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A FAERIE ROMANCE. 259 |
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ship; but it will be some time before he comes to me. He is wandering now without an aim. I will show him to you in a glass, and, when he comes, you will know him at once. If he will share your endeavours, you must teach him all you know, and he will repay you well, hi present song, and in future deeds.'
" She opened the door of a curious old cabinet that stood in the room. On the inside of this door was an oval convex mirror. Looking in it for some time, we at length saw reflected the place where we stood, and the old dame seated in her chair. Our forms wTere not reflected. But at the feet of the dame, lay a young man, yourself, weeping.
u' Surely this youth will not serve our ends,' said I, ' for he weeps.'
" The old woman smiled. ' Past tears are present strength,5 said she.
" " Oh !' said my brother, c I saw you weep once over an eagle you shot5
u' That was because it was so like you, brother/ I replied; ' but indeed, this youth may have better cause for tears than that—I was wrong.'
u' Wait a while,5 said the woman; f if I mistake not, he will make you weep till your tears are dry for ever. Tears are the only cure for weeping.
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