THE LOST SYLPHID.
95
derest pity. "I only wish it were a diamond instead of a ruby,—a diamond as large as my heart!"
The boy blessed her with a tremulous voice. Little One pressed on, singing softly to herself, till she came to a frightful chasm, full of water.
"How shall I ever cross it!" she cried in alarm.
"May I help you, fair Sylphid?" said the grateful boy to whom she had given her last jewel. "I can make a bridge in the twinkling of an eye."
So saying, he threw across the roaring torrent a film which looked as frail as any spider's web.
"It will bear you," said the "Whisper: "do not be afraid!"
So Little One ventured upon the gossamer bridge, which was to the eye as delicate as
