[Stella Fregelius by H. Rider Haggard]@TWC D-Link book
Stella Fregelius

CHAPTER XVI
19/20

.

I can talk no more, the water is rising in the church--already it is about my knees; but remember every word which I have said to you; remember that we are wed--truly wed, that I go to wait for you, and that even if you do not see me I will, if I may, be near you always--till you die, and afterwards will be with you always--always." "Stay," cried Morris.
"What have you to say?
Be swift, the water rises and the walls are cracking." "That I love you now and for ever and for ever; that I will remember everything; and that I know beyond a doubt that you have seen, and speak the truth." "Thank you for those blessed words, and for this life fare you well." For a moment there was silence, or at least Stella's voice was silent, while Morris stood over the aerophone, the sweat running from his face, rocking like a drunken man in his agony and waiting for the end.

Then suddenly loud, clear, and triumphant, broke upon his ears the sound of that song which he had heard her sing upon the sinking ship when her death seemed near; the ancient song of the Over-Lord.

Once more at the last mortal ebb, while the water rose about her breast, Stella's instincts and blood had asserted themselves, and forgetting aught else, she was dying as her pagan forefathers had died, with the secret ancient chant upon her lips.

Yes, she sang as Skarphedinn the hero sang while the flame ate out his life.
The song swelled on, and the great waters boomed an accompaniment.


<<Back  Index  Next>>

D-Link book Top

TWC mobile books