Page:Artabanzanus (Ferrar, 1896).djvu/137

Rh I might be able to outwit him and make my escape; but he will not, and I cannot go without his consent. He says that I dare not escape from him, and defies me to outwit him'

'I would to heaven I could help you, sir! ' I said fervently.

'Perhaps you may,' he replied. 'Who can tell what a day or a week may bring forth? I am always on the watch for an opportunity, and when it comes, Mr. Demon I'm your man. What are you doing up there just now in your world?'

'It would take me too long to tell you everything sir; but we are not doing very much. The world is at peace now, but the great nations have been expecting war and making preparations for it. They do little but hound each other on, and scowl and growl at each other through their newspapers. Every day sees some new invention for the destruction of men. Every hour some cause of bitter jealousy and hatred crops up. England, as some say, is more or less unprepared, relying on the courage and abilities of her sons should her peace be disturbed. But she is torn to pieces internally by the ferocity of party spirit and democratic combinations; blown to a white heat by factious mob orators, who study only their own interest, the breath of whose nostrils is popular applause. Ireland is on the verge of a revolution, clamouring loudly for Home Rule. If she took my humble advice she would be satisfied to remain as she is. France is preparing to do some mighty deeds of bloodshed, and ruffles her feathers, and takes off her coat at every wind that blows. Russia, Germany, and Austria are steadily arming and watching each other; and no doubt the devil is watching them all, and laughing.'

'Hush! hush! You said something about having come from the Great Lake of Tasmania; I never heard of the