The Romance of a Water-Lily. 103

 

true heart. You are unjust, and you know it,” said
' Michael, quietly. The fire of his supplication had
died out of him, and he spoke sadly. “And though
you say that you are not led by others, I know full
well that, but for the taunts of your comrades, you
would have given me a fair hearing. But I will not
yet despair. I love you too well. If I have not the
prowess of the chamois-hunter, I may perchance find
another way to your favour. Patience hath served
many a man.”

“Let me pass!” repeated the girl, imperiously, for
she felt her resolve waver before the steady fire of his
patient and forgiving love. “Deeds and not words
move a wise woman. I see my father yonder, and,
you know, he loves not overmuch to see us parleying.”

Michael glanced up, and saw the hale old farmer
standing on the terrace above, beneath the vines.

“ Ay,” answered he, “I know it. Yet could I reckon.
with my master were my mistress of a better mind.
But you have said it: deeds and not words become
me best. See, the last breath of the afterglow hath