text:
Page:The Mysterious Warning - Parsons (1796, volume 2).djvu/36

 upon, I am no stranger to the Solitary Castle; hide nothing from me therefore as you value your life."

"Ah! Good God! (cried he) and is all discovered?" Then falling again at my feet, "Forgive me, my Lord, I had no hand in the business, I knew nothing of the matter till Agnes sent for me after she had left your service; I had never seen the Gentleman or your Lady till I came to this Castle in the wood."

Struck with astonishment, unable to articulate a single word, I stood gazing upon him with such an air of wildness, as added to the poor fellow's terror. Embracing my knees, he again supplicated mercy and forgiveness. Recovering at length my disordered senses, I bid him rise, assured him I could not blame him; but to deserve the pardon he solicited, he must acquaint me with every particular that had happened, and how long he had lived with Count M***, for I doubted not but that he was the companion of my faithless wife. His information was


text:
Page:The Mysterious Warning - Parsons (1796, volume 2).djvu/37

 without reserve: "He knew not the name of the Gentleman but as a Count; he received a letter from Agnes about three years and half ago, saying, that if his love for her continued, and he had no objection to quit his residence and be united to her, she could insure him the place of a steward where she was housekeeper, and in case he liked the proposal he must be at this village on such a particular day, where she would meet him. His father being dead (he said) all places were alike to him, and having a great love for Agnes he joyfully complied, and was here at the appointed time. She told him her residence was retired and lonely, but that she had the best master and mistress in the world, who, on account of some cruel relations, were obliged to live in obscurity and unknown. If he could resolve to live retired she would marry him, and they might live happy with a good and generous pair."

To this proposal he consented with joy, remained two days in the village, on the third they were married at the village

license: Creative Commons - Attribution Share-Alike - https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/


text:
Page:The Mysterious Warning - Parsons (1796, volume 2).djvu/38

 church six miles off, and, without returning here, he accompanied her across the skirts of the Forest to the wood, where they sent back their horses, and he followed her into the Castle. He said, he did not half like such a dismal remote place, but it was too late to retreat, especially as he loved Agnes. When introduced, he was thunderstruck to see the Lady, whom he had frequently seen at my Castle, and who he had been told I was married to, but who had afterwards gone into a Convent (for such was the report I circulated, and indeed believed); the Gentleman he had never seen before. Agnes told him they had been privately married some years ago, before Count Zimchaw came to my Castle, but dared not to own it, therefore when she was obliged to marry me she had fled to avoid the consequences; that apprehensive of my revenge they lived retired from the world, and that he must take an oath never to let any one know who or where she was. This he readily promised, and from that day they have all lived very happy, and the Lady


text:
Page:The Mysterious Warning - Parsons (1796, volume 2).djvu/39

 lay-in of a little girl about two years and half ago.

This was the substance of Arnulph's information, which inspired me with the most eager desire of revenge; my soul was in tumults: I inquired what domestics were with them? He said, only a poor ignorant peasant lad, whom they had hired some miles off, and from the parish, who had no parents living, and who never went out of the Castle. I observed, from Arnulph's manner of telling his story, and words that dropped from him, that he was tired of a life so solitary, and that it would not be difficult to bribe him to my purpose. Giving him some pieces of gold, I assured him I would make his fortune if he would follow my orders, otherwise I would certainly put him to death: The alternative admitted of no consideration, for cowardice was his predominant feeling, and to that I was indebted for the relation he had made; I therefore soon arranged my plan, and kept him with me until towards night, when we set off together for the wood,


text:
Page:Samuel Gompers - Out of Their Own Mouths (1921).djvu/245

 Rh sia at the present time would result merely in further increasing the misery of the Russian people.

The issue of January 1, 1921 of "Economic Life," an official organ of the so-called Soviet Government, reports that the production of lumber amounted to seventy million cubic feet in 1920, as compared with four hundred million cubic feet in 1912. The production of lumber is, therefore, less than one-fifth of the pre-war level, even though the lumber industry is in far better circumstances than other important Russian industries. This same situation is further illustrated by the following article appearing in the "Economic Life" of February 6, 1921:

"By December 20 the following supplies were gathered:

"The Government of Ekaterinburg, which occupies a high place in furnishing food supplies, for several reasons has proven to be very weak in furnishing raw materials.

"During the past week the results of the work have become still smaller, reaching zero in some places, in spite of the extreme energy and intensity of the work."

Note is taken of the statement that if restriction on trade with Russia were removed, many mills, shops and factories in this country, which are now closed, would resume operations, and unemployment would thereby be diminished. Even before the war, trade with Russia, including both exports and imports, constituted only one and three-tenths per cent of the total trade of the United States. In view of the fact that the purchasing


text:
Page:The Mysterious Warning - Parsons (1796, volume 2).djvu/40

 walking my horses as far as it was passable, and then alighting fastened them as before.—On leaving the poor alehouse I told the people I had found the gentry at the Castle were my relations, and that I was going to visit them; ignorant and inattentive they heard and were silent.—Peter and myself were armed with pistols, and I had my sword.—Neither him nor Arnulph were acquainted with my purpose, and I privately resolved they should never witness against me. I declared to them I would not injure the lives of the Count or my wife; that my sole intention was to bind them, oblige the former to renounce all right to the Lady, and carry her with me into Bavaria.

The simple fellows either did, or affected to believe all I asserted; every circumstance was favourable to my design: The Count had been indisposed, and was still weak and incapable of any exertions; the child had been ill in the measles, and Agnes confined herself with her, the mother divided between the two had suffered an anxiety very


text:
Page:The Mysterious Warning - Parsons (1796, volume 2).djvu/41

 detrimental to her health and spirits. When we arrived at the gate, I turned to Arnulph with a sternness that terrified him: "Now mark me well, if you, by word or look, give the least alarm, that moment you are a dead man; you know your master cannot help you, therefore beware how you offend me." He assured me of his obedience, and rang the bell, the boy appeared, we stood on one side, hearing Arnulph's voice, he unbarred the gate, and we rushed in. I instantly seized him, and pulling him into a kind of lodge, I gagged and bound him. From thence, by Arnulph's direction, I proceeded to the Count's apartment, we listened at the door; and I heard Eugenia's voice, as if speaking to her child. Fury, almost to madness, seized me, and I burst in upon them with a pistol in each hand. He started from his bed, she shrieked, and looking at me, sunk on the floor.

The Count attempted to throw himself out of bed, he uttered some words I do not now recollect, and called upon his servant. I ad-


text:
Page:The Mysterious Warning - Parsons (1796, volume 2).djvu/42

 vanced furiously towards him: You call in vain for help, I am master of your destiny. I ordered Peter to throw himself upon him, and hold him down. In vain he struggled, for the efforts being too much for his strength, he was the more easily overpowered. With the pistol to his breast, whilst Peter secured his arms, I obliged Arnulph to cut the cords from the bed, and in spite of every resistance securely confined the Count, who now condescended to implore mercy for Eugenia; his first execrations were changed into supplications, and I enjoyed them.

Arnulph had been endeavouring to restore to life the deceitful Eugenia; her child was crying over her, and by its lamentations brought in Agnes. On seeing us, her first intention seemed to be flight, for she screamed and run to the door; but looking at her mistress she flew back to assist her, as she appeared returning to life; she besought me to spare her Lady.

"You have no cause for apprehension," I replied, exquisitely gratified at seeing them


text:
Index:The Richest Man In Babylon (1930).pdf/styles.css

.front, .story, .plate { max-width:45em; margin:3em auto; page-break-after:always; font-family:serif; }


text:
Page:The Mysterious Warning - Parsons (1796, volume 2).djvu/43

 all in my power: "I swear to you that I will not destroy your Lady, or your Lord, I do not mean to murder them."

"What then is your intention?" asked the Count. "Why break in upon us like a midnight robber?"

"I have no leisure to answer questions," said I, interrupting him, 'therefore you may as well be silent; for you, ungrateful, perjured creature," added I, addressing Eugenia, who by this time was restored to a sense of her situation, and hid her face in the arms of Agnes, both violently agitated, "you, who at the altar gave me your hand and faith, and now live as an adulteress with the man you swore never to be joined with without your father's consent; know you are still my wife, and I will prove my right by my power of punishing you."

She uttered not a word, terror had deprived her of speech. I ordered the two men to carry her into the next apartment. She made no resistance: I drove Agnes and the child after her; there I had recourse to the


text:
Page:The Mysterious Warning - Parsons (1796, volume 2).djvu/44

 same means, cut the cords from the bed, and bound both mistress and maid, telling Arnulph aside I would release his wife the following morning: I saw by his countenance that he repented of his confidence, and was much moved by the situation of the women, and the cries of the child, which I silenced by threats that drove her to the feet of her mother. I was convinced it would be necessary to get rid of him speedily; having therefore secured my prisoners, and locked them in separate rooms, I bid Arnulph conduct me over the Castle. I followed him through the apartments, and found one wing of it had been neglected, and was more out of repair than the rest, looking only towards a thick wood from the tower.

I examined carefully, and at the end of a gallery went down a stair-case, which had a vaulted passage. Opening one of the apartments, which received a glimmering light from the top of a broken window shutter, I bid the man see if he could pull it down.—He tremblingly obeyed me, and as he was


text:
Page:The Mysterious Warning - Parsons (1796, volume 2).djvu/45

 making the trial I stabbed him in the back: He fell; I repeated the stroke in his heart; he ceased to live, and I hastened from the place. The ferocity that had taken possession of my soul precluded every sense of fear, and drove every humane feeling from my heart for ever: I could now revenge my injuries, and I felt a gloomy triumph that inspired more pleasing sensations than I had for four years enjoyed.

Leaving the wretched victim, I explored the passage until I came into two horrible dungeons, and by the staples in the walls, and chains hanging from them, was convinced those dungeons had been formerly used as prisons by the owners of the Castle. This place answered my purpose exactly. I returned to the Count's apartment, told Peter Arnulph was employed at the other part of the house, and bid him assist me in carrying the Count to a place I had provided for him. He obeyed, incapable of resistance he submitted in silence.


text:
Page:The Mysterious Warning - Parsons (1796, volume 2).djvu/46

 When we descended into the dungeon I observed Peter trembled, and threw a melancholy glance on the prisoner; he was obliged, however, to help me in fastening the chain in a secure manner round the Count's legs and arms: I then unbound him.

"Use me as you please (said he) but spare the unfortunate Eugenia, and an innocent child."—His voice faltered.

"I mean not to divide you (I replied.)—You shall have your family party here to share your felicity." Ordering Peter to accompany me, I went back to the women, and obliged him to drag Agnes to the same vault. Eugenia made not the least resistance, when told she was to have her child and the Count with her.

"Conduct me where you will (said she) with the dear objects of my heart, and I shall not complain:" But when she entered the dismal abode, and saw him chained, she sent forth a piercing shriek, and then descended to implore mercy and supplicate forgiveness. I felt a sensation of pity at the moment, but


text:
Page:The Mysterious Warning - Parsons (1796, volume 2).djvu/47

 I had gone too far to recede. Agnes and the child uttered loud and dismal cries; Peter's tears ran down his cheeks, but I shut my ears and my eyes against being moved by their distress. We carried Eugenia into the inner dungeon, and chained her in a similar manner with the Count. Having thus secured them, I demanded of the faithless woman by what means she had escaped from me, who assisted her, and where she had been concealed?

"Those are particulars you shall never know (said she;) I have nothing now to fear, for death would be a relief; your savage nature may be gratified by my miseries, but never shall you learn from me the names of those who were my friends and deliverers."

"It is well (cried I, enraged at her perverseness) here is one however," seizing Agnes, "who has been an accomplice, and whom I will oblige to speak: Say, wretch, where didst thou hide that infamous perjured woman? Who were thy assistants? Instantly


text:
Page:The Mysterious Warning - Parsons (1796, volume 2).djvu/48

 confess the whole, or certain death attends thee."

"I had no assistants (answered she, firmly) nor do I fear to die; be assured, my Lord, that whilst I am confined in this horrid place, whilst those unfortunate ." I interrupted her, with my poignard at her breast, and at her peril bid her conceal any thing from me.

"I will follow the example of my beloved mistress (said she;) from me you will learn nothing."

"Die then, audacious wretch," I exclaimed, and plunged the poignard into her breast!

"Hold! O hold! (cried Eugenia) and I will tell you all:" But seeing the woman fall expiring on the ground:—"Inhuman monster! (added she) to murder the innocent and helpless, well dost thou justify the aversion my soul conceived against thee, stern, cruel barbarian! O, my father! my dear father! thy peace and happiness sacrificed to gratitude, and thy daughter a miserable victim to an unjust prejudice! Fatal, fatal prepos-


text:
Page:The Mysterious Warning - Parsons (1796, volume 2).djvu/49

 sessions! 'Tis you, unjust and cruel woman, 'tis you (cried I) who are the cause of all those murders, of that ferocity and cruelty thou upbraidest; 'tis love, 'tis hatred, that teaches me revenge; one passion shall at least be gratified."

I turned from her, heedless of her lamentations, or the cries of her child. On entering the other dungeon I saw the Count trembling, and speechless from the violence of his emotions, I left him with the triumphant satisfaction that he was now as wretched as myself. On my return to the habitable part of the house, I examined the looks of Peter, pale and agitated, I saw he was but half a villain, and enjoyed not the glorious revenge of his master. He asked for Arnulph, in a tone of voice that conveyed his suspicion that he also was no more.—Plunged so far into guilt, murder was familiar to my thoughts, and to secure myself, it was necessary I should permit no witnesses to exist against me.


text:
Page:Leo Tolstoi - Life Is Worth Living and Other Stories - tr. Adolphus Norraikow (1892).djvu/130

soon awoke, as he could not resist the temptation to doubt that his companion's money was really stolen. In the first place, he did not believe that the stranger had possessed any money, for he did not contribute a kopeck at any of the places which they visited. It had been his custom to order Euthymus to give instead, and besides this he had borrowed from him one ruble.

While these thoughts were passing through the mind of Euthymus he accused himself of sinfulness in thinking so harshly about his sleeping companion. "I am wicked," said he, "in thus suspecting the man's honesty. I will think no more about it."

But despite his laudable attempt to put a favorable construction upon the conduct of his as-


text:
Page:The Mysterious Warning - Parsons (1796, volume 2).djvu/50

 Could I have confided in his secrecy, he would have been most useful to me, but I dared not risk the hazard; therefore, after a moment's recollection, I bid him follow me, and he would see what Arnulph was employed about. With a doubtful look and a trembling step, he descended with me to the offices below, and passing the kitchens at the end of a long colonnade, I opened a door which led into a room that appeared to have been a laundry, and being detached some way from the other offices (the thing I sought for) was designed to rid me of all apprehensions from Peter.—"Arnulph is not here," said he, in a tremulous voice. Seeing that I stopped:—"No, but you are," and in a moment I buried the poignard in his bosom.—He fell dead without uttering a word, only one dismal groan, which made me start.—Looking round, and then on the bleeding object before me, whose services had ever been faithful, and who I had sacrificed to fear only, a transitory remorse smote me to the heart: I flew hastily from the dreadful scene


text:
Page:The Mysterious Warning - Parsons (1796, volume 2).djvu/51

 without recovering my weapon. I regained the chamber where I found the Count, and throwing myself upon the bed which lay on the floor, gave way to the most terrible reflections I had ever experienced; the horrors in which I spent that night will ever live in my remembrance.

I had committed three murders: The fury that had possessed me on my first entrance, now subsided into gloomy retrospections, and unsettled designs. If I destroyed the Count and Eugenia I had nothing to fear; but my revenge in that case would be incomplete; I wished to see them miserable, to endure a living death. Some times different ideas struck me, which my still violent passion suggested as a greater triumph over Eugenia, to assert my claim as a husband, and force her to submit to me even in preference of the object she had preferred to me. In short, the morning dawned before I had resolved on any plan, or without having rested a single hour.


text:
Page:Leo Tolstoi - Life Is Worth Living and Other Stories - tr. Adolphus Norraikow (1892).djvu/131

 124 sociate, grave doubts as to the latter's integrity forced themselves constantly upon his mind. He recollected his unwillingness to display money for any purpose whatever, and could not believe the story concerning the loss of his wallet. "He had no money," concluded Euthymus. "He is only shamming."

The travellers arose early the next morning and attended mass at the Temple of the Resurrection (the Lord's Tomb), for Euthymus never visited any place without his companion, who remained constantly by his side. On reaching the Temple they found that a large crowd of people had preceded them. There were pilgrims from Russia and other countries, while Greeks, Armenians, Turks, and Syrians were to be seen on all sides.

When Euthymus and his comrade reached the holy gates they passed with the other people by the sentinels (Turkish soldiers) and directed their steps toward the spot where the Saviour is said to have been taken from the cross and


text:
Page:The Mysterious Warning - Parsons (1796, volume 2).djvu/52

 When the day-light advanced I descended to the kitchens, there I found bread, butter and cheese, with a cold fowl; a wine cellar well stored, and a yard full of poultry; plenty of wood, and an outhouse full of old hay and stray, that was musty from age. I opened the windows to give it air; and going from thence to the gardens, saw one part was well cultivated with vegetables, and another with flowers and fruits.—"It will not be difficult to live here," I exclaimed, and from that moment determined on my plan, and from which I have never varied in the treatment of my prisoners: Every day to carry to them a certain portion of bread and water; once a week a half pint of wine, and once a month clean straw to rest upon. I resolved to preserve their lives that I might prolong their sufferings, and the gratification of my revenge was a much superior pleasure to any that I could promise myself from society, or an acquaintance with a world I had long since been disgusted with; for altho'


text:
Page:The Mysterious Warning - Parsons (1796, volume 2).djvu/53

 the bequests of Count Zimchaw had done away my first objections, by enabling me to appear with more consequence, and more suitable to my rank, yet habit had so accustomed me to retirement, that I felt no inclination to mix with mankind, and to retaliate my wrongs upon an ungrateful woman, and a successful rival, afforded me the most pleasing contemplation, and a supreme delight.


text:
Page:Leo Tolstoi - Life Is Worth Living and Other Stories - tr. Adolphus Norraikow (1892).djvu/132

Rh anointed. Here they found nine large candles burning, and Euthymus added one of his own to the number.

His companion then conducted him to the right side of the place, that they might ascend the steps which lead to Mount Calvary and view the spot on which stood the Redeemer's cross.

Here they knelt and prayed, after which they were shown the fissure in the earth that resulted from the earthquake which accompanied our Lord's dying hours.

Then the pilgrims were allowed to look upon the alleged locality where Christ's hands and feet were cruelly nailed to the cross, after which they were shown the "Tomb of Adam," where the blood of Jesus is said to have appeared upon our first parent's bones.

A short distance from here they saw the very stone on which Christ is supposed to have sat while being crowned with thorns, and also a pole to which it is said our Saviour was fastened


text:
Page:The Mysterious Warning - Parsons (1796, volume 2).djvu/54

CHAP. III

the morning in examining every part of the Castle, which was a good deal out of repair, except in the wing where they had taken up their residence. About noon I visited my prisoners, and carried to them the portion I had allotted for them.—They appeared to be differently affected, the Count was very weak, his pride, his spirits seemed subdued by the consideration of the distress his child and Eugenia had suffered. He condescended to supplicate for them; the child screamed on my approach, and flew to her mother, who with a look, and in


text:
Page:Leo Tolstoi - Life Is Worth Living and Other Stories - tr. Adolphus Norraikow (1892).djvu/133

 126 while he was being beaten by his enemies. After this they were shown a large stone containing two holes, in which the feet of Jesus are alleged to have been inserted still further to punish him.

Their guide desired to show them many more objects of interest, but the people were impatient to return to the Lord's Tomb, where the mass of the Greek Church was about to be celebrated; so Euthymus accompanied the other pilgrims to that place.

Euthymus had intended to leave his companion, because the stranger had sinned against him in being deceitful; but he was unable to do so, for he followed him closely all the way to the Tomb.

On arriving at the Temple, they tried to get seats near the altar, but the crowd was so great that they found it impossible to move either backward or forward.

Even while standing up to pray, Euthymus could not prevent his thoughts from wandering


text:
Page:The Mysterious Warning - Parsons (1796, volume 2).djvu/55

 a tone of mingled grief and haughtiness, thus addressed me:

"Whatever evils you have resolved to overwhelm me with, I can bear. You think I have deserved to suffer; but who, Sir, made you a judge in your own cause? I never deceived you, I told you I had no heart to give; you persisted, ungenerously laid a tax on the gratitude my dear father felt, and insisted that the hand of his daughter should be your reward for services, which common humanity would have dictated to the poorest peasant, had his power been equal to your's. Your claims, added to an unhappy, and I will say unjust, prejudice my father had conceived against the man I loved, proved destruction to my peace and happiness; commands which I had never disputed, and the impending horrors of a parent's curse drew from me an equivocal promise that I would give you my hand. Heaven has punished me for a duplicity I could not, according to my own feelings, avoid or evade. At the altar, neither my heart nor lips ratified the


text:
Page:The Mysterious Warning - Parsons (1796, volume 2).djvu/56

 gift of my hand, for my vows were given to another. The consequence you know.

"You now, Sir, usurp an unjust power over us; but do not deceive yourself, neither peace nor pleasure can follow such unjustifiable, such cruel deeds; murder has many tongues, and your own conscience will avenge our wrongs."

Here she ceased; I had listened to her with pain and impatience; the music of her voice thrilled to my very soul, but her words drove every soft idea from my heart as instantly as they were conceived.—"There is bread and water (exclaimed I, my passions roused to a degree of frenzy) that, and a bed of straw is what you may expect from me." I returned to the offices, I brought two small tables and benches; I fixed a faint and glimmering lamp against the wall, which served only to throw a gloomy light, and additional horror, on the dismal dungeons. A small opening was between them, and the length of their chains permitted their approach near to each other; I fetched straw and a blanket


text:
Page:The Mysterious Warning - Parsons (1796, volume 2).djvu/57

 for each; they observed all these preparations in sullen silence, I was as little disposed to talk. When I had completed the business, and was about to leave them, "You now see that I am in earnest (said I;) once a day I shall visit you, and gratify my feelings by a view of your miseries."

"O, my child! my dear child!" exclaimed Eugenia, passionately.—I made no reply, but a look of scornful exultation, and returned to the apartments I had fixed on for my residence.

I was now alone, condemned to solitude without a friend, or even an attendant: I regretted the loss of Peter; he had served me some years with fidelity, why then did I distrust him? Why suffer my cowardly apprehensions to deprive me of a companion so necessary? These were my reflections as I looked round on the gloomy woods which appeared from every window, and heard the hollow winds whistling through the trees.—Surely, thought I again, this Castle was built for deeds of darkness; murder has been


text:
Page:Leo Tolstoi - Life Is Worth Living and Other Stories - tr. Adolphus Norraikow (1892).djvu/134

 Rh to his money, and through his fear of losing it he would frequently touch his wallet to see if it was safe. He was disturbed by two reflections—first, he felt that his companion was deceiving him, and, secondly, he said to himself: "If he told me the truth, without deceit, the same misfortune may befall me."


text:
Page:The Mysterious Warning - Parsons (1796, volume 2).djvu/58

 familiar within these walls, and the Count's ancestors, perhaps, were not less criminal than myself.

A violent storm of hail and thunder confined me to the apartment for the remainder of the day. I employed myself in arranging matters for my own accommodation, when towards the evening, as I was musing over the recent events, it darted into my mind that the poor boy whom I had confined in the lodge, if not dead, might be useful to me; the situation of this boy had never occurred to me till that moment: I hastened to the place, and found him in a most pitiable state, almost without life. I released and assisted him into the house; I told him, the Count and his family had been obliged to fly to avoid being imprisoned by the Emperor, whose orders had been issued for that purpose; that being related to the Count's Lady, I remained in the Castle, at their request, to keep possession for them, and would be kind to him if he behaved well.


text:
Page:The Mysterious Warning - Parsons (1796, volume 2).djvu/59

 Young, extremely ignorant, and overjoyed to escape from the apprehensions of death, he implicitly believed every thing I asserted, and when, by a little bread and wine being cautiously administered, I had brought him to a small return of strength and courage, he bestowed a thousand blessings on me for preserving his life; so strangely had the sudden fright and terror overcome his senses when he was seized upon, that he described five or six great tall men armed breaking into the Castle, and swearing to murder every one in it. He rejoiced to hear that his master and Lady escaped from them, and never once expressed any surprise at my being there, or asked by what means I came to know of his confinement. From that day he served me faithfully; I was obliged to trust him once into the village for necessaries, but after that time I engaged a farmer to come himself once or twice a week, and as I paid him handsomely, he never expressed any curiosity, or a wish to penetrate into my motives for this recluse way of life, and


text:
Page:The Mysterious Warning - Parsons (1796, volume 2).djvu/60

 having slightly hinted the same tale I had fabricated to the boy, he as readily believed it.

Three months passed away without the least alteration in the plan I had laid down and regularly pursued, only that I visited my prisoners at night, after the boy was retired to rest, and had nailed up the doors of those rooms where the wretches lay whom I had sacrificed to my own safety. I am apt to believe the Count and Eugenia sometimes flattered themselves that time would subdue my resentment, or that I should grow tired of living in that solitary mansion; but if such ideas occurred to them, they were mistaken; solitude nursed the ferocity of my disposition, and the patience and resignation they evinced in their horrid situation only increased my desire of continuing their punishment till despair and sorrow should more completely gratify my revenge. 'Tis true, I sometimes looked back with regret on the few weeks I had spent with the Count and his daughter at my own mansion, far the


text:
Page:Leo Tolstoi - Life Is Worth Living and Other Stories - tr. Adolphus Norraikow (1892).djvu/135

stood in the church as he prayed, looking toward the Saviour's Tomb, above which thirty-six hanging lamps were burning dimly. As he looked over the heads of the people he was surprised to see standing under the lamps an old man wearing a very plain coat. He had a bald head and bore a close resemblance to his friend Elissey Bodroff.

At first glance, Euthymus thought it really was Elissey, but he said to himself:

"How can he be here? The next ship was not to leave for a week after ours had sailed. Elissey could not have preceded me, and he was certainly not among our passengers, for I saw every one of the pilgrims."

Yet while Euthymus was thus engaged in thought the old man began to pray. He bowed


text:
Page:The Mysterious Warning - Parsons (1796, volume 2).djvu/61

 happiest days of my life, and for which I have dearly paid by subsequent miseries!

I some times felt a degree of envy rise in my bosom when I read of the pleasures enjoyed by a social converse with our fellow creatures; and there were moments when I was tormented with the idea, that even my prisoners experienced some satisfaction in being able to communicate their feelings to each other. It is certain that had there been a possibility of placing them separately I should have done it, but I was incapable of making a new arrangement myself, and dared not confide in the boy. A circumstance, however, soon took place, which rendered them as completely wretched as my vindictive heart could desire.

On one of my nocturnal visits, I found the Count overwhelmed with an unusual gloom, and the mother supporting her child on her bed of straw, almost drowned in tears.—When I approached her, "See, barbarian! (cried she) the work of thy cruel hands;—behold this dear innocent victim devoured by


text:
Page:The Mysterious Warning - Parsons (1796, volume 2).djvu/62

 a fever occasioned by the damps of the dungeon, and want of proper food. O, if thy heart is not more callous than the fiercest beasts of prey, compassionate my child, save, oh! save its life, or be merciful and destroy us all at once!"

My heart fluttered at this address, and a something like pity rose for a moment to my soul; but instantly recollecting that she had pledged her vows to me at the altar with an intention to deceive, that the child was the offspring of a detested rival, and that now was my turn to triumph; those ideas in a moment chased the weakness from my heart, and gave place to very different sensations. Before I could reply, the Count addressed me, in a tremulous voice:

"I never thought to supplicate pity, or sue for any favours, but nature, all-powerful, subdues both pride and hatred. My child! Baron, save my child, spare its wretched mother this bitter climax of sorrow." He was interrupted, the child called for drink, the small portion I had brought was quickly


text:
Page:The Mysterious Warning - Parsons (1796, volume 2).djvu/63

 gone. Again Eugenia exerted her eloquence, her tears. I heard her unmoved, and turning from them, "Now then, wretches, you can feel, now you know what it is to mourn as I have done; may the loss of your dearest hopes revenge my injuries."

I returned to my apartment exquisitely gratified. The following night I repeated my visit; there, on her bed of straw, lay the once captivating Eugenia, pale, dishevelled, her voice choked with sighs and tears, her late beautiful child consuming by a fever, and gasping for life, the Count stretched on the bare ground in silent agony, incapable of assisting those objects so dear to him! O, what a luxury of revenge!

When I drew near, before the mother could speak, the child extended its feeble hand, "Water, water, mamma!" Eugenia started, hastily reached to take the jug; her weak and tremulous hand, too eager to grasp the prize, dropped it between us! She


text:
Page:Leo Tolstoi - Life Is Worth Living and Other Stories - tr. Adolphus Norraikow (1892).djvu/136

 Rh three times—once to God and once to the orthodox world on either side—and as he turned his head to the right, Euthymus felt sure that he recognized in him his old friend Bodroff.

"Yes," said Euthymus, "it is he. The same black beard and curly gray hair—the eyes, the nose, and all the other features are his. Yes, it is Elissey Bodroff!"

Euthymus was overjoyed at the thought of finding his lost companion, though he was unable to understand how he could have arrived before him.

"Oh!" he exclaimed, "Bodroff is so smart that he reached the front ahead of every one else! Still, he may be in the company of some one who has shown him how to do it. I will wait for him at the door. I will leave my new companion and rejoin Elissey, that next time I may reach the altar near the Tomb."

And Euthymus stationed himself at the door, on the lookout for Elissey. At the close of the service, the people began to "kiss the cross" in


text:
Page:The Mysterious Warning - Parsons (1796, volume 2).djvu/64

 shrieked, O misery! O, Baron! Water, for the love of Heaven some water!"

"You have had your allowance, you must suffer for your own heedlessness."

With an air of distraction she crawled to my feet: "If you wish that Heaven should pity you in your last moments, now, now show mercy to the wretch before you; save my child, procure me instant relief, see life quivering on its parched lips! Oh! God, for me it suffers! Baron, Baron, save the innocent!"

She sunk back on the damp ground; the Count groaned with anguish, and dashed his chains with rage. The child again feebly called for drink; she sprung up, "O, inhuman, merciless monster, worse than a savage beast! Thou wearest a human form, cannot our misery content thee? This agonizing sight!" She turned her eyes on the child, it was that moment seized with convulsions; its struggles, and the wild screams of the mother, made me shudder. I quickly has-


text:
Page:The Mysterious Warning - Parsons (1796, volume 2).djvu/65

 tened from the scene, which however gratifying to my wished-for vengeance, gave a temporary shock to my soul, that I was obliged to shake off by recalling to my memory the wrongs I had endured from a faithless, ungrateful woman.

That night and the following day I passed in steeling my heart against all supplications, and acquiring fortitude to bear the wild reproaches of a frantic mother, I doubted not but that the child was dead, and I anticipated the pleasure I should feel in seeing her wretchedness complete.

At the accustomed hour I entered the dungeon. The Count fixed his stern and haggard eye upon me with a look that penetrated me with horror: He spoke not a word. I advanced, and beheld Eugenia seated by her child, which lay, as I expected, dead. She spoke not, nor raised her head at my approach. "There is your allowance, (said I) and I will remove this object from your view." She seized the body, and turning up her face with a significance of woe


text:
Page:The Mysterious Warning - Parsons (1796, volume 2).djvu/66

 inexpressible, a wildness in her eye, though sunk deep in her head by sorrow.

"Prepare the bed (said she) and I will follow; but my arms only shall convey my child, it sleeps sweetly now. Yes, yes, my love, your grand sire now relents; your birth-day shall be kept with splendour. Pray let us have a soft pillow, let us have music, the soft notes shall waft us to Heaven;—come, give me some food, I can eat now under this glorious canopy."—I saw her reason was disturbed, that grief had distracted her. She took the bread, and eat with eagerness; it was the day on which I gave them an allowance of wine; she drank it freely, talking wildly all the time, yet not with any violence.

My heart smote me, I went back to the Count: "Barbarian! (exclaimed he) now triumph, my child! the poor lost Eugenia!" His voice faltered, large drops fell upon his face. He dried them up, then looking steadily on me: "Whilst that dear unfortunate angel lives, I must exist; I receive this


text:
Page:Leo Tolstoi - Life Is Worth Living and Other Stories - tr. Adolphus Norraikow (1892).djvu/137

130 large numbers, and so great was the crowd that Euthymus was pushed roughly aside in the struggle that ensued. Again he became concerned as to the safety of his money, and, keeping his hand on his wallet, he started to go out.

For some time Euthymus wandered about the place looking for his old friend, and, failing to find him anywhere about the Temple, he extended his search to the different lodging-houses, but without success. He failed also to find his other companion, who by some means had suddenly disappeared without returning the ruble he had borrowed from Euthymus.

The next day Euthymus, in company with an old man from Tomboff Province whom he had met on the ship, went to the Lord's Tomb. He had hoped to be able to force his way forward to the altar, but as the crowd was too great he contented himself by leaning up against a pillar to pray.

As he looked toward the front of the Temple,


text:
Page:The Mysterious Warning - Parsons (1796, volume 2).djvu/67

 wretched sustenance for her sake; in its own good time Heaven will release us from thee, cruel, merciless wretch!"—But why should I repeat the ravings of a man in his situation? It is sufficient to say, that his insults, his impotent threats, roused me from that lethargy of soul, into which the incoherent language of Eugenia had plunged me, and turned my momentary remorse into fury: In the bitterness of passion I swore, that if Eugenia died, I would inflict unheard of tortures on him; and should he escape my power, then his mistress should feel the severest vengeance that I could devise. Worked up to madness by the agitations of my mind, I scarce remember what passed between us, nor did I ever pass a night so replete with horror as the succeeding one.

The following night I found Eugenia still the same, cheerful and melancholy by turns, but all recollection of her situation entirely lost. Sometimes she talked of her father, her child, her dear Count, as if all were present with her; then looking on me she


text:
Page:Leo Tolstoi - Life Is Worth Living and Other Stories - tr. Adolphus Norraikow (1892).djvu/138

 Rh he again espied his old friend Elissey Bodroff. He stood in exactly the same place as before, with his hands outstretched in supplication to God—in the same attitude which the priests assume before the altar—and his bald head glistening under the lamps as if surrounded with a halo of glory.

"Now," said Euthymus, as he pushed his way hastily through the crowd, "I must not let him escape me this time."

When he reached the spot, however, Elissey was nowhere to be seen.

On the third day Euthymus again attended the services in the Temple, when he was once more favored with a glimpse of Elissey standing just where he had stood the previous day. He was looking upward, as if his attention were concentrated upon some object in the dome of the Temple. The top of his head was the brightest object to be seen in the vast assemblage.

"Well," said Euthymus, with determination, "he will certainly not get away from me now.


text:
Page:The Mysterious Warning - Parsons (1796, volume 2).djvu/68

 would scream, and call for help, "a ruffian was going to murder her!" But, as during those paroxysms she walked swiftly backward and forward to the extent of her chain, I seized a moment, when her back was turned to drag the dead object of her sorrows from the dungeon to an outer hole, where I had left the corpse of Agnes. She soon missed her child, and uttered the most piercing cries, cries which froze me with terror, and which I saw no way to silence but by rough measures: I seized her by the arm, and drawing a dagger, which I always carried by my side:

"Woman! (I exclaimed, in a voice and with an action equally menacing) woman, cease these screams, be composed and silent, or this weapon shall be buried in your bosom." She shrunk and trembled; she, who had heretofore braved death, and defied my power, now shuddered with affright, and threw her eyes wildly round, as if imploring succour. Having succeeded in terrifying her, I placed her on the bench, again threatening her with death if she repeated her cries.—-


text:
Page:Leo Tolstoi - Life Is Worth Living and Other Stories - tr. Adolphus Norraikow (1892).djvu/139

 132 I will go to the door and intercept him as he leaves the Temple."

Proceeding toward the door, Euthymus took up his position on the steps leading to the entrance, where he waited until the last worshipper had left the building—but his old friend came not.

Euthymus was greatly distressed at the failure of his vigil.

He remained six weeks longer in that vicinity, visiting many other places of interest. During this period he went to Bethlehem, Bethany, and to the river Jordan. On his new shirt he put the seal of the Lord's Tomb, by which he recorded his desire to be buried in that very garment on account of its sacred associations.

Putting some of the Jordan's water into a bottle, he took with him also some clay from its banks. Euthymus then bought some candles in various holy places, after which he discovered that he had already spent more money than he


text:
Page:Leo Tolstoi - Life Is Worth Living and Other Stories - tr. Adolphus Norraikow (1892).djvu/140

 Rh could really afford, for he had left scarcely enough to take him home.

At length he started on his return journey, soon reaching Jaffa in safety, where he took passage on a vessel bound for Odessa, from which city he travelled the rest of the way on foot.


text:
Page:The Mysterious Warning - Parsons (1796, volume 2).djvu/69

 She sat still as death, her eyes fixed, her limbs trembling. I turned from her to quit the dungeon: "Stop, miscreant (said the Count) stay and end our miseries, give us the death you threaten, destroy both, and I will thank you!"

"Death! (I replied) No, that would rob me of my vengeance; you shall live to curse the hour you ever saw my wife; now revel in her company, now enjoy a teté à teté at my expense, and boast your triumph over Baron S."

Without waiting a reply I left him. It is now eight years since this event took place. Eugenia continues in the same hopeless state, yet blessed in some degree that she is very seldom sensible of her miserable situation, except when I appear before her, she then utters the wildest lamentations; but on threatening her with a whip or stick she shrinks down and is silent. The Count evidently struggles to preserve his life for her sake, for hope I think must long since have forsaken him; he perseveres in a sullen silence, and my


text:
Page:Leo Tolstoi - Life Is Worth Living and Other Stories - tr. Adolphus Norraikow (1892).djvu/141

proceeded on his lonesome journey without further incident, but as he neared his home distracting thoughts as to the condition of his domestic affairs again distressed his mind. He was constantly wondering if they had gone smoothly during his absence.

Remembering the Russian proverb, he said: "A great deal of the river's water passes in one year. While it takes a life-time to make a home, it may be destroyed in no time."

He was anxious to learn how his son had conducted the business during his absence, how the cattle had passed the winter, and if the new house was finished in accordance with his directions.

At length Euthymus reached the village where, more than a year previous, he had parted


text:
Page:The Mysterious Warning - Parsons (1796, volume 2).djvu/70

 treatment of them has been uniformly the same. Time has not extinguished my hatred, nor glutted my vengeance; my death must forerun theirs; then, and not till then, will their sufferings end. How strong is the passion of love, but how much stronger the desire of Revenge!!

Memorandum,

"I have lost my boy in a consumption: I have, through the kindness of the farmer, procured an elderly man, whose poverty renders solitude preferable to want. I envy his happiness, for he has peace of mind!!"

A stranger, calling himself Ferdinand, has discovered this place; his society may be useful and comfortable.—No! he is a poor humane, pusillanimous wretch; he is fit for the world, he shall go.

The End of the Memoir.


text:
Page:Olive Custance - Opals.djvu/12

Rh

title: Page:Olive Custance - Opals.djvu/12


text:
Page:Leo Tolstoi - Life Is Worth Living and Other Stories - tr. Adolphus Norraikow (1892).djvu/142

 Rh from his old comrade Elissey Bodroff. He could scarcely recognize the place, on account of the evident prosperity that since had visited the people, for when the pilgrims were there together a great famine was upon the land. Now the crops were good and the people were prosperous. They had quite forgotten their past sufferings, and were contented and happy.

It was near sundown when Euthymus reached this point on his journey. As he arrived opposite the house in which Elissey had performed the part of the "good Samaritan," a girl dressed partly in white ran out and shouted:

"Uncle! My dear uncle, come to us!"

Euthymus desired to continue on his way, but the girl, seizing him by his coat, refused to let him do so. She held tightly to him, and after some difficulty succeeded in dragging him toward her home. She was in great glee, and as they approached the house a woman with a baby in her arms came out to welcome the stranger to their humble abode.


text:
Page:Leo Tolstoi - Life Is Worth Living and Other Stories - tr. Adolphus Norraikow (1892).djvu/143

136 "Come in, dear uncle," said the woman; "take supper with us, and rest here for the night."

Euthymus accepted the hospitality thus so kindly offered, and as he entered he realized that the house was the same one to which his old comrade had gone for a drink. He was naturally anxious to find out all he could learn in regard to what had become of Elissey, and so he made many inquiries. As he came into the room the woman relieved him of his sack and gave him water in which to bathe his hands and face, after which she invited him to be seated at the table, placing before him bread, milk, curd-dumplings, and gruel.

Euthymus first thanked and then praised his hostess for her cordial welcome, and for the kindly interest which she and her household had taken in him a stranger.

The woman shook her head as she said:

"It would be impossible for us not to welcome strangers who come this way, for to one of such we owe our lives. We were living in


text:
Page:The Mysterious Warning - Parsons (1796, volume 2).djvu/71

CHAP. IV.

perused the manuscript with eagerness, and an increasing curiosity that would not admit of an interruption until he had gone through the whole.—When the memoir was concluded, he sat for some time motionless, overcome with astonishment, and scarcely believing there could have existed a man who had for years cherished in his bosom such a diabolical passion for revenge, and such a persevering cruelty. He shuddered with horror when he reflected on the situation of those unhappy victims, and the fate they must have experienced,


text:
Page:The Mysterious Warning - Parsons (1796, volume 2).djvu/72

 had not Providence conducted him to the Castle previous to the old Baron's death.—His own misfortunes appeared light in the balance, when weighed against the uncommon miseries the Count and his Eugenia had sustained; and the heart-felt delight at being the instrument to deliver them, at that moment seemed to overpay all the sorrows which had conducted him to that wretched habitation.

Francis, whose youth appeared to be renovated by the enjoyment of society, exerted himself to make all the accommodations in his power to afford ease and pleasure to Ferdinand and his guests, not having the least idea that they were the owners of the Castle; fortunately it was the day on which the farmer regularly came for orders, and to his great surprise he had a demand for such luxuries as had long been unasked for there. Francis mentioned the death of his old master, and that his heir was now arrived, and desired to see him.


text: Page:Olive Custance - Opals.djvu/15

title: Page:Olive Custance - Opals.djvu/15


text:
Page:The Mysterious Warning - Parsons (1796, volume 2).djvu/73

 It was not without some reluctance that the man ventured inside the gates, for a thousand ridiculous stories had been promulgated in the village sufficiently strange to terrify a weak and ignorant mind; but Francis, who knew the stimulative to a selfish disposition, held out such hopes of advantages to himself in being serviceable to his young master, that self-interest predominated over fear, and the man was at length persuaded to appear before Ferdinand. He was then informed that the old Gentleman being dead, it was necessary to have proper measures taken for his funeral, and the farmer was requested to send such persons as would be useful on the occasion. This he promised to do, and also to bring a young woman to attend the sick Lady.

After the farmer's departure, Ferdinand more closely examined the papers in the cabinet where he had found the manuscript, to see if the deceased had held any correspondence, or to find by what means he had acquired money for his support during the


text:
Page:The Mysterious Warning - Parsons (1796, volume 2).djvu/74

 twelve years he had resided in that solitary mansion; but his search was attended with no gratification to his curiosity, farther than the discovery of near three hundred crowns in a private drawer, and the deeds and papers belonging to the estate Count Zimchaw had bequeathed to him, which appeared very extraordinary, and unlikely to be found there: The more he reflected on the memoir, and conduct of the Baron, the greater was his astonishment that any mind could indulge the horrid passion of revenge to such a degree, as to render him indifferent to every pleasure and convenience in life, to undergo the most painful of all situations, an outcast from society, dead to the world, to family, fortune, and friends, solely to inflict punishments upon others, which from habit must, he thought, have long since ceased to afford the smallest degree of gratification to his vindictive and cruel disposition. His sudden death, under such a frame of mind, made Ferdinand shudder, and was, he thought, a


text:
Page:The Mysterious Warning - Parsons (1796, volume 2).djvu/75

 severe retribution for his uncommon cruelties.

Anxious to hear the story of the Count and Eugenia, he flattered himself sleep would restore them to a comparative degree of strength, and enable them to relate their "eventful history."

Frequently, during the course of the evening, Ferdinand went to the doors of their apartments to listen if they were awake, and at length he heard the Count moving, upon which he entered the room. The Count extending his hand, pressed his deliverer's to his lips: "The voluptuary in his highest enjoyments," said he, "never experienced the luxury I have felt this day. O, Sir! to conceive the misery I have endured is impossible, nor can language describe it. To the goodness of Heaven (who strengthened me to bear, what must appear almost incredible for a human creature to suffer) I owe the preservation of my senses, and the enjoyment, the exquisite delight of this blessed hour. To you."


text:
Page:Leo Tolstoi - Life Is Worth Living and Other Stories - tr. Adolphus Norraikow (1892).djvu/144

 Rh forgetfulness of God and his mercy, and our punishment was so severe that at one time we prayed that death might relieve us of our misery. There was nothing left for us to eat, and we were both hungry and sick. We certainly should have died had not the Lord taken pity upon us by sending an old man like yourself to our aid. He came to us for a drink of water, and, seeing our sad condition, he was moved to pity and stayed with us for a time. He first gave us some water to drink and then went and bought us food, after which he repurchased our rye-field and meadow, which had been mortgaged for all they were worth. After this he bought a horse and wagon and gave them to us, and then he went on his way.”

At this point the narrative was interrupted by the appearance of another woman upon the scene.

"We do not know," said she, "whether he was a man or an angel of God. He pitied us and befriended us, and finally left us without


text:
Page:The Mysterious Warning - Parsons (1796, volume 2).djvu/76

 "Not a word to me, my dear Sir," cried Ferdinand, interrupting him; "I have simply performed a duty the poorest and most ignorant of mankind would have done as well had they been in my place. I rejoice to see you thus refreshed, and I hope the Lady will feel equal benefit from a few hours sleep."

"The poor Eugenia!" exclaimed the Count, with a deep sigh, "great and unparalleled have been her woes; for years, Sir, she lost her reason, and all sense of her miseries, and to that state I doubtless owe her life, which must otherwise have sunk under the oppressive recollection of past scenes, and continued miseries. 'Tis not many months since that her dreadful malady took a sudden turn, and that was occasioned by an accident which I feared would have been her death.

Walking one day pretty quick, the sudden check of the chain threw her down with such force, that she struck her mouth and nose violently, and bled to an alarming degree.


text:
Page:The Mysterious Warning - Parsons (1796, volume 2).djvu/77

 Unable to afford her any assistance, judge what were my feelings to behold her in that situation! She rolled towards the straw, and at length fainted; that temporary death, which I thought a conclusive stroke, by stagnating the powers of life, I believe caused the bleeding to stop, and in a short time, to my infinite surprise, for I could scarcely be said to feel joy, she showed signs of returning life, and what was still more unexpected, the first words she faintly uttered convinced me that her senses and reason were also wonderfully restored. She continued very weak, and now and then rambled a little for several days, and even to the day of our deliverance she never saw our tormentor enter the dungeon without a temporary deprivation of her reason, by shrieking most violently as he approached to lay down our food; nor do I believe the inhuman wretch ever had an idea of her being at all recovered from the melancholy situation she had fallen into through his barbarity.


text: Page:Olive Custance - Opals.djvu/109

title: Page:Olive Custance - Opals.djvu/109


text:
Page:The Mysterious Warning - Parsons (1796, volume 2).djvu/78

 I hope her present refreshing rest will be of equal service to tranquillize her mind, and restore her to some degree of strength."

"I hope the same," replied Ferdinand, "and have already spoken to a person to procure an attendant for her; mean time you must be content with our services."

The Count made the warmest acknowledgments, and entreated the assistance of Francis to dress him: "My arms," said he, "have so long been confined, that the muscles are stiffened, and will be some time, I fear, before they are relaxed so as to enable me to help myself."—Ferdinand withdrew to send Francis, who was but an awkward valet de chambre; however, he helped on his clothes, and assisted him to the parlour, which they were obliged to darken, the Count's eyes not being able to support the glare of light after having been so many years in a visible darkness.

The Gentlemen partaking of some refreshment, and having stationed Francis at the


text:
Page:The Mysterious Warning - Parsons (1796, volume 2).djvu/79

 door of the Lady's apartment, the Count addressing Ferdinand, "Doubtless, Sir," said he, "your curiosity must be sufficiently excited to know our extraordinary story, and if you'll pardon the frequent pauses which weakness may oblige me to make, I will endeavour to gratify you."

Ferdinand then mentioned the manuscript, which, he said, "had already acquainted him with every thing subsequent to Count Zimchaw's arrival at the house of the late Baron, except the Lady Eugenia's escape from him, and her story until the Baron discovered them in the Castle."

"What a mind of determined cruelty must that man have possessed," exclaimed the Count, "who could sit calmly down and commit his diabolical deeds to paper! I hope, for the sake of human nature, there exists not such another monster; but I have always observed, that it is dangerous to let a single passion engross the mind, it generally tends to the most violent excesses; the


text:
Page:Leo Tolstoi - Life Is Worth Living and Other Stories - tr. Adolphus Norraikow (1892).djvu/145

 138 saying who he was, and we knew not upon whom to ask God to let his blessing rest. I can recall that happy morning as if it had occurred only yesterday. As I lay there awaiting death, I saw the old man come in. He was bald, though there was nothing unusual in his appearance. He said he had come to ask for a drink of water, but, sinning even in my misery, I thought to myself, 'Why do they go tramping around?' Yet it was this man who saved our lives, for as soon as he realized our pitiable state he put down his sack on this very spot and proceeded to open it."

Here the little girl interrupted her, saying:

"No, grandma; he first put it in the middle of the room, and afterward placed it on the bench."

Thus the grateful peasants began to dispute with each other, as they recalled every word that Elissey had said to them—what he had done, where he used to sit, and where he slept.

As the night wore on the man of the peasant


text:
Page:The Mysterious Warning - Parsons (1796, volume 2).djvu/80

 love of such a man as Baron S must be furious, and meeting with a disappointment which equally wounded his pride, produced that implacable hatred which settled in a stern and cruel revenge, the gratification of which, like Aaron's rod, swallowed up every sentiment of humanity. Poor wretch! I can pity him, for his death, in such a frame of mind, disarms resentment."


text:
Page:The Mysterious Warning - Parsons (1796, volume 2).djvu/81

CHAP. V.

briefly relate to you those events with which you are unacquainted. My father and the late Count Zimchaw were neighbours, and once good friends. Eugenia and myself, at an early period in life, felt a mutual attachment, which death only can dissolve. There was nothing to impede the progress of our affections; age, circumstances, and the approbation of our parents, gave a sanction to our love, and we arrived at an age, when it was determined upon, that in a very few months our marriage should take place. Alas! what revolutions may occur


text:
Page:Leo Tolstoi - Life Is Worth Living and Other Stories - tr. Adolphus Norraikow (1892).djvu/146

 Rh household arrived home on horseback, and related his version of Elissey's visit.

"If that old man," said he, “"ad not come to us when he did we should all have died in our sins. We were almost dead, and in the deepest despair, blaming our neighbors and even the good God for our sufferings and want. But the stranger was the means of our salvation, and through him we were led to have faith in the Lord and to believe in the goodness of mankind. Bless him and prosper him, O Christ! We have been living like wild beasts, but through his kindness we became human beings once more!"

They gave Euthymus an abundance of food and drink, and prepared a place for him to sleep, after which they retired for the night.

But Euthymus found it impossible to sleep. He could not cease to wonder how it happened that he saw his old comrade on three different occasions standing in the Temple in front of all the other pilgrims.

"Now," said he, "I understand wherein he


text:
Page:The Mysterious Warning - Parsons (1796, volume 2).djvu/82

 in a short space of time to overthrow the best formed plans for happiness! One evening the two Gentlemen entered into a conversation on the war, on the conduct of the Ministers in the Imperial Court, and such other topics as frequently produce disputation from different opinions. My father had retired from Court in disgust; he thought himself ill-treated, and his services neglected; he spoke therefore with some acrimony, and much warmth against the measures adopted for carrying on the war; Count Zimchaw, formerly a moderate man, having, by his interest not long before, procured a handsome establishment for his nephew, felt himself called upon to be the champion in defence of his friends: Their dispute was carried on for some time without personal resentment; but unhappily growing animated on both sides, they forgot the ground of their first argument, and turned every thing into intended insults on each other; they lost sight of friendship, and even good manners, and


text:
User:The Master of Hedgehogs/vector.css

/* Vanilla theme for Vector 2010 */

body { background-color: rgb(150, 195, 255); /* vanilla */ background-image: linear-gradient(100deg, rgb(150, 195, 255), rgb(255, 255, 255) ); background-repeat: no-repeat; } .mw-body { border:1px solid darkorange; border-right-width:0; }
 * 1) firstHeading { font-family: 'ubuntu', 'noto sans', 'segoe ui', verdana, tahoma, 'trebuchet ms', arial, helvetica, sans-serif }
 * 1) mw-page-base { background:none; }

.vector-menu-tabs, .vector-menu-tabs a { background:none ; } .left-navigation { margin-bottom: 10px; } .vector-menu-tabs li { border-radius: 100px; } .vector-menu-tabs li { padding: 1px; margin: 1px; }

border-radius: 30px 0 0 30px; box-shadow: -5px 5px 10px -7px #000000; }
 * 1) content {

.vector-menu-tabs li { background-image:none; background-color:white; /* fallback */ background-color:rgba(255,255,255,0.5) } .vector-menu-tabs li a { padding-top: 0; height:20px; } .vector-menu-tabs { padding-left: 30px; }

/* group 1 */ a:link, .vector-menu-portal .vector-menu-content li a, .skin--responsive #p-personal li a { color: #C80; }

/* group 2 */ .vector-menu-portal .vector-menu-content li a, .skin--responsive #p-personal li a,	color: brown; }
 * 1) p-personal a,
 * 2) footer a {

/* selection */
 * selection { background-color: rgb(255, 210, 150); } /* vanilla */
 * -moz-selection { background-color: rgb(255, 210, 150); } /* Firefox 61 and earlier */

/* edit summaries */ .autocomment a { color: grey; }

/* legacy MediaWiki */ .vectorTabs { margin-left: 30px; } .vectorTabs, .vectorTabs a { background:none ; } .left-navigation { margin-bottom: 10px; } .vectorTabs li { border-radius: 100px; } .vectorTabs li { padding: 1px; margin: 1px; }

.vectorTabs li { background-image:none; background-color:white; /* fallback */ background-color:rgba(255,255,255,0.5); } .vectorTabs li a { padding-top:0; height:20px; } .vectorTabs { padding-left: 30px; } .mw-panel a, div.vectorTabs ul, div.vectorTabs ul li { background-image: none; height:20px;} div.vectorTabs span a { padding-top: 0; } div.vectorTabs, div.vectorTabs span{ background-image: none; } div.vectorTabs ul li { margin-left: 5px; }
 * 1) mw-panel .portal .body li a{ color: brown; }

title: User:The Master of Hedgehogs/vector.css


text:
Page:Leo Tolstoi - Life Is Worth Living and Other Stories - tr. Adolphus Norraikow (1892).djvu/147

 140 surpassed me. It may be that my devotions were rejected by the Lord, but it is plain that his were accepted."

Next morning they parted with Euthymus, giving him plenty of cakes to eat on the way; and as he proceeded on his journey the members of the peasant family resumed their work.


text:
Page:The Mysterious Warning - Parsons (1796, volume 2).djvu/83

 had not some company unexpectedly entered the room, it is more than probable the sword would have terminated the dispute. Every effort was used by their mutual friends to bring about a reconciliation, but they had gone too far on both sides to make any concessions; they parted with an avowed hatred to each other, and in the same hour Eugenia and myself were commanded to avoid all future intercourse with the respective families, and never to converse or see the object of our dearest affections more.

"Eugenia, who held the commands of a parent in the utmost veneration, promised implicit obedience, though her heart and spirits sunk under the effort, and she fell dangerously ill. Almost distracted with her situation and my own, I exhausted myself in fruitless endeavours to restore harmony between our fathers: I left nothing unsaid or undone to soften their resentments; but the remembrance of their long friendship only served to increase their animosity to each other, and the asperity with which both the


text:
Page:The Mysterious Warning - Parsons (1796, volume 2).djvu/84

 one and the other accused his opponent, could neither be forgiven or forgotten. I wrote to my dear Eugenia; I conjured her 'not to give me up a sacrifice to her father's resentments, to consider that we were not amenable for their unjust quarrels, nor could compulsatory obedience be any virtue, where the commands were cruel and unjustifiable.' In short, I omitted no arguments I could adduce to over-rule the resolution she had taken to obey her father. Her answer was short but decisive: 'She never would marry, much less encourage a clandestine correspondence, contrary to the commands of her father; and as there existed no hope that his consent would coincide with her wishes, she conjured me, if her peace was dear to me, from that hour to cease all further desire of an intercourse between us, which could only be productive of misery to both; that her promise was already given, and her fixed resolution taken at the same time, that if not permitted to be my wife, I might assure


text:
Page:Leo Tolstoi - Life Is Worth Living and Other Stories - tr. Adolphus Norraikow (1892).djvu/148

one year's absence Euthymus finally reached his home in safety. He returned in the evening, and was surprised to find that his son was not at home. He had been in the tavern drinking, and he soon entered the house in an intoxicated condition.

Euthymus quickly realized that his son had gone astray, that his money had been squandered, and that his business affairs were in a disgraceful state. He scolded the young man for his misconduct, and was answered in a very rude manner. He said to his father:

"You should conduct your own business yourself, and ought not to go away, taking all the money with you—to come home and find fault with me."


text:
Page:Leo Tolstoi - Life Is Worth Living and Other Stories - tr. Adolphus Norraikow (1892).djvu/149

 142 The old man became very angry at this impertinence and severely punished his son.

In the morning Euthymus went to the village elder to return his passport. As he neared the house of his old comrade Elissey he observed the latter's wife standing in the porch.

"Oh!" she exclaimed, "how are you, godfather? How do you do, my dear old friend? Have you enjoyed good health during your journey?"

Euthymus stopped to reply:

"Thank God, I have accomplished my journey successfully. Yet I parted from your old man on the way, though I hear he is now safe at home."

The old lady seemed anxious to continue the conversation, for she was always ready to gossip.

"Yes, my friend," said she; "he returned a long time ago—soon after the holy-day of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary. Oh, how glad and happy we were to see him at home once more! We thanked God for his return, for with-


text:
Page:The Mysterious Warning - Parsons (1796, volume 2).djvu/85

 myself she would never be the wife of another."

This answer was conclusive, for I knew her too well to hope for any change in a plan she had once decided upon: As soon as I heard therefore she was in a convalescent state, I resolved to quit my father's mansion, and by travelling give some diversity to that load of anguish seated at my heart. My father did not oppose my design, conscious of the misery his intemperate conduct had produced, I believe it grew painful to him to see me, and that a separation was little less desired by him than by myself.

My journies were by no means interesting, for I sought not pleasure, and received but little amusement: I preserved that respect due to a parent, of sometimes writing to my father, who concealed the increasing weakness of a broken constitution from me, until the faculty had given up all hopes of his life. This intelligence, quite unexpected, recalled all that dormant affection and respect I had once so warmly entertained. I hastened


text:
Page:The Mysterious Warning - Parsons (1796, volume 2).djvu/86

 my return, but came too late; the night preceding my arrival my father expired. I was deeply affected, and still more so when the steward, and an intimate friend of our family, informed me, that a day or two previous to my return, he accused himself as the destroyer of my happiness, and entreated his friend to exert his best endeavours to procure a reconciliation between Count Zimchaw and myself; acquainting the former, that he lamented the part he had acted, and besought him to spare himself a similar regret in his last stage of life, by consenting to the union so long projected by both families, and so hastily and unwarrantably broken off by passion and prejudice."

"But, alas! in the same moment that I had this pleasing acknowledgment on the part of my father, I was told Count Zimchaw had taken his daughter into Bavaria, and that a report was current in the country that she was married to Baron S. Distracted at this intelligence, I sent to the Count's mansion to know the exact truth, and


text:
Page:The Mysterious Warning - Parsons (1796, volume 2).djvu/87

 was shocked by a confirmation of the report. My hopes of happiness were now annihilated: I sunk into a gloomy despondency for a long time, from which no endeavours of my friends could rouse me.—I was dragged about a lifeless body without a soul, from one friend to another, till at length, tired with exerting unsuccessful kindness, they left me to myself.

"About this time Count Zimchaw returned into Suabia, and his daughter's marriage was beyond a doubt. No longer desirous of his returning friendship, I avoided all intercourse with himself or his friends.—He was soon afterwards taken ill, and I was informed his son-in-law was sent for, to whom he had secured all his personal fortune. This intelligence gave me indescribable sensations, I doubted not but that Eugenia would accompany her husband, and I had not resolution enough to leave the country, though sure of suffering extreme torture by seeing her in the arms of another. The Baron, however, arrived too late to see the Count, and came


text: Page:Olive Custance - Opals.djvu/45

title: Page:Olive Custance - Opals.djvu/45


text:
Page:Leo Tolstoi - Life Is Worth Living and Other Stories - tr. Adolphus Norraikow (1892).djvu/150

Rh out him we were so lonesome. Of course he could not do much work on account of his old age; but as he is the head of the household we feel more contented when he is with us. But oh! you should just have seen how overjoyed was his son when he learned that his father had come back to us. 'Without him,' said he, 'is just the same as without a light.' Yes," the old woman concluded, "it is always lonesome without our dear old Elissey. We love him and ever have sympathy for him."

"Well," asked Euthymus, "is he at home at present?"

"Yes, my dear," she replied; "he is at work among the bees—gathering the swarms. He says that the swarming is unusually good this year. God has given such increase to the bees that it has no parallel within the old man's recollection. The Lord has blessed us abundantly, notwithstanding our sins. Come inside, my dear friend; for Elissey will be very happy to see you."


text:
Page:Weird Tales v01n03 (1923-05).djvu/54

Rh I paid the driver, opened the gate and went in. The trees were so thick at not until I was half way up the path did I get a good view of the house. It was three stories high, built of brick, in fairly good repair, at lonely and deserted-looking. The binds were closed in all of the windows with the exception of two, one on the first, one on the second floor. Not a sign of life anywhere, not a cat nor a milk bottle to break the monotony of the leaves that carpeted the porch.

But, overcoming my feeling of uneasiness, I resolutely set my suitcase on the porch, caught at the old-fashioned bell, and gave an energetic jerk. A startling peal jangled through the silence. I waited, but there was no answer.

After a minute I rang again. Then from the interior I heard a queer dragging sound, as if someone was coming slowly down the hall. The knob was turned and the door opened. I saw before me an old woman, wrinkled, withered, and filmy-eyed, who leaned on a crutch.

"Does Mr. Barker live here?" I asked.

She nodded, staring at me in a curious way, but made no move to invite me in.

"Well, I've come to see him," I said. "I'm a friend of his. He sent for me."

At that she drew slightly aside.

"He's upstairs," she said in a cracked voice that was little more than a whisper. "I can't show you up. Hain't been up a stair now in ten year."

"That's all right," I replied, and, seizing my suitcase, I strode down the long hall.

"At the head of the steps," came the whispering voice behind me. "The door at the end of the hall,"

I climbed the cold dark stairway, passed along the short hall at the top, and stood before a closed door. I knocked.

"Come in." It was Arthur's voice, and yet—not his.

I opened the door and saw Arthur sitting on a couch, his shoulders hunched over, his eyes raised to mine.

After all, ten years had not changed him so much. As I remembered him, he was of medium height, inclined to be stout, and ruddy-faced with keen gray eyes. He was still stout, but had lost his color, and his eyes had dulled.

"And where have you been all this time?" I demanded, when the first greetings were over.

"Here," he answered.

"In this house?"

"Yes."

"But why didn't you let us hear from you?"

He seemed to be making an effort to speak.

"What did it matter? I didn't suppose any one cared."

Perhaps it was my imagination, but I could not get rid of the thought that Arthur's pale eyes fixed tenaciously upon my face, were trying to tell me something, something quite different from what his lips said.

I felt chilled. Although the blinds were open, the room was almost darkened by the branches of the trees that pressed against the window. Arthur had not given me his hand, had seemed troubled to know how to make me welcome. Yet of one thing I was certain: He needed me and he wanted me to know he needed me.

As I took a chair I glanced about the room. It was a typical lodging-house room, medium sized, flowered wall paper, worn matting, nondescript rugs, a wash-stand in one corner, a chiffonier in another, a table in the center, two or three chairs, and the couch which evidently served Arthur as a bed. But it was cold, strangely cold for such a warm day.


text:
Page:Leo Tolstoi - Life Is Worth Living and Other Stories - tr. Adolphus Norraikow (1892).djvu/151

 144 Euthymus entered the porch, and passing through the yard was soon by the side of Elissey. As he approached his old comrade, he observed that he was protected by neither netting nor gloves. He wore a gray coat, and stood under a birch-tree with his bald pate glistening and his hands outstretched—just the attitude in which Euthymus had seen him three different times in the Temple at Jerusalem. Through the leaves of the birch-tree he could see the peculiar glisten of the sun's rays as they fell upon Elissey's bald head, around which the golden bees hovered as if the old man were unconscious of their presence. Euthymus stopped in amazement.

The old woman called aloud to her husband, saying:

"Our godfather also has returned, and he has called to see us!"

Elissey turned round, and on seeing the visitor was greatly overjoyed. As he came near to Euthymus he gently removed the bees which


text: Page:Olive Custance - Opals.djvu/88

title: Page:Olive Custance - Opals.djvu/88


text:
Page:The Mysterious Warning - Parsons (1796, volume 2).djvu/88

 without Eugenia, whose particular situation was mentioned as an apology for her absence."

"Will you pardon me, Sir, for interrupting you?" said Ferdinand; "but in the Baron's memoirs your meeting is mentioned, and every circumstance until his return to Bavaria."

"I thank you," replied the Count.—"Well, then, the Baron had left Suabia, I believe, a fortnight, when one day I received a note in an unknown hand, 'requesting me to be at the end of my Park, next the village, about twilight, when I should meet an old friend.' I hesitated for some time whether I ought to comply with this singular request; but at length determined to go, and grew quite impatient for the hour.

"At the appointed time I hastened to the spot, and descried through the gloom two young men, in an ordinary garb, approaching towards me: Not being entirely devoid of suspicions, I had a pair of pocket pistols, one of which I held in my hand, and as they


text:
Page:Leo Tolstoi - Life Is Worth Living and Other Stories - tr. Adolphus Norraikow (1892).djvu/152

 Rh had become entangled in his beard. At last he said:

"Oh! how do you do, my godfather? You are welcome, my dear man. How have you journeyed?"

"Not at all," replied Euthymus; "but my feet did. I have brought some water for you from the river Jordan, which you may come and get; but I know not whether the Lord has accepted my devotions."

"Well," remarked Elissey, "glory to thee, O Lord! Save us, O Christ!"

Euthymus remained silent for a few minutes, when he resumed:

"Yes; my feet, with the rest of my body, were there. But I am in doubt as to whether my spirit was there. There may have been some one else's spirit instead."

"It is God's affair, my godfather" said Elissey; "it is God's affair."

"On my way home," persisted Euthymus, "I visited the peasant house at which we parted."


text:
Page:The Mysterious Warning - Parsons (1796, volume 2).djvu/89

 drew near, and their features were not distinguishable, I cried out, stop, and announce yourselves, whoever you are."

"Ah!" exclaimed a sweet but tremulous voice, "does not your heart inform you it is Eugenia?" I heard no more, but flew, and caught the trembling fugitive to my breast. Neither could speak, for words were inadequate to our feelings. O, the rapture of that moment never to be forgotten! "Lead the way to your house (said she) and every thing shall be explained." In an instant I recollected that I had embraced the wife of Baron S: I withdrew my arms, but she retained one as her support, and with hasty steps, and mutual silence, we proceeded through the Park.

When we entered the saloon she sunk into a chair, and bursting into tears, "I see," exclaimed she, "that I am no longer the object of your love or esteem!"

"Not love you," I cried, dropping at her feet, "not love you, Eugenia!" I could say no more, for I was overpowered by a


text:
Page:The Mysterious Warning - Parsons (1796, volume 2).djvu/90

 variety of emotions difficult to describe, and dared to entertain suspicions unfavourable to the purity of an angel. She saw the tumults the disorder of my soul: "Rise, Count," said she, assuming an air of dignity, "I forgot, that in your eyes I must appear as a runaway wife, as a degraded character; compose yourself, and listen to me without interruption.

She then entered into a detail of all the circumstances attending her meeting with the Baron to the conclusion of her marriage; with all which particulars I find you are acquainted, I shall therefore confine myself to a relation of the subsequent events. Soon after her arrival at the Baron's, she perceived that Agnes was warmly attached to her, and she did not conceal the strong aversion she had to an union with her master. The good woman attempted not to lessen the prejudice she had conceived against him, on the contrary she ingenuously confessed, that the severity of his manners, and harshness of his temper, were but little calculated to render


text:
Page:Leo Tolstoi - Life Is Worth Living and Other Stories - tr. Adolphus Norraikow (1892).djvu/153

 146 Becoming alarmed at this information, Elissey hastened to repeat:

"It is God's affair, it is God's affair, my godfather. But come into the house. I will bring some honey."

Thus Elissey succeeded in changing the conversation, when he began to speak about his domestic affairs.

Euthymus sighed heavily, but he made no further reference to the family who were the cause of their becoming separated on the way. Neither did he speak of the visions of Elissey's presence which he had witnessed at the Lord's Tomb.

Thus Euthymus understood clearly that it is God's desire that we should fulfil our vows during this life at our own homes—not by pilgrimages to far-off shrines, but by deeds of love and kindness.


text: Page:Leo Tolstoi - Life Is Worth Living and Other Stories - tr. Adolphus Norraikow (1892).djvu/154


text: Page:Leo Tolstoi - Life Is Worth Living and Other Stories - tr. Adolphus Norraikow (1892).djvu/155


text:
Page:The Mysterious Warning - Parsons (1796, volume 2).djvu/91

 a marriage life happy. Thus strengthened in her dislike, which grew more confirmed every day, she concerted with Agnes the plan of her elopement, which was first intended to have been previous to the ceremony; but her father having been in the act of denouncing his malediction against her, if she did not give her hand to Baron S; she was so extremely shocked as to promise unreserved obedience, and in that moment determined to become a sacrifice to her duty.

She retired to her apartment overwhelmed with sorrow, and meeting Agnes, told her, "She now gave up all idea of quitting that house, which henceforth she considered as the tomb of her happiness." This faithful creature (whose untimely death we have never ceased to lament) heard with surprise a resolution, which gave her equal pain; in her zeal to serve Eugenia, she disclosed some particular circumstances relative to her master, displayed his odious character, and cruel dispo-


text:
Page:The Mysterious Warning - Parsons (1796, volume 2).djvu/92

 sition, in such strong colours, as again staggered the fortitude the former had endeavoured to acquire; and at length she was persuaded by Agnes to adhere to her former design, and, by a kind of sophistry, not perhaps altogether defensible, she was induced to keep the promise made to her father of giving her hand to the Baron, and afterwards to effect her escape. This plan you know was executed, and it only remains to mention the manner in which she was so effectually secreted from all discovery.

"The Castle in which the Baron resided was large, and some parts of it entirely out of repair. At the back of the building were some ruinous apartments on the ground floor, which served for no other purpose than as a temporary shelter for the poultry, and a depository for their grain. The farthest of those apartments had a door, which opened to a descent down a flight of steps to a long passage which led underneath to an old Chapel, long before shut up, and entirely disused.—-


text:
Page:The Mysterious Warning - Parsons (1796, volume 2).djvu/93

 Here it was resolved upon that Eugenia should reside, until the search naturally expected to be made for her should subside, that she might be enabled to get undiscovered to a convent; and to this place, in this passage, Agnes had already conveyed several necessaries. She had procured, from a long-neglected wardrobe of her master's, a complete suit of man's apparel, with several other precautions taken from time to time previous to that day they were now obliged to decide upon for the execution of their design.

"After the marriage ceremony, when Eugenia retired to her room, she lost no time in escaping to this passage. The window of her apartment was opened that it might be supposed she had escaped from thence into the wood adjoining the garden, and the door, which led through an anti-chamber to a gallery on the other side, was locked on the outside. Agnes accompanied her to the dark passage, where a lamp, a stool, and a piece of matting for her feet, were previously prepared. Eugenia has often mentioned the


text:
Page:The Mysterious Warning - Parsons (1796, volume 2).djvu/94

 horror that took possession of her whole frame when she was left alone in this dismal place, she foresaw not how many tedious years she was to exist in one still more horrid! When the discovery of her flight took place, when the house and out-houses had undergone a strict search, and the Baron, with his servants, were sat off, Agnes stole to her with refreshments, and conducted her to the little room assigned for the priest's use, in the Chapel where she passed the night, and indeed both day and night when the Baron was not at home; but as he employed many persons to scour the roads, she was obliged to remain in this painful situation, particularly as he had set a watch on all the neighbouring convents. At length the Baron set off on his journey to Suabia (Agnes concealed from Eugenia the illness of her father) and when he had been gone about three days, disguised in her masculine dress, her eye-brows blacked, and, with a pretended lameness in her gait, she repaired to the house of a peasant in the neighbouring village, where she hired a mise-


text:
Page:The Mysterious Warning - Parsons (1796, volume 2).djvu/95

 rable apartment, giving out that ill-health had driven her to that situation for change of air; this account, which her pale countenance and lameness confirmed, evaded all curiosity among those ignorant people:—Agnes never came to her, but they used to meet in the wood frequently; the good creature being busy in finding out some asylum, some convent, where she had not been described, and where she might hope to rest concealed.

The sudden return of the Baron, with an account of the Count's death, his succession to his fortune, with the circumstance of his meeting me, which he related to Agnes when he questioned her if any intelligence had been gained relative to her mistress.—Those occurrences determined Agnes to be ingenuous with Eugenia respecting her father, and persuade her to accept of an asylum with me. Hitherto my father's death, and my return, were unknown to Eugenia, and therefore she had no idea of my being in Suabia, though possibly if she had, whilst


text:
Page:The Mysterious Warning - Parsons (1796, volume 2).djvu/96

 Count Zimchaw had lived, her vows would have been a barrier to our meeting. The information of Agnes caused her much sorrow, nor could she for a long time be persuaded to adopt the plan of Agnes, and repair to my estate. At length, however, when her grief for the death of her father was a little subsided, she accorded with the wishes of the other. Agnes pretended to be sent for by her parents, and applied for her discharge from the Baron, which was granted. Among her own clothes she conveyed Eugenia's, which had remained in the dark passage till that time, and having procured another suit of men's clothes, after she had left the Baron, she disguised herself, and came as the brother of the lame man to fetch him home.

So thoroughly was Eugenia altered by her dress, and the precautions she had taken, that there was little room for apprehension that she would be discovered, and the Baron having relaxed in his inquiries since his return from Suabia, they contrived to have their clothes


text:
Page:The Mysterious Warning - Parsons (1796, volume 2).djvu/97

 sent by a wagon to Stutgard, only nine miles from my house, and then quitted the village together on horseback, until they came to the next town, where they took a chaise to the small Hamlet adjoining to my Park, from whence they dispatched the note to me that I have already mentioned. Thus, Sir, I have briefly repeated what Eugenia related to me.

"You may judge of my transports in thus unexpectedly recovering the woman I adored, and to find she was not more than a nominal wife to the man I had detested. My raptures soon removed every doubt she had expressed of my affection, and brought her to confess, that the death of her father having released her from those vows, passion and prejudice had compelled her to make, she no longer scrupled to become my wife, as she could in no light think the ceremony binding which had passed between the Baron and herself.—All that now remained to be decided upon, was our future residence, for although I would not have hesitated a moment to have asserted


text:
Page:The Mysterious Warning - Parsons (1796, volume 2).djvu/98

 and defended my rights in the face of the world, yet her timid mind shrunk from the idea of being the public theme, or of hazarding any revengeful machinations naturally dreaded from the Baron.

I proposed going to France or England to reside, unhappily she objected, unacquainted with the language, and dreading the eye of observation, knowing that the Baron talked of travelling, she was fearful some unlucky chance might throw him in our way, she therefore wished to reside for some time in a profound retirement. Although I was still of an opinion that we should be much safer in a foreign country, yet finding her repugnance to that plan was not easily to be overcome, and being naturally of a studious disposition myself, and fond of domestic comforts, certain that in the society of my loved Eugenia, I could feel no wish for the amusements and trifling conversations which engage the frivolous part of mankind, I consented without reluctance to her desire of retirement. In our solitude I determined to


text:
Page:The Mysterious Warning - Parsons (1796, volume 2).djvu/99

 make her acquainted with the English language, as I perfectly understood it, and hoped, by effecting that, to obviate her objections in time to a residence in that country.

This estate had belonged to my mother's family, but being in a situation so remote from either pleasure or comfort, so little capable of cultivation; it had been entirely neglected by my father, and the Castle suffered gradually to decay. What grounds were tenantable had been let off on long leases, and an old man and his family were permitted to reside in the house without expense. Some little time before the death of my father, he received an account of the old man's death, and that the widow and family were going to live in Bohemia with her friends; from that time no one had lived in the house. My steward had mentioned it to me, but from inattention, or other thoughts, I had neglected to concern myself about it.

The anxiety Eugenia expressed to live, secluded from observation, recalled this Castle to my mind, and I resolved to send over a


text:
Page:The Mysterious Warning - Parsons (1796, volume 2).djvu/100

 trusty person to see what state it was in.—This step was perfectly agreeable to her; she and Agnes were to retain their masculine dress, and remain as visitors with me until the affair was settled, which, as I was impatient to be united to Eugenia, you may suppose I lost no time in forwarding it. I was very soon informed, that part of the Castle was habitable, and that some of the furniture, though old and faded, was tolerable.—On this intelligence I told my steward I had bestowed it on an unfortunate couple of my acquaintance, who were so far reduced in circumstances as to think it a comfortable asylum, and that they were to take immediate possession. This account precluded him from any farther care or inquiry about the place.

I restrained my impatience more than a fortnight after this, for as I was not sure but the Baron might have spies upon me, I was resolved to be very circumspect. I gave out that I intended returning to England: I collected together a good deal of money, and


text: Page:Olive Custance - Opals.djvu/22

title: Page:Olive Custance - Opals.djvu/22


text:
Page:The Mysterious Warning - Parsons (1796, volume 2).djvu/101

 also made remittances to England, from whence I could draw at any time. When every thing was completed, the trunks of Agnes were removed from Stutgard to the neighbouring village under a disguised name, and they took leave of me three days previous to my intended departure, as if going back to Bohemia, but were to wait for me at the village. After those precautions for their safety, I settled every thing with my steward, whose integrity I could rely on, and telling him that I might possibly travel a year or two before he would hear from me, bid him not be uneasy, but act with unlimited authority for my interest during my absence; that I should take no servant with me, as a German, unacquainted with the language would be useless, but intended to hire servants in England.

Having thus eluded both curiosity and discovery, I soon joined my beloved Eugenia, and we proceeded to the Castle. I believe we both felt similar emotions on entering this solitary mansion. We threw our eyes round,


text:
Page:The Mysterious Warning - Parsons (1796, volume 2).djvu/102

 and then looked at each other, but both were silent: Agnes, however, made her observations without ceremony, at the same time qualifying her first exclamations by saying, that 'when she had been a few days in the place she would give things another sort of countenance.' I shall not trouble you with our proceedings, to render it a little comfortable, we all exerted our endeavours, and the fourth day after our arrival, I had the happiness of being united to my loved Eugenia in the village church, she dressed in the plainest garb belonging to Agnes, and myself in a great coat. I then ventured to the village, and procured a boy to assist Agnes in the domestic business, and she proposed sending for Arnulph: It was doubtless a presentiment that made me shudder when she mentioned it; but we were too much obliged to her, and indeed too much in her power to refuse her request, and had really a strong affection for her that would not admit of an objection to her being equally happy with ourselves; we therefore con-


text:
Page:The Mysterious Warning - Parsons (1796, volume 2).djvu/103

 sented: Arnulph came, and we enjoyed so perfect a contentment, made our rooms so commodious, and our garden and poultry-yard so pleasant and profitable, that I grew entirely reconciled to a seclusion from the world.

Eugenia in due time brought to the world a little cherub, the image of herself; (here the Count's voice faltered at the recollection of its untimely and miserable death, but soon recovering himself, he went on) and as she advanced in infantile knowledge, we had a source of entertainment that engaged many of our hours, and enlivened our solitude.—We agreed that when this little darling should arrive at the age of five years, we would go to England, under the belief that before that period the Baron would cease to concern himself about Eugenia, and perhaps form another connexion. Thus in a deceitful calm, in the midst of future happy prospects, that dreadful storm burst upon us, so unexpected and terrible, as to overwhelm us with complete misery.