No. 48.THE VAMPIRE COUNTESS, OR THE PIPE OF TRUTH: A LEGEND OF CASTLE LEIRA, PORTUGAL.

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This castle is romantically situated on a high rock. As a stronghold against invasion it was of inestimable value. It is not of this, however, we wish to speak now. Our business is to relate a strange wild legend of supernatural events supposed to have taken place hundreds of years ago, and still believed by some of the more superstitious peasantry. Many centuries ago the castle was the property of a noble family by name Gonsalve. More fortunate than other noble families, this of Gonsalve never wanted a direct heir. Nor did its present possessor, Henrique, prove an exception to the rule. His nuptial bed had been blessed with a son and daughter, named Karl and Heloise, respectively. They had the misfortune to lose their mother in their infancy. Their father Henrique turned misanthropical after this sad occurrence. He shut himself up with his books, and turned his attention to occult sciences, leaving the education of his children to paid hands. They throve apace, however, both physically and mentally. Both were evidently fitted to conduce to a parents happiness. The popular verdict was against the count for his sad neglect of such handsome, gifted children. Many persons prophesied that sooner or later Heaven would take vengeance on such an unnatural parent. The prophets, however, had a long while to wait for its fulfilment. Four years rolled by without bringing any change in the fortunes of the count. He continued, if anything, to seclude himself more and more each year, until at the time of which this legend treats, he was isolated completely from kith and kin, retainers and servants, with one solitary exception. This was a strange-looking individual named Almurcha. No one connected with the castle knew how the fellow entered their masters service or the manner of his coming. He was tall and thin, had a hooked nose, a cadaverous countenance, and a peaked beard. Whenever he was seen, which was most seldom, he was always dressed in dusty habiliments. Not a speck of white could be seen about him save his hands, which were white enough for any lady. His face was as yellow as saffron almost. Almurcha appeared to have gained a rare ascendency over the count, but how or in what way this came about none could say. The only favourable circumstance in connection with the residents of the castle was that the count hardly ever interfered with domestic or other arrangements.
Boys of England: A Young Gentlemans Journal of Sport, Travel, Fun and Instruction (London, England), 19(494):364-366, 19(495): 380-382, May 5 and 12, 1876
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At stated times the steward brought him the revenues, which he received in silence. Matters were to soon change, however. It was brought about in this manner. One day a terrific storm burst over that part of the country adjacent to the castle. Hail stones of great size swept over the doomed area. They destroyed trees, shrubs and standing produce. The tempest was accompanied by lightning and thunder, such as had never before been known in the memory of man. Many thought that the storm was the precursor of the final day. When the storm was at its height, which was about midnight, the castle bell gave forth several successive peals. The seneschal crossed himself devoutly, but did not attempt to lower the drawbridge. Again and again did the summons peal forth, only to be disregarded. Whoever the travellers were, there seemed but little chance of them being admitted, had not the count himself moved in the matter. By his orders the great bell of the castle had been connected by a mechanical arrangement with a smaller bell in his chamber. Accordingly, whenever one rang, so did the other. Almurcha was conversing with him at the time. Heard you that? the count asked. Aye ; someone is without. Someone who must be admitted, said Almnrcha. Their coming is known to you? Yes, by means of my art. Then why not go to the seneschal and tell him to admit them? Nay; by you only must this be done. You have a reason for speaking thus, Almurcha. Aye; reason, good and sound. They must be folks of rare quality to come attended by such marks of Heavens favour as this storm betokens, said the count, with a grim smile. One is; but they tarry. Haste, my lord; surely its hardly courteous to keep folks waiting without in such a storm. I may not do this thing hastily, remarked the count, half aloud. I would that I knew their quality, and so forth, first. An my word suffice you not, I will soon convince you; the magic mirrror, you know, will speak truthfully. Good. Almurcha, quick then; I am all impatience. Had the count seen the expression on the others face at this moment, his impatience would have received a check. It was one of deep triumph. In the chamber was an oval mirror, before which hung a curtain of black velvet. Almurcha took a chafing dish, On this he threw a powdery substance; then while the fumes were rising like vapour, he drew aside the curtain. Look, he cried, saw ever earth a creature so beautiful? The count half rose from his chair, grasping an arm of it, and gazed intently on the vision. It was that of a beautiful girl, just budding into womanhood.

Her features were simply perfect. No connoisseur,were he ever so critical,could find aught here to take exception to. Her eyes were deeply veiled under long, rich eyelashes. Her form was superb. How long the count would have continued to gaze on this beautiful creature, is hard to say, had not Almurcha suddenly shut it out from view, by veiling it with the curtain. Again the bell gave a loud summons. Quick, Almurcha; my cloak, and do thou attend me. Marry, but that seneschal shall rue this discourtesy; hasten, my good Almurcha, hasten. I will hasten, to bid your varlets get ready the best guest chamber, my lord, said Almurcha, after he had complied with his masters demands in other respects. Do; and harkye, tell them to spare nothing. It shall not be said that Henrique Gonsalve has forgotten how to treat fair ladies who deign to visit him. He himself hurried to the gateway, and after soundly rating the seneschal, assisted in lowering the drawbridge with his own hands. The lady and her suite entered,and were conducted by the count to that part of the castle set apart for their accommodation. If the lady had appeared lovely as seen in the magic mirror, her beauty was enhanced tenfold now. The count was in secret raptures with his guest, and believed that she was a person of consequence, without inquiry of any kind. He did not know her name even. Days passed without his being any the wiser in that respect. So happy was he in her company that he looked forward with grief to the prospect of her departure. About the fifth day of her stay, the counts daughter Heloise, who had become much attached to the stranger, fell ill. The stranger was unremitting in her attentions to the amiable sick child. Over her couch, she and the count met more frequently than before. He bemoaned his loneliness and the friendlessness of his children. Why do you not marry again, count? the lovely stranger asked. Because, until very recently, I saw no one that I cared for asking. This question and answer paved the way for other conversation of a like kind. At last the count had made up his mind to offer the stranger his hand. He took counsel with Almurcha on the matter, who quite agreed that he could not do a wiser thing. Had the count known that Almurcha and the beautiful stranger were in the habit of meeting frequently, he would have hesitated ere taking the step he contemplated. Karl, his son, had taken a deep antipathy to the strange lady. The lad had always been noted for his blunt honesty. When his father asked My boy, how would you like that beautiful lady for a mother? He received answer quickly Shes a bad woman. The stranger happened to overhear the words. Evidently she did not consider them deserving of being treated lightly. Her face darkened.

Its expression became terrible. Whether Karl had seen her in this mood before, and based his reply upon that circumstance does not appear. But if he had, he would have been fully justified stigmatising her as a bad woman. For anything more repulsive than the expression of her face on hearing the boys words, cannot well be conceived. When angry, she had a habit of showing her teeth, two of which deserve notice. They projected slightly, one in the upper and the other in the lower jaw. At this moment, when such a look of malignancy was in her face, these teeth looked hideous. Unluckily for the count, he saw none of this. So after venting his anger upon his boy for presuming to speak thus of the lady, he resolved to stake his hopes of happiness that afternoon by asking her to be his wedded wife. And this without asking her a word about her lineage or position in society. She consented to wed him. After this she told him some particulars respecting herself. She was of noble birth, her name was Inez. Her fortune was ample. But owing to a temporary estrangement from her family, she could not just then communicate with any member of it. Any but an infatuated man would have received these statements with suspicion. But the poor fool was so captivated by her charms that he could not, or would not imply a single doubt, or ask for the slightest proof of their correctness. She hastened to Heloise with the news. You will be a mother to me, wont you, darling Inez? the sick girl asked. That I will, darling! You shall be part of myself. What was it that made Heloise shudder, as she looked into the others eyes, and saw there such a look of concentrated longing as defied description? But the feeling soon passed off. Gently soothing Heloise off into a deep, deep sleep, Inez bared the girls throat, and placed her mouth gently thereon. * * * * *

The counts marriage was solemnised with all due pomp and ceremony. The castle was filled with rejoicing. One heart only of the many there mourned in secret. This was Karl. And not only on account of the marriage did he mourn, but also because of his sisters state, which was extremely critical. Physicians had been to see her, but although reputed the cleverest in all Portugal, they were at fault. It was a wasting sickness, they said. It is that womans work, Im sure of it, Karl muttered to himself, whenever he thought upon his sisters mysterious sickness. Shortly after the marriage he taxed his stepmother with being the cause of Heloises illness.

The accusation was made so unexpectedly, that she was not prepared to keep her passion under control. Karl saw the change in her appearance, and was struck with it. In his own mind it was confirmatory of guilt. But he was hardly prepared for what was to follow. She sought his father, accused Karl of open violence to her, and vowed that either he or she must leave the castle before the day was out. The matter ended in Karl being sent adrift by his infatuated, unjust father. Before leaving, he managed to gain an interview with Heloise, On hearing that he was to leave, she was greatly distressed. Oh, that I could go with you, she moaned feebly. Why? Are you not happy here, sister dear? She shook her head slowly, saying sadly No, oh, no! But this woman, this stepmother, is she not kind to you? Yes. Then why are you so eager to leave her, to leave all, in fact, to follow the fortunes of an outcast like myself? I dare not tell you, she said, trembling. I am indeed desolate then, when my own darling sister refuses to confide in me. Oh, Karl, how can I tell you? You would not credit me; besides, after all, I have no direct evidence. Perceiving from her agitated manner, and the import of her words, that something was weighing on her mind, he resolved to make her unbosom herself if possible. Heloise, I beseech you by the memory of our dear sainted mother to hide nothing whatever from me. She remained silent for a while, torn by conflicting emotions. Then as if the mental strain was too great for her corporeal strength, she cried aloud, holding out her arms appealingly Mother, dear mother, come to your child. Suddenly a burst of angelic music was heard, and there appeared a wonderful beings with shining raiment and seraphic beauty. Be united, it said, in accents which stole like gentle dew into the mind; trust each other, and take courage. Mother, kind mother, cried Karl, recognising in the angelic being the features of one whom he held in deep and affectionate reverence. But though he held out his arms imploringly, the vision vanished as quickly as it came. Both were too much awe-struck to break the silence for some little while. Karl was the first to speak. Sister, he whispered softly, whilst he drew her towards his breast. Yes, brother? You heard what mother said? Yes; but oh, tis so dreadful to speak of even, the poor girl replied with a visible shudder. It concerns that woman, he remarked somewhat sternly. It does; but Karl, do you believe that anyone could be so wicked, so cruel, as to live upon the life blood of another?

Ah! he exclaimed, as soon as some inkling of the truth reached his mind; does she drain your life blood, Heloise? Listen, Karl, and come close; I would not let her hear me for worlds. Be not afraid, sister mine; I am not so young but that I can strike a blow in your defence. She is not human, I think, said Heloise, in a frightened whisper. Heaven help poor father, groaned Karl, Her wondrous beauty enthralled me at first. Had you seen her as I did this very day, you would have called her hideous, not beautiful. Her manner, too, was so winning, kind and gentle. She is of the serpent breed, which fascinates before striking, said Karl, continuing to make running comments on his sisters remarks. The day before my illness, she by some strange magic of speech and manner wooed me to slumber, I dreamt as I slept, and mark you brother, I fancied that she, so beautiful and gentle, was draining my life blood while I slept. She could not do so without leaving marks on your body, said Karl. Such are not wanting, she said, pointing to blue marks on her bosom. Can such things be in a Christian country, he exclaimed in a transport of horror, and will my father allow this vampire to usurp my sainted mothers place? No, no; I will away to him, and expose her. Ah, though he strike me dead for it the next moment. Do not leave me, she cried imploringly; they come, we are lost. Fear not, he exclaimed; they shall harm you only over my dead body. Karl was sixteen, and sturdy of his age. Besides, he was as brave as a man, and well skilled in martial exercises. Placing himself some few feet in advance of his sisters couch, he awaited his stepmothers coming, for he heard her voice close at hand. She entered, attended by Almurcha. What means this intrusion? she asked sternly. Did your father not bid you begone? He did, madam; but before leaving I have a duty to perform. Oh, indeed! Of what nature? But I need not ask you the purport; tis plain enough. You have been poisoning your sisters ear with slanders of me. Tis not slander, but stern truth, when I accuse you of draining this poor girls life blood: of being a vampire. See, here are the marks of your foul handiwork. Almurcha, you hear this? she said furiously. You have a sword, smite him. Aye, call upon your paramour to add murder to your other crimes, foul fiend that thou art. I know not what hinders me from slaying you outright. Retract your accusation, said Almurcha, as his sword flashed from his scabbard. Base mercenary, cried Karl, in a heat of passion, dare you bid me retract what I and you also know to be the truth? The next instant they were engaged. So skilful was Almurcha with his weapon, that he disarmed his boyish opponent after the exchange of a few passes. But ere he could deal him his death stroke, the spectre of the late countess interposed to save him. Now did Almurcha show up in his true character. His form and visage changed. In him Karl beheld a fiend.

Inez, the countess, too, became transformed. Her beauty vanished, and left her a hideous wreck. Oh, that my poor father were here to see these fiends whom he has been harbouring, thought Karl. Save her, said the spirit of his mother, pointing to Heloise. Come. She beckoned him onward. Wrapping a warm robe around his sister, he carried her in his arms with as much ease as if she was a baby, and followed the spectre. Almurcha and Inez followed in the wake of the spectre, but did not attempt to pass it in pursuit of the fugitives. An opening appeared in the wall, which neither Karl nor anyone else living was aware of before that moment. By following a subterranean passage, Karl emerged at last from the castle. Hasten to honest Gomez, the wood cutter, said the spectre at this juncture; he will shelter you both. She vanished the next moment. * * * * * When Countess Inez and Almurcha found themselves alone, and free from the spell which had broken through their enchantment, they gazed at each other for some time in silence. I know what is in your mind, Almurcha, she remarked; it is a thirst for vengeance. We cannot harm those whom Heaven protects, was the moody reply. It may not always be so; but let us be cautious about this matter for the present. Your reason for caution is I think known to me; you meet in congress to-night. Yes, to revel and to plot against mankind. Be careful lest mortal eyes detect your plans and learn your secrets. There is no apprehension; the spot selected for our meeting is near Gomez, the wood cutters hut; he or his family never stir abroad after dark. Hush, said Almurcha, interrupting her; here comes my lord. A disdainful glance from Inez showed in what contempt she held the count. But she was all smiles when she met the count at the door, and with gentle violence prevented his entering, saying My darling Heloise sleeps and must not be disturbed. Like the fond, doting husband that he was, he gave way to her in this as in all things. On leaving the chamber, he showed her an invitation from the king to attend the court. We start to-night, my love, the count remarked; that is, if you are agreeable. Impossible, she replied; you are a barbarian to expect me to get ready so soon. How could I hope to have a fitting wardrobe got ready in so short a time? Not for fifty counts, or indeed for all the pomp and splendour of worlds, would she miss that nights saturnalia. How he dwelt lovingly upon her every look and word. Not a thought did he bestow upon his poor motherless son, whom he had that day driven from his door. And for what? Because this loathsome creature whom he had wedded, had spoken falsely. Pity it was that some good angel had not whispered a warning to this infatuated fool. But he had long since parted company with everything heavenly.

His deep researches into forbidden subjects, his coquetting with the evil one, had hardened nay, seared his heart past all recovery. As soon as Inez could get away from the count, she met Almurcha. Let him have a potion to-night strong enough to steep his senses in oblivion for twelve mortal hours, she said. It shall be done. Ill join you at the revels in good time. I have selected a maiden fair from my bevy of damsels; she goes with me. To destruction, said Almurcha; so be it. I care not what you do, so long as you hold this Count of Leira in your toils; if he slip through them, woe to both of us. Saw you ever any of our victims more firmly fixed ? she asked. Trust me, he shall not escape. So it came to pass that Count Leira dropped into slumber that night, so deep and true that death itself was counterfeited thereby. An hour before midnight the Countess Inez left the castle, accompanied by one of her maidens, a damsel surpassingly fair, by name Clarisse. They took the direction of Gomezs hut. * * * * * In a hollow, surrounded by trees, and withal so gloomy-looking, as to scare the timid by day as well as by night, a company of strange beings had congregated. Anyone looking at the hideous forms which flitted to and fro would not be at a loss to pronounce upon their being beings of another world. A fiendish crew engaged in fiendish revels, and making night hideous with their horrid noises. Gomezs hut was within reach of the sounds. But being a prudent man, and one who was not minded to interfere with such uncanny folks as were abroad that night, he listened and said nothing. But one was there who was not indifferent to such matters, viz., Karl Gonsalve. He had brought his sister to the hut, and on mentioning their names, was received with open arms by the simple-minded wood cutter and his wife. Heloise, after taking a draught of milk, went off into a sound slumber, which the loud outcries did not disturb. Karl heard, and questioned his host on the matter. Queer folks are abroad to-night, he replied, with a scared expression. What, bandits? Worse nor them. In Heavens name tell me what manner of folks they are, and who it is that call so loudly for help. Witches and fiends, and such like cattle. Have you ever seen them, Gomez? I look on them! Heaven forbid. I believe they would tear any mortal to pieces who dared to go near them. I will go, for all that, said Karl, in a tone of resolve. No, no, boy; for your dear mothers sake go not, pleaded Gomez. If she were here, she would be the first to counsel me. She must have had some such purpose in view, in bidding me come here.

If you are killed, what then? asked Gomez, in a trembling tone. What will become of your sister, of the fine castle up yonder, and of all honest men? Heaven will take care of all. I will go. Seek not to deter me, tis useless. If you will go, put this on, said Gomez, going to a press, and bringing forth a cloak; it will hide you from everybody. How? Karl asked incredulously. I picked it up years since, just after such a witches meeting as is now being held. I happened to put it on one day, and so scared my old woman who couldnt see a bit of me, that I made the discovery of its being a magic cloak. I know you would not willingly play the fool with me, said Karl. Not for worlds would I, lad; but take my advice and go not. Go I will, said Karl resolutely; and I mean to try the virtue there is in this wonderful cloak. Good-bye: take care of Heloise until my return. Until his return, was the wood cutters mental rejoinder; good Lord, perhaps he will never return. However, Karl was gone, and there was an end of the matter. Lamentation would not avail anything now. The intrepid lad, after putting on the cloak, more to please the worthy old woodcutter, than from any belief in its alleged magical power, hastened in the direction of the sounds, which were feebler now, and occurred at longer intervals. On reaching the spot, he was horrified at what he saw. This is a crew my stepmother would delight in. Who knows but that she is here? he thought. Hardly had he entertained the thought when he caught sight of Clarisse. Forgetting the need of caution, and with a heart charged with indignation, he hurried forward. How Karl longed for power to punish these ghouls, these murderers of the innocent, for murderers they were, as was proved by the corpses of their victims. He was powerless, however, against such awful creatures as these, who, for some deep, inexplicable reason, were seemingly allowed to wreak their malignant hate on poor mortals. One thing he was glad of. The cloak rendered his presence unsuspected. He stood in the midst of foes, who, had they known he was present, would have torn him asunder. This sense of security placed him at his ease. He was enabled to hear and see many things which might prove of use subsequently. Suddenly every voice among these foul creatures was hushed. Their master was at hand. An immense creature, having the head of a man, wings like a bat, a body like a beast, and extremities like a fish, suddenly appeared. After welcoming him, they remained silent again. He harangued them in words which were blasphemous beyond description. Karl would fain have closed his ears against such language, but could not. However, he was soon to hear something which caused him to listen eagerly. This arch fiend, and chief of the vampires, spoke of the cloak of darkness. Its loss he averred was of great moment to them. It and the pipe of truth, were things, which, if possessed by any one mortal, would give him power over them, to destroy their corporeal substance. The latter (i.e., the pipe of truth) he affirmed to be in safe keeping.

It was at the bottom of the lake, about a league further thence, and was safe, unless the mortal who had possession of the cloak, plunged bodily into the lake, and stole it from the dragons who guarded it. The pipe of truth, it may be added, was a musical instrument, the notes of which would compel the hearer to truthfully answer all questions put to him. Ill do it then, was Karls mental note. After delivering himself of this harangue, the arch-fiend said Who is from Castle Leira? Karl pricked up his ears at this. He waited anxiously for an answer, which was not long in coming. I am, said a voice, which, harsh and discordant, was not recognised by Karl as being that of his stepmother. Make all safe there; danger threatens all of us from your quarter. Is your slave docile? Yes, he dotes on the very ground I walk on. At this there was a general laugh. Oh, fatherfather, thought Karl, would that you could see this foul creature whom you have taken to your heart. You have received a larger share than others of what mortals term beauty, her monitor continued. See you use it aright. You have rank and station also; therefore guard well the interests of the whole band. Rely upon me; against mens machinations I am fully armed, I have also Almurchas help when needed. Other members of the horrible band were then questioned as to their doings, but their replies, though horrible enough, had little interest for our hero. Shortly afterwards the meeting ended. Karl returned to the hut, but he did not wait longer than the morrow before setting out for the lake. He first questioned Gomez about the matter. The wood cutter knew of its existence. It was situated in a wild district, and was shunned by everybody who knew of its existence. Rumour had it that it was haunted; in addition to this, there was a story about it of a singular character. Centuries before a castle had stood on an island in the centre of it. Its owner was so wicked that Heaven, as a judgment, caused the ground to open and swallow up the castle and all its inhabitants. It lay buried under the waters of the lake. Carefully keeping his intentions from the knowledge of the worthy Gomez and his wife, Karl started, after having first commended his sister to their especial care. It was evening when he found himself on the borders of the lake. He sat on the margin, full of deep reflections. The mention of the magic pipe might after all be a plan to lure him to his doom. He ought to ponder the matter well before taking a step fraught with such tremendous issues. Amid such reflections as these he fell asleep, being tired with his journey, which was made over a part of the country where roads did not exist. While he slept he dreamt. The lake seemed to open and to disclose a large palace.

An innumerable company walked to and fro, looking very solemn of aspect. A person in bright raiment who stood on the tower, seemed to beckon him (Karl) to approach. He awoke full of this strange vision. Was this another device of the fiend to lure him on to death? Whilst he pondered on this question music came from the centre of the lake. It was ravishingly sweet. Whilst he listened an object came towards him. It was a boat impelled by invisible hands, for although he strained bis eyes to catch a sight of the boatmen, he could see nobody. Folding his cloak about him, he waited until the boat touched the shore, when he stepped in. The moment his foot touched the bottom of the boat, it shot towards the centre of the lake with an incredible swiftness. Arrived there, it halted. The music which had so ravished Karls soul was now floating around and about him. He was waiting for the boat to sink, but it remained floating in a stationary position. He suddenly bethought him that the arch-fiend had said that whoever wished to find the pipe of truth was to plunge into the lake. Fastening the cloak securely about him, he plunged headforemost into the still waters. He did not lose his senses for a moment, but on reaching the bottom, to his great surprise, found himself on what seemed solid ground, in the full possession of all his faculties. He met crowds of persons walking in and out of a castle, just as he had seen them in his dream. Sir, he said, addressing one of them, pray tell me the meaning of this strange assemblage of persons; why do they walk about so sorrowful, and how is it you are all immersed beneath the waters of the lake? The person thus addressed, looked about him as if in search of the speaker. Seeing no one, he replied Whoever you are, show yourself, that I may know you are not one of this unfortunate community, but perchance, someone come to deliver us from great trouble. He speaks fair enough, thought Karl; suppose I just show myself to him by taking off my cloak. But no sooner had he loosened the garment than he got faint, and almost lost his breath. He quickly fastened the cloak about him again. This lesson taught him that he owed his safety to the cloak, and to it alone. I may not show myself to you, he said to the grave personage aforesaid, but if I can do aught to deliver you and your companions, and as for such a purpose as that I am come, I shall only be too glad, I can assure you. Come aside out of the throng, and I will tell you all. Karl followed him. This castle, he began, was once owned by a lord, on whom Heaven poured down a flood of vengeance. Gomez told me the truth, thought Karl. I, a distant relation, was on a visit to him when the catastrophe happened, and, although innocent, suffered with him and his ribald companions. It was a hard lot, truly, Karl rejoined, I and many of my companions had rest until dragons took up their abode in the castle; these monsters guard a precious thingthe pipe of truth. It is what Im in search of, said Karl eagerly.

Heaven send you success then; if I knew your name, I could tell you whether you are of proper descent to accomplish this task. Karl Gonsalve is my name, was the quick reply. Then do I speak to one of my own lineage, one who bears a name destined to achieve a great work. From this ancestor, who had lived centuries ago, Karl learnt many useful particulars. The pipe was an instrument which, when played, forced people to speak the truth, unmasked hypocrites, and was in every way potent for good. So well did the powers of evil understand this that they had it conveyed to this submerged castle, in the dungeons of which it was guarded by great dragons or serpents. From this description, Karl perceived that the magic instrument was the very thing he needed to free his father from the fascinations of the hideous vampire whom he called wife. Thanking his spectre relation for his information, Karl entered the castle. Although hundreds of years had gone by, and the waters of the lake had rolled over its head, it remained intact, with not a vestige of ruin in its aspect, internally or externally. After wandering from room to room, Karl descended into the dungeon. He wanted no guide to tell him where the dragons kept their watch and guard. Their roars shook the place, and their pestilential breath poisoned the atmosphere in every direction. Force, he knew, would avail nothing against such monstrous creatures. Youll find me a tough customer, Im thinking, muttered Karl, with a grim smile. The dragons were rampant. Their forked tongues glided in and out of their mouths incessantly. Their bellowing increased momentarily, and the flame which they vomited incessantly became larger in volume each moment. They seemed to have an instinctive knowledge that danger was near, and were putting forth all their diabolical power to avert or overcome it. To a lad possessed of less nerve than Karl, the mere sight of all this terrible fury would have affrighted him beyond measure, and sent him away from the spot quicker than he came. With Karl, the presence of great danger had a bracing effect. He came of a race which never knew fear. Danger always produced in his mind an overpowering desire to combat it. In the present instance, physical force, he perceived, would be unavailing. Had he shown himself for one instant only, he would have been pounced upon and quickly destroyed. No human being could hope to cope successfully with such extraordinary creatures as these dreadful dragons. Never had he witnessed anything in creation halfnay, a tithe so terrible. He was more than half assured at one time that they had espied him, and would encompass his destruction in the next few moments, but his cloak of darkness failed him not now in his hour of dire need. This fact reassured his mind. He went forward and actually stood betwixt the monsters, either of which he could have easily touched. His desire now was to discover the instrument he had come in search of. He looked high and low, right and left, but saw nothing at all resembling what he wanted.

He began to think he must have been foiled, and that the vampires and their chief had beguiled him thither to encompass his destruction, when he chanced to see something which caused his pulses to quicken, and his heart to beat faster. On the largest dragons back was the Pipe of Truth. To look at, it appeared valueless, nothing more or in fact, than a simple reed. To get at it was the thing. Karl was not tall enough to reach it from where he stood, even by standing on tiptoe. I must have it at all risks, he thought; so here goes. I can only die if I fail. Stealing behind the dragon, he reached the other side where he had more room to effect the purpose he had in view. Taking a short run, he vaulted on the creatures back. In a twinkling he had the pipe firmly clutched in his right hand. With a succession of roars which shook the castle to its very foundations, the dragon ascended to the roof. Marvellous to relate, the flooring opened and allowed them to pass through. Before Karl could realise the fact, both he and the dragon were in the lake, and then above it. How high the monsters would soar was hard to say, but seized by a sudden inspiration, Karl placed the pipe to his mouth and began blowing it. The dragons upward flight ceased instantly. Perceiving that they were subject to some subtle or magical influence it possessed, he continued to play on the little instrument. Imperceptibly they continued to descend, until, ere Karl was aware of it, the earth was reached. The first advantage he took of the knowledge of this fact was to jump off the monsters back. Both dragons vanished instantly. If he had not had the pipe in his hand, he would have ascribed the whole matter to a wild dream, On finding himself once more on terra firma, and his mission successfully accomplished, his first act was to thank Heaven for its great mercy. Another gratifying circumstance was that he found himself in close proximity to where he wished to be, viz., to the woodcutters hut. He rapped at the door. A feeble voice bade him enter. Judge of his astonishment and dismay on finding it tenanted only by Gomez, and he at the last extremity. Water, the poor wretch gasped. Without pestering his poor friend with questions, a dozen or more of which were on his lips, he set about succouring him. Water and food soon brought Gomez back from the confines of eternity whither he had been fast hastening. The first use he made of his returned faculties was to remark to Karl Zounds, young sir, what a plaguey time you were away. I made all the haste I could, good Gomez. When you hear what I have accomplished in so short a time as a day, youll be astonished. A day! echoed Gomez. Youve been gone just a year and a day. Karl laughed at this assertion, and said kindly

The fever from which you suffer has played you a trick, my friend; but wheres my sister? Gone, this many a day. Whither? To the castle. The countess came here and took her away; my poor wife was tortured to death to make her tell where you had hidden. I had to hide myself, and only returned here yesterday to die, as I thought. Ill see whether he is practising on my credulity, Karl thought. Placing the pipe to his lips, he blew a few notes. I speak the truth, said Gomez, would that it were otherwise. I believe you, rejoined Karl, but tell me now, have you hearddo you know, if my sister lives? Is my poor father still enslaved by that accursed witch? Your sister does live, and the countess reigns supreme at the castle. She has been at court, and turned the heads of all the courtiers. The king and a large retinue are now at Castle Leira, holding high festival. Ah! exclaimed Karl, now is my opportunity. To-morrow, good Gomez, well away to the castle together. You shall have revenge on those who murdered your wife, I promise you. They will slay me; let me stay where I am. Be not dismayed, my poor Gomez, said Karl kindly. See, I have the pipe of truth; I won it from two fiery dragons who guarded it deep down in the dungeons of the castle of the enchanted lake. When the simple, honest fellow heard this, he consented to accompany Karl. Indeed he was as eager to go now as he had been to stay behind. * * * * * The scene changes once again to Castle Leira. Its master was no longer a student, wrapped up in mystic lore. He was a courtier now, one who affected gay clothing and gay manners, although it was plain to see that both sat ill upon him. The castle was crowded with gay people. Lords and ladies thronged its courts, royalty itself deigned to inhabit it. The moving spirit of all this revelry and festivity was the Countess Inez. She had dazzled all who had seen her at court with her marvellous beauty. But yet there were strange tales afloat of mysterious deaths. These were principally young girls and boys. Not a suspicion, however, rested on the beautiful countess. On her return to the castle, she had easily prevailed upon her infatuated husband to invite the king and his court to return the visit. Everything was prepared on a magnificent scale for their reception. In fact, had the counts treasury not been accumulating steadily for years, owing to his inexpensive tastes hitherto, he would have been ruined by the present outlay. Whilst the preparations were in progress, the vampire-countess became possessed of the secret of Heloises retreat, through Almurchas instrumentality, and had removed her, as Gomez had said. Such was the state of affairs at the time of Karls return.

He and Gomez found no difficulty in gaining access to Leira Castle unquestioned. Streams of human beings were constantly coming and going, mingling amongst which Karl and his companion entered a spot which was his inheritance, but from which he had been unjustly expelled. He saw the countess seated on the kings right hand, looking radiantly beautiful. He pondered for awhile on the best course to pursue. At last he made his decision. Going aside, he wrote a petition in Gomezs name, praying for a hearing on certain grave charges of witchcraft and murder, against the Countess Inez. Having finished the document, he called Gomez aside and instructed him how to act. Dont be afraid if you are imprisoned, Karl remarked; I will obtain a hearing, and, whats better, bring down swift shame and destruction on the enemys head. Gomez promised compliance, and went about his errand at once. Karl, placing his invisible cloak about him, made his way without let or hindrance to the spot where sat the king and countess. They chatted gaily whilst awaiting the entrance of the cavaliers or matadors who were to engage in the contest. And so, fair madam, your husband, the count, is to figure as principal cavalier in the approaching bull fight, said the king. Karl listened the more eagerly on hearing this. Yes, she said languidly, he is anxious to please me in this matter. But have you thought of the risk he runs? asked the king. Not I, was the half disdainful answer; he is not indispensable to my happiness, sire. After this the conversation between the king and the countess was carried on in whispers. How Karl loathed and hated this foul creature. How he longed to crush her, to expose her, in all her hideous deformity of mind and body. That she had prevailed upon his father to take upon him the dangerous role of principal cavalier in the approaching fight he was fully convinced, and that she intended that he should meet his doom was also a matter of certainty to his mind. In the Portuguese bull fights the risk to the principal performer is even greater than in those of Spain. For he rushes between the horns of the bull, a matter requiring even presence of mind, as well as skill and dexterity, and retains his position until rescued by his comrades. Karl shrewdly guessed that Almurcha had a hand in the business. This became a certainty when, on searching for him, he found him in close conference with some fellows, who were to take a part with the count in the contest. He resolved to baulk their wicked designs. With this object he entered the arena, unseen and unsuspected, thanks to his magic cloak. He walked round the circle scanning the faces of those present, in search of old friends. But he saw only few, very few indeed, of these. Such servitors as were faithful to the interests of the house of Gonsalve had been banished, under one or other pretence. Gomez was there, in the front rank, eagerly questioning a neighbour as to the best means of reaching the king. Go straight across the arena, the man, who was a bit of a wag, answered; and so on to the kings feet. Depend ont, no one will care to stop you.

Gomez nodded and departed. At this juncture a flourish of trumpets announced the commencement of the sport so called. Count Gonsalve entered the ring on foot, splendidly dressed. Another fanfaronade was the signal for the doors to swing open, when in rushed the bull. It was a noble animal, and exceedingly fierce in mien. The countess and her accomplice had taken care to provide an animal which would give their victim a sure passage to the other world on the point of its formidable horns. Considerable surprise, and not a little wrath was excited by the strange conduct of Gomez the wood cutter, who was crossing the arena. The bull happened to be looking about him at this moment for an object on which to vent its spleen. Catching sight of poor Gomez, it charged at him with bellowings that filled the spacious arena. Karl saw his friends danger, and averted it by drawing his sword, and smiting the animal on the muzzle with the flat of it. The spectators saw the blade, but not the hand that wielded it. A murmur of astonishment arose on all sides. The vampire-countess and Almurcha exchanged uneasy glances. Meanwhile Gomez had reached the foot of the throne, and handed his petition to the king, crying Justice, sire, justice! Acting upon a sudden and uncontrollable impulse, the king opened the petition. Turning to an officer, he whispered some words to him, and Gomez was marched away a prisoner. The sport commenced now in real earnest. But the count did not deign at first to exhibit his skill. He stood aside with folded arms. The bull was at last thoroughly enraged. Now was the counts opportunity. Putting himself in the infuriated beasts path, he waited for the proper moment to attempt the perilous feat of rushing between its horns. Karl, was watching, his keen blade concealed under his cloak. Ere the bull had reached to within a distance of three yards or more of his father, Karl had buried his short sword deep into the creatures neck. It fell on its knees, gave a last bellow and dropped on its side dead. Astonishment seized upon all present. The king was also much alarmed, and greatly exercised in his mind at the occurrence. He sent for Gomez at once. A herald proclaimed that no one was to leave the castle until the king had investigated a matter of grave import. Gomez appeared between a file of archers. Amid a breathless silence the kings minister read out the petition. The countess gave a start at first hearing mention of her name. But beyond this, she gave no sign of fear. You speak of witchcraft and other devilry, said the king sternly, and charge this noble lady with great crimes; you know the penalty if you fail to prove the truth of your statements.

They are true, sire. Ask her if she is not a vampire; whether she has not murdered dozens nay scores, of innocent lads and maidens, said Gomez in a loud tone. Whilst the king was speaking, soft music was heard. At the first note, the countess rose to her feet and trembled violently. Her form underwent a horrible change. The rounded beauty of her face and arms fell away, her lovely eyes grew bleared, her forehead wrinkled, her figure stooped and utterly deformed. Almurcha. too, showed in his true colours. His looks bespoke him to be a spirit of evil. The count who, on the first hearing of the charge against his wife, had gone to her side to defend her. looked at her now with disgust. Karl continued to pipe. As if in obedience to the behests of a higher power, the vampire-countess and Almurcha advanced into the middle of the arena. There she made full confession of her misdeeds, in the hearing of all present. When she had ceased, the king said Is there no priest here who will drive these demons from our midst? Ill avenge my poor wife first, sire, exclaimed Gomez. Snatching a sword, he rushed forward, struck her down and impaled her. The crowd, emboldened by this example, broke through the barriers, and filled the arena. The vampire-countess was trampled underfoot, and not a semblance of her remained. Almurcha, being a demon, could suffer no bodily injury. He vanished, with a yell of fury that reverberated throughout the castle. Meanwhile Karl had revealed himself to his father, and in a few words told him how he had managed to save him. Karl and Heloise became great favourites with the king. In their prosperity, they did not forget old friends, especially Gomez, the wood cutter. The cloak and pipe of truth were retained by Karl and his family as precious heir-looms, which brought to their owners unvarying good for tune.