ere received
her.

The auditor, thunder-struck at this communication, doubted whether he
should conceal things so incredible, or relate them as he had heard. He
determined, at last, to declare the girl's situation to her father; and
hastening, accordingly, found him still bewailing the lengthened absence
of his daughter. Ascertaining the cause, he went on to state what he had
heard from the man whom the devils used as a chariot. "Therefore," said
he, "I recommend you, attesting the divine name, to demand of these
devils the restitution of your daughter." Amazed at what was imparted to
him, the father deliberated upon the best method of proceeding; and
finally, pursued the counsel of the traveller. Ascending the mountain,
he passed forward to the lake, and adjured the demons to restore the
girl whom his folly had committed to them. Suddenly a violent blast
swept by him, and a girl of lofty stature stood in his presence. Her
eyes were wild and wandering, and her bones and sinews were scarcely
covered with skin. Her horrible countenance discovered no sign of
sensibility; and, ignorant of all language, she scarcely could be
acknowledged for a human being. The father, wondering at her strange
appearance, and doubtful whether she should be taken to his own home or
not, posted to the bishop of Girona, and with a sorrowful aspect
detailed what had befallen him; at the same time requesting his advice.
The bishop, as a religious man, and one entrusted with a charge of so
much importance, narrated every circumstance respecting the girl to his
diocese. He warned them against rashly committing their fortunes to the
power of concealed demons; and showed that our adversary the devil, as a
raging lion, goeth about seeking whom he may devour; that he will slay
those who are given to him, and hold them in eternal bonds.

The man who was used by the devils as a chariot, a long time remained in
this miserable situation. But his subsequent faith and discretion
emancipated him. He stated that near the above-mentioned place there was
an extensive subterranean palace, whose entrance was by a single gate,
enveloped in the thickest darkness. Through this portal the devils, who
had been on embassies to various parts of the world, returned, and
communicated to their fellows what they had done. No one could tell of
what the palace was constructed, save themselves, and those who passed
under their yoke to eternal damnation. From all which, my belov