All raised a scream of terror at the sight, and Undine started from sleep.

As she opened her eyes, the deformed visages disappeared.

But Huldbrand was made furious by so many hideous visions.
He would have burst out in wild imprecations, had not Undine with the meekest looks and gentlest tone of voice said-- "For God's sake, my husband, do not express displeasure against me here--we are on the water." The knight was silent, and sat down absorbed in deep thought.

Undine whispered in his ear, "Would it not be better, my love, to give up this foolish voyage, and return to Castle Ringstetten in peace ?" But Huldbrand murmured wrathfully: "So I must become a prisoner in my own castle, and not be allowed to breathe a moment but while the fountain is covered?
Would to Heaven that your cursed kindred--" Then Undine pressed her fair hand on his lips caressingly.

He said no more; but in silence pondered on all that Undine had before said.
Bertalda, meanwhile, had given herself up to a crowd of thronging thoughts.