Mrs. Summers and Hypatia, like women on a sinking ship, displayed unwonted courage. Dressing10 themselves and the wondering children in haste, they joined Mr. Summers in the living-room of the cottage at the same moment that it was filled by an excited crowd of the wildest natives which any of the party had ever seen.
The leader, a ferocious11-looking Maori, whom Mr. Summers had no difficulty in recognizing as Kereopa, advanced with threatening air towards him; but, seeing that the missionary12 had no weapon, nor apparently13 the wish or means to defend himself, he halted abruptly14. Behind him stood a crowd of natives, the [Pg 377] greater part of whom had advanced into the room, while others could be seen through the open door between the cottage and the outbuildings. Looking more closely in order to discover if by chance there were among them any of his former servants, Mr. Summers saw, to his horror and disgust, a white man. This renegade, dead to every feeling of manhood, a deserter from his regiment15, was one of those abandoned wretches16 to be found in all new countries, who, associating with savages18, encourage them in outrage20 and rapine. Outcasts from their race, aware that a speedy death by bullet or halter awaits them on capture, they have always been noted21 as the most remorseless foes22 of their own people.
Feeling, however, that by interrogating24 the man he might procure25 more accurate information than from the dangerously excited chief and his followers26, he addressed him.
"What is the meaning of this intrusion at this hour? Ask Kereopa if he has not made some mistake."
The renegade, apparently pleased at being civilly addressed, translated the question, and repeated it to the chief, who in a loud and threatening voice replied—
"Tell the Mikonaree that I, a prophet of the Pai Marire, have received authority from the angel Gabriel to kill or take into captivity27 all the pakehas, with their wives and daughters, as did the Israelites with the Amalekites."
"Have I ever done you harm? Have I not taught your people to grow the bread-grain, the potato, the vegetables on which they grow strong and healthy?"
"What have you done—what have the white men done?" shouted the wild-eyed chief, now working [Pg 378] himself into an insane fury. "You have taught us your prayers and stolen our lands. You have given us the grain and taken the fields. Where are our brothers, our sons, our chiefs? Slain28 by your soldiers, after robbing them of their lands—even Waitara and Tataraimaka. They are cold in the ground on which they planted and feasted, but which now only serves them for graves."
"Surely you would not kill people with no arms in their hands. Which of our missionaries29 has ever fired a gun even in defence of his life?"
"The priests of your people do not fight, but they act as spies; they have betrayed our plans to the pakeha general. They will all be killed, like Volkner, to show the world that we shall have no spies, no false prophets, no priests of Baal, amongst us. Prepare to die, even as Volkner died, whose head, with that of the pakeha Boyd, is with us. Let their hands be tied."
At once several eager warriors30 sprang forward, by whom the women and the missionary were seized. Their hands were bound behind them with strips of the native flax, which effectively rendered them helpless captives.
"You will die when the sun goes down," he said, indicating Cyril Summers. "Call on your God to help you. The rope is ready, and the tree on which you will hang, as did Volkner. But all are not here. Where is the wounded pakeha, and the Ngapuhi girl Erena?"
"They have gone; they went yesterday."
"Which path was theirs? If you deceive me, great suffering will be yours before you die."
[Pg 379]
"They went into the forest; that is all I can say. The God in whom I trust will save me from cruelty at your hands."
A native at this time said some words in the Maori tongue which seemed for the time to allay33 the wrath34 of the raging wild beast into which Kereopa was transformed.
"It is well. Their tracks will be found; Ngarara is a keen hunter when the prey35 is near. He is pursuing the Ngapuhi girl Erena, whose heart the pakeha soldier has stolen from him. He will cut his heart out of his breast and eat it before her eyes. I will give her to him for a slave. All the pakeha women shall be slaves to the men of the Pai Marire when the day of deliverance shall come. Hau-Hau, Hau-Hau, Hau-Hau!"
Here the countenance36 of the half-insane savage19 became changed into the likeness37 of a ferocious beast, as he yelled out the war-cry of the sect38, which was immediately caught up and re-echoed, dog-like, by every individual in the maniacal39 crowd. With eyes almost reversed in their sockets40, with tongue protruding41, with the foam42 flying from his lips, and every human feature lost in the bestial43 transformation44, he resembled less a human being than a monstrous45 demon46 from the lowest pit of Acheron.
Mrs. Summers fainted, the children screamed piteously, and Cyril made one step forward, as if, even with his fettered47 hands, he essayed to do battle with the destroying fiend. He was immediately seized by two powerful natives, who had been standing48 near him, and forced back to his former position. Realizing his utter helplessness, he groaned49 aloud as he [Pg 380] saw Hypatia bending over his wife's drooping50 form, while she adjured51 her to preserve her presence of mind for the sake of the terrified children and her unhappy husband.
"We shall need all our strength to carry us through this ordeal," she said. "We need it for prayer and faith, which, even in this dark hour, will save us."
As she spoke52, the brave spirit of the devoted53 wife and mother recalled her to life and consciousness. She gazed on the strange surroundings of their once peaceful home, and after giving vent54 to her emotions in one wild burst of tears, resumed her efforts at composure.
Fortunately for the overwrought feelings of the captives, a diversion at this critical moment was effected through an unusual noise beginning among the natives clustered beyond and around the open door. A cry, whether of warning or triumph, came from the forest path; gradually it swelled55 into greater distinctness, until it resolved itself into the well-known shout of triumph which proclaimed the capture of an enemy of note. It was then seen, by the full dawn light now breaking through the masses of gloom, to proceed from a body of men emerging from the forest. The leaders of the party were dancing and singing with an exuberance57 which betokened58 victory and triumph. When the whole body debouched from the wood, it was seen to have in its midst a litter borne by four men, beside whom walked a girl with haughty59 and defiant60 mien61. She looked more like a barbaric queen than a captive taken in war, as her fettered wrists showed her to be. Her attendants had been similarly treated, with the exception of the bearers, who were so closely surrounded that their [Pg 381] escape had been considered improbable. By the time they had reached the open space behind the cottage, the whole party, including Kereopa, had quitted the room, and joined in the tremendous volume of triumphant62 yells and cries which rent the air.
"Let the pakeha wahine come forth63 and look upon their friends," said Kereopa, with devilish malice64. "They will see how the prophets of the Pai Marire obey the message of the angels, how the sword of the Lord and Gideon is made sharp for the evil-doer, and how the convert from the Ngapuhi is rewarded in the hour of victory."
Fearful of further violence, Cyril Summers had partially65 supported his wife, followed by the shuddering66 children, to the porch, around which in happier days he had pleased himself with training a clematis. Hypatia stepped forward with wide eyes, as expectant of instant tragedy. Almost unheeding of her own danger, and the fearful position in which all were placed, she could not repress her interest in Massinger, as with almost equal eagerness she looked at Erena. He lay back on the rude pillow which had been placed below his head, deathly pale, and only exhibiting consciousness through his heaving breast and the movements of his eyes. But when she turned her gaze upon the dauntless form of Erena Mannering, all womanly jealousy68 was obliterated69 by the glow of admiration70 which the girl's regal bearing and fearless spirit evoked71 in her. She moved among the fierce crowd of half-doubtful, half-bloodthirsty Hau-Haus with the air of a princess among pariahs72. Upon those who pressed closely to her side she from time to time bestowed73 a glance of scorn and menace, accompanied [Pg 382] by a few words in their own tongue, from which they shrank as from a missile. Her eyes blazed as they were turned upon Kereopa, who with sneering74 smile approached her, pointing to the half-inanimate form of Massinger.
"The pakeha is sick; the pakeha is tired," he said with affected75 regret. "It is wrong that he was carried so far. His wound must be unhealed. The Pai Marire grieve. He will not stand the fire well, tomorrow. There will be a haka too, in honour of Ngarara's marriage, which he must first witness."
"Dog of the Hau-Haus!" said the indignant maiden76, with all the scorn and wrath of a line of chiefs shining from her storm-litten eyes. "Speak you to a war-chief's daughter of the Ngapuhi as to a slave-woman? What false tohunga have ye, that thy doom77 and that of thy herd78 of swine is concealed79 from thee? See thy future fate, as in that darkening cloud, coming nearer and yet nearer!" As she spoke, she pointed80 to a thunder-cloud which, after the mists of the morning, had gathered size and volume, and was now moving with the course of the dawn-wind towards them. Such was the majesty81 of her mien, such the tragic82 earnestness of her tones, as she stood, like a priestess of old, denouncing wrong and oppression, that the crowd, deeply superstitious83 as is the race, turned instinctively84 towards the approaching phenomenon; and when the thunder rolled, and the jagged fire-stream issued from the ebon, a shuddering sound was audible, which showed how deeply fear of the supernatural was rooted in the native mind. "Behold86!" said the fearless, inspired maiden, as she raised her hand and pointed to the sky, "the Atua [Pg 383] of the Storm has spoken! Beware how you touch a hair of our heads. Shed the blood of these pakehas, who have never done your nation aught but good, who are now helpless in your hands—torture this sick soldier—and not a man here will be alive when the moon is dark!"
As Erena uttered the words of doom, she paused for a moment, while the audience gazed around, as if waiting for some physical manifestation87 in answer to her words. Kereopa preserved his expression of malicious88 unbelief, as though willing to torment89 his captives with all the dreadful uncertainty91 which might comport92 with a treacherous93 delay. Glancing at him for a moment with unutterable scorn, she left her position, and, moving to the side of the litter, gazed into the face of the sick man with anxious tenderness.
But it was evident that the natives generally had attached more meaning to her words than could have been expected. She had stirred their blood and aroused their superstitious fears. This killing94 of pakehas, except in fair fight, had always been regarded as unlucky. Terrible penalties had been exacted, even when the offence in war-time had seemed to them trifling95 and unimportant. Then, this Erena Mannering was the daughter of a man more fierce and implacable even than their own warriors—a war-chief of the Ngapuhi, and as such likely to exact a memorable96 revenge. The Pai Marire was only of recent date. There were even now rival seers and prophets, as in the case of Parata, who withstood Kereopa, and had bitterly reproached him for the barbarous murder of the missionary Volkner. There was a movement of doubt and opposition97 afoot, which [Pg 384] was evidently strengthened, as an aged67 warrior31 came forward and addressed the natives.
"Men of the Pai Marire," he said, "let us beware of going too far in this matter, lest we offend a more powerful Atua than those of the Hau-Haus, whom we knew of but a short while since. If we kill the soldiers of the pakehas, who have killed our sons and brothers"—here the old man's features worked convulsively—"taken our lands, and burned our kaingas, that is just, that is utu. But to kill the Mikonaree, who fights not with guns or swords, who teaches the children the pukapuka, who heals the sick and feeds the hungry, that is not tika. The Atua of the Storm has spoken." Here another volley of heaven's artillery98 shook the air, as the lightning played in menacing proximity99 to the disturbed and upturned faces of his hearers. "Beware lest worse things than the slaughter100 of chiefs at Te Ranga happen to us."
A strong feeling of indecision was now apparent in the excited crowd, who but an hour since were eager for blood and flames, the death of the men, the leading into captivity of the women and children. It is possible that the mass vote of the Hau-Haus would have gone against Kereopa, who was not an hereditary101 chief of importance, only an obscure individual, lifted by superior cunning and energy to power in disturbed times. But at that moment the malignant102 face of Ngarara was seen to emerge from among the last arrivals, and his voice was heard.
"Men of the Pai Marire, listen not to the words of age and fear! He speaks the words of the pakehas and their lying priests. The prophets of the Pai Marire have foretold103 that the Hau-Haus are to rule the land, [Pg 385] to drive the pakeha into the sea, whence in an evil hour they came, to inhabit their towns, and to take their wives and daughters as slaves. Even now, the Ngatitoa are marching to Omata, whence they will capture Taranaki with all the pakeha's treasure. It has been foretold that the Pai Marire shall increase as the sands of the sea, that all the tribes shall join from the Hokianga to Korararika. I have left the Ngapuhi to follow the Pai Marire, and I know that the tribe, except a few old men, have resolved to abandon Waka Nene and his pakeha friends, and to give the young chiefs authority to lead. You have but to join the march to Waikato, and the land of Maui is yours again."
"You have well spoken," shouted Kereopa, whose fierce visage was now aflame with wrath, and the half-insane gleam of whose eyes told of that fanatical ecstasy105 which is akin56 to demoniacal possession. "The land will be ours, the pakeha's treasures shall be ours; his women shall work in our fields and carry burdens, even as the women of the South were wont9 to do after our raids. Place the head on the niu, and let the war-dance begin. The angel has again spoken to me, and I am commanded to cause the sword of the Lord and Gideon to be reddened with the blood of the Amorites."
Then commenced a scene of savage triumph, appalling107, revolting, almost beyond the power of words to describe. The fury of the excited natives appeared to have transformed them into the brutish presentments of the herd of animals which surrounded the fabled108 enchantress. The head of the unfortunate Captain Boyd, raised on a pole planted in the ground, was surrounded by a yelling mass dancing around it, [Pg 386] with fiendish gestures of rage and derision. All likeness of manhood seemed obliterated, and the ancient world would seem to have been reproduced, with a company of anthropoids devoid109 of human speech, and capable only of the purely110 animal expression of the baser passions.
What the feelings of the forlorn captives were, thus delivered into the hands of the most remorseless foes of their race, can scarcely be imagined or described. They deemed themselves at that moment to be abandoned by man, forgotten of God. A dreadful death, horrors unspeakable, degradation111 irrevocable, awaited them. Like a fated crew awaiting their doom upon a sinking ship, all sensation was perhaps deadened, absorbed in despairing expectation of the last agony immediately preceding death.
The Christians112 summoned from their cells to the arena114 in the reign115 of Nero must have had like experiences. Alike the agony of despair, the doubt of Eternal Justice, the shrinking of the frail116 flesh about to be delivered to the hungry beasts of prey, the torturing flame, the gloating regard of the pitiless populace. All these were apparently to be their portion in this so-called civilized117 century, this boasted age of light, of freedom, of art, and intellectual environment.
Similar thoughts may have passed through the mind of Hypatia Tollemache, as she recalled her classical studies, and saw the blood-soaked arena of the Roman amphitheatre before her, of which the essential features were now in rude and grotesque118 presentment.
And had it all come to this? Was all the labour, the self-denial, the toilsome day, the weary night, the exile, the home-sickness, but to end thus? Not for [Pg 387] herself did she mourn, perhaps, so much; not for the warrior maid, whose high courage and inherited traditions enabled her to defy insult and brave death. They had courted the danger and must now pay the price. With Massinger, too, his chief regret would be that he could not stand in the ranks as at Rangariri and Orakau, dealing119 death around, and fighting breast to breast with the ruthless foe23. And though death by tortures, dreadful and protracted120, such as all had heard of in old Maori wars (and it was whispered around camp-fires was not wholly obsolete), was gruesome and unnatural121, still it was, in a rude sense, the payment lawfully122 exacted by the victors. But for these mild and gentle teachers of the Word, who had, for nearly a decade, wearied every faculty124 of mind and body in the service of their heathen destroyers, it was indeed a hard and cruel fate. She saw, in imagination, Cyril Summers dragged to the fatal tree, with the rope around his neck, as was that steadfast125 servant of the Lord, Carl Volkner. She saw the ashen126 face and stricken limbs of Mary Summers, as, all-expectant of her own and her children's fate, she would witness the death and mutilation of her beloved partner. What was the mercy, the justice, of that Supreme127 Being to whom they had bowed the knee in prayer since infancy128, where was an overruling Providence129, if this tragedy was permitted to be played out to the last dreadful scene? Where, alas130! could one turn for aid or consolation131?
Such thoughts went coursing through her brain, mingled132 with such curious and even trifling observation, unconsciously made, as during the fast-fleeting moments of life have often been noted to occupy the mind. She looked mechanically at the war-dance [Pg 388] still being performed by the exulting133 savages, varied134 by the devilish rites106, if such they could be called, performed around the dead officer's head, which with awful eyes appeared to stare down upon the unholy crew. Cyril Summers and his wife were kneeling in prayer; the children, having exhausted135 themselves in weeping, were examining the débris of their household gods. Hypatia herself, with her masses of bright hair thrown back from her face, and carelessly tied in a knot behind her head, was leaning against the doorsill, in position not unlike the Christian113 maiden in a great picture, where each martyr136 is bound to a pillar in the amphitheatre, when she saw Erena move more closely to Massinger's couch and whisper in his ear. The Maori guard was temporarily occupied, as an expert, in noting the evolutions of the war-dance, and had relaxed his watch. The sick man lay motionless, but the languid eyes opened; a gleam of hope—or was it the fire of despair?—was visible, with a slight change of expression.
"She knows something; she has told him," thought Hypatia, as she moved cautiously but slowly, and very warily137, within hearing.
At this time the supreme saltatory expression of triumph was being enacted138. The noise was deafening139, so that the clear tones of Erena's rich voice were audible.
"This is nearly the end of the war-dance; then the murders and the torture will commence. The torture will last all night; they will take out Roland and tie him to a stake, cutting pieces of flesh from his body. Poor fellow! there is not much on his bones. As for us, we shall be carried away to the Uriwera country."
"You want to frighten me to death," said Hypatia. [Pg 389] "What dreadful things even to speak of! Can we not kill ourselves? I never thought I should wish to do that. I can now feel for others who have done so."
"They have prevented it. Our hands are tied. There is no river here; no precipice140, or we could throw ourselves over, as our women have often done."
"You seem strangely indifferent, Erena. I cannot think you heartless; but on the verge141 of death, or a captivity infinitely142 worse, surely you cannot jest about our position?"
"Far from it. My whole heart is quivering with excitement and anxiety; for his life, which I value a thousand times more than my own, is trembling in the balance. But, after all, I do not really think these dreadful things will come to pass."
"Why? What reason have you?"
"You remember that I came in late, the day after our arrival—on the day when I wished to go on with our journey?"
"Now I do remember. You looked as though you had been a long way."
"I had indeed. I went back on our tracks very nearly as far as the cave where Roland lay concealed, when we brought him away from the Gate Pah. I thought I might meet some of my father's people, who would have made short work of these bloodthirsty Hau-Haus. But he had gone off towards Opotiki, as a report had come of another rising. But luckily I met some one, and it will go far to save our lives."
"Who was it?" asked Hypatia, breathlessly.
"It was Winiata. He had heard of these Hau-Haus being on the march, and that Ngarara had persuaded Kereopa to follow us up."
[Pg 390]
"And what aid did he give you?"
"Merely this—that a body of Ngatiporu were following up this taua, led by the most dreaded143 warrior in all New Zealand, Ropata Waha Waha."
At the mention of this name, so well known throughout the length and breadth of New Zealand—
"In close fight a champion grim, In camps a leader sage"—
Hypatia could hardly repress a cry of joy.
"Then perhaps we may be saved, after all."
"If he comes in time; and God grant he may. He should be very close now. And I know Winiata will travel without rest or food till he strikes his trail. And yet I have a foreboding that one of us will die. So said the tohunga, whose words never failed yet. I cannot shake off the feeling."
"You have overworked yourself," said Hypatia. "You can have had little rest, food, or sleep since you left yesterday. It is the result of fatigue144 and anxiety."
"Anxiety has too often been my lot," said the girl, with a deep accent of sadness. "But fatigue I never felt yet. These wretches are spinning out their dance. They had better make the most of it. If all goes well, it is the last some of them will ever join in. Now, listen! Do you hear nothing?"
Hypatia bent145 her ear towards the forest, and listened with all the eagerness which the situation demanded. A faint murmur once, and once only, made itself audible.
"It is the sound of the breeze among the pines," said she at length.
"Listen again! Do you hear nothing?"
[Pg 391]
"Only a far-off sound like the rippling146 of the river. Once I thought I heard the trampling of feet; but it must be a mistake."
"It is no mistake," said Erena. "I hear the steady tramp of a large body of men; and so would these fools, if they were not too much occupied with their absurd dance, which they intend to finish up with blood. And so it will; but not as they think."
The war-dance, with its stamps and roars, its shuddering hisses147 and accurate evolutions as if of one man, was drawing to a close. Already one of the foremost warriors, at a sign from Kereopa, had placed a rope round the neck of Cyril Summers, who had commenced in a final prayer to commend his soul and his loved ones to the protection of their Maker148, when a shout from a number of unknown voices made the forest ring, and caused the crowd of Hau-Haus to turn their faces in that direction. At the same moment a close and well-directed volley was poured in, which laid fully123 one-half of them low, and wounded a much larger number. Then a man stalked calmly forward, sword in hand, whose sudden apparition149 created as much consternation150 among the Hau-Haus as if he had been a Destroying Angel specially151 commissioned for their extirpation152. One look at the stern features and martial153 form of him who stood calm and unmoved amid the pattering hail of bullets, with which the Hau-Haus strove to return the fire, was sufficient for most of the Pai Marire. With a wild cry of "Ropata Waha Waha!" which came tremulously from their lips, they fled in all directions in a state of the most abject154 terror. And well might they or other rebels take panic at the sight of him who [Pg 392] stood exposed to danger, both from friends and foes, as though the thick-flying bullets were thistledown.
The hostile tribes were fully of opinion that he bore a charmed life, that no shot had power to harm him, probably in consequence of Satanic influence. Hence his sobriquet155 of Waha Waha was strangely suggestive of an unholy alliance between the Prince of Darkness and the cool strategist and remorseless warrior, to whom fear and mercy were alike unknown. A target for the best marksmen in a hundred fights, himself chiefly unarmed, he had never received a wound or spared an enemy. As he stood there, with an expression of scorn and concentrated rage upon his expressive156 features, with dripping sword and blazing eyes, he might well have stood for a portrait of an avenging157 angel, or indeed Azrael, the minister of Death, in all his lurid158 majesty.
Kereopa and his principal followers, who had fled at the first onset159, probably thought that they had a fair chance of escape. But Ropata, with his usual astuteness160, had formed a cordon161 around the Hau-Hau band, into which the surprised natives ran, only to find themselves shot down or captured. Among the latter were eleven members of his own tribe, the Aowera. Of these he proceeded to make an example upon the spot. Calling them out of the group of captives by name, he thus addressed them—
"You are about to die. I do not kill you because you are found in arms against the pakehas. But I forbade you to join the Hau-Haus. You have disobeyed me; you must now pay the penalty."
Having revolvers handed to him, he then shot every man with his own hand.
[Pg 393]
"Bring forward the deserter."
The soldier, a man of the 57th, bound and helpless, was then led up.
"You," he said, addressing the renegade, "are a disgrace to your regiment and to your country. You are said to have shot two of your own officers in battle. You have helped these natives to commit crimes which are a thousand times worse than open war. You will kill no pakehas or natives after today."
With the instinct of a born leader, Ropata had taken in the various points of the situation at a glance, and issued his orders with the promptitude which the crucial moment demanded.
"Release the pakehas. Kill that Hau-Hau dog holding the rope, and hang up the deserter with it; he is not worthy162 of a soldier's death. Bind163 that Ngapuhi; he shall answer to his own chief."
These orders, coming from a man who rarely had occasion to speak twice, were obeyed on the instant. The amateur executioner was tomahawked before his surprise permitted him to drop the rope. Cyril Summers was freed, and the deserter was run up to the branch of the willow164 tree destined165 for his martyrdom. The cords which bound Erena and her attendants were loosed by willing hands, the men and even the women promptly166 possessing themselves of weapons from their dead captors.
Ngarara's countenance, when he saw himself at once baulked of his revenge and cheated of his prey, was a study of all the evil passions which degrade the human race to the level of the brute167. Such is the phrase, unfair indeed to the animal creation, which, however unsparing in its allotted168 course of action, is [Pg 394] never guilty of the calculated cruelty of la bête humaine. For one moment he stood indifferent to his coming fate as Ropata himself; then, drawing his revolver, fired point-blank at Massinger, who had raised himself to a sitting posture169 with Erena's assistance, and was watching the conflict with an eagerness which betokened a partial renewal170 of strength. As he raised the weapon Erena flung herself before her lover, with an instinctive85 movement of protection. Passing her right arm around his neck, she lowered him to his pillow, with all the heroic tenderness which from time immemorial has characterized the woman as nurse and ministering angel. With a grin of fiendish malice Ngarara parried the tomahawk blow aimed at him by a blood-bespattered Aowera, and, eluding171 his clutch, dashed into the forest and disappeared.
The fray172 was over. The Hau-Hau prisoners were securely bound. Sullen173 and despairing, they stood in a circle on the spot where their war-dance and the Pai Marire rites had been performed. The derision of their captors was openly expressed. The bodies of their comrades and relations lay around in all the hideous174 abandon of the death-agony. From the tall pole the head of the ill-fated soldier still stared with eyeless sockets and bared teeth on the ghastly scene—it might have been fancied with grim triumph and exultation175; while from the willow tree dangled176 the corpse177 of the deserter, an unconscious witness, where he had so lately posed as an actor.
As if the dreadful spectacle had a fascination178 which they could not resist, or that their miraculous179 deliverance had rendered them incapable180 of connected [Pg 395] thought, the destined victims had remained almost in their positions taken up previous to the arrival of Ropata and his contingent181.
Mrs. Summers had sunk down on a sofa which had been dislodged from its position, with her children, wondering and tearful, beside her. The female attendants of Erena were clustered around their mistress. Cyril Summers, over whom the bitterness of death had passed, stood by his wife, gazing with awe-struck eyes into the distance, while his moving lips from time to time gave token that he was returning thanks to that Almighty182 Being to whom he had appealed in his darkest hour. While Hypatia, wrapped in a world of strange and awful phantasy, still stood by the outer entrance of the porch, looking straight in front of her, at this weird183 melodrama184 of human life, in which the reality so often transcends185 the unrealities of the "fantastic realm."
Erena and Roland Massinger had preserved their position unaltered, except that, from one of support, the girl gradually sank forward, until her head rested on her lover's breast. A cry from one of the Maori girls arrested the attention of all. Hypatia, roused from her trance, rushed over to find two of them raising Erena from her reclining position, with looks of alarm, while the arterial blood which welled up from her bosom186 told of a mortal wound. Massinger's death-pale countenance, stained with blood, as were the coverings of his couch, seemed to denote that these lovers, thrown together by such fortuitous circumstances in life, were fated to be undivided in death.
Though Massinger was unwounded by the bullet which, aimed with fatal accuracy, had pierced the [Pg 396] bosom of Erena, his situation was most critical. For her there was no hope. The lung had been perforated; the laboured breathing showed but too truly that death was imminent187. In Massinger's case the appearances were hardly more promising188. The rude treatment to which he had been subjected after his capture had caused the partly healed wound to break out afresh. He was rapidly approaching the state of mortal weakness to which Erena was succumbing189. Such was only too probable; but Cyril Summers, who had gone through a course of instruction in surgery, was enabled to stop his bleeding, and to afford temporary relief to Erena.
Massinger at first resented the proffered190 aid. "Why trouble me?" he said resentfully. "She has given her life to save mine; it were base of me to survive her at such a cost. Let us die together. My life belongs to her, who has now saved it for the third time."
"Then it is mine to dispose of," came the answer, in her low rich tones. "I die happy, since you are saved. If the bullet of Ngarara had found your breast instead of mine, I would have followed you to the spirit-land. You do not doubt that—oh, my darling—my own beloved! The sun would not have gone down before I should have commenced my journey to the reinga."
"Erena," said Massinger, "have I ever doubted your love, true alike in life and the dark realm, to which we are hastening?"
"Raise me," she said, "that I may see his face once more. My eyes are darkening. Oh, my beloved!"—and her soft voice faltered191, and became hollow and inexpressibly mournful—"I have loved you with every [Pg 397] fibre of my being, with every motion of my heart! The pakeha girl loves you also, though she cared not to own it, in her own land. She will live for you in the days that are to come—days of peace and happiness, now that the war is over. Would she die for you as I have done? Yes; for she is noble, she is true. She would have scorned to take your love from poor Erena, even had you offered it. Her soul lay open to me—and yours. You were true to your word. She was too proud to steal your heart from the poor Maori girl. And now, farewell—farewell for ever—oh, my loved one! I die happy. I have given my life for yours—what does a daughter of the Ngapuhi wish more?"
She leaned forward and hid her head on the breast of her lover, while her long black tresses flowed over his pillow, as her arms strained him to that faithful bosom, still warm with the heart's purest feelings. Reverently192 the little group of spectators gazed on the dying girl. Sobs193 and lamentations came from the women of her own race, while tears flowed fast from the eyes of Mary Summers and Hypatia.
Raising herself for a moment, she motioned to Hypatia to come nearer. Her dark eyes glowed with transient light as she kissed her hand; then laying it in that of Massinger, she whispered—
"He is yours now. May all happiness befall you! Yet forget not—oh! forget not—poor Erena."
A deep sigh followed the last words. Her head fell back; the hand which Massinger and Hypatia held was pulseless. The faithful spirit of the nymph of the wood and stream, the fabled Oread of the old-world poets, had passed away.
[Pg 398]
The tragedy at Oropi, so nearly completed, might have been averted195, but for an unlucky accidental circumstance, the occurrence of which embittered196 the remainder of Allister Mannering's life. And yet he could not wholly abandon himself to self-accusation and ceaseless regrets, inasmuch as he had quitted the trail on which, as the avenger197 of blood, he was pursuing the Hau-Hau band, in order to save the lives of innocent and helpless people.
He, indeed, with his contingent, would have arrived at Oropi on the same day as Ropata, or, perhaps, earlier. He would then have been able to prevent the preliminary sufferings of the missionary household, and could have ensured the safety of his beloved daughter and only child. The cause of his leaving the direct track to the mission station of Cyril Summers was sufficiently198 imperative—such as, indeed, no man of ordinary humanity could disregard.
A panting messenger, speeding along the track from Whakatane, arrived with the news that another band of Hau-Haus had killed the crew of the Jane schooner199 at Opotiki, had murdered Mr. Fulloon, and captured the Reverend Mr. Grace, whom there was every reason to believe they intended to murder.
It was not known to Mannering at this time that there was any likelihood of Kereopa's band being in near proximity to Erena and her wounded charge. By ordinary computation she should have reached Tauranga several days before that bloodthirsty fanatic104 could have overtaken her party. Cyril Summers and his household, having been warned by the bishop200, would probably have moved into one of the coast settlements.
Thus one danger was contingent, the other was a [Pg 399] pressing and instant summons. Life and death were in the decision. Murder and outrage, perhaps, even now, had taken place. The full complement201 of horrors could only be averted by a forced march and the sudden appearance of his hapu upon the scene. "Angel of God was there none" to whisper that loved daughter's name, darling of his heart, apple of his eye, that she was? Was there no mysterious spirit-warning such as, if tales be true, has often, through invisible sympathetic chords, eliminated time and space? Did not the traditional second sight, inherited from Highland202 ancestors, and of which he and Erena claimed their portion, prove faithful in that dread90 hour? Long afterwards—in years when he could talk calmly of his loss, dwell upon her courage, her beauty, and extol203 her intellectual range—he confessed to his closest friend and comrade that he had felt, from the time he turned aside to Opotiki, an overshadowing, inexplicable204 gloom and despondency. He was convinced in his own mind that (as he said) some dreadful deed had taken place, or was even then about to happen. Therefore he was hardly surprised, after hours of feverishly205 fast travelling, to find Mr. Volkner's mutilated corse beneath the willow tree which he had himself planted. Mr. Grace, after being in hourly expectation of a violent death, had been rescued by Captain Levy206, one of the survivors207 of the crew of the Jane, and put on board H.M.S. Eclipse, Captain Fremantle.
Burning with wrath, and maddened with the doubt as to whether Erena and Massinger might not even yet be within the region traversed by the Hau-Hau scouts208, Mannering made a forced march, halting neither by day nor night, rendered still more furious [Pg 400] and despairing by the freshness of the trail, leading straight for the Oropi mission station. Kereopa had sworn, as rumour209 had it, that he would kill the third Mikonaree pakeha and carry off his wife and children as a prey, before proceeding210 to join the Kingites in the sack and plunder211 of Auckland.
It was midnight when the mission was reached. An unwonted stillness reigned212; no dog barked, no voice was heard from the native camp—an unusual state of things within his experience, the wakeful Maori being always ready for converse213 at any hour of the night. The mission house itself was partially closed only, but silent and deserted214. The trim garden was trampled215 over. The shrubs216 and fruit trees had been broken down. The keen eyes of the Maoris discerned a spot where the ground had been disturbed. A short search exhumed217 more than one body, on which bullet and tomahawk had written the history of the engagement. The furniture in some rooms was intact, in others recklessly broken up. A handkerchief, a shoe, a neck-ribbon, told of recent occupation. One article of female Maori headgear, a plume218 of the beautiful huia, the distracted parent recognized as an ornament219 of Erena's.
Meanwhile, like questing hounds, the Ngapuhi warriors traversed the surrounding thickets220 with all the keenness of a savage race. Imprints221 and signs, so faint as to be almost invisible to the white man, told all too plainly to them the history of the occupation of the Hau-Haus, the arrival of Ropata and his men, the fight (if such it could be called) and finally the departure of the whole party, including the family, the victorious222 contingent, and the prisoners, in full march for Tauranga.
[Pg 401]
Hoping against hope, yet with a cruel doubt eating at his heart, Mannering sat with his head between his hands for a stricken hour, before he gave orders for his troop to be in readiness to march, when the Southern Cross pointed towards dawn. Long before the stars had paled, he strode fast and eagerly at the head of his faithful band, on the well-marked Tauranga track.
It was past midday when they arrived. The place was astir, the streets were filled. There was murmur of voices, and that indescribable feeling in the air as of woe223, or death imminent. Such was the conviction which smote224 the strong soul of Allister Mannering as, with his warriors ranked in battle line, he joined the throng225, evidently converging226 towards a lofty cliff, which reared itself above the harbour.
An enclosure in which shrubs were in luxuriant growth now came into view, and marble columns showed themselves amid the dark green foliage227. It was the cemetery228.
The truth flashed across him. He had been afraid to ask. Was it, could it be, the funeral procession of his darling daughter—of Erena, the bright, beautiful, fearless maiden, whom he had so lately seen in the pride of her stately maidenhood229 and joyous230 youth? Lovely and beloved, was it possible that she could be now, even now, before his haggard eyes, borne to her tomb? He gazed on the little band of mourning girls who carried the flower-decked coffin231. The native attendants of the missionary family walked behind with Mrs. Summers and Hypatia, while Cyril Summers, in full canonicals, with another clergyman, the army chaplain, preceded the cortége.
[Pg 402]
Behind them, again, came a company of the 43rd with their officers, another of the 68th, and the Forest Rangers232, with Von Tempsky at their head. Also Messrs. Slyde and Warwick, who had been granted special leave for that day only by the army surgeon, looking weak and pale after their enforced seclusion233.
Then came the native allies, the Arawa, the Ngapuhi, the Ngatiporu, all stern and warlike of appearance, proud to do honour to the maiden whose mother was of their race, with the blood of chiefs in her veins234, whose descent could be traced back to the migration235 from Hawaiki.
Those who knew of the love, so deep, so passionate236, which subsisted237 between the daughter and the sire, could partly realize the dull despair, the agonizing238 grief, which filled his heart at the moment. But none of the ordinary signs of sorrow betrayed the storm of anguish239, the volcanic240 wrath and stifled241 fury, which raged within. His stern countenance preserved a rigid242 and awful calm. His voice faltered not as, walking forward when the cortége halted, he respectfully made request that the coffin-lid should be raised.
"Let me look upon the face once more," he said, "even in death, that I shall never see again on earth."
His request was granted. He stooped, and raising the cerecloth, gazed long and fixedly244 on the face of the dead girl. Then moving forward, he signed to the clergyman to proceed with the service, remaining uncovered until the last sad words were, with deepest feeling, solemnly pronounced.
As the irrevocable words were spoken, and the clay-cold form, which had held the fiery245 yet tender soul of Erena Mannering, was lowered into the grave, [Pg 403] a tempest of sobs, cries, and wailing246 lamentation194, until then repressed, burst forth from the Maoris in the great gathering247. Then Mannering slowly turned away, and after dismissing his following, accompanied Mr. Summers. From him he learned the full particulars of the Hau-Hau invasion—of their captivity, their fearful anticipation248 of death by torture, the sudden appearance of Ropata and his warriors, their miraculous escape, and the death of Erena in the very moment of deliverance.
"She gave her life to save that of the man she loved," said Mannering. "Her mother, long years since, did the same in my case. She is her true daughter. It was her fate, and could not be evaded249. She had the foreknowledge, of which she spoke to me more than once."
Roland Massinger, on the way to recovery, but too weak for independent action, still lay in the military hospital.
Mannering, as he stood beside his couch, and gazed on his wasted features, looked, with his vast form and foreign air, like some fabled genie250 of the Arabian tale.
"She is gone," said the sick man, as he raised himself and held out the trembling fingers, which feebly grasped the iron hand of his visitor—"she is gone; she died in shielding me. I feel ashamed to be alive. I cannot ask your pardon. I was the cause of her death."
The rigid features of the father relaxed, as he watched the grief-worn countenance of the younger man, and noted the sincerity251 and depth of his despairing words.
"My boy," he said, "you have played your part nobly, as did she; and you have, by a hair's breadth, [Pg 404] escaped being buried beside her this day. She died for the man she loved, as only a daughter of her race can love. There must be no feeling but affection and respect between us. I mourned her mother as do you her daughter. Poor darling Erena! Oh, my child—my child!"
Mannering's freedom from ordinary human weakness deserted him here. He threw himself on his knees by the side of Massinger's bed, who then witnessed a sight unseen before by living eyes—the strong man's tears as he abandoned himself to unrestrained grief. Sobs and muffled252 cries, groans253 and lamentations of terrible intensity254, shook his powerful frame. Weakened by his wound, and compelled to thus relieve his intolerable anguish, Roland Massinger's tears flowed fast in unison255, as for a brief interval256 they mingled their sorrow. Then raising himself, and regaining257 the impassive expression which his features, save in familiar converse, ordinarily wore, the war-chief of the Ngapuhi bade adieu to the man whom he had looked forward to acknowledging with pride as the husband of the darling of his heart, the idol258 of his latter years.
"Fate has willed it otherwise," he said. "You may have happy years before you in your own land, with perhaps a wife and children to perpetuate259 your name and inherit your lands. I wish you such happiness as I know she would have done. Her generous heart would so will it, if she could speak its promptings from 'the undiscovered country.' In her name, and with her authority, knowing her inmost thoughts, I say—May God bless you and prosper260 you in the future path! In this life we shall meet no more."
[Pg 405]
Kereopa and Ngarara had escaped; but Ropata, who had started as soon as he delivered up his Hau-Hau prisoners, was hot on their trail. Kereopa, in spite of his keen and eager pursuit, fled to the Uriwera country, where he found shelter for a time, but led the hunted life of the outcast until it suited his protectors to betray him. Forwarded to Auckland, he was duly tried, convicted, and hanged.
Ngarara had a shorter term of comparative freedom. One morning, shortly after the attack on the mission, a small party of the Aowera appeared at Whakarewarewa, the main body of the tribe being encamped on Lake Rotorua. A bound prisoner was in their midst, on whose movements they kept watchful261 guard. It was Ngarara! A sub-chief, having been apprised262 of the capture, arrived with leading warriors. One glance at his stern features assured the captive that he had no mercy to expect. Contrary to Maori usage, he did not disdain263 to beg for it.
"I tried to kill the pakeha," he said. "What harm was there in that? He stole the heart of the girl I loved; who, but for him and his cunning ways, might have loved me. I would have given my life for her. Other men have killed pakehas—Rewi, Rawiri, even Te Oriori; why should I be the sacrifice?"
The chief listened with an air of disgust, but did not deign264 to reply. Meanwhile an order had been given, and the party marched on, taking the prisoner with them, preserving a strict silence, which evidently impressed him more deeply than any other treatment. In about three hours they arrived at the mission station of Ngae. Here a feeling of misgiving265 appeared to arise in the captive's mind, and he muttered the [Pg 406] word "Tikitere" with an accent of inquiry266. But no man answered or took notice of his speech.
But when they reached that desolate267 and awful valley, and saw the mud volcanoes and steaming springs in furious motion, his courage failed him. He saw the hissing268, bubbling lakes separated by a narrow ridge269, aptly named the Gate of Hell, standing on which the traveller shudders270, while breathing sulphuretted hydrogen and beholding271 the turbid272 waves on either side—the while the tremulous soil suggests the enormous power of the central fires, which at any time might rend32 and ruin all around with earthquake shock and suddenness.
He knew also, none better, of the dread blackness of the inferno273, in which the sombre billows of a tormented274 sea of boiling mud are heaving and seething275 continually.
As with careful steps his guards half dragged, half carried him across the treacherous flat, seamed with fissures276, where death lay in wait for the heedless stranger, he appeared to comprehend fully the fate that awaited him. He yelled aloud and struggled so wildly, even despite his bonds, that, at a motion of Ropata's arm, two stalwart natives stepped forward to the aid of their comrades as he neared the fatal abyss.
"Dog of a murderer, coward and slave besides," said the chief, as, halting on the brink277, the guards awaited his signal—"a disgrace to the tribe which never was known to flee! Did Erena show fear when the bullet pierced her breast? Did the pakeha soldier shriek278 like the night owl4 when thy traitor279's bullet struck his back—his back, I say, and he with thee in the same battle against the Ngaiterangi at Peke-hina? Did the [Pg 407] pakeha girl, the white Rangatira, or the Mikonaree cry for mercy when Kereopa was ready to commence the torture? It is not fitting for thee to die the death of a warrior or a soldier. A coward's death, a slave's, a cur's, is thy only fitting end. Such, and no other, shalt thou have." He motioned with his hand.
A yell which made the deeps and hollows resound280 came from the unhappy wretch17, as his captors lifted him on high and raised him for a moment above the Dantean abyss. As the miserable281 traitor fell from their grasp, he seized in his teeth the mat (purere) of the nearest man, who, but for the prompt action of his comrade, might have been dragged with him into the inferno. But that wary282 warrior, with lightning quickness, struck such a blow on the nape of his neck with the back of the tomahawk hanging to his wrist with a leather thong283, that he fell forward, nerveless and quivering, into the hell cauldron beneath. For one moment he emerged, with a face expressive of unutterable anguish, madness, and despair, then raising his fettered arms to the level of his head, fell backward into the depths of the raging and impure284 weaves.
"Tutua-kuri-mokai!" said the chief, as he gave the signal for return, and sauntered carelessly homeward. "He will cost nothing for burial. There are others that are fitting themselves for the same place."
Cyril Summers with his family returned to England, rightly judging that, in the present state of Maori feeling, it was unfair to expose his wife to the risk of a repetition of the horrors from which they had escaped. [Pg 408] Hypatia accompanied them, unwilling285 to forsake286 her friend, whose state of health, weakened by their terrible experiences, rendered her companionship indispensable. On reaching England the Reverend Cyril was offered an incumbency287 in the diocese of his beloved bishop, now of Lichfield, in the peaceful performance of the duties of which he has found rest for his troubled spirit. His wife's health was completely re-established. Without in any way derogating from the importance of his work among the heathen, which, after having reached so encouraging a stage, had been ruthlessly arrested, he arrived at the conclusion that he had a worthy and hardly less difficult task to perform in the conversion288 of the heathen in the Black Country. His bishop acknowledged privately289 with regret that their savages, though not less truculent290, were devoid of many of the redeeming291 qualities of the Maori heathen.
Roland Massinger remained in New Zealand until his health was thoroughly292 re-established, when, having received the welcome intelligence that Mr. Hamon de Massinger, an old bachelor and a distant relation, had left him a very large fortune, he so far modified his thirst for adventure and heroic colonization293 as to take his passage to England, where his lawyers advised that his presence was absolutely necessary.
Upon his arrival, he lost no time in visiting his county and looking up his friends, who made a tremendous hero of him, and would by no means allow him to deny astonishing feats294 of valour performed during the Maori war. He also discovered that his Australian successor, though most popular in the county, had become tired of the unrelieved comfort and too pronounced absence of adventure [Pg 409] in English country life. The sport, the society, the farming even, so restricted as to be minute in his eyes, all had become uninteresting to the ex-pioneer, not yet old enough to fall out of the ranks of England's empire-makers. These considerations, coupled with a fall in wool, and the rumour of a drought, widespread and unprecedented295 in severity, decided296 Mr. Lexington to return to the land of his birth.
His elder daughter had married satisfactorily, and settled in the county. "She had," she averred297, "no ultra-patriotic longings298. England, with an annual trip to the Continent, was good enough for her. She doubted whether George would care for Australia. Then there was the dear baby, who was too young to travel. She was truly sorry to part from her family, but as the voyage was now only a matter of five weeks by the P. and O. or the Messageries boats, she could come out and see them every other year, at any rate."
As for the younger girl, she began to pine for the plains and forests amid which her childhood had been passed. England was a sort of fairyland, no doubt. Climate lovely and cool, and the people kind and charming; but somehow the old country—that is, the new country—where they had been born and bred, seemed to have prior claims. She would not be sorry to see the South Head Lighthouse again and Sydney Harbour.
The eldest299 son had gone more than a year ago. He was very glad, he wrote, that he had done so. One manager had become extravagant300; another had taken to drinking. Everybody seemed to think that they (the family) had left Australia for good. There was such a thing as the master's eye, without [Pg 410] doubt. Such had been his experience. He would tell them more when he saw them.
One of the reasons which actuated Mr. Lexington, a shrewd though liberal man in business matters, was a dislike to paying the income-tax in two countries at the same time. He could afford it, certainly, but it struck him as wasteful301, and in a measure unfair, to make an Australian pay extravagantly302 for desiring to live in the mother-land. Then, after assisting to enlarge the empire abroad, the price of landed estates in England had gone down seriously—was, indeed, going down still. With a probability of a serious fall in values in both hemispheres, it was better to part with his English investment while he could get a purchaser for it, who, like himself, was not disposed to stand upon trifles.
So it came to pass that, after a conference between his own and the Massinger solicitors303, Mr. Lexington accepted the proposal to sell Massinger Court, with the Hereford herd of high-bred cattle, hacks305, hunters, carriage-horses, vehicles, saddlery—indeed, everything just as it stood. All these adjuncts to be taken at a valuation, and added to the price of the estate, the re-purchase of which by a member of the family was what most probably, though his solicitor304 declined to say, old Mr. Hamon de Massinger, the testator, had in view all along.
The county was ridiculously overjoyed, as some acidulated person said, that the rightful heir, so to speak, was come to his own again. Independently of such feeling, nowhere stronger than in English county society, few localities but would feel a certain satisfaction at the return of a county magnate—rich, unmarried, and distinguished306, as a man must always [Pg 411] be who has fought England's battles abroad, and shed his blood in upholding her honour. Thus, although the free-handed and unaffected Australian family was heartily307 regretted, and "farewelled" with suitable honours, the sentimental308 corner in all hearts responded fervently309 to the news that the young squire310 had returned to the home of his ancestors, and would henceforth, as he declared at the tenants312' enthusiastically joyous reception, live among his own people.
Of course, all sorts of exaggerated versions of his life in the far South prevailed. These comprised prowess in war, hairbreadth escapes, wounds, and captivity, the whole rounded off with a legend of a beautiful native princess, who had brought him as her dower a principality beneath the Southern Cross. To these romantic rumours313 he paid no attention whatever, refusing to be drawn314, and giving the most cursory315 answers to direct questions. But when, after spending a quiet year on his estate, in the management of which he took great interest, it was announced that he was about to be married to the beautiful, distinguished, fascinating, eccentric Hypatia Tollemache, all the county was wildly excited. When the event took place, the particulars of the quiet wedding were read and re-read by every one in his own and the adjacent counties.
Fresh tales and legends, however, continued to be circulated. His first wife—for he had married a beautiful Maori princess; at any rate, a chief's daughter—was killed fighting by his side in a tribal316 war. She was jealous of Miss Tollemache, and had committed suicide. Not at all. Her father, a great war-chief, disapproved317 of the union, and, [Pg 412] carrying her off, had immured318 her in his stronghold, surrounded by a lake, which her despairing husband could not cross. So she pined away and died. That was the reason for his occasional fits of depression, and his insensibility to the charms of the local belles319.
He was obdurate320 with respect to giving information as to the truth or otherwise of these interesting narratives321; indeed, so obviously unwilling to gratify even the most natural curiosity, that at length even the most hardened inquisitor gave up the task in despair.
The county had more reason for complaint when it was further announced that Sir Roland and his bride had left for the Continent immediately after the wedding, whence they did not propose returning until the near approach of Christmas-tide. Then such old-world festivities as were still remembered by the villagers in connection with former lords of the manor322 would be conscientiously323 kept up, while the largesse324 to the poor, which under the new régime had not by any means fallen into disuse, would be disbursed325 with exceptional profusion326.
After the sale Mr. Lexington had been besought327 to consult his own convenience, absolutely and unreservedly, as to the time and manner of his departure. The purchase-money having been received, and all legal forms completed, he was to consider the house and all things appertaining thereto at his service. Messrs. Nourse and Lympett had instructions to take delivery of the estate whenever it suited him to vacate it. The Australian gentleman, having had much experience in the sale and taking over of "stations" in Australia—always regarded as a crucial test of liberality—was heard to declare that never in his life had he [Pg 413] purchased and resold so extensive a property with so little trouble, or concluded so considerable a transaction with less friction328 or misunderstanding on either side.
And so, when the leaves in the woods around the Chase had fallen, and the ancient oaks and elms were arrayed in all their frost and snow jewellery, word came that the squire with his bride were returning from their extended tour. They would arrive on a certain day, prepared to inhabit the old hall which had sheltered in pride and power so many generations of the race. Then the whole county went off its head, and prepared for his home-coming. Such a demonstration329 had not been heard of since Sir Hugo de Massinger, constable330 of Chester, came home from the wars in Wales after the death of Gwenwyn.
When the train drew up to the platform, such a crowd was there that Hypatia looked forth with amazement331, wondering whether there was a contested election, with the chairing of the successful candidate imminent. Every man of note in the county was there, from the Duke of Dunstanburgh to the last created knight332. Every tenant311, every villager, with their wives and daughters, sons and visitors; every tradesman—in fact, every soul within walking, riding, or driving distance—had turned up to do honour to Sir Roland of the Court, who, after adventures by sea and land, through war and bloodshed, had been suffered, doubtless by the direct interposition of Providence, to come to his own again.
As Sir Roland and his fair dame333 passed through the crowd towards their chariot, it was quickly understood what was to be the order of the day. The horses were taken out, and a dozen willing hands [Pg 414] grasped the pole, preparatory to setting forth for the Court, some three miles distant. Waving his hand to request silence, the bridegroom said—
"My lord duke, ladies and gentlemen, and you my good friends, who have known me from childhood, I thank you from the bottom of my heart for the welcome which you have given to me and my dear wife on our return to our native country and the home of my ancestors. My wife would thank you on her part, if her heart was not too full. We trust that in the future we may show by our lives, lived among you, how deeply, how intensely, we appreciate your generous welcome. At present I can say nothing more, than to invite you, one and all, to accompany us to the Court, to do us the honour to accept the first hospitality we have been in a position to offer since I left England."
Due notice had been given. Preparations had been made on a scale of unprecedented magnitude. A partial surprise awaited the wedded334 pair as the carriage passed through the massive gates, above which the triumphal arch seemed to have levied335 contributions on half the evergreens336 in the park. The heraldic beasts, each "a demi-Pegasus quarterly or in gules," on the moss-grown pillars, were garlanded with hot-house flowers, as also with the holly-bush and berries appropriate to the season. Marquees had been erected337 on the lawns, where all manner of meats, from the lordly baron338 of beef to the humbler flitch of bacon, were exhibited in such profusion as might lead to the inference that a regiment had been billeted on the village. It would not have been for the first time. Cromwell's Ironsides had, indeed, tried demi-saker, [Pg 415] arblast, and culverin on the massive walls of the old hall, without, however, much decisive effect. Hogsheads of ale were there more than sufficient to wash down the solid fare, for which the keen bright atmosphere furnished suitable appetites.
The nobility and gentry339 were entertained in the great dining-hall, where a déjeuner had been prepared, thoroughly up to date, abounding340 in all modern requirements. Champagne341 and claret flowed in perennial342 abundance. The plate, both silver and gold, heirlooms of the ancient house, had been brought back from their resting-places. It was evident that the whole thing—the cuisinerie, the decorations, the waiters, the fruit, and flowers—had been sent down from London days before; and as Sir Roland and Hypatia took their places at the head of the table, mirth and joyous converse commenced to ripple343 and flow ceaselessly. Even the ancestral portraits seemed to have acquired a glow of gratification as the lovely and the brave, the gallant344 courtiers or the grim warriors, looked down upon their descendant and his bride; on those fortunate ones so lately restored to the pride and power of their position—so lately in peril345 of losing these historic possessions, and their lives at the same time.
Did Hypatia, as an expression of thoughtful retrospection shaded her countenance momentarily, recall another scene, scarcely two years since, when the bridegroom, now rejoicing in the pride of manhood, lay wounded, and a captive, helplessly awaiting an agonizing death; herself in the power of maddened savages, as was Cyril Summers with his wife and children? Then the miraculous interposition—the fierce Ropata sweeping346 away the rebel fanatics347, with the fire of his [Pg 416] wrath! And she—alas! the faithful, the devoted Erena, but for whose sacrificial tenderness Sir Roland would not have been by her side today! What was she, Hypatia, more than others, that such things should have been done for her? The tears would rise to her eyes, in spite of her efforts to compose her countenance, as she looked on the joyous faces around. Mary Summers and her husband sat in calm enjoyment348 of the scene. Then, with a heartfelt inward prayer to Him who had so disposed their fortunes to this happy ending, she strove to mould her feelings to a mood more in accordance with her present surroundings.
A change in the proceedings349 was at hand. The Duke of Dunstanburgh, rising, besought his good friends and neighbours to charge their glasses, and to bear with him for a few moments, while he proposed a toast which doubtless they had all anticipated.
His young friend, as he was proud to call him, whose father he had known and loved, had this day been restored to the seat of his ancestors, to the ancient home of the De Massingers in their county. He would but touch lightly on his adventures, by flood and field, in that far land, to which he had elected to find—er—an—outlet for his energy. Danger had there been, as they all knew. Blood had been shed. The lives of himself and his lovely bride, who now shed lustre350 upon their gathering, had trembled in the balance, when by an almost miraculous interposition succour arrived. He would not pursue the subject, with which painful memories were interwoven. Enough to state that under all circumstances, even the most desperate, Sir Roland had maintained the honour of England, and had shed [Pg 417] his blood freely in defence of her time-honoured institutions. (Tremendous cheering.) He had returned, thank God! he would say in all sincerity, and was now, with his bride, a lady who in all respects would do honour to the county and the kingdom, placed in possession of the hall of his ancestors. He was come—they had his assurance—prepared to live and die among them; among the friends of his youth, and those older neighbours who, like the speaker, had hunted and fished and shot with his father before him. He was proud this day to give them the toast of Sir Roland and Lady de Massinger—to wish them long life and prosperity—and he was sure he might add, in the name of the whole county, to welcome them most heartily to their home.
When the cheering had subsided351, taken up again and again, as it was from the outer hall and even from the lawn, by the tenants and villagers, who, if they could not see, could at least judge by the storm of voices as to the nature of the address which had called it forth, Sir Roland stood up and faced the crowd of guests, who cheered again and again as though they never intended to stop. He commenced with studied calmness, thanking them all, his good friends and neighbours, the old friends of the house, and those among whom he had lived so long in friendship, he might say affectionate intimacy352, until circumstances, apparently, made it necessary for him to leave the home of his childhood. They would doubtless appreciate the greatness of the sacrifice, the bitterness of feeling, with which he quitted the home of his race. He resolved to go as far as was possible from home and its memories, and had, in fact, gone so far South [Pg 418] that the Pole only would have been the next abiding-place. It was a British outpost, however, well deserving the name of the Britain of the South; destined in years to come to be the home, the prosperous home, of millions of the men of our race, and one of the brightest jewels in the Imperial crown. Difficulties had arisen with the Maori nation, a proud, a brave, a highly intelligent people, who had made the best defence in war against British regulars by an aboriginal353 race since the days when the stubborn valour of the ancient Britons scarce yielded to the legionaries of Rome. (Tremendous cheering.) That war, fraught354 with disastrous355 losses in men and officers to Britain's bravest regiments356, was now over, he was rejoiced to say. There might be irregular fighting from time to time, but the high chiefs had surrendered, and vast areas of the most fertile land in the world had now become the property of the Crown. He himself held what might be considered an incredibly large domain357, which must prove of great value in time to come. He would not mention the number of acres. He was not going back there. (Redoubled cheering.) He could assure them of that fact, though in days to come another Massinger Court might arise beneath the Southern Cross. (Renewed cheering.) He was as fixed243 here, under Providence (he told them now), as the "King's Oak" in the Chase. (Loud and prolonged cheering.) He and his wife had experienced a sufficiency of adventure, by land and sea, to last them for their natural lives. They desired, in all humility358, to return heartfelt thanks to Almighty God for their restoration to this pleasant home, and those dear friends whom at one [Pg 419] time they never thought to see again. They hoped to prove their gratitude359, by lives of usefulness in their day and generation.
The adventures of Sir Roland de Massinger and Hypatia his wife, insomuch as regards peril and uncertainty of war or peace, travel by land and sea, or even the stormy politics of a new nation, must be said now to have lost much of their interest. Henceforth Sir Roland was contented360 to pursue the ordinary course of the country gentleman of England, which, if not exciting or adventurous361, is surely one of the happiest lives in the world. He was contented to manage his New Zealand property through an agent. Indeed, after Mr. Slyde's appearance in England—that gentleman having received a year's leave of absence, on account of his wound and eminent362 services in the war—he was pleased to place the whole management of Waikato Court and Chase, near the flourishing township of Chesterfield, in his hands. Mr. Slyde was about to relinquish363 his connection with the New Zealand Land Company, having, as he said with his customary cynicism, been fool enough to encumber364 himself with a picturesque365 and fertile block of land, on the same river, and also to commit the crowning folly366 of matrimony with a young lady to whom he had become engaged just after the war. New Zealand was bad enough, he averred, but for a man who had been born without the proverbial silver spoon, England was the worst country in the civilized world. Therefore, if his comrade, Sir Roland, had sufficient faith in his intelligence and honesty—rather rare endowments in a colony—he supposed he could manage [Pg 420] both properties with much the same outlay367 of cash and industry as his own.
The arrangement was completed, and worked so satisfactorily, that for many a year Sir Roland had no duties connected with the antipodean estates beyond supervising the sale of wool, frozen mutton, butter, cheese, cocksfoot grass seed, and other annual products, which so excited the admiration of his neighbours and tenants that they could hardly be made to believe that such satisfactory samples could be produced out of England, his frozen lamb, equal to "prime Canterbury," notwithstanding.
Hypatia is truly happy in her home—blessed with a growing family, contented with her duties as the wife of a county member, and, above all, firmly convinced that Roland was the only man she had ever loved. She is almost convinced, as her outspoken368 friend Mrs. Merivale (née Branksome) often assured her, that it served her right for her absurdly altruistic369 notions and general perversity370 that she so nearly lost him. The days are only too short for her employments and enjoyments371. Nor did she abandon the philanthropical obligation, but as the kindly372, generous, and capable Lady Bountiful of the estate, is "earthlier happy as the rose distilled373" than in any imaginable state of "single blessedness," however advanced and politically eminent.
THE END
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1
slumber
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| n.睡眠，沉睡状态 | |
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subsiding
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| v.（土地）下陷（因在地下采矿）( subside的现在分词 )；减弱；下降至较低或正常水平；一下子坐在椅子等上 | |
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growl
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| v.（狗等）嗥叫，（炮等）轰鸣；n.嗥叫，轰鸣 | |
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owl
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| n.猫头鹰，枭 | |
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adherents
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| n.支持者，拥护者( adherent的名词复数 )；党羽；徒子徒孙 | |
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murmur
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| n.低语，低声的怨言；v.低语，低声而言 | |
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trampling
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| 踩( trample的现在分词 )； 践踏； 无视； 侵犯 | |
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sleepers
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| n.卧铺（通常以复数形式出现）；卧车( sleeper的名词复数 )；轨枕；睡觉（呈某种状态）的人；小耳环 | |
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wont
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| adj.习惯于；v.习惯；n.习惯 | |
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dressing
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| n.(食物)调料；包扎伤口的用品，敷料 | |
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ferocious
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| adj.凶猛的，残暴的，极度的，十分强烈的 | |
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missionary
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| adj.教会的，传教(士)的；n.传教士 | |
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apparently
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| adv.显然地；表面上，似乎 | |
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abruptly
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| adv.突然地，出其不意地 | |
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regiment
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| n.团，多数，管理；v.组织，编成团，统制 | |
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wretches
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| n.不幸的人( wretch的名词复数 )；可怜的人；恶棍；坏蛋 | |
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wretch
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| n.可怜的人，不幸的人；卑鄙的人 | |
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savages
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| 未开化的人，野蛮人( savage的名词复数 ) | |
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savage
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| adj.野蛮的；凶恶的，残暴的；n.未开化的人 | |
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outrage
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| n.暴行，侮辱，愤怒；vt.凌辱，激怒 | |
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noted
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| adj.著名的，知名的 | |
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foes
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| 敌人，仇敌( foe的名词复数 ) | |
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foe
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| n.敌人，仇敌 | |
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interrogating
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| n.询问技术v.询问( interrogate的现在分词 )；审问；（在计算机或其他机器上）查询 | |
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procure
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| vt.获得，取得，促成；vi.拉皮条 | |
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followers
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| 追随者( follower的名词复数 )； 用户； 契据的附面； 从动件 | |
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captivity
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| n.囚禁；被俘；束缚 | |
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slain
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| 杀死，宰杀，杀戮( slay的过去分词 )； (slay的过去分词) | |
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missionaries
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| n.传教士( missionary的名词复数 ) | |
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warriors
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| 武士，勇士，战士( warrior的名词复数 ) | |
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warrior
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| n.勇士，武士，斗士 | |
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rend
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| vt.把…撕开，割裂；把…揪下来，强行夺取 | |
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allay
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| v.消除，减轻(恐惧、怀疑等) | |
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wrath
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| n.愤怒，愤慨，暴怒 | |
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prey
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| n.被掠食者，牺牲者，掠食；v.捕食，掠夺，折磨 | |
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countenance
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| n.脸色，面容；面部表情；vt.支持，赞同 | |
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likeness
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| n.相像，相似（之处） | |
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sect
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| n.派别，宗教，学派，派系 | |
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maniacal
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| adj.发疯的 | |
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sockets
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| n.套接字，使应用程序能够读写与收发通讯协定(protocol)与资料的程序( Socket的名词复数 )；孔( socket的名词复数 )；（电器上的）插口；托座；凹穴 | |
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41
protruding
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| v.（使某物）伸出，（使某物）突出( protrude的现在分词 )；凸 | |
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42
foam
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| v./n.泡沫，起泡沫 | |
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43
bestial
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| adj.残忍的；野蛮的 | |
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44
transformation
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| n.变化；改造；转变 | |
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45
monstrous
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| adj.巨大的；恐怖的；可耻的，丢脸的 | |
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46
demon
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| n.魔鬼，恶魔 | |
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47
fettered
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| v.给…上脚镣，束缚( fetter的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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standing
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| n.持续，地位；adj.永久的，不动的，直立的，不流动的 | |
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49
groaned
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| v.呻吟( groan的过去式和过去分词 )；发牢骚；抱怨；受苦 | |
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50
drooping
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| adj. 下垂的，无力的 动词droop的现在分词 | |
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51
adjured
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| v.（以起誓或诅咒等形式）命令要求( adjure的过去式和过去分词 )；祈求；恳求 | |
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52
spoke
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| n.（车轮的）辐条；轮辐；破坏某人的计划；阻挠某人的行动 v.讲，谈（speak的过去式）；说；演说；从某种观点来说 | |
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53
devoted
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| adj.忠诚的，忠实的，热心的，献身于...的 | |
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54
vent
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| n.通风口，排放口；开衩；vt.表达，发泄 | |
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55
swelled
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| 增强( swell的过去式和过去分词 )； 肿胀； （使）凸出； 充满（激情） | |
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56
akin
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| adj.同族的，类似的 | |
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exuberance
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| n.丰富；繁荣 | |
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58
betokened
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| v.预示，表示( betoken的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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59
haughty
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| adj.傲慢的，高傲的 | |
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60
defiant
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| adj.无礼的，挑战的 | |
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61
mien
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| n.风采；态度 | |
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62
triumphant
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| adj.胜利的，成功的；狂欢的，喜悦的 | |
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63
forth
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| adv.向前；向外，往外 | |
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64
malice
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| n.恶意，怨恨，蓄意；[律]预谋 | |
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65
partially
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| adv.部分地，从某些方面讲 | |
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66
shuddering
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| v.战栗( shudder的现在分词 )；发抖；（机器、车辆等）突然震动；颤动 | |
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67
aged
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| adj.年老的，陈年的 | |
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68
jealousy
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| n.妒忌，嫉妒，猜忌 | |
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69
obliterated
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| v.除去( obliterate的过去式和过去分词 )；涂去；擦掉；彻底破坏或毁灭 | |
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70
admiration
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| n.钦佩，赞美，羡慕 | |
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71
evoked
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| [医]诱发的 | |
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72
pariahs
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| n.被社会遗弃者( pariah的名词复数 )；贱民 | |
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bestowed
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| 赠给，授予( bestow的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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sneering
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| 嘲笑的，轻蔑的 | |
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affected
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| adj.不自然的，假装的 | |
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maiden
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| n.少女，处女；adj.未婚的，纯洁的，无经验的 | |
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doom
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| n.厄运，劫数；v.注定，命定 | |
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herd
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| n.兽群，牧群；vt.使集中，把…赶在一起 | |
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79
concealed
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| a.隐藏的，隐蔽的 | |
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pointed
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| adj.尖的，直截了当的 | |
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81
majesty
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| n.雄伟，壮丽，庄严，威严；最高权威，王权 | |
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82
tragic
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| adj.悲剧的，悲剧性的，悲惨的 | |
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superstitious
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| adj.迷信的 | |
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84
instinctively
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| adv.本能地 | |
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85
instinctive
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| adj.(出于)本能的；直觉的；(出于)天性的 | |
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behold
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| v.看，注视，看到 | |
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manifestation
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| n.表现形式；表明；现象 | |
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malicious
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| adj.有恶意的，心怀恶意的 | |
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torment
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| n.折磨；令人痛苦的东西(人)；vt.折磨；纠缠 | |
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dread
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| vt.担忧，忧虑；惧怕，不敢；n.担忧，畏惧 | |
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91
uncertainty
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| n.易变，靠不住，不确知，不确定的事物 | |
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comport
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| vi.相称，适合 | |
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treacherous
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| adj.不可靠的，有暗藏的危险的；adj.背叛的，背信弃义的 | |
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killing
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| n.巨额利润；突然赚大钱，发大财 | |
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trifling
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| adj.微不足道的；没什么价值的 | |
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memorable
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| adj.值得回忆的，难忘的，特别的，显著的 | |
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opposition
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| n.反对，敌对 | |
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artillery
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| n.(军)火炮，大炮；炮兵(部队) | |
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99
proximity
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| n.接近，邻近 | |
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100
slaughter
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| n.屠杀，屠宰；vt.屠杀，宰杀 | |
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101
hereditary
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| adj.遗传的，遗传性的，可继承的，世袭的 | |
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102
malignant
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| adj.恶性的，致命的；恶意的，恶毒的 | |
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103
foretold
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| v.预言，预示( foretell的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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104
fanatic
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| n.狂热者，入迷者；adj.狂热入迷的 | |
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105
ecstasy
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| n.狂喜，心醉神怡，入迷 | |
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106
rites
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| 仪式，典礼( rite的名词复数 ) | |
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107
appalling
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| adj.骇人听闻的，令人震惊的，可怕的 | |
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108
fabled
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| adj.寓言中的，虚构的 | |
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109
devoid
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| adj.全无的，缺乏的 | |
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110
purely
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| adv.纯粹地，完全地 | |
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111
degradation
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| n.降级；低落；退化；陵削；降解；衰变 | |
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112
Christians
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| n.基督教徒( Christian的名词复数 ) | |
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113
Christian
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| adj.基督教徒的；n.基督教徒 | |
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114
arena
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| n.竞技场，运动场所；竞争场所，舞台 | |
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115
reign
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| n.统治时期，统治，支配，盛行；v.占优势 | |
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116
frail
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| adj.身体虚弱的；易损坏的 | |
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117
civilized
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| a.有教养的，文雅的 | |
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118
grotesque
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| adj.怪诞的，丑陋的；n.怪诞的图案，怪人（物） | |
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119
dealing
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| n.经商方法，待人态度 | |
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120
protracted
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| adj.拖延的；延长的v.拖延“protract”的过去式和过去分词 | |
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121
unnatural
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| adj.不自然的；反常的 | |
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122
lawfully
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| adv.守法地，合法地；合理地 | |
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123
fully
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| adv.完全地，全部地，彻底地；充分地 | |
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124
faculty
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| n.才能；学院，系；(学院或系的)全体教学人员 | |
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125
steadfast
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| adj.固定的，不变的，不动摇的；忠实的；坚贞不移的 | |
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126
ashen
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| adj.灰的 | |
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127
supreme
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| adj.极度的，最重要的；至高的，最高的 | |
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128
infancy
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| n.婴儿期；幼年期；初期 | |
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129
providence
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| n.深谋远虑，天道，天意；远见；节约；上帝 | |
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130
alas
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| int.唉(表示悲伤、忧愁、恐惧等) | |
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131
consolation
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| n.安慰，慰问 | |
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132
mingled
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| 混合，混入( mingle的过去式和过去分词 )； 混进，与…交往[联系] | |
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133
exulting
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| vi. 欢欣鼓舞，狂喜 | |
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134
varied
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| adj.多样的，多变化的 | |
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135
exhausted
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|
| adj.极其疲惫的，精疲力尽的 | |
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136
martyr
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| n.烈士，殉难者；vt.杀害，折磨，牺牲 | |
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137
warily
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| adv.留心地 | |
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138
enacted
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| 制定（法律），通过（法案）( enact的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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139
deafening
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| adj. 振耳欲聋的, 极喧闹的 动词deafen的现在分词形式 | |
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140
precipice
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|
| n.悬崖，危急的处境 | |
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141
verge
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| n.边，边缘；v.接近，濒临 | |
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142
infinitely
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| adv.无限地，无穷地 | |
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143
dreaded
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|
| adj.令人畏惧的；害怕的v.害怕，恐惧，担心( dread的过去式和过去分词) | |
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144
fatigue
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|
| n.疲劳，劳累 | |
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145
bent
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| n.爱好，癖好；adj.弯的；决心的，一心的 | |
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146
rippling
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| 起涟漪的，潺潺流水般声音的 | |
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147
hisses
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| 嘶嘶声( hiss的名词复数 ) | |
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148
maker
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| n.制造者，制造商 | |
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149
apparition
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| n.幽灵，神奇的现象 | |
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150
consternation
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| n.大为吃惊，惊骇 | |
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151
specially
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| adv.特定地；特殊地；明确地 | |
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152
extirpation
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| n.消灭，根除，毁灭；摘除 | |
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153
martial
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| adj.战争的，军事的，尚武的，威武的 | |
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154
abject
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| adj.极可怜的，卑屈的 | |
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155
sobriquet
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| n.绰号 | |
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156
expressive
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|
| adj.表现的，表达…的，富于表情的 | |
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157
avenging
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|
| adj.报仇的，复仇的v.为…复仇，报…之仇( avenge的现在分词 )；为…报复 | |
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158
lurid
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|
| adj.可怕的；血红的；苍白的 | |
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159
onset
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| n.进攻，袭击，开始，突然开始 | |
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160
astuteness
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| n.敏锐；精明；机敏 | |
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161
cordon
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| n.警戒线，哨兵线 | |
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162
worthy
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|
| adj.(of)值得的，配得上的；有价值的 | |
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163
bind
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|
| vt.捆，包扎；装订；约束；使凝固；vi.变硬 | |
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164
willow
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| n.柳树 | |
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165
destined
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|
| adj.命中注定的；(for)以…为目的地的 | |
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166
promptly
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|
| adv.及时地，敏捷地 | |
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167
brute
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|
| n.野兽，兽性 | |
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168
allotted
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| 分配，拨给，摊派( allot的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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169
posture
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| n.姿势，姿态，心态，态度；v.作出某种姿势 | |
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170
renewal
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| adj.(契约)延期，续订，更新，复活，重来 | |
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171
eluding
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| v.（尤指机敏地）避开( elude的现在分词 )；逃避；躲避；使达不到 | |
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172
fray
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| v.争吵；打斗；磨损，磨破；n.吵架；打斗 | |
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173
sullen
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| adj.愠怒的，闷闷不乐的，(天气等)阴沉的 | |
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174
hideous
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|
| adj.丑陋的，可憎的，可怕的，恐怖的 | |
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175
exultation
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| n.狂喜，得意 | |
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176
dangled
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|
| 悬吊着( dangle的过去式和过去分词 )； 摆动不定； 用某事物诱惑…； 吊胃口 | |
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177
corpse
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| n.尸体，死尸 | |
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178
fascination
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| n.令人着迷的事物，魅力，迷恋 | |
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179
miraculous
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|
| adj.像奇迹一样的，不可思议的 | |
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180
incapable
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|
| adj.无能力的，不能做某事的 | |
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181
contingent
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|
| adj.视条件而定的；n.一组，代表团，分遣队 | |
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182
almighty
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|
| adj.全能的，万能的；很大的，很强的 | |
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183
weird
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|
| adj.古怪的，离奇的；怪诞的，神秘而可怕的 | |
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184
melodrama
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| n.音乐剧；情节剧 | |
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185
transcends
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| 超出或超越（经验、信念、描写能力等）的范围( transcend的第三人称单数 )； 优于或胜过… | |
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186
bosom
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|
| n.胸，胸部；胸怀；内心；adj.亲密的 | |
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187
imminent
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|
| adj.即将发生的，临近的，逼近的 | |
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188
promising
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| adj.有希望的，有前途的 | |
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189
succumbing
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|
| 不再抵抗（诱惑、疾病、攻击等）( succumb的现在分词 )； 屈从； 被压垮； 死 | |
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190
proffered
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| v.提供，贡献，提出( proffer的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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191
faltered
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|
| （嗓音）颤抖( falter的过去式和过去分词 )； 支吾其词； 蹒跚； 摇晃 | |
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192
reverently
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|
| adv.虔诚地 | |
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193
sobs
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| 啜泣（声），呜咽（声）( sob的名词复数 ) | |
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194
lamentation
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| n.悲叹，哀悼 | |
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195
averted
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| 防止，避免( avert的过去式和过去分词 )； 转移 | |
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196
embittered
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| v.使怨恨，激怒( embitter的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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197
avenger
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| n. 复仇者 | |
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198
sufficiently
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| adv.足够地，充分地 | |
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199
schooner
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| n.纵帆船 | |
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200
bishop
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| n.主教，（国际象棋）象 | |
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201
complement
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| n.补足物，船上的定员；补语；vt.补充，补足 | |
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202
highland
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| n.(pl.)高地，山地 | |
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203
extol
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| v.赞美，颂扬 | |
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204
inexplicable
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| adj.无法解释的，难理解的 | |
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205
feverishly
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| adv. 兴奋地 | |
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206
levy
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| n.征收税或其他款项，征收额 | |
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207
survivors
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| 幸存者，残存者，生还者( survivor的名词复数 ) | |
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208
scouts
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| 侦察员[机，舰]( scout的名词复数 )； 童子军； 搜索； 童子军成员 | |
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209
rumour
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| n.谣言，谣传，传闻 | |
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210
proceeding
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| n.行动，进行，(pl.)会议录，学报 | |
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211
plunder
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| vt.劫掠财物，掠夺；n.劫掠物，赃物；劫掠 | |
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212
reigned
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| vi.当政，统治（reign的过去式形式） | |
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213
converse
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| vi.谈话，谈天，闲聊；adv.相反的，相反 | |
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214
deserted
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|
| adj.荒芜的，荒废的，无人的，被遗弃的 | |
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215
trampled
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|
| 踩( trample的过去式和过去分词 )； 践踏； 无视； 侵犯 | |
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216
shrubs
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| 灌木( shrub的名词复数 ) | |
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217
exhumed
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|
| v.挖出，发掘出( exhume的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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218
plume
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| n.羽毛；v.整理羽毛，骚首弄姿，用羽毛装饰 | |
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219
ornament
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| v.装饰，美化；n.装饰，装饰物 | |
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220
thickets
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| n.灌木丛( thicket的名词复数 )；丛状物 | |
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221
imprints
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| n.压印( imprint的名词复数 )；痕迹；持久影响 | |
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222
victorious
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| adj.胜利的，得胜的 | |
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223
woe
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| n.悲哀，苦痛，不幸，困难；int.用来表达悲伤或惊慌 | |
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224
smote
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| v.猛打，重击，打击( smite的过去式 ) | |
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225
throng
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| n.人群，群众；v.拥挤，群集 | |
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226
converging
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|
| adj.收敛[缩]的，会聚的，趋同的v.（线条、运动的物体等）会于一点( converge的现在分词 )；（趋于）相似或相同；人或车辆汇集；聚集 | |
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227
foliage
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|
| n.叶子，树叶，簇叶 | |
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228
cemetery
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| n.坟墓，墓地，坟场 | |
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229
maidenhood
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| n. 处女性, 处女时代 | |
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230
joyous
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| adj.充满快乐的；令人高兴的 | |
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231
coffin
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| n.棺材，灵柩 | |
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232
rangers
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| 护林者( ranger的名词复数 )； 突击队员 | |
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233
seclusion
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| n.隐遁，隔离 | |
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234
veins
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| n.纹理；矿脉( vein的名词复数 )；静脉；叶脉；纹理 | |
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235
migration
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| n.迁移，移居，（鸟类等的）迁徙 | |
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236
passionate
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| adj.热情的，热烈的，激昂的，易动情的，易怒的，性情暴躁的 | |
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237
subsisted
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| v.（靠很少的钱或食物）维持生活，生存下去( subsist的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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238
agonizing
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| adj.痛苦难忍的；使人苦恼的v.使极度痛苦；折磨(agonize的ing形式) | |
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239
anguish
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| n.(尤指心灵上的)极度痛苦，烦恼 | |
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240
volcanic
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| adj.火山的；象火山的；由火山引起的 | |
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241
stifled
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| （使）窒息， （使）窒闷( stifle的过去式和过去分词 )； 镇压，遏制； 堵 | |
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242
rigid
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| adj.严格的，死板的；刚硬的，僵硬的 | |
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243
fixed
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| adj.固定的，不变的，准备好的；(计算机)固定的 | |
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244
fixedly
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| adv.固定地；不屈地，坚定不移地 | |
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245
fiery
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| adj.燃烧着的，火红的；暴躁的；激烈的 | |
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246
wailing
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| v.哭叫，哀号( wail的现在分词 )；沱 | |
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247
gathering
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| n.集会，聚会，聚集 | |
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248
anticipation
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| n.预期，预料，期望 | |
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249
evaded
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| 逃避( evade的过去式和过去分词 )； 避开； 回避； 想不出 | |
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250
genie
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| n.妖怪，神怪 | |
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251
sincerity
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| n.真诚，诚意；真实 | |
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252
muffled
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|
| adj.（声音）被隔的；听不太清的；（衣服）裹严的；蒙住的v.压抑，捂住( muffle的过去式和过去分词 )；用厚厚的衣帽包着（自己） | |
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253
groans
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| n.呻吟，叹息( groan的名词复数 )；呻吟般的声音v.呻吟( groan的第三人称单数 )；发牢骚；抱怨；受苦 | |
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254
intensity
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| n.强烈，剧烈；强度；烈度 | |
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255
unison
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| n.步调一致，行动一致 | |
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256
interval
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| n.间隔，间距；幕间休息，中场休息 | |
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257
regaining
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| 复得( regain的现在分词 )； 赢回； 重回； 复至某地 | |
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258
idol
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| n.偶像，红人，宠儿 | |
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259
perpetuate
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| v.使永存，使永记不忘 | |
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260
prosper
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| v.成功，兴隆，昌盛；使成功，使昌隆，繁荣 | |
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261
watchful
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| adj.注意的，警惕的 | |
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262
apprised
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|
| v.告知，通知( apprise的过去式和过去分词 )；评价 | |
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263
disdain
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| n.鄙视，轻视；v.轻视，鄙视，不屑 | |
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264
deign
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| v. 屈尊, 惠允 ( 做某事) | |
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265
misgiving
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|
| n.疑虑，担忧，害怕 | |
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266
inquiry
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| n.打听，询问，调查，查问 | |
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267
desolate
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|
| adj.荒凉的，荒芜的；孤独的，凄凉的；v.使荒芜，使孤寂 | |
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268
hissing
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| n. 发嘶嘶声, 蔑视 动词hiss的现在分词形式 | |
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269
ridge
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| n.山脊；鼻梁；分水岭 | |
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270
shudders
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| n.颤动，打颤，战栗( shudder的名词复数 )v.战栗( shudder的第三人称单数 )；发抖；（机器、车辆等）突然震动；颤动 | |
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271
beholding
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|
| v.看，注视( behold的现在分词 )；瞧；看呀；（叙述中用于引出某人意外的出现）哎哟 | |
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272
turbid
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| adj.混浊的，泥水的，浓的 | |
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273
inferno
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| n.火海；地狱般的场所 | |
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274
tormented
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| 饱受折磨的 | |
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275
seething
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| 沸腾的，火热的 | |
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276
fissures
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|
| n.狭长裂缝或裂隙( fissure的名词复数 )；裂伤；分歧；分裂v.裂开( fissure的第三人称单数 ) | |
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277
brink
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| n.(悬崖、河流等的)边缘，边沿 | |
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278
shriek
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|
| v./n.尖叫，叫喊 | |
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279
traitor
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| n.叛徒，卖国贼 | |
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280
resound
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| v.回响 | |
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281
miserable
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|
| adj.悲惨的，痛苦的；可怜的，糟糕的 | |
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282
wary
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| adj.谨慎的，机警的，小心的 | |
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283
thong
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| n.皮带；皮鞭；v.装皮带 | |
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284
impure
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| adj.不纯净的，不洁的；不道德的，下流的 | |
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285
unwilling
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| adj.不情愿的 | |
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286
forsake
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|
| vt.遗弃，抛弃；舍弃，放弃 | |
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287
incumbency
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| n.职责，义务 | |
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288
conversion
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| n.转化，转换，转变 | |
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289
privately
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| adv.以私人的身份，悄悄地，私下地 | |
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290
truculent
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|
| adj.野蛮的，粗野的 | |
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291
redeeming
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| 补偿的，弥补的 | |
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292
thoroughly
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|
| adv.完全地，彻底地，十足地 | |
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293
colonization
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| 殖民地的开拓，殖民，殖民地化； 移殖 | |
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294
feats
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| 功绩，伟业，技艺( feat的名词复数 ) | |
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295
unprecedented
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|
| adj.无前例的，新奇的 | |
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296
decided
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|
| adj.决定了的，坚决的；明显的，明确的 | |
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297
averred
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|
| v.断言( aver的过去式和过去分词 )；证实；证明…属实；作为事实提出 | |
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298
longings
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|
| 渴望，盼望( longing的名词复数 ) | |
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299
eldest
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| adj.最年长的，最年老的 | |
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300
extravagant
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|
| adj.奢侈的；过分的；(言行等)放肆的 | |
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301
wasteful
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|
| adj.（造成）浪费的，挥霍的 | |
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302
extravagantly
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|
| adv.挥霍无度地 | |
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303
solicitors
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| 初级律师( solicitor的名词复数 ) | |
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304
solicitor
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| n.初级律师，事务律师 | |
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305
hacks
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| 黑客 | |
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306
distinguished
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|
| adj.卓越的，杰出的，著名的 | |
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307
heartily
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|
| adv.衷心地，诚恳地，十分，很 | |
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308
sentimental
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|
| adj.多愁善感的，感伤的 | |
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309
fervently
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| adv.热烈地，热情地，强烈地 | |
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310
squire
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| n.护卫, 侍从, 乡绅 | |
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311
tenant
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| n.承租人；房客；佃户；v.租借，租用 | |
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312
tenants
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| n.房客( tenant的名词复数 )；佃户；占用者；占有者 | |
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313
rumours
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| n.传闻( rumour的名词复数 )；风闻；谣言；谣传 | |
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314
drawn
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|
| v.拖，拉，拔出；adj.憔悴的，紧张的 | |
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315
cursory
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|
| adj.粗略的；草率的；匆促的 | |
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316
tribal
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| adj.部族的，种族的 | |
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317
disapproved
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| v.不赞成( disapprove的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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318
immured
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| v.禁闭，监禁( immure的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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319
belles
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|
| n.美女( belle的名词复数 )；最美的美女 | |
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320
obdurate
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|
| adj.固执的，顽固的 | |
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321
narratives
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|
| 记叙文( narrative的名词复数 )； 故事； 叙述； 叙述部分 | |
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322
manor
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| n.庄园，领地 | |
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323
conscientiously
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|
| adv.凭良心地；认真地，负责尽职地；老老实实 | |
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324
largesse
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|
| n.慷慨援助，施舍 | |
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325
disbursed
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|
| v.支出，付出( disburse的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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326
profusion
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| n.挥霍；丰富 | |
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327
besought
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|
| v.恳求，乞求（某事物）( beseech的过去式和过去分词 )；(beseech的过去式与过去分词) | |
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328
friction
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| n.摩擦，摩擦力 | |
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329
demonstration
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| n.表明，示范，论证，示威 | |
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330
constable
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| n.(英国)警察，警官 | |
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331
amazement
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| n.惊奇，惊讶 | |
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332
knight
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| n.骑士，武士；爵士 | |
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333
dame
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| n.女士 | |
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334
wedded
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|
| adj.正式结婚的；渴望…的，执著于…的v.嫁，娶，（与…）结婚( wed的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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335
levied
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|
| 征（兵）( levy的过去式和过去分词 )； 索取； 发动（战争）； 征税 | |
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336
evergreens
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| n.常青树，常绿植物，万年青( evergreen的名词复数 ) | |
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337
ERECTED
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|
| adj. 直立的，竖立的，笔直的 vt. 使 ... 直立，建立 | |
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338
baron
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|
| n.男爵；(商业界等)巨头，大王 | |
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339
gentry
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|
| n.绅士阶级，上层阶级 | |
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340
abounding
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|
| adj.丰富的，大量的v.大量存在，充满，富于( abound的现在分词 ) | |
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341
champagne
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|
| n.香槟酒；微黄色 | |
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342
perennial
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|
| adj.终年的；长久的 | |
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343
ripple
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|
| n.涟波，涟漪，波纹，粗钢梳；vt.使...起涟漪，使起波纹； vi.呈波浪状，起伏前进 | |
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344
gallant
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|
| adj.英勇的，豪侠的；(向女人)献殷勤的 | |
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345
peril
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|
| n.(严重的)危险；危险的事物 | |
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346
sweeping
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|
| adj.范围广大的，一扫无遗的 | |
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347
fanatics
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|
| 狂热者，入迷者( fanatic的名词复数 ) | |
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348
enjoyment
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|
| n.乐趣；享有；享用 | |
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349
proceedings
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| n.进程，过程，议程；诉讼(程序)；公报 | |
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350
lustre
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|
| n.光亮，光泽；荣誉 | |
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351
subsided
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|
| v.（土地）下陷（因在地下采矿）( subside的过去式和过去分词 )；减弱；下降至较低或正常水平；一下子坐在椅子等上 | |
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352
intimacy
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|
| n.熟悉，亲密，密切关系，亲昵的言行 | |
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353
aboriginal
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|
| adj.（指动植物）土生的，原产地的，土著的 | |
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354
fraught
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|
| adj.充满…的，伴有(危险等)的；忧虑的 | |
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355
disastrous
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|
| adj.灾难性的，造成灾害的；极坏的，很糟的 | |
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356
regiments
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| （军队的）团( regiment的名词复数 )； 大量的人或物 | |
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357
domain
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|
| n.(活动等)领域，范围；领地，势力范围 | |
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358
humility
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| n.谦逊，谦恭 | |
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359
gratitude
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| adj.感激，感谢 | |
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360
contented
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| adj.满意的，安心的，知足的 | |
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361
adventurous
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| adj.爱冒险的；惊心动魄的，惊险的，刺激的 | |
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362
eminent
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| adj.显赫的，杰出的，有名的，优良的 | |
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363
relinquish
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| v.放弃，撤回，让与，放手 | |
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364
encumber
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| v.阻碍行动，妨碍，堆满 | |
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365
picturesque
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| adj.美丽如画的，（语言）生动的，绘声绘色的 | |
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366
folly
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| n.愚笨，愚蠢，蠢事，蠢行，傻话 | |
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367
outlay
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| n.费用，经费，支出；v.花费 | |
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368
outspoken
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| adj.直言无讳的，坦率的，坦白无隐的 | |
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369
altruistic
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| adj.无私的，为他人着想的 | |
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370
perversity
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| n.任性；刚愎自用 | |
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371
enjoyments
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| 愉快( enjoyment的名词复数 )； 令人愉快的事物； 享有； 享受 | |
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372
kindly
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| adj.和蔼的，温和的，爽快的；adv.温和地，亲切地 | |
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373
distilled
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| adj.由蒸馏得来的v.蒸馏( distil的过去式和过去分词 )；从…提取精华 | |
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