ho but waited for an opportunity to
manifest his power.

At his host's bidding Roland put off his armour, but even in his own
room a vision of maidenly beauty haunted him, thereby showing how subtly
the young girl's charms had wound themselves around the knight's heart.

Roland remained for some time with the Lord of Drachenfels, fascinated
more and more by the grace and beauty of his winsome daughter. Besides
being beautiful, she was a clever needlewoman, and he admired the
dexterity with which she embroidered ornamental designs on damask.

Only when asked by her to relate some deeds of daring, or describe the
wondrous countries through which he had travelled, would Roland become
eloquent. Then he grew enthusiastic, his cheeks glowed, his eyes
sparkled, and the enamoured maid would regard her hero with admiration.
She evinced a lively interest in his exploits, their eyes would meet,
then with a throbbing breast she would resume her work by his side. From
this blissful dream Roland was summoned to the wars again.

The brave soldier prepared to depart, but he realized the joys he must
renounce. Once more he visited the favourite haunts where they had spent
such happy moments. The sound of someone weeping aroused him from
his reverie, and he beheld his lady-love seated in an arbour, sobbing
bitterly. Each knew the grief which separation must bring. Roland
consoled the maiden by promising to return soon, nevermore to part. Only
her tears betrayed how deeply the arrow of the winged god had sunk into
her heart.

A few days later they were betrothed, after which Roland departed in
quest of glory. Many victories were gained by him, and soon the enemy
was vanquished. Rejoicings were held to celebrate the event.

But at Drachenfels Castle sad faces and tearful eyes told a tale of
sorrow, for it had been announced that Roland was dead. The maid's rosy
cheeks grew pale with grief; nothing could console her; for was not her
hero departed from her for ever?

In the intensity of her anguish she sought relief in prayer and found a
refuge in religion. She entered the convent at Nonnenwerth, resolved to
dedicate her life to Heaven, since the joys of earth had fled.

Her afflicted parents reluctantly acquiesced in this proposal. Daily
they beheld their daughter waving her hand to them as she entered the
chapel.

Suddenly there appeared before the gates of Drachenfels a troop of
cavaliers, whose armour shone brilliantly in the s