But
grief agitates my spirits; anxiety and apprehension conjure up a
thousand horrid phantoms before my distracted imagination, and I am no
longer myself. I will however subdue my impatient resentments. I will
listen with coolness to the voice of native sagacity and hoary
experience. Tell me then, my father, and I will hearken with mute
attention, nor think the lesson long,--instruct me how I shall escape
those tremendous dangers thou hast described. Say, is there any remedy,
canst thou communicate any potent and unconquerable amulet, that shall
shield me from the arts of sorcery? Teach me, and my honest heart shall
thank thee. Communicate it, and the benefit shall be consecrated in my
memory to everlasting gratitude."
"My son," replied Madoc, "I am indeed interested for thee. Thy heart is
ingenuous and sincere; thy misfortune is poignant and affecting. Listen
then to my directions. Receive and treasure up this small and sordid
root. In its external appearance, it is worthless and despicable; but,
Edwin, we must not judge by appearances; that which is most valuable
often delights to shroud itself under a coarse and unattractive outside.
In a richer climate, and under a more genial sun, it bears a beauteous
flower, whose broad leaves expand themselves to the day, and are clothed
with a deep and splendid purple, glossy as velvet, and bedropped with
gold.
Pages:
54
55
56
57
58
59
60
61
62
63
64
65
66
67
68
69
70
71
72
73
74
75
76
77
78