“Yes, because I have knowledge of many things unknown to people who can see.”
“What kind of things?”
“Many things of many kinds. For instance:—to-night you cannot see the stars; a dry mist has rolled up from the sea since we have been in this room; it covers the valley like a blanket. But the hill-tops are clear; they are hidden from you, but I can see them—and the stars above, as well.—And my father draws nearer.”
“God’s mercy forbid. Three days,—three short days is all I ask for.”
“Where you see but clouds I see the stars; where you see danger I see joy. You fear my father without cause.”
“Without cause.—Nine long years—no cause—?”
“There was cause enough, but my father is not angry.”
“Not angry? Hark. Did you not hear a sound?”
“Yes, I hear the wild ostriches booming in the valley.”
“Close the window and come away, child; the darkness is full of horror. You are right not to go to bed. I could not sleep to-night.”