"To where the weed of green and red Its floating carpet gayly spread, Whereon the emerald frog reclined, Fanned by the fragrance of the wind; And all was darkened by the shade The water-weeping branches made-- Save where a paler, tenderer green Made bright the beauty of the scene. The birds flashed down, to drink or lave, With varied note and joyous stave, And plunging sidelong from the reeds, That wavered mid the water-weeds. Plashed in the stream so cool and calm, O'erhung by many a fern-tree palm; And bell-bird peels, whose silvery chimes Found in the rippled water rhymes, Throughout the perfumed thicket rang, Whence the tall-headed bulrush sprang." CHAPTER XXXVI. THE POWER OF MUSIC. The natives were busy preparing for a grand Correboree, which, being interpreted, means a grand gathering and celebration in honor of some imposing event. Scouts were sent out in every direction, and every hour brought fresh comers, who evinced the greatest possible curiosity in the white people. At one time nearly sixty members of a different tribe arrived in a body, and a fierce jabbering took place between the old men of the tribes. Rough-and-Ready, who had by this time picked up a few native words, came to Minnie and Joshua with a look of concern on his face. "They are quarrelling about us," he said. "As far as I can understand, this new tribe lay claim to us for having been found in a country which they say is theirs. I think I know how they will settle it, if they settle it at all peaceably." "How?" asked Joshua anxiously. "They will separate us--two for each of the two strongest tribes." Minnie caught Joshua's hand convulsively. "I know what you mean, my dear," said Rough-and-Ready, a little sadly; "you and Joshua must not be parted. And indeed, it would not be right; you belong to one another. Well, the sailmaker and I will go our way and you will go yours. Only you must be cunning and keep together. Joshua, tonight, before the natives go to sleep, play a few soft airs upon your accordion. You and Minnie must be in your hut together while you play. And don't let them see the accordion. The music will fill them with wonder, and it will be a strong reason with them why you should not be parted. But indeed, my dear, if you continue to act your part well there will be no fear of that." "You are a good man," said Minnie gratefully, holding out her hand to Rough-and-Ready. He took it and pressed it to his lips, and held it in his with infinite tenderness.