Page:The Diothas, or, A far look ahead (IA diothasorfarlook01macn).pdf/161

 of the injury he had unwittingly inflicted upon his friend, he also, became aware, for the first time, of how irrevocably his feelings had passed beyond the stage of mere admiration. He sought at once an explanation with Utis,—set forth his utter ignorance of the state of his friend's feelings toward Osna, and concluded by announcing hist intention of at once departing, at whatever cost to himself.

"Not till Osna has decided between us!" exclaimed Utis. "I know my answer beforehand, but it is her right to utter it."

"I was refused, as I expected," said Utis, when he related to me the story, "but in such a way that we have been fast friends ever since. On returning to where I found your father pacing the garden in agitation greater than I ever saw him show on any other occasion, I merely said, 'It is your turn.' He understood, went, and returned as the affianced lover of Osna Diotha.

"It was about a week after," continued Utis, "before I again met her who was hereafter to be but a friend. She had learned through Eured, she said, of what she was pleased to call my noble conduct.

You have no idea,' she continued, laughing, 'of what a strong champion you have in cousin Ulmene.'

Little Ulmene?' said I, surprised. Ulmene, at that time, was a little maid of some seven summers, small, too, for her age, and then giving but slight indication of the beauty by which she was afterwards distinguished.

Yes, Ulmene. She is most indignant at what she calls my poor taste. She makes comparisons between you and Eured that would, perhaps, render you too vain