But never, I entreat you, behave thus toward me on a river, or even when we are near any water.

For if you should, my relations would acquire a right over me.

They would inexorably tear me from you in their fury, because they would conceive that one of their race was injured; and I should be compelled, as long as I lived, to dwell below in the crystal palaces, and never dare to ascend to you again; or should THEY SEND me up to you!--O God! that would be far worse still.

No, no, my beloved husband; let it not come to that, if your poor Undine is dear to you." He solemnly promised to do as she desired, and, inexpressibly happy and full of affection, the married pair returned from the apartment.

At this very moment Bertalda came with some work-people whom she had meanwhile ordered to attend her, and said with a fretful air, which she had assumed of late: "Well, now the secret consultation is at an end, the stone may be removed.