f 6?v lAYOll 
 
 ^t^iS^v
 
 THE LIBRARY 
 
 OF 
 
 THE UNIVERSITY 
 
 OF CALIFORNIA 
 
 LOS ANGELES
 

 
 ^Ut^ 
 
 THE 
 
 CANDIDATE FOR FAVOUR 
 
 MISCELLANEOUS COLLECTION 
 
 ORIGINAL 
 
 POETRY AND PROSE; 
 
 DEDICATED, BT PERMISSION, TO THE WORSHIPFUL THE MAYOR OF LIVERPOOL, 
 ROBERTSON GLADSTONE, ESQ. 
 
 BY HELEN HYAMS. 
 
 LONDON: 
 
 WHITTAKER & CO., AVE MARIA LANE. 
 MANCHESTER. HAYWARD & CO., EXCHANGE-STREET. 
 
 1844.
 
 
 PREFACE. 
 
 Apollo ! nonsense ! who'd invoke 
 Such an old-fashion'd prig as this ? 
 Apollo ! — a mere equivoke ; 
 'Twould better serve to summon Dis. 
 Publisher, read for Apollo, 
 And Critics, for the golden lyre, 
 Whose tone is sharp in alt, and hollow, 
 Yet they alone can now inspire. 
 
 853812
 
 IV. PREFACE. 
 
 II. 
 
 Next, I'll engage, you'll quote the Muse, 
 
 If not a call on sisters nine — 
 
 Their time's gone by ; call on Reviews, 
 
 Or drop the Editor a line ; 
 
 And, for the draught from Helicon, 
 
 Which, with such calls, should be convey'd, 
 
 Pray, novice, place such draft alone, 
 
 As may be well, and quickly paid. 
 
 III. 
 
 If ye can boast a well-known name. 
 There's nought to fear from " gentle craft," 
 That helps to swell the note of fame 
 When by substantial reasons back'd ; 
 But should the two essentials fail, 
 Forbear, I warn thee, luckless wight ; 
 With one thou mightst perhaps prevail, 
 But without both — who can indite ?
 
 PREFACE. 
 
 IV. 
 
 Presumptuous ! if tliou canst not buy 
 
 Opinions by the pow'r oC gold, 
 
 How darest thou attempt to try 
 
 A path that's sacred — to be sold. 
 
 Authors, reviewers, publishers, 
 
 Who have enclosed this seeming common. 
 
 Will tell thee that its grant refers 
 
 To wealth and pow'r in man or woman. 
 
 V. 
 
 Titles give license to indite. 
 
 And money soon can purchase license ; 
 
 But how can a plebeian write, 
 
 If int'rest teach not how to buy sense? 
 
 And should the hapless wretch but have 
 
 More brains than money to disport, 
 
 He may make up his mind to starve — 
 
 Unless he have some friend at court.
 
 vi. PREFACE. 
 
 VI. 
 
 And yet, niethinks, 'tis hardly lair 
 To trust unto such means as these; 
 Humble my hopes, although I dare 
 To wish this little work may please. 
 Should it succeed, and leniently 
 Be judg'd by kind and gentle reader, 
 Such judgment will encourage me 
 Again to be a grateful pleader.
 
 CONTENTS. 
 
 PAGE. 
 
 PKEFACE iii- 
 
 LINES ON THE CHRISTENING OF HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS 
 
 THE PRINCE OF WALES 3 
 
 THE ROYAL FREEBOOTER CORPS 6 
 
 MOTHER DEAR 56 
 
 THE CHANGELING'S GRAVE 58 
 
 THE WIZARDS CHILD 63 
 
 THE MAGDALEN tiS 
 
 LINA: A STORY FOUNDED ON FACTS 73 
 
 THE AUCTION OF HEARTS 98 
 
 TO A FAVORITE FRIEND ON THE BIRTH OF AN INFANT 101 
 
 BOLIVARS BRIDAL AND CONSPIRACY 104 
 
 MIRIAMS ADDRESS 113 
 
 NOTHING: AN HISTORICAL TALE 115 
 
 THUSNELDA 171 
 
 THE CHERUSKER CHIEF 173 
 
 THE ORDEAL BY WATER 181 
 
 THE SAVING FAITH : A TRANSLATION FROM THE GERMAN 
 
 OF VOSS ISO 
 
 A VILLAIN IS HE THAT BETRAYS IT 189 
 
 LOVE'S ENGAGEMENTS 240 
 
 THE LIVERPOOL THUNDERSTORM OF 1841 244 
 
 VIEW NEAR VENICE BY NIGHT 248 
 
 GRACE DARLING 251 
 
 LINES WRITTEN ON THE CONFLAGRATION IN HAMBURG 2.56 
 
 CUPIDS ENQUIRY "^58
 
 THE CANDIDATE FOR FAVOUR, 
 
 " Hen-'s something got amongst us !" 
 
 KNIGHT OF MAI.TA.
 
 LINES ON THE CHRISTENING OF HIS ROYAL 
 HIGHNESS THE PRINCE OF WALES. 
 
 Morn is breaking, chase your slumbers, 
 
 Children of the Ocean Queen ; 
 Songs prepare in joyous numbers, 
 
 Suited to the festive scene ; 
 For a nation's hope this day 
 
 Dedicates to heavenly love. 
 And rejoicing millions pray 
 
 Heaven that offering to approve.
 
 ON THE CHRISTENINti OF HLS ROYAL HIGHNESS 
 
 II. 
 
 See, in regal state appearing, 
 
 England's Sovereign, and hex pride, 
 Deck'd by virtues most endearing, 
 
 In a mother, and a bride. 
 Hail, Victoria ! blest and blessing ! 
 
 Long and happy be thy life ; 
 Every subject's heart possessing, 
 
 Free thy land from party strife. 
 
 III. 
 
 Albert, of a glorious line, 
 
 Dearest son of Britain's love. 
 May each earthly bliss be thine, — 
 
 May each day more happy prove ; 
 Consort of a nation's pride, 
 
 Father of a nation's liope ; 
 Oh ! may every good betide 
 
 All within thy wishes' scope.
 
 THE PRINCE OF WALES. 
 
 IV. 
 
 Child of Promise, — England's heir,— 
 
 Cambria's Prince, — Victoria's son,- 
 Royal babe, with prospects fair, 
 
 And most bright to look upon, — 
 Christ receives thee ; may His spirit 
 
 Rest for ever more on thee : 
 Earthly crowns thou wilt inherit; 
 
 Blest be thy eternity.
 
 J HE ROYAL FREEBOOTER CORPS. 
 
 Den edlen Mann entwaffnet das Bekenntniss, ich bin in deiner Gewalt." 
 
 KOTZEBUE. 
 
 In revels gay, the fairy queen 
 
 Delights to show her pow'r, 
 And there, amidst the guests, unseen, 
 
 To glad the joyous hour ; 
 Now here, now there, along she gUdes, 
 
 Rejoicing in their mirth ; 
 Now in the maiden's chaplet liides, 
 
 And see, she sallies forth.
 
 THE ROYAL FREEBOOTER CORPS. 
 
 But not that eyes pvofane may see 
 
 Her fairy loveliness, 
 A fly, a gnat, a humming bee, 
 
 Shall form her chosen dress. 
 Now she will charm the minstrel's song, 
 
 And numbers sweet sliall flow. 
 Then straight from out the poet throng 
 
 She'll choose a tale of woe. 
 
 Or 
 
 Aye ! aye, Ida, thou wouldst talk of the fairies, their doings 
 and sayings, to the end of the chapter, and Fritz look as if 
 thou'dst bewitch'd him ; but I tell thee, my pretty lass, there 
 are no fairies like a clear head, a stout heart, (in love, of 
 course,) and a firm hand : now ye shall judge of my fairies 
 for yourselves, so draw closer, throw another log onto the 
 burning pile, snuff" the candles, and listen. 
 
 Our party, I must describe it, consisted of a fine military- 
 looking man, rather beyond middle age ; a female, who 
 possessed the characteristics of a German matron, that is 
 to say, not particularly tall, rather stout, a clear com- 
 plexion, a good colour, blue eyes, acquiline nose, and
 
 8 THE ROYAL FREEBOOTER CORPS. 
 
 kindness, which softened down every feature into a most 
 pleasing whole. Fritz was a tall, elegant, and most inde- 
 pendent-looking fellow, in an undress uniform. Ida, the 
 fairy lover, (Fritz would have been jealous even of the name,) 
 a petted beauty, exacting in her supreme sovereignty ; 
 for, being left motherless at three years of age, she 
 demanded, as her right, the most exclusive attention and 
 indulgence. A clergyman, the father of Ida, whose bene- 
 volent smile assured the beholder of its possessor's readi- 
 ness to smooth the way to heaven, and to aid, as much as 
 possible, in surmounting its difficulties, was the fifth and 
 last personage. 
 
 Frau von Neidgram and Ida were knitting. I ought to 
 have brought in a student, for a German family picture is 
 so very tame without ; they being, in their own estimation, 
 the very lords of the lords of the creation, besides running 
 the risk of any of this privileged order deeming the party I 
 have named, and for whom I have a little regard, a set 
 of Philistines. 
 
 There was, however, no student among them ; and in- 
 stead of beer, — oh ! ye sons of scientific lore, how will ye 
 launch your thunders against the unacademic use of the 
 mocha bean ! — but I cannot shield them ; there, speaking 
 for itself, stands the coffee i^quipage, the transparent dark
 
 THE KOYAL FREEBOOTER CORPS. 9 
 
 brown liquid becoming lighter as it mixes with the rich 
 and boiling cream, that already, properly sweetened, waited 
 in the cups to receive it. And the cups themselves, not 
 a set of them, but each his or her own, some present at 
 Christmas, or the natal day, bearing appropriate form, 
 device, or group. Ida's, for instance, was the car of 
 Venus, the handle forming the doves, and on it the union 
 of Psyche and Cupid. Fritz's cup was a helmet, the 
 saucer a shield ; the first exhibiting Bellona in her chariot 
 of war ; the other. Mars armed cap-a-pie ; and so on, the 
 rest. 
 
 Well then, began Herr von Neidgram, (the name I 
 choose to give the veteran first mentioned,) I must first, 
 and above all things, try to reconcile Ida to my interruption 
 of her song. A story will soon do that, said Ida, laughing. 
 Yes, but to prove I do my best, I'll quote the fairies : now 
 mark my beginning. 
 
 " Once upon a time, there was a great king, and a poor 
 scholar, as the fairy tales have it ; I do not mean to say 
 that they intend to throw any imputation on the king's 
 scholarship, neither do I ; for the king I speak of was a 
 great scholar, as well as a great king ; but these were two 
 different personages ; so we'll look to the scholar, and let 
 the king rest awhile. There are sticklers for form who
 
 10 THE ROYAL FREEBOOTEU CORPS. 
 
 would have it tliat the king ought to take the precedence, 
 but I say them nay ; never disturb great folks till they are 
 absolutely wanted, and not even then, if you can possibly 
 do without them. Karl, then, was the poor scholar, and 
 Fritz ! your mother knows him as well as myself; so she 
 will correct me if I fail in describing him, eh ! Mamma ? 
 Frau von Neidgram nodded a smiling assent, and he 
 proceeded. 
 
 "Karl's father was a soldier, and, from his scanty 
 pittance, resolved to educate his boy, so that he should 
 in some measure escape the deficiencies that had been 
 so great a drawback on his own advancement, so, placing 
 Ijim with a clergyman, who had but one child, a girl, and 
 who, to vary the monotony of a most useful, but unvarying 
 life, longed to re-read Homer and Virgil with a mind of 
 his own training ; the soldier paid the small sum he could 
 command, which the good pastor only accepted, because he 
 considered that he had no right to straiten the narrow 
 means of subsistence destined for his child, when her 
 only support and protector should be removed from his 
 labours to his final place of rest: the parental duties 
 further observed, were short visits to the boy, whom the 
 father loved with all a soldier's enthusiasm, and left, for- 
 tunately in good hands, with a soldier's recklessness.
 
 THE KOYAL FREEBOOTER CORPS. 11 
 
 " Thus years rolled on, and the boy knew no other home ; 
 but, when he was verging on manhood, his father sought 
 the quiet village. It was two years since he had last been 
 there ; and he now, for the first time, requested permission 
 for Kai'l to accompany him. The favour was easily and 
 cheerfully granted ; and Karl found that his father's home 
 was still amongst the companions, whom danger had 
 endeared, and association fraternized. His best passport 
 was his parentage, and he soon became initiated in all a 
 soldier's tactics. 
 
 " A favoured guest wherever he appeared, it seemed to 
 him that glory and pleasure were the constituent parts of 
 military life. A year passed thus, when Karl's more than 
 father expressed a wish for his return. 
 
 " No definite arrangement had been made for his future 
 plans, indeed, on this subject, he was utterly indifferent ; 
 accustomed to an ill-supplied purse, but without any in- 
 ducement to expenditure, he had never known the want of 
 money. As good a pedestrian as most of his countrymen, 
 Karl buckled on his knapsack, took his trusty staff in hand, 
 the ziegenhainer, that beloved companion, on which all 
 the names of those he valued, together with his own, were 
 cut, and sallied forth. Summer was still lingering with 
 autumn, and the beautiful da\\'niT)g of the promised morn
 
 12 THE ROYAL FREEBOOTER CORPS, 
 
 lent its freshness and fragrance. Every mile seemed to 
 increase the distance between him and the home he loved, 
 so quickly did his wishes travel, and so slowly the road 
 seem to decrease. At length the hill he had so often 
 climbed, the stream he had mused beside, the church where 
 his childish prayers had been said, and his youthful devo- 
 tions offered up, appeared in view, and the wanderer, tired, 
 but not exhausted, quickened his pace. The peasants 
 greeted him joyfully as he passed, and several left their 
 cots to offer their ' welcome home' to Master Karl. One 
 little urchin ran forward to announce him, and the good 
 pastor, with wife and child, were at the door to receive 
 him. But that fair girl, that beautiful woman, could not 
 be the playmate he had left — yet see — she bounds forward, 
 but she too must have been mistaken, for she pauses in 
 utter confusion. It was Gertrude ; but fi'om that hour the 
 fate of both was sealed. Meeting in unrestricted confi- 
 dence, the boy and girl had, before Karl's departure, loved 
 each other as brother and sister ; during his absence 
 Gertrude had assimilated, or rather identified him with all 
 that was good, noble, or great, besides accustoming herself 
 to look forward to his return, for the completion of any 
 little plan of amusement she might have designed, thus 
 making him the participator in all her schemes. He, on
 
 THE ROYAL FREEBOOTER CORPS. 13 
 
 the coutraiy, when he gave Gertrude a thought, did so Ironi 
 remembrance of the sweet child that had so often ministered 
 to his enjoyment, without even dreaming, that whilst he 
 was fancying himself a man, and proud of his prerogative, 
 she too had undergone so great a change : he was therefore 
 awed and astonished, and, when a renewed intercourse 
 proved the graces of her mind to be at least equal to those 
 of her person, he worshipped her with that species of 
 idolatry that only first love can elicit. Thus months rolled 
 imperceptibly away, and winter set in, in all its rigour, 
 more closely connecting family links by close companion- 
 ship. One morning, the post had been delayed three days 
 beyond the time specified, and some anxiety prevailed in 
 consequence ; Karl went forth to hear what ne\^s was 
 stirring, when he found a troop of soldiers in the principal 
 
 street of the small town of M , that was nearest the 
 
 village. 
 
 " He entered into conversation with them, and discovered 
 that troops were levying and training all over the kingdom.' 
 His informant told him that Count von Kiihue would 
 shortly visit his estate, to collect efficient aid in person. 
 Karl had heard the great struggle much discussed, that 
 was to embrace the dismemberment of an ancient king- 
 dom, and the sacrifice of a i)eoplo's rights to swell the
 
 14 THE ROYAL FREEBOOTER CORPS. 
 
 overgrown might of three gigantic powers, so he naturally 
 connected the training of soldiery with the event in ques- 
 tion, and returned home, brooding all the way on what he 
 had heard. 
 
 " Early the next morning, he sought out some young 
 and ardent spirits, and ofi'ered to train them so that they 
 might be able to join the combatants, and meet with pre- 
 ferment. His company soon amounted to thirty, and they, 
 as a relaxation, submitted to severer discipline than was 
 enforced in the camp. Karl perfected them in all the 
 military evolutions either his theory or practice could 
 devise, marched and countermarched them many miles in 
 deep snow, gradually prolonged the watch, and imposed 
 the most onerous duties, till, at length, they seemed to 
 consider fatigue a secondary feeling, that could be indulged 
 or suppressed at pleasure. 
 
 " It happened one Sunday, (Karl no doubt being of 
 opinion, ' the better the day the better the deed,') that 
 Gertrude, on the way home, began to converse on a subject 
 that daily became more interesting and engrossing. Come 
 Ida, my girl, I shall disappoint you this time, although 
 that very becoming smile of yours seems to say, love of 
 course ; now it was no such thing as love, but war. From 
 war, but I cannot tell you which way, or how, he turned
 
 THE ROYAL FREEBOOTER CORPS, 15 
 
 and twisted tlie discourse, Karl led to love, and from lo^ e 
 to wedding. It seemed the most rational, and natural 
 thing in the world, that the young couple should be married 
 forthwith, at least to themselves, and, by the time they had 
 arrived at the parsonage, Karl had made his proposals ; I 
 will not say in due form, for he understood nothing about 
 any sort of form, but he had asked a straightforward 
 question, to which Gertrude, (I blush for her candour, — 
 Frau von Neidgram blushed crimson for sympathy,) gave 
 a direct reply. So to-morrow, said Karl, we will ask 
 your father to marry us, and then you will have a pro- 
 tector, and my corps would defend you against an army. 
 
 " Father, Karl began, as soon as the family party had 
 assembled round the cheerful board, Gertrude and I have 
 been talking of being married. The good pastor smiled, 
 but his lady looked in astonishment at the unconcerned 
 speaker. And whom have you fixed on ? said the former. 
 Oh ! each other, replied Karl, boldly, and we want you to 
 marry j^s to-morrow. How will you support your wife ? 
 pursued the querist. Karl felt, and looked perplexed ; it 
 was a subject which he had never considered, yet the 
 difficulties attending it were obvious : he threw down his 
 knife and fork, and, leaning back in his chair, allowed the 
 repast to be removed without tasting it.
 
 16 THE ROYAL FREEBOOTER CORPS. 
 
 " Now, although this is in the most approved lover's 
 style, yet, for Karl, it was so singular a circumstance, that 
 Wolf, his own, his only, and consequently, his favourite 
 stag-hound, and Fidele, the family pudel, both ventured a 
 sort of remonstrance ; the former, by licking his master's 
 hand ; the latter by standing as erect as he could, making 
 his best bow, bad enough at best, in awkward imitation 
 of more accomplished beggars. Gertrude looked terribly 
 downcast and crestfallen ; she perceived by her lover's 
 looks, that there was a very serious difficulty, and glided 
 from the room to conceal her disappointment. Father ! 
 said Karl, after a long pause, how did you support your 
 wife when you were mai'ried ? As I do now, Karl, by 
 my earnings. But, said Karl, how does young Selbstsucht 
 support his wife; for he earns nothing, but is the idlest 
 fellow for miles round : see what style they live in ; she has 
 her silks, satins, and trinkets; he, his horses, dogs, and gun } 
 My dear Karl, said his venerable auditor, Selbstsucht mar- 
 ried what is technically called a fortune ; that is, his wife 
 had more money than, from her position in society, she had 
 a right to expect: the consequence is, and this is by no 
 means a singular case, that she thought she must many a 
 gentleman, so fixed on the laziest fellow in the community, 
 and one that was most likely to let her live beyond what
 
 THE ROYAL FREEBOOTER CORPS. 17 
 
 their income would warrant ; another general consequence 
 of a monied wife : besides, the man that is mean enough to 
 make money a first consideration in a wife, generally so far 
 loses the respect of the woman he marries, as to find it 
 impossible to limit her expenses, the answer being ever 
 ready, ' a trifle for one with my money,' my fortune entitles 
 me to, &c. A woman so circumstanced invariably appre- 
 ciates her husband's motives as they deserve". Thus it is 
 with Selbstsucht; he is supporting his wife on her own 
 property as long as it lasts : but remember, Gertrude has 
 no money. 
 
 " What is to be done, father ? I must have Gertrude, 
 and she will have no one else ! 
 
 " There is but one plan, Karl ; you must get some 
 employment. If you were possessed of unbounded wealth, 
 I should not like you to be the husband of my child, 
 without some definite vocation. Take my word for it, 
 Karl, there is more kindness than severity in the punish- 
 ments Providence inflicts on our transgressions ; and when 
 man was condemned to labour, the sentence was a benefit 
 disguised. 
 
 " Karl looked very disconsolate ; however, starting from 
 his chair, he hurried forth, and was shortly after striding 
 rapidly towards the village, Wolf running on before, but 
 
 D
 
 18 THE ROYAL FREEBOOTER CORPS. 
 
 in stately circles, as if aware that he constituted the body- 
 guard of the captain of the band, and that, on that account, 
 he must not compromise his dignity. It was an unusual 
 event for the services of the company to be required after a 
 stated hour in the evening, which was long past, and they 
 were dispersed, some having reached their homes, others 
 still chatting ere they separated ; but Karl applied his bugle 
 to his lips, and gave the signal for a general muster. The 
 interval seemed to him interminable, and yet, only a few 
 moments elapsed before the thirty presented themselves in 
 presence of their chief. 
 
 " Well, my brave comrades, said Karl, what say you ? 
 will you be ready to leave sport and try earnest ? 
 
 " Lead us on ! was the general shout. 
 
 "Nay, said Karl, I mean not, like the barons of old, 
 to storm my neighbour's happy home, or set fire to his 
 property, to avenge some private pique, by indiscriminate 
 bloodshed ; but w'ill you push your fortune, and try what 
 the world is made of ? Will you serve king and country ? 
 
 " King and country ! was re-echoed. 
 
 " Now Karl felt some natural misgivings in his own 
 mind about this devotion to king and country. Let me 
 explain myself properly ; his doubts never for one 
 moment embraced the stout hearts and firm wills before
 
 THE ROYAL FREEBOOTER CORPS. 19 
 
 him ; but he could not clearly comprehend how he was 
 serving king or country, by assisting to destroy the identity 
 of a foreign state ; however, he consoled himself with the 
 idea, that perhaps older heads might understand it better, 
 and concluded his cogitations by mentally exclaiming, I 
 comprehend that we are serving the king, and suppose tlie 
 word country is merely annexed, as we often find a law 
 term, viz., that the real meaning may not be too clear. 
 
 "Well, then, boys, be ready, by the day after to-morrow ; 
 that is, if ye can all obtain leave ; but let not o^ join us 
 without. I would not have a parent's curse upon our enter- 
 prize ; it would cripple our best purposes ; and to know that 
 their prayers are with us, will cheer us many a time when 
 duty presses hard upon our uncurbed wills. 
 
 " Good night ! Good night ! God speed thee, Karl ! 
 hurrah ! 
 
 " Karl returned to the parsonage. All there was dark, 
 save the solitary lamp that witnessed the studies of the 
 worthy pastor. Karl cast a glance towards the window of 
 Gertrude's room; but if she watched, to him she was 
 invisible ; however, he felt convinced of her full sympathy, 
 and, with a trusting spirit, sought his friend and counsellor. 
 
 " The worthy man was seated in his sanctum ; it was the 
 hour he generally devoted to reading : and, although settled
 
 20 THE ROYAL FREEBOOTER CORPS. 
 
 in the living, that could not be wrested from him, still, 
 being of opinion, that he who does not progress cannot 
 stand still, but retrogrades, he continued as strict a course 
 of study, as if he had only just matriculated, and intended 
 a trial for all the prizes. He was a man of simple tastes, 
 and habits, but the elegance of the real philosopher, ele- 
 vated the former, and the genuine philanthropy of Christi- 
 anity, dignified the latter ; and, although he no longer 
 pursued the fine arts as a passion, yet he courted them 
 as a mefns by which great and good effects might be 
 produced, even in the humble circle of a poor curate's 
 duties. When Karl entered, the book lay open, but the 
 thoughts of the curate were busily engaged in that future, 
 which Karl had so suddenly opened to his view. What 
 was to become of Gertrude in case of his own death } 
 Her mother nearly as inexperienced as herself ! Her sur- 
 passing beauty would raise up many suitors, and more 
 wealth}' and powerful ones than Karl ; but who would love 
 her so dearly, watch over her so kindly, or appreciate her 
 mental graces so fully as Karl, the companion of her 
 childhood, the brother of her adoption, the chosen of her 
 young heart ? They might each, he concluded his rumina- 
 tions, meet with a wealthier mate, but neither with a truer 
 nor kinder heart. Thrvo is n (^'ontentedness — a thankfulness
 
 THE 110 YAL FREEBOOTER COUPS. 21 
 
 for the good in possession, amongst the Germans, that 
 throws a halo of benignity on all around ; and bitter indeed 
 must that poverty be, that admits not its influence. The 
 opening of the door aroused the pastor from his reverie ; his 
 eye rested on the animated face of the young man, who, 
 flushed with exercise and hope, stood before him. 
 
 " My dear father, he said, I have not been idle since I 
 left, and mean not to be so ; I will support Gertrude by 
 my earnings, and date my life from to-morrow, when I 
 will learn how to maintain myself and gain a livelihood 
 for her. 
 
 " And how, my dear fellow ? 
 
 " By joining the army, father. I am a soldier's son, have 
 trained thirty recruits that would not shame a fieldmarshal, 
 and it shall indeed go hard if I cannot get their worth 
 acknowledged. I come to ask your blessing, and will then 
 proceed to Count Kiihne, and by the day after to-morrow 
 we shall be on the road to the king's rendezvous. 
 
 " I will not gainsay thee, Karl, though I would the cause 
 had been a different one. 
 
 " My dearest father, if I gain a competence, Gertrude 
 is mine ? Gertrude shall assuredly be thine, Karl, if 
 neither change. Now listen ; I have saved something for
 
 22 THE ROYAL BREEBOOTEK CORPS. 
 
 Gertrude ; she shall not be quite empty-handed ; and 
 shouldst thou think that sufficient 
 
 " My dearest father, I richly deserve thy implied reproof, 
 but, believe me, it was thoughtlessness — ignorance ; no, I 
 would not marry Gertrude, unless I could support her, 
 though, by such a determination, I might lose her for ever. 
 
 " The old gentleman brushed his hand across his eyes, 
 and complained that the light affected them. 
 
 "I would wish, Karl proceeded, that Gertrude and I 
 might be betrothed, because it would give assurance that 
 you approve the match, and she might then be allowed 
 to express the interest she takes in me, besides being able 
 to correspond. 
 
 " I See all the advantage of such an arrangement, Karl, 
 said his auditor, smiling, and will not object. 
 
 " I have interrupted your meditations, dearest father, 
 but by daybreak I am off, and shall not be able to 
 return till late to-morrow evening. Tell Gertrude what 
 has passed, and that I would not have left without seeing 
 her, if I had not hoped to hasten our happiness. 
 
 " Karl sought his dormitory, but found no sleep there ; 
 so wrestling a short time with his impatience, he at lengtli 
 yielded to it, and hurrying to the stable, prepared his
 
 THE ROYAL FREEBOOTER CORPS. 23 
 
 horse for the journey. It was one hour after midnight ; 
 a bright, clear sky, and a sharp frost; the leafless trees 
 stretched their branches to the pale moon, and myriads 
 of twinkling stars gemmed the expanse. Karl rode on, 
 fancy os^erstepping the present, as his own impatience 
 had overleapt the hours of night and repose, in idea he 
 had reached the dawn of happiness, as quickly as he 
 had anticipated the sunrise, that should have witnessed 
 his departure. He had accomplished about three German 
 miles, when the sudden meeting of four lanes, or roads, 
 brought him into contact with another personage. 
 
 " Who goes there ? stand ! were the words that accosted 
 him. 
 
 " A friend, was the reply ; but stand yourself, approach 
 not another step, for I am armed. 
 
 " A fair and courteous warning, laughed the first speaker; 
 however, I mean no harm to ' a friend,' but have lost 
 myself, shame to confess, within a mile of home. 
 
 " Shame indeed, said Karl, to call this home, and not 
 know every cleft and rock, every hill and dale, of such a 
 peerless spot. You must needs be cold-hearted, Sir, to be 
 dead to scenes and blessings such as these. 
 
 " A good lecture, well read, with truth for the ground- 
 work, retorted the other, and I cry quarter !
 
 24 THE ROYAL FREEBOOTER CORPS. 
 
 " Nay, laughed Karl in his turn, I meant not to use 
 any arms against you, comrade ; so we had best join com- 
 pany, and I will act as guide. 
 
 " Whither would you ? 
 
 " To the castle on the hill ! 
 
 "Oh! then our road is the same; for I am going 
 thither to see Count Kilhne. 
 
 " Indeed, said the stranger ; then you are, .1 presume, 
 a friend of the Count's. 
 
 " No, I have not the honour, said Karl. 
 
 " An acquaintance r enquired the other. 
 
 " Not yet ; but I hope soon to be. 
 
 " Perhaps you will allow me the pleasure of intro- 
 ducing you ? 
 
 " You are very kind, said Karl, but as my visit is one 
 of business, the affair I go about will be my best voucher. 
 
 " Hem ! said his companion, a secret, I imagine. 
 
 " No, said Karl ; merely seeking employment. 
 
 " Employment ! May I ask in what capacity ? 
 
 " Look you. Sir, said Karl, whose ire was fast rising at 
 being so closely questioned, ask what you like, but, re- 
 member I answer what 1 choose ; and to be plain with you, 
 did I not consider the laws of hospitality as binding on the 
 road, as in the house, you and I should soon part company.
 
 THE ROYAL FREEBOOTER CORPS. 25 
 
 " I shall not be inclined to part company with you, 
 young Sir ; but as I did not mean offence, hope I may be 
 forgiven. 
 
 Karl said something about anger and curiosity; but, 
 as it was not quite distinct, and the stranger did not 
 choose to venture further questions, they proceeded in 
 silence till they reached the castle, where all seemed in 
 commotion. 
 
 " Here is my Lord, exclaimed two or three voices at 
 once, as the torches flashed on the forms of Karl and 
 his companion. 
 
 " Welcome to Ktihnburg, said the Count, for it was 
 himself, as he passed his arm through Karl's, and followed 
 the senechal, who was bowing his way before him. A few 
 apologies, and a few explanatory remarks, soon set all to 
 rights between the Count and his new acquaintance. You 
 have been correctly infoj^ed about levying, young Sir ; 
 and now in what can I serve you .? 
 
 Karl was immediately prepossessed by the frankness 
 of his companion ; had he met him, and been introduced 
 to him, at his own- castle, he would probably have been 
 on the defensive, momentarily expecting some attack on 
 his pride and independence ; as it was, encountering a 
 lonely wayfarer, they had met on equal terms, and a 
 
 E
 
 26 THE ROYAL FREEBOOTER CORPS. 
 
 species of familiar equality had been established, before 
 the young adventurer knew that he conversed with the 
 noble. 
 
 There was another thing in Karl's favour, the iisages 
 of the world were almost all new to him; for his sojourn 
 in the camp, where good fellowship was the best introduc- 
 tion, gave him a very imperfect idea of the gradations 
 society is subjected to, although nowhere is the difference 
 of rank more strictly observed. 
 
 Karl gave an animated description of his recruits. 
 
 "They shall be drafted into my own regiment, said the 
 Count. 
 
 " Under favour, no, said Karl, or our negotiation 
 ends ; they have sworn to have no leader but myself, and 
 I am determined to enter no corps save the one in question, 
 which I will train to do good service, and trust to the 
 king's justice. 
 
 " Build not too much on that quality, said the Count, 
 who was at once amused and interested by the strange 
 young soldier ; but what did you purpose by applying to 
 me .? 
 
 " Why, said Karl, my ideas on that head are not quite 
 clear ; but 1 wished to explain to you what I had done, and 
 on what terms we would join the army; besides asking
 
 THE ROYAL FREEBOOTEK CORPS. 27 
 
 your advice about obtaining loan foi* outfit — mind, a bounty 
 we will not; and, lastly, what price you would have me 
 fix on our services. 
 
 The Count laughed so long and so heartily, that Karl 
 began to feel dreadfiilly indignant, and measured the dis- 
 tance between himself and the door so significantly with 
 his eyes, that the former subdued his mirth, and, grasping 
 his guest's hand, exclaimed, nay, pardon me, 1 beg; when 
 you have roughed it in the world. as long as I have, you 
 will laugh as heartily, should you ever have the good 
 fortune to be so far amused by such unexpected novelty. 
 But, to speak seriously, I will be your banker ; and, should 
 you find further influence than your own requisite, apply to 
 me ; meanwhile, I will supply you with such a letter, as 
 shall, I trust, ensure you the terms, for yourself and com- 
 panions, that you demand. But see, here comes a more 
 substantial proof that we may hope for some of the good 
 things of this life. As he spoke, an ample breakfast made 
 its appearance, which was evidently agreeable to both 
 travellers, from the welcome they gave it. 
 
 " You will stay with me to-day, said the Count. 
 
 " Excuse me, was the reply ; had I not been so fortunate 
 as to meet you, I must, perforce, have waited till you were
 
 28 THE ROYAL FREEBOOTER CORPS. 
 
 visible ; as it is, my business is transacted, and promptitude 
 should always be the soldier's motto. 
 
 " Well, then, said the Count, let your poor beast have a 
 rest, and I shall expect you to call with your troop, as it 
 will not be out of your way ; your men will be glad of 
 such a halt. Meanwhile, I will myself report you to the 
 king, and then leave fortune in your own hands. 
 
 " My horse is like his master, my Lord, used to fatigue. 
 Thanks, a thousand tlianks for all your courtesy ; and now, 
 by your good leave, I'll take my departure. 
 
 "Well, said his host, since you persist, go in God's 
 name; but remember, I expect you, and we will arrange 
 the outfit, and any other point you may have thought of. 
 
 Karl i-eturned home, and reached it at noon : all were 
 surprised at his despatch, of course delighted ; and it was 
 forthwith determined that he and Gertrude should be 
 betrothed. And then, said Gertrude's father, as it may be 
 some time before we all meet again, we will offer up our 
 devotions together, pray a blessing on your enterprise, and 
 a happy welcome home. 
 
 The hours flew rapidly ; there was a mingled feeling of 
 confidence and melancholy that pervaded the circle, and as 
 evening closed in, and each felt it was the last they would
 
 THE ROYAL FREEBOOTER CORPS. 29 
 
 thus speud together, for some time at least, each concealed 
 the feeling, and was anxious to pass over the present and 
 dwell on the future. Gertrude's voice failed her several 
 times when she attempted to converse, and her bright eyes 
 filled with tears : but Karl was more successful ; to him the 
 future was what he attempted to paint it, — the realization 
 of happiness. 
 
 Suddenly the sound of the bell was borne on the breeze ; 
 and, thus summoned, the party proceeded to the church ; it 
 was fast filling. Karl's band sat before the altar, and the 
 relatives and friends occupied the pews. The measured 
 sound of the bell continiied for a few seconds, then all was 
 still ; not a breath broke the silence, — each was busied 
 with self-communing : the voice of the minister rose 
 solemnly in prayer; it was the fervent outpouring of a 
 father invoking blessings on his children; it was the 
 reliance of faith on the watchful care of Almighty love, 
 and hope based on piety. In after years, when those rude 
 men, in the excitement of conquest, or revelry of the camp, 
 plunged into excesses, that sermon was often their guardian 
 angel ; it is true the cheek w ould pale, and the hand 
 tremble, but the recollection of that parting address saved 
 more than one from the commission of some half-per- 
 petrated crime.
 
 .'30 THE ROYAL FKEEBOOTER CORPS. 
 
 On leaving the church, each family returned home ; it 
 was understood that the next morning was fixed on for 
 departure, yet there was no leave-taking ; it might be that 
 at each fire-side, where there would be one less to join the ^ 
 family circle on the morrow, the light glimmered later than 
 usual, and the traveller as he passed along, wondered that 
 time had sped so slowly, believing himself mistaken in it. 
 At the parsonage the group separated not; Karl's clothes 
 had to be packed, and his comforts cared for in a thousand 
 little unspeakable, but inestimable attentions. It was in 
 vain they pressed him to take some repose; he felt 
 no fatigue, and, at the hour appointed, he had once more 
 left the cherished home of his childhood : one hour later 
 and no trace remained of the departure of the adventurous 
 party. 
 
 On Karl's arrival at Kiihnburg, he found that his new 
 friend had been by no means tardy ; patterns of regimental 
 dresses were obtained for him to choose from, arms were 
 provided, and as each recruit had a horse, pay for them 
 was transmitted, that their friends might sustain no loss. 
 Karl received a letter to the king, and one of credit on the 
 Count's banker. On his arrival in Berlin, he hastened to 
 the latter, and found that the Count had already advised 
 him of his arrival, a forethought and kindness which he had
 
 THE ROYAL FREEBOOTER CORPS. 31 
 
 full cause to appreciate, when he discovered how much it 
 facilitated all his plans. The day after his arrival was 
 fixed on for an audience by the king. Karl's heart beat 
 thickly ; he was about to be ushered, not only into the 
 presence of royalty, but greatness, mental greatness ! He 
 studied a thousand set speeches; prepared himself, in his 
 own mind, for as many modes of presentation ; pictured all 
 the pomp and pageantry he could imagine ; dreamed him- 
 self making his best bow to the flourish of trumpets, then 
 started in affrighted bewilderment, on believing that he 
 had approached so near, as to set his heavy and spurred 
 boot on the king's embroidered slipper, and so awoke to 
 dream again of splendour, battle, and of Gertrude. 
 
 At length the anticipated hour arrived ; Karl was shown 
 into a gallery where several were waiting ; but his conductor 
 merely passed through it, Karl of course doing the same, 
 and led the way into one adjoining, where he left him, 
 remarking, that as soon as it was the king's pleasure, he 
 would be summoned. In about ten minutes another door 
 opened, and a middle-aged man entered the gallery, very 
 unlike what Karl had fancied any attendant at Court, 
 shabbily, nay, even slovenly, if not dirtily clad, and with 
 a stern countenance. 
 
 Karl took no notice, and the person walked past him,
 
 32 THE ROYAL FREEBOOTER CORPS. ' 
 
 then, turning suddenly, demanded, What is your business 
 here, young man ? 
 
 " What right have you to question, Sir ? was the un- 
 courteous counter query. 
 
 " The right of seniority, replied the other, v.hich might 
 at least command civility ! 
 
 " If I mistake not, said the young man, a stranger's 
 rights are equally sacred. Sir ; but excuse me, I was too 
 hasty. I wait here by authority. 
 
 " Hem ! said the other gentleman, whose language Karl 
 remarked was incorrect, inelegant, and laboured, are you 
 charmed by the accounts you have heard of a court life ? 
 
 " Indeed am I not. Sir, replied the young man ; it would 
 never suit me ! a hero's, a, warrior's life for me — honour in 
 the field, and a death of glory ! 
 
 " Say you so, youngster ! I have heard of you before 
 What do you intend doing with your recruits ? 
 
 " I intend placing them at the king's disposal. 
 
 " Hem ! again remarked the other, and what do you 
 demand for their services .? 
 
 " Why, to reply candidly, said Karl, I should best like 
 letters of marque and a good struggle, but have been 
 advised to engage on the usual terms. 
 
 " Then you merely require to have the names entered on
 
 THE ROYAL FREEBOOTER CORPS. 3S 
 
 the usual terms, said the stranger, who was, by this time, 
 promenading the gallery, at the young man's side, every 
 now and then stopping, when any thing particular seemed to 
 strike him. 
 
 " Gently, good Sir, was the reply ; that would by no 
 means suit our plans, for I do not believe that my brave 
 fellows would accept another leader, no, not even our great 
 Frederick's self. 
 
 " A headstrong set, smiled the other, to turn soldiers. 
 
 " Remember, they are not soldiers yet, said Karl ; and 
 if they would be wise, they would make their terms before 
 that appellation belongs to them. 
 
 " And you ? 
 
 " Oh ! I will make mine with none but the king. 
 
 " Well, said the other, as you list ; but I am supposed to 
 possess more influence with his majesty than even his 
 barber, that man of highest consequence at court; so if 
 you choose to entrust your cause to me, I will do my best 
 for you. 
 
 Karl had taken a strange fancy to the slovenly 
 gentleman ; besides, he felt that the soul-lit eye that 
 rested on him, was accustomed to scan more complex 
 subjects than himself, so, following the bent of his own 
 inclination, and the whispered suggestions of policy, he 
 candidly related his wishes and the actuating cause.
 
 34 THE ROYAL FREEBOOTER CORPS. 
 
 "Well, said his adviser, it is just as well that I know 
 all this ; but are you aware that a love-story is no recom- 
 mendation to the king ? 
 
 " No, said Karl ; I know that love is the parent of 
 heroism, and that in classical allegories, we always find 
 love flying from mere brutal force to the protection of 
 intellectual courage; nay, our Frederick's great qualities 
 would, in all probability, have lain dormant, had he not 
 loved and been disappointed: the severity experienced by 
 an innocent girl, nay, the very immolation of Katte may 
 be the real groundwork of the firmness, resolve, and deter- 
 mination that now prove the best safeguards of his enter- 
 prises, whilst the softer emotions these recollections call 
 forth, will make him the father of his people in all kindly 
 feelings. 
 
 The listener's countenance had undergone many changes 
 whilst Karl spoke ; he now replied, — Young man, I am 
 that Frederick, with whom you seem so intimately, yet so 
 little acquainted ; you appear inclined to do good service, 
 so you shall have a trial. I accede to your proposals. 
 Follow me into this cabinet. The king threw open the 
 door by which he himself had entered the gallery, and 
 stepping into the room, his example was quickly followed 
 by the bewildered aspirant for military command. 
 
 Frederick took a paper and wrote a few words, then
 
 THE ROYAL FREEBOOTER CORPS. 35 
 
 handed it to the young man. There, he said, examine that 
 at leisure ; you will find thirty so small a complement, even 
 of the choicest, that I leave you at liberty to extend it to 
 a hundred. 
 
 Bowing and pointing to the door, Karl had just sufficient 
 presence of mind to avail himself of the dismissal ; and, on 
 retiring, found himself in the gallery, where several persons 
 still awaited the royal pleasure; hurrying through, he has- 
 tened to the friendly banker, scarcely assured that the 
 last scene was not a dream, conjured up by his busy 
 fancy. But now, who so proud as Karl ? in the king's 
 own hand, under the king's own seal, he had received his 
 commission; he was appointed Captain on full pay, with 
 the privilege of raising a company on the usual terms of 
 payment, to be defrayed out of the army fund, to bear the 
 title of " The Royal Freebooter Corps." 
 
 Karl's determination was now taken, he could call Ger- 
 trude his own, and he determined not to postpone an event 
 so promising in happy anticipations. He had ascertained 
 that the Prussian arms were to be directed against Austria ; 
 Karl thought of the woman, the wonderful, the all-com- 
 manding woman, against whom they would be used, and 
 certain misgivings of conscience, or gallantry, or of both, 
 cast a dark shade on the perspective glory ; but he mused
 
 36 THE ROYAL FREEBOOTEll CORPS. 
 
 on the Austrians, their towering i)ride, their tenacious 
 stickling for sovereignty, their overbearing monarch, and 
 the soldier felt elevated in his prowess, and already saw the 
 proud foe prostrate. 
 
 The next morning, after seeing his men properly quar-. 
 tered, Karl arranged for his journey, and did not rest till he 
 reached the hospitable castle of Count Kiihne, whose pos- 
 sessor however was from home. Karl left a short note and 
 hurried forward; again the well known objects met his 
 view; but this time he threw the bridle to his servant and 
 walked on, intent on surprising the beloved ones. 
 
 He had reached the small garden gate, when he heard 
 the voice of Gertrude. 
 
 " Th(jn you knew not that I was betrothed ? 
 
 " Assuredly not, was the reply of Count Kiihne, else 
 should I not have offered you my own heart and fortune ; 
 shall I be too presumptuous if I add, that I sincerely hope 
 your intended is worthy of yourself and your brother. 
 
 " There is some mistake, my Lord, said Gertrude ; I have 
 no brother, though I never felt the loss of one, for Karl 
 has been all the kindest brother could be, and even the 
 recollection of that dear tie between us will soon be super- 
 seded by a holier and tender one. 
 
 "Karl not your brother! Oh ! I sec it all, and trust the
 
 THE ROYAL FREEBOOTKR CORPS. 37 
 
 mutual choice, so worthy of you both, may be a happy 
 one. Indeed I do not doubt it ; and if my admiration of 
 yourself could be increased by my friendship for Kai'l 
 
 "Karl is here to thank you in person, my generous 
 friend, and to plead guilty to the mean charge of eaves- 
 dropping, although he has not met with the listener's 
 reward. 
 
 The animated scene that ensued need scarcely be re- 
 peated ; a few days saw Karl's mission fulfilled. When it 
 was known that he enrolled men by royal grant, more 
 flocked to him than he could or would accept, for he was 
 very choice in the characters of his men, being of opinion, 
 that the defenders of a country should be bulwarks in mind 
 as well as in body: he sought no foolhardy recklessness, 
 but steady courage, induced by a moral obligation ; and, 
 young as he was, he well knew that the latter qualification 
 was not to be found amongst the profligate, of whom 
 soldiery so often consists. 
 
 So was the first step taken towards a moral improvement 
 in the Prussian service, and now, she stands a pattern to 
 nations for military character. 
 
 Karl returned with his bride and his company, or rather 
 the remainder of it, and the first {&n weeks wei*c spent in 
 })erfecting the new comers in their different exercises; a
 
 38 THE ROYAL FREEBOOTER CORPS. 
 
 wish would occasionally intrude for more active service, 
 still tlie young Captain felt that time was not lost, for he 
 subjected his men to constant training, and so assiduously 
 studied Tacitus, Caesar, in fact all the commentaries on 
 war, that he could obtain, that his theoretical knowledge 
 was of the first order, and only required practice to shine 
 forth. 
 
 The mere butcher neglects diplomacy ; the hero studies 
 it as a means of perfecting his art ; and, when it can be 
 done, as a method of saving human life, for, paradoxical as 
 it may seem, that is the great end of war, or rather, I 
 should say, the aim t)f a great warrior. 
 
 One evening, when Karl, after a long and fatiguing day's 
 employment, had resolved to devote the remainder of it 
 to his young wife, he entered his home, and found her in 
 close conversation with the king; it was evident Gertrude 
 did not know him, for she was conversing most uncon- 
 cernedly with him. The small, and simply furnished 
 parlour, overlooked a miniature, but very pleasant garden, 
 and the room was decorated with fresh flowers, forming the 
 only ornamental part of it ; the coffee equipage was on the 
 table, waiting Karl's return, and Gertrude knitted as she 
 chatted to the king. 
 
 " Here is my husband, she said, as the latter appeared.
 
 THE ROYAL FREEBOOTER CORPS. 39 . 
 
 A signal from the king prevented an explanation of 
 whom she was honom-ing with her familiarity. 
 
 " Herr von Hohenzollern is going to join us at coffee, 
 my dear Karl, she said, and I was just explaining to him, 
 that, though you are not yet in actual service, yet you 
 would wish your men to excel as soon as opportunity 
 offers, and that you are becoming very impatient. 
 
 Karl, although possessed of as much effrontery as most 
 gentlemen of the cloth, blushed crimson. 
 
 "Yes, said Frederick, pointing to a chair, (Karl had 
 remained standing,) your good lady has been at some pains 
 to explain your engagements, and I certainly think the 
 interest she takes in your avocations the best compliment 
 she can pay you, and the truest proof of affection ; she is 
 just suited for a soldier's wife; no small flattery when a 
 soldier is what he professes to be. 
 
 Meanvv'hile Gertrude officiated as hostess, with perfect 
 self-possession ; she was much pleased with the matter-of- 
 fact gentleman, and treated him with the freedom of an 
 old acquaintance. 
 
 " Have you heard, said the king, (addressing himself to 
 Karl,) of the embassy that leaves this for the Austrian 
 court to-morrow ? 
 
 Karl professed his ignorance.
 
 40 THE ROYAL FREEBOOTER CORPS. 
 
 " There may be sharp work, continued tlie querist, and 
 the commanders are in receipt of sealed orders, not to 
 be opened, till they are one day's march from Berlin : have 
 you received any such ? 
 
 Karl said he had not. 
 
 " Hem ! said the king ; can I survey your troop, without 
 materially infringing on the rights of this fair lady to your 
 company ? 
 
 Karl rose v\^ith alacrity ; and the king, after expressing a 
 hope of shortly profiting again by her hospitality, took 
 leave of Gertrude, who was not aware of the honour con- 
 fened. For some time the king walked on in silence, at 
 length turning to the young man, he exclaimed, I need not' 
 Sir, impress on you the value of the treasures the soldier 
 should learn to defend, his household gods, for your do- 
 mestic happiness is too firmly based, and your choice too 
 well made for me to doubt your appreciation of them ; the 
 better will you understand the military policy that always 
 endeavours to carry war into the enemy's country, whilst 
 its own is kept inviolate, inviolable. 1 would wish my 
 subjects to be actuated by the highest principles of honour. 
 You have attained a post on trial, that places you in one of 
 the most responsible situations. The Captains in my army 
 are all superior men, and it is a matter of regret to me, that
 
 THE ROYAL FREEBOOTEE CORPS. 41 
 
 I must study seniority in advancement, as many of them 
 deserve to supersede their commanding officers. However, 
 better times are dawning, and war will give me an oppor- 
 tunity of rewarding merit, whilst, during peace, I can but 
 satisfy the demands of the acknowledged claimant. 
 
 Karl's men outdid themselves, although ignorant of the 
 rank of the officer that vvitnessed their evolutions. 
 The king expressed his gratification. 
 " And now Sir, he said, let my departure take place 
 with as little ceremony as my arrival : we shall meet again. 
 To-morrow you proceed as far as Gehzu, where you will 
 be at hberty to open the packet I now give you, and read 
 your orders. 
 
 Karl soon came to a decision ; Gehzu was in the direct 
 road to Gertrude's father's, and she should go so far with 
 him on the morrow ; then he would send her, under the 
 escort of a trusty follower, to await his return in her native 
 village. 
 
 You will, I dare say, remember, that on the very day 
 when the Prussian ambassador presented himself at the 
 Austrian Court, to make s-uch demands as the king ex- 
 pected to be refused, a Prussian army invaded Silesia, at 
 that time belonging to Austria. 
 
 Gertrude awaited the result at home, but received con- 
 
 G
 
 42 THE ROYAL FRr';EBOOTER CORPS. 
 
 Slant news of her husband's increasing fame ; his company 
 was held in the very highest estimation, and she formed 
 reasonable hopes of an early and well-merited competence. 
 
 The campaign was over, and the soldiers sought winter 
 quarters. Karl was almost too happy when he embraced 
 his young wife, and kissed the laughing urchin that raised 
 him to the dignified rank of father, whom, in his pride and 
 gratitude, he named after the king. A few months spent in 
 the very delirium of pleasure and happiness, and then the 
 more arduous duties of his profession recommenced. Karl 
 signalized himself; — ample praise under such a leader. 
 He now underwent a trial, that in all probability produced 
 a series of others. Count Kiihne, his protector and friend, 
 died suddenly ; he had, shortly before, spoken warmly about 
 Karl to the king. 
 
 "All in good time, was the reply, if, after a sufficient 
 test, neither you nor I are deceived in him, I will place 
 him in a position where he can usefully distinguish himself. 
 If, on the other hand, I find that he undervalues or abuses 
 the high gifts, bestowed on him for nobler purposes, I will 
 degrade him in face of the whole army. 
 
 But Karl did not undervalue or abuse his high gifts; 
 the .Royal Freebooter Corps was the admiration of friend 
 and foe, and Karl was the soul that animated it.
 
 THE ROYAL FREEBOOTER CORPS. 43 
 
 Some years had thus passed, when the treaty, that had 
 been the precursor of the war, was signed: many troops 
 were disbanded; amongst others, Karl, who on his return to 
 Berhn, received his conge ; and letters which were await- 
 ing him, stated that home — the home of Gertrude's and his 
 own childhood — had been burnt to the ground, the origin 
 of the fire being wrapped in mystery ; that she, her child, 
 and, worse than all, her parents, were thus deprived of 
 shelter ; and, to add to the distress, her father had suffered 
 so dreadfully from a violent nervous attack, brought on by 
 alarm and grief, that he was incapacitated from attending 
 to any of his duties. 
 
 Overwhelmed, but passive, Karl appeared stunned by 
 such acccumulated ill fortune ; a cloud enveloped his mind, 
 whiclj, for the moment, hid from him the deep anguish that 
 benumbed every faculty, and his distraction ended in a 
 violent brain fever. On his recovery, he found that Ger- 
 trude, apprised of his illness by some of the stragglers who 
 had found their way back to the village, had hastened to 
 nurse him. In all that surrounded him, the wife's anxious 
 care was visible ; the well-aired, though small apartment, 
 the shaded room, the precious perfume, which the Baltic 
 yields, — a ready tribute to the shore it laves, — spreading 
 its vivifying but cloudy influence around. There sat Ger-
 
 44 THE ROYAL FREEBOOTER CORPS. 
 
 trade's self, pale with watching, but untired, aud the first 
 dawn of returning consciousness was hallowed by recog- 
 nition. It is true Karl recovered very slowly, but the 
 gentle assiduity that tended him, had rescued him from the 
 grave. 
 
 With convalescence came the pressure of poverty; and, 
 alas ! Gertrude had concealed from him that the banker, in 
 whose hands his small all had been placed, had failed, and 
 that they were worse than beggars, for she had incurred 
 heavy expenses through his illness ; and when expostulated 
 with, declared that it was the only means to preserve their 
 honesty, for, she maintained, had Karl perished, his family 
 could but have been supported by becoming a burthen to 
 the state, and incurring debts they could never liquidate. 
 As it is, dear Karl, she proceeded, your recovery is a pledge 
 that all will be paid in time. 
 
 Poor Karl ! it was poverty no longer, but indigence, to 
 which his wife and child, and the parents of his adoption 
 were now consigned. Gertrude's persuasive tenderness was 
 his only stay. ^ 
 
 He petitioned the king humbly and sadly, relating what 
 had occurred ; but hours waned, and were no longer counted, 
 then days, weeks supplanted these, and months .superseded 
 weeks. At length lie determined to appeal to the king
 
 THE ROYAL FKEEBOOTER CORPS. 45 
 
 in person, and, for this purpose, presented himself for 
 audience. The powerful influence of Count Klihne did 
 not smooth the way, and Karl was compelled to wait 
 amongst the crowd until the king's usual hour for receiving 
 all petitions, and giving ear to grievances. 
 
 It was the same room he had traversed some years before, 
 but merely traversed ; now he was waiting amongst the rest, 
 and how long he had to wait ! 
 
 At length Frederick made his appearance, just as slovenly 
 as years before ; nay, it would seem to Karl that the very 
 coat and snuff-soiled linen had not undergone a single 
 change, and that the hands, so pertinaciously crossed on 
 the back, had never altered their position from the time, 
 when on terms of perfect equality, they were promenading 
 the gallery beyond. 
 
 Karl leaned back in the recess of a window till each, save 
 himself, was dismissed ; he then presented himself, and 
 pithily, although in no courtly phrase, set before the king 
 the different circumstances that had so materially affected 
 him. 
 
 " Sir, said the king, when he had concluded, there are 
 too many valuable and worthy men in like condition with 
 yourself; it is a hardship, I grant you, and I wish it were 
 not so; but I can give you no redress: impartiality should
 
 46 THE ROYAL FliEEBOOTKR CORPS. 
 
 claim as much cousideralion from crowned heads as 
 prerogative. 
 
 " This, then, is your majesty's answer to a starving 
 family ? said Karl. 
 
 The king bowed his head slightly, and Karl remembered 
 nothing more till the dense crowd reminded him that he 
 had emerged from the castle, and was again treading the 
 busy scenes of a populous and flourishing metropolis. 
 And thus, he mused, the aspirant for military fame is con- 
 signed to all the horrors of griping penury, whilst the 
 pampered, and, perhaps, unworthy son of rank mounts the 
 steps of glory, and realizes independence. The promises 
 of kings have ever been proverbial, from Nimrod to this 
 base, this mean deceiver ! 
 
 These were his musings as he passed along, and the 
 cool air fanned his heated brow; he sought his home in 
 bitterness of spirit. Gertrude's gentle sympathy, unob- 
 trusive as it really was, seemed but to irritate him ; he felt 
 the injustice of his ungracious reply to her anxious ques- 
 tion, but the very feeling urged him to greater impatience. 
 She was hurt, evidently hurt, and could scarcely restrain 
 her tears, however she bestirred herself to tlirow an air of 
 cheerfulness around ; but Karl abruptly checked her efforts 
 to produce a change in the conversation, and, depressed,
 
 THE ROYAL FREEBOOTER CORPS. 47 
 
 she silently resumed the needlework his enti'aiice had caused 
 her to lay aside. Karl busied himself all that evening with 
 writing, and would have remained at his desk, had not 
 Gertrude entreated him to spare his newly-recovered health 
 for her sake. By dint of exertion, Gertrude contrived to 
 obtain a supply of plain, though wholesome food ; but, in 
 Karl's enervated state, more was required, in fact, such 
 nutriment and support, as her means would not allow. She 
 was willing to lend her most strenuous endeavours to obtain 
 them, but she could only command a scanty supply of em- 
 ployment ; and, shame on the rich ! they are often ready to 
 secure labour at the lowest price. If she refused, there 
 were others, who, from a variety of circumstances, could 
 afford to undertake the task, and thus she was deprived 
 even of these limited means of serving her beloved husband. 
 In justice to herself and to her talents, she ought not to 
 have permitted herself to be so underpaid ; but necessity 
 drowned the voice of justice, and compelled her to submit 
 to its exactions. 
 
 The day after Karl's ineffectual remonstrance with the 
 king, a letter was left at the door directed for Gertrude ; the 
 messenger had immediately disappeared. Gertrude opened 
 it, and, to her surprise, found it contained a plain card, 
 with four Frederick d'or inserted in it. Karl was present,
 
 48 THE ROYAF- FREEBOOTER CORPS. 
 
 and witnessed her astonishment ; but before she had time 
 to express either that or joy, he seized the card, and flung 
 it to tlie other end of the room. What! he exclaimed, 
 insult added to our sufferings! are we to be fed by charity, 
 when our lionest industry will not obtain the morsel w'e 
 require? Whence comes that, Gertrude ? 
 
 " Indeed, I know not. 
 
 '• Then swear to me never to use that gift, no, not should 
 we even perish for want. 
 
 " My beloved husband 
 
 " Swear, Gertrude ! 
 
 " I do, I will, said poor Gertrude, weeping bitterly. 
 
 " Oh I Gertrude, my dear, my idolized Gertrude, said 
 Karl, covering his face with his hands to hide the con- 
 vulsive struggle that shook his frame, why did I take you 
 from your happy home to share my lot ^ What had I to 
 offer in comparison with what you possessed ^ 
 
 " Your love, Karl, said Gertrude, all and everything to 
 me ! Then struggling to suppress her emotion, till she 
 became perfectly calm and collected, she continued ; The 
 sentiment you have just uttered, like every false but gener- 
 ally received opinion, leads, and will lead to more un- 
 happiness than I can picture. Remember, mine was a 
 liome where comforts had been accumulating, where the
 
 THE ROYAL FREEBOOTER CORPS. 49 
 
 house was stocked by years of care and watchful house- 
 wifery, and therefore more prized by those, who, with 
 gradual increase, saw competence and elegance expand 
 out of their own persevering industry. I looked forward to 
 the same progression and extension of worldly well-doing, 
 expecting all the pleasure it affords, for, trust me, the 
 maxim's false that would have a young couple, in our 
 station, begin the world with all provided. Oh ! what a 
 sacrifice of mutual sympathy ! nor is this all, great though 
 the evil be, but things obtained without trouble cost no re- 
 grets to part with. Hence the restless impatience for 
 novelty, that causes so much unnecessary outlay, by a 
 change of household furniture, for fashion's sake. 
 
 Gertrude's long speech had almost had the desired effect, 
 and Karl had nearly recovered his calmness. She con- 
 tinued ; Believe me, dear Karl, the feelings that, generally 
 speaking, prevent the offer of a worse home than the one 
 possessed, are of the most selfish description, which, under 
 high-sounding but unmeaning display of generosity, are 
 catering to their own convenience. 
 Karl smiled faintly. 
 
 " Remember, all do not think like Gertrude. 
 "Granted, my dear Karl; but let men ofteuer give my 
 sex an opportunity of so thinking, by enlisting them to act, 
 
 H
 
 50 THE ROYAL FREEBOOTER CORPS. 
 
 and there would be a much greater aggregate of real hap- 
 piness, with a smaller proportion of poverty, for that mutual 
 interest, which is the charm of married life, would con- 
 solidate affection. 
 
 " My dearest Gertrude, see how we are bereft ! 
 
 " True, my own beloved ; but ours is a casualty, and 
 hope is the best antidote to despair ; since Providence has 
 granted you to my prayers, 1 have no further dread. 
 
 This conversation had a most beneficial effect on Karl ; 
 no further mention was made of the money which Gertrude 
 placed in her workbox, in order to repay it to the person 
 that had sent it, should she ever discover the party. 
 During the week she surveyed it with many a wistful 
 glance, particularly after conversing with the medical man 
 that had attended Karl, and who told her that wine and 
 generous diet were absolutely requisite to ward off con- 
 sumption. 
 
 Karl was now much absent, and, when at home, busy 
 writing, or correcting printed proof sheets. Gertrude had 
 not a doubt that he was either seeking employment, or had 
 accepted some at a trifling remuneration ; still, as he main- 
 tained silence on the subject, she forbore to question. A 
 week had passed thus, when a ring at the door being an- 
 swered by herself, she again received a letter, and, on
 
 THE ROYAL FREEBOOTER CORPS. 51 
 
 opening it, again found four Frederick d'or enclosed. Her 
 resolution was taken ; Karl was not at home ; she had not 
 even enough money left to defray the weekly expenses, so 
 she resolved to accept the remittance as a loan, and to 
 keep a strict account of her disbursements. She sent half 
 to her parents, and kept the rest for present emergencies, 
 not forgetting the wine. When Karl returned, he found 
 all comfortably arranged ; and as he had not the courage to 
 enquire into her expenditure, she knew herself to be safe 
 on that point. If he had possessed thousands, they would 
 have been at her command, and he did not scruple to 
 admit her assistance now that circumstances required it. 
 
 A month passed tlius, every week bringing the remit- 
 tance; but the fifth week it came not. Gertrude did not 
 feel the loss of it much ; she liad liquidated all the small 
 debts she had been obliged to contract ; a sixth and seventh 
 week without it began to distress her, besides, she had 
 failed in procuring any employment. 
 
 She endeavoured to prevail on Karl to partake of what 
 she had provided, without joining him, pleading want of 
 appetite ; but love is quick-sighted, and he easily divined 
 the truth, without the means of altering it. However, 
 nothing could now persuade him to touch any food, unless 
 she consented to share.
 
 52 THE ROYAL FREEBOOTER CORPS. 
 
 Much excitement prevailed at the time ahout a pamphlet 
 that severely animadverted on the king, and a reward was 
 decreed to the person that would bring the author of it to 
 justice. Karl had by some means obtained one of the 
 printed placards, and read it with such uncommon interest, 
 that Gertrude was induced to look at it. 
 
 " And who, she asked, after perusing it ; who would 
 betray the unfortunate writer of the libel, for ten times the 
 sum ? 
 
 " I, my Gertrude, said Karl. 
 
 Gertrude threw her arms round her husband, as she 
 fondly and proudly exclaimed, I only wish, my own noble 
 Karl, that the poor fellow were as safe from every other 
 informer as from thee ! • 
 
 Karl kissed her fair forehead without further reply ; but 
 the next morning found him again in the audience-chamber; 
 and when the king appeared, he walked towards him with 
 so firm a step, but so flushed a cheek, that the other suitors 
 for royal notice fell back with one accord. 
 
 " Sire, said the disbanded Captain, I come to denounce 
 the man that has written the offensive pamphlet against 
 your Majesty, and to claim the reward ! 
 
 " Turned informer ? said Frederick, with marked and 
 gloomy displeasure.
 
 THE ROYAL FREEBOOTER CORPS. 53 
 
 "For bread! was Karl's laconic reply. To the other 
 gallery, Sire; this time your Majesty will grant me a 
 private audience. 
 
 The king re-entered his cabinet, and beckoned Karl to 
 follow. I trusted to have seen you in a diflerent character, 
 said Frederick. 
 
 " I had hoped so myself, was the reply ; but after vainly 
 struggling against poverty, seeking honest and honourable 
 employment without meeting with it, overcome by disease, 
 hopeless as regards the future, I have determined on my 
 present course, and demand the price. 
 
 " You shall have it, said the king, making out a treasury 
 order, and signing it, without summoning a third party. 
 
 " Your Majesty will allow me to leave this sum in your 
 hands, to see it applied to the use of my family ; but I 
 require your royal word, that it shall be appropriated to 
 them, for it is said, ikings ever keep faith in small matters, 
 and on small occasions. 
 
 "You are more caustic than cautious, said Frederick, 
 carelessly : but to the point. Sir ; my time is precious. 
 
 " You need not wait long, Sire : in me, the informer, 
 behold the author of the attacks on your Majesty, awaiting 
 deserved punishment, and ready to undergo it. You will 
 keep your royal word ?
 
 54 THE KOYAL FREEBOOTER CORPS. 
 
 " As surely as I consign you to the fortress of Spandau 
 for tlie term of your natural life ! 
 
 So saying, the king opened the door of the cabinet, and 
 whilst Karl was committed to proper custody, again busied 
 himself in writing for nearly a quarter of an hour, then, 
 deliberately sealing what he had been thus engaged with, 
 remarked, this will explain particulars to the Governor. 
 Three hours hence, (turning to the guard,) mind that gen- 
 tleman is on his way. 
 
 A long dreary three hours followed, and the drive was 
 one of unmitigated anguish. He had parted from Gertrude 
 for ever, who would once have told him that the sepa- 
 ration would be a voluntary act of his own ! 
 
 At length the fortress was in sight, and Karl roused him- 
 self for a parting glance at the fair scenery tliat would, after 
 entering that dreary keep, be to him as far out of reach as 
 that fair garden lost to man for ever. They rounded the 
 sweep, the dark portals were in view, they entered the 
 gloomy archway, and, waiting to receive him, was his 
 own Gertrude, with her laughing boy in her arms, and 
 her father and mother, and the curate of the fortress, a 
 young man about Karl's own age, standing by to give him 
 welcome. 
 
 Little remains to be told ; on opening the packet, it con-
 
 THE ROYAL FREEBOOTER CORPS. 55 
 
 tained his appointment as Governor of Spandau, with these 
 words : — 
 
 " My promise to a mutual friend, now no more, is 
 fulfilled. I have proved you, and found you 
 worthy the place of trust you enjoy. The 
 Fredericks d'or came from me. 
 
 (vSigned) "Frederick Rex." 
 
 My pretty Ida will find that her old friend has turned 
 egotist, continued Herr von Neidgrara, for I am the Karl of 
 the story, and Gertrude is here to speak for herself. Your 
 father can vouch for my astonishment on finding myself 
 nominated Governor, where I expected to he a close pri- 
 soner; and should any other part require witnesses, ask 
 Gertrude's venerable father and mother, who still enjoy 
 their quiet home, rebuilt in the most approved style, and 
 containing every comfort, but who intend leaving it to- 
 morrow, to pay us their annual visit. Now, allow me to 
 present Fritz, the urchin that laughed at misfortune and 
 with good luck, as the namesake of my generous patron, 
 Frederick 'the Great !
 
 THE STORY. 
 
 I. 
 
 Mother dear, mother dear, tell me a story, — 
 
 Something of war, or a tale of the sea ; 
 Tell me, dear mother, of nothing hut glory, — 
 
 Speak of the nohle, the hero, the free ! 
 Gently, my boy ; thou art ^^ eaving together 
 
 Trophies in which every colour is gay ; 
 War must have gore, and the sea stormy weather ; 
 
 Glory is bloodshed, the hero but clay.
 
 THE STORY. 57 
 
 II. 
 
 Mother dear, mother dear, tell me a story, — 
 
 Something of love, but love faithful and true ; 
 Youth too, and beauty, — love suits not the hoary 
 
 Tell me, dear mother, how true lovers woo ! 
 Gently, my girl ; thou art wreathing together 
 
 Garlands of roses that have not one thorn : 
 Love, child, alas ! it is light as a feather; 
 
 Youth too, and beauty, shall cease to adorn. 
 
 III. 
 
 But listen, dear children ; to tell you a story, 
 
 Such as would suit both life and its dreams, 
 We must mingle with love a due grade of glory, 
 
 When wading life's shoals, or breasting its streams. 
 Thus round thy trophies we'll wreathe the gay flowers 
 
 Of virtue and love, boy, to hold them entwin'd : 
 Let honour, my girl, bring truth to thy bowers ; 
 
 And for beauty — the choicest is that of the mind.
 
 THE CHANGELING'S GRAVE. 
 
 The wretched superstition, on which the following verses are founded, 
 is too generally known, and was, unhappily, too often acted upon, even 
 so near our own time, as the early part of the last century, to require 
 any very lengthened comments. If a child was sickly, deformed, or 
 otherwise particularly afflicted, it was supposed to be a fairy changeling, 
 and little or no attention was paid to the poor stricken one; it was, 
 indeed, sometimes put to the most cruel and lingering torments, pro- 
 tracted till it died, in order to free the supposed inhabitant of fairy land, 
 who was expected to resume his proper shape, when the usurper should 
 have been dislodged by the accredited means. It is easy to suppose that, 
 under such circumstances, the popular superstition would often be made 
 available for the worst purposes. Thus, it is related, that the kinsman 
 of a young and noble infant in the West of England, caused the child to 
 be immolated, and took possession of the estates, in pretended expec- 
 tation of the lightful heir's return from Faiiy-land. One day, as the
 
 THE changeling's GRAVE. 59 
 
 shades of evening closed around him, being accidentally separated 
 from his attendants when returning from the chase, he suddenly found 
 himself beside the changeling's grave, a spot unhallowed by the con- 
 secration of the church. A vain search was instituted ; sometimes his 
 figiu'C was visible in the dell, standing close to the grave, which ap- 
 peared to be covered with rare and choice exotic flowers, yet any attempt 
 to approach him proved futile; for the adventurer making such trial 
 was either seized with inexpressible horror, preventing his advance, or a 
 thick mist overspread the spot and remained an impenetrable baiTier ; 
 but if these preventives did not suffice, a stunning blow was bestowed by 
 unseen hand, and, on recovery,' the unlucky wight found himself in 
 some other and remote part of the mountain pass, of which the dell 
 constitutes a part. 
 
 I. 
 
 The night was cold, the moon was bright, 
 
 And icicles in clusters hung ; 
 
 « 
 The air was clear, and all was light, 
 
 As if broad day its radiance flung ; 
 
 The scene was drear, an arid waste. 
 
 Girt by the moss-grown rock alone ; 
 
 The hunter, with redoubled haste. 
 
 Attempts a prayer, and hurries on.
 
 60 THE CHA^GELING'S GRAVE. 
 
 II. 
 
 Ah ! he has nearly pass'd the dell ; 
 Why starts he iu such wild affright } — 
 Let his own words the secret tell : 
 Away ! in pity, withering sight ! 
 It is the changeling's grave, and I 
 So long have fled the spot in vain ; 
 Ah ! now I hear that fearful cry, 
 
 « 
 
 And it accuses me again ! 
 
 III. 
 
 Who dares to say that I did play 
 The traitor for thy large estate ? 
 Rest thee ! the grave should not betray 
 The deeds of avarice, and hate ! 
 Hurrah ! hurrah ! a troop comes on ! 
 Off, off! ye shall not seize on me ! 
 Spectres avaunt ! ye turn to stone 
 My moving flesh ! I cannot flee !
 
 THE changeling's GKAVE. 61 
 
 IV. 
 
 They watch'd all night within the hall, 
 For him that own'd that vast domain, 
 And oft was heard the seeker's call ; 
 But ah ! they watch'd and sought in vain. 
 There is, beyond yon tow'ring hill, 
 A spot, man's foot does never tread, 
 Where fix'd, as by some pow'r of ill, 
 A stone form watches o'er the dead ! 
 
 Flowers spring on the tiny grave, 
 Of matchless beauty, and most rare. 
 Which an undoubted virtue have, • 
 
 To draw the poison from despair. 
 But, then, they must by hands be cull'd. 
 Free from all sin, on bosoms worn, 
 Where baneful passions are all lull'd, 
 And virtue's highest gifts adorn.
 
 62 THE changeling's grave. 
 
 VI. 
 
 If, tempted by the goodly sight, 
 Unworthily they should be grasp'd. 
 The scene will change to blackest night ; 
 The thief by demon form be clasp'd, 
 And hiuTd in headlong fury through 
 The dark abyss, appall'd by dread, 
 Found in some chasm he never knew, 
 Distracted, maimed, or even dead.
 
 THE WIZARD'S CHILD. 
 
 Gaily the skiff o'er the water speeds ! 
 
 For the maiden tliat guides the prow, 
 Is one that can manage the charmed steeds 
 
 That care not for bridle or blow. 
 And hark ! from the deep a chorus wild 
 
 Breaks on the mariner's ear ! 
 Sons of the sea, the wizard's child, 
 
 With her spells and her charms, is near.
 
 64 THE wizard's child. 
 
 II. 
 
 The stately ship comes on, comes on, — 
 
 A floating castle she ; 
 Of the heart of oak, there is not one 
 
 More proud of her strength need be ; 
 And her crew, though once so reckless and wild, 
 
 Are sobered, but know no fear ! 
 Sons of the sea, the wizard's child. 
 
 With her spell;^ and her charms, is near. 
 
 III. 
 
 The ship is toss'd on the boiling wave. 
 
 But rocks there are none to dread ; 
 Yet who can that brave vessel save ? 
 
 Not one ; — she's to ruin sped ! 
 For demons rejoice in their fury wild, 
 
 The screams of death to hear ! 
 Sons of the sea, the wizard's child. 
 
 With her spells and her charms, was near.
 
 THE MAGDALEN. 
 
 THE CHILD. 
 
 It was an hour of beauty, following 
 A day of glowing brilliance. Even 
 Bestow'd a temper'd light ; 'mid saffron clouds, 
 Spread ever and anon a purple streak, 
 Or crimson, merging into softer pink ; 
 And here and there a golden edge was seen 
 Bord'ring some fleecy semblance of a form ; 
 Flowers were shedding fragrance on the breeze, 
 And the bright dew-drops glitter'd di'mond-lijke. 
 Philomel pour'd the sweetest strain of music 
 Upon the listening air, wooing the rose, 
 
 K
 
 66 THK MAGDALEN. 
 
 Whilst the bright stream murmured approval. 
 
 Within a room, lighted by the pale moon, 
 
 A mother sat, watching a sleeping child 
 
 Of matchless beauty, as some passing smile 
 
 Would overspread its face, — reflection 
 
 Of the pure joy, that gladdens innocence. 
 
 The eyes were closed, and the long fringes 
 
 Rested on the cheek, where refreshing sleep 
 
 In deep vermilion traced its spell. 
 
 The silken hair fell into golden curls. 
 
 Disdaining all restraint ; the rounded arm 
 
 And ivory shoulder had cast aside 
 
 The coverlid, that was but lightly spread 
 
 To deck the couch. Love, health, and peace kept watch. 
 
 Whilst safely, in their care, repos'd the child. 
 
 YOUTH. 
 
 Some fleeting summers have sped quickly by, 
 And, close to yon pellucid fount, behold 
 A maiden, in whose loveliness some 
 Traces still remain of that child's beauty, 
 Which we left lock'd in the embrace of sleep,
 
 THE MAGDALEN. 67 
 
 As every passion likewise slept, 
 
 That now is waging war against her peace. 
 
 The pitcher, her excuse for being there, 
 
 Is placed beside the well unfilled, 
 
 Whilst she performs her toilet, consulting 
 
 The limpid waters. Her hair is gather'd 
 
 Into many plaits of curious weaving; 
 
 And the veil, that Syrian damsels wear, 
 
 Is laid aside awhile, that she may scan 
 
 Her beauty, which she deems a fitting prize 
 
 For higher station than the one she fills. 
 
 And sooth she may : few can indeed compete 
 
 With that fair pearl of beauty, Magdalen. 
 
 Fatal preeminence ! that teaches her 
 
 To scorn an equal mate, and to approve 
 
 Gay flatterers, that aim, with courtly wiles, 
 
 To woo her to her ruin. Hapless maid, 
 
 Turn from the honied poison of their speech ! 
 
 Chiefly from him for whom thine heart most pleads. 
 
 Alas ! too late, the fatal doom's embrac'd, 
 
 And vanity has bartered innocence.
 
 68 THE MAGDALEN. 
 
 THE FUGITIVE. 
 
 The revel is prepar'd : the rooms are deck'd 
 With flowers of rarest beauty ; mirrors 
 Of gold and silver shine in glittering 
 Brightness ; couches are rang'd conveniently 
 For the epicure ; in various folds 
 Falls the rich silken drapery, shading 
 The lofty hall ; fountains shower perfumes 
 And cooling through the rooms ; harp, tabret, 
 Timbrel, wake the wrapt soul to harmony ; 
 Whilst the symbolic measure of the dance. 
 In tortuous windings, traces some exploit 
 Well known to fame, or, in her mazy round, 
 Displays some scene drawn from domestic life. 
 A gay and glittering crowd assembles ; 
 But note the one, who, in her dazzling beauty. 
 Seems queen of ev'ry heart, of ev'ry eye ; 
 Courteous in her demeanour, gentle, 
 And graceful. She is the fiatter'd hostess. 
 Such the famous banquets Athens boasted. 
 And such Aspasia, when within her 
 Charmed and charming circle, wisdom mus'd
 
 THE MAGDALEN. (59 
 
 Upon her words, and eloquence acquir'd 
 
 Fresh powers from her mellifluous speech. 
 
 But Magdalene, despite the homage, 
 
 That meets her, follows her, or waits upon 
 
 Her steps, feels herself an outcast from the 
 
 Pale of chaste womanhood's community ; 
 
 And oft, when admiration, palling 
 
 By its profusion, had driven thought 
 
 Into the sanctuary of her heart. 
 
 Where mem'ry nurs'd remorse, and piety 
 
 Sorrow'd in secret o'er the fatal wreck 
 
 Of one, alas ! who felt that she was born 
 
 For nobler aims than thus to live despis'd. 
 
 The puppet of an hour, then pointed out, 
 
 By scornful virtue, as the fallen one, 
 
 She would resolve on reformation, 
 
 And a return to sinless poverty. 
 
 But whither could she turn .^ Who would accept 
 
 Her. deep contrition ? She must needs live on. 
 
 The slave of infamy, vice, and despair. 
 
 Her guests conversed of many subjects 
 
 Prevailing then as gossip, and, amongst 
 
 Others, of that hermit of the desert, 
 
 Who fed on locusts and the wild bee's store ;
 
 70 THE MAGDALEN. 
 
 His raiment cainel's hair, with leathern belt; — 
 
 The herald of the long-expected King. 
 
 Next was discuss'd the entrance of that King 
 
 Into magnificent Jerusalem ; 
 
 And then, with one accord, a laugh of scorn 
 
 Resounded at the lowliness of him 
 
 Whose train was poverty in ev'r}- grade, 
 
 Sin, and disease of body and of mind. 
 
 No couch was press'd by Magdalen that night ; 
 
 And when the morrow came, no trace was found 
 
 To point out her retreat. She had left all 
 
 The rich trappings of her sin, and taken 
 
 Nought, save the dress of the poor Syrian, 
 
 Which was her own, in days of innocence, 
 
 And one small box of precious ointment. 
 
 REFUGE. 
 
 The swelling numbers of that motly crowd 
 Proclaim some novelty to see or hear; 
 The outward ring of the augmenting circle 
 Strives to press closer to the centre, where 
 Stands one, in whom meekness is majesty,
 
 THE MAGDALEN. 71 
 
 Tempering bearly, that otherwise had been 
 Too dazzling and resplendent for the earth. 
 Round him are gathered his disciples, 
 Who, for conscience sake, have left all ties 
 To follow him, — the unacknowledged King, 
 The long-expected, yet rejected Son 
 Of Omnipotence,^ — Jesus, God and man ! 
 Infants are brought to crave his blessing. 
 But those about him order them away. 
 'Twas then that Mary Magdalen fell back. 
 For she had drawn near to the Saviour, 
 
 Though in all lowliness of heart, contrite 
 
 In spirit, as became her sinfulness. 
 
 But his voice of silvery sweetness — yet 
 
 Of such deep earnestness, that it could still 
 
 The troubled waves by raging tempests toss'd — 
 
 Broke on her ear in tuneful melody. 
 
 Forbid them not ! and, with kind caresses, 
 
 The Saviour raised them to his breast, 
 
 Making them coheirs cf redemption. 
 
 Oh ! there was hope and healing in the sound ; 
 
 And Mary follow'd him to Simon's house, 
 
 Knelt at his feet, and bath'd them with her tears, 
 
 Anointing them with the costly ointment.
 
 72 -. THE MAGDALEN. 
 
 Drying them with her silken tresses, that 
 
 Hung dishevelled o'er her brow, a veil 
 
 Hiding at once her blushes and her grief.- 
 
 All looks were bent in condemnation 
 
 On her, — all but his; and thejj in mei'cy, 
 
 Rested benignantly on the frail form, 
 
 That in deep abasement sought escape 
 
 From sin's enthralment, and so fled to him. 
 
 With nought to offer but her repentance 
 
 And love for him, founded on the bases 
 
 Of faith and gratitude unspeakable; 
 
 For he could trace, and did expound the deep 
 
 And troubled workings of her o'ercharg'd heart. 
 
 She heard the blessed words, " Great was thy sin, 
 
 But now thou art forgiven ! Love like thine 
 
 Will shield thee, and does purify thy soul 
 
 From pollution. Go, and sin no more."
 
 LINA. 
 
 " Das Herz nur schafft in siisser Sympathie, 
 Aus jedem Gegenstand sich Hochgenuss 
 Holt in dem Sturm der Liebe Morgengruss 
 Und sammelt Freuden aus des Lebens Miih." 
 
 SEUME. 
 
 Well do I remember crossing, for the first time, the low 
 marshy ground that leads to Harburg, and the dread I felt 
 at remaining in the carriage whilst ferried over the Elbe, 
 which seemed to fret and chafe at being confined within a 
 channel so narrow, and to threaten to burst its limits, and 
 glide onwards in undisturbed vastness. The tears, I had 
 shed, were only just dried ; for I had been listening to a 
 naiTation of the erection of the wooden bridge, which the 
 
 L
 
 74 LINA : A STORY. 
 
 French, to facilitate their own plans, had compelled the 
 sorrowing sons of the soil to execute ; its five miles length, 
 and the curses — " deep, not loud" — that attended its com- 
 pletion. I had been listening to all this, for the fiftieth 
 time, at least, and had each time entered into the feelings 
 of the enslaved workmen, with that commiseration an 
 English valuation of freewill alone can comprehend, when 
 we were accosted by a set of squalid wretches, with chains 
 attached to their ankles and wrists, and some of them even 
 dragging a log of wood chained to their leg. 
 
 " Oh ! Papa, what is the matter ? I thought the French 
 had long since left." 
 
 " Yes, my love, these are malefactors." 
 " But are we not in the dominions of England ?" 
 " We are ; but the king governs according to the laws of 
 the land, and they enforce this punishment, both as a befit- 
 ting degradation to those who forget what is due to them- 
 selve and their fellow-creatures, and as a warning to 
 others." 
 
 As we spoke, I was particularly attracted by a female 
 in the garb of a Hanoverian peasant, whose delicate form 
 but ill-accorded with her attire. Her eye, of a deep blue, 
 was unsettled and wandering, her pale cheek sunk and 
 hollow, yet it had evidently once been beautifully rounded.
 
 lina: a story. 75 
 
 Her brow was white as marble, and her golden hair parted 
 carelessly on it, yet with a something that said plainly, " It 
 was not always thus !" She had walked up to one of the 
 convicts, and was holding a cup of water to his lips with 
 one hand, whilst the other seemed unconsciously to play 
 with his badge of slavery. 
 
 "Poor Lina!" said the officer of the guard, as he ob- 
 served her. 
 
 Our carriage dashed on ; we had left the group, and soon 
 all that was sombre was forgotten in the joy of greeting. I 
 did not even recollect that it had struck me, people were 
 not quite so free as in our own dear England. 
 
 The day passed joyously ; and the next morning I was 
 delighted to find that the parade took place just before my 
 uncle's window, who resided next door to the commanding 
 officer. I was watching some of the military evolutions, 
 when I saw the peasant girl cross the street, and hurry to 
 fill her water pitcher ; she then seated herself, and watched 
 the soldiers with somewhat the air of a connoisseur, till 
 they dispersed, when she commenced the then popular 
 ballad, " Shoene Minka," in so sweet a strain, that it was 
 evident hers was not the untutored voice of a country girl, 
 although there is a natural sweetness pecuUar to the vocal
 
 76 lina: a story. 
 
 strains of a German peasant, but the taste of a skilful 
 musician run rather wild. 
 
 " Poor Lina !" ejaculated my uncle. 
 
 " Poor Lina !" repeated Mrs. Voss. 
 
 And " Poor Lina !" responded I. " But who is poor 
 Lina ?" 
 
 " Poor Lina was," said Mrs. Voss, " the pride of the 
 town, the admiration of the men, the envy of the women, 
 but the darling of every one : mothers cried her up as a 
 pattern for their daughters, fathers sought her as a bride 
 for their favourite sons, and youngsters laid aside their self- 
 sufficiency, and confessed that the chosen of Lina would be 
 an enviable being : such was Lina Liebhold. But the Lina 
 now before you, is a guilty, despised, nameless thing. 
 Poor Lina is a maniac. In vain did suitors, almost 
 without number, try to gain Lina's heart; they felt that 
 the polite and ever-ready attention afforded to their con- 
 versation, on other matters, was likewise accorded to their 
 declarations of love, and the very self-possession and ease 
 evinced, was the death-blow to their hopes and checked 
 expostulation : thus matters stood. 
 
 " The tender affection that Lina evinced towards her 
 sole surviving parent, the respected pastor of the town, was
 
 LINA : A STORY. 77 
 
 the only guarantee fur so lovely a being possessing ten- 
 derness or affection : but it was an ample one ; for whoever 
 witnessed her filial care and watchfulness, felt assured that, 
 when the sensibilities of that pure and gentle creature were 
 once warmed into existence, it would be with an intense- 
 ness and devotedness that neither time nor its changes 
 could affect. 
 
 " Frequent were now the reports of French success, and 
 French profligacy ; that is, the profligacy of a victorious 
 and elated soldiery. Lina, like the rest, trembled with 
 indignation and terror. 
 
 "At length the town was taken; the victors quickly 
 claimed homes in our houses, and our domestic circles 
 were unceremoniously entered by our enemies, although, 
 certainly, their gaiety and constitutional politeness formed 
 a flimsy veil for the excesses of martial life, which, how- 
 ever, the young and unwary did not always penetrate. 
 
 "Major de Belliste was quartered on our kind and hos- 
 pitable clergyman, and might have iitiposed on a more wary 
 temper than his unsuspicious host's ; a handsome person 
 set off that elegance of manners that is only acquired by 
 mixing with polished society; an extensive knowledge of 
 the world, assisted by a tolerable share of literary profi- 
 ciency, and a suavity of address peculiar to a soldier and
 
 78 una: a storv. 
 
 a Frenchman. Can it be wondered at that his host con- 
 sidered him a paragon, or that our poor, unsophisticated 
 Lina fancied him the beau-ideal imagination had so long 
 and so vainly pictured. 
 
 " Months, the dull, weary months of winter, wore slowly 
 and sadly away, for the fortune of the French prevailed : 
 the gay ball or masquerade only covered, could not conceal, 
 the horrors that awaited us. Slowly and sadly to all but 
 Lina. She was a changed being ; her interests in her 
 country, once so warm and lively, were gone ; she lived as 
 in one soul-absorbing dream ; it is true that her attentions 
 to her father were apparently the same, but, alas ! only 
 apparently: they were now the mechanical offerings of a 
 pre-engaged mind : true that the news of the latest victory 
 was hailed with as much impatience as ever, but it was no 
 longer a subject of sorrow that her countrymen succumbed; 
 it was rather a rejoicing that the companions of Belliste did 
 not disappoint his hopes and anticipations : true that her 
 appearance in the ballroom was seldom as ever, but she no 
 longer conversed unconstrainedly with her companions : 
 there was a line drawn between their sympaties and hers ; 
 she was either taciturn and sad, or unseasonably talkative 
 and elated. Meanwhile Belliste perfectly understood his 
 power, and the character of her who thus devotedly loved
 
 UNA : A STORY. 79 
 
 him : nor had the prepossessions and prejudices of her 
 father escaped him; he had often heard him express his 
 determination, that no child of his should ever marry a 
 soldier; and he was well aware that his patriotism would 
 place the union of his child with one of the enemies and 
 invaders of his country quite out of the question. Lina's 
 hopes were more sanguine : ' He knows your worth, and 
 will think better of it ; he will not refuse ; he knows not how 
 to deny my most trifling request; and will he even pause to 
 consider when he knows our demand involves the happiness 
 of two human beings ?' It was therefore resolved, that 
 Belliste should make his own and her wishes known to her 
 father, and join her in another hour on the banks of the 
 Elbe, to tell her her father's decision. 
 
 " The shadows of evening were fast darkening the avenue 
 of elms ; Lina had alternately seated herself, or paced up 
 and down for the last two hours ; to her it seemed an age ; 
 yet she looked forward to a certainty of success, and could 
 not have analyzed the intricate feelings that caused the 
 quick and unequal pulsation of her heart. Many a fond 
 and youthful pair had passed her, in this their favourite walk, 
 but she heeded them not, or if she smiled and nodded in 
 return to their salutation, it was forgotten as soon as over. 
 At length a solitary figure approached from one of the stone
 
 80 LINA : A STORY. 
 
 avches. Could it be her lover ? it was certainly an officer 
 in the French uniform, and like Belliste ; but that was 
 impossible, he moved so slowly, so heavily. Could her 
 father For the first time the probability of disap- 
 pointment presented itself. She leaned heartsick and faint 
 against the palisades. 
 
 " ' Lina !' She started. 
 
 " The voice was Belliste's, but how different to what she 
 had been accustomed to; it was broken, the words were 
 hurried, and almost inarticulate. 
 
 "'Lina! my fears were just; your father's resolution 
 is not to be shaken : nay worse, I am under promise not 
 again to enter his house, but to request the commandant to 
 remove me to other quarters. He knows not that I am 
 now speaking to you, but believes you to be in your own 
 apartment.' 
 
 " Poor Lina gazed at her lover in mute despair and sur- 
 prise ; the colour left her lips and cheeks, and the evening 
 breeze, now become cold and wintry, alone saved her from 
 fainting. 
 
 " ' Belliste, it cannot be ! it is impossible ! You have 
 not understood him. I will speak to him.' 
 
 " * It is in vain, Lina. I have said, I have tried all. 
 But one plan now remains — a private marriage. Promise
 
 LINA : A STORY. 81 
 
 to be mine, and then we shall have time to win his for- 
 giveness V 
 
 " ' Oh Belliste ! do not ask it ! What ! marry without 
 his sanction — his blessing ?' 
 
 " But why trace this scene of hypocrisy and delusion ? 
 Enough to say her promise was gained, the barriers of 
 dissimulation, disobedience, and ingratitude were passed, 
 and Lina returned to her father's dwelling, pledged to 
 desert and deceive him. 
 
 "A fresh supply of French troops were now daily ex- 
 pected. Major Belliste's removal from Liebhold's was 
 forgotten in the excitement. Nay, even the rumour that 
 he was quitting the town, called forth little speculation 
 excepting from some of Lina's ci-devant lovers. At length 
 the drawbridge was lowered for the admission of the ex- 
 pected troops. 
 
 "Major de Belliste left the next morning, and beside 
 him walked a young officer, whose uneven and trembling 
 steps proclaimed an invalid : no doubt was entertained by 
 the few townsmen who witnessed the departure, (for, being 
 only five o'clock, it was too early for many to be present,) 
 that he had entered with the party of the preceding 
 evening, as he was not known, and it had been too dark 
 to distinguish any one. 
 
 M
 
 82 lina: a story. 
 
 " Mildly, but splendidly, rose the sun on that same 
 morning, like ambitious dream to opening manhood, but 
 who can anticipate or portray its torrid midday, and its 
 scorching beams ? A horseman is hailed by the weary 
 sentinel, the guard called out, and an officer examines a 
 paper drawn hastily from the traveller's vest, who is then 
 placed under the guidance of a soldier; and, after brief 
 parley with one of superior rank, the clatter of his horse's 
 hoofs is heard waking with noisy tread the still sleeping 
 townsmen : he pauses at Liebhold's door, and, after some 
 delay in gaining admission, and satisfying old Margaretta's 
 curiosity, she hurries to awake her master. 
 
 " ' A-lack-a-day ! well, well ! weddings, and deaths, births 
 and christenings; so the world goes. I marvel my pretty 
 nursling is not roused. Such clatter ! such hubbub ! and 
 Master Goetze too, of all folks, to want spiritual conso- 
 lation ! This comes of racketting and witsharpening !' 
 
 " ' How now, Margaretta ! cross at being wakened ?' 
 asked the mild voice of Liebhold: 'Who is thy messenger ? 
 His purpose must be urgent, to excuse such noise at such 
 an hour. Has he disturbed our Lina.?' 
 
 "* No, Lina sleeps; Hght heart brings sound slumbers,' 
 said the dame : ' our messenger is Goetze's nephew ; his uncle, 
 at his last extremity, requests your prayers and comfort.'
 
 ~ lina: a story. 83 
 
 "'Goetze! poor Goetze ! is it even so!' exclaimed 
 Liebhold; 'thou whose genius proved thy bane, and thy 
 undoing; thy earthly fortune, but thy soul's dark snare. 
 Alas ! poor friend ! thou wouldst not take my counsel, 
 nor ask my presence, save in time of need !' 
 
 " A few minutes saw Liebhold retreading, at the stranger's 
 side, the road so lately traversed by him alone : for one 
 moment he had paused, at Lina's door, but all was hushed ; 
 and the father rejoiced at leaving his child in tranquillity and 
 comfort. Goetze lingered till midnight ; sometimes scenes 
 of his childhood would pass in troubled outlines before him, 
 then the high hopes and aspirations of his youth, then the 
 blight that avarice and licentiousness threw over the blos- 
 soms of promise, and groans of despairing agony, for a 
 life thus worse than wasted, thus vilified, would call for 
 Liebhold's prayers, his steady hope of pardon, and his 
 sympathy. 
 
 "Pass we over the last sad hour of religion and friend- 
 ship tending death : elevated in mind by the pure doctrines 
 he had just been illustrating, bowed in heart by the earthly 
 loss of a loved though erring friend, at an early hojir he 
 left the village to return to Harburg, — to his home, to his 
 child. Strange, meanwhile, had been the gossip of that 
 little town, unprecedented its excitement, even in those
 
 84 LINA: A STORY. 
 
 times of tumult, and mixed were the feelings of grief and 
 anger. Margaretta, becoming alarmed at Lina's non- 
 appearance, was still more dismayed at receiving no answer 
 to her summons, and finding the door of her apartment 
 locked, her fears for her darling caused her to call assist- 
 ance. The door was forced open, but the room found 
 tenantless, and a note, addressed to the bereaved parent 
 lay unsealed on the table ; an open window, communicating 
 with the garden, explained the mode of egress. Little 
 ceremony was observed in reading the note, as a clue to 
 this unexpected elopement ; and no delicacy prevented the 
 rapid circulation of its contents, which, as nearly as I can 
 recollect, were as follows : — 
 
 ' Condemn me not, kindest of fathers, if for a time, 
 I leave you childless. In a few days I shall return, 
 the happy wife of Belliste, and, thus, you, as well as 
 I, shall have gained; you, by having two children 
 instead of one, to love and honour you ; I, by pos- 
 sessing the only being that could ever win my 
 affections, without whom, life had been a blank, ex- 
 istence misery. Oh ! be prepared to pardon and 
 receive the husband of your 
 
 ' LiNA.' 
 
 " In the course of an hour, this startling intelligence had
 
 lina: a story. 85 
 
 run through every circle of the town, with all the additions 
 of improbability or exaggeration, that are ever added on 
 such occasions; but the general consternation was con- 
 siderably increased, when it was discovered that the wife of 
 Major Belliste had entered the town with the party of the 
 preceding evening: he had been two years united to her; 
 and she certainly was a beautiful creature, but as unlike 
 our Lina, as the dazzling midday sun to the mild evening 
 star; lofty, haughty, commanding: for a moment the rush 
 of disappointed feeling was expressed by the upraised eye 
 and starting tear, but only for a moment; the next, all 
 appearance of emotion was suppressed, and none would 
 have believed her to be the deserted wife, whose confidence 
 had been betrayed, and peace broken by him, whom she 
 had chosen as the protector of both. Messengers were dis- 
 patched, to overtake, and, if possible, to save Lina ; but 
 Belliste had so managed matters, that, a few miles from the 
 town, he had permission to leave the party, and direct his 
 steps whither fancy beckoned, unshackled by command : 
 this much was learned by applying to the commandant ; 
 and so many hours had intervened, that, of course, pursuit 
 was useless, and, according to our expectations, the pur- 
 suer's errand was a^bootless one. 
 
 " But to return to Liebhold. Was it grief for the loss of
 
 86 LINA : A STORY. 
 
 Goetze tbat caused the heaviness of heart lie experienced 
 on his solitary way, or was it that strange presentiment, the 
 very vagueness of which increases our dread and melan- 
 choly ? He thought of his quiet home, his peaceful study, 
 decked with the fresh flowers his child had culled to please 
 him ; he thought of that child, her affection, her goodness, 
 her beauty, and his heart bowed itself in humble gratitude 
 to that power that had thus blessed him ; he recalled the 
 sorrows of his youth, as the chastening from a father's 
 hand : in this mood he entered the town, too much ab- 
 sorbed in thought to notice that all shunned him ; for who 
 could be the first to wound that good old man's feelings ? 
 But the father's heart glowed warmly as he approached his 
 own loved door ; much lie wondered that the hand of affec- 
 tion had not opened it, and a slight shade of disappointment 
 crossed his brow at not hearing the cheering welcome from 
 the voice of filial love. Then came busy thought ; Surely 
 she is not ill ? Nay, the very tread of old Margaretta con- 
 jured up a thousand dreads, but not one thought approaching 
 the truth. 
 
 " ' Where is my child — my Lina ?' 
 
 " ' Alas ! Sir, all has been done, we fear !' 
 
 " The old man waited for no more, but rushed forward to 
 the room of his child, expecting to find her on a bed of
 
 LINA : A STORY. 87 
 
 sickness; all there was sad, cold, deserted. He turned 
 round for an explanation of the scene ; Lina's note was 
 handed to him ; he ran it hastily over, as we imagined, (for 
 I had entered the house with several others,) but he scarcely 
 appeared to comprehend it ; at all events, it afforded him no 
 comfort : the agony of his mind was expressed by the glassy 
 eye, convulsed lip, and livid brow :■ he tottered, and the 
 next moment beheld him lifeless at our feet. Vain were 
 the efforts of medical skill ; the fatal blow had been struck 
 by too dear a hand; the heart of that single-minded being 
 had received a mortal stab, and Providence, in kindness, 
 removed him from the scene of woe and wickedness that 
 followed. 
 
 " Summer again merged into autumn, autumn into winter, 
 still no tidings arrived of either Lina or Belliste. Madame 
 Belliste remained and visited in all the gay circles here ; she 
 seemed not only to have banished from her heart, but from 
 her mind, the ties that bound her to Belliste, and allowed 
 herself the full range of enjoyment, that a married French 
 woman claims exclusively. Meanwhile there were rumours 
 of treachery — double treachery ; for the French maintained 
 that some spies discovered and counteracted all their 
 designs, whilst the Hanoverians insisted that some one.
 
 88 lina: a story. 
 
 betrayed their most secret resolutions to the opposite party. 
 In this state of uncertainty, distrust became the order of 
 the day ; no one knew where the secret spy was hid. 
 
 " Matters had proceeded in this manner for nearly a fort- 
 night, when another detached company of French entered the 
 town, amongst which was a youth, whose uniform denoted 
 him to be aid-de-camp of some officer of distinction. His 
 age attracted but little attention, for it was customary to 
 see mere striplings high in command ; but there was a 
 languor and melancholy about the boy's appearance, that 
 seemed incompatible with his age, nation, or profession ; 
 it at once created sympathy, despite the general feeling of 
 distrust then abroad : no one suspected him. 
 
 " On the second evening after his arrival, a large party 
 was assembled in the public ballroom, when he entered, 
 and sauntering slowly forward, joined our national dance 
 the waltze ; he had chosen a former favourite companion of 
 Lina's for his partner, after some desultory remarks on the 
 size of the room, the brilliancy of the lights, and the 
 pleasures of the dance, their conversation turned on the 
 company assembled, in which he gave his opinion of the 
 young ladies present, in a manner that did credit to his 
 penetration and knowledge of character.
 
 LINA : A STORY. 89 
 
 (( ( 
 
 And who,' he demanded, after having concluded, ' who 
 is your chosen friend ? for amongst you ladies, I under- 
 stand, such an appendage is indispensable.' 
 
 " Lotte's dark blue eye filled with tears. ' I once thought 
 so,' she replied, 'but then, my chosen friend was the fa- 
 vourite of every one, none then thought that her father's 
 heart would be broken by her desertion, or that his grave 
 would be left untended and flowerless by her.' 
 
 " The youth reeled, and sank into a seat ; but in another 
 moment declared that it was only a passing spasm; the 
 heat of the room ; he had only just recovered from severe 
 illness, and still felt a lassitude attendant on it ; he would 
 take a turn in the open air, and try its recruiting power, 
 then return and claim his fair partner, as a proof that 
 he was not seriously indisposed. 
 
 "He hurried out of the room, but returned no more 
 to it that evening ; and when the revellers broke up, 
 a straggling party, in passing the churchyard, saw a 
 figure kneeling on poor Liebhold's grave. 
 
 "It was then two o'clock, and though the clear moon- 
 light shone over the whole churchyard, yet the cold was 
 intense, and they would, in all probability, have passed 
 on, had not curiosity led them to ascertain who could be 
 paying such an act of devotion at such an hour ; to their 
 
 N
 
 90 lina: a story. 
 
 surprise, they found the young French officer, who was 
 too much absorbed to notice them till they spol<e, when he 
 sprang up, and, liushiug past them without a word, darted 
 out of sight. Amazement stupified the beholders, and it 
 was not till the figure had vanished, that they found words 
 to express their astonishment. 
 
 " Curiosity was now thoroughly awake; the youth's steps 
 were waylaid, his conversation reconsidered, his conduct 
 watched with the nicest though most secret scrutiny ; but 
 during several days nothing transpired, and his observers 
 began to weary, when a fi'esh circumstance gave their 
 exertions a new impetus. This occurred at a masquerade. 
 It was no very difficult task to discover the youth, for he 
 appeared to have taken little pains to conceal his character, 
 a blue domino thrown over his regimentals, and a crape 
 vizor being all the difference he had made : he seemed to 
 endure rather than enjoy the scene before him, and had 
 thrown himself listlessly onto a couch nearly concealed by 
 drapery, whilst his spirit visited scenes of greater interest ; 
 but it was much doubted by those, who noticed the shade 
 on his brow, whether the reflections were pleasing, 
 
 " It was at this moment, that another domino approached, 
 and asked him, when he would depart ? at the same time 
 liolding out a hand to him on which was a signet ring.
 
 LINA : A STORY. 91 
 
 "'Now! directly!' was the reply, whilst the youth 
 sprang forward with animation. 
 
 " 'Caution,' rejoined the other speaker; first, I will show 
 you my credentials,* but not here, lest we should be ob- 
 served : notice my face ; is it familiar to you ?' 
 
 " The mask was raised, and the concealed witnesses dis- 
 covered the features of Madame de Belliste. The youth 
 shook his head as thougli in doubt. They were now 
 inclined to consider the whole as a masquerading trick, but 
 wished to see the denouement, when the next sentence 
 caught their attention. 
 
 "'You must have known old Liebhold, from the defer- 
 ence, I am aware, you pay to his memory : meet me an 
 hour hence, at his grave ; there shall you hear my dis- 
 closures.' 
 
 " The young soldier sank back upon the couch, but, be- 
 fore he could answer, Madame had mingled with the crowd. 
 In a ^ew moments he left the saloon; need I say that he 
 was followed ? He walked slowly along the path before- 
 mentioned; the Elbe lay peacefully beside him, and the 
 shadowy elms stretched their lifeless branches in rude 
 disorder ; occasionally he stopped and siglied, or, to judge 
 by the sobs, wept ; however, he pursued his way, passed the 
 parsonage, turned tljo gate, and was again beside Liebhold's
 
 92 una: a stoky. 
 
 grave : there he threw himself down, it would seem, iu 
 mental agony, his lips and brow pressed to the cold earth, 
 whilst to sobs succeeded groans of anguish : ' Father ! 
 pardon ! comfort !' Was it a prayer to £fn heavenly parent ? 
 It was remorse, but what could cause such deep remorse in 
 so young a being? But little time was accorded for re- 
 flection; another figure issued from the church porch. 
 'You are punctual, youth ! yet, ere we proceed, this for the 
 general's private ear; he knows the parties well. There 
 was once a high and beautiful maiden, who was wooed by 
 a young and valiant soldier ; from numbers he bore away 
 the prize ; perchance it was not love that prompted him, 
 but the wish still to be foremost in every pursuit ; it may be 
 too, that love had little share in the proud maiden's heart : 
 perhaps vanity had caused her to smile upon his suit ; no 
 matter, they were married ; and then came mutual jealousy, 
 competition, and bitterness ; they parted, he to fields of 
 strife, she to the haunts of gaiety and pleasure ; then came 
 the whisper of those who erst had envied her, meant for her 
 ear, saying. That he had burst her chain ; that she who had 
 gained, had not the power to retain him. No matter for the 
 name ; that anon. Dost mark me ?' 
 
 " A silent and rather impatient nod of assent was the 
 onlv answer.
 
 LINA : A STORY. 93 
 
 ii ( 
 
 Well, then, she resolved to disprove these whisperings, 
 and resume her sway, and for that purpose followed him : 
 he was in a small country town ; but there he had contrived 
 to find a being whom he loved ; with her he fled, the very 
 day of his wife's arrival, and married her. But did he 
 forget that he was already married ? Did he think, that 
 proud, haughty spirit, to which he was united, would forgive 
 such outrage ? 'Tis not love, but revenge, that now pursues 
 him ; his minion is in her power, — his own doom sealed, — 
 his honour blasted ! — a traitor and a spy, — his life a forfeit 
 to military law ; this has she effected, and these are thy 
 credentials. Before thee, his mistress, stands the wife, and 
 my narrative is the story of Belliste.' 
 
 " The silent churchyard rang with the frenzied shriek of 
 poor Lina, for, of course, you are aware that it was herself; 
 then came doubt of the terrible story related to her. 
 
 " ' Fiend ! monster ! it is false as thine own black soul ! 
 Away ! try me no further ! Father of mercies, defend my 
 bewildered senses ! save me from murder !' 
 
 " Something struck against the gravestone ; and the small 
 lantern, which Madame de Belliste had provided for the 
 conference, showed, in its rapid flight, the sword which poor 
 Lina had drawn in the moment of desperation, which, 
 however, at the same instant, she had flung from her in
 
 [)4 UNA: A STORV. 
 
 ■ 
 
 dismay. Oli ! theu, the thrilling laugh of diabolical revenge, 
 from her who had planned this scene, seemed to scare the 
 very inmates of the tombs. 
 
 " ' Is it thus thou strikest, partner of Belliste ? Nay, 
 then, my hand and heart had both been jfimier; for know, 
 that I alone possess the proofs that can condemn ye, and 
 to-morrow's sun sees the death of the traitor, lured hither 
 by my contrivance, in thy name.' 
 
 " She had seized the lantern as she spoke, and the next 
 moment all was dark and silent, save the sigh of despair. 
 
 " ' His mistress ! married ! could he thus deceive me ! 
 Ah ! now I remember all his inconsistencies. But he is in 
 danger, in her power. Now, Belliste, I'll prove thy guar- 
 dian angel, and then ' 
 
 " ' Yes, theu, our paths lie evermore apart !' 
 
 " She left the churchyard, and the bewildered watchers 
 were too much agitated with what they had seen and heard, 
 to wish to interfere with one whom they once dearly loved, 
 and now deeply commiserated. 
 
 "The next morning the muffled drum announced the 
 commencement of the procession that was to lead a military 
 delinquent to death ; numbers, as is ever the case, flocked 
 to the spot, to witness the execution, particularly when it 
 was announced that it was the brave General de Belliste,
 
 LINA : A STORY. 95 
 
 who had been proved a spy and traitor. He was led for- 
 ward by the guard, muffled in his regimental cloak ; his hat 
 shaded his brow, over which it was closely drawn ; he 
 appeared shrunk in stature; probably shame might depress 
 him ; but when the hat and cloak were removed, to the 
 surprise of all, an Hanoverian peasant girl stood in front of 
 the line. Her face deadly pale, but otherwise perfectly 
 calm and collected, few, even of the intimates of Lina, 
 would, in this dreadful moment, have recollected her. The 
 features were the same, but their entire expression was 
 altered. When the consternation had a little subsided, she 
 was removed, and what then became of her was involved in 
 doubt and mystery. 
 
 " At length the French evacuated the town ; the story of 
 Belliste was forgotten, or nearly so, although poor Lina 
 often obtained a sigh of commiseration. 
 
 *' One morning, the quiet little place was alarmed by the 
 appearance of two well known officers of police from Han- 
 over, where a large forgery had been discovered. The 
 search of the officers of justice proved successful, and the 
 criminals were taken; one of them, a female, pematurely 
 closed her existence by means of poison, concealed in her 
 bracelet. A few days after, when the convicts were led 
 forth to their daily task. General de Belliste was seen.
 
 9(j LIN A : A STORY. 
 
 diagging his chain, amongst the number, reft of all disguise. 
 Those who had known him in the zenith of his power, so 
 short a time before, now either passed him unnoticed, or as 
 a loathed and hateful being. One only daily visits him. 
 She had returned from an evidently long journey, though 
 none could tell whither that wretched one had directed her 
 wanderings ; for on her first interview, after her return, with 
 him, who had blasted her peace, her reputation, and her 
 principles, and since she had placed herself, by means 
 of a soldier devoted to her interests, in his place of punish- 
 ment, it was perceptible that intelligence, — that brightest, 
 noblest gift of heaven, — had lied, and nothing remained but 
 the form of the once courted and beloved Lina Liebhold. 
 
 " No persuasion could cause her to change the peasant's 
 garb in which she gained admittance to Belliste, on that 
 memorable occasion. She goes and seats herself beside 
 him, shares with liim the food with which pity plentifully 
 supplies her, and always fills her pitcher with fresh water 
 from the spring, to carry to him : she has no recollection of 
 any one but him ; when he is within the keep, she seeks 
 her father's grave, — her only resting place, from which 
 neither force nor entreaty can compel her : how one so ten- 
 derly nurtured can endure such hardships, is an enigma ; 
 l)ut she seems neither to feel privation, nor to seek for
 
 lina: a story. 97 
 
 comfoi't : she is like one of the unburied of old, a wanderer 
 on the earth, whose peace and quiet can only be ensured, by 
 entering the narrow limits of the tomb. Her snatches of 
 songs pierce the very soul. Listen ! — 
 
 " ' I'll think of thee love, when the sun rides on high ; 
 I'll think, when he's sinking beneath the blue sky : 
 No more dare I trust thee, thou'st broken my heart ; 
 Till death shall unite us, my love, we must part.' 
 
 " Lina's voice still sounded at a distance, as she hurried 
 forwards to join the convicts, unconscious of tlie com- 
 miseration she elicited." 
 
 Though I dare not presume to think that this little sketch 
 will have any attractions, excepting for the most partial 
 friends, yet to many the circumstance will be matter of 
 interest, as the events are, I dare say, still remembered; 
 and, though delicacy, to surviving friends, has caused me to 
 change the names and stage of the actors, yet I have no 
 doubt that many will affix both aright. 
 
 o
 
 THE AUCTION OF HEARTS. 
 
 TO CURIOSITY DEALERS, AND TO LOVERS OF VIRTU. 
 
 TO BE DISPOSED OF BY PUBLIC AUCTION, 
 
 T> ELICS, ANTIQUITIES, CURIOSITIES, and SINGULAR 
 -■-*' PETRIFACTIONS, &c., by order of the Assignees, Proprietors, 
 and Shareholders. — The funds resulting from the sale are, after all 
 expenses have been paid, to be appropriated tp charitable purposes. 
 
 N.B. Several Cases of Brains on hand, stuffed, smoked, dried, or 
 otherwise prepared, and in a state of high preservation. 
 
 To be sold, all duty free, 
 Sev'ral hearts, in cases pack'd ; 
 Eligible property, 
 And by great inducements back'd. 
 Number one : this heart has been 
 At least a dozen times exchang'd, 
 And has great experience seen, 
 For it much abroad has rang'd.
 
 THE AUCTION OF HEARTS. 99 
 
 What no bidder ? Pray begin ! 
 Yes, Ma'am, any thing will do ! 
 The case is old, and somewhat thin ; — 
 These rich trappings — all shall go 
 To enfold it. Ah I in price, 
 Now 'tis rising ten to one ! 
 Add more tinsel in a trice — 
 Going to youth and beauty — gone ! 
 
 II. 
 
 Here are some both crack'd and broken, 
 But the cases well preserv'd ; 
 Sev'ral for this lot have spoken. 
 Wishing it to be reserv'd. 
 But the owners all protest. 
 For the markets are so low, — 
 Sinking, it must be confess'd. 
 Daily. Place them in a row. 
 What ! no bidder ? This, Sir, is 
 A veteran belle's with empty purse ; 
 That, a fortune-hunters ; this, 
 A sentimentalist's, — no worse ;
 
 100 THE AUCTION OF HEARTS. 
 
 This a simple girl's, who lov'd 
 A man that did no money own, — 
 Poor silly thing. They're all well prov'd. 
 Going — to sell again — gone, gone ! 
 
 III. 
 
 Here are some that have been order'd 
 For this market, — hard as flint ; 
 Richly are their cases border'd, — 
 They've envelopes worth a mint. 
 Here's the first, a spendthrift courtier ; 
 Think of this time-server's worth. 
 Or that usuring money-hoarder, 
 A parvenu, that sneers at birth, 
 Still no bidder ? They're indeed 
 Cheap as promises, I vow ! 
 
 Quoting an acknowledg'd creed, 
 
 The best hearts are most heartless now. 
 
 Useful, that, a nonchalant ; 
 
 This is selfish, cold as stone ; 
 
 That, deceitful but gallant, 
 
 Going — for general use — gone, gone !
 
 TO A FAVORITE FRIEND, ON THE BIRTH OF 
 
 AN INFANT. 
 
 Hark ! are those sounds of joy upon the silence stealing ? 
 
 They are, in gratitude, a mother's heart appealing 
 
 To human sympathies, although no utt'rance tells 
 
 The deep-felt bliss that in her bosom dwells ; 
 
 O'er her unconscious babe, in rapture, bending, 
 
 The earnest prayer to heaven's high dome ascending : 
 
 Blest spirits, bear unto the throne of grace 
 
 The rapturous thought that words can scarcely trace ; 
 
 And cherub messengers, in whispers mild. 
 
 Bear gracious promise to the sleeping child.
 
 102 LINES TO A FAVORITE FRIEND, 
 
 I. 
 
 Baby mine, the sorrow's over. 
 
 And I clasp thee to ray breast, 
 Seek some likeness to discover, 
 
 Hush, and fondle thee to rest ; 
 Gaze upon thee, helpless creature, 
 
 With delight but mothers know, 
 Trace in each unconscious feature 
 
 Claims on love, defying woe. 
 
 II. 
 
 Angels round us thou seest hover, 
 
 Hymning God in hallow'd lays ; 
 In thy smile, too, I discover 
 
 That thou hearest sounds of praise. 
 Gladdening are their joyous numbers. 
 
 Heaven's own charm about thee wound. 
 For their whispers soothe thy slumbers 
 
 With the dear, familiar sound.
 
 ON THE BIRTH OF AN INFANT. 103 
 
 III. 
 
 Let me join thee then, in spirit, 
 
 Kneeling at the throne of love, 
 Praying that thou mayst inherit 
 
 Christ's reward, in heaven above. 
 Wakest thou ? The spell is broken ! 
 
 Still, my baby, I can trace 
 Promises, in whispers spoken, 
 
 In the smile that lights thy face.
 
 BOLIVAR'S BRIDAL AND CONSPIRACY. 
 
 The old baronial hall was decked 
 In splendovn-. All the pageantry of yore 
 Was in request ; the ancient tapestry, 
 With gorgeous colors and grim figures, 
 In full display, niarshall'd to other days, 
 That live in story or in memory. 
 The castellain, in pride, recounts the deeds 
 Of Toroe's heroes, to the listening bands 
 Of servitors, that, in state liveries. 
 And all the pride of holiday costume, 
 Deign carelessly to listen. Maidens, too,
 
 bolivar's bridal and conspiracy. 105 
 
 Are twining garlands, tastefully disposed, 
 
 Or giving, here and there, the fairy touch, 
 
 That only practis'd female taste bestows ; 
 
 And, ever and anon, one joins the group 
 
 With beaming face, fresh from the toilet, where 
 
 She has contemplated her own beauty, 
 
 Enrich'd by ornaments that damsels love. 
 
 Here are whispered words of magic sense. 
 
 And glances, conjuring roses into 
 
 The pale cheek ; and sighs, that meet response 
 
 In echoing sighs, when words cannot convey 
 
 The deep intensity of love and hope. 
 
 Orange flowers, in rich profusion, 
 
 Scatter their perfume, and the bridal wreath, 
 
 Of snowy whiteness, claims their choicest buds. 
 
 Music is swelling on the breeze, — music 
 
 That, in rich and flowing numbers, speaks of 
 
 Glory, of victory, hope, and renown. 
 
 It pauses, and a gentler strain, floating 
 
 In melody, dwells on the list'ning air.
 
 106 bolivar's bridal and conspiracy. 
 
 THE BRIDE'S SONG. 
 
 I. 
 
 Another home is henceforth mine ; 
 But ne'er shall I forget 
 These hlissful scenes, — they will entwine 
 With happiest thought ; and yet 
 Methinks this home less lov'd would be, 
 If, Bolivar, I lov'd not thee. 
 
 II. 
 
 Dear are these bowers ; I lov'd to stray 
 Amidst their haunts, and court their shade, 
 Loitering here the livelong day. 
 Within their cool green precincts laid : 
 And fancy, even then, to me, 
 Spoke, my own Bolivar, of thee.
 
 bolivar's bridal and conspiracy. 107 
 
 III, 
 
 My only love, how dear are they 
 
 I ever dearly lov'd before ! 
 
 Ah ! for thy sake, I e'en must say, 
 
 I love all human beings more . 
 
 Then cease contention, let war cease ! 
 
 Bolivar's aim be love and peace ! 
 
 Mute are those tuneful notes ! the lute's last sound 
 Has mingled sadly with the murm'ring breeze 
 That moans despondingly amidst the grove. 
 In joyous and invigorating sounds, 
 Exultingly, the martial notes reply. 
 She is his own L the young and ardent hero - 
 Claims not a wish beyond ! 
 
 Forgotten is 
 The thirst for glory, the desire for fame. 
 She is his own ! heaven on earth is his. 
 Their home a paradise, — at least so thought 
 The noble and heroic Bolivar.
 
 108 bolivar's bridal and conspiracy. 
 
 And she — she dream'd not that beyond that pale 
 There could be tyranny, hatred, revenge, 
 And all the thousand ills of slavery. 
 Thus autumn moons sped by, and wintry ones 
 Pass'd all unheeded ; spring came in dalliance. 
 And summer in glowing beauty. 
 
 Alas ! 
 That home like this should pay the penalty 
 Of man's primeval dereliction ! 
 Oh ! what an earthly paradise was theirs ! 
 And, to crown all, she only liv'd for him ! 
 Friends ! bear with me awhile, I will be brief; 
 Or, — for a brother is recounting 
 A much-beloved sister's early death, — 
 Refer you, for continuance of my story. 
 Unto the patriot I am describing. 
 Deep silence reigned throughout the hall. 
 For he, thus called upon, was striving with 
 Mem'ry and all the vivid images 
 That retrospect call'd up. 
 
 At length he spoke. 
 It was an even fairer than the mind 
 Of poet ever fabled, or limner, 
 With happiest tints, could give to view ;
 
 bolivar's bridal and conspiracy. 109 
 
 The birds had warbled their last notes of praise, 
 And all was husli'd ! 
 
 'Twas nature's dreaminess. 
 The bridal pair stood at the lattice, 
 Noting the one pale star of silv'ry lustre 
 That shone and twinkled in the deep blue sky. 
 Her brow was whiter than the drifted snow, 
 O'er which her wavy tresses floated free. 
 All unconstrained by band or by bandeau ; 
 Her eyes beamed with a foreign lustre, 
 Though bright their own. 
 
 The glow upon her cheek 
 Was like the damask rose, deeply blushing 
 To hear its beauty praised. 
 
 Her fairy hand 
 Pressed his with burning touch. 
 
 Spare me, friends ! 
 The morrow saw her shrouded for the tomb. 
 And what was patrimony then to him, 
 Thus dreadfully bereft ? What was, henceforth, 
 The home to him that she had used to grace ? 
 He fled, but rested not : returns to you, 
 To free you from oppression's bondage, — 
 To dedicate his energies and hopes,
 
 110 bolivar's bridal and conspiracy. 
 
 With every earthly wish for happiness, 
 Unto your cause ! 
 
 Think ye ambition 
 Can have charms for him, whose thought lie buried 
 Beneath the sod where sleeps his early love ? 
 Rouse, brothers, rouse ! shake off your lethargy ; 
 Unite, be firm, for home and liberty ! 
 Yes, ye have homes to fight for, — household gods — 
 Partakers, too, of all your hopes and fears; but 
 Nought has Bolivar in common with you, 
 Save hatred of tyranny, and deep love 
 Of country and humanity. Doubt ye ? 
 Waver ye yet ? 
 
 Can ye be so heartless, 
 So dead to claims that should arouse the brave ? 
 Shame on you, then, for I am Bolivar, 
 Whose hopes, for your emancipation. 
 Thus perish, like the rest that he has cherish'd. 
 None answer'd this appeal ; with downcast looks, 
 That spoke the wish for change, but not the high, 
 And daring purpose that ensures success, 
 Th' averted gaze was rivetted to earth, 
 Ashamed of its own unsteadiness, 
 That plainly spoke tlie vacillating mind.
 
 bolivar's bridal and conspiracy. Ill 
 
 p 
 
 Ye might have heard the rustling of a leaf, 
 Stirred by the lightest summer zephyr, 
 Within that hall, where deepest feelings strove 
 For mastery. 
 
 Suddenly, noiselessly, 
 The drapery was thrown aside, that hid 
 The curtain'd entrance. 
 
 A form appear'd. 
 So matchless, in. all attributes of grace, 
 And loveliness, that the conspirators. 
 Whose hands instinctively had sought their dirks, 
 Drew back in admiration. 
 
 Scarcely 
 Had fifteen summers lent the maid their bloom, 
 And childhood, with its brightly gay contentment, 
 Had not quite ceded to youth's dreams of hope ; 
 Flush'd was her cheek, and buoyant was her step ; 
 Her voice, albeit, used to falter at 
 The sound of its own sweetness, now was firm, 
 Or, if it trembled, 'twas with indignation. 
 *' Shame on you, chiefs," she said, " is this the zeal 
 And patriotic virtue ye display } 
 Is this your love of liberty and home ? 
 Here, then, a simple girl will go before.
 
 112 bolivar's bridal and conspiracy. 
 
 And show you all what patriots should do !" 
 
 Advancing to the centre of the group, 
 
 She threw the ringlets from her burning brow, 
 
 And, kneeling at the feet of Bolivar, 
 
 Thus spoke aloud, 'midst the admiring throng. 
 
 "Record my vow, brave chief! bear wilnes, friends ! 
 
 I thus devote myself, and all my hopes. 
 
 My thoughts and actions, to my country's good. 
 
 I will not waver in this holy cause, 
 
 Nor let the timid fancies of my sex, 
 
 Or aught that may be deemed repugnant, 
 
 Or contrary to custom, weigh with me ; 
 
 Not death itself shall turn my purpose. 
 
 Henceforth I live but for my native land !" 
 
 She rose, and one loud burst of acclamation 
 
 Greeted the heroine. Triumphant 
 
 Was the flag of liberty. All joined the cause, 
 
 For which La Pola did not plead in vain.
 
 MIRIAM'S ADDRESS TO MOSES. 
 
 When, to punish her refractory spirit, she was seized with leprosy. 
 
 Brother, bethink thee; for there was a time 
 
 When I did cradle thee within these arms, 
 
 Pillow thee on this bosom, with these lips. 
 
 So loathed now, did kiss thine infant cry 
 
 From thy dear mouth, that no strange listener, 
 
 O'erhearing, might betray the precious life. 
 
 So anxiously, for months, preserv'd. 
 
 I'm the same Miriam, brother, that did plead 
 Q
 
 114 Miriam's address to moses. 
 
 Unto king Pharaoli's daughter, whose tale 
 
 Beguil'd the royal maiden of her tears, 
 
 And she, in holy pity, smil'd on thee, 
 
 And bade rae seek a fitting Hebrew nurse. 
 
 Moses ! brother ! thou from fierce Nilus sav'd, 
 
 I am, though chang'd, how chang'd time, unsparing time 
 
 Alone can tell, that Miriam still, who 
 
 Sought thy mother and mine, that she might claim 
 
 The treasur'd charge with heartfelt thankfulness. 
 
 Then plead for me, as I have done for thee ! 
 
 Clear me from this fell plague-spot by thy pray'rs. 
 
 In dust and ashes, I do own my sin. 
 
 To Him whose name we may not even speak ! 
 
 With thee thy sister pleads, thy childhood's nurse. 
 
 Thy playfellow, thy once-lov'd Miriam ; 
 
 A loathsome outcast, turn not thou away ! 
 
 I did not turn from thee in hour of need. 
 
 Ah ! brother, dost thou weep, and weep for me ; 
 
 Stern ruler of a stiffneck'd, stubborn race .'' 
 
 Balm are those tears, remedial-gifted, 
 
 The precious drops that still attest thy love.
 
 NOTHING. 
 
 " Quand on eut bien consid^r^ 
 L'interet du public, celui de la patrie 
 Le resultat enfin de la supreme cour 
 Fut, de condamner la Folie 
 A servir de guide a I'Ainour." 
 
 LA FONTAINE, 
 
 Come ! come, granted ; so far the road is barren and sandy, 
 but proceed till we reach the green knoll that invites us so 
 eloquently to its dehghtfal freshness, and the shade its 
 clustering trees afford. The arid plain is passed. How 
 the murmuring rill cools the air, and, as it fills the basin it 
 has hollowed for itself, reflects, in its silvery expanse, the 
 clear blue sky. Hark ! the warbling thrush, the tuneful 
 linnet, and song-loving lark join in hymning the beauteous
 
 116 nothing: an historical tale, 
 
 creation they enjoy ! See, the smoke, in graceful circles 
 rising, tells of some rural residence. Another turn in the 
 path, and lo ! it stands before us. Who dreamt of this 
 oasis ? The house, — it will barely admit of the terra, and 
 strictly speaking we must say, the cottage, — is not large, 
 but it is not inconveniently small, and the trees that sur- 
 round it form a delightful screen, whilst they are sufficiently 
 distant fi'om it neither to cause damp nor darkness, — two 
 evils especially to be eschewed when we would combine the 
 " sound mind with the sound body." The garden ! oh ! 
 what a cheerful yet dreamy spot; the flowers exhaling 
 sweets to tempt the humming bees that now flit in mazy 
 circles through the balmy air, now, rocked within the 
 chalice of the flower, collect the golden treasure, and anon, 
 in busy thrift, deposit it within the hives that are ranged 
 trimly and neatly beneath the bending pear-tree. One peep 
 into the cottage. The small square entrance, with its pretty 
 figures, in keeping with its size, placed in their niches. 
 Ceres, ere Proserpine was stolen ; Apollo bestowing light, 
 and having all the healing art at hand ; Dian, in huntress 
 guise ; the sculptured urn that occupies the centre. Cases 
 of birds — some from our own climes, others, whose beautiful 
 colours proclaimed them from the tropics — are ranged on 
 one side; on the other, Neptune's kingdom has been laid
 
 nothing: an historical tale. 117 
 
 under contribution, and shells in beautiful diversity attract 
 the eye; and, again, plants, foreign and native, claim 
 attention, whilst coral, petrified specimens, and various 
 spars, are placed in clusters. The room to the right opens 
 into a greenhouse- filled with shrubs and flowers, choice on 
 account of their delicious fragrance, but not boasting either 
 the fashion of the season, or the expensive value of the rare 
 bulb so dear to Dutch fancy. A piano, guitar, and music- 
 stand told something of the prevailing taste. 
 
 The pictures with which the room was decorated gave 
 further insight into the characters of their possessors. The 
 Holy Family, a beautiful Madonna, the Last Supper, the 
 Gracchi, Cincinnatus chosen Dictator, the ostracism of 
 Aristides, Epaminondas elected as scavenger, Hermann 
 after the defeat of Varus, Faust and his companions 
 printing. Bookcases, well-stored and conveniently ar- 
 ranged, withdrew the eyes even from these subjects of 
 interest, to present their own pictures to the mind. 
 
 The interstices contained pier glasses, resting on marble 
 slabs, supporting urns and vases stored with scents and 
 ai'omatic compounds. 
 
 The sofas and chairs bespoke both comfort and elegance. 
 Seated on an ottoman was a young mother giving a lesson 
 to her boy. She was beautiful, and the cherub beside her
 
 118 nothing: an historical tale. 
 
 might well engage a mother's love, or claim her pride. 
 Her mode of tuition was novel. From the subject before 
 her, she was describing the engagement of Faust, the 
 persecutions he was subjected to in consequence, and the . 
 blessings which the promulgation of his art diffused. 
 
 " My dearest mother," said the boy, " what is super- 
 stition .?" 
 
 " A monster, my boy, with as many heads as the hydra 
 we were talking of yesterday." 
 
 " But," said the child, " not fabulous as the hydra ; at 
 least you said there were no real hydras, mamma. What 
 is superstition like ?" 
 
 " Like, my child ? it puts on various disguises which can 
 scarcely be penetrated. Sometimes it comes at timid, 
 stealthy pace, veiled in the robe of charity ; at others, 
 fierce and threatening, assumes the garb of zeal; again, it 
 mingles with the family circle ; and now thunders from the 
 pulpit." 
 
 " Still, mamma, I should not know it, fi'om what you 
 say." 
 
 " My dear boy, you would but be like many older and 
 wiser men. But mark what I tell you. When you hear 
 the opinions of other men, and they do not coincide with 
 those you possess, draw no harsh conclusions ; but if they
 
 nothing: an historical tale. 119 
 
 attack what you, from principle, believe, state it firmly, and 
 admit no compromise on your part. Seek no discussions 
 on religion, it is a holy subject; call ever to mind that 
 froth only floats on the top and is easily blown aside. 
 Learn to reverence what is obscure in our faith ; remember, 
 finite capacities cannot attain infinite wisdom ; and science 
 is making new^ advances every day, but she has not yet 
 fathomed all the mysteries of this nether world ; how, then, 
 can she soar to the heights immortality and ubiquity can 
 alone be supposed to comprehend and survey ? Be a friend, 
 in kindness, to all men. Rail not against human passions, 
 but liiake them subservient to the high purposes for vrhich 
 they are given, — those of ennobling our nature, and raising 
 us to the sphere we are here intended to fill. Leave not 
 one. talent uncultivated that nature has bestowed. Keep a 
 strict account of time, and waste it not; it is lent on 
 interest, and wo to those who cannot answer for its ex- 
 penditure. Be true to thyself Remember the highest 
 authority gave the command to ' love one another,' as the 
 summary of all religion. We cannot beUeve that he who 
 uses sectarianism or politics to inflame men's passions, 
 fulfils this command; and, though we may not judge, lest 
 we be judged, yet we may avoid what we disapprove. 
 These, my boy, are my views of religion. My ideas of
 
 120 nothing: an historical tale. 
 
 superstition are, that it hardens the heart, and contracts 
 the understanding, and is so closely allied to infidelity, 
 that the atheist and unbeliever is most heavily fettered by 
 it. 'Twas superstition that caused the persecution of the 
 holy and spotless Jesus, although it was a tool in an 
 Almighty hand ; superstition has shed all the blood spilt 
 in religion's name; and 'tis superstition that still would 
 quench the flame of knowledge which true religion nour- 
 ishes. Oh ! 'tis a hideous imp ! and never forget a clause 
 in thy prayers that thou mayst be protected from it." 
 
 Such, and I have entered at length into these particulars, 
 were the lessons inculcated by the mistress of the cottage 
 described, and they sank deeply into the heart and mind 
 of her young listener ; they were not pursued as I have 
 detailed them, but as opportunity offered, and the frequency 
 of recurrence, added to the affectionate earnestness with 
 which the fond mother impressed them on the docile mind 
 she so carefully trained, caused them at length to dwell in 
 his remembrance, as part and parcel of his recollection, and 
 as ideas that seemed so natural, that he knew not when 
 they had occurred to him, or that such thoughts were the 
 inculcations of another. Bodily exercise was not for- 
 gotten ; and, as the boy grew older, his frame became wiry, 
 and he was possessed of that hardy strength that was not
 
 NOTHING : AN HISTOEICAL TALE. 121 
 
 SO much indicated in his appearance, as evident in his 
 indifference to fatigue, particularly in mental exertion. 
 There was an eloquence in his ideas that arose from the 
 classical allusions his mother so often, and so appropriately, 
 introduced. 
 
 Some of the ancients, — the Athenians, I believe, — con- 
 sidered eloquence to be best acquired from women. 
 
 The logical discussions with his father required his full 
 attention, and he was no mean logician at an early age. 
 As a mathematician, and as a linguist, he excelled. 
 
 Thus years passed at the cottage, till Moritz was sixteen, 
 when it was considered time for him to enter on the life of 
 a student. He went to Leipzig ; and the novelty of the life 
 he led, the attractions of the society he was introduced to, and 
 the learning he met with, formed a charm from which he 
 dated a new epoch of existence. The student's life was not 
 without its attractions ; the companionship, with its initiation, 
 and the brotherhood to which he was pledged, the wit and 
 joviality of their meetings, were all calculated to maintain a 
 hold on the ardent 'temper of a youth of sixteen : on the 
 other hand, the occasional coarseness of their jests, their 
 quarrelsome attacks on those who had not proved their 
 prowess, and their practical jokes, elicited a degree of 
 disgust that withheld him from ever becoming a participator
 
 122 NOTHING : AN HISTORICAL TALE. 
 
 in their orgies. A dignified composure, and calm perse- 
 verance in his own plan of proceeding, bespoke him so 
 impervious to the attacks levelled against him, that he soon 
 found himself at liberty to join their pleasures, whilst he 
 avoided their excesses. 
 
 Moritz Sinnreich made rapid advances, and very soon 
 ensured himself not only the respect of his fellow-students 
 but of all the professors, and he was admitted as a welcome 
 guest, instead of being shunned, as most of the other 
 students are, in family circles. He soon derived advan- 
 tages from his position. Although much younger than most 
 of the students, he had gained an influence amongst them 
 that rendered his decisions of no little consequence. Be- 
 tween them and the professors, his known rectitude and 
 placability rendered him a successful mediator; and his 
 intercourse with some of the pleasantest and most accom- 
 plished families in the neighbourhood preserved him from 
 that rust of demeanour, that so frequently adheres, through 
 life, to a German man of letters. 
 
 Popular as Moritz was, there was one who, unlike all 
 others, met him in no kindly spirit ; this was Goetz von 
 Qualen. Goetz had been educated on his ancestral estates, 
 and, unlike Moritz, had derived few ideas from the cul- 
 tivated taste of female refinement. Allowed to run wild
 
 nothing: an historical tale. 123 
 
 till it was time to place him in the hands of a tutor, the 
 only attention the busy housewifery of Fran von Qualen 
 permitted, was to see him duly washed, combed, fed, and 
 impressed with a full idea of the family importance and 
 dignity of the ancient and empty-headed Von Qualens. 
 
 Goetz, by dint of perseverance in the precepts this 
 aristocratic lady gave him as a rule of conduct, became 
 as overbearingly impertinent as the greatest stickler for 
 patrician impudence could exact, and came, brimful of the 
 currant qualities such a character ever possesses, to finish a 
 nominal course of study at the university. It was not long 
 before he and Moritz came in collision. 
 
 A commerz was held incomplete without our hero could 
 be there, and an inauguration would almost have been 
 deemed invalid without his presence ; but he always with- 
 drew before the riotous part of the entertainment began. 
 It was on such an occasion that Goetz, who was early in 
 the evening under the dominion of certain potations, in 
 which he freely indulged, commenced an attack on Moritz, 
 who parried it with considerable spirit, and perfect good 
 humour : but his antagonist did not allow it to rest there ; 
 he proceeded to vituperate, and at length attacked the 
 character of Moritz' father, whom he designated a pilfering 
 miller. Moritz was fast losing temper, but reminded his
 
 124 NOTHING : AN HISTORICAL TALE. 
 
 opponent that, although at liberty to use what language he 
 might consider proper of himself, he should not permit the 
 name of his parent to be used irreverently. 
 
 " Then prevent it," shouted Goetz ; " again I repeat, 
 that thy father is a pilfering miller, thy mother an ignorant 
 peasant, and thou a base-born hind." 
 
 Moritz rose from the table, but was instantly surrounded 
 by his friends, who endeavoured to accommodate matters, 
 and to prevail on him to stay; whilst others essayed to 
 remove Goetz, who, however, in a moment reached Moritz, 
 and dealt him such a blow that his eyes flashed fire. All 
 voices were now raised in clamour, and a general demand 
 for an immediate settlement of the affair ensued. 
 
 " Silence," said Moritz, " silence, friends ; you do not 
 doubt me ! the challenge should come from me ; but I give 
 it not ; I reserve my display of courage for the time when 
 some call of duty shall demand it. Do not mistake me," 
 he pursued, as he heard the muttered denunciation no one 
 would openly express, and saw many of the surrounding 
 countenances turned coldly from him, " do not brand me 
 with the name of coward, because I own that I dare not 
 challange that unmanly brawler. Believe me, 'tis not the 
 base fear that you would give me credit for ; 1 dare not 
 so wantonly provoke Almighty wrath as to offer to deface
 
 NOTHING : AN HISTORICAL TALE. 125 
 
 His image, which would alike occur, whichever of the two 
 should fall ; I dare not, by pernicious example, tempt others 
 to set the laws of God and man at defiance ; I dare not 
 sport with the life Providence bestowed, and has alone a 
 right to resume ; but I dare to maintain the principles I 
 espouse, and, if I have been misunderstood, I dare patiently 
 await an opportunity of righting myself." 
 
 Moritz quitted the room as he spoke ; and from that 
 moment there were two parties formed, — one clinging to 
 Goetz, and taking every opportunity to annoy the adherents 
 of Moritz, — the other ranging under the conduct of Sinn- 
 reich, and emulating his example as much as possible. 
 Goetz reckoned amongst his followers the reckless, the 
 licentious, and most of the young nobles ; many of them 
 possessing talents of no mean order, and unbounded am- 
 bition to be considered the most ridiculously mischievous 
 and riotous companions that ever his Majesty's lieges need 
 dread encountering. Moiitz classed under his banner the 
 studious and thoughtful, but, at the same time, the poorer 
 and drudging part of the fraternity, — those whose own 
 labours purchased their instruction, and who gladly availed 
 themselves of the Frpytisch to assist their straitened cir- 
 cumstances. 
 
 The former party spent the time in revels of the true
 
 126 NOTHING : A^ HISTORICAL TALE. 
 
 Burschen kind ; the latter entered more into the pursuits 
 that a student should be supposed to engage in. Every 
 fine evening, after attending the classes, they adjourned to 
 a garden, where the subjects of the class-room were again 
 discussed in all their bearings ; and when the weather was 
 adverse, a room was appropriated to this purpose, for which 
 a small weekly sum was defrayed, raised by contribution 
 amongst its frequenters. This meeting over, they had boats 
 engaged, and rowing matches ensued, limited however to the 
 space of an hour ; or gymnastic practice occupied the time, 
 diversified by fencing, and shooting at a mark, in all 
 which exercises they excelled. 
 
 Ten was the hour to separate, and they then repaired to 
 the solitude of their own rooms, where each again worked 
 out the studies they had pursued together : the early part of 
 the morning each considered allotted to himself, and no one 
 then intruded ; but, when the classes assembled, they were 
 ever punctually there, and they soon attracted the attention 
 of the diflerent masters. 
 
 Once, when Moritz and his friends were thus enjoying 
 the delightful summer evening, a boat sped past, which, by 
 the boisterous mirth and the signal cry, our party in the 
 garden soon knew to be manned by Goetz and his com- 
 panions : they came nearer, and the friends found that they
 
 NOTHING : AN HISTORICAL TALE. 127 
 
 were not mistaken ; they thought no more of it, but shortly 
 after entering their boats, rowed merrily down the stream ; 
 as they proceeded, the different favourite songs of the 
 fraternity sounded on the breeze, and the party plied their 
 oars in me|LSured regularity. Presently the stillness was 
 broken by the approach of another boat, and directly after 
 by the chorus of a well-known Bacchanalian song : 
 " Edite bibite colegeales 
 Post multa secula pocula nulla." 
 
 As the roar, for it was such, died away, the boat came in 
 view, and the party that occupied it raised a yell of scorn 
 and defiance, at the same time, pulling rapidly, they threw 
 themselves across the bows of the small craft. Moritz, who 
 was at the helm, observed the movement, and, by an un- 
 expected manoeuvre, disappointed the intention. Goetz, 
 who was half inebriated, suddenly made a push at Sinnreich 
 with his oar, lost his equilibrium, and was the next moment 
 immersed in the waters of the Pleysse. He was no swim- 
 mer ; the moment was critical ; he rose to the surface : the 
 floating mass appeared again a second time, at a greater 
 distance, and the young students beheld the distorted face 
 of the drowner. 
 
 No time had been lost ; Moritz had so steered as to reach 
 a point below the spot where the body was likely to re-
 
 128 NOTHING: AN HISTORICAL TALE. 
 
 appear. With lightning quickness, whilst all the rest were 
 enchained by their alarm, he plunged into the water, and, 
 cautiously approaching the victim of malevolence, waited 
 till he was nearly exhausted, then, seizing him firmly, bore 
 him to the shoi*e. - 
 
 By this time the boats had pulled in ; Goetz was insen- 
 sible, and Moritz, overcome by the reaction which ensued, 
 was perfectly exhausted. Every remedy was promptly 
 applied, and Goetz was soon pronounced out of danger. 
 A short interval served to restore Moritz. 
 
 The affair was bruited about, and Goetz received an 
 intimation from a friendly hand, that it would be better to 
 withdraw of his own accord, instead of waiting to be ex- 
 pelled by the college authorities. The hint was not to be 
 neglected ; and another month found Von Qualen lording it 
 on his own domain, and regarding his commission with 
 some complacence. His promotion was rapid ; for he had 
 family influence and riches to back him ; and the young 
 lordling, in his new uniform, cut a dash on parade, and was 
 a perfect Adonis in the ballroom, to say nothing of his 
 abilities in taking a bet, (in this respect his calculations 
 always surpassed those of Moritz,) the exquisite dandyism 
 of his arrangements, in every respect, and his utter con- 
 tempt of veteran officers, who were so vulgar as to be
 
 NOTHING : AN HISTORICAL TALE. 129 
 
 useful, and who were obliged to submit to the ordinary 
 accommodations of the messroom. 
 
 My story must be dated before the reform in the Prussian 
 service. 
 
 No one could display the beautiful Arabians, and the 
 English-built carriage, better than the handsome, the all- 
 admired, and self-admiring Von Qualen. 
 
 Moritz meanwhile pursued his course steadily, and left 
 the university with a character of the most exalted kind, 
 admired for his learning, honoured for his rectitude, and 
 beloved for his amiable qualities. Although not very 
 wealthy, he was possessed of a comfortable competence, 
 and he preferred travel to immediately settling. 
 
 On his return, having visited most parts of Europe that 
 would interest him, or add to his mental acquisitions, he 
 wished to enter upon the course of his duties. 
 
 Herr von Qualen had by this time progressed from the 
 ensign, who bore the colours for a month, exchanging them 
 for the gaiters of the lieutenant and captain nearly as 
 rapidly, until he had cast the boots of the major for those 
 of lieutenant-colonel, which, still pinching, had been ex- 
 changed for those of a colonel, in which capacity he 
 figured away, the despot of the unfortunate men under 
 
 his command, 
 
 s
 
 130 NOTHING : AN HISTORICAL TALE. 
 
 A college friend gave Moritz this information : he had 
 never met Goetz since the water scene. 
 
 A near relative of Von Qualen at that time swayed the 
 Prussian cabinet ; witliout being aware of this circum- 
 stance, Moritz addressed him, stating his wish to be 
 usefully and permanently settled, at the same time naming 
 his credentials from the university. Having so far con- 
 sulted interest, our hero considered hiiriself at liberty to 
 devote some time to amusement. 
 
 One evening he had strayed into the Thiergarten, and 
 was quietly reclining on one of the benches, without any 
 definite subject for thought to rest upon, when his at- 
 tention became by degrees engaged in the conversation 
 of two persons who were promenading close to him, but 
 who now remained stationary in his vicinity. 
 
 " I will ruin him," said the first speaker, whose voice he 
 instantly recognized for that of Von Qualen ; " it shall cost 
 him his commission !" 
 
 " But, my Lord," said the other speaker, who had always 
 been Von Qualen's intimate associate, " be careful ; you 
 press your enmity too openly, too publicly, and you know 
 that it would not be the first time that you would have 
 prepared mortification for yourself instead of the person 
 you intended."
 
 nothing: an historical tale. 131 
 
 "Ay! well reminded; you mean Moritz Sinnreich. I 
 was with my cousin to-day, when his application for an 
 appointment arrived ; but it shall go hard, if I do not dis- 
 appoint his endeavours, and bring Master S. to a lower 
 key. Besides, I have proclaimed him a mean shuffling 
 coward ; and although this may touch him but little in his 
 clerical character, yet it will, if I mistake not strangely, do 
 him little good with fair Minna Frommkind." 
 
 Why did the listener start ? It was a severe trial thus 
 to have his motives decried, his character misrepresented, 
 by an insidious enemy ; but Moritz was proof against the 
 world's contumely, not that he had learned to hold its 
 opinion cheap, but he had a buckler that warded off its 
 attack, — the steady, unwavering approval of principle. 
 
 I will tell thee the secret, gentle reader ; it was, that in 
 Minna Frommkind centred his dearest hopes. 
 
 Minna had been introduced to Moritz when strolling 
 leisurely along the banks of the Pleisse ; she had stopped 
 to admire the superior management of his boat ; her father, a 
 professor at the university, had not failed to introduce his 
 favourite to the child he was so proud of Minna was highly 
 gifted, but as reserved as gifted, and, beneath an appearance 
 of indifference, if not coldness, possessed a most affectionate 
 temper, devotedly attached to the few she really loved;
 
 132 NOTHING : AN HISTORICAL TALE. 
 
 her home circle was all in all to her ; strangers were seldom 
 favourably impressed by the quiet demeanour that owned 
 little to preposses them ; but when some topic of interest 
 elicited either approval or censure, she was all animation. 
 Her clear insight into any subject rendered her almost 
 intuitively mistress of any point of discussion. The supe- 
 riority of Moritz was easily acknowledged by such a 
 temper ; his character, his firmness, exactly coincided with 
 the image of manly virtue fancy had portrayed, tempered 
 withal by those Christian attributes, that, instead of dete- 
 riorating from, add strength to these qualifications, so that 
 he soon became the beau-ideal of perfection. Proud of his 
 Stirling abilities, she cared little for any display, but con- 
 templated, with a feeling almost of reverence, the lofty 
 comprehensiveness of his soaring intellect ; and though she 
 deemed herself immeasurably beneath him in mental en- 
 dowments, still she pursued a steady course of improvement, 
 not in hopes of competing with him, but of being a com- 
 panion whose inferiority should not chase him from her. 
 
 Such, though vaguely formed, were Minna's hopes, 
 wishes, and thoughts ; she would not have confessed them, 
 scarcely understood them herself, and would have deemed 
 the possession of his affection too happy a lot for her had 
 that alternative been offered for her consideration. But to
 
 NOTHING : AN HISTORICAL TALE. 133 
 
 aspire to his friendship raised her in her own esteem ; to 
 find that Moritz listened to her suggestions, frequently 
 acted on her advice, entered without reserve into his future 
 plans and present purposes, convinced her that he, at all 
 events, comprehended her, and considered her capable of 
 the lofty and ennobling sentiments of disinterested friend- 
 ship. This was enough for her : there were times when 
 she would picture a home, in which she, as the presiding 
 power, would dispense happiness around ; but the dream 
 would vanish : there was only one with whom she could 
 wish to share it, and the rest, those who were likely to offer 
 to share their lot with her, were beyond the pale of her 
 heart's home. She had heard of a dreary perspective of 
 after years, when she must sink into the insignificance 
 ordained for single women ; but Minna possessed a panoply 
 in the scorn of all consequence excepting that of intellect 
 and virtue ; and, although she ever treated the less gifted 
 with considerable forbearance, never made her own supe- 
 riority manifest, in fact scarcely admitted it to herself, yet 
 she could enter into no close companionship with them. 
 
 Although these sentiments are here so fully explained, 
 remember Minna herself did not understand them, at least 
 had not sufficiently deciphered them ; and Moritz knew 
 nothing further than that she treated him with unvaried
 
 134 NOTHING : AN HISTORICAL TALE. 
 
 kindness ; thai he valued her opinion above that of every 
 other woman excepting his mother ; that her frank cordiality 
 had to him an inexpressible charm, that he could never 
 comprehend how any one could fancy her an indifferent, 
 much less a cold character ; and that to be lowered in her 
 esteem was by far the most painful circumstance that could 
 occur to him. 
 
 Before he could recover his composm'e, or decide on 
 what plan it would be best to pursue, the speakers had 
 moved on. 
 
 The day after this occurrence, Moritz had received a 
 letter stating the illness of his mother, and the hour after 
 found him travelling post towards the frontiers of Bohemia. 
 On his arrival he found her better than he expected ; and 
 after remaining a short time, to assure himself of the fact, 
 he returned, determined so to manage the forest, as to 
 thread its intricacies by daylight, and seek the shelter of 
 the woodman's hut at night, which would rather defer his 
 arrival in Berlin, but allow him the pleasure of progressing 
 as might best suit his erratic humour. 
 
 With staff in hand, he set out on the pilgrimage that 
 would appear so formidable an undertaking to some of our 
 divines in embryo. 
 
 The first day passed pleasantly, and in the evening he
 
 NOTHING : AN HISTORICAL TALE. 135 
 
 entered a cot to solicit hospitality : this was easily ob- 
 tained ; perhaps the chinking of a well-filled purse might 
 accelerate the plenishing of the board. 
 
 The expectation of cash is a great promoter of alacrity ; 
 that is the reason why practised men of the world always 
 hold forth promises, without giving themselves the trouble 
 of redeeming them. 
 
 Early the next morning he pursued his way, and at night 
 sought shelter in another cot, the owner of which was a 
 huntsman ; after some preliminary conversation, he in- 
 formed Moritz that several gentlemen intended hunting 
 the wild boar on the morrow. 
 
 This was one of the sports in which Moritz not only 
 took a particular interest, but in which he particulaily 
 excelled ; so he determined to give one day to the pastime, 
 either as a looker on or agent in it, as circumstances 
 should determine. 
 
 By daybreak, the ensuing morning, the forest rang with 
 the echo of horns, the bay of hounds, and the cries of the 
 huntsmen. Moritz needed no further incitement, but found 
 himself in a few minutes in the midst of the throng, saw the 
 monster roused from its lair, and observed the dash onwards 
 to overtake it. 
 
 " It speeds round the brook, and will take to the cave,"
 
 136 NOTHING : AN HISTORICAL TALE. 
 
 said his Lost, into whose favour he had considerahly in- 
 gratiated himself; " if you heed not a sharp run and a leap 
 of some peril, we could be beforehand with them all." 
 
 " Then let us on," said Moritz ; and away they went, 
 now scrambling through the brushwood, now breaking the 
 screen of underwood in their passage. 
 
 At length they reached the spot the huntsman had 
 spoken of; it was a shelving rock, descending perpen- 
 dicularly ; beneath was a brawling torrent, beating its 
 way betwixt the rocks, and roaring in triumph as it forced 
 its exit. 
 
 Moritz did not stop to take notice of all this, but with 
 one bound stood on the opposite side. He had only the 
 boar-spear and small short hunting-knife, which his host 
 had lent him. 
 
 He had scarcely gained a footing, and the huntsman 
 had not succeeded in joining him, when the furious beast 
 approached at the top of its speed, tearing up the earth 
 with its tusks. 
 
 A horseman had outstripped the rest, and seemed de- 
 termined on the animal's destruction. Moritz thought 
 that he must act on the defensive, but he was deceived ; 
 just as the beast gained the ascent, it turned, setting 
 its pursuer at bay; another instant, and the gored horse
 
 nothing: an historical tale. 137 
 
 reared, plunged, and threw its rider ; the boar waited not, 
 but, giving its head a sideways toss, prepared to bury its 
 immense tusk in the body of its opponent; but Moritz 
 sprang forward, gave one thrust with the boar-spear that 
 laid the huge brute at his mercy, and completed his 
 victory by dexterously employing the knife ; then looking 
 up, for the first time during his dangerous engagements, 
 beheld Von Qualen. 
 
 All this had merely been the work of two or three 
 minutes; but the rest of the hunters had meanwhile ar- 
 rived, and were congratulating Moritz on the victory 
 achieved, and felicitating him on the intrepidity with 
 which he had rescued Von Qualen, and extricated himself; 
 all but Von Qualen's self, whose eyes, glaring hatred, 
 remained fixed in astonishment and mortification on his 
 deliverer. At length, without deigning one word of re- 
 cognition or thanks, he turned on his heel and walked 
 away. 
 
 " Shame on him !" said the high-spirited Conrad von 
 Geradespruch, who was a captain in Von Qualen's regi- 
 ment, and one of those whom Frederick reckoned amongst 
 his best and most efficient oflScers, " shame on him ! he 
 at least might have thanked you for the preservation of a
 
 138 nothing: an historical tale. 
 
 life that ho one else could consider worth the trouble you 
 have taken. Give me your hand, Sir, and let me know 
 your name." 
 
 Moritz explained. 
 
 "Moritz Sinnreich !" said the other ; "why then you are 
 the student that saved him from drowning at Leipzig ! 
 You have twice saved his life, — to-day, by an act of 
 heroism, — yet he stigmatizes you a coward." 
 
 There was a red spot on the brow of Moritz. 
 
 " But I have heard more of yon than you are aware of," 
 Von Geradespruch continued, " and, after the scene to-day, 
 will make any one eat his words that throws a stigma on 
 your name. Though I cannot adopt your notions, nor 
 admit your motives for myself, yet I honour both. Sir, and, 
 if you will join me, shall be proud of such a guest." 
 
 Moritz accepted the invitation ; a follower of Von Gerad- 
 espruch was dismounted, and the horse offered for our hero's 
 accommodation. 
 
 On tlie way, his new friend informed liim that a ball was 
 to be given the next evening, to be followed by a private 
 concert, adding, that he had a card at the disposal of 
 Moritz, and that he should feel proud to introduce him to 
 some of the ladies there.
 
 nothing: an historical tale. 139 
 
 " I suppose you must not dance," he pursued ; " for, as 
 friend Luther was rather bulky, we may conclude that he 
 found this exercise too laborious, and so struck it out of 
 the list of admissibles ; but the sweet sounds of music may 
 be indulged in without any real corporeal exertion, unless 
 you will take a part in the performance, and I hear that 
 you are no contemptible amateur." 
 
 Moritz laughed. 
 
 On their arrival in Berlin, Moritz found his new friend 
 determined on introducing him to the other officers ; 
 "besides," he added, "our Colonel owes you some slight 
 debt of gratitude, and although we may not be impressed 
 with your having conferred a great benefit by saving our 
 head, yet we must, for the honour of the regiment, act 
 as though we were prodigiously obliged." 
 
 " Excuse me," said Moritz ; " when I meet Von Qualen, 
 on what I consider neutral ground, 1 care not ; but it would 
 seem seeking him to enter a room where he is so expressly 
 expected, and almost as master of the ceremonies." 
 
 Von Geradespruch understood the feelings of his friend 
 too well to insist ; and they separated, with an under- 
 standing that he should join him, and they would proceed 
 to the ball together.
 
 140 NOTHING : AN HISTORICAL TALE. 
 
 Dinner proceeded as usual : no mention was made by 
 Von Qualen of the narrow escape of the day before ; but 
 when the dessert was introduced Conrad rose. 
 
 " Gentlemen," he began, (all eyes were turned towards 
 the speaker,) " allow me to apologize for my unusual mode 
 of proceeding ; to our Colonel, Herr von Qualen, I need 
 merely plead my appreciation of the feelings that prevent 
 him addressing you on the subject I now introduce. I am 
 about to propose the adoption of a British custom of sig- 
 nifying respect for the absent, and request that you will 
 pledge me in a bumper, to the health and prosperity of the 
 undaunted and intrepid preserver of our Colonel's life, 
 Moritz Sinnreich." 
 
 All raised their glasses excepting Von Qualen. 
 
 The toast was drank with enthusiasm ; most imagined 
 that it must be agreeable to Von Qualen. 
 
 When the noise this incident had occasioned had some- 
 what subsided. Von Qualen addressed himself to Von 
 Geradespruch. 
 
 " It is not the first time. Sir," he said, with a theatrical 
 flourish intended to be dignified," " it is not the first time, 
 Sir, that you have overstepped the rules, and acted out of 
 place ; and, when you propose a health like the one you
 
 nothing: an historical tale. 141 
 
 have just had the audacity to introduce, it would seem that 
 you would impose the coarse green glass of Bohemia for 
 the famed crystal of Venice ; the one concealing the noxious 
 potion, the other shivered by the mere contact of the dele- 
 terious draught." 
 
 " Hear ! hear him !" resounded from some mischievous 
 spirits, who enjoyed the ludicrous display. 
 
 " It is not the first time, Sir," Von Qualeii continued, 
 " that you have been^ guilty of vulgarisms, that declare you 
 fit only for the active duty of the camp, and that, without 
 any regard to delicacy, you express sentiments suited 
 merely to the field of battle. Beware, Sir, of such another 
 breach oi discipline ; you will not find me inclined to be so 
 lenient a second time !" 
 
 Rising amidst a deafening clamour and uproar, the 
 Colonel withdrew, and Von Geradespruch indulged in a 
 long and somewhat indecorous laugh, considering the gen- 
 tlemanly manner in which he had just been rebuked for his 
 soldiery propensities, when, suddenly pausing, he remarked, 
 " This would indeed be laughable, if it did not bear a 
 most serious interpretation. Here is this raw and butterfly 
 Colonel, whose unfleshed sword dangles a reproach to his 
 rank, treading on the necks of those who have seen service,
 
 142 NOTHING: AN HISTOKICAL TALE. 
 
 and not even the poor satisfaction of being shot at allowed, 
 because subordination forbids the challenge." 
 
 Von Geradespruch joined Moritz, and together they 
 sauntered into the ballroom. 
 
 Several couples were waltzing, and others stood ready to 
 join. One of the ladies, who was standing up, instantly 
 attracted the attention of Moritz. She was a blonde ; her 
 hair descended, in rich clustering curls, to her waist. She 
 was rather tall, but so slight as to leave the beholder 
 undecided whether to consider her so ; her movements were 
 gracefully easy, and her face such as we may fancy that of 
 Titania when Oberon had gratified some wayward whim, — 
 all sunshine and smiles, with a slight expression of tri- 
 umphant gratification ; but this passed away as Von Gerad- 
 espruch, with a polite, but very slight move of recognition, 
 passed on. 
 
 " Who is that beautiful creature ?" said Moritz. 
 
 " Is she not splendid ?" asked Conrad. 
 
 " Perfectly lovely," was the answer ; " but who is she V' 
 
 " One for whom I would resign every other blessing ; but 
 she is too fickle : I shall never gain her ; she seeks admi- 
 ration too generally, and is too generally admired to care 
 for the honest love of a poor captain, with very little
 
 nothing: an historical tale. 143 
 
 besides his pay to Hepend on. Her name is Bertha von 
 Ruhmgier." 
 
 Just then the eye of Moritz rested on Minna Fromm- 
 kind, but she did not see him ; and, with deep disappoint- 
 ment lurking at his heart, and overshadowing his brow, he 
 withdrew to a recess, to deliberate whether to go forward 
 and address her, and thus ascertain what effect the slur on 
 his courage had produced, or to await an opportunity when 
 they would not be so surrounded by witnesses : whilst he 
 deliberated, the moment for addressing her was lost; she 
 was surrounded by a party of young ladies and gentlemen, 
 and he himself was prevented moving by a couple that were 
 just resting from the waltz. They were Von Qualen and 
 Bertha von Ruhmgier. 
 
 " Then your lady mother intends being present at the 
 ball you propose," said Bertha. 
 
 " Yes," said Von Qualen. " So you see, beautiful Bertha, 
 you need not fear any impropriety ; besides, what would I 
 not do to ensure your attendance." 
 
 Bertha laughed. 
 
 " Have you invited the officers of your regiment ^ I hear 
 you have." 
 
 " Be under no apprehension, beautiful Fraulein ; I will 
 be very select in my arrangements."
 
 144 NOTHING : AN HISTORICAL TALE. 
 
 " Oh ! no doubt ; I thought I saw Captain von Gerad- 
 espruch here in the room a short time since." 
 
 " I have taken care that he is not amongst the invited 
 guests." 
 
 " May I ask your reason V 
 
 " I will have no one there whom any lady need blush to 
 acknowledge afterwards, or who is not sufficiently nice 
 in his associates to ensure my visitors from unpleasant 
 intrusion. 
 
 Just then another couple stood beside the Colonel and 
 Bertha. 
 
 " Are you rested ?" and again Bertha was flying through 
 the mazes of the waltz. 
 
 Moritz sauntered on and entered the music-room. It 
 was nearly empty, and he threw himself into a seat. 
 
 " Minna never plays before so many, and I cannot 
 prevail on her," said an elderly lady ; " but Fraulein 
 Bertha plays and sings exquisitely ; we shall have quite 
 a treat." 
 
 In a few minutes the beautiful creature entered the room, 
 surrounded by a host of admirers, foremost of which was 
 Von Qualen. 
 
 She was dispensing smiles around, but none of them 
 bore the same stamp of genuineness that he had observed
 
 NOTHING : AN HISTORICAL TALE. 145 
 
 in the one passing look she had cast on Von Geradespruch. 
 Moritz noted this well. 
 
 # 
 
 Led, almost in triumphant procession, to the piano, she 
 went through a brilliant fantasia, and looked around for the 
 applause her performance so justly merited: had she not 
 deserved it, who would have withheld approbation when 
 solicited by the half-assured, half-entreating glance of 
 Bertha's deeply-fringed blue eye ? Yet there was one, 
 who, with folded arms, stood a little apart from the group 
 of admirers, who neither courted her observation nor with- 
 drew himself from it, whose look bespoke no approval ; 
 this was Conrad von Geradespruch. As her eye rested for 
 one moment on him, the colour deepened on her cheek, 
 and crimsoned her brow ; but she bent over the music, and 
 selected a song. She ran through a rapid prelude, struck 
 one or two chords, and then, when all was hushed, not 
 even a whisper breaking the silence of expectation, the 
 silvery sweetness of her voice rose on the ear, like the 
 song of the Syrens, so dreamy, spiritlike, and so absorbing. 
 
 Those intimately acquainted with her, might, at first, 
 
 perceive a slight tremor, but she soon conquered the 
 
 feeling, and at length concluded amidst the reiterated 
 
 plaudits of an admiring group. 
 
 Again her eye rested on Conrad, who had not changed 
 u
 
 146 NOTHING : AN HISTORICAL TALE. 
 
 his position, and who still surveyed her with a cold and 
 measured look of disapproval. Again she blushed: the 
 look was observed by Von Qualen, who led her from the 
 piano, and, having obtained her some refreshment, walked 
 towards tlie spot Von Geradespruch occupied. 
 
 " A word with you. Captain von Geradespruch," he began. 
 
 Conrad bowed, and joined him. 
 
 " Your conduct has been very annoying to a lady this 
 evening, and 1 would suggest the propriety of your quitting 
 the house " 
 
 " Insolent !" 
 
 " How dare you treat me thus, Sir ?" 
 
 "What right have you to interfere with my private 
 amusements ?" 
 
 " Let me ask you. Sir, the meaning of this contumacious 
 behaviour ? Do you know your place to a superior officer ?" 
 
 " Do you know yours as a man ?" 
 
 " Nay, Sir, it is nonsense to trifle further ; render up 
 your sword, and consider yourself a prisoner." 
 
 In a few minutes Von Geradespruch found himself ac- 
 costed, his sword demanded, and shortly after he was 
 pacing his own apartment which had been named as his 
 place of durance. 
 
 And how was Moritz progressing ?
 
 NOTHING : AN HISTORICAL TALE. 147 
 
 In that assembly Minna shone not : there it was not her 
 wish to shine ; grouped with the other young ladies, she 
 bore her part in the passing scene, and listened to the 
 splendid performance of Bertha ; she sat undistinguished 
 from the crowd ; in fact there were many present, who were 
 infinitely her inferiors, that claimed precedence, in point of 
 attraction, in the motley assembly for which she was so 
 little fitted, and which she so little prized. Besides, there 
 was a cold, dead weight at Minna's heart. Why had 
 Moritz been so long in the same room with her, yet never 
 approached } She had marked his admiring glance at the 
 beautiful Bertha; she had intuitively comprehended his 
 question, and a feeling of intense anguish responded to the 
 exclamation " perfectly lovely." 
 
 Minna turned to the window, and gazed on the beautiful 
 night as if wrapt in admiration ; but she knew nothing of 
 the scene without, had almost forgotten the one within, 
 when a whisper recalled her to realities. 
 
 " Minna, Miss Frommkind," said Moritz, " do you credit 
 the reports that have been circulated so much to my dis- 
 advantage ?" 
 
 She turned, with a frank and cordial smile. 
 
 " Are you then in the habit of condemning your friends 
 unheard, Mr. Sinnreich, or do you choose them so care-
 
 148 NOTHING : AN HISTORICAL TALE. 
 
 lessly as not to be able to rely on them, even though the 
 world may ascribe its own sentiments to them ? Fie, Mr. 
 Sinnreich ! learn to do more justice to your own discri- 
 mination of character : I am too proud of my knowledge of 
 the world to let every idle report bias me. But come," she 
 added, "and clear yourself; let me know all about this 
 affair : so far I have merely been able to repel charges on 
 the conviction that they were unfounded ; but in future I 
 shall be able to turn them on your accusers, who will not, 
 or I am greatly deceived, find it so easy to refute them." 
 
 Moritz did clear himself 
 
 Minna almost idolized the moral courage that could raise 
 him so far above the general standard, who mistake animal 
 spirits for a higher gratification. 
 
 The evening passed rapidly. Moritz offered to escort 
 her home, and his offer was accepted; he sought Von 
 Geradespruch to inform him of his departure, but could, 
 of course, not find him. Whilst engaged in his fruitless 
 search, he saw Bertha seated on a sofa, listlessly allowing 
 herself to be talked to ; she could not be said to be lis- 
 tening. The brilliancy of her eye was gone, her colour 
 faded, and she looked fatigued and annoyed. 
 
 The next day Moritz recommenced his suit with alacrity ; 
 but when he waited on the minister, was desired to call
 
 NOTHING : AN HISTORICAL TALE. 149 
 
 again. He retnembered the conversation he had overheard 
 in the Thiergarten, and resolved not to be foiled. 
 
 The next step was to call on Von Geradespruch, and 
 explain his departure from the ball. 
 
 After some preliminary and explanatory conversation, 
 Moritz informed the Captain of the conversation to which 
 he had so unexpectedly been made a third. 
 
 Von Geradespruch listened attentively. 
 
 " 'Tis me he means ; 'tis to cost me my commission ! 
 There is but one way left for either you or me; we must 
 appeal to Father Fritz. He is not the best friend to your 
 cloth, Moritz ; in that I stand a better chance ; but he will 
 protect merit, especially if it have the wit to recommend 
 itself to his humour." 
 
 Whilst Moritz and Conrad were thus conversing, Bertha 
 was busy tending the plants, in which she took consider- 
 able pride, but the interest they generally called forth was 
 not perceptible ; she went through her task, mechanically, 
 fed her canary, arranged her books and needlework, opened 
 her piano, and finally, having completed these preliminaries, 
 threw herself into a chair, covered her face with her hands, 
 and wept bitterly. " I have lost him," she exclaimed ; " the 
 sforn he showed last night proves it. He will never love
 
 150 nothing: an historical tale. 
 
 me more ? I have thrown the noblest, kindest heart from 
 me that ever woman possessed." 
 
 A knock for admittance recalled her to herself. It was 
 Von Qualen. 
 
 " Good morning, Fraulein von Ruhmgier ; excuse my 
 early intrusion, and pray attribute it to the right cause, — 
 the magnet whose power of attraction comprises so large 
 a circle of influence." 
 
 Poor Bertha endeavoured to rally, tried to meet the 
 studied compliment with satire, but, failing in the attempt, 
 relapsed into silence, which, being favourably construed by 
 the gallant Colonel, hurried on a declaration that he had 
 fully intended postponing to some future day ; at the same 
 time, he informed her, as a gratifying piece of intelligence, 
 that Von Geradespruch was under arrest, and would cer- 
 tainly be compelled to resign his commission. 
 
 "But," she asked, "how can you force him to do so, if 
 you have no particular complaint against him ?" 
 
 " But I have a particular complaint against him : what 
 charge is so easy to substantiate as contempt of a superior 
 officer ? Besides, I shall be able to mortify him on another 
 point. He has taken it into his wise head to form ac- 
 quaintance with, and support by his mighty influence, a
 
 nothing: an historical tale. 151 
 
 low, cowardly fellow, that dare not defend his own honour ; 
 a pleb with all that hideous creature's attributes, such as a 
 stickling for morality, an idea that he individually is of 
 some importance in forming the community, viz., by the 
 effects of his example, and, that he may not only have an 
 opinion of his own, but act on it. This fellow has, by his 
 drivelling, contrived to obtain a name at the university, and 
 academic honours: we all know that it is merely head- 
 ivork that is required for these. Now in my opinion, Frau- 
 lein, these men of learning strike at the very root of 
 aristocracy. I have heard this very fellow, this Sinnreich, 
 presume to say, that without the aristocracy of mind, he 
 considered birth worse than nothing; — a jewel given in 
 pledge, to be redeemed by ejj;cellence. If notions like 
 these take root, what will become of our ancient families, 
 unless they adopt them? But to return to my subject; 
 this Sinnreich has applied to my cousin for a church : he 
 cares little where, or how arduous the duties may be that 
 he has to perform ; that bespeaks his low ideas. I have 
 used my influence, and he will be put off with promises 
 and delays till his rude spirit shall be subdued; — those 
 that can train a falcon will manage to tame a sparrow." 
 
 Bertha had been adjusting the rose-coloured ribbon that 
 decorated her guitar; she now run her hand lightly over 
 the strings.
 
 152 >[OTHING: AN HISTORICAL TALE. 
 
 " Pray favoiir me," exclaimed her admirer. 
 
 " Oh !" she replied, " I really have to beg pardon for my 
 inattention ; but I was thinking of the beautiful rondoletta 
 you were admiring the other day !" 
 
 Von Qualen was gratified. 
 
 " Pray go on," she proceeded ; " believe me deeply 
 interested. How do you mean to proceed against this 
 obnoxious prisoner ?" 
 
 " Oh ! I shall make short work with him : I am pretty 
 safe, you know, and can easily manage a court-martial, 
 when he will of course be cashiered." 
 
 " And," said Bertha, " if by any accident your own 
 conduct should be called into question ?" 
 
 " Oh ! not at all likely ; but should it be so, a nominal 
 trial and acquittal would follow." 
 
 Bertha again ran her hands across the strings of her 
 guitar; the admired rondoletta followed. Von Qualen 
 kissed her hand, and took his leave, with a determination 
 to make her the happy sharer of his heart and home, if 
 he could only conquer his insuperable objection to the 
 tie matrimony would prove, 
 
 " Empty-headed, conceited coxcomb," said Bertha to 
 herself, " and he to lord it over such a man as Von Gerad- 
 espruch ! Now, Conrad, would I give all that I possess 
 to evince my sympathy for thee ! Poor fellow ! Will my
 
 nothing: an historical tale. 153 
 
 woman's pride still hold sway, or shall I act the part a 
 better and nobler spirit would point out ? But, then, his 
 conduct last night ! not one look, not one word ! Yet, to 
 see him thus the victim of his own highmindedness ! I 
 have it Now heaven speed me !" 
 
 Plainly clad, without any attendant. Bertha humed to 
 the palace ; the hour for audience was nearly over. A veil 
 concealed her features, as, with trembling hand, she held 
 forth a card to the king ; it was almost illegible, so agitated 
 had she been when writing it. 
 
 " Bertha von Ruhmgier, the orphan of an old soldier 
 who died in your Majesty's service, requests ten 
 minutes private audience." 
 
 Frederick surveyed the figure before him, then quietly 
 turned to the few remaining persons to whom he had not 
 attended; and, having dismissed them, desired Bertha to 
 enter his cabinet, where he could speak to her without 
 inteiTuption. , 
 
 Bertha obeyed. 
 
 " Now Fraulein," said Frederick, " may I ask what has 
 obtained me this honour ? ' at the same time he handed her 
 to a chair, with all the politeness of a gentleman of the old 
 school. 
 
 X
 
 154 NOTHING : AN HISTORICAL TALE. 
 
 The agitated girl then threw back her veil, and related 
 what had occurred to Von Geradespruch. 
 
 " I cannot interfere if a court-martial is decided on," 
 said the king." 
 
 Bertha burst into tears. 
 
 " Come," said Frederick, " let me know the true meaning 
 of all this. You have done your duty in reporting the 
 occurrence, if duty only was your aim ; but let me be quite at 
 home on the subject. I should not like to act unadvisedly. 
 What deeper interest do you take in Von Geradespruch ?" 
 
 Bertha's tears were dried. 
 
 "What deeper interest is required, Sire, than worth 
 oppressed ?" 
 
 " Hem !" said Frederick, taking a copious pinch of snuff, 
 and bestowing half on the ruffles of his shirt, " a patriotic 
 lady ! It is well that this affair occurs to a man whom 
 nobody cares about; it will form a good precedent for the 
 punishment of independence and principle, — two things 
 especially to be eschewed in the army, as militating against 
 the interest of superior officers ; besides, removing men of 
 merit, who are often in the way, and making room for men 
 of family and influence." 
 
 " Nay, Sire, if this is your opinion, your subjects will
 
 nothing: an historical tale. 165 
 
 do well to copy it : they will then all be courtiers ; men of 
 family may fill your council and army; but for men of 
 
 influence your Majesty, it strikes me, is bestowing a 
 
 general passport on them, for which other countries will 
 thank you !" 
 
 Frederick bent his ej^es on the ground, (had Bertha been 
 able to see them, she would have perceived a look that was 
 not quite inimical to her petition,) tapped his snufF-box, 
 took another pinch of snuff, which he appeared most 
 leisurely to enjoy, and then remarked : 
 
 " Hem ! Fraulein, I perceive that you have not neglected 
 statistics, and, as you seem to plead policy as a rule of 
 conduct, allow me to remind you to practise the plan you 
 propose to others. At present this subject is but half clear 
 to me ; let me know why you act thus, and I may determine 
 how to assist you ; for, to speak plainly, you are the person 
 requiring assistance." 
 
 Bertha blushed. 
 
 " Are you betrothed to Captain von Geradespruch .<*" 
 
 " No, Sire." 
 
 " About to be ?" 
 
 " No, indeed. Sire !" 
 
 " But wishful to be .?" 
 
 The answer was not so immediate as before.
 
 156 nothing: an historical tale. 
 
 " Use no deception," said Frederick ; " remember, it is 
 but by plain dealing that you can effect anything." 
 
 Bertha struggled for a moment with her woman's nature, 
 then frankly and freely confided all to the ear of her royal 
 confidant. 
 
 It was a strange scene to note that beautiful girl, with 
 her bonnet thrown carelessly beside her, eagerly, yet blush- 
 ingly relating her acquaintance with Von Geradespruch, 
 her own love of admiration, the coquetry into which it had 
 betrayed her; and her consequent estrangement from her 
 lover, the insults he had received from Von Qualen, and 
 the conspiracy formed against him and Moritz. 
 
 " Well done," said Frederick, when she concluded, 
 " bravely and honourably acted ; when we can command 
 our feelings as you have done, and conquer repugnance, 
 because duty requires it, we partly ensure success. Your 
 secret shall be safe with me ; I wiU take care that Von 
 Geradespruch be fairly dealt by ; but, to provide against 
 contingencies, be careful that no one hears of the step you 
 have taken, and, should anything fresh occur, apply to me ; 
 I will give orders for your admission." 
 
 It was that dubious part of the same day, when light 
 and darkness mingle in twilight, when Minna Frommkind, 
 seated alone, mused on her hopes, and the prospects of
 
 nothing: an historical tale. 157 
 
 Moritz. A low tap at the door announced a visitor, and 
 she had scarcely time to utter the words " come in," when 
 a gentleman stood beside her. She ordered lights, and her 
 guest informed her that he would not detain her a moment, 
 merely having called on business. 
 
 " I understand, Miss Frommkind," he proceeded, " that 
 you are acquainted with Mr. Sinnreich." 
 
 Ac 
 
 Minna, though surprised, admitted that she was. 
 
 " Perhaps, then, 3'ou will be able to assist in elucidating 
 some points of consequence. A young lady of considerable 
 attractions has been interesting herself in his behalf, and 
 has carried that interest to the foot of the throne. (Poor 
 Minna ! then her forebodings had been correct.) He has 
 most anxiously applied for a church ; do you think that 
 he intends marrying ?" 
 
 Minna felt that she was deadly pale, but her dark eye 
 rested in proud scrutiny on her interrogator. 
 
 " This is a subject Mr. Sinnreich has not confided to me. 
 Sir ; but had he so far honoured me, I should consider it 
 sacred !" 
 
 " Ah ! in that case I can only judge from what the other 
 lady has told me. Miss Frommkind, excuse an elderly 
 man, and the father of a long family; but it has been 
 rumoured that you possess great influence with Mr. Sinn-
 
 158 nothing: an historical tale. 
 
 reich. Now there is an affair about a challenge, that is 
 
 not told to his credit, and, as his friends suspect that his 
 
 excuses are mean subterfuges, and that in reality he has 
 
 been actuated by cowardice, I would request you to prevail 
 
 on him to alter his determination, and meet Herr von 
 
 Qualen ; he has a very high opinion of your judgment, 
 
 and will, no doubt, be guided by you." 
 
 " You mistake. Sir," said Minna, coldly ; " Mr. Sinn- 
 
 reich is not easily influenced, when he has decided on a 
 
 mode of action that he considers right ; least of all would 
 
 I wish it, though thereby he could ensure this church that 
 
 he is so anxious about." 
 
 " He could ensure it," said her visitor ; " I have orders to 
 inform you, that if he will meet Von Qualen, he is to have 
 
 the church ; nay, more, it would secure your happiness, as 
 
 well as his; for, if he had the church, he would prefer 
 
 you to any other woman. But how could you marry a 
 
 coward ?" 
 
 " I would not attempt it, Sir ; for Mr. Sinnreich, I know 
 him to be so courageous a character, that he will adhere 
 to the right path, despite misrepresentations, the sugges- 
 tions of interest, or popular prejudice." 
 
 " I find vou do not know me, Madam ; 1 am Frederick 
 of Prussia, and make it my particular request, mind, not
 
 NOTHING : AN HISTORICAL TALE. 159 
 
 command, that you prevail on Mr. Sinnreich to fight this 
 duel !" 
 
 " Sire," said Minna, instantly kneeling, whilst Frederick 
 as immediately raised her, "forgive my presumption in 
 so far debating any point with our great, our beloved 
 monarch ; forgive, still more, my venturing to neglect an 
 intimated wish of yours, much more a specified one ; but 
 I should indeed be untrue to myself, and a traitress to your 
 Majesty, did I comply. Indeed, compliance were vain ; 
 for Sinnreich would not be biassed by my interference, 
 although he might be offended at it." 
 
 " Well, Madam, you have given me a lesson ; when next 
 we meet, it will not be a request I shall prefer, but a 
 command; meanwhile, allow me to remind you, that no 
 one surmises my visit to you, and it vvill be consulting the 
 well-doing of this gentleman, about whom you show such 
 praiseworthy anxiety, not to name the subject to him." 
 
 With a haughty bend, he quitted the apartment; and 
 Minna was left to the unenviable feeling of prejudicing a 
 cause she would have sacrificed all but her integrity, and 
 that of her lover, to promote. 
 
 The next morning, when Frederick entered the audience- 
 chamber, he heard an account of Von Geradespruch's
 
 160 NOTHING : AN HISTORICAL TALE. 
 
 arrest; at the same time, Sinnreich, (for it was he that 
 related it), appealed to his authority on his own behalf. 
 
 He related his unsuccessful application to the ministers, 
 presented his testimonials from the university, and re- 
 quested his Majesty to command justice to be dealt him. 
 
 " But," said Frederick, " what voucher can ray minister 
 have that you deserve the appointment you have applied 
 for? I think you do not; and, to assure myself on this 
 point, should like to hear you preach. I will give you the 
 text, and expect you to officiate in my chapel on Sunday 
 next. I am not at leisure now, but will not forget. Tell 
 your friend that I cannot interfere with the court-martial." 
 This happened on the Thursday. 
 
 Moritz sought Von Geradespruch, and related what had 
 occurred ; both were dreadfully dispirited. 
 
 Whilst they were conversing, a messenger, from Bertha, 
 brought a book that Von Geradespruch had lent her; it 
 was accompanied by a small bouquet of roses, heartsease, 
 and forget-me-not, held together by a sprig of thyme ; a 
 small piece of rue was laid beside it. 
 
 Von Geradespruch smiled : he had been explaining to 
 Bertha, shortly before, the Persian method of conversing 
 by flowers, and found that shg had proved a truly apt
 
 NOTHING : AN HISTORICAL TALE. 161 
 
 scholar; it was a gleam of sunshine amidst the shadows 
 that enveloped him. 
 
 The messenger returned to her with the following note : 
 "Beloved, though wayward Bertha, under existing 
 circumstances, I have no right to draw on your 
 affection : should I be condemned by a court- 
 martial, I shall be cashiered, and, in that case, 
 bid farewell to Prussia for ever; leaving which 
 will be nothing to relinquishing you. 
 
 " Conrad von Geradespruch." 
 In half an hour the messenger returned with an answer ; 
 it ran thus : 
 
 "Beloved, though saucy Conrad, under existing cir- 
 cumstances, I claim a right to share your fate : 
 should you bid farewell to Prussia, I shall do 
 the same, and thus avoid the pain of relin- 
 quishing you, by becoming yours, and no longer 
 
 "Bertha von Ruhmgier." 
 On the Friday Moritz again presented himself to receive 
 his text, but again the King disappointed him ; and on the 
 Saturday he had to undergo the same mortification. 
 
 Saturday evening ! the parson's rehearsal ! What tor- 
 ments ! if he could form any idea, he would fix on a text, 
 and prepare himself on the subject. Alas ! the moment he
 
 162 NOTHING : AN HISTORICAL TALE. 
 
 began to think, the king popped into his head — the king's 
 doubts of his eligibility : he tried again, and found himself 
 involuntarily comparing his royal tormentor to Nebuchad- 
 nezzar, and finally sought refuge with Minna, relating to 
 her his perplexity and anxiety. 
 
 Minna strove to reassure him ; but her own fears were 
 too vivid to allow her to be a very confident comforter. 
 
 " Dearest Minna," said Moritz, " should I fail, you know 
 not how wretched I should be ! I scarcely knew myself 
 till now ; but, as you've listened to my fears, will you ex- 
 tend your sympathy, if I inform you what I had dared to 
 hope ? Minna, I dared to raise my thoughts to you, and 
 if I should indeed be so crushed, should all be thus leagued 
 for my destruction, I would the more readily beg you to 
 share my fate, to prove to you how I prize your love 
 and comprehend the disinterested affection that I looked 
 forward to, as the crowning blessing of a fortunate career." 
 
 " Thanks, dearest Sinnreich ; there are other lands where 
 primitive customs will teach reverence for virtue, and where 
 your own rich endowments shall secure success ; and then, 
 when the word father-land shall still cause the heart to 
 beat, we will think of our beloved parents, and you and I 
 will join in a prayer for its well-doing for their sakes !" 
 
 It was Sunday morning; the sun had cast his crimson
 
 NOTHING : AN HISTORICAL TALE. 163 
 
 robe, and darted his bright rays with unveiled brilliance 
 into the chamber where Moritz, with hurried steps, paced 
 to and fro. The church clocks repeated the chime of seven, 
 as if in mockery of his anxiety. He could bear it no 
 longer. 
 
 Moritz was not without some little foppery ; and he had 
 fully intended that on that eventful morning his appearance 
 should lose nothing for want of attention and study ; but 
 how fallacious are human calculations ; he hurried over his 
 toilet, and eight o'clock found him measuring steps with 
 the sentinel in the gallery before the royal chapel- 
 He had prevailed on a page to state his attendance to 
 the king, and the reply he received was, that his majesty 
 had not forgotten him, and would see him previously to 
 entering the chapel. 
 
 Poor Moritz ! a thousand thoughts were crowding his 
 brain, yet he could not detain one definite one even for a 
 moment. 
 
 He had not broken his fast that morning. 
 He was too generous to seek Von Geradespruch, of 
 whose sympathy he felt assured; he could- not bear to 
 add the weight of his own uncertainty to the cares that 
 oppressed him ; it was too early to see Minna ; besides, her 
 very fortitude was a reproach to his own pusillanimity.
 
 164 NOTHING : AN HISTORICAL TALE. 
 
 At length the royal chapel was thrown open. Moritz 
 entered. The stillness that generally prevails in a place of 
 worship was broken by the tread of some of the servants, 
 who were giving the last finishing touches of preparation 
 for the reception of mortal guests, whilst they heedlessly 
 passed the altar in busy and bustling pursuit of the 
 occupation in which they were engaged ; as they un- 
 ceremoniously called to each other to convey their direc- 
 tions, the sound startled Moritz, and seemed like a 
 desecration of the holy place. 
 
 At length all was in order, and Moritz was left alone. 
 Quiet resumed her sway. Imperceptibly he succumbed to 
 the contemplative influence around. His feelings, which 
 had attained the highest grade of agonized excitement, 
 seemed benumbed ; his vivid perception of tbe momentous 
 crisis in his existence, that was to him a few minutes 
 before so overwhelming, had faded into a faint and shadowy 
 outline of some undertaking which he must accomplish. 
 He had a faint perception of the passing of many persons. 
 
 Some one paused beside him ; a paper was held out to 
 him, and the king's voice uttered the words, " Here is the 
 text I promised." 
 
 Moritz grasped the paper. He was no longer perturbed 
 or hurried. Was it that hope was extinct, and in its own
 
 NOTHING : AN HISTORICAL TALE. 165 
 
 extermination comprised fear ? I know not, and will leave 
 the subject to those physiologists that can explain it. I 
 only state facts. 
 
 The service had commenced. He looked at the paper ; 
 it was a blank. 
 
 When the young theologian entered the pulpit, Frederick 
 noted him with curious scrutiny ; but the calm demeanour, 
 the dignified composure, and self-possessed humility of his 
 deportment told not of the struggle that in a few days had 
 added years of self-control and self-enquiry to his short 
 life. The anthem was still swelling on the ear, and as 
 the last note died away, the quiet voice of the minister rose 
 in prayer : it was short and impressive. When it came to 
 the text no trepidation could be observed. It was not till 
 the very last and slightest noise had died away that Moritz 
 began. 
 
 He held the blank paper in his hand, and, exhibiting it 
 to view, commenced : " M}^ text is taken from nothing, in 
 other words, from the universe, for from nothing Almighty 
 Love called forth all created being." 
 
 It is not my intention to transcribe a sermon ; suffice it 
 to say, the eloquence and erudition of the preacher shone 
 alike conspicuous.
 
 166 NOTHING: AN HISTORICAL TALE. 
 
 On descending from the pulpit, he received the king's 
 command to attend him at twelve the next day. 
 
 A few minutes sufficed to take Moritz to Minna: he 
 found her scarcely less agitated than he had been previous 
 to the sermon. From her he went to Von Geradespruch, 
 and related what had occurred. 
 
 From Von Geradespnich he learned that the next day 
 was appointed for the court-martial, and remained with 
 him, making notes, and endeavouring to raise his spirits. 
 Again, a most anxious day, Moritz was busied with com- 
 missions ; he did not leave Von Geradespruch till late, and 
 was again with him early next morning. 
 
 " Do not forget the king's command, my dear Sinnreich," 
 said Von Geradespruch ; " he will not overlook worth like 
 yours." 
 
 At the appointed time Moritz was duly admitted to 
 Frederick, and graciously received. 
 
 " Well, Sir," he addressed him, " I told you that I con- 
 sidered you unfit for the church you applied for, and I am 
 of the same opinion still; your talents would be thrown 
 away. You must remain in Berlin, and set an example 
 of incorruptible integrity to men of talent and learning. 
 Your promotion shall be my care, and, in future, you will
 
 nothing: an historical tale. 167 
 
 not find me the least warm amongst your friends, of whom 
 two or three are invited to meet you. We will welcome 
 them in my chapel, where you will perform one part of the 
 service, and my chaplain the other." 
 
 Moritz bowed ; it struck him that the king had not been 
 in the habit of preaching, or he would better have under- 
 stood the perplexity he caused. 
 
 " Now," said the king, " I want you to accompany me ;" 
 so saying, he rose and passed through one or two galleries, 
 then entering a side room, demanded of some officers in 
 waiting whether it were time ? 
 
 " The sentence is just about to be pronounced, may it 
 please your Majesty." 
 
 Frederick stepped forward, motioning Moritz to join 
 him. A screen was drawn across the doorway. In a few 
 minutes there was a slight stir, and directly after some 
 person read the condemnation of Conrad von Geradespruch, 
 Captain in his Majesty's tenth regiment of horse, de- 
 manding, as matter of form, whether any one objected to 
 such condemnation, and the expulsion of Captain von 
 Geradespruch from the service. There was a general 
 , silence. Suddenly Frederick pushed the screen aside, 
 
 "I object to the sentence as illegal. I, Frederick of
 
 168 nothing: an historical tale. 
 
 Prussia, by the grace of God, and the promptings of my 
 own heart, my subject's father, and my soldier's friend. 
 It suited not my purpose or ideas, gentlemen, to set aside 
 this court-martial ; but I had so far relied on your honour 
 as men, and the defenders of human rights, as to consider 
 it a court of equity. I find myself deceived, but will not 
 on that account dispense with the services of a tried and 
 valuable officer, nor allow him or myself to be punished for 
 
 your misconstructions, and But I waive this subject, 
 
 from-the conviction that you will retrieve your conduct in 
 the field. And now let me explain myself. You have 
 pronounced sentence against Captain Conrad von Gerad- 
 espruch of my tenth regiment of horse. Conrad von 
 Geradespruch holds no such commission; he is Major in 
 my body-guard, and, as such, Major von Geradespruch, 
 I beg leave to .be the first to offer you my congratulations. 
 For you. Sir, (bending a stern and indignant glance on 
 Von Qualen,) I fully appreciate your conduct." 
 
 "A few words with you, Major von Geradespruch," he 
 proceeded, and Conrad and Moritz followed him through 
 the door by which he had entered. 
 
 Not another word was spoken till they reached the 
 chapel, when Frederick, turning round, remarked, " I wish
 
 nothing: an historical tale. 169 
 
 to be an eye-witness to the manner in which you perform 
 your devotions, Sir Soldier, for I understand that it has 
 been hinted that I am not very particular on this score." 
 
 Moritz and Conrad exchanged glances of perplexed 
 meaning ; the king saw and enjoyed their embarrassment. 
 
 On entering the royal chapel, they found the curtain, that 
 shaded the seats near the altar, was down, but, on their 
 approach, it was drawn aside, and there, in bridal costume, 
 stood Minna Frommkind and Bertha von Ruhmgier ; Pro- 
 fessor Frommkind, in full puff and powder, with his largest- 
 sized silver buckles covering the front of his shoes, and his 
 clocked silk stockings vouching for the grandeur of the 
 occasion; and Mr. and Mrs. Sinnreich in gratified and 
 proud affection. The holy place and royal presence did 
 not quite restrain the first bursts of affectionate recognition ; 
 but its truth and honesty pleaded for it at the throne of 
 grace, and Frederick affected not to hear it. 
 
 "I told you. Madam," said the king, addressing himself 
 to Minna, "that, when next we met, I should command 
 instead of requesting ; I keep my word. Step forward and 
 receive the hand, as you already possess the heart, of a man 
 suited only to your highmindedness." 
 
 Need we, say that Minna cheerfully obeyed ? 
 
 When the ceremony was over, Frederick turned to
 
 170 nothing: an historical tale. 
 
 Moritz. " I told you, Sir, that I should require you to 
 officiate; I have no notion of condemning you to fetters 
 that are quite as well deserved by your gallant friend, so 
 I impose the duty on you of rivetting them, whilst I, to 
 make sure of so slippery a lady, will myself give Bertha 
 von Ruhmgier to his safe keeping." 
 
 Years, many and eventful years, have passed away since 
 these occurrences ; but public and private records would 
 vouch for their importance. There are still some living 
 who remember Sinnreich as Consistorialrath, the highest 
 dignity the Prussian Church then conferred ; for they had 
 no bishops, and our own universities acknowledged his 
 writings as some of the most ortljodox, as well as most 
 erudite productions. The names are all fictitious ; but the 
 last description of him was, that he was a little old man, 
 with only sufficient of human frailty in his nature to make 
 his contemporaries love him as well as reverence his 
 qualities. The career of Von Geradespruch, as chalked 
 out by Frederick, was that of a hero, and a successful 
 one ; and Von Qualen — rests with his ancestors.
 
 THUSNELDA. 
 
 The wife of Hermann was taken prisoner by Germanicus, and led in 
 triumph to Rome, twelve months after the defeat of Varus by the 
 Germans. 
 
 I. 
 
 No word she utter'd, — not a sigh 
 Betray'd the anguish of her heart ; 
 No tear-drop did escape her eye, — 
 No sign that could her grief impart. 
 The conqueror, a gen'rous foe. 
 Blest with as fair a wife as she, 
 Even his triumph would forego, 
 But durst not set Thusnelda free.
 
 172 THUSNELDA. 
 
 II. 
 
 Patient, though suff'riug was her mien. 
 
 Her thoughts had wander'd far away, 
 
 And raem'ry conjur'd up a scene 
 
 That fancy scarcely durst portray : 
 
 It was a signal victory, 
 
 And the brave Roman legions slain ; 
 
 It was Germania set free, » 
 
 By Hermann, from the Roman chain. 
 
 III. 
 
 And now — she's in the victor's pow'r, — 
 That victor whom her lord defied, — 
 That Rome to whom each coming hour 
 Gives some new conquest, and fresh pride. 
 Self is forgotten : he alone, 
 To whom her happiness is life. 
 Dwells in her thoughts; whate'er her doom, 
 She'll think and act as Hermann's wife.
 
 HERMANN ; OR, ARMINIUS THE CHERUSKER 
 
 CHIEF. 
 
 The following historical fact, with very little license, 
 claimed for poetical convenience, is too well known to 
 require comment ; still a slight recapitulation may be 
 opportune. 
 
 According to the best accredited historians, the Romans, 
 after subjugating many tribes at that time residing in Ger- 
 many, and amongst others the Cherusker, were, as usual, 
 bent on benefitting their new tributaries by introducing the 
 arts and customs of civilization amongst them, an endeavour 
 which was however firmly resisted and warmly resented ; 
 for then, as now, people had an odd way of fancying them- 
 selves the best judges of their own likes and dislikes. The 
 conquerors, however, nothing daunted, resolved on prose-
 
 174 THE CHERUSKER CHIEF. 
 
 cutiug their design, and for that purpose caused some of 
 the noblest and most promising youths to be educated in 
 Rome. This arrangement served a double purpose ; for the 
 young nobles thus became hostages for their countrymen, 
 and their intended refiners, if the term be permitted. 
 Arminius, or Hermann, as the Germans tenaciously desig- 
 nate him, and his brother Flavius, two young Cherusker 
 chiefs, were amongst the number of those withdrawn from 
 their simple and unpretending homes, to be introduced to 
 all the elegance, luxury, and voluptuousness of the head- 
 quarters of refined dissipation. Both youths were hand- 
 some, unvitiated, and naturally elegant ; but the pleasures 
 in which they were allowed to indulge unrestrictedly, and 
 the intercourse with the young and haughty nobles, had an 
 opposite tendency in the two. Both were ardent admirers 
 of valiant deeds and noble bearing; but Flavius, dazzled 
 by the prospect of ranking as a son of mighty Rome, 
 identified her glories, achievements, and her liberty with 
 his own ; nay, he even copied the arrogant allusions of the 
 young Romans to the vanquished barbarians as they 
 styled the Germans, or any other nation not subject to 
 their sway and tutelage. In fact, Flavius was heart and 
 soul Roman, — a Roman exquisite. Not so Hermann ; he 
 thought of home, with deep and heartfelt regret, secretly
 
 THE CHERUSKER CHIEF. 175 
 
 vowing himself to the liberation of his enthralled country, 
 contemning the effeminacy of Roman pursuits, and dis- 
 daining the luxurious habits of her children; her polity and 
 military tactics became subjects of intense interest to the 
 young chieftain ; he served .amongst her troops, and ranked 
 amongst the equites; but the better he understood her 
 politics and comprehended the art of war, the more con- 
 vinced he became, that the only arms with which his 
 countrymen could oppose them would be cunning. When 
 Quintilius Varus commanded in Germany, Hermann sought 
 and obtained his confidence, being even freely admitted to 
 the council-board, and often advancing an opinion which 
 was frequently acted upon, and always listened to with 
 respect. Having gained a complete ascendancy over 
 Varus, Hermann's next step was to instigate a revolt in 
 the most distant provinces, which would render a division 
 of the Roman forces imperative ; he next advised Varus to 
 march in person against another body of insurgents, and 
 such was the infatuation of the Roman general, that, not- 
 withstanding many hints of the intended treachery, and a 
 decided accusation from the chief of the Catti, he accepted 
 the guidance of the Cherusker, who led him into a marshy 
 vale, the exact position of which is now a disputed point, 
 but supposed to be on the borders of the present territory
 
 176 THE CHERUSKER CHIEF. 
 
 of Lippe. On this spot the guide contrived to leave the 
 Romans, who suddenly found the hills which encompassed 
 them beset with armed men. The struggle was desperate : 
 the Romans fought for life, honour, and renown ; the 
 Germans for home, liberty, and revenge : the former had 
 the advantage of discipline, the latter of position. The 
 Romans were fatigued by a long and harrassing march, 
 and, surprised by an unexpected attack, the Germans were 
 vigorous in untired strength, and sanguine with anticipated 
 triumph. The contest lasted three days, and ended in the 
 utter destruction of the famous legions. 
 
 'TwAS noon ; the midday sun shot gleams of liglit 
 Onto the dank and marshy ground. Anon 
 The space was fill'd by soldiery, 
 But no disorder mark'd their increase. 
 Though gladly tliey avail themselves of rest, 
 E'en in the forest glade, — a marshy tract. 
 Laborious to travel, and unfit for 
 Resting place, save truly at utmost need. 
 They were the veteran bands of Rome, far 
 From their homes, their lares, and their kindred — 
 The famous legions that proud Varus led.
 
 THE CHERUSKER CHIEF. 177 
 
 The brilliant sun dazzled the vision 
 
 Of him that looked upon their standard, — 
 
 The kingly eagle, Jove's own noble bird, — 
 
 That oft had led them on to victory. 
 
 And now, in scattered groups, they talk of Rome, 
 
 And guess how time is speeding there, and what 
 
 Amusements will withdraw affection's thoughts 
 
 From their achievements or privations. 
 
 Stay but till we return, and joyous then 
 
 Shall Rome and Romans be ! 
 
 Let them prepare 
 The glittering pageantry of triumph. 
 And we will bring choice gifts, — barbarians 
 Tamed. 
 
 Ah ! what was that Arminius ? 
 To save myself from falling, I did grasp 
 Thy standard, brave Ventidius : it droops. 
 But thou, perchance, canst right it : the eagle 
 Seems to bow his head methinks ; 'tis surely 
 Fancy, or have I injured it ? 
 
 Nay, 
 Hermann, 'tis indeed thy fancy ! 
 
 Ah ! see, 
 Diana rises ! Goddess of the bow, 
 
 A A
 
 178 THE CHERUSKER CHIEF. 
 
 Queen of the forest, lovely huntress, hail ! 
 But what portends thy presence now, fair dame, 
 When Phoebus, in full splendour, rules the sky ? 
 What would our augurs say, or what infer, 
 From such conjunction, or such adverse claims? 
 Bright are thy looks, Apollo ; Dian, thine 
 Are clouded. Be ye propitious both ! 
 And thou great Jove, almighty thunderer, 
 Father of gods and men, help us, we pray. 
 Mars, quit the zone encircled, we entreat, 
 And by thy sanction deign to aid our arms. 
 Hark ! what was that ? 'tis like the ti'amp of men 
 Us'd to the forest and the fenny marsh ! 
 Where's the Cherusker chief, Arminius ? 
 Recall the scatter'd troops ! sound, sound to anns ! 
 Our guide has play'd us false; we are entrapp'd 
 To fight in this arena for his pleasure ! 
 Again, the war- shout. 
 
 'Tis the Cherusker signal ! 
 Form, noble veterans ! Roman warriors ! 
 Think but of victory, forget fatigue ; 
 There is no adverse fate but cowardice ! 
 True we have fought on firmer soil ; but 
 Shall a handful of wild savages have pow'r
 
 THE CHERUSKER CHIEF. 179 
 
 To brave and to defy our choicest legions ? 
 Oh ! be but firm ! life, freedom, and renown 
 Depend on your resistance ! 
 
 Back, cowards ! 
 Whither would ye flee ? 
 
 Alas ! they heed me not ! 
 Oh ! the assailants' shouts are deafening ! 
 Well done, brave hearts ! If ye repulse them thus, 
 We shall — ah ! my trusty Publius down ! 
 Ventidius slain, our standard taken ! 
 Alas, alas ! resistance is in vain ! 
 We cannot form, we cannot bid them battle ; 
 We are cooped in, our bravest warriors 
 Slain. 
 
 The ambushers are well informed 
 Of our fatigue : on, and still on they press. 
 Alas ! their very war-song tells our fate, 
 Their full success, and our destruction. 
 Louder and louder still it sounds, whilst yells 
 And clanging shields, and battle shouts, all add 
 To the confusion. 
 
 Varus has fall'n 
 Upon his sword. 
 
 The death-moan wails around !
 
 180 THE CHERUSKER CHIEF. 
 
 Our noble troops, the very flower of Rome, 
 Lie scattered on this foreign earth, far, 
 Far away from beauteous Italy, 
 In unknown land, and unsepultured ! 
 Ah ! none will raise for us the fun'ral pyre 
 With pious care, collect our scatter'd bones. 
 And give to our wandering spirits rest ! 
 Here none know our usages save Hennann, 
 And he — has been trained amongst us but 
 To betray us. To turn the use of arms, 
 From us acquired, against ourselves ! 
 Oh ! thus to fall ! to be outwitted thus ! 
 Resistless led into the ready snare, 
 Like victims for the sacrifice ! 
 
 To die 
 With that triumphant war-shout ringing in 
 Our ears ! 
 
 But welcome death ! who would outlive 
 Defeat, or barter the soldier's grave 
 To lengthen out the frail uncertain span 
 Of life, — at most, a few short fleeting years !
 
 ORDEAL BY WATER. 
 
 The following is neither an original idea nor a translation, but 
 written fi'om the recollection of a German story in verse, which, with 
 the moral thf se verses contain, and the inferiority to the oiiginal, can 
 only be imputed to the writer, as it is one of the most piquant and 
 humorous satires on the unaccommodating impertinence some English- 
 men assume, as a means of establisliing their identity when travelling 
 " in foreign parts." 
 
 It happen'd once, towards dark November, 
 A Briton sought more genial climes. 
 And, less annoyance to remember. 
 Forswore the Sun and Sunday Times ; 
 And next, to keep an old companion, 
 Yclept old Podagra, at bay. 
 He formed a chase of Indian bannian, 
 And hunted there the livelong day.
 
 182 ORDEAL BY WATER. 
 
 II. 
 
 But, to elucidate my story, 
 
 This chase was formed in precincts new, 
 
 A ground-floor, rented pro tempore. 
 
 Receives the hunter and his crew. 
 
 Now it unluckily so chanc'd 
 
 The floor above was likewise rented, 
 
 By one in study far advanc'd, 
 
 Who felt at noise much discontented. 
 
 III. 
 
 But such a racket, such a stir, 
 Such tally-ho, and yoicks, in glee. 
 He knew not what he must infer, 
 'Twas new in his philosophy ; 
 So, hast'ning down, intent to glean 
 The hubbub's meaning real and true. 
 He stood aghast to note the scene 
 That, as he enter'd, met his view.
 
 ORDEAL BY WATER. 183 
 
 IV 
 
 The hounds at fault, poor puss surpris'd, 
 The Englishman quite out of breath, 
 Cries, " Ar'n't the rooms vast well disguis'd ? 
 Come, Sir, you'll be in at the death !" 
 
 " Excuse me. Sir ; I came to say " 
 
 " Well, wait then till I've kill'd the hare." 
 " The fellow's mad ! Sir, no delay ; 
 Such noise, I deem, is hardly fair." 
 
 "Whew !" says John Bull, " is this your ditty ? 
 Now look ye, Sir, these rooms are mine. 
 To waste your precious breath were pity ; 
 I shall hunt on, howe'er you whine !" 
 Discomfited and sore perplexed, 
 Our wise philosopher ascends; 
 Pondering he goes, and sorely vex'd — 
 I wonder what the sage intends ?
 
 184 ORDEAL BY WATER. 
 
 VI. 
 
 At first a drop of moisture fell, 
 (Our huntsman thinks it must be fancy,) 
 Then a brisk show'r comes on pell-mell, 
 And torrents pour — the room's unchancy ! 
 Our hero hurries to explore 
 The cause of such an inundation. 
 Behold him at his neighbour's door, 
 Where he turns pale with consternation. 
 
 VII. 
 
 For, hurrying too and fro, he sees, 
 
 Dozens with water -buckets laden; 
 
 The work seems every one to please, 
 
 From th' sturdy groom to th' laughing maiden. 
 
 " Odds ! zounds ! why, Sir, what's your intent ? 
 
 You'll drown me in the room below !" 
 
 " Dear Sir, I am on fishing bent ! 
 
 These are my rooms, as you well know !
 
 ORDEAL BY WATER. 185 
 
 VIII. 
 
 A pity 't were to waste your breath, I 
 
 Or leave your hunting-scene below ; 
 You won't be in, Sir, at the death ; 
 
 Make no apologies, but go." ! 
 
 " Nay," says John Bull, " you've paid me off, \ 
 
 And frankly I now own my folly. j 
 
 Of hunting I have had enough ; — ' 
 
 Let friendship banish melancholy." 
 
 B B
 
 THE SAVING FAITH: A TANSLATION FROM 
 THE GERMAN OF VOSS. 
 
 I. 
 
 A CITIZEN of Mainz, who died, 
 
 Hasten'd to heaven's gate, 
 And loudly for admission cried ; 
 
 But Peter bade him wait 
 Until he knew from whence he came. 
 His faith, his conduct, and his name. 
 
 II. 
 
 " A Roman Catholic am I, — 
 
 The only saving faith !" 
 " Well, sit down on that bench close by,' 
 
 The holy Peter saith. 
 .Just then from Geneva there came 
 Another cit who did the same ;
 
 THE SAVING FAITH. 187 
 
 III. 
 
 Excepting that he did profess 
 
 To be of Calvin's school, 
 Which, he declar'd, in his address. 
 
 The only saving rule. 
 " On yonder bench, then, rest awhile," 
 Spake holy Peter, with a smile. 
 
 IV. 
 
 The gate was scarcely closed again, 
 When one from Hamburg sought 
 
 Entrance, by thund'ring knocks, to gain. 
 Which the apostle brought. 
 
 " How now ?" says Peter. " Let me in ; 
 
 The sole true faith is Lutheran." 
 
 V. 
 
 " On yonder bench, friend, take thy place,' 
 
 Said Peter, and withdrew. 
 This applicant, with surly grace, 
 
 Then join'd the other two. 
 But music caught their ravish'd ears. 
 In praise, — the music of the spheres.
 
 188 THE SAVING FAITH. 
 
 VI. 
 
 Then the revolving stars and moon, 
 
 The sun in glowing pride, 
 The soothing calm, and heaven's perfume, 
 
 Bade joy their hearts betide ; 
 And thus they sang, with one accord, 
 " We all ador'd one God and Lord 1" 
 
 VII. 
 
 Wide flew the gates ; Peter appear'd, 
 Smiling with friendly mien ; 
 
 " Ah ! silly ! is the riddle clear'd ? 
 Have ye your error seen ? 
 
 Then come." Deponent saith no more. 
 
 Readers may con the fable o'er.
 
 A VILLAIN IS HE THAT BETRAYS IT. 
 
 " Du weiszt nicht, welche Bestimmung dich erwartet. Es ist Zeit, 
 dasz dn dich kennen lemest. Du musst Licht ueber dich haben.'' 
 
 SCHILLER; 
 
 " It is impossible to see you as you propose ; but, 
 if you really care for me, meet me at the 
 masked ball, daring the first week of the car- 
 nival: should you not do so, the explanation 
 will be obvious, and we meet no more." 
 So ran a three-cornered, rose-coloured, and scented little 
 billet, which was put into the hand of Rudolf von Zage- 
 nicht, as he returned, in a very dubious sort of humour, 
 from parade. 
 
 It was really provoking, and Rudolf felt that it was so. 
 Here was the most tantalizing, the most bewitching, 
 and most mysterious little brunette, that ever a hand-
 
 190 A VILLAIN IS HE THAT BETRAYS IT. 
 
 some ofBcer had been perplexed by, absolutely playing 
 hide-and-seek with every corner of his heart, — that heart 
 which should have considered itself preengaged, or only 
 open to the charms of glory. 
 
 The first time that he had met with her, he fancied that 
 she rather maliciously, and somewhat coquettishly, en- 
 couraged an ugly little snarling dog, to snap at the heels 
 of his fine and mettled charger. This was in itself an 
 annoyance, added to which, the dog was the very counter- 
 part of one his lady aunt, a fat old dowager, always con- 
 sidered an indispensable attendant, and, from his earliest 
 recollection, an object of his inveterate dislike. The honour 
 of his horsemanship was at stake, and, after warding off the 
 attacks of the persevering little brute, he showed off his 
 horse in the most splendid style, causing it to kick, rear, 
 and plunge, whilst he kept the saddle himself, with an 
 appearance of perfect ease, whatever the real exertion 
 might be. 
 
 After sufficient display, with an ample quantum of demi- 
 semi-circles, and allowing his horse to throw him nearly 
 off, that he might show how firmly he could keep his seat, 
 he turned an enquiring glance on the lady that had caused 
 him so much ti'ouble, but (fancy his surprise and displeasure) 
 she had actually walked into a bye lane, and was talking to
 
 A VILLAIN IS HE THAT BETRAYS IT. 191 
 
 an old woman with a milk-pail, without even turning her 
 head to observe his further mauceuvres. 
 
 He rode past the top of the lane, but she either did not, 
 or would not notice him. 
 
 The next time of meeting was at parade, she was only 
 attended by the four-footed little brute, and Rudolf heard 
 her enquire the name of a lieutenant, who was not half so 
 good-looking, nor half so prepossessing as himself j this was 
 at least our hero's opinion, and he was no mean judge of 
 personal attractions. It was in vain that Rudolf crossed 
 her path more than once ; she paid not the slightest atten- 
 tion to his so doing, not even giving herself the trouble to 
 move. After remaining a perfectly unconcerned spectator, 
 notwithstanding her singularity in appearing there un- 
 attended, she walked quietly away as soon as she felt 
 inclined so to do. 
 
 On the Sunday, Rudolf was busily engaged in his 
 devotional exercise, when some one, in a soft gentle tone 
 of voice, requested him to point out the psalm they were 
 singing. Rudolf offered his book, looking up at the speaker 
 as he did so, and remained in utter perplexity in the midst 
 of his act of courtesy, with his eyes fixed on the unknown 
 lady of annoyance. An arch smile spread its influence 
 over her face, and rested in her eyes, whilst the rest of lier
 
 192 A VILLAIN IS HE THAT BETRAYS IT. 
 
 countenance assumed a diolly demure cast, that provoked 
 the gallant soldier more than words could possibly have 
 done. He was determined to ascertain who, and what she 
 was, as soon as the service should be completed, but, when 
 he looked up, after the last prayer, her place was vacant. 
 
 Certain words are never used to polite ears, at least they 
 should adopt the form of hieroglyphics ; but I regret to state 
 that our Captain adopted no such precaution, when, on 
 leaving the church, he could discover no trace of his 
 tormentor. 
 
 Again an occasional glimpse was obtained, as she 
 passed the house (his rooms were two stories high,) where 
 he was stationed, but by the time that he breathlessly 
 reached the street, she was gone, — not even the last flut- 
 tering of her garments visible. 
 
 " What can she be ? What can she want ? A provoking 
 little flirt ! Why she surely does not consider herself worth 
 looking at ! And I, too, as good as married, for I shall be 
 compelled to fulfil this hateful contract ! Oh ! it cannot 
 be on my account ! She asked Emil von Rechtschnur's 
 
 name " 
 
 Some days elapsed, and he saw nothing of her; one 
 day however he could have vowed that, on calling unex- 
 pected at Von Rechtschnur's, he saw a female leave the
 
 A VILLAIN IS HE THAT BETRAYS IT. 193 
 
 apartment by one door, as he entered by the other; but 
 Emil's manner made him doubt the evidence of his own 
 senses, for he was quietly lounging on a sofa, reading the 
 newspaper, and sipping his coffee — a second cup stood on 
 the table. 
 
 " I fear that I have disturbed you," began Rudolf 
 
 Emil looked up with an astonished air. 
 
 " I have unseasonably intruded," recommenced Von 
 Zagenicht. 
 
 " How long have you adopted this mode of ceremony ?" 
 enquired Emil, drawling. 
 
 " Nay," said Rudolf, losing temper, " I thought that you 
 had company." 
 
 " Oh ! I had," replied Von Rechtschnur ; " but it was a 
 lady, and you know that she was sure to retire when you 
 entered." 
 
 " Why sure to retire ?" enquired Rudolf 
 
 "Excuse further explanation," said Emil; "this much, 
 however, for your satisfaction and my own : her retreat was 
 caused by no dread of your making me jealous, so do not 
 be uneasy on that score !" and he turned to a mirror, in 
 which he surveyed his recumbent person with most self- 
 satisfied approval. 
 
 " Con really, Emil !"— 
 
 c c
 
 194 A VILLAIN IS HE THAT BETRAYS IT. 
 
 "Pray go on," said Emil ; "from your tone, you were 
 about to remonstrate ; beg pardon for interrupting you, but 
 you are so long before you finish a sentence !" and again 
 the nonchalant Emil sipped his coffee, and took another 
 survey of himself, evidently consulting the mirror, as a 
 tried and well-approved friend. 
 
 " Have you breakfasted, Rodolph ?" 
 
 " Oh ! an hour since !" 
 
 "How testy and impatient you seem; has something 
 
 vexed you .'"' 
 
 " Oh ! no ; I never was in better humour, and came to 
 spend an hour with you, if agi-eeable." 
 
 "Oh! quite so; how are you inclined to spend it, — in 
 
 fishing ?" 
 
 " No," said Rudolf, colouring, and turning a scrutinizing 
 glance on the enquirer, who, however, was trying to balance 
 the teaspoon on the tip of his finger, and appeared to be 
 thinking of nothing else." 
 
 "Oh! I know that you would prefer the chase; but we 
 might not start such game as you would like." 
 
 Rudolf threw a quick glance at Emil, but the spoon was, 
 apparently, not balanced quite to his satisfaction, and he 
 was still bestowing his thoughts on that subject ; indeed his 
 subsequent remark proved it.
 
 A VILLAIN IS HE THAT BETRAYS IT. 195 
 
 " What a strange thing is this power of attraction !" 
 
 " What are you thinking of, Emil ?" 
 
 " Oh ! of you, decidedly ; I am thinking how best to 
 entertain you." 
 
 " Ha ! ha ! ha !" sounded a merry ringing laugh from the 
 next room. 
 
 " Who is that ?" enquired Rudolf, starting up. 
 
 " My visitor," said Emil ; " but honour bright ! she visits 
 me under the protection of a flag of truce. I have, in 
 other words, promised that she shall not be intruded on by 
 any of the roving blades, yclept soldiers, and that it shall 
 not be known that she is here, so consider yourself partially 
 in our confidence, and keep it." 
 
 Never was any poor fellow so perplexed, annoyed, and 
 ruminating as Rudolf, "chewing his cud of sweet and bitter 
 fancy," till his whole head ached, instead of his occupation 
 merely affecting the masticators, as it in all reason should 
 have done. 
 
 " It is the unknown !" he whispered to himself; " it is 
 the unknown !" he muttered between his teeth ; " it is the 
 unknown !" he shouted, in a tone that made Emil spring 
 from the sofa, and seize his hand in alarm. 
 
 " You are ill, Rudolf," he said ; " I am certain of it, by 
 your strange and unnatural demeanour, I feel convinced
 
 1.96 A VILLAIN IS HE THAT BETRAYS IT. 
 
 that you are under the influence of dehrium. Let me send 
 for a doctor." 
 
 " Doctor me ! no doctors !" bawled Rudolf, almost mad- 
 dened at the ludicrous concern Emil had thrown into the 
 expression of his face. 
 
 " Has my physician seen her ?" pursued Emil, with mock 
 gravity, and adopting the spouting heroics. " Would you 
 
 drive down to what place shall T hit on to suit your 
 
 fancy, rny dear Rudolf, and cool the fever of imagination 
 that so distresses you ?'" 
 
 "Pshaw! Emil, do be serious, if it be in your nature, 
 and tell me who this stranger is." 
 
 " I should really be happy, more than happy, most super- 
 latively blest to oblige you, dear Rudolf, but I am absolutely 
 bound by my word of honour not to reveal the lady's name 
 without her concm'rence." 
 
 Rudolf used a most violent, but very expressive excla- 
 mation, and stamped his foot. 
 
 As a chronicler, and a faithful one, I cannot conceal this 
 infirmity of our hero's. 
 
 " Ha ! ha ! ha ! ha !" resounded a long peal of the self- 
 same merry laugh that he had before heard. 
 
 He sprang forward to the door, but it was locked, and on 
 turning round he found himself feebly detained by Emil,
 
 A VILLAIN IS HE THAT BETRAYS IT. 197 
 
 who was almost powerless, from the heartiness with which 
 he had echoed the sounds of merriment. In a fit of irre- 
 pressible fury, our hero sprang from the room, the obnoxious 
 sounds pursuing him till he had entered the street. On his 
 arrival at his apartments, which he reached by a circuitous 
 route, he found a note on the table, which ran thus : — 
 
 " Never mind Emil ; it is all nonsense about me 
 wishing to be mewed up, like a recluse : come at 
 nine to-morrow morning, and see whether I do 
 not make breakfast for you, and give you a hearty 
 welcome, as the guest of Von Rechtschnur." 
 Rudolf was full of delightful anticipations the whole of 
 that day ; he kissed the note a thousand times, called it his 
 precious little comforter, his sheet anchor, in this tempest of 
 uncertainty and doubt, besides a thousand other absurd and 
 ridiculous appellatives; it was in turn opened, and shut, 
 read, and re-read, but all his ingenuity could only guess it 
 into a note from the fair unknown, and all his twisting and 
 turning, nay, even his apostrophising the miniature scrap of 
 paper, would not conjure it into the bewitching brunette. 
 
 Evening approached; Rudolf became sentimental, from 
 sheer curiority. He rambled along the fields, watched the 
 splashing of the trout in the pond, and, when one or two
 
 198 A VILLAIN IS HE THAT BETRAYS IT. 
 
 hardy veterans ventured a tolerable ascent from the watery 
 element, and then precipitately returned to the cool and 
 lucid retreat, he wondered whether they had been endea- 
 vouring to fly from perplexity, and while away the anxious 
 moments by an excursion. 
 
 Equally high-flown were all Rudolf's other cogitations ; 
 now sailing with the homeward-bound crow, through the 
 fields of ether — (it was — the sky to wit — as black and murky- 
 looking as possible; but ether sounds well, and we can 
 form a more striking picture with the jet-black crow on the 
 clear blue ground, technically speaking, but, for the infor- 
 mation of the unitiated, we are still meaning the sky, that 
 wide field for sublimity,) — anon concluding that it would 
 rain, as suddenly the harsh and unmusical braying of some 
 poor unfortunate ass grated on his ear, and despondingly 
 turning his steps towards his own domicile. Suddenly, (he 
 could not be mistaken,) a tui'n in the road brought him 
 close to a female, — it was the unknown: a half smile of 
 recognition showed that she was aware of his presence. 
 Presently she stopped, and looked as if she was waiting for 
 something, and then began to retrace her steps. 
 
 Rudolf paused. The opportunity was not to be neglected. 
 
 Could he be of any service .^
 
 A VILLAIN IS HE THAT BETRAYS IT. 199 
 
 Oh ! Flirt, that dear, provoking, wayward flirt was mis- 
 sing. If she could catch a glimpse of it, she could easily 
 coax it ; hut how to make it hear her ; she could not 
 whistle, and the evening was closing in I 
 
 Rudolf whistled. 
 
 " Oh ! it will not attend to you ! little provoking pet ! it 
 cannot he steady for an instant, and I am such an admirer 
 of stability." 
 
 Rudolf looked at his companion, but she was staring in 
 all directions, to discover the little dog which came running, 
 in many a wild circle, towards her. Rudolf approached, to 
 capture the runaway ; but it sped through some furze 
 bushes, with a bark of defiance, and, whilst Rudolf's 
 gallantr}' persisted in its capture, passed him in a demi- 
 volte, and lay crouching at the feet of its mistress. 
 
 " Ha ! ha ! ha !" again sounded the ringing laugh, that 
 Rodolf could mistake for no other. " My wild, my pretty 
 play-fellow to overrun me ! and to give so much trouble to 
 this gentleman !" 
 
 The words were fair enough, but the manner was most 
 provokingly annoying. Rudolf bit his lips ; he walked on 
 however beside her, whilst she continued to pet Flirt. I 
 believe, he at last ventured to remark, that I am to have 
 the pleasure of meeting you at breakfast to-morrow.
 
 200 A VILLAIN IS HE THAT BETRAYS IT. 
 
 ♦ \ 
 
 " Indeed ! oh ! how delightful it will be not to have a 
 tete-a-tete to look forward to ! (Was the compliment in- 
 tended for Rudolf?) But let me hear all about it: how 
 have you contrived this ?" 
 
 " Nay, Madam, 1 have had the honour to receive your 
 very delightful and most valued note, and can only state, 
 that I hold myself bound to obey the mandate, as much by 
 inclination as duty." 
 
 " My note ! my mandate ! Pray, Sir, drop enigmas, and 
 speak so as to be understood !" 
 
 " Am I not to be at Von Rechtschnur's ?" 
 " Really, Sir, I must plead ignorance ; but Von Recht- 
 schnur ? where have I heard that name before ? Is your 
 name Von Rechtschnur? You have never informed me 
 what your name is." 
 
 " Rudolf von Zagenicht." 
 
 " Oh ! but Von Rechtschnur's } Oh ! I have it ! the 
 officer whom I so much admired on parade ! Can you 
 introduce me to him ?" 
 
 " Oh ! certainly, I shall have great pleasure," said our 
 hero, with a constrained bow, and a countenance expressive 
 of any thing but gratification. 
 
 They now came to a part of the road that branched off 
 in an opposite direction.
 
 A VILLAIN IS HE THAT BETRAYS IT. 201 
 
 (i. 
 
 Well, good evening," said the lady ; " I turn this way." 
 
 " Oh ! I cannot allow you to proceed alone ; pray permit 
 me to see you safe." 
 
 " No, thank you ; my brother might not, nay, I am sure, 
 would not like it ; and Flirt will ensure my safety. But 
 if you really wish to oblige me, that is the shortest road, 
 and we will make an exchange; you go this way, and I 
 will go that." 
 
 Rudolf complied, though with evident chagrin, and the 
 lady turned off in an opposite direction : but he could not 
 resist following her, so, leaping the fence, he kept pace 
 with her on the opposite side the hedge. 
 
 Flirt began to bark most shrewishly, for which Rudolf 
 mentally consigned her to a gentleman that shall be name- 
 less, and who is said sometimes to make darkness visible. 
 
 After waiting a few moments, he proceeded still more 
 cautiously than before. 
 
 The unknown entered the town ; and now, as she pro- 
 ceeded up the straight street, he could keep her in view, 
 without approaching too closely. 
 
 She entered the Commandant's house. She had named 
 her brother — could she be the sister of that officer ? 
 
 He hurried home, thought over the whole scene, smoked 
 his cigar — the German panacea for every ache that can 
 
 D D
 
 202 A VILLAIN IS HE THAT BETRAYS IT. 
 
 be enumerated, (this was written before hydropathy had 
 been pronounced " a cure for all the ills that flesh is heir 
 to,") puffed the smoke into the street through the open 
 window, mused on his hard fate, and — the unknown. 
 
 It would have been in better taste, if our hero had 
 devoted the night to sleepless wretchedness; and he, no 
 doubt, fully intended so to do, but — oh ! human frailty ! — 
 he absolutely fell into so sound a sleep, that it was only 
 broken by the reveille, and then — it was too late to retrieve 
 his error. 
 
 Punctually, as the clock struck eight, he was at Von 
 Rechtschnur's, 
 
 On entering the room, Emil introduced him to Fraulein 
 von Grillenvoll, a lady with very red hair, dressed in the 
 Titus style ; her figure presented a very fair share of em- 
 bonpoint, and was folded, rather than attired, in a gaudy, 
 large-patterned chintz, of exceedingly old-fashioned and 
 slovenly make. She wore a pair of most prying and imper- 
 tinent green spectacles, and one of the patches, formerly so 
 much in vogue with the fair, yclept beauty spots, adorned 
 her left cheek, and must considerably have heightened her 
 attractions, as it was at least three times the usual size. 
 
 She rose at his entrance, and presented lier hand, which 
 Rudolf saluted with all proper ceremony, and then seated
 
 A VILLAIN IS HE THAT BETRAYS IT. 203 
 
 herself at the breakfast-table, with a simper, and a most 
 awkward curtsey. Nothing could exceed her gaucherie, 
 excepting her pressing and lavish politeness to her guest, 
 whom she alternately talked at, and to, with the everlasting 
 and unmeaning simper on her face. 
 
 At length breakfast was over, and Rudolf delighted to 
 make his escape. 
 
 This, then, was the meeting he had looked forward to 
 with such anticipations, — anticipations he durst not even 
 name ; for was he not bound to another ? 
 
 Months passed on ; Rudolf frequently met the unknown ; 
 sometimes she allowed him an opportunity of addressing 
 hei, at others she would thwart him in so doing, however 
 favourable an opportunity might occur. 
 
 At length she informed him that she was going to Berlin, 
 and should not be able to see him for some time. 
 
 " But," remonstrated the gallant soldier, " can I not call 
 on you ? Must your friends be debarred the pleasure of 
 seeing you.?" 
 
 "Not so fast, Herr von Zagenicht; let us pause a mo- 
 ment to consider, for I really do not know how to class 
 you — as a friend — why then there could be no possible 
 objection to introducing you to my friends ; but friendships 
 with such young sparks as you, are rather suspicious, par-
 
 204 A VILLAIN IS HE THAT BETKAYS IT. 
 
 ticularly when the parties are rather good-looking, and 
 somewhat susceptible ; one of which cases I can vouch for, 
 and the other I shrewdly suspect." 
 
 It needed no more ; Rudolf was on his knees, pleading 
 his adoration, whilst the lady laughed, as if it were the best 
 jest imaginable. 
 
 Rudolf felt sufficiently indignant to have given her up at 
 a moment's warning; but the wish to prove himself not 
 such a despicable suitor as she appeared to consider him, 
 prevailed, and he joined in her merriment with as good a 
 gi'ace as he could command. 
 
 Notwithstanding his endeavours, our hero could not 
 prevail on her to receive his .visits in Berlin ; and the 
 journeys he had undertaken thither, on the exploring 
 system, were most discouraging; he could learn nothing 
 of her, and invariably returned, puzzled and mortified. 
 It was after one of these unsuccessful journeys that he 
 received the note we have quoted at the commencement of 
 our story. 
 
 To enter into all the absurdities committed by our friend, 
 as a proof of his delight, would be to recapitulate all the 
 extravagant extravagancies of desperate lovers, from the 
 days of the first knight that devoted himself to woman's 
 supremacy, to those of the redoubted Don Quixote, and
 
 A VILLAIN IS HE THAT BETEAYS IT. 205 
 
 beyond even this last mirror of chivalry. Suffice it, then, 
 to say, that Rudolf knew every upstroke and downstroke of 
 that precious billet, quoted its cabalistic syllables when 
 challenged for the pass-word, and shouted, in an exalted 
 tone of command, " Meet me at the masked ball !" to the 
 no small perplexity of his corps on parade. 
 
 These worthies puzzled themselves amazingly to discover 
 how this manoeuvre was to be managed, for it was about 
 the time here mentioned, that some one, evidently well- 
 versed in the movements and intentions of the garrison at 
 Potsdam, had intimated to the King, that almost all the 
 officers were under engagements to attend the masked ball 
 during the first week of the carnival. 
 
 Frederick, who had military reform much at heart, 
 allowed considerable latitude in the camp, whilst, in gar- 
 rison, he admitted not the slightest deviation from the 
 strictest discipline. 
 
 An order was forwarded to Potsdam, by which the entire 
 garrison was prohibited leaving the town, without leave of 
 absence, and this under pain of strict imprisonment, and 
 degradation of military rank ; and it was, at the same time, 
 rendered extremely difficult to obtain leave of absence. 
 
 When Rudolf heard the new arrangement, he stormed.
 
 •206 A VILLAIN IS HE THAT BETRAYS IT. 
 
 fretted, fumed, quoted his billet, and at length, in despair, 
 requested leave of absence. 
 
 As he anticipated, the latter was refused ; and, unable to 
 inform his bewitching tormentor of his difficulty, without 
 the slightest clue to her abode or address, the note goaded 
 him on to desperation. 
 
 He could consult none of his comrades, for it was a well- 
 known fact that he was engaged, and had been so from a 
 mere boy; and so sacred is a betrothal considered in 
 Germany, so disgraceful a breach of faith, in either sex, 
 that the person thus forgetful of the prerogatives of society 
 would at once lose caste, and be subject to the finger of 
 scorn, besides being cut by all who had any regard for 
 their own characters. 
 
 Rudolf's betrothal had taken place under peculiar cir- 
 cumstances. His father and a brother officer had each 
 sought the afiection of the same beautiful girl, who had 
 declined the attentions of Von Zagenicht, to bestow her 
 entire love on his friend, whom she almost idolized. 
 
 Von Zagenicht possessed, under a somewhat stern ex- 
 terior, a warmth of feeling that would not have shamed a 
 gentler aspect. His was not the mere profession of love, 
 and he i*esolved to prove it by forwarding her wishes; he
 
 A VILLAIN IS HE THAT BETRAYS IT. 207 
 
 prized 'his friend, and was determined to evince it, by 
 assisting him to claim the bride he wished. 
 
 The young couple married. Von Zagenicht shortly after 
 followed their example, and found, in the high-minded 
 woman whom he chose, a friend that comprehended his 
 own qualifications, and a confidante, that strengthened his 
 own noble views. 
 
 Far from descending to the petty jealousy that many of 
 her sex evince, Frau von Zagenicht strove, by every atten- 
 tion in her power, to prove how highly her husband's 
 estimation of friends ranked with her, and sought every 
 opportunity to show a preference for his former favourite, 
 and his friend's wife ; consequently, a strict intimacy took 
 place between the two families. 
 
 On the birth of Rudolf, the hero of our present sketch, it 
 was a question which of the two prided themselves most in 
 him ; he throve, as such nurslings will thrive, and became 
 the pet and admiration of both exulting couples; and 
 when, some years afterwards, a rival made his appearance 
 in the family of Von Rechtschnur, it was still a contested 
 point, whether little Emil would ever perform half the 
 wonders, or possess a tithe of the surprising endowments, of 
 Rudolf.
 
 208 A VILLAIN IS HE THAT BETRAYS IT. 
 
 No material change occurred in either family 'till six 
 years later, when Fran von Rechtschnur died, bequeathing 
 Emil, and the babe whose life she had purchased by her 
 own, to the care of her disconsolate husband. 
 
 It was then that Von Zagenicht and his wife became 
 invaluable friends to the heart-stricken Von Rechtschnur, 
 and more than parents to the motherless children, whom 
 two short years found bereft of father as well as mother. 
 Von Rechtschnur had never recovered the loss of his wife, 
 and had sunk into an early tomb, a prey to grief, be- 
 queathing his orphans to the care of Von Zagenicht, who 
 promised to protect and defend them to the utmost ; espe- 
 cially little Mechthild, whose sex claimed more anxious 
 attention, and who was a source of most painful con- 
 sideration to her dying father. 
 
 Faithfully Von Zagenicht fulfilled the trust. The chil- 
 dren were domesticated in his house, and Emil shai'ed his 
 parental solicitude with Rudolf, whilst Mechthild was, in 
 turn, the playmate of each and every one. 
 
 Thus four years rolled happily and tranquilly away, when 
 a change occurred, materially affecting them. This was 
 the demise of Frau von Zagenicht, who, with her latest 
 breath, bequeathed Mechthild to the care of her husband.
 
 A VILLAIN IS HE THAT BETRAYS IT. 209 
 
 a charge Von Zageniclit vowed never to relinquish, until 
 he could bequeath her to a guardian, that should be better 
 calculated to fulfil the trust. 
 
 After the death of Frau von Zagenicht, home became 
 hateful to the hitherto domestic Von Zagenicht. He ap- 
 plied for an exchange into some regiment that would be 
 actively engaged ; this he soon obtained, for his value as 
 an officer was too well understood to admit of such a 
 request being slighted. His establishment was broken up ; 
 and he wrote to an aunt of Von Rechtschnur's, who had 
 often applied for Mechthild, offering to consign his precious 
 charge to that lady's care, with the proviso, however, that 
 he should still remain her acting guardian, retaining the 
 power to choose another in his stead, if he should deem 
 such a precaution requisite. 
 
 All these preliminaries being agreed to on the lady's part, 
 who was delighted to have the little girl on any terms, the 
 boys were cadetted at a military school, and Von Zagenicht 
 found himself once more at liberty to follow the banners, 
 which had so often marshalled him to triumph and victory. 
 Alas ! the heart that had formerly fluttered joyously as they 
 waved in the breeze, now beat mournfully ; the eyes that 
 had beamed with gladness at their approach, now rested 
 listlessly on them ; the veteran's mind grasped the stern 
 
 E E
 
 210 A VILLAIN IS HE THAT BETRAYS IT. 
 
 realities of life and death, which the stripling's had only 
 foreshadowed. 
 
 The campaign was nearly over ; only one decisive battle 
 remained to be fought before its close. Von Zagenicht felt 
 that it was Ijis death-call : " Coming events throw their 
 shadows before." Yes, it was even as the poet has ex- 
 pressed it. Strange foreboding power — oh ! presentiment, 
 unexplained thraldom of the mind, who can escape thee.? 
 The great, the powerful, the unbending have felt thy might! 
 The imaginative — alas ! thou art the least of ills, the most 
 lenient taskmaster, to whom they bend. The phlegmatic, 
 
 the dull even, own thy sway but this is not, or should 
 
 not be, the matter we have at present in hand. 
 
 Sleeping, or waking. Von Zagenicht felt that the number 
 of his mortal days had approached their limits, and he 
 longed to press his children to his breast, and to breathe 
 out his soul in a blessing on them. His prayers — and the 
 soldier's prayers were fervent and sincere — all tended to 
 this point. He had no dread of death, which he looked on 
 as a re-union with those who watched, as far as that may be, 
 over the dear ones struggling with earth and earth's allot- 
 ment; he felt, comparatively, little anxiety for the beloved 
 ones, so early thrown on the world ; for he knew that He 
 who noteth the sparrow's fall would watch over them ; but
 
 \ VILLAIX I» HE IWtl BETRAYS IT. 211 
 
 be revolved, and thought, and reflection strengtbened this 
 re^jlutioD, to consgn Mecbtbild to the care of Rudolf, and, 
 in order to ensure his intention, he projected the engage- 
 ment already alluded to. 
 
 He had written to request the boys and Mecbtbild to 
 join bini, and most earnestly did be hope that they would 
 do so before the battle in question. 
 
 Tliey did so. Von Zlagenicbt's wishes were soon com- 
 municated to the parties concerned- 
 Rudolf could not comprehend why any other tie should 
 bind him more firmly to bis pretty playmate, and the boy's 
 pride struggled against claiming so young an intended. 
 Reasoning on the subject was met by dogged obstinacy 
 and disapjiroval of the plan, so the fiatber appealed to the 
 feelings of the son, and affection conquered. The contract 
 was signed. 
 
 Von Zagenicht's foreboding proved correct ; be was 
 found amongst the slain, and the anguish of Rudolf and 
 Emil was, for a time, overpowering. 
 
 Mecbtbild had again been removed to the care of her 
 aunt, with whom she was to remain till the marriage con- 
 tract was fulfilled, which was to take place when she wa-s 
 seventeen.
 
 212 A VILLAIN IS HE THAT BETRAYS IT. 
 
 ft 
 
 As the parting scene with his father grew less vivid, 
 Rudolf's dislike to his engagement increased, and the 
 circumstance having obtained considerable publicity, he 
 was subjected to the jests or condolences of his comrades, 
 which kept up a constant state of irritation. Of his in- 
 tended he saw nothing, and their only correspondence was 
 an occasional note, or letter, in a school-girl's hand. Had 
 he been unfettered, inclination would, most probably have 
 led him to visit Mechthild, and form his own opinion of her 
 character and his hopes of happiness ; but circumstanced as 
 they were, he looked upon it as a task imposed on him, 
 and always suffered Emil to visit her alone. 
 
 Mechthild was the counterpart of what her mother had 
 been in personal appearance, the idol of her aunt's house- 
 hold, where she ruled supreme, each individual studying 
 her every look, before even a wish could be expressed ; she 
 was, consequently, as self-willed a little dame as any in 
 the kingdom ; and, had she not possessed one of the finest 
 tempers and dispositions in the world, — her aunt and the 
 whole household said, the very finest,— she would have been 
 utterly ruined. 
 
 It fortunately occurred that, amongst her caprices, (for 
 with lier all was whim,) she possessed a steady and unde-
 
 A VILLAIN IS HE THAT BETRAYS IT. -213 
 
 viating thirst for improvement ; and she was, by common 
 consent, declared the most accomplished, as well as the 
 prettiest, and liveliest little damsel in S . She per- 
 fectly remembered the affectionate playfellow of her child- 
 hood, nor did she return his evident indifference by any 
 thing approaching to the same feeling. It was her pride 
 to hear his merits as an officer discussed, his literary 
 acquirements applauded, or his character extolled for its 
 superiority. 
 
 Poor Mechthild underwent a degree of painful distress 
 she had never before endured, on one of these occasions, 
 when one of his fellow-officers was giving an account of 
 Rudolf, and deploring his unhappy fate, in being bound 
 to fulfil a hateful and compulsory contract. 
 
 Mechthild enquired further into the subject, and found 
 that a release could only be obtained by mutual consent. 
 Her plan was soon adopted; she had so many lovers, about 
 whom she did not care a straw, and whom she bad never 
 taken any pains to please, she would, under a fictitious 
 character, try to fascinate Rudolf. 
 
 Her brother and aunt were in her confidence ; the latter 
 accompanied her on a visit to Potsdam, remaining perdue, 
 whilst Mechthild, as the unknown, enslaved lier intended, 
 laughing heartily at his dismay on his introduction to
 
 214 A VILLAIN IS HE THAT BETRAYS IT. 
 
 Fraulein von Grillenvoll, whom she had so successfully 
 personated by means of false hair, green spectacles, and 
 extra wraps. 
 
 Her brother being always in the vicinity, she had, when 
 apparently unprotected, always some one near; and she 
 contrived her meetings with Rudolf, so as at once to incite 
 his admiration and provoke his curiosity. 
 
 Having given this explanation, we are at liberty to 
 observe friend Rudolf, who became more nervous and 
 restless as the time of the carnival approached, and he 
 found it impossible to obtain leave of absence for a day. 
 
 At length his resolution was taken, and, that no one else 
 might be implicated, should he be detected, he confided in 
 no one, but groomed his horse himself, and, mounting as 
 soon as it was dusk, set off for Berlin. 
 
 Oh ! how Rudolf rejoiced that the road he had to travel 
 was the best in the kingdom, how he cleared the miles, and 
 how the noble beast that carried him spurned the ground. 
 At length the fourth milestone met his view — German 
 miles — on ! 'tis past ; he approaches nearer and nearer to 
 the capital ; all around proclaims it, — the houses, the hum 
 borne on the breeze, the belated wayfarer that ventures to 
 loiter on his path, assured that in the metropolis his tardy 
 arrival will cause no surprise.
 
 A VILLAIN IS HE THAT BETRAYS IT. 215 
 
 The challenge at the gate is answered, the horse properly 
 fed and stabled, for it must accomplish that journey again 
 before six the next morning. 
 
 The ball was held at the royal palace. Rudolf had no 
 ticket, but he did not doubt that he should readily obtain 
 one, and called fur that purposg on a friend of his and 
 E mil's. 
 
 On his arrival at the house, he found a ticket and 
 domino provided for him, and, in answer to his surprised 
 enquiry of how they could be aware of his arrival, was a 
 small note from the unknown, stating his remissness in not 
 providing the requisite articles for admittance and disguise, 
 and her superior forethought. 
 
 Rudolf quickly availed himself of the supplies, and hur- 
 ried to the scene of gaiety, trusting to the good fortune that 
 had so far befriended him, for meeting with the unknown. 
 
 The motley gi-oup presented the usual assemblage of 
 nonsensical contrasts, that appear so farcical to the every- 
 day observer, and present such forcible lessons of home- 
 truths to the moralist. 
 
 Rudolf was surveying the multitude as it flitted past him, 
 like the shifting scene of some panorama, when his atten- 
 tion was aroused, and his dreamy speculation dispelled, by
 
 216 A VILLAIN IS HE THAT BETRAYS IT. 
 
 a gypsy who had drawn stealthily towards him, and now 
 requested him to allow her to read his fortune. 
 
 " Would thou couldst, pretty one," said Rudolf, laughing. 
 
 " Try, me," was the reply ; " ray knowledge springs from 
 the source of light, my clime is glowing Egypt, my refer- 
 ences are the hieroglyphics that contained the worship of 
 Isis and Osiris ; and Hermes himself will assist the son of 
 Mars to propitiate the Fates." 
 
 " Thou forgettest," said Rudolf, adopting her strain, 
 " that their sentence is irrevocable." 
 
 " True ; but it bears several interpretations, and requires 
 a skilful expounder to read it aright." 
 
 " Well," said Rudolf, " let me try thy skill." 
 
 " The custom is to cross my hand with gold, and I may 
 not break the usage." 
 
 Rudolf was about to draw his purse, when she proceeded. 
 
 " 'Tis a mere form : the ring you wear will answer every 
 purpose, and save trouble." 
 
 Rudolf paused a moment, irresolutely ; it was the ring of 
 betrothal to Mechthild. 
 
 " Dreadnought !" said the gipsy. 
 
 Then she knew his name ! 
 
 In his surprise he allowed lier to draw off the ring.
 
 A VILLAIN IS HE THAT BETRAYS IT, 217 
 
 " Strange destiny !" she exclaimed ; " pursuing, yet avoid- 
 ing; seeking, yet eluding; tliou idolizest the woman thou 
 wilt marry; yet, rejecting thy betrothed, thou wilt never 
 rest until she again accept thee, which, if she be wise, she 
 will not do till thou be a Major. But see, time flies, and 
 others would share my skill. Farewell ! Keep this amulet 
 as a keepsake; it may prove a cure for fancied ills; place 
 it next thine heart ." 
 
 She had, whilst she spoke, replaced the ring, and now 
 tendered a small packet, which Rudolf gallantly deposited 
 in his vest. 
 
 Whilst his attention was thus engaged, she slipped away. 
 
 Rudolf scarcely paused to give the subject a second 
 thought, so intent was he on discovering his charmer. 
 
 One moment he discerned her trip in that of a flower- 
 girl, but found that the eyes, the only part of the face that 
 was visible, were light blue ; then he was certain that a 
 columbine must be the divinity he sought, but the sound of 
 her voice, as she replied to his first question, frightened 
 him out of this certainty ; he would have fixed on a virgin 
 of the sun, but there were a party of six, and he was un- 
 decided about the right one. At length he was inclined to 
 give up the search altogether, when a stately old lady, 
 with a nose and chin nearly meeting, raised on high-heeled 
 
 F F
 
 218 A VILLAIN IS HE THAT BETRAYS IT. 
 
 shoes, and every other appurtenance to full dress in the 
 fourteenth century, placed her arm within his. 
 
 Rudolf bowed : courtesy whispered that he could do no 
 less; annoyance, that he could do no more, although he 
 mentally wished her beyond Jericho, but, not being prac- 
 tically conversant with tlie thereabout, he could not con- 
 veniently fix on any little out-of-the-way place. 
 
 " Ha ! ha ! ha !" sounded close beside him. 
 
 "Is it possible?" he exclaimed. 
 
 " Quite possible, and really so," said his companion, as 
 she slipped enough of the mask aside to show him the face 
 of the unknown. 
 
 Rudolf was of course enchanted ; this, too, was part of 
 his fate, the sentence of which he had pronounced irre- 
 vocable. 
 
 " How shall I thank you !" he exclaimed. 
 
 " Oh ! you will suit my taste best by thanking me your 
 own way,"' she replied ; " it appears that we are mutually 
 gratified, so that neither of us is under any particular obli- 
 gation, I imagine." 
 
 Rudolf protested that she was mistaken, and that she was 
 only adding to his deep debt of gratitude by her frankness 
 and condescension ; told her how wretched he had been 
 during her absence ; inferred from this that he could not live
 
 A VILLAIN IS HE THAT BETRAYS IT. 219 
 
 without her ; and vowed, at length, that he would move 
 heaven and earth to obtain her. 
 
 " Are you certain ?" she enquired ; " you men are so un- 
 certain, so whimsical, so deceitful, so changeable." 
 
 Of course the protestations were renewed. 
 
 " Oh ! yes," she said, " I believe all this now ; I have no 
 doubt that you mean all that you say; but how hateful I 
 should be to myself, if I could accept you, were you to grow 
 indifferent." 
 
 "Indifference was out of the question, — an utter im- 
 possibility." 
 
 " Ah ! but men alter so when once secure." 
 
 "Rudolf retorted that he could feel no security; she 
 might break faith, or meet with some one more worthy of 
 her love." 
 
 " Oh !" she exclaimed, " what a predicament ! that really 
 would be a disaster." 
 
 Rudolf had flattered himself that she would refute his 
 supposition, and was considerably annoyed that she did 
 not; but she took no notice of his chagrin, and they joined 
 •the dancers. 
 
 " Are you here alone ?" Rudolf demanded. 
 
 " Oh ! no ; my chaperon is here, and 1 will introduce
 
 220 A VILLAIN IS HE THAT BETRAYS IT. 
 
 you to her at supper, for the supper-room is thrown open, 
 I perceive, and we had better secure our places." 
 
 They passed on ; but Rudolf, with dismay, observed that 
 all unmasked at the door; he durst not unmask lest he 
 should be recognized, and could not leave his companion 
 without some protection. In this dilemma he informed her 
 in what manner he had alone been able to attend the ball. 
 
 " Then await my return here," she said ; " I will not be 
 five minutes, but must apologize to my chaperon, or there 
 will be a hue and cry after me." 
 
 Away she tripped ; and, the moment she left him, Rudolf 
 was accosted by a domino, who remarked : " You decline 
 entering the supper-room, Sir, and allow the lady under 
 your escort to proceed alone. May 1 ask your reason for 
 not wishing to unmask ?" 
 
 " Oh ! certainly," said Rudolf, who recognized the King 
 in the speaker ; " I can have no hesitation in entrusting my 
 secret to a man of honor, and ' a villain is he that betrays 
 it.'' My name is Von Zagenicht ; I am an officer from 
 Potsdam ; a pressing engagement at this ball caused me to 
 apply for leave of absence, which was refused, and, trusting ' 
 to my horse's speed to save me from detection, I have ven- 
 tured to steal a march."
 
 A VILLAIN IS HE THAT BETRAYS IT. 221 
 
 " Oh ! I understand," said Frederick, " and will not 
 betray you, however, as I have no inclination to do 
 penance for your sins. I will bid you farewell, and 
 make good my entrance to the supper-room." 
 
 Frederick turned off as he spoke, and was immediately 
 joined by one of the aide-de-camps, whom he beckoned to 
 approach. 
 
 The hint was quite enough to Von Zagenicht, who had 
 watched the whole proceeding; hurrying rapidly through 
 the deserted rooms, he proceeded to the stable where he 
 had left his horse, and in ten minutes was dashing through 
 the streets with lightning speed. 
 
 " On, Phaeton ! on, my brave Phaeton ! thou shalt rest 
 thee well when this race is over," he exclaimed, patting his 
 horse's neck, whilst the unchecked bridle seconded his 
 words, and the noble creature sprang forwards, as if under- 
 standing the sense of those addressed to him. 
 
 William's rapid flight, as described by Buerger, may 
 give some idea of the rapidity vvilh which Rudolf sped 
 along the road he had travelled swiftly, but, comparatively 
 at a snail's pace, a few short hours before. The trees, 
 the scattered dwellings, appeared to take wing ; his beau- 
 tiful charger seemed endowed with supernatural strength 
 and intelligence, sympathizing with its master in his onward
 
 222 A VILLAIN IS HE THAT BETRAYS IT. 
 
 wish, and speeding forwards without intermission, till Pots- 
 dam was in sight, and Rudolf was challenged by the 
 sentinel ; the countersign was given, the gate was passed, 
 and Rudolf dismounted, whilst Phaeton stood panting, 
 covered with foam. Rudolf patted him, and consigned 
 him to the groom, desiring that he might be well fed and 
 attended to, then passed rapidly to his own apartment, 
 removed all traces of extra exertion, and donning his 
 regimentals, threw on his military cloak, and walked 
 towards the guard-room. 
 
 " Well, comrades," he said, entering carelessly, " how are 
 you whiling away time here ? It hangs on my hands like 
 lead ! I can submit to a disappointment as well as any 
 one when duty commands, but to be mewed up here, with 
 nothing to do, and to know all Berlin footing it — it is too 
 bad. Let us have a hand at cards to keep ourselves awake, 
 and we'll try whether the king or knave will win the 
 day ?" 
 
 At that moment the signal was given for a general 
 muster. 
 
 " What's astir ? what can be the matter ? how strange !" 
 were exclamations that passed with the rapidity of light- 
 ning, but not more swiftly than the well-trained soldiery 
 filled its post.
 
 A VILLAIN IS HE THAT BETRAYS IT, 223 
 
 One of the first on the spot was Rudolf, whose men were 
 the first to form. 
 
 No one present, excepting our hero, knew the meaning 
 of this sudden summons ; but when his eyes encountered 
 the aide-de-camp, with whom he had seen Frederick con- 
 versing, previously to entering the supper-room, he blessed 
 his stars as well as his hard riding. 
 
 Both officers and men were now called upon to answer 
 to their names ; no one was missing ; and the aide-de-camp 
 sped back to Berlin to report to the King, whilst the gar- 
 rison was permitted to seek the repose from which it had 
 been so unseasonably roused. 
 
 "Well!" exclaimed Rudolf, throwing himself, on his bed, 
 " I have escaped this scrape better than I expected, but 
 what a gallop I had for it ! Poor Phaeton ! thou shalt not 
 lack an extra feed of corn for this. And my little divinity ! 
 what will she say ? Oh ! I would rather have been cashiered 
 than have missed our meeting ! Ha ! ha ! ha ! no bad 
 policy mine ! Old Father Fritz dare not betray me for his 
 life, and, what's more, the old joker would not if he durst ! 
 And my pretty brunette — how to address her ?" 
 
 All sorts of fancies presented themselves to Rudolf's 
 mind, all sorts of expedients offered themselves, and very 
 plausible they seemed, the more so as they began to jumble
 
 •224 A VILLAIN IS HE THAT BETRAYS IT. 
 
 and jostle in his brain, and drowsiness, no bad chemist, by 
 the bye, amalgamated them so cleverly, that it would have 
 been difficult to define the precise combinations of each, 
 unless an equally clever analysis followed. 
 
 When Rudolf awoke the next morning, certain misgivings 
 presented themselves that had not occun'ed to him during 
 the excitement that attended and followed his flying move- 
 ments of the previous day ; and, by the time that he had 
 given himself up to half-an-hour's sober reflection, he 
 became so depressed, and dispirited, that he perceived a 
 total eclipse of all the bright prospects fancy had conjured 
 up, and hope illumined ; he was in this state of mind when 
 he received the following note: — 
 
 " Farewell ! despite all differences between us ! 
 Words would have explained your repugnance 
 to our attachment, without such an insulting 
 desertion. Believe me still a sincere friend, that, 
 under existing circumstances, shall be nameless !" 
 " Confusion ! then I have lost her !" was our patient 
 friend's exclamation. " W^hat shall I do ?" 
 
 Not knowing how to reply to his last query, he stormed, 
 and stamped about the room, in an agony of desperation, 
 when a sudden turn presented to his dismayed observation, 
 Emil von Rechtschnur.
 
 A VILLAIN IS HE THAT BETRAYS IT. 225 
 
 " How now, Rudolf! what is the matter ?" 
 
 " Oh ! I am wretched, utterly wretched !" 
 
 " Whatever has occurred, my dear fellow ?" 
 
 Rudolf only replied by a deep groan. 
 
 " Is it any thing in which I can assist you ?" asked Emil, 
 sympathizinglyT 
 
 The question brought Rudolf more suddenly to his recol- 
 lection than any thing else would have done ; still he did 
 not reply ; and Emil continued. 
 
 " Are we not more than brothers, Rudolf.'' remember how 
 we are united ; is not the deep debt of love and gratitude 
 I owe to our beloved parent — for in kindness he was as 
 much mine as yours — still increased by all the brotherly 
 forethought I have experienced from yourself.'' Can you 
 have a sorrow that 1 should not share ?" 
 
 " Oh !" exclaimed Rudolf, "I am a villain, neither de- 
 serving pity nor sympathy !" 
 
 " What can I do for you ?" enquired Emil. 
 
 " Wait, dear Emil, till to-morrow," said Rudolf, " and we 
 will converse more freely ; for you have a deeper share in 
 my present distress than you can possibly be aware of." 
 
 Emil reluctantly took his leave, and Rudolf resumed to 
 his unpleasant cogitations. Pacing his chamber, absorbed 
 
 G G
 
 226 A VILLAIN IS HE THAT BETRAYS IT. 
 
 in bitter thought, his eye fell on the ring of betrothal ; he 
 had forgotten all about the fortune-teller till that moment, 
 but he was suddenly startled into a vivid recollection of all 
 that had occurred. Instead of the ring he had worn since 
 his betrothal, was the one he had placed on Mechthild's 
 finger when they were affianced. In another instant he had 
 searched the vest, found the small parcel the gipsy had 
 given him, and broken the seal. It contained several 
 trinkets that he had at different times transmitted to Mech- 
 thild, amongst the rest, a locket that had enclosed his like- 
 ness, of which said precious representation it had been 
 despoiled ; and the packet was accompanied by a note in 
 the stiff, school-girl hand, so well known to the gallant 
 soldier. 
 
 The very sight of the note half reconciled him to the 
 steps he had taken, but the perusal of it had a different 
 effect : it ran as follows : — 
 " Dearest Rudolf, 
 
 "You certainly deserve some reproaches 
 for permitting me to learn your real sentiments 
 from a stranger. Both my feelings and your 
 own have been fully explained to my aunt and 
 Emil, and you are free, beloved and affectionate
 
 A VILLAIN IS HE THAT BETRAYS IT. 227 
 
 playmate of my earliest years ; your happiness 
 is my sincere desire, and you will ever be an 
 object of the warmest regard and sincere affec- 
 tion to your 
 
 " Mechthild." 
 Rudolf was petrified. Then Emil knew all that had 
 been passing in his mind ; he hastened to seek him, and 
 unfolded to his listening ear all that had occurred, — his 
 acquaintance with the unknown, his visit to Berlin, and the 
 double dismissal he had received. 
 
 Emil listened patiently till he had concluded. 
 " Well, my dear Rudolf," he then commenced, " there is 
 nothing so very bad in all this. Mechthild is very young ; 
 she has received several eligible offers, and she must deter- 
 mine to make a choice." 
 
 "Let her have time," said Rudolf; "do not let her be 
 teased." 
 
 " Oh ! I hope that there will be no teasing in the case," 
 was the reply, " for she has already made her election, in 
 my opinion." 
 
 " Indeed," said Rudolf, enquiringly. 
 " Yes," was the reply, " and one that neither you nor I 
 shall disapprove." 
 
 Rudolf thought that a smile of peculiar intelligence
 
 228 A VILLAIN IS HE THAT BETRAYS IT. 
 
 accompanied this speech; it did not, however, dwell long 
 in his remembrance, for his mind was too much engrossed 
 by his release from an engagement, that he had so often 
 bewailed as the bitterest part of his fate. He was now at 
 liberty to seek the unknown, explain all these circumstances 
 to her, and obtain her consent to an immediate union. He 
 could not endure the idea of late events becoming public, 
 for there was no weapon so dreaded by the gallant soldier 
 as ridicule ; he therefore pursued his enquiries industriously, 
 but furtively. 
 
 At length he applied to Emil, and, after several pros, 
 cons, and consultations, it was resolved to engage Mech- 
 thild in their interest. 
 
 To this plan, which was E mil's proposition, Rudolf at 
 first strenuously objected ; but, when another week elapsed, 
 without affording any clue to the mysterious fair one, he 
 became a convert to Emil's opinion, that when man's fore- 
 thought and calculations are of non avail, woman's wit is 
 often of incalculable service. 
 
 The application was rather characteristically made ; it 
 came from Rudolf, and ran as follows : — 
 " Dear Mechthild, 
 
 "I ought to have replied to your letter 
 before this ; I ought to have done more, viz.,
 
 A VILLAIN IS HE THAT BETRAYS IT. 229 
 
 loved you as you deserve to be loved, and have 
 no excuse for not doing so, but the wayward- 
 ness and caprice inherent to humanity ; for, 
 had you not been engaged to me, my wishes 
 would most probably have led me to desire such 
 an event. To prove to you how highly I prize 
 your friendship, I am about to tax it to the 
 utmost on my behalf, as the only means remain- 
 ing of freeing myself from my present dilemma. 
 [This notable document then proceeded to state 
 the whole transaction to Mechthild, as already 
 known to the reader, and concluded as follows.] 
 I again transmit the trinkets to you, dear Mech- 
 thild, as for you they were chosen by 
 " Your very affectionate 
 
 " Rudolf." 
 A few days brought him the following reply : — 
 
 " From the clue you have furnished me, dear 
 Rudolf, I have not found it difficult to trace 
 your unknown, who is a personal friend of my 
 own ; I called on our mutual acquaintance, 
 where she had the forethought to leave the 
 domino and ball-ticket for you, and obtained 
 all requisite information. She will not permit
 
 230 A VILLAIN IS HE THAT BETRAYS IT. 
 
 me to reveal her name, and, as I am under 
 promise of secrecy to her, I cannot do so ; but 
 if you feel inclined to address her, under cover 
 to me, call her Brunette or Coquette, or any 
 other more endearing appellation that may 
 strike your fancy. As the trinkets were pur- 
 chased for your intended, I have made them 
 over to her, and she wears the chain constantly. 
 I have not replaced your miniature, for, being 
 meant for a likeness of you, it would be too 
 deceptive, and, by substituting what you were 
 for what you are, neither please your unknown 
 nor 
 
 " Mechthild." 
 By return of post Mechthild received a note of acknow- 
 ledgment, although, to confess the truth, her correspondent 
 found it very difficult to frame a reply to her singular billet. 
 Enclosed was one for Brunette ; need we say that Mech- 
 thild opened it ? It entreated an interview, entered at some 
 length into the disagreeable dilemma, which could alone 
 prove an apology for oveiTunning his partner, and honour- 
 ably, and candidly related his engagement to Mechthild, 
 and the termination of that engagement, dwelling with 
 warm admiration on lier candid, generous, and delicate-
 
 A VILLAIN IS HE THAT BETRAYS IT. 231 
 
 conduct, and declaring his opinion of the extreme felicity 
 of him whom happy destiny should lead to woo, and 
 win her. 
 
 By return of post Rudolf received a reply, allowing him 
 to plead his own cause in person ; and not finding it so 
 difficult to obtain leave of absence for a day, he hastened 
 to avail himself of the permission. 
 
 The place of rendezvous, where the domino and ticket 
 had been left, was again appointed. 
 
 Rudolf determined to call on Mechthild as he went, but 
 was informed that she was not at home, nor likely to be for 
 a few days, as she and her aunt had gone as far as Potsdam 
 to visit Emil. 
 
 "How provoking," said our hero, "just now too, when I 
 would so gladly have seen her." 
 
 The unknown received him in a half-reserved, half- 
 playful manner. 
 
 An explanation was soon given; but when Rudolf 
 begged to be accepted as her acknowledged lover, she told 
 him that she should as soon think of Mechthild accepting 
 him, after what had passed, as doing so herself. 
 
 He was thunderstruck. On regaining his speecli, he 
 used all his powers of persuasion to alter so absurd an 
 idea, but his arguments and eloquence were vain.
 
 232 A VILLAIN IS HE THAT BETRAYS IT. 
 
 She listened to him with the utmost attention, but did 
 not for an instant waver in the resolution she had so 
 strangely, so unaccountabl}' adopted. 
 
 At length Rudolf lost all patience with her perverseness 
 and obstinacy, and, snatching up his hat, hurried iu a 
 violent passion from the apartment. 
 
 " Ha ! ha ! ha !" sounded the ringing and most provoking 
 laugh after him. He waited to hear no more, and poor 
 Phaeton was again urged forward with a degree of velocity 
 that kept pace with his master's chafed spirit. 
 
 " Hillo ! Von Zagenicht, whither away ? why you are 
 galloping for a wager against time !" was the first address, 
 in a rather unceremonious tone, as Rudolf still pursued his 
 Quixotic speed through the broad street of Potsdam. 
 
 Though vexed at the interruption, Rudolf could not pass 
 on without a direct cut to the brother officer who thus 
 accosted him, so he reined in his panting steed. 
 
 "Poor Phaeton," said the other, " will be in bad trim for 
 to-morrow, without a double share of attention." 
 
 "For to-morrow?" Rudolf repeated, in a half-enquiring, 
 half- vacant tone. 
 
 " Yes ; old Father Fritz is going to take us all in hand 
 to-morrow, to see whether we are good boys, and can go 
 decently through our exercises.
 
 A VILLAIN IS HE THAT BETRAYS IT. 233 
 
 " Old Father Fritz ?" 
 
 "Aye; I thought you would spare Phaeton when you 
 knew. We have received orders to muster at eight to- 
 morrow morning. We've been having it all over in the 
 guard-room." 
 
 " Soh !" said Rudolf. 
 
 " You had not left above half-an-hour, when we received 
 the order." 
 
 " Good night I" said Rudolf. 
 
 "Tranquil repose !" was the rejoinder, accompanied by a 
 good-natured, but somewhat satirical smile. 
 
 Rudolf was determined to see Mechthild, so he hastened 
 to Von Rechtschnur's quarters; but Emil informed him 
 that she was fatigued, and had retired to her room. 
 
 He was received by her aunt, however, who was, as 
 usual, very kind ; indeed no difference of demeanour, on 
 the old lady's part, betrayed any change in their relative 
 positions. 
 
 Rudolf felt secretly annoyed; her conduct appeared to 
 be a tacit acknowledgment that his loss was not deemed a 
 very material one. He felt half resolved to abide by his 
 father's election, and renew the engagement with Mech- 
 thild, whose character would ensure the happiness of her 
 husband, whilst the unknown, on the contrary, had evidently 
 
 H H
 
 234 A VILLAIN IS HE THAT BETRAYS IT. 
 
 trifled with his feelings ;— wounded his vanity, is the better 
 phrase. Demanding pen, ink, and paper, he wrote a hur- 
 ried note to Mechthild, once more offering himself to her 
 acceptance, and early the next morning received the an- 
 nexed reply : — 
 
 " Give yourself time to think, dear Rudolf; for, 
 after what has passed, I have ventured to in- 
 dulge a hope that I might follow the bent of 
 my own inclination, and accept one whom I 
 have long preferred to all others ; if, therefore. 
 Brunette will not accept you, you must not, 
 in a fit of spleen, again enter an engagement 
 with " Mechthild." 
 
 Rudolf stormed in bitterness of spirit ; he construed the 
 note his own way, without even noticing any ambiguity 
 about it. 
 
 Half an hour later all was bustle in the little town ; 
 horses were prancing, soldiers marching, urchins running, 
 maidens smilingly arranging the last ribbon, and giving the 
 final twist to the becoming curl ; and, despite the early hour, 
 well-dressed females were assembling in groups, or taking 
 possession of the places that would command a sight of the 
 review, when one of the royal aide-de-camps rode forward 
 to announce the immediate approach of the King.
 
 A VILLAIN IS HE THAT BETRAYS IT, 235 
 
 At that moment a lady appeared on horseback, escorted 
 by Emil ; the fine morning had evidently tempted them 
 beyond the precincts of the town, and they were returning 
 in time for the review. She entered the house where Emil 
 was quartered. It must be Mechthild. What an elegant 
 little creature. How fearlessly she reined in her horse. 
 Her veil was down, and Rudolf had no opportunity of 
 seeing her face, but he heard many exclamations expressive 
 of admiration fi-om the officers present. His attention was 
 drawn off by the general stir and bustle about him, and in 
 another instant the word to form was given. 
 
 The aide-de-camp, who had before ridden forward to 
 announce the King's approach, now rode back again to join 
 his royal master. 
 
 No character can produce stronger proofs of eccentricity 
 than that of Frederick the Great of Prussia. Eccentric, 
 even in his greatness, the striking peculiarities of his temper 
 and disposition bear witness to the superiority of Prussia's 
 gi'eatest monarch. Frederick was not less feared than be- 
 loved : he himself considered pusillanimity an unpardonable 
 offence ; a great admirer of moral courage, he never lost 
 an opportunity of signifying his disapproval of cowardice ; 
 but the regal philosopher overlooked two points in his 
 reasoning : he forgot that his was a truly despotic govern-
 
 236 A VILLAIN IS HE THAT BETRAYS IT. 
 
 ment, and hereditary, that his subjects might consequently 
 well feel some dread of one who was amenable to no earthly 
 control ; and, excepting when anxious to compete with 
 Voltaire, he quite overlooked the general deficiencies in 
 such qualifications as would have raised him above all 
 competitors, in whatever pursuit he had made his own, and 
 whatever his station, but, in a king, elevated him above 
 praise, and fortified him to brave the cruel and unmanly 
 persecution that his predecessor had wantonly and meanly 
 heaped upon him in his youth, and which, no doubt, gave 
 a strong bias to his character. 
 
 Princes of Prussia ! ye do indeed stand preeminent for 
 some virtues that your Frederick knew not ; but to him ye 
 owe the fostering care that tended your budding greatness. 
 
 As the King rode slowly and deliberately along the line, 
 many a heart beat, and many an eye tried to scan his 
 thoughts ; but who could read thee, statesman of the north ? 
 He frequently paused, and addressed a few words to some 
 one near him ; sometimes an officer, .sometimes a private, as 
 chance might direct, but generally accosting them by name. 
 
 The military evolutions met with the King's entire ap- 
 proval, openly and fully expressed ; and the Commandant, 
 proud of Von Zagenicht's corps, or from some other motive 
 not stated, ordered Rudolf to display them alone.
 
 A VILLAIN IS HE THAT BETRAYS IT, 237 
 
 Rudolf obeyed; and the exhibition was just completed 
 when our gallant Captain, from some impulse that we will 
 not stay to particularize, cast his eyes towards the window 
 of Von Rechtschnur's apartment, and suddenly exclaimed 
 aloud, " The unknown !" 
 
 Frederick's hawk's-eye had followed the same direction ; 
 an evanescent, and almost imperceptible smile played for 
 an instant on his features ; meanwhile Von Zagenicht 
 had recovered his self-possession, and the evolutions were 
 completed. The King beckoned him forward. 
 
 Rudolf approached, and, despite the secrecy, to which he 
 had bound " Father Fritz," fully expected a severe and 
 public reprimand. 
 
 Imagine his surprise when he found himself addressed 
 in the following whisper : " Captain Von Zagenicht, 
 from henceforth you are a Major, with a major's full pay ; 
 I have no hesitation in trusting this secret to a man 
 of honour, and ' a villain is he that betrays it ' before 
 it is gazetted. Inform the little fortune-teller, whose pre- 
 dictions I overheard, when I had the honor of a flying visit 
 from you, that you are at liberty to marry. An revoir 
 Major Von Zagenicht." 
 
 Frederick bowed to the assembled officers, and, greeted 
 by many a " Vivat Father Fritz !" rode from the ground.
 
 238 A VILLAIN IS HE THAT BETRAYS IT. 
 
 To hurry past all that impeded his progress, to clear the 
 stairs that led to E mil's apartments, was the work of a few 
 seconds, and to stand in utter confusion as the ringing and 
 provoking laugh of the unknown again saluted him, was the 
 next perceptible occurrence that Rudolf was aware of. 
 
 " Ha ! ha ! ha !" responded the hearty tones of Emil. 
 
 " Ha ! ha ! ha !" re-echoed Mechthild's aunt. What it is 
 to be young and active ! Commend me to a run from the 
 field 1" 
 
 " Ha ! ha ! ha !" sighed Rudolf, endeavouring to join in 
 the laugh, but only giving expression to most dolorous 
 sounds. 
 
 " Well, now for a trial of decorum," said the beauty, 
 with a ludicrous affectation of putting her face into prim ; 
 " who undertakes the office of master of the ceremonies ?" 
 
 Emil stepped forward on this appeal, and begged to 
 introduce Captain von Zagenicht to Fraulein Mechthild 
 von Rechtschnur, alias Bewitching Coquette, alias Un- 
 known, alias Brunette, and we need scarcely inform the 
 intelligent reader, that notwithstanding sundry interruptions 
 utterly preventing speech for the time, divers mysteries were 
 cleared up to the Ex-Captain's satisfaction, and that on 
 her seventeenth birth-day all the ahases of Mechthild von 
 Rechtschnur merged in the unchangeable Frau von Zage-
 
 A VILLAIN IS HE THAT BETRAYS IT. 239 
 
 nicht, whilst Frederick, after secretly enjoying the silence 
 to which he had bound our hero, now released him from it, 
 after a six month's trial, much to the satisfaction of Emil 
 von Rechtschuur, who, as Captain in Rudolf's place, 
 often repeated the story of his brother-in-law. Major von 
 Zagenicht.
 
 LOVE'S ENGAGEMENTS. 
 
 I. 
 
 When earth was fresh, a blooming maid, 
 Young Love was foster'd by the Graces, 
 And seldom from his nurses stray'd, 
 Or followed quickly in their traces : 
 Sometimes, when seated by their side. 
 He'd string a bow, or point a dart ; 
 At other times, his skill he tried. 
 And for his target chose a heart.
 
 love's engagements. 241 
 
 II. 
 
 But growing older, Love grew wilful, 
 
 The Graces lost with him their power. 
 
 And being, as an archer, skilful. 
 
 He quite resolved to leave their bower, 
 
 And seek the patronage of war, 
 
 As rifleman, or pioneer. 
 
 The Graces wept; Love from afar 
 
 Answer'd them with a parting cheer. 
 
 III. 
 
 The jests of war were somewhat rude, 
 
 And Love felt rather melancholy, 
 
 So took French leave, his road pursued, 
 
 And offer'd as a page to Folly. 
 
 But she demanded such odd freaks, 
 
 That Love himself could not help laughing, 
 
 So straight another service seeks, 
 
 Fi'om Folly's bowl first deeply quaffing. 
 I 1
 
 242 • love's engagements. 
 
 IV. 
 
 The draught did to remembrance bring 
 
 The merry god of rosy wine, 
 
 So, rising lightly on the wing, 
 
 Love to him sped, was asked to dine ; 
 
 But Love, though he had somewhat rough'd it, 
 
 Had been on choice ambrosia fed. 
 
 Grapes fiU'd the table, cup, and beaufet. 
 
 In the wine- god's ill-tended shed. 
 
 Love bade farewell ere morning broke. 
 
 And forthwith hastened to Wealth, 
 
 Who much of his attractions spoke. 
 
 Though Flattery told him this by stealth ; 
 
 Sometimes a quarrel would arise, 
 
 For Love would claim Wealth's bonds and nets. 
 
 Forgetful of his native skies. 
 
 And aiming but at large assets.
 
 LOVES ENGAGEMENTS. 243 
 
 VI. 
 
 But Wealth, who ever was a schemer, 
 By Fashion's aid, has clipp'd Love's wiugs, 
 And fastened fetters round the dreamer, 
 Which, though of gold, are awkward things ; 
 For now, he can no longer soar 
 Unto the lofty scenes above, 
 Since Wealth has chain'd him to the floor. 
 And {e\7 believe 'tis really Love.
 
 THE THUNDERSTORM AT LIVERPOOL IN 
 THE SUMMER OF 1841. 
 
 Do I remember ? 
 The town was sunk in quiet, not in rest, 
 For, like an incubus, the air settled 
 On ev'ry breast, it was so palpably 
 Dark and heavy. Black and shapeless masses, 
 But ever changing in their shapelessness, 
 Seem'd to sustain themselves ; for not a breath 
 Was stirring, and yet they moved, slowly, 
 But still kept moving, giving way again 
 To others, till they became one wide black 
 Canopy of threatening clouds.
 
 THE THUNDERSTORM AT LlVERrOOL. 245 
 
 Nothing, 
 Except the howling of the crouching hound, 
 Meeting response from unchain'd watch-dog, 
 Broke the oppressive stillness. Even sleep, 
 The great magician, lay in fetters, 
 Resting, with centner weight, on the clos'd eyes 
 And heaving bosoms of its votaries. 
 Or banish'd, fled the pillow it had sought. 
 Midnight ! The clock toll'd slowly forth the hour, 
 And, ere it yet had ceased, another, 
 And another, and another, took up 
 The strain, as if they found indeed relief 
 In the wild jabber of their unloos'd tongues, 
 And wanted but the courage to break througli 
 ITie fearful silence. Thus the following 
 Hour was greeted, but appalled, ere yet 
 The echo of the first stroke had ceas'd the 
 Rest were mute. Denser and denser became 
 The thickening atmosphere. Red lurid 
 Streaks, even through the darkness, made themselves 
 Visible, threatening destruction. 
 A booming, hollow moan, yet suppressed, 
 Assail'd the ear, as though earth were in pain, 
 And whisper'd her agony to her children.
 
 246 THE THUNDERSTORM AT LIVERPOOL. 
 
 The air was hot to suffocation, 
 Holding in its embrace corruption 
 Drawn from the o'ercharged earth. 
 
 Suddenly 
 The clouds were rent asunder by a stream 
 Of bright and flashing brilliance, resting. 
 In forked maze, between the sever'd masses, 
 Whilst the loud burst of " heaven's artillerjr" 
 Proclaimed the storm is here ! — then all was dark 
 Again ; darker, denser, hotter than before. 
 Now the " flood-gates" of the sky were open'd, 
 The raging torrent dashing to the earth 
 In wild uproarious descent. 
 
 Voices, 
 Human voices, are mingling with the din 
 Of elemental strife. Danger dissolves 
 The spell which it had woven ; the busy 
 Flood of human tide is rushing forwards 
 With the wild impetus of sudden life. 
 But thou, Omnipotent, who ridest on 
 The whirlwind, whose chariot is the clouds, 
 Who, in thine anger, art so tenible, 
 Whose name is Wonderful, whose attributes 
 Are power, dominion, majesty.
 
 THE THUNDERSTORM AT LIVERPOOL. 247 
 
 And greatness, with mercy, long-sufFering, 
 
 Love and pity, and others, vast as thine 
 
 Unfathomable depth, unattain'd height, 
 
 Or unapproachable perfection, — 
 
 Thou didst. Almighty, shield us from all harm, 
 
 E'en when the light-bolt struck tliine house of prayer.
 
 VIEW NEAR VENICE BY NIGHT. 
 
 All here is still, quite hushed and tranquil, 
 For night has donuM her gear. 
 
 Receding day 
 Is added to the train of ages past. 
 Hail, thou meek queen of vigils, beauteous moon, 
 Thy raellovv'd light throws a new charm around, 
 Reflected on the bosom of the sea. 
 This is the hour to woo the Adriatic, 
 Though noonday sun,. in all his dazzling brightness, 
 Shine on her bridal, adding splendour to 
 The pompous pageantry that binds her faith,
 
 VIEW NEAR VENICE BY NIGHT. 249 
 
 Her love, and lier obedience to the Doge, 
 The emblematic prototype of Venice. 
 Beauteous bride ! but ah, how fickle in 
 Thy beauty ! Trembling at the praise of each 
 Gallant, and shrinking from his homage, 
 Yet smilingly, as if to lure him on. 
 Hark I even now come some admirers, for 
 Pleasantly sound minghng voices over 
 The gently dashing waters ; nearer and 
 Nearer, swelling on the murra'ring night-breeze, 
 In sweetest harmony, while plashing oars 
 Form an accompaniment to the sweet strains. 
 " Lady mine, the starry train 
 
 Is crowding yonder brilliant sky ; 
 
 But its splendour I defy, 
 
 If thou, fairest, wilt but deign. 
 
 By thy presence, to illume 
 
 This fond bosom's fearful gloom." 
 Distant, more distant still ! the sounds are lost, 
 And the dark gondola has disappear'd ; 
 But other votaries still skim the waves, 
 And song on song awakens echo to 
 Answer in a sweet prolonged reply 
 Of mimickry, by distance softened. 
 
 K K
 
 250 VIEW NEAR VENICE BY NIGHT. 
 
 Now from the far Lagunes, the fisher's home, 
 Come the rude notes, so silvery in sound. 
 " Row for the shore, our boats are all laden, 
 Stem the waves bravely and jointly, boys, all; 
 Ours be the welcome from laughing-eyed maiden, 
 Or matron that well knows the fisherman's call. 
 Cheerily, cheerily, our task is done. 
 Our prey ensnared, our welcome won ; 
 But we'll away with the rising sun, 
 And return again when his course is run." 
 Again do other notes, harmonious all. 
 Break the soft silence that would else prevail. 
 Whose gentleness and piety do claim 
 Attention deep from the repose around. 
 " Ave Mary, holy mother, 
 Lo ! behold this day is gone. 
 Plead for this, as ev'ry other. 
 At eternal Mercy's throne ; 
 May our sins but be forgiven, — 
 Sins of either thought or deed. 
 Holy mother, plead in heaven. 
 That from them we may be freed."
 
 GRACE DARLING. 
 
 'Tis night, and darkness throws her blackest pall 
 Over the earthly scene. 
 
 Nature is mute, 
 But 'tis not the repose of tranquil rest 
 That lulls her ; she is cowed, and trembles 
 At the coming strife. 
 
 Spirits of the air 
 Are whisp'ring that the stormvvind is abroad, 
 And moaning echoes herald his approach. 
 Whilst on he hurries in his mad career. 
 He rushes o'er mountain. 
 He tears through the vale.
 
 252 GRACE DARLING. 
 
 His hoarse shout of triumph 
 
 Is borne on the gale ; 
 He laughs in his fury, 
 
 Or shrieks in his wrath, 
 Or groaningly summons 
 His messengers forth ; 
 Old Ocean is chafing 
 
 Within his dark bounds ; 
 Far, far through his caverns 
 His roaring resounds. 
 Cradled upon the bosom of the deep, 
 A goodly ship lies within sight of land, 
 Containing some who number anxiously 
 The hours that will elapse before they place 
 A foot upon the fair firm earth again ; 
 For there are times of high excitement, when 
 The sailor deems his dwelling on the seas 
 The highest pinnacle of human bliss : 
 But when his home is near, and troubled thoughts 
 Unman him by delay and neiglibourhood, 
 He counts the landsman happy that can chase 
 Such fretful fancies by a certainty- 
 
 But all thoughts are dispell'd, 
 Save of danger at hand.
 
 GRACE DARLING. 253 
 
 Flee, iiiariners ! hasten 
 Away from the land ! 
 The sails are all rent, 
 
 And the masts torn away ! 
 She parts — heaven help ! 
 Oh ! send rescue and day. 
 Upon the beach a fisherman was list'ning 
 To the dread sounds of danger, mingHng with tiie 
 Angry storm ; a shriek, a signal of distress — 
 " Good God, and we so near," he said, " and yet 
 Must leave them to their fate !" 
 
 A hand was plac'd 
 Upon his shoulder, and a voice pleaded 
 In his ear: 
 
 " Oh ! say not so, my father ; 
 If we but use our means as well as pray'rs, 
 God, in mercy, will direct and help us. 
 See, the first dawn of day is gleaming, and. 
 Clinging to the shrouds, we can distinguish 
 Creatures like us, formed by Almighty pow'r. 
 Despairing of all help, save His alone. 
 But I, in frolic, oft have tried the oar. 
 And sent my bounding skiff over the wave 
 In rivalry of the swift sea-bird's fleetness ;
 
 254 GRACE DARLING. 
 
 Then let me help thee now ! this arm is strong, 
 And will be stronger in this holy cause !" 
 The father's heart responded to his child's, 
 And his reply was brief in its assent. 
 " Grace, gentle girl, thou e'er to me hast been 
 Heaven's choicest boon ; were I to lose thee 
 In the performance of so pure an act 
 Of piety to God and man, grief-struck 
 I still should own that gracious heaven 
 Had but reclaim'd a gift too good for earth, 
 And bow my heart in resignation, 
 Praying, though sadly, ' May His will be done.' " 
 Away flies the bark 
 
 O'er the dark-crested wave, 
 Row'd by father and child, 
 The despairing to save ; 
 E'en the waves pause in wonder 
 
 To caiTy them on, 
 A glorious sunbeam 
 
 Disperses the gloom ; 
 The task is accomplish'd, 
 
 They are safe on the strand. 
 The voice of thanksgiving 
 Ascends from the land.
 
 GRACE DARLING. 255 
 
 Another now greets them, 
 
 With joy-falt'ring tone, 
 Whose prayers for their safety 
 
 Were ofFer'd alone ; 
 'Tis the fond wife and mother 
 
 Who sanctioned the deed 
 She witness'd in anguish, 
 
 Though bidding God speed. 
 Britannia, exulting. 
 
 Hails fondly the maid, 
 So gentle, yet daring, 
 
 So prompt in her aid. 
 Her name be the watchword, 
 
 Should danger appal. 
 From prince to the peasant. 
 
 From hovel to hall ; 
 From terror-struck maiden, 
 
 To the bold sons of fame. 
 Let blessings re-echo 
 
 Grace Darling's lov'd name.
 
 ON THE CONFLAGRATION IN HAMBURG. 
 
 I. 
 
 I lov'd thee well, town of a thousand years ; 
 I lov'd to muse upon thine ancient state ; 
 I've laughed, in frolic's mood, or shed the tears 
 That childhood weeps, foreshadowing earth's fate, 
 
 II. 
 
 Within thy walls: and lo ] around my heart, 
 Wind recollections that had passed away ; 
 Whilst thou didst stand, acting thine own proud part, 
 Queen of the Elhe ! with thine accustom'd sway.
 
 THE CONFLAGRATION IN HAMBURG. 257 
 
 III. 
 
 But now thy ancient fabrics low are laid, 
 And havoc laughs at grief, of late unknown ; 
 Of happy hearts, a wilderness is made ; 
 Ruin possesses the devoted town. 
 
 IV. 
 
 Oh ! weep for Hamburg, kindly hearts are hers. 
 Her children all our sympathy demand ; 
 Lowly they bend, in sorrow and in tears, 
 To Him who checks the flame with potent hand. 
 
 Help, God ! for Jesus' sake accept our prayer ; 
 No earthly hand can still the raging flame ! 
 Help, Lord, and pardon, oh ! in mercy spare ! 
 Thy will be done ! bless'd be thy holy name. 
 
 VI, 
 
 Rise as a phoenix, venerable town ! 
 
 May the prediction but be verified ; 
 
 May choicest blessings thy endeavours crown, 
 
 Once more of Hanseate league be thou tlie pride. 
 
 L L
 
 CUPID'S ENQUIRY. 
 
 I. 
 
 Dear grandpapa, said little Cupid, 
 As Zeus the flaming lightbolt hurl'd, 
 
 Methinks the folks are very stupid 
 In yonder place they call the world ; 
 
 For how they tremble at thy thunder, 
 And shrink from yonder blaze of light, 
 
 Impell'd by awe, dismay, or wonder, 
 Each feeling merging in affright.
 
 cupid's enquiry. 259 
 
 III. 
 
 But, leaving out some rare exception, 
 When I discharge ray sharpest dart, 
 
 No bosom shrinks from its reception, 
 Nor quails till it has reach'd the heart. 
 
 IV. 
 
 Now, mighty Jove, thou know'st full well 
 My arms can even make thee shake ; 
 
 Then why, until they feel my spell. 
 Don't mortals at my weapons quake ? 
 
 HAYWARD AND CO., PRINTERS, EXCHANGE-STREET, MANCHESTER.
 
 UNIVERSITY OF CALirORMA LIBRARY 
 
 Los Angeles 
 
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