Page 283 - Adventures in shadow-land

Goddess, and felt that the countless ages of her
being had. but made her more wise and kind. She

hid her face on the immortal maiden's bosom.
“ My sweet child,” said Panope, after a little

while, “ I cannot bring your friend to life— -it is
beyond my power— but if you will, I can give you

an immortality like my own. I cart carry you with
me to a world where death or pain has never come,
and keep you young and lovely for ever."

The mermaid was silent a moment. Then she
looked up into Panope's face.

“ You will not be angry with me?" said she.
“ Angry, my poor darling !,f

“ Then, my friends that I have loved have all
been mortal. My mother is dead, my twin brother

was killed in the war, and now my old compan­
ion— and I have known him so long! I think
I should rather not be so very different, but go to

them when my time comes*"
Panope caressed her hair with a soft hand.

** I don't know but you are right. Sometimes,"
said the Goddess, with a sad, tired look in her eyes,

ttl think I would be glad to be mortal myself,
except that I am glad to be a little comfort to you.