though he still could not speak for laughing, shook his head.

'You may not know it, but it is true. Nobody who has not seen
the Yara laughs like that.' And Julia flung herself on the
ground weeping bitterly.

At this sight Alonzo became suddenly grave, and kneeling by her
side, gently raised her up.

'Do not cry so, my angel,' he said, 'I will promise anything you
please. Only let me see you smile again.'

With a great effort Julia checked her sobs, and rose to her feet.

'Thank you,' she answered. 'My heart grows lighter as you say
that! I know you will try to keep your word and to stay away from
the forest. But--the power of the Yara is very strong, and the
sound of her voice is apt to make men forget everything else in
the world. Oh, I have seen it, and more than one betrothed
maiden lives alone, broken-hearted. If ever you should return to
the pool where you first heard the voice, promise me that you
will at least take this with you.' And opening a curiously
carved box, she took out a sea-shell shot with many colours, and
sang a song softly into it. 'The moment you hear the Yara's
voice,' said she, 'put this to your ear, and you will hear my
song instead. Perhaps--I do not know for certain--but perhaps, I
may be stronger than the Yara.'

It was late that night when Alonzo returned home. The moon was
shining on the distant river, which looked cool and inviting, and