Angels and Women (1924)

44 ANGELS AND WOMENTHE FORSAKEN EDENAt early dawn we were astir with preparationfor the solemn rite. Upon the rock wasbuilt an altar; the offerings were placedthereon. As I climbed the pathway to coverthe sacrifice with lilies gathered at the water’sedge, the scene beyond filled me withastonishment.A vast expanse lay stretched before us,bounded by mountains, rosy and purple inthe morning light. Born in these far-offheights, fed by springs and rills, four greatrivers, widening as they advanced, rolledthrough a broad extended plain. Here werecalm lakes and valleys, and the verdure ofmeadow and grove. But no flocks reposedupon the grassy banks, nor cattle browsedthe rank savannas, nor lion lifted his voicein the dark glen. No harvester reaped thenodding corn, or loaded with purple grapesthe creaking wain. The crimson apples layin heaps, the nuts dropped noiselessly on the