Page:Legends of Rubezahl, and Other Tales (1845).djvu/285

 The Signora is no longer here; she departed with all her household the moment she had quitted the cabinet. Attempt no pursuit, for even were you to overtake her, something still worse than what has now happened would befal you. Endure with patience what cannot now be helped. There is still hope for you: the Signora has a compassionate heart, and what she has distorted she can, if she pleases, make straight again. If, after the expiration of three years, you return hither, she will, doubtless, have ceased to bear you ill-will; and if you humble yourself before her, will make your figure straighter and better than ever it was.” This prospect somewhat calmed the fury of the poor o’erladen Rupert, who thanked the old woman for her consolatory suggestion. Early next morning, he mounted his horse, and took the road to his native place, intending to remain there till the expiatory period was passed, after which he hoped the Signora would relent, and make him more perfect than he was before.

Ulric, meantime, having recovered, proceeded in triumph to Goslar, confident that his august protectress had taken care to protect his interests, and keep the beautiful Lucretia unmarried. As he traversed the streets on his way to the castle, the whole town was in motion, everybody rushing to behold with his own eyes the astonishing change