d in the edifice what I particularly sought; and it was to me
merely a piece of art, whose completeness and decorations served only to
delight the eye; but I listened willingly to the eloquent man, who seemed
to transfer to himself my observations on my own sorrows; and I should
have cheerfully surrendered myself to him, if he would have taken
possession of my soul as well as of my understanding.

In the mean while time passed on, and morning dawn had imperceptibly
stolen over the heaven. I trembled as I looked around, and saw the
magnificent colours blending in the east, and heralding the ascending
sun; and at that hour, when the shadows stretch themselves out in all
their extension, no shelter, no protection was to be discovered--and I
was not alone! I looked upon my companion, and again I trembled: it was
even the man in the grey coat.

He smiled at my alarms, and without allowing me to utter a word, began:
"Let us then, as is the custom of the world, unite our different
advantages for a while! we have always time to separate. The road along-
side the mountain, if you have not already thought about it, is the only
one which you can prudently take. You dare not descend into the valley;
and over the hill you will hardly think of returning as it would lead you
whence you came; and the road in which you are is just mine. I see the
uprising sun makes you look pale; I will lend you your shadow while we
remain together, and this may induce you to bear my being near to you.
Your Bendel is no longer with you, but I will do you good service. You
do not love me: I am sorry for it; but you may make use of me
notwithstanding. The devil is not so black as he is represented.
Yesterday, you vexed me, 'tis true, but I will bear you no grudge to-day.
I have shortened your way thus far, as you must yourself confess; now
take your shadow on trial again."

The sun had arisen; travellers were approaching us on the road, and in
spite of an internal repugnance, I accepted his offer. He smiled, and
let my shadow fall on the ground; it took its station upon that of my
horse, and cheerfully moved forward. My mind was in a strange mood. I
rode by a body of country people, who were respectfully making room with
their heads uncovered as for a wealthy-looking man. I rode farther, and
looked aside from my horse with eager eyes and beating heart, on what was
once my shadow; but which I had now borrowed from a stranger, ay, from an
enemy