Therefore the worse? Ah, no! So much to dare,
He fronts the regnant Darkness on its throne.—
So much to do; impetuous even there,
He pours out love’s disconsolate sweet moan—
He wins; but few for that his deed recall:
Its power is in the look which costs him all.”
At this moment Jack observed that a strange woman was standing among them, and that the train-bearing fairies fell back, as if they were afraid of her. As no one spoke, he did, and said, “Good morning!”
“Good afternoon!” she answered correcting him. “I am the black fairy. Work is a fine thing. Most people in your country can work.”
“Yes,” said Jack.
“There are two spades,” continued the fairy woman, “one for you, and one for your double.”