The poetical works of George MacDonald Volume I Part 10

_Julian_.

Well, again.

What money is remaining in your hands?

_Steward_.

Two bags, three hundred each; that's all.

I fear To wake suspicion, if I call in more.

_Julian_.

One thing, and I have done: lest a mischance Befall us, though I do not fear it much-- have been very secret--is that boat I had before I left, in sailing trim?

_Steward_.

I knew it was a favorite with my lord; I've taken care of it. A month ago, With my own hands I painted it all fresh, Fitting new oars and rowlocks. The old sail I'll have replaced immediately; and then 'Twill be as good as new.

_Julian_.

That's excellent.

Well, launch it in the evening. Make it fast To the stone steps behind my garden study.

Stow in the lockers some sea-stores, and put The money in the old desk in the study.

_Steward_.

I will, my lord. It will be safe enough.

SCENE XIV.--_A road near the town_. _A_ Waggoner. STEPHEN, _in lay dress, coming up to him_.

_Stephen_.

Whose castle's that upon the hill, good fellow?

_Waggoner_.

Its present owner's of the Uglii; They call him Lorenzino.

_Stephen_.

Whose is that Down in the valley?

_Waggoner_.

That is Count Lamballa's.

_Stephen_.

What is his Christian name?

_Waggoner_.

Omfredo. No, That was his father's; his is Julian.

_Stephen_.

Is he at home?

_Waggoner_.

No, not for many a day.

His steward, honest man, I know is doubtful Whether he be alive; and yet his land Is better farmed than any in the country.

_Stephen_.

He is not married, then?

_Waggoner_.

No. There's a gossip Amongst the women--but who would heed their talk!-- That love half-crazed, then drove him out of doors, To wander here and there, like a bad ghost, Because a silly wench refused him:--fudge!

_Stephen_.

Most probably. I quite agree with you.

Where do you stop?

_Waggoner_.

At the first inn we come to; You'll see it from the bottom of the hill.

There is a better at the other end, But here the stabling is by far the best.

_Stephen_.

I must push on. Four legs can never go Down-hill so fast as two. Good morning, friend.

_Waggoner_.

Good morning, sir.

_Stephen (aside_) I take the further house.

SCENE XV.--_The Nurse's room_. JULIAN _and_ LILIA _standing near the window_.

_Julian_.

But do you really love me, Lilia?

_Lilia_.

Why do you make me say it so often, Julian?

You make me say _I love you_, oftener far Than you say you love me.

_Julian_.

To love you seems So much a thing of mere necessity!

I can refrain from loving you no more Than keep from waking when the sun s.h.i.+nes full Upon my face.

_Lilia_.

And yet I love to say How, how I love you, Julian!

[_Leans her head on his arm_. JULIAN _winces a little. She raises her head and looks at him_.]

Did I hurt you?

Would you not have me lean my head on you?

_Julian_.

Come on this side, my love; 'tis a slight hurt Not yet quite healed.