Page:Storys (sic) of The wild huntsman.pdf/18

18 hoofs, and the monotonous gush of the waters of the lake! Soon the wind moaned through the trees; and, as its rising blast now whistled shrilly amongst the shrivelled leaves, and then died sadly away, it sounded like the wailing of accursed spirits sighing at the remembrance of the sins which they commited whilst on earth. At length they reached an open space, apparently cleared from the forest, in the centre of which stood a blasted oak, its bare arms stretching wide asunder, and looking like lines of jet, when relieved by the dark grey sky beyond. Close to this oak was the cottage of Francis, and Otto, springing from his horse, knocked against the door. It opened, and Otto started back as a vision of celestial beauty flashed upon his sight. It was Juliana, arrayed in the picturesque dress of her native country; for on this evening, she had felt secure that her father would not soon return and she had indulged her feelings by putting on her Italian garb. Otto's astonishment on beholding her, deprived him of speech; and Juliana, after waiting some seconds, raised her light to his face. She knew him, notwithstanding the time which had elapsed since they last met, and in the transport of the moment she threw herself into his arms.

'Dear Juliana!' said he, pressing her to his bosom. This action recalled Juliana to