Another is one of the legends of the famous Dra-
chenfels. A maiden, one of the earliest converts to
Christianity, was carried by the enraged populace to
this dread haunt of " the dragon's fabled brood," to be
their prey. She was left alone, but imafraid, for she
knew in whom she trusted. So, when the dragons
came rushing towards her, she showed them a crucifix
and they crouched reverently at her feet. Next day the



,y Google



RHINE LEGEND. 47

people came, and seeing these wonders, are all turned
to the faith which exalts the lowly.
The third I have in mind is another of the Rhine
legends. A youth is sitting with the maid he loves on
the shore of an isle, her fairy kiflgdom, then perfumed
by the blossoming grape vines, which draped its bow-
ers. They are happy ; all blossoms with them, and
life promises its richest wine. A boat approaches on
the tide ; it pauses at their feet. It brings, perhaps,
some joyous message, fresh dew for their flowers, fresh
light on the wave. No ! it is the usual check on such
great happiness. The father of the Count departs for
the crusade ; will his son join him, or remain to rule
their domain, and wed her he loves ? Neither of the
afllanced pair hesitate a moment. " I must go with
my father." " Thou must go with thy father." it was
one thought, one word. '* I will be here again," he
said, " when these blossoms have turned to purple
grapes." "I hope so," she sighed, while the pro-
phetic sense said " no."

And there she waited, and the grapes ripened,
and were gathered into the vintage, and he came not.
