Adventures in the North of Europe (Volume 2) (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1836. Excerpt: ... CHAPTER XI. THE FOREST LEGEND. In the midst of that vast tract of mountainous country called the Dovre fjeld, the adventurer may discover an extensive valley, in which, some years ago, dwelt a rich proprietor, the lord of a considerable, though rather barren, domain. His herds fed on the sides of many hills, his flocks supplied the neighbourhood with clothing, his harvest was laid up in several-garners, and his storehouse was always filled with dried meat The storehouse is usually situated at a short distance from the place of abode. and other kinds of provision. Above all, whenever he rode on horseback, which was only on solemn occasions, as to a wedding, or a distant funeral, he sat in an English saddle. But for nothing was he so much envied as the possession of a daughter--his only child. This beautiful creature was not only the delight of her father, but, if tradition speaks truly, the admiration of all Norway. Several songs are said to have been composed in honour of her charms, by no despicable poets, but to the unutterable regret of posterity, no portion of them has descended to our times, save one solitary fragment, found at the bottom of an earthen jar, which had lain for an unknown period amidst the rubbish of a lumber room. The following is a literal translation of this remarkable relic: --The rose rests against the side of the house, Which has pride in her confiding presence, And is adorned with her beautiful blossoms, And in return defends her from the storms. Who is our rose but Lelah, the pride of the earth? Beneath her father's shadow she dwells; she resu upon him; He covers her with the shield of his might. Beautiful Lelah for thee--for thee we sigh. The snow on the broad bough of the tall pine Is not so fair as Lelah, when she reclines ...