“‘I am truly sorry that I have been so unfortunate as to disturb your equanimity, but we had better discuss this matter now. I am impressed with the belief that a deep-laid scheme is on foot, originated and worked by some unknown enemy of mine, the object of which is to create a breach between you and me. If, therefore, you hear any evil reports about me, I want you to make a solemn promise that you will grant me an opportunity to put in my defense before you venture to condemn me.’ “‘Edward, I have a notion to give you a downright good scolding--do you think any earthly power could shake my confidence in you? I would sooner distrust myself.’ “‘Thank you, Lottie, and if ever I give you just cause to withdraw your confidence from me, may Providence forsake me, Heaven disown me, and the world despise me!’ “‘I have no apprehensions on that score; I think I am acquainted with the nobility of your soul--at all events, I am not afraid to risk my destiny on the accuracy of my judgment.’ “‘Lottie, if it is sinful to worship any mortal being, then I plead guilty; but while I worship you, it has a tendency to increase my thankfulness to God.’ “‘Edward, love me as much as you please, but do not forget your obligations to the great Creator--honor and love Him above all things. There is no real happiness on earth save that which is sanctioned and purified through God’s holy will. But come, we have rested long enough--let us go to work, else we will not have time to finish before night.’ “Lottie kept me very busy until the sun went down, and then taking me by the arm, she led me to a rustic bench in the magnolia grove. “‘Now, sir, you may sit down and rest, while I arrange this bouquet for you; I think you have done a very good day’s work.’ “‘Yes, and I demand my wages--in the first place, here is a beautiful lock of golden hair that has strayed off from its companions; and as it looks so lonesome wandering about by itself, I shall take the liberty to cut it off and put it my bosom.’ “‘Take it if you wish, and as many more as you want; but how are you going to cut it?’ “I clipped off the pretty straggler with my pocket-knife, and hid it in my bosom, then held her to my heart for a moment, and hurried home, with a soul surcharged with indescribable happiness.” Just as Ingomar finished the sentence, one of the seedy men walked forward, confronting the queen, bowed very low, and taking from his breast pocket a large paper with a huge red seal and a blue ribbon attached to it, gave a grunt and a slight cough, and addressed her as follows: