back with my fair protegee across the track of fallen timber--I
could have gone with her to the end of the world! The tortuous path
hindered me from holding much converse with her: only, now and then, was
there opportunity for a word. I remember little of what was said--on my
side, no doubt, much that was commonplace; but even _her_ observations I
can recall but confusedly. The power of love was upon me, alike
absorbing both soul and sense--engrossing every thought in the
contemplation of the divine creature by my side I cared not to talk--
enough for me to look and listen.

I did not think of questioning her as to whence she had come. Even her
name was neither asked nor ascertained! Whither she was going was
revealed only by the accident of conversation. She was on her way to
visit some one who lived on the other side of the creek--some friend of
her father. Would that I could have claimed to be her father's friend--
his relative--his son!

We reached a ford: it was the crossing-place. The house, for which her
visit was designed, stood not far off, on the other side; and I must
needs leave her. Emboldened by what had passed, I caught hold of that
little hand. It was a rare liberty; but I was no longer master of
myself. There was no resistance; but I could perceive that the tiny
fingers trembled at my touch.

The old horse, with provoking impatience, plunged into the stream; and
we were parted. I watched her while crossing the creek. The crystal
drops sparkled like pearls upon her naked feet. Some of them, dashed
higher by the hoofs of the horse, were sprinkled upon her cheek, and
clung to the carmined skin as if kissing it! I envied those diamond
drops!

Lingering upon the bank, I gazed upon her receding form--with my eyes,
followed it through the forest aisle; and then, saw it only at
intervals--moving like some bright meteor among the trees--until by a
sudden turning in the path, it was taken from my sight.

CHAPTER TWENTY.

SWEET AND BITTER.

Slowly and reluctantly, I turned back from the stream, and once more
entered amid the wreck of the hurricane. Along the sunny path, the
flowers appeared to sparkle with a fresher brilliancy--imbuing the air
with sweet odours, wafted from many a perfumed chalice. The birds sang
with clearer melody; and the hum of the honey-bee rang through the
glades more harmoniously than ever. The "_coo-coo-oo_" of the doves
blending with the love-call of the squ