eternal, and without doubt they will never be exhumed.

My new scenes had nothing in common with the old fairy spectacle: in the
depths of virgin forests, in exotic gardens, and oriental palaces
formed of pearls and gold I tried to realize, with the small means at
my command, all my dreams, while waiting for that improbable better time
that ever lies in the future.




CHAPTER LVIII.



That hard winter passed under the ferule of the "Bull of Apis" and the
"Great Ape," finally came to an end and spring returned; it was always
a troublous time for us, the scholars, for the first mild days gave us
a great longing to be out, and we could scarcely hide our restlessness.
The roses budded everywhere upon our old walls; my beloved little
garden, bright and warm under the March sunshine, tempted me, and I
would tarry there a long time to watch the insects wake up, and to see
the early butterflies and bees fly away. Even the revised "Donkey's
Skin" was neglected.

I was no longer escorted to and from school, for I had persuaded my
family to discontinue a custom that made me ridiculous in the eyes of
my companions. Often, before returning home, I would take a long and
roundabout way and pass by the peaceful ramparts from where I had
glimpses of other provinces, and a sight of the distant country.