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