unsupportable to them as might at first appear to be the case.

While they were still conversing together, and endeavouring to divert
their minds from the objectionable facts which had recently come
within their notice, an attendant entered and disclosed that the train
of servants and merchandise which Ling had preceded on the journey was
arriving. At this fresh example of her lover's consistent thought for
her, Mian almost forgot her recent agitation, and eagerly lending
herself to the entrancing occupation of unfolding and displaying the
various objects, her brow finally lost the last trace of sadness.
Greatly beyond the imaginings of anticipation were the expensive
articles with which Ling proudly surrounded her; and in examining and
learning the cost of the set jewels and worked metals, the ornamental
garments for both persons, the wood and paper appointments for the
house--even incenses, perfumes, spices and rare viands had not been
forgotten--the day was quickly and profitably spent.

When the hour of sunset arrived, Ling, having learned that certain
preparations which he had commanded were fully carried out, took Mian
by the hand and led her into the chief apartment of the house, where
were assembled all the followers and attendants, even down to the
illiterate and superfluous Wang. In the centre of the room upon a
table of the finest ebony stood a vessel of burning incense, some
dishes of the most highly-esteemed fruit, and an abundance of old and
very sweet wine. Before these emblems Ling and Mian placed themselves
in an attitude of deep humiliation, and formally expressed their
gratitude to the Chief Deity for having called them into existence, to
the cultivated earth for supplying them with the means of sustaining
life, to the Emperor for providing the numerous safeguards by which
their persons were protected at all times, and to their parents for