The Equinox (Volume I, Number V)

THE ORDEAL OF IDA PENDRAGON ever so many more than one would think. This proves that God is good. And then, you see, there are beetles. Beetles and beetles. And scorpions. Dear little amber beasts. There! one has stung me. It is the sacrament of hate. I Will Sleep in a bed of scorpions and rose-leaves. Scorpions are better than thorns. Why do I wander about naked? And why do I thirst? And this torment of cold? It ought to be hot in the desert. And it isn’t. Now that proves—0h yes, my cat! you shall have milk. I will strike a rock for you. Milk and honey.” She started up suddenly, and put her hands to her face, then threw them round his neck. " Edgar, darling ! " she cried, “your pussy has had such a dreadful dream. Come and love his girl 1 ” He dared not tell her that she had tried and failed, that she had come come back as she set out. He flung his will into that act of mercy; his kisses ravished her into delight. It was late morning when they woke, faint with rapture, fresh kisses blossoming on their young lips, as the sun himself lit their awakening with his love. Only then came memory, and solemnity, and sorrow. “I must catch the {our o’clock,” he said, as he left her; “ one ofthese addresses always finds me. Telegraph ifyou need me. I would come from the ends of the earth, if I must: but you know the Brothers? When you need me really I shall be at your shoulder. Ο my darling! my darling ! " he broke out, falling to tenderness, half human and half superhuman ; “ how I love you! how Ι love you ! I hate going to England.” " Oh yes ! your martyrdom ! I wish I were worthy to share it.” I33