The rustic crudity of some of these tales, the mediæval halo of romance around others, added to the poetic subtle charms of a few, have been rendered as faithfully as possible, to enable the reader to gain a nearer insight into the life and thoughts of the sturdy race which has established the most lasting republic in modern Europe.

Life-long familiarity with the official languages, some knowledge of the peculiar dialects, together with prolonged sojourns in the country, and diligent study of its principal works on national folklore, have enabled the writer to collect these legends, some of which are now laid before the English-speaking public for the first time.

Trusting they may enhance the pleasure of a trip to Switzerland for all those who have the good fortune to enjoy one, remind former travellers of matchless scenes, and amuse and interest even stay-at-homes, this book is sent out into the world with the sincere hope that it may meet with a kindly welcome.

CONTENTS

Page
Legends of Geneva[1]
Legends of Vaud and Valais[6]
Fribourg[69]
Legends of Neuchâtel[79]
Bern[97]
Legends of Soleure[140]
Basel[147]
Aargau[158]
The Forest Cantons[176]
Tessin[238]
Schaffhausen[242]
Legends of Zürich[248]
Legends of Zug[261]
Thurgau[270]
St. Gall and Appenzell[274]
Glarus and Grisons[281]
Index[303]

ILLUSTRATIONS

Coats-of-arms of the Swiss Cantons, with
Cantonal Beadles in Traditional Costume (in color)		[Frontispiece]
Face page
Lake of Geneva, with Dent du Midi[2]
The Migration of the Herds[8]
Alpine Fay[38]
The Mist Nymph[44]
The Wild Hunt[100]
The Old St. Christopher Tower[106]
The Giessbach[122]
Grindelwald[132]
The Jungfrau[136]
The Spalenthor, Basel[148]
The Oath on the Rütli[184]
Tell answers Gessler[188]
Lucerne, with Mt. Pilatus[196]
The Rigi[214]
The Devil’s Bridge[236]
The Falls of the Rhine[242]
Charlemagne and the Serpent[250]