Objects began to waver and grow dim, as if passing through a mist; and
she found herself again upon that lonely crag, and her conductor at her
side. He grasped her hand: she felt his burning touch, and a sudden
smart as though she were stung--a drop of blood hung on her finger. He
unbound the burning fillet, and she saw as though it were a glimpse of
that unquenchable, unconsuming flame that devoured him. He took the
blood and wrote upon her brow. The agony was intense, and a faint shriek
escaped her. He spoke, but the sound rang in her ears like the knell of
hopes for ever departed.
For words of such presumptuous blasphemy, tradition must be voiceless.
The demon looked upwards; but, as if blasted by some withering sight,
his eyes were suddenly withdrawn.
* * * * *
What homage was exacted, let no one seek to know.
After a pause, the deceiver again addressed her; and his form changed as
he spoke.
"One day in the year alone thou shalt be subject to mischance. It is the
feast of All-Hallows, when the witches meet to renew their vows. On this
night thou must be as they, and must join their company.
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