Return to me in the course of that time with a well-fitted shadow,
and you shall receive a hearty welcome; otherwise, on the fourth
day--remember, on the fourth day--my daughter becomes the wife of
another."

I now attempted to say one word to Minna; but, sobbing more
violently, she clung still closer to her mother, who made a sign for
me to withdraw. I obeyed; and now the world seemed shut out from me
for ever.

Having escaped from the affectionate care of Bendel, I now wandered
wildly through the neighbouring woods and meadows. Drops of anguish
fell from my brow, deep groans burst from my bosom--frenzied despair
raged within me.

I knew not how long this had lasted, when I felt myself seized by
the sleeve on a sunny heath. I stopped, and looking up, beheld the
grey-coated man, who appeared to have run himself out of breath in
pursuing me. He immediately began:

"I had," said he, "appointed this day; but your impatience
anticipated it. All, however, may yet be right. Take my advice--
redeem your shadow, which is at your command, and return immediately
to the ranger's garden, where you will be well received, and all the
past will seem a mere joke. As for Rascal--who has betrayed you in
order to pay his addresses to Minna--leave him to me; he is just a
fit subject for me."

I stood like one in a dream. "This day?" I considered again. He
was right--I had made a mistake of a day. I felt in my bosom for