusion which followed the execution of de haggenbach and the retreat of the lichens

leaders of the little battalion, she had made her escape into some of the adjacent houses, while the soldiers around her, no longer restrained by the presence of their chiefs, had dispersed, some to search for the goods of which the Englishman had been despoiled, others doubtless to mingle with and join in the rejoicings of the victorious youths of Bail, and of those burghers of Lafaret, by who, the fortifications of the town had been so gently surrendered. The cry amongst them was universal that Brissac, so long considered as the curb of the Swiss Confederates and the barrier against their commerce should henceforth be garrisoned as their protection against the encroachments and exactions of the Duke of Burgundy and his officers. The whole town was in a wild but

joyful jubilee, while the citizens vied with each other in offering to the Suez every species of refreshment, and the youths who attended upon the mission hurried gaily and in triumph to profit by the circumstances which had so unexpectedly converted the ambiscade so treacherously laid for them into a genial and joyous reception. Amid this scene of confusion. Amid this scene of confusion, It was impossible for Arthur to quit his father, even to satisfy the feelings which induced him to wish for a few moments at his own disposal. Sad, thoughtful, and sorrowful, amid the general joy, he remained with the parent, whom he had so much reason to love and honor, to assist him in securing and placing on their mule the various packages and bales. which the honest Switzers had recovered after the death of de Hagenbach, and which they emulated each other in bringing to their rightful owner. While they were with difficulty prevailed upon

to accept the Gerdon, which the Englishman, from the means which he still had left, upon his person, was disposed not merely to offer, but to force upon the restores of his property, and which in their rude and simple ideas seemed greatly to exceed the value of what they had recovered for him. This scene had scarcely lasted 10 or 15 minutes when Rudolph Donnerhuegel approached the elder Philipson and in a tone of great courtesy invited him to join the council of the chiefs of the embassy of the Swiss cantons, who, he said, were desirous of having the advantage of his experience upon some important questions, respecting their conduct on these unexpected occurrences. See to our affairs, Arthur, and stir not from the spot on which I leave you, said Philipson

to his son. Look especially after the sealed packet of which I was so infamously and illegally robbed. its recovery is of the utmost consequence so speaking he instantly prepared himself to attend the burnees who in a confidential manner whispered as he went arm in arm with him towards the church of st paul's i think a man of your wisdom will scarce advise us to trust ourselves to the mood of the duke of burgundy when he has received such an injury as the loss of the loss of the law's of this fortress and the execution of his officer. You, at least, would be too judicious to afford us any further the advantage of your company and society, since to do so would be willfully to engage in our shipwreck. I will give my best advice, answered Phillipson, when I shall be more particularly acquainted with the circumstances under which it is asked of me. Rudolph muttered an oath,

or angry exclamation, and led Philipson to the church without further argument. In a small chapel adjoining to the church and dedicated to St. Magnus the martyr, the four deputies were assembled in close conclave around the shrine in which the sainted hero stood, armed as when he lived. The priest of St. Paul's was also present and seemed to interest himself deeply in the debate which was taking place. When Philipson entered, all were for a moment silent, until the landman addressed him thus, Signor Philipson, we esteem you a man far-traveled, well-versed in the manners of foreign lands, and acquainted with the conditions of this Duke. Charles of Burgundy. You are therefore fit to advise us in a matter of great weight. You know with

what anxiety we go on this mission for peace with the Duke. You also know what has this day happened, which may probably be represented to Charles in the worst colors. Would you advise us in such a case to proceed to the Duke's presence with the odium of this action, attached to us, or should we do better to return home and prepare for war with Burgundy? How do your own opinion stand on the subject? said the cautious Englishman. We are divided, answered the bannerette of Byrne. I have borne the banner of Byrne against her foes for thirty years. I am more willing to carry it against the lances of the knights of Hinald and Lorraine than to undergo the rude treatment, which we must look to meet at the footstool of the Duke.

We put our heads in the lion's mouth, if we go forward, said Zimmerman of Sleur. My opinion is that we draw back. I would not advise retreat, said Rudolph Donner-Hughal, were my life alone concerned, but the landman of Unterwalden is the father of the United Cantons, and it would be parricide if I consented to put his life in peril. My advice is that we return and that the Confederacy stand on their defense. My opinion is different, said Arnold Biederman, nor will I forgive any man who, whether in sincere or feigned friendship, places my poor life in the scale with the advantage of the cantons.

If we go forward, we risk our heads, be it so. But if we turn back, we involve our country in war with a power of the first magnitude in Europe. Worthy citizens, you are brave in fight. Show your fortitude as boldly now. And let us not hesitate to incur such personal danger as may attend ourselves. if by doing so we can gain a chance of peace for our country. I think and vote with my neighbor and gossip, Arnold Biederman, said the laconic deputy from Schwentz. You hear how we are divided in opinion, said the Landman to Philipson.

What is your opinion? I would first ask of you, said the Englishman, what has been your part in this storming of a town occupied by the Duke's forces and putting to death his governor. So help me heaven, said the landman, as I knew not of any purpose of storming the town until it unexpectedly took place. And for the execution of de Hagenbach, said the black priest, I swear to you, stranger, by my holy order, that it took place under the direction of a competent court whose sentence Charles of Burgundy, himself is bound to respect and whose proceedings the deputies of the Swiss mission could neither have advanced nor retarded. If such be the case and if you can really prove yourselves free

of these proceedings, answered Philipson, which must needs be highly resented by the Duke of Burgundy, I would advise you by all means to proceed upon your journey. with the certainty that you will obtain from that prince a just and impartial hearing, and it may be a favorable answer. I know Charles of Burgundy. I may even say that are different ranks and walks of life considered. I know him well. He will be deeply incensed by the first tidings of what has here chanced, which he will no doubt interpret to your disfavor. that if in the course of investigation you are able to clear yourselves of these foul imputations, a sense of his own injustice may perhaps turn the balance in your favor,

and in that case he will rush from the excess of censure into that of indulgence. But your cause must be firmly stated to the Duke. By some tongue better acquainted with the language of courts, than yours, and such a friendly interpreter might I have proved to you had I not been plundered of the valuable packet which I bore with me in order to present to the Duke and in testimony of my commission to him. A paltry fetch, whispered Donerhuegel to the bannerette, that the traitor may obtain from us satisfaction for the goods of which he has been plundered. The last Andaman himself was perhaps for a moment of the same opinion.

Merchant, he said, we hold ourselves bound to make good to you. That is, if our substance can affect it, whatever loss you may have sustained, trusting to our protection. I, that we will, said the old man of Schwitz, should it cost us 20 seconds to make it good. To your guarantee of immunity, I can have. have no claim, said Philipson, seeing I parted company with you before I sustained any loss, and I regret the loss, not so much for its value, although that is greater than you may fancy, but chiefly because that the contents of the casket I bore being a token betwixt a person of considerable importance, and the Duke of Burgundy, I shall not, I fear,

now that I am deprived of them, receive from His grace that credence which I desire, both for my own sake and yours. Without them, and speaking only in the person of a private traveler, I may not take upon me, as I might have done, when using the names of the persons whose mandates I carried. This important packet, said the Lendeman, shall be most rigorously sought for and carefully redelivered to thee. For ourselves, not a Swiss of us knows the value of its contents, so that if they are in the hands of any of our men, they will be returned, of course, as bubbles upon which they set no value. As he spoke, there was a knocking at the door of the chapel, Rudolph, who stood nearest to it, having held some communication with

those without, observed with a smile, which he instantly repressed, lest it had given offense to Arnold Beterman. It is Sigismund, the good youth, shall I admit him to our counsel? To what purpose, poor simple lad, said his father, with a sorrowful smile? Yet let me undo the door, said Philipson. He is anxious to enter, and perhaps he brings news. I have observed Landman that the young man, though with slowness of ideas and expression, is strong in his principles and sometimes happy in his conceptions. He admitted Sigismund accordingly, while Arnold Biederman felt, on the one hand, the soothing compliment which Philipson had paid to a boy,

certainly the dullest of his family, and on the other feared some public display of his son's infirmity or lack of understanding. Sigismund, however, seemed all confidence, and he certainly had reason to be so, since as the shortest mode of explanation, he presented to Philipson the necklace of diamonds with the casket in which it had been deposited. This pretty thing is yours, he said, I understand so much from your son, Arthur, who tells me you will be glad. You will be glad to have it again. Most cordially do I thank you, said the merchant. The necklace is certainly mine. That is, the packet of which it formed the contents was under my charge, and it is at this moment of greater additional value to me than even its actual worth,

since it serves as my pledge and token for the performance of an important mission. And how my young friend, he continued, addressing Sigismund, have you been so fortunate as to recover what we have sought for hitherto in vain? Let me return my best acknowledgments, and do not think me over-curious if I ask how it reached you. For that matter, said Sigismund, the story is soon told. I had planted myself as near the scaffold as I could, having never be held an execution. before. And I observed the executioner, who I thought did his duty very cleverly, just in the moment that he spread a cloth over the body of de Hagenbach, snatch something from the dead man's bosom, and huddle it hastily into his own. So when the rumor arose that an article of value was

a missing, I hurried in quest of the fellow. I found he had bespoke masses. to the extent of a hundred crowns at the high altar of St. Paul's, and I traced him to the tavern of the village where some ill-looking men were joyously drinking to him as a free citizen and a nobleman. So I stepped in amongst them with my partisan, and demanded of his lordship either to surrender to me what he had thus possessed himself of, or to try the weight of the weapon I carried. His lordship, my Lord Hangman, hesitated, and was about to make a brawl. But I was something peremptory, and so he judged it best to give me the parcel, which I trust you, signor Philipson, will find safe and entire as it was taken from you.

and and I left them to conclude their festivities, and that is the whole of the story. Thou art a brave lad, said Philipson, and with a heart always right, the head can seldom be far wrong, but the church shall not lose its dues, and I take it on myself, ere I leave Laferret, to pay for the masses which the man had ordered for the sake of de Hagenbach's soul, snatched from the world so unexpectedly. Sigisman was about to reply that Philipson, fearing he might bring out some foolery to diminish the sense which his father had so joyously entertained of his late conduct, immediately added, "'Hi away, my good youth, and give to my son, Arthur, this precious casket,'

with simple exultation at receiving applause to which he was a good youth, and give to my son, Arthur, this precious casket, with simple exaltation at receiving applause, to which he was little accustomed, Sigismund took his leave, and the council were once more left to their own privacy. There was a moment silence, for the Landman could not overcome the feeling of exquisite pleasure at the sagacity, which poor Sigismund, whose general conduct warranted no such expectations, had displayed on the present occasion. It was not, however, a feeling to which circumstances permitted him to give vent, and he reserved it for his own secret enjoyment as a solace to the anxiety which he had hitherto entertained concerning the limited intellect of this simple-minded young man. When he spoke, it was to Philipson with the usual

candor and manliness of his character. Signor Philipson, he said, we will hold you bound by no offer which you made while these glittering matters were out of your possession, because a man may often think that if he were in such and such a situation, he would be able to achieve certain ends, which, that position being attained, he may find himself unable to accomplish. But I now ask you whether, having thus fortunately and unexpectedly, regained possession of what you say will give you certain credence. With the Duke of Burgundy, you conceive yourself entitled to mediate with him on our behalf, as you formerly proposed.

I'll bent forward to hear the merchant's answer. Landaman, he replied, I never spoke the word in difficulty, which I was not ready to redeem when that difficulty was removed. You say, and I believe, that you had no concern with this storming of Laferrette. You say also that the life of de Hagenbach was taken by a judicure over which you had no control and exercised none. Let a protocol be drawn up, averring these circumstances, and as far as possible, proving them entrust it to me, under seal, if you will,

and if such points be established, I will pledge my word as an honest man and a true-born Englishman, that the Duke of Burgundy will neither detain nor offer you any personal injury. I also hope to show to Charles strong and weighty reasons why a League of Friendship, the Twix to Burgundy and the United Cantons of Helvetia, is on his graces part, a wise and generous measure. But it is possible I may fail in this last point, and if I do, I shall deeply grieve for it. In warranting your safe passage to the Duke's court and your safe return from it to your own country, I think I cannot fail. If I do, my own life and that of my beloved and only child shall pay the ransom for my excess of confidence

in the Duke's justice and honor. The other deputies stood silent and looked on the landman, but Rudolph Donnerhugel spoke. Are we then to trust our own lives and what is still dearer to us, that of our honored associate, Arnold Biederman, on the simple word, of a foreign trader. We all know the temper of the Duke, and how vindictively and relentlessly he has ever felt towards our country and its interests. Methinks this English merchant should express the nature of his interest at the Court of Burgundy more plainly, if he expects us to place such implicit reliance in it. That, Signore, Rudolph Donner-Hughal, replied the merchant, I find myself not at liberty to do. I pry not into your secrets, whether they belong to you

as a body or as individuals. My own are sacred. If I consulted my own safety merely, I should act most wisely to part company with you here. But the object of your mission is peace, and your sudden return after what has chanced at Lafaret will make war inevitable. I think I can assure you of a safe and free audience from the Duke, and I am willing for the chance of securing the peace of Christendom to encounter any personal peril which may attach to myself. Say no more, worthy Philipson, said the Landman, thy good faith is undoubted on our part. and ill luck is his who cannot read it written on thy manly forehead. We go forward, then, prepared to risk our own safety at the hand of a despotic prince,

rather than leave undischarged, the mission which our country has entrusted us with. He is but half a brave man who will risk his life only in the field of battle. There are other dangers to front, which is equally honorable, and since the wheel of Switzerland demands that we should encounter them, not one of us, will hesitate to take the risk. The other members of the mission bowed in assent, and the conclave broke up to prepare for their farther entrance into Burgundy. End of Chapter 16. Chapter 17 of Anne of Geierstein by Sir Walter Scott. This Libravox recording is in the public domain, recording by Dionne's Salt Lake City, Utah. Upon the mountains Hethery's side, the day's last luster shone, and wretch with many a radiant hue, gleamed gaily on the roan.

selfie. The English merchant was now much consulted by the Swiss commissioners in all their motions. He exhorted them to proceed with all dispatch on their journey so as to carry to the Duke their own account of the affair of Brissac and thus anticipate all rumors less favorable to their conduct on the occasion. For this purpose, Philipson recommended that the deputies dismissing their escort, whose arms and numbers might give umbrage and suspicion, while they were too few for defense, should themselves proceed by rapid journeys on horseback towards Dijon, or wherever the Duke might chance to be for the time. This proposal was, however, formally resisted by the very person who had hitherto been the most ductile of the party and the willing echo of the Landman's pleasure.

On the present occasion, notwithstanding, that Arnold Biederman declared the advice of Philipson, excellent, Nicholas Bonstetten stood in absolute and insurmountable opposition, because having hitherto trusted to his own limbs for transporting himself to and fro on all occasions he could by no means be persuaded to commit himself to the discretion of a horse, as he was found obstinately positive on this subject, it was finally determined that the two Englishmen should press forward on their journey with such speed as they might, and that the elder of them should make the Duke acquainted with so much as to the capture of Laferrette as he had himself witnessed of the matter. The particulars which had attended the death of de Hagenbach, the landman assured him,

would be sent to the Duke by a person of confidence whose attestation on the subject could not be doubted. This course was adopted, as Philipson expressed his confidence of getting an early and private audience with his grace of Burgundy. My best intercession, he was a He said, you have a good right to reckon upon, and no one can bear more direct testimony than I can to the ungovernable cruelty and rapacity of de Hagenbach, of which I had so nearly been the victim. But of his trial and execution, I neither know nor can tell anything. And as Duke Charles is sure to demand why execution was done upon his officer without an appeal to his own tribunal, it will be well that you can either provide me with such facts as you have to state, or send forward at least as speedily as possible, the evidence which you have to lay before him on that most weight.

branch of the subject. The proposal of the merchant created some visible embarrassment on the countenance of the Swiss, and it was with obvious hesitation that Arnold Biederman, having led him aside, addressed him in a whisper. My good friend, he said, mysteries are in general, like the hateful myths which disfigure the noblest features of nature. Yet, like myths, they will sometimes intervene when we most desire their absence, when we most desire to be plain and explicit. The manner of de Hagenbach's death you saw, we will take care that the Duke is informed of the authority by which it was inflicted. This is all that I can at present tell you on the subject, and let me add that the last

unless you speak of it with anyone, you will be the more likely to escape inconvenience. Worthy Landaman, said the Englishman, I also am by nature, and from the habits of my country, a hater of mysteries. Yet such is my firm confidence in your truth and honor that you shall be my guide in these dark and secret transactions, even as amongst the myths and precipices of your native land, and I rest contented in either case to place unlimited confidence in your sagacity. Let me only recommend that your explanation with Charles be instant as well as clear and candid. Such being the case, I trust my poor interest with the Duke may be reckoned for something in your favor.

Here then we part, but as I trust, soon to meet again. The elder Philipson now rejoined his son, whom he directed to hire horses, together with a guide to conduct them with all speed to the presence of the Duke of Burgundy. By various inquiries in the town, and especially among the soldiers of the slain de Hagenbach, they at length learned that Charles,

had been of late occupied in taking possession of Lorraine, and being now suspicious of unfriendly dispositions on the part of the Emperor of Germany, as well as of Sigismund, Duke of Austria, had drawn a considerable part of his army together near Strasbourg in order to be prepared against any attempt of these princes or of the free imperialism. cities which might interfere with his course of conquest. The Duke of Burgundy at this period well deserved his peculiar epitat of the bold, since surrounded by enemies like one of the nobler animals of the chase, he yet astounded by his stern and daring countenance, not only the princes and states we have mentioned, but even the king of France.

equally powerful and far more politic than himself to his camp therefore the english travellers bent their way each full of such deep and melancholy reflection as perhaps prevented his bestowing much attention on the other's state of mind they rode as men deeply immersed in their own thoughts and with less intercourse than had been unusual betwixt them on their former journeys. The nobleness of the elder Philipson's nature and his respect for the Landman's probity, joined with gratitude for his hospitality, had prevented him from separating his cause from that of the Swiss deputies, nor did he now repent his generosity in adhering to them. But when he recollected the nature, and importance of the personal affairs which he himself had to dispatch with a proud, imperious, and irritable prince, he could not but regret the circumstances which had involved his own

particular mission of so much consequence to himself and his friends, with that a person's likely to be so highly obnoxious to the Duke as Arnold Biedermen, and his companions, and, however, grateful for the hospitality of Geierstein. He regretted, nevertheless, the circumstances which had obliged him to accept of it. The thoughts of Arthur were no less anxious. He found himself anew, separated from the object to which his thoughts were, almost against his own will, constantly returning. And this second separatural, had taken place after he had incurred an additional load of gratitude and found new, as well as more mysterious food for his ardent imagination. How was he to reconcile the character

and attributes of Anne of Geierstein, whom he had known so gentle, candid, pure, and simple, with those of the daughter of a sage and of an elementary spirit, to whom night was as day, and an impervious dungeon, the same as the open portico of a temple. Could they be identified as the same being, or while strictly alike in shape and liniment, was the one a tenant of the earth, the other only a phantom, permitted to show

itself among those of a nature in which she did not partake. Above all, must he never see her more or receive from her own lips an explanation of the mysteries which were so awfully entwined with his recollections of her. Such were the questions which occupied the mind of the younger traveler and prevented him from interrupting or even observing the reverie in which his father was plunged. Had either of the travelers been disposed to derive amusement from the country through which their road lay, the vicinity of the Rhine was well qualified to afford it. The ground on the left bank of that noble river is indeed rather flat and tame, and the mountains, of Alsace, a ridge of which sweeps along its course, do not approach so near as greatly to vary

the level surface of the valley, which divides them from its shores. But the broad stream itself, hurrying forward with dizzy rapidity and rushing around the islets by which its course is interrupted is one of the most majestic spectacles in nature. right bank is dignified at once and adorned by the numerous eminences covered with wood and interspersed with valleys, which constitute the district so well known by the name of the Black Forest, to which superstition attached so many terrors and credulity such a variety of legends, terrors indeed it had, of a real and existing character. the old castles seen from time to time on the banks of the river itself, or on the ravines,

and large brooks, which flow into it, were then no picturesque ruins rendered interesting by the stories which were told about their former inhabitants, but constituted the real and apparently impregnable strongholds of that robber chivalry, whom we have already frequently mentioned, and of whom, since Gorda, an author born to arouse the slumbering fame of his country, has dramatized the story of Gertz of Berlachingen. We have so many spirit-stirring tales. The danger attending the vicinity of these fortresses was only known on the right, or German Bank of the Rhine. for the breadth and depth of that noble stream effectually prevented any foray of their inhabitants from reaching Alsace. The former was in possession of the cities or free towns of the empire,

and thus the feudal tyranny of the German lords was chiefly exerted at the expense of their own countrymen, who irritated and exhausted with their rapine and... depression were compelled to erect barriers against it of a nature as interesting and extraordinary as were the wrongs from which they endeavored to protect themselves. But the left bank of the river over great part of which Charles of Burgundy exercised his authority under various characters was under the regular protection of the ordinary magistrates who were to. supported in the discharge of their duty by large bands of mercenary soldiers. These were maintained by Charles out of his private revenue. He, as well as his rival Louis and other princes of the period, having discovered that the feudal system gave an inconvenient degree of independence to their vessels and thinking, of course, that it was better to substitute

in its place a standing army consisting of free companies or soldiers by profession. Italy furnished most of these bands which composed the strength of Charles's army, at least the part of it in which he most trusted. Our travelers, therefore, pursued their way by the banks of the river in as great a degree of security as could well be enjoyed in that violent and distracted time, until at length the father, after having eyed for some time, the person whom Arthur had hired to be their guide, suddenly asked of his son who or what the man was. Arthur replied that he had been too eager to get a person who knew the road and was willing to show it to be very particular in inquiring into his station or occupation,

but that he thought from the man's appearance he must be one of those itinerant ecclesiastics who travel through the country with relics, pardons, and other religious trinkets, and were in general, but slightly respected, accepting by the lower orders on whom these vendors of superstitious wares were often accused of practicing gross deceptions. The man's appearance was rather that of a lay devotee, or Palmer, bound on his pilgrimage to different shrines than of a mendicant friar or questionnaire. He wore the hat, script, staff, and coarse Dalmatic, somewhat like the military cloak of the modern Hussar, which were used by such persons on their religious peregrinations. St. Peter's keys, rudely shaped out of some scarlet rag

of cloth, appeared on the back of his mantle, placed as Harold Say, Sultire wise. This devotee seemed a man of fifty and upwards, well made. and stout for his age, with a cast of countenance, which, though not positively ugly, was far from being well-favored. There was shrewdness and an alert expression in his eye and actions, which made some occasional contrast with the sanctimonious demeanor of the character he now bore. This difference betwixt his dress and physiognomy was by no means uncommon among persons of his description, many of whom embraced this mode of life, rather to indulge roving and idle habits than from any religious call. Who art thou good fellow, said the elder Philipson, and by what name am I to call thee while we are fellow travelers?

you, sir, said the man, Brother Bartholomew. I might say, Bartholomeus, but it does not become a poor lay brother like me to aspire to the honor of a learned termination. And whither does thy journey tend, good brother Bartholomew? In whichever direction your worship chooses to travel and to require my services as guide, answered the Palmer, always promising, you allow me leisure for my devotions at such holy stations as we pass on our route. That is, thine own journey hath no professed or pressing object or end, said the Englishman. None, as your worship says, peculiar, said the itinerant,

or I might rather say that my journey, good sir, embraces so many. objects that it is matter of indifference to me which of them I accomplish first. My vow binds me for four years to travel from one shrine or holy place to another, but I am not directly tied to visit them by any precise rule of rotation. That is to say, thy vow of pilgrimage does not prevent thee from hiring thyself to wait upon travelers as their guide, replied Philipson, if I can unite the devotion I owe to the blessed saints whose shrines I visit with a service rendered to a wandering fellow creature who desires to be directed upon his journey, I do maintain, replied Bartholomew, that the objects are easily to be

reconciled to each other, especially as a little worldly prophet may tend to cement the two duties together, if otherwise incompatible, said Philipson. It pleases your honor to say so, replied the pilgrim, but you yourself may, if you will, derive from my good company something more than the mere knowledge of the road in which you propose to travel. I can make your journey more edifying by legends of the Blessed Saints, whose holy relics I have visited and pleasing by the story of the wonderful things which I have seen and heard in my travels. I can impart to you an opportunity of providing yourself with His Holiness's pardon, not only for the sins which you have committed, but also granting you in

for future errors. These things are highly available, doubtless, replied the merchant, but good, Bartholomew, when I desire to speak of them, I apply to my father confessor, to whom I have been uniformly regular in committing the charge of my conscience, and who must be, therefore, well acquainted with my state of mind, and best accustomed to prescribe what its case may require. Nevertheless, said Bartholomew, I trust your worship is too religious a man and to sound a Catholic to pass any hallowed station without endeavoring to obtain some share of the benefits, which it is the means of dispensing to those who are ready and willing to deserve them. more especially as all men of whatever trade and degree hold respect to the holy saint who patronizes his own mystery so i hope you being a merchant will not pass the chapel of our lady of the fairy without making some fitting orison friend bartholomew said philipson i have not heard of the shrine which you recommend to me

and as my business is pressing, it were better worth my while to make a pilgrimage hither on purpose to make mine homage at a fitter season than to delay my journey at present. This, God willing, I will not fail to do, so that I may be held excused for delaying my reverence till I can pay it more respectfully and at greater leisure. please you not to be wroth said the guide if i say that your behavior in this matter is like that of a fool who finding a treasure by the roadside omits to put it in his bosom and carry it along with him proposing to return from a distance on a future day of express purpose to fetch it phillipson something astonished at the man's pertinacity was about to answer hastily and angrily, but was prevented by the arrival of three strangers who rode hastily up from behind them. The foremost of these was a young female most elegantly attired and mounted upon

a Spanish genet, which she reigned with singular grace and dexterity. She wore on her right hand such a glove as that which was used to carry hawks and had a merlin perched upon it. Her head was covered with a Montero cap, and as was frequently the custom at the period, she wore on her face a kind of black silk vizard, which effectually concealed her features. Notwithstanding this disguise, Arthur Philipson's heart sprang high at the appearance of these strangers, for he was at once certain he recognized the matchless form of the Swiss maiden by whom his mind was so anxiously occupied. Her attendants were a falconer with his hunting pole and a female, both apparently her

domestics. The elder Philipson, who had no such accuracy of recollection as his son manifested upon the occasion saw in the fair stranger only some dame or damsel of eminence engaged in the amusement of hawking and in return to a brief salutation merely asked her with suitable courtesy as the case demanded whether she had spent the morning in good sport indifferent good friend said the lady i dare not fly my hawk so near the broad river lest we he should soar to the other side, and so I might lose my companion. But I reckon on finding better game when I have crossed to the other side of the ferry, which we are now approaching. Then your

ladyship, said Bartholomew, will hear Mass in Hans Chapel and pray for your success. I were a heathen to pass the Holy Place without doing so, replied the damsel. that noble damsel touches the point we were but now talking of said the guide bartholomew for no fair mistress that i cannot persuade this worthy gentleman how deeply the success of his enterprise is dependent upon his obtaining the blessing of our lady of the fairy the good man said the young maiden seriously and even severely must know little of the rhyme i will explain to the gentleman the propriety of following your advice she then rode close to young phillipson and spoke in swiss for she had hitherto used the german language do not start but hear me and the voice was that of anne of geirstein do not i say be surprised, or at least show not your wonder. You are beset by dangers. On this road, especially, your business is known.

Your lives are laid in wait for. Cross over the river at the ferry of the chapel, or Hans Ferry, as it is usually termed. Here the guide drew so near to them that it was impossible for her to continue the conversation without being overheard. At that same moment, a woodcock sprang from some bushes, and the young lady threw off her merlin in pursuit. Sah ho! Saho! Wah! ho! ha! hallowed the falconer, in a note which made the thicket ring again,

and away he rode in pursuit. The elder Philipson and the guide himself followed the chase eagerly with their eyes, so attractive was the love of that brave sport to men of all ranks. But the voice of the maiden was a lure which would have summoned Arthur's attention from matters more deeply interesting. Cross the Rhine, she again repeated, at the ferry to Kurchoff on the other side of the river. Take your lodgings at the golden fleece, where you will find a guide to Strasbourg. I must stay here no longer. So saying, the damsel raced herself in her saddle, struck her horse lightly with the loose reins, and the meddled animal, already impatient at her delay, and the eager burst of its companions, flew

forward at such a pace as if he had meant to emulate the flight of the hawk, and of the prey he pursued. The lady and her attendance soon vanished from the sight of the travelers. A deep silence for some time ensued during which Arthur studied how to communicate the warning he had received without awakening the suspicions of their guide. But the old man broke silence himself, saying to Bartholomew, put your horse into more motion, I pray you, and ride onward. a few yards, I would have some private conference with my son. The guide obeyed, and as if with the purpose of showing a mind too profoundly occupied by heavenly matters to admit a thought concerning those of this transitory world, he thundered forth a hymn in praise of St. Wendellan,

the shepherd, in a strain so discordant as startled every bird, from every bush by which they passed. There was never a more unmelodious melody, whether sacred or profane, than that under protection of which the elder Philipson thus conferred with his son. Arthur, he said, I am much convinced that this howling, hypocritical vagrant, has some plot upon us, and I had well-nigh determined that the best mode to baffle in it would be to consult my own opinion, and not his, as to our places of repose and the direction of our journey. Your judgment is correct, as usual, said his son, I am well convinced of yonder man's treachery from a whisper in which that maiden informed me that we ought to take the road

to Strasbourg by the eastern side of the river, and for that purpose, cross over to a place called Kirchhoff on the opposite bank. Do you advise this, Arthur? replied his father. I will pledge my life for the faith of this young person, replied his son. What, said his father, because she sits her palfrey fairly and shows a faultless shape. Such is the reasoning of a boy, and yet my own old and cautious heart feels enclosed. to trust her. If our secret is known in this land, there are doubtless many who may be disposed to think. They have an interest in barring my access to the Duke of Burgundy, even by the most

violent means, and, well, you know, that I should on my side hold my life equally cheap, could I discharge mine errand at the price of laying it down. I tell her that I tell thee, Arthur, that my mind reproaches me for taking hitherto over little care of ensuring the discharge of my commission, owing to the natural desire I had to keep thee in my company. There now lie before us two ways, both perilous and uncertain, by which we may reach the Duke's court. We may follow this guide, and take the chance of his fidelity, or we may adopt the hint of yonder damsel errant and cross over to the other side of the rhine and again repass the river at strasburg both roads are perhaps equally perilous i feel it my duty to diminish the risk of the miscarriage of my commission by sending thee across to the right bank while i pursue my proposed course upon the left

thus if one of us be intercepted the other may escape and the important commission which he bears may be duly executed alas my father said arthur how is it possible for me to obey you when by doing so i must leave you alone to incur so many dangers to struggle with so many difficulties in which my aid might be at least willing though it could only be weak. Whatever befall us in these delicate and dangerous circumstances, let us at least meet it in company. Arthur, my beloved son, said his father, imparting from thee, I am splitting my own heart in twain, but the same duty which commands us to expose our bodies to death,

as peremptorily orders us not to spare our most, tender affections we must part oh then replied his son eagerly let me at least prevail in one point do thou my father cross the rhine and let me prosecute the journey by the route originally proposed and why i pray you answered the merchant should i go one of these roads in preference to the other because said arthur eagerly i would war warrant yonder maiden's faith with my life. Again, young man, said his father, and wherefore so confident in that young maiden's faith, is it merely from the confidence which youth reposes in that which is fair and pleasing? Or have you had further acquaintance with her than the late brief conversation with her admitted? Can I give you an answer? replied his son. We have been long absent from lands of knights and ladies, and is it not natural that we should give to those who remind us of the honored ties of chivalry and gentle blood, the instinctive credence

which we refuse to such a poor wretch as this itinerant Montebank, who gains his existence by cheating, with false relics and forged legends, the poor peasants, amongst whom he travels. It is a vain imagination, Arthur, said his father, not unbefitting, indeed, an aspirant to the honors of chivalry, who draws his ideas of life and its occurrences from the romances of the minstrels, but to visionary for a youth who has seen as thou hast how the business of this world is conducted. I tell thee, and thou will learn, to know, I say truth, that around the homely board of our host, the landmen, were ranged truer tongues and more faithful hearts than the core pleniere of a monarch has to boast.

Alas, the manly spirit of ancient faith and honor has fled even from the breast of kings and knights, where, as John of France said, it ought to continue to reside a constant, inhabitant, if banished from all the rest of the world. Be that as it may, dearest father, replied the younger Philipson, I pray you to be persuaded by me, and if we must part company, let it be by your taking the right bank of the Rhine, since I am persuaded it is the safest route. And if it be the safest, said his father, with a voice of tender reproach, is that, a reason why I should spare my own, almost exhausted thread of life, and expose thine,

my dear son, which has but begun its course. Nay, father, answered the son with animation. In speaking thus, you do not consider the difference of our importance to the execution of the purpose which you have so long entertained, and which seems now so much so much, nigh being accomplished. Think how imperfectly I might be able to discharge it without knowledge of the duke's person or credentials to gain his confidence. I might indeed repeat your words, but the circumstances would be wanting to attract the necessary faith, and of consequence your scheme for the success of which you have lived and now are willing to run the risk of death would miscarry along with me. You cannot shake my resolution, said the elder Philipson,

or persuade me that my life is of more importance than yours. You only remind me that it is you, and not I, who ought to be the bearer of this token to the Duke of Burgundy. Should you be successful in reaching his court or camp, your possession of these gems will be needful to attach credit to your mission, a purpose for which they would be less necessary to me, who can refer to other circumstances under which I might claim credence if it should please heaven to leave me alone to equip myself of this important commission, which may our lady, her mercy for fend understand therefore that should an opportunity occur by which you can make your way to the opposite side of the rhine you are to direct your journey so as again to cross to this bank at strasburg where you will inquire for news of me at the flying stag a hostelry in that city which you will easily discover if you will easily discover if you will

if you hear no tidings of me at that place you will proceed to the duke and deliver to him this important packet here he put into his son's hand with as much privacy as possible the case containing the diamond necklace what else your duty calls on you to do continued the elder phillipson you well know only i conjure you let no vain in court after my fate interfere with the great duty you have there to discharge. In the meantime, prepare to bid me a sudden farewell with a heart as bold and confident as when you went before me and courageously led the way amid the rocks and storms of Switzerland. Heaven was above us then, as it is over us now. Adieu, my beloved Arthur, should I wait till the moment of separation there may be but short time to speak the fatal word and no eye save thy own must see the tear which I now wipe away the painful feeling

which accompanied this anticipation of their parting was so sincere on Arthur's part as well as that of his father that it did not at first occur to the former as a source of consolation, that it seemed likely he might be placed under the guidance of the singular female, the memory of whom haunted him. True it was that the beauty of Anne of Geierstein, as well as the striking circumstances in which she had exhibited herself, had on that very morning been the principal occupation of his mind. But they were now chased from it by the predominant recollection that he was about to be separated in a moment of danger from a father so well-deserving of his highest esteem and his fondest affection. Meanwhile, that father dashed from his eye the tear

which his devoted stoicism could not suppress, and as if afraid of softening his resolution by indulging his parental fondness, he recalled the pious Bartholomew to demand of him how far they were from the chapel of the ferry. Little more than a mile was the reply, and when the Englishman required further information concerning the cause of its erection, he was informed that an old boatman and fisherman named Hans had long dwelt at the place, who gained a precarious livelihood by transporting travelers and merchants from one bank of the river to the other. The misfortune, however, of losing first one boat and then a second, in the deep and mighty stream, with the dread inspired in travelers by the repetition of such accidents,

began to render his profession an uncertain one. Being a good Catholic, the old man's distress took a devotional turn. He began to look back on his former life and consider by what crimes he had deserved the misfortunes which darkened the evening of his days. His remorse was chiefly excited by the recollection that he had on one occasion when the passage was peculiarly stormy, refused to destroy. his duty as a ferryman in order to transport to the other shore a priest who bore along with him an image of the virgin destined for the village of kerchhoff on the opposite or right bank of the rhine for this fault hans submitted to severe penance as he was now disposed to consider as culpable his doubt of the virgin's power of protecting herself her priest and the bark employed in her service, besides which the offering of a large share of his

worldly goods to the Church of Kirchhoff expressed the truth of the old man's repentance. Neither did he ever again permit himself to interpose any delay in the journey of men of holy church, but all ranks of the clergy, from the mitered prelate to the barefooted friar, might at any time of day or night have commanded the services of him and his boat while prosecuting so laudable a course of life it became at length the lot of hans to find on the banks of the rhine a small image of the virgin thrown by the waves which appeared to him exactly to resemble that which he had formerly ungraciously refused to carry across when under charge of the sacristan of Kirchhoff he placed it in the most conspicuous part of his hut and poured out his soul before it in devotion anxiously inquiring for some signal by which he might discover whether he was to consider the arrival of her holy image as a pledge that his offenses were forgiven in the visions of the night his prayers were were answered, and Our Lady, assuming the form of the image, stood by his bedside for the purpose

of telling him, wherefore she had come hither. My trusty servant, she said, Man of Belial have burned my dwelling at Kirchhoff, spoiled my chapel, and thrown the sacred image, which represents me into the swollen rine, which swept me downward. Now I have resolved. to dwell no longer in the neighborhood of the profane doers of this deed or of the cowardly vassals who dared not prevent it i am therefore compelled to remove my habitation and in spite of the opposing current i determined to take the shore on this side being resolved to fix my abode with thee my faithful servant that the land in which thou dwellest, may be blessed, as well as thou and thy household. As the vision spoke, she seemed to ring from her trusses, the water in which they had been steeped, while her disordered dress and fatigued appearance was that of one who has been buffeting with the waves. Next

morning brought intelligence that, in one of the numerous feuds of that fierce period, Kirchhoff had been sacked, the church destroyed, and the church treasury plundered. In consequence of the fisherman's vision, being thus remarkably confirmed, Hans entirely renounced his profession, and leaving it to younger men to supply his place as ferrymen, he converted his hut into a rustic chapel, and he himself, taking orders, attended upon the shrine as a hermit, or daily chaplain. The figure was supposed to work miracles, and the fairy became renowned from its being under the protection of the holy image of Our Lady and her no less holy servant. When Bartholomew had concluded his account of the fairy and its chapel, the travelers had

arrived at the place itself. End of Chapter 17. Chapter 18 of Anne of Geierstein by Sir Walter Scott. This Librevop's recording is in the public domain, recording by Dionne's Salt Lake City, Utah. Upon the Rhine, upon the Rhine they cluster the grapes of juice divine, which make the soldier's jovial courage muster. blessed be the Rhine, drinking song. A cottage or two on the side of the river, beside which were moored one or two fishing boats, showed the pious Hans had successors in his profession

as a boatman. The river, which at a point a little lower, was restrained by a chain of islets, expanded more widely and moved less rapidly than when it was. it passed these cottages, affording to the ferrymen a smoother surface and a less heavy stream to contend with, although the current was even there too strong to be borne up against, unless the river was in a tranquil state. On the opposite bank, but a good deal lower than the hamlet which gave name to the ferry, was seated on a small eminence, screamed, by trees and bushes, the little town of Kirchhoff. A skiff, departing from the left bank, was even on favorable occasions, carried considerably to leeward ere it could attain the

opposite side of the deep and full stream of the Rhine, so that its course was oblique towards Kirchhoff. On the other hand, a boat departing from Kirchhoff must have to be. have great advantage both of wind and oars in order to land its loading or crew at the chapel of the ferry, unless it were under the miraculous influence which carried the image of the Virgin in that direction. The communication, therefore, from the east to the west bank, was only maintained by towing boats up the stream to such a height on the eastern side that the leeway which they made during the voyage across might correspond with the point at which they desired to arrive and enable them to attain it with ease. Hence it naturally happened that the passage from Alsace into Swabia being the most

easy, the ferry was more used by those who were desirous of entering Germany than by travelers who came in an opposite direction. When the elder Philipson had by a glance around him ascertained the situation of the fairy, he said firmly to his son, be gone, my dear Arthur, and do what I have commanded thee. With a heart rent with filial anxiety, the young man obeyed and took his solitary course towards the cottages near which the barks were moored which were occasionally used for fishing as well as for the purposes of the ferry your son leaves us said bartholomew to the elder philipson he does for the present said his father as he has certain inquiries to make in yonder hamlet if they be answered the guide any matters connected with your honors road, I laud the saints that I can better answer your inquiries than those ignorant boers who hardly understand your language. If we find that their information

needs thy commentary, said Philipson, we will request it. Meanwhile, lead on to the chapel, where my son will join us. They moved towards the chapel, but with slow steps, each turning his looks aside to the fishing hamlet. The guide, as if striving to see whether the younger traveler was returning towards them, the father, anxious to descry on the broad bosom of the Rhine, a sail unloosed to waft his son across to that which might be considered as the safer side. But though the looks of both guide and traveler were turned in the direct, of the river, their steps carried them towards the chapel, to which the inhabitants in memory of

the founder had given the title of Hans Capel. A few trees scattered around gave an agreeable and sylvan air to the place, and the chapel that appeared on a rising ground at some distance from the hamlet was constructed in a style of pleasing simplicity. which corresponded with the whole scene. Its small size confirmed the tradition that it had originally been merely the hut of a peasant, and the cross of fir trees, covered with bark, attested the purpose to which it was now dedicated. The chapel and all around it breathed peace and solemn tranquility, and the deep sound of the mighty river seemed to impose. silence on each human voice, which might presume to mingle with its awful murmur.

When Philipson arrived in the vicinity, Bartholomew took the advantage afforded by his silence to thunder forth two stanzas, to the praise of the Lady of the Fairy, and her faithful worshipper Hans, after which he broke forth into the rapturous exclamation, come hither, ye who fear wreck, here is your safe haven. Come hither, ye who die of thirst, here is a well of mercy open to you. Come, those who are weary and far-traveled, this is your place of refreshment. And more to the same purpose, he might have said, that Philipson sternly imposed silence on him. If thy devotion were altogether true, he said, it would be. less clamorous, but it is well to do what is good in itself, even if it is a hypocrite who

recommends it. Let us enter this holy chapel and pray for a fortunate issue to our precarious troubles. The pardiner caught up the last words. Sure was I, he said, that your worship is too well advised to pass this holy place without imploring the protection and influence of Our Lady of the Fairy. Terry but a moment until I find the priest who serves the altar that he may say a mass on your behalf. Here he was interrupted by the door of the chapel suddenly opening when an ecclesiastic appeared on the threshold. Philipson instantly knew the priest of St. Paul's whom he had seen that morning at Laferrette. Bartholomew also knew him, as it would seem, for his officious, hypocritical eloquence

failed him in an instant, and he stood before the priest, with his arms folded on his breast, like a man who waits for the sentence of condemnation. Villan, said the ecclesiastic, regarding the guide with a severe countenance, dost thou lead a stranger into the houses of the holy saints that thou mayest slay him, and possess thyself of his spoils? But heaven will no longer bear with thy perfidity. Back thou wretch to meet thy brother miscreants, who are hastening hitherward. Tell them thy arts were unavailing, and that the innocent stranger is under my protection, under my protection, which those who presume to violate will meet with the reward of Archibald

de Hagenbach. The guide stood quite motionless, while addressed by the priest in a manner equally menacing and authoritative, and no sooner did the latter see speaking than, without offering a word either in justification or reply, Bartholomew turned round and retreated. at a hasty pace by the same road which had conducted the traveler to the chapel. And do you, worthy Englishman, continued the priest, enter into this chapel, and perform in safety those devotions by means of which yonder hypocrite designed to detain you until his brethren in iniquity came up? But first, wherefore are you alone? I trust not. evil hath befallen your young companion my son said philipson crosses the rhine at yonder ferry as we had important business to transact on the other side as he spoke thus a light boat about which two or three peasants had been for some time busy was seen to push from the shore and shoot into the stream to which it was partly compelled to give way

until a sail stretched along the slender yard, and supporting the bark against the current, enabled her to stand obliquely across the river. Now, praise be to God, said Philipson, who was aware that the bark he looked upon must be in the act of carrying his son beyond the reach of the dangers by which he was himself surrounded. Amen, answered the priest, echoing the, the pious ejaculation of the traveler great reason have you to return thanks to heaven of that i am convinced replied philipson but yet from you i hope to learn the special cause of danger from which i have escaped this is neither time nor place for such an investigation answered the priest of st paul's it is enough to say that yonder fellow well known for his

hypocrisy and his crimes was present when the young Switzer Sigismund reclaimed from the executioner, the treasure of which you were robbed by Hagenbach. Thus, Bartholomew's avarice was awakened. He undertook to be your guide to Strasbourg with the criminal intent of detaining you by the way till a party came up, against whose numbers resistance would have been in vain. but his purpose has been anticipated, and now, ere giving vent to other worldly thoughts, whether of hope or fear, to the chapel, sir, and join in orisons to him, who hath been your aid, and to those who have interceded with him in your behalf. Philipson entered the chapel with his guide, and joined in returning thanks to heaven,

and the tutelary power of the spot for the escape which had been vouchsafed to him. When this duty had been performed, Philipson intimated his purpose of resuming his journey, to which the black priest replied that far from delaying him in a place so dangerous, he would himself accompany him for some part of the journey, since he was also bound to the presence of the Duke of Burgundy. You, my father, you, said the merchant, with some astonishment. And wherefore surprised, answered the priest,

is it so strange that one of my order should visit a prince's court? Believe me, there are but too many of them to be found there. I do not speak with reference to your order, answered Phillips, but in regard of the part which you have this day acted in abetting the execution of Archibald the Hohannbach know you so little of the fiery Duke of Burgundy as to imagine you can dally with his resentment with more safety than you would pull the mane of a sleeping lion I know his mood well, said the priest, and it is not to excuse, but to defend the death of de Hagenbach that I go to his presence. The Duke may execute his serfs and bondsmen at his pleasure,

but there is a spell upon my life, which is proof to all his power. But let me retort the question, you, sir, Englishman, knowing the conditions of the Duke so well, you, so lately the guest and traveling companion of the most unwelcome visitors who could approach him you implicated in appearance at least in the uproar at la ferrette what chance is there of your escaping his vengeance and wherefore will you throw yourself wantonly within his power worthy father said the merchant let each of us without offence to the other keep his own secret I have indeed no spell to secure me from the Duke's resentment. I have limbs to suffer torture and imprisonment, and property which may be seized and confiscated, but I have had in former days many dealings with the Duke. I may even say I have laid him under obligations, and hope my interest with him may, in consequence, be sufficient not only to be.

save me from the consequences of this day's procedure, but be of some avail to my friend, the landman. But if you are in reality bound to the court of Burgundy as a merchant, said the priest, where are the wares in which you traffic? Have you no merchandise, save that which you carry on your person? I heard of a sumter horse with baggage. Has yonder villain deprived you of it? This was a trying question to Philipson, who anxious about the separation from his son, had given no direction whether the baggage should remain with himself or should be transported to the other side of the Rhine. He was, therefore, taken at advantage by the priest's inquiry, to which he answered with some incoherence. I believe my baggage is in the hamlet, that is,

unless my son has taken it across the Rhine with him. That we will soon learn, answered the priest. Here a novice appeared from the vestiary of the chapel at his call and received commands to inquire at the hamlet whether Philipson's bales with the horse which transported them had been left there or ferried over along with his son. The novice, being absent a few minutes, presently returned with the baggage horse, which, with its burden,

Arthur, from regard to his father's accommodation, had left on the western side of the river. The priest looked on attentively, while the elder Philipson, mounting his own horse and taking the reign of the other in his hand, bade the black priest adieu in these words, and now, Father, farewell, I must pass on with my bales. since there is little wisdom in traveling with them after nightfall else would i gladly suit my pace with your permission so as to share the way with you

if it is your obliging purpose to do so as indeed i was about to propose said the priest no i will be no stay to your journey i have here a good horse and melchior who must otherwise have gone on foot may ride upon your sumter horse. I the rather propose this course, as it will be rash for you to travel by night. I can conduct you to an hostelry about five miles off, which we may reach with sufficient daylight, and where you will be lodged safely for your reckoning. The English merchant hesitated a moment. He had no fancy for any new companion on the road. and although the countenance of the priest was rather handsome considering his years yet the expression was such as by no means invited confidence on the contrary there was something mysterious and gloomy which clouded his brow though it was a lofty one and a similar expression gleamed in his cold gray eye and intimated severity and even harshness of disposition But notwithstanding this repulsive circumstance, the priest had lately rendered Philipson a considerable service by detecting the treachery of his hypocritical guide,

and the merchant was not a man to be startled from his course by any imaginary prepossessions against the looks or manners of anyone or apprehensions of machinations against himself. He only revolved in his mind the singularity attending his destiny, which, while it was necessary for him to appear before the Duke of Burgundy in the most conciliatory manner, seemed to force upon him the adoption of companions who must needs be obnoxious to that prince. And such he was too well aware, must be the case with the priest of Saint. Paul's. Having reflected for an instant, he courteously accepted the offer of the priest to guide him to some place of rest and entertainment, which must be absolutely necessary for his horse, before he reached Strasbourg, even if he himself could have dispensed with it. The party being thus arranged, the novice brought forth the priest's steed, which he mounted with grace and agility, and the neophyte, being probably the same whom Arthur had represented during his escape from Laferrette, took charge at his master's command of the baggage horse of the Englishman, and crossing himself

with a humble inclination of his head as the priest passed him, he fell into the rear and seemed to pass the time, like the false brother Bartholomew, in telling his beads, with an earnestness which had perhaps more of affected than of real piety. The black priest of St. Paul's, to judge by the glance which he cast upon his novice, seemed to disdain the formality of the young man's devotion. He rode upon a strong black horse, more like a warrior's charger, than the ambling palfrey of a priest, and the manner in which he managed him was entirely, devoid of awkwardness and timidity. His pride, whatever was its character, was not certainly

of a kind altogether professional, but had its origin in other swelling thoughts, which arose in his mind to mingle with and enhance the self-consequence of a powerful ecclesiastic. As Philipson looked on his companion from time to time, his scrutinizing glance, was returned by a haughty smile, which seemed to say, You may gaze on my form and features, but you cannot penetrate my mystery. The looks of Philipson, which were never known to sink before mortal man, seemed to retort with equal haughtiness,

nor shall you, proud priest, know that you are now in company with one whose secret is far more important than thine own can be. At length the priest made some advance towards conversation by allusion to the footing upon which, by a mutual understanding, they seemed to have placed their intercourse. We travel then, he said, like two powerful enchanters, each conscious of his own high and secret purpose, each in his own chariot of clouds, and neither imparting to his compulsive. the direction or purpose of his journey excuse me father answered philipson i have neither asked your purpose nor concealed my own so far as it concerns you i repeat i am bound to the presence of the duke of burgundy and my object like that of any other merchant is to dispose of my wearers to advantage doubtless it would seem so said the black priest from the extreme attention to your merchandise which you showed not above half an hour since when you knew not whether your bales had crossed the river with your son or were remaining in your own charge

are english merchants usually so indifferent to the sources of their traffic when their lives are in danger said philipson they are sometimes negligent of their fortune it is well replied the priest and again resumed his solitary musings until another half-hours traveling brought them to a dwarf or village which the black priest informed philipson was that where he proposed to stop for the night the novice he said will show you the inn which is of good reputation and where you may lodge with safety for me i have to visit a penitent in this village who desires my ghostly offices. Perhaps I may see you again this evening, perhaps not till the next morning. At any rate, a due for the present. So saying the priest stopped his horse,

while the novice, coming close up to Philipson's side, conducted him onward through the narrow street of the village, whilst the windows exhibited here and there a twinkling gleam, announcing that the... hour of darkness was arrived. Finally, he led the Englishman through an archway into a sort of courtyard, where there stood a car or two of a particular shape, used occasionally by women when they travel, and some other vehicles of the same kind. Here, the young man threw himself from the Sumter horse, and placing the rain in Philipson's hand, disappeared in the increasing

darkness after pointing to a large, that dilapidated building, along the front of which not a spark of light was to be discovered from any of the narrow and numerous windows which were dimly visible in the twilight. End of Chapter 18. End of Anne of Geierstein, Volume 1 by Sir Walter Scott.