The two young ladies having fully prepared themselves, they, accompanied by their mamma, on the day that had been appointed, set out for the castle, and at length reached the gate that lead through Blue Beard's grounds; and, although they had heard a great deal of the taste and expence which had been employed to improve and decorate the land around the castle, yet they were surprised by unexpected beauties. The finest trees overshadowed the walks, and shaded them from the heat of the sun; the most fragrant shrubs and flowers perfumed the air; fountains were playing in every direction; and alcoves were found in every inviting spot. Having passed through these delightful grounds, they reached the castle itself; at the entrance of which they were received by Blue Beard, and a retinue of servants in the most costly dresses. The hall was large and very lofty; its roof was supported by pillars of the finest marble; the windows were of beautiful stained glass; and upon the walls were hanging the portraits of the former possessors of this noble building. [Illustration: Blue Beard's chosen love.] They ascended the staircase, the rails of which were of brass work, most curiously wrought, and most richly gilt; the stairs themselves were of Egyptian marble, covered with crimson velvet. They proceeded into a drawing room that completely surpassed their ideas of grandeur; almost every piece of furniture was of silver; the floor was covered with white velvet, but was ornamented with needle-work that must have occupied the labour of years; the curtains were of satin, but were adorned in a manner to correspond with the carpets: in short, every thing was more splendid than words can describe. [Illustration: The happy couple on their way home from church.] The party continued in the castle several days; during which there was a constant succession of the most pleasing amusements. Not an interval was allowed to pass without some kind of entertainment; music, singing, and dancing; banquets, consisting of every luxury, were in constant succession. Blue Beard had not been inattentive to the ladies in his personal services: he seemed to watch every look, that he might know how to please his fair visitors. Such attentions could not fail to produce some favorable effect; for it seldom happens, that the person who really desires to please, fails in pleasing. When they were about to depart, Blue Beard entreated the younger of the two ladies that have been mentioned, to consent to become his wife. The splendor of every thing around her, the immense wealth she would have at command, and the attentions she had received during her visit, completely captivated the young lady, so that she no longer felt disposed to resist; and accordingly, with her mother's approbation, they were married. She, however, agreed that her sister should live with her in the castle. [Illustration: Blue Beard gives his wife the forbidden key.]