591173383

summit of the mountain of Osenburg, where lie stopped, and called his dogs; the Earl who rode a white steed, was very much fatigued and wished for some water to quench his thirst. Suddenly the mountain opened, when a most beau­ tiful lady appeared richly dressed, holding in her hand a silver gilt drinking-horn, on which was inscribed diffe­ rent figures and inscriptions. She presented it to the Earl, and requested him in a mild and friendly manner to quench his thirst. ' ' ' t * The Earl took the horn, hut observing the water to be muddy, he would not taste it; this lady then said to ^thc Earl, drink without hesitation; depend on my word; this drink will do thee no harm; on the contrary it will be advantageous to thy self, and thy fam ily; drink what I here present thee, and the family of Oldenburg, shall he lasting and prosperous, and thou and thy successors shall he ever happy; but dost thou not drink, quarrel and discord shall destroy thy family, and thy successors shall he unhappy. The Earl would not obey her, but threw the drink away, part of which falling on the horse destroyed the hair. On seeing this, the lady demanded the horn to be returned to her, but the Earl spurred his steed, and lied in full career; and having reached his attendants, he told them what had happened to him, and Rhewed

Made with FlippingBook Learn more on our blog