ling within me. Who knows that it does not transfigure us,
and gradually dissolve all earthly ties? Only tell me, Henry, whether
thou hast that boundless confidence in me, that I have in thee. Yet I
never have felt towards any one as I do towards thee; not even to my
father, whom I love so dearly."

"Dear Matilda, it really torments me, that I cannot tell thee
everything at once, that I cannot at once give my whole heart to thee.
For the first time in my life am I perfectly frank. No thought, no
feeling can I longer conceal from thee,--thou must know everything. My
whole being shall mingle itself with thine. A most boundless
resignation to thee can alone satisfy my love. In that indeed it
consists. It is truly a most mysterious flowing together of our most
secret and personal existence."

"Henry, two beings can never thus have loved each other."

"I cannot believe it possible, for till now no Matilda has lived."

"And no Henry!"

"Swear to me once more that thou art mine. Love is an endless
repetition."

"Yes, Henry, by the invisible presence of my good mother, I swear to be
thine forever."

"I swear to be thine forever, Matilda, as surely as love, God's
presence, is with us."

A long embrace and countless kisses sealed the eternal alliance of the
blessed pair.

CHAPTER IX.

At evening some guests were present; the grandfather drank the health
of the young bridal pair, and promised to give them soon a splendid
marriage feast. "Of what use is long waiting?" said the old man. "Early
marriages make long love. I have always observed that marriages early
contracted were the happiest. In latter years there is no longer such a
devotion in the marriage relation as in youth. Youth, enjoyed in
common, forms an inseparable tie. Memory is the safest ground of love."

After the meal more people came in. Henry asked his new father to
fulfil his promise. Klingsohr said to the company, "I have promised
Henry to-day to relate a tale. If it would please you I am ready to do
so."

"That was a wise idea of Henry's," said Swaning. "We have heard nothing
from you for a long time."

All seated themselves by the fire, which was sparkling on the hearth.
Henry sat by Matilda, and stole his arm around her. Klingsohr began.

"The long night had just set in. The old hero struck his shield, so
that it resounded far through the solitary streets of the city. Thrice
he repeated the signal. Then t