In this attempt the young man assisted her, and at last they were successful.  D’Effernay became more cheerful; the conversation more animated; and Edward found that his host could be a very agreeable member of society when he pleased, combining a good deal of information with great natural powers.  The evening passed away more pleasantly than it promised at one time; and after an excellent and well-served supper, the young officer was shown into a comfortable room, fitted up with every modern luxury; and weary in mind and body, he soon fell asleep.  He dreamed of all that had occupied his waking thoughts-of his friend, and his friend’s history.

But in that species of confusion which often characterizes dreams, he fancied that he was Ferdinand, or at least, his own individuality seemed mixed up with that of Hallberg.  He felt that he was ill.  He lay in an unknown room, and by his bedside stood a small table, covered with glasses and phials, containing medicines, as is usual in a sick room.

The door opened, and D’Effernay came in, in his dressing-gown, as if he had just left his bed:  and now in Edward’s mind dreams and realities were mingled together, and he thought that D’Effernay came, perhaps, to speak with him on the occurrences of the preceding day.  But no! he approached the table on which the medicines stood, looked at the watch, took up one of the phials and a cup, measured the draught, drop by drop, then he turned and looked round him stealthily, and then he drew from his breast a pale blue, coiling serpent, which he threw into the cup, and held it to the patient’s lips, who drank, and instantly felt a numbness creep over his frame which ended in death.  Edward fancied that he was dead; he saw the coffin brought, but the terror lest he should be buried alive, made him start up with a sudden effort, and he opened his eyes.

The dream had passed away; he sat in his bed safe and well; but it was long ere he could in any degree recover his composure, or get rid of the impression which the frightful apparition had made on him.  They brought his breakfast, with a message from the master of the house to inquire whether he would like to visit the park, farms, &c.  He dressed quickly, and descended to the court, where he found his host in a riding dress, by the side of two fine horses, already saddled.  D’Effernay greeted the young man courteously; but Edward felt an inward repugnance as he looked on that gloomy though handsome countenance, now lighted up by the beams of the morning sun, yet recalling vividly the dark visions of the night.  D’Effernay was full of attentions to his new friend.  They started on their ride, in spite of some threatening clouds, and began the inspection of meadows, shrubberies, farms, &c.  After a couple of hours, which were consumed in this manner, it began to rain a few drops, and at last burst out into a heavy shower.  It was soon impossible even to ride through the woods for the torrents that were pouring down, and so they returned to the castle.