Sullen looks and lowering glances greet the Frenchman, as, guarded by two thousand men-at-arms, he hurries to the capital where his bride awaits him. In all haste, amidst the murmurs of a deeply offended people, the knot is tied. Not a moment must be lost, lest something should yet occur to mar the marriage feast. And now for the rewards, shamefully showered upon the venal abettors of this unpopular union. A dukedom and grandeeship of Spain for the ambassador's infant son; titles to mercenary ministers; high and time-honoured decorations, once reserved as the premium for exalted valour and chivalrous deeds--to corrupt deputies; diamond snuff-boxes, jewels and gold, to the infamous writers of prostituted journals; Christina rejoices; her _Camarilla_ are in ecstasies; Bresson rubs his hands in irrepressible exultation; in his distant capital the French monarch heaves a sigh of relief and satisfaction as his telegraph informs him of the _fait accompli_. Then come splendid bullfights and monster _pucheros_, to dazzle the eyes and stop the mouths of the multitude. _Pan y toros--panisac circenses_--to the many-headed beast. And in all haste the prince hurries back to Paris with his bride, to receive the paternal benediction, the fraternal embrace, and the congratulations of the few score individuals, who alone, in all France, feel real pleasure and profit in his marriage. And thus, by foreign intrigue and domestic treachery, has the independence of Spain been virtually bought and sold. ST MAGNUS', KIRKWALL. See yonder, on Pomona's isle-- Where winter storms delight to roam; But beaming now with summer's smile-- The Sainted Martyr's sacred dome! Conspicuous o'er the deep afar It sheds a soft and saving ray, A landmark sure, a leading star, To guide the wanderer on his way. It tells the seaman how to steer Through swelling seas his labouring bark It helps the mourner's heart to cheer, And speeds him to his heavenly mark. With joy of old this northern sky Saw holy men the fabric found, To lift the Christian Cross on high, And spread the Healer's influence round. By beauty's power they sought to raise Rude eyes and ruder hearts to Heaven: They sought to speak their Maker's praise With all the skill His grace had given. And now, where passions dark and wild Were foster'd once at Odin's shrine, A people peaceful, just, and mild, Live happy in that light divine. Preserved through many a stormy age, Let pious zeal the relic guard: Nor Time with slow insidious rage Destroy what fiercer foes have spared. THE GAME LAWS.