ct of
Philip. He had been absolved from his oath, but, at the same time that
he submitted to his clerical advisers, he was by no means satisfied.
His love for Amine, her wishes for his remaining at home, certainly
added weight to the fiat of Father Seysen; but, although he in
consequence obeyed it more willingly, his doubts of the propriety of his
conduct remained the same. The arguments of Amine, who, now that she
was supported by the opinion of the priests, had become opposed to
Philip's departure; even her caresses, with which those arguments were
mingled were effective but for the moment. No sooner was Philip left to
himself no sooner was the question, for a time, dismissed, than he felt
an inward accusation that he was neglecting a sacred duty. Amine
perceived how often the cloud was upon his brow; she knew too well the
cause, and constantly did she recommence her arguments and caresses,
until Philip forgot that there was aught but Amine in the world.

One morning, as they were seated upon a green bank, picking the flowers
that blossomed round them, and tossing them away in pure listlessness,
Amine took the opportunity, that she had often waited for, to enter upon
a subject hitherto unmentioned.

"Philip," said she, "do you believe in dreams? think you that we may
have supernatural communications by such means?"

"Of course we may," replied Philip; "we have proof abundant of it in the
holy writings."

"Why, then, do you not satisfy your scruples by a dream?"

"My dearest Amine, dreams come unbidden; we cannot command or prevent
them."

"We can command them, Philip: say that you would dream upon the subject
nearest to your heart, and you _shall_."

"I shall?"

"Yes! I have that power, Philip, although I have not spoken of it. I
had it from my mother, with much more that of late I have never thought
of. You know, Philip, I never say that which is not. I tell you, that,
if you choose, you shall dream upon it."

"And to what good, Amine? If you have power to make me dream, that
power must be from somewhere."

"It is, of course: there are agencies you little think of, which, in my
country, are still called into use. I have a charm, Philip, which never
fails."

"A charm, Amine! do you, then, deal in sorcery? for such powers cannot
be from Heaven."

"I cannot tell. I only know the power is given."

"It must be from the devil, Amine."

"And why so, Philip? May I not use the argument of your o