ilgrim from the Blarney Stone.'

"Now, then, these are the facts in the case," concluded Lucy. "Proceed
to do."

Chester climbed the long stairs to the top. From the western edge, he
looked down and waved at Lucy, then hurriedly scanned the beautiful
prospect about him. The wonderful stone then drew his attention. It is
set in the parapet wall, being one of the under stones in the middle of
the tower. This parapet does not form part of the wall, but is detached
from it, being built out about two feet and supported by a sort of
scaffolding brace of masonry. This leaves a space between the battlement
and the wall, which in olden times, enabled the defenders to drop stones
and other trifles on to the heads of assailants one hundred twenty feet
below. Two iron bands now reach around the famous stone, spanning the
open space, and fastened to the wall. The aspirant who wishes to kiss
the stone, must grasp these irons, one in each hand, and hang on for
dear life. As the stone is underneath the parapet, the feat of kissing
it is not easy. In the first place, one must lie on one's back, then
with head extended over the wall, the head must be bent down and back
far enough to touch the lips to the stone. To perform the feat safely,
there must be assistants at hand who must hold one's legs in steady
grip, and others who must sit on the lower part of the body to assure
the proper equilibrium.

Being entirely alone, it is needless to say, Chester did not kiss the
Blarney Stone. He was satisfied with reaching under and touching it with
his hand. Then he returned to Lucy.

"You did not kiss the stone," she immediately declared.

"You know, don't you, that it takes two to kiss--the Blarney Stone?"

"I've heard it so stated. I've never been up to it."

The park around the castle is very inviting, especially on a fine, warm
afternoon. There are big trees, grass, and neatly kept walks. Chester
and Lucy sauntered under the trees. A tiny brook gurgled near by, the
birds were singing. Lucy chattered merrily along, but Chester was not so
talkative. She noticed his mood and asked why he was so silent.

"I was thinking of that promise. I fear I am not doing right."

"O, that reminds me--Father, of course could not--"

"Could not what?"

"Well, the night before he became so ill on the boat he told me he was
going to release you from any promise not to meet me and talk religion
to me."

"Did he say that?" They paused in their walk.