The poetical works of George MacDonald in two volumes — Volume 1 - George MacDonald

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not yours.

        Lilia.

        Where have you been these long, long years away?

        You look much older. You have suffered, Julian!

        Julian.

        Since that day, Lilia, I have seen much, thought much,

        Suffered a little. When you are quite yourself,

        I'll tell you all you want to know about me.

        Lilia.

        Do tell me something now. I feel quite strong;

        It will not hurt me.

        Julian.

                           Wait a day or two.

        Indeed 'twould weary you to tell you all.

        Lilia.

        And I have much to tell you, Julian. I

        Have suffered too—not all for my own sake.

      [Recalling something.]

        Oh, what a dream I had! Oh, Julian!—

        I don't know when it was. It must have been

        Before you brought me here! I am sure it was.

        Julian.

        Don't speak about it. Tell me afterwards.

        You must keep quiet now. Indeed you must.

        Lilia.

        I will obey you, will not speak a word.

       Enter Nurse.

        Nurse.

        Blessings upon her! she's near well already.

        Who would have thought, three days ago, to see

        You look so bright! My lord, you have done wonders.

        Julian.

        My art has helped a little, I thank God.—

        To please me, Lilia, go to sleep a while.

      [JULIAN goes.]

        Lilia.

        Why does he always wear that curious cap?

        Nurse.

        I don't know. You must sleep.

        Lilia.

                                     Yes. I forgot.

      SCENE XIII.—The Steward's room. JULIAN and the Steward. Papers on the table, which JULIAN has just finished examining

        Julian.

        Thank you much, Joseph; you have done well for me.

        You sent that note privately to my friend?

        Steward.

        I did, my lord; and have conveyed the money,

        Putting all things in train for his release,

        Without appearing in it personally,

        Or giving any clue to other hands.

        He sent this message by my messenger:

        His hearty thanks, and God will bless you for it.

        He will be secret. For his daughter, she

        Is safe with you as with himself; and so

        God bless you both! He will expect to hear

        From both of you from England.

        Julian.

                                  Well, again.

        What money is remaining in your hands?

        Steward.

        Two bags, three hundred each; that's all.

        I fear To wake suspicion, if I call in more.

        Julian.

        One thing, and I have done: lest a mischance

        Befall us, though I do not fear it much—

        have been very secret—is that boat

        I had before I left, in sailing trim?

        Steward.

        I knew it was a favorite with my lord;

        I've taken care of it. A month ago,

        With my own hands I painted it all fresh,

        Fitting new oars and rowlocks. The old sail

        I'll have replaced immediately; and then

        'Twill be as good as new.

        Julian.

                                  That's excellent.

        Well, launch it in the evening. Make it fast

        To the stone steps behind my garden study.

        Stow in the lockers some sea-stores, and put

        The money in the old desk in the study.

        Steward.

        I will, my lord. It will be safe enough.

      SCENE XIV.—A road near the town. A Waggoner. STEPHEN, in lay dress, coming up to him

        Stephen.

        Whose castle's that upon the hill, good fellow?

        Waggoner.

        Its present owner's

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