Went through his usual tasks, a silent change
Soon showed itself; he lingered three short weeks;
And from the Cottage hath been borne to-day.

"So ends my dolorous tale, and glad I am That it is ended." At these words he turned

And, with blithe air of open fellowship,

Brought from the cupboard wine and stouter cheer, Like one who would be merry. Seeing this,

My grey-haired Friend said courteously-"Nay, nay, You have regaled us as a hermit ought;

Now let us forth into the sun!" Our Host

Rose, though reluctantly, and forth we went.