Edgar Allan Poe and his love story

MARIA CLEMM (narrating)

One day, a new student came to his school.She belonged to a wealthy family of Royston.Her name was Elmirah.She was two years younger than Edgar.

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Each morning, in silent assemblies,Edgar watched her from afar.At lunchtime he saw her again,and in the library, where she loved to read,he followed with a book of his own,only to be near her.

MARIA CLEMM (narrating)

Elmirah was a rich, spoiled girl,over-pampered by her family,wrapped in comfort and pride.

“Were you not, Elmirah?”Maria asked gently, looking at her.

Elmirah nodded in quiet agreement.

And Maria Clemm continued the taleof Edgar’s first love in high school—Elmirah.

MARIA CLEMM

Elmirah loved to ride horses.But in their school,only boys were allowed to race.

For the first time,she wished to enter the competition,despite everyone’s objections.

Edgar and four of his friends—John, George, Edward, and Anthony—rode together each evening.

They admired Edgar greatly:his strength, his courage,his skill in swimming and riding.

Many disliked his honesty,but some truly loved and respected him.

MARIA CLEMM

One evening, as the sun began to fall,Edgar rode with his four friends.

Suddenly, Elmirah arrived on horseback,wishing to ride as well.

EDGARMiss, if I am not mistaken,is it wise to ride so late?The night is coming.You should be home by now.

ELMIRAHDo you think I am afraid of the dark?I am brave enough to care for myself.

EDGARI only speak for your safety.Forgive me if I offend you,but this place is dangerous at night.There are wolves and savage dogs—they could attack you.

ELMIRAHIt is none of your business.I am not a child in my mother’s arms.I know how to protect myself,and when to go home.

(She spurs her horse forward, ignoring his warning.)

MARIA CLEMM

Soon, barking echoed through the fields.Savage dogs ran after her horse.

She rode faster—but still they followed close.

EDGAR (to his friends)Where has that young lady gone?

ALL FOURShe must be in danger!

MARIA CLEMM

They rushed toward the soundand found Elmirah surrounded,her horse frightened,the dogs ready to attack.

Edgar did not hesitate.

He rode forward at full speed,struck them with his horse’s hooves,then leapt down,hurling stones with fierce courage.

One by one the dogs fled,wounded and defeated.

MARIA CLEMM

Elmirah had fallen from her horse.Her elbow was bleeding,skin torn and trembling.

She was embarrassed—and strangely grateful.

EDGARI warned you, Miss.These dogs haunt this land.

ELMIRAH (softly)I am sorry…I did not listen to you.I am new here.

At home, in my father’s estate,I rode freely and without fear.

MARIA CLEMM

Edgar brought water in a leaf,washed her wound with gentle hands,then crushed the leafand placed it upon her skin.

Elmirah gazed into his eyes.And Edgar felt it then—not mere kindness,

but something deeper, warmer,stirring quietly in his heart.

(The four friends arrive, laughing.)

GEORGEHey! What is happening here?You two look like lovebirds!

EDGAR (quickly)Nothing of that sort!She was hurt—I was only helping her.

GEORGE (laughing)We need no explanations, my friend.Our eyes have seen enough!

(The others laugh with him.)

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