Page:Hoffmann's Strange Stories - Hoffman - 1855.djvu/117

 that he heard the fingers of Antonia's bridegroom run rapidly over the ivory keys. He tried to arise; but an iron hand seemed to restrain him. Then it seemed to him that his daughter's voice murmured feebly, as in a distance: gradually the modulations came nearer, it was a fantastic crescendo, each vibration of which pierced his heart like an arrow. Suddenly a brilliant halo chased darkness from the room; he saw Antonia in the arms of her lover, who supported her. Their lips touched, and yet the heavenly song continued. Struck with supernatural fear, counsellor Krespel remained thus, until daylight, in an indescribable state of anguish. A leaden stupor paralyzed his thoughts. When the first ray of the rising sun cast its rosy tints under the curtains of his bed, he arose as if from a painful dream, and hastened to Antonia's chamber. She was extended on the sofa, her eyes shut, her hands joined; a sweet, but fixed smile, lingered upon her pale lips.

She resembled the angel of virginity asleep.—Her soul had returned to God! 10*