In Comtesse d’Anois’ fairy story “Chery and Fairstar” there is a narrative of a ruby apple on an amber stem which is known as the “Singing Apple.” This apple gave forth a perfume so weirdly sweet that it caused people to laugh or to cry, to write poems or to sing songs; but when it sang itself the hearers were transported with ecstasy. Guarded by a great three-headed dragon with twelve feet, the apple rested in the Libyan desert whence it was secured by Prince Chery in his glass armour, the reflections of which drove the terrified dragon into a cave, the entrance to which was securely shut up by the victor. The Arabs say that the Angel Bearer of the World stands on a rock of pure ruby, and amongst the Persians the gem was used in magical rites as a charm against the Black Forces. It was the fourth stone of the Nao-Rattan which Iarchus gave to Apollonius, representing Benevolence, Charity, Divine Power, and Dignity. The Burmese value the ruby as an especially sacred stone which to them is a symbol of the last incarnation which precedes the final embrace of Divinity. The beautiful ruby is likened to rich ripe fruit, and its magical power is matured. It has been stated that the ruby is unfortunate for India—a country under the Celestial Capricorn—and one great specimen nearly destroyed a native state, after which event it was buried with solemn ceremonies in the heart of the Himalayas. It was an ancient custom to adorn sacred statues with precious stones and the practice has survived into Christian times. Mr. William Jones describes a large shrine in the Liège Cathedral whereon was a figure, more than life size, of St. Lambert. On each hand were three jewelled rings, the most brilliant of which was set with a rare 10-carat ruby. The shrine was of the latter 15th and early 16th centuries. Many similar votive offerings are recorded. For a ruby to change its colour was regarded as a forerunner of misfortune, and it is said that the unhappy wife of Henry VIII, Catharine of Aragon, observing a change in her ruby ring, foretold her own fall. After danger has passed, old writers say, the ruby returns to its colour again, if it is the true gem of the wearer. The ruby is an emblem of passion, affection, power and majesty. It had the reputation of attracting and retaining material love. It was probably for this reason that the amorous Henry VIII of England wore the “Régale of France.” It removed obstacles, gave victory, and revealed the hidden places of stolen treasure. It signified vitality, life and happiness, and was an amulet against plagues, poison, sorrow and evil spirits, who dreaded the flashing of the stone from the hand of a good person. [Illustration: HOROSCOPE OF HENRY VIII OF ENGLAND The Ruby was considered the fortunate gem for this King.</sc> ]