Page:Things Japanese (1905).djvu/481

Rh re-echoing, and a more than earthly fragrance fills the air. Surely there is something strange in this. Yes! from one of the branches of yonder pine-tree hangs a beauteous robe, which, when I draw nigh and closely scan it, reveals itself more fair and fragrant than any common mortal's garb. Let me take it back to show to the old folks in the village, that it may be handed down in our house as an heirloom.

Fairy. Ah! mine is that apparel! Wherefore wouldst thou carry it away?

Fisherman. 'Twas found by me, forsooth, and I shall take it home with me.

Fairy. But 'tis a fairy's robe of feathers, a thing that may not lightly be bestowed on any mortal being. Prithee leave it on the branch from which it hung.

Fisherman. What, then, art thou thyself a fairy, that thou claimest possession of this feathery raiment? As a marvel for all ages will I keep it, and garner it up among the treasures of Japan. No, no! I cannot think of restoring it to thee.

Fairy. Alas! without my robe of feathers nevermore can I go soaring through the realms of air, nevermore can I return to my celestial home. I beg thee, I beseech thee, therefore, to give it back to me.

Fisherman. Nay! fairy, nay! the more I hear thee plead, The more my soul determines on the deed. My heartless breast but grows more cruel yet; Thou mayst not have thy feathers: 'tis too late.

Fairy. Speak not, dear fisherman! speak not that word! Ah! know'st thou not that, like the hapless bird Whose wings are broke, I seek, but seek in vain, Reft of my wings, to soar to heav'n's blue plain?

Fisherman. Chain'd to dull earth, a fairy well may pine.

Fairy. Whichever way I turn, despair is mine;

Fisherman. For ne'er the fisher will her wings restore,

Fairy. And the frail fay sinks helpless evermore.

Chorus. Alas! poor maiden, in thy quiv'ring eyne Cluster the dews; the flow'rets thou didst twine Amidst thy tresses languish and decay, And the five woes declare thy fatal day!