Danube, Huldbrand spoke of the magnificence of this noble stream, how
it continued swelling as it flowed through countries enriched by its
waters, with what splendour Vienna rose and sparkled on its banks,
and how it grew lovelier and more imposing throughout its progress.

"It must be glorious to trace its course down to Vienna!" Bertalda
exclaimed, with warmth; but immediately resuming the humble and
modest demeanour she had recently shown, she paused and blushed in
silence.

This much moved Undine; and with the liveliest wish to gratify her
friend, she said, "What hinders our taking this little voyage?"

Bertalda leapt up with delight, and the two friends at the same
moment began painting this enchanting voyage on the Danube in the
most brilliant colours. Huldbrand, too, agreed to the project with
pleasure; only he once whispered, with something of alarm, in
Undine's ear--

"But at that distance Kuhleborn becomes possessed of his power
again!"

"Let him come, let him come," she answered with a laugh; "I shall be
there, and he dares do none of his mischief in my presence."

Thus was the last impediment removed. They prepared for the
expedition, and soon set out upon it with lively spirits and the
brightest hopes.

But be not surprised, O man, if events almost always happen very