Page:Storys (sic) of The wild huntsman.pdf/19

19 herself, and, deeply blushing, she withdrew herself from his embrace. She could not, however, quite conceal the transport she felt at so unexpectedly meeting again with her former playmate. Pleasure danced in her bright eyes, and the hours which elapsed before the return of Francis, flew winged with flowers. It is true, a few bitter tears were shed to the memory of the departed Countess; but at Juliana's age, grief does not absorb every other feeling, and when the Count spoke of Italy, her soul seemed 'lapt in Elysium.' Whilst listening to him, she forgot all beside, and time passed unheeded till she was called to a consciousness of the present, by the return of her father. He entered the cottage hastily; and, throwing aside his mantle and large hat; disclosed to Otto's astonished gaze, the features of the mysterious forester: Christain, who, after taking care of the horses; had ensconsced himself snugly in the chimney corner, shrieked with affright; but Francis heeded him not. With livid lips, and glazed eyes, he seized the arms of Otto and his daughter.

'Hugo! Ulrica!' cried he, and sank apparently lifeless on the ground.

Francis was removed to his bed, he awoke only to utter delirious ravings, & for several days his life was despaired of. Otto sent for the first medical aid in Soroe, and by the