“Only our reflections on the face of that mist,” said Dale. “Lift up your alpenstock and wave it.”
Saxe did so, and the central giant did the same.
“Both hands.”
This was imitated, and every other movement, in a weird fashion that was impressive as it was startling.
“It is only one of Nature’s own looking-glasses,” said Dale laughingly.
“But there are some of our people who look upon it as a warning,” said the guide gravely. “They say it signifies that those who see it will soon die in the mountains.”
Saxe turned pale. He was in such an exalted condition, mentally as well as bodily, that the slightest thing threatened to upset him; and at the guide’s words a profound sensation of horror attacked him, making him feel utterly unnerved:
“They had all those dreadful places to descend.”