.«^^, \w\v^j^¥vf;v^«s«\v^^^ •3' .>.<''■ % y •/', ^>' -^ c^^ ,0 s ,,X^' *\.<^*i^' ^\<^ •^ ' » » s "■ v'\ VX^ .^^^ in, -/ "^/. * ■> nO^' v"^ ■'1 * ,0 o^ \^ . - „ ■,<^ % •o- ■^r .o^>":"*. ^ ^\.^\ .^"'* . -'h '^'^ >^~ ^v '^>. . c- , o\^- ,A-' --/ C- ^"■"^z., ^. >■ ./>. ci-. 9 1 \ ' V. \' ^. •- '• " .0 o _ >■■ ■>'- s.~v-' '". V . -^ -0 o. -^.c,^- ^^^' '^--. A-^ « * ' " ,v- ^"^ -n^. 1: x^<^. .-^ -^ri .^^■'^, •XH^'' % !«^V , \^ ■^' \ i^ x"^ -^^ o >i J.- '/■ ,vV >' '^ .0 'o . o_ ^^ .ON « . -^^ "oo^ vO o. <<> V, A"^ o .cf • 0- - "^/. ^'•, s>- xV- -:s' ^0 ^.>- ,^v -'^.. .Vv^ N^' •/', oV o 0' \^ ■■-^. " / ^ -^ .,A .W,''^' A •/*. ,0o -. ,^' A^^- "- -20 o 0' ^ A> o5 -^i. ,0 c ^.. %'^^-^^^^^s^ .) ^>- .<^' •V -\- ^r The Heir of Lyolynn. A Tale of Sea and Land. IN SEVEN PARTS. AND LAYS OF ANCIENT TIMES, ETC / J. DUNBAR HYLTON, M.D., \\ Autbor of " The Bride of Gettysburg," "Arteloise ; or, The Weeping Castle,' "Betrayed," and "The Prsesidlcide," etc., etc. PALMYRA, NEW JERSEY. 1883. INDEX. Lyolynn. Page. Paet 1st, - _ - - - 1 "2d, 46 "3d, 93 " 4th, - - - - - 145 " 5th, ... - - - 202 " 6th, 256 " 7th, .352 Lays of Ancient Times. Peeface, - - .- - - 436 Battle of Marathon, - - - 438 Battle of Thermopyl^, - - 454 Battle of Cann^, - - - - 481 Charge of Oddune, - - - • 502 Battle op Eddington, - - - 511 Song op the Engineer, - - 521 The Drought, .... 523 The Attack on Charleston, - 525 To Lizzie, 529 To May, 529 To Em, 530 My Yankee Maid, - - - 530 Charades, 531 Riddles, 536 In Memoriam, F. B. H., - - - 539 Mortals, 640 PART I. Peal upon peal the thunder rolled, To utter space its fury told ; Like demons of terrific mold The blinding lightnings flash'd ; Beneath the tempest fierce and cold — The surges reel'd and clash'd. With ceaseless roar upon the shore ■ They ever heaved and toss'd ; High in air o'er grim headlands hoar The foamy waters cross'd . Far out upon the raging deep, A league from shore, I ween — Careening to the storm-king's sweep A stately ship Avas seen : No helm nor sail could e'er avail, And all the art of man would fail In such a frightful storm — To save her from the awful clifts, Those grim enormous peaks and rifts — That those high headlands form . Still nearer to the frowning shore, Where mountain surges break and roar- She drew with every blast ; THE HEIR OE LYOLYNN. Upon the storm her sails were borne, To flying shreds and atoms torn, And broken every mast . Ah, was it a stunning thunder roll, O'er leaping all the storm's control — The tempest bore awaj^ 1 Ah, no I High on that awful reef. Beyond all mortal men's relief That ship a ruin lay. While hard against the ghastly wreck The billows waged their fra}', O'er human freight that thronged her deck — High dashed the briny spray. n. Like awful shadow of a ghost — Night sank upon the frowning coast, And o'er the raging deep, Dreader the shades of darkness scowl. While with their hoarse infernal howl The chilling tempests sweep, Still flashed o'er floods where billows dash The lightnings' rudd}'- flame. Still with their stunning, deafening crash The peals of thunder came . And never night more dreadful fell Upon a ship-wrecked crew, For never storms with fiercer yell O'er plunging billows flew ; For never grimmer seas than those On rocks a vessel threw, Never more awful shores arose. Did fiercer peaks and rifts disclose To ship- wrecked mortals' view. THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. III. As burst o'er land and surges' roar The lightnings' tingeing glow — All grim and ghast did sea and shore The swollen corses show. O'er roar of seas and thunder peal And tempests' fiercest breath, Was heard the dread piercing shrieks Of those who fought 'gainst death . At rock and floating corse thej caught And madly strove for life, Each striving but himself to save In that unequal strife. Ah, sad and mournfully arose From out those waters wild — The farewell, parting , dying cries Of parent and of child ! Oh, the bubbling, pitieous shrieks Of mothers in the wave. Who held aloft their little babes, But found no hand to save ! Oh, God ! the farewell, parting cry Of husband and of wife, As in their last embrace they. Sank And rendered up their life ! Oh, God I it deadens nerve and limb, And makes the senses reel and swim, And human blood grow cold. To hear such pitieous, parting shrieks, And such dread scenes behold ! To hear the blending shrieks that rise Above the tempests' roar, The breaking of the vessel's planks And surges on the shore. THE HEIR OF LYOLTNN. Died out the wail of agony — But here and there arose — The wild cry of some strong swimmer In his last dying throes . 'Till all grew still, save the fierce howl, And the terrific roar Of relentless blasts, and surges Dashing on the granite shore. IV. High up a tall slippery rock That frowned o'er floods sublime, Whose head lean'd o'er the waves as though To hear their awful chime, Whose iron base had worn away By storms and waves through time, Nine of that crew with bleeding hands Where seen to slowly climb . All the rest full three hundred souls That noble vessel bore — Lay lifeless midst the raging brine Or on the beaten shore. As drift-wood that in the flood time Floats where the torrents rove, That in rafts on eddying floods Sweeps to a circling cove, And rocks with waves until by them It on the shore is hove. So by those seas the dead were borne, Up on the shore were drove. While some sank in the di'ead abyss Where did roaring eddies flow, Where horrid sharks and serpents vast Siezed them as they went below. THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 8uch the Sovereign will of Heaven, The fiat of their God, At whose will seas and tempests roar, The mountains quake and nod, His mighty spirit trod the flood, And rode the storm sublime. And bade the warring elements Knell their funeral chime. But who were those nine bleeding forms That climbed the frowning rock, Which to its deep foundation shook Beneath each billows' shock ? The foremost was a swartly man With features sharp and long, With form thick set, compact and broad Sinewy limbs and strong. His piercing eyes were black as sloes, Or coals of anthracite. Black as wood when charred by flame, But sheen as Labradorite. And in their keen vindictive glance Lurked deepest craft and guile, His shaggy brows waved dark above His features stamped with wile. His nose projected o'er his mouth All like an eagle's bill. And on his thin, curving lips were seen The proofs of stubborn will . His sable curls waved heavy round A forehead bold and high . His bearings all revealed a mortal Of blackest, deepest dye. THE HEIR OP LYOLYNN. And such, was Omar De Yaux The foremost of that throng Who toil'd up the slippery rocks With nerves and sinews strong. And on hia back a child he bore Whose face was j^ale and thin, Whose heavy, golden ciirls fell o'er A neck of snowy skin . A little girl twelve summers old, with Rosy mouth and dimpled chin, A child all beautiful and bright. The heir of Lyolynn . Poor child, she'd seen her parents go Locked in one close embrace — Beneath the ocean's stormy flow And end their earthly race. And she with them beneath the wave Had found a roaring, angry grave, Sank like the reed that in the cave Of ocean sinks forlorn — Had Omar's arm not come to save. And on the rock with courage brave Her slender frame had borne. VI. The next who up that steep rock strode Was one of giant height. His close curled hair and sable skin Like ebon cloud of night. Black, blacker far than coke or tar, Than gome or soot or jet. Black as the floods when at black night They 'neath no tempests fret . THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. He was one of Afric's children, Darkest hued of all that race, No blacker skin e'er shone upon An Etheopean face. Seamed o'er were his high massy cheeks With horrid gash and scar' Where knives in days gone by had past Midst drunken broil and jar. One eye was gone, the other roll'd With never ceasing blink, Bobbing like some huge ball of white In seas of blackest ink. His receding forehead, at least Where forehead should have been — Seemed though an axe had passed that way And hewed it clear and clean, For from his brows unto his crown Sloped with a mighty lean. No flatter nose, no wider mouth On Kangaroo was seen, But two huge tuskes were left to gleam His massy lips between. As some grim monster of the sea Up the steep rock he crept, With his long coiling snake-like limbs His hold with safety kept. De Yaux's trusty slave was he, His guard both night and day, Where e'er the master chose to go The slave was sure to stray. One more suited to the other Chanced never to befall. And Bayard was this footman called By master and by all. THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. VII. As up the rock he struggled hard De Yaux's wife he bore, Whose raven tresses hung in folds His sable shoulders o'er. O'er her form that all was graceful Though rather tall and lean, Full twenty years had ta'en their flight To look at her, 3'ou'd ween. Her eyes were bright as diamond's light, A.nd black as thunder cloud. Her face was pale as snow-white sail. Or corpse in sable shroud. Her curved lips could scarce eclipse The pearls that 'neath them crowd, Her stately tread and queenly head That never bent nor bowed — Her forehead high and flashing eye Bespake her spirit proud. Fell on the ear like music rare Her voice though deep and loud ; Her skin that beamed too snowy seemed For one so sable browed. Though all her face did features trace Queens had left their crowns to own, Yet over all like heavy pall A tell-tale sign was thrown — And showed you one whose love anon Could wither where it grew. Let there fell hate as fixed as fate Dethrone all love she knew. THE HEIR OP LYOLYNN. VIII. The rest I could in order limn As there they were with mornful brow, And features haggared, gaunt and grim, But I needs must pass them now. If e'er the muse should seek their aid Trust to her she'll find them soon. Let them room in eternal shade. In midnight, morn, or glowing noon. No depth so deep no height so tall To which she cannot dive or bound. And swift they '11 gather at her call When e'er she peals the summon's sound. But ere we pass them lightly by, Those haggared men, those wretched five, "Who climbed the rock so steep and high — Though bleeding, faint and scarce alive ; We'll paint their portraits one by one, Hold them fast within our mind, So when they come to us anon No utter strangers we shall find. Hunyadi was the next who climbed. Ballad rhyming formed his trade. And by his muse that sweetly chimed The glowing wine he loved he made. Fair was his form though brawny spread, His sinews nobly grooved and laired, His high broad brow and stately head With yellow wavy locks were haired. Ever in dreamy mood he seemed, As though his thoughts were far away, The soul that in him flashed and beamed Loved from its mortal part to stray. 10 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. His was the arm that from the wave To the rock Omar's wife had borne, Whence Bayard stretched his arm to save, Who first upon the rock had gone. And others long he strove to save, Nor vainly, vainly did he strive, 'Till hurled there was he by rolling wave, Torn, bleeding, sore and scarce alive. The other four who struggled o'er That frowning rock so tall and steep — Hunyadi's hand had brought to land From out the plunging billows' sweep. The next that came was Roger Lea, Amongst that tempest beaten crowd, An aged hoary man was he With body feeble, bent and bowed. His wrinkled face displayed no trace Of kindly thought for human kind, Nought but insatiate greed and gain Filled his whole heart and soul and mind. His hoards by millions he could count. Yet ever, ever craved he more. Though as a never ceasing fount Bright gold did in his coffers pour. Woe to the luckless sons of man Who owed to him and could not pay. Right soon that toothless mouth o'er ran Those bloodless lips with spittly spray ; And no excuse that they could plan Would save them from the Sheriff's prey. His face no smile was seen to span, Nor on his wrinkled visage play, Save when some fool he chanced to scau Whom he could cheat of hoard away. THE HKIR OF LYOLTNN. H IX. Guy Harold was the next we scann'd On that high rock by tempests fann'd, And roaring billows laved ; A tar of tall and brawny form, A nurseling of the waves and storm, He'd all their terrors braved. His soul was just as wild and free As wave that rose upon the sea, And with the tempest raved. On ocean he'd been born and rear'd To manhood's sturdy prime, And bred 'mongst men who little fear'd To peril deeds sublime, In his keen gra}^ unquailing eye There lurked a mj^stic spell, And beamed his glances proud and high That challenged where they fell. Little he cared for that grim wreck That there was round him strown. For since he'd trod on vessel's deck Full many he had known. Far off his piercing glances gazed O'er ocean's rise and fall, To where a reeling light-house blazed Midst surges grim and tall. And as the pharos downward passed 'Neath ocean's stormy flow, A dirge he poured upon the blast All freighted wild with woo. At length with husky voice he said, "Within that light-house dwelt The one for whom my soul has most The germ of friendship felt. 12 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. Whose image never shall depart Through all revolving time, But graven on this filial heart Until eternity shall start To hear her death notes chime. For his strong love for me did last Through all my weal and woe. When clouds were grimmest round me cast With all their flery glow, Yes, perils terrible and ghast, When ten-fold was my foe, And me all other aid fled fast His love did warmest flow. Together oft on stormy flood Amidst the battle's wreck. Terrific scenes of death aud blood, We twain have trod the deck. 'Twas he who taught my tottering feet When but a babe to move. Who ever tempered cold and heat So they'd to my comfort prove. Who through all day-time me caressed, And when the day was done — At night lay down with me to rest, Yes, I his only son. Who has aye been foremost in my soul In peace or calm or wreck, When tempests bade the billows roll, And surges washed the deck. Who in yon light-house 'neath the sea This instant met his death, With whom I shall in reunion be When fails this vital breath. THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 13 Yes, death shall another mating bring Be3'ond the i3ortals of the tomb, Nor shall e'er we assunder be As was here on earth our doom. A stately ship will shortl^^ come I'll see it through the densest gloom, With sails all spread from topmost mast To furthest shrouds and boom. I shall hear the waters splash As she bears me to that solemn shore Where shall reunited be in peace The sire and son for ever more. He ceased but still kept his vision fixed On ocean's stormy flow, At times with the howling tempest mixed A dirge of wildest woe. X. Next on that craggy steep incline Close lying side by side supine Bi-acklin and O'Conna lay, And sighing gazed upon the brine That o'er them dashed its spray. Poor wretches they had husbands been And fathers yesterday, But in those roaring floods they'd seen Their idols washed away. Oh, who could paint their looks of woe, Their faces haggard, wild. As there they lay and sorrowed low For perished wife and child ? Theirs was a blow a shock that makes The senses rock and reel, A grief that takes the soul and breaks It on a burning wheel, 14 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. Grief for which earth can no balm bestow, Nor time can ever heal, That grim wild woe no words can sliow, Nor limner e'er reveal. The pale, writhed and quivering lip, Loosed nerve and reeling brain, The trembling hand, the quaking grip — Palsied through mental pain — The form convulsed with agony "Wracked with its tortured soul — The red and fixed and glaring eye — Whose scoothing fount of tears is dry — Or froze and cannot roll — The pleading and imploring look On features ashen'd by despair — Which tell the form no more can brook The throes that through its spirit tear — Are awful pictures to behold. Most ghastly, dread and strange and drear. But euch signs as these the anguish told Of those two mortals lying there. Still seemed to come from out the wave The bubbling shriek, the drowning cry, Of those dear ones they could not save And seen amidst the waters die. But grief through time will reach its goal Past which it cannot range And it will nature soon control, It to some thino; else will chanare. XI. Such were those wrecked and mournful nine Who from that rocky steep incline — Looked on vast roaring floods of brine THE HEIR OP LYOLTNN. That 'neath them heaved and rolled ; Which through the ebon shades of night — As plunging on the frowning height — That shook beneath their swelling might — Their awful fury told. Oh, 'twas a sad and sickning sight To gaze on each poor ship-wrecked wight — Whose features all were grim with fright-— Or sorrow's manifold — Watching — longing for Aurora bright To turn the darkness into light — And tinge the cast with gold I No words within the human sway — Their wild, deep longing can portray, Nor can mortal verses mold. XIT. As over land and sea at times Swift shot the lightnings keen The features of that mournful throng A moment's space were seen. And round the heir of Lyolynn De Vaux's arms were thrown, Close to his breast the child was pressed, By him as tenderly caressed As she were all his own. As loving parent strives to soothe The soiTOWs of his child — So in her ear his words he poured In accents bland and mild. She's all now mine, thus thought De Yaux And such shall ever be, Nor craft nor force of man and fiend Shall sunder her from me. 15 1^ THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. She is the heir to castles fair As yet on earth were rear'd. To hills and plains and rich domains As ever mortal heir'd. If to womanhood she lives she'll be Of beauty's throng the flower, And he who wins her for his bride Will have a matchless dower. But for long time I'll hide the child Far from her kith and kin, And they shall all be taught to think The heir of Lyolynn Is resting in her dreamless sleep ; I'll swear I saw her go — With her loved parents side by side Beneath the ocean's flow. And there'll be none that can refute The tidings that I spread, For all who her and. parents knew Save me and mine are dead. And they'll be bound by Love or fear To aid me in my plot. Yes, they'll ne'er turn from me, how e'er Desperate be my lot. Oh, how the whole accursed clan Of Mosman's would rejoice — To hear John Lockhart and his wife Had died amidst the billow's strife And o'er this their only child, the surge Had bellowed forth its fearful dirge — Tes, stilled for aye her voice ! Within the whole creation round No gayer mortals could be found — Than that accursed race. THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 1*1 Oh, how the halls of Lyolynn — If once within their grasp they win — They'll stride with lordly pace 1 Once heirs unto those wide domains, Their grassy hills and fertile plains There 'd be no prouder name, And none throughout the county wide Would show more arrogance and pride, Without a blush of shame. And I shall raise their pride to heaven But to dash it down to hell. For none among the sons of Fate I have a juster cause to hate And treat with vengeance fell. Yes, when I've raised their hopes on high. And broad dominons seem to lie Within their very grasp. To their deep horror and chagrin The rightful heir of Lyolynn Shall tear them from their clasp. Yes, they shall be my sport and prey, I'll treat them in the self same way. Prey is treated by the asp. That draws it by its fatal charm It vainly striveth to disarm — Close within its power. That pla3^8 and frolics with it long. When it little dreams of harm and wrong Has ceased to quail and cower — Then feels it charmer round it bring The coil from which it cannot spring, And through it feels the fearful sting, While crushing jaws still closer cling Preparing to devour. With pleasure to its very brim 2 18 THE HEIR OF LYCLYNN. I'll fill their sparkling cup, But dash it into fragments grim Just as they lift it up. The ties of blood that do exist Between their race and mine — Shall be an ample cloak I wist To hide each dark design ; They'll serve as clouds of morning mist That round the mountains twine — And though by laughing suns they're kissed Still hide each tall incline — Down which unseen avalanches tear, And hidden torrents flow. Whelming each startled mountaineer Within the gulfs below. Yes, for long time my hate I've nursed Against the Mosman line, T was them who at the very first The holy tie asunder burst That made our lives divine, I curse them and they shall be curst, 'Gainst them I'll do my bitterest worst, As they've done to me and mine ; Me from all I loved they thrust, All I sacred deemed and dear, Crushed all ra}' hopes within the dust, And trampled on them there. For that fell hate towards them I keep Within my spirit warm. And all the crimson tides that leap In currents through my form, Though still as clouds where lightnings sleep That nurse the growing storm. THE HEIR OF LYOLTNN. 19 xni. So thought De Yaux, while in his arms That poor, frail, trembling child he held. And by fond caress and accents mild With sleep her many sorrows quelled. Poor child she little dreamed that he Who gently held her sleeping there, v Who'd saved her from the plunging sea, And for he showed such tender care. Upon her built the brightest hope His bold and savage soul e'er knew, With which with foes he sought to cope, And deal on them the vengeance due. In thought he met them charge to chargs; Saw them from him downward broken roll, His spirit ne'er felt so grand and large — For they seem'd crushed 'neath his control; And never o'er so broad a marge In triumph swept his savage soul. Yes, he thought, she''ll be ray sword and targe With which to work them endless dole, For this I saved her when yon barge Crushing on granite found its goal. XIV. Aurora dawn'd upon the sea. The thunder and the storm were hushed, And the broad floods all tranquilly Unto the beams of morning blushed, Like murderers that trembling stand Before their stern accusers e3'e — Prom whence they cannot, dare not fly, Who show the blood upon their hand, THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. And o'er their form the crimson dye ; Which stains to hide they vainly try, So 'neath the sun all bright and grand, Abashed the waters seem'd to lie Around that corpse encumbered strand Of frowning granite steep and high. XV. 'Twas a long line of craggy rocks The morning's light rcA'ealed, Upon the peaks were croaking flocks Of gulls that lay concealed. And where the screaming Albatross Rose and soar'd o'er ocean's field. Nor tree nor shrub nor grass nor moss — Did those wild head-lands jdeld, Not even a brier or goss Did atom of those rocks emboss, Nor vestige of a plant, All bear of these as molten dross, Or channel of a roaring fosse, Stood gleaming with a dark brown gloss Those cliffs of adamant. Some stood recumbent o'er the deep, As though to bear the billows sweep — Around their curving base. Or see when storms are lulled to sleep. The little wavelets laughing leap, And wrinkle ocean's face. Some rose abrupt and steep and high As though they did the floods defy With stern disdainful frown, Or as if they strove to reach the skj' — And catch the levin bolts that fly When clouds are thick and temjaests cry THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 21 Around their lofty crown ; Some gently slanted from the sea — As though the ■waves through time — Had made them sloping, easy, free, For ship-wrecked men to climb. Such was the kind it chanced those nine Had in the darkness found, Or to where tossing floods of brine Had borne them in its bound. XVI. 'Twas noon and the bright summer sun Poui'ed down its piercing rays, On sparkling seas and head-land dun It beam'd in one unclouded blaze. The tide was low, and deep below That vessel's shattered deck — Guy Harold and Hunyadi were Trophies seeking 'midst the wreck. From out the waters chill and brine Unto the craggy shore — Full many a cask of bread and wine These hardy mortals bore ; 'Till food for all the ship-wrecked nine They'd piled an ample store. And huge, long planks of oak and pine From out the wreck they tore, And brought them up the steep incline To the head-land's summits hoar. Where at night 'neath the pale moon shine They made a beacon roar, Where by the hand of human line Flame was never lit before, So passing seamen might divine — There, aid was needed sore. 22 THE HBIR OF LTOLYNN. And for treasure too of different kind Harold and Hunyadi sought, At each trunk or chest that they could find With eager hands they caught,, And silver bright and gold refined From many a chest they brought. Rings set thick with stones of starry light, And goblets rough with gold, And urns of massy silver bright — Wrought in the choicest mold Reward all their dangerous toil ; As 'neath their load of shining spoil They leave the ghastly wreck — Hunyadi a labled package lifts While to the rising tide it drifts Beneath the shattered deck. "Title — deeds of Lyolynn, And Lockhart pedigree," Was written on that package thin In letters bold and free. And by Guy Harold all unseen He hid it in his breast, And lifting to the sky serene A face in smiles all drest, With joy he whispers in his mind, I thank Thee Lord of all That Thou hast been to me so kind, For what I sought for, did I find. And 'twill save the orphan's fall. Now let the demons plot and plan. Their craft shall all be foiled, Yes, let them work, do all they can, They'll find me armed and in the van, Nor shall by wile of fiend nor man That orphan be despoiled. THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN, 23 Thus to himself Iluiiyadi thought, As from the wreck his spoils he brought, Following the dangerous road— On which his friend Guy Harold strode, Who groan 'd beneath his golden load. XVII. Night's draper3' had shrouded all ; Like a dark, sad funeral pall Upon a lifeless breast — It wi'apt the rocks and silent seas, For not a single breath of breeze Disturbed their perfect rest. All nature lay as in a swoon, Or with a trance oppressed, The pale, dim, waning, cheerless moon Was hiding in the West. Just as she seem'd upon the verge Of the horizon dim. Just as it seem'd she did submerge Beneath the water^s brim. An object passed her disk before And there it seem'd to stand, An object small, in size nomore Than some frail human hand. And as the moon went down from sight, That object kept its place, Resting like a spirit of the night Upon the ocean's face. All save two stood gazing there in awe, With parted lips and straning eyes. As they some dreadful jihantom saw From out the depths of ocean rise. 24 , THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. XVIII. The moon beneath the waters sank, And where she beam'd but darkness grew, Amidst the night air chill and dan-k From Bight the distant object drew : And all those faces pale and blank Put on a darker, drearer hue, Yet stood they gazing from that bank Where nought but waters could they view. Nor from their fixed and stony stare They o'er the wastes of ocean kept They moved 'till like a trumpet's blare — ■ A mighty trumpet shrill and clear — O'er seas the voice of Harold swept. Who on that head-laud's top-most height Stirring a crackling fire stood, That pour'd a crimson tingeing light Far o'er the ocean's silent flood. Like that tall, grim shadowy form, Seen near dread Etna's blazing cone — When rise at night her flames enorm — And to the sky their glare is thrown — So near that beacon's roaring flame Upon the far off dizzy height Towers that seaman's giant frame. Through the waving shades of night ; The leaping flames his shadow throw O'er ocean far as eye could view, The blazing glow his features show, All in a strange unearthly hue — Haggared his features seem'd to glow — To those who on the rocks below Looked up, wondering what he meant, For with yell on yell the air he rent, As he stirred the bickering flame. ■I'HE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 25 Shrouded in storms of sparks his frame — As some tall spirit of fire s&nt Shouting 'midst his roaring element On some drear reef all stately piled, To rouse the night with terrors wild, So on the height that seaman's form Midst storms of flying sparks they view, While louder than the breath of storm His clarion voice o'er ocean flew. Soon, distant far across the sea A sudden flame flashed broad and free And cannon's deafening peal they heard ; Loud as though huge volcano roar'd — The tingeing flame and thunder pour'd, And ocean's solemn stillness stirr'd. XIX. Then with a voice all free of woe The hardy seaman call'd — To those who on the rocks below Stood gaping and appall 'd. Now let your hearts to Him give praise Who guards His children ever, Though He smiles or frowns upon their ways He will desert them never. ♦ That little speck ye trembling saw Upon the ocean's breast. That filled your spirits so with awe. Your souls with fear oppressed — Though all surpassing human law — In grimmest terrors drest — Some ghoul was seen within whose maw In shreds your forms should rest — A stately ship shall greet yovir sight 26 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. When morning streaks the East with light Her crew have seen my beacon bright, And for this was yonder cannon's might Sent roaring o'er the brine, But hold ye no such blind belief, She will near this dangerous reet 'Till morning's beams shall shine. Oh, oft at night on rocks like these, When toss'd from out the raging seas I've been a ship-wrecked man, I've let the midnight blast and breeze My glowing beacon fan. And bade it send its waving glare To hail some distant bark. Let it be seen through leagues of air, However dense and dark. And ere shall many hours throng Upon the face of time, We shall be safely borne along O'er floods within some vessel strong. Far from this rocky clime. So let's pass the night with mirth and song, Nor doleful look as men of crime. Who feel the hangman's tightning thong. And die in life's full rUddy prime. Though our friends lie yon wreck among, And we hear nomore their voices chime, By slaying them God meant us no wrong ; Though His ways are hidden and sublime — He would not the meanest plant that blows Needlessly overwhelm with rime. If such mercy e'en for plants He shows, Much more must be the love that glows, For U3 who in His own image rose THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 2T Beneath His plastic hand, we, the heirs Of all the cj'cles of the years, Of all eternity and time. A love for Him bej^oiid control I feel through all my being roll, Which effervescing keeps my soul As water filled with slaking lime! Now I'll quaff deep of ruddy wine, Though my father sleeps beneath the brine I'll wake the night with song, O'er seeming ills I cannot pine, Nor think the ways of God are wrong. I'll tell a tale of ages old, A tale of dole and woe, 'Tis styled The Phantoms of the wold, My father sang it long ago. Then quaffing deep of ruddy wine, Still standing on the steep incline Beside his beacon's glow. On yielding air o'er rock and brine These words began to flow. sx. The Phantoms on the wold. A castle stands on craggy lands Hard by the flowing sea, A castle grand as e'er was planu'd, As ever chanced to be, As e'er was reared by human hand On mountain, moor or lea. And in those stately towers dwelt In distant years of yore A maid as fair as ever knelt The shrine of saint before. 28 THE HEIR OP LYOLYNN. As fair as e'er till then was seen — Or ever has been since, As fair as e'er became a queen, Or won the loving hearts I ween Of peasant, knight or prince. Though her did matchless beauty bless. Her mind her looks belied, Her soul was a den of selfishness. Her heart a throne of pride. Many a knight renown 'd in fight, Many a haughty peer. And baron bold as e'er of old Had ever couched a spear. And many a king in listed ring For those transcendent charms — To be their lord had drawn the sword, And singly all victorious warred Against a mighty martial horde. Or welcomed death in arms. But king and peer of knightly strain Vainly came to woo and win, All met alike but cold disdain From this heir of Lyolynn. From a far distant rocky isle. Laved by a stormy sea, There came a king to win her smile, A mighty warrior he. Before this shrine he humbly bowed, In homage bent the knee, But still her heart was cold and proud, No love for him showed she. Her face looked placid as the moon. And pride flashed in her eye, E'er move her heart he might as soon Have sought to touch the sky. THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 29 XXI. On the towers of Lyol^'nn The star of evening shone, And vainly that warrior strovie to win That barren heart of stone. Edith of Lyolynn he said, I from o'er the ocean came — Brought hither by what rumor spread ■Of thy beauty's deathless fame, And ages yet unborn shall hear Of thy transcendent charms, Long as to the heart of man is dear A maid with lips like roses fair, With sparkling eyes as star-beams clear, Buddy cheek, long brown wavy hair, And soft, round, snowy arms — To win from thee one loving smile I've journied here alone, For thee I left my distant isle — Yes, periled life and throne. And never shall I homeward go Back o'er the ocean's stormy flow — "Without thee as my queen ; If I can't win thy heart with words, If they can't move its subtle chords, I'll win thee with the clash of swords And lances strong and keen. I'll prove my love for thee fair maid Where starkest blows are plied, In strife my spear and trusty blade Shall win thee as my bride. Or I shall in the dust be laid — Earth with my blood be dyed. 30 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. XXII. Sir king, the haughty maiden said, While on his shoulder brawny spread She lightly dropped her stately head "Whose face with blushes ros}^ red Was sweetly mantled o'er, Think not through saint or fiend's command Shall Edith jield her heart and hand — To any king of sea or land — Though true, he should the bravest stand — Who e'er in battle drew a brand — Or ever crown 3'et wore 'Till he his love for her had proved On field of death and gore — Midst scenes as wild as ever moved On carnage covered moor. Sir king, upon to morrow morn Three thousand knights and five. Haughty and stern as e'er were born — The bravest knights alive. At one small blast from this frail horn In tourney lists shall strive, Men, who to free my name of scorn Straight unto death would drive. And thou amongst the lists ma}^ move. And there they knightly prowess prove Before my judging ej'es, For only he who victor stands Transcendent o'er those martial bands Shall win the peerless prize. Yes, he who shall as victor ride Amidst the fierce and bloody tide — Where blows are most terrific plied — And knight-hood shall be fullest tried — THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN 31 Only he, shall win nie as his bride. The prize, that victor knight shall win Is me, the heir of Lyolynn — With all my lands and towers ; Yes, all my broad dominions fair, And every stately castle here That o'er the ocean lowers. Thou valiant warrior bold and true, A deed of daring thou mayst do Ere skies with morn be red ; A knight there is, I hear his mail Loud clanging now in yonder vale I hear his charger's tread. Never a stronger knight thaai him Has ever rein'd a horse. For all my chieftains huge and grim, Strong as towers in form and limb Have sank beneath his force, At night he comes all cased in mail — From yon deep wood o'er shadowed vale On steed as fleet as mountain gale, Just as the moon beams o'er the dale, And loudly doth mine ears assail With language harsh and gross, And oh, it makes me quake and quail To hear his voice morose I If thou wouldst now thy knight-hood prove, And thy just sworn and proffered love. Do then from this fair castle move Upon til}' coal-black steed, And lay 3'on out-law wild and rude Who comes with such fell speed Prone in the dust with blood bedew'd, Nor let him thus on me intrude, I'll thank thee for the deed. 32 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. But ere thou goest, thou valiant knight, I'll tie this strip of ribbon white, Just here around thy helmet bright. In triumph let it wave Above thy foeman stark and dead, And when thou hast his heart's blood shed, Stain it with his life-blood brave, Yes, bring it to me gory red, No other boon I crave. She said, and round his helmet bright With hatred beaming frown — She tied the strip of spotless white. And laced his visor down. XXIII. Up to the very castle wall Rode that steel-clad rider tall — On steed as white as frost. And with a voice all weird and low. As winds that seem to wail with wo© Through blasted pines the deserts show He did the maid accost. Edith, heart of stone, and soul of pride, Thou heir of Lyolynn, I come again though oft denied, Has not my prowess oft been tried ? Am I not meet for such a bride? I swear to woo and win. I won thee in the listed ring When broke was saddle, rein and girth. When horse and rider I did bring Prone on the bloody earth. For thee I did each rider fling, Each baron, knight and lord, Who, did withstand the fearful swing THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 3o Of this my conquering sword ? Come forth, tliou art my well earned bride, And ere I thee forgo — I'll crush thy heart of stately pride, Thy towers shall fall, thy realm be dyed With a reeking crimson glow. If I'm longer of my prize denied 'T will bring thy people woe. XXIV. The castle gate was open swung. As ringing sledge on anvil flung — Its ponderous bars of iron rung As dashed 'gainst walls in speed, Forth through the rocky arch-way sprung Upon the coal-black steed — Him from the stormy sea bound isle, Who to win that maiden's rosy smile — Periled the daring deed. All sheathed was he from head to heel In armor flashing bright. In glorious panoply of steel As ever clanged in fight. But he on the steed as white as snow Soon as he saw the coming foe Swift couched his spear in rest, And strong as torrent in its flow When summer suns on mountains glow — And snows to rushing waters go That Bwell its roaring breast. So swift and strong that fearless knight Upon the charger huge and white To meet his coming foe in fight Onward thundering pressed. 84 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. XXV. Now haughty knight, the maiden cried, As she the meeting chiefs espied, Prepare to face thy death, For never a stronger knight than he — Who now for me opposes thee Has ever drawn a breath. My castle gate shall open be 'Till morning's light shall tinge the sea. And he who shall as victor ride — From out the fierce and bloody fray. For sure, I ween 'twill be no play, Shall then come in the chosen lord Of these dominions fair and broad. And shall I be his bride. XXVI. They met upon the frosty wold, Those huge champions strong and bold — On chargers black and white, The winds were rising brisk and cold. The moon gave forth her light, A sable cloud that moment roU'd From off her features bright — Whose dense and sluggish, murky fold Had hid her long in night ; The hour of one the bell had told From topmost turret's height. With Bpears in rest and visors down They met in fell career, They met for fortune, fame, renown, Broad lands and maiden fair. Their spears though huge and long as masts Seen in some stately ship, Flew on air in splintery blasts THE HKIR OF LYOLYNN. 35 Up to the very grip. Prone on the bare and frosty wold — Stopped sudden in their flight — Both steeds and riders backward roll'd, The chargers black and white. Oh, ne'er 'till then had mortal men Of such stupendous force — E'er breathed the air or couched a spear, Or yet bestrode a horse. And never trod on rock or sod Since nature's birth began — Such steeds enorm in limb and form, Nor strength of such a span. XXVII. Up sprung from earth each hero proud, And drew his mighty sword. As lightning darting from its cloud Far flashed the falchions broad. As upon towers tall and grim From heaven comes down the flame — So upon head and trunk and limb The gleaming broad-swords came. On adamantine steel they rung The air was rife with sound, O'er Lj'^olynn the echos sprung Unto its furthest bound. The crush of breaking steel rung loud Upon the frosty air, And arms that did those chiefs enshroud — On earth were broken there, The breast of either hero proud Was swelling broad and bare. But still their helms and visors gleam'd Uninjured by their blows, 36 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. Through night the polished helmets beam'd As either fell or rose. Oh. had thejr but a moment slid From manly features that they hid, Or by a blow been cleft, And reveal'd to either hero's stare, Who, but his brother warring there, No tale like this with sorrow drear — Had been told in long after year. Nor to mankind been left 1 Deep in the bossom of each knight Was sent each falchion keen and bright Up to the glowing hilt ; The crimson tide their bodies dyed. And on the wold was spilt. And then as fall two columns tall Beneath the heaven's flame. So side by side those chiefs of pride On earth together came. But he who sail'd from o'er the sea, The king of many isles — Just as he falls upon the lea In wakeless slumber smiles. The ribbon of all spotless white He for the maiden wore Waved sadlj' in the breeze of night Besprinkled with his gore. But when the maid beheld him there Dead on the bloody ground, She tore her hair in grim despair. And drawing near she filled the air With cries of mournful sound. Alas, she said, a knight more fair Shall ne'er on earth be found, Nor king more to his people dear, THE HEIE OF LYOLYNN. 37 Whether in peace or battle gear Shall ne'er again be crown'd. XXVIII. Then faintly spoke the bleeding knight Who rode upon the charger white, Come doff this hero's helm, For never have I found in fight One so hard to overwhelm, No stronger man in battle van E'er fought for life or realm. And though stark dead the warrior be, All fain would I his features see, So when I meet him on that shore Where only spirits dwell, That is, if there, for ever more They bear the forms that here they bore, Or features wear as here they wore. Then I shall know him well ; As I view him there I'll proudly say, That ne'er on earth by night or day Braver hero fought and fell. The features of the dead she bared, Doflf'd helm and visor all, Full on the face that there appear'd Did the pale moon-beams fall. As on the features cold and white The wounded warrior gazed — Fell sorrow wrapped his soul in night, Grief sat his spirit crazed. At length he said in solemn dole. Oh, Rafno, brother of my soul. And art thou lowly laid I And by thy friend, thy brother's hand, And with wile and treachery plann'd 38 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. By this accursed maid, Whose soul ne'er gladdens and delights Save in grimmest, grisliest sights The clang of arms, the death of knights, And flowing of their blood. Whose heart is barren as the heights Of rock near ocean's flood. Though mankind search the world around Inch by inch o'er every rood So ruthless heart shall ne'er be found. Nor maid of such a mood. For pride and cruelty thy fame Shall o'er the world rebound, Men yet unborn shall hear thy name. And shudder at the sound. As Edith of the Cruel Heart, Mankind shall speak of thee : And at thy history shall start As if they felt a poisoned dart The fibers of their spirit part — All races j^et to be. As some dread meteor of woe. Of long, dim centuries ago That on earth poured death and pain. And pestilence as clouds the rain, And whelm'd mankind with fears, So wrapped in everlasting prime Thy name and fame shall stand sublime, The brightest on the peak of crime Through all the night of years. Thy heart is hard and harsh as hell, It caused this bloody deed. Through thee the noblest hero fell That ever rode on steed. And oh, that human tongue should tell TITE HEIR OF LYOLTNN. S9 This thy worst and grimmest crime, That while we fought thou knewst full well Yes, knew all the bitter time — That Rafno king of stormy isles Was brother unto me. Yet, kept the secret in thy heart of wiles Till pierced and slain was he ! Ay thou harsh she— fiend dark and fierce, Through thy infernal wiles — Did I my valiant brother pierce, The king of man}^ isles. Alas, I never dream'd 'twas him, I thought him far awa^^, Oh, God, what evil foul and grim, Brother, brother thus to sla}' ! Oh, God, the night is drear and long, But the longer night is near, I hear Death chant his doleful song. His knell is in mine ear ! But maid accursed, dark and fell. Yet, ere I cease to breathe — All, all the grimmest fiends of hell Shall thee with horrors wreathe. Then swift as though he had no wound Up from the earth he sprung, Not swifter e'er did eagle bound To guard her callow j^oung. And as on rose in summer storm Bursts down the levin flame — So through her head and all her form His mighty broad-sword came. Clean split in twain or earth she lay, As tree by lightning's blast. Then on his brother's lifeless clay Just as the East with morn grew gray That hero sobbed his last. 40 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. XXIX. On the towers of Lyolynn The beams of morning broke, And long and drear}^ was the din Of dole that there awoke. The man}^ knights who on that morn Were in the lists to ride — Who at the blast of that small horn Were all to rush in pride — 'Till all were bleeding, crushed or torn — And with grim slaughter d3^ed — The pi-ize a heart of hate and scorn, A fair, though ruthless bride, All joined within the wail forlorn — Till all was sorrow far and wide 1 O'er all the lands of Lyotynn Was only sorrow seen, But far less for that maid of sin — And temper hard and keen — Arose the wail and doleful din — Than for the brother kings, I ween, When years had sped for those brave dead The anguish still was green. XXX. Since that dread night 'till now have past A thousand years and nine. Yet does this mournful story last Amongst the human line, And as revolving suns bring round The month, the time, the night, As the hour of one doth sound • From topmost turret's height — The peasants see upon the wold Beneath the pale moon-shine — THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 41 Hard by a tower hoar and old Built on a steep incline — • Two grim steel-clad champions ride On chargers black and white, With morions casting far and wide A waving, fitful light. Their dazzling armors gleam like flame Across the frosty wold, At times is heard a wild acclaim Rise on the breezes cold. The clang of breaking steel is heard And shakes the frozen ground As if a mighty earthquake stirred And filled the air with sound. And o'er them in the liquid air Another sight they see, A woman's body hovers there Cleft through head and form is she. And as the halves would aye unite To form a whole again, There sweeps a falchion broad and bright And severs them amain. Lily and rose her cheeks disclose, The red with white divinely glows In mingled glory there, The sweetest hues the rain-bow shows Still e'en in death they wear. With beauty rife such as in life Her features still appear, As when blared the fife and roar'd the strife And for her heros pressed the bier. Her eyes of light, still, still are bright With all their lifelike sheen, Her long dark hair still floats in air Her parted form between. 42 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. And though the night be dark with storm, The whirlwinds be abroad, Yet are seen those chiefs and steeds enorm, As when they were alive and warm. And warred with peer and lord. And still is seen tliat cleft phantom form, Through it gleams a flaming sword. Only when the ^^ears the peasants tell Have to five thousand run, Shall her cleft form united dwell. And rest her soul from terrors fell For those dread murders done I Nor till then for those two kings as well Shall be forgiveness won. XXXI. Here ceased his melancholy laj^. O'er rocks the echos died away, No longer stii-r'd the air with sound, » O'er ocean utter silence frown'd, Sweet sleep the singer's voice had still'd. Yet still through Omar's bosom thrill'd The doleful tale that seaman sang, Still in his ear its accents rang. And fill'd his fiery heart with pang. As though it felt an adder's fang. The while he heard that seaman's tale — His visage gaunt and grim and pale, When came the name of Lyolj'nn — Changed from frowns to a savage grin. Against rocks that lean'd o'er ocean's flood, With beating pulse and bounding blood With none save Ba3'ard near he stood, His thought I ween but little good For human kind the while did brood. THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 43 At length he spoke in sullen mood, Where e'er I turn, where e'er I go, Midst summer's shine or winter's snow, No height so tall, no depth so low. But mong mankind I meet a foe, They follow me through weal and woe, When waters run or breezes blow. E'en on this reef so drear and lone — They boldly make their presence known, Even that seaman gaunt and grim, I see I have a foe in him ; Ne'er had ho sang that doleful rhyme, And laid snch stress on Edith's crime. And shouted so with stormy din The ancient name of L^^olynn, Had he not known the secret all On which I build m}' rise or fall, I'll swear by body and b}' sonl He knows my secrets, knows the whole. Else never had he sung that rhyme At such a place, at such a time. Nor made Lyolynn so often chime With Edith's pride and Edith's crime. Then, thus did Baj^ard make reply, The while he spake his huge white eye Roll'd like drunken moon in sable sky, Fiend like grins did from this visage glare, All hell seem'd centered in his stare, My noble master wherefore fret ? Thou hast thy trusty Ba3'ard yei ? He, as thou wilt, can sell or let, Collect for thee, or pay thy debt. And ever ready is my knife, At thy command to wage the strife. All save yon and I are sleeping now 44 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. Ill climl) me to the head-land's brow Where sleeps yon seaman, drunk, I trow, And soon he'll end his earthly life Who fill'd thee so with anguish rife. He said, and keener breath he drew — As from its sheath his dagger flew. Stop, Bayard stop, the master said, This night we must not lay him dead. 'Twould be no use to slay him now, And more of him I yet would trow. But go, my trusty Baj^ard go. Soon as the morning's beams shall glow, The tide will at that time be low, And all within yon wreck will show. See if thou findst a trace there in Of Lockhart or of Lyolynn, Some papers mongst that wreck are strown, I'd give one half the world to own. While seeking for the dead, take thj^ ease And keep a sharp look out for these. Here ceased their words, for on their ear Came sounds of something moving near; Scarce half a rood from them thej^ found Hunyadi stretched upon the ground ; To them he seem'd as fast asleep. As though he lay in slumbers deep. Then Omar spoke, the bard sleeps sound, He has with wine his troubles drown'd. Just look how pleasing seems his brow, It were a shame to wake him now. I've heard, 'tis while poets take their rest They breed their noblest thoughts and best. So speaking, but keeping him in view From the seeming sleeping bard they drew. And thus they did tneir speech renew. THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 45 Bayard, think 3'ou yon poet sleeps, Or on ns twain a vigil keeps ? Think you, he our speech has heard ? I could almost swear but now he stirr'd. No, said Ba3'ard. Not a single word Has fallen on that poet's ear. Where he awake and lying there, From what I saw him drink, I'd swear He is too drunk to see or hear. They ceased, then silent stood awhile, And eyed each other with a smile. XXXII. Little they dream'd that every word They'd breathed had by the bard been heard. When something moving reach 'd their ear, The bard had stirr'd upon his lair. For when of papers Omar spoke — A sudden flash like lightning stroke Across his drowsy spirit broke, And it to instant action woke. Then 'mongst his clothing torn and wet, He placed his hand to see if yet — Those papei'S lay within his vest, Gave them a squeeze, then lay at rest, As though with heavy sleep oppress'd. 46 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN, PART II. Gray, feeble streaks of coming dawn Along the Eastern ek}^ were drawn, Those tints which on the verge of morn Faintly the horizon's sphere adorn, Wrought by the sun which far below, Causing his flaming beams to flow In long waving lines of feeble glow' O'er skies as night begins to go, But moves her lazy shadows slow. While straight a dim reflection throw. All the particles dense and rare Which float within the atmosphere ; Or the material atoms there. Which make, compose and form the air. And oh, how glorious they seem When night sinks in the arms of morn, And splendors of the da3"-god's beam Those atoms with full light adorn I II. 'Twas the first, faint tint of dawn, I said, Long ere the horizon colors red. When just enough of light is shed O'er sky and sea and mountain head, The joyous tidings can be spread — The day is born, the night is dead. And o'er the ocean's tranquil breast Did the keen eves of Harold rest. THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 41 Calm to the skies' o'er arching span The ocean stretched its boundless van, And all the sky that met its view Was mirror'd in the waters blue. No flying mist through either swept, Nor in the air a vapor lept Before the morning zephyrs warm, Nor cloud 'Lween sky and ocean slept, But the placid, limning waters kept A perfect image of its form. The screaming sea-gull as it flew Above that stirless field of blue, Could flap its wings and look below And bird with flapping wings 'twould show, Which ever way its flight it wield, Let it arise, dart forth or fall, There its perfect image was reveal'd, Its form, its size and movements all, Each streak of light the heaven wore. Image of the streak the ocean bore, Yes, every tint and shade and hue. Was mirror'd in the waters blue As perfect as the sky put on. As brighter grew the horizon, Same lustres did the ocean don. To tell the morn's increasing glow He need not look on reddening skies But cast his eyes on floods below And there see all its glories rise. But not on morn's increasing glow Alone o'er seas did Harold gaze. Nor mark the flaming sun-beams flow To set both sea and sky ablaze. One small black spot on ocean's face Far ofi" as human e3'e could scan, 48 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. Did his keen eyes delighted trace Across the waters breathless span. And as it plainer grew to sight Across the ocean's tranquil brow, As nearer drew broad sails of white Above a vessel's sable prow, — All the wild joy that fill'd his soul. And, sparkled in his beaming eyes, Joy's ebb and flow that there did roll With never ceasing fall and rise, By those alone can best be told. Yes, onl}^ truly they can limn O'er whose wrecked bark the floods have roll'd. And cast them on a head-land grim Who see some vessel drawing near To bear them from those reefs away ; When flapping of the sails they hear, Who, their wild rapture can portra}' ? III. While Harold gazes o'er the flood With throbbing pulse and bounding blood. And spirit glowing breast ; Among the shelving rocks below, Amidst that wreck and scenes of woe Were roaming all the rest. Save Ellenore, De Yaux's wife, Who with lanthe Lockhart stood B3' Harold's side, the beauty rife That glow'd within lanthe's hood — Beam'd on the seaman's dazzled eyes With blushes like tlie tints of morn. When its full glory decks tlie skies And rosy hues doth all adorn. THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 4t) In silence on the child he gazed As one all wrapped in dumb surprise, As one with doubt or joy amazed, And cannot from the stupor rise. And as he eyes each charm that crowns That infant's face with ruddy glow, The while alternate smiles and frowns O'er his sun-browned visage flow, 'Tis strange indeed, at length he said. But while last night I slumbered here, I dream'd I saw just such a head, And such a face as blushes there, Yes, just such face and head and brow, Kobed in just such crimson hood. Such long brown wavj' hair, I vow, Bound with just such a yellow snood, A girl dress 'd complete as she is now In my dream before me stood. Yes, clad in just such purple gOAvn, And hood with just such crimson glow, A girl Avith tresses long and brown The same as o'er her shoulders flow; A form like her's from feet to crown More perfect could no limner show. Yes, teeth with just such pearly gloss, Lips sweet as ever smiled on man, • And cheeks with just such downy floss As on a full ripe peach we scan. With swan-like neck, and hands and arms All formed in nature's choicest plan. Like her's nomore transcendent charms Did waters lave, or breezes fan. Well, hear what joass'd within my dream, Me thought in some strange land I trod Near the marge of a mountain stream, 50 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. Lily and rose bedeck'cl the sod. 'Twas noon, and warm the sun did beam O'er teeming grass and barren clod, Fagged at last by this sultr}- gleam Me thought I towards a grove did plod ; For pines and oaks of giant girth Towered in mighty forests there, It seem'd all trees that grow on earth, There, sent their branches in the air. But all was utter silence round Not e'en a bird I saw nor heard. Of bird nor beast no single sound The stillness of those forests stirr'd. But serpents speckled, huge and grim, Of every shade and hue I found. Each tree I saAV, on everj^ limb It seem'd a grisly coil was wound. At times their hiss, and onl}- this. Disturbed the silence all profound. Where e'er I turned mine eyes discerned They cvimbered a!l the trees and ground. Back from the grove I turn'd in haste For through it all the coils seem'd curl'd, No foot, I thought, these lands have traced Save mine, since God had made the world. IV. Back, back with hasty feet I strode To where the mountain river flowed. And while upon its bank I stood, Me thought I heard a fearful scream. And lo — a girl with crimson hood. With purple dress and yellow snood Came flying from the snake wreathed wood, To where I was beside the sti-eam. THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 5^ And at her heels, while swift she sped, Me thought I saw' a serpent dread. Come gliding, hissing, tearing on With never ceasing bound, As came the scream, the hiss anon Would strive to drown the sound. On earth she sank with fearful j^ell A yard from where I stood. While straight the serpent huge and fell, With tongue that seem'd a flaming hell, Tore at her crimson hood, Then as a thunder bolt more swift Or sands that on the tempests drift Within my hand a club I caught One massy, huge and long, Down on his horrid head I brought The weapon swift and strong. Then from the ground with sudden bound He coil'd around my form. Right in my face his head he brought, His throat within my hand I caught. As there I felt his breathing warm. Tighter, tighter with ceaseless toil I around his throat did grasp, I felt him loose his cursed coil Yes, every fold unclasp. I held him by his grisly throat Till ceased his tongue to flame 'Till I nomore could see or note A breath from out him came. Then afar with a sudden twirl His lifeless form I thi-ew, And from the earth the frighten 'd girl Within my arms I drew. And on my breast I held the child 62 THII HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 'Till all her terror flew, A girl with just such features mild, Where Beauty all her charms had piled, Like those that now I view. Again a horrid hiss we heard — That fill'd the air with sound, And something 'mongst the lilies stirr'd That sweetly deck'd the ground ; 1 look'd, and lo, both far and near, 'Mongst all those beds of lilies fair, I saw the eyes of serpents glare — On us with never ceasing stare. As flamed their tongues with forked flare Loud rong the dread infernal blare Of never ending hiss. Nought else disturbed the stagnant air. But terrible was this, AH else was still as dumb despair Wrapped in the tomb's abyss. On, on, still on, they hissing drew. But as they rose right full in view, And seem'd in act to spring. From the heavens rushed down a cloud, That peal'd with thunders long and loud Wrapp'd them in a fiery shroud, And instant death to all did bring. Then swift the cloud enormous grew, And on the snake wreathed groves it flew In one terrific sheet of flame. All was wrapped in fiery glow ; We saw a mighty whirlwind l)low, And broader still the glow became. And fearful ever and anon. THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN, 53 As the storm of fire swept on, A voice we heard, a voice sublime, Loud as the thunder of all time, Gathered in one terrific roar. And rocking earth from shore to shore, Saying these words : Ye sons of crime My wrath shall blast ye in 3- our prime, Of this I warn'd ye in full time, Told 3^e, that orphan was my care. To guard her I would aye be near. And that my vengeance fell and dread, Should fall on those who ever dare To harm one ringlet of her head, But, no, ye would not deign to hear, My warnings all unheeded were, So take my vengeance dread and drear, My vengeance dire and severe. Not one I pity or shall spare, And through all hellshould round her flare, Still to shield that orphan, I'll be there. VI. While thus the awful voice roll'd on. Grimmer terrors did the fires don, Far broader, broader flashed the flame. And louder still its roaring came. Such din in polar seas I've heard, When leagues immense of ice and snow Are into sudden motion stirr'd, By thawing suns that o'er them glow. When bursting oceans through them flow And down the floes immense are hurl'd. O'er heights in headlong overthrow. Yes, clashing, roaring, thundering go, Down mounts that jar in floods below. 54 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. Mounts, which though onl}' ice they show, Are huge as any in the world. No bursting I'ocks 'neath earthquake shocks, Nor huge volcano's fiercest throes, Could equal half the din and roar, That from tlie polar oceans pour. When headlong pitch the mountain floes. Yet from that storm of rushing flame Still louder shocks and roaring came Than e'er from polar oceans rose. Yet o'er all din that there in stirr'd, That awful voice was ever heard. Loud and distinct was every word. On my breast this girl hid her face, Though she had no cause to fear. And o'er my eyes a little space, To shield them I my hand did place — For they could not stand the glare. VII. Soon hushed the voice and roar of flame, A universal silence came And brooded over all. O'er all the fields was stillness dread. Though all there on was smitten dead, And on the mountains tall. Yes, we no sound nor stir could hear Save our hearts that beat with fear, We heard their rise and fall. Then o'er the lands my gaze I cast. Where stood the snake wreathed forests vast, And where had roared the flame. To my deep wonder and surprise THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 55 Tall, stately forests met mine eyes, Where ever my vision came. Though all, the blazing storm had fringed, And on them in full blast impinged, Yet not a single leaf was tinged, Nor scorch'd beneath the glow. All where late the fire had been. Still blushed in universal green 1 Lovely as when they first were seen Such hues they still did show. Violet, rose and Lily bloom'd In all their glory there, And ev'ry plant around assumed A loveliness all rare. With fragrance was the air perfumed, Nor atom there look'd sear. But there through all the forests round, O'er all the bare or grassy ground. No sign of serpent could be found. Nor could a hiss be heard. All, all had vanished it did seem With that tempest's fiery gleam, Like the dim phantoms of a dream When from slumber we are stirr'd. Gone like the shadows of some tree That long ago 'neath axemen fell. Left the earth to the sun-shine free, Where never more its shadowsdwell. Soon the air seem'd rife withsweetest sound With songs the woods did all redound, For they were filled with happy birds. O'er meads with thyme and clover crown'd. Skipping lambs and kids were seen to bound And far and wide stretched grazing herds. 5 ft THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. VIII. A sudden change flew o'er my dream Like some swift cloud across a stream. Far to the right o'er hill and plain Slowly moved a funeral train • In never ending file. I heard their low and solemn dirge, Doleful as winds that ride the surge That plunges to some darksome gurge, Neath grim volcanic isle. Or a wail like the nightly moans Of spirits in some desert land, That gather round their bleaching bones That lie unburied on the sand. Though gloom wrapped that funeral train — Like mists that gather for the rain^ And spread their vail o'er hill and plain We saw it all, and heard each sound. Like a river that seeks the main — They pour'd unto a burial ground, With them coffin after coffin seem'd. Bier on bier in unceasing row ; Yes, coffin after coffin stream'd, A doleful, grisly, sickening show. And as the church-yard met my view, That seem'd a waste of fresh dug graves. These screaming sea-gulls o'er me flew, Night's phantoms from my sight withdrew, 1 woke to find t'was all untrue. Saw only skies lit with morning's hue. These rocks and yonder sleeping waves. IX. Had Harold as his dream he told. But only once his vi sion roU'd TUE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 67 Upon the face of Ellenore, That seaman's piercing e^^es, I "ween, Had seen the rancor and tlie spleen, That lit her eyes so dark and sheen, And frowns of hate her visage wore, When e'er he praised lanthe's mien, Or the transcendent cliarms she bore. But ere his tale of horror closed, Told of an all protecting arm, How some unseen power opposed All those Avlio sought to work her harm, Swiftlj- from her face the color fled, And horror through her spirit thrill'd, Features were death-like pallor spread A cold and clam}' dew distill'd. As one who from a nightmare wakes, And 3'et, still feels it load his breast, So from her horrid fears she breaks, Yet void of fear she cannot rest. At length with trembling voice she said, And words all doleful in their tone, For still fell terror through her sped. And thrill'd her, marrow, nerve and bono ; I've often heard that seamen place Strong faith in omens and in dreams, And they great import aye can trace — In what to others of the human race Mere empty nothing seems. Say, seaman is this really so, Say, have 1 heard aright. Or can 3'ou any import show Out of your dream last night? Madame, he with a smile rfrturn'd, 58 TPIE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. If I've aright my dream discern 'cl, This little girl that here we see, For ought I know thy child may be, Mongst fearful dangers shall be thrown As e'er to mortal child were known. But she shall safely pass through all, And she will ride in triumph grand O'er those who strive to work her fall, For God shall shield her with His hand. And the hour will come I see, Although it may be years ahead, That I shall some assistance be, Yes, aid her o'er her foes to tread. For while I dream'd it ever seem'd, Though shadows fell on all around, For clouds across the sun's disk stream'd. And darkness o'er the landscape frown'd, Yet, ever in a bright sun-shine. Yes, midst its ceaseless glow we stood; And child, her face was all like thine. The form, the dress and crimson hood, The mien complete from head to feet. The self same yellow snood. XI. Here Harold paused, and Ellenore No single word in answer said, While all her face a pallor wore. Such as might well besuit the dead. A sudden tremor through her pass'd. That quivered both her soul arid form. Like aspen bough beneath the blast Ot some all silent, unseen storm. It shot like light through limbs and frame And quivered on her ashen lips, THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 59 And o'er her eyes that beam'd like flame There came an instant's strange eclipse. The seaman marked her altered look, She scarce her feelings could control, As though some deep emotion shook The inmost fibers of her soul. That it seem'd rack'd on some dread wheel Of grimmest, wildest torturings, And wriggled like the writhing eel The angler from the water brings. But all unconscious of the cause Harold pitying eyed her there, And after a suspended pause Thus gently broke the silence drear. " The air is dank and chill, I see It makes 3'ou shiver and turn pale, So here, take you this cloak from me, 'Twill make you feel more warm and hale." With that from olT his burly form His heavy seaman's cloak he flung, And straight the mantle huge and warm Around De Vaux's wife was swung. XII. As some poor bird that trembling lies, Spell-bound beneath a serpent's e^-es, And from its charmer cannot fly, But ever nearer and more nigh Sees that its dread enchanter draws, With glaring fangs and open jaws ; Then sees the coil around it roll'd, And quakes within the awful fold. But ere of life 'tis wholly shorn, The huntsman moves amongst the thorn, And wakes with sound the breeze of morn GO THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. And brings his tread all unawares On the unseen hideous coil, And bursts the charm that there ensnares The bird and frees it from the toil. So sudden when that seaman spoke, And round the woman drew his cloak, So swift her tremor wild and dread, And pallor from her features fled. Swift, straight a lively, ruddy red. Was o'er her queenly visage spread. Her eyes their wonted lustre shed. Like diamonds flashed in crystal bed. Erect she rear'd her haughty head, And firmer grew her stately tread. A sprightly air she straight did don, And warm, sweet smiles her face put on. As one transform'd by magic charm, That slumbered in some wizard's arm Or some all potent spell. That instant lulls the dread alarm That secret dealt its dole and harm. And wracked the spirit fell ; So sudden from that tremor's stroke The spirit of that woman broke, And unto spriteliness awoke, The instant that the seaman spoke, And kindly round her drew his cloak, With a smile upon his lips. As flames that 'sunder burst the smoke That long did them eclipse. And round it form a blazing rim, O'er all its murky body skim, Disperse with light the darkness grim, All through it send a ruddy glim, Where erst was only vapor dim, THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. (51 So she from the tremor broke, As there her e3'es she fix'd on him Who then so kindlj^ spoke, Though he was strong in form and limb As bole and branch of giant oak. All full of daring thought and whim. From head to heel a seaman trim, In tears his eyes were seen to swim. And even o'er their sockets brim. For as with cloak he did her don, With kindl}- speech he still kept on. XIII. Lady, you, and yon child, I ween, Never before have ship-wreck seen, Nor e'er 'midst such wild scenes have been, But I, alas, have oft been thrown On head-lands wild and drear. Seen wreck and corpses round me strown, Just as we see them here. But what has ever, always torn — My soul with anguish most, Yes, made my spirit feel forlorn. And sear as this drear coast ; Has been when 'midst the dangers wild, The wreck, the wave or storm, I've seen some little babe or child. Or yet a woman's form. I never reck'd a single straw. And never shall, I trow. When e'er a seaman's form I saw Beneath the surges bow ; I saved him if I could, if not, Let him with the billows go. For thus to die is seaman's lot,. 62 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. And well their fate they know. Thorough seamen, born and bred, greet The ocean as their grave, The floods their home, their winding-sheet And tomb the trackless wave. But oh, when 'midst the dangers wild, On reef or ocean's flow, I've seen a woman, babe or child, My soul 's been stirr'd with woe. XIV. Me thinks I can recall a scene, That happened long ago. The blasts were blowing stark and keen. And made the billows flow, Though all the stars in happy sheen Looked on the floods below. And not a cloud of storm, I ween That night the skies could show. I stood the while beside the helm Where I was wont to be, And steer'd the vessel o'er that realm Of never ending sea. Across the vast unfathomed wong Right gallantly we flew, Charm'd by the breezes stirring song, That fill'd the canvas tight and strong. And on it ceaseless blew. I remember my thoughts were bent, As they were wont to be, On him who with yon light-house went Beneath the stormy sea. Yes, no matter where my feelings flow'd, Whatever scene they trod, He was the foremost thing they show'd, THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. P3 In business, or with God. For the same hour I was born, Ere scarce I'd breathed this air, Of life, my mother, she was shorn I never knew her care. And none save him in all this earth E'er seem'd to feel for me. 'Twas him who rear'd me from my birth , Reared him who now yon see. Yes, from infancy to manhood, I was ever at his side, And in her place to me he stood, Who had in travail died. 'Twas only when to manhood's prime His only child had grown, And o'er his head a crown of rime Five and eighty years had thrown. That came the cruel, bitter time, Each would gladly ne'er have known — For us who loved with love sublime, The parting knell was blown. The grief of that trying hour Which severed him from me, Neither time nor change had power My bosom yet to free. There it still blooms like some flower That knoweth no decay, That blows in some lonely bower, Whence all else has pass'd away. Where e'er I've sail'd, what ever deck I've roam'd, or stormy main, 'Midst calm, 'midst hurricane or wreck, 'Midst sunshine or 'midst rain, Round him nw soul has ever lagg'd In all its joy or pain, THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. And as I roam'd it seem'd I dragg'd An ever length 'ning chain. And when I have homeward steer'd, After long and weary voyage, When my chosen land appear 'd, And we pass'd the line of buoyage ; And in those waters for a while With joy the anchors cast, Thanked our Maker with a smile That we were home at last ; While others rushed with rapture rife To seek their mother, sister, wife, , Or the future angel of tiieir life. To give their hard earn'd hoard What they had won 'midst billows' strife And 'midst dangers stored, I sought one lonely gray hair'd man, Who \7as too old to toil, And while joy our heart o'er ran, I round him cast my spoil. Now he has gone, who's heart will burn With grief or love for me When I go forth or I return, From out the bounding sea ? Now he is gone within my soul Is left a yawning void, Each hope that held it in control Is utterly destroyed. When I go forth or I return No kindly words I'll hear, Nor see an eye with rapture burn. Or flood with sorrow's tear. Alas, alas, that hoary man All bent with toil and age. No more my flame of joy shall fan. THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 65 Nor sorrow shall assuage I Just here the seaman's voice grew hoarse, His hand was seen to rise, 'And hide some di^ops that found their source Within his large gray eyes. A mighty tremor through him pass'd, That shook his giant form, And heaved his breast like waters vast When troubled by a storm. Seem'd a cold shiver through him ran And quivered on his lips, And blanched his cheeks all ghastly wan. As frost that rose-bud nips. Loud beat his heart against its wall — As though it had not room to throb, And his throat seem'd all too small To vent the mighty sob. XV. Lady, he thus resumed as pass'd His throe of grief away, My mind has wandered far and vast From what I mean't to say. Well, 'twas on that night while full and tight The breezes fill'd the sails, And o'er head we heard it tightning hard The shrouds and stays and brails. Through rattlings, gommets and carings It sang as sweet a tone As yet from ^olian harps On human ear was blown. Far o'er the vessel's stern we saw Her never ending wake, And ceaseless at her prow we heard The waters dash and break. 6G THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. No clouds wore seen, but all the stars Shone o'er the ocean's roar, As sheen that night as e'er were seen By any seaman's gloar. On, on we flew with nought in view But never ending foam, And cloudless skies that o'er us spread An ever starry dome. Suddenly near the mizzen-mast — On its topmost yard I saw, The form and visage of a child. That made me pant with awe. Arraj^ed was she in spotless white, Snowy wreath her forehead bound. And a zone of glittering light Encircled her around. Oh, God the ghastly, haggard face. Features horrid with despair, The sunken cheeks, the svmken eyes With bright yet awful glare. The frail, emaciated form, That seem'd as thin as air, The hand and arm so wasted all That met my vision there. Will ever in my mind be fix'd, And ceaseless haunt my soul, As there she seem'd, in me she's limned With all her look of dole 1 XVI. The breezes blew and on we flew In never ending chase, And still where it first came in view The phantom kept its place. The light aromid it brighter grew. THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 67 And o'er its sunken features threw An all sepulchral, death-like hue, O'er form as well as face, Then waned the light from red to blue, And smaller grew its space. Then all at once from sight withdrew, Left not a single trace. And vanished straight the phantom form. Like flash of light in midnight storm That dies away exactly where Grew and flashed it dreadful glare : So on the spot it met my stare, The phantom seem'd to melt in air. So strange it came so dread it seemed Had I been all alone, I would have thought that I had dream'd, And let it so have gone. Bnt by twelve other men 'twas seen. They saw the same as I, And they'll before the world, I ween, Attest it is no lie. When we saw the form and light depart, With terror quaking grasp, And bounding pulse and throbbing heart, We did each other clasp. And not 'till each man then had felt His comrade's stalwart grip' And made three journeys round the deck Of that huge, stately ship, Would he believe he had not dream'd. And was thoroughly awake. And that he the dread phantom saw, As reality would take. 68 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. XVII. The breezes blew and on we flew Three hours more, I ween, And leagues on leagues o'er seas we drew Beneath the starlight sheen, Then all at once the breeze died down And ocean ceased to flow, All in an utter calm we lay Beneath the starlight's glow. A silence dread as of the grave Lay on the floods around, Nor 'mongst the loosen'd sails was there An utter stir nor sound ; They hung in silence from the spars, Quiet as the glittering stars That beam'd o'er floods profound. A k)ng dread hour had pass'd And still becalmed we lay Not e'en a zephyr's faintest breath Did with the canvas play. Grave as a priest each seaman looked, And eyed his brother-man. For through each breast one only thought. One only feeling ran, The vision came to warn them all Of coming wreck and death — Each seaman prophesied with Beating heart and panting breath. Oh, it was a solemn scene, one, 1 never shall forget — With parted lips, and ashen hue All o'er their features set — And trembling forms and glaring eyes They gazed around the deck, THE HEIR OP LYOLYNN. 69 Stood fix'd in awe as if they saw Already death and wreck. XVIII. A thrill of music fill'd the air 'Twas soft and sweet and low, Delicious dream-like harmonies As rising zephyrs blow — On sultr} eve o'er thymy fields Where the blown rose its fragrance yields Yiolets and lilies grow. O'er the waters rose the music, O'er the waters far away, Straight upon the ocean's face • The gaze of every seaman lay. The stars that o'er its silence beam'd Were mirror 'd everywhere, I watched a star that brighter seem'd Than all the others there. -And while I view'd the glowing beam 'Neath the waters twinkling bright, A gloomy object o'er it pass'd And hid it from my sight. I looked on high to see if there A cloud or vapor sail'd in air, But all was clear and sheen, I looked upon the water's face, And still that object kept its place. That star no longer seen. And here the music died away With one loud joyous thrill, Yet o'er the mirror'd starbeam lay The gloomy object still. XIX. Down on the water's jDlacid breast The Life-boat swift we bore. 70 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN, And soon five men, the ablest, best, That A^essel's crew could score. Brave men who aye with ready zest When dangers frown'd before — Straight forward to the peril press'd 'Midst storm or ocean's roar, And flout at dangers that they test Though grimmest shapes they wore. We broke the ocean's grave like rest With splashing of the oar. On, on, with steady pull we row'd, A half a mile and more, And then a raft the ocean show'd Strown with dead, and stain 'd with gore. To the raft we moor'd the boat. And trod the corpse encvimber'd float, Where not a sound disturbed the air ; Oh, what a ghastly sight was there ! From end to end from side to side Of that huge raft so long and wide, Were nought but dead, with slaughter dyed. Children, men and woman, old and young, Were 'midst that pile of carnage flung. Cleft heads, cut throats and severed limbs» Were scattered thick and dread ; A horrid stench most foul and dense Upon the air was spread. Apart from the fiercest scene of all A murdered woman laj^, Still gleam 'd her eyes in death imclosed With pure bright starry ray. And fairer form and nobler face. More pearl-like teeth, I ween, Since first began the human race In mortal shape was seen. THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 71 To her cold-snowy, milkless breast A little babe she still caressed ; I stooped, and took the babe away From those cold, stiff arms that round it lay, But as I turned its face to me, The very likeness I did see — Of that same vision robed in light. That at the mast-head stood that night, Yes, there, there was the haggard face. There every feature I could trace The ghastly vision bore. But instead of snow-white robes Such as the phantom wore, This lifeless babe was wi-apped all round In clothing dark and warm, Such as an eight-year boy might wear, Enwrapped its tiny form. Close where the babe and mother lay ; A little boy we found, 'Twas him who had his garments doff'd And wrapt that infant round. Yes, he had bared his tender form. To keep his little sister warm, And -midst the cold all naked lay As still and white and chill as clay And he was the sole living thing We from the ghastly float did bring Or on the raft could find, And all so pale he seem'd, and grim, So cold and stiff in form and limb, A corpse you would have fancied him, Not living human kind. XX. Day dawn'd upon the tranquil flood, Shone on that raft of death and blood. 72 THE HEIR OP LYOLYNN. That seeni'd to groan beneath the weight Of its all horrid, ghastly freight; Never a grimmer sight, I ween, On any battle-field was seen ; Nor 'midst ruins of a plundered town, Where king with hatred beaming frown, Heart ruthless as his iron crown, Had rain'd his fearful vengeance down ; Like him who's styled the scourge of God, Who d3^ed with blood the streams and sod, And swore, where once his charger trod, No vintage more should deck the clod. Yes, save that boy, and only him, That raft one sole material bore. And this was corpses gashed and grim. Yes, deep and horrid wounds they wore. Some were shorn of head and every limb. And thickly clothed with clotted gore. . One man of burly form we found. His matted gory beard and hair. So bushy did his face surround. They hid the savage features there. Upon the arm we read his name 'Twas tattooed there in letters plain, Hugh De Vaux, on his breast the same Was visible in tattoo stain. Deep through his chest a dagger stood, The hilt yet in his grasp he held, Down through his breast, e'en in the wood Beneath, the blade he had impelled. 'Twas him who had that slaughter piled. There pour'd out human blood like rain, Yes, butchered woman, man and child, And then himself had fiercely slain. For we 'mongst all that gory mass THE HEIR OP LYOLYNN. 73 No other blade nor knife discerned, And this was how it came to pass From the boy in after time we learned. XXI. A vessel sail'd from England's shore, Known by the name of Labrador And full three hundred souls she bore, Bound for Australia's coast was she, But when far out on seas she came, While winds were blowing fresh and free, Some how the vessel caught on flame. To drown the blaze, vain was the toil, The flame did all their efforts foil. And broader still the fire grew, And from each hatch in fierce turmoil As though fiends did all their fury roil The waves of hissing fire flew ; For full a hundred casks of oil That illfated vessel bore ; Round these the flames had fix'd their coil, And fiercely grasped their willing spoil. From casks that there did burst and boil Flames rushed with one infernal roar. All, all the boats were launched in haste, And human freight in them was placed Fill'd, loaded down was every craft 'Till to its edge the waters came. The rest found succor on the raft From the all devouring flame. XXII. Dense murky shades of night swept down Upon a restless sea, Through all that dark and dreary night The whistling winds blew free. 74 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. When morning flashed upon the flood The winds no longer stirr'd, But no where o'er the silent seas The boats were seen or heard. Whether beneath the seas that night The mournful crews were lost, Or all alive and well upon Some unknown isle were toss'd — . It ne'er j^et came unto our ken, And never will, I ween, For since that time 'till now the years Have numbered seventeen. XXIII. For two long weeks that raft did ride At merc}^ of the floods and gale. But not once her starving crew espied A sign of land, nor ship, nor sail. By hunger terrible, extreme, Her crew were on the verge of death, Starvation in each eye did gleam. And came on every panting breath. The time arrived that lots were cast Amongst that haggard, frantic throng. To see who should make the dread repast, And ease the gnaws of hunger strong. A wretch there was amongst that crew. As base and foul and sordid soul, As yet a breath of life e'er drew. Or ever sank 'neath death's control. One whose brute feelings never rose To think of others joy or weal, No more pity there for human woes Thau's found within a bar of steel.. Beyond what his brute thoughts desired. THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. lO And these were basest of the low, Nought else his filthy spirit fired, Nor slightest atom else could show. Nor in his abject nature grew, 'Twas he who'd murdered all that crew — That there upon the raft Ave view'd, And their dead bodies hacked and hew'd, Pour"d out their crimson blood like rain. The raft all o'er with slaughter stain 'd, And when no victim more remain'd, In frantic mood himself had slain I 'Twas him who had the awful deed Proposed of drawing lots for food, To see who in their dreadful need Should quell their comrades' hungry mood, And 'twas by him the lots were made, The papers torn, the names arrayed, The slips folded, press'd his teeth betwixt Then shaken in a pile and mix'd. While all mute the rest the deed surveyed, And stood with horrid awe transfixed. With ashen cheeks, and parted lips. And e^'-es that from their sockets strain'd, Each drew from the pile of folded slips. While o'er all an awful silence reign'd. With quivering forms and palsied hands. And features where terror stood confess 'd, Each with his strip of paper stands. Till each and all their slip had pressed. Then all at once they opened were By each poor wretch's quivering hand, On each slip was fixed his owner's stare, In awful silence each is scann'd, On his slip each one gazes there. As though he could not understand 76 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. If he the awful fate should fare, And die to feed that hungry band, Or of the horrid doom were clear. On him, who the grisly deed had plann'd And eagerly did it prepare. Yes, made the lots with his own hand, It chanced the lot upon him fell, Doom'd him to be the dread repast, When this he saw with one fierce yell His dagger from its sheath he cast And grim as demon just from hell Rushed on the crew that stood aghast. And all of life that fiend bereft, Babe as well as man he did destroy, By him not one was living left But that poor noble hearted boy. Then like a dog the fiend began To feast on human flesh amain. And drink the warm blood as it ran From each quivering victim's vein. He like a fierce hyena tore And gnaw'd the flesh unto the bone, Glutted himself with brain and gore, Though he ne'er feast so choice had known. Then raging mad he went, blasphemed. And in convulsions foam'd forth blood, Roll'd, grinn'd, laughed, tore his hair and scream'd, Quaff 'd deep the ocean's briny flood. His knife from hand to hand he passed A while, then brandished it in both, Then in his breast the blade he cast. And died with one terrific oath. Good men and brave may be forgot. Oblivion hide their fame and worth, THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 77 E'en mighty kingdoms fall and rot Nor leave one vestige on the earth. But while on earth there breathes a man He'll hear of Hugh De Yaux's name, For no fiercer deeds since earth began Was "wrought by one of human frame. XXIV. Years have flown by on lightning wings, The boy to manhood came, And there he moves on yon rock below, Hunyadi is his name. The boy who doff'd his garments warm, And wrapped them round his sister's form, And lay down amidst the cold damp air, Nigh naked on his dismal lair, That little babe his only care. Though he could live until his years Should to a thousand run, A nobler deed he could not do Than what on the raft was done ; Nobler sacrifice he could not make Though all the world he won. When we found him 'midst the clotted gore Near frightened unto death, And frozen 'midst the bitter frore. While scarce a rag his body bore. All taken save the shirt he wore. And closely laid that infant o'er, To shield her from the night-frost hoar. And breezes icy breath ; Pierced to the core was every heart With love for that brave boy ; You should have seen the tears of pity start, Tears of pit}- mix'd with joy ; 78 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. From every weather beaten man — And their sun-brown 'd cheek's bewet Who there the noble act did scan : I will ne'er the scene forget. XXV. Seventeen years have pass'd away Since that sad time 'till now, But stranger scene I never view'd, And never shall, I trow. And ne'er shall I forget the sight While life my heart doth warm — That at the mast-head stood that night That ghastly phantom's form. And never shall I cease to think That God that boy designs — For some great deed amongst mankind That in the future shines. His rescue was no work of chance, 'Twas Grod performed the whole ; God bade the breezes blow that night And led me to the goal. That God made me His instrument, To carry out this strange event, Shall ever glad my soul. XXVI. Here Harold paused, and Ellenore Feigning a smile began. I've heard just such tale before. But say, was not this man That you say was Hugh De Yaux Who the raft with murder jailed Long accused of some other deed Of murder grim and wild? Ay, madam, Harold straight replied, THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 79 A bark once saiFd from Spain, With all the Lyol^-nns save one Who ne'er return 'd again. Some ten months from the time they sail'd The bark was found at sea, Without a living soul on board, All were dead as dead could be ; Nought but fleshless skeletons Which numbered twenty nine This gloomy floating coffin held When found upon the brine. Now it was known that thirty four Women and men had sail'd, What had become of the other five A mj^stery prevail 'd. But 'twas long thought — that the}' had died And in the sea been thrown. Nor was it 'till three years had past. The fearful truth was known. It chanced one time a murderer On the day that he was hung, To the jailor while in prison Unbridled thus his tongue. XXVII. Don't think I to the gallows go For one sole murder done. For I've been a murderer Ever since my life begun. Once in a bark from Spain I shipped To England she was bound, But, but the port for which she sail'd I ween, she never found. Hugh De Yaux was captain of the bark — A seaman tried was he, 80 THE IIEIR OF LYOLYNN. And I was steward for the voyage Across the bounding sea. On the third night from when we sail'd De Taux thus spoke to me. Ribero, with greater wealtli than this No ship was ever stored — And if you work a deed for me You shall have half the hoard. To-morrow when to lunch we go Just as the clock strikes ten, I'll tell all the Lyolynns And all their maids and men It is the anniversary Of the day that I was born, And bid them take a glass of wine To celebrate that morn. You know the wine that they like best, So take this package now — Mix its contents, a powder fine. And white as frost, I trow — "Within a dozen flasks of wine. And when the time arrives — Fix it so we all together drink. The men and all their wives. And mine as usual will be A brimming horn of gin. So see none of the fell poison gets That kind of liquor in. I did as our captain bid. Upon the time he fix'd — I gave to all a glass of wine With that fell poison mix'd. And every cup at once was raised To quaff that captain's health They wished him length of days, all crown 'd TRE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 81 With peace and joy and wealth. Each cup was drained, some fillVl again, But ere an hour past, All, all in horrid agonies Had foaming hreathed their last. Yes, all within that bark lay dead Save Hugh De Vaux and I, And three more of the chosen men He had not doom'd to die. The golden hoard that was aboard The captain nobly shared He launched his gig and there he stored As much as king has heired. Now, hark, my men, the captain said, The best of friends must part. We must therefore do the same, I'll be the first to start. But one tale alike we all must tell So get your story perfect, well, And I will now the story frame ; All swear the vessel caught on flame, And when wrapped in fier}^ glow The Lyolynns themselves did stow. And all the wealth that they could show Within a boat and off they went, Upon the watery element, And never more by us were seen. And this will be believed, I ween. And then we five left the burning float. Saved our lives within a boat. None otherwise on earth will know Save us five, Avho in weal or woe, This tale must tell where e'er we go, Just as I've told 3"0u, tell it so. Now Ribero, these two men here 82 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNX. Will go to help me row and steer. You, and that man I leave you there. Haste and get down another boat But ere you leave j'on ghastly float The drifting coffin set on fire So flames may hide her cargo dire. He said, ropes from the hark were veered. Then o'er the flood they swiftly steered, And soon he^'ond our sight appeared, Nor have I seen them since, nor heard Of their fates a single word. Soon we from the hark retired. But by us she was not fired. We left her floating on the seas — To mercy of the waves and breeze. Ten days within a boat we twain, Went drifting o'er the boundless main, Midst calm and shine and hurricane. Burnt with suns, drenched with spray and rain, Then, then the shore of Si:)ain we found. And landed here alive and sound. But all the hoard that we brought here Was spent and wasted ere a year ; To burglary again we turned, Men we slew, houses robb'd and burned. A year ago my friend was caught and tried. Convicted and on the gallows died. I then robb'd a man, cleft his head, And laid his home in embers red. In this last action I was caught. And to this cursed dungeon brought. Then tried was I, and doom'd at last To follow where my comrade past. So let them hang me when they will, THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. g3 I dread not all its pain and ill ; And happy as you find me here, You'll find me on the gallows there. I've hated man and hate him still, But of murder I have had my fill. XXVIII. 'T was by this fierce fiend in human mold The tidings of that bark were told. The fates, save for this fiend alone— Of Lyolynns had ne'er been known : For De Vaux and the other two, Ne'er more the sight of land did view, They roam'd the seas a month and more, Then were found by the Labrador. In horrid plight as e'er before Men were found 'midst the billows' roar; The boat no sign of victuals bore, They'd eaten all their scanty store : And horrid hues their faces wore. Prom hunger keen and scurvy sore. And scarcely ere a week went round Died the two that with De Yaux were found ; And ere another week had pass'd, The Labrador in flames was cast, That reached from deck to topmost mast. Strewn in ashes o'er the waters vast. By boats and raft the crew were saved, From flames that o'er her rushed and raved, But all who there the perils braved. Were lifeless midst the waters laved, Save Hunyadi, and only he, And 'twas him who told this all to me. XXIX. While Harold told this sickening tale, From white to red, froni red to pale — 8# THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. Now white as foam, now red as gore, Alternate changed the face of Ellenore. One moment a lively hue it bore, The next a death-like pallor wore. And while he told his story grim, Not once she moved her eyes from him. Alas, she thought where e'er I range, Along this Avorld of ceaseless change. Whether midst perils I've been thrown, Or pleasures been around me strown, Since first Omar De Vaux I've known Or since he claim'd me as his own. Of some grim deed like this I've heard, In which him or his kin have stirr'd. It seems I ne'er shall hear the last Of horrors terrible and ghast, And murders horrible and vast. Through which he and his race have pass'd. And ever since his wife I've been. Nought, nought in him I've ever seen, But feelings dark and low and mean. And nought else I'll e'er see, I ween. Alas, alasl how oft for him, Have I been forced to lie and nim, And forced when e'er he's ta'en the whim — To aid him work some action grim. It makes my blood grow cold in every limb. And makes my senses reel and swim, Makes this poor vision dull and dim, As though huge tears did o'er it brim. When e'er amidst the gloomy past Memories their wanderings cast. And spectre-like as from the tomb All the past scenes around me loom ; Alas, alas 1 in grim review, THE HEIE OF LYOLYNN. }^ All, all past deeds rise up anew ! In awful retrospect they roll Through all the senses of my soul ! How oft upon my bended knee, On land as well as flowing sea, At eve and morn I've prayed to God, To turn him from the path he trod. To make religion light his soul, And burst the devil's fierce control — That's ever swayed his heart and mind. And kept him to the base inclined. Oft when he jslanu'd some action dread, My thoughts to God that instant sped, And long in secret I have prayed — My, husband from the deed be swayed. At midnight, while at my side he slept. Oft I have o'er him prayed and wept, Lean'd o'er the still slumbering breast, Of him, who all my love possess'd; Whose very shadow that he threw, I loved with passion wild and true. Beyond all else on earth I knew, Except the form from whence it grew. Him who I ever loved and bless^'d ; Him who had ruin'd all my rest ; Had crushed my brightest hopes to earth, And wrapt my soul in gloom and dearth ; Him who had taught mine eyes to weep Their scalding tears while he could sleep ; While I watched my slumbering lord, Whom I far more than God adored, I've wept and prayed, and prayed and wept Craved that he from every ill be kept, That God would turn his steps aright, And fill his soul with holy light, 86 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. But tears and pra3'ers have all been vain, Although I poured them forth like rain, It's seem'd that God in mute disdain Has ever hurl'd them back again, As doth the rock the raging main Whose waters there no hold retain. XXX. Because this seaman sang last night, (As any other mortal might) A legend of the days of j^ore, That's known on every sea and shore, "Cause the name of Lyolynn was there, His souls been fiU'd with hate and fear For this poor sun-brown 'd seaman here, Who little dreams to me 'tis clear. He aught of hate or anguish stirr'd In those who there the legend heard. And Omar sends me here to see His grounds of fear well founded be. Whether this seaman knows at all On what he plans his rise or fall. But I can judge, and judge aright. This manJias not the least insight — To any thing that he has plann'd. Of cheating heirs of wealth and land, Nor does he dream at his right hand — The heir of Lyolynn doth stand. Nor does he dream to me 'tis clear — That Hugh De Taux's brother 's here. Nor doth he dream that Roger Lea, Doth dead Bibero's father be. And though he did as clear as day, I, I would not the news convey To Omar, nor to Boger Lea, THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 8t For all the wealth in j^onder sea. Omar must cease his deeds of crime, Or lose me through all coming time. I'll not aid him now, nor ever more — To rob, nor shed one drop of gore ; For if he follows on his path He'll be o'er taken with God's wrath ; This seaman's murder he has j^lann'd. And deems I'll aid him heart and hand, But from crime he must wrench his heart. Or he and I for ever part. He'll find that those who love him true, Can learn to loathe and hate him too, Though they should ever mourn and rue The time they from his friendship drew. One word from me but noised abroad Would give him to the hangman's cord. But this shall never be, though fate Should turn ni}- love to deadl}' hate. No, no in me he'll ever find A heart to all his failing kind, And were they thousand fold more vast, I would adore him to the last ; And let him lead me all astray Though grimmest hell were on the way. XXXI. Oh! oh, that in some humble glen, Far from abodes of sinful men, A shepherd he'd been born and rear'd, And I his humble lot had shared. His cot however small, I ween To me a paradice had been : Content with him however poor, I would have toil'd o'er dale and moor, 88 THE IIEIH OF LYOLYNN. And craved no greater bliss on earth, Than to have shared his woes and mirth, Yes, through all his peril, woe or pain, Though poured in never ending train, I had aye his corafeter remaind. And king he, o'er ni}^ heart had reign'd. Nor ought in^^ growing love restraind. Nor for me his love had ever waned. Yea, howe'er poor his lot in life — I had contented been his wife. Oh, God, look kindly from above 1 I love, and who is he I love ? A murderer, a thief, a man, As fell as e'er since earth began — Has ever from the gallows swung. Or ever fiU'd the grave unhung 1 And yet I love him, yes, I do. With love as warm and pure and true As ever glow'd in human breast. And fill'd it with a grand unrest. XXXII. Thank God ere on yon ship we came lie to John Snowden changed his name. And here upon these headlands lone, lie by no other name is known, Save to Bayard, me and Roger Lea, Who his proved friends and partners be, And Avho be ever at his beck. To rush to fortune or to wreck , And should e'er Lea, De Vaux undo, 'Twould send him to the gallows too. In murder, burglary and crime. The twain have ever spent their time. Thus their whole lives have been employed THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 89 But it was Lea who first decoyed My Omar on the road to crime, Ere he had grown to boyhood's prime. Yes, Lea all crimes to him had taught Ere Omar was to boyhood brouglit : Together crime on crime tliey wrought, For only after these they sought. Now one by other must be buoj'Vl, Or both are ruin'd and destro3-Vl. If e'er the laws should one undo, Shortly the other'll follow too. E'en this poor girl now standing there, Whom Lea says is of broad land the heir. Should hear but once De Vaux's name — Would blanch in horror at the same. Little she dreams her death is plann'd — Already parcelled is her land — To Omar and to Roger Lea, And the Mosmans, but who these be — What their race, title or degree, They keep a mystery to me. And this secrecy, I like it not, I used to be in every plot. In every scheme that e'er was plann'd, I always had an equal hand. But now to mj^ chagrin, surprise The^' keep a something in cliguise, And I cannot in the least devise. Why aught is hidden from mine eyes. But let them scheme and plot and plan, And secret keep it if they can, I'll only closer watch each man, And keener all their deeds will scan. Though their wild schemes in bulk should stand — 00 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. Huge as the mountains of the land, I, yet as through the clearest glass, And free as winds that stir the grass, Penetrate and see through all the mass, Though cased all o'er with folds of brass. And never shall it come to pass — That this poor child now standing here, Shall fall in any ti-ap nor snare — That either of those fiends jarepare, I'll make this orphan my sole care. And if 'tis true to wealth she's heir, As I have heard old Lea declare. If I chance now to he her friend. If e'er 'neath want and woe I bend. She to me helping hand will lend, To all my sorrows, needs, attend. This rosy maiden I shall woo. And I'll teach her to love me too. For as adown this world we range — Men grow fickle, false, often change, And Omar has of late been strange. He wriggled like a dog with mange — When Koger spoke of Mosman's grange ! A week ago just j^esternight, I saw his cheeks turn'd deathly white And tremor pass through all his frame, When Roger named some maiden's name. Who did within that grange reside Who was shortly to become a bride. Some lovely maiden rich and young; But, said old Roger in a tongue, They thought I did not understand, She is yours my boy both heart and hand. She told me but a month ago She'd love you through all weal and woe. THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 91 And though forced against her mind By parents selfish, harsh, unkind, To wed with one she could not love Omar should be prized him far above. At this he grasped old Roger's hand, And whispered words in accent bland, But his speech I did not understand, 'Twas in the tongue of some strange land. But still to him my loves remain Bound with an adamantine chain, If Omar dare to break its link, I care not if we swim or sink. If Omar's love doth stronger be For some other one than for me, The fearful truth I fain would know, Although I died, beneath the blow. xxxm. Through Ellenore these feelings ran, Whilest listening to that brawny man, And when the cloak he round her threw, Unto lanthe close she drew — And also wrapped the child-like form — With hers within the garment warm : For chilly was the morning air. That lay around those headlands there. The child's face she kiss'd again, again, When theseaman ceased his mournfulstrain. Awhile they stood without a word. Not e'en a whisper 'mongst them stirr'd, For on the sea all eyes were cast. To watch amidst its waters vast — That sail which they had seen before, Still drawing closer to the shore. It chanced the silence soon was broke, 92 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. And it was Ellenore who spoke, Her voice was soft and sweet and clear, As though 'twas angel speaking there. From theme to theme she lightly pass'd, While in his speech the seaman cast, And oft the heir of Lyolynn Would now and then a word put in. They talked as though they three had been Old tried friends for many a 3^ear, Who had not for months each other seen — Which made their meeting doubly dear. THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 93 PART III. By this the sun had moiinted high, And clothed with light the sea and sky ; The red glow the horizon bore — Had gone like things that are no more, A sober light all nature wore, The sea, the sky and barren shore. And the chill morning's rising breeze Rippled afar the boundless seas. Marked o'er with streaks of snowy foam, Stretched the dread leviathan's home, Whose solemn never ending voice, Seem'd with its monsters to rejoice. For, far and wide all o'er its face. Grim might}^ monsters they could trace. That in air at times their forms disclose. Then swiftly plunge to whence they rose. Those seas whose never ending face, Seem'd the whole heavens to embrace, And laugh as there it view'd its race — Upon the emptiness of space. Those seas across whose boundless clime Thei'e rests no wear of fleeting time. Nor marks of age, nor grim decay. As in all else 'neath natui-e's sway ; Those seas which aye in calm or storm How e'er they stretch their awful form, '94 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. Fill the beholder's soul with awe. If it is ruled by nature' s law, And he believes there is a God, Omnipotent, beneath whose nod — Or in whose all conceiving mind, The universe was all designed Or working of whose plastic hand — This world wasfashion'd made and plann'd, And all those starry worlds around — That through all endless space abound, Who made yon sun and its bright beam That makes this world with vintage teem- Gave to it the solvent power To raise mists and bring the shower, Scatter life to grass and flower. Which trees with seeming joy devour. I sa3^, to one of human race, In whose soul such belief has place, Who as he looks o'er nature's face, Can everywhere its maker trace. Not think as he views the vast expanse, That every thing has sprung from chance. Let him go gaze on ocean's breast, In its bright calm or wild unrest, He'll trace upon its awful brow The workings of a God, I trow. See everywhere his eye shall rest, The majesty of God express 'd. See it written there in letters grand That God it foshioned, made and plann'd. And he who can the scene behold. Think from the hands of chance it roll'd, What form'd him ere it reached its mold, Must have become diseased and cold. If such a one there really be, THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. Oo 111 hviman guise on land or sea, Or 'ueatli yon bright o'er arching sky — Amongst us mortals born to die. I would that such a one were here, And I his gloomy soul could cheer, Dispell the clouds that wrap his mind, And keep him to his Maker blind ; Pour in a ray of glowing light, Where all was idiotic night : The work of God I'd make him trace O'er all 3^on ocean's boundless face; II. Thus to himself Hunyadi thought, As his vision the glories caught, That morn to sk}^ and ocean brought, And all the world with splendor fraught ; Scenes that were there before him wrought, Show'd him plainer God than language taught. He watched 'till he saw the splendors fade, One by one in paler light arrayed, For sublimer scene he ne'er surveyed Than what that glowing morning made. Nor from his reverie he woke — 'Till Omar close beside him spoke ; 'Twas to Roger Lea, Omar spake. Of him no heed they seem'd to take, In fact a rock rose up between, Perhaps by them he was not seen. And even if they had him spied. Or he been standing at her side, I doubt if they had stayed their speech. For that bard was deem'd by all and each Who in that fated vessel sail'd. 90 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. To be a man vrhose senses fail'cl — To beecl what ever round him pass'd, Who ever in a dream seem'd cast. Who to all things on earth was lost, Save dreams in which he a^-e was toss'd. But Omar deem'd the bard as one — Whose wit and senses all were gone ; Considered him a worthless oaf, Who knew nought but to drink and loaf, With brain as dull and little good As yet in human skull e'er stood. As void of wit as block of wood, Or any Avoman's greasy hood, A fool all void of common sense, In whom there was not the least pretense To aught of politeness nor offense ; In whom he could no wish divine, But to be ever drunk with wine. Little he dream'd that sleepy bard. Was ever on his watch and guard, To catch each syllable that fell From his own lips and Lea's as well ; Knew of their past deeds foul as hell. And all about their lives could tell ; Had watched their every sign and beck. Long ere yon vessel went to wreck. And only waited for the time, To crush them with their acts of crime. See them to utter ruin hurl'd, Their beings rooted from the world. Yes, he whose keen poetic eye — And feeling pure, sublime and high, That soar'd far such mankind above, Their trails of musing, hate and love. Who could for hours sit and gaze, THH HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 97 Upon the inorning''s faintest rays ; The brightest or the palest tints, Aurora o'er the heavens prints. Or view the smallest thing that breathed, That ever j^et with life was wreathed, Or 3'et the mind of God conceived, And that God made it so believed : And as its structure he explored, Yea, every atom in it stored. Saw there the work of that high lord — Whom his soul worshiped and adored. Yes, he who could the seas explore. Midst brightest calm or wildest roar. And see where e'er his eye could rest The majest}^ of God confest ; Yea, view all nature's meanest, best, With adoration in his breast. Who could the tide of song send forth. Strong as the tempest of the north, Freight it with love and passions warm. Keen as the lightning of the storm, With sublime figures make it swarm, All perfect limned from nature's form : Could also listen to the speech. When e'er it came within his reach Of men like these, and unto each A lasting, awful lesson teach, When came his chances to impeach. And all their schemes to atoms dash, Make quail like hounds beneath the lash, Or like writhing adders when thej- feel The stalwart plowman's crushing heel. But all immindful lest he hear. Soon fell their words upon his ear. Among the sti'copses round them strown, 98 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. That Traves upon the rocks had thrown, Seeking- for those that they 'had known, To the bard's eye the twain were shown. For when the tide was very low, As such the morning chanced to show. And ocean lay as still as death, Not ruffled by the tempest's breath, Along that headland's rocky base, With boulders scattered o'er its face Was seen a broad and level space, Where corpse could find a resting place, O'er whose surface, when the tides are high, Near fathom deep of waters lie. Here with a boulder just between, Which form'd so dense and high a screen, He could not by those twain be seen, Still as if he a corpse had been. Or as if he sound sleeping were, Amongst those bloated corpses there, With ear intent and eye awake. He caught these words as Omar spake. He just an old man's corpse had found, For which they had searched those rocks around, It was the lord of L3'olynn, The last of all his race and kin, And whose death straiglit John Lockhart reared. Sole heir to land that he had heired. But who too, now was also cast. Amongst those corpses grim and ghast. Which left lanthe, his sole child Heir to those broad lands with castles piled. When Omar the dead body found, Its face was resting on the ground. THE HEIR OP LYOLYNN. 99 Swilt with his foot the corpse he spurned, And on its back the body turned. With foot still on old Lyolj^nn, Thus spake he with a savage grin. III. By heavens, Roger I have cast Mine eyes upon the goal at last, Sure enough I've found him now, Come, look upon his lifeless brow, He'll no more search for us, I vow. Nor offer huge rewards, I trow — For the arrest of you and I, Because we lit the midnight sky With his old castle by the shore And robb'd it of its golden store. In faith he was a surly boor, As ever moved on dale and moor. With scarce the wit if he'd been poor, To find the way to alms-house door. I'll give him now a kick or two, For what he's done to me and you ; I wish in life we had been thrown Together in some valley lone, I would have mashed him every bone. And left him lifeless as a stone. Damn him, I loathed him while he lived And would his shredded form have sieved Through meshes fine enough for flour, If we had been alone an hour : And I hate him now he's dead, And ever from my pathway sped ; I gladly on his carcass tread, And kick him on the face and head 'Tis a good thing for me and you, L.ofC. 100 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. That neither one of iis he knew, Except by name and noted fame, Or else when on yon ship we came — He might have had us fix'd amain With ball and lock and clanking chain, A.nd put us to no little pain — To have freed ourselves again. Death is a noble thing indeed, When by him we see we are freed Of those who did not love us well, And would have sent us to a cell, Or made us risk both life and limb — Upon the gallows tall and grim. Oh, I ne'er thought that I should live — To deal such kicks as now I give 1 To kick him, I cannot refrain, I feel life kicking out his brain. Like kicking him again, again. And only wish I gave him pain. As Omar speaks, he kicks the head — And all the body of the dead. Drives on the pale still brow his heel, That brow that stirs not, cannot feel. Treads on the lifeless form and limb, Ot one who never injured him. One whose castle he had robb'd and burn'd, Yea, to a pile of ashes turn'd, But who had forgiven long ago — This action of his unknown foe. For never words had passed between Lyolynn and this brute obscene. Who such fell hate to him had shown, To Lyolynn 'twas never known ; And though the law had sought him long Whose hand had done the grievious wrong, THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 101 The felou it had captured not, And Lyolynn the wrong forgot. But still with heart as hard as steel, Upon the brow that cannot feel, Fell Omar drove his iron heel, While thus he did his thought reveal. IV. Roger, now that this man is dead, And Lockhart his existence shed, The next chief heir that now remains, To what to Lyolynn pertains, — Is lanthe Lockhart, the child We have here with us on the wild. Imagine, what an easy thing 'twould be To hurl her lifeless in this sea. In fact three or four times of late"^ I've felt like making her that fate. For if she were dead, you must know No others in the world could show The faintest shadow of a claim Like could my kin George Mosman frame, Yes, yes, if she were dead, I ween. There would not be an heir between And George could straight his right make plain — To all the Lyolynn domain. Here on his speech old Lea broke in, Omar, although you be his kin, As true as fish e'er had a fin, Or Saturn urges man to sin, It would to you not profit win, If George should heir all Lyolynn. No not a dime to you he'd give, So better lei j^on infant live. 103 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. I know too well yonr kinsman George, He can lie, sneak, cheat, steal and forge, Better, I ween, than you or I, "Who're in that business schooled so high I I'd sooner trust an open sieve, To hold drink on which I had to live, Yea, more reliance to it give — Thau think he a single dime would share With you, though it was proven clear He did through you those castles heir : And he knew it 'twas by your hand — He heir became unto the land. Yes, and if his power and might Was carried to so grand a height, I tell you true as white is white — He'd not have you in his sight. And if you much about him clung — He'd have j^ou either jailed or hung. A harder heart and harsher soul No human form did e'er control, If you on gallows found your goal, You need not e'er your heart cajole, He'd in the least with 3'ou condole. To save 3'ou, not a straw he'd roll. Nor dime to your relief he'd troll, No man living from pole to pole — That ever ate, or quaff'd from bowl Would hang you with a look more droll. Far better make that child a friend, And teach her how to give and lend ; Tree will grow as the twig we bend. And only will tlie arrow wend — Upon the course the bow doth send. If we to her little wants attend — And ever treat her mild and kind, THE HKIR OF LYOLYNN. 103 We shall win her heart, soul and mind. In her, I promise, we shall find — One to our wishes aye inclined — Let our actions he unto the child Ever the mildest of the mild. Sweets have hundred fold the power Flies to catch, than what is sour. Let us to her through ease or toil, Be sweet as hone}', soft as oil, And never e'er her anger roil, But win her love and win her spoil. Yea, let's make the child our friend, And teach her how to give and lend, Now Omar to my words attend, They'll be the wisest in the end. You told me, Omar quick replied. When last you did with George abide, He ever spoke right kind of me. And would all glad his kinsman see. And that my Alice swore to j'ou — Her love for me should a^-e be true. And though b}' parents' harsh decree — She was aye severed wide from me, And though she should another wed, Her first, last love she ne'er would shed. And bitterly to 3'ou complain 'd — How her stern parent me disdain'd. Though to another she be bound With links as strong as e'er were found In any anchor's clanking chain, Her heart will still with me remain. That she would sooner be my bride Than own the whole creation wide ? 104 THE HKIR OF LYOLYNN, Now Lea, no matter what betide, The facts you must not from me hide, Give me the truth, I will not chide, Spake you the truth, or have 3-ou lied ? The while he spake his eagle e^'e Did full upon old Roger lie : But in the man's clean shaven face, Not least emotion could he trace ; His chin pale lips were tightly closed — Calm o'er his toothless mouth reposed. The same pale hue his visage wore — That through all weal or woe it bore. And in his eye that Omar's met, Full there its gaze unceasing set, There lurked no sign of hate nor love. Like his huge hoary brows above Whose growth his forehead all absoi-bs. Whose shagging folds half hid his orbs. His eyes were just as void of fire. Of fear or hope or 3'et of ire. O'er Omar's face the bushy hair — So luxuriant flourished there, So thick it lay o'er cheeks and lips And did all trace of mouth eclipse. It all obscured from Roger's stare A visage rigid with despair. But on the tip of his huge nose Where aye a florid color rose A death-like pallor there disclosed As though 'twas snow-ball there reposed. His sable beard that round it grew Gave it perhaps this milk-white hue. But in his eyes that flashed and glowed. And black as brows that o'er them flowed, And swelling of his bosom bare, THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 105 It only wore a growth of hair, Old Roger's sluggish eyes could scan — The secret feelings of the man. And putting on a smile most grim, He quickly thus replied to him. VI. A war-horse must not chafe nor fret, Nor in the least excitement get — % If he would bear his rider through And let him win the glory due ; He must not prance at sound of fife That only tells of coming strife, But all unheeding let it bray. And save his vigor for the fraj^ : "When meet the host in grim array And round him flies the blood}' spray, "When swords and bullets round him play, And dust to midnight turns the day, And wild and horrid grows his way, "When all around is wild dismay, Then let him forth his vigor lay, No need to hold it then at hay. Then is the proper place and time To show his powers all sublime. And Omar, I'm the battle-steed That bears 3'ou to each gallant deed. And never will I chafe and fret — 'Till hosts have in the battle met. And when the proper time comes round Youll find my mind and muscle sound, You'll see, I always have the vim, To carry out what e'er I whim ; Nor am I driven from my stance No matter how the foes advance. lOG THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. You'll see, that I can ply my glave, As well as any mortal knave, Or 3'et, the bravest of the brave. What I told you, yea, every word, Is what I saw, and what I heard. But leave your business all to me, And I will make the Mosmans see, _ You're the fittest man that tliey can find In wedlock with that maid to bind. I told them so when 1 was there. And of this fact they're all aware. But for a while your feelings tame, And wait 'till you shall see your flame. Enough of this my boy 'till then : In the meanwhile let's act like men : Just always do as I propose, With us it has gone well 'till now. And so you'll find at the close — By all the deathless saints, I vow. But we came here to see if there Where any papers to be found, And not to talk of maidens fair. Like youths whose minds are hardly sound. Instead of kicking this old lout, Waste no more time but search his clothes. Tutu all his pockets inside out. In them some prizes may repose. An easy task to do it now. He'd scarcely let us if alive, For when he got mix'd in a row, He could like the very devil strive. 'Twas once upon a time, and I Remember very well the day, I saw nine of my comrades fly All knocked and bruised by him in fray THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 107 'Twas thus it happened ; in those days I used to preach the gospel truths, In market-houses and high-ways, — To women and to idle youths. In fact to all both great and small I forth my views of gospel flung ; I had a fluent flow of tongue. And often round vast crowds were found, Of rich and poor both old and young, I had a dozen men and more. Who could pick pockets o'er and o'er, And never let their victim feel — The hand that did their wallets steal. Men very skillful in this way, They always robb'd while I did pray. And always when I'd sung three psalms I'd beg the crowd around for alms, Then swift their purses forth they drew, And unto me some trifle threw : E'en little boj'S to me would foin. Their precious mites of shining coin. Then watched my men with eyes intent — • In which pockets back the j^urses went, They alwa3S took a keen survey', And knew just where the purses lay. After this was done, I'd shout and sing, And forth my gospel theories fling. Unto my lips the foam I'd bring. And up and down I'd fall and spring, And while these crowds around me stood — • To hear my theories sound and good — • Gaping at me with looks aghast. My men their clothes were searching fast, If they had aught away it pass'd, And soon amidst m}^ hoard was cast. 108 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. Well this old gentleman one da}', Stood listening to me preach and pray, And I think, Moses was my text, How he got with the people vext, And dashed his rod against a roclv. And straight for all his tliirsty floclc The waters gushed beneath the shock, Yea, did their hidden i^prings unlock. It happened this old mortal then, Began with me to shout, amen. And scarcely had it cleared his throat. Ere from the pocket of his coat His wallet had been plucked away, It chanced he did the act survey. And felt the hand about him stray. And straight his mighty anger rose. And he began to deal his blows ; Swift off he threw his coat and hat, And knocked nine of my colleagues flat. Down from my pulpit swift I ran, And beggVl his mercy for each man. I being man of gospel truths. For me he spared the erring youths. He made me go with him that day — A game or two at quoits to plaj' ; But he could hurl the largest coit — Further than I could cast a doit. And each throw ring the hub adroit. But ere had past that merry day, I drank him drunk, stole his purse away. I fled his neighbourhood that night, A decade of 3'ears had ta'en their flight Erp I again came in his sight, But me he had forgotten quite. THE HEIR OF LYOLTNN. 109 vir. While thus they spoke, the}' searched the dead, Turn'd all his clothes from heel to head, On the gray corpse they found some coin, Which they did with a laugh purloin, As Omar 'gan the spoil disjoin Lea thus commenced to frown and groin. If thus grudgingly m^' share you dole, You had better take and keep the whole. Two thirds at least should be m}' share, Give me this, then will we be square, For if you remember aright, I did not get a single mite — Out of the i^ile that Bayard stole From our captain on the night. Before 3'on vessel found its goal. Poor devil he seem'd to take it hard, Grieved o'er the loss both day and night. His eyes grew red as any sard When held between you and the light. He brought me into his saloon, Dealt me some purest juice of grape, We drank, he fell to weeping soon. Like some young widow wrapt in crape Who just had lost her darling mate, Left in the world without a dime ; I watched him weep and heard his prate. But felt like laughing all the time. Nigh every one that was on board Except 3'our august self and me, He thought had robb'd him of his hoard ; But said he, I do swear friend Lea, Long ere we quit the open sea, There must a thorough searching be ; 110 THE HEIR or LYOLYNN. I swear I will not lose it so — Though I make all aboard my foe. Captain, I said with ready wit, I know just where the nail to hit, Captain if I aright divine, The scamp that caused this loss of thine To find will not be very hard. For I believe it is the bard. Just at these words he grasped my wrist, And on the table thumped his fist. You're right my friend, I'll have him searched, If it be i^roven on the bard. Three whole long days shall he be pearched For mark of scorn on topmost yard, But much more prate of this same kind Between me and the captain pass'd, When I left his saloon, his mind Far less with grief was over cast. One bent had all my talk with him. That was, to keep him in the dark ; Though you never, you rascal trim. Did of the deed to me remark, I knew full well soon as I heard — • The captain had been largely robb'd, 'Twas you or Bayard it had stirr'd, And for you both my bosom throbb'd. You need not blush, come tell me now, No use the truth from me to hide, His wallet was well fill'd, I trow. Or else to me has Bayard lied. viir, 'Twas pretty good, Omar replied, But nothing extra after all, THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 11 ; The night that old Peddler died, Bid greater sjDoil to us befall. Him we killed 'gainst the tower's quoin , A year ago last Christmas eve, Yes, he had far more notes and coin, You need not laugh, I don't deceive; And that from you I would purloin, You need not now, nor e'er believe. I meant that spoil with ^'ou to share, But have not had a chance as yet, I would with you divide it here, For you square half of it shall get. But I left it r.U with Ellenore, 'Tis safely mongst her garments sewn, — Soon as we leave this barren shore, Then 3'ou one half of it shall own. But what we on this corpse have found, You shall be welcome to it all, For if we search these bodies round Far greater spoil to us will fall. IX. He said and into Roger's hold Were poured the coins of shining gold ; The old man's wrinkled face the while Show'd neither trace of frown nor smile. But, all so tightly did he grasp, The coin within his bony clasp, So long he held it, and so fast His fingei's round the spoil were cast, The old man's griping, bony clasp Grew rigid as an iron hasp ; When to his pocket he conveyed The hand in which the specie laid, He could not then unclasp his hold. 112 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. His hand seem'd palsied, dead and cold, Nor till Omar long had chafed the hand, Would it ope nor shut to Lea's command. Who's this old man that here we find ? This abject wretch of human kind? So mean of soul, so base in mind. To every virtue lost and blind? And though full four score years and ten, Is more active than far younger men ? Full five and fifty j^ears ago, A certain city then could show, A 3"outhful lawyer of renown, Nor lawyer ever won a crown Of higher nor of grander fame, The rich, the poor, the halt, the lame, The ruffians with the burly frame. Whom no stern laws could quell nor tame Nor for their grim marauding shame All, all his clients straight became. And never for their weal and good, A wiser on the forum stood : No matter how forlorn their cause. He always cleared them of the laws. By trickery, magical, sublime, And wit that was his at all time, No matter what his client's crime — He made them innocent a^^pear, And of the law he brought them clear. Though they had robb'd, or blood had spilt He always proved them void of guilt. All witnesses against his side, He so strange with cross-questions plied, So their memories racked and tried. THE HEIR OP LYOLYNN. 1 1 !} And scattered so their senses wide, And what they said so oft denied, Both judge and jury thought they lied. All languages that e'er were known He spake as fluent as his own. And readily could plead the case Of any creed or hue or race. In civil suits well as those of crime, He was successful at all time. If maiden thought herself agrieved. And by some fickle youth deceived, Though him she only once had seen, And scarcely word had passed between, To William Stewart straight she came, For Lea had there assumed that name, And her case by him was ably wrought. And suit for breach of promise brought. And ere the case to trial went To marry was the youth content. Or else he won her ample hoard. Did well her slighted love reward, Made him who proffered love disdain'd, Pay well for pangs her heart sustained. And if some sly old tricky crone. Who vainly on some wealthy drone. Had her bewithing glances thrown. Whose hoards she sought to make her own; To William Stewart she applied. And soon her case by him was tried. He won her wealth what e'er befell. And though defendants pleaded well. XI. Around his office on the wall, Were seen where e'er the eye may fall 114 THE HEIR OF LYOLTNN. Maxims like ttiese firm posted there, Written in letters bold and clear. Remember, truth is a gem of light, That gives the weakest power and might, So stick to it both da}^ and night ; Don't covet other's wealth nor fame ; Respect the old and halt and lame ; Be aye content with what 3'ou own ; Ne'er 'gainst another cast a stone , Live so that through all coming time Your name shall be exempt from crime. And be to every race and clime — A light on virtue's cliffs sublime : And men your character will take As an example for glory's sake. Sjjeaking harsh words I deem a crime, They are like hail in summer time. That crushing fall on plant and flower. Making wounds no shine nor shower — Can ever wholly heal again, So ever from harsh words refrain. Kind words will quell the fiercest wrath, And lead the lost to virtue's path. One di'op of oil in anger's hour Is worth whole hogsheads of what's sour. Lawyers should be like knights of old. Champions courteous, brave and bold, And ready aye themselves should hold — To shield the weak, the halt and old. Be ready aye in armor drest Day and night to place their spears in rest, And do their noblest and their best — For those who wrongl}' are oppress 'd. Yirtue's the only road to God, So let no other path be trod ; THE HEIR OP LYOLYNN. 115 Deal ever so with foe and friend, That both shall love you in the end ; Do to mankind where e'er thou be, As thou wouldst have them do to thee : Keep thy soul pure, thy conscience clear, So if men could it see and hear, They nothing there could hear nor scan That thou wouldst blush 'twas known to man. Pity the needy and the poor, N'or turn them hungry' from your door. In secret be 3'our God adored. Nor wear your phylacteries too broad ; Ne'er seek a strife by day or night, But when in bravely show thy might ; Nor ever dream of fear nor flight, Press on and nobly win the fight. Clear conscience makes us strong of limb; Fear and love God — and only Him. XII. These I've cull'd at random from his wall, 'Twould take a huge book to hold them all. It seem'd he all his maxims kept, Ne'er from their sphere of meaning stept. For all who ever dealt with him — Declared he was a christian trim. Ne'er was he known to do a wrong To any of the human thi'ong, Nor keep what to client did belong. In church he ever took his place — Devotion limned upon his face, Their preacher who was old and stout, And suffered very much with gout ; "When he could not from bed get out, 116- THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. Stewart would straight the pulpit tread — And preach salvation in his stead, And those who heard him preach declared, His sermons better far appeared — And to sublimer doctrines reached — Than those their good old pastor preached ; His sentences far higher pitched. Together better grooved and niched. A pure, deep pathos in his voice. That made the listener's soul rejoice. That made all his words sublimel}^ roll Deep through the chambers of the soul. XIII, In that city ten years he dwelt, And every one who with him had dealt For him a lasting friendship felt ; The confidence of all he won. Both father, mother, daughter, son. All the wealthy and the poor. Gladly hail him at their door. Bade him with a fervent zest — Enter there a welcome guest. XIV. Posts of honor, wealth and power, Fast his friends on him did shower,, Vast wealth was poured to him amain, It flowed in never ending train, Thousands on him their moneys press'd, For him to barter and invest. Just as his judgment deem'd it best. And there they left their moneys rest. Then vast estates he bought and sold. Made new the deeds of castles old ; Lauds he bought cheap and mortgaged high; THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 117 Was ever on the sell and buy, With all who would thus their fortune try. A hundred miles or more away From his adopted city lay — A mighty tract of reedy bog Which most all time was wrapt in fog. Though high the winds and bright the day, The mists would some where o'er it lay. This he bought, had it all surveyed, But knowledge of the price he paid Never to any one was told, Save to him and those who had sold — The real figures in the dark were kept And never from their hiding leapt. But shortl}' it was noised around,, The bog did rich with ores abound Xot often in the county found, And Stewart had his fortune crown'd — Amass'd it unto millions grand By buying up that boggy land. But the vast treasures of that ground, Have never to this day been found. And nought there will be found, I ween. Save reeds, and waters stagnant, green. Soon on this mighty tract of fen — Yast mortgages did Stewart pen, And these his friends by thousands boughtj All wildly for his bonds they sought, For all firm faith in him had cast, And it stood unshaken to the last. To all his many dupes he told. These mortgages he simply sold, To place capital in his hold, And might to him the means afford, Of working out the mighty hoard, 118 THE HEIS, OF LTOLYNN. That he had chanced to find was stored — All throughout those march-lands broad Soon far and wide his bonds he sold And to him piles of treasure roll'd XV. About this time a cot he bought, That was all neat and humbly wrought, That was with vine and ivy crown'd ; It stood a mile from city's bound. Nigh it was no other building seen For least five hundred j^ards, I ween. To this the loved of mortals moved, For solitude his mind improved. Though mau}^ widows 3'oung and gay, And fair as man did e'er survey. And maidens charming, neat and sweet. As ever eye of youth did greet. All gladly would have gone with him, If so his mind had ta'en the whim, Yet to his cot alone he went And all alone his nights he spent, Nor servant, dog, nor cat nor cook Did he within his cottage brook. Though day time with his brother men. He ceaseless worked with tongue and pen. And what they could not understand, He'd gladly teach them heart and hand. But night was his to learn or sleep. And all must then their distance keep. XVI It chanced one dark and stormy night, (With sleet and snow the ground was white) His cottage all was wrapt in flame, THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 119 And gloom}' ruin soon became, Though fire-engines worked amain, And men did pump and tug and strain, The flames did round that cottage coil And through and through it hiss and broil Though it had all been soaked in oil. When morning dawn'd that building's frame, Beneath the grim destroying flame Had all a ghastly wreck become Of cinders and of ashy scum. In the cellar upon the ground. Amongst the embers scattered round. Together in a little mound — Charr'd fragments of a corpse were found. This was the awful tragic end Of their loved counselor and friend, Whom they were wont to give and lend, And have unto their hoards attend. Yes, it was him they all agreed. And hearts did ache and throb and bleed, Then women screeched and virgins screed, And donn'd for him the mourning weed. His statues in the church were placed. His name memorial windows graced. And monuments all wrought with art, Recall 'd him to the mind and heart. He was remember well and long, And loved with feelings deep and strong, Became the theme of poet's song, For none believed a single wrong To any one of human kind Was ever harbored in his mind. All mourn'd the grim untimely end — Of him their counsellor and friend. 120 THE HEIR PF LYOLYNN. XVII. But he was a cosmopolite, Had roam'd the workl both day and night. Place him where ever breeze roam, That spot was a familiar home. Let him go forth the world to stray, Without a guide both night and day, No fear that he will lose his way, Where waters flow or breezes play. All lands and seas, the world's broad chart. Was limn'd upon his mind and heart. And friends had he as warm as those, (Who wailed him there with ceaseless woes) Amongst the family of men — Who dwelt within a distant glen. And those had brought the corpse to him, That was found 'midst the ruins grim. They'd brought it in a cask of oil, From a far distant, foreign soil, Where he had all the wealth conveyed, That he had in that city made. 'Twas them who had the body charr'd. So its lineaments had marr'd. It so with fire singed and scarr'd. It could not by mankind be told. It it be corpse of young or old. Nor yet of woman nor of man. Though it with microscope they scan : The}^ it had in his cellar laid, Then ashes of his cottage made. And while to flames his cot was yieldingfree, He was far away upon the sea. Hasting to glens whence issued he. Where he was known as Roger Lea, THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 121 Back to scenes where in other days In market-houses and high-wa^'s — He had poured forth his gospel truths, To men and women, maids and )'ouths. And those firm friends that there he made, Who 'mongst his congregations strayed, And gently tlirough the gapers pockets felt, While he in gospel theories dealt. These were his fi'iends that turn'd his cot — To cinders and grim ashy spot. But the foremost of all that crew, The boldest and the fiercest too, Was Apgar De Vaux, a robber grim. Who little recked for life or limb. Fierce was his heart and strong his hand, Proved the first thief of every land. 'Twas him the corpse to Roger brought And all the deed of burning wrought. XVIII. When back upon his native sod, Once more the feet of Roger trod, As in his native glen he drew, The first one there that met his view. Was this old man whose body there They just had robb'd with kick and jeer. And though ten years had only past. Since he on Lea had looked his last — He knew not the gay preacher more. Who had robbed him ten jears before. And all so altered Lea had grown. He scarce to any friend was known. Nor long he tarried there, off he flew, But where, was onl}' known to few. On, on he passed from clime to clime. 122 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. Ever at work in deeds of crime, And to what ever land he came, He always had a different name, His breast one sole desire flU'd, One only thought his bosom thrill'd, And that a burning greed for wealth, Which aye he won by fraud and stealth Though he enormous fortunes gain'd, Yet still the greed for ever reign'd. Oft in Spain he was known to roam, And long time made that land his home. One only child he ever claimed, And this Ribero Lea he named, One child for him to love or scorn. And this was out of wedlock born. By him the child was daily taught, 'Till he with every vice was fraught. And these are the out-lines of that man, That here with Omar now we scan. XIX. On, on from corpse to corpse they moved. And soon tbe wealth of each they proved And ever into Roger's hold — Went all the largest coins of gold. They searched and robb'd 'till they had pass'd — To every corpse around them cast. By Lea one on a rock was seen, Some lumdred 3'ards away, I ween, — And water there did intervene Them and the distant dead between. Omar my trusty friend he cried. As he the lifeless form espied, Omar the tide is coming haste THB ILBIK OF LYOLYNN 123 To yon corpse, there's no time to waste. Not I for all of earth nor hell, Straight from the Jips of Omar fell. Yon water looks too deep and dark, For me in such grim task embark, As now to swim to 3'onder mark, I think just then I saw a shark. No answer deigned old Roger Lea, But knife in hand plunged in the sea. Swift o'er with buoyant form and limb, Did he across the waters swim. It chanced upon the corpse he found A bag with shining specie crown'd. And when back o'er the flood he drew At Omar, 8 feet the bag he threw, And did again his words renew ; There see, what would have been lost — Had I not o'er the waters cross'd. But none of this with you I share This shall be my especial care, I know how to use it, when and whei'e. With envy which he dare not show On the bag Omar's eyes did glow. Silent a while stood either man Gazing on ocean's boundless span, But the leelings that through them ran I do not now propose to scan ; Silent they stood, 'till Lea began. Oh, what a priceless thing is death, When it has still'd your foeman's breath! And you yourself triumphant find, O'er men that were not good nor kind It makes one feel as though he trod. 124 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. The veiy presence of his God, As though he into heaven had pass'd, Had choicest bliss around him cast. I never felt so grand, I trow, Nor yet so happy until now. I feel m^' limbs with vigor strung, Like that I felt when I was young, I only measured five feet five, But never found a man alive — In single fight witli me could strive, The bravest I could from me drive As angler flies roiled hornets-hive. I was swift as Saturn, strong as sin. And never got a passion in, Kept cool as snow, or frozen gin. And in the fray was sure to win. Many a man in strength a king, Whom I could flog and throw and fling, . Has been surprised how blows I'd bring. And how this toad could bound and spring. Preachers tell us there is a Grod, Might as well tell us there was sod, Or earth was form'd of rocks and flood. Or man had in him bones and blood. The man who doubts there is a God, Is sure, an idiotic clod. — Melt all the icebergs of the sea Within an old crone's cup of tea. Hang ocean on a rose-bush to dry, Skim clouds with a spoon from the sky, Lasso secure an avalanche With cobwebs to a withered branch. Spread a sheet o'er volcano's brim, To stop the flow of lava grim, From the rain-bow tear its glowing bars. THE HEIR OF LYOLrNN. 125 Post "for sale", on the moon and stars, Place in a peanut's shell the sun, And in it make all planets run. And contract all unbounded space Down to the smallest flj-'s embrace, But never doubt, what creed, be taught, Though dark with disbelief 'tis fraught, There is an all pervading Lord ; A God of all creation broad. But priests don't rightl}^ understand — This Being all benign and grand. They tell mankind that faith and love Will carry them to joys above, They tell us faith will mountains move, But this I'd like to see them prove. And that pure faith is all we need. To gain us mone}^, drink and feed. Those who for these on faith depend I ween, will have a sorry end. When did faith from well or spring E'er yet a drink to mortal bring? Or yet broil him a steak of beef, And give his hungry mood relief? Can faith to us the force bestow To feel within the furnace's glow, Where white the molten mettles flow, And find a wreath of last year's snow? Or could she carry Roger Lea Unto the bottom of yon sea And let me there explore the main And bring me back alive again ? Why if such things as these could be, Nought but miracles we would see, No, thus Jehovah doth not move, His all omnipotence to prove. 126 THE HEIR OF LYCLYNN. No, the omnipresent God of all Lets no miracles His actions thrall : By miracles no world He form'd, By miracles no atom warm'd. By prodigies no pit He delf, Although a miracle Himself. Preachers should teach from pole to pole — God hates a laz}', sluggish soul. And nought within His works we find — That's wholly unto sloth inclined, Though we the whole creation scan, Except the hog, the snake and man. I've travelled all this world around, And know how vast the fools abound — Who think all they need do night and day Is just to sit with faith and pray, And God will hand them drink and food, And feed each passion's craving mood. And if their throats should burn extreme — • Turn stones to plates of icy cream — . No atoms nature doth disclose Remain one moment in repose. See, I lift water in my hand, And all the while it there doth stand Though it all motionless appear, There's everlasting action there, Its particles eternal move. Nor slothful, atom there must prove. And must each atom of yon sea In perpetual motion be, For if one small particle there Motionless but one second were. Those vast floods would that moment change To something to all nature strange, THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 12T Something ne'er seen in her works sublime, Something unknown to man and time. Even through the crust of ice we see, The particles in motion be. XXI Decay is mother of all things, All, all in nature from her springs, All things how e'er minute or vast Spring from her, to her return at last. She is at once the womb and grave. Of all that God to nature gave. Land, flood, man,tree, the tempest's breath. Are one vast panorama all of death. Through decay all in nature's range. Springs, blooms, and dies and has it change; The flower grows, blooms, fades and dies. And from its ruins others rise. The clouds whose waters foil in rain, The sun will rear to clouds again. The seed we sow within the earth Rots ere it gives another birth. Ha}^ that to charger's maw doth pass — Will flourish, grow again as grass, The steed will die, pass to decay. And upon nature's broad high-way To dust his carcass shall be turn'd. And by the tempests strown and spurn'd, And it that nourishment shall give. On which shall vegetation live. Thus his dust shall all collected be — And form as good a steed as he. These rocks that tower here sublime, Shall waste beneath the hand of time, Be scattered wide by yonder main, 128 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. But into rocks shall rise again. And so with these dead bodies here, Who now begin to foul the air, Yea, stink in corruption rife ; Corruption was their source of life, Existence was their source of death. God gave and took away their breath, Their flesh and bones to dust shall rot, By winds be scattered and forgot. A million years may pass away, And still their dust with breezes play. Or lie in mire, filth and scum, But sure as fate the time will come Each particle that forms them here. Shall in other mankind appear. Yea, in the food on which we live They'll to us life and vigor give- Nature all to corruption gives. And on corruption each thing lives. The fiiirest maid that life-blood warm'd. Was out of foul corruption form'd. The strongest man that ever trod, Sprung from the grasses of the sod, The grass that waved in verdure green, Sprung, grew from rottenness obscene. Yea, from corruption's foulest den, The flesh and bones of beasts and men. That lie all o'er the world's broad face. In every flood, in every place. Preachers tell us there comes a day. When loud the angel's trump shall bray The dead rise straight in bright arra}^, And sui-e, I hope all mortals ma3^ But they heed not this truth sublime. The dead are rising all the time, THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 12') Their cltist gives vintage birtli and life And crowns the earth with fruitage rife The soul that leaves the form at death, Straight gives another life and breath. The moment it's of flesh relieved, It's in some other one conceived, To some gem, sprmg with vigor rife. And stirs the embryo with life. Another term on earth renews With other flesh and bones and thews. Gives to another mortal birth, Stays 'till his te'-m is done on earth, Then is reborn again, again, Doth in some human form remain. Stays with each through weal, woe or pain 'Till nature it doth from each unchain. Ever passing on from scene to scene. No intervals of sloth between. XXII. Oh, what a downright fool is man, Without brain enough himself to scan. Who fancies when his form shall die, His soul shall mount to worlds on high, And there in sloth for ever live, Only praises to his Maker give. Bask 'neath his Maker's bright warm smile, Perform no other task the while — Than just to chaunt some blissful song, With the boh', hol}^, seraph throng' Who from the mind of God were born, And did His own hand with shape adorn — To perform mights tasks for Him, Not rest in sloth as men would whim. Would the}^ not lazy spirits scorn 130 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN If such from earth 'midst them were borne ? If God wished His great praises rung And ceaseless songs around Him sung, And nothing hear but music's sound — Through His holy heavens rebound, Why He'd turn a world into a fife, And bid it blare its music rife, A comet turn into a drum, Bid it for ever sound and hum, Be never mute nor still nor dumb, And all throughout His heaven come. Or make a universe be born, And turn it to a blaring horn. Or make vast stars to bugles grow, And wide their stormy music blow. Have stars to accordeons turn'd. And through the heavens kicked and spurn'd. Turn huge orion to a flute, And fill it all with sounds accute, Bid them throughout creation shoot, 'Till nothing, nothing there was mute. Of mighty worlds an organ make. And bid it loud its tones awake ; The heavens with its music shake ; Throughout all silence burst and break. Make of mercury a jews-harp. And blare its music .shrill and sharp. Make seolian-harps 'mongst the stars, Streatch the chords 'tween venus and mars, Then let His breezes on them blow. And everlasting music flow. Or streach them 'long the milkj'-way. And bid strong tempests on them play. Or bid all worlds together pour THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 131 Their voices iu eternal roar, And sing His praise for ever more, And tell Him how the}^ do adore. God don't need feeble voice of man To tell His glories have no span. And that He is infinite, sublime, A Grod unknown to change and time. XXIII. No, man would be a worthless sot, On nature a stigma and a blot, If he in sluggish sloth should reign, Without a joy or woe or pain. For man to live on bread and wine Pressed to his lips by hand divine, Without move of mind or limb. Or the least action caused by him. Are thoughts to me all foul and grim. 1 do despise a lazy drone, Detest him flesh and brain and bone. And when I've heard mortals grieve. Mourn o'er the downfall of poor Eve, Who let the serpent her deceive, And did mankind of sloth relieve ; I've turn'd and blest her sacred name. And praised and praised the good old dame; And if a spark of manly flame — Yet smoldered in his spirit's frame — I've fann'd it into burning shame Which blushing o'er his features came ; I made the drone some action don, Awake, be up and moving on. XXIV. Faith in her way is very good, But she's not rightly understood; 132 THE HETR OF LYOLYNN, I'd like to doff this virgin's hood, And loose her tresses from her snood, Let them adown her neck be hung. Full round her snow}?- shoulders swung, And o'er her heaving bosom flung ; And if this maid be fair and young, Hath sparkling ej-es and rosy lips — With pearls that they but half eclipse, With comely face and body too I would her kiss and love and woo ; But not treat her as mortals do — Make her saw, chop, dig, plow and hew, Nor make her gear and work the team — When suns are hot or tempests scream ; She should not grow and cook my food — ■ While I lay down in sluggish mood ; Wash m}" face and comb my hair, My heated temples fan and air. While I lay down in fix'd depair — Too lazy to get off my lair ; Too lazy e'en to draw a breath. Yet wishing for long rest and death ; Longing for rest on heavenly soil. Where even all the angels toil. If 1 was forced neath sloth's control — 'Twould kill, annihilate my soul. Motion, action — work aye to do, , Motion, and perpetual too — Motion, with never stay nor pause. Are nature's all absorbing laws. Motion, stir, on — for ever on, For motion doth all nature don, God and all His angels toil ; My soul no sloth shall ever soil. Motion, all nature ceaseless moves — THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. This every atom of her proves, Action, motion, stir ever on ; Motion cloth all creation don. Blest be mother Eve, ever blest Who us unchain \1 from sluggard's rest, And gave to us the soul and zest, To after deeds of glory quest. I hear nature at her labors sing, I hear her tones for ever spring — All while she doth her hammers fling And sounding anvils roar and ring. Yes, ever, ever and anon — Doth she her ceaseless ballads con, Though no dull sloth her atoms don. But working on, for ever on. XXV. These dead here around us strown, All lying senseless as a stone, Are full of action, flesh and bone, In them no moment's sloth is known. They each are rotting, rotting on, Decaying ever and anon ; As full of action, motion now — As when life throbb'd from heel to brow. But their souls have only pass'd — Perhaps o'er lands and oceans vast — And life in embryos have heaved — That were moments of their deaths con- cieved. For like thought, which is only soul — It can move, bound from pole to pole In a second, or to heaven climb — Yea, in billionth atom of that time. But here their mortal parts remain, 133 134 THE HEIR OF LYOLYXN, Decaying on 'neath shine and rain, 'Till they shall rot to dust again, And fly with winds o'er flood and plain. Each particle still fill'd with life. Yea, teeming with existence rife ; Inhal'd from all the atmosphere ; And hurl'd, scattered, no matter where — Together shall again adhere, And in other mankind appear. XXVI. I oft hear 'mongst the human train Dull echos of some sad refrain, I'd not live aye though void of pain, While they shed tears like pelting rain, Or wish they were a child again, Creations of some poet's brain — Who was too stupid or too A'ain, To dive into a deeper strain, And to his thoughtless kind explain How they die, rot and rise amain. Though once the sport of wind and storm, 'Neath nature's plastic fingers warm Their atoms again together swarm, And into other mortal's form ; Create another form again. With human sorrows, joy and pain. Why the very instinct which wrought The wish, and bred the longing thought — Not to live aye, though void of pain, Or wish to be a child again, Show that the final end and change — In wishes through the spirit range. E'en all the worlds of endless space That in creation find their race THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 135 'Midst Hzure air, like isles we trace Wrapt in the water's soft embrace, Are built from ruins of other spheres — That lived, and died in long former years : Jehovah formed them all at first, Then each to atoms He did burst, Then all again together brouglit, And others with the atoms wrought, Perhaps far brighter, grander spheres — Than those He built in former j^ears. And I as through this world I tiead. And watch the scenes around me spread, A something oft and oft I view That seems not wholly fresh and new. Seems just such sights I've seen before, But where, and when I know no more. Though well I know I never pass'd — Through scenes as there were round me east. E'en this scene that here round us lies. The rocks that here abruptly rise. This beach with boulders scatter'd o'er, Washed smooth as glass 'neath ocean's roar , These bloated corpses round me strown. Yon ship in ghastly ruin thrown, Yon far off ship which towards this reef Fast draws — to give us all relief, It seems I all have seen before Far back in distant years of yore ; Yea, every thing that here is seen. Through just such sights before I've been. Though I know my feet ne'er before — Have trod this spot, this barren shore. Why do these scenes thus vivid roll Through all the chambers of my soul. 13(> THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. Unless such scenes it pass'd before — • When other flesh and form it wore? Yes, -when some other man it warm'd, Perhaps like me exactly form'd. XXVII. Within nature nothing is lost And nothing created, though toss'd Upon the flame a timber lies, No matter what its weight or size Ere it upon the flame was cast. And to seeming destruction pass'd ; Yet, take its ashes and its smoke — And all the fire from it broke. And press them to the primal frame. They'll weigh and measure just the same — That stick of timber did before The fire it to ruin wore ; The fiames its form have onlj^ changed, All's there but differently arranged. O'er earth all will be strown again, And through the aid of shine and rain — Give succor to some other plant — Of the same size, or yet more scant. For if winds its atoms widely sow — It in a thousand plants may grow. And thus it is with every thing God ever did to nature fling. This soul that doth my body warm, Once warm'd some other human form. That long, long centuries ago Knew all the feeling that I know ; Trod the same walks throughout the earth, Saw the same scenes of woe and mirth. And so 'twill do again, again. THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 137 When it o'er me shall cease its reign. Until shall come the end of time, And nature's death knell God shall chime ; And all that in creation lives, To which He shape and being gives — Shall at His fiat shift and change, And all things differently arrange. And all into one form shall roll, One form the great primeval whole, That form a vast eternal soul, That soul the omnipresent God, The Jehovah, Messiah, Loi'd, Who all created at a nod. In whom shall all again be stored. Yea, man and every thing shall end- Save God the father, maker, friend, All back again in Him shall blend. All that did the begining know — No atom lost — the end shall show, And form again the primal whole. Be all again one form one soul. Be as He was ere worlds or man. Or yet eternity began. The boundless, vast, eternal whole. The omnipresent Godhead, Soul 1 But motion shall not find its goal, It through Messiah still shall roll 1 XXVIII. As on the surface of the lake The ceaseless rain drops pelt and break, And from innumerable rings, All the surface to circles brings, Each circle tinto circle clings — And circle into circle springs, ]^38 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. For ever widiiig in their round, And aye togetlier mix and bound ; And as still faster falls the rain They faster rise and mix amain ; No matter where they rise and grow — The}^ into one another flow, On thus, they do 'till dies the storm, And they no more the lake deform : No more the rings or circles break The smooth, calm surface of the lake, Nor there the least emotion wake, All lies as calm and smooth and sheen, Though there no storm nor rain had been Then finally the lake doth change — And into something else aa-range. Something on which time never trod, To something only known to God. That lake is nature's vast domain. The storm the circles and the rain — That stirr'd the water's placid face, And trouble make o'er all its space. Are living things, the human race, That spring, and mix in one embrace As generations come and go, And into one another flow. XXIX. But look on these poor mortals round. Here stretched in slumber all profound ; Poor worthless lumps of filth and dust, In death's arms so suddenlj- thrust. Now no more in the eyes of God — Than maggots upon which we've trod. Oh ! how many a heart will throb, And loving kindred weep and sob, THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 139 When their dread, awful fates are known. Homes will in mourning long be thrown — And for what ? Lumps of flesh and bone, That once could love and weep and groan, Which will but rot and rise again In another form of woe and pain. When far the tidings shall be blown How on this reef jon ship is thrown, And all to utter ruin toss'd, And so many lives of beings lost, Appall 'd men '11 hail the dread event As an untimel}^ accident ; A term all wrong and misapplied, There's no such thing in nature wide. Ne'er an accident has yet occurred, There's no such thing, though there's such word. Whatever happens in the world, Though nations be to ruin hurl'd, And no warning came to inform Of coming earthquake, flood or storm, And though they shone in pristine prime — > They vanished in a moment's time : Yet there is no accident there, No miracles in their loss appear ; If some huge mass of rock whose form Had stood a thousand years of storm. And solid frame did yet reveal As closely knit as bar of steel — Were suddenly to break and go Upon vast armies camped below — And crush them to a shapeless mass. And pile them up like broken glass, Or crush them 'neath its weight as thin As sheet of paper or of tin — 140 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. Ill it tliere'd be no accident, No miracle in tlie event, With all God's movements it would chime, Which all are hidden and sublime — Predestined from the birth of time. The labourers that lifeless fall Beneath the tumbling of a wall, Die by as naturial a death As him who yields his vital breath — • On bed of sickness and of pain, Where at his side his friends remain — Who watch the loved one night and day, And see the mortal waste away. 'Tis only the predestined end, But finite minds won't comprehend, To change this would change the world, And nature be to ruin hurl'd. Nothing grows, or dies, or can be Save God will'd it, and only He. What was not ordered by the Lord When first He spread His worlds abroad. And framed creation's boundless mass — Can never, never come to pass ; What e'er shall hap on earth to man Was destined ere his race began ; As did God from the first intend. Only shall worlds and beings end. XXX. What lies the poor atheist tells — That God with the greater number dwells. And that He always takes His post With largest guns, and strongest host, Or ever on the squadrons' side That stretch the deepest and most wide ; THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 141 And from the side of the last reserve Great Providence doth never swerve — • But always there to aid and nerve. A down-right lie from start to end As e'er wag spake, or e'er was penn'd : And this I'll prove when I've the time — In language and in thoughts sublime. Was it so when huge Goliath fell ? Or hosts were crushed by the fearless Tell ? Was it so at Thermopyloe ? When conquoring died those hundreds three ? At Marathon or Platrea's field ?— When the few made thousands die or yield ? And on gory fields of deathless fame — Hundreds more at least that I could name ? But, God only with them toils and delves Who really strive to help themselves— Is truth eternal and sublime, As yet peal'd on the ear of time. Wake up and do the best ye can, Is what God asks of mortal man. Yea, do their bests with brain and limb, Then leave the rest to faith and Him. But stirring ever and anon, For ever working, toiling on. XXXI. Here ceased Roger Lea for close to shore Was heard the splashing of an oar And fifty yards from shore, I ween, A boat row'd by two man was seen- And like a trumpet deep and clear Guy Harold's voice o'er head they hear, For the twain in the boat he knew, 142 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. And as close to the reef tliej^ drew, Hail Oscar Brady, hail he roar'd, And from the rocks his welcome poiir'd, Thrice from reefs I've rescued thee, And now it's thy turn to rescue me. And if aright mine eyes discern — Thovi hast with thee old Peter Zurn, Hail Harold, hail the twain replied, And drew their boat the rocks aside. XXXII. Now, muttered Roger with a curse, The bad has really changed to worse, For greater thief than Peter Zurn Ne'er saw a blaze of fire burn, A man more fill'd with guile and fraud — Could not be found o'er nature broad : And every coin that we have found — He'll have before a day goes round ; I've knoAvn him thirty 3'^ ears and more, Been with him oft on sea and shore. If he remembers me at all You'll hear him style me Wallace Prall, He's of a crew of thieves the chief — Who always hover round this reef To plunder every helpless wreck ; I would that I could stretch his neck. Or dungeon bolt upon him turn. XXXIII. The man the}^ styled as Peter Zurn, Was tall and broad of form and strong. With thick sinewy limbs and long, And o'er his face that wore no beard, Long ghastly seams and scars appear'd. His shaggy hair was white as frost, THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 143 Or foam npon the billows toss'd. His eye was black as cloud of Bight, But like its lightnings keen and bright ; A color wore his face and nose — ■ That did his love for drink disclose. A wretch all through as base and foul, As e'er on midnight crime did prowl; A wretch as cruel, fierce and bold, As yet murder did for hate or gold. Well known o'er seas was Peter Zurn, A wrecker, cruel, grim and stei'n. XXXIV. Zurn give me joixr hand , thus Harold cried, Who by this time has reached his side, Welcome old boy, thrice welcome here, I thought you shortly would appear, And for you I've searched the wreck. From stem to stern from floor to deck, We searched it when the tide was low, And Hunyadi will tell j^ou so — We gathered all its shining spoil, To save you loss of time and toil. So start now hence with us friend Zurn, And you this pile of gold shall earn. XXXV. Smiles o'er the wrecker's visage pass'd. As in his boat the spoil was cast ; Then said to Omar and to Lea : Come deal out all your spoil to me, Or to perish I will leave 3'ou here Upon these headlands wild and drear. From Roger's eyes the tears gush'd fast, As in the boat his coin he cast. For well he knew his ghastly fate — 144 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. If he should pause or hesitate, Or hold with Zurn the least debate, And all the wealth the nine did own, Soon in the wrecker's boat was thrown. Then from the reef the}^ all were ta'en, Borne to the ship upon the main. And then Zurn's wife took Ellenore, And search her garments o'er and o'er, Quickly found all she there had stored, Releaved her of the captain's hoard Which Bayard had for Omar stole, And wrought the captain's bitter dole. And thus it chanced that all the wealth — That the}^ had won b}' fraud and stealth, All they had pilfered from the dead, Was thus into Zurn's coffers spread. But none mourn Vl like Lea the loss of pelf, Though he hid his grief within himself. In three brief claj^s they trod the shore For which they'd sailed six weeks before, Some soon forgot the bitter past. For busy scenes were round them cast THE HEIR or LYOLYNN I45 PART IT. " I wonder how the}^'!! us receive, And if they will all my tale believe, For when they knew me as a youth, They swore I never spake the truth, And they may think what I reveal, Is but a lie from crown to heel. But so many long j'ears have past — Since upon me they look'd their last, Perhaps they'll think as time has flown- My morals have far better grown. But one thing Roger 3'ou must do, Swear all I tell is strictly true. Aid me in every thing you can. And if I carry out my plan ; Yes, ni}' schemes meet no overthrow. Remember, betide me weal or woe, Omar forgets no friend nor foe." " And if I help you win your bride, Thus gravely Roger Lea replied, Ten thousand pound to me j^ou give, Or else a 3-ear 3'ou shall not live, One word from me 3'ou rightly know, Would shortly work your overthrow, But this I swear shall never be If you right jiistly do by me." " Don't taunt me so, thus Omar said, Wh}^ so oft on my feelings tread ? "Were I some things of you to tell — They'd lodge you in ? dungeon's cell, 146 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. And others were they noised abroad They'd give yon to the hangman's cord ; So Roger do not taunt me more, Nor 3^et so often probe my sore ; Witli Alice Mosman I shall win — All the domains of Lyolynn, There's but one sole man, and that's you, Can help me work m}^ scheme all through. So let us work as friend with friend, Yea, hand and heart unto the end. And all you ask to you I'll give Yea, truly as I speak and live ; And were it thrice the sum 30U ask, Soon as we carr}^ through the task — It shall to 30 u be dealt as free — As rain, that comes to earth and tree. Lea I haA^e ne'er forgot that you Was to my father Apgar true, Was unto him as firm a friend As e'er did fate to mortal send, And 3'ou too must recall the past, Remember to his very last Apgar was friend to Roger Lea, And for 3^ou died in strife at sea. Let's you and I through J03' or care — Be friends as 3^ou and Apgar were." " I meant not thus your rage to roil. Nor throw 3'ou in so wild turmoil, Nor did I mean to chafe 3'our pride ;" To Omar, Roger Lea replied ; " But my friend just think, pause and see, How huge the task 3'ou force on me, Two of mankind must be destroyed, Their beings made an utter void, Yes, find some wa3^ to make them die, THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN, 14t So that on you will never lie, Long as you draw a vital breath, The least suspition of the deed Of being cause of either death, Have 3'ou of that for ever freed. Now tell me how this can be done Without the least mishap to me, Let's have it properly begun, And right the end will surely be." II. Silent they stood a little space. And looked upon each others' face, Full on Lea's eyes did Omar's glare, And Lea's unmoved return'd the stare. Such a defiant air they wore, Each with a foot firm placed before, So keen upon^ach other stared, They stood the while like men prepared To either ward or strike or thrust, And hurl each other on the dust. At length Omar said : Lea you must Aid me achieve all I have plann'd. Not fail me now with heart nor hand. Now list'n, these are my projects all On which I build my rise or fall. Soon as my kin George Mosman knows The water of the ocean flows — O'er the dead lord of Lyolynn, Lockhart and all his kith and kin. Save one frail child who is the heir To all those lands and castles fair. Who if dead he then straight would reion Sole heir to all the vast domain. And she lodged safe within my thrall 148 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. And through me alone can rise or fall, Kindly his heart towards me will grow, And grant my wish of long ago, The wish for which my heart has burn'd. And all my spirit longed and yearn 'd, Where e'er on earth my steps have turn'd — Since even bo3'hood until now. And will long as I breathe, I trow. Yea, grant me his daughter for my bride Who unto me he once denied, Let this be done and j^ou shall see How swift of others I'll be free, For all my plans are rightly laid. Save you I need no other aid. I have a place for Ellenore. And soon she'll trouble me no more, lanthe soon shall pass from view. Suddenly as a drop of dew, Children like her die very free, In hands of skillful leech like me. George Mosman's midnight haunts I know. The groves through which he's wont to go. And I know how to lie in wait. Yea, that has been my noblest trait. And I know how to strike my mark — Just let the night be e'er so dark. This 3'OU can vouch for well as I — I've done it oft when you were nigh. As in the past you've seen me do, You'll in the future witness too ; Sui-ely no more I need now tell, I think you understand me well. Old friend the day is waning fast, The hour of noon has long been past. The way is long to Mosman's grange, THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 149 So let lis quickly forward range, And see how we'll be welcomed there, I long to know how with them we'll fare. in. Thus these two men together talk'd, As through a mountain glen they walk'd, The road that led to Mosman's grange, A way to neither new nor strange. Though many weary years had past Since Omar trod that valley last. On either side the mountains stood All covered o'er with brush and wood. 'Twas summer and a balmy breeze Was fanning through the forest trees. Tall poplars clothed with glowing green, With stately oaks and pines were seen, O'er each side of the ravine leaned, And from the sun their pathway screened, Their boughs were all so interlaced Sun-beams through them could scarce be traced ; And now and then a crystal rill, Came rushing down each stately hill. Watering violets that grew Amongst the roots of oak and yew. And lily and rose of every hue — ■ Which in the air their fragrance threw. While the tall grass waved dense and green, And where it grew not, moss was seen ; 'Twas through such valley fair to view These twain together scheming drew. Scarcely the east with morn was gray When they had started on their way. And though they had not journeyed fast, lf,Q THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. Yet o'er five leagues, ofground they'd pass'd. And one league more they had to range Ere they could reach the Mosman grange, And here abruptly turn'd the road Round hills that nought but granite showed, All bare were they of plant and tree, Nought but bare rock the e3^e could see. They bore no trace of living green, Not e'en a speck of moss was seen. Soon up the barren heights they drew, Where all the county met their view, And all beyond that barren scene, Lay stretched in loveliness serene. Even all adown the mountain's side Was nought but gloAving verdue seen, And all below stretching far and wide Was corn and wheat and pasture green. Far, far away three miles, I ween. Amidst the Eden glowing there — George Mosman's stately home was seen Beside a river broad and clear. Long paused the twain for fairer sight Their eyes had never viewed before, No matter where the eye might light The earth one robe of verdure wore. And midst the pastures vast and green, Were mighty herds of cattle seen. Huge flocks of sheep that skipped and played, And bleating through the pastures strayed. Or roam'd through orchards broad and vast. Where on the earth ripe fruit was cast. Long had the twain surveyed the scene. And not a word had pass'd between. THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 151 All wrapt in reA'erie profound, The twain surveyed the scene around, And well for them the thoughts that pass'd Through either breast the wliile they view, "Were not from lips in language cast, But kept in silence where they grew. For suddenl}^ as though the earth — - Had that moment given him birth — George Mosman right beside them stood, Though all that ridge of rocky hill Was bare of grass and bush and wood, Yet he'd approached so swift and still, They'd seen him not, nor heard his tread, Till his hand he placed on Roger's head. And ere Roger Lea had time to turn, Or move the hand that touched him there, Mosman thus began : Peter Zurn Scarce an hour ago left here, He told me how he rescued you, At least he spoke of WaDace Prall. But when he spake the name I knew. 'Twas my friend Roger Lea for all. And here I've looked for you all day, I thought that you would shortly come. Here's a flask of wine, your thirst allay. For you've walked a long and weary way, And let j^our friend partake of some. IV. TJnstartled by the voice and hand That had so suddenly approached, And form that did beside him stand. Lea instantly the flask accroached. And thus began with accents bland As he the ruddy liquor broached. 152 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. Here's the noblest thing that God be- queathed To mortals smee they first have breathed, Yea, since we first with life were wreathed, Or soul in mortal flesh was sheathed. And will be while we draw a breath, 'Till mortals all are hushed in death. Some mortals use this stuff" too free, Which causes woe instead of glee, They drink too early and too late, Which brings their years to shortlived date. Some swear they never drink at all. With this belief their friends they thrall. But late at night, when none are near, They more than take a double share, So royal drunk they go to bed. They scarcely know their heels from head. And these soon with hardened liver. Spleens that make their bodies shiver. Brains that all demented quiver. Are ferried o'er the silent river! But in the day time, cold or warm. While active is my brain and form, Is the sole time I taste of drink, All other times from it I shinnk; For nature's first great law to man Is of himself talte care if he can ; And creation's wise Law-giver, Taught me to take care of my liver. It was the first great law to man, And all on earth's diurnal span. And more, I scarcely taste of wine. Unless bestowed by friend of mine, Who is so lost to sense and wit, As waste his surplus cash in it, THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 153 Of hoard, I never had enough, To spare a mite to buy such stuff. These friends of mine have been so few, Not much of drink I ever knew. Pure water from the fountain's rill, Did best my nature a3'e distill. So here's to you long life and health, Ceaseles prosperity and wealth, Who never gain'd a dime by stealth. While here you stay may all your da3'S Glide on in one unclouded blaze Of peace and joy and lasting mirth, The choicest that are found on earth. Give me j^our hand my trusty friend, May time ne'er see our friendship end. May it as warm and brightly flow — As in the years of long ago. When I aided you with hand and brain To be owner of your broad domain ; Proved you the sole and rightful heir, To you five thousand acres fair ; Yea, help you win the grandest grange — ■ That lies within the world's broad range. And now to you I tidings bring That'll make j-our soul with rapture ring. Yea, make it in 3'ou bound and spring. All like a joy created thing. For now the lands of Lyolynn You, you right easierly may win. Yea, every castle, hill and plain, That ever formed 3'on broad domain. One child 3'et breathes this vital air, Or else 3'ou would be the sole heir, Upon the reef six da3'8 ago, I left the rest all lying low. 154 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. The heirs, grim death has smitten all, Save one sole infant frail and small, And at her age they easy die, In hands of such as you and I ; And were but death to make her mute, None your right and title could dispute. But hark, if you should ever win The wealth and lands of Lyolynn, Omar De Vaux, and only he, Can make you of this infant free And this is his sole desire, For all this he will require — In repayment one thing from you. Him Alice give, she loves him true. Mingled joy, anger and surprise, Sparkled in Mosmsn's sable eyes. And tremors seem'd to shake his frame. Just as Lea mentioned Omar's name. And a moment did he silent stand. Still holding on to Roger's hand. On Roger's face still kept his look. Where it had rested all the while, Though,he there would read as from a book If what he said be truth or guile. At length his lips a smile essayed. As thus to Lea he answer made. "Think you I let my daughter wed With one who stretched her brother dead? Who slew so base my only son, Ne'er before was murder fouler done." " Your infernal chai'ge I do deny. And were I just about to die, I'd swear it was a down-right lie.'' THE HEIR. OF LYOLYNN. With haughty air, and flashing eye, Fierce Omar on his speech broke in, With voice of loud and angry din ; And drawing nearer and more nigh Met his accuser eye to eye. With their gaze fix'd on cither face, They silent stood a little space : Omar with calmer voice began, You in me no murderer scan Of any of your name nor clan, And ne'er by me was harm e'er done To one sole hair upon your son. Mosman, I swear by yonder sky. Were you not older far than I, And father of the one I love Far, far all else on earth above, Have adored since boyhood until now. And shall long as I breathe, I trow, And were you not also kin to me, I tell }■ ou Mosman frank and free. Were it not for wiiat I've just named, When me 3'ou for the murder blamed, And had it far and wide proclaimed That I your son had basely slain, Yea, cast on me so foul a stain, You should have the charge denied, Or you or I or both had died. There is a law within this land. And may such statute ever stand. Wherein the accused has the right — . To call his accuser out to fight, If he in the combat victor be. The law considers he is free Of the grave charge for ever more, And was but lies from crust to core. 155 156 THE HEIR OP LYOLYNN. Anci when on me the charge 3'ou threw, That I your son so foully slew, Instead of flying from the view, Of all I loved and all I knew ; I should back on you the charge have hurl'd, Declared that 3^ou had ta'en his life, And challanged you before the world To meet me straight in deadly strife. Had I done this, you had come forth. Or East and West and South and North, You had been bruited far and wide — As dastard coward proved and tried. Who on the innocent had lied. Whose hand and soul was all defiled, With the foul murder of his child. And had we e'er in combat closed, Yea, hand to hand with swords opposed. You know how swift had come your last, And I'd unscathed the conflict pass'd. For better sword'sman well 3'ou know — Than I ne'er faced a mortal foe, Nor from its scabbard drew a blade — Since first a dirk or sword was made : To have slain 3'ou with sword or dirk — Had been to me no minute's work. Had we pistols chosen for the strife — I'd in an instant ta'en your life. You've never known me miss my mark. In day time or at midnight dark. See, near the bush of yonder ridge Full fifty 3'ards from here I trow. There flies a bird small as a midge, Just see how I shall strike it now," He said and from his breast he drew A pistol polished flashing bright, THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 157 Ere a second past its bullet flew And dropped the bird while on its flight. Another from the bushes rose And while in nir its wings it spread — Another pistol he did disclose And in an instant shot it dead. " Now Mosman 3^ou can plainly see," Thus De Yaux again began, What chances for miss shot there'd be, Had I larger mark like man. Why, had I loaded pistols here And thousand swallows round me flew. I could hit every one as fair, The instant that they met my view ; But I came here with my friend Lea, In friendly guise to talk with you, I hoped that you would meet with me In kinder way that now you do. You remember my ways of old They are now just the same as then — Best is the truth however told, And no matter where or when, So I shall frankly speak and plain, Nor could be fitter place than here. Don't meet my projects with disdain, For I now deal with you sincere. Give Alice Mosman for m}^ wife. Let it be kindl}^ done and free, And ere a month I pledge my life — You sole heir of Lyolynn shall be." He ceased and upon Mosman 's face Grim Omar fix'd his glaring eye, Who silent stood a little space, Whistled a while then made reply. 158 THE HEIE OF LYOLYNN. VT. " Should I refuse my child to thee Wouldst thou not do all this for me ? Work heart and hand 'till thou shouldst see I of all hinderence were free To heir those lands so broad and fair, If I part with thee should share ? Now to this end give me thy aid, And thou'lt b}^ me be well repaid, Wealth will be more to thee I trow, Than hundred maids like Alice now. Forgo the maid and think of this, 'Twill in the end bring greater bliss," " Not I for all of earth or hell, Fierce from the lips of Omar fell. Of wealth I have enough, this land On which we do this moment stand. Though barren wild and drear it be. Yet every foot is own'd by me- I bought it all a year ago, Here are my deeds that I can show. And let me win or lose your child. Here shall soon on these crags be piled, — A castle huger and more grand. Than can be found upon 3'our land. When I erect my palace here, I'll look down on j-our mansion there, And view the home of her I love. And who loves me all else above, Aha, you need not shake ^our head, Nor think she'll with another wed. I know the feelings of her soul. Yea, all the thoughts that through it roll, Though weary, weary years have past — Since on that maid I looked my last. THE HEIR OP LYOLYNN. 159 I know her love for me will last, E'en were her fate with others cast : Here on my turret's topmost stone, I shall at twilight sit alone, And gaze down from my lofty throne, On her I'll in the future own. And when 3^ou die and sink to dust. And I thank God some day you must. Then will the barrier be moved. That bane so long to true love proved. No, though I'd rot both flesh and bone And mj' poor heart be turn'd to stone, For not aiding you those lands to own, I Avould not for 3'ou turn a straw, Though it 'twas in my way I saw. Nor aid 3'ou heir broad L^olynn, 'Till Alice as my wife I win." Then answer thus George Mosman made While on Omar's arm his hand he laid. " Why kinsman 3-ou seem really wild. Yea, crazed with love for mj^ poor child. You talk like you did 3'ears ago, Has not long travel, toil and woe. Made wiser thoughts within you grow, And quell 'd that passions ebb and flow?"? " Talk not thus to me," Omar said, "As 3'ears of toil have o'er me sped, M}'^ love for her has stronger grown — Than that for her in youth was known. Mine was no love with ebb and flow. It never sign of ebb did show, 'Twas like no river dull and slow. But rushed in headlong overthrow, Like mountain stream when hot suns glow On hill tops piled with melting snow. 160 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. That rushes in a torrent strong, And carries ever}^ thing along That dares to bar its onward course, Still dashing on with growing force. Lat short shall be my tarry here, E'en though you far more friendl}^ were, You've now heard all I have to say. And I shall backward wend my way. Only shall you heir Lyol3nn, When I m}' soul's own idol win. So come friend Roger, come with me Where we shall far more welcome be." He said and down the mountain's side Began with hasty steps to stride ; But ere a hundred 3'ards he'd sped — Thus Roger Lea to Mosman said. VII. " The mortgage that I hold 'gainst 3'ou For tenthousands pounds has long beendue. And I came solely here to-day To see if you my claim could pay. I wish it paid I'll no longer "Wait, For I must settle my estate. All must be paid Avithin a year, And all the intrest in arrear. I do not wish to deal severe But heed what I now tell you here. In this world no man's worth a curse, Unless he has a well fill'd purse. And I'd not wish in your old daj^s To see you beg upon high-ways. Nor see you enter alms-house' door, A beggar pennjdess and hoar. And were I now to force from you THE HEIR OP LYOLYNN, 161 All that to me is justly due, I would leave you but little more — Than ragged beggars have in store. Since through me all you have, you won, I'm loath to see you now undone. But you can pay me if you choose, And don't yon fool his wish refuse, So call him back and give your child, His love is generous though wild, Why need you care if him she wed — So she is treated well and fed? Had I a dozen daughters, young. And fair as ever danced or sung, Or round the may-pole skipped and sprung, Or flowers on the alter hung, And I were asked like you were here, I'd not a minut pause, I swear, But gladly give each cherished maid. If I like j-ou were amply paid. Don't say a word, but just be still. Arguing often ends in ill, No words put in 'till I am done, What I've to say is scarce begun, With words don't interrupt me so. What 3^ou think I don't care to know Children were given unto us To pa}^ our debts, so treat them thus : Now call him back and give j'our child, And fortune never on you smiled — As she will do when this is done, When Alice makes yon man your son Don't j^on stand gaping like a fool, The dumbest in some village-school, With scarce the wit to laugh or whine, Stupid as some tobacco sign. 162 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. Haste 3-011 forth after Omar's track And call the love-sick mortal back, And treat as yon should your kin, Who never did 'gainst 3 on a sin ; There's no time to think, pause or stay, Go bring hian back, away, away." VIII. Rapid as springs the antelope, From hounds that near him pant and grope, Mosman leapt down the rock3^ slope, Lea's threats and Omar's promised gain — Had all bewildered made his brain. He rushed like one all crazed and wild, Down the steep rocks so craggy piled Shouting Omar, Omar on he flew, 'Till he beside his kinsman drew. But what words pass'd between them there, And what all their promises were, To treat each other true and well — 'Twere long and needless now to tell, Soon the3^ seem'd warmer friends, I ween. That they before through life had been. So far from Lea they stood, no word They spake b^' him was over heard. Alone they talked 'till shades of night — Had lowered o'er the mountain's height, Then Lea they joined and forth the3' strode, Adown the long and winding road — Towards where a glowing taper showed — Mosman's and Alice's abode. But as they left the mountain ridge — They pass'd along a narrow bridge, That foot-way made o'er roaring linn. That rushed a darksome gurge within, THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN, 163 Hard by it rose a lofty mound That was with bush and brier crown'd, And on that very spot of ground George Mosman's son was murdered found, All gashed and left a horrid sight, About ten years ago that night. Here paused the three, no word was said, Each stood as silent as the dead, Suddenly 'midst the bushy mound Was heard a low and dismal sound, As one who draws to life's dread close, And one solitary owl arose From out the bushes to their view, And round and round the mound it flew, The while on air its hoots it tlirew. Then all at once from sight withdrew. Back swift into the bush it fled, And lay as silent as the dead. IX. Swift from the place they drew As though they feared the scene to view, A tremor pass'd through Omar's form — That shook it all like leaf in storm, For in that owl that met his view. And thrice so close beside him flew, He in it fancied he could view The boy that there he basely slew. Mosman's son whom ten 3'ears before He had sought there and stretched in gore, 'Twas well for Omar it was night, And that his visage ghastly white. By Mosman's vision was not scann'd As there he did in silence stand And trembling eyed with panting breath 164 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. The by gone scene of blood and death. Back a lingering look he cast, As he increased his pace more fast, His thoughts were busy with the past, When his poor victim breathed his last; When on that warm and sunny day He shot him"Avhile he sleeping lay. And then his throat all ghastly scarr'd, His face and bod}' gashed and marr'd, Left him so mangled on that mound, Amongst the briers growing round, And bush that densely robed the ground, He scarce was recognized when found. And this is why the deed was done. Omar De Yaux and Mosman's son, Quarrel'd o'er some trivial thing, Which soon to blows the twain did bring, De Yaux was pummeled far the worst. Through all the fraj , from last to first, From Mosman's mansion he was spurn'd, And long time past ere he return 'd. To none of Mosman's it was known. Where the desperate youth had flown. They fancied he was far away, But he in secret near them lay, And watched them all both night and da}-. It chanced young Mosman watched some sheep — That grazed along this lonely steep. The day was bright, the sun was warm. And he in slumber stretched his form. To the youth Omar snake-like crept. And shot and slew him while he slept. His dirk within the linn he cast As from the scene of blood he past. THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. If.S Then off to foreign climes he fled, Nor return'd 'till three 3'ears had sped. About the date the youth was slain A letter stamped with post mark plain, "Was mail'd at Yalladolid, Spain, To Alice from De Vaux it came, Breathed only love and holy flame, Three thousand miles of land and main. Lay 'tween her and that town in Spain, So it 'twas not Omar did the deed, By her and all 'twas well agreed. Omar could not the youth have slain, For he was at the time in Spain, "Was thought firm fix'd in every mind. From highest lord to lowest hind ; For from the time he last was seen 'Till then a year had past between. So when the murdered boy was found, And the grim tidings flew around, The murderer 'midst the hills was sought, And two old gipsies there were caught, All swore they must the deed have wrought, And straight they were to trial brought. Some women went so far to swear They saw those two old gipsies near The very spot the coi-pse was found. And that they heard a dismal sound, As would come forth from one in pain. As must have issued from the slain. And all this happen'd at the time. Or there about was done the crime, The very day the boy was miss'd. <• Then the wild rabble groan 'd and hiss'd, And at the gipsies shook their fist. Grim curse and threat upon them threw, 166 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. While missiles on the gipsies flew. Lynch them the rabble roar'd amain, While oaths and threats they pour'd like rain. Lynch them men shouted far and wide, Burn them, old shrieking crones replied. While all amazed the gipsies stood, Silent as statues carved in wood ; And witnesses against the twain, Gathered there from all sides amain ; What each one swore was all believed. No matter what their brains conceived It all as gospel truth was ta'en. The gipsies did the crime, 'twas plain. A day the two in jail were flung, Then tried, convicted and were hung. Died for a crime they did not do, As on earth have suffered others too. Died by the lying tongues of those Too often doth the world disclose. Who nought but evil will believe, And nought but evil can conceive — Against the race of mortal kind, To all their virtues deaf and blind, Who gladly see a mortal fall. And joy in his misfortunes all. Who when they hear a tale of ill. Spread it with all their might and skill. And strive to make it blacker still, All with grim proofs more damning fill. Who are aye ready to be sworn, And to the witness box be borne, Whose trade false witness 'tis to bear, And 'gainst the innocent to swear. Who commit perjury for meed, THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 16T Or any grim, infernal deed, On whose oatlis judge and juries place — Far too much trust and faith and grace. Tlie letter which to Alice came And showed from Spain was brought the same Within a league of her was penn'd, And Omar it to Lea did send — Who then from Valladolid hailed, And he for him the letter mailed. Right well the time did Omar know That it would unto Alice go, So to his hidings ho withdrew, Which none but his confederates knew. And when arrive the proper time, He promptly wrought the bloody crime : The gipsies on the gallows grim, Paid for the deed was done by him ; Time flew on, and two years had fled. Since the youth numbered with the dead, By man3^ was the deed forgot, But daily Mosman roam'd the spot. All day beside the place he'd stray, And weep the weary time away, As though he there some solace won, While mourning for his slaughtered son. It chanced one day he view'd the linn, And saw a dagger lie there in. From the waters deep, clear and swift, He did the gleaming weapon lift. The handle of the glittering steel Did Omar De Yaux's name reveal, A thrill of horror shook his frame, 1(;8 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. As he beheld that well known name. Yes, thought he, all's reveal'd at last, I see now through the awful past. It's as I fiincied at that time, 'Twas Omar did the horrid crime, Here on the blade are stains of blood, Unmoved by time or yon swift flood 1 By none but him the deed was done. No other mortal slew my son. So to himself George Mosman thought, And to his home the dagger brought, He there the blood-stain 'd blade concealed, Nor to a soul his thoughts revealed. Locked in his heart his secret fast, 'Till he his eye on Omar cast. XI. It was a cold and dismal day, O'er earth the sleet and snow-drifts lay, And loud without the tempests brayed. Which to and fro the forests swayed. George Mosman just had journied home From the spot he was wont to roam, And his large sable eyes still yet With their huge tears of grief were wet. As sudden oped his mansion's door. And Omar pass'd his threshold o'er. Beside his hearth George Mosman stood, His back turn'd to the blazing wood. Which gave forth warmth and brightness good. Hail my dear kinsman, Omar cried. As he strode up to Mosman 's side, And offered unto him his hand. Who still as death the while did stand, THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 169 Nor did with voice nor liaiid nor smile, The least of welcome malce the while. But on the intruder fix'd his e3'es In rigid, glaring, stern surprise, At least five miuuts pass'd or more, Yet he stood silent as before. Nor moved his gaze from Omar's face. Where it at first had ta'en its place. Keen rage in Omar's bosom burn'd And he the silent look retnrn'd, Fix'd full his eyes on Mosman's stare, Unquailing met their piercing glare. At length George Mosman thus began — ■ I've something here for you to scan. Then from a drawer the dirk he drew, And held it close to Omar's view- From Omar's face the color fled, 'Till he looked ghastly as the dead. And not a single word he said. While shook his form from heel to head. George Mosman watched with eagle e3'e, He saw his cheeks all color Qy, And while he watched him quake with fear, Thus spake in accents deep and clear. XII. By your emotion I can tell You know this dagger all too well. And you can see on it I trust Those small dark spots of bloody rust, See thej^'ve been spared b}^ flood and time. To now reveal your bloody crime. Murder will out, hide it as you will ; Woe to him who human blood doth spill A curse will heel him for the crime — 170 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. Through all eternity and time, Though the dead be sunk in a gurge From whither nothing can emerge, And with the flood the dead be hurl'd Down to the centre of the world, And rot in everlasting night. Seen never more by human sight. Yet the time will come sure as fate, Let it be either soon or late. When God the murderer will show, Point him out, plain as yonder snow; God will the murderer reveal. Plain as we see this blade of steel : You has fate pointed out to me. In 3^ou my son's murderer I see. The day I miss'd him on the hill, I thought then you had dealt him ill. But did not fancy at the time. You would have done so foul a crime. And all the while our search we sped, I did not think we'd find him dead. I thougii within some cavern grim — You and your crew had fettered him. T:wo days we searched in vain, no word, Nor sight of him we saw nor heard. Though o'er nigh all the hills we stirr'd, Yain two days we search, on the third Upon the knoll beside the linn Crows gathered there with ceaseless din, We climbed and searched the busli}- mound, And there my murdered son was found. Two gipsies for the deed were hung, I saw them from the gallows swung. Though all the people far and near, Threw the guilt on that wretched pair, THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 1*71 And did them unto death condemn — Yet I ne'er fancied it was tliem. Two 3'ears sped on, the trnth lay hid. As was the dead 'neath coffin lid, The while I found no single clew — By which to trace the deed to 3'ou, Although 'twas you the crime that wrought, I just as firm as ever thought. About the time two years had past, This dirk I found where it was cast Within the waters of the linn — By 3'ou, in hopes to hide 3' our sin ; See, fate has not let time nor flood — Yet wholly cleanse it all of blood, For these small spots that dim its glow — If analyzed man's blood would show. You see how God has all reveal 'd. That 3^ou thought hidden and. conceal'd. And other proofs I've found of late That prove 'twas you as sure as late. Weeks ago I your pistol found — Where you had hid it in the ground, Now see it lying in yon drawer, It often in your hand I saw, A league from where the crime you did, That pistol in the earth you hid, The rains had washed the mould away, And did but inch of it display. It chanced just on the spot it lay One morning did my footsteps stray, I spied it, took it from its lair, All rusted as 3-ou see it there : Balls from my murdered son the3^ tore Exactl3' fit that pistol's bore. But not a word of what you hear 172 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. I've breathed before in human ear, For were I this to breathe abroad — 'T would give you to the hangman's cord. And loath am I to see my sister's son — Though darkest deed to me he's done — Deed the most cruel and unkind — He could have plotted in his mind — Yes, I am loath to see you die A death of shame and infamy Upon the gallows grim and high, Fiend though you are of basest dye — That ever yet with human eye — Has looked on earth or sea or sky. So hear, this night I bid you fly — And seek some distant unknown shore, Nor dare to let me see you more, Don't dare to roam this county round. But haste forth to earth's furthest bound, Ne'er let me see your face again, Nor hear you in this land remain. Or you shall lie chain 'd in dungeon's gloom, And you die, the gallows is yourdoom. But if you keep from out my view — You'll shun the vengeance justly due : To none within my mansion here I wish it known that you are near. Now — go forth I've no more to say. Speed for your life, nor moment sta3^. Death takes you if you now delay. Speed, there's the door, away, away. XIII. Had Omar on the gallows stood, About to wear the sable hood. With the strong cord already cast — THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 1*73 Around his neck and knotted fast, Throwing on earth his look the last, He'd not seem'd so startled and aghast, As when Mosman unto his view, The pistol and the dagger drew. And in his ears these tidings threw. Three times he strove to make replj', But still all vainly did he try, Complete his tongue dead palsied lay, And not a single word would say. On Mosman one short look he east, Then turn'd and o'er the threshold pass'd, Strode from the door with hastly tread — Forth unto a neighbouring shed — 'Neath which he late had tied his steed — And in the saddle leapt with speed, Struck deep his spur, through sleet and snow — That blasts were tossing- to and fro, And night which had begun to grow — Did from the grange like whirlwind go; And Mosman's was the only eye Had seen him enter there, or fly. Eight years from then 'till now had past — Since these grim twain had parted last, Or on each other look had cast. XIV. I said that Omar's face grew pale, Or whiter than the whitest sail, That short and panting grew his breath, And right tottering grew his tread — As pass'd the b}^ gone scene of death, The three along in silence sped : And that his spirit quailed with awe, 174 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. And shook him all with ghastly fear, When that lone hooting owl he saw Rise from the bushes dense and drear ; 1 said 'twas well that it was night, And that grim Omar's visage wdiite — And all his tremors of aflright — Were hid the while from Mosman's sight, And so it was for Mosman's eye Was fast on Omar fix'd the while, Near De Vaux soon he drew more nigh, And thus began with seeming smile. " Kinsman right glad I am to hear You do jT^on tract of mountains own, For there's a boundless fortune there In iron and in coal alone, Besides the quarries vast of slate That all throughout those hills abound, A richer and more grand estate Could scarcely in the land be found. But how came you in fortune's way To win BO quick so vast a hoard ? Huge was the price the owner lay Upon thai tract of mountains broad." Omar answer made, "From Peru A stately ship once sail'd for Spain With gold and silver fill'd, her crew Had from the wealthy Incas ta,'en ; That long had been at Cuzco stored, Within the Temple of the Sun, Which Manco built to hold his hoard. Who first the Inca race begun. By some mishap that vessel sank At night in fort}' feet of brine. And only one sole man was saved Amongst a crew of eighty niue. THH HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 175 But where she sank he told, only few, These with him strove the hoard to gain, But when e'er to the place they drew The tempests instant stirr'd the main. Though it was calm as calm could be, And the sun beam'd down bright and warm. And not a ripple showed the sea, Nor skies the faintest trace of storm. Yet at the nioiuent that they drew O'er where lay that vast sunken hoard, That instant wild the billows flew. And roaring tempest rushed abroad. One hundred years had pass'd away And still beneath the rolling main The hoard within that vessel lay, For all attempts the hoard to gain, Throughout that time had proven vain : Yes, still from sire unto son The hoard was sought but never won, And where in sea the vessel lay. Few knew though ages past away. At last to me the tale was told. And for this sunken hoard of gold, I with some daring comrades sought, And from the seas the treasure brought, At peril of both life and limb — In flood for it did dive and swim ; The largest share of all I caught. And have with it these mountains bought. And have enough yet left in hand — To build me here a castle grand. I sought the hoard with Roger Lea, Who from tiiat wreck within tlie sea-^ Won ample hoard as well as I, Who now can answer it I lie. 176 THB HEIR OF LYOLYNN. XV. While thus they talked, they closer drew To Mosman's home that rose in view, Clear shone the lights from window-pane, And sent their glare o'er field and lane, Bright rose the moon though on its wane, And showed forth Mosman mansion plain. From its foundation to the vane. 'Twas a stately and fair abode That there beneath the moonlight glowed, 'Twas circled all with hedges trim, And grass and flowers growing frim. Dense o'er the mansion's lofty wall Did ivy and honey-suckles crawl. And all around the air was fill'd With odors that the rose distill 'd, From violet and lil}- 's bed Around the sweet perfumes were spread. And these were all with snow-drops edged, Or with bordering daisies hedged, And all the garden far and wide Was gay with every flower pied, And long lines of shrub and box-wood Fringing the gravel 'd path-ways stood ; Here and there a towering tree Amidst that garden trim they see : Here and there a cedar tall and pine. O'er which climb 'd some flowery vine, The garden 'neath the moonlight clear Looked like an Eden blooming there. No matter where the eye might range, All was beauty round that stately grange. And in the midst the mansion grand Did like a lofty castle stand ; Huge was its size, and built of stone, THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. j^^ Rear'd in the choicest style that's known, High was the building broad and long, And seem'd like some Gothic tower strong, Such as within the days of old Were built by barons proud and bold, Who king-like ruled a broad domain. Who's vassels formed a mighty train. Two hundred yards from this abode A broad and shining river flowed Calm was the eve, no breath of breeze E'en stirr'd the leaves of aspen trees, And 'neath the moon's brightglowing beam, All tranquil stretched the flowing stream, Smooth, clear as glass was its broad face,' No ripple there the eye could trace, Save afar where a little boat Did gently down its current float, From this at times a plashing oar Sent ripples dancing to the shore, But these were few and far between, Nought else disturbed the placid scene. Along the Sloping pebDly shore, Which all sublimest beauty wore, Long rows ol oaks and poplars grew. Which o'er the floods their shadows threw, 'Neath these the three conferring drew, Till honse and garden met their view, There 'neatli an elm they stood awhile, To see the scene in beauty smile ; Fox they heard from the distant boat- Sweet music on the moonlight float, Mix'd with a soft, low voice at times— That woke the air with stirring rhymes It was a maiden's voice and haiut. That fill'd the air with music grand, 178 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. "With voice like zephyrs sweet and soft, She stirr'd the strains ol music oft, With songs of love and joy and woe, Some good old songs of long ago. All the while in her busy hand — Loud, ceaseless sound, sublime and grand From deep toned accordion rung, And mvisic o'er the waters flung. While she fill'd the calm moonlit air — With song and music, rich and rare, At times when loudest grew her song. And music rose most deep and strong, A voice ol nightingale was heard, That in neighbouring valle}' stirr'd, And loud and long his lay at times. Commingled with her sprightly chimes. All would together blissful blend, And sweetest sounds o'er waters send. Yes, with the voice and organ's swell, Oft mix'd the lay of phiiomel. With them his music rose and fell. As though he knew the maiden's well. XVI. The organ ceased its sprightly sound, And utter silence reigned around. The soft, sweet voice had died away And phiiomel had ceased his lay. And still and slow the little boat — Did down the glowing river float, A minute or full more had past. Yet grave-like stillness yet did last, And just was Mosman in the act — To call across that watery tract — To her who had so sweetly sung, THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 1*^9 And had the air with music rung, When suddenly again she stirr'd, And plasliing of an oar was heard, Far up the stream she brought her boat, Then left it with the current float. As back adown the stream it went, This song upon the air she sent, No organ's tones with it she blent, But with voice soft and sweet and low — As e'er sung song of joy or woe, She sang, and philomel kept still, As rang her voice o'er stream and hill. Song: Where are the twain who long ago With me beside these waters stood. Who shared with me joy or woe. The bright, the beautiful, the good ? Who roam'd with me 'midst starm or shine, In life's gay, sunny spring, Whose merry laughter made with mine Earth with ceaseless gladness ring ? Who girdled with radiant light — Field and forest, land and sea, When they both were in my sight. Close tog-ether all were we ? Who the earliest impulse gave To my thought and feeling's flow ? Ah, one is far o'er land and wave, The other mute, dead and low ! Moldering in the dreary grave, O'er him rose and daisies blow, Heedless of fiercest storms that rave, Wakeless slumber ne'er shall know. All around where once he kindled light, Now dwells nought but densest gloom, 180 THE HEIR OP LYOLYNN. His drear departure left a night Dark and silent as the tomb. Early was he ta'en away — While in his glorious prime, Flew to the realms of endless day — Beyond the sphere of woe and time. They robed him all in spotless white, Laid flowers on his silent breast, Then closed the coffin dark as night, And bore him to his endless rest. Oh, who can tell the grief and woe That through all my spirit sped — When I heard earth and pebbles go Falling on the coffined dead I Oh, mortal words can never tell What a jo}^ was swept away, What a dark lasting sorrow fell Round me on that dreary day 1 All my bright joy and mirth took flight, All my fondest musings fled. Died hope, and sorrow's densest night Cast its gloom about my head. Like him within the desert drear Who pants with thirst on burning sand Who nought but woe can see or hear Across the dismal, dark'ning land. So then I lay and sorrowed deep O'er m}^ jt>ys for ever flown, Wept on 'till I no more could weep, 'Till mine eyes had tearless grown. Then pain and grief in fiercer flow Did throughout my spirit roll, That grim unutterable woe Which tearless falls upon the soul, And must I by stern fate's behest, THE HEIR OP LYOLYNN. Jgl That is cruel, hard as stone. Lock all my sorrow in my breast, And mourn on for aye alone ? Oh ! where is he I loved of yore, And all fondly cherish still, Who for me deathless friendship swore Through life or death, weal or ill ? Whose slightest look and smile and tone Could with rapture fill my soul ; Why does he leave me here alone — 'Neath grim doubts and griefs control? Oh, shortly may some stately ship Bear him o'er the trackless main, Bring, bring him to this heart and lip, And these longing ej^es again. And turn m^^ grief to glowing mirth Warmly as he did before ; With gladness fill the happy earth With the joyous tones of yore I Thou stately vessel bring him here, Though his love be dead and flown, And in his soul be hatred where I was loved, and loved alone. If his warm love for me of yore Hath through time grown cold and tame I will rekindle it once more. Fan it into stronger flame. Thou statel^^ vessel Ijring him here Bring him to this lonely spot, To gladness turn my weary care. Let the past be all forgot, Bring, bring him here, and never more Shall he from me depart again, These arms should hold, and fold him o'er. As with an adamantine chain. 182 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. XVII. Here ceased her melancholy strain, And utter silence reigned again, Yet still the while in Omar's soul — Her words like burning lava roll, Still in his ear their echo rang — As plain as while the maiden sang, For well, too well grim Omar knew, 'Twas for him, and the youth he slew — All that poor maiden's sorrow grew, And o'er her soul this anguish threw. Alas, he thought where e'er I go, Must I hear nought but sounds of woe ? Is there no happiness on earth ? Is it completely void of mirth ? Alas ! no matter where I range, Upon the world of ceaseless change, Must I bear still through joy or pain, The everlasting curse of Cain ? Oh, God ! I would it ne'er had been — That I had view'd this sjdvan scene I Or I had ever journied near Where I that maiden's voice could hear , That I had staled on distant shore, And never seen nor heard that angel more. I would the maiden loved me not. That she had me long, long forgot, That all trace of love was dead and flown — She e'er for me has felt or known. If she the awful truth but knew — 'Twas I her much loved brother slew, Would her strong love not turn to hate, And make the gallows be my fate ? And smile on me e'en while I stood With neck tied in the fatal snood. THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 183 And draw o'er my face the hangman's hood, Hide view of sky, earth, field aud wood? No, a wrong to me she would not do. Though all the awful truth she knew. And though I died by hangman's cord, I should by her be still adored, And o'er her love in joy or pain I should still yet the foremost reign, Though if I met so grim an end. For it her heart with grief would rend ; And through all turns of woe or weal, To her the truth 111 ne'er reveal. For the dread deed that I have done. Her days shall all in gladness run, I'll be to her 'till life shall end, A father, brother, husband, friend, 111 fill her heart with nought but mirth, Make for her paradise of earth.. With her I haste the wedding day,' Nor shall her father cause delay, For when her as my wife I win, I'll make her heir of Lyolynn. Yes, all I worked for long ago, No, stay nor hinderance shall know; And ere a week from this be sped — 111 lay old Roger with the dead : To help me now his aid I need, 'Tis done, of him I'll soon be freed. XVIII. The while these thoughts through Omar pass'd. The boat to shore came gliding fast, Near where they stood the shallop drew On shore the maid the anchor threw, 184 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. Swift and lightly from the boat she flew, And Alice stood disclosed to view. Right where the moonbeams shone she stood, Her head was bare of hat and hood, Full on her face the moonbeams glowed, And all her visage plainly showed. Fair was her forehead, broad and high, And 'neath it flashed a coal-black eye. Her full round face was fair to view. Blushing all o'er with healthl}^ hue. Her features all were nobly formed O'er chin and cheeks the dimples swarm 'd, Her well formed lips were crimson red. Her teeth a pearly lustre shed, Her rovmd bare arms were white as snow, Or like the foam when tempests blow, Through gauzy robe her heaving breast The whiteness of hoar frost confess'd. O'er swan-like neck and shoulders fair, Hung heavy folds of sable hair. Tall was her form and strong and broad, But all together nicely stored ; More majestic symmetrj^ and grace. Ne'er for human form did sculptor ti-ace. Though huge her frame her step was light. As 'ever danced at day xsr night. All full of ruddy health she stood, In glowing prime of maidenhood. And fair as any j^et who trod In human form on rock or sod. Than lier's a soul more good and kind, Has never swayed a himian mind. Like her own thoughts serene and pure, She deem'd all other mortals bore. THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 185 She knew nought of tlie world around, And never from her home was found. In the home she had been born and rear'd — This rosy maiden aye appear 'd. Her sire though base, low and wild, And was by all a villain styled, Who mighty hoard by fraud had piled. He spotless kept his maiden child. Let few her presence move before, And those the pui'cst of the pure, Only a few whose souls were fraught With pious deeds and hol}^ thought ; It'd been the task of these choice few — To teach the maiden all she knew. And she knew scarcely more, I ween. Than what was 'mongst her flowers seen ; Her soul was pure and sweet as them, As any rose that bloom'd on stem. The books in which she had been taught — Were those the choicest poets wrought : And their creations pure, sublime. Were only taught in winter time. The ga3^est sport the maiden knew Was tending flowers that round her grew Or rowing her boat upon the stream. Beneath the moon's bi'oad glowing beam. Which short light toils to cheeks bestowed The healthly hue with wliich thej^ glowed. One only love the maid had known. And this had in her childhood grown, When Omar with her father dwelt. And at her same pure altar knelt, And through all time that flame she felt, Though had she known that he had dealt The cruel shot and thrust and blow 186 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. That laid her cherished brother low, Her love liad all that instant flown, Like dust that is by whirlwind strown. Drove him from her for ever more — As the sear'd leaf is whirled from shore, Toss'd far upon the distant main. And never shall return again. This was the maid with spotless brow, Who Omar sought to marry now. And must her fate be joined M'ith him ? With one so base and foul and grim ? Must she be wed in her young morn — With one she'll learn to loathe and scorn? Must her pure life be clouded dim — Linked with a villain foul and grim ? One whose dark soul all evil swarms, And not a single virtue w^arms, Unless it be the love that grew In him for her when life was new. And which for her had stronger grown. Though since their parting years had flown, Though he had o'er the world been thrown. And which now glow'd as wild and warm, As ever burn'd in human form ? Or ever thrill 'd a nobler soul — With feelings it could not control. If this a virtue can be styled, Then he had one all burning wild. But, 'cause he loves her strong and true. As ever soul of mortal knew, Must her pure love with his be twined ! Will fate to her be so unkind ? Grant it not ye powers above. Who bring together those who love. THE HEIK OF LYOLYNN. 187 XIX. When on the shore the maiden strode — Where all her charms the moonlight show'd, Her father and the other two With merry greeting round her drew. Her hand she stretched to Roger Lea, And gave a welcome frank and free ; So with beai'd was Omar's visage grown, Unto the maid he Avas not known, For when they'd parted years before, No sign of beard his features wore, In those days his face was smooth and fair, Now 'twas all sable shagg}!- hair : And when her father breathed his name, A frown o'er all her features came ; A frown that augur'd more of awe, Than love for him that now she saw. And when on him her gaze she cast, No smiles ath\^ art her features past. Like one bewildered and amazed — She seem'd when e'er on him she gazed. Gravely their meeting Mosman eyed, And view'd his child with secret pride. Conferring towards the house they drew. But oft a stolen, side-wise view, The rosy maid on Omar cast. Ere they the lofty threshold pass'd. The hallway was with marble paved, All wnite, with stately figures graved, And gave grand comeliness around, To all that hallway's spacious bound. Soon trod they in the fair abode. That all with brilliant tapers glowed, And huge fantastic pictures show'd, That did the walls and ceiling load. 188 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN, One painting hung upon the wall That conspicuous was o'er all ; 'Neath it was written bold and free, Plain for all gazer's eyes to see, Hugla De Vaux and Orla Lea ; The back-ground seem'd a forest vast, That was with midnight over cast. 'Twas summer and the trees were green O'er all the earth tall grass was seen. And right in front this scene of wood — A murderer o'er his murdered stood, The dead that 'neath the villain lay — Was a lean, aged man and gray, A wound within his side was seen, Whence blood had gushed and d^^ed the green ; The murderer was dashed with gore. Huge clots his sable whiskers wore, And with a lantern in his hold — He lean'd o'er his victim gray and old. His hand was robbing fast the dead, On earth the slain man's coin was spread. The dirk that had the murder dealt, Glow'd red in the murderer's belt: It seem'd all gory grim and wet, Though it was crimson dripping yet. But had that limner's brain and hand — Who had that painting made and plann'd, Had Lea and Omar in his mind. And likeness of the twain designed, Or they the while before him stood. He'd not their portraits drawn more good. There complete from head to heel Avas seen Old Roger dead upon the green, There perfect had the limner placed— THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 189 Same features that in Lea were traced, The same thin .lii:)s all void of grace, The hoary brow and sad, pale face. The man that bent the dead one o'er. Had features that grim Omar bore, The shagging brows and eyes of jet, That seem'd intent on plunder set, There the same large hooked nose appear'd, And same long sable, shaggy beard, The same curly hair of darkest dye. Same narrow forehead sharp and high : All to Omar strong semblance bore. E'en the garb the murderer wore. On this scene then on Omar's face, Oft, oft her ej-es the maid did place ; The longer did the twain she view, Still more and more the semblance grew, Until her thoughts towards Omar flow'd. As to the wretch the painting show'd. Yet the while, her voice with lively sound. Mingled in all the talk around : She laughed and smiled at joke and jest, And seem'd all lively as the rest. For Omar had full much to tell, Though most was lies that from him fell, Of what around the world he'd seen, Of scenes in which he'd actor been, And some, all so ludicrous, I ween, That to have heard him talk the while. Had made a dying hermit smile. Swift time sped on, and hours flew, The time for bed and slumber grew. Yet, still the tongue of Omar rung, And forth its tales of wonder flung. As though perpetual motion strung — 190 THE HEIR OP LYOLYNN. Each sinew of his l.ying tongue. The cocks without for morning crow'd, Yet still the tales of Omar flow'd. Within his chair old Roger slept, His snore with Omar chorus kept. But Mosman and his rosy child. Attentive heard the stories wild, And Omar fleeting time beguiled, 'Till morning o'er the mansion smiled. XX. High on the mansion's level roof, From every list'ning ear aloof, Near the lofty spire and vane, That looked afar o'er field and plain, O'er river, mountain, rock and wood, George Mosman and his daughter stood The sun was rising o'er the world, And gliding clouds round mountains curl'd. Beneath his all enlivening ray Nature below them smiling lay, Orchards, wheat fields and tasseled corn, Glow'd to the earl}^ beams of morn. O'er pastures that the eye surve^^ed, Vast herds of sheep and cattle strayed, A mighty landscape all of green. Fair as any on earth, I ween, With streams sweeping vast fields between, Far as man's eye could view were seen. A smile o'er Mosman's features played, And long it o'er his visage strayed As all he did in silence scan ; " Daughter," at length he thus began. " Since your old lover has arrived. And I suppose will soon be wived, THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 191 Show me on what spot of that land, You would pi-efer your home to stand, For stately mansion I must rear — • For you and him to dwell in there." Upon the father gazed his child, With face that beam'd surprise all wild. The color from her features flew, And ghastly pallor o'er them grcAv, Sternly her father's face she ejed, And darkly frowning thus replied. " Father, far sooner would I bound From here to yonder solid ground, It is full sixty feet, I ween. From where we stand to 3'onder green. Should I throw my form on yon grass, I'd be a lifeless, shapeless mass. But sooner would I do it now, Than Omar join in marriage vow. He is not like the youth of yore, That I did tenderl}^ adore : Now like that boy he no more seems, Than night resembles noon-day beams I feel an instinct strong as death, I feel it grow with every breath, It now throbs in m}'^ spirits core, And bids me shun him ever more. Thus father talk no more to me. For Omar's wife I'll never be. From where he came, let him go back, And never cross again my track, Why, now all this for him I feel, I do not know, so can't reveal, But stili when e'er I look on him, And view his visage wild and grim, Thrills of aversion through me sweep, i92 THE RHEI OF LYOLYNN. Bid me Avide distance from him keep." She ceased and one bright, ha^jpy smile Beam'd on the father's face the while, A kiss npon her cheek he laid, Seized her hand and thus answer made. " I thank my God the spell is dead, That all your love for him has fled. And never shall you Omar wed. Of life I'd sooner see yon shed. But daughter me a moment hear, And what I speak, breathe in no ear. Be not surprised at what I tell, And let it in you silent dwell. Strong hope to win 3^0 u as his wife, Is in his bosom throbbing rife, And when he asks j^ou him to wed Say nought, be silent as the dead. Nor 3'es, nor no, be your reply, But act 3'ou loving, coy and sly. Let him no sign of hatred see. But pla}^ the hypocrite for me, M}' reasons now for this my dear — To 3'Ou I cannot now make clear, Further than this which you shall hear, The heirs of Lyolynn are dead, At least such rumor Omar's spread. If 'tis true, I am now the heir. But I must prove my titles clear, For this I'll Lea and Omar need, So treat them foir in word and deed. Soon as I to the heirship speed, You shall of both be swiftly freed. Off with Lea I shall shortlj^ go, A.nd be awa^^ a week or so, Treat Omar in my absence well, THE HEIR OF LYOLYXN. J 93 But always near the servants dwell." He ceased, and kiss VI his daughter's face, Then left the roof with hasty pace. XXL On lightning wings the hours flew, And fast the past more boundless grew, Two weeks had Mosman been a.vfay, For him and Lea had left one day, But unto them, and them alone. Where they journied, 'twas only known, And through the garden every day. Did Omar and fair Alice stray. She oft to be his bride was asked, But she had all her feelings masked, Did all her father bade her do, And let the unloA'ed lover woo, With no, his soul she'd not riven, x^or yet had she promise given, Though he both at her had driven, For plain yes, or no, had striven. While through the garden paths they walked. And Omar of his friendship talked. And told her plainly soon as she. Agreed with him, his bride to be. Then by his aid all Lyolynn Her sire as his own should win. For unto him, and him alone. The fates of other heirs were known And when she swore to be his bride He'd prove where, and when those heirs had died. And not till then what e'er betide. And she had just to him replied 194 THE HETR OF LYOLYNN. That when her sire as the heir — Without a doubt was proven clear — To every castle, hill and glen — She'd be his bride, and not 'till then. A heavy footstep reached tlieir ear As of a man approaching near, Adown the lawn their gaze they threw, Saw Peter Zurn who towards them drew. " Alice, 3'ou to the mansion go. Leave me now an hour or so I something from yon man must hear, I, wliile we talk wish 3' on not near. For 'twould not interest j^our eai\" Thus willi a smile grim Omar said. And moved towards Zurn with hasty tread. The maid into the mansion drew, Glad she was out of Omar's view. XXII. Near the river, far beyond the lawn, Had Omar and Peter Zurn withdrawn. Long had the twain conferring been Beneath a maple tall and green, That stood beside tlie flowing stream — And screen 'd them from the noonday beam Tlie sun shone warm, the da}^ was fair. And not a breeze disturbed the air, And all sweltering hot and still — Lay round them stream and field and hill. Time flew, the long shades of afternoon — Show'd that the eve was coming soon. And just had Peter Zurn agreed — If Omar paid a certain meed, And Mosman his sole friend in need Had no objections to the deed, THE HEIR OF LYCLYNN. 195 He'd in his ship bear off apace — lanthe to a certain place, Omar just had named the spot and clime, Where 3'ellow fever raged the time. A child like her thrown 'midst that scourge, It would straight mingle in her blood, And would her in a week submerge Beneath death's cold and silent flood. To murder her would never do, And when shall cease lanthe's breath — She must be tended b}' a few — Who can in all times prove her death. And there were some, to Mosman friends , Who dwelt within that fatal clime, Who'd aid him work unto his ends — No matter what the deed or crime. They knew lanthe and her race, Though never had the child been there, But at her father's dwelling place Those friends of Mosman often were. Up to a few short months ago They had with Lockhart business wrought, Though to him, the}" did friendship show, They loathed him in their soul and thought, For he to them had evil brought. Them into speculations led, Which had of profit borne them nought, But heaped vast losses on their head. Now, unto these to bear the child Had Zurn agreed, and fix'd his paj^. And if she died not b}^ the fever wild, To end her in some other way. As this had by the twain been plann'd And they 'bout lanthe's death conferred, Behind a ridge of grassy land — 196 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN, The tramp of coming steeds they heard, And riding swiftly, soon they see — George Mosman and old Roger Lea. And soon those riders drew their rein Beside the eager plotting twain, From horse to earth the horsemen drew, And each to each his greeting threw : And soon they knew that Zurn agreed — To make them of lanthe freed, The death-time of the child to speed, And Omar paid to him the meed. And there the four were plotting fomid. As shades of twilight close around. Then from their plotting they were stirr'd For coming horse-hoofs loud they heard And on a road unto their right, A horseman in wild rapid flight, Suddenly burst upon their sight, XXIII. A tall gate stood across the road, But o'er it the courser bore his load, Clear'd its high rail with one strong bound, And dashed along the dust}' ground, With foaming flanks, and flying rein. On, on the charger swept amain, With ears pricked, nostrils open spread, Like whirlwind up the road he fled, With foam his bit was whitened o'er, And wreathes of foam his body bore. His snow-white mane spread on the air — Like flag of truce seem'd flying there. Right in front of the plotting crew The gallant steed and rider drew. And halting thus said, " can you tell. THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 197 If here or not the Mosmans dwell." "They do," GeorgeMosman straight replied As he approached the horseman's side, A letter forth the horseman drew, Held the address to Mosman's view. " Know you the name that here is penn'd ?" , I do, he is to me a friend, And he doth tarry now with me." " Then that he gets it please to see The man who sends me with it here Said if to it there any answer were They would in person come, and so As it dark is growing, I must go." With this the horseman turn'd his steed, And left the place with tempest's speed. He reached the gate and o'er it flew. And soon was lost to Mosman's view. XXIV. To Omar was the letter sent. Swift he the paper open rent, And on the writing gazed intent. But so small was the writing there. And so dark had grown the atmosphere, He could not read what there was penn'd, So to the mansion all did wend, Soon stood he 'neath a glowing light. The letter held close to his sight, Seem'd the while like one in fix'd amaze, And these were the words that met his gaze. " To John Snowden, or Omar De Yaux, Or by whatever name he stalks. For many names he seems to bear, Which is his real one is not clear, I mean a heartless, brutal thief — 198 THE HEIR OP LYOLYNN. Who robbed the dead upon the reef, With shaggy beard and sable eyes, A villain just your form and size, Who plann'd the murder of a child, That is lanthe Lockhart styled, Who is the heir of Lyolynn, And shall her right dominions win, Yes, ever}^ castle, hill and plain, Throughout broad L3-olynn's domain, In spite of all that can be done, By any Omar 'neath the sun. I took the child from out the den, Where you concealed her with your men, She's safe 'mongst friends and kindred now, And so she shall remain, I trow ; I never was a sleep, but wide awake, When ever you and Roger spake. To what you said I listened well, And many horrid deeds can tell, That you've transacted grim and fell. But now on these I will not dwell. I bid 3'Ou fly to whence you came. And bury there your burning shame, Fly, fly this night, or j'ou shall feel — The fierce avenger's thirsty steel. Fly, fly to night, make no delay, Or 3'ou become the hangman'a prey. If 3^ou seek to know whence this came, Know then it comes from Castle Flame, And John Hunyadi is his name. Who did this letter pen and frame." XXV. Had the earth yawn'd, and earthquakes crashed, THE HEIR Of LYOLYNN. 199 That mansion all to atoms dashed, Omar had not been startled more, Than when he read that letter o'er. He stood a moment still as death, Scarce seem'd to come or go his breath Against the wall was propped his head, All color from its visage fled, The fire of his eye seem'd dead, As though life it no longer fed. At length he from his silence broke. As though he from the grave awoke. He with his hand smoothed down his hair, And straight put on a livel}^ air. Back to his face in sudden flood That instant rushed the bounding blood. The lustre of his eyes flew back, And shone like flame those orbs of black. Soon to his side old Roger drew, His gaze upon ihe writing threw, For Omar held it to his view. And swift its import Roger knew. Apart they moved from all the rest: And thus each other they address 'd, But so low whispered was each word. By the rest no syllable was heard. Though Mosman watched the twain the while. In secret eyed each frown or smile. On them his eye askance was cast, Though loud to Zurn he talked and fast. XXVI. I thought, said Lea, 'twould come to this, Or something would go soon amiss. For a man like you to waste your time. 200 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. As you have done, is downright crime You've been wooing the hist two w^eeks — A maid that's full of Avhims and freaks, Instead of doing what ^-ou ought, Which would have hoard to Loth us brought, Curse on her e3^es and dimpled cheeks — Her face a thorough fool bespeaks. From her haste forth this very night, And ere the sky with morn be light ; Go, reach the cavern in the glen, Gather there, straight all our men, And 'morrow eve before the light — Of morn shall gild the mountain height, On Castle Flame a foray make, And from the hold lanthe take, Bring her forth, hap what ever may, E'en should you have to smite or slay," Answered Omar, " Come you along And nought I'm sure will then go wrong, For if beside me you remain, All will be shortly right again." " This night I cannot go with you, To-morrow many rents are due, And I have bade my tenants all To come and pay me at this hall : But Zurn I trow with 3'ou will go. Each I'll lend a steed, tell him so. Than walk, I think he'd sooner ride, And here all night he will not bide, I'll go forth, with him gear a steed, You follow too, and make good speed." This said, wdth Zurn he left the hall. Nor paused until he reached the stall. The saddles on the steeds were cast. And soon the girths were buckled fast, THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 201 The bridles on the steeds were placed And from the stalls led forth in haste. XXVII. Meanwhile his daughter to the hall, For Omar's sake, did Mosman call; On the hall-wa} 's white marble floor — Near the threshold of the loft}^ door, Stood Omar and the rosy maid, Her fair hand in his own he laid, Thrice did he kiss her snow-white hand, And thus commenced with accents bland " Some business calls me forth to night. But ere a week shall take its flight I will be back, and then I trow, You'll be more loving far than now, Your sire then as heir I'll prove To every thing in Lyolj^nn, All, all from out his path I'll move. So he the boundless wealth shall win. Then you are mine, till then adieu. And keep to me 3'our promise true." He said and pass'd from out the door. Trod down the graveled pathway fast. To where his name did Royer roar. Swift on the steed his form he cast, Amidst the night from sight he pass'd, And Alice never saw him more. 202 THE IlKlIt Oi' LYULi'NN. PART V. All night along a darksome road — Their steeds did Zurn and Omar goad, O'er field and wold, by bush and fen O'er mountain and through rocky glen In silence rode these gloomy men. At length they cross'd a wild morass, And rode into a narrow pass ; On each side, grass, brier and wood. In one dense mass together stood. And here they paused awhile to feed Each on the grass his panting steed. Along the East the sky was gray, Gave tokens of the coming day. And while they paused thus Omar spake, As though the silence drear to break. " For the last four hours past have we — Rode through the lands of Roger Lea, What a vast wilderness he owns. Of field, wold, fen and hills of stones, Yet if we ride ten miles or more. We'd scarcely pass his border o'er, All just such dismal wilds as these, Of hills and glens, fen, bush and trees, As oft I've o'er them pass'd I've thought. He might far better land have bought." "And had he," quickly Zurn replied, " He'd have no place for men to hide, Who oft have risked their life and limb, THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 208 And robb'd and stole and worked for him, Why, all these rolling lands around, With robbers and with caves abound, Here villains of all climes can flee, And here in safety ever be, If with their hoard they amply fee The agents of old Roger Lea ; And here such men as you and me Could hide and never prison see, If we some deed should ever do, That made the law our steps pursue • Why, here within this narrow pass. Amongst these bushes and this grass, A dozen men could take their post, And stop the passage of a host. Scatter it in as wild a flight As e'er was seen by day or night. Some years ago a deed I did, That is amongst the laws forbid. Soon from its clutches swift I slid, And safely here for years I hid ; For the officers of the law. Hold all these wilds and caves in awe They know that outlaws thickly dwell, In every glen, in every fell. Their precious lives they too much fear To risk in search of felons here. From earliest historic times Here have thronged villains from all climes, The fiercest and most cruel men That ever trod in out-law's den, And women of the vilest stamp That ever dwelt in ruffian's camp. All, all have left some trace behind, Some marks of them all round we find, 204 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. On every hill a breast-work stands, Of old reared there by robbers' hands, From behind which they fiercely fought, The men who them for crimes have sought, And on each hill, in every glen — Is seen some trace of out-law's den, So thick around their marks w'e find. These wilds recall unto the mind A thorn-bush huge that doth appear Beside a narrow thoroughfare By which through all the ages vast Unnumbered flocks of sheep have pass'd, Each flock as it Las passage made. Through the strong foliage strayed. Its tufts of wool has left behind, Which to the stems most closel}' bind, Nor storms however wild they bray Those tufts of wool shall rend away. There firm remain through coming timt To tell that sheep have trod that clime, Far back, and here, and to the sea. These lands belong to Roger Lea. And with felons he is in league, Knows all their cunning and intrigue. And here by his consent they dwell. When they abroad are known too w^ell. That is when statutes chase them hard — These wilds become their safety-guard. But say, De Yaux, I saw last night — You turn'd all ghastly pale and white. When you that horseman's letter read. Brought he tidings of friend just dead ? If so, say was he known to me ? For fain I'd know who it can be." THE HEIR OF LYOLTNN. II. " No," said Omar, "that letter told A tale I should to you unfold, You remember a sleepy hind, You on the reef with tis did find, I think Hun3adi was his name, With yellow hair and sluggish frame," " I do," said Zurn, "and know him well, And all about his life can tell, But all his history, I trow. Is far too long to tell you now, No more gigantic man you'll find, Alike in energy and mind, What he wills to do, he does it sure, Nor cares what toil he must endure. I saw him once a combat fight. His foe was just his size and height, In choice of weapons, swords they chose, Right nobly met the eager foes, And as they did in battle close, All dread the clang of steel arose. For both the men were skilled alike— To feint, to guard, to thrust, to strike. Both well were taught the sword to wield, To each 'twas weapon and a shield, To swift bound forward or recoil. And blows to parry and t'o foil. Right fearful was the strife, I ween. That there between those men was seen. Hunyadi's sword first tasted blood. And fast gushed out the crimson flood. Some how with his sword his foe's he caught. And from his hand his weapon brought, Toss'd with his own the blade in air, 205 206 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. And left his foeman swordless there. Though then his foe he could have thrust, And lifeless laid him in the dust, Yes, with his dagger stretched him dead, He did not so, he forward sped, And strove to staunch the crimson tide, That gushed from out his foeman's aide. Though they had hours fighting been, Scarce scratch o'er his form was seen, I tell you Omar you are blind — To take him for a sleepy hind, No better swordsman you can find, Nor man of finer form nor mind. But he likes to go 'mongst felons well, And often does amongst them dwell, And some the grimmest and most fell. And gets them of their deeds to tell. But never thief was caged through him. Nor felon climb'd the gallows grim. Every thief, felon in the land — Would trust, and aid him heart and hand. The cause why he 'mongst these delights. Is that he many stories writes, Which are with theft and murder rife ; And much of character and life — He finds amongst this class of men. Which profit much his mind and pen. I tell you he is a devil trim. All full of action, life, and whim. As yet show'd human form and limb : But how came you to speak of him." III. Here Omar silent stood a while, His face show'd more of frown than smile, THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 207 Though Zurn's words he but half believed, A hea\y sigh his bosom heaved, Relieved of this, he thus began. " Then I'm mistaken in the man, But how e'er good with sword he be. He is no better there than me, This if a chance e'er comes, you'll see. But to the letter now once more. Here you had better read it o'er. There is enough of light, I trow, For you to read the writing now.'' With this he gave it unto Zurn Who did its import soon discern. And silent, thoughtful stood a while, Then thus began with seeming smile. "Did I not tell j^ou he was such ? You'll have to watch this devil much ; But we can all his cunning foil, And rob him of his cherished spoil, No fitter place than Castle Flame, To carry on the deadlj^ game. The ocean is so close at hand, And hill and dale and woody land. My vessel now a league from there Floats anchored on the waters clear. You, there to night a foray make. And from the hold the infant take. And bring her straight into my barge, When once I have her in my charge, No fear that she will get atlarge, To do the thing right, aid you'll need, This will be easy won for meed. For men are ready bought or sold. To aid in tasks that's not too bold, It matters not how base the deed, 208 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN, So they clear the law, gain the meed. Collect your men this very day, Now, half the meed to each one pay, Give surety to pay the rest — Soon as the child 's by you possessed, 'Twill give to all a fervent zest — Make them more eager for the quest. Take there 3'our men this very day, And make no tarrj" nor delay ; But haste and get upon your wa}', In ambush near the castle la}^ ; For nigh it is a brushy wood — Dense as ere jet on valley stood, And there you can in secret lie. With all your aid prepared and nigh, 'Till night shall darken o'er the sky, Then make a sortie on the hold. But act through all discreet and bold. Bring out the child by force and might, E'en should 3-ou have to sla}^ and smite. Let every man be masked complete. So none shall know them that they meet. So that no one can ever swear — Now, nor j'ct m some coming year — Who were the parties fierce and bold, Who brought her captive from the hold. I know the law will chase us hard, 'Gainst it we'll have to keep on gviard, For into donjon we'll be thrown — If that we did the deed 'tis known. I'll have a boat beside the shore, In which she can be wafted o'er Safe from the castle to my barge, Soon as you have her in your charge. THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. TV. Thus they conferred, and onward drew, Through woodlands that more denser grew, Thick as ere hill or valley knew, And o'er earth ceaseless shadow threw, Rode on through scrub-oak, elders, yew. Until a log-hut rose in view. And with vast vines this dismal bield Was almost from the eye concealed. With creepers and with epiphyte— The log-hut o'er was covered quite, A perfect network there they made And wrapt the hut in endless shade. And o'er it gorgeous flowers grew Of varied form and shape and hue. And from this mound of fragrant bloom The air was loaded with perfume. This hut, some sixty years before- Had Roger built and vined it o'er, And oft in it he would reside, When from the world he need to hide : Then 'twas his home, his safe retreat, No spot on earth to him so sweet. The name he gave it years of yore, Still to that very day it bore. And over all his lands around Its name was a familiar sound To every woman, man and child. Who out-laws roam'd his lonely wild. " The Bower of Bliss." he named this bield. Where it stood was but to thieves revealed. Who to Lea brought their plunder there, Who of their spoils aye had his share, And while away it chanced he strayed, To his agent there his share was paid. 209 210 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN, That agent was a hoary crone, So lean, scarce more than skin and bone; Matilda "was the only name Given by thieves to this old dame, Nor was her real name ever known Save unto her and Lea alone. Strange tales 'bout her history tells, Of witchcraft, magic, charms and spells, Gathered fiom every creed and clime, Day and night it says she past her time, Dreaded was she by all the men Who lurked about old Roger's den. They fear'd she'd work some cursed charm. Would bring to them eternal harm. Some told of things that she could do. And swore that every word was true-. On rocks they'd seen her deal a blow, And straight would gushing waters flow. Some had seen her walk midst flame. And all its heat and fury tame. While at her heels terrific came An awful form, like dragon's frame, And many deeds before unknown, They told about this hoary crone. Those who best knew her said that she Was sister to old Roger Lea. But how this be I need not tell. This I will, she did his business well : In a cave 'neath that bield was stored Of gold and silver, mighty hoard. And not a thief within that land Oar it would dare to la}^ his hand. Omar drew the latch, oped the door, And pass'd the twain the threshold o'er; All humble look'd within and poor, THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 211 With dirty walls and sanded floor. The place was almost dark as night, But one small window let in light, And in one corner of the room — That was but dust and filth and gloom, There la}', of straw, a little heap, On it was Bayard fast asleep. Sound he felept, and so loud he snor'd, It seera'd within a tempest roar'd, Omar dealt him man^^ a blow, And water in his face did throw, Shook his huge form, and jerked each limb, Ere he could rouse that negro grim. Bayard woke from his slumbers sound, And all bewildered gazed around. His eye on Omar's face he cast. And to his feet he bounded fast. Like some tall column seem'd his frame His head unto the ceiling came And full a head and shoulders good — In height he o'er the others stood. His brawny limbs and swelling breast^ Giant's ponderous strength confess 'd. His form seem'd like some pillar grand. Upon which a tower might stand ; Or like some black monster seem'd the man! " Oh, my master," he thus began, " Two dreary weeks ago or more, Conna here a story bore — That ships lay stranded on the shore, And there my aid you needed sore, 1 believed his base l^ing tale, And straight away o'er hill and dale, 212 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. For three long miles I sped me fast, Until on seas mine eye I cast, And all along the shore I wound, But 3-ou nor stranded ship I found ; Then I believed the wretch had lied, Back to the Bower of Bliss I hied. When I came here, alas ! I found — Your lady with strong fetters bound. And from her learned, the sleepy bard That on the reef looked poor and hard, And dull and stupid as a sard, Had hither come, and mischief wrought, And had away lanthe brought ; Then straight o'er hill and glen I sought, But not a trace of them I've caught. I have toil'd hard, two weeks, I trow, Nor have laid down to rest 'till now." Here Zurn broke in, " Omar, I thought — ■ The horseman who the letter brought, Resembled very much a man — I with you on the reef did scan." " Yes, 3^es, by heavens, you are right, 'Twas Bracklinn, but when he met my sight — - Where to place the man I did not know, Yes, yes, he was Bracklinn, it is so. I see we're on all sides beset. And straight to work we now must get. But we shall surely beat them yet, With all their fraud I'll make them fret. Bayard speed 3'ou to Johnson's glen, And pause not 'till you reach his den, Tell him to gather Roger's men. And bring them quick from hill and fen, Ere noon unto the Bower of Bliss, Now speed you forth, and tell him this." THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 213 VI. Sped Bayard forth to Johnson's vale, As flies the thunder-cjoud on gale, When black it moves o'er hills and dale, And soon will bring the storm and hail. A trap door in the sanded floor, That was with rushes covered o'er, Up on its hinges Omar bore, Did down a narrow staircase turn, Close at his heels strode Peter Zurn; Then did through a dark passage grope, Which scarcely to their forms gave scope'; Here fifty yards they strode and more, And utter darkness all things wore. At length they reach an iron door, Through time and damp was rusted o'er : A knock on it grim Omar gave. Which echoed through the rocky cave, Then swiftly came a sudden jar As moving of a bolt and bar, And one within straight oped the door, And pass'd the twain the threshold o'er. Again the hinges screaked and jarr'd, And soon the door was shut and barr'd. And there was shown a spacious room, One sole dim light dispell 'd the gloom. One called Osman oped the door, A squalid negro bent and hoar, His breast and arms no garments wore, But prints of horrid gashes bore : Some wretch who had foul murders done, And hidden here did gallows shun. A.nd bowed he low with humble air, As he received this statel}^ pair. Towards him his gaze did Omar turn: 214 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. " Where is Ellenore," he question stern. Then answered he in lowly tone, " In the saloon sir, and alone." " Ye bide here a while," Omar said, And left the room with hasty tread; Then through a narrow, winding path, Dark as was Omar's hate and wrath, Dark as the cloud of thunder-storm When no lightnings gild its form, He onward groped his weary way, At length he saw a taper's ray. The passage sudden turn'd, and soon, He trod within a large saloon. The lights were lit, the spaciovis hall Had paintings limn'd on every wall. And on the tables in that room Did piles of gold and silver loom. The massive urns of silver bright Shone glowing to the taper's light. And solid bars of shining gold , Could everywhere the eye behold- And vast piles of glittering coin — Did in the glowing splendor join. Yea, all o'er each long spacious board In heaps was placed the glowing hoard, And 'long the floor 'twas nobly stored In piles both massive' high and broad. It seem'd the wealth of all the world Was there within that cavern hurl'd. Here midway of the spacious floor, Was Omar met by Ellenore. A mournful frown her visage wore. As ere to Omar'e eye it bore; And as he thought her hand to grasp, She sudden drew it from his clasp. THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 215 Fierce he questioned, "What means all this? What within the Bower of Bliss . Has so much gone with jou amiss, That I no greeting share, nor kiss ? By heavens, let me hear it all' Or I will brain you on yon wall." " Do it, do it, then my poor brain. May be freed of its woe and pain, For George Mosman and Roger Lea, Have told of all your deeds to me." " When told they you." "Two days ago." " By heavens, it is really so. But yester-night I saw them both. To this I'll take my solemn oath, And not one word they told to me That they were here, or did you see. But what about me have they told ? Hide nought, but all to me unfold." " About you Lea said scarce a word 'Twas from Mosman the most I heard. He said that you had sent him here To take lanthe 'neath his care But here's the note he gave me now Which will explain the whole, I trow." She said and from her breast she drew— A scroll which she to Omar threw open the scroll he swiftly spread- And thus aloud he hoarsely read. Dear Ellenore. Give up the heir To him who shall this order bear The bearer will George Mosman be Accompanied with Roger Lea. Who'll prove this order came from me Farewell, before a week goes round I shall near Ellenore be found. 216 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN Yours unto death. De Vaux. The face Of Omar pallid grew apace. Upon the floor the letter fell ; His breast began to throb and swell, Reeling like one about to fall — He propped himself against the wall. At length he said — " Some demon fell Has forged my writing all too well, Though 'tis my style from end to end, No single word by me was penn'd. And through this, if here the child had been, To them you'd given her, I ween ?" "Of course I would, who could have thought But your own hand that letter wrought ; Ten years 1 have 3'our writing known. And would have sworn this were your own.'' " What said they when they found the heir Had been taken from out your care ?" " George Mosman storm 'd and tore his hair, And seem'd all frantic with despair. And loud with curses fill'd the air. And fiercely unto Lea he said — ■ That 3'ou should ne'er his Alice wed. Unless 3-0U back the child should win, And make him heir of Lyolynn. Now Omar tell me frank and free. Mean 3'ou to get divorce from me — And with another wed ? Or more, Have one better loved than Ellenore ? Omar, for you I left my home. Where I in happiness did roam, Have gone with you o'er land and foam, Have through many a peril pass'd. THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 217 And 3'et I've loved, you to the last. And is it so ? Oh ! can it be, That you'll ungrateful prove to me ? Out with the truth, if it be so, I set you free, and bid you go." " The truth is this, my Elleuore, I loved a maid in 3'ears of yore, And still I do that maid adore, Than you, a million times fur more. For her, I cannot tell my love, 'Tis far the reach of speech above. ^ Her image all absorbs my soul — With feeling vast, beyond control. And I have loved ner since a child — With passion deep, and strong and wild. That love as I have older grown — Has mingled in both thew and bone Become a part of all my form. And e'en the blood that keeps it warm, I hope the time will soon be sped, Will see me with this angel wed. It's been the hope of all my life — To Alice Mosman make my wife ; And 'till shall be fulfill'd this hope, I shall through sin and darkness grope. She's the sole one can change my soul, And lure me out of sin's control, With her to win heaven I may hope, Without her I through hell shall grope. And Ellenore, though ever you To me have loving been and true, And it had only been your due — If I with all the love I knew — Had only worshiped at your shrine And loved you with a love divine ; 21S THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. Yes, only sought to make you mine, Had liappy strove to make your life, And pleasures spread around you rife. But truth I'll tell what e'er befall : Ellenore, I never loved at all. With me, I only let you go. Because you seem'd to Ioa e me so That you to grief would fall a prej' , If by my side you did not sta}'. Divorce ! such thing I do not need ; I am already of you freed ; You from the first I have misled, To you, I was not ever wed. The man that to your home I brought. Who was a minister you thought. Was but an out-law'd felon grim, Who never preached a psalm nor hymn, And this not binding is at all, And were it, I would burst its thrall." VII. An all sarcastic, scornful smile. Played o'er the woman's face the while Omar told of his tender flame For one who bore another name. But when to her grim Omar said, " You, Ellenore I never wed" And did of an out-law'd felon speak, The smile that instant left her cheek, Fierce lightning's from her dark eyes glared, And straight she seized him by his beard " And dare you then," she fiercely cried, With voice that echoed far and wide — ■ " On me such foul dishonor bring, THE HEIR OF LTOLYNN. 219 And call me what ? a nameless thing. Say is this true, or have yon lied ?" " 'Tis gospel truth " the brute replied. " Is it, then you this da}^ shall die." She said, and fiercer flashed her eye, Back from the man a space she drew, As though to take a keener view, Then like a tigress fierce and strong — That fearfully repaj^s the wrong. Cares not how many be her foes. But rushes on with them to close, And still the more they strike and goad, The fiercer are her blows bestowed. Like lightning at the man slie flew, And round his throat her hands she threw. And while she choked him, hard and fast His head against the wall she cast. One thud she gave which made the blood Gush from his head in ample flood. Nor from the woman's desperate hold Could he break, nor yet her hands unfold. Fainter and fainter came his breath, While grew his features pale as death, At last the woman's strength gave o'er, And she sank fainting to the floor, And not 'till then the woman's grasj). Could Omar from his neck unclasp. Blinded with blood and rage and j^ain, Right on her form he trod amain. Kicked her all o'er from heel to head, Then left her, thinking she was dead. Swift from the wall a light he caught, The room where he left Zurn he sought, Then swift they trod their backward way, To view of sun and sky and day. 220 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. VIII. By this the sun had mounted high, The time of noon was drawing nigh, No sound of Johnson nor his men — Was heard along the bushy glen, Nor back to the Bower of Bliss Had Bayard come. " Something 's amiss Or he had hardly tarried so," To himself Omar muttered low. Apart from Zurn who sleeping lay Beneath some bush-oak's matted spray, Where tall rank weeds and grass grew round , And densely covered o'er the ground 1 Beneath a poplar tall and A'ast, Himself at ease grim Omar cast, His thoughts were roaming far and fast — Adown the vistas of the past, The present, and the coming too. All rose and pass'd before his view ; They came and pass'd before his range — Like some vast panorama strange. Long, still he sat, as one stark dead, Not once had moved his hand nor head, Nor yet from him one single word Of faintest sound the air had stirr'd. At length he muttered faint and low, As if to give some feelings flow — Which he no longer could retain Within his breast of throbbing pain, But give them forth in sad refrain — From out their desolate domain. " Who would have thought that Roger Lea, Whose life I've saved on land and sea — Had done so foul a deed to me, THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 221 To have with one like Mosman join'd, And such a cunning letter coin'd. But for this outrage grim, I swear Ere to the past speeds forth a year He'll pay this deed most deadly dear. Curse on him and his niggard soul I'll get him yet in my control. And bring the traitor to his goal I And not a word within mine ear He breathed at all that he was here. He's treachery from head to feet, Yes, coward treachery complete. And Mosman, when his child I wed I'll lay the truckling traitor dead. Oh, welcome, welcome coming time, Speed on your chariot sublime, And haste the day, the time, the hour, These villains sink beneath my power. And her I love far more than life Shall be my partner and my wife For my poor heart and brain and eye, Can in the future nought descrj^, But her bewitching face and form The beaming iris of a storm.,' IX. While thus he spake he heard a moan Thrice before had he heard a groan This time it came so faint and low And all such little life did show It startled him and all around He looked to see whence came the sound. At length where Zurn in slumber laid, With hasty feet his search he made. The shading vines that o'er him grew 222 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. And such dense shade upon him threw From off the sleepers tace he drew, And there a horror met his view, That even made his blood run cold, For around Zurn's neck fold on fold A serpent scaley, black and vast — His horrid coil had tightl}^ cast, And choked the sleeper stark and dead, Zurn's mouth was all wide open spread, And in it lay the serpent's head. Then swift his dagger Omar drew. And did in twain the serpent hew ; And as he cut the folds away — Drawn all so tight and hard were they Sharp, harsh they crack with ceaseless bray. And far and wide flew slimy spray. But Peter Zurn, he breathed no more. His pulse no sign of action wore, The hue of death his visage bore : Vainly his breathing to restore — In his face did Omar water pour, His daj's of ruthless crime were o'er, And his broad face all free of beard Dread, ghastly with death's hues appeared, For long grim seams and scars it bore, Ta'en in his many frays of 3'ore. Now, now, he thought, it will not do For Roger's men this corpse to view, It may their courage tame to night, If the^^ behold this grisly sight ; It may some superstition breed. Of which I cannot make them freed Though I should give them double meed To aid me in my time of need. Then o'er the corpse some weeds he threw, THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 223 Completely hid the corpse from view, So where it lay he scarcely knew. Then from the spot he swiftly drew. And towards the vine-clad hut he strode, Scarce had he reached the lone abode, Than Ba^-ard and some sixty men Came gliding towards him from tlie glen. Soon near Omar De Yaux they drew, Where he could take of each a view ; 'Till then his gaze he never threw — On such a strange and motley crew. Some there, were tall and broad and grim, Strong, tough as oaks in form and limb. Their brawny arms and bosoms bare, Showed what vast strength was sleeping there. And some were active, 3'oung and bold, O'er whom scarce twent}^ 3- ears had roll'd. And some were feeble, bent and old. With hair white as the frost on wold. Who tottered as they moved along. But showed in 3'outh they had been strong. While some stood in their glowing prime, With form and face unworn b^' time. And every shape and shade and hue. Of eyes that ever mankind knew, The red, the black, the gray, the blue. Where seen amongst that motley crew. The brown, the violet, the white. Yea, every color met the sight. And every shade and hue of hair — Amongst those villains standing there — Was witness'd waving on the air. 224 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. Johnson, who came the first in view, And was the leader of that crew. Was a man of medium size. With blood-red hair and hazel eyes, With round face, snub nose, forward chin, With freckles o'er his sun-burn'd skin, His lips were thick, his mouth was wide, But pearly teeth were there espied. His forehead did real low appear, Perhaps 'twas overgrown wath hair. His form thick set, comisact and strong, There shaped for strength was nothing wrong. For his huge arms and brawnj' breast, ; The strength of Hercules confess'd. ■ And all the form the eye did greet, Down from his head unto his feet, All seem'd together put so neat — To in liarmon}^ so perfect meet — He seem'd fleetness and strength complete. Showed he could stand all wear and tear. And all fatigue that man can bear. His hand was strong, his heart was bold, And dearly loved to quest for gold. And fain for it at midnight hour, Would scale a castle's tallest tower, And bravely face all odds within — If there was any hoard to win. Read}^ was he by day or night For any plunder, broil or fight, Cared not how desperate the deed So he was sure of ample meed. But those who knew him best declared — Some virtues in his soul ajjpeared, That he possess'd far less of guile — THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 225 Than many of his stamp and stjde, That he ne'er kicked his foes when down, Xor took from them their last sole crown. And those he robb'd, he never slew, Unless they did his path pursue ; Nor even then he'd do such deed — Unless the}^ first had made him bleed, And often even then his mind — Would him forbearing prove and kind, Inside of jails he'd often seen, And all about such life did ween. Years had he worked upon the sea, And this was Avhere he first knew Lea, Who'd so admired his form and plan, He made him straiglit his foremost man. Brought him to The Bower of Bliss, Schooled him in all he was amiss, 'Till a real robber, perfect, trim, For day or night, he made of him. To watch the sea and all its shore. Which but three miles lay from his door. And plunder ships that there might strand, Was task assigned to his command* B}'' night and day to watch tlie sea, Were his orders direct from Lea ; And these he seldom disobey'd, Unless he was most amply paid. XI. As he strode to Omar, a smile Played o'er his beardless face the while, And thus to Omar he began. " Here we are, ready — every man To go with you on any quest — Provided I and all the rest 226 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN That here 3-011 see around me stand First shall have half their meed in hand, This I take and deal as I think best." Then straight his hand grim Omar press'd, From head to heel the leader e^a^d, Then f:om the rest they drew aside, Swift towards the hut with flowers pied. Then quick within the door they hied, They close the door with sullen bang, And far and wide its echo rang, And within The Bower of Bliss One full hour they staid, I wis. To tell what therein pass'd, I trow, Were all too long, and needless now : But Johnson unto all agreed, To him was paid an ample meed. With fervent zest was all prepared. And forward, march, was soon declared. XII, O'er woody hill, through bushy glen. O'er deep morass, and reedy fen, By out-law's cave and robber's den. Strode on that band of armed men. O'er many roaring torrents' arch Did they in utter silence march. All amongst them was stillness dread, Except their footstep's heavy tread, And this at times was only heard. When o'er bald solid rocks they stirr'd — Upon the mountain's craggy ridge. And o'er some torrent's quaking bridge. Whose waters strong and clear and free — They could in roaring rivers see, Which join 'd below in mighty mass, THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 227 And swept along each narrow pass, From whence vast, ceaseless cataracts Hushed in roaring, ponderous tome, And spread o'er seas their boundless tracts Of never ending snow-white foam. XIII. The shades of night were deep'ning fast, Dense o'er hill and glen were cast, As nigh to Castle Flame they pass'd. A mist with folds all dense and vast Came creeping upward from the sea, And gathered round the castle free. But they could see its towers loom Huge amidst the gathei'ing gloom. Hard by the sea that lofty hold Stood high upon a rocky wold. Between it and the boundless sea Stood here and there a stately tree. And there stood one of lofty frame Had blasted been b}' lightning's flame, 'Twas years ago the bole did show Since it had felt the tingeing glow "Whose all destro3'ing cloud-born spark Had come and left it standing stark. There no life was seen, all its bark "Was rotten, brittle, dry and dark, Nor left of life one single mark. Close to the castle's lofty wall. Stood this dead timber vast and tall. Nigh to a windoAV long and wide, That in the castle's wall was sj^ied Did this tall lifeless tree abide. The casement was wide open there Through it fann'd the evening air. 228 THE HEIR OP LYOLYNN. To it through the black folds of night, Which almost hid all things from sight, With cautious step did Ba^'ard stride. And by its trunk on earth did hide. Time sped on, it was growing late, Yet at its trunk did Bayard wait, 'Till he no voice nor sound nor din. Could hear that castle's wall within, Until he thought in slumber sound The inmate of the hold were bound. Then did he e^^e the timber straight, Shook it to see if such huge freight As his form made, 'twould bear the weight. His arms around the bole he cast, His heels were shod with grapples vast, These he plunged in it deep and fast. And as in spite of storm and blast The skillful sailor climbs the mast. Up the bole, sable Bayard pass'd. Nigh to the window soon he drew. Where he of it could take full view ; Its sash and doors all open were, Tree welcome gave the misty air — To staircase, hall and passage there. But there did he with sorrow see, The window from his grasp was free, That too far from it lean'd the tree Though the space it and wall between, Right narrow nigh the ground was seen. Yet ere it to the casement rear'd, A sudden lean in it appeared. And right there made so wide a space — His hand on sill he could not place. But he who had that climbing dared Was always for a balk prepared ; THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 229 Swift from Ms breast he dreyr a thong, That was all limber, tough and long, And many a sharp iron prong — Was at the end made fiist and strong. Then these within the sill he threw, In it the prongs secure he drew. With hands and feet that tightly clung, His form upon the thong he swung; By it suspended in the air — To and fro swung a moment there. Then swiftly up the thong he drew, His body o'er the sill he threw, And in the window pass'd from view. XIV. Within a clump of cedar wood, That rearward of the castle stood Some hundred yards from it and more And the ground covered densely o'er; Omar and his desperate band, Had ta'en in silence there their stand. The castle all was wrapt in gloom, And silence dread as of the tomb; The while they watched it, Omar's blood Rushed through his form in bounding flood; And 'midst the silence still as death, His throbbing heart and panting breath, Was the sole sound that Johnson's ear Could in the utter darkness hear. At length as though he tired grew At standing still so long, he drew To Omar and thus whispered low. *' Had we not better forward go, And into j-onder castle break, And straight from it this infant take ? 230 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. Night is speeding, 'twill soon be clay, We'd better liaste the child away." " K'o" said Omar "no, just wait a while, 'Twill be long yet ere morning smile, Bayard must in yon castle be, Or long ere this we would him see. Some entrance there he must haA'e won, If he has, all will soon be done; For if he there the infant find. Right soon he will her gag and bind. And from some window to the ground — He will her bring all safe and sound — With cords he for that purpose brought, This done, the rest is easy wrought. Bayard knows every winding stair, Hole and room in 3' on castle there All from its cellar to its roof, And his eye is to darkness proof. 'Twill not keep him from her aloof, For five and thirty 3'ears and more, He office in that castle bore ; He was the footman of its lord. Who own'd all these dominions broad ; And liked right well was he by him, But one daj" Bayard took the whim — To kiss one of the female throng — Who did to his lord's race belong. Whose mind was scarcely over strong. And had for Bayard love conceived, And him a perfect saint believed ; They kept the maiden housed too much. Or she had hardly fancied such. Of men she saw no other form — On whom to place her kisses warm, Or give the love with which she glow'd, THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 231 So 'twas on Ba^-ard all bestowed. And on one time while round each form, Were twined their arms in friendship warm, And ruby lips to his were press'd, And her deep love for him confess'd, Begg'd him to fly to lands unknown — With her, from cruel hearts of stone, Where she could make him all her own, Where they might live, toil, love alone. While this was going on apace. And her soft, fiiir, sweet, rosy face. That would the crown of queen have graced, On Bayard's sable cheeks she placed ; His lord stepped in, the scene espied, And fiercely did he scold and chide; The maiden's love they did assuage — ■ By placing her in iron cage. Where it could fret away its rage. Bayard they from the castle drove. And forced the heartless world to rove, Until he met with me, -and now He's mine, such shall remain, I trow. For he's fearless, true and bold, Heedless of fiercest heat or cold. And no man, white nor black nor brown. Can in a combat knock him down. If he this night has entrance found In 3'onder castle grim, Though dozen men should him surround All strong in form and limb. No fear that they the least will liarm One ringlet of his head. For to the sinews of his arm A Sansom's strength is wed. If he has not his old love foimd, 232 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. Whose love may not be cold, We soon may hear his footstep's sound Across yon lonel}' wold, And see him with lanthe bound Securely in his hold." XV. Time sped on, on the moments flew, The time of night still shorter grew, The mist still thicker round them drew, The cock more oft and lusty crew, No sound of Ba3'ard jut they knew, No sign of Bayard met their view. " I wish" said Omar, " I had told Bayard if the child he did behold, And could not bring her safely here. To slaj^ her dead and leave her there ; It would have saved all this delay, And ever placed her out the way." " What would 3'ou have a maiden slain, When without drop of blood, or pain. Easily alive she can be ta'en? Let's on the castle rush amain, Say, I can have this maiden fair, With rosy cheeks and wavy hair. And ere shall pass another hour, I'll bring her from 3'on lofty tower ; And bring her to ni}^ mountain cave Where much a female form I crave. If she were safely lodged there now. She'd ne'er more trouble j^ou, I trow." Thus Johnson spoke whose soul and mine? Was yearning for the hoards he'd find, And for himself and Roger win, If he could roam that castle in. THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 233 And 'twas but this, and this alone, That made him 3'earn to enter there, And made him keenly fret and groan, For Omar's cause he did not care. XVI As if his zest to enter there — Omar awa}^ a while "svould wear, He thus began in whispers low, " Sa3^ Johnson, is it really so, That 3'ou would like a woman fair Your life and journeying to cheer? If this is so, I tell 3-ou here. And what I say is on the square, You can on ever}' word rely, Wdl })rove them ere a week go by ; I know a woman tall and fair, With flashing 63*68 and raven hair, And all majestic in her air ; Her cheeks and face are beauty* 's lair Her soft, smooth cheeks the hues disclose Of both the lily and the rose. There red and white divinely glow, Her cheeks their mingled glor^^ show. And fair and graceful is her form, As an^' human blood did warm ; But she has temper like a storm, Such as does in the tropics rise. And blacken all the earth and skies, I'll shortly bring her to your cave, If there you much a woman crave. But 3'ou must make her stay at home. And from 3*our cave ne'er let her roam," " And where is she now ? " Johnson said, " I do not know, perhaps she's dead, 234 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. So many fleeting years have sped Since last of her I've had a view, But this I'll see to, all for 3'ou, And bring her if she be alive, But 3'ou must keep her in 3'our hive. Hark! what's that noise by yonder wall? I heard a scream and something fall. Let's go and see what it can be. Keep to the ground on liand and knee. And move right cautiously along, With Baj'ard something has gone wrong. For just before tliat thud did sound. That even echoes now around, Right plainly Bayard's voice I heard. Though 'twas a solitary word. 'Twas from the castle's front it sped, And we are in its rear, let's tread. And move us light!}' round that way. But lo, there comes a taper's ray I " XVII. As Omar spoke, a light appeared, Which feebl}' through the darkness ilared. And at the high window whence the light — Came sickly on the mists of night, A second's space Hunyadi's frame — And but a second by it came. He just had waked from slumber's thrall, And though he heard a scream and fall. So from his lair he sprung in haste, His lamp he lit, and on the waste Of gloom without the match he cast, For this had by the window pass'd. Him, Omar in that second spied, And though the space between was wide, THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 235 Omar swift as a flash of thought, Within his hand his pistol caught, And sliot, and sent a ball so near, And close unto Hunyadi's ear — It grazing pass'd along its lobe, And did it of some skin disrobe. But from whence rose this scream and fall, Which seem'd so to have startled all ? XVIII. When in the window Bayard drew And last there had left our view, His feet of boots he swiftly cleared, And with dark lantern all prepared, To search that castle through and through Until lanthe met his view — He did in quest of her pursue. After long search from room to room, Where aught he scarcely saw but gloom, He suddenly the infant found, The child was wrapt in slumber sound. And soon he had her gagged and bound. One sole dim lamp within her room All sickly flared through damp and gloom. And this had Bayard kept to see If his long coil of rope was free Of knots, of tangles and of twists ; 'Twas tied around her waist and wrists So as to keep her upright quite. While she was lowered from the height. All was prepared, the window found. From which to let her to the ground. When Guy Harold the light espied, That in lanthe 's room did bide, And to her chamber swiftly hied, 236 THE RHEI OF LYOLYNN. But noiseless as the zephyrs glide. And ull weaponless was he, not e'en A club witliin his hand was seen. Though noiseless as the lightest air, Did Harold to that room repair, Yet him did Bayard see and hear, The moment that he entered there. With knife in hand that gleara'd on high Like lightning in a midnight skj-, Mouth, nostrils Avide, and glaring eya, He did upon the seaman fly. XIX. But ne'er had Bayard met before In all his thousand frays of yore, A man amongst all hues of men. As he grappled in that castle then. Ne'er had he waged in ull his life 'Till now so terrible a strife. Though all his dajs with broils were rife. His hand that held the gleaming knife — Down by the seaman's throat lie brought, But swifter than a flash of thought. The seamau backward drew, and caught The hand that would his death have wrought — As down through air he saw it glide, And press'd it to the negro's side ; Caught Bayard's tliroat Avithin one hand. There quickly fix'd a vice-like band. And while he held him thus in thrall He thud him hard against the wall. Wild roll'd tlie negro's huge white e^^e, Like tossing moon in sable sky, His vast black mouth was open'd wide, THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 23 1 Where two dark shaggy tusks were spied, His nostrils wide distended were, Either through savageness or fear. The light upon his visage glowed, And long, lieal'd, awful gashes showed. And 'neath the light so pale and dim' He seem'd all horrible and grim, As might some grisly king of hell. Upon the floor his weapon fell, And in its fall he read his knell. And as from out the iron toil, Or anaconda's awful coil, Some mighty monster doth emei'ge. While nearly on death's awful verge, So from the seaman's grasp he strain'd, Ana nearly had the knife regain'd. As round his form the seaman threw His arms, and towards the window drew. Around each foe their arms were wound. Each in the otlier's arms was bound. From side to side they turn and go, Nor can one foe the other throw. Their breathing comes more loud and hard, And each is on his watch and guard. A while they stand as still as death, The throbbing heart and panting breath Can plainly for a while be heard. For they speak not a single word. Again they turn and twist and strain. And on the floor they fall amain. The wliite above, tiie black below. Swift as the lightning's rudd}^ glow. The seaman dealt one crushing blow — 238 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. Full on the temple of his foe. And while his eyes with fury gleam'd, He raised his foe with strength that seem'd Beyond the province of this world, High o'er his head the negro twirl 'd, And him throughout the casement hurl'd. Then rose but one fierce, ghastly yell, As through the yielding air he fell I Full eighty feet or more below Was heard but one dull, heavy blow. O'er the casement Harold lean'd, his ear Below no other sound could hear, Where earth did the crushed body show I And there beneath the morning's glow, Amongst the upturn'd mould and grass, Was found a shapeless, lifeless mass. All that remain 'd in form and limb Of negro Bayard, the strong and grim. 'Twas this that gave the sudden sound Whose thud did on the mists rebound, That had so many startled round. XXI. And never from that awful night Until her dying day, lanthe e'er forgot the sight, She witness'd of that fray. As there, her limbs all tightly bound, With cords so closely drawn around They tortured and th?y pained. And gagged so fast, no faintest word Could from her ruby lips be heard, She on the couch remain'd — With thrills of horror and of awe — The workings of the conflict saw, THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 239 And knew the while, upon that strife "Where burn'd fell rage and hate, Depend her liberty aad life, Or some all horrid fate. It seem'd her eyes did bulge and strain, Through every fibre there — As sinews of that giant twain Whom she could see and hear. As grim they at each other tore And to and fro each other bore Around her spacious room. And the strange looks their fiices wore Amidst it sickly gloom, Were livid on her mind and soul Within long, after .year, As though limned bright upon a scroll, Without a blemish there. There, there plainly she could trace The burly Anglo-Saxon's face. The grim, fix'd, rigid, grisly smile He bore that conflict all the while. And all the ghastly hue it wore ; For full a weary week and more, — He'd lain 'neath fevers hot and sore, Which had impaired his strength of yore And made him haggard look the while • And his thick, close trimm'd, reddish hair Seem'd standing upright on its lair • His light gray eyes had turn'd to red, And horrid light through darkness shed Above his features' grisly smile. His foe, taller a head and more, But not so deep and broad of chest Reared high a face whose features wore The darkest hues by night possess'd 240 THE HEIR OF LYGLYNN. Save the one, sole, huge orbs of white, Which shed a horror through the gloom, Like some meteor of the night Terror spreading and death and doom. His massive face that nature marr'd, When she did him conceive, beget. All terribly was seam'd and scarr'd, Which made him look more awful yet. And when from out her sight he pass'd To the abyss of death below. It seem'd a dream had round her cast The all terrific, fleeting show. XXII. Wax'd Johnson's anger keen and hot, When at Hun3adi, Omar shot, Swift he moved to where Omar stood, And with words that boded little good — To Omar or his coming task, His feelings thus he did unmask. " Out-law as I am, there's no meed, Would make me do so mean a deed, As shoot at an}' mortal foe, And let him none of warning know. So cowardl}- and dark a deed — Was never written in m}^ creed, And had it been, I would have torn From out the book with burning scorn The leaf on which such thoughts were borne, Cast it in the fire's ruddy glow, Straight made it nought but ashes show. Omar De Yaux, know you or not — That man at whom you just now shot?" " I do right well, he is the hind, Who my wife treated so unkind, THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 241 As her with chams and thongs to bind, And treated every one amiss, He found in The Bower of Bliss. 'Twas him who all this evil wrought, Who from my charge lanthe brought, If at the deed I had him caught, A lasting lesson him I'd taught." At this, abrupt and stern in mood That showed his mind did little brood — Of good for Omar or his cause ; Johnson broke m without a pause. " I care not what he's done to you, Nor any member of 3"our crew, Had I known, 'twas him we'd to fight, No step towards here I'd come to night. For once I was condemned to die. Yea, mount upon the gallows high. And was innocent of the thing. For which I was about to swing. The day arrived, the awful day — On which I was to pass awaj-. From cell I saw the gallows grim, Loom through the mist of morning dim, Saw from the beam the cord hung straight. That was so soon to bear my weight. To God I cried. Oh can it be That Thou hast thus deserted me ! And while this style I praj^ed some length, "With all my heart and soul and strength. The jailor came into my cell, With smiles that somehow pleased me well. And soon he spake to me, in tone That thrill'd me, marrow, flesh and bone. With j 03^ the}' ne'er had known before. He moved the cursed chains I wore, 242 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. Thus his kind words began to fall. " No more these bonds shall 3-011 enthrall, For the crime 3'ou'll not die at all, Hunyadi it from 3-011 has moved, That 3-0U are innocent has proved, So go 3'our wa3^, and let the meed Of thanks to him be noble deed. Reward him for the life he's saved, B3- leaving all 5-our walks depraved ; A noble path through life pursue, So saving Amours he shall not rue." But how he proved that I was free Of the crime, was not told to me. I knew that 'mongst the men of crime He spent and idled half his time. Their deeds and all their secrets knew, Though not a crime himself would do, But some one found the guilt3- wretch Who aftei'wards did on gallows stretch. He has more knowledge now, I wis, About Koger's Bower of Bliss, Than e'er in 3'ou or I appeared : He knows each shaft by which 'tis air'd. Has up and down them often dared. Though scarcel3^ thirt3^ years have roll'd — O'er him their shine and heat and cold, He's done more good amongst us thieves — Than now many a priest believes. If 3'ou he's wrong'd in any way. Why, call him forth to open fray, A skillful swordsman such as you, Could in an instant pierce him through, So for this call him hi.re 'mongst us, But don't 3^ou dare to shoot him thus." THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 243 XXIII. While thus they talked, they heard a sound As of firm footsteps on the ground; Near, nearer still the footsteps drew, Yet not an object they could view. Still deeper seem'd the mist to grow, Gave forth sounds, but no form would show, To where the footsteps' tread was heard Lighter than air forth Johnson stirr'd. Soon, suddenly he took his stand. For on his breast he felt a hand. " Who have I here ?" a voice asked stern. Whose tone did Johnson straight discern. " 'Tis I, I'm lost here in this mist, Which way to go I do not wist. Hunyadi once you saved my life, Now lead me from this darkness rife," "And who are you?" the voice replied, *' And why do you now here abide ? And how come j^ou to know my name ?" " From The Bower of Bliss I came, Omar De Yaux brought me here : Johnson is my name." '' And is there Any cause for De Yaux or you To shoot at others as you do ?" " This night with Omar I came here To do no murder, that I swear, We came to take a child away, They stole from him the other day, Which justly unto him belongs. And in this way to right his wrongs, Here have we gathered at his call : Nor did I know this night at all. You were within yon castle's wall, It really seems, one hour brings 244 THB HEIR OF LYOLYNN. You 'mongst us thieves, the next 'mongst kings. I only heard but yesterday, You did in foreign country stray, And much was I surprised to night, To see 3'ou in yon window's light, The ball at you I did not speed, 'Twas Omar's hand that did the deed." " Yes, it was I," swift, Omar said, '^ Wish, it had only laid 3'ou dead. You did ray wife in fetters bind. And when a proper time I find. For that foul deed I'll make you stand In combat with me hand to hand. If by you combat be denied — I'll brand you as a coward wide." Thus straight began the man of song, " If I have done you aught of wrong. And you of me redress demand Heie ready for it now I stand, Will gladly meet you hand to hand." " It's alltogether now too dark For us to rightly see the mark. At morn we'll met in battle stark." " No, no," replied Hunyadi, "No, We shall not wait 'till morning's glow. You, De Vaux can see well as I, And we shall now this quarrel try." " I will not fight with you to night Unless you give to me the right To choose the weapons for the fight." " I give it you," Hunyadi said, So haste and choose ere night be sped." " Swords I choose, but then none have we." " Yes, and here they shall shortly be." THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 245 XXIV. Just at the moment, this was said, Forth from the castle swiftly sped Some score of servants young and old, Who'd heard this talking on the wold. Hunyadi's voice they plainly heard, Was why they from the castle stirr'd. With lanterns they came drawing near, Eager for all they could see and hear. Soon one from out that servant band — Was sent by Hunyadi's command Back to the castle to seek there For swords, and quickly bring a pair. Now said Johnson, as they will fight. Let me prepare all things aright, I'll make for them vast floods of light, Some roots of pine I did behold This eve but yonder on the wold. Well dried they were and fat as oil. This night we'll make them flame and broil; Let each man take one in his hand — And light it into flaming brand — And while around the fight we stand — We will it all the better scan. Know then which is the choicest man. XXV. While thus he spoke, the swords were brought, Each to his hand a falchion caught. Both were glowing bright, keen and broad, But De Yaux won the longest sword ! Keenly each man his sword surveyed ; Into the wold the point was laid, Well bent each way the blade 's whole length , 246 THE HBIR OF tTOLTNN. To prove its temper, steel and strength. From hilt to point each sword was tried, Where joined hilt and blade most keenly eyed. Each weapon faultless proved and good, Ready for combat each man stood. Their heads and breasts and arms were bared, And all things for the fra^^ prepared. Around the twain the robber liand — With flaming torches took their stand — High o'er their heads as mist to sco]-ch They each held up the blazing torch. Did all their brands together bring — Made round the twain a fiery ring, Within it swift each foeman trod. Right firmly pressed the dewy sod. Strode in the ring as blithe and free — With visage all as full of glee — And eyes as full of sprightly glance — As if to music, mirth and dance — Where beauty did the scene enhance. Round, on the ring cast one short view. Levelled their swords, to combat drew; Beneath the torches' waving light Flashed far and wide the falchions bright XXVI. An hour passed ; on neither blade Wais yet a sign of crimson laid. Nor o'er the form of either foe Was seen a drop of blood to glow, For skill 'd was each the sword to wield, To each 'twas weapon and a shield, To feint, to guard, to thrust, to strike, THE UEIR OF LYOLYNN. 247 To pass and ward, were trained alike, So evenly with swords they vied, None knew which best his weapon plied, And nought was heard through all this time But meeting broad-swords deadly chime. With unremitting din they rung, From their hard steel the fire sprung, And far across the spacious wold — Where mist hung o'er in heavy fold — Their stormy clang, their echos rolled, To distant gloom — of conflict told. Bright as the light the broad-swords threw. And sparks that from them dancing flew, Omar De Yaux's ej^es shone bright, 'Neath shaggy brows the hue of night, Full in their foes that shone before — A rigid, peering gaze the}" bore. His visage all was hid with beard, Save where was nose and forehead reared. These to the lights that round them glared With ghastly hues of white appeared. The visage of his foe the while Was wrapt in one fix'd, grisly smile ; His 3'ellow locks that heavy hung, Were back from his broad forehead flung ; O'er his fair cheeks and lips and chin — No robe of whiskers hid the skin, But there a few day's growth of beard All o'er them short and thick appeared, Which made him savage look the while, With grisly aspect limned his smile. Though like his foeman's orbs of night His azure e^^es were not so bright, Seem'd not so spark-like to the sight, Yet, yet, they had their share of light. 248 THE HEIR OB" LYOLYNN. And like some fiir off planets gleam 'd While full into their foe's they beam'd. XXVII. Some drops of blood on Omar's sword — Now spread o'er its bright surface broad, From where the arm on shoulder grows Down Hunyadi's fast the crimson flows ; Then wild each blazing torch was tossed, To and fro each the flambeaux crossed, And burst from out that robber throng- Shouts that echoed shrill, deep and long — As they beheld the crimson flood ! Again did Omar's sword shed blood : Again the noisy robber band Sent shouts across the misty land ; And higher rose in air their hands And twirl 'd and cross 'd their flaming brands. Yet, still the foes with steady nerve, And eyes that ne'er from foeman swerve, Feint, parry, strike, guard, thrust and foil, Swift forward move, alike recoil, And nought a while their swords reveal But unremitting clang of steel. And sparks of flame that flash and fly Like lightnings o'er a hazy sky, At length 'neath Omar's brow of night — Where gleam'd his orbs of flashing light — As levin sable cloud beneath — Hunyadi's sword found gory sheath ; Back swift as thought flerce Omar drew — Agile as though no wound he knew, Or grew far stronger through its pain, And straight thrust at his foe amain, THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 249 While high Hunyadi's falchion flew — As lightning flashes to the view, And like the thunder's bolt of flame Right down on Omar's arm it came, Between the elbow and the hand, And down upon the thirsty sand, Sudden as falls some mighty limb From strong oak torn by levin grim — That falls ere tempests are abroad — Fell Omar's hand and arm and sword ; Clean severed from his form 'twas lopp'd, Together hand and falchion dropp'd, Uprose the handless stump in air, Stood by his head of matted hair. Then gushed the blood in columns tall, As fountains rise and arching fall Within the court of stately hall. Another blow, another thrust. And Omar writhed on gory dust. The torches waved, the shouts arose, As grim did thus the combat close. 'Gainst Johnson's knee was Omar propped, While was tied each bleeding vein, Vainly the flow of blood was stopped, The wounds gushed forth amain, The thirsty earth the crimson sopped And reeked with gory stain : But ere on earth he lifeless dropped Beneath the fatal drain, Hunyadi swiftly drew more near, On Omar's face his eyes he cast, And quickly thus regaled the ear Of him whose life was fleeting fast. 250 THE HEIK OF LYOLYNN. XXVIII. I've heard the wa^'s of God are strange, That they are hidden all in night ; Through Him empires wane and change, Arise to view, or pass from sight ! And where so e'er o'er earth I range, Where rest mine ej^es, or thoughts alight, I see this truth in letters plain, Though they were stamped upon my brain; On parchment penned in glowing stain ; And did before mine eyes remain. From my frail infancy 'till now, Yes, ere a year pass'd or my brow, Have I been toss'd from clime to.clime. Homeless waif upon the sea of time, Roaming without a helm or sail, Where e'er did floods and winds prcA^ail. 'Twas by chance I trod that ship's deck — Which on the reef became a wreck, Not 'till the day she sail'd I knew — Guy Harold was amongst her crew, When this I heard, to her I flew. To take once more of him a A'iew, Against my wishes he prevail'd. And with him on that ship I sail'd. One night upon the deck Avas I, And 3'ou and Lea were standing nigh. You thought me sound asleep the while. But I saw every frown or smile. And heard each word ye spake the time, And heard ye plan your deeds of crime. I heard ye name a place I knew — The Bower of Bliss, its whole crew Save Roger Lea, to me were known, I've oft been 'mongst its inmates thrr THH HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 251 For to that cave I oft repair'd, Know every shaft by which 'tis air'd. But never yet, when there I've been Have I e'er aught of Roger seen. By what I heard from you and him — I learn 'd he own'd that cavern grim. When on the reef we ship-wreclv'd lay, I o'er heard you to Pvoger say, The little girl that was saved there, Was to broad lands the nearest heir, I listened to you, every word, And all your fiendish plans I heard, When was sung the Thantoms of the wold, The while I did your face behold, I saw you start and frown and grin, When came the name of Lyolynn, ' Although the man that sang that song That told of Edith's deeds of wrong. Knew nothing of you at the time, 'Twas all by chance he sang the rhyme. I heard 3'ou tell Bayard to go — At morning when the tide was low. And search for papers, but it chanced Mine eye had on those papers glanced The day before, I saw them drift Amidst the wreck, and did them lift. Because I saw penn'd on them plain Lockhart and Lj^olynn. Amain 1 did conceal them safe and sound, Until a proper time I found. Then I did all their import sift, Saw they had been from God a gift, To teach me where the child belonged, That you so foully would have wronged When from Zurn's ship we landed here 252 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. So numerous 3'our comrades were, I saw uo slightest chance at all To take the child from out your thrall, So followed where j^ou bore the child, To that lone cavern in the wild. Swift with Gny Harold there I drew — With Bracklinn and 0' Conna too. I caught you all within my snare. And did the infant from you tear. Now I look back and see 'twas God Who made that ship by me be trod. He led me there the day she sailed. And it was not Harold who prevail 'd On me that day, Avith him to go, God ordered it, and made it so. He at the time intended me — In this His instrument to be. To deal His punishment and wrath, 'Twas Him who set me on 3'our path. The infant, by His aid, my hand Wrenched from all evils that you plann'd. And you will shortly tread that shore. From whence joii can return no more. But I must perform one task yet, I do to Baj'ard owe a debt. Which with his life I'll pay to him ; But he shall die on gallows grim, And unto beasts shall he be fed. Omar where is this Bayard?" "Dead, I did him from the casement throw. More then two full hours ago." A voice from out the throng replied Which just had from the castle hied. THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 253 XXIX. At this De Vaux with sudden bound Leapt upward from the gory ground, And stood erect and strong and tall As though he had no wound at all. And towards Harold, who 'midst the glare Of torches that were hlazinaf there. Stood with lanthe in his arms, Just where the light reveal'd her glowing charms. The wounded man made way and cried " Bayard is not dead, you have lied." But ere to Harold, Omar trod, He reel'd, and sank upon tlie sod. " Alice, Alice," thrice he murmured low, The blood gushed out in rapid flow. Dropped heavy on the earth his head, Grim pallor o'er his visage spread. His eye shed forth a horrid glare Put on a fix'd and rigid stare. His breathing ceased, stiff, cold as stone His limbs and body all had grown. And life had from fierce Omar flown. With beard matted rough, stiff" with gore Like lodged grass storms had driven o'er, Had left it wildly ridged and tossed, All stifl'ened grim with hail and frost, And that stern savage look he bore Through life, which fierce in death he wore, With parted lips, mouth opened wide Rimmed with a beard, thick crimson dyed And nostrils stretched, all wide displayed A horrid spectacle he made As dead amidst his gore he laid. 254 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. XXX. As HunA-adi "wiped from- liis brand The crimson d3'e, unto the band Of robbers who all silent stood. Each with his torch of blazing wood, He sternly said, "Go bring a bier. And straight your chieftain take from here, And cast him in some mountain gurge. From whence he never can emerge, But with its floods be downward hurPd — Into the centre of the world. And down there, let the monsters grim. Tear, devour him form and limb. Let him go with the waters' flight Into impenetrable night. So that if e'er in shine or storm — His cursed soul should seek its form, 'Twill have to go in endless gloom, To look upon its mortal's tomb. And while it watches, not curse the light^ — Of moon nor stars nor noonday bright, But sit in its own element Eternal night, and there repent 1 So, go, and haste his corpse away Ere it is seen by morning's ray." XXXT. He ceased, and swift a bier was made, The ghastly dead was on it laid. And to a mountain gvirge convey'd. And 'midst its waters black and vast, Without a tear the dead was cast, And to eternal darkness pass'd. The robber band a lesson taught, Their caves and dens m silence sought. THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 255 To Castle Flame its inmates hied, And joyous shouts reecho 'd wide. They flew upon the shades of night, O'er glen and wold and mountain's height, And loud within the castle's wall — Did strains of music rise and fall, Far were they heard, for winds were whist, And nought but these disturbed the mist, That hill, glen, wold and castle kissed. Which until morning kept its trj-st. ioG THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. PART YI. Before the morning's rosy glow, The heavy mist moved dull and slow, All sleepy from the sea it roll'd — From castle, hill and glen and wold — While rising da3ijeams through it burst. Its gloomy folds to brightess nursed. And made it from the earth repair — In folds of light to distant air, And gave it as in space it roll'd The hues of amber and of gold And made it seem o'er its wide scope A vast dominion, all of hope — And mingled Beauty, Bliss and mirth. At least such as is known on earth. For what are these than fleeting shows. Like mist that 'neath the morning glows ? The gilded clouds that rest in air, And stretched on just such solid lair? Frail, empty pageantries that fly — A while across bright Fanc^^'s sk}^, 'Till comes a night, or tempest's breath. And all dissolves in gloom and death. II. Bright glowed the sun upon the world, The mist was into ether hurl'd. And glowing bright on Castle Flame The splendors of the da3'-god came, THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 257 And far away o'er sparkling sea, O'er movintain, glen and grass}^ lea, O'er forests vast and barren wold. The e^^e could view from that tall hold. And all where e'er the eye could range — Was nought but beauty, what the change. If did the eye on seas alight, There was water sparkling, glowing bright, If from this the dazed vision roll'd, 'Twas met by sloping hill or wold, Yast woody tracts, or grassy land, And if while these were being scann'd — 'Twas found some barren spots they bore. E'en these their hues of beauty wore. And if the vision turn'd to scan — That lofty castle's stately' plan. There it nought but grand structure found — From its high turrets to the ground. From side to side, from end to end, Did all in statel^^ grandeur blend. Upon a wide and lofty wold. Was built this strong, towering hold. It had been rear'd in days of yore. Back, full twelve hundred years and more, By Lyolynn, a sea-king bold, Who with his sword had won that wold, Whose name within the olden time. Was known on every sea and clime. Who had sent o'er the world his fame, Brighter than glows the northern flame. For he had trod on thousand fields. Amidst the crash of swords and shields ; And his bright glory, worth and name, Yet live upon the roll of fame. And this chieftain's conquoring sword, 258 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. Won him dominions fair and broad, The lands all round this lofty wold, On which he'd rear'd his kinglj^ hold. All which, unto his d3'ing day. He held beneath his lordly swa3\ And all this realm his sword did win, Still bears the name of Lyolynn. He. left behind a noble line, Which did in martial glory shine ; All like him, from sire to son. By each were deeds of knighthood done And each his share of glory won. For valor, courtesy and strength. Were known the world's vast width and length. 'Till time flew on and manners changed, And differently was all arranged, The Sun of knighthood, which of 3'ore Had gilded all the world so pure, Began to charm the earth no more — With its effulgence grand and bright 1 Behind corruption's growing night — Which more eclipsing grew each da}^, Still gradually it hid its ray, Until it waned and pass'd away. And sank 'neath night that planet pure, To never lume the nations more. III. The Sun of knightliness went down, Behind corruption's sable frown, And the dark ages came apace Left in time's vale a barren space. And in this while the noble race, Sold, lost their old ancestral place, THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 259 Since then it had been own'd and held, By races all unknown to eld, Who proudl}^ vaunted to the earth — The}'^ had from Lyolynn drawn birth. Sprung from that formidable race — Which first in valor held their place. But when the lineage was searched, On its rolls no such names were perched, And soon the searching, busy eye^ Proved all their vaunting was a lie. Nor could they prove their source aright. For it was wrapt in mud and night : But — lord — or lady Lyolynn, They donn'd, who did those towers win. And thovigh through them and time and storm. It much had changed in looks and form Yet, it was all a castle grand, As was extant within the land. And the same name it had of yore. Until that ver}^ day it bore. Yes, known to all by the same name Its founder gave it. Castle Flame. Its massive walls of dark gray stone. Revealed no wear from ages flown. Showed from foundation unto roof, It had 'gainst time and storm been proof There tier on tier the massive blocks Stood unworn as when fi'om the rocks Of the adjacent mountains vast — They had been hewn, and there placed fast — Within that massive, lofty wall, To close a mighty sea-king's hall. The turrets still rear'd high their form. And seem'd untouched by time or storm, 260 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. And did a noble view command, Of rolling sea and mountain land. Though much of its primeval grace Scarce fleeting time had left a trace, Yet in and round that castle all, From floor to ceiling and to wall, From ground unto the turrets tall, Look'd grand where e'er the eye could fall About that ancient sea-king's hall, IV. A circle round that statel}' hold. Amongst the grasses of the wold, Which b3^the eye was easy seen — Deep hollowed in the glowing green, And this of yore the eye could note. Had been the castle's circling moat, But this surrounding fosse of yore As knighthood days were past and o'er, Was needed to defend no more. So pai-tly it with earth was fill'd, Just so it could with grass be till'd. But showed a hollow midst the green, To tell where it of j^ore was seen. And far beyond this hollow'd place. The roaming eye could also trace — The ruins of an ancient wall, Which once around that sea-king's hall Had been strong and massive rear'd,and tall, But hands not storm had wrought its fall. It had been ta'en to arch a bridge Which spann'd from there unto a ridge Of woody mountains far awa}'. Behind which glowing pastures lay. Watered by streams as clear as glass, THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 261 By which did herds of cattle pass, And cropped at ease the fatt'ning grass, And be^'^ond these were fertile fields, Marked here and there with plowmen's bields. Where tracts of wheat and tasseled corn, Did far and wide the earth adorn, Where orchards vast and vineyards stood, And scattered groves of statelj- wood, Far as the eye could wander o'er, These lands unceasing verdure wore. These the dominions broad and fair, Of Lyolynn's young maiden heir. The child we do lanthe call, Now own'd these A^ast dominions all. The heavy mist had sped in air, The sun grown bright, the morning fair, And all the many inmates found — Within that castle's spacious bound, Grew happy with morn's bright 'ning ray. And gayly whiled the time awaj^ — With their light toil, with mirth or lay. But to a line of rock that stood From the castle many a rood, Which a tall wall-like front did show, To deep, vast seas that lay below — Some thirteen hundred feet and more. And gently lean'd that ocean o'er ; To this five men were seen to pass, Bearing along a sable mass Of battered flesh and broken bone. Which look'd as though it once had known Somewhat the form and shape of man, 262 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. Biit had much changed its primal plan. Where the perpendicular -wall — Lean'd o'er the flood and seem'd most tall This mass was borne, with toss and throw, Sent whirling to the sea below. And as this mass of flesh and blood, Went falling to the distant flood, Those who it to the waters threw Lean'd o'er the rocks its fall to view And as it touched the sea they saw Some grisl}^ sharks unto it draw, Which seized on it, and 'neath the wave Bore it down to some unknown grave. And thus amidst the waters vast, From sight, for ever Bayard pass'd. Back nigh unto the castle's wall. Beneath a shady poplar tall, Where from was smiling landscape showed, These five in mirth and laughter strode. VI. Four of these five before we've seen. And know them well b}' this, I ween. We met them on the headlands wild, When there a wreck their ship was piled, And now beneath this poplar green, Are Bracklinn and 0' Conna seen, And 'neath its shade by zephyrs fann'd, Guy Harold and Hunyadi stand. But never, never yet 'till now, We'd view'd the other one, I trow. Beneath the stately tree he stands, A brush and book are in his hands, Painter and sculptor both is he, Has in these arts won high degree. THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 263 He could a glowing landscape paint, Or limn a demon or a saint, And give to all fall life-like hue Yea, makes each point to nature true. And from a rugged rock can form — A thing that seems alive and warm, A shape superb, with smiling face. All perfect symmetry and grace. His azure eyes now view the sea. As though on it his musings be. Tall is his form though bent with years, Yet still all vigorous appears, His'wrinkled arms and hands yet show They still a sturdy vigor know. And from their massive bulk and span. And from their perfect mold and plan. It is right easy there to scan. That these some fifty years before, A brawny giant's vigor bore. His spacious depth and width of chest. And ample shoulders all confessed — There once an athlete's strength did rest. His feet are large, his legs are long. But sinewy all, lithe and strong. His neck thick, sinewy and short. Does stately, noble head support, Fair his forehead broad and high. And o'er his eyes of azure d3'e — That have not lost their ancient glow — Lie brows and lashes white as snow. His hair is white as hoarest rime. And like some prophet of old time. His beard o'er cheeks and lips and chin. With heavy growth hides all their skin, Dense o'er his broad, high cheeks it grows, 264 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. And almo&t hides his Grecian nose. And white as foam when tempest blows Long and broad down his bosom flows. The birth-roll of the land can show, Born was he a centur}' ago. From his boyhood, unto his prime Was past in travelling, all the time, Through every country he had been. Which on the world's bi'oad chart is seen, And of their people great and small — Knew their ways, habits, manners all. Had roam'd o'eranountain, march and field, And ate, drank, slept in peasant's bield, Knew all of life their traits could yield. Knew all their favorite themes and songs. Each vice and virtue which belongs From lowest serf to highest peej, For he had shared their toil and cheer. And mated with far higher things. Been welcome in the courts of kings. To the last lord of L^olynn, Who sail'd that fatal ship within. Which we wrecked on the reef have seen, He had a friend in boyhood been, Yea, help'd him in a time of need. Nor had the sculptor's generous deed Been e'er forgotten b}^ that lord, But in his grateful heart 'twas stored, And when the sculptor old became and hoar, And made by grim misfortunes poor. He sought him midst his want and Avoe, Repaid the deed of long ago. Relieved his want and woe and care, And made him to a cot repair — That stood amidst a landscape fair — THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 265 High on a woodj^ hill top tall, Short distance from the castle's wall, And within it ten j^ears and more—. Had dwelt this painter old and poor. Some one to him that very morn The news of last night scenes had borne, So to the castle swift he drew To see if all he heard were true. This is wh}' the painter Ulrick came To be seen 'mougst those at Castle Flame. VII. On lightning wings the moments flew, The plowman's horn for noon time blew ; Yet still beneath the poplar green — ■ In merry mood those five are seen ; For each the world had travelled well. Had much of what they'd seen to tell. But while the}^ talked, adown the road * Which led unto that fair abode, They saw a cloud of dust appear. Whose swartly folds high rode in air. Fast towards the castle drew more near, And soon amidst its gloom they heard — The horse-hoofs which the dust had stirr'd, And as they reached the sloping green, Were Mosman and his daughter seen. With score of comrades at their rear, Who did on noble steeds appear — Right up the sloping green they rode. That glowed around that grand abode, Fair Alice on a milk-white steed. Took of the coming train the lead. And as she hoary Ulrick pass'd, A greeting unto him she cast. 2G6 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. " Who is that maiden ?" Harold said Just as the train had b^' tliem sped. " Nigh all the world I roam'd, I ween, Yet fairer maid I've never seen." Thus Bracklinn hastil}^ replied, " He who did nearest to her ride, Is sure the very man, I ween — At Mosman's grange by me was seen. When unto Omar, who was there, I did Hunyadi's letter bear. The shades of night were thick'ning round, When Mosman's grange by me was found. There near the river 'neath a tree. Did I four men together see, This man was one, the other three Were Zurn, De Yaux and Koger Lea, But so disguised was I, those men Seem'd not to recognize me then ; This man soon as I came in view, Was the sole one that to me drew, Into his hand the note I threw, He said right well De Yaux he knew. That Omar was to him a friend. Oft there as guest his time did spend, And that he would at my request. Straight give it to his honor'd guest, As this he said, mj- steed I spurr'd, His mettle to full action stirr'd. Which made him prance and spring and bound, And suddenly I wheel'd him round, Gave him the spur and slack'd his rein, And parted from their sight amain." Here Ulrick broke in " You are right, That was him and his daughter bright, THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 261 A man of lordly wealth is he, Owns vast extents of hill and lea, That spread around his stately home, Far as the strongest eye can roam, But just through thievery and fraud, Has he won all his mighty hoard, And lands that stretch around him broad." Here Harold said, "These arc the sort Of men who live in kingly court. They on the choicest cuts can dine, And drink the best of ruddy wine. While those who strive to honest live, And all their thoughts to virtue give, Can only drink the lees of wine, And on skin, bone and gristle dine. And when the}^ grow too old and hoar, To toil o'er ocean, dale and moor. Then go as pauper, gray and poor, Within the filthy alms-house door. And there submit to every jeer, And humbl_y crouch beneath the leer — Of its rough, boorish overseer. Yes, 3'es, this world is cursed queer. If man is only bless'd with wealth, No matter if 'tis gain'd by stealth. He straight can take the highest pearch, At board, in counsel or in church. And all to him will bend the knee, Although a downright thief is he, All men to him are truckling slaves. Just look at yonder drove of knaves, From their steeds they are alighting now. See their foolish, foppish style, see how All the servants run, and humbly bow. Ready to kiss their feet, I trow. 268 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. Like mongrel curs that run to meet Their lord, and lick around his feet. Yes, yes, get wealth, no matter how, And all to you will cringe and bow. Yea, steal by day, and steal by night, Pile up your hoards of treasure bright, And 3'ou on choicest cuts can dine. And quaff the best of ruddy wine, I know not why, but ne'er 'till now, I've felt thus 'gainst the rich, I trow. No, ne'er 'till no wthey've waked such spleen, As now I feel through all my mien. And treasure I shall search for now. And win it too , I heed not how. I know just where it can be won. And 1 swear e'er to-morrow's sun Shall half his dailj' course have run, I'll bring it from its hiding place. And it shall Harold's coffer grace." VIII. As thus he spake old Ulrick strode — Into the Lyol^'nn abode. And left the four to talk the while Of fickle fortune's frown or smile. As from their sight old Ulrick drew. Thus Harold straight began anew. " Now here, are we four mortals thrown — L/ike waifs that on the shores are blown. No spot on earth however lone. That either one can call his own, Without a friend, without a dime, Poor strangers in a foreign clime. What little had been saved by me. Lies in the light-house 'neath the sea. THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 269 And no man ever it can gain-^ 'Till God shall dry the watery main. And though m}' losses are severe, Seem ever more beyond repair, They are, they are I do confess. Than Bracklinn's and O'Conna's less, Like them no wife and child I lost. Nor saw them 'neath the billows tost. If I had met with such a plight — I crazy would have gone out right. Yes, here we are, from ocean hurl'd, All waifs and beggars in the world. Now, I see not one single bit, Why to such fates we should submit. When Roger has such boundless wealth, Which he has gathered all by stealth. And I see nought in the deed amiss. To take it from The Bower of Bliss. '• Why let the old thief keep such pelf, Useless to all, and to himself? I do not think it theft at all, For us to take it from its thrall." " Nor I," said Bracklinn with a smile, "I'll go help foray on his pile." '■ The same with me," O'Conna cried, *' I never yet such hoards espied, With 3^ou I'll gladly there repair And help to bring away a share. Whj^ let the old thief hold it thus, When it is needed so by us ?" At this, the gong for dinner time. Did in the castle noisy chime. Bracklinn and O'Conna at the call, Swift sped them to the castle hall, For gluttons were they both, and long 210 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. Had they been listening for that gong, And scarcely did they wait to hear, Its first harsh tone rise on their ear. That off they flew the meal to greet, So fast you scarce could see their feet. When the}' had in the castle fled, To Harold thus Hunyadi said. IX. " Ever since that fair maiden past, A gloom has o'er your soul been cast, I see 3'ou have right at first sight. Gone in love with that woman quite, Though she is beautiful and 3'oung, Think of the stock from whence she's sprung, If I were you, I would not care, t To mingle with such poison 'd tare." " On barren rocks I've often seen — Where scarce was viewed one speck ofgreen, A flower bloom divinely fair. And with rich fragrance fill the air, Seen solitary rose appear. Where grew nought else but poison'd tare. Yet it did just as perfect grow. And just as pure and sweetl^^ blow, And just such fragrance round it throw, As sweetest could the gardens show. I've seen the rain-bow's lovely form Beam forth untainted by the storm." " And I have seen," Hun3^adi said, " Many a richer, brighter maid, And sprung from nobler race than she, Wed far much poorer man than thee. So do not let thy heart grow faint, THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 2T1 Nor aught of gloom its brightness taint, And when in j-oncler hall we go, Away thy moody feelings throw, Amongst the crowd stand thou erect, All dignified in self-respect ; From head to heel, through all thy mien. No sign of bashfulness be seen, If with this maid thou should st confer — Be manly in thy speech with her. It is the ore that makes the coin, The stamp no added worth doth join, And though the minted mark be set On brass, copper, zinc or lead, 3^et They '11 not pass for gold, what e'er the mark, At day time nor at midniglit dark, The cheat is gross, 'tis easy told. They show no sound at all of gold." Thus as they spake, within the hall They moved unto the dinner call ; And 'mongst the throng they mingled soon That crowded through a large saloon. There Hnnyadi did lanthe view, And swift beside the child he drew, Some words he whispered in her ear, Which no one there save she could hear, Then moved he swift amidst the crowd, Where all was mirth and laughter loud. XI. Many were the inmates of that hold, From children young to women old. For the last lord of Lyolynn Gave there a home to all his kin, Who were in need of home or pelf, 272 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. Or who were poorer than himself. All these unto the castle sped, By him were cloth'd and housed and fed, And there an easy life the}^ led. As the old lord was never wed, And was away most of his time Journejdng in some foreign clime, No one within that castle's bound, Was by its many inmates found, To check b}^ either night or day. Their feasting, pastime, or their play. So a right joyous life they led, And most sumptuous they fed. When once his kindred entered there, The}' seldom left his noble cheer, But straight became with fervent zest, Its good old owner's steadfast guest. And never thought of leaving there, 'Till borne away upon their bier. xn. As Harold strode the hall within, lanthe heir of Lyolynn, Who did by Alice Mosman stand Straight grasped the seaman by the hand. And thus with sprightly tone she said, As shook the ringlets round her head, " Cousin Alice, here's a friend of mine And I must make him one of thine." Then with her face bright wreathed in smile. In an all artless, child-like st3de — She made the two together known, And with her arms around them thrown, She walked the statel}^ pair between, And led them to the festive scene. THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 273 Soon as they near'd the table broad, That was with food most richly stored, Two chairs lanthe caught in haste, And side by side her guests she placed. With choicest cuts their plates she piled, With rudd}' wine their goblets smiled, By Harold then her seat she took, And happy was lanthe 's look. XIII, Around the table broad and long, Had gathered all the eager throng ; And far to left and far to right, Where e'er lanthe's gaze did light, Nothing but faces smiling bright. And joyous feasting met her sight. Bracklinn and O'Conna side by side, Nigh opposite of her she spied. And the right eager, hastely mood. With which they hid huge piles of food. The swift way down each gluttons throat, She saw the wine in torrents float, The way they slapped their lips at times, Sent far and wide these stormy chimes, The noisy way the^^ sucked their teeth, Which gleamed at times their lips beneath. The way they each displayed their tongue, As swift it from its cavern sprung, To wine receive, or lumps of food, lanthe view'd in mirthful mood. But no loud laughter showed lier glee — At all she chanced to hear and see. Until she saw O'Conna rear — A sparkling wine cup to his ear, And spill the glowing liquid there, 274 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. Who did so sleepy drunk appear — He could not either see nor hear. Nor could he find his mouth aright — In which to pour that liquid bright, Though it the while, wide open stood, Prepared to quaff the ruddy flood. An equal cause did Bracklinn show, To make her laughter merr}^ flow, His ej'es lids heavy hung and low, His sleepy head rock'd to and fro. His fork pierced in a slice of tart, His hand did from the table start, But it did 'mongst his whiskers rove, To find his mouth he vainly strove, To find his mouth he vainly tried, Though for the tart 'twas open'd wide. So long his trials fruitless proved, So long it 'mongst his whiskers moved, Upon the fork it lost its hold, And dropping on the floor it roll'd. Then burst lanthe's laughter wild, Instant all eyes were on the child. And loud around that spacious board — Both 3'oung and old with laughter roar'd. So wild and loud and deep and strong The merr}^ laughter burst and long, Amongst that gay and festive throng, E'en Bracklinn and O'Conna woke. And half waj- from their stupor broke, Each quafT'd another cup of wine. And straight again began to dine, And though not one amongst that feast, Knew what stirr'd lanthe's mirth the least. They only hearty laughed and wild, Because, just so had done the child, THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 275 For now they saw that she was heir To all those broad dominions fair, No matter what the child mioht do. They'd truckling after her pursue, Yea, mimic her in every way. What e'er she chanced to do or say, And let her laugh or weep or smile, They straight would do the same the while, And now they laughed because she did, Though her cause of mirth from all was hid. XIV. All burst with Mighter loud and strong, Save few amongst that festive throng, And two of these to crimson blushed, Seem'd at that mirth confused and flushed Even long after it had hushed, Seem'd to think they had caused the birth Of that wild burst of sudden mirth, That almost all had join 'd in there, And these Alice and Harold were. It seem'd these two soon as they met, Had their love upon each other set, Or as in after time they told, When years had since their marriage roll'd " They felt something keen as a dart, Through all their inmost being start . Keep moving in and round each heart, Which never did from them depart. Well might these twain while at the board They heard the gust of laughter pour'd, Have fancied it was they alone. Who had in it the feasters thrown, For nothing had they done the while But watched each other with a smile; 276 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. Nought had thej^ ate, but aye askance. The whole time met each other's glance. And nought hut simple child-like speech, Had pass'd the while from each to each. Two such love-sick mortals, I ween, As they were, ne'er before were seen. And not until the^^ heard the laugh, Did either eat, or red wine quaflT, And even then their mouthfuls were 81owly prepared, and very spare, Scarce they ate at all, I ween, Their mouthfuls small and far between. XV. The feast was o'er, and from the hall Throng 'd out the merr}^ feasters all, Some roam'd among the woodlands green. Some down along the sea were seen, Some stretched themselves in sluggard's ease — To rest beneath the shadj' trees. And many sought a cool retreat, To waste the day in slumber sweet. But far from all the rest aloof, Near a turret on the lofty roof, Alice Mosman, Guj' Harold too, With ruby lipped lanthe drew. Silent a while the trio stood, Yiewing sea, tall hill and waving wood. At length lanthe smiling said. " Just ere we unto feasting aped, As you did in the hall appear Hunyadi me to him drew near. And softly whispered in mine ear. So neither one of you could hear, THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 2T7 lanthe take this loving pair, And give them introduction fair. Find at the board for each a space, And side by side these lovers place, When you have found for each a seat, Pile high their plates with all things sweet, But do not watch them while they eat, When the feast is done, unto the roof Take you the twain, then keep aloof. And it shall be to your behoof, Of this I'll shortly give you proof " XVI. Thus spake the child who little knew 'Twas from her words the blushes 2:rew. That spread their hues of crimson dye, O'er each flush 'd face that met her eye. Who all the while, abashed and coy, Each other ey'd with growing jo}-, Felt a keen thrill their bosoms fill, Which seem'd to bow them 'neath its will ; They spake not, but their eyes confessed The tender feelings of each breast. Dead silence reigned a little space. And each seemed rooted to their place Though they were statues standing there, 'Till thus began the rosy heir. " Harold to me and Alice tell The story of the Lovers' Well, You promised it a week ago, And I would fain the story know. Tell us this now and I'll no more — Ask you to tell of tales of yore." " When I was a boy,'' the seaman said " As together round the world we sped, 218 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. My father oft wild legends told About a daring race of old — He styled the lords of Lyolynn, "Who in old time did glor}^ win Mid wars alike on land and flood, In scenes of peace as well as blood. And this story that I tell 3'ou now, Happened in this tower, I trow. For my father spoke of Castle Flame, "When unto me he told the same. The Lovers' Well. Osci, a lord of Lj^olynn, In ancient time did glory win, Far famed was he o'er land and wave, And styled the bravest of the brave, Bold was his heart, and strong his hand, His sword in war the lightning's brand. Swift as it lays. the forests low — His blade destroj-ed his stately foe, To the oppressed a friend was he. He made their fierce oppressors flee. He was the weak one's sword and shield — By day or night, on flood and field, "With joy the poor his presence hail'd Before him all the tyrants quail'd. No braver man in battle van — Has through a slaughter press 'd. Nor braver since the race began Was e'er in armor drest, None nobler e'er in listed ring Has placed a spear in rest, THE HETR OF LYOLYNN. 219 Or any prize from battle bring, Or after glory quest. II. The day was bright, the sun was warm, The breeze was blowing free, Round liis bark that oft faced the storm Roird high a sparkling sea. And o'er his vessel's sable prow The mighty Osci lean'd, His polished helm, his manly brow From scorching sunbeams screen'd. His large blue eye clear as the sky, Or as the placid sea, Watched o'er the waters rolling high, A corsair sailing free. Towards Algiers full weL he knew That vessel plowed the waves. That she was mann'd with savage crew, And loaded down with slaves. With sails all spread unto the wind, He gave the corsair chase, The laughing billows roll'd behind, As o'er them sped the race. Glittering billows roll'd behind. And sparkling roll'd before, As on and on before the wind They sped the waters o'er. On, on, o'er leagues of roaring brine The flying vessels sped, Behind the billows rose in line, And ranlc like rose ahead. Still, still narrower grew the space The bounding ships between, 'Till side by side in fearful race 280 ' THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. The hostile barks were seen. 'Till scarce a yard of ocean's face The twain did intervene. Together bark with bark was lashed By Osci's dauntless crew, Though high o'er them the billows dashed, And sea foam o'er them flew. III. An hundred men as bold and stout, As ever fought in fray, As ever caused their foeman's rout By either night or day. In line stood on the corsair's deck, All arm'd from head to heel, Ready for triumph or for wreck, An awful ridge of steel. With tall morions polished sheen, And breast-plates trimm'd the same, Bright shields and spears and broad-swords keen, They seem'd a ridge of flame. IV. Not swifter leaps the lion bold Forth from his fearful den, At midnight on the awe-struck fold. Then sprung fierce Osci then. Not grimmer comes the avalanche Adown the mountain tall — Tearing all rocks like doated branch That chance to bar its fall — Than came that chief with all his band Upon the corsair crew, With clashing shield and flaming brand They on the pirates flew. THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 281 Fierce fought for liberty and life The corsair's savage horde, And long the air with sound was rife Of breaking shield and sword, But fiercer Osci waged the strife And pirates' life-blood pour'd And ere the sun went down from sight, And night closed o'er the main, He poured a glad and glowing light On heaps of pirates slain. And showed upon that corsair's deck No pirate breathing left. All stretched around in gory wreck With heads and helmets cleft. V. As beams the iris midst the clouds When dies the thunder-storm — So from the throng the corsair crowds Comes forth a female form ; Her sweet young face beam'd like the moou Seen in a stormy sky,' Her smile was like the sun's at noon, When no clouds o'er him fly. Her coral lips and pearly teeth Were perfect as could nature rear. And white as snow on Northern heath Her breast and arms appear. Her brow was fiiir, and bright beneath Her eyes flashed dark and clear, O'er neck and shoulders a sable wreath Waved folds of raven hair. Her lovely form from heel to head Was harmony complete. And beauty a grand halo shed 282 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. O'er all ber being sweet. Her form was cast within tbat mold The best dame nature yet could plan, When she did all her strength unfold, And showed her noblest work to man, When she from out her treasures vast, Ere on her fell sin and sorrow's blast; Her best elements together brought, And on the shrine of Beauty wrought A being with all glory fraught— With angel's form and seraph's thought, The choicest thing she 3et could plan, And gave that grandest work to maul VI. Midst all my frays, bold Osci said, On land or yet on flood, No fairer prize to me has sped In form of flesh and blood. For fairer ne'er was wed by king, Nor nestled to his side. Unto Castle Flame that maid I'll bring, And she shall tend my bride. ^ Her pure white, snowy hands shall on My blooming Edith wait, No fitter one her robes to don, And tend upon my mate. VII. To Castle Flame the maid was brought, Hagar w^as the fair one named. By peer and knight the maid wis sought. For far w^as her beauty famed. And many came to woo and win The maid of Osci's bride, But ere the wooing did begin, THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 283 She to each her maid denied. Oft the suitors furious grew At Osei's lady fair, When she from their longing ej^es withdrew Her maid with raven hair. Oft in listed ring with spear in rest, Against proud knight arrayed, Was Osci in his armor drest To battle for the maid. Many a suitor's shield was cleft, And morion rent in twain, By Osci of their life bereft. Ere they deemed their wooing vain. As time rollVl on of Osei's bride A female child was born, A babe fair as was e'er espied By glowing beams of morn ; As sweet a babe as ever smiled, Or yet with life did start. She who in after years was styled, Edith of the Cruel Hcai-t. VIII. To tend the babe both night and day, Was none like Hagar found, Though 'mongst the maids 'neath Osei's sway, Did gentle ones abound. And to her mistress day by day More precious Hagar grew Than her, 'mongst all beneath her sway- No dearer prize she knew. And the suitors proud and high Who sought the maid to wed — 284 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. Were from the castle forced to fly, Or be by Osci bled. IX. 'Twas on one warm and sultry day, No breath of breezes stirr'd, Midst aspen leaves no slightest play Of wind was seen nor heard. The massive walls round Castle Flame, 'Of granite gray and dun, Nigh hot as molten ore became Beneath the scorching sun. No single bird upon its wing Was seen to move that day, But sat all like a lifeless thing Amidst the leafy spray. The herds 'neatli boughs of stately trees Lay panting with the heat, E'en in their hives the busy bees Did from the glare retreat. 'Mongst grass that once luxuriant grew Upon the pastures wide — No sign of verdure met the view, But wilted was and dried. Far away the waveless sea As molten silver beam'd, Lifeless all nature seem'd to be Though all 'neath sunshine gleam 'd. High on a moss-clad rock that there Looms o'er vast floods of brine, Osci lay midst the sultry air Beneath a spreading pine, And by his side his lady fair Did on the moss recline, Long had they grieved that their fair home, THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 285 That rose so high in air, That looked o'er leagues of sea and foam. O'er hills and valleys fair, Could of water no supply obtain, No crystal spring nor well, No water save which from the rain Within the cisterns fell. One half my lands, bold Osci spake, I freely would bestow To him who through these rocks can break, To where pure waters flow Though oft the task I undertake I can no water show. If oaily here we had a well Of waters cold and clear, There'd be no place on hill or dell. One tenth so grand as here, Nor would we feel these droughts so fell That last one half the year. While thus he spake he saw a man Ride towards his castle gate And at his rear a caravan Came on in lordly state. A dozen camels huge and strong Groan 'd 'neath their heavy load As their harsh driver's scourging thong Fast urged them up the road. Bold Osci and Edith fair The horseman soon espied, And up the slope in swift career, Unto the twain he hied. Hail, he said, Thou lord of Castle Flame And thou his lady bright. 286 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. May ever}' joy that earth can name, Attend ye day and night. For ye are the comeliest pair That ever yet were wed, That ever met in castle fair, In humblest cot or shed. Thou art the truest knight and best That ever armor wore. That ever placed a lance in rest, Or rode 'midst battle's roar. Conspicuous thy lady bright — Moves amongst the female line. As doth the full sphered moon at night The glimmering stars out shine. To ye most high and noble pair, I've come what e'er befall, Kansom bring for a captive fair, That here ye hold in thrall. A maid you off a corsair brought, Some two long years ago, Through all this time for her I've souglit, In peril, pain and woe. But late I chanced to learn that here You captive hold that maid, So name her price, how ever dear, Her ransom shall be paid. A smile apace o'er Osci's face, Broke as thus spake the man. And when he ceased a little space, Bold Osci thus began. XI. The maid I from the corsair brought, Is no more own'd b^^ me, And if she were, I vow, there's nought THE HEIR OF LYOLYNM. 28T Would make me set lier free. Unto my wife the maid belongs And you must treat with her, See if all gold your coffer throngs She'll to her maid prefer. "While thus they spake a loud scream rang Within the castle near, And from a spacious door-way sprang Hagar the young and fair. For well that horseman's form she knew Soon as he near'd the place. Into his arms she panting liew, They met in one embrace. Hagar and Hagan from their lips The self same moment burst. Love which no sorrow could eclipse, Which each through 3'ears had nursed, Well'd up within each faithful heart, And glowing fill'd each soul. Love which from neither could depart, But throughout all their beings dart, Though ruin be its goal. XIT. In vain, in vain poor Hagan sought To set the captive free, In vain his costly gifts he brought For Edith's eyes to see. In vain he proffered glowing wares Of gold and silver bright, Huge urns of gold piled up in tiers, That shone with ruddy light, In vain he offered flashing wares Of every shade and hue, Rich silks and velvets and cashmires 288 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. Of crimson and of blue. Fabrics the choicest and the best That ever came from looms, Yast robes of furs all richly drest, And countless gems and plumes, And urns of spices that possessed The sweetest of perfumes. In vain, in vain he offered these, And chests of shining gold, Gifts that could fail no eye to please, All gorgeous to behold. In vain on earth he humbly kneel'd. And begg'd at Edith's feet, Her heart to all his pra^'er was steel'd, Though long he did entreat. And told her how long years ago He'd Hagar wooed and wed, And just as froai the altar he His happy bride had led, In rushed amidst the wedding feast Men clad in steel arraj' , Who felled him senseless with their blows And bore his bride away. Told how in search of her he had Travelled o'er sea and shore, Entreated her to ransom take, And Hagar to restore. Reward him for his faithful search. And riving woes he bore, Hagan she said, while still he kneel'd, And vainly did implore. Sooner this rock shall water yield. Than I'll thy bride restore. THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN, 239 XIII. Up to his feet the lover sprang, And grasped fair Edith's hand, And said with clear, deep voice that rang As weired music o'er the land, You promise, that if within this rock I well of water find, You will to me my bride restore. Nor as j'our hand-maid hold her more, Nor deal witli us unkind, Now promise this upon your oath, And 1 will shortly see — If God has form'd this flinty hill — Of crystal waters free. I promise it, fair Edith said While smiles bright as the morn — All o'er her rosy face were spread — Though mix'd with pride and scorn- I promise it, and if I fail To set your Hagar free, Soon as I here within this rock A well of water see, May everlasting woe and bale Forever light on me. XIV. Down through the huge and flinty rock That seem'd at all their toil to mock, Poor Hagan and his little band Toil on with willing heart and hand. For three long jears they tug and strain, And delve with all their might and main, Ply shovel, hoe and pick and bar, Yet, from water they seem distant far. They delve one hundred fathoms deep, 2;'0 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. Yet, hopeful to their task they keep Toil on with willing hand and mind Though no least trace of water find. Down, down they delve, still deeper down, Yet, no success their toil doth crown. They delve 'till ever}^ arm and hand Is worn and weak in Ilagan's band. 'Till ever}^ heart is grim with care. And loaded hcav}^ with despair I And scarce a hand save Ilagan's own Breaks through the hard, unyielding stone. At length a jo3'Ous shout is heard. And sounds one solitary w'ord ; One only word is on their tongues, With all the might of human lungs From out the well the}^ make it fl^-. And water, water, is the cr^', A well of waters clear as daj' Did Hagan's 3ears of toil repa3\ Oh, who can tell the joy he knew. When first that water met his view 1 When worn and weak he turn'd to see — His toil had set his Hagar free I True love the fearful task had done, And he his long lost bride had won. May love be alwaj^s thus repaid, And God true love forever aid. XV. Water, water, the j03-ous sound, Has echo in the castle found, And water is the only word That's in the spacious castle heard. And water Hagar joyous cries. As into Hagan's arms she flies. THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 291 Water, water, startled Edith soreams, And starts like one from dismal dreams. From castle to the well she hies. And by it stands in dumb surprise. Down o'er her face and forehead fair Stream her loose folds of sable hair, Bright beneath her da,rk eyes glare, And fix on Hagar rigid stare. Bewildered for a while she stands. Then with her small, white, jeweled hands. Back from her face her hair she flings. Her form to its full height she brings, And tiger-like on Ilagar springs. Who yet unto her Hagan clings, At Hagar 's form she grasps amain, And strives to part the faithful twain, Though all her strength for this is vain ! She's mine, still mine fierce Edith shrieks. And color flies her haughty cheeks, Wliile from her eye-balls black as night. Gleams forth a strange, unearthly light. And seeming envy, hate and ire, Sliake her form with tremors dire. Quivered her lips with fell disdain. As thus she shrieks again, again. With form that seem'd convulsed with pain, That throbb'd through every nerve and vein. She's mine and such shall still remain. For no gifts nor toil I loose her chain. The time no living soul shall see—' That willingly I set her free. With voice that well his grief bespoke, On Edith's speech sad Hagan broke. Years of captivity and woes. And toil for thee poor Hagar knows ; 292 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. Six years she has thy captive seen, Six years of toil and sorrow keen. All ransom have I paid to thee, For which thou swore to set her free I I deem'd thy promise was sincere. That thou wouldst to thy vow adhere. And still I liope and fondly trust, Thou wilt unto thy oath be just. That thou wilt set poor Hagar free, This instant hid her wend with me. Vain are thy hopes, Edith fierce replies, Hagar hides with me 'till she dies, I'll not release her unto thee, So thou need plead no more with me. Let go my maid and fly from here, Or thou must for thy death prepare, Haste forth' this instant take thy flight, Or feel how keen the sword doth bite, XVI. Then, obedient to her call. Thronged round a hundred warriors tall, All arm'd are they from head to heel, In gleaming sheathes of clanging steel. And flashing axe, or spear, or brand, Rise keen in every warriors hand, As at Edith's side they take their stand And ready wait for her command. Now Hagan fly, she says, haste, G.y, Or 3'OU and all j^our band shall die, Begone, nor dare to twit me more — I'm false to anj^ oath I swore. Haste, haste, begone with all your crew. Or they shall slaughtered be with you. And if they die, on you the crime THE HEIR OF LYCLYNN. 293 Will surely rest throughout all time, For now I ample warning give, And bid you fly, if you would live. While thus she speaks poor Hagan's band, Came up and by him take their stand. They're arm'd with pick and bar and spade. And tools with which the well was made. With arms unto the elbow bare, And breasts that know no thought of fear Although no shining steel they wear. Confront the gleaming sword and spear. Of faithless, heartless Edith's band. Who all in moody silence stand. XVII. Fierce as the cloud of coming storm, When round it flash the lightnings warm. Tall Hagan rears his stately form, As Edith's warriors round him swarm. O'er all his face a hue is spread — ■ Less like the living than the dead. Dark wave his brows, while bright beneath As sabres flashing from their sheath His eyes pour forth an awful light, Like fierce meteors of the night, When of dread famine they fortell Of pestilence or earthquake fell. While thus to Edith and his band He speaks so all can understand. Deem not with threat 'ning spear and sword, To drive me from my bride adored. Think not one of my band nor I, At your command will quail nor fly, Who break a solemn oath they swear, In us cau breed no thought of fear. 2S4 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. And here we stand as true as steel To meet all vengeance you can deal ; Though here all weaponless I stand, Ready am I to meet your band. Nor one there is amongst them all For you would dare to risk my fall, If sheathed in steel like they I stood With spear or axe or broad-sword good. Bring forth your best and bravest man. That 3'ou can find amongst your clan, And give me weapons and a shield. You'll see who best the sword can wield. And if he best the sword shall pi}'. If I beneath his valor die. Or like a coward from him fly, Then let my Hagar be his slave, And hand-maid 'till she fills her grave. But if I shall the victor be. If God the triumph give to me, Than she and I from here go free, And all my friends that here you see. Be it so. Edith quick replies, And you shall fall, or win your prize — With horse and spear in listed ring, In deadly fray with prince and king- And if they cause your overthrow, One thing at least the world shall know, Great was the hand that dealt the. blow. And laid the faithful Hagan low. But, if you do the triumph gain, By 3'ou be prince and hero slain, Your fame o'er Christendom shall go, And all of Hagan's deeds shall know. And just as surely as I live. Your Hagar unto you I'll give. THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 2^5 Then trembling, as o'erwheimed with fear, She moves to Hagan still more near, Pressed her lips close upon his ear, And speaks what none but he can hear. Hagan, she says. Oh, blame not me, For now not setting Hagar free I Would God, that I could yield her up, Nor let her liaste of sorrow's cup ! But all yon throng of warriors grim, Some giants both in thews and limb, Have journied here to woo 30ur bride. To all she has her love denied, Faithful to j^ou she still remains, And all their proffered love disdains. This morn they vow'd as with one voice — That I of them should make my choice, Choose one ere eve and let them know — On wliom I would the maid bestow. And if in this I fail'd, they swore They'd stain my castle all with gore; My towers raze, to embers burn, And all I own'd to ruin turn. And since my Osci is away — In distant country waging fray, And there perhaps long time may stay, I, now must needs their voice obey. But I will sheathe you all in steel, In armor strong irom head to heal. Give you a war-horse fleet and bold. As ever yet was bought or sold. So meet them all in listed ring. And slaughter pile with prince and king ; Their cause is wrong, and yours is just, You God shall shield from blow and thrust, So stretch the suitors in the dust, 29R THE HEin OP LYOLYNN. It's your fate to sla^^ them and j-ou must. So haste and in bright steel be drest. And 'gainst them nobly do your best. XVIII. Soon sheathed in armor strong and sheen, By Hagar's hand is Ilagan seen. Upon his head the helm she placed, And o'er his face the visor laced. A shield he dons and to his hand Is given gleaming spear and brand. As some grim tower tall and strong — » He stands before the suitor throng, A perfect knight from spur to plume, As e'er did garb of war assume. Soon on a charger huge and strong. He's seen by all the suitor throng, And thus with voice of haughty tone — By him to them is challenge thrown. Come forth ye princes proud and high, Let's see which best the spear can ply. And see Avhich best the sword can wield, Which first can cleave both helm and shield. He who shall victor o'er me xide. To him I give my blooming bride. And she is fair ye all will vow. As e'er was seen on earth 'till now. The daughter .of a king is she, Greater than any one of ye. Whose fame outstrips ye all so high, Not one of ye with him can vie ; The offspring of a king am I. Come meet me heroes spear to spear, And win the fairest of the fail : THE HEIR OP LYOLYNN. 29? Or as base cowards proved and tried ril brand ye o'er the nations wide. XIX. Then at his haughtj- challenge rose A sullen murmur 'mongst his foes, And cries of rage and hate and shame From out that throng of suitors came. Their steeds stood harnessed in the stall, And grooms were ready at their call. Straight, obedient to their word Their steeds were swift beside them spurred . To horse, to horse, in haste they sprang, And loud arose the deadly clang, As spears and swords and armor rang, And one from out the suitor throng — A haughty hero tall and strong. Struck deep his spurs in charger's gore, Like thunder bolt on Hagau bore. As on he came in fierce career Brave Hagan met him spear to spear. But vain he strives 'gainst Hagan 's force, Down instant fell both man and horse. Upon the earth he breathless went. His mighty spear to splinters rent, Lifeless he fell before the shock, While Hagan stood like moveless rock, First of that fated suitor band How SAvift in death he press'd the sand I Another came in swift career And on his breast met Hagan's spear, Through plates of steel the weapon tore, Its passage through his bosom bore. And dripping red and grim with gore, Stood out a yard behind and more. 298 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. Forth from the wound his trusty spear- In moment's space did Hagan tear, And dead upon the dust and sand Fell one more of the suitor band. On others came, their valor tried, 'Till full a score liad hied and died. While all uuharm'd from heel to head — Brave Hagan waged the combat dread, A fearful carnage round him spread, The blood of haughty princes shed. Meanwhile his trust}' band, though few, Had sheathed themselves in armor too, With spear and axe and gleaming brand. On rushed his small but trusty band. On foot and some on horse they came. To share their master's deadly game : And right and left their blows thc}^ deal, Pierce deep through plates of gleaming steel ; Full on the suitor train the}' charge, And cleft is brazen helm and targe. Loud rise the sounds of blow and thrust, And warriors fall midst gory dust. On, on they fight 'till every hand Is worn and Aveak in Hagan's band. Yet still th2y war, 'till all their foes — Are stark and grim in death's repose. They war 'till not a foe is left Whose head and morion is not cleft. Or whose thick plates of broken steel — Through breasts broad, horrid wounds reveal. They war 'till every foe is found THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 299 Amidst the reeking carnage round Ilis task once more had Hagan done, And once again his Hagar won ; And ere that day went down the sun — To him his Hagar was restored ; Hagar the adoring and adored. Soon back unto their native land They journied with their trusty band, Lived long a life of joy and love, Serene as shines the sun above. And if from out the dreary past, A shadow e'er their bliss oVr cast, It only served to make their love Rise surer all their cares above ; Kept ever on a vast increase — Their weal, their happiness and peace. And may the just and righteous lord For ever thus true love reward. Though more than thousand years havepast. And shadows o'er the story cast. Yet their memory doth not fade ; And still the deep, deep well they made, In use by Castle Flame is found, Deep delved amidst the rocky ground. Old bards of it this story tell: And it is call'd, The Lovers' Well." XVII. Then, just as ceased Guy Harold's lay, Noiselessly as might glide a fJxy, Off the roof lanthe stole away ; And all alone the twain stood there, With none their words of love to hear And their alone they still remain'd — 'Til shades of evening round them reign 'd. 300 THE HEia OF LYOLYNN. They heeded not the sun's decline, Nor marked his parting glories shine — With tints of lustre all divine O'er distant forest, hill and brine. Saw not the clouds of glowing gold That over half the heavens roUM ; Heard not the roaring thunder blast, That dark'ning all the world o'er cast, That all the sea in fury tost, 'Till it in mist from sight was lost, And looked like one vast cloud of spray, When gleam xl on it the sun-set's ray, Nor mai'ked the rainbow's glowing form That sanctified the roaring storm. That spread its arch across the world, Like hope's bright banner there unfurled. That promised peace and joy to man. And all that did its glor}^ scan. Their souls were full of bliss and love. These rose all other thoughts above. Their hearts were full of only joy ^ Unmixt, untainted with alio}-. All the bright happiness thc^ knew. From their pure vows of friendship) grew ; But of the vows that passed between — Were useless now to tell, I ween, Save this, ere from tlie roofthe}' moved. His promised bride was Alice proved. XVIII. The shades of night began to fall. The mists from seas commenced to crawl, And spread o'er earth their silent pall, 'Till darkness gathered over all. Yet through the misty folds of night THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 301 The stars sent forth a feeble light, Sent through the gloom their welcomed glow, As though to cheer the earth below ; Glimmering amidst the murky cope Like feeble ra^'S of bliss and hope — That faintly light a troubled soul. When sorrow holds the chief control. But long ere night its gloom had shed, Hunj'adi'd from the castle sped, To a place in Roger's cavern drew, Where he unseen, all things could view. Down through a winding shaft he went Which air unto the cave gave vent, A secret passage dense with gloom, Which led to that ctiVe's largest room, A passage which full well he knew Save unto him was known to few. Concealed amidst its gloom he lay, So silent as is lifeless clay ; And in the spacious room below, Where did but one small taper glow, Right plainly could Ilunyadi see — George Mosman and old Roger Lea. Right keenly from his hiding place He looked on each man's anxious face, Lea's greater signs of sorrow wore Than it had borne one month before. Upon his pale, sad, wrinkled brow. Seemed gathered sorrows past and now ; But though 'twas shadowed all with care, It bore no symptom of despair. Sad was his face, but bold his mien, And in his pale gray ej-es were seen A Hght that still unceasing glared, 302 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. As if through them his spirit stared, And told with speech that all could hear — That spirit was unlvnowii to fear, Nor had it ever harbored there The slightest atom of despair. Before a tahle long and broad, That was with strange devices scored, He reclined within a cushioned chair. His feet did on the table bear, His brawny arms at perfect rest, Were folded o'er his swelling breast, His round and statelj' head was bare, Down hung at length his thin gray hair, 'Neath huge white brows his eye-ball;? glared, And on the face of Mosman stared'r O'er the board opposite of him, George Mosman sat with features grim ..His feet were on the table thrown, "Within his mouth a pipe was shown. And 'tween each sentence that he spoke, His mouth gave volumes vast of smoke. Strong semblence he to Omar bore, The same black bush}^ hair he woi^e, The same thick, heavy, sable beard, Was over all his features laired, The same hooked nose and forehead high. And black, wily, treacheous e^^e, That flashed 'neath shaggy brows like flame, But tall and broader was his frame. But sluggishness was round it thrown, Which never was to Omar known ; Though greater far its breadth and length, It showed not half the skill and strength. The tough and hard}-, agile mien, THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 303 As was in Omar ever seen, Nor had he the bold, dauntless air, That did his kinsman Omar bear, Mosman would truckle, stoop and bend Alike to any foe or friend, Lean and depend on other's aid, And ever to offend afraid, While Omar on himself relied And every living thing defied. His voice was soft and meek and mild. Gentle as si^eeeh of maid or child. But that of Omar's deep and loud, Sonorous, boisterous and proud; XIX. Thus at the table sat the pair. Talking o'er past and coming care; Lea seem'd to have a larger share Of trouble than he well could bear Grief seem'd to all his being range, For on that morn at Mosman's grange, He did with Zurn and Omar part, Who did for poor lanthe start; Receiving gold the day he spent, To him was paid a whole year's rent Of all his houses and his lands, And hoard was poured unto his hands, Treasure a thousand pound and more. In silver bright and yellow ore. Within a sack the coin he flung, Across his steed the bag he swuno-, Behind where his bright treasure hung, Old Roger in his saddle sprung. And onward with his precious load Towards the Bower of Bliss he rode. 304 THE HEIR OF LYOLYXX. Night o'er took him, and through the dark Scarce any object he could mark. So dense the bushes round him grew He could no more his path pursue, Soon to a tree he tied his steed, So ic might on the grasses feed, That rank beneath the bushes grew, Grass rich as ever courser knew, And over worn with that day's toil Lea lay down on the grassy soil, Ten minutes perhaps, not more, Sweet slumber stole his senses o'er ; But when from slumber he awoke, A pang as from a lightning's stroke — Throughout his soul and senses broke, For all his sack of gold he found, Which he had to his charger bound, Some thief had come and made his prey, Yea, stripped it clean, ta'en all away. Down near the earth he placed his ear, In hopes some footstep he could hear. But not a footstep, stir nor sound, He heard o'er all that bushy ground. When morning came he searched around, But no where could his hoard be found, Nor sign of any one was seen. O'er all that wilderness of green. And with a soul with trouble frought, Alone the Bower of Bliss he sought, Vowing that he the thief would find, And deal most deadly with the hind. One thought the while possessed his soul, And held all others in control. And thus in speech that thought he gave, As fast he sought his lonely cave, THE IIEIR or LYOLYNX. 305 It was Hugh Mosman stole my gold, No other thief would be so bold, Else his brother George did the deed, 'Twas some one of the Mosman breed. Bat this thought he to none revealed, Close kept it in his soul concealed, Waiting with anxious, fixed belief — He'd shortly find the cunning thief, Though well he knew none of the hoard Would ever be to him restored. But other troubles dark and drear, Weighed down his soul with gloomy care. Murdered had Peter Zurn been found, And tidings had been noised around, That Brady and all of Zurn's crew. The crime on Lea and Omar threw. And soon the^'^'d come and on the twain Pour vengeance down like floods of rain. But for this Roger was prepared, And all their hate and fury dared. It seemed De Yaux's sudden fall, Stirred up his sorrow worst of all. Since Omar I have lost he said, In him my truest friend is dead. With him through perils I have past. And by his aid won treasures vast, And by his aid 1 still had plann'd. To win me treasures vast and grand. But since he's dead, those plans are o'er For such aid will be mine no more. I've roamed the world, and know 'tis true Such men as him are all too few To aid in deeds that I pursue. Therefore his death I deeply rue, I never thought that any hand 306 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. Like his could wield the knife or brand, Nor with a pistol hit its mark. In day time or at niid]:ight dark. His worth I never rightly knew While here the breath of life he drew, Oh, often have I slighted him. And used him all too harsh and grim, Which never should be done again, Where he not sleeping with the slain, Alas, we mortals never know, The worth of things possessed below, "Till they are taken far above, Our reach of use, hate and love 1 Yes, this seems to be our fate, To learn it, when it's all too late As thus he spake his voice grew hoarsei And instant lost its deep, strong force. Silent he sat a little space, A tear rolled down his wrinkled face, The first one ever caused through woe. That ever down his cheek did flow. But soon he dashed his grief awa}', As rocks beat off the ocean's spray, Disdainful hold its flood at hay, However fierce its billows i^laA'. With \oice all free of dole and pain He thus began to speak again. XX. lanthe all the lands will win, Be proved the Heir of Ljolynn, And 3'ou've no chance by fraud or stealth, To gain one atom of the wealth, All is bej'Ond j^our power now, It's fate and you to Fate must bow, THE HEIR OP LYOLYNN. 307 And Mosman, I would like to hear Hq-w all the intiest in arrear, And mortgages now long since due Can unto me be paid by you, Some way you must at once propose, Or I shall all my claims foreclose, I can for you no longer wait, For I must settle my estate. To this George Mosman answer made : I trust all claims will soon be paid, For all the lands I soon shall win. Yea, heir each foot of Lj-olj-nn, I have a plan that will succeed, And none of Omar's aid I need. You need not look on me with scorn, To Castle Flame this very morn I brought my daughter Alice fair, And left her with the youthful heir, A month or more she'll there remain. They'll one another's friendship gain. And this will happen you will see. For these young maidens cousins be. And in the very first degree. And when my child shall homeward range. She'll bring lanthe to the grano-e And sure when once I have her there. You trust I'll make myself the heir. But in what shape and way and how 1 will dispose of her, I trow, I need not stop to tell you now. But I shall heir all Lj-ojdynn, However great will be my sin, This will be done, you need not fret, And I will pa} to you each debt, For one year's rent from off those lands 308 THE HETR OF LYOLYNN. Would satisfy all 3'ovir demands, At least all you by law could win ! Right here abrupt old Lea broke in. You like a parrot talk awa^', Or like some simple chattering jay. That has not sound of sense to say ; You know you are on ruin's brink, By me 3'ou either swim or sink. And loath am I, for times gone past, To see 3^011 to destruction cast ; And I will give j^ou one more year, To pay all interest in arrear, If 3'ou will find my stolen hoard, And see it unto me restored, But think not you b}'' any way. Can e'er lanthe make 3'our pre3\ Too many friends arc round her now, For 3'ou to dare to harm, I trow. She has the sculptor Ulrick there, I've known him well many a j'car, And he will guard her safe and sound, E'en though she had none others round, His wakeful eye both da_v and night, Will always keep that child in sight. Besides there is a numerous band Of servants aye at her command ; Also she has Guy Harold there, In courage and in strength a peer To twenty mortals such as you ; There's Bracklinn, and O'Conna too, And he who wrought poor Omar's fall. Since thoy took her out of Omar's thrall, They will be lionised b}^ all, And strut like peacocks through her hall. And I trust they will linger thei-e THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 309 Round the castle many a 3'^ear, And there they'll loaf in sloth and ease, Disdain to earn their bread on seas. You have no utter chance, I trow, In any way to harm her now. Should she visits with your child exchange, You treat her kindly in your grange : Who harms her, risks both life and limb, His fate would be the gallows grim. ' Here as Lea spoke upon the floor Outside a step w^as heard, the door Received one hasty, sudden knock, And from its iron frame the shock Reechoed through that cave of rock. Whose hand had dealt that sturdy blow — Right well did hoary Roger know, He oft had heard that knock before, And that same foot upon the floor. Up from his seat in haste he sprung. Back from their holds the bolts he swung. Whose rusted hinges creaking rung. Soon as the door admittance showed, Firm o'er its threshold Johnson strode. XXI. Roger, he said, I wish with you To hold a private word or two. So send George Mosman straight away, And 3'ou'll know all I have to saj'. Hardl}' had Johnson's words been said, Than Mosman from the room had fled. Right gladly did he hear the door Close on its sills with sullen roar, For weary had he grown of Lea, With Ellenore he wished to be ; 310 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. Strong love he had for hei- conceived, And she for him, so all believed. Her wished for presence', soon he found As through that cavern's lanes lie wound, And though her beauty much wasmarr'd, For Omar's blows her face had scarr'd, Yet comely still that woman seem'd, And still her eyes all dazzling beam'd, Her step was light, her voice was sweet, Her stately form superb and neat. XXII. Soon as was closed that iron door. And bolted all secure once more, Johnson the hardy out-lawed man, To Lea his speech again began Lea, I have learned it's all true That Zurn's murder is thrown on you. And shortly will liis force be here To deal on you revenge severe, And straight for this we must prepare, To triumph o'er the coming foe. And cause his lasting overthrow; I have my plans this evening laid, And have all our men arrayed. Yea, armed each member of 3- our band. With pistol, rifle, knife and brand, And pledged and sworn is every man To slaughter all the foes he can. And meanwhile wakeful keep his ej-es. So none shall take us by surprise. From here unto the distant sea Only three narrow paths there be, Which will be chosen by the foe, Nor you nor I can now foreshow. THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 311 So to let no surprise befall, We must keep watch and ward o'er all. Zuni's crew all told can scared}^ boast A hundred able men at most, So we can match them two to one, Though lift}' of your band were gone. Within each pass an ambuscade Of sixty men this eve I laid, And so defended is each post. Sixty men can repel a host. An army vast, a mighty mass, And shoot it down like beaten grass, O'er which the mountain hail-storms pass, Rout it complete ere it could know — Whence came the volley of its foe. So if they dare to come to night, They'll learn how Roger's men can fight. Not only this I've done, but more. Have placed an ambush near the shore. And in it fifty men are seen, The choicest of your force, I ween. Where they are posted, constant view Have they of vessel and of crew, It anchored floats a league from shore. And has been there a week and more, Patiently waiting the return Of its bold captain, Peter Zurn, Who had with Omar gone they say To 3^oung lanthe bring away. The fix'd time arrived, but no return, So off they went in search of Zurn, Whom they found a mass of senseless clay, Buzzards eating all his flesh away. Then straight on Omar and on you, The cause of his decease they threw. 312 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. But for their talk we do not care, To it we'll turn a deafened ear. Defy all they can say and dare. Well as I've said, hard b}^ the shore, I've placed an ambuscade secure, Who must wait silent in their hive, E'en when the foes on shore arrive, Yea, let them unmolested land. And draw their boats upon tlie strand. Let them towards us their way pursue, 'Till they are out of sound and view. Then swift the boats in ocean throAv, With speed unio the vessel row. Push on until they mount its deck, Like men who nought for danger reck, Search it i-ight through from stern to stem, And take all treasure found by them. Let not a single prize be lost, Nor care what blood or life it cost. Some of the crew on her will stay. And I suppose there'll be some fray. But if there is, there's ample pay For every life that's cast away, For in that ship I know is stored, Of golden coin a mighty hoard ; I know there's twenty tons and more Of silver, gems and golden ore. And shortly you'll be well repaid — For that huge loss you lately made. These are the plans I have devised. But Lea, you rather look surprised I I see it's just as I surmised — You would not like my plans too well. But I would like to hear 3'ou tell What sort of plans 3'ou would pursue — THE HETR OF LYOLYNN. 313 To carry all things snugl}^ through. If, then said Lea, I looked surprised, 'Twas caused not at the phms devised, But it doth me surprise afford — To hear Zurn had so rich a hoard. Within his leaky vessel stored. I thought he little kept on boai'd. If this is true, this very night We must straight forth from here take flight. And join the distant ambuscade, You have beside the ocean made. For when they search that vessel through, Which they I know are sure to do. Some little gems of mighty cost, May amongst our men be lost, If neither 30U nor I am by. To keep on them a watchful eye. So we had better soon be off", But hark I methought I heard a cough ! Yes, and so did I, Johnson said. It came as if from over head. Then still as death they sat a while, Eyeing eacli other with a smile. Their shoulders o'er the board were bent, And steady on their elbows leant. As they listened for a while intent ; Then round the room their gaze they sent, Then midst the dusky rocks o'er head That were with cobwebs over spread. Unto the gloomy shaft on high — Each listener turned a piercieng eye. But nought but rock as black as night, Met either listener's eager sight. Silent the}- sat, till Lea began, 314 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. Johnson, think you that any man Would be so venturous and daft' As dare to venture in yon shaft? E'en though should he its entrance find, Which is quite doubtful in my mind. For you know it starts within a line Of rocks that o'er a tarn incline ; Midst a precipice, from whose brink Methinks all living men would shrink. Only one man I know, Johnson said, Who through yon shaft would dare to tread, Many a day and night ere now He's travell'd through its gloom, I trow — If all I've heard be reall}' true, And this I should have told to you Five 3'ears ago methinks and more. But I from all of this forbore. For private causes just and good, And you would sa^' so, yes, you would, If 3'ou but all things understood. To tell 3'ou those causes, I trow, Were all too long and needless now. Since he has nought of trouble brought, Or to you aught of mischief wrought. Here Johnson paused, back in his chair He stretched his form in sluggish air, A 3'awn and long, deep breath he drew. His feet upon the table threw, Folded his arms across his breast. Placed on his chair his head at rest, Drest up his face with lively smile. Whistling a spritely tune the while. As thus his form he careless bent. He looked the acme of content. Lea on the speaker fix'd his ej^es, THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 315 But showed no symptom of surprise, To bear that any man had dared To pass through shafts his cavern aired, Yes, had him all so little feared As to have in his cave appeared, And more perhaps, trod through and til rough, And all its secret windings knew ; Yes, viewed perhaps the mighty hoard He had within his cavern stored _ Pass'd the strong guard that day and night He kept watching o'er that treasure bright, And this had done for years no doubt, His knowledge and consent without. Can it be possible he thought, They have me any evil wrought ? Can it be true that those I trust Are secretly to me unjust? Am I deceived, betrayed, disgraced By those in whom all faith I placed ? Had always deem'd were true to me As is the shadow to the tree, Which ever by its source is found E'en should it fall upon the ground. Whom I had deem'd were trusty men As ever guarded robber's den ; Or as on gory battle field Did ever strive their prince to shield, And round him formed a gallant ring. And fought and died to save that king. Yes, like the shadow to the tree, No doubt they'll prove themselves to me, Which only meets the gazer's sight When sun or moon or stars give light, But when comes on the rayless night 316 THE HEIR OP LYOLYNN. It "with no warning takes its flight. Yes, yes, by men I've reared to wealth, Though true it's been through fraud and stealtli, Have well for all their toil repaid. Perhaps e'en now I stand betraj-ed. Although these thoughts through Roger's soul Like floods of seething lava roll. Heat it all through from crust to core Like furnace full of molten ore. And grim distrust throughout his mind Sweeps like the desert's burning wind , Seem'd blood to rankle in his eyes, And on the wall fell spectres rise. And every thing his vision sought Seem'd into waving motion wrought, Like shadows of a blazing fort. Or ships that flame in stormy port. Yet neither Roger's face nor eyes Displayed one atom of surprise. Nor showed one slightest sign at all Of his dread feelings rise and fall, Gave not the faintest trace to view Of that gi'im hell his spirit knew. He looked all placid as some lake O'er which no ruffling tempests break, And after scarce a moment's pause, Replied, I care not to know your cause, Since doubly sure I know that you — And all ray men to me are true. In fact if it were otherwise, And you connived with any spies, Or 3^et with au}^ mortal foe That would my deeds and secrets know, THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. o,». And through it was caused your leader's fall Then ruin would o'er take ye all, For when on earth the tree is cast, The life of all Its limbs is past. But say who is this fearless one Who often through yon shaft has gone ? If not a secret, let me know, Is he to me a friend or foe ? For he who through yon pass would wend, I'd surely like to make my friend, And with him roam the nations wide. To you, the other swift replied, He's neither aught of friend nor foe At least as well as I do know. But he's a man of spirit bright. Full of indomitable might. And with a form that noblj^ bears The lofty spirit that it wears For he's endowed with thew and limb And so much strength is born in him He is in strife a foeman grim, And makes for life one's chanc-s slim. If met in combat hand to hand With either pistol, knife or brand. Him from his boyhood I have known And nought to me he's ever shown But kindliness, goodwill and love, Me on that road he's strove to shove Which leads to peace and bliss above. At wrestling oft we've measured stren^rth As oft, I measured my full length On earth, like some poor clumsy clown For never could I throw him down, lie's all a lion's strength and spring And any man to earth can fling. 318 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 'Tis he who waged that fearful strife With Omar, and cut sliort liis life. XXIII. At this, off from his seat Lea sprung Sudden as if by adder stung, As if with all that vigor strung That he possessed when he was 3'oung. And swifter than a flush of thought His hand round Johnson's throat he brought. And with a crash prone on the floor He down his hardy chieftain bore. Desperate was the struggle there, And long it lasted 'tween the pair. In vain fierce Johnson tugged and strained, He still beneath old Lea remained. In vain he struggled, for Lea's hold He could not from his throat unfold ; There firmly placed as iron bands Remain 'd the old man boney hands. From the vantage Lea'd ta'en at first, In vain the other strove to burst. And all in vain he struck and tore At his old foeman grim and hoar. His blows he dodged, and on the floor He thumped his head until the blood Gushed out, and stream'd in ample flood. A hue, dark, livid and aghast. The visage of his foe o'er cast. Fainter and fainter came his breath, Till it was almost still as death. I'll teach 3'ou, I this place command. Am master over all my band, Nor is there one amongst j^ou all THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. - 319 Need foncy he o'er me can crawl ; Old as I am, and bent and hoar, My days for fighting are not o'er, I can the strongest man o'er throw — Who dares to call himself my foe. And how dare you let any man The secrets of my cavern scan ? Yes, all its wealth and wonders see Without permission straight from me ? You for such deed my foe I hold, How dare you act so rash and bold ? How dare 3-ou an^- man call friend, Who did the life of Omar end ? Here paused old Lea, for on his foe A sudden glance he chanced to throw, And saw he wore the hues of death, Nor any symptoms showed of breath. Then terror stricken and amazed. He on the ghastly features gazed. For he found his desperate grasp He could not from the throat unclasp. His hands would not his will obej', Nor to his will his fingers play, Grown rigid all as stone had thej , Nor from tlie throat would moA^e away. All horrified did he behold His will no more his grasp controird. Oh, God ! aloud he cried, my rage Has over come the strength of age 1 Oh' God ! my rigid, vice-like grasp. I cannot from his throat unclasp ! And by my men will I be found To Johnson's lifeless cai'cass bound ! Ah, wherefore did I wage this strife With him I love as my own life ! 320 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. Sooner I'd lost my treasures all Thau ever to have wrought his fall. Rise, Johnson, rise, oh, God arise. Nor look at me with glaring eyes ! Rise, Johnson, rise, m}' grasp unfold. For it's by me no more controll'd, God, is it my hands or what I hold. That is fast gi'owing icy cold I XXIV. While thus the old man raA-ed and strove With all his might his grasp to move, From out that shaft so grim to view A coil of rope Tlunyadi threw. From shaft it hung unto the floor Tied to the rocks above secure, And down it gliding swifb as light When it's most rapid in its flight, Hunyadi met old Roger's sight, The floor he trod, and twixt the twain He placed his thewy form amain. And swift old Roger's rigid grasp He did from Johnson's throat unclasp ; The fingers cracked with harsh loud sound As they were from their hold unbound. Prone on the floor he Roger threw And from it senseless Johnson drew, Whose feeble breathing faintly showed A spark of life yet in him glowed. Unto his feet old Roger drew, And to the door with speed he flew. The bolts threw back, tne door threw wide, Through it swift as an eagle hied. Sped through a passage of his den. As he had never sped 'till then. THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 321 E'en when his slaves through it he spurn'd. Soon with cold water he return'd, To Johnson's livid face he drew, And o'er it fast the liquid threw. The instant that he felt the flood, That moment seem'd to move his blood. Breath after breath he stronger drew, His visage donn'd less death-like hue. When Lea the door had open tlirown, A vent unto the air was shown And strong between it and tlie shaft Rushed through a stream of chill>' draft. And into this the man was brought, Whicli soon his form with vigor fraught. XXV. Wild and vast was the joy tliat burn'd — - In Roger Lea when he discerned — His man to consciousness return'd. As some 3'oung lamb he skipt and sprung, His arms around his man he flung, And him more lovinglj^ he press'd, Than ever he a maid caress'd. Craved pardon for the strife he waged, And Jonuson's wounded pride assuaged. And for his sake he welcome gave His friend Hunyadi to the cave. And thus imto the bai'd he said — As smiles his wrinkled face o'er spread. "When on .that awful reef of stone An utter wreck our ship was thrown And the floods higli o'er it were cast, Hurl'd up by the terrible blast, And on the jaws of the reef were churned Lito foam, as there their rage was spurned. 322 THE HEIR OF LYOLTNN. You dragged me from the roaring brine, Safe brought me up the steep incline And sav'd this wretched life of mine, As did 30U four of that sad nine. And frankly I must now confess, While we were on that awful ness, You alwa^'s wore so dumb a mien, When ever 3'ou by me were seen, My treatment to you was all exempt. Except with scorn and deep contempt, I only dealt 30U ridicule 'Cause I deem'd 3'ou the greatest fool That ever dunce hat wore in school, Whose back e'er felt the teacher's rule. But had I for one moment thought That you with any brains were fraught, Far different I had treated ^'ou. And yielded 3'ou all reverence due, Had it e'er entered in my mind That you were aught but clums}^ hind, Could well in strife the broad-sword wield, Make it your weapon and your shield, I'd strove, nor had I strov^ in vain A trusty friend in you to gain. For these I've lost through my long life, On sea and land b}^ toil and strife. And more around me now I need — To Avith me peril daring deed, And if to this you are agreed A boundless hoard shall be ^our meed. In 3'ou I trow a friend I'll find, And one just suited to my mind. Life is but a beautious night. In which, as some stars set from sight, Others rise and glitter just as bright. THE HEIR OP LYOLYNN. 323 Yes, round us shed an equal light. Since my friend Omar's soul has trod The solemn precincts of his God, And while I tread this mortal shore His friendship I shall have no more, The place he fill'd for years gone past. You kaep long as your life shall last. Join your lot with mine, and you'll find I'm congenial to your mind ; Though hoar I am, I'm full of mirth As any man that walks the earth. For when the prime of life is o'er The frame all feeble, bent and hoar, Age may be sunny and serene. Chirping as when its life was green, A merry heart still bright and warm, May nestle in a feeble form. Like some glad bird that builds its nest 'Midst bowers all in ruin drest. Your task an easy one will be — Onl}' to roam the world with me. Say quick, do you my offer choose, Or with disdain do you refuse ? Speak forth, nor look with such grim scowl All solemn as a hungry owl, And startled as some lazy fowl, That sees the hawk hard by it prowl." XXVI. Hunyadi with a smile replied. " To roam the nations far and wide A constant partner by your side. And share your fate what e'er betide, Such task by me is not denied, Midst toils on land or ocean's foam, 324 THE IIETR OF LYOLYNN. You'll find Hun^adi all at home. With you right gladly I will wend, And be j^our partner and your friend, And one on whom you can depend, Ready a helping hand to lend — In all task fate to us may send, And you in every broil defend. Foi only have I pleasures fovmd In travelling through the nations round. And oft with jo}^ I've trod this cave, Nor ever feared its scenes to brave. No evil I have wrought 3'our men, Nor stolen aught from out your den, Though never in it until now I've looked upon your sage-like brow. But if I had you may depend, I'd strove to make you my firm friend, For well ^^ou love the stalwart arm. And mine had won you like a charm, But it shall never deal 3'ou harm, Nor cause to you the least alarm," As thus he spake a happ}' smile, Gathered o'er Roger's-face the M'hde, The brightest one for long j^ears j^ast, That had his wrinkled face o'er cast. XXVII. But swift as ever lightning sped The smile from Roger's visage fled, For thoughts of treasure and of gain, Darted as lightning through his brain. Thought he, if here we tarry more, We may loose all Zurn's golden store, And 'twas the thought of loosing it Which made the smile his visage flit. THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 325 " Come, come," lie said, "we must tu night Be oft' in search of treasure bright, Zurn's men must yield us all the hoard That's in their leak}- vessel stored. If they refuse us this, the breeze No more shall waft their ship o'er seas, For all on it shall soon be mine, That doth like gold or treasure shine, And then their ship I sink in brine, Or burn it to its water's line. So come, let's forth from out this cave. And treasures win, and perils brave." XXVIII. He ceased, and from the rocky den — In haste sped forth those fearless men, Well armed with weapons good they strode From out that rocky, drear abode; Ana long before two hours had past They'd trod o'er glens and mountains vast. And soon they reached the ambuscade — That Johnson by the sea had laid, And just as morning's first faint ray Gave tokens of the coming day — They saw the boats with that ship's crew, Come rowing o'er the waters blue, They saw them reach the lonel}'^ strand, And draw up high their boats on land, And onward up a rocky path. In a wild and dangei'ous strath They move in silence and in wrath. With stalwart tread and hearty breath, To swift avenge their leader's death. But all their wrath and hate was vain, Not one of them return 'd acjain : 32G TIIH HEIR OF LYOLYNN. Within a deep and lonely jmss They died in one grim, gory mass, No, no, not one of them return'd To see their vessel robbed and burn'd. XXIX. Far, far along the pass they wound, Where scarcely they a foot-way found, For roaring torrent strong and deep, Did through that narrow passage sweep, And on each side rose flinty wall — Of dark gray rock abrupt and tall, Which at its base small foot-way show'd. That was not with the flood o'er flow'd, Only a scanty foot-way gave. All else did roaring torrent lave, These walls so o er the torrent lean'd, And all so well that foot-way screen'd. No mortal on their head could scan — That at their base there moved a man. There loosen 'd rocks in might}^ mass Hung tottering o'er the narrow pass, As if a breath of storm might throw Them headlong to the gulf below. And here and there as on they wound. Not any path by them was found. Save scattered rocks that midst the flood Just o'er the torrent's level stood, By which the parted waters flowed As if to tear them from its road ; And on them threw its foamy spray, As wrathful they should bar its way. Loud, loud the}^ heard the water roar, 'Till they had passed a mile or more, And here a wider pass they gained, THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 327 Where less the roar of water reigned, Where less the huge rocks barr'd its way, Where less it chafed its floods to spra}^, Where less its eddies fell and rose And did its foamy wreathes disclose. Though still hy rocks it sti'ain'd and toil'd. And in vast eddies spumed and boilYl. Here less abrupt and steep and tall, Rose o'er that flood the rocky wall, Here less it lean'd o'er floods below, And plainly did the path-way show, To those Avho on its head would trace The scanty foot- way at its base, And o'er its head a network grim Of briers and cf thorns grew frini, Here stealthily they looked around, To see if any foe be found. No fear that such dense thorns would know The presence of an ambushed foe, Amidst its growth the timid hare, Might all in safet}^ make its lair, For neither man nor hound could pass — Through such a dense and thornj' mass, At least ao fancied all these men, While there the}' paused to view tlie glen; Little they deem'd that Roger's crew Had often pass'd that thicket through, And that amidst it even then There lurked a dozen of his men, Who saw them halt, and every word And S3dlable they spake o'er heard. This scene a moment's space they view'd, Then up the pass their way pursued. Five hundred yards or more they sped And save on rocks their footsteps treads J528 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. No other sound amongst them stirr'd, For they spake not a single word. And here they reached a deep defile That did in awful grandeur smile, Tall on each side the mountains stood, All densely covered o'er with wood. And o'er these vines and creepers grew, Decked with flowers of every hue. Down its uneven, rocky bed The roaring torrent onward sped, Leapt o'er many a loft}' fall In sheets of water broad and tall. Whose flood the canyon all pervades ; Form'd into beautiful cascades, As ever down a valley ran, As ever met the e^'c of man. All up the canyon gleamYl the tracts Of never ending cataracts. Which break upon the rocks below — In floods of foam as white as snow. Which gleam 'd beneath the beams of day With every hue 'neath splendor's swa}'. An endless robe of beauty wore As from fall to fall they thundered o'er, And here across that torrent wide Another canyon they espied, On each side a towering line Of hills o'er grown with fir and pine. Of ash and gum and poplar tall Made never ceasing shadow fall Upon a stream that deep below Did through that narrow canyon flow, A rapid stream that found its source From roaring linns, and down its course Swept o'er rocks in headlong force, THE nEIR OF LTOLYNN. 329 With roarings deep and wild and hoarse. But litile time had tlic-y to gaze Upon the water's Avinding wa3'S, Or see it o'er tlie liuge rocks toil In everlasting fierce turmoil, Or view the hills that round them stood All over grown with stately wood, Though ne'er a landscape so sublime They'd seen before in an}^ clime : For sudden as an earth-quake's shock. From bush and wood and naked rock The blare of musketry loud roar'd And storms of bullets 'mongst them pour'd, DoAvn went before that fatal roar A score of men to rise no more : Without a shriek or groan or yell, Upon the earth they dying fell. Behind the rocks that thronged the strath. Lay thick along its winding path, Down instantly their comrades kneel 'd And had just there their forms concealed In safety 'neath their granite shield, As fierce another volley peal'd. And o'er their heads the missiles flew, Their deadly force on gi'anite threw. From this at times with crumbs they chipp'd The^' o'er the torrent's surface skipp'd And gave a little line of spray To show which course they'd sped their way. Another storm of bullets sped, But not a drop of gore the}' shed. Another, and another flew, But not a drop of gore they drew. For close behind their rocky shield 330 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. Those seamen kept themselves conceard. And there remain'd ''cill shades of night . Began to shroud the mountains' height. With arms prepared foF deadly fraj', Moody and still as beasts at hay, Round which the savage bloodhounds bra}-, Zurn's terrible avengers lay. XXX. 'Twill never do for us at all To let the shades of evening fall, Hide yon seamen from our sight, For they will from us take their flight. And if we do not slay them all, Roger Lea will work our fall, Sc we must down upon them go, And bravely meet them foe to foe, Right sternl}' give them blow for blow, Fight them in every style we know, 'Till we shall bring their overthrow, 'Till all are still and stiff and low. So let's rush on them sword in hand ! Thus spake the leader of Lea's band. And from him swift thi-ee rockets flew, And high in air the}' burst, and threw Their flames where all his men could view, A signal Avhich full well they knew. Was straight to charge upon tlie foe, Nor to them aught of mercy show, Then noiseless as the fall of snow, When not a breath of breezes blow, Noiseless as moves the aspen spra}', When not a breath of zephyrs pla}^, Or noiseless as the rushes stray Down streams that silent keep their wa}', THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 331 Koiseless as moves the tiger, when He iiears his prey amidst the fen, So on their hands and knees Lea's men — Moved down in utter silence then. Nor knees, nor foot, nor hand at all — Upon the earth was heard to fall, Nor any sound how ever small, As did they towards their foemen crawl. Hid midst the foliage dense and tall. And shadows of night's coming pall. And when upon their feet they rose, 'Twas face to face amongst their foes, Did in terrific combat close — 'Midst shot and thrust and storms of blows, With pistol, gun and sword and knife. They urged the awful waste of life. With vengeance every heart was rife. So terribly the}' waged the strife: There mongst them blared nor horn nor fife, Nor shout nor yell was mongst them heard, Nor shriek nor groan, nor any word, 'Mongst those desperate foemen stirr'd, Save blare of guns and heavy l^lows. From the strife no other sounds ai'ose. At least there rose not any sound As in the human voice is found, Though face to face in mortal strife They fought 'till either lost their life. Or fell on earth with wounds o'er come, Yet every voice the while was dumb. No faintest tone from human tongue. Amidst that din of carnage rung. Such mode of fighting Zurn and Lea Had taught tlieir men on land and sea Never were they to cheer nor shout, 332 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. In either victory or rout, It help'd to waste the strength they taught, And none of good towards conquest wrought. A silent foe on battle field — Who spake not when the tumult peal'd, Though with his mortal wounds he reel'dj An awful majesty revealVl, Struck deeper sense of awe and fear, In every fighting foeman there. Than if he pour'd within his ear, A deafening shout, or stunning cheer. For the wounded to groan or shriek, Did real unmanliness bespeak. To show by any sign their throes. Gave only pleasure to their foes. And to these rules their men held fast, All rigidly unto the last, XXXI. The shades of night had gathered in, And hushed was all the battle's din, No more beside the roaring flood Mortals all grim with wounds and blood. Were seen to midst it waters fall. Pierced through with either brand or ball, No more, no more was heard the sound Of dead men falling on the ground. As down they fell wich sudden shock, And headlong went on solid rock ; For all that came from out Zurn's hive. Which numbered just four score and five. Were stretched in grim and deep repose. As were the foes that 'gainst them rose Within that wild and awful glen ; THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. For only one of Roger's men Had strength enough to crawl away, When ceased that grim and fearful fray, And only a short space he went. Before his vital force was spent, And on the earth, grim, red with gore, He silent sank to rise no more, A feast for wolves and hirds of prej-. As cold and still as stone he la^'. Soon Autumn came with flood and rain, And swellVl that canyon's stream amain, Then were the bones of all the dead, That were within that can3'on spread. Swept up before the torrent vast, And to the depths of ocean cast, Nor left one faintest trace behind, To tell their fate to human kind. XXXIT. While in the pass this fray was fought, Another on the sea was wrought. For when the seamen took their path, Up that wild and dangerous strath. And had all pass'd from Tloger's view, He and his men from ambush drew ; The boats within the sea the}' placed. Well mann'd was each, as forth in haste They row'd across the watery waste, And towards the distant vessel faced. The}' reached the ship, and towardsits deck They climbed as' men that little reck The presence of their mortal foe, That bravely meet them blow to blow • Many a foe those seamen slew, Ere halfway up their ship they drew. 334 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. Hurl'd them to sea a gor}-- wreck, Just as they climbed beside tlieii- deck But of those seamen only ten That vessel held, and these were men That with their foes waged fearful fra}', And long kept Roger's men at bay. But o'er powered with numbers vast They sank in gore and breathed their last. From stem to stern, from deck to floor, "Was searched that spacious vessel o'er. And tons of gold and silver bright. Soon gladdened greedj^ Roger's sight, And all this pile of shining hoard. Within the boats was swiftly stored But some small gems of mighty cost, That glow'd like sun-illumined frost, Least they should 'mongst the men be lost — Lea in his spacious pockets tost. When they had searched that vessel through, And ta'en all treasure they could view, Upon the deck old Roger stood — JEyeing the piles of plunder good, Yet all unsatisfied he seem'd. For still within that ship he deem'd — Some little cupboard might be found — If careful they would search it round, Wherein might priceless gems abound, As with 3'et ever queen was crown'd. And unto all, these thoughts he told, And straight to search that vessel's hold — Small inch by inch, all through and through. Beneath the deck again they drcAV. But scarce beneath the deck they came — Than round them burst a ruddy flame, THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 335 And columns tall of curling smoke Through all the spacious hatchways broke, Soon from the hold the bright flames tore, With a harsh, fierce, bickering roar: And on like angr^- fiends they sped, 'Till masts and deck with flames were red, And swift to sails and spars o'er head Flames like a whelming deluge spread. Meanwhile within the boats around — Lea and his men had safety found. And as unto the shore they row'd, Lingering looks they oft bestow 'd Upon that ship, that brighter grew With every breath of breeze that blew, 'Till stem to stern did only show But one broad sheet of ruddy glow; Till sail and spar and lofty mast A uniA'ersal flame o'er cast, Till these with tones of thunder fell Below amidst the flaming hell. And from out their fiery lair Sent up a million sparks in air. The sun went down, and niglit apace, Its mantle threw o'er ocean's face, And far and wide o'er ocean's flow That ruin pour'd its ruddy glow. To distant shore as well as wave, A fearful light that ruin gave, Beneath its glow the rippling flood Look'd like a moving sea of blood. And over land and sk}' was spread A universal hue of red. Far down that burning deck below Fire rushed on with rapid flow. And soon the flames wich awful sheen — 336 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. Swept round the fearful magazine ; Where piled high bomb and shell were seen, Guns and man}- a dread machine, Grim weapons used in war's routine, Rifles and gleaming broad-swords keen. Then came a burst of tliundcr sound, That shook earth, air and floods around, From sky to sea, from sea to sk}'^, Did grim, infernal echoes fly, And mountain unto mountain call'd As though with some dread fright appall'd. Or rent with overwhelming throes, And from the sea to sky arose An all terrific sheet of flame, "Which burst in air, and downward came In countless sparks of ruddy glow, That did all shades of color show, Which scattered wide o'er ocean's flow, And hissing lit on floods below. And while that sovuid still shook the air, Right clean from off its watery lair, That burning wreck one instant rose. Did all its shattered frame disclose, Then back wich one terrific crash, 'Tvvas on the waters heard to dash, Then came a gurgling, bubbling sound As doth a sinking craft surround, And swift as ever sparrow flew — That flaming ruin pass'd from view. As 'neath the closing flood it went Far round a hissing spray it sent. And long after that ruin red, Had 'neath the gurgling waters sped, Bubbles on ocean's face arose. And did the place it sank disclose. THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. Thus pass VI with one terrific roar — From human sight for ever more, The ship that o'er the ocean bore The most ruthless crew that yet wore The likeness and the shape of man, Since ever this wide world began. The most base in heart, soul and mind. That e'er claim'd kin to human kind, As ever wore the human frame, Or ever wreckers jet became. Within their day o'er nations broad. Were they detested and abhorred. And shunn'd by all save those alone Who ship-wreck'd on some reef were thrown, And these on reefs they often left, If of all earthly goods bereft. Left them alone to starve and die, If they their rescue could not buy. XXXIII. Soon in the Bower of Bliss was stored By Roger's hand the shining hoard. All save the mites he gave as meed — To those who with him dared the deed The lion's share of that vast hoard He in his cavern's coffers stored, Of discontent no slightest word Amongst his followers was heard. Gladly each man took his scanty share. And did from out the cave repair. As if he hi.d most ampl}' fared And been well paid for all he dared. Such sway o'er them old Roger held, He might have every one compell'd 338 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. To go without the slightest share, Himself kept all the shining gear, And none amongst them would have dared To e'en hint he had unjustl}^ fared. XXXIV. On lightning wings a month had past — Since in old Roger's coffers vast — Had the spoils of Zurn's ship been cast : And Autumn's frost and blighting blast, Had o'er those mountain lands been shed, And turn'd the forest leaves to red, Made all the rolling landscape wear A solemn aspect, sad and sear. For nowhere o'er the earth was seen Save 'mongst moss and grass a shade of green, Or where some cedar or some pine Might o'er tall, craggy rock incline. And all this while had Roger Lea Prepared to roam o'er land and sea, A journey vast o'er every clime The hoary chief proposed this time, And take Hunyadi by his side. And him to fame and fortune guide. O'er the map whole hours he leau'd. While with one hand his eyes he screen'd — From lamps that on his table glow'd, And pointing with the other show'd Unto the bard some little spots Which swift his pen marked round with dots. Whereon he said huge cities rose. Wherein did boundless wealth repose, Where they could wend and rob and cheat, THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 339 And do it all adroit and neat, And if detected they could beat A hasty and secure retreat. Dodge all the officers of law, Though keenest any city saw. The day arrived, for them to start, And they were ready to depart. In rocky vaults deep under ground, Which by small secret paths were found. And these by iron doors secured Old Lea had hid his precious hoard. The doors he locked and o'er them threw A mass of rock to hide their view, And unto where that hoard he drew — None save he and Hunyadi knew. And there thought Roger it will stay Secure until the Judgment-da}'^, If l)ack: I never more repair, For none will di-eam there's treasure there. Then from the rocky cave the}' sped, Did through the mountain footway tread, Which to a far off city lead. From whence a bark was soon to sail Unto a clime they wished to hail. 'Twas early morn, the cloudless sun Had just beam'd o'er the mountains dun. And lit that solitary world. Back from the glens the mists were curled. Had to the mountain peaks repaired. And high upon their brows were laired. Stretched far and wide their shining fold. Which sparkled all like ruddy gold, And to those lofty summits clung. To and fro upon the breezes swung,^ As earth had there broad ensigns hung, 340 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. And all lier i)ii(le on brcczos flung. And sweet its rays Uio sim-hetuns pour'd, On Hoods that down tlie mountains roar'd, An' for ever more. Yon pageantr}^ is brief and vain, Soon winter comes with storm and rain, By sleet and hail and ic}^ blast Yon leavea shall o'er the earth be cast, Be strown by all the storms that blow, Or rot their parent stems beloAv. In one short month from this, I trow — i No mortal will remember how O'er yonder \ale and mountain's brow. They made sucli pageantrj^ as now. So let's journey on our wa}', And no more trifle and dela3'. XXXVI. Scarce had these words from Roger past Than rang a scream all wild and 'ghast From out the darksome dell below, And with it came a curse and blow. 344 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. The voice from whom that scream had flown, Full well to Roger's ear was known, And who had cursed down in the dell, "Was known to Roger full as well. There, now, said he, as savage grin Played o'er his face from hroAv to chin, Scarce have I left my mountain cave. Than Mosman that base hearted knave, Has from it carried Ellenore ; But he for this I'll punish sore, Yes, yes, I'll teach the stubborn fool, That in my land I yet hold rule. I told him plain, and meant it too, That Johnson only her should woo. And that her grief o'er Omar's fall Had quite upset her senses all ; But when her grief had past awa}', No longer o'er her held such swa}-, That straight with she should Johnson wed, And bade him never dare to tread Across the threshold of my door, If there he came for Ellenore. My words he promised to obey, And from her presence keep away, But unto this he's proved untrue, And for it he shall deeply rue. Thus spake in haste that hoary man, And down a craggy path he ran — Which led unto the dell below, From whence had come that scream of woe, Down the precipitous rock he sprung. As if with youthful vigor strung. And soon he trod beside the verge Of roaring, deep and darksome gurge. The black abyss all grim and lone, THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. .j4i In which had Omar's corpse been thrown, Down which it past from human sight — Into unfathomable night. And here hard by that whirlpool's roar^ Sat Johson holding Ellenore; Grim was her grief o'er Omar's fall, His death upset her senses all. Wildl3' she caird on Omar's name, And fiercely strove to rend her frame Fi'om Johnson's vice-lilve hold, an j there Within those waters dark and drear Plunge in and end lier grief and care, Her agony and deep despair. And close beside them near that flood, "With face and nose all smeared with blood. Upon the rocks as still as clay Insensible George Mosman lay. Where he'd by Johnson's hand been thrown, When on Lea's ear his curse was blown. And this is how it chanced that here Beside that whirlpool dark and drear, These Avretched mortals did repair. XXXVII. After Lea had from his Bower sped, With Ellenore George Mosman fled, For so her charms on him had wrought. His soul with love was over fraught, And her he sought to woo and wed, For this he from the Bower fled. But of their flight soon Jolinson learn il, And like fierce flame his anger burn'd, Swift on his rival's path he flew, And did him to this gurge pursue, Here on the twain his hands he laid, 34 C ■ THE HEIii OF LYOLYNN. Ellenore back to the cave he bade ; And here pass'd parley long and stern, But Ellenore would not return. " No, go not back," George Mosman said, " Nor step with this grim out-law tread, For he's the man that now you view, Who in yon gurge poor Omar threw, Instead of giving him a grave Such as might well beseem the brave, They cast him like a dog or knave, In yonder whirlpool's gloomy wave." '* Is this all true?" the woman cried, As keenly both those men she eyed, "No word of it by me's denied," Bold Johnson careless!}' replied. At this the eyes of Ellenore An all uncai'thly brightness wore. And to her cheeks, in crimson flood. One instant rushed the bounding blood, Then ebbing back, with sudden flow, Left all her visage white as snow, The l)rightness of her ej'c-balls fled, And left them ray less as the dead. One long, heart rending shriek she gave And rushed to meet the whirlpool's wave But ere she touched those watei's vast. Bold Johnson's arms wore round her cast While from its awful brim he bore The fair and frantic Ellenore, George Mosman with a bludgeon sped A heav}' blow on Johnson's head. Which roilVl his rage, and on Uis foe lie dealt one overwhelming blow, Which made him lie so still and grim, When Rooer Lea discovered him. THE HEIR OF LYOLVNN. ^4? From effects of that blow and fall Right soon revived his senses all, Yet, not from oft" the earth he rose, But lay as if in deep repose, Planning fell vengeance on his foe, And how to deal a secret blow. xxxvin. Sudden as from the fowler's snare The wild bird starts to distant air, And sends forth one small note of glee, To tell all space that it is free, So with a scream that woman sprung From those strong arms around her flung, And far out on the whirlpool vast With lightning speed her form she cast, But swift as ever wild bird fled, He springing to her rescue sped. Scarce had she touched tiie boiling tide, Than seen was Johnson at her side, Around that whirlpool's awful brim. With fearless heart and pliant limb. Three times with her did Johnson swim And kept her from the eddies grim, And every time he near'd its rim She strove to rend herself from him, And every time he strove to bear Her from the eddies' swift career. She every time his effort foil'd. And bore him back where waters toil'd Around the rocks with ceaseless flow, »And plunged to unknown depths below, Yet still with strength no toil destroy 'd Her head above the ilood he buoy'd. 348 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. While with screams that deafened and appall 'd On Omar, Omar wild she call'd. Though her unutterable woe Was wild us was that whirlpool's flow, And haggard was her face with caie, And furrowed o'er with grim despair, Yet still her comely features wore Fixed Beauty which no sorrow sore. Nor grief could wholly cover o'er; Still o'er those features sad and wild, Though then they neither frowu'd nor smiled, Bright beauty's grandest charms and best, Did over all her visage rest ; With long, thick tresses flowing free As mist above a stormy sea. With, face and neck and hand and arms, Displaying all of Beauty's charms. That woman looked though she might be — A Yenus rising from the sea. XXXIX. Amidst that whirlpool's awful roar. Right nigh unto its rocky shore, A foot-hold Johnson gain'd at length. And from the waters with a strength That seem'd beyond those of this world, On shore the woman's form he hui'l'd. And as himself he strove to save From that grim torrent's roaring wave ; Swifter than darts the startled mew, George Mosman at his rival flew, A pistol forth he drew apace, And aiming, shot through Johnson's face, THE HEIE OF LYOLYNN. 349 Through cheeks that bullet passage found Though made not any fatal wound, But as through them the missile tore, Some teeth from oft" their base it bore, And soon upon the whirlpool's flood, Was seen to stream a streak of blood. The while amidst the waters flow, He staggered from the bullet's blow, Another pistol Mosman caught, But while it to an aim he brought. Lea on him swift as magic flew, And from his hand the weapon drew ; As from his hand the pistol came. That instant burst a flash of flame, And with that flash a sudden roar. And through Lea's thigh its bullet tore. But ere had Mosman time to think, Lea shoved him o'er the whirlpool's brink Pain'd by his wound that gushed forth gore, Down Roger sank by Ellenorel Wild was the scream that Mosman gave, When on that Avhirlpool's darksome wave. And just amidst its fiercest tide. He found himself by Johnson's side, Who instant grappled with hie; foe, And forced his head the flood below. From whence a line of bubbles rose, But never more did him disclose. While Mosman 'midst the water's flow Swept down to the abyss below, One loud, wild shriek gave Ellenore And midst the whirlpool plunged oncemore. Lea caught her ere she touch'd the wave. He caught her but he could not save, Like quick-silver to his dismay 350 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. She from his fingers slips away ; As glides the eel from angler's hand. She from him darted o'er the strand, And plunged within the flood below, To end her all consuming woe. In vain, in vain did Johnson strain, To lift her from the flood again ; His strength was spent, no more his force Could with her stem the whirljjool's course, No more upon those waters grim, He with that woman's form could swim, To save lier then his strength was vain, Though for this strove with all his main, They sank and rose, then sank again But rose, at last down went the twain, Nor rose again those waters o'er. Thus sank from sight for evermore, Beneath that whirlpool's gurgling roar, The true, the faithful Ellenore, Por whose unutterable grief, And woe, death only had relief. Whose sorrow over Omar's death, Ceased only with her mortal breath. And with her midst the water's flight, Johnson past ever more from sight, The boldest out-law that e'er trod — On rock, on mountain, deck, or sod, Whose heart though stern, yet oifat times. Its virtues triumphed o'er its crimes. They 'neath the flood had disappear'd, Ere had the gurge Hunyadi near'd. For he the while on heights o'er head. Still view'd the scene that morning spread, The all enchanting, dazzling glow. That gleam 'd o'er hills and vales below ; THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 351 And he had come on Roger's call, Who then could neither stand nor cra-wl, Whose thigh-bone by that pistol's ball, Had been crushed, shattered, splintered all. And whose grim wound was dripping gore, Upon his back old Lea he bore, Then up a craggy path he strode, Precipitous and awful road. And soon he lodged his gory load Within the cavern's lone abode. 352 TllK HEIR OP LYOLYNN. PART YII. O'er Castle Flame the shades of night, Had cast a mantle gi'and and In'ight, Foi* not a cloud was seen to roll O'er stars that decked the azure pole, The full sphered moon its lustre shed, Its silver light o'er nature spread ; Though winter robed the earth with snow. No breath of breeze was heard to blow, And calm and sweet pour'd down the light. On icy vale and mountain height, And on the distant sea below, Where not a ripple seem'd to flow, But bright did stars and heavens show, Serene the moon pour'd down its glow, Blue looked the sea, blue looked the rky, Stars gleam 'd below, stars gleam xl on high. And twinkled through the frosty night, In all their majesty of light. And utter stillness reign 'd around, A silence solemn and profound, For all the beasts slept on their lair As silent as the azure air, Through which no breezes breathed a breath But gave to it the calm of death, Not e'en was heard a watch dog's howl, Nor yet the hooting of an owl, No heathcock's crow the midnight stirr'd. Nor bleating from the fold was heard, THE IIEIII OF LYOLVNN. 353 All was still as iLe biteing frost Whose wand was over all tilings tost. Still as the ice-bergs on the beach, Which glowVl far as the eye could reach. Reigned such dead silence over all, One might have heard a feather fall. From starry skies to earth below Was silent as the cedars grow. Silent as did the shadows fall. By moonshine cast from poplars tall Which spread on earth their changing pall And darkened o'er the castle wall. And all look'd solemn and serene, As e'er in winter night was seen. Yet, this night so calm and sweet, Came after day of storm and sleet, For all that day had roar'd the blast. And sleet and snow o'er earth had cast, And tree and shrub and weed all o'er. Were clothed with robes of sparkling frore. Fierce had the blasts o'er ocean storm'd. Its floods to giant billows form'd, On rocky shores waged fearful fray, And chaf'd themselves to foamy spray, Nor had the sun through all that day, Cast on the earth one faintest ray, Through all that day behind the frowr Of clouds was he, 'till he went down. And only after set the sun, The fury of that storm was done ; And only when the night began Clouds ceased Heaven's broad arch to span From zenith to horizon's rim, Soon pass'd away the cloudfolds grim, 'Till over all the heavens wide, 354 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. Was not the slightest cloud espied, But show'd a starry-, azure sky, With moon full sphered and mounted high Thus i\ must be with ever}' man, Whose life through all its mortal span One constant stream of sorrow ran, Yea, closed in grief as it began, Whose soul was virtuous and good. And such before its Maker stood. When he casts off his vital breath. And wanders through the night of death. Serene all things must round him glow, Joy must ever take the place of woe, On him no clouds their shadows throw. Nor any bitter tempests blow. A solemn light must fill his soul. And peace and God pervade the whole. In Castle Flame a glimmering light, From one high window shone that night, On that broad window placed on high Long, long I fix'd my eager eye. For there methought I could espy, Mongst figures that there flitted b}', Oft to and fro across it drew, And shadows down beside me threw. Methought in these I oft could view, Semblance to mortals that I knew. Something seem'd passing in that room Which made each wear an air of gloom. Made the castle look like some vast tomb, Or some dread place of woe and doom. As by that casement there aloft, With Ulrick I had journied oft. THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 355 And well the winding staircase knew That to that high apartment drew ; I, journied from that wold of snow, Did in the lofty castle go, Swift up the flight of stairs I flew, And into Ulrick's room I drew. Upon his couch the sculptor laj'^, With visage white as billows' spray, When on a cloudy day it grows, And the toss'd wave from whence it rose, In centre of the ocean flows, And yet no taint from headland knows. And as his visage hoary hair'd, Was on its crimson pillow lair'd, It seem'd like wreath of snowy flood. On coral reef the hue of blood. From his broad head of statel}^ air, Down hung at length his thick gray hair. And o'er his broad and ample breast Whereon his folded hands did rest, Wherein life's tide was ebbing low. Hung down his beard as white as snow. Ere from the cloud where it is wrought, In contact with the earth 'tis brought, With all its cloud-born whiteness fraught, Nor yet a taint from earth has caught. And that old man's attendants there, Hunjadi and lanthe were. So gently in that room I drew, None of those three my presence knew, Until I passed before their view. And hat upon the table threw. Save the clock that clicked on the wall. And whose dread sounds ne'er ceased to fall, And save the breathing of their breath, 356 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. That room the while was still as death, And plain I saw the glistening tear Like crystals flow from fountains clear, And thick o'er ever}- eye appear, Exept that old man's 13'ing there. HI- That old man's hand I took in mine, 'Twas growing cold as freezing brine, But in his eyes did lustre shine, An azure brightness all divine. An all celestial, holy light, Unearthly, spiritually bright. And o'er his manly face the while. There beam'd an all angelic smile. Which over all his visage spread A radiant light, and halo shed. There beam'd for man good will and love, And faith and trust in God above. There showed a spirit all resigned To what e'er will'd the Almighty mind. And as I view'd those features all, And that huge frame so broad and tall. Methought, if ever yet above, Amongst God's choicest heirs of love, An}'^ the form of mortal bore. Then they that old man's image wore. Just an hundred }' ears and one that night, Since he was born had ta'en their flight, And through this time, of grief and care, Fate unto him had dealt full share. But as the seaman on the deck. Which storms have vainly strove to wreck, Whose bark from floods and stormy air, Is moor'd beside the friendly pier. THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 357 But looking back o'er ocean's face, He yet the awful rocks can trace That just o'er ocean's surface stand, Lie scattered thick on every hand , Dread rocks, best pilots seldom shun, Round which are roaring eddies spun. And sees amidst these rock-shoals dun, Huge ice-bergs glowing in the sun. And also sees the headlands grim, That border all that ocean's rim. By which his bark he safely steer 'd, Though fierce the waves and storms career'd. Then heavenward lift his dauntless eye, With thanks and praise to Him on high. So from his mortal frame, his soul. Which ne'er was thrall'd'neath sin's control, However grand the tempter stood. And evil clothed in guise of good, Its vision all enraptured cast Adown the ocean of the past. Through all his jojs and hopes and fears. Through all its sorrows and its cares, Its storm and shine, its smiles and tears, Trough all its century of years. And with a cheerful, manly voice. Which made a list'ners soul rejoice To hear its rich, flowery flow. What e'er its subject, joy or woe. He thus to us began to speak. While with moist eyes and dewy cheek, We listened to the hoary man, Whose language in this current ran. 358 THE HEIE OF LYOLYNN. IV. "My life is ebbing fast away, But little while have I to stay, As 3'onder clock clicks forth to chime A death dirge for the passing time, It also tolls a knell for me, Tolls for the death that soon must be. And ere to God my spirit wends — A word to you I'd speak my friends. Yes, soon my soul shall leave this shore. And you will hear my voice no more ; So what I say take to your soul, And let it all your lives control. Love God with all your soul and mind, And keep him ever there enshrined. Fear Him and only Him adore, Evil shun, and sin abhor. And as throughout this world ye wend, Be man and brother to the end, To other's woes your pity tend, But still keep God your foremost friend. I've lived a hundred years and more, And I'd live that century o'er. With cheerful heart and willing mind, Unto my Maker all resigned. I'd pass again through all its woe, If my God will'd me to do so. Though the demons woe and want. All dreadful eyed and grim and gaunt, Have never ceased my path to haunt. My trust in God they ne'er could daunt. That trust my feelings all control. And is eternal as my soul. I have looked fondly for this time, When I should hear His voice sublime THE HEIR 0? LYOLYNN. 350 Which now rings plainly in mine ear, But is not meant for ye to hear. Yes, I hear mj^ Maker say, Come, come my Ulrick, come awa3^ He now to sunshine turns the gloom, Hi3 glo^y all pervades this room." Here closed his eyes, his voice grew weak. But thus unto himself did speak. Lo, oh, lo I what a glory bright, What a hol}^, heavenly sight 1 A spirit all array 'd in white. Whose wings are plum'd for instant flight. Has just beside me come and smiled. Her features are all calm and mild. And it is she, my only love Whose grave for 3^ ears I've wept above. She whose voice full many a time. When 1 have bowed 'neath sorrow's rime, Have deep in sorrow's flood been hurl'd. By scornful treatment from the world. All the praise it gave, and all the spoil For long nights and 3'ears of patient toil, She cheer'd me into hope and jo}", Which all the worlds could not destroy. Yes, it is she that spirit bright, And gentle soul, who on this night A hundred j^ears and one ago, Brought me within this world of woe. Who caused my being on this earth. Whose pains of travail brought my birth, And to the household in the morn 'Twas gladly told a babe was born. And fill'd ray father's heart with pride. She who he wept for when she died. Oh m}' earthly mother sw^eet and mild, 3G0 THE HEIR OF LYOLVNX. Oh, take back, take again j'our child, Take me to your arms as on that niglit, When first I bless'd m}^ mother's sight, Yea, made her soul with joy grow bright, Fill'd all her being with delight. Oh, mother, mother, take me now, For I am weary, let me bow My head upon your gentle breast. Take me like when a babe to rest. Oh take me forth I care not where, With you my guide I cannot fear. But hark, sweet music now I hear. And God is breathing in mine ear, I see the heavens brighter glow, Like rain bows round their glory throw, I see the angels all arow, I hear their hymns eternal flow. Come mother mine through weal and n-oe, God calls us forth, and let us go, For I am weary. V. Here his head — Sank deeper in the crimson bed, A paler hue his visage spread, And hoary Ulrick's soul had fled ; Upon that awful pathway trod, Which brings us face to face with God, Without a struggle or a throe. It silent left this vale of woe, Then was dead silence in that room, A silence awful like the tomb. Even the clock upon the wall Had ceased its solemn clicking all, Had stopped, gave not a single chime THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN, 361 To tell the knell of passing time ; At length half stifled sobs confcst That sorrow labored in each breast, Each eye was moist, and every cheek Did glist'ning, falling tears bespeak. The old man's hands across his breast I placed in everlasting rest, His ej-es and mouth I gently closed, Which soon in rigidness reposed. Smoothed down his hoarj^ beard and hair, And he lay on his stately lair. Like one who slept and sweetlj^ dream 'd, For with a smile his visage beam'd, Beam'd as if his immortal soul Still o'er that bod}' held control, Still lingered round its cherished clay, And lit it with a deathless ray. Unto the window swift I drew And wide the spacious casement threw, And pure and sweet the midnight air Rushed in from off its frosty lair, With noiseless tread, and silent breath I moved from out that hall of death. But as from out the room I drew, A lingering look behind I threw. For that moment the moon's bright beam, Did through the open casement stream, And did awe inspiring glow, Upon that dead man's features throw. So life-like 'neatli the light he seem'd. You would have sworn he livedand dream'd, That he was living you would vow ; Back I return'd and felt his brow. But it was cold as was the snow. That clothed the silent earth below. 362 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. O'er which the moonbeams' silver glow DiJ its increasing glory throw, Then from that room with silent tread, And eyes that fas b their tear drops shed, His few attendants swiftly sped. And unto silence left the dead. The night wore on, the heath cock crew, And o'er the sky the morning grew, And far across the snowy wold Was heard the bleating of the fold. The roisy geese across the snow Moved forth with measured tread and slow, To where a crystal sparkling lake, Stood mirroring a firr}^ brake. The watch dogs from their kennels crawl'd, And to the coming morning brawl 'd. The drowsy horse within the stall. Was startled out of slumber s thnjl, Paw'd, switched his tail and pricked his ears, For plain his keeper's tread he hears. Heard crib door ope where lay the corn, Then neighing did salute the morn. VI. Then soon the morning's golden light Like conqueror burst on the night, The sun arose and o'er the earth All god-like splendor had its birth. The world was robed in dazzling white, Far as could roam the human sight — O'er wold and glen and mountains high, Whose icy peaks blazed in the sky. And far below the ocean's mass, Gleam 'd like a world of molten glass ; THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 3G3 And glowin<^ iee-bergs throng'd its beach, Far as the human eye couki reach. With morning came a lively breeze, Which in bright motion set the seas, And shook the ic}^ sprigs of trees, Which stood with boughs and tiny stems, Glittering with ten thousand gems. Of everjr varied shaj^e and hue That yet the realm of nature knew, All things in brilliant forms were tossed, Fantastic as e'er vision crossed, Winter its dreariness liad lost, By the enchanting wand of frost. Waved trees enrobed in dazzling lioht Hung o'er with pearls and diamonds bright, And there the morning's sunshine kissed The glowing, purple ameth^-st, A thousand gems with beautj^ fraught. Beyond the soaring realm of thought. Out of the realm of frost were wrought And anto every thing were brought. The topaz and the ruby red. And stones that flashing crimson shed, The jasper and the chrysolite, And stones of sardine gleaming brioht With emeralds of flashing green. Were all in mingled glory seen ; With the sapphires glowing gem Hung over every bough and stem. There were the stately cedars seen With pines bedecked in gold and green, Holly, firs, and all the green wood. Enclosed in gold and silver stood. The weeping willows bowed their heads In grand array of shining threads, 364 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. Which lairVI on earth their drooping stems, O'er Lurden'd witli their flashing gems. From brittle ash trees tall and slim Oft times came down a broken limb, And showers of gems of ever}' hue From crashing branches sparkling flew. The dark C3'press, that tree of gloom. Which aye frequents the silent tomb. The flashing, frosty gaud assumed, And with a thousand gems was plumed. The meanest shrub that grows on mead, The most unsightly bush and weed, Things most deformed, the rugged thorn, The sapless bough by lightning torn, Displaj'ed o'er earth their branching arms. Bedecked with gems of flashing charms. Gems fair as ever 3'et were wrought. As e'er from nature's mines were brought. With every hue of Beauty fraught,. Yet sprung from out her teeming thought. The poplar, gum and giant elm, And oak the monarch of the realm. Where ever statel}' forests grow, Or lofty woodland shadows throw, Like waves of flame of rudd}^ glare, Toss'd their huge branches in the air. The breeze arose, far stronger blew. And all the trees that tallest grew. That were the comeliest to view, To earth their gaudy jewels threw. Cast them to earth with mute disdain, Displayed their rough, thick bark again. So the lion from liis slumber wakes, And from his mane the raindrops shakes. THE HEIR OF LYOLVNX. 3C5 Which through the night have gathered there, And moisture east around his lair. The sun moved up his destined way, Still warmer grew his glowing ray, And drop hy drop the gems were cast Upon the earth that hid them fast, AAA'ay the baseless fabric past, Wrought out of frost by storm and blast, Dissolved away in flowing tears, Like human hopes and jo3'S and fears. For they are just as vain and frail. As fleeting and of small avail, As pomp wrought out of storm and hail, When morning's beams its gauds assail, All's but a vapor and a breath, Fate in a moment gives to death. VII. Some half a mile from Castle Flame, A rock rear'd high its giant frame, And with its head all wrapped in snow, Looked o'er the ocean far below, To this obscured from other's view, Guy Harold and Hunyadi drew. Here they'd been an hour and more. All their past actions talking o'er ; They all the past minutely scann'd, And for the future schemed and plann'd. Each heart was fill'd with mirth and hope. Read}'' with any toil to cope. For never in their lives before, Such golden hues the future wore, It all a glowing promise gave, Secure as either heart could crave. 366 THE HEIR OP LYOLYXN. For while old Roger in his cave Lay groaning with his ghastly wound, No ease at all from leechcraft found, Nor signs of healing gave to view. He one night delirious grew, And in his sleep he muttered low. About his deeds of long ago The while alternate joy and Avoe Throughout his spirit seem'd to flow. At times he roam VI o'er land and flood. Mingled 'midst scenes of strife and blood, Muttered defiance to some foe. Would at him fearful curses throw. And fiercely deal him kick and blow. Till he in death had stretched him low — A grave with curse and laugh he made, And in it swift his victim laid. At times some house he sacked and burn'd. And smiled as it to embers turn VI. At times far milder grew his mood, And o'er religion seem'd to brood. At times he prajed for others good. Or preaching in the pulpit stood. Then suddenly would change his theme. Some murder straight would plot and scheme. Show signs of sufferings extreme. Then sing or terribly blaspheme, Then straight again his theme wouldchange. Through cities vast he'd seem to range, Meet men and call them all by name ; Serious oft his speech became. With those he met, at times it seemed. In tricky case at law he schemed, From case to case he quickly ranged, THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 367 Forged wills, and title deeds he changed, It seem'd he roam'd the country round, The lands of absentees he found, O'er these huge mortgages he made, Which to some dupe were soon conveyed, And unto him his price was paid, And long he'd chuckle to himself. When he'd received the shining pelf. At length with Apgar all alone. He schemed to fly to parts unknown ; A corpse placed in a cask of oil. Was brought to him from distant soil, Unto his home 'twas soon conveyed, Securely in his cellar laid, A corpse which strong resemblence bore — The form and face that Roger wore. The oil was pour'd his cottage o'er, Well soaked in it was roof and floor, Then in the night from it he fled, Left Apgar there the flames to sj^read. And that night from a ship at sea, Fe gladly watched it blazing free. Then muttered to himself with glee, Aha, what faith they placed in me, How nicely I have all deceived, But it will never be believed — But that I died in yonder flame. Nor wdl they dream I've played such game, 'Gainst me not one, right well, I ween. Will ever hold a thought of spleen, Nor dream I'd do an action mean, For such in me was never seen. While thus the fever racked his brain. And throbbed his form with mortal pain. And all the actions of his past 3G8 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. Came trooping o'er his senses fast, And he laj- raving on his lair, Displaying joy or grim despair, Alternate triumph and defeat, As he would friend and foeman greet, There every word he said or sung, Each sjdlable that from him rung, Was in the tongue of some strange land, A language none could understand — Save 'Hmiyadi. To him 'twas known. All quite familiar as his own. And 'midst his ravings Roger told, How once a vast estate he sold, Which to an infant heir belonged, And told all how the child he wronged. Told how he did the child defraud Of all her lands and all her hoard, Robb'd, swindled her of all her right, Left her without one single mite. VIII. « Her mother died the very morn On which her infant had been born, Ere a j^ear from her birth had past, Her father had in battle died, And she upon the world was cast With one old uncle for her guide. Vast was his wealth, his fortune laid In broad and fertile tracts of land, Rich as ©"er yet have cattle strayed, Or e'er were 'till'd by human hand. Nigh to a city vast and great Which day by day still larger grew. Stood all this old man's broad estate, And fast the city towards it drew. THE HETR OF LYOLYXN. 369 And to his mansiun grand and fair Wliieh al^ could from that city see, He took this child, his only heir, None other living kin had he. But soon by death was he removed, On all his wealth was she enthroned, For when, his will was read it proved To her he'd given all he owned. But as the child was all too young To manage an estate so broad, And so nought should from her be wrung By any acts of human fraud, William Stewart a lawjer learn 'd His executor he had made, A man who had in that city earn'd, A fame to Avhich all homage paid. All right had he to sell the lands, Or do with them as he saw fit. All such power was in his hands, Thrice in the will was plainly writ. The lands for building sites were sought. So for this purpose it was sold. And soon b}' builders all was bought, Converted into shining gold. Where he invested it again, Was to none in that city known. But ne'er flashed the thought in any brain He had the heir injustice shown. And when amidst the embers grim. The charr'd and ghastly cojpse was found, All deemVl some one had murder'd him, Then burn'd his cottage to the ground. And that the deeds and papers all Which showed where he the wealth had placed, i70 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNX. Which unto just and righteous call Each farthing of that fortune traced, Had witli himself and cottage wall By flames been ever more eflTaced. And though the records of that land, In all its cities far and near, Where search 'd b}^ eager heart and hand, From day to day, from year to 3^ear, And not the slightest trace was caught, To show where he had placed the hoard, Yet not a man was found who thought, Stewart had meant to rob his ward. Years flew on, and to womanhood The robb'd, the swindled heiress grew. But still a mystery it stood To where that ample fortune flew. Years swift flew by and she was wed, And one all noble son she bore, That son Hunyadi was, he who shed On earth the ruthless Omar's gore. IX. His ravings ceased, the fever broke, Old Hoger in the morning woke, All wistfully he gazed around. None saA'e Hunyadi near him found, A tear well'd from his lai'ge gra}^ eye, And came a long and heavy sigh. O'er brows liis boney hand he spread, As if to hide the tear that sped, Which glistened bright upon its bed Beneath the glare that tapers shed. With unshaved face and uncombed hair. And haggard face with gloomy air, He seem'd upon his lilthy lair. THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 371 A perfect image of despair. For grim remorse and mortal pain, O'er form and spirit lield tlieir reign ; Silent he lay a little space, Then drew his hand from off his face, With elbow resting on the bed. His hand from pillow propped his head, As thus he spake with mournful tone, That thrill'd through marrow, nerve and bone, Which echoed through that gloomy room, Like night winds sighing round a tomb. X, Oh, God, I've been a sinful man, And never since my life began. To men I've aught but evil wrought, Alike in action and in thought. Many I've ruin'd and betrayed, Many a wretch I've homeless made, Cast them out with hate and scorn,. Their forms and spirits crushed and torn. Many through me with woe have throbb'd. Many an infant heir I've robb'd, Orphans to ample fortunes born, I've turn'd to beggars all forlorn, Set them within the alms-house door. Took all their wealtli and kept them poor. And many a man at night I've slain Only a little spoil to gain. From year to jcar kept on this course. Nor ever felt the least remorse, And although through these years I 've past , And hoarded piles of treasures vast. Yet I'm of every friend bereft, 3T2 TUB HEIR OF LYOLYNN. To tend me now not one is left, Yes, no one but a stranger now Is here to lave m}' bvirnint^ brow. Apgar's gone and Omar too, And ever}' friend that once I knew. And a feeling dread and grim, Is stealing o'er mj form and limb. And well 1 know with every breath I'm hasting to the arms of death. 'Tis sad to lie so ill at ease And think of awful things like these. And now there is but one relief, To all ni}' mortal throe and grief, And that is wine, j^es, ruddy wine Will soothe this pain and woe of mine, So haste and give me wine, and pain And grief shall fly with all their train Of dark infernal fiends and imps. Which from huge elephants to shrimps All forms and shapes and sizes show. That ever yet did mortal know. Give me wine, in its ruddy glow Is balm for my infernal woe. He ceased, and straight a mighty draught Of ruddy wine the old man quaffed, Then for a moment wild he laughed ; Hunyadi's hand in his he caught. And said, just now a happy thought Like lightning flash'd within my brain, Nor could I from a laugh refrain. For it roused the blood in every vein ; Though unremitting is ray pain, I've been puzzled of late in deed, How I should pa}' j-ou ample meed, For all your patient toil and care, THE IIETR OF LYOLYNN. While I have been bedridden here, There is a little cave that's known To none that breathe save me alone ; It is amidst a lofty line Of rocks that o'er a tarn incline, A waste of granite lone and wild. There all of Omar's hoard is piled. It chanced upon one stormy day, I thither saw him plod his way, In secret on his path I went, See on what errand he was bent, I climb 'd the erags and look'd around, But no where Omar's form I ftnxnd. An hour full I view'd the ground. Of Omar caught no sign nor sound. But still in secret there I lay. Where I could far the tarn survey. Where none could catch a view of me, But just where I could all things see. Sudden, emerging from a rock, A dark-gray, lofty granite block, The form of Omar I espied. Near an opening in that rock's side, A bulky rock I saw him lift, Which so completely fit the rift. Yes, so exactly fiU'd the space. Scarce any passer by would trace Though viewing it by noonday beam That round it was small zigzag seam. When Omar from the place withdrew. Had past entirely from view, I went and searched the place around, The rock that fit the rift I found, Swiftly away the rock I slid, And opened wide the hole it hid. 311 gTl THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. A passage small there met my sight, But all within was dark as night. A light I lit and onward sped, With watchful eyes and cautious tread, But soon a solid iron door, With bolts ami locks all covered o'er ; And fitted to the walls secure, Grim stoppage to the passage made ; But picking locks has been a trade From early bo^diood I have known, Ere I had unto manhood grown, Full many a lock had I undone. And entrance to rich coflers won. So soon these locks I open threw, And from their holds the bolts I drew, Right soon the door I opened wide. And there a pile of gold espied, There far more shining treasure glow'd, Than I e'er thought his coffers show'd, Yes, yes, far more than I e'er thought, Friend Omar had together brought. But not a coin away I bore. Although to leave that tempting store All untouched, grieved my spirit sore; I locked again the iron door, Fix'd ever}^ lock and bolt secure. As they had been arranged before. Back in the rift the rock I placed, And from the cave my steps retraced. I was the last of mortal man. That did the glowing treasure scan, Omar ne'er trod that cave again, For he soon after this was slain. There all that hoard doth still remain, And can by you right easy ta'en. THE HKTR OF LYOLYNN. 3*75 Full nine times more than you. can bear Upon your back from there to here, Of shining gold lies piled up there, With silver bars of glowing sheen, And stones as bright as e'er were seen. But there secure that hoard will lay From men until the judgment da}'. Deep buried in that rocky ground. If I tell not how it can be found. So promise now that you will bring — To me one half of every thing — You'll find within that cavern stored. Then I'll tell how to find the hoard. I promise it, Hunyadi said. Then spake Lea, The pathway tread To where that lofty dark-gray earn, Towers above the sable tarn. Where midst the cliffs projecting round, The entrance to that shaft is found, Through which you've, oft in secret past, And in this cave your vision cast, The one from oat whose darkness rife. You witnessed mine and Johnson's strife. From where is seen that fissure's month. Step forty i:)aces towards the South ; There midst that wall of cliffs 3-ou'll find A rock that seems of different kind. It's the sole one of brownish hue. You 'midst the dark-gray cliff will view. Just move that stone from out its place, Behind you'll find an open sjiace, Which has the hue of midnight gloom ; Through at its mouth there scarce is room — To pass a man of form like 30U, But when by this you have past through — 376 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. You soon a spacious vault will win, So fear you not to enter in — If 3'on would treasure win with eaae ; On 3'onder wall hang Omar's ke^s, Take them along, and haste and bring From out that cave each shining thing ; And if all square with me you share, The shining treasure you find there, I know where is another hoard, That Johnson in a cavern stored, Now speed 3-ou forth upon your way, I have no other word to sa}." But I know better far than j'ou. Where Johnson's hoard is hid from view. Thus to himself Hun3-adi thought, As from the wall the ke3'S he brought. XI. Forth from the cave Hunyadi sped. And sought the^raggy path that led To where the loft3i' dark-gray earn Towered above the gloomy tarn. He reached the fissure's gloom3^ mouth, Stepped forty paces towards the South, And midst the cliff of dark-gray hue, The brownish spot did shortl3^ view. From out its place that rock he slid Which straight reveal'd the hole it hid. He entered in that place of gloom, Which scarce unto his form gave room ; On, on he sped with light in hand, The secrets of that cavern scann'd. It was a cavern dark and lone, Dug in a ridge of solid stone. Which Apgar thirty 3^ears before — THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 377 Had delved, wherein to hide his store, And unto none save him alone, And his son Omar was it known, And there was hidden all the wealth, The twain for years had won throughstealth. The door Hun^adi o[)ened wide, And there the shining hoard espied, Two heavy sacks of coin he caught, And from the cave the treasure brought, And straight from there to Castle Flame He with his shining treasure came. And in that castle all secure He shortly lodged his golden store, Then back with Harold quickly drew, With Bracklinn and O'Conna too, And all that cavern's shining store. To Castle Flame they safely bore. Then said the bard, I know the den Of one of Roger's other men. So come, we'll go this very day — And bear his shining hoard away. Then straight to Johnson's cave they past, Aud bore away his treasure vast. XIT. Thus caused it, why that frosty morn Bright smiles did either face adorn, Why hope and joy each bosom ftll'd. And either heart with rapture thrill'd, As there beside the rock the}'' drew. Obscured from other mortal's view. Treasure they had a shining store, Yet still their bosoms craved for more, Like all the race of human kind When glowing Fortune once they find, 8^8 THE HEIR or LYOLYNN. It matters not how grand and vast Bright hoard within their kip is cast, Still, still they long for greater store, Unsatisfied still crave for more. And this is why their past they scanned, And for the beaming future plann'd. XIII. Now we must haste to Roger's den, The bard to Ilaiold said, And then Before one little week flies round You'll see we've far more treasure found, You trust to me and soon you'll find Your coffers with vast treasure lined. Now one vdiole day and night have past, Since I on Roger gazed my last. Since I in quest of Omar's gold. Left on his bed that miser old. To fret and grieve and curse and swear, 'Till I should back with it repair, And give to him an ample share. But as I did not then intend To back with any treasure wend, Should 1 the hoard of Omar find, I told him just to ease his mind, That sleet and snow were falling fast, And rife was air with storm and blast, And not unless the hoard I found. Would I return 'till days went round. But stay and search that rocky ground. Now there the four of us must go, Then I can talk to Roger so As it may just beseem me best, Should he think in vain I did not quest For Omar's hoard, for well I know THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. M79 On me lie'll strong suspicion throw, And think I've found the treasure bright And forth with it have ta'en my flight, !Nor share with him a single mite. T^or do I care to go alone This time within his gloomy den, Sooner to him would I be shown, With three or four good stalwart men. For false I've acted unto him, And every member of his crew, 'Twas I prompted that carnage grim, Which for Zurn's supposed murder grew ; One day I to that vessel drew, And soon I made that spiteful crew Believe, 'twas Roger Lea alone "Who had their leader basely slain, !Nor did I tell them this in vain, All swore to make old Lea atone, Yes, deal upon him vengeance grim, And carve his body, thew and limb. And straight they fix'd npon a day To slay old Koger in his den, And then to bear his hoard away In spite of all his many men. They swore to pass through every glen. O'er every mountain, earn and fen, Over which held old Roger sway, And sla}' each member of his crew, Or make them cease his wilds to range, Other ways for livelihood pursue. And all their deeds and masters change. When I had roil'd their hate and spleen, And sti.-r'd up all their vengeance grim, Eight swift by me was Johnson seen. And all Lea's danger told to him. 380 THE HEIR OP LYOLYNN. Through 1113' advice he placed his men — In ambush midst each lonely glen, Which pathway gave o'er rock and fen, From ocean to old Roger's den. I wished tu see each robber band By one another waste away, For this I've brought them hand to hand In mortal and in fatal fray. In secret to each band I claimed A firm and trust}' friend to be, While I the hate of each inflamed Unto a wild and dread degree. I made them grim and fiercer foes Than either band would e'er have been, If I had ne'er amongst them chose To dwell, and stir their evil spleen. I taught them how to deal their blows. And 'gainst each other wage their fray. In deadly strife I made them close 'Till all in slaughter round me lay. Their rage and hate I served to roil, Since ever I amongst them came, Gave them advice like pouring oil Upon a huge barn wrapt in flame. And on the day I went with Lea To go with him to foreign lands, I did intend ere night to see In jail this chief of robber bands. But fate has nobler done for me, For soon a greater prize I'll draw, Than had it chanced I'd placed old Lea Within the shackles of the Law. B}^ wounding him as fate has done, The fever caused by mortal pain, Has quite upset the old man's brain. THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. .".Sl And made his tongue his secrets tell, Tiiat he's the one, lie's made it plain, Who did m}' mother's coffers drain, Yes, every farthing from her won, And soon m}- mother's wealth, her son Shall take back from the thief again. And handle him with vengeance fell. Stewart, whom all thought dead and burn 'd, To life in Roger Lea has turn'd, A stranger talc than this, I trow^ Ne'er chanced since nature's dawn 'till now. Oh, what a tale to tell that town. Where once he flourished his renown! When in his cave I tread once mere, He'll ask me after Omar's store, But trvist to me I'll tell no lie — Though hundred of his men be nigh, I'll make the thieving villain know That I am Mary Jollifle's son, Betide it peril, pain and woe, I'll make the gray-haired Roger show. What he with all her wealth has done. Back, he shall ever^^ mite return, By me shall every mite be won, Or I Avill make his cavern run With streams of reeking crimson glow. And with his gore that stream shall flow ; For him I thoughts of mercy spurn; His rock}^ cavern will not burn, But I will cause its overthrow. Fell powder in its vaults I'll place, Then Avith a spark, to azure space. The cursed Bower of Bliss I'll blow. The whole to ruin soon shall go, And every gold and silver urn. 382 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. And bars and coins of glowing ore, That make up lloger's ill got store, Which with contempt I once did spurn, Though me it lay in piles before All heaped around his caA'ern floor And for some treasure I did 3- earn, For I was threadbare, starved and poor And needed shining treasure sore, To pay ni}^ way to foreign shore. Was prgmpted long b}- Peter Zurn, Yes, yes, full two whole weeks and more To help mj'self and pay my wa}', Yet all untouched by me it lay, Yea, not a coin from it I took, Although so tempting it did look, No, it I touched not at that time, Because I deem'd it was a crime, A burning shame, a glaring sin, By stealth the least of hoard to win. Though at that time I knew full well That hoard through fraud to Roger fell. Yet not a coin of it I'd touch, Although I needed it so much. Though at that time my pride was such. Proud thoughts no more my feelings crutch, When e'er they bar my road to wealth, That has been ta'en from me by stealth, All hoard he's in his cavern set. Has stolen from his friends and foes, Shall go for insterest on the debt He to m}' poor dead mother owes But Guy Harold I brought 30U here To breathe a secret in your ear — I wished not Alice now to know. For it would only cause her woe ; THE HETR OF LVOLYNN. 333 Though joy is out of sorrow born, With grief I wish not Alice torn, And more it might delay the morn, She shall your side as bride adorn — If you my awful secret knew. For 'twould be told to her by you. Though earth is but a world of lies, Where lives deceit, and virtue dies. Yet betide it woe, and none of weal, Should I m}' tak to you reveal. You would right off to Alice go And let her all chat secret know. And this would do no good, what e'er To haste the wedding now so near ; ' So what I purpose here to tell, A secret still shall in me dwell, Until the wedding day is i^ast, I would not it with clouds o er cast, But unto you this much I'll tell, And let it with you secret dwell ; At yonr wedding one well known man Amongst the guests you will not scan. One you expect, 30U will not see, For there George Mosman will not be. XIV. Silent those men a little space — Stood gazing on each other's face, 'Till from the gaze Guy Harold broke. And all surprised, astonished spoke. " Hunyadi do you mean to tell That 'neath your hand George Mosman fell ? Come trust in me and tell me all, No word I'll breathe about his fall, I for his death feel nought of woe, 384 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. Say, have you. laid that villain low ?" " I did not cause his Mood to flow, Nor ever gave I him a blow, But ask no more, just let it rest, For silence in this thing were best, What e'er has happ'd is God's behest. To know it, show but little zest. Death oft becomes a welcomed guest. When after peace and joy we quest, If he some incubus removes, Which against our welfare proves. As time whirls down its changing groove?, It often much a man behooves • To lock some secret in his breast. And there forever let it rest, All undivulged unto tlie end, To mortal foe or bosom friend. Enough of this. Let's forward range, This place for Roger's cavern change. Come, come, I need some aid from you, From Bracklinn and O'Conna too." XV. Well arm'd with pistols, dirk and brand With willing heart and stalwart hand, Soon those four men were on the road Which led to Roger's grim abode. O'er hilly lands all clothed with snow, Which blinding gleam'd 'neath morning's glow. By rocks precipitous and vast, Bare, desolate, sublime and grand, Whose awful forms with ice o'er cast All gleaming stood on every hand, Where lins arrested in their flow, THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 385 And cUain'd by winter's wand of frost, Beneath the morning's ruddj- glow, Ten thousand forms fantastic show, In whicli their fettered waves were tost. Through forests dense as ever threw Their shadow over hill or glen, And thickets dense as ever grew, In haste those four together drew, And soon they reached old Roger's den. XVI. Upon his lair of filth and straw, 111 at ease still la}' the old out-law. A mournful look his visage wore. And signs of coming death it bore. Yet still his mind for golden ore — Was just as eager as of yore, And scarce Hunj-adi trod his floor, Or ci'ossed the threshold of his door, Than straight he asked for Omar's Ftore. And though his wound was stiff and sore, "Was matted thick with filth and gore, Nor had been washed a week and more, Yet upright sat he on his lair, And on Hunyadi fix'd his stare. And said with voice deep, strong and clear. Why come you empty-handed here ? Say, are you willing now to swear, You found not Omar's treasure where I told you it was safely stored ? Then answer made the bard, The hoard I found just where you said 'twas stowed, And now it doth my coffers load, And not a coin that 'mongst it glow'd, Shall ever enter this abode. 386 THE HEIR OP LYOLYNN. And Johnson's hoard is also mine, Doth safe within my coffers shine, Nor ever shall one smgle mite Of all their treasure A^ast and bright, In your accursed possession fall, Long as God moves this earthly ball He ceased, and stood a little space, With his e^-es fix'd on Roger's face, Folded his arms at perfect rest Across his brawny swelling breast, A minute full he silent gazed, Nor once his eye from Roger's raised. But in neither Roger's face nor eyes- Was seen one atom of surprise. Placid and undisturbed he la}^, As some grim image wrought of clay. Tomb-like silence a little space Reigned over all that gloomy place, Nor was its awful silence broke, 'Till thus again Hunyadi spoke. But Avhat he said was in the tongue Lea spake when with the fever wrung. The language of a foreign land Which not one there could understand. Save he and Lea. But what they spake, This is the meaning we shall take. XVII. "Lea, I am Mary Jolliffe's son. What with her treasure have you done ? Back every mite to me 3'ou give, Or I will prove 3'ou yet do live, Tell every one within that toAvn, Where once 3^011 spread such grand renown, That William Stewart is not dead, THE HEIR OF LTOLYNN. SSI But yet alive the earth doth tread, Did never witli his cottage burn. My mother's wealth to me return, And I will ne'er the truth reveal, And secrets wliich I now conceal, Which were I once to spread abroad — Would give you to the hangman's cord. I ask 3^ou in this tongue unknown To all save you and me alone. Because I wish not others here To know 3'ou William Stewart were. So back my mother's wealth give me, And 3'ou may ever more go free." Back on his reeking, filthy bed, Old Roger threw his hoary head, His arms across his breast he flunsr. And answered in that unknown tongue. " Think not because my wound is sore, And I have lost my strength of yore, Now cannot rise from of my bed. To cleave in twain your cursed head. And from yo\i tear j^our 13'ing tongue. That insult can on me be flung Without a punishment all dread As ever fell on mortal's head, I hold 3'ou as my deadly foe. And all 3^our friends that here 3'ou show, Though I can't rise to strike 3'ou low, I'll fearful odds against you throw. From here 3"0u never more go free To tell 3'our lies of Roger Lea, That awful vengeance 3'ou shall greet Which for such knaves as you is meet." This said, a fierce, wild shriek he gave, Which echoed throu2h the rockv cave. 388 THE HEIR OP LYOLYNN. And swift as moves a flock of teni, When coming huntsmen tliey discern, Or swift as rush a drove of hounds — To where tlieir masters 's whistle sounds, So svdft within that rock}^ den Rushed full two score of Roger's men. The best and bravest of his crew, That then his hills and valle3's knew. As desperate and savage band, As ever out-law 'd roam'd a land, On, on they came with gun and knife — To wage for Roger gory strife. Children of the Bower of Bliss, He fiercely shrieked, I never miss To vengeance deal on mortal foe. So strike j'on four base villains low. Down with the robbers, smite them dead, And cleave in twain each cursed head, And he who sheds Hun3'adi's gore, Shall have of gold a boundless store. XVIII. In vain old Roger cheer 'd his men, In vain they waged the combat then For their old Leader grim and hoar, Down went they 'neath those dauntless four, And soon in pools their reeking gore Streamed red along tliat cavern's floor, For they were met by shot and blow, By whizzing ball and powder's glow, By flashing sword and gleaming knife, And men that little recked for life. Right swift beneath TTunyadi's blade A corpse was sable Osman laid, THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 389 With head cleft through down, down he went As if by bolt of lightning rent, And right and left his gory way Hew'd red 'mongst Roger's grim array ; While by Guy Harold's reeking sword Their blood around in puddles poured ; By Bracklinn and O'Conna too On floor and "walls their life blood flew, And soon a score of Roger's men La};^ dead or dying in his den. And all the while the strife was waged, Upon his lair old Roger raged. And scream \1 and swore and tore his hair. And writhed all frantic with despair. For fast he saw his chieftains fall By either blade or pistol's ball. And though their muskets ceaseless blared , And dread each flashing volley flared, Yet harmless on those four they brayed. And not a single wound the}^ made. Unharmed those four stood up before Each volley's blazing, deafening roar. And back their frantic foes they bore — Through narrow passage to a room — Where two huge lamps dispelled its gloom, And there they rallied once again, And on the four rushed on amain. But as on rocks falls down the rain, Their vollej^s and their blows were vain, To wound or move those dauntelss four. Who still shed fast their foemen's gore. Right at the threshold to that room They stood and sealed their foemen's doom. There the bard and Harold sword in hand 390 THE HEIR OF LTOLYNN. Kept back at bay all Roger's band ; While Brackliiin and O'Conna stood Right between those champions good, And swiftly did their pistols load, And on tlieir foes their shots bestowed. Again they charged, and shot again, 'Till every wretch in Roger's train Down, down was shot like dri^^en deer, Lay either dead or dj'ing there. Then back to Roger's room they sped, And gathered round that miser's bed, 'Midst the dense, sulphureous smoke That all throughout that cavern broke, A ghastly hue bis visage wore — Perhaps as ever mortal bore. His eye balls glowed like coals of flame, And wild there glare through darkness came. And fired grim with rage and hate, He all undaunted braved his fate. XIX. Across Lea's face of ashj^ hue. His reeking sword Hunyadi drew, " Now 3 ield my mother's hoard," he said. •' Or cleft shall be your cursed head." '• Your threats base villain I defj^, Think not that Roger fears to die, Nor deem one mite of all that hoard Shall ever be to 3 ou restored. Where it is no one knows save me, And told to jou, 'twill never be. The secret where that treasure vast Amidst these vaults and cave is cast, Will never be to mortal known, THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN, 391 When life from Roger Lea has flown. Though you've out witted all m^^ men, And murdered all within my den, You cannot frighten Roger Lea, More than a rock by roaring sea, Nor wring one secret out of me, I do not choose to tell 3-ou free The thing that you now seek to know, Though me 'twould save from death and woe. I'll never breathe to mortal man, So do the worst Imse Avretch you can. You'll find unto the bitter end Whatever fate may 'gainst me send, Though I cannot m^'self defend, That Roger's soul you cannot bend — Nor do a deed nor speak a word. Not done of his own free accord. Think not I heed 3-our reeking sword, Or fear your violence and fraud, Base villain, I have trusted 3-ou — As I have only trusted few, Placed more faith in 3'ou than any man I've ever met since life began, M}' arsenal wiiliin yonr charge I placed, 3-es, every thing at large That was within my cavern stored, That looked like pistol, gun or sword, Ldve powder, caps and shot and ball, Yes, in your hands I trusted all ; And with blank cartridges, 3'ou knave, You've charged each weapon in my cave, And when my men their volleys poured, They all unharming at you roared. But think not you shall 'scape my wrath. 392 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. Nor pass from here all free of scath, For 3'ou shall die a death all grim, I'll have you hrokeu limb by limb, I3ehold in ponder room the wheel, You soon shall all its terror feel ! I've drawn a cord that rings a bell, That rests upon my highest fell. Its sound will fly o'er hill and dell, My need for aid to all will tell — For never is it heard to sound — Save when grim dangers me surround, And soon it to this cave will fetch, Men who your cursed form will stretch. Break, tear and crush on yonder wheel. Yea, on yon grim revenge will deal. They'll i)ierce ^-ou through with burning steel, And all the agony you'll feel. That can by mortal flesh be felt. Or yet to any wretch was dealt, You soon will find that Roger Lea, Can never, never conquered be." ''Flatter not yourself," the bard replied, "That an}' aid will seek j-our side. For I have climbed that lofty fell And torn the clapi)er from your bell. Away I brought its iron tongue, And it within a gurge I flung, 'Twill never more by you be rung, Nor by that cord be exev swung, It with my knife I did divide. Its end unto a sapling tied, So you can pull that cord, old man. And please 3-ourself as best you can But not a man by it will come, THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. As well seek answer from the dumb. When first at joii I shook my sword, I saw^ you grasp and pull that cord, And I Avas really forced the while To turn from 30U my face and smile. And think how the sapling on the fell Was rocked and swung in place of bell. My plans gainst you are all complete, And you can bring them no defeat. First every gun in this abode With blank cartridge I did load, Left nought in them could wound or maim, With every pistol did the same. Then in each cartridge box did look, The ball from every package took, And in its stead I powder placed, Taking good care, none looked defaced, Yea, tied up each so firm and neat, That none would e'er detect the cheat And every shot and ball I threw Where they would never meet the view Of any of your cursed crew; Then blades from out their sheathes I drew, And SAvift a strong cement I made It painted thick o'er every blade Then in each sheath the paste I poured. Back placed each ataghan and sword, And there they rest glued so secure From their sheathes none will draw them more, 'Twas only in the time of need. You or your men found out the deed. Yes, it discovered all too late To any way avert your fate. All in vain 'gainst me they fought, 593 394 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. And have their own destruction wro-ught And ever}' scheme 'gainst you I've laid, You'll find I have all perfect made, Will all in triumph end to nie — As this has done, jou'll shortly- see. Vast trains of powder I have laid, Ready with fuses all are made' Were I to them one spark bestow, I'd into air your cavern blow, Make it Avhirl midst fiery gloWj And gi\e 3-ou lasting overthrow, To me my mother's wealth restore, And I will never harm 30U more. Will let you roam from shore to shore, And steal alike from rich and poor." "No, not one mite from it I'll give. Though thousand years through it I'd live, Nor all the force on land and sea Can daunt the soul of Roger Lea, Smite on, do all the worst you can. For I def)' all force of man. On me all violence you waste, And where I have that treasure placed — Save me no breathing mortal knows, And ne'er will I its place disclose, And when I'm dead then none will know, Or where I placed that treasure show." Thus spake old Lea and from his lair Gazed on his foe with dauntless air XX. Then you shall die, Hunyadi said. And poised his sword o'er Roger's head But ere the gory weapon fell. There burst a wild, unearthly yell, THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 395 From old Matilda's throat it rung — As 'neath the sword her form she flung. Swift at the gory blade she sprung And screaming to the weapon clung. Dread was her mien and wild her look, All o'er like aspen leaf she shook, Down hung at length her thin, gra}^ hair, O'er features grim with dread despair, O'er wrinkled visage pale and thin, O'er toothless mouth' and long, sharp chin, O'er furrow 'd forehead broad and high, And heavy brows that shaggy lie, O'er sable eyes that flame beneath, Like daggers darting from their sheath. Which with a wild, unearthly glare, Fix'd on Hanyadi rigid stare. Her form was broad, erect and tall. And massive bone and sinew all. And all so lank and lean and gaunt, She looked like hunger grim and want. « But vigor lay within her frame, Which only few of men could claim. Close bending to Hunj^adi's ear So what she said Lea could not hear, Strike not, she said, Deal not a blow, And where that wealth is placed I'll show, That is, if you will truly swear, No more with us will interfere. Leave us alone in every thing, Nor aught of harm against us bring." Then swift replied he in her ej^r, •' I promise it," Hunyadi said. In whispers none but she might hear, "For this I pledge my life, my head, Soon as my treasure j^ou restore, 396 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. I'll ne'er molest or harm 3'ou more." " Then come with me," she whispered low, " And 3' on shall all about it know." And with her honey hand still laid Upon Hunyadi's gory blade, Leaving the others by Lea's bed, Hunj'adi from the room she led. Trod through an entry dense with gloom, Until they reached a spacious room. Where flared a smoking taper dim, And where upon the wall all grim A human skeleton was hung, Whose gliastl}" bou}' fingers clung, Around tlie hilt of dagger sheen. Which glowing through the room was seen. She strode that skeleton befoi'e — And thus commenced to speak once more. But while to speak she thus began, With tears her sable eyes o'er ran. XXI. " In yon grim skeleton you see All's left of one once dear to me . Although 'twas he my ruin wrought, And me unto this cavern brought, Yet still his fleshless bones I love Far, far all earthly things above. He brother was to Roger Lea, And husband unto me was he. He lived 'till he had hoary grown, And much of shining wealth did own ; Nor known was there o'er land or sea — A richer man than Orla Lea. With Hugh De Yaux it chanced one day Through forests vast he took his way. THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 39'j Unto a lonely place thoy drew, And Hugh De Vaux my Orla slew, On earth his precious life blood poured, And robbed him of an ample hoard ; Nor had I known how Orla died, Had not TJlrick the deed espied ; Who did to me the story tell. Then limned the scene on canvas well A huge painting of the scene he drevr, And hung it up to public view, It now at Mosman's grange you'll see At least so Roger told to me, For years the murderer was sought, But never unto justice brought. To distant lands the villain fled. A fearful life of crime he led, Dreadful as ever mortal kncvr, And died amongst a ship-wrecked crew. But late I learned from Johnson's tongue, You were the only one among That crew wdiere Hugh De Vaux had died, Was living on the raft espied. And more I learned, tliat it was you. That ruthless Omar's life blood drew, Him I abhorred with mortal dread And I am happy, he is dead. When Orla fell, this cave I'd fled. And sought some distant bield or shed, Where in to shield my aged form From summer's heat and winter's storm, But I was watched both day and nl