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+The Project Gutenberg EBook of 'Clear the Track', by 
+Elisabeth Buerstenbinder (AKA E. Werner)
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org
+
+
+Title: 'Clear the Track'
+       A Story of To-day
+
+Author: Elisabeth Buerstenbinder (AKA E. Werner)
+
+Translator: Mary Stuart Smith
+
+Release Date: February 7, 2011 [EBook #35201]
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: ISO-8859-1
+
+*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 'CLEAR THE TRACK' ***
+
+
+
+
+Produced by Charles Bowen, from page scans provided by Google Books
+
+
+
+
+
+
+Transcriber's Note:
+   1. Page scan source:
+      http://books.google.com/books?id=fhInAAAAMAAJ&dq
+
+
+
+
+
+
+                           "CLEAR THE TRACK!"
+
+                              (FREIE BAHN)
+
+
+
+                          _A STORY OF TO-DAY_
+
+
+
+                                   BY
+                               E. WERNER
+      _Author of "The Alpine Fay," "Banned and Blessed," "Danira,"
+                "Vineta," "At a High Price," etc. etc_.
+
+
+
+                    TRANSLATED BY MARY STUART SMITH
+
+
+
+                         THE TRADE SUPPLIED BY
+                     THE INTERNATIONAL NEWS COMPANY
+                   LONDON                       LEIPSIC
+
+
+
+
+
+                            Copyright, 1893.
+                                   BY
+                        ERNST KEIL'S NACHFOLGER
+                               *   *   *
+                        [_All rights reserved_]
+
+
+
+
+
+                                CONTENTS.
+
+
+   CHAP.
+
+      1. The Feast of Flowers at Nice
+
+      2. In Council
+
+      3. "See the Path is Clear to a Grand Career"
+
+      4. Odensburg Manor
+
+      5. A Victory Wop
+
+      6. In Which More Than One Charmer Charms
+
+      7. Cecilia Visits Radefeld
+
+      8. A Bough of Apple-Blossoms
+
+      9. The Cross on the Whitestone
+
+     10. Maia's Choice
+
+     11. A Secret Foe and Open Enemy
+
+     12. The Goal in Sight
+
+     13. Runeck leaves Odensburg
+
+     14. How an Old Bachelor makes Love
+
+     15. A Wedding Day
+
+     16. Scenes at the "Golden Lamb"
+
+     17. Election Times
+
+     18. Fortune Smiles on Victor Eckardstein
+
+     19. "Off With the Old Love, On With the New"
+
+     20. Maia Must be Saved
+
+     21. From Heights of Bliss to Depths of Woe
+
+     22. His Sin had found Him out
+
+     23. A Lover's Tryst
+
+     24. A Deed that Wipes Out Old Scores
+
+     25. 'Twixt Life and Death
+
+     26. How Forces that Are Opposed May Blend
+
+
+
+
+
+
+                            CLEAR THE TRACK!
+
+
+
+
+                               CHAPTER I.
+
+                     THE FEAST OF FLOWERS AT NICE.
+
+
+A spring day at the South! Sky and sea are radiant in their deep blue,
+flooded with light and splendor, the waves breaking gently upon the
+shores of the Riviera, to which spring had already come in all its
+glory, while, at the North, snow-storms are still raging.
+
+Here rests golden sunshine upon the white houses and villas of the
+town, that embraces the shore within the radius of a vast semicircle,
+adorned by lofty palms, and embowered in the green of the laurel and
+myrtle. Among thousands of shrubs, the camellia is conspicuous from its
+wealth of bloom, in every stage of perfection, its colors ranging from
+pure white to richest crimson; and could anything excel the richness of
+its glistening foliage? From the adjacent hills hoary monasteries look
+down, and modern churches surrounded by tall cypress trees; friendly
+orchards stand out from pine and olive groves, and in the distance the
+blue Alps, with their snow-crowned summits, are half hidden in sunny
+mist.
+
+Nice was celebrating one of its spring-and-flower festivals, and the
+whole city and its environs had turned out in gala-attire, whether
+stranger or native-born. Gayly-decked equipages passed by in endless
+procession, every window and balcony being filled with spectators, and
+on the sidewalks, under the palms, thronged a merry multitude, the
+brown and picturesque forms of fishermen and peasants being everywhere
+conspicuous.
+
+The battle of flowers on the Corso was in full swing, the sweet
+missiles being constantly shot through the air, here hitting their
+mark, there missing it: blossoms, that are treasured at the North as
+rare and expensive, were here scattered heedlessly and lavishly. Added
+to this, there were everywhere waving handkerchiefs, shouts of joy,
+bands of music playing, and the intoxicating perfume of violets,--the
+whole of this enchantingly beautiful picture being enhanced by the
+golden sunshine of spring with which heaven and earth was filled.
+
+Upon the terrace of one of the fashionable hotels stood a small group
+of gentlemen, evidently foreigners, who had chanced to meet here, for
+they conversed in the German language. The lively interest with which
+the two younger men gazed upon the entrancing scene betrayed the fact
+that it was new to them; while the third, a man of riper years, looked
+rather listlessly upon what was going on.
+
+"I must go now," said he, with a glance at his watch. "One soon gets
+tired of all this hubbub and confusion, and longs after a quiet spot.
+You, gentlemen, it seems, want to stay a while longer?"
+
+His companions certainly seemed to have that intention, and one of
+them, a handsome man, with slender figure, evidently an officer in
+civilian's dress, answered laughingly:
+
+"Of course we do, Herr von Stettin. We feel no need for rest whatever.
+The scene has a fairy-like aspect for us Northmen, has it not,
+Wittenau?--Ah! there come the Wildenrods! That is what I call taste;
+one can hardly see the carriage for the flowers, and the lovely Cecilia
+looks the very impersonation of Spring."
+
+The carriage that was just driving by was indeed remarkable through its
+peculiarly rich ornamentation of flowers. Everywhere appeared
+camellias, the coachman and outriders wore bunches of them in their
+hats, and even the horses were decked with them.
+
+On the front seat were a gentleman of proud and noble bearing, and a
+young lady in a changeable silk dress of reddish hue, her dark hair
+surmounted by a dainty little white hat trimmed with roses. Upon the
+back seat a young man had taken his place, who exerted himself to take
+care of the heaps of flowers that were fairly showered upon this
+particular equipage. Among them were the costliest bouquets, evidently
+given in compliment to the beautiful girl, who sat smiling in the midst
+of all her floral treasures, and looking with great, beaming eyes upon
+the festive scene around her.
+
+The officer, also, had taken a bunch of violets, and dexterously flung
+it into the carriage, but instead of the lady, her escort caught it,
+and carelessly added it to the pile of floral offerings heaped up on
+the seat beside him.
+
+"That was not exactly meant for Herr Dernburg," said the dispenser of
+flowers rather irritably. "There he is again in the Wildenrod carriage.
+He is never to be seen but when dancing attendance upon them."
+
+"Yes, since this Dernburg has put in his appearance, the attentions of
+all other men seem superfluous," chimed in Wittenau, sending a dark
+look after the carriage.
+
+"Have your observations, too, carried you so far already?" said the
+young officer tauntingly. "Yes, millionaires; alas! are always to the
+fore, and I believe Herr von Wildenrod knows how to appreciate this
+quality in his friends, for I hear that luck sometimes deserts him over
+yonder at Monaco."
+
+"You must be mistaken; there can be no talk of any such thing as that,"
+replied Wittenau, almost indignantly. "The Baron produces the
+impression that he is a perfect gentleman, and associates here with our
+very first people."
+
+The other laughingly shrugged his shoulders.
+
+"That is not saying much, dear Wittenau. Just here, at Nice, the line
+separating the _élite_ from the world of adventurers is strangely lost
+sight of. One never rightly knows where the one ceases and the other
+begins, and there is some mystery about this Wildenrod. As to whether
+his claim to nobility is altogether genuine----"
+
+"Undoubtedly genuine, I can certify as to that," said Stettin, who had
+hitherto been a silent listener, but now came forward and joined in the
+conversation.
+
+"Ah, you are acquainted with the family, are you?"
+
+"Years ago, I used to visit at the house of the old Baron, who has died
+since, and there I also met his son. I cannot pretend to have any
+particular acquaintance with the latter, but he has a full right to the
+name and title that he bears."
+
+"So much the better," said the officer, lightly. "As for the rest, it
+is only a traveling acquaintance, and no obligation is incurred."
+
+"Assuredly not, if one lays aside such relations as easily as they are
+assumed," remarked Stettin with a peculiar intonation. "But I must be
+off now--I hope to meet you soon again, gentlemen!"
+
+"I am going with you," said Wittenau, who seemed suddenly to have lost
+his appetite for sight-seeing. "The rows of carriages begin to thin out
+already. Nevertheless, it will be a hard matter to get through."
+
+They took leave of their comrade, who was not thinking of departure
+yet, and had just supplied himself with flowers again, and together
+left the terrace. It was certainly no easy thing to make one's way
+through the densely-packed throng, and quite a while elapsed ere they
+left noise and stir behind them. Gradually, however, their way grew
+clearer, while the shouts of the multitude died away in the distance.
+
+The talk between the two gentlemen was rather monosyllabic. The younger
+one, particularly, appeared to be either out of sorts or absent-minded,
+and suddenly remarked, quite irrelevantly:
+
+"It seems that you know all about the Wildenrods, and yet mention it
+to-day for the first time. And, moreover, you have had nothing to do
+with them."
+
+"No," said Herr von Stettin coolly, "and I should have preferred other
+associates for you. I several times intimated as much to you, but you
+would not understand my hints."
+
+"I was introduced to them by a fellow-countryman, and you said nothing
+decided----"
+
+"Because I know nothing decided. The associations of which I told you,
+a while ago, date twelve years back, and many changes have taken place
+since then. Your friend is right, the line of demarcation between the
+Bohemian and man of society gets strangely confused, and I am afraid
+that Wildenrod is on the wrong side of the barrier."
+
+"You do not believe him to be wealthy, then?" asked Wittenau, with some
+emotion. "He lives with his sister, in high style, being apparently in
+the easiest circumstances, and, at all events, has command of abundant
+means, for the present."
+
+Stettin significantly shrugged his shoulders.
+
+"Inquire at the faro-bank of Monaco; he is a regular guest there, and
+is said, too, to have good luck in play, for the most part--so long as
+it lasts! One hears, too, occasionally of other things, that are yet
+more significant. I have not felt disposed to renew the former
+acquaintance, although our intercourse had been rather frequent, for
+what used to be the Wildenrod possessions lay in the immediate
+neighborhood of our family property, that is now in my hands."
+
+"What used to be?" asked the young man. "Those possessions have been
+sold, then? I perceive, however, that you do not like to speak on the
+subject."
+
+"To strangers, most assuredly not. I shall give what information I have
+to you, though, because you have a real interest in the matter.
+Remember, however, that what I say is strictly confidential!"
+
+"My word upon it, that nothing you tell me shall go any farther."
+
+"Well, then," said Stettin gravely, "it is a brief, melancholy, but,
+alas! not an unusual story. Although the estate had long been heavily
+encumbered with debt, the establishment was maintained upon a most
+expensive scale. The old Baron had contracted a second marriage, in
+later life, long after his son was a grown man. He could not thwart his
+young wife in a single wish, and her wants were many, very many. The
+son, who was in the diplomatic service, was also accustomed to high
+living; various other losses ensued, and finally came the catastrophe.
+The Baron suddenly died of a stroke of apoplexy--at least so it was
+said."
+
+"Did he lay violent hands on himself?" asked Wittenau in a whisper.
+
+"Probably. It has not been ascertained for certain, but it is supposed
+that he was not willing to survive the misery and disgrace of his ruin.
+Disgrace was certainly averted, for the family still holds the most
+honorable position. The Wildenrods rank with the highest nobility in
+the land, and the name was to be shielded at any price. The castle and
+lands adjacent became a royal domain, so that the creditors could be
+pacified at least, and, by the general public, the sale was deemed a
+voluntary one. The widow with her little daughter would have been given
+over to utter poverty if, by the king's grace, she had not been allowed
+a home in the castle and had an annuity settled upon her. As for the
+rest, she died soon afterwards."
+
+"And the son? The young Baron?"
+
+"Of course he resigned his position, had to do so, under the
+circumstances, for he could not be _attaché_ of affairs without some
+fortune of his own. It must have been a severe blow upon the proud,
+ambitious man, who had, most likely, been kept in utter ignorance of
+the state of his father's affairs, and, now, all of a sudden, found
+himself stopped short in his career. To be sure, many another honorable
+calling stood open to him; friends would doubtless have secured some
+situation for him, but this would have necessitated descent from the
+sphere in which he had hitherto played a chief part; necessitated
+sober, unremitting toil in an obscure station, and those were things
+that Oscar Von Wildenrod could not brook. He rejected all offers of
+employment, left the country, and was no more heard of in his native
+place. Now, after the lapse of twelve years, I meet him here at Nice
+with his young sister, who, meanwhile, has come to woman's estate, but
+we prefer, it seems, on both sides, to treat each other as strangers."
+
+While this narration was being made, 'Wittenau became very thoughtful,
+but made no comment whatever. Noticing this, his friend laid his hand
+upon his arm, and said gently:
+
+"You should not have given young Dernburg such angry glances, for it
+has been his appearance upon the scene, I fancy, that has saved you
+from committing a folly--a great folly."
+
+A glowing blush suffused the young man's face at this intimation, and
+he was evidently much embarrassed.
+
+"Herr von Stettin, I----"
+
+"Now, do not understand me as reproaching you on account of looking too
+deeply into a pair of fine eyes," interposed Stettin. "That is so
+natural at your age; but in this case, it might have been fatal. Ask
+yourself, whether a girl thus brought up, who has grown up amid such
+influences and surroundings, would make a good farmer's wife, or be
+happy in a country neighborhood. As for the rest, you would hardly have
+found acceptance as Cecilia Wildenrod's suitor, because her brother
+will give the decisive voice, and he wants a millionaire for a
+brother-in-law."
+
+"And Dernburg is heir to several millions, people say," remarked
+Wittenau with undisguised bitterness. "So, he will be the one upon whom
+this honor is to be bestowed."
+
+"It is not mere say so, it is fact. The great Dernburg iron and steel
+works are the most important in all Germany, and admirably conducted.
+Their present chief is such a man as one rarely meets. I speak from
+personal knowledge, having accidentally made his acquaintance a few
+years ago. But see, there are the Wildenrods coming back again."
+
+There, indeed, was the Baron's equipage, which had left the Corso a
+little while ago, and was now on its way back to their hotel. The fiery
+horses, which had with difficulty been curbed in, so as to keep step
+with a procession, were now going at full speed, and rushed past the
+two gentlemen, who had stepped aside, and looked upon the cloud of dust
+that had been raised.
+
+"I am sorry about that Oscar Wildenrod," said Stettin earnestly. "He
+does not belong to the ordinary herd of mankind, and might perhaps have
+accomplished great things, if fate had not so suddenly and rudely
+snatched him away from the sphere for which he had been born and
+reared. Do not look so downcast, dear Wittenau! You will get over this
+dream of your youth, and after you get home to your fields and meadows,
+will thank your stars that it was nothing but a dream."
+
+
+The carriage, meanwhile, had gone on its way, and now stopped before
+one of those grand hotels, whose exterior sufficiently showed that it
+was only at the disposal of rich and distinguished guests.
+
+The suite of rooms occupied by Baron von Wildenrod and his sister was
+one of the best, and, of course, most expensive in the house, and
+lacked none of the conveniences and luxuries to which pampered guests
+lay claim. The rooms were splendidly furnished, but there was about
+them that air of the public-house that takes away, in large measure,
+any sense of genuine comfort.
+
+The gentlemen were already in the parlor. Cecilia had retired in order
+to lay aside her hat and gloves, while her brother, chatting
+pleasantly, conducted their visitor to the veranda, whence was to be
+seen a fine view of the sea and a portion of Nice.
+
+Young Dernburg appeared to be twenty-four or five years old, his looks
+making an impression that was insignificant rather than disagreeable.
+His diminutive figure, with its somewhat stooping carriage and pale
+complexion, with that peculiar tell-tale flush upon the cheeks,
+betrayed the fact that he had sought the sunny shores of the Riviera,
+not for the sake of pleasure, but out of regard for health. His face
+had its attractive features, but its lineaments were much too weak for
+a man, and this weakness culminated in the dreamy, somewhat veiled,
+look of his brown eyes. The self-consciousness of the rich heir seemed
+to be entirely lacking in this young man, his manners being unassuming,
+almost shy, and had not the name he bore everywhere procured him
+consideration, he would have been apt to be overlooked by the
+generality of the world.
+
+The Baron's personality was in every respect the reverse. Oscar von
+Wildenrod was no longer young, being already not far from fifty years
+old.
+
+There was something imposing in his lofty stature, and his clean-cut,
+regular features could but be regarded as handsome still, in spite of
+the sharp lines engraven upon them, and the deep furrow between the
+brows, that lent a rather sinister aspect to his countenance. Only a
+cool, considerate calm seemed perceptible in his dark eyes, and yet
+they flashed occasionally, with a fierceness that betokened the
+existence of a passionate, unbridled nature. As for the rest, there was
+something thoroughly distinguished in the Baron's whole appearance, his
+manners united the complaisance of a man of the world combined quite
+naturally with the pride inalienable from the scion of an ancient stock
+of nobility, which was manifested, however, in a manner by no means
+offensive.
+
+"You are not seriously thinking of taking your leave of Nice?" asked
+he, in the course of conversation. "It would be much too early, for you
+would just be in time for that season of storms and rain, which they
+honor with the name of spring, in that dear Germany of ours. You have
+spent the whole winter in Cairo, have been just six weeks at Nice, and
+should not expose yourself now to the asperities of that harsh Northern
+climate, if you would not imperil the health that is restored to you,
+but can hardly be established as yet."
+
+"The question is not one of to-day or to-morrow," said Dernburg, "but I
+cannot defer too long my return home. I have been more than a year in
+the South, feel perfectly well again, and my father urgently requests
+that I return to Odensburg as soon as possible, provided that the
+doctors give me their permission."
+
+"That Odensburg must be a grand creation," remarked the Baron.
+"According to all that I hear from you and others, your father must
+almost occupy the position of a small potentate; only his authority is
+more unlimited than that of a prince."
+
+"Certainly, but he has also the whole care and responsibility of his
+station. You have no idea what it is to be at the head of such an
+undertaking. It requires a constitution of iron, such as my father
+possesses; the burden that he carries on his shoulders is that of a
+very Atlas."
+
+"Never mind, it is power, and power is always a delight!" said
+Wildenrod, with flashing eyes.
+
+The young man smiled rather sadly.
+
+"To you, and very likely to my father, too--I am differently
+constituted. I should prefer a quiet life, in a modest home, located in
+such a terrestrial paradise as this delicious climate supplies; but it
+is not worth while to talk; as an only son, it must one day devolve on
+me to superintend the work at Odensburg."
+
+"You are ungrateful, Dernburg! A good fairy endowed you, when in your
+cradle, with a destiny such as thousands aspire to, with eager
+longing--and I verily believe you sigh over it."
+
+"Because I feel that I am not qualified for it. When I behold what my
+father accomplishes, and reflect that one day the task will devolve
+upon me, of filling his place, there comes over me a sense of
+discouragement and timidity that I cannot control."
+
+Wildenrod's eyes were fastened, with a peculiar expression upon the
+diminutive figure and pale features of the young heir.
+
+"One day!" he repeated. "Who cares now about the distant future. Your
+father is still living and working in the plenitude of his powers, and
+in the worst case he will leave you capable officers, who have been
+trained in his school. So you will actually stay no longer at Nice? I
+am sorry for that; we shall miss you a great deal."
+
+"We?" asked Dernburg softly. "Do you speak in your sister's name also?"
+
+"Certainly, Cecilia will be very sorry to lose her trustiest knight. To
+be sure, there will be plenty to try and console her--do you know,
+yesterday I had a regular quarrel upon my hands with Marville, because
+I offered you the seat in our carriage, upon which he had surely
+calculated?"
+
+This last remark was apparently made carelessly, without any design,
+but it had its effect. The young man's brow became clouded, and with
+unmistakable irritation, he replied:
+
+"Vicomte de Marville constantly claims a place by the Baroness, and I
+plainly perceive that he would like to supplant me in her favor
+altogether."
+
+"If you voluntarily resign your vantage-ground--very likely. So far,
+Cecilia has continually manifested a preference for her German
+compatriot, and yet there is no doubt but that the amiable Frenchman
+pleases her, and the absent is always at a disadvantage, especially
+where young ladies are concerned."
+
+He spoke in a jesting tone, as though no weight were to be attached to
+his words, since he did not look upon the matter at all in a serious
+light. This only made Dernburg more solicitous to come to an
+understanding. He made no reply, he was evidently struggling with
+himself, and finally began, unsteadily and with hesitation:
+
+"Herr von Wildenrod, I have had something on my heart--for a long while
+already--but I have not ventured until now----"
+
+The Baron had turned and looked at him wonderingly. There lurked in his
+dark eyes a half-mocking, half-compassionate expression, the look
+seeming to say: "You have millions to offer and yet hesitate?" but
+aloud he replied: "Speak out, pray; we are no strangers, and I hope
+that I have a claim to your confidence."
+
+"It is, perhaps, no longer a secret to you that I love your sister,"
+said Dernburg almost timidly. "But allow me to say to you, that I
+should account myself the happiest of men, if I could hope to win
+Cecilia--that I would do everything to make her happy--may I hope?"
+
+Wildenrod did not indeed affect any surprise at this confession, he
+only smiled, but it was a smile that was full of promise.
+
+"First of all, you must address your question to Cecilia herself. Young
+ladies are rather self-willed on such points, and my sister peculiarly
+so. Perhaps I am too considerate of her, and she is completely spoiled
+in society now, how much so you saw for yourself again to-day, during
+our ride on the Corso."
+
+"Yes, I saw it," and the young man's tone showed deep depression, "and
+just on that account, I have never before been able to find the courage
+to speak of my love."
+
+"Really? Well, then, I shall have to come to the help of your timidity.
+It is true that our whimsical little princess is not to be counted
+upon, but, to speak confidentially, I have no fear of your being
+rejected by her."
+
+"Do you really think so?" exclaimed Dernburg rapturously. "And how as
+to yourself, Herr von Wildenrod?"
+
+"I shall gladly welcome you as a brother-in-law, and see my sister's
+happiness entrusted to you without a qualm of anxiety. My sole desire
+is to see this child happy and beloved, for you must know that my
+relation to her has always been that of a father rather than a
+brother."
+
+He extended his hand, which was grasped by the young suitor, and warmly
+pressed.
+
+"I thank you. You make me very, very happy by this consent, by the hope
+that you give me, and now----"
+
+"You would like to hear this consent spoken by other lips," said
+Wildenrod, laughingly finishing his sentence for him. "I'll gladly give
+you the opportunity to speak, but you must plead your own cause. I
+allow my sister entire freedom to act as pleases her best. I think,
+however, my blabbing has inspired you with courage, so venture boldly,
+dear Eric."
+
+He gave him a friendly nod, and went. Eric Dernburg also returned again
+to the parlor, and his glance took in the quantities of flowers that
+the servant had brought up and piled upon the table. Yes, indeed,
+Cecilia Wildenrod was petted and spoiled as is the lot of few of her
+sex. Again to-day how had she been overwhelmed with flowers and tokens
+of homage! She had only to choose: dared he indulge the hope that her
+choice would fall upon one like him? He had wealth to offer, but she
+was rich herself, for her brother's style of living left no doubt on
+that head, and moreover she came of an ancient and noble family. As he
+thus pondered, the scale oscillated painfully. In spite of the
+encouragement that he had received, the young man's face showed that he
+feared just as much as he hoped.
+
+Wildenrod, meanwhile, had passed through the adjoining apartment, and
+now entered his sister's chamber.
+
+"Ah, is that you, Oscar? I am coming directly. I only want to stick
+another flower in my hair."
+
+The Baron looked at the magnificent bunch of pale yellow roses that lay
+half-loosened upon the dressing-table, and asked abruptly:
+
+"Are those the flowers that Dernburg gave you?"
+
+"Certainly; he brought them to me, when he came for the drive on the
+Corso."
+
+"Good! adorn yourself with them!"
+
+"And I should have done so all the same without your most gracious
+permission," laughed the young lady, "for they are the loveliest of
+all."
+
+She selected one of the roses, and held it, experimentally, against her
+hair: there was an uncommon, but indeed very conscious, grace in this
+movement: the slender girl of nineteen resembled her brother little, if
+at all: at first sight they seemed to have nothing in common but the
+dark color of their hair and eyes, otherwise hardly a feature betrayed
+the nearness of their relationship.
+
+Cecilia Wildenrod had that style of appearance which seems to have an
+irresistible fascination for the opposite sex. Her features were more
+irregular than those of her brother, but their mobility and variety of
+expression gave them a peculiar charm that never wore out. Her dark
+hair, that was so abundant as not to be always brought down to the
+requirements of the latest fashion, and complexion, that was of the
+clear brunette type, made one suspect that she could not be of purely
+German origin; and from beneath long black eyelashes gleamed a pair of
+lustrous eyes, that allured one who looked deeply into them with all
+the fascination of a riddle to be solved. In these mysterious depths,
+too, glowed a spark that might well be fanned into a flame; they, too,
+having some of that glow of passion, which in Oscar's case was hidden
+under a semblance of excessive coldness. This constituted the sole
+resemblance between the brother and sister, but it was a resemblance
+that stood for much.
+
+Cecilia still wore the silk dress in which she had appeared on the
+Corso, already a few pale yellow, half-open, rosebuds adorned her
+bosom, and now she placed a full-blown rose among the dark waves of her
+hair. Nature's adorning became her wondrously, and her brother's glance
+rested upon her with evident satisfaction. He had closed both doors
+carefully behind him, nevertheless he now lowered his voice and said in
+a whisper:
+
+"Eric Dernburg has something besides roses to offer you--his hand. He
+has just had a talk with me, and is now going to address himself to
+you."
+
+The young lady likewise heard this news without any surprise.
+
+She turned her head to one side, that she might see how the flower
+looked in her hair, and asked with apparent indifference:
+
+"So soon?"
+
+"Soon? Why, I have been expecting a declaration from him this long
+while, and he would have made it, too, only you seem to have given him
+poor encouragement."
+
+A fold appeared between Cecilia's brows, exactly in the same spot where
+a deep furrow had seamed her brother's.
+
+"If he were only not so abominably tiresome!" murmured she.
+
+"Cecilia, you know that I am anxious for this marriage, exceedingly
+anxious, and I hope that you will regulate your conduct accordingly."
+
+His tone was very positive, seeming to preclude any chance of
+opposition on the part of his sister, who now pushed away the rest of
+the roses with a gesture of impatience.
+
+"Why had it to be this Dernburg, and no one else? Vicomte de Marville
+is much handsomer, much more agreeable----"
+
+"But is not thinking of offering you his hand," interposed Wildenrod.
+"He, just as little as all the other triflers who swarm around you. You
+need not put on that injured air, Cecilia, you may rely implicitly upon
+my judgment: I know men, I tell you, girl. Now this union with Dernburg
+secures to you a brilliant destiny; he is very rich."
+
+"Well, so are we, for that matter."
+
+"No," said the Baron shortly and sharply.
+
+The young lady looked at him in amazement: he stepped up to her and
+laid his hand upon her arm.
+
+"We are _not_ rich! I am obliged to tell you this now, that you may not
+ruin your future prospects, through caprice or childishness, and I
+confidently expect you to accept this offer."
+
+Cecilia still looked at her brother, half shocked, half-incredulous,
+but she was evidently accustomed to submitting to his will in silence,
+and attempted no further opposition.
+
+"As if I should dare to say 'no,' when my stern brother dictates a
+'yes,'" pouted she. "But I can tell Dernburg one thing, he need not
+flatter himself with the idea that I am going to bury myself with him
+in that horrid Odensburg. To live among droves of day-laborers, at
+those iron works, full of dust and soot--it makes me shudder just to
+think of it."
+
+"All that can be accommodated afterwards," said Wildenrod calmly. "As
+for the rest, you have no idea what it is to be some day master of the
+Odensburg works, and what a stand you will take in the world, by his
+side. When you do come to comprehend the situation fully, you will be
+grateful to me for the choice that I have made. But come, we should not
+keep your future husband waiting any longer."
+
+He took her arm, and led her to the parlor, where Dernburg was awaiting
+them in restless suspense. The Baron pretended not to observe his
+uneasiness, and chatted unrestrainedly with him and his sister about
+their drive on the Corso, and various little incidents that had
+occurred, until it suddenly occurred to him to admire the sunset, that
+promised to be particularly beautiful this evening. He stepped out upon
+the veranda, as if undesignedly, let the glass doors fall to behind
+him, and thus gave the young couple an opportunity to be alone.
+
+"Why, it looks just like a flower-market!" exclaimed Cecilia
+laughingly, as she pointed to the table that was overladen with
+bouquets. "Francis has, of course, piled them up with a reckless
+disregard of taste: I must really arrange them better. Will you not
+help me to do so, Herr Dernburg?"
+
+She began to divide out the various sorts and put them in vases and
+bowls, and with the remainder to decorate the hearth. Dernburg helped
+her, but he was not a very efficient helper, for he could not take his
+eyes off the slender form, flitting to and fro, in dainty garb, with
+that lovely rose in her dark hair.
+
+At the first glance, he had perceived that those were his roses that
+she wore, and a happy smile played about his lips. He wondered if her
+brother had already given her a hint? She was so free from
+embarrassment, laughed so heartily at his absence of mind, and treated
+him with the same pretty insolence as usual--she could not possibly
+know that he meant to address her!
+
+In Cecilia's manner, there was most assuredly nothing of the sweet
+shyness and embarrassment of a young girl who, for the first time,
+listens to the addresses of a lover. In fact, it hardly seemed that she
+comprehended the seriousness of the situation. She would soon be twenty
+years old, at which age girls in her circle often married or, rather,
+were given in marriage, for their families usually decided the matter
+for them. Individually, moreover, she had no objection to marrying. It
+would be very pleasant to enjoy the freedom allowed a married woman, to
+be wholly untrammeled as to expenditure in dress, jewels, etc., and to
+be no longer obliged to submit to the will of a brother, who was at
+times very despotic, only--how much handsomer and more agreeable was
+Viscount de Marville than this Dernburg, who had not even rank to
+recommend him. It was really outrageous, that a Baroness Wildenrod
+would, in future, have to bear the name of a simple citizen!
+
+She had just taken up the last bouquet, preparatory to decorating the
+hearth with it, when she heard her name breathed softly but fervently.
+
+"Cecilia!"
+
+She turned around and met the gaze of Eric, who stood beside her, and
+continued in the same tone:
+
+"You have only eyes and thoughts for the flowers--have you not a single
+glance for me?"
+
+"Why, do you stand so much in need of that glance?" asked Cecilia
+archly.
+
+"Oh! how very much I need it! It is to give me courage for a
+confession--will you hear it?"
+
+She smiled and laid down the bunch of flowers that she held in her
+hand.
+
+"Why, that sounds quite portentous. Is it something so important?"
+
+"No less than the happiness of my life, for which I look to you!"
+replied Dernburg impetuously. "I love you, Cecilia, have done so from
+the first moment that my eyes rested upon you. You must have known this
+for a long while, could not help guessing it, but I always saw you so
+surrounded by admirers, and so rarely obtained the least excuse for the
+indulgence of hope, that I dared not press my suit. Now, though, that
+the time for my departure draws near, I cannot go, without certainty as
+to my fate. Will you be mine, Cecilia? I will lay everything,
+everything, at your feet, gratify every wish, and all my life long
+guard you as the most precious of treasures. Say one word, only a
+single one, that shall give me hope, but do not say 'no,' for that I
+could not stand."
+
+He had caught both her hands, his face, commonly so pale, was now
+suffused with a bright flush, and his voice quivered with emotion. This
+was no stormy, passionate declaration, but each word expressed the
+truest love, the fullest tenderness, and the young girl who had so
+often been besieged by flattery and adulation, heard this tone for the
+first time, and listened, half perplexed, half fascinated.
+
+Cecilia had not supposed the quiet, bashful lover, whom she had often
+treated with great disdain, capable of such a wooing, and as he now
+went on, more tenderly, more urgently, the 'yes' pleaded for came at
+last from her lips, rather hesitatingly, it is true, but without any
+sign of repugnance.
+
+In a transport of rapture, Dernburg wanted to fold his betrothed to his
+heart, but she shrank back. It was an involuntary, half unconscious
+movement of shyness, almost aversion, such as perhaps would have
+wounded and chilled anybody else, but Eric only saw in it the sweet
+modesty of the young girl, and while he still softly clasped her hands,
+he whispered:
+
+"Oh, Cecilia, if you did but know how I love you!"
+
+There was no mistaking in his tone the genuine accents of devoted love,
+and it did not fail to make its impression upon Cecilia, who now began
+to realize that she had no right to be so reserved with the man to whom
+she had plighted her troth.
+
+"Well, then, you deserve that I should give you a little love in
+return, Eric!" said she, with a charming smile, at the same time
+suffering him to draw her to his side and imprint a first kiss upon her
+lips.
+
+Wildenrod was still standing out upon the veranda, and turned around
+with a smile as the young couple approached him. Beaming with pride and
+happiness, Dernburg led his betrothed up to him, and received the
+congratulations of his future brother-in-law, who first embraced his
+sister, then Eric.
+
+Then there began a lively, cheerful conversation, out upon the balcony,
+where the soft breezes of spring were still sporting. The dazzling
+splendor of daylight was already breaking up into that gorgeous
+blending of colors, as is only witnessed in the South, at sundown. The
+city and surrounding heights were glorified, as it were, by the
+resplendent sheen that glistened and sparkled like molten gold upon the
+waves of the sea, and while the distant mountains were veiled in a
+roseate mist, the sun itself, a fiery ball, sank lower and lower, until
+it finally vanished from view.
+
+Eric had slipped his arm around the waist of his betrothed, and
+whispered into her ear tender and loving words. Irradiated with glory
+as was the lovely landscape before them, so seemed the future to him,
+by the side of that precious girl. Wildenrod stood apart, apparently
+wholly absorbed in the contemplation of that magnificent spectacle, but
+nevertheless, a deep sigh of relief escaped his chest, and while his
+eyes flashed in triumph, he murmured, almost inaudibly: "At last!"
+
+
+
+
+                              CHAPTER II.
+
+                              IN COUNCIL.
+
+
+"I Am sorry, gentlemen, but I have to pronounce all your plans and
+proposals unsatisfactory. The question is to draw all the water-power
+we need from the Radefeld low-grounds, in the shortest way, and with
+the least possible expense. But, without exception, your designs call
+for such vast and expensive outlays, that it is not worth while to talk
+of their being carried into effect."
+
+It was Eberhard Dernburg, the proprietor of the Odensburg Works, who
+thus declined the plans laid before him by his officers, in this
+decided manner. The gentlemen shrugged their shoulders and looked at
+the plans and drawings that were spread out upon the table, when,
+finally, one of them said:
+
+"But, you see, Herr Dernburg, that we have to contend here with the
+greatest difficulties. The land lies in the most unfavorable of all
+ways, mountains and valleys alternating along the whole line."
+
+"And the pipes must be secured against all casualties," remarked a
+second; while the third added:
+
+"The laying of them down will certainly occasion a large expenditure,
+but as things are now, this cannot be altered."
+
+These three gentlemen, the director and head-manager of the Odensburg
+works, the superintendent of the technical bureau, and the
+chief-engineer, were unanimous in their views. This conference was
+being held in Dernburg's office, where that gentleman usually received
+the reports of his subordinates, with whom his son also was found
+to-day. It was a large apartment, quite plainly furnished, but its
+walls were lined with bookcases. His desk was heaped up with letters
+and other papers; on the side-tables lay plans and maps of all sorts;
+and the great portfolios, that were visible in an open press, seemed to
+contain similar matter. It was evident, that this room was the central
+point, whence came the guidance of the whole gigantic enterprise,--a
+spot devoted to never-ending toil and unflagging activity.
+
+"You do not, then, think any other solution possible?" began Dernburg
+again, as he drew out a paper from a portfolio near by, and spread it
+out before him. "Please glance at this, gentlemen! Here the course
+taken is to start from the higher ground, but it penetrates the
+Buchberg, and then, without further difficulty, is to be conveyed to
+the works across Radefeld itself--there is the solution sought for."
+
+The officers looked somewhat chagrined, and eagerly bent over the
+drawing. Evidently none of them had thought of this plan, and yet they
+did not seem to consider it with any special good-will.
+
+"The Buchberg is to be penetrated, did you say?" asked the director. "A
+very bold thought, that would assuredly offer great advantages, but I
+do not deem it feasible."
+
+"Neither do I," chimed in the chief-engineer. "At all events, a
+searching examination is needed, to ascertain if it is possible. The
+Buchberg----"
+
+"Is to be mastered," interposed Dernburg. "The preliminary works have
+already been executed. Runeck established the fact of their
+possibility, at the outset, when he made the outer measurements, and
+treats of it expressly in the explanation now lying before us."
+
+"So the plan emanates from him, does it?" asked the superintendent of
+the technical bureau.
+
+"From Egbert Runeck--he and none other."
+
+"I thought so."
+
+"What do you mean, Herr Winning?" asked Dernburg, quickly turning upon
+him.
+
+Herr Winning made haste to protest that he had no particular meaning;
+that the affair only interested him because the young technician was in
+his own department, immediately under his superintendence: the other
+two said nothing but cast upon their chief, strange looks of inquiry,
+which he did not appear to observe.
+
+"I have decided upon adopting Runeck's plan," said he quietly, but, at
+the same time, with a certain sharpness. "It fulfills all my
+requirements, and the estimate of expenses amounts to about half of
+yours. We must consult, of course, over the details, but anyhow, the
+work is to begin as soon as possible. We'll talk it all over another
+time, gentlemen."
+
+He rose from his seat, and in so doing gave the signal to disperse, for
+the officers bowed and took their leave; but in the ante-chamber,
+however, the director paused, and asked in a whisper:
+
+"What do you say to it?"
+
+"I do not understand Herr Dernburg," answered the chief-engineer, with
+a voice likewise cautiously lowered. "Is it that he actually does not
+or _will_ not know?"
+
+"Of course he knows it. I myself have given him information on the
+subject, and the Socialist gentleman himself does not pretend to make
+any secret of the course he is pursuing; he recklessly admits the stand
+that he has taken. Should any other man here at Odensburg dare to do
+the same, he would obtain his dismissal on the spot, but Runeck's
+discharge seems as yet to be a thing of the dim future. You see his
+plan has been accepted without any question, while we were plainly
+given to understand that ours were good for nothing. That surpasses
+anything that has happened yet----"
+
+"You just wait," interposed Winning calmly. "On that point our chief is
+not to be trifled with, we all know. At the right time he will speak
+authoritatively, and, if Runeck does not yield then, it is all up with
+him, let him be ten times over the young master's bosom-friend and
+deliverer from death. You may rely upon that!"
+
+"Let us hope so," said the director. "By the way, how poorly Mr. Eric
+does look still, and how remarkably silent he is. Why, I do not believe
+he uttered ten words during the whole debate."
+
+"Because he did not understand what we were talking about," explained
+the chief-engineer, shrugging his shoulders. "They have taken pains
+enough to drill it into him, but very evidently not much has stuck
+to him. He has inherited nothing from his father, whether outwardly
+or inwardly. I must be gone, though, I have to drive out to
+Radefeld--Good-morning, gentlemen!"
+
+Father and son had been left together by themselves, and the former
+walked silently up and down the room, evidently quite out of sorts.
+
+In spite of his sixty years Eberhard Dernburg was still in the full
+vigor of life, and nothing but his gray hair and wrinkled forehead gave
+any indication that he had already crossed the threshold of old age.
+His face, with its firm, grave features, told no such story, any more
+than did his glance, which was keen and clear, and his tall figure was
+as erect as ever. His address and speech were those of a man accustomed
+to command, and to receive unfailing obedience, and in his outward
+appearance there was something that spoke of the sternness attributed
+to him alike by friend and foe.
+
+It was plainly to be seen now, that his son bore not a shadow of
+resemblance to the father, but a glance at the half-length portrait
+that hung over the desk explained this, in some sort. It represented
+Dernburg's deceased wife, and Eric was speakingly like her. There was
+the same countenance, with its delicate, meaningless features, the
+soft, uncertain lineaments, the dreamy, reserved look.
+
+"There sit my deputies with all their wisdom," began Dernburg, finally,
+in a half-mocking, half-angry tone. "For months they have been
+pottering over the task, concocting all manner of designs, not one of
+which was worth anything; and, on the other hand, there is Egbert,
+without any commission at all, going quietly along, taking the
+necessary measurements, and studying the situation, until he matures a
+plan, and lays on the table before me a scheme that is simply masterly!
+How do you like his sketch, Eric?"
+
+The young man cast an embarrassed look upon the drawing which he still
+held in his hand.
+
+"You find it excellent, father. I--pardon me--I cannot exactly get a
+clear idea of its bearings."
+
+"Why, I should think it ought to be clear enough, since you have been
+pondering over it since yesterday evening. If you require so much time
+for comprehending a simple plan, for which all the necessary
+explanations are given, how will you acquire the quick insight into
+affairs, indispensably necessary for the future owner of the Odensburg
+works?"
+
+"I have been absent fully a year and a half," said Eric in apology,
+"and during all that time, the physicians enjoined it upon me to
+refrain from all exertion, particularly prohibiting any mental strain.
+You must make allowances, father, and give me time to fit into harness
+again."
+
+"You have always had to be on your guard against over-exertion, and
+been restricted in work," said Dernburg with a frown. "On account of
+your continual sickness, you were never able to pursue any serious
+study, or engage in anything that required bodily activity. I fixed all
+my hope upon your return from the South, and now--do not look so
+disconsolate, Eric! I do not mean to reproach you; it is not your
+fault, but it is a misfortune in the station to which you are now
+called."
+
+Eric suppressed a sigh; once more he was feeling this enviable station
+to be a sorely heavy burden. His father continued impatiently:
+
+"What is to be done, when I shall no longer be here? I have capable
+subordinates, but they are all dependent upon my guidance. I am
+accustomed to do everything myself, I never let the reins slip out of
+my hands, and your hands, I am afraid, will never be strong enough to
+manage them alone. I have long perceived the necessity of securing you
+a support for the future--and just at this crisis, Egbert disappoints
+me by being guilty of the madness of allowing himself to be caught in
+the net of the socialistic democrats! It is enough to drive one mad!"
+
+He stamped passionately with his foot. Eric looked at his father, with
+a certain shyness, then said gently:
+
+"Perhaps the matter is not so bad as you have been informed. The
+director may have exaggerated many a thing."
+
+"Nothing has been exaggerated. My investigations have ratified every
+word. His period of study in that cursed Berlin has been fatal to the
+young man. I ought to have taken the alarm, indeed, when he wrote me
+word, after the first few months of his stay there, that he no longer
+needed the means which I had placed at his disposal, for he could
+manage to support himself by giving drawing-lessons and by other work.
+It must have been hard enough for him, but I liked his pride and
+independence of spirit, and let him have his way. Now I see more
+clearly! Those mad ideas were already beginning to seethe in his brain,
+the first meshes of the net were already woven about him, in which he
+has since been caught, and he would accept nothing more from me, for he
+knew that all was at an end between us, if I learned anything about
+it."
+
+"I have not spoken with him yet, and therefore cannot judge. He is out
+at Radefeld, I hear."
+
+"He is coming in to-day. I am expecting him before the hour is out."
+
+"And you are going to talk to him on the subject?"
+
+"Of course--it is high time."
+
+"Father, let me implore you not to be hard upon Egbert. Have you
+forgotten----"
+
+"That he drew you out of the water? No, but he has forgotten that since
+then he has been almost treated like a son of the house. Do not meddle
+in this matter, Eric, you do not understand it."
+
+The young man was silent, not daring to oppose his father, who, for the
+last few minutes, had resumed his pacing of the floor. Now he paused in
+his walk, and said grumblingly: "I have on my mind all manner of
+disagreeable things, and lo! here you come, with your love-affairs, and
+prating about marriage. It was dreadfully precipitate of you to bind
+yourself without first obtaining my consent."
+
+"I believed myself certain of your approval, and so did Wildenrod, when
+he promised me his sister's hand. What objection have you to make to my
+choice, father? The daughter that I am going to present to you is so
+lovely and sweet. How beautiful she is that picture shows. She is,
+moreover, rich, from a highly-esteemed family--indeed she belongs to a
+line of the ancient nobility----"
+
+"I do not attach the slightest consequence to that," brusquely
+interrupted his father. "No matter how suitable your choice was, it
+should have been first referred to me; instead of which you even
+allowed the engagement to be announced at Nice before my answer had
+arrived. It almost looks as if there was a purpose to obviate any
+possible opposition on my part."
+
+"But there can be no talk of that! My relations with Cecilia had not
+been unobserved, it was already the theme of town-talk; and Oscar
+explained to me that he had to acknowledge the truth, to avoid any
+misinterpretation of our actions."
+
+"Never mind, it was a piece of unwarrantable presumption. My
+investigations have certainly proved satisfactory."
+
+"Ah! you have had yourself informed?"
+
+"Of course, since a family connection is at stake. I have certainly not
+turned to Nice--a mere transient sojourn like that offers no reliable
+hold--but to the native place of the Wildenrods. Their former
+possessions are now part of the royal domain, and I got the information
+I wanted from the court-marshal's office."
+
+"That was superfluous, father," said the young man reproachfully.
+
+"I, however, deemed it needful for your sake," was the dry rejoinder.
+"There is no doubt but that the Wildenrods belong to the most ancient
+nobility in the land. The old Baron seems to have lived rather
+extravagantly, but was universally respected. His estates were sold
+after his death, and, for a respectable sum were transferred to the
+king, on condition that the widow might still be allowed a home in the
+castle. This certainly agrees with the information furnished you by
+Herr von Wildenrod, a person, by the way, with whom I cannot have the
+slightest affinity."
+
+"But you do not know him yet. Oscar is an intellectual man, and in many
+respects a remarkable one."
+
+"That may be, but a man who no sooner succeeds to the paternal
+inheritance than he makes haste to dispose of the family estates, at as
+high a price as possible, deserting the service of his fatherland, and
+roving around in the wide world, without any profession or occupation
+of any kind,--such a man inspires me with but little respect. This
+gypsy life on the part of these high-born drones, that wander homeless
+from place to place, everywhere seeking nothing but their own pleasure,
+revolts me to my inmost soul. I also regard the Baron as lacking
+greatly in delicate feeling, when he allows his young sister to share
+in such a life."
+
+"He loves Cecilia with the greatest tenderness, and she has never had
+anybody in the world to depend on but him. Should he commit his only
+sister to the hands of strangers?"
+
+"Perhaps it would have been better. When he deprives a young girl of
+home and family, he takes the ground from under her feet. However, she
+would find both here again. You love her, at all events, and if you are
+really sure that she reciprocates your love----"
+
+"Otherwise would she have plighted her troth to me?" cried Eric. "I
+have already described to you, father, the extent to which she was
+idolized and courted, with the whole world at her feet, as it were. She
+had so many to choose from and chose me!"
+
+"That is just what surprises me," said Dernburg, coolly. "You do not
+possess one of those shining qualities which girls of her claims and
+education covet. However, that may be--first of all, I want to get
+personally acquainted with Fräulein von Wildenrod and her brother. Let
+us invite them to Odensburg, and we shall see what will come of it.
+Meanwhile, I entreat that no greater publicity be given to the affair
+than it has already unfortunately attained."
+
+So saying he left the room, and went into his library, which was
+immediately adjacent.
+
+
+
+
+                              CHAPTER III.
+
+                         "See the path is clear
+                          To a grand career."
+
+
+Eric remained alone. He had thrown himself into a chair, and rested his
+head in his hand. The manner in which his engagement had been taken at
+home depressed and disenchanted him. He had not thought of the
+possibility of objections, expecting that his father would hail his
+selection with joyful approval, instead of which investigations had
+been entered into, and doubts and scruples suggested. His father
+actually seemed to entertain serious mistrust, and evidently claimed,
+even now, the decisive voice. The young man fired up at the thought of
+his petted, idolized betrothed, and her haughty brother, being first
+put on probation, as it were, here at Odensburg, ere they should
+ultimately be admitted into their family. Just here the door was
+opened, and he started up from his reverie.
+
+"Egbert!" he cried, joyfully springing to his feet, and hurrying to
+meet a young man, who came in with outstretched hand.
+
+"Welcome home, Eric!"
+
+"Yes, I have been away from it a long while, so long that I am quite a
+stranger in it," said Eric, returning the pressure of his hand, "and we
+have not seen one another for an eternity."
+
+"I, too, have been away two years in England, only returning a short
+time ago. But first of all, how is your health now?"
+
+Egbert Runeck was very little older than the young heir, but he had the
+appearance of being more mature by some years. His _personnel_ made the
+impression of manly vigor in the highest degree, and his tall figure
+towered so over Eric's, that the latter had to look up when he spoke to
+him. His face, tanned by exposure to sun and wind, was anything but
+handsome, yet there was expression and energy in every feature. His
+light brown hair and full beard had a slightly reddish hue, and
+underneath a broad and massive brow shone a pair of dark-gray eyes,
+that had a peculiarly cold and earnest look. The man wore the air of
+one who had hitherto tasted only the toils of life, neither knowing nor
+seeking its pleasures. Moreover, there was something harsh and arrogant
+in his manner, that, toned down into mildness at this moment, was
+nevertheless the predominant trait of his whole mien. Such an
+appearance might be striking--attractive it was not.
+
+"Oh, I am perfectly well again, thank you," said Eric, in answer to the
+inquiry after his health. "The journey has fatigued me some, of course;
+I am suffering, too, from the change of climate, but this is a mere
+passing annoyance."
+
+Egbert's eyes were fastened upon his friend's face, that to-day looked
+rather pale and pinched, and his voice, too, softened as he replied:
+
+"Certainly, you will have to get accustomed to the North, again."
+
+"If it were only not so hard for me!" sighed Eric. "You do not know
+what held me fast in the sunny South so long and so irresistibly."
+
+"Why, I guessed the truth easily enough, from those hints in your last
+letters--or is it to be a secret still?"
+
+A bright, joyous smile flitted across Eric's features, while he gently
+shook his head.
+
+"Not from you, Egbert. My father does not want it known at Odensburg
+for the present, but I may say to you, that, under the palms of the
+Riviera, on the shores of the blue Mediterranean, I have found
+happiness, such enchanting, fairy-like happiness as I never dreamed of
+before. If you could only see my Cecilia, with her ravishing beauty,
+her winning sweetness----Ah! there it is again, that cold, mocking
+laugh of yours, with which you used always to set at naught any
+romance, any warmth of feeling, you stern Cato you, who never have
+known nor ever will know love."
+
+Runeck shrugged his shoulders.
+
+"I have had to devote all my energies to work, from earliest youth, and
+the romantic seldom forms a large ingredient in such a life as that.
+The like of us has no time for what you call love."
+
+This reckless remark hurt the feelings of the lover, who said
+excitedly:
+
+"So, love is in your estimation only a pastime for the idle? You are
+the same old fellow, Egbert! To be sure, you never did believe in that
+mysterious, overpowering force, that irresistibly draws two people
+together, and binds them indissolubly together."
+
+"No!" said Egbert, with an air of cool, almost mocking, superiority.
+"But do not let us dispute over it. You, with your soft heart, must
+give and receive love,--for you it is a necessity of life. I am not
+made for that sort of thing--have had other aims in view from the
+beginning--such as do not comport with dreamt of love. The name of your
+betrothed is Cecilia, then?"
+
+"Cecilia von Wildenrod. What is the matter? Do you know the name?"
+
+Runeck had certainly started when the name was pronounced, and the
+glance that he cast upon the friend of his youth was a peculiarly
+searching one.
+
+"I believe I have heard it somewhere before," he replied. "The talk
+there was of a Baron von Wildenrod."
+
+"My future brother-in-law, I suppose," said Eric with unconcern. "He
+belongs to a well-known family of the ancient nobility. But, first of
+all, you must see my Cecilia. I have introduced her to father and
+sister, at least, through her portrait."
+
+He took a rather large likeness that lay on his father's desk, and
+handed it to his friend. Although the photograph was faithful, it had
+by no means the charm of the original, but it showed what a beauty she
+was, and the large, dark eyes looked full at the inspector. Egbert
+looked down upon it silently, without uttering a word, until meeting
+the expectant gaze of the girl's lover, he said:
+
+"A very beautiful girl."
+
+The tone in which he spoke these words was peculiarly frigid, and Eric
+was chilled by it, too. He knew, to be sure, that his old friend was
+not at all susceptible to the charms of female beauty, but,
+notwithstanding, he had calculated upon a warmer expression of
+admiration. They both stood by the desk--Runeck's glance fell
+accidentally upon a second photograph, that likewise lay there, and
+again there flitted across his features the same peculiar expression as
+a while ago, upon the mention of that name, a sudden shiver, that
+lasted but for an instant.
+
+"And this one, here, I suppose, is the brother of your betrothed?" said
+he. "It may be seen by the likeness."
+
+"That is Oscar von Wildenrod certainly, but, properly speaking, there
+is no likeness whatever. Cecilia does not resemble her brother in the
+least; their features are quite different."
+
+"But the same eyes!" said Egbert slowly, continuing to regard the two
+pictures fixedly; then he suddenly pushed them from him, and turned
+away.
+
+"And you have not even a congratulation for me?" asked Eric
+reproachfully, being mortified at this indifference.
+
+"Pardon me, I forgot it. May you be happy, as happy as you deserve to
+be! But I must go to your father, who is expecting me, and requires,
+you know, undeviating punctuality."
+
+He evidently wanted to cut short this interview. Eric, too, remembered
+now what was impending, and the subject that was to be brought into
+discussion.
+
+"Father is in his library," he remarked, "and you know he will not be
+disturbed there. He has summoned you from Radefeld----do you know why?"
+
+"I suspect so, at least. Has he spoken to you about it?"
+
+"Yes, and from him I heard the first word on the subject, Egbert--for
+heaven's sake, be on your guard. You know my father, and are aware that
+he will never tolerate such a bent in his works."
+
+"In general he tolerates no other bent than his own," rejoined Egbert
+coldly. "He never can nor will comprehend, that the boy, who has to
+thank him for education and culture, has become a man, who presumes to
+have his own views, and go his own way."
+
+"This way seems to diverge very widely from ours," said Eric sadly.
+"But you did not give me the slightest intimation of this in your
+letters."
+
+"Why should I? You had to be spared and guarded against excitement, and
+you would not have understood me, either, Eric. You have always shunned
+all the questions and conflicts of the present, while I have confronted
+them, and, of late years, stood in the very midst of them. If, thereby,
+a gulf has opened between us, I cannot help it."
+
+"Do not say between _us_, Egbert! We are friends and must remain such,
+let happen what will. Think you that I have forgotten to whom I owe my
+life? Yes, I know you do not like to be reminded of it, but it ever
+abides in my memory--the plunge into the ice-cold flood, the deadly
+anguish, when the rushing waters overwhelmed me, and then the rescue,
+when your arm encircled me. I did not make it easy for you; I clutched
+you so convulsively, that I hardly left you room to move, and put you
+in extreme peril. Any other would have shaken off the dangerous burden,
+but you did not let me go, you held me with your mighty strength, and
+worked your way forward until we reached the blessed shore. That was an
+heroic deed for a lad of sixteen years."
+
+"It put my powers as a swimmer to a good test, that was all," answered
+Runeck, declining any claim to merit. "I shook the water from my
+clothes and was all right again, while the shock and chill brought on
+you an illness that well-nigh proved fatal."
+
+He broke off, for, just now Dernburg entered with a book in his hand,
+and responded to the young engineer's greeting as composedly as if
+there was no agitating subject to be broached between them.
+
+"You enjoy meeting after your long separation, do you not?" asked he.
+"You see Eric for the first time to-day--how do you find him?"
+
+"He looks rather delicate yet, and will have to be prudent for a while
+longer, it seems to me," said Runeck, with a glance at his friend's
+pale face.
+
+"The doctor is of the same opinion. And to-day you do look especially
+feeble, Eric! Go to your room, and take a good rest."
+
+The young man looked irresolutely from one to the other. He would
+gladly have stayed, to interpose some soothing word between these two,
+if the discussion grew too hot; but his father's direction sounded very
+peremptory, and now Egbert, also, said in a low tone:
+
+"Go, I implore you."
+
+With a sensation of bitterness Eric submitted, feeling that there was
+something humiliating in the compassionate indulgence, and that it
+extended further than to his bodily condition. He had never been
+treated by his father as an equal, capable of independent action, and
+properly, not by his friend either. Now he was sent away to take his
+rest, which meant, that they wanted to spare him from being witness to
+a scene that would almost assuredly be stormy, and he--he, indeed,
+allowed himself to be thus dismissed, depressingly conscious that his
+presence would be superfluous and useless!
+
+The other two found themselves alone. Dernburg had seated himself, and
+again taken in hand the drawings of the Radefeld aqueduct, that he once
+more proceeded to inspect.
+
+"I have decided upon carrying out your plan. Egbert," said he. "It is
+the best of all laid before me, and solves all the difficulties in an
+astonishing manner. I have to consider further on a single point; but,
+taken as a whole, the plan is excellent, and it is to be carried into
+effect forthwith. Will you undertake its superintendence? I offer you
+the appointment."
+
+The young engineer seemed to be surprised; he had probably expected a
+totally different introduction; unmistakable satisfaction was depicted
+upon his features, at this recognition, emanating from his chief, who
+was usually so chary with his praise.
+
+"Very gladly," replied he; "but this much I know, the chief-engineer
+has the affair already in hand. I was commissioned by him to attend to
+the outworks."
+
+"But if I now decide differently, the chief-engineer has nothing to do
+but to submit;" declared Dernburg emphatically. "It depends only upon
+yourself, whether you shall undertake the execution of your own plan,
+and, in this regard, there is certainly another matter to be discussed
+and cleared up first."
+
+So far he had spoken in a calm, business-like tone, but Egbert was
+sufficiently prepared; he knew what subject was now to be introduced,
+and yet he obviously did not shrink. The transient mildness that he had
+manifested awhile ago in conversation with Eric had long since
+vanished, and the stolid and determined in his character stood forth
+undisguised, as he now firmly met the dark looks of his chief.
+
+"I have long since remarked that you had come back a changed man,"
+resumed Dernburg; "in many respects this was to have been expected. You
+were three years in Berlin, and two in England, where your sphere of
+observation was broadened; indeed, I sent you out into the world, that
+you might see and judge for yourself. But now things have come to my
+ears, concerning which I must apply to you for more exact information.
+I do not like long circumlocution, so briefly and clearly: is it true
+that you constantly associate with the socialists in our town, that you
+publicly own yourself to be one of them, and that you are upon very
+intimate terms with that Landsfeld, their leader? Yes, or no?"
+
+"Yes," said Egbert simply.
+
+Dernburg did not seem to have expected so reckless a confession. He
+frowned still more darkly.
+
+"Really! And do you say that so composedly to my face?"
+
+"Am I to deny the truth?"
+
+"And since when have you been a member of that party?"
+
+"For four years."
+
+"The thing started, then, in Berlin: I thought as much. And you have
+actually allowed yourself to be thus ensnared. To be sure you were very
+young and inexperienced, but still I would have expected you to be
+wiser."
+
+One could see that the young man was wounded by the manner in which he
+was spoken to. Calmly, but with sharper intonation, he replied: "Those
+are _your_ views, Herr Dernburg; I regret that mine differ from them."
+
+"And it is not for me to disturb myself about them, you think,"
+supplemented Dernburg. "There you are mistaken, though. I do concern
+myself about the political opinions of my employés. But I do not
+condescend to enter into explanations with them. Whoever does not like
+Odensburg can quit. I force nobody to stay; but he who does remain has
+to submit absolutely to its regulations. Either----or! There is no
+third way here."
+
+"Then I shall be obliged to choose that 'or,'" said Egbert coldly.
+
+"Will it be so easy for you to leave us?"
+
+The young man looked down moodily.
+
+"I am in your debt, Herr Dernburg, I know it----"
+
+"That you are not! If I have given you education and culture, you have
+saved my Eric for me; but for you I should have lost my only son. So
+far as that goes, we are quits, if we propose to balance accounts on a
+purely business basis. If that is what you propose, speak out openly,
+and we are done with each other."
+
+"You do me injustice," said Runeck, with suppressed emotion. "It is
+hard enough for me thus to oppose you."
+
+"Well, who forces you to do so? Only those wild ideas, that have run
+away with you so. Do you think it is an easy thing for me to give you
+up? Be reasonable, Egbert. It is not your chief who speaks to you--he
+would have long since cut the matter short! But for years you have been
+almost a child of my house."
+
+The half-fatherly, half-masterful tone entirely missed its aim. The
+young engineer, with arrogant self-assertion, raised his head, as he
+answered:
+
+"I _am_ possessed by those 'wild ideas,' and stick to them. There comes
+a time when the boy becomes of age, and I reached this state when out
+in the world, and I cannot go back to the irresponsibility of boyhood.
+Whatever you demand of the engineer, the official, shall be done to the
+best of my ability. The blind subjection that you demand of the man, I
+cannot and _will_ not take upon myself. I must have free course in
+life."
+
+"Which you have not with me?" asked Dernburg in an irritated tone.
+
+"No!" said Egbert firmly. "You are a father to your subordinates so
+long as they submit themselves unquestioningly, but in Odensburg they
+recognize only one law--viz., your will. The director yields just as
+unconditionally as does the lowest laborer; no one has an opinion of
+his own at your works, or ever will have, so long as you are at the
+head of things."
+
+"Those are pretty things, to be sure, that you attribute to me," said
+Dernburg fiercely. "You say, plainly, that I am a tyrant. You, to be
+sure, have always been allowed to take more liberties than all the rest
+put together--have done so, candidly, too. You never were passively
+obedient, nor was such a thing required of you, either, for we'll talk
+of that later. Free course! There again is one of your catch-words.
+With you, all is to be down, all, and then you will have free
+course--to destruction."
+
+He had risen to his feet, and walked to and fro several times, like a
+person trying to compose himself, then he paused in front of the young
+man, and said with bitter scorn:
+
+"In spite of your youth, you seem to have quite a significant part to
+play in your party. They make no secret of setting the greatest hopes
+upon you, and seeing in you one of their future leaders. Those people
+are not so stupid as some suppose; they know their men, and with less
+attractive bait would not have caught you."
+
+"Herr Dernburg!" exclaimed Runeck, "do you believe me capable of low
+calculation?"
+
+"No, but of ambition!" said the older man coldly. "You may not
+acknowledge to yourself what has driven you into those ranks, but I
+will tell you how it is: to be a clever engineer, and gradually work
+one's way up to be chief-engineer, is an honorable career, but much too
+modest a one for a man of a disposition like yours. To guide thousands
+by a word, a nod; to fling forth burning words in the Reichstag, such
+as the whole country shall hear; to be lifted upon a shield, like a
+conqueror, that is power, that would charm you. Do not contradict me,
+Egbert; with my experience I see farther than you do--in ten years let
+us talk together again!"
+
+Whether the words hit home was not to be decided. Runeck stood there
+with lowering brow and compressed lips, but replied by not a syllable.
+
+"Well, I suppose my Odensburg will have to do without you, meanwhile,"
+began Dernburg again. "I am master here and suffer no rival rule,
+whether open or secret; tell that to your party-comrades, if they
+should not know it already. But what was your idea, when you came back
+to me with such views? You knew me! Why did you not stay in Berlin, or
+England, and send your challenge from there?"
+
+Again Egbert made no answer, but this was not the defiant silence of a
+while ago, in which lay ten contradictions; now his eye sought the
+ground, and a deep blush slowly mantled his cheeks and brow. Dernburg
+saw this, and his countenance, just before so dark, brightened up, and
+there was even a slight smile upon it, as he continued in a milder
+tone:
+
+"Well, we shall suppose that it was attachment for me and my family.
+Eric and Maia are as devoted to you as if they were your own brother
+and sister. Yes, ere you are completely lost to us, you are to know
+what you resign, and what a future you slight for the sake of your mad
+schemes."
+
+Runeck gave him a questioning glance; he evidently did not guess
+whither the words tended.
+
+"You mean----"
+
+"I mean Eric's health, which still costs me constant solicitude. Even
+if danger to his life has been averted for the present, he has not come
+back from the south cured. He will always need to be spared exertion,
+and can never perform the duties of an able-bodied man; moreover, he is
+of a soft, dependent nature, accessible to influences of all sorts. I
+cannot conceal from myself the fact that he is not qualified to fill
+the position that one day will be his, and I want, after my eyes are
+closed, to be assured of the perpetuity of the enterprise that I have
+established, and this assurance I can only have if it is left in
+powerful hands. Nominally, Eric will be my successor; virtually, it
+must be some one else--and for this I had calculated upon you, Egbert."
+
+Egbert started, and there was stamped upon his features a surprise that
+was almost painful.
+
+"On me! I am to----"
+
+"Some day guide the reins at Odensburg, when they shall drop from my
+hands," said Dernburg, finishing his sentence for him. "Of all that I
+have reared in my school, only one is of the right stuff for it, and
+now he will scatter to the winds all my plans for the future. My Maia
+is still half a child, and I cannot foresee whether her future husband
+will be fitted for such a position, ardently as I desire it. I am not
+of the number of those fools who buy for their daughters the title of
+some count or baron; I care only for the man, no matter what station he
+occupies, and from what stock he springs, provided that he has secured
+the affections of my child."
+
+He said all this slowly and with full emphasis.
+
+That was a dazzling promise, which, although unspoken, yet loomed up
+plainly enough before the young man, and which he comprehended only too
+well. His lips quivered, impulsively he drew one step nearer, and said
+with suppressed emotion:
+
+"Herr Dernburg--send me away!"
+
+Now a smile relaxed Dernburg's features, and he laid his hand upon the
+shoulder of the agitated young man.
+
+"No, my boy, I'll do no such thing. We must both make one more trial at
+getting along together. First of all, take charge of the Radefeld
+aqueduct. I'll see that you are left perfectly untrammeled. If we call
+in all available forces, we can finish by the autumn. Will you take
+hold?"
+
+Egbert was evidently battling with himself. A few seconds elapsed ere
+he answered; then he said in a low tone:
+
+"Herr Dernburg, it is a risk--for both of us!"
+
+"Possibly, but I'll adventure it with you, and I think that there is no
+such haste about your making the people happy, that you cannot ponder
+the matter for a few months longer. Meanwhile, we declare a truce. And
+now, go to Eric! I know he is dreadfully anxious as to the result of
+our conversation, and Maia, too, will be rejoiced to see you again, for
+you are always out at Radefeld these days. But to-day you are not going
+to drive out until evening, and must dine with us. Done!"
+
+He held out his hand, and Egbert silently laid his own within it. It
+was plain to see what an effect the goodness of the usually stern,
+unyielding man had had upon him, and, more yet, perhaps, the
+recognition of what he was worth to the man who thus spoke to him.
+Dernburg had adopted the right remedy, the only one that was of avail
+here. He required no promise and no sacrifice, both of which would have
+been rejected, but he showed implicit confidence in his unruly
+favorite, and in so doing disarmed him.
+
+
+
+
+                              CHAPTER IV.
+
+                            ODENSBURG MANOR.
+
+
+The Dernburg iron and steel works had a worldwide reputation, and could
+compare, indeed, with the greatest undertakings of this sort in the old
+as well as in the new world.
+
+Odensburg was situated in a wooded valley between mountains, the chief
+wealth of which consisted in its inexhaustible mines, and, a generation
+before, the father of the present proprietor had established here a
+plain foundry and iron factory, that kept growing as the years went by.
+But it had only assumed its present truly vast proportions under his
+son, who really created the present works, that were upon an
+astonishingly vast scale. He had gradually bought in all the mines and
+forges of the region round about, absorbing also all the labor at
+command, and giving to his undertakings an expansion that controlled
+the industrial life of the whole province.
+
+It required, indeed, an unusual amount of energy to devise such an
+enterprise, and then carry it on to success, but Dernburg was equal to
+the occasion. He had a whole array of engineers, technicians, and
+administrative officials; but the director, like the humblest workman,
+knew that all the reins joined in the master's hand, who decided
+everything important for himself. This master had the character of
+being stern and unbending, but likewise just, and if he was conscious
+of the whole power of his position, he had an equally high idea of its
+duties.
+
+The accommodations that he provided for his workmen were on a scale
+commensurate with the other departments of his works, and were
+everywhere pronounced to be the most excellent conceivable. They were
+only possible for a man who had millions at his disposal, and was not
+stingy with his wealth, when the welfare of his subordinates was in
+question.
+
+But in return for this, Dernburg demanded complete subjection to his
+will, and planted himself like a rock against the advent of modern
+ideas, such as that every individual has the right to follow his own
+convictions. At Odensburg, strikes, rebellion, and conflicts, such as
+are so common in other industrial establishments, were things unknown.
+It was well understood that nothing was to be gotten out of the chief
+by force, and, with their situations, the people well knew they
+lost certain provision, in the future, for themselves and their
+families,--thus all those incitements to insubordination, that were not
+lacking here either, failed to get foothold, and even if they were
+listened to here and there, came to nothing so far as actions were
+concerned.
+
+And yet this man, who was the very embodiment of strength, had an only
+son for whose life he had perpetually to tremble. From his very infancy
+Eric had been puny and delicate, and that fall into the water, caused
+by his own imprudence, brought on him a dangerous illness, that lasted
+for months. He recovered, it is true, but could never again be called a
+well man, and two years before so significant a symptom as hemorrhage
+from the lungs had appeared, which necessitated his speedy removal from
+the harsh climate of home, and a long sojourn in the South.
+
+The peculiar relation in which the youth who had saved Eric's life
+stood to the Dernburg family, had always been a matter of surprise in
+the village, and to many of envy as well. Egbert Runeck, the son of a
+workman employed in the foundry, had passed his early boyhood amid the
+plainest surroundings, and continued to move in the same sphere as his
+parents, until nearly grown. If, nevertheless, he learned more than any
+of his companions of the same age, he had, in the first place, to thank
+the excellent schools, which Dernburg had established for the children
+of his employés, and upon which he lavished uncommon care. The rarely
+endowed boy, with his unflagging diligence, had already, in earlier
+days, attracted the chief's attention, but after he had saved the life
+of his only son his future was decided. He shared Eric's lessons, was
+treated almost as a member of the family, and was finally sent to
+Berlin for the completion of his education.
+
+The Manor-house lay quite apart from the works, on an eminence that
+commanded the whole valley. It was an imposing edifice, built in good
+style, with a broad terrace, long rows of windows, and a great covered
+piazza in front, the roof of which was supported upon columns. Dotted
+here and there, ever the broad expanse of lawn and park, were monarchs
+of the forest that had been spared in clearing, the long line of wooded
+hills in the rear, with their grand old trees, forming an extremely
+effective background for the picture. It was a fair and stately abode,
+that might well have merited the name of castle, but Dernburg did not
+like it at all when they applied that designation to it, and so it was
+called in the end as in the beginning, "Odensburg Manor."
+
+The family were accustomed to spend the greatest part of the year here,
+although Dernburg possessed several other estates that were more
+beautifully situated, and he also had a residence in Berlin. But he
+never went to the capital, unless his duty as a member of the diet
+called him there; for the most part, too, he only paid short and flying
+visits to his other estates. Odensburg needed the master's hand and
+eye, and was it not the creation of his own brain? Upon this ground he
+was unlimited ruler; here his will alone held sway; here much could be
+won or lost; and therefore it had been and continued to be his favorite
+abode.
+
+There was as little to be found fault with in the family-life of the
+Dernburgs as in their outward surroundings. He and his gentle,
+shrinking wife, had been a model married couple, she being in perfect
+subjection to her domineering husband. Now his only sister, the widowed
+Frau von Ringstedt took the part of lady of the house. She had lived
+with her brother for a good many years, and tried to make up to his
+children for the loss of their mother, who had died young.
+
+It was towards the end of April, but the weather was still cold and
+uncomfortable. In the South, for two months already Spring had
+gladdened the earth with her wealth of bloom, but here, at the North,
+buds and leaves even now hardly dared to burst their sheaths, and a
+gray, cloud-covered sky spanned the somber, dark green foliage of the
+fir-trees.
+
+Guests were expected at the Manor to-day. The curtains to the
+guest-chambers of the upper story were put far back, and the little
+parlor belonging to that suite of rooms had a festal air. Everywhere
+bloomed flowers, dispensing their sweet odors around; sweet,
+bright-hued children of Spring, that to be sure, even now had to be
+grown in hot-houses, decorated in lavish profusion the room evidently
+destined for a lady.
+
+Two ladies were in it at this very moment, also. One, the younger,
+was amusing herself with teasing a little, soft, white Spitz dog, that
+she incessantly egged on to bark and jump, while the other lady
+surveyed the parlor with a critical eye, here straightening a chair,
+there pushing a curtain back, and once more arranging the pretty
+writing-materials on the desk.
+
+"Must you always have that pug about you, Maia?" said she
+discontentedly. "He puts everything out of order, and just now came
+very near dragging off the table the vase of flowers as well as the
+cloth."
+
+"I did lock him up, but he got out and ran after me," cried Maia.
+"Down, Puck. You must be good. Miss Friedberg says positively you
+must."
+
+She laughingly called him, and, at the same time, cut at the little
+beast, with her pocket handkerchief, that, of course tried to catch
+hold of the handkerchief with loud barking. Miss Friedberg shuddered
+nervously and heaved a sigh.
+
+"And do you call these the manners of a grown-up young lady! I felt
+obliged recently to complain to Herr Dernburg, and tell him that
+nothing was to be done with you. You will not be anything but the
+veriest child, and, if possible, exceed Puck himself in playing all
+manner of monkey-tricks. Tell me, if you ever intend to be earnest and
+rational?"
+
+"Not for a long while, I hope," declared Maia. "Everything is so
+horribly earnest and rational at Odensburg already. Papa, aunt, you,
+Miss Leona, and lately Eric has been intolerable, too, sighing and
+longing after his lady-love from morning to night. And am I, too, to be
+made rational? But we do not like that, do we, Puck? We, at least, want
+to be merry." And so saying, she seized Puck by the fore-paws, and made
+him dance on his hind-legs, although he gave unmistakable signs of
+displeasure.
+
+Maia Dernburg, who objected so emphatically to being rational, was
+evidently in the first bloom of young girlhood, not being a day over
+seventeen years of age. She was one of those creatures, at sight of
+whom the heart bounds, and who gladden the beholder as does bright
+sunshine. Her lovely face, that bore only a very remote likeness to her
+brother, beamed in the rosy freshness of youth and health, and her
+beautiful brown eyes had nothing mysterious about them like Eric's,
+They shone clear and bright, dimmed by no shadow in the world. Her fair
+hair, that glistened like gold, when the sun's rays struck it, only
+confined by a ribbon, fell in rich curls over her shoulders, while a
+few tiny ringlets, that would not submit to be bound, enhanced greatly
+the beauty of her brow. Her features were still half child-like, and
+the delicate, pretty figure had apparently not yet attained its full
+height; but this very thing gave to the young girl an unspeakable
+charm.
+
+Miss Leona Friedberg, the governess of the young daughter of the
+house, who still filled an office that was by no means a sinecure,
+although, properly speaking, Maia's education was finished, was about
+five-and-thirty years old, and, although no longer young, had an
+attractive appearance: a slight, delicate form, with dark hair and eyes
+and a somewhat languid expression upon the pale but pleasant features.
+She responded to the rash remark of her pupil with a shrug of the
+shoulders, and then cast a searching look through the room.
+
+"There, now we are ready! But you have been too extravagant with your
+flowers; Maia, the perfume is almost intoxicating."
+
+"Oh! a promised bride must have flowers showered upon her! Cecilia is
+to find her future home beautiful, and flowers are the only things,
+with which we can welcome her. Papa will not hear of a grand reception
+taking place."
+
+"Of course, since the betrothal is to be publicly announced first from
+here."
+
+"And then there is to be a betrothal-party and a grand, grand wedding!"
+shouted Maia. "Oh! I am so curious to see Eric's betrothed. She must be
+beautiful, very beautiful. Eric is continually raving over her to me;
+but he does behave so comically as a love-sick swain. He never has a
+bright day now, because he is always dreaming of his Cecilia. Sometimes
+papa gets seriously vexed over it, and yesterday he said to me: 'You
+will behave more sensibly, my little Maia, when you are engaged, will
+you not?' Of course I shall: I'll be a model of good sense, I will!"
+
+And to prove this incontestably, she took Puck in her arms, and whirled
+about the room with him, like a spinning-top.
+
+"Oh yes! that is very likely!" cried Miss Leona, indignantly. "Maia,
+once more, I beseech you not to behave like a wild tom-boy, when your
+new connections come. What are the Baroness Wildenrod and her brother
+to think of your bringing-up, if they see a young lady almost seventeen
+years old behaving in that wild, hoydenish manner."
+
+Maia, meanwhile, had finished her round dance and let loose her Puck,
+and now seated herself in a ceremonious manner, before her governess.
+
+"I shall behave so as to satisfy the most fastidious, for I know
+the points thoroughly. Miss Wilson she tutored me: that English
+governess, you know, with the sallow face, turned-up nose, and no end
+of learning--do not look so provoked, Miss Leona, I am not talking
+about you!--Miss Wilson was really very tiresome, but I learned to
+curtesy as they do at court from her anyhow, look, so!" She made a low
+and solemn reverence. "You see I shall make an impression upon my
+future sister-in-law with my fine manners, and then I shall fall upon
+her neck and kiss her so and so;" and with this she overwhelmed the
+unsuspecting lady with impetuous caresses.
+
+"But, Maia, you will choke me to death," cried the horrified lady,
+freeing herself with some difficulty. "Why, dear me, it is striking
+twelve already! We must go down. I shall only cast one more glance into
+the chamber, to see if all there is in order."
+
+She left the parlor, and Maia fluttered down the steps like a
+butterfly, Puck bounding after her, as a matter of course. The
+dwelling-rooms of the family were in the lower story; there the
+large reception hall was likewise decorated, in honor of the expected
+guests with tall laurel, and orange-trees and the whole flora, of the
+hot-houses. There stood a young man, who seemed to be waiting for
+somebody, who, upon seeing the young lady of the house, made a very low
+and reverential bow. Maia bestowed upon him a casual nod.
+
+"Good-day, Herr Hagenbach. Is the doctor here too?"
+
+"He is, and at your service, Miss Dernburg," answered the person
+interrogated, with a second bow just as low. "My uncle is with your
+father, laying before him the week's report of the infirmary, and I--I
+am waiting here for him--with your most gracious permission."
+
+"Oh, yes, you have my permission," said Maia, highly amused at this
+overstrained reverence, while Puck eyed, with somewhat critical
+glances, the stranger whose plaid pantaloons seemed to excite his
+displeasure.
+
+Herr Hagenbach was a very young man, with exceedingly light hair, and
+exceedingly pale blue eyes, and a timid, awkward gait. The meeting
+evidently threw him into great embarrassment, for he reddened and
+stammered considerably. Nevertheless, he seemed to feel the necessity
+of showing himself versed in the usages of society, for several times
+he made the effort to speak in vain, and finally succeeded in getting
+out the words:
+
+"May--may I venture to ask after your health, Miss Dernburg?"
+
+"I thank you, my health is perfectly good," answered Maia, the corners
+of whose mouth began to twitch.
+
+"I am exceedingly glad to hear it," asseverated the young man. He had
+really purposed to say something else, something intellectual,
+important, but nothing, alas! occurred to him, and so he continued:
+
+"I cannot tell you how delighted I am to hear it, and I hope Madam von
+Ringstedt is well, too."
+
+Maia, with difficulty suppressed a laugh, while she answered his
+question in the affirmative. Herr Hagenbach, who was still on his vain
+chase after the witty remark, meanwhile persisting convulsively in
+inquiring after the health of every member of the family, then asked
+for the third time: "And young Herr Dernburg----"
+
+"Has gone to the railroad station," wound up Maia, who could no longer
+restrain her merriment. "You may be easy as to the condition of my
+brother, however, and of my father, as well--the whole family thank you
+for your extraordinary kindness in asking after our health."
+
+Herr Hagenbach's embarrassment increased perceptibly. In his confusion
+he bowed down before Puck, who was still devoting his attention to the
+plaid pantaloons, and tried to stroke him, while he remarked: "What a
+dear little doggie!"
+
+The dear little doggie, however, showed himself very unappreciative of
+this caress, and darted, with a loud bark, at the legs of the young man
+who jumped back, but Puck sprang after and stuck his teeth into the gay
+trousers. The person attacked, who did not dare to drive away the young
+lady's dog, took refuge behind the tub of flowers, at his heels his
+pursuer, who now aimed his attack at his legs, while Maia, instead of
+calling off the dog, was highly amused at the scene.
+
+Fortunately help now came from a different direction. Out of the door
+leading to Dernburg's apartments, stepped an elderly gentleman, who,
+without further ceremony, seized the still yelping Spitz by the nape of
+his woolly neck, and lifted him up, while he said fretfully,
+
+"Why did you not defend yourself, Dagobert? Were you going to let him
+tear your pantaloons off you? Puck is such an artful little rascal!"
+
+Dagobert, all out of breath, stood under a laurel-tree, looking greatly
+relieved--and now Maia also came forward.
+
+"Let go the evil-doer, do, Dr. Hagenbach. There would really have been
+no risk to your nephew's life. In the whole course of the one year of
+Puck's life he has never torn a single man to pieces."
+
+"It is enough to make a dead-set at pantaloons, especially when they
+are such magnificent ones as the pair that has just been imperiled,"
+answered Doctor Hagenbach pleasantly, as he set down the tiny,
+struggling creature. "A good-day to you, Miss Maia! No need to ask
+after your health, I perceive."
+
+"No, indeed, it has certainly been sufficiently asked after, for one
+day," protested the young lady, with a saucy look at Dagobert. She took
+her little dog upon her arm and caused it to make a comical bow.
+
+"Beg pardon, Puck, and promise that you will not do it again.
+Good-morning, gentlemen, I must go to papa as fast as ever I can." And
+with a careless salutation she flew off to her father's rooms.
+
+Dr. Hagenbach, the surgeon for the works and Dernburg family-physician,
+was a man of forty-five or forty-six years, whose hair already began to
+be tinged with gray here and there, and whose figure tended to rather
+too much fullness, was, on the whole a fine-looking man, the perfect
+counterpart of the nephew to whom he now turned.
+
+"You have played the part of a veritable hero, to be sure!" mocked he.
+"That ungovernable little thing only wanted to play, and you to run
+away!"
+
+"I did not want to treat the young lady's pet roughly," explained
+Dagobert, solicitously examining his pantaloons, that fortunately had
+not been damaged. The uncle silently shrugged his shoulders.
+
+"We shall hardly be able to make the visit to-day to Miss Friedberg,"
+said he then. "As I just learned, they are expecting the party from
+Nice in about an hour, and the whole house is upset, preparing to
+receive them. But since we are here, I'll make the attempt, anyhow, to
+speak with the lady; you meanwhile can be recovering composure, both as
+to the outward and inner man."
+
+He mounted the stairs, and at the top met the governess, who had just
+come out of the parlor. Almost daily she saw the doctor, who, for long
+years, had stood upon a very friendly footing with the Dernburg family,
+nevertheless, there was a perceptible reserve in her manner as she
+returned his greeting. Hagenbach seemed not to remark this, he asked
+lightly after her health, listening in the same way to her answer, and
+then said:
+
+"I had an especial reason for calling upon you, Miss Friedberg. The
+time is badly chosen, it is true, for apparently you, too, are
+engrossed by the coming reception of the expected guests, but my
+request can be made in a few minutes, so permit me to lay it before
+you, just as we stand."
+
+"You have a request to make of me?" asked Leona, with cool surprise.
+"Actually?"
+
+"You think I can do nothing but give orders and write prescriptions, I
+suppose. Yes, Miss Friedberg, it is the physician's right, he must
+preserve his authority under all circumstances, especially when he has
+to do with so-called _nervous_ patients."
+
+He emphasized the word, in a way that evidently provoked his hearer,
+for she replied tartly:
+
+"Why, I believe your authority remains undisputed, security is given
+for that by your very considerate manner of ensuring obedience."
+
+"Even as--I know patients upon whom all love's labors are lost,"
+replied Hagenbach composedly. "But--now to the errand that brought me
+here. You know my nephew, who has been three weeks at Odensburg?"
+
+"Yes, indeed, your brother's son. The young man has no longer any
+parents?"
+
+"No, he is a double orphan, and I am his guardian, having, indeed, to
+charge myself entirely with his future, for his parents were so
+unmindful of their duty as not to leave him a single penny. They
+thought very likely that I, as a confirmed old bachelor, might need an
+heir."
+
+Leona's countenance plainly betrayed that she thought this mode of
+expressing himself very indelicate; the doctor saw this, too, but
+disturbed himself not in the least about it, but continued in the same
+tone:
+
+"Dagobert has gone through the gymnasium, and also passed the
+examination for admission to college, with much groaning, to be sure,
+for he is not a specially clear-headed fellow. Now he looks wretchedly
+from sitting so steadily at his books and drudging. Only think, the
+fellow is nervous, too, or at least fancies himself to be so, therefore
+I have undertaken to cure him. I'll teach him to forget that he has
+nerves."
+
+"Then I only hope the young man will survive the cure," said the lady
+sharply. "You love heroic measures, doctor?"
+
+"When they are in place, certainly. As for the rest I shall not put an
+end to my nephew, as you seem to fear. He is to spend the summer over
+here and take a good rest ere he enters the high school. If the fellow
+has nothing at all to do, he will fall into folly of various kinds, so
+he may as well learn a little about languages, modern languages I mean.
+They have drilled him sufficiently in Latin and Greek, but he seems to
+know very little French and English, and so I wanted to inquire if you
+would give him a little help in this, you speak both fluently, I hear."
+
+"If Mr. Dernburg has no objection----"
+
+"Mr. Dernburg is agreed. I have just spoken with him on the
+subject--the only question is, whether you are willing. I know, indeed,
+that I am not much in your favor----"
+
+"Pray do not go on, doctor," coolly interposed the lady. "I am very
+glad that you give me an opportunity to prove my gratitude for the
+medical advice that you have given me several times."
+
+"Yes, in your 'nervous' attacks. Very well, the matter's settled.
+Dagobert, boy, where are you hiding? Come up!" He shouted these last
+words down the steps in a very peremptory tone.
+
+Leona fairly shrank and said disapprovingly: "You treat the young man
+exactly as if he were a schoolboy."
+
+"Am I to put on more than usual ceremony with the youth? He would
+evidently like to take the part of a man in society--and at the same
+time he blushes and stammers as soon as he addresses a stranger. Well,
+there you are, Dagobert! This lady is going to have the goodness to
+take you as a pupil. Return your thanks!"
+
+Again Dagobert made an uncommonly low and reverential bow--he seemed to
+have made a regular study of it--again blushed and began:
+
+"I am very grateful to the lady--I am perfectly delighted--I cannot
+begin to say, how glad I am----" There he stuck fast, but Leona came to
+the help of his embarrassment, and turned to him kindly:
+
+"I am not going to be a strict teacher, and I think we shall get on
+nicely together, Herr Hagenbach."
+
+"Call him simply 'Dagobert,'" interrupted the doctor in his reckless
+way. "He has such an odd name though."
+
+"Have you any objection to make to his name. I think it very pretty."
+
+"I am not at all of that way of thinking," declared Hagenbach, without
+observing the deeply injured mien of his nephew. "By rights, he should
+have been named Peter, for that is my name, and I am his godfather. But
+that was not poetical enough for my sister-in-law, and so she fell upon
+Dagobert. Dagobert Hagenbach--there is a jaw-breaker for you!"
+
+A smile, unmistakably derisive, played about Leona's lips, as she
+replied: "In that case your sister-in-law was undoubtedly right. The
+name Peter has not only poetry opposed to it."
+
+"What objection have you to make to it?" cried the doctor irritably,
+while he straightened himself up, ready for combat. "Peter is a good
+name, a famous name, a Bible name. I should think the Apostle Peter
+would have been a fine enough man."
+
+"But, you have only the quarrelsomeness of the Apostle--nothing else,"
+remarked Leona cheerfully. "So, Herr Hagenbach, I shall look for you
+to-morrow afternoon, when we shall settle upon the time and plan of
+instruction. It will give me pleasure to push you forward as much as
+possible."
+
+The shy Dagobert seemed very agreeably touched by this friendliness,
+and had just begun again to assure her that he was extremely glad,
+etc., when his uncle interposed, in a highly ungracious mood:
+
+"We have detained the lady long enough. Come, Dagobert, else we'll be
+caught, and figure as unbidden guests at the family reunion."
+
+So saying, he and his nephew took their leave. As they went downstairs
+the latter adventured the remark: "Fräulein Friedberg is a very amiable
+lady."
+
+"But nervous and eccentric," growled Hagenbach. "Cannot bear the name
+Peter. Why not, I wonder? Had your lamented parents baptized you Peter,
+you would have been another sort of a fellow! But so, you look like a
+girl with the green-sickness, that was dubbed Dagobert by mistake!"
+
+He placed a very contemptuous emphasis upon the name. Meanwhile, they
+had left the house, and now emerged upon the terrace, where they met
+Egbert Runeck. The doctor was for passing him by with a short, very
+formal salutation, but the young engineer stood still and said:
+
+"I have just been to your house, doctor, to solicit your help. One of
+my workmen, through heedlessness, has come by a hurt. It is not
+dangerous, so far as I can judge, but medical aid is necessary. I have
+brought him to Odensburg and left him in the hospital. Let me commend
+him to your particular attention."
+
+"I shall see after him immediately," replied Hagenbach. "Are you on
+your way to the Manor, Herr Runeck? They are just now expecting the
+party from Nice, and Herr Dernburg will hardly----"
+
+"I know," interposed Runeck. "It was on that very account that I came
+in from Radefeld. Good-morning, doctor!" He bowed and went on his way.
+Hagenbach looked after him, then struck his cane hard upon the ground,
+and said in a low tone:
+
+"That is going it strong!"
+
+"Did you notice, uncle, that he wore a dress-suit under his overcoat,"
+remarked Dagobert. "He is specially invited."
+
+"It would really seem so!" ejaculated the doctor wrathfully. "Invited
+too, to this reception, which was to be strictly confined to the limits
+of the family circle.--Strange things happen at Odensburg!"
+
+"And all Odensburg is talking about it too," said Dagobert, under
+his breath, looking cautiously around. "There is only one voice of
+fault-finding and regret over this incredible weakness of Herr
+Dernburg, for----"
+
+"What do you know about it, saucebox?" continued the doctor. "At
+Odensburg nobody either finds fault with the chief or presumes to
+regret what he does--they simply obey him. Herr Dernburg always knows
+what he is about, and is not going to make any mistake in this case,
+either, unless his _protégé_ should, perchance, disappoint him. He too
+is one bent on having his own way, like his lord and master, and when
+steel and stone meet there are sparks. But, now, make haste and get
+home, for I must be seeing after the Radefeld workman."
+
+So saying, he took the path to the infirmary, and dismissed his nephew,
+who was evidently rejoiced to be rid of his tyrannical uncle.
+
+
+
+
+                               CHAPTER V.
+
+                             A VICTORY WON.
+
+
+Runeck had gone into the house and there met Miss Friedberg, who was
+just coming downstairs. Here, too, his salutation was not exactly
+received with cordiality, and the young lady drew three steps back and
+cast a pleading look around, which, in response, brought a somewhat
+derisive smile to the lips of the young engineer, as, with the greatest
+possible politeness, he inquired whether Herr Dernburg was in his
+office.
+
+The lady was saved an answer, for, at that instant the door opened and
+Dernburg himself appeared with his daughter, who immediately came
+forward to meet Runeck and greeted him with the most unaffected
+cordiality.
+
+"Is that you at last, Egbert? We thought you would miss the reception,
+we are expecting the carriage every minute."
+
+"I was detained by an accident," answered Egbert, "and moreover had to
+drive very slowly, since I had a wounded man with me, else I should
+have been here long ago."
+
+He stepped up to Dernburg and reported the case to him; while Miss
+Friedberg, who had looked on with real horror at Maia's friendliness
+with the engineer, now whispered to her pupil:
+
+"But, Maia, what unbecoming familiarity--you are no longer a child now!
+How often have I implored you to remember your years and your position.
+Must I really have to appeal to your father's authority?"
+
+Maia paid no heed to this lecture, not the first one which had been
+delivered to her on this subject, but waited impatiently until Runeck
+had gotten through with his report. Dernburg had himself accurately
+informed as to the nature of the hurt, and seemed satisfied when he
+heard that it was not dangerous, and that the surgeon had already been
+called in; finally he let Egbert off, who now turned to the young girl.
+
+"You hear, Miss Maia, it was not my fault that I am late, so you must
+not be angry with me for it."
+
+"I am very angry with you, though, for insisting upon calling me
+'Miss,' as long as we have lived in the same house!" cried Maia,
+seeming to be highly wrought up. "I'll not stand it, Egbert, do you
+hear, I will not, indeed."
+
+She stamped her little foot and pouted charmingly, while her governess
+darted a shocked glance at the master of the house. It was high time
+for him to interpose his authority, since hers had failed so
+ignominiously. But Dernburg appeared not at all to share her
+sentiments, for he said with perfect composure:
+
+"Well, if Maia insists upon it, you must let her have her way, Egbert!
+You are one of our family, you know."
+
+Miss Friedberg did not trust her own ears--the permission of such a
+liberty appeared so monstrous to her, that she gathered up her forces
+for resistance.
+
+"Herr Dernburg, I think----"
+
+"What, Miss Friedberg?"
+
+His question was only a short one, spoken quite composedly, but the
+governess instantly lost her desire to continue her opposition.
+
+"I think that we had better station a servant on the terrace to let us
+know the moment the young gentleman's carriage comes in sight."
+
+"You are right, pray give orders to that effect," said Dernburg: "but I
+think we had better go in now, for Eric may be belated likewise."
+
+He moved towards the parlor, Maia with him, but she archly looked back
+over her shoulder.
+
+"You have heard your orders, Master Engineer Runeck, and you are to
+obey on the spot, I tell you!"
+
+There was such a pretty playfulness in her tone and gesture, that even
+the grave Egbert was thawed by it, and answered with pleasant raillery.
+
+Maia was as full of glee as a child over this victory, that put so
+effectually to flight the shy reserve of this friend of her youth, and
+Dernburg smiled at it. There was an expression of tenderness rarely
+seen upon his stern features, as he looked upon the bright and lovely
+creature at his side. It was plain to see that Maia was his favorite,
+and that she was closer to his heart than her brother.
+
+The patience of the expectant group was not put to too severe a test,
+for they had hardly waited a quarter of an hour, before the
+announcement was made that the carriage was in sight, and the grand
+folding-doors of the entrance hall were flung wide open. There stood
+Dernburg with his sister, a dignified old lady rather stiff in her
+bearing, Maia at their side, all joy and expectation, while Egbert and
+the governess stayed back in the house.
+
+Now the carriage approached, a half-covered landau drawn by a
+magnificent pair of bays, and halted in front of the terrace. The
+servant opened the carriage-door. Eric was the first to jump out and
+help his betrothed to alight, while behind them the tall form of the
+Baron became visible.
+
+Dernburg had taken one step forward and stood erect on the threshold of
+his house. His demeanor betrayed all the pride of the commoner about to
+receive the youthful representative of a long line of noble ancestry,
+all the self-satisfaction of a man who has climbed aloft through the
+exertion of his individual force. It was he, who did an honor to the
+Baroness Wildenrod, when he received her into the bosom of his family.
+
+Cecilia bowed lightly, with the grace peculiar to her, when Eric
+presented her to his father. She had thrown back her veil and now
+lifted her eyes to that stern countenance, which, however, had no
+terrors for her. She knew too well the witchery of her own presence,
+and here too it failed not of its effect. Youth and beauty make easy
+conquest of even cold and critical age. To be sure Dernburg's glance
+for a few seconds, scrutinized her features keenly and questioningly,
+but then he stooped down and kissed her brow.
+
+"Welcome to my house, my dear," said he, earnestly, but kindly.
+
+Eric secretly drew a breath of relief. With those words his father's
+opposition was given up. Cecilia had been received and recognized by
+him as a daughter: here, too, she had conquered by her mere appearance!
+He recognized this with joyful pride.
+
+Frau von Ringstedt followed her brother's example and welcomed the
+young Baroness with simple cordiality. Wildenrod, meanwhile, exchanged
+greetings with the master of the house, while Maia was wholly taken up
+with admiration of her beautiful sister that was to be. She forgot
+entirely the courtesy, that she had practiced so dutifully, and,
+instead, impetuously threw her arms around her neck, with the
+exclamation:
+
+"Oh, Cecilia, I never imagined that you were so beautiful!"
+
+Cecilia smiled, accustomed as she was to compliments and flattery of
+all sorts, nevertheless, this artless, childish confession delighted
+her, and with a gush of real tenderness she kissed "that sweet little
+Maia," of whom she had heard Eric talk so much.
+
+"You have showered so many kind attentions upon my sister, dear young
+lady," suddenly said a deep but sonorous voice, "that I indulge the
+hope that I too may obtain a friendly greeting."
+
+Maia turned around and looked into a pair of deep, dark eyes, that
+rested upon her countenance, with an expression that affected her
+strangely, almost painfully, and yet she felt that there was admiration
+written there. Yet she shrank from that gaze with a slight shudder,
+something like a bodeful feeling of dread taking hold upon her, and her
+voice had not its usual joyous, saucy sound, when she replied, half
+interrogatively:
+
+"Herr von Wildenrod?"
+
+"Yes, it is Oscar von Wildenrod, who begs to be allowed to shake hands
+with the young lady of the house."
+
+There was some reproof implied in these words. It was very true that
+Maia had not yet offered her hand to this man, who was soon to be a
+connection of the family, but now she extended it with hesitation, and
+a timidity that was something entirely new to her. Wildenrod stooped
+down and pressed his lips to it. This was but a common piece of
+courtesy, and yet the young girl trembled at the contact, while her
+eyes were spell-bound at the same time, by that gaze which seemed to
+exercise a mysterious charm upon her.
+
+Dernburg now offered his arm to the young Baroness, to escort her in,
+the Baron stepped up to Frau von Ringstedt, while Maia, with a quick
+movement, took her brother's arm. Eric was in the happiest of moods,
+and pressed gratefully and tenderly the hand of the sister, who had
+received his betrothed with so much affection.
+
+"Does Cecilia please you, then?" he asked. "Have I told you too much
+about her?"
+
+"Oh, no, she is far, far prettier than her picture. She is just my idea
+of the princess in a fairy tale."
+
+"And what do you think of my future brother-in-law? A chivalrous
+looking fellow, is he not, although he is far from being young?"
+
+"I do not know," said Maia, slowly and reflectively. "He has such
+singular eyes--so deep and dark--almost evil-looking."
+
+"Little simpleton, I verily believe you are afraid of him," laughed
+Eric. "That does not look like our high-spirited little Maia, and Oscar
+will not be much edified by this first impression of his character. But
+you must get better acquainted with him first; he is excellent company,
+and a really brilliant conversationalist."
+
+Maia did not answer forthwith. Afraid? Why, yes, what she had felt was
+very like fear, but she was already very much ashamed of this childish
+feeling, and darted an extremely ungracious look at the Baron, who was
+walking just in front of her with her aunt. All her audacity came back
+to her, and tossing her head she called out, laughingly:
+
+"Oh, I shall have to learn what the sensation of fear is, like the hero
+in the fairy tale."
+
+                           *   *   *   *   *
+
+The weather, that had looked threatening in the forenoon, had now
+became much worse. The mountains were veiled in thick fog, from time to
+time showers of rain fell, and the wind howled in the trees of the
+park.
+
+It was so much the more comfortable in the large parlor of the
+Manor-house, a vast room with lofty ceiling, richly draped and
+upholstered in dark crimson, with carved oak furniture, and a huge
+fireplace faced with black marble. The colors might have been regarded
+as rather dark, but through the wide glass doors that opened upon the
+terrace, broad light streamed in. Only a few, but choice, pictures
+adorned the walls, and some family portraits. In the fireplace burned a
+bright fire and the whole room gave the impression of solid wealth and
+perfect comfort.
+
+They had just risen from table and the younger members of the family
+seated themselves by the fireside and engaged in lively chat: Frau von
+Ringstedt sat upon a sofa in the corner with Miss Friedberg, and the
+master of the house was absorbed in serious conversation with Oscar von
+Wildenrod. They were talking of the Odensburg works, in which the Baron
+showed not only an uncommon interest, but his questions and remarks
+also demonstrated, that he was by no means so little versed in such
+matters as Dernburg had imagined, and he had just said:
+
+"I had no idea, that you were so familiar with all these things, Herr
+von Wildenrod. Such work as ours generally has no charm outside of the
+profession. But you seem to be well acquainted with all its bearings."
+
+"I have read a great deal about it," lightly answered Wildenrod. "One
+who, like myself, has no regular profession undertakes little private
+studies, and I have always had a fancy for mining and the manufactory
+of iron. My knowledge, to be sure, represents only the superficial
+observations of an amateur. Perhaps you will allow me to perfect them
+here, in some degree?"
+
+"It will give me pleasure to act as your guide myself, in this
+pursuit," said Dernburg warmly. "In your ride, you only touched upon a
+small section of the works, but from the terrace, here, one has quite a
+comprehensive view of the whole."
+
+He opened one of the glass doors and stepped out with his guest. The
+mist had not yet disappeared, but the works that stretched along as far
+as to the foot of the mountain-chain, and the teaming life astir there
+that pressed up to the very Manor itself, lost nothing of its grandeur
+on that account, which might have struck a stranger as well-nigh
+overpowering. It did seem to have made this impression upon the Baron
+too, for his eyes turned slowly from one end of the valley to the
+other, while he remarked:
+
+"A mighty creation is this Odensburg! Why, you have caused to spring up
+here a regular city, in the solitude of mountains and forests. Those
+huge buildings there that tower aloft in the center, are----"
+
+"Those are the cylinders and foundries: yonder, farther on, are the
+forges."
+
+"And those grounds to the right, that look almost like a colony of
+villas?"
+
+"Those are the residences of our officers; the workmen's homes lie on
+the other side. To be sure I have only been able to accommodate the
+very smallest number in Odensburg, the most of them living about in the
+adjoining villages."
+
+"I know, Eric showed me as we rode along. How many workmen, exactly, do
+you employ, Herr Dernburg?"
+
+"Nine thousand here in the works: the mines up in the mountains have
+their own force of laborers, and their own officers."
+
+Wildenrod looked at the man, who, with such perfect composure and
+evidently through no impulse of vanity, unfolded before him the
+description of a power and wealth that would have made any other man
+dizzy. Each one of those mines and furnaces, that he mentioned so
+casually, represented a fortune: of his other estates, that ranked
+among the richest in the province, he spoke not at all. And moreover,
+there was not the slightest trace of boasting in his words, he simply
+gave information asked for, nothing further. The Baron leaned against
+the stone parapet and looked out again, then he said slowly:
+
+"I had already heard a great deal of your Odensburg from Eric and
+others, but to form a conception of the magnificence of the scale upon
+which the enterprise is planned one must see it with his own eyes. It
+must be an intoxicating feeling to know one's self to be the absolute
+ruler of such a world, and to be able to put ten thousand men in motion
+by a single word."
+
+"It took me thirty years to reach that point," answered Dernburg
+coolly. "He who has had to battle for every victory won, and mount
+upward step by step, is not the one to be intoxicated by success. There
+is many a heavy burden to bear, too, which you, Herr von Wildenrod
+would hardly take upon yourself. The management of the property
+inherited from your father was a load that you shook off."
+
+There was a certain asperity in these last words, that was understood,
+too, but Wildenrod evinced no sensitiveness, he quietly answered:
+
+"You mean to reproach me for the course I took Herr Dernburg----"
+
+"Not so; what right would I have to do such a thing? Every man's life
+cannot be shaped after the same model. The one seeks his happiness in
+work, the other----"
+
+"In idling, do you think?"
+
+"In the enjoyments of life, I wanted to say."
+
+"Nevertheless I expressed your thought, and alas! I must own that you
+are right. But I never was attracted by activity on any but a large
+scale, and my inheritance was no vast estate adequate to bring this
+impulse into play. I could not bear to bury myself in barren monotony
+of every-day country life, in the wearisome round of a management that
+any good overseer could conduct as well as myself. I was not made for
+that sort of thing."
+
+"Why, then, did you not stay in the diplomatic service?" remarked
+Dernburg. "Certainly there was a field commensurate with the widest
+ambition."
+
+It was an expression of unspeakable bitterness that curled Wildenrod's
+lips at this question, to be sure only for a second, when he quietly
+replied:
+
+"Personal considerations were to blame. I had had disagreements with
+the chief of the bureau, believed myself slighted and overlooked, hence
+rashly broke my supposed chains, in a fit of sensitiveness. I was still
+young at that time, and the wide world with its dreams of a golden
+future, attracted me irresistibly--how the prospect changes, with the
+lapse of time! I have long since felt that my life lacked serious
+purpose and will feel this yet more sensibly after Cecilia leaves me.
+Deep dissatisfaction results from leading such an existence."
+
+"For which you have to bear the sole responsibility, yourself," said
+Dernburg gravely. "You are still in the enjoyment of a full manly
+vigor, you have an independent fortune--Only come to a resolve."
+
+"Quite right, a resolve is what is needed, and yet that is precisely
+what I have not been able to make up my mind to. To me toil and
+industry ever presented themselves under the image of what was small
+and wearisome. Here, in sight of your Odensburg, I comprehend for the
+first time, what a power lies in it, and what incredible results it can
+achieve. That could stir me up too, engage my every power, I admit.
+Will you kindly afford 'the idler,' Herr Dernburg, a deeper insight
+into your world of work? Perhaps he may yet profit by the lesson."
+
+There was something uncommonly winning in this request and the whole
+manner of the Baron, and Dernburg was very agreeably impressed by this
+candor. His hitherto rather cool civility gave way now to a warmer
+tone, as he answered:
+
+"I shall be delighted if Odensburg gives you such lessons. I indeed
+have had to plow my way through all the pettiness and weariness of
+routine. If I had not bestirred head and arms, probably the simple
+forge bequeathed me by my father, would still be standing here--but
+then, everybody need not handle a spade with one's own hands. If
+everybody only does something, and fills the place allotted him in life
+that is the main thing after all."
+
+
+
+
+                              CHAPTER VI.
+
+                 TO WHICH MORE THAN ONE CHARMER CHARMS.
+
+
+In the parlors, meanwhile, Cecilia formed the center of the group drawn
+up around the fireplace. She could be very amiable when she pleased,
+and her young sister-in-law was perfectly enchanted by her, while Eric
+who, to-day in general, had neither eyes nor ears for any one but his
+betrothed, hardly stirred from her side. Only Egbert Runeck took no
+part in the conversation. He looked out upon the terrace where those
+two gentlemen were engaged in such lively conversation, and then again
+his eyes rested upon the young Baroness; but in doing so his brow
+contracted almost threateningly.
+
+"No, Eric, you need not try to persuade me that there ever is any
+spring here in your fatherland," exclaimed Cecilia laughing. "On the
+Riviera flowers have been blooming and diffusing sweet odors for months
+past; but since we have crossed the Alps, we have had nothing but
+storms and cold. And now, to crown all, this ride to Odensburg!
+Everywhere wintry wastes, nothing but the melancholy green of these
+everlasting fir-forests, besides mist and clouds and, for a change,
+sleety rain! Dear me! how I freeze in your cold, gray Germany."
+
+She shivered, every movement she made, somehow adding charms to her
+naïve beauty, and then turned to the fire:
+
+"In your Germany?" repeated Eric with tender reproach in his tone.
+"But, Cecilia, it is your Germany as well!"
+
+"Of course it is, but I always have to put myself in mind, before I can
+realize that I am actually a child of this hateful North, where I am
+such a total stranger. I was hardly eight years old, when my father
+died, and two years later I lost my mother also. Then I was carried
+first to relations in Austria, and later to Lausanne, where I went to
+boarding-school. When I grew up, Oscar took me away, and since then we
+have lived mostly in the South. At Rome and Naples, the Riviera and
+Florence, in Switzerland, too, we have been a few times, and once in
+France. But Germany we have never come near!"
+
+"Poor Cecilia! so you have never had a home!" cried Maia,
+compassionately.
+
+Cecilia looked at her in great astonishment; such a life of vanity as
+she had led, continually changing both her society and surroundings
+seemed to her the only enviable one.
+
+Home! That was quite a novel idea to her. Her eyes took a hasty survey
+of the parlor where they sat--yes, indeed, it wore an entirely
+different air from the gay and yet commonplace hotel-apartments, in
+which she had been living for years.
+
+Those rich dark tapestries and curtains, that oaken furniture, every
+piece of which had an artistic value--the family portraits on the
+walls, and above all the breath of comfort that pervaded the whole!
+But, on the other hand, all this appeared so somber and dark, in the
+light of this gray, rainy day--as grave as all the people here, with
+the solitary exception of Maia--and the spoilt child of the world
+inwardly shuddered at the thought of her bridegroom's "home."
+
+"Do you really and truly spend the largest part of the year here at
+Odensburg?" asked she. "It must be very monotonous. You have such a
+handsome residence in Berlin, as Eric has told me, and you hardly spend
+two months in the winter there. I do not understand it."
+
+"My father think he has no time to move around the world," said Maia,
+in a wholly unembarrassed manner--"and I have only been a few times to
+the Baths with my aunt and governess. I like it here at Odensburg."
+
+"Maia has not been introduced into society yet," explained Eric. "She
+is to come out next winter, for the first time, for she has completed
+her seventeenth year. Until now little sister has always had to stay up
+in the nursery, even when we had a large reception at home; and as to
+city life, she knows nothing of it whatever."
+
+"I went into society when I was sixteen," remarked Cecilia. "Poor Maia,
+to think of their keeping you waiting so long--it is incomprehensible?"
+
+The young girl laughed merrily at being the object of such genuine
+commiseration.
+
+"Oh, I do not consider that as such a great misfortune, for then I must
+'behave' myself as Miss Friedberg calls it, must be so dreadfully prim
+and staid, and no longer dance around with Puck--why, Puck! I do
+believe you have gone to sleep in broad daylight! Are you not ashamed?
+Will you wake up, I say!"
+
+Therewith she rushed to one corner of the parlor, where Puck, greatly
+discontented at so little attention being paid him to-day, lay on a
+footstool, having yielded himself to the sweetest of slumbers.
+Cecilia's lip curled.
+
+"Maia is nothing but a child, sure enough!" said she in an aside to
+Eric. "Well, Oscar, has the rain driven you in?"
+
+"Yes, indeed," answered Wildenrod who had just come in. "We have been
+inspecting Odensburg, for the present, only from the terrace, but,
+Eric, your father has promised to introduce me into his realm within
+the next few days."
+
+"Certainly, and Cecilia must get acquainted with it too," chimed in
+Eric. "Then we'll drive out, some day, to Radefeld, too, where the
+Buchberg is being tunneled." "Egbert," said he, turning to that young
+man, who had sat by, a silent listener, "you observe that we are
+inviting ourselves to pay you a visit some day."
+
+"I am only afraid that our works will not interest Herr von Wildenrod,"
+answered Egbert. "Externally they have very little of interest to show,
+and, as for the rest, we have not come to the tunneling yet."
+
+Wildenrod turned to the young engineer, who had of course been
+presented to him upon his arrival. He knew through Eric that this
+friend of his youth occupied an anomalous position, but his presence
+here upon occasion of this exclusively family-party surprised him none
+the less, and he knew too how to give expression to this surprise.
+Through all the politeness, with which he treated Runeck, there was
+ever clearly transparent in his eyes the question: "What business have
+you here?"
+
+"You sketched the plan for these works, did you not, Herr Runeck?" he
+asked. "Eric has spoken to me about it, and I am glad to make the
+acquaintance of so clever an engineer."
+
+The words sounded very obliging, but the "engineer" was emphasized and
+thereby the barrier raised that separated the son of the worker in iron
+from the family of the millionaire, however much they might see fit to
+ignore this at Odensburg. Egbert bowed just as obligingly, while he
+replied:
+
+"I have already had the pleasure of making your acquaintance, Herr von
+Wildenrod."
+
+"Mine? I do not remember that we ever met before."
+
+"That is comprehensible, for it took place at a large party--three
+years ago in Berlin--at the house of Frau von Sarewski."
+
+The Baron pricked up his ears, and fixed his keen eyes searchingly upon
+the young engineer, but at the same time a mocking smile played about
+his lips.
+
+"And so you saw me there? Really, I would not have expected you to move
+in such circles."
+
+"Nor do I, in fact. It was an exceptional case, and I was not there as
+a guest, either. Perhaps you may remember the circumstance if I recall
+the day to your mind--it was the twentieth of September."
+
+The hand which rested on the back of Cecilia's chair trembled slightly,
+and at the same time there flashed from Wildenrod's eyes a glance of
+suspicion, that was threatening as well, but it produced no effect upon
+the perfectly unmoved features of Runeck. It lasted, indeed, only a
+second; then the Baron said carelessly:
+
+"You really expect too much of my memory. I have really been introduced
+to so many people traveling about as much as I have done these last ten
+years, that I no longer distinguish individuals. What circumstance do
+you allude to?"
+
+He spoke with perfect composure, not the slightest change being
+perceptible in his features, although those dark gray eyes of his were
+fastened fixedly upon Runeck, with an expression of threatening
+determination.
+
+"If you have forgotten it, sir, it is hardly worth while to recur to
+it," said Egbert coolly. "But your features and individuality impressed
+themselves upon me in a manner that I have never forgotten."
+
+"Very flattering to me!" Wildenrod bowed haughtily to the young
+engineer, and then turned his back upon him. He proceeded to the other
+end of the parlor, where Maia was tugging at the white coat of her pet,
+that had by no means taken in good part being suddenly disturbed in its
+siesta.
+
+The game was at an end, though, when the Baron came up, and Fräulein
+Maia drew herself up, in a way that said plainly she was ready for
+battle, for she felt the urgent necessity for having an act of oblivion
+cast over her former childish timidity. No opportunity for this had
+been given at dinner because Frau von Ringstedt had absorbed the entire
+attention of the new family connection who was seated beside her: but
+now he was to see that nobody was in the least afraid of him; now she
+was fully determined to let him see that she could hold her own.
+
+Alas! Oscar Wildenrod paid no attention whatever to this warlike mood,
+he began, in all innocence, to tease, first the little dog, and then
+its mistress, and, without any embarrassment whatever, took a place at
+her side.
+
+Then he began to chat of all imaginable things, in a half playful, but
+uncommonly fascinating manner, that was quite new to the young girl. He
+quietly took it for granted that the connection which was so soon to
+exist between their families justified him in approaching her with the
+freedom of a relation, and he gently and naturally asserted this claim,
+and finally set himself seriously to work to gain Puck's friendship,
+and was fully successful in the effort.
+
+All this was not without its influence upon Maia, who gradually gave up
+standing on the defensive, and became more sociable. She, too, began to
+talk now and tell about all sorts of things. The conversation was in
+full swing, when Wildenrod suddenly asked, quite irrelevantly:
+
+"So, you are no longer afraid of me?"
+
+"I?" The young lady was disposed to contradict what was said
+indignantly, and yet could not hinder the hot blood from mounting to
+her cheeks.
+
+"Yes, you, Fräulein Dernburg! I plainly saw it when we exchanged our
+first greeting--or will you deny what I say?"
+
+The blush upon Maia's face grew still deeper. He had only seen too
+clearly, but she was annoyed at this inconvenient sharp-sightedness on
+his part, and thought it very inconsiderate in him thus to take her to
+task.
+
+"You are only making sport of me, Herr von Wildenrod!" said she
+indignantly.
+
+He smiled, and it was remarkable what an improvement it wrought in his
+face. That dark fold between his eyes seemed to smooth down, all the
+sharp, stern lineaments softened, and his voice, too, sounded strangely
+soft, as he replied:
+
+"Do I really look as if I would make sport of you? Can you really
+believe it?"
+
+Maia looked up at him. No, those eyes were not mocking, at least not
+now, but again they exerted the same spell over her as they had done
+awhile ago, and she was helpless to resist it--and there again was that
+inexplicably oppressive sensation. No answer occurred to the young
+girl, and she only gently shook her head.
+
+"No?" asked Wildenrod. "Well then, prove to me that the guest who has
+arrived to-day does not inspire you with fear by gratifying me in a
+request--will you?"
+
+"I must first know what your request is," said Maia, taken captive, and
+with a vain attempt at resuming her old petulant tone. Wildenrod
+stooped down to her, and his voice sank into a low whisper.
+
+"Everybody here calls you Maia, everybody in this circle has the right
+to address you simply by your name, which is the prettiest one in the
+world. Even that Herr Runeck has been granted that privilege--only I am
+left out in the cold. I am not so bold as to claim the same right as
+Cecilia, who uses the sisterly 'thee' when addressing you, but--may I,
+too, call you Maia?"
+
+He had taken her hand, as though accidentally. His request was neither
+so very presumptuous nor so unusual, the elderly man might certainly be
+allowed this freedom in addressing a girl of seventeen, of whose
+brother he was soon to be the brother-in-law--nevertheless, Maia
+delayed her answer, delayed so long, that he asked reproachfully:
+
+"Do you refuse me?"
+
+"Oh, no, certainly not, you are Cecilia's brother, Herr von Wildenrod."
+
+"Yes, indeed, and Cecilia's brother has another name, which he would
+also like to hear called by you, Maia,--my name is Oscar."
+
+No answer followed, but the little hand quivered within his grasp and
+tried to free itself, but in vain, he held it fast.
+
+"You will not?"
+
+"I--I cannot!" There was an almost agonized repulse in these words.
+Oscar smiled again.
+
+With a gentle pressure he released her hand. Maia! How strangely he
+pronounced the name, it was a sound that penetrated the young girl with
+a feeling never experienced before, at once sweet and torturing, but
+she breathed deeply, as though relieved, when Eric approached and said
+playfully:
+
+"I do believe, Oscar, you are slyly paying court to our little Maia."
+
+"For the present I am only paving my way to the intimacy of future
+relationship," was the cheerful reply. "Maia has just given me leave to
+give up addressing her formally as Miss Dernburg. You have no
+objection, I hope."
+
+"Not the least," said Eric, laughing. "You will play the part of uncle
+to our little girl, with great dignity, I fancy. Only see to it that
+you treat her with all due deference!"
+
+A singular expression flitted across Oscar's features at this harmless
+conception, but he made no response to it. Maia had not heard this last
+remark, for she had hurried to her father, who had joined the two older
+ladies. With an almost impetuous movement, she cuddled up to him, as
+though she sought shelter in his arms, shelter from some unknown peril,
+that still lay far away in the dim distance, and which, nevertheless,
+cast a shadow athwart the glowing present.
+
+Cecilia still sat by the fireside, and Runeck, too, had not left his
+place--the "stony guest," as Cecilia had awhile ago styled him in a
+whisper to her betrothed. Egbert's silence had indeed been striking, at
+least to Eric and Maia, Baron Wildenrod thought it natural enough under
+the circumstances. The young man evidently felt out of place in the
+circle, to which he did not belong of right, and the favor evinced him
+by this invitation evidently oppressed more than it gratified him.
+Cecilia fully shared her brother's sentiments on this point, and, like
+him, up to this time, she had only taken very casual notice of the
+young engineer. And yet it had not escaped her that he was observing
+herself; she took this, of course, for admiration, and therefore, in
+the most gracious manner, now opened a conversation with him.
+
+"You were already acquainted with my brother, it seems, Herr Runeck?
+That is a remarkable coincidence."
+
+"Hardly, in a large city," was the quiet reply. "As for the rest it was
+only a very brief interview that we had, of which, as you have heard,
+Herr von Wildenrod thought no more."
+
+"I remember myself, he was in Berlin three years ago. He came from
+there to Lausanne, to take me away from school, but, I believe, Oscar
+is not particularly fond of the Capital. You were there quite a long
+while, were you not?"
+
+"Several years. I studied at Berlin."
+
+"Ah, indeed! Well, I shall make acquaintance with it, too, next winter,
+at Eric's side. Society must be brilliant there, especially in the
+height of the season."
+
+"Alas! I can give you no information on that point," said Egbert
+coolly. "I was in Berlin, to study and to work."
+
+"But that does not consume all of one's time?"
+
+"Oh, yes, noble lady, every bit of one's time."
+
+This answer sounded very positive, almost uncouth: it thoroughly
+displeased Cecilia, but yet more he displeased her who had given
+utterance to it, and whom she took this opportunity of observing
+closely for the first time. This friend of Eric's youth was--coldly
+considered--anything but attractive in personal appearance. It is true,
+that his tall, commanding figure made a certain impression, but it was
+not at all suited to the parlor. Add to this, those homely, irregular
+features, where everything was stamped with such sharpness and
+hardness, and the stiff, disobliging manner, that did not soften even
+now, when one was exerting herself to draw him into conversation. Why,
+that answer sounded almost as if this Runeck would like to teach a
+lesson to her, Baroness Wildenrod! She remarked, to her astonishment,
+that here was nothing of timidity and conscious inferiority, and now,
+too, she awoke to the fact that it was not admiration which spoke in
+those cold, gray eyes, but rather enmity. But what would have chilled,
+and perhaps dismayed, any one else, was just the thing that attracted
+Cecilia Wildenrod, and so, instead of letting the conversation drop,
+she took it up again.
+
+She propped her pretty foot against the fender and leaned far back in
+the arm-chair, her attitude being a negligent, but infinitely graceful
+one. The late afternoon hour and the dark rain-clouds out of doors had
+already produced twilight in this part of the parlor, and the fire,
+sometimes flaring up and again dying down, cast its light upon the
+slender form that sat there, draped hi a light silk gown, covered with
+lace, falling upon the roses that she wore on her bosom, and upon the
+beautiful head that was pillowed upon a rich crimson cushion.
+
+"Dear me! how shall I accommodate myself to this Odensburg?" said she
+pettishly. "Every third word here is work! They seem, in general, not
+to have another idea. I, frivolous worldling that I am, feel quite
+intimidated by it and know I shall inevitably fall into disgrace with
+my father-in-law-to-be, who is himself a first-class genius of work."
+
+She spoke with an arrogance that challenged reply. It was the tone that
+had been deemed piquant and fascinating in the sphere of society in
+which she had been accustomed to move. But it made no impression here:
+Runeck seemed to be utterly insensible to it.
+
+"Certainly, Herr Dernburg is a model to us all in this respect,"
+answered he. "I certainly do not anticipate seeing you contented at
+Odensburg, Baroness Wildenrod. But surely, Eric must have given you a
+fair picture of it, ere you made up your mind to come here."
+
+"I believe that Eric's taste is the same as mine," remarked Cecilia.
+"He likewise loves the joyous, sunny South, and raves of a villa
+on the shores of the blue Mediterranean, beneath palm-trees and
+laurel-bushes."
+
+"Eric was sick and suffered under the severe climate of his native
+land, which, nevertheless, he loves: the South has restored him to
+health. As for the rest, he is rich enough to purchase a place anywhere
+in Italy that he chooses, and to pass there his time for recreation,
+although his regular home must continue to be at Odensburg."
+
+"Do you think that so absolutely necessary?" Slight derision was
+perceptible in the tone of her question.
+
+"Most assuredly, for he is the only son, and one day must take charge
+of the works. That is a duty which he cannot shirk and of which he as
+well as his future wife must render an account."
+
+"Must?" repeated Cecilia. "That seems to be your favorite word, Herr
+Runeck. You use it at every opportunity. I cannot bear that
+uncomfortable word, and I do not believe I shall ever be reconciled to
+it, either."
+
+Egbert seemed to find no special satisfaction in this sort of dialogue,
+his reply having a touch of impatience about it, that was entirely too
+suggestive of faultfinding.
+
+"We shall do better not to dispute over it. We belong to two entirely
+different worlds, and so, naturally, do not understand one another."
+
+Cecilia smiled at having finally moved this man from his imperturbable
+equilibrium, which she interpreted to almost as an insult. She had not
+been accustomed anyone denying her the toll of admiration, or speaking
+of "must," to her. The fire again blazed up brightly, and while Runeck
+stood aside in the shade, the reflection fell full upon the beautiful
+girl, who still reclined in her chair, in the same attitude as a while
+ago. There was something ensnaring in the flickering play of the
+flames, in the abrupt transition from light to shade; something that
+was akin to the appearance of the girl herself, who now looked up at
+the young engineer with moisture dimming the luster of her dark and
+glowing eyes.
+
+"Why, there may be a bridge that can unite these two worlds," said she
+playfully. "Perhaps we may come to understand each other--or, think you
+that it is not worth the trouble?"
+
+"No."
+
+This "no" had a perfectly frigid sound. Cecilia suddenly straightened
+herself up and darted a look of withering anger upon Egbert.
+
+"You are very--candid, Herr Runeck."
+
+"You misunderstand me, Baroness Wildenrod," said he calmly. "I meant,
+of course, that it was not worth your while to descend to so inferior a
+world--nothing more."
+
+Baroness Wildenrod bit her lip. He had parried her thrust in masterly
+style, and yet she knew what he had meant, she understood the bitter
+taunt, hidden behind his words. What sort of a man was this, that dared
+thus to confront the betrothed of his best friend, the future daughter
+of the house, in which he had received so many favors? Previously she
+had hardly had a glance to bestow upon this engineer in his subordinate
+station, now a burning sense of hostility seized her--he was to suffer
+for having provoked her!
+
+She arose with a brisk movement and turned to Eric and her brother, who
+were talking together. Egbert remained where he was, but his eyes
+followed the brother and sister, while he murmured under his breath:
+
+"Poor Eric, you have fallen into bad hands!"
+
+Night had come and the family had already separated. They wanted their
+guests--who had made rather a fatiguing journey that day--to retire
+early to rest, but this they had not yet done.
+
+In the boudoir, attached to the suite of company-rooms, were Oscar and
+Cecilia Wildenrod to be found. They were alone. The perfume of the
+flowers with which Maia had given so graceful a welcome to her future
+sister-in-law, still filled the room, but neither of this pair paid any
+heed to it. Cecilia stood in the center of the room, but the smile that
+she had worn and the amiability which she had manifested all day had
+both vanished now. She looked excited, provoked, and her voice had the
+intonation of suppressed passion.
+
+"And so you are not content with me, Oscar? I should think that I had
+done everything possible to be done this day, and still you have fault
+to find with me."
+
+"You were too incautious in your expressions," criticised Oscar; "much
+too incautious. You hardly took the trouble to conceal your disapproval
+of Odensburg. Take heed, Eric's father, is very sensitive on that
+point, anything like that he does not pardon."
+
+"Am I, for whole weeks here to act a farce, and pretend to be
+enthusiastic over this abominable place, that is far more unbearable
+even than I had supposed? One is cut off here and thrust out of the
+world, as it were, buried between mountains and dark forests. Then the
+immediate proximity of those works with their noise and their crowd of
+coarse laborers, but above all these people here! Little Maia is the
+only one endurable. My future father-in-law, though, seems to have a
+very domineering nature, and tyrannizes over his whole household. I
+shudder before his stern countenance. What a look he gave me upon my
+arrival, as though he wanted to look me through and through. And that
+tiresome Frau von Ringstedt with her prim state, and that just as
+stupid pale-looking governess--but, above all, that so-called friend of
+Eric's youth, who said things to me--" she suddenly broke off, and with
+a pettish movement threw her fan upon the table. Wildenrod had quietly
+listened to all this harangue, without making any attempt to soothe
+her, at those last words, however, he grew attentive.
+
+"What things?" he asked quickly and sharply. "What did he say to you?"
+
+"Oh, not so much in words, but I knew perfectly well what was implied,
+although not expressed. If we had not just met for the first time, I
+should believe that he hated both you and me. There was something so
+inimical in his cold, steel-gray eyes, when he talked to me and they
+had precisely the same expression when he mentioned, to you, your
+having met in Berlin."
+
+Wildenrod gazed upon his sister in surprise, he had never before
+perceived that she was gifted with such keen powers of observation.
+
+"You seem to have been studying him very closely," he remarked. "As for
+the rest, you have judged quite correctly. This Runeck is extremely
+disagreeable, perhaps even dangerous. We'll be even with him though."
+
+"Once for all, I cannot stand such surroundings!" cried Cecilia with
+renewed heat. "You have always told me that Eric would live with me in
+the great world, we have never had any other idea, but here there seems
+to be no talk of any such thing. They regard it as a matter of course
+that we should take up our residence at Odensburg, and have ruthlessly
+made the announcement to me already. Upon my marriage, am I to renounce
+everything that lends life its charm for me, and under the oversight of
+my high-and-mighty father-in-law, learn housekeeping and all the other
+domestic virtues that he seems to rate so high, and for my reward to be
+allowed a daily promenade through his works? For there seems to be no
+talk here of any other pleasure."
+
+"The question is not one of pleasure but necessity," said Oscar in a
+low sharp tone: "I thought I had made that sufficiently clear to you
+when we accepted the invitation. Already, on the day of your
+engagement, you forced me to give you a hint of the truth, that I would
+have preferred to conceal from you, and since then you have learned all
+without reserve. Our fortune has been all lost, how and when does not
+concern you, but what you have to deal with is the fact. I have
+hitherto managed to maintain ourselves in handsome style, through what
+sacrifices I alone know; but there comes a time when even the last
+resources fail, and to that point we have now arrived. If you cast
+away, through your own folly, the brilliant future that I have opened
+up to you by tying this knot, know that you will no longer have any
+pretension to what you call life: then you must descend to an existence
+of poverty and privation--must I once more recall this to your mind?"
+
+This harsh exhortation had its effect: poverty and privation were two
+things from which Baroness Wildenrod shrank, although she had only a
+misty idea of what they were. Already the bare idea that she might be
+forced to give up the brilliant life that she had hitherto led
+horrified her, and broke down her resistance. She bowed her head and
+was silent, while her brother continued:
+
+"I have hitherto treated you, for the most part, as they do spoiled
+children, not deeming it needful to show you the serious phase of life;
+but now I require--do you hear, Cecilia, I _require_--that you submit
+absolutely to my will, and do as I shall direct. You are not married
+yet, and Dernburg is just the man to break the engagement at the last
+minute, if there should arise in his mind grave doubts as to its
+expediency. You have to cultivate his favor first of all, for Eric is
+altogether passive in his disposition, and will always submit to his
+father's will. It is all-important to be prudent! Be assured of one
+thing--_my_ plans are not to be thwarted through your self-will--you
+know me!"
+
+This was a tone of command, of menace, and Cecilia looked up at her
+brother with shy eyes. It was not the first time, that he had bent her
+under his will, but so earnestly and darkly he had never spoken to her
+before. She heaved an impatient sigh and threw herself into a chair;
+but she did not think of making any further opposition.
+
+The pause of a second ensued, when Oscar stepped up to her, and his
+voice was milder as he said:
+
+"How you do allow yourself to be carried away by your feelings! Other
+girls would give anything in the world to change places with you;
+thousands at this moment, are envying your fate, while you are disposed
+to throw away your good fortune, like a toy that did not please
+you--yours is not a calculating nature."
+
+"But you are!" said Cecilia, in an angry and embittered tone.
+
+"I?" Again Wildenrod's face darkened. "I am and have been many a thing
+that my spirit revolted against. He who has battled with the waves of
+life for twelve long years, like myself, knows only one watchword. Stay
+on top, at any price! Thank God, that you have been spared this battle,
+and thank me for landing you safe on shore ere you knew of the perils
+to which you were exposed. You are to enter a highly-respected family,
+your marriage will give you a right to almost countless wealth, and
+your future husband knows no greater happiness than to gratify your
+wishes--I think that is enough."
+
+"And what will you do when I am married?" asked Cecilia, struck by his
+words, that she only half understood.
+
+"Commit that to me!" A fleeting smile flashed across Oscar's features.
+"At all events, I do not intend to live on my rich sister's charity,
+for I was not made for such a fate--Now, good-night, child; you will be
+more prudent in future, and never let a hint drop of Odensburg not
+being to your mind. I hope you will need no second lecture."
+
+He lightly touched her brow with his lips and passed into his own
+chamber that adjoined the boudoir. Out of doors it was already dark,
+and the Manor was wrapt in silence and gloom, only a candle glimmering
+here and there in the rooms of individuals. The wind had lulled, and
+profound quiet reigned in the immediate environs.
+
+But over yonder at the works there was still astir that mighty
+throbbing life, that rested not fully, even during the night, and if by
+day it was heard only in occasional, far-away sounds, now every noise
+made there was distinctly heard. At times there was a great glare of
+light from the blazing forges, while here and there one of the huge
+chimneys sent up a flashing spark to the starless sky, and there where
+the furnaces lay, the vaporous wreaths of smoke were reddened by the
+glow of the fire. It was a sublime and fascinating spectacle.
+
+Oscar Wildenrod seemed to find it so, too, for he stood long at the
+window and gazed out. The admiration that he had expressed in the
+afternoon had not been assumed. His breast heaved with the deep breath
+he drew, and he said in an undertone:
+
+"To be the lord and master of such a world--to move thousands by a
+single word of power! How that man stood on the threshold of his own
+house when he received us--like a prince and ruler, and such in fact he
+is. Success no longer intoxicates him--me it will intoxicate."
+
+He drew himself up, proudly, to his full height, but all of a sudden a
+more tender expression rested upon his features, while he continued
+almost inaudibly:
+
+"What a sweet pretty child that Maia is! So pure, so untouched by any
+shadow--and to the hand of that child is attached the other half of
+this power and this wealth."
+
+He opened the window and leaned far out; restless, ambitious thoughts
+were working in the soul of this man, while he looked down upon the
+vast establishment at his feet. The rash gambler was not satisfied with
+his one lucky stroke, he was making ready for a second which was to be
+his master-stroke. Oscar von Wildenrod was not indeed made to live upon
+the bounty of his sister.
+
+Cecilia, too, had not yet gone to rest, but, nestling among the
+cushions of an arm-chair, still sat motionless in the same spot that
+her brother had left her. She had taken the roses from her bosom and
+was heedlessly pulling them to pieces. They had been a present from
+Eric; he had welcomed her with them upon her arrival. Magnificent, pale
+yellow roses to remind her of their betrothal-day, when she had worn
+these same flowers. The withered leaves showered down upon her gown and
+upon the floor, but the intended bride heeded them not; she gazed into
+space like one lost in dreams. Evidently the visions that haunted
+her were of no friendly nature. Upon her forehead between those
+finely-arched eyebrows, there was again that fold, the significant
+feature which she had in common with her brother, and there, too, were
+his eyes that looked from her countenance--at this minute, it was easy
+to see that the two were of one blood.
+
+
+
+
+                              CHAPTER VII.
+
+                        CECILA VISITS RADEFELD.
+
+
+The engagement of the young heir of Odensburg to Baroness Wildenrod had
+now indeed been announced and had excited great surprise in
+neighborhood circles, that had always supposed that in this matter,
+too, Dernburg would act as his son's guardian, and have the first word
+to say as to this union, and now Eric had made his own choice, far away
+at the South, without asking either his advice or permission. The
+beauty of the bride-elect, her good old name and her evidently
+brilliant fortune and connections, lent to this choice, it is true, the
+prestige of a thoroughly suitable one. And the father's consent was
+taken as a thing for granted.
+
+At present, Cecilia had no ground for complaint as to the dreaded
+solitude of Odensburg, for her betrothal made the usually quiet Manor
+the scene of a constant round of social festivities. The engaged couple
+had made the usual visits, and now received return-calls from all the
+neighbors, by far the larger number of whom were the families of the
+large landed proprietors of that district. There were numerous
+invitations, larger and smaller entertainments, of which Cecilia was
+ever the center of attraction. Here, too, homage was paid to her
+wherever she appeared, and happily Eric had not the foible of jealousy.
+So swam Cecilia with full sails, upon the stream of satisfaction; new
+acquaintances and surroundings, new triumphs that hardly allowed her,
+for the moment at least, to miss the life to which she was accustomed.
+
+The appearance of Baron von Wildenrod made the most favorable
+impression on every one. His distinguished appearance and his gifts as
+a brilliant conversationalist in general, won the favor of every one
+that he wanted to win, and here he was treated with double honor, as
+the future relative of the Dernburg family. Already, during the few
+weeks of his sojourn here, he had attained to a prominent position in
+these circles, and well knew how to maintain it.
+
+At Radefeld the works had been forwarded with all the forces available.
+The men, for the most part, had been accommodated in the adjacent
+village, and the chief engineer had also taken up his quarters there,
+in order to avoid the loss of time in a daily ride to and from
+Odensburg. He usually went there only once or twice a week to give in
+his report to his chief.
+
+Radefeld, indeed, was only a little village in the woods, and a stay
+there was not comfortable in the least. The two confined rooms in which
+Egbert lodged at a peasant's house, were meanly furnished, but the
+young engineer was not a Sybarite. He had taken nothing with him from
+his ordinary residence but his books, his plans, and drawings, and as
+for the rest, contented himself with things as he found them.
+
+Runeck was usually to be found early at his place of business. But
+to-day he had had a visitor from the city. His guest, a man of about
+fifty years, with sharply-cut features and dark eyes, sat in the old
+arm-chair, that here had to take the place of a sofa. The two seemed to
+have had an earnest and interesting conversation.
+
+"As for the rest," said the stranger, "I should like to ask why you so
+seldom come to town now? You have not been there for weeks, and if one
+wants to have a talk with you, he has to institute a veritable search
+after you."
+
+"I have a great deal to do," answered Egbert, who stood at the window,
+with a rather clouded brow. "You see for yourself how immersed I am in
+work."
+
+"Work?" mocked the other. "I should think that _our_ work was more
+important than digging and rooting here in the woods. You contrived the
+plan, so I learn. Will you, perhaps, earn another million for your
+chief to add to the other millions that he already has?"
+
+"That is not the question, but whether I shall perform a duty that I
+have undertaken to perform," was the brief reply. "The execution of
+this plan was properly the upper-engineer's work, and I have to justify
+the confidence that called me to do it, in his stead."
+
+"To chain you fast here at Radefeld, so that you will not be dangerous
+at Odensburg! The old man is not stupid, nobody can accuse him of that,
+he always knows very well what he is about, and you may depend he knows
+a thing or two about your proclivities already."
+
+"Be done with your insinuations, Landsfeld," interposed Egbert
+impatiently, "of course Dernburg knows, from my own lips. He called me
+up for a talk, and I gave him my views without any reserve. I naturally
+expected my dismissal after that--but instead the superintendence of
+the Radefeld water-works was entrusted to me."
+
+Landsfeld started and directed a searching glance at the young
+engineer.
+
+"That is remarkable, to be sure, it does not look like the old man! He
+must either be perfectly infatuated with you, or he has some object to
+subserve. He is capable of anything. As for the rest, your candor was
+very out of place in this case, for now, of course, your movements at
+Odensburg will no longer be free. You have managed very awkwardly,
+young man!"
+
+"Was I to deny the truth?" asked Egbert with knitted brow.
+
+"Why not, if it could serve a good purpose?"
+
+"Then look out for some one else who is more practiced in lying! I
+regard it as cowardice, to deny one's convictions and one's party, and
+acted accordingly."
+
+"That is to say, you have again followed your own head, and acted in
+utter defiance of orders. Odensburg is your field of labor, you are to
+get the fellows there to affiliate with you, instead of which, here you
+are quietly constructing water-works at Radefeld, at the same time that
+you are being coddled in the so-called Manor-house, and yet you know
+perfectly why we sent you here!"
+
+"And you know that I resisted from the very beginning, that finally
+only a direct order from headquarters forced me into line."
+
+"Alas! I suppose you confided that to your chief, too?" The question
+came in the sharpest of tones.
+
+"No," answered Runeck coldly; "he attributed my return to an entirely
+false motive, and I left him in his error. Never again would I have
+gone voluntarily to Odensburg, and I cannot stay here either, my
+position is an untenable one, as I foresaw."
+
+"And nevertheless you will be obliged to remain," said Landsfeld dryly.
+"This Odensburg is like an impregnable fortress, that defies all
+attacks. The old man has made his people tame, with his schools and
+infirmaries and funds for the poor, they dread to lose the good berths
+they have, and, above all, they have an incurable fear of their
+tyrant--the cowards! However often we applied the lever, nothing was to
+be done, he has made them thoroughly suspicious of our agitators. You
+are a child of a workman, have grown up in their midst, and even now
+have intimate relations with their chief. They will listen to you, and
+follow you too, if it comes to that."
+
+"And to what end?" asked Runeck moodily. "I have often enough explained
+to you that a strike at Odensburg would be perfectly futile. Dernburg
+is not a man to be coerced: I know him--he would rather close his
+works. He is a man after this sort, that he would rather take any loss
+upon himself than to yield, and he is rich enough to resist to the
+uttermost."
+
+"Just for that very reason he must be brought down from his throne of
+infallibility! He shall see, that there are men who dare to make head
+against him, puffed up as he is, sitting there on his millions in
+luxury and idleness, while----"
+
+"That is not true!" burst forth Egbert passionately, "and you know that
+what you say is a lie! Dernburg works more than you and I. Often enough
+have I been compelled to admire his immense strength and wonderful
+powers of endurance, that actually put to the blush the youngest among
+us. And he seeks recreation only in his family-circle. Once for all,
+I'll not stand having that man slandered in my presence."
+
+"Oho, you speak in that tone, do you?" cried Landsfeld, now irritated
+in his turn. "You take sides with him against us? It only shows how
+tame living the life of a lord makes one, if he once gets a taste of
+it."
+
+"Take heed, else you might learn that I am anything but tame," said
+Egbert, more quietly, but in a threatening tone. "I repeat it, I'll
+submit to nothing of the sort, for it has nothing to do with our cause.
+Either you will omit these personal attacks upon Dernburg or----"
+
+"Or?"
+
+"I'll never more cross your threshold and shall know how to protect
+mine from things that I _will_ not hear."
+
+Landsfeld shrugged his shoulders, as much as to say that he did not
+care.
+
+"That means, in other words, that you will put me out of doors? Right
+friendly and brotherly, to be sure, but we will not dispute about that.
+It is not our way anyhow to pass many compliments. You are coming to
+our next meeting, are you not?"
+
+"Yes." This word sounded harsh and sullen.
+
+"Well, I am going to depend upon that. An important matter is to be
+brought up. We expect a few comrades from Berlin, and it is likely you
+will be taken pretty sharply to task, on account of your inactivity up
+to this time."
+
+"Until next week then!"
+
+He nodded shortly and went out in front of the house, however, he stood
+still and sent back a look of hatred, while he murmured in an
+undertone:
+
+"If we did not need you, absolutely need you! But it is impossible to
+get along without you at Odensburg. Just wait though, my young man, and
+we'll see if we cannot curb that haughty spirit of yours!"
+
+Egbert, being left alone, stood in the middle of the room, with fist
+doubled up and deeply-furrowed brow. It was manifest that a fierce
+battle was being waged in his soul, but suddenly he straightened
+himself up and stamped with his foot, as though he would quell by main
+force the storms that were raging within.
+
+"No, and again no! I have made my choice and will abide by it!"
+
+The Radefeld estate, ordinarily a quiet, lonely valley in the midst of
+a forest, now again resounded with the noise of laborers who were hard
+at work. Everywhere there was shoveling, ditching, and blasting; trees
+and shrubs fell beneath the stroke of the ax; the indefatigable host
+having already progressed as far as the foot of the Buchberg, the
+tunneling of which was the enterprise afoot.
+
+Runeck, who had come later than usual, stood upon an eminence and
+thence directed a tremendous blast. In obedience to his order, all the
+workmen had retired from the neighborhood of the mine, which now
+exploded with dull, muffled sounds. The cliff against which the work of
+destruction was aimed, was split in two, one part still standing erect,
+while the other fell with a crash; the earth round about trembled when
+the mighty boulders rolled heavily down.
+
+The group of laborers at the foot of the eminence dispersed: Runeck,
+too, left his place, to examine closely what had been effected, when an
+old inspector stepped forward and announced:
+
+"Herr Runeck--the master's family from Odensburg."
+
+Egbert looked up, in expectation of seeing the wagon of Dernburg, who
+frequently came out to inspect the condition of the works, but suddenly
+gave such a violent start that the old man looked up in surprise.
+
+Over at the entrance to the ravine Eric Dernburg and Cecilia Wildenrod
+had halted, on horseback, while the groom had dismounted, and had
+firmly by the bridle their animals, who seemed to have been made unruly
+by the noise of the blasting. The young engineer, meanwhile, had
+quickly recovered from his surprise, and went across to pay his
+respects to his waiting visitors. Eric cordially stretched out his
+hand.
+
+"We have kept our word, Egbert, and come upon you without any warning.
+Will you allow us an insight into your province?"
+
+"I shall be delighted to be of the least service," replied Runeck,
+while he bowed to the young lady, who now gracefully and lightly swung
+herself out of the saddle, and in doing so hardly touched the proffered
+hand of her betrothed.
+
+"We stopped at Radefeld and through the open windows cast a glance in
+at your lodgings, Herr Runeck," said she. "Dear me, what surroundings!
+Do you really intend to spend the whole summer there?"
+
+"Why not?" asked Egbert composedly. "We engineers are sometimes here,
+sometimes there, and have to accept work wherever it is offered."
+
+"But you have your comfortable home at Odensburg, and a carriage is
+always at your disposal. Why do you not stay there?"
+
+"Because then I would daily lose three hours in going and coming. I
+have my books and works at Radefeld, and as for the rest I am entirely
+independent of my surroundings."
+
+"Yes, you are a Spartan by constitution, physically as well as
+intellectually," said Eric with a sigh. "I wish that I could do like
+you, but, alas! there is no chance of that. I have gotten too much
+spoiled at the South and must now do penance."
+
+He drew himself up and shivered; evidently he suffered more from his
+native climate than he himself was willing to confess. He looked pale
+and worn, the ride through the woods seeming to have been an exertion
+to him rather than a pleasure.
+
+So much the more blooming appeared the young lady by his side. For her
+the brisk, rather long, ride had been only an exhilaration, and she had
+reined her horse in impatiently enough out of respect to Eric. She had
+been accustomed to race at full-speed, having been tutored into this by
+her brother, and she did not understand how any one could be cautious
+and circumspect in riding like Eric. As for the rest, she was beaming
+with cheerfulness and high spirits, even Egbert was treated with
+perfect amiability, not a look, not a word, reminded of that
+disagreement when they first met.
+
+The laborers reverentially greeted the young master and his promised
+bride, whom all eyes followed with admiration. Even here Cecilia's
+beauty celebrated a triumph, only Egbert Runeck seemed perfectly
+insensible to its charms.
+
+He became their guide through grounds in the act of being laid out,
+taking pains to show his guests whatever was worth seeing, but he
+observed towards the Baroness Wildenrod the same cold reserve as
+before, and turned mostly to Eric; in him, to be sure, he did not have
+a particularly attentive listener. The young heir showed only a faint,
+half-forced sympathy in all these things, with which he should properly
+have felt himself identified.
+
+"It is incredible, the quantity of work that you have all done in these
+few weeks," said he, finally, with genuine admiration. "That would be
+something for my brother-in-law, who now buries himself all day in the
+Odensburg works and has regularly constituted himself my father's
+assistant. I would never have believed that Oscar had so keen a relish
+for such things."
+
+Runeck did not answer, but his lip curled contemptuously at these last
+words. Eric, who did not observe this, continued in the most
+unembarrassed way:
+
+"One thing more, Egbert, we recently made an excursion into the
+mountains, and some of our party noticed that the great cross on the
+Whitestone had sunk. Father wishes the matter to be carefully looked
+into, so that no accident may happen. Is there any one among your
+people here, who will undertake the dangerous task?"
+
+"Certainly," assented Runeck. "It would be very perilous, if that heavy
+cross should one day fall from that high cliff, since the road runs
+along just below. I shall go up and see about it myself in the course
+of the next few days."
+
+"Upon the Whitestone?" asked Cecilia, whose attention had been
+awakened. "How is that? They say it is inaccessible."
+
+"Assuredly it is for ordinary people," mocked Eric. "One's name must be
+Egbert Runeck to undertake such a walk on our most dangerous cliff. I
+believe he has been up there already three or four times."
+
+"I am practiced in mountain-climbing," said Egbert composedly. "When a
+boy I used to be familiar with every cliff and mountain of my native
+district, and that is knowledge which is not unlearned. As for the
+rest, the Whitestone is not inaccessible, it only demands a steady
+head, clear eye and the necessary fearlessness, then the way is to be
+forced."
+
+"Dear me, do not say that!" cried Eric laughing, but yet with a certain
+unrest. He really feared lest Cecilia might be seized with one of those
+madcap fancies by which she had recently so frightened him. "She was
+wild to go to the top of the Whitestone."
+
+Runeck seemed to think this project something unheard of, he looked
+doubtingly and in surprise upon the young lady, who replied in a
+haughty tone:
+
+"Why, yes! I should like just for once to stand on such a dizzy height,
+immediately above that abrupt precipice. It must be a thrillingly sweet
+sensation! Eric was horrified at the bare idea."
+
+"Cecilia, you torture me with such jests!"
+
+"How do you know that it is a jest? And suppose I act upon it in
+earnest--would you go with me?"
+
+"I?" The young man looked as if he thought they expected him to jump
+down from the cliff in question. About the lips of his betrothed played
+a half-compassionate, half-contemptuous smile; almost imperceptibly she
+elevated her shoulders.
+
+"Compose yourself, pray! I shall not demand such a proof of love--I
+would go alone."
+
+"Let me implore you, Cecile, not to think of such a thing!" exclaimed
+Eric, now alarmed in good earnest, but Egbert interrupted him with
+quiet decision.
+
+"You need not disturb yourself on that score. That is no path for the
+dainty feet of a lady to tread. Baroness Wildenrod will hardly make the
+attempt, and, if she should do so, she would give it up again in five
+minutes."
+
+"Cecilia tossed her head, and her eyes flashed as she asked in a
+peculiar tone:
+
+"Are you so certain of that, Herr Runeck?"
+
+"Yes, noble lady, for I know the Whitestone."
+
+"But you do not know me!"
+
+"May be so."
+
+Cecilia started, the answer seemed to surprise her, but her glance
+strayed to her betrothed, and she laughed scornfully.
+
+"Do not look so miserable, Eric! All this is only bantering! I am not
+thinking of the Whitestone and its break-neck cliffs.--How do you
+manage, really, Herr Runeck, when you blow up these colossal masses of
+rock?"
+
+Eric breathed more freely after the conversation had taken this new
+turn. He was already accustomed to being put on the rack by various
+whims and wild ideas suggested by his promised bride, that had no
+substantial basis, however, and were never to be taken seriously. Being
+restored to his composure now, he turned to the old inspector, who
+stood close by, expecting, evidently, to be noticed.
+
+Old Mertens had served the father of the present chief, and now
+they had given him to perform the light and lucrative duties of an
+upper-inspector of the Radefeld works. Eric, who had known him from
+childhood, spoke kindly to him, making particular inquiries after his
+family, and afterwards greeted with the same kindliness the other
+workmen within speaking distance. Any stranger seeing him stand thus
+among the people, with stooping gait, delicate, worn features and
+almost timid manner, would never in the world have suspected him of
+being the future lord of Odensburg. There was nothing of the master at
+all about him.
+
+Perhaps Baroness Wildenrod had imbibed this same impression, for her
+delicately-arched eyebrows contracted as though from displeasure, and
+then her glance turned slowly to the young engineer, who stood in front
+of her. Hitherto she had only seen him in company-suit, to-day he wore
+a gray woolen jacket and high-top boots, such as wind and weather asked
+for, but he gained wonderfully by this simple garb. It matched so
+admirably with the bold manliness of his appearance; here on his own
+territory his individuality was most strikingly manifest. The first
+glance showed that here it was his to command, and that he was fully
+equal to the trust reposed in him; the diminutive form of the friend of
+his youth shrank into nothingness at his side.
+
+He gave the explanation desired, fully and in detail, illustrating what
+he said by showing the mine already laid to that part of the cliff
+which still stood erect, yet in doing this, he turned his whole
+attention to the rocks and had hardly a look to bestow upon his fair
+listener, who now said smilingly:
+
+"We saw the blasting from over yonder, and the explosion was extremely
+effective. You were enthroned yonder on the height like the
+mountain-sprite in his own person--all the others like ministering
+gnomes at your feet--a wave of your hand, and with the sound of muffled
+thunder the cliffs were split and sank in ruins--a genuine glimpse of
+fairyland!"
+
+"Why, do you know anything of the tales and legends of our mountains?"
+asked Egbert coolly. "I really would not have supposed it."
+
+"Only Maia is to be thanked for it. She has introduced me into the
+legends of her native hills, and I verily believe the little thing
+believes them to be solidly true. Maia sometimes is still a real
+child."
+
+These last words sounded very scornful. The slender young lady
+who stood there, leaning against the wall of rock, in a stylish
+riding-habit of silver-gray, with hat and plumes to match, could not,
+by any means, be accused of being a child. Even here she was the lady
+of fashion and distinction, who was making it her pastime just to see
+for once how the sons of labor lived and delved. And yet she was
+ensnaringly beautiful, despite her pride and self-consciousness;
+radiant and certain of conquest she stood before the man who alone
+seemed to have neither eye nor ear for charms that had never elsewhere
+played her false. Perhaps it was this very insensibility which
+attracted the spoiled girl, who now continued in taunting tone:
+
+"When I beheld that telling picture of which you formed the center, I
+could not help thinking of the old saying about the caper-spurge. That
+is the mysterious magic wand of the mountains, to which every bolt
+yields and every cavern opens. And then the buried treasures of the
+earth shine and beckon to the chosen one, who is to bring them to the
+light.
+
+
+                 'He takes from night and darkness
+                    Their treasures, hidden deep,
+                  And he those jewels sparkling
+                    And all that gold may keep.'
+
+
+What think you--has not Maia had an apt scholar?"
+
+She looked at him smilingly as she repeated the verse of that old song
+which told of the all-powerful enchanting rod, but the young engineer's
+manner did not soften, in spite of all her blandness. His face,
+embrowned by exposure to sun and wind, was a shade paler, perhaps, than
+usual, but his voice sounded cool and self-controlled, as he answered:
+
+"Our time no longer has need of an enchanter's wand. It has found
+another sort of one for splitting rocks and opening the earth--You see
+it, do you not?"
+
+"Yes, indeed. I see bald destruction, rubbish and splintered
+quartz--but the treasures stay buried below."
+
+"It is empty and dead below--there are no longer any buried treasures."
+
+The answer had a harsh and joyless sound, and the tone in which it was
+spoken did not soften its asperity.
+
+"Perhaps it is only because the magical word has been lost, without
+which the wand remains powerless," answered Cecilia lightly, without
+observing, apparently, his forbidding manner. "Do you not think so,
+Herr Runeck?"
+
+"I think, Baroness Wildenrod, that the world of fairies and magicians
+has long been left behind us. We no longer comprehend it, and no longer
+_want_ to comprehend it."
+
+There was something almost menacing in these apparently insignificant
+words. Cecilia bit her lips, and through the sunny brightness of her
+smile there gleamed a flash of hostility from her eyes, but then she
+laughed gayly.
+
+"How grim that sounds! The poor gnomes and dwarfs have a determined
+enemy, I perceive. Only hear, Eric, how your friend denounces the whole
+legendary world."
+
+"Yes, it is not worth while to approach Egbert with such things," said
+Eric, who just now came up. "He has no opinion of poetry, either,
+that one cannot make by line and plummets, nor needs to draw plans
+for--therefore he regards it as a highly superfluous thing. I have not
+yet forgiven him for the way in which he took the news of my
+engagement--actually, with formal commiseration! And when I indignantly
+hurled at him the reproach that he knew nothing about love, nor cared
+to know it either--would you believe that I got for answer a frigid
+'No.'"
+
+Cecilia fixed her large, dark eyes upon the young engineer, and again
+that demoniacal spark flashed in them as she said smilingly:
+
+"And were you really in earnest, Herr Runeck?"
+
+Some seconds elapsed ere he answered. He seemed yet paler than awhile
+ago, but his eye met that look fully and darkly, while he coldly
+replied:
+
+"Yes, Baroness Wildenrod."
+
+"There, you hear it for yourself," cried Eric, half-laughing, half
+vexed. "He is as hard as these rocks."
+
+The young lady tapped lightly with her riding-whip against the pile of
+rocks that lay heaped up in front of her.
+
+"Maybe. But rocks, too, can be brought to yield, we see. Take heed,
+Herr Runeck, you have mocked and defied those mysterious powers----they
+will have their revenge!"
+
+The words should have sounded playful, and yet there was a perceptible
+breath of defiance in them. Egbert answered not a word, while Eric
+looked in amazement from one to the other.
+
+"Of what were you talking?" asked he.
+
+"We were speaking of the caper-spurge, which cleaves rocks asunder, and
+unlocks the hidden treasures of earth.--But I think we had better go
+now, if you approve."
+
+Eric assented, and then turned to Runeck.
+
+"There is to be more blasting, I perceive; wait, though, before you
+apply the match, until we get beyond the region of the ravine. Our
+horses were made very unmanageable by it awhile ago, the groom could
+hardly hold them."
+
+Again that wicked and contemptuous smile played about Cecilia's lips,
+for she had been quick to note awhile ago, that Eric had nervously
+started at the dull sounds of the explosion and had summoned the groom
+to his side. Her horse, too, had become very restive, but she had held
+it firmly in with the bit. Meanwhile she suppressed any remark and only
+said, while Egbert guided her and Eric to the place where the horses
+stood:
+
+"Accept our thanks for your friendly guidance and explanation. You will
+be glad to be rid of such disturbing guests."
+
+Runeck bowed low and formally.
+
+"Oh, do not speak of it, I pray. Eric is here as proprietor on his own
+estate, there can be no talk of disturbance."
+
+"And yet it would seem so. You were fairly shocked, when you caught
+sight of us in the entrance to the ravine."
+
+"I? Have you such sharp eyes, noble lady?"
+
+"Oh, yes, Eric often teases me about my 'falcon-glance.'"
+
+"In this case, however, your sight deceived you. I was only anxious,
+when I caught sight of you so near--horses are so easily frightened by
+blasting."
+
+The riding-whip struck impatiently against the folds of her silver-gray
+habit. Did that rock resist everything?
+
+Meanwhile they had reached the spot where their horses were tied.
+Cecilia and Eric mounted. The former nodded slightly an adieu, then
+applied her switch sharply to her beautiful roan, The fiery animal
+reared, and immediately set off at a gallop, so that the other could
+hardly follow him.
+
+They were still visible for about five minutes, on the forest-road that
+led to Radefeld. Like some apparition flew the slender girlish figure
+on the back of her racing steed, with her habit fluttering and the
+plumes in her hat streaming behind. Once more she was seen at the bend,
+then the forest closed behind her.
+
+Egbert was still standing motionless in his place, looking with fixed
+and burning eyes upon that road through the woods. His lips were firmly
+compressed, and on his features rested a singular expression, as though
+of stifled pain or wrath: finally, he straightened himself up and
+turned to go.
+
+Then he perceived something at his feet, soft and white, as though some
+blossom had blown there.
+
+The foot of the young man seemed suddenly to be rooted to the ground,
+then he slowly stooped and picked it up.
+
+It was a fine lace handkerchief, delicately perfumed, that appealed to
+Egbert's senses in a bewitchingly flattering manner. Involuntarily his
+fingers clutched the airy fabric tighter and tighter.
+
+"Herr Runeck!" said a voice behind him.
+
+Runeck started and turned around. It was old Mertens.
+
+"The men would like to know if they are to go on with the blasting, it
+is all ready."
+
+"Certainly, I am coming directly.--Mertens, you are going to Odensburg
+this evening, I suppose?"
+
+"Yes, Herr Engineer, I want to spend Sunday with my children."
+
+"Well, then, take----"
+
+Runeck stopped, and the old man looked at him in amazement. It was
+exactly as if the engineer was with difficulty, struggling for breath.
+And yet it lasted only a second, when he continued with a peculiarly
+gruff voice,
+
+"Take this handkerchief with you, and hand it in at the Manor-house.
+Baroness Wildenrod has lost it."
+
+Mertens took the handkerchief held out to him, and stuck it in his
+pocket, while Egbert went back to the workmen, who were only waiting
+for his appearance. He gave the signal, and the magic wand of the new
+times did its duty. The startling explosion took place, and the cliff
+still uninjured, that had stood there so proud and lofty, was split in
+twain. It trembled, tottered, and then fell in ruins at Runeck's feet
+dragging trees and shrubs to destruction with it.
+
+
+
+
+                             CHAPTER VIII.
+
+                       A BOUGH OF APPLE-BLOSSOMS.
+
+
+"As I tell you, Miss Friedberg, the nerves are a mere habit, and one of
+the worst of ones at that. Since the ladies have discovered nerves, we
+doctors have been the most tormented people in the world. It may be a
+right useful invention so far as husbands are concerned, but a hardened
+bachelor like myself has not the least respect for it."
+
+With these words Dr. Hagenbach closed a rather long harangue which he
+had been giving in Miss Friedberg's chamber. Leonie, who looked pale
+and worn, had called him in professionally, and in reply to his
+questions had only repeated again and again that she was "through and
+through nervous."
+
+"I believe. Doctor, you are the only physician who denies the existence
+of nerves," she said. "I should think science----"
+
+"What science calls 'nerves' has my deepest respect"--she was
+interrupted by Hagenbach. "But what ladies give out to be such, in
+their stead, does not exist. Why do you not have yourself treated by
+the city health-officer, who makes a profound bow to each nerve of his
+patients, or by one of my young colleagues here in Odensburg, who also
+advocates the thing, although with a certain timidity. If you give
+yourself into my hands, there is no favor shown, that you know."
+
+"Yes, I do know it!" she answered with some feeling. "And now may I ask
+for your prescriptions."
+
+"Which, of course, you have no mind to follow. But never mind that,
+I'll use strict vigilance. In the first place, then, the air in your
+room will not do, it is much too damp and heavy. Above all things, let
+us open the window."
+
+"I beg pardon," opposed Leonie with warmth. "A keen north wind is
+blowing, which is more than I can stand."
+
+"Wonderful air!" said Hagenbach, as, without paying any heed to her
+objection, he proceeded to the window and threw open both casements.
+"Were you out of doors yesterday?"
+
+"No, we had a terrible rain-storm."
+
+"Where were your umbrella and waterproof, I allow _them_
+unquestionably. Follow your pupil's example--down yonder in the park
+Miss Maia sails along quite merrily in the face of the storm, and that
+tiny thing, Puck, sails along with her, although he is almost blown
+away."
+
+"Maia is young, a happy child, that knows nothing but laughter and
+sunshine," said Leonie with a sigh. "She knows nothing yet of sorrow
+and tears, of all the hard and bitter that is imposed upon us by fate."
+
+As she spoke, her eye involuntarily sought the desk, above which a
+large photograph took the main place on the wall. Some sweet yet
+painful memory must have been linked to that picture, for it was
+decorated by a mourning veil of black crape, and below it was a bowl
+full of sweet violets, that seemed like a sacrificial offering.
+
+That glance did not escape the doctor's sharp eyes. As though
+accidentally he stepped up to the desk and began to inspect the
+likenesses to be found there, while he dryly remarked:
+
+"Every man has his troubles, but they are far better borne with
+good-humor than with wailing and mourning. Ah! there is the picture of
+the little lady--very like! And her brother by her side--remarkable,
+that he does not resemble his father in the least. Whom does that
+photograph represent?" He pointed to the picture draped in mourning.
+
+This unexpected question seemed to embarrass Leonie, she blushed
+faintly and answered with a somewhat unsteady voice:
+
+"A--a relation."
+
+"Your brother, perhaps?"
+
+"No, a cousin--quite a distant relation."
+
+"Ah, indeed?" drawled Hagenbach.
+
+The remote relation seemed to interest him, he examined very narrowly
+the features of the very pale and lank young man, with sleek hair and
+eyes romantically upturned, and then continued in an indifferent tone:
+
+"That face has a familiar look to me. I must have seen it before
+somewhere."
+
+"You are in error as to that." Leonie's voice quivered perceptibly. "It
+has been long since he was counted among the living. He has lain in his
+grave for years: the hot deserts of Africa."
+
+"Heaven rest his soul!" said the doctor with provoking equanimity. "But
+what took him to Africa and into the desert? Did he go as an explorer
+perhaps?"
+
+"No, he died a martyr to a holy cause. He had attached himself to a
+mission to the heathen, and succumbed to the climate."
+
+"I can only say he might have done a cleverer thing!"
+
+Leonie, who had just carried her handkerchief to her eyes, overcome
+with emotion, stopped, utterly shocked at his lack of feeling:
+
+"Doctor!"
+
+"Yes, I cannot help thinking so. Miss Friedberg. I deem it very
+superfluous, in the first place, to be going away off to Africa to
+convert the black heathen, while so many white heathens, are roving
+around here in Germany, who know nothing of Christianity, although
+they are baptized. If your cousin had preached the Word of God, as a
+well-installed pastor to his own people----"
+
+"He was not a minister, but a teacher," the angry lady managed to put
+in.
+
+"Never mind; then, emphatically, he should have taught the dear
+school-boys the fear of God and flogged them into it, too, if needful.
+Classes have little enough of that nowadays."
+
+Leonie's face betrayed the indignation she felt at this mode of
+expression, but reply was spared her, however, for at this moment came
+a timid knock at the door, and immediately afterwards Dagobert entered,
+but was hardly allowed to pay his respects to the lady; his uncle
+calling out to him, in his threatening voice, just as soon as he laid
+eyes on him:
+
+"No English lesson to-day. Miss Friedberg has just declared that she is
+'nervous through and through,' and nerves and grammar do not agree."
+
+The young man must have valued this instruction highly, for he was
+quite shocked at this announcement. But Leonie said most positively:
+
+"I beg pardon, stay, dear Dagobert! Our English studies are not to
+suffer from my bad feelings, we shall have our accustomed lesson. I'll
+go for our books." So saying, she got up and went into the next room.
+
+The doctor, with a vexed look, followed her with his eyes. "I never did
+have such a contrary patient! Always the embodiment of contradiction!
+Hark ye, Dagobert, you are tolerably well-informed--what sort of a man
+is the one hanging yonder?"
+
+"Hanging? Whore?" asked the horror-stricken Dagobert, while,
+shuddering, he looked across at the trees in the park.
+
+"Why, you need not be thinking directly of a rope," said his uncle. "I
+mean that picture over the desk, with the crazy decoration of crape and
+violets."
+
+"It is a relative of Miss Friedberg, a cousin----"
+
+"Yes, indeed, quite a remote one! She has told me that, too, but I know
+she must have been engaged to him. Tiresome enough he looks to have
+been. Do you know his name, perhaps?"
+
+"Miss Friedberg told it to me once--Engelbert."
+
+"So the man was named Engelbert, too!" cried the excited doctor. "The
+name is just as sentimental as that unbearable face. Engelbert and
+Leonie--they match splendidly together! How the two would have sat and
+cooed together like a pair of turtle-doves!"
+
+"He is dead, poor man!" remarked Dagobert.
+
+"Was not of much account in life," growled Hagenbach, "and does not
+seem to have had specially good nourishment either, before he hied him
+to the desert. What a wretched woe-begone face it is! I must away now,
+give my compliments to Miss Friedberg. Much satisfaction may you get
+out of your 'nervous' English hour."
+
+So saying the doctor picked up hat and cane and left. Ill-humoredly he
+descended the stairs, that sentimental "man of the desert" seemed to
+have thoroughly spoiled his temper. Suddenly he stood still.
+
+"I have seen that face somewhere else, I stick to that, but strange--it
+looked entirely different!"
+
+With this oracular remark he shook his head with a puzzled look and
+left the house.
+
+The weather out of doors did not indeed look very inviting, being one
+of those cold, stormy spring-days, such as occur so frequently in the
+mountains. It is true the landscape no longer wore the bleak, wintry
+aspect that it had done a few weeks before, the trees having already
+decked themselves in fresh green, while the first flowers were
+blossoming in the meadows and fields, but this blooming and growing
+went forward only slowly, because sunshine was lacking.
+
+Dark masses of cloud chased each other over the face of the sky, the
+rustling tree-tops bent before the wind, but this did not trouble the
+young girl, who, with light step, hurried forward on a narrow path
+through the woods.
+
+Maia knew, to be sure, that her father did not approve of her taking
+such long walks unattended, but in the beginning she had confined her
+stroll to the park-limits, then Puck darted across the meadows and she
+after him, and then he went into the woods only a little distance, but
+it was so beautiful there under the murmuring pines, it enticed her on
+and on into the green solitude. What delight, to be, for once, so
+entirely alone, running races with the barking Puck, as if for a wager!
+Absorbed in this pleasure, Maia forgot entirely about the way back,
+until rather rudely reminded of it.
+
+The dark clouds, which had been already threatening the whole day long,
+seemed finally to determine to fulfill their promise, for it began to
+rain, at first softly, then harder and harder, until there poured such
+torrents from the sky as accompany a regular thunder-storm.
+
+Maia had taken refuge beneath a huge fir-tree, but found protection
+there only for the moment. It did not last long, on account of the
+dripping and trickling from every limb; she stood as though under the
+eaves of a roof, and the heavens grew ever darker. It was no quickly
+passing shower, so there was nothing for it but to run as fast as
+possible to the little lodge, only a quarter of a mile away, that
+offered a secure shelter. No sooner thought than done! The young girl
+rushed along over stick and stone, on the wet mossy soil, between
+dripping trees, finally, across a clearing in the forest, where wind
+and rain assailed her with full force, until, at last, breathless and
+thoroughly drenched, she found herself, with her four-footed companion,
+in a dry spot where they could bid defiance to the storm.
+
+This lodge belonged to the forestry equipment at Odensburg, but
+was almost a half league from it, in the midst of the woods. In
+winter-time, when deep snow had fallen, they fed the hungry game here
+and also stored food for their cattle.
+
+It was a small building constructed of boards and the trunks of trees
+joined together, with a water-tight roof and two low windows, now in
+the spring empty and unused, but a welcome place of refuge for the two
+fugitives.
+
+Maia shook herself, so that the drops splashed in all directions. The
+rain had not hurt her waterproof at all, although it poured out of its
+folds, but her pretty hat, which she now took from her head, was so
+much the worse treated. The dainty thing, with its feathers and lace,
+was now nothing but a shapeless mass, and Puck did not look much
+better. His white coat was dripping, and its usually long silky hairs
+were hanging down in wet strands, giving him such a comically
+disconsolate look, that his young mistress laughed aloud.
+
+"Only look, Puck! what a thing we have made of it!" said she in mock
+despair. "Why were we not sensible enough to stay in the park! How we
+do look, and how papa will scold! But you are to blame, you were the
+first to run off to the woods. Thank God, that at least we have a dry
+spot to sit in, else both of us would have been washed down to
+Radefeld, and Egbert would have had to fish us out."
+
+She hurled the utterly spoiled hat upon the low bench that lined the
+wall on one side, seated herself and looked through the little window
+out upon the tempest. The rain was still coming down in torrents, and
+the wind howled around the lodge as though it would like to demolish
+it. Return home at present was not to be thought of. Mala yielded to
+the inevitable, drew the hood of her waterproof over her head, and
+watched Puck, who had stuck his nose through the small opening made by
+the door being left slightly ajar, and discontentedly followed with his
+eyes the falling drops.
+
+Just then there appeared on the verge of the forest a person, who stood
+still for a moment and cast a searching glance around, but then started
+at a running pace over the clearing, straightway to the forest lodge.
+Now it was reached by the stranger, who was evidently likewise a
+fugitive from the storm, with a bold leap he cleared the little lake
+that had already been formed in front of the door, and kicked this open
+so violently, the inquisitive Puck was driven back by the shock. But
+then, with a loud bark, he rushed upon the intruder, who thus presumed
+to contest the sole possession of the house with himself and his
+mistress.
+
+"Not so fierce, you little yelper!" cried the stranger, laughing. "Are
+you the lord and master in this enchanted cottage, or is it that little
+gray dryad cowering over yonder on that bench?"
+
+He had stooped down to grasp the little animal, that quickly eluded him
+and took refuge in the corner, whence was now heard a suppressed laugh
+and a thin little voice saying:
+
+"The dryad thanks you for your good opinion."
+
+The stranger pricked up his ears; the answer showed him that it was no
+child of a collier or peasant, as he had at first supposed, who was
+crouched up there in the half-darkness of the ill-lit room. He gave a
+sharper look, but the low-drawn hood allowed nothing farther to be seen
+than a rosy little mouth, a pretty nose, and a pair of large brown
+eyes, that now, in their turn, were surveying the intruder with
+curiosity and astonishment.
+
+He was a young man of about four-and-twenty years, with a handsome,
+open countenance, brown wavy hair, and bright laughing eyes. The
+weather had treated him ill, for he was without any waterproof: the
+gray traveling suit that he wore was dripping wet, and when he pulled
+off his hat, and waved it in salutation, the water fell from the brim
+in little rivulets on the floor.
+
+"Let me implore you," said he "to grant most graciously to a lost
+traveler who has been caught in the rain, opportunity for a little
+rest. I am really an ordinary mortal, and no water-sprite, as my
+outward appearance would certainly lead you to suppose. May I come
+closer?"
+
+"Just stay where you are at the door!" sounded from out of the corner.
+"Water-sprites and the little people of the wood cannot bear one
+another you know, I suppose, from the fairy-tales."
+
+"Is that so? Well, then, nothing is left for me, but to come forward
+with all my human attributes, such as, name, rank, family, and other
+earthly props. So: Count Eckardstein, lieutenant of infantry, brother
+of the hereditary lord of Eckardstein, to which place I am now on my
+way. At Radefeld I sent my carriage on ahead, in order to take that
+beautiful walk through the Odensburg forests, when lo! these pitiless
+clouds resolved to empty themselves on my devoted head. Thence come my
+watery habiliments, laying me open to so vile a suspicion, but it is
+the only fairy-like thing about me--may I regard myself as sufficiently
+introduced?"
+
+"I believe so. His native place, then, may be congratulated upon seeing
+Count Victor again, after an absence of six years?"
+
+The young Count started, and, despite the prohibition, impulsively drew
+a few steps nearer. "Do you know me?"
+
+"Dryads are all-knowing."
+
+"But they do not remain invisible after they have once lowered
+themselves to converse with mortals. Am I actually, then, not to be
+permitted to see what is hidden under that gray wrap?" As he uttered
+these last words, he made a new attempt to get a near look at the face
+of that mysterious being, but in vain, for, a rosy little hand that
+suddenly became visible, drew the hood down so low that nothing but the
+tip of a nose could be discerned, and again sounded that low, mocking
+laugh, that rippled like the twittering of larks.
+
+"Guess, Count!"
+
+"Impossible, how can I? I know nobody at Eckardstein or rather at
+Odensburg, for we are still on Odensburg land."
+
+He paused, as if waiting for an answer, but he only heard repeated
+that:
+
+"Guess!"
+
+Count Victor perceived that he would not carry his point in this way,
+but the clear laugh and voice betrayed to him the fact that it must be
+a very young girl, who played "hide-and-seek" with him in this way.
+There was a gleam of haughtiness in his eye, as, with a deep bow and
+apparent earnestness he said:
+
+"Indeed, I believe I do recognize now the voice and also the figure--I
+have the honor of standing in the presence of the Honorable Miss Corona
+Von Schmettwitz?"
+
+This expedient served his purpose; quick as a wink the dryad suddenly
+darted forth from her dark corner, the hood flew back, and while her
+fair hair, released from confinement, flowed in rich light waves over
+the gray mantle, there appeared also Maia's shapely head and sweet
+innocent face, that, at this moment, indeed, was crimsoned by anger.
+
+Corona von Schmettwitz, indeed! That forty-year-old canoness, with high
+shoulders and grating voice! She to look so, indeed! She to talk that
+way! She cast a withering look upon the Count.
+
+He could have had no idea that the gray mantle concealed anything so
+lovely, for, motionless, he gazed in blank astonishment upon the young
+girl, whose bright appearance shone like a sunbeam in that gloomy
+environment. At the first instant, he evidently did not recognize her,
+but then a remembrance dawned upon him, and, almost shouting for joy,
+he exclaimed:
+
+"Little Maia!--I beg your pardon, Fräulein Dernburg, that was but a
+memento of the days of our childhood!"
+
+Maia laughed merrily. "Yes, then I wore short-clothes and long, long
+plaits, by which you always used to hold me fast. But now I am angry,
+Count, very angry--you took me for Corona von Schmettwitz."
+
+"A stratagem of war, for which you must pardon the soldier. By no other
+means could I have learned the truth. Or, do you seriously believe that
+I could mistake you for that lady, whom even as a boy I used to stand
+in such dread of, that I regularly ran away, when she was seen coming
+to Eckardstein?--How, still angry with your brother's former
+playfellow? He has often enough been yours as well."
+
+"Yes, indeed, you did often condescend to play with 'little Maia,'"
+pouted she, while she threw back her hair, that was not yet perfectly
+dry. "The name is the only thing that you have retained."
+
+"Yes, but I did retain something else," said the young Count slowly,
+while his eye was riveted upon that lovely little face. "Else I should
+not have immediately recognized you, when the gray mantle fell. At any
+rate, I should have gone to Odensburg within the next few days. Eric is
+at home, as I hear?"
+
+"Yes, and he is engaged to be married! I suppose you have hardly heard
+of that yet?"
+
+"Yes, I got an announcement of his betrothal, and must present to him
+my congratulations. I have, in general, so much to ask and hear, having
+become almost an entire stranger at home, and now we just have time--"
+
+"We have no time at all," cried Maia, with a glance at the still
+half-open door. "Only see how it has cleared, and the rain has ceased.
+I believe the storm is over."
+
+Count Victor stepped to the door and examined the clouds, but with an
+air that betrayed great disappointment. He had complained awhile ago of
+the pitiless shower-bath to which he had been exposed, but now he
+seemed to find the clearing up of the weather a greater infliction by
+far.
+
+"Yes, the rain has stopped, to be sure, but it will soon begin again,"
+said he hopefully. "At all events, we must wait until the next shower
+is over."
+
+"Just to be shut up here for good by the rain?" remarked Maia. "No, I
+mean to take advantage of the lull and run to Odensburg as fast as I
+can. Come, Puck, let's run!"
+
+"Then I'll run with you," laughed the Count. "So, Puck is the name of
+the little white creature that wanted to deny me the hospitality of the
+lodge. Come here, yelper, and let us make acquaintance."
+
+Puck had scrutinized the stranger in the beginning with very critical
+mien, and, evidently, had not yet made up his mind whether to treat him
+as friend or foe, but now decided favorably. When the young man invited
+him to approach, he trustfully came nearer, and allowed himself to be
+stroked.
+
+Thus the three set out sociably together on the way back. The rain had
+certainly ceased, but the wind raged in full force while they crossed
+the clearing, and after they had gained the shelter of the forest, the
+swaying tree-tops performed a little after-piece that well represented
+a driving rain, while such a dripping and drizzling came from every
+branch! And the somewhat low-lying foot-path had been converted into a
+running brooklet, so that Maia and her escort had to make their way
+sideways over moss and the roots of trees. The forest-stream itself was
+very much swollen, and had inundated the shore on both sides of the
+high bridge. They had to attempt a passage, leaping from rock to rock.
+In doing this Puck lost his balance, slid into the water, and howled
+piteously because he could not swim in the vortex. Maia, who already
+stood upon the bank, uttered also a shriek of anguish at sight of her
+pet's distress, and Count Eckardstein jumped with both feet into the
+water, seized the floundering creature, and brought it to his mistress,
+who bestowed a grateful look upon the gallant rescuer. Finally, in the
+middle of the woods, a wild apple-tree was discovered in full bloom,
+which drew from the young girl a shout of rapture and gave the Count an
+opportunity to display his skill as an athlete. But, alas! he was left
+hanging to a bough from which he had broken a branch, and came to the
+ground again, with a gaping slit in his sleeve.
+
+It was a course full of adventure. The two young wanderers cheerfully
+breasted the storm, laughed brightly when a gust of wind tore through
+the trees, and sprinkled them freshly and heavily with rain, ever
+good-humoredly they jumped and climbed over stones and stumps and
+prostrate trunks of trees, always the better pleased the more
+impassable proved the woods. There was an endless laughing and talking,
+questioning and answering. All the old memories of childhood and youth
+came trooping back as lively as ever. Gray mist was hovering closely
+over the fir-trees, and dark clouds chased each other across the sky,
+but over these two children of men arched the clear sunshine of youth
+and happiness. What cared they for wind and weather!
+
+At last the Odensburg park was reached, that almost immediately
+adjoined the wooded mountain. Maia was just going up to the little
+wicket-gate, through which she had gone out of bounds a few hours ago,
+when it was suddenly opened and Oscar von Wildenrod excitedly
+confronted her.
+
+"But, Maia, how could you go out alone in such weather--?" He suddenly
+broke off, and with marked surprise looked up and down her escort, of
+whom he had just caught sight.
+
+Maia, who had again drawn her hood over her head and hung her ruined
+hat on her arm, laughed defiantly. "You thought, did you, that Puck and
+I would have been drowned in that water-spout. No, here we both are,
+safe and sound, and have even found company on the way. I believe you
+gentlemen are not acquainted. Count Victor von Eckardstein--Baron von
+Wildenrod, a connection of my brother Eric."
+
+Wildenrod responded with a certain reserve to the friendly greeting of
+the stranger, who said laughingly:
+
+"I am glad to make your acquaintance, Baron, although you find me in
+this soaked condition. I am accustomed to be drier, I assure you, but
+really I was not prepared for an introduction to-day. I only meant to
+escort Fräulein Dernburg to the park-gate and then take my leave."
+
+"Will you not stop long enough to see Papa and Eric?" asked Maia.
+
+"No, no, Fräulein Dernburg, I should not like to appear before the
+Dernburg family in such attire as this. But I am coming very soon--if I
+may!"
+
+As he spoke these last words, his eyes sought those of the young girl,
+who coquettishly said: "Are you afraid that I shall forbid it you?"
+
+"Who knows? Water-sprites and dryads do not agree, I had to hear a
+while ago from your own mouth. Nevertheless, I shall venture it.
+Meanwhile, I beg of you to accept this token of peace from me. You know
+how hardly it has been obtained." With a slight bow he handed her the
+blossom-laden bough, that he still carried in his hand.
+
+Wildenrod listened silently, but he gazed fixedly upon the pair. The
+tone of familiarity seemed to surprise him in the highest degree, and
+upon the Count's now taking his leave, he only bowed his head with cool
+civility, spoke a few words just as coolly, and then quickly followed
+Maia into the park, letting the wicket gate slam to behind them.
+
+"You seem to be very well acquainted with that gentleman," he remarked,
+while they struck into the path leading to the house.
+
+"Oh, certainly," answered his companion, without the least
+embarrassment. "Count Victor used to be a playmate of Eric's, when they
+were boys, and he used often enough to let me join in their sports. I
+was very glad to meet him again after the lapse of six years."
+
+"Ah, indeed!" said the Baron slowly. He turned around, and with a
+peculiar glance scanned the form of the Count, who was just
+disappearing between the trees, while Maia innocently chatted on:
+
+"If I can only slip into my own room unobserved--Papa will be angry if
+he sees me."
+
+"Yes, indeed, he will scold," said Wildenrod with emphasis, "and I
+should like to do the same. I had gone into the park to look for you
+when that storm burst forth, and I heard from the gardener that you had
+already been for an hour somewhere in the woods. How imprudent! Did you
+not think how uneasy the people at home would be about you?--that I
+would be distressing myself?"
+
+The reproachful tone of this question called a bright blush to the
+young girl's face. "Oh, that was altogether uncalled for. Here in
+Odensburg every workman and child knows me."
+
+"Never mind, you should never again venture forth so far without
+attendance. You promise me this, do you not, Maia? And as a pledge that
+you will keep your word, I ask this of you."
+
+As though in sport, he caught at the blooming branch, but Maia looked
+at him, half-shocked and half-indignant.
+
+"My branch? No, why?"
+
+"Because I ask you for it."
+
+The request sounded like a demand, and this must have awakened Maia's
+pride. With a decided gesture of repulse, she drew back a step.
+
+"No, Herr von Wildenrod. I'll not give up my blossoms."
+
+A flash of angry surprise shot from the Baron's eyes: he had not
+believed the child capable of such decided opposition to _his_ will,
+and it was precisely this that goaded him into having his way, at any
+price.
+
+"Do you attach so great value to it?" he asked, with bitter scorn. "The
+Count seemed to do so too. Perhaps this 'pledge of peace' has some
+secret significance for you both?"
+
+"A jest, nothing more! Victor is an old playmate----"
+
+"And I am a stranger to you! Is that what you would say, Maia? I
+understand."
+
+At these words, spoken with intense bitterness, the brown eyes were
+lifted to his in a shocked and pleading manner. "Oh, no, Herr Von
+Wildenrod, I did not mean that--Oh, certainly not."
+
+"No? And yet you speak of 'Victor' and immediately grant him a renewal
+of the former familiar relations. I have been, and still am, nothing to
+you but 'Herr Von Wildenrod.' How often have I begged you to call me by
+my first name, just for once. I have never yet heard it from your
+lips."
+
+Maia gave no reply, there she stood motionless, with glowing cheeks and
+downcast eyes; but still she felt the fervent glance that rested upon
+her.
+
+"Is it so hard for you to give me a name, that the future family
+connection has nevertheless the right to claim? Is it really so hard?
+Well, I will be content to forego my claim when others are present, but
+now, that we are alone, I must and shall hear it ... Maia!"
+
+The delay of another second, and then it came, softly and tremblingly,
+from her lips: "Oscar!"
+
+A gleam of transporting joy lighted up the man's dark features, and he
+made an impetuous movement, as though he would draw to his heart the
+young girl who stood before him, shy and trembling. But he controlled
+himself; only he seized and clasped firmly her quivering little hand.
+
+"At last! And now that other, the second request."
+
+"Herr Von Wildenrod----"
+
+"The branch, Maia, which another gave to you, and which I, therefore,
+_will_ not leave in your hands. Please give it to me?"
+
+Maia resisted no longer. Powerless beneath the ban of those eyes and
+that voice, she held out to him the blooming bough.
+
+"Thanks!" said Oscar softly. It was only a single word, but it had the
+sound of tenderness with difficulty restrained.
+
+Now Miss Friedberg was seen at the open window of the house, which the
+two were now approaching, and, with clasped hands, she expressed her
+horror at seeing her pupil in such a plight.
+
+"Maia, for heaven's sake tell me, have you actually been abroad in this
+weather? How you do look! Be quick, take off that wet mantle--you will
+catch your death of cold!"
+
+"Yes, I should give her the same advice," said Oscar, smiling. "Quick,
+quick, go in the house!"
+
+The girl slipped off with a passing nod. Wildenrod slowly followed her,
+but stood still in the garden-hall, and his brow darkened again as he
+looked at the blossom-laden bough in his hand. For the first time he
+realized that the success of his wooing might be imperiled by delay,
+and yet he knew that he durst not speak as yet. He did not yet stand
+firm enough in the favor of Dernburg, who could hardly be brought to
+give up his darling to a man so much older than herself, without
+further inducement, nor was he as yet sure even of Maia. An unwise word
+here, spoken prematurely, might spoil everything. And just at this
+crisis had to start up most provokingly this Count Eckardstein, who had
+lost not a minute's time in laying claim to his old footing of the
+familiar friend of childish days!
+
+For a few moments Wildenrod stood lost in dark forebodings, then he
+drew himself up with a jerk, and in his eyes again flamed proud,
+triumphant self-confidence. Good--Maia was not to be won without a
+struggle--he was not the one to shun it. How pusillanimous, to doubt
+gaining the victory over that young coxcomb with his smooth face! Let
+him beware of crossing his path!
+
+At the window of her own room stood Maia, who had not yet laid off her
+wet mantle, nor was even conscious that she still wore it. She gazed up
+at the cloud-beleaguered sky, with a strange dreamy look upon her face,
+and a slight, happy smile played about her lips.
+
+Forgotten was the meeting in the forest-lodge, banished the form of her
+old playmate--she only saw one thing--those deep, dark eyes, the look
+that had woven such a spell upon her spirit, she only heard that
+subdued voice, thrilling with restrained passion. It was a sweet,
+disturbing dream,--a feeling, of which she did not herself know whether
+it portended woe or bliss.
+
+
+
+
+                              CHAPTER IX.
+
+                     THE CROSS ON THE WHITE STONE.
+
+
+Spring had fully come. Through storm and cold, through frost and fog,
+it had victoriously fought its way through, and awakened the earth
+everywhere to a new and sunny life.
+
+A solitary wanderer was vigorously climbing upward through the green
+woods. It was still early in the day: the forest still-rested in deep
+bluish gray shadow, while heavy and moist lay the dew upon the mossy
+ground. Only the voices of individual birds sounded through the
+stillness of morning, and the tree-tops rustled and sighed as they
+bowed before the wind.
+
+Egbert Runeck was on his way to the Whitestone, wanting to keep his
+word and examine the condition of the cross up there himself. Now he
+emerged from the woods, coming out upon a small elevated plateau, while
+just in front of him towered the mighty wall of cliff. Naked and steep
+it reared its crest above the dark fir-trees that fringed its base. The
+whole upper part was wildly cleft and riven, here only a few dwarf
+pines and stunted bushes were rooted in the fissures. From the summit a
+gigantic cross was visible to a great distance, identifying the
+mountain for all beholders.
+
+That high, solitary peak played a chief part in the legends of the
+region round about. Already its name was linked with the world of
+fairies and elves that once had their mysterious being in these
+mountain-forests, and still survived in the superstitions of the
+people. The Whitestone concealed buried treasures, that, slumbering
+deep within its rock-bound caves, waited for release, and already many
+a one had paid the penalty of death for meddling with its secrets. Only
+the almighty _Springwürzel_[1] opens these locked-up depths.
+
+
+                 "He takes from night and darkness
+                    Their treasures hidden deep,
+                  And he those jewels sparkling
+                    And all that gold may keep."
+
+
+How strange! Those words kept ringing in the ears of the man who stood
+on the edge of the mountain-meadow. It was the last stanza of an old
+popular ballad, that he too had been familiar with in childhood, but
+had long since forgotten. For him there were no longer hidden
+treasures, for him the depths were empty and dead, and yet that song
+kept ringing incessantly in his soul, but rather the voice from which
+he had last heard it. He hated at the bottom of his heart that
+beautiful syren who had ensnared by her wiles the friend of his youth,
+and now was to be mistress of Odensburg, but he could not rid himself
+of the entrancing sound of that voice, of the demoniacal charm of those
+eyes, and no labor, no exertion of will-power availed for his
+deliverance.
+
+He crossed, over the mountain meadow, and, looking up, scrutinized the
+Whitestone. The weight of the winter's snows and the latest storms of
+spring might very well have shaken its foundations, and yet it seemed
+to stand firm and sure. But suddenly Egbert started, his foot seemed
+rooted to the spot, while his gaze clung spell-bound, to the top of the
+peak. Something was stirring up yonder; he saw the outlines of a bright
+form, that were clearly defined--his sharp eye recognized them in spite
+of the distance.
+
+It had been no mere boast then, no passing whim, the madcap had really
+undertaken the adventure, and, undertaken it alone, as it seemed!
+Egbert's brow contracted, yet, for him to retrace his steps was not to
+be thought of--he, too, had almost certainly been already seen. He
+grasped his staff, then, and slowly began to climb.
+
+The path that from here upward led to the crag certainly required a
+steady head and a fearless heart. It was a sort of hunter's track, that
+wound along close to the steep precipice, and the view of the awful
+depths below was always left open. At times it would vanish entirely,
+and then one would be forced to look out a path for himself, until the
+beaten track after a while again became visible.
+
+The young engineer had lost the imperturbable coolness, with which he
+usually accomplished such a climb, often he stopped, his foot slipped,
+and he had consumed much more time than usual when he finally reached
+the top. There before him stood Cecilia Wildenrod, flooded by the
+bright light of morning, radiant in beauty and overweening pride.
+
+"See there, Herr Runeck, we meet on the summit of the Whitestone! You
+have taken your time for the climb--I came faster!"
+
+"I know the danger of the way," answered Egbert, composedly, "and
+therefore do not challenge it."
+
+"Danger? I did not think of that! You thought I would not dare to
+follow this path, or, at best give up and go back in five minutes. What
+say you now?"
+
+She gave him a challenging glance,--now, at last, a word of admiration
+must come from those stern lips! But there came only the cool
+counter-question:
+
+"Do they know of your expedition at Odensburg, noble lady?"
+
+"Why, no!" cried the young lady laughing. "Then they would have
+confined me to the house or at least set a guard over my going out and
+coming in. I set off this morning betimes, while they were all asleep,
+slipped away secretly, had the horses hitched up and drove to
+Crownwood. From there the road can hardly be missed, and, you see I
+have found it."
+
+"Alone? That was more than incautious! If you had made a false step, if
+you had fallen, no help was at hand and then----"
+
+"Dear me? Do not you begin to preach at me," interrupted she
+impatiently. "I shall hear enough of lectures when I get back to
+Odensburg."
+
+"I have neither the purpose nor the right to preach to you, Fräulein
+von Wildenrod, that is for Eric to do, if any one."
+
+"And he is the very last from whom I would take it."
+
+"What, not from your future husband?"
+
+"Just on that very account. I have made up my mind to rule in the
+establishment."
+
+"That would not be hard to do in this case, Eric is of a gentle,
+yielding temper. He will never try to resist you."
+
+"Resist?" repeated Cecilia, provoked and amused at the same time. "You
+seem to consider our marriage as on a war-basis--a flattering
+compliment to me."
+
+"I beg pardon, if I now inspect the cross," said Egbert, interrupting
+the Baroness. "I came up here, solely on that account, you know. The
+thing is to hinder the possibility of an accident, the results of which
+might be fatal."
+
+Cecilia bit her lip at this rejection of the confidential tone, which
+she had found good to adopt, and an angry glance was hurled at the man
+who dared to treat her thus.
+
+Cecilia looked silently on as Runeck proceeded to the cross, which
+stood on the extreme verge of the precipice upon the side facing the
+valley, and tested it. He did this thoroughly and scientifically, and
+probably ten minutes elapsed ere he turned around again.
+
+"Those gentlemen were mistaken," said he quietly. "The cross is
+standing perfectly firm and secure, and there is no fear of its
+falling. Perhaps you will have the goodness to report this at
+Odensburg. I shall not get there until day after to-morrow, and I take
+it for granted that you have no idea of making a secret of your
+adventure."
+
+"On the contrary, I am fully purposed to boast freely of it. Do not
+look so astounded, Herr Runeck. You see this lace veil does not exactly
+belong to my tourist's equipment: I have brought it with me on purpose
+to prove that I really have been on the top of the Whitestone. I could
+have no idea that I should meet you here, and did not therefore
+calculate upon having your testimony to the feat." And so saying
+Cecilia loosened the white veil, that was flung loosely around her
+shoulder and waist, and advanced towards the cross.
+
+"What are you going to do with it?" asked Egbert, looking after her in
+surprise.
+
+"I have already told you,--to leave behind, a token, so that they may
+believe at Odensburg, that I actually performed the achievement. My
+veil is to wave from the cross yonder."
+
+"For what? It is rashness, foolhardiness! Come back, please!"
+
+His call sounded commanding, frenzied, but Cecilia paid no heed to it.
+Standing immediately on the verge of the precipice, she flung her veil
+around the cross. It was an agonizing spectacle--one single incautious
+movement, and she would lie crushed at the base.
+
+"Fräulein von Wildenrod, come back! I implore you!" The voice of the
+young engineer was muffled and full of emotion. He seemed to suffer the
+agonies of a life-time in that moment.
+
+Cecilia turned around and smiled. "Can you really beg, Herr Runeck? I
+am coming directly, only one more look into that chasm, which has its
+fascination for me." And, with her arm slung around the cross, she
+actually bent over the abruptly precipitous wall of rock, and looked
+fearlessly down.
+
+Egbert involuntarily took one step forward, his arm quivered, as though
+he would drag her away by force from her dangerous position. He did
+not, however, but every drop of blood seemed to have left his face,
+when she finally left her place and came to him again.
+
+"Do you believe now in my fearlessness?" she asked, tauntingly.
+
+"That rash sport was really not necessary to convince me of it," said
+he harshly, and yet he drew a sigh of relief, when he once more saw the
+foolhardy girl on firm ground. "A misstep on that spot and you would
+have been lost!"
+
+She recklessly shrugged her shoulders. "I never get dizzy, and just
+wanted for once to feel that deliciously thrilling sensation of
+standing up there, close over the precipice. One feels something like a
+demoniacal drawing to the bottom, it is as though one must rush to
+destruction, whether or no. Have you ever felt anything like it?"
+
+"No," said Egbert coldly. "One must have a great deal of--time, to
+indulge themselves in such feelings."
+
+"Which you deem objectionable."
+
+"Unhealthy, to say the least. He who needs his life for work, knows how
+to prize it, and risks it only at the call of duty."
+
+This reproof sounded very rude, and if it had come from the lips of any
+other person, Cecilia would probably have turned her back upon the
+"insolent creature," in silent contempt. Here she said nothing, for a
+minute perhaps, and at the same time scanned the sunburnt countenance
+of the young man, that had not by any means recovered its color as yet.
+Then she smiled again. "Thanks for the lesson. We just do not
+understand one another, Herr Runeck."
+
+"I have told you so already--we belong to two different worlds----"
+
+"And yet we stand so near together on the narrow space furnished by
+Whitestone's crest," mocked Cecilia. "As for the rest, I have enjoyed
+this unique pleasure long enough. I must go down now."
+
+"Then permit me to attend you! The descent is far more dangerous than
+the ascent, and I could not answer to Erie for letting you go alone."
+
+"To Eric? That indeed!" Her lips curled haughtily at the mention of her
+betrothed; then she cast a look up at the cross, where the loose
+hanging ends of the veil were fluttering in the morning breeze.
+
+"That old weather-beaten cross has never been dressed up so before! I
+present it to the guardian spirits of the Whitestone; may be, out of
+gratitude, they will open their caverns to me and give me a sight of
+their buried treasures."
+
+With a light laugh she turned to go. Silently Runeck led the way. He
+was right, the greater danger lay in the descent.
+
+From time to time, at especially critical places, he exhorted her to be
+cautious, with a few words, or by a movement of the arm offered his
+assistance, which, however, was not accepted. His beautiful companion
+walked along over the giddy, steep path, as carelessly as over the
+smoothest of roads. Her light foot carried her over the rubble-stones,
+where Egbert's heavier tread found no good hold, and where there was
+climbing or leaping to do, with the help of her staff, she would swing
+herself from rock to rock. There was a bewitching grace in every moment
+of her slender white form, although, at the same time, that bold rash
+sport with danger that sets foresight at defiance.
+
+They had already accomplished the greatest part of the way, already the
+bright green of the little mountain meadow was smiling a welcome, when
+Cecilia heedlessly again set her foot upon a loose rubble-stone, but
+this time it gave way, and rolled into the chasm; she lost her balance,
+tottered, stumbled--now the horrible instant of her fall, a loud shriek
+of dismay, then it grew dark before her eyes.
+
+But the next second she was seized and held. Flinging his stout staff
+from him, Egbert had turned around as quick as lightning, and propping
+himself with gigantic strength against the cliff, he caught up the
+girl's trembling form and convulsively held her tight in his arms.
+
+Cecilia had hardly lost her consciousness for more than a minute,
+almost immediately it was restored to her, and her large, dark eyes
+were shyly lifted up to her deliverer's face, that was bent over her.
+She saw that it was deadly pale, saw the expression of unspeakable
+agony upon his usually cold features, and felt the wild, stormy beating
+of the heart against which her head rested! _She_ was the one who had
+been in peril, but upon _his_ countenance was stamped the agony of
+death!
+
+Thus they tarried awhile, motionless, when Runeck slowly let his arm
+drop. "Rest upon my shoulder," said he softly. "Right firmly--look not
+to the right nor left, only upon the path in front of you--I am holding
+you."
+
+He picked up his staff and then put his right arm about her, so as best
+to give her support. Cecilia passively obeyed; that horrible danger,
+the nature of which she now, for the first time, realized, had broken
+her spirit of opposition; she still trembled in every limb and her head
+swam. Thus they slowly continued the descent. That light, delicate
+figure could hardly have been felt as a burden by so strong a man, and
+yet his breath came quickly and heavily, and a dark flush glowed upon
+his cheek.
+
+Finally, the solid ground was reached, and they stood in the meadow.
+All the way down they had exchanged not a single word, but now Cecilia
+straightened herself up. She was still pale, but she tried to smile as
+she offered her hand to the man who had saved her life.
+
+"Herr Runeck--I thank you."
+
+There was a strange ring in those words, something that told of a
+genuinely warm heart and overflowing gratitude, but Egbert only touched
+lightly the proffered hand, and immediately let it drop again.
+
+"I deserve no thanks, lady. I would have done the same service to any
+other whom I had seen in such peril. When you have recovered somewhat
+from your fright, I shall conduct you to Crownwood, where you said you
+had left your carriage and horses. Even that is tolerably far."
+
+Cecilia looked at him in surprise, almost in dismay. Was that the same
+man, who had awhile ago bent over her in such tender solicitude, whose
+whole being had quivered in wild, feverish excitement as he had borne
+rather than led her down the mountain? There stood he before her, with
+stolid features, speaking with the same old calm composure, as though
+the memory of those last fifteen minutes had already been expunged from
+his memory. But they had been, nevertheless--a pair of dark eyes had
+looked into depths hitherto strongly locked up and knew not what it
+concealed.
+
+"Do you take me to be so cowardly, that I tremble for hours over a
+danger surmounted?" asked Cecilia softly. "I am only tired from the
+difficulties of the walk and my feet pain me; I must rest for a quarter
+of an hour."
+
+She let herself down under a tall fir-tree, the moss-covered roots of
+which offered a natural resting-place. She was indeed exhausted and
+over-fatigued, it was easy to see, but her companion had not a word of
+commiseration to spare her. He seemed to have but one wish, and that
+was to give up his office as guide as quickly as possible.
+
+The mountain-meadow, with its sunny green, shone bright in contrast
+with the dark forests. Behind it loomed up the Whitestone, while in
+front an extensive view of the mountains was afforded. The landscape
+had nothing of the bright smiling beauty of the south, nor the
+overpowering grandeur of the Alps, but there rested upon it a peculiar
+charm, dreamy and melancholy as its legendary world.
+
+Deep down lay the valleys, wrapt in bluish shadows, while the heights
+round about were flooded by bright sunshine, and over the valleys and
+hills spread an infinite expanse of green forest, out of which, only
+here and there, a bare wall of rock emerged, or a brook plunged wildly
+downward, splashing and foaming as it went. Mysteriously, as though
+from a far distance, came the soughing of the wind through the trees,
+swelling ever stronger and stronger, and then sinking again, dying away
+like a long-drawn sigh.
+
+And yet other sounds were borne upon the breeze from the depths below.
+It was a Sunday morning and the churches of all the little villages
+scattered through the woods were calling to the service of God.
+Everywhere bells were ringing, one here sounded clear and full, another
+there low and sweet, mingling, as it died away, with the rustling of
+the trees.
+
+Cecilia had taken off her hat and leaned against the trunk of the tree.
+Egbert stood a few steps apart, but his eyes hung upon her, as though
+riveted there by some wizard's spell. It availed nothing for him to
+forcibly resist; again they returned to feast themselves upon her
+captivating beauty, that graceful form clad in a simple white woolen
+gown, or that shining hair, which to-day was only lightly brushed back,
+and, held by a silver pin, fell loose on her neck. Her appearance was
+quite different from what Egbert had ever seen it before--so much
+lovelier--so much more dangerous!
+
+For minutes had the silence lasted, when Cecilia looked up and asked in
+a low voice:
+
+"And you are not going to scold me at all?"
+
+"I? Why should I?"
+
+"Why, you have good right to be angry with me, since, through my
+folly, your life, too, was exposed to imminent peril. I missed, by a
+hair's-breadth, dragging you down with me into that abyss--I am ashamed
+of myself."
+
+This was uttered pleadingly, almost timidly--the tone was a strange one
+from that mouth. A dark flush appeared upon Egbert's brow, but his
+voice was as cold and distant as ever.
+
+"You were not aware of the danger, but will not be so rash again."
+
+"Will you not accept of my apology, but treat it as you did my thanks?"
+asked Cecilia reproachfully. "You have saved my life at the risk of
+your own--but at this moment you actually look as if you bitterly
+repent of it."
+
+"I?" exclaimed Egbert vehemently.
+
+"Yes, you! You stand there with an air that seems to say, you must
+defend yourself against an enemy in deadly fray. Against whom, pray?
+Only I am here!"
+
+Again there was that roaring and rushing in the woods. It drew on above
+the hills like the waving of invisible giant-wings, and fuller and
+stronger sounded the church-bells from below. The whole air was
+instinct with sound, it seemed to soar on the sunbeams, and to swim and
+to shape themselves into a marvelous song, that at first sounded only
+in single detached chords, and then gradually changed to a melody that
+seemed mysterious but infinitely sweet, and both to shout and to
+lament.
+
+True, those two up yonder, on that solitary, sunlit mountain-meadow,
+belonged to two different worlds,--it is true that a deep chasm parted
+them in all their thoughts and feelings. But the vain, spoiled child of
+fashionable society, who hitherto had only lived in a whirl of gayety,
+in an eternal chase after pleasure, to whom, heretofore, solitude had
+been synonymous with unbearable _ennui_--she now listened to that
+sweet, strange dream, like one lost in reverie. And the man, too, to
+whom hard work had never allowed time for meditation and dreams, in
+vain resisted the magical influence. He was wont to stand firm on the
+soil of reality, in the broad daylight, and to look into life with cool
+and penetrating vision--into a life full of toil and strife, full of
+hard, irreconcilable contrasts. He was made for this. What to him were
+the fantastic dreams of the world of the imagination? And yet now they
+held him fast within their toils, and through the midst of it all, with
+captivating sweetness, echoed a human voice:
+
+"Against whom are you defending yourself? Only I am here."
+
+Egbert drew his hand across his forehead, as though he would arouse
+himself forcibly from this dreamy state.
+
+"I beg your pardon, Baroness Wildenrod," said he. "I was thinking of
+unpleasantnesses that I had had with my men at Radefeld. One like me,
+who has his work forever on his mind, is but poor company, as you see."
+
+"Have I asked to be entertained by you?" asked Cecilia, with slight
+reproof in her accent. "Eric is right, you are as hard as your native
+rocks, rugged and inaccessible as the Whitestone itself. If one
+believes, that at last the magical word has been found, if the deep
+opens for one brief instant, the very next it closes, and a sealed
+surface of cold stone confronts the seeker."
+
+Runeck made no reply. He had not idly dreaded this interview: he knew
+that he had betrayed himself in that moment of deadly peril and agony
+untold!
+
+And his adversary, who had now learned to know her power, was
+inexorable and wanted to enjoy her triumph at any price. It had
+cost her trouble enough to impose her chains upon this brave, proud
+man,--chains which all others were so glad and willing to wear; now he
+was conquered, and she wanted to see him, too, at her feet.
+
+"Eric bitterly laments that he sees so little of you now," she began
+again. "If you come to Odensburg--and you _must_ come sometimes--you
+confine yourself exclusively to his father's work-room and decline
+every invitation to join the family circle. Your engagements at
+Radefeld furnish you with the pretext for this mode of procedure, but I
+know better what keeps you away.--It is my presence and my brother's."
+
+"Mein Fräulein----"
+
+"Do not attempt to deny it. From the very first minute, I have been
+conscious of the mute hostility that you bear to us, and have often
+enough asked myself why--I have never found an answer to my question."
+
+"Then ask Herr von Wildenrod, he will give you that answer."
+
+The tone of his voice should have warned Cecilia, it sounded hollow and
+threatening, but she paid no heed to it.
+
+"Something happened to make you dislike one another that time you first
+met, did it not? I have suspected it! But since then years have
+elapsed. Oscar has long forgotten the affair, as you have heard from
+himself. Will you alone be so implacable? And may I not know what
+happened then--will you not tell me, too?"
+
+Her voice sounded yet softer and sweeter than before; her large, dark
+eyes were lifted imploringly to the man, who clearly felt how the net
+was being drawn closer and closer about him, how will and power were
+succumbing to the flattering sounds of that voice, as clearly he also
+suspected that the beautiful soulless creature there by his side was
+only playing a contemptible game with him and feeling nothing but the
+triumph of vanity. Then he rallied his forces with a last desperate
+resolve to burst his chains.
+
+"Do you speak as commissioned by Herr von Wildenrod, Baroness?" he
+asked, with such terrible bitterness, that the young lady started and
+looked at him in surprise.
+
+"What do you mean?"
+
+"I mean, that for the Baron much depends upon his learning what I
+really know, and his sister may well seem to him the tool well fitted
+for the purpose."
+
+Cecilia rose to her feet, shocked and excited. Although these words
+were perfectly unintelligible to her, so much she did understand, that
+the matter involved here was something very different from the expected
+conquest. This was not the language of a man upon whose lips hovered a
+declaration of love. Something like hatred and contempt flashed upon
+her from his eyes.
+
+"I do not understand you, Herr Runeck," said she, with rising warmth,
+"but I have a feeling that you insult me and my brother. Now, I _will_
+know, what happened that time between you two, and you are to tell it
+me!"
+
+"Should that really be necessary?" asked he, cuttingly. "Herr von
+Wildenrod will have sufficiently instructed you. Well, then, tell him I
+know more of his past, than might be pleasant to him!"
+
+Cecilia turned pale; her eyes, too, flashed threateningly, the same
+lurid light burning in them as in the glance of her brother when he was
+provoked.
+
+"What does that mean?" cried she, trembling from excitement. "To whom
+do your words refer? Beware, lest Oscar call you to account!"
+
+Her warning came too late, producing not the slightest effect upon
+Egbert, whose nervous system had been subjected to great strain,
+through the silent, torturing conflict, which he had been waging for
+months. He was intensely excited. Had he been the calm and collected
+man of earlier days, he would not have spoken, at least not at this
+hour and this place; he would have spared in Cecilia, the woman. But
+now there fermented within him only that wild desire after revenge upon
+her who had stolen his soul from him, who, syren-like, had chained to
+herself all his thoughts and feelings, and whom he believed that he
+hated, wanted to hate, because he despised her. If he should now
+inflict a deadly insult upon her, if he should open a gulf between them
+that no bridge could span--no word nor look cross--that would bring
+deliverance, break the spell, then an end would be put to it!
+
+"Baron von Wildenrod is to call me to account, is he?" cried he, with
+bitter scorn. "The thing might shape itself differently. I have
+hitherto been silent, had to be silent, for my own conviction, however
+firm it might stand, would go for nothing against Eric's passion and
+his father's sense of justice. They will demand proofs, and I have them
+not at present. But I shall know how to find them, and then my
+forbearance ceases."
+
+"Are you out of your senses?" interposed Cecilia, but he continued with
+increasing vehemence.
+
+"Eric may possibly bleed to death from the wound that I must inflict
+upon him, but this is a blow that must strike him sooner or later.
+Better that it should happen now, when there is still room for retreat,
+when he is not yet chained to a woman who will risk his love and
+happiness as awhile ago she did her own life, making sport of them as
+she has hitherto done of all who came near to her. You are your
+brother's sister, Baroness Wildenrod, and have doubtless been taught by
+him how cards are shuffled. He and you already feel yourselves to be
+the owners of Odensburg; do not triumph too soon! You do not yet bear
+the name of Dernburg, and ere it comes to that, I shall stake
+everything upon guarding that name and Odensburg from becoming the prey
+of two--adventurers!"
+
+The horrible word was out, and Cecilia shrank as though she had been
+struck. Pale as a ghost, incapable of speech, she stared at the man,
+whom she had fancied to be enthralled by her charms, and who now
+suddenly stood unmasked as a pitiless foe. She did not perceive the
+fierce pain, almost amounting to delirium, that raged in his soul and
+carried him away beyond all the bounds of discretion, knew not that
+every one of those words, that he hurled so crushingly at her, bit
+himself with tenfold force; she only felt the deadly insult that he had
+inflicted upon her. Not until he ceased to speak, did she recover from
+that paralyzing shock.
+
+"Ah, that is too much--too much! You heap up one slander, one insult
+upon the other. I do not know at what your insinuations point, but I do
+know that they are all lies, shameful lies, that you will have to
+render an account for!"
+
+Here was such a glowing outburst of indignation, such stormy revolt
+against unmerited contumely, that it removed any doubt as to the truth
+of her words. Egbert, too, seemed to feel this, for in his dark,
+threatening eyes flashed something like a gleam of hope.
+
+With an impulsive movement, he drew one step nearer.
+
+"You do not understand me? Actually not? You are not your brother's
+confidante? Answer me!"
+
+"No--no!" gasped Cecilia, still quivering from rage, but, against her
+will, constrained by the torturing suspense conveyed in that question.
+
+Egbert looked at her, his glance seemed to penetrate her inmost soul,
+as though he would therein read the truth, then his chest heaved with a
+deep, deep sigh. "No," said he, dispiritedly, "You know nothing!"
+
+There followed a long, trying pause. The ringing of bells in the valley
+had gradually ceased, only a single one softly sounding from a great
+distance. So much the loader roared the wind, wailing as though it bore
+bad tidings on its mighty wings.
+
+"Then I have to beg your pardon," began Egbert again, his voice having
+a singularly veiled sound. "I do not take back my accusation against
+the Baron. Repeat to him word for word what I said, looking him in the
+eye, as you do so--perhaps you will then no longer rail against me as a
+liar."
+
+In spite of the subdued tone there was such terrible positiveness in
+these words, that Cecilia quaked. For the first time, a dread fear, a
+secret anguish, took possession of her. This Runeck looked as if he
+were ready to maintain the truth of his words in the face of the whole
+world. Only suppose that he had not spoken falsely--suppose--she cast
+the thought far from her, but nevertheless she turned faint and dizzy.
+
+"Leave me!" said she, with quivering lips. "Go!"
+
+Egbert's eye rested moodily upon her countenance, then he bowed his
+head.
+
+"You cannot forgive the affront I gave you. I understand that. But,
+believe me, this has also been a trying hour for me--the most trying of
+my life!"
+
+He went, and when Cecilia looked up, he had already disappeared among
+the trees, and she stood alone. High up on the cross of the Whitestone
+her veil was waving and fluttering, about her murmured the woods, and
+the last church-bell died softly away in the distance.
+
+
+
+
+                               CHAPTER X.
+
+                             MAIA'S CHOICE.
+
+
+On the terrace of the Odensburg manor-house Eberhardt Dernburg and
+Oscar von Wildenrod were walking up and down, engaged in conversation.
+They had become absorbed in a political discussion, that was conducted
+with much animation on the part of the older gentleman, while the
+younger, contrary to his custom, appeared to be silent and abstracted.
+From time to time his glance would be directed to the large grassplot
+where Maia was playing croquet with Count Victor von Eckardstein.
+
+"There will be a hot contest at this session of the Reichstag, as is
+plainly to be foreseen," Dernburg was just saying. "It is to be called
+together immediately after the elections and I must just make up my
+mind, to sacrifice the greatest part of the winter to my duties as a
+member."
+
+"Do you calculate then, positively, upon being re-elected?" asked
+Wildenrod.
+
+"Of course I do!" Dernburg looked at him in surprise. "I have been
+representing my electoral district for the past twenty years, and the
+Odensburg votes alone suffice to ensure my election."
+
+"I was just going to ask you about that. Are you perfectly sure of
+those votes too? Much has altered in the last three years."
+
+"Not with me," said Dernburg quietly. "My workmen and I have known each
+other for tens of years. I know that insurrectionary influences have
+been at work--insinuations and the like. Trying with all my might I
+have not been able to protect Odensburg from these, and perhaps here
+and there these whisperings may have found individuals who would
+listen; but the mass of my men stand fast by me."
+
+"Let us hope so!" A slight doubt was perceptible in the voice of the
+Baron, who, in spite of his short stay, showed himself perfectly _au
+fait_ with the situation of affairs. "The socialists in the region
+round about have been uncommonly active, preaching, agitating, and
+stirring up things generally, and in many an electoral district, the
+candidate who was perfectly sure of an overwhelming majority, awoke to
+unpleasant surprises."
+
+"But here I stand--and I believe myself fully equal to cope with those
+gentlemen," said Dernburg with the quiet conviction of a man who feels
+that he occupies a position that is unassailable. Wildenrod was about
+to answer, when a joyous laugh rang forth from the play-ground, and
+thither his glance was forthwith directed.
+
+They presented an attractive picture, those two slender young people
+with their graceful movements, their cheeks glowing from warmth and
+excitement. Each thought to get the better of the other, triumphing
+when the opposing side failed to hit the mark, and between whiles
+chasing and teasing one another with unrestrained glee, like a couple
+of children.
+
+Dernburg's eye had followed the direction taken by his companion's
+glance, and his grave features were lit up by a fleeting smile.
+
+"Those frolicksome children! One might certainly excuse my little Maia,
+with her sixteen years, for allowing her spirits to run away with her a
+little too much, but the Lieutenant seems to forget entirely that he is
+no longer a boy."
+
+"I am afraid, that Count Eckardstein will never have the earnestness
+that becomes a man," said Wildenrod coolly. "He has an amiable but a
+very superficial nature."
+
+"There you do him injustice! Victor is a scatterbrain--alas--and has
+many a time caused his parents anxiety by various mad pranks--some of
+which Odensburg could tell of--but he always kept his heart in the
+right place. He is no genius, but open and honorable and intelligent
+enough to make a splendid officer some day."
+
+"So much the better," remarked the Baron. "For the Count and--for
+Maia."
+
+Dernburg turned around and looked at him in amazement. "What do you
+mean by that?"
+
+"For Maia!"
+
+"An explanation would hardly seem to be needed. Count Eckardstein shows
+his wishes and designs plainly enough, and I am convinced that it did
+not cost him the least struggle to fall in with his brother's scheme."
+
+"What scheme?" A fold appeared between Dernburg's brows as he put this
+question.
+
+Wildenrod slightly shrugged his shoulders.
+
+"Well, it seems that the young Count is something of a spendthrift. You
+admit yourself that he has always been that, and is dependent entirely
+upon his brother, to whom fell the family estate. That a wild young
+officer should incur debts is natural enough, but in this case the
+measure to be tolerated must have been transgressed, at least that was
+the view Count Conrad took of it. It is said that violent scenes were
+enacted between the brothers, and really one cannot blame the elder for
+planning an heroic remedy for his younger brother."
+
+These words were well calculated: each one struck home, as was
+manifest, although Dernburg asked with apparent composure:
+
+"And, pray, what might that remedy be?"
+
+"A rich marriage! It is said that the young Count has come back, by the
+desire or command of his brother, to resume the relations with
+Odensburg, that had been long since dropped, in order to gain an end
+that is easily guessed. Do you wonder that I am so accurately informed
+with regard to this matter? An accident! When we were recently invited
+to Eckardstein, I overheard a conversation between two gentlemen, who,
+indeed, had no idea that I was in the next room, else they would not
+have spoken so freely on private matters. They seem to regard the
+alliance as already an accomplished fact."
+
+Dernburg's brow grew darker and darker during the progress of this
+speech, but his voice had its wonted resonance, when he replied:
+
+"Ere such a thing could be 'fact' I would have the last word to say,
+for Maia is hardly anything more than a child yet--certainly much too
+young for any talk about her marriage.--Why, Eric, here you are, but
+with such a despairing look upon your face! Has Cecilia not deigned to
+make her appearance yet?"
+
+Eric, who had just now joined them, did indeed look anxious and
+excited. "No, indeed, not yet!" answered he in a worried tone. "I have
+been over to the stables to inquire, but nobody knows where she can
+have driven to. She had the pony-carriage gotten up very early this
+morning while all the rest of us were asleep, and took nobody with her
+but Bertram. I really do not understand it."
+
+"It will turn out to be some caprice on her part," remarked Oscar.
+"Cecile is simply incalculable in her whims; you will have to get used
+to them, dear brother-in-law."
+
+"I think Eric would do better to cure his future wife of this want of
+consideration," said Dernburg with some asperity. "It would not conduce
+to the happiness of a marriage."
+
+Poor Eric did not look as if he had either the will or the inclination
+to break his betrothed of any habit. Wildenrod, however, quickly and
+soothingly suggested:
+
+"Most likely some playful jest is at the bottom of it. I'll lay a wager
+that Cecile intends giving us a surprise by this mysterious
+expedition."
+
+The game on the grass-plot, meanwhile, had gone on its way, now seeming
+to break up in a quarrel, which, however, was carried on by both sides
+good-humoredly, and finally ended in a reconciliation and a peal of
+laughter. Dernburg looked over at the pair anew, but no smile played
+upon his features now, and he called impatiently: "I should think,
+Maia, it was time to stop. Come to me, my child!"
+
+Maia obeyed. Coming promptly, still heated as she was from the game,
+and Victor Eckardstein followed close behind her.
+
+"I have a request to proffer to you in my brother's name, Herr
+Dernburg," said he in his open, cordial manner. "Conrad celebrates his
+birthday on Wednesday--there will be only a very limited number of
+guests, there, but the Odensburg family cannot be left out. May we
+count upon the pleasure of your company?"
+
+This request was made in a tone which showed that the acceptance of the
+invitation was taken quite for granted. The answer, however, was very
+cool.
+
+"I am sorry, Count Eckardstein, but we are expecting company ourselves
+from town on Wednesday, and shall have to perform the duty of hosts
+ourselves."
+
+"Company? who, papa?" asked Maia in surprise, and with some curiosity.
+"I have not heard a word of it."
+
+"Then you hear it now. At all events we regret that we cannot accept
+the invitation."
+
+This declaration was made so positively, that any further discussion
+was precluded. Victor was silent, but the strangely cool tone struck
+him as well as the formal manner in which he was addressed, as Dernburg
+had always been in the habit of calling him by his first name. The
+young man's glance was involuntarily directed towards Wildenrod, as
+though he suspected he had been exerting some malign influence over his
+friend.
+
+Such thoughts, however, are not apt to disturb young people for any
+length of time. Maia, with her merry talk, soon had the ball of
+conversation flying again, although Eric responded only in
+monosyllables and was as absent-minded as possible. He allowed himself,
+however, to be drawn by the other two into the conservatory, where two
+new orchids had just come into bloom.
+
+On the terrace, silence reigned for a few minutes, then the Baron said
+in a muffled voice: "I should be sorry, if my report of the young count
+had injured him in your eyes, but circumstanced as we now are, I felt
+it to be my duty to speak."
+
+Dernburg nodded approvingly. "Certainly, I thank you for it. As for the
+rest, I am not accustomed to condemn anybody upon the strength of mere
+gossip, but I shall find means to come at the truth in regard to the
+matter."
+
+"Do so," said Wildenrod, with quiet assurance. "But as to Maia's too
+great youth, girls in our society often marry at that age, and if a man
+really engages her affections----"
+
+"Engages in the pursuit of a rich heiress, forsooth, in order to settle
+up his affairs," remarked Dernburg with a bitterness which showed that
+the report had had its effect, nevertheless. "I shall guard my child
+against such a fate as that."
+
+"It will not be easy to do, for a suitor must come forward who is free
+and independent, besides being rich enough himself to be exalted above
+the suspicion of interested motives. All others will have their eye
+upon your millions."
+
+These words were thrown off with a certain premeditation, but Dernburg
+did not observe this.
+
+"Not all!" said he, with emphasis. "I know one who's poor and possesses
+nothing but his brains--they count for much, though, and guarantee him
+a future. The path to wealth and independence was pointed out to him,
+all that he had to do was to stretch forth his hand, but in order to do
+this he had to sacrifice principle, and he did not go that way."
+
+Oscar started, an uncomfortable suspicion being aroused in his mind.
+"Of whom are you speaking?"
+
+"Of Egbert Runeck! Are you so much surprised. I have long since
+perceived that Eric would never be able, alone, to superintend at
+Odensburg, as must, some day, be his place to do--a man of my stamp is
+needed for that, and such an one is Egbert, who has not been brought up
+in my school for naught. But in Berlin, they caught him so fast in
+their Socialistic toils, that I almost despair of ever getting him
+loose."
+
+"Have you really tried that, in spite of knowing--?"
+
+"In spite of knowing everything--yes, I did, because I am convinced
+that some day his eyes will be opened--if it is only not too late for
+both of us."
+
+Wildenrod's lips were tightly compressed, as though he wanted to force
+back an angry rejoinder, at last he said slowly: "Herr Dernburg, for
+the first time, I do not understand you."
+
+"Maybe so, but you can always trust to this, that I shall not be the
+one to throw a firebrand into my Odensburg, with my own hand. If Egbert
+continues obstinate in his present convictions, then all is over
+between me and him. But he will not do so. Free course in life is what
+he needs, he will struggle and strive upward at any price: but also
+build up, create and finally be ruler over that which he has created.
+Such natures bend not lastingly under the yoke of a party that claims
+blind obedience, allowing no scope to individuality, no mighty
+preponderance of the single mind. I am only afraid that he will come to
+his senses after he has thrust his happiness far from him. I offered it
+to him--but he sacrificed it to his mad fancies!"
+
+The Baron must already stand very high in his future connection's good
+graces, for him to speak to him thus of things that he had not even
+broached to his son; but Oscar did not seem to be pleasantly affected
+by this proof of confidence. A threatening cloud was upon his brow, and
+a yet more threatening fire flashed from his eyes, as he said with a
+voice almost stifled by passion: "You overestimate your favorite
+greatly. But, never mind--you seem to hint at something--" he broke
+off.
+
+"What then, Herr von Wildenrod?"
+
+"I would do better not to express it, since it involves a sheer
+impossibility."
+
+"Why so?" asked Dernburg irritably.
+
+"Because Egbert is the son of a common laborer? His parents are dead,
+but even if they were living----"
+
+"I am above such prejudices."
+
+Wildenrod was silent, he did not look at the speaker but away over at
+the works. There was a disagreeable look upon his face.
+
+"You are of a different opinion on that point, I see," began Dernburg
+again. "In you stir the feelings of the aristocrat, to whom such a
+thing appears unheard of. I think differently. I let Eric choose upon
+his own responsibility, but I shall have to stand sponsor for my
+daughter's happiness. My little Maia,"--the voice of the man usually so
+stern had a strangely tender intonation,--"she was given to me late,
+but she is the sunshine of my life. How often have the merry tones of
+her clear young voice and the light of her bright eyes lifted me out of
+despondency. She is not to be the prey of the fortune-hunter. She shall
+be beloved and happy--and so far I know only one person into whose
+hands I could commit her future without solicitude, for I am convinced
+that he loves her. He is not calculating, he has proved that to me!"
+
+A peculiar pallor lay upon the Baron's face. Was it anger or shame that
+palpitated in his soul at those last words? At all events he was spared
+any answer, for at this moment a servant entered with the announcement
+that the director was in the work-room and wanted to speak with the
+master.
+
+"On Sunday? It must be about something very important!" said Dernburg,
+as he turned to go. "But one thing more, Herr von Wildenrod--do not let
+what we just talked about go any farther than ourselves. Consider it as
+confidential."
+
+He went into the house, leaving Oscar alone. Now he knew that he was
+unobserved, and his brow resembled a threatening thunder-cloud, as he
+leaned with folded arms on the parapet of the terrace. Here was a
+danger that he had not apprehended, and with which he had never
+calculated upon having to cope, but in contrast with which the looming
+up of Count Eckardstein, that had just now appeared to him so menacing,
+faded away to a mere shadow. Dernburg evidently had settled it in his
+own mind that an attachment existed between his daughter and that
+Runeck, the simpleton, who had sacrificed the high prize offered him to
+a mere chimera,--that so-called conviction. About Wildenrod's lips now
+played a scornful smile of conscious superiority. He knew better to
+whom Maia's love was given, he felt himself equal to the conquest of
+this new adversary also. And there must be no more delay and no more
+pausing to reflect, the thing was to act! Oscar drew himself up with a
+determined air, it was not the first time in his life, that he had
+played _va banque_, and here the stake was happiness and a future that
+promised him everything.
+
+
+At the end of the extended grounds of Odensburg, where they bordered on
+the wooded mountain, lay the "Rose Lake," a small sheet of water, that
+took its name from the water-roses, with which its surface was covered
+in summer. Now, indeed, none of the white blossoms had opened, only the
+whispering reeds and sedge-grass edged its shores; a huge beech-tree
+stretched its branches over it, with its foliage of fresh and tender
+green, and a dense thicket of blooming shrubbery fenced it in on all
+sides. It was a snug and quiet retreat, made, as it were, for solitary
+dreams.
+
+Upon a bench beneath the beech-tree sat Maia, her hands full of flowers
+that she had plucked on her way, and now wanted to arrange. But this
+task was not accomplished, for by her sat Oscar von Wildenrod, who had
+accidentally sought the same spot, and managed to fascinate her so by
+his conversational powers, that she forgot flowers and everything else
+in her absorption.
+
+He spoke of his travels at the North and South, there was hardly a land
+in Europe that he was not acquainted with, and he was a masterly
+narrator. His descriptions shaped themselves into pictures, in which
+landscapes, people and events came forth as though living before the
+listener. Maia followed him in his narrative with breathless sympathy,
+it all sounded so strange and unreal to her, whose world had hitherto
+been confined to the family circle.
+
+"Oh! what have you not seen and experienced!" cried she admiringly.
+"What an entirely different sphere you moved in before you came to us
+at Odensburg!"
+
+"Another, but not a better one," said Wildenrod earnestly. "It has,
+indeed, something blinding and intoxicating--this living in boundless
+freedom, with its perpetual change and fullness of impressions, and it
+blinded me, too, once upon a time, but that has long since past. There
+comes a day when one awakens from his intoxication, when one feels how
+hollow and empty and vain all this is, when one finds himself alone in
+that concourse of men and in that longed-for freedom--quite alone."
+
+"But you have your sister!" Maia put in reproachfully.
+
+"How long, though! In a few months she deserts me to belong to her
+husband, and I have a regular horror of going back to that empty and
+aimless existence. You have no idea, Maia, how I envy your father. He
+stands firmly and surely upon the foundation of his own labor and its
+results; to thousands he gives bread, and the blessings, love and
+admiration of all compass him about, and will follow him to the grave.
+When I sum up the results of my life--what is the remainder?"
+
+Perplexed, almost shocked, Maia looked up at him who had uttered these
+bitter words. It was the first time that Wildenrod had adopted such a
+tone in her presence; she knew him as the brilliant man of the world,
+who, even when he approached her confidentially, always maintained the
+character of the elderly man, who conversed half-jocularly with the
+half-grown girl. To-day he spoke very differently, to-day he had let
+her have a glimpse of his inner life, and that overcame her shyness. "I
+have always thought that you were happy in that life, which seems
+lovely as a fairy-dream, when you tell about it," said she softly.
+
+"Happy!" repeated he gloomily. "No, Maia, I have never been so, not for
+a day, nor for an hour."
+
+"Yes, but--why did you lead that life so long?"
+
+Oscar looked into those clear child-eyes, that looked up at him with
+earnest questioning in their depths, and involuntarily his eyes sought
+the ground.
+
+"Why? Yes, why does one live at all? To win that happiness, of which
+they sing to us while we are still in our cradles, and of which we
+think in youth that it lies out in the wide world, in the dim blue
+distance. Restlessly, feverishly, we pursue it, ever thinking to attain
+to it, while it retreats farther and farther from us, until at last
+it fades away like a shadow until finally we give up the restless
+chase--and with it hope."
+
+In spite of his strong effort to command himself, the disquiet of a
+tortured spirit was but only too transparent in these words, that had
+the ring of perfect sincerity. None knew better than Oscar Wildenrod
+what was that wild chase after happiness, which he had sought all these
+years--by what paths, indeed, he alone knew.
+
+That woful confession sounded strange in these surroundings, at this
+season of spring, when everything breathed only beauty and peace.
+Bright lay the sunshine upon the mirror of the little lake, over which
+the dragon-flies were hovering dreamily, with their gay-colored,
+scintillating wings. Golden rays stole through the young leaves of the
+beech and played in the tender May-green. Round about bloomed the
+lilac, filling the air with its fragrance, varied by clumps of the
+yellow laburnum, covered with its rich freight of pendant clusters of
+bloom, and the lower shrubbery was strewn over, as it were, with wild
+hedge-roses. There was no end to the blooms, and in the background rose
+a distant chain of blue mountains, gravely taking a look into this
+little sunny paradise.
+
+Wildenrod's chest heaved with his deep and heavy breathing; it seemed
+as though he wanted to inhale the peace and purity of his environment.
+Then he looked upon the young being at his side, upon the innocent,
+rosy countenance, that was so untouched by the slightest breath of that
+life which he had drunk of to its very dregs. But the brown eyes that
+were now fixed upon him were swimming in tears, and a low, quivering
+voice said:
+
+"All that you have just been saying sounds so hard, so desperate. Do
+you really believe no longer in any happiness?"
+
+"Oh, yes, now I believe in it!" cried Oscar with enthusiasm. "Here at
+Odensburg, I have learned again to hope. It is the old story of the
+jewel that one goes out into the world to look for, in a thousand ways,
+meanwhile it rests hidden in the deep and silent woods, until the happy
+man draws near, who finds it--and perhaps I am such a lucky fellow!"
+
+He had caught the young girl's hand and clasped it firmly in his own.
+With sudden force, Maia recognized in these words, this movement, what
+had hitherto been but a dim, half-understood impression resting in her
+soul; there sprang up within her a sweet sense of joy and yet, at the
+same time, again came that mysterious, uneasy sensation, which she had
+experienced already at their first meeting, the dread of that dark,
+flaming glance, which seemed to magnetize her, as it were. Her hand
+trembled in that of the Baron.
+
+"Herr von Wildenrod----"
+
+"My name is Oscar!" interposed he beseechingly.
+
+"Oscar--leave me!"
+
+"No, I will not leave you!" ejaculated he passionately. "I have found
+the jewel, now I will catch it and keep it all my life long. Maia,
+years, tens of years part us, I have no longer youth to offer you, but
+I love you with all the fervent ardor of youth. From the instant when
+you advanced to meet me on the threshold of your father's house, I knew
+that you were my destiny, my all. And you love me too, I know it--let
+me hear it now from your own lips. Speak, Maia, say that you will be
+mine! You have no idea what power this word will exert over me--to
+deliver and to save."
+
+He had thrown his arm around her, his passionate, glowing words passing
+over the trembling girl like the breath of a burning flame. Her head
+rested upon his bosom, and fixedly she looked up at him. Now she no
+longer shrank from meeting his eyes, she only saw the melting
+tenderness in them, heard only the confession of his love, and that
+bodeful dread was lost in triumphant rapture.
+
+"Yes, I do love you, Oscar," said she softly. "Dearly love you."
+
+"My Maia!"
+
+It rang out like a shout of joy. Oscar folded her in his arms, kissing
+again and again the light hair and rosy lips of his beloved. An
+intoxication of bliss had come over him. The past, with its dark
+shadows, sank into oblivion, and to the man who was already approaching
+the autumn of life sounded joyously the message that every blossom was
+repeating: Spring is here!
+
+After a while Maia gently extricated herself from his arms, her lovely
+face all aglow.
+
+"But my father, Oscar, will he consent?"
+
+Wildenrod smiled. He knew that the difference of age between himself
+and his betrothed would be an objection hard for Dernburg to overcome,
+that his consent would neither be easily nor quickly obtained, but this
+did not frighten him. "Your father desires only to see you beloved and
+happy, I know that from his own mouth," said he with overflowing
+tenderness. "And my Maia, my sweet, pretty child, you shall be happy
+and beloved!"
+
+
+
+
+                              CHAPTER XI.
+
+                      A SECRET FOE AND OPEN ENEMY.
+
+
+Dernburg sat in his office at the desk. He had just had a lengthy talk
+with the director of his works and was looking over the papers which he
+had left when the door was again opened. Count Eckardstein entered,
+who, as a guest of the house, needed no special announcement.
+
+"I just saw the director leave," said he. "May I disturb you for a few
+minutes? I only come, preparatory to bidding adieu."
+
+"Why, you will not be at dinner, as usual?" asked Dernburg, somewhat
+surprised.
+
+"I thank you, I must return to Eckardstein.--Must I really have to
+report to my brother that you decline his invitation? We had depended
+so confidently upon your presence and that of your family."
+
+"I am sorry. You have already heard that we have invited company to
+dinner, ourselves, for the day named."
+
+This refusal of the invitation sounded just as positive as chilling,
+and so the young Count could but feel it to be. He impulsively drew a
+few steps nearer, and asked in a whisper:
+
+"Herr Dernburg--what have you against me?"
+
+"I? Nothing! What put such an idea into your mind, Sir Count?"
+
+"Your very address proves it to me. This morning you called me Victor
+and treated me with your wonted kindness. Have I, then, become a
+stranger to you in the course of a few months? I am afraid that another
+influence has been brought to bear upon you, that I can guess."
+
+Dernburg frowned, the hint at Wildenrod, which was only too
+intelligible, wounded him, but he was accustomed to go about things in
+a direct manner. Why seek to find out what he wanted to know by
+indirect methods. He looked at the handsome, open countenance of the
+young man, then he said slowly:
+
+"I do not allow myself to be influenced, and it is not my way to
+condemn any one unheard, least of all you, Victor, whom I have known
+from the days of your earliest boyhood. Now that you introduce the
+subject yourself, it may as well be discussed between us. Will you
+answer me a few questions?"
+
+"With pleasure, proceed."
+
+"You stayed away from home a long while, and did not set foot on
+Eckardstein soil for years. Why was that?"
+
+"It resulted from personal, family relations----"
+
+"Which you would rather not talk about--I perceive."
+
+"No, Herr Dernburg, I do not care to have concealments with you," said
+Victor, in a low tone. "My relation to my brother was never an
+especially friendly one, and since the death of our father has grown to
+be positively painful. Conrad is the elder, and heir of the entailed
+property, I am dependent upon him, and cannot maintain my rank as an
+officer without his assistance. He has often enough made me feel his
+unwillingness to do this, and in so insulting a manner, that I prefer
+to keep aloof from him."
+
+One could see that it was exceedingly trying to the young Count to give
+this explanation, and still he was telling nothing that his hearer did
+not already know. The strained relations existing between the brothers
+was known to the whole neighborhood, but the main fault was attributed
+to the elder. Count Conrad, who, at the time, was still unmarried, and
+the senior of Victor by only a few years, was regarded as haughty and
+unmindful of the rights of others, and his ambition was a fact known to
+all. He was, therefore, anything but popular. Dernburg knew this
+likewise, but made not the slightest allusion to it, only asking:
+
+"And yet you have come now?"
+
+"This happened by my brother's express desire."
+
+"He has concocted plans in conjunction with you--I know."
+
+Victor started, and the blood began slowly to mount into his cheeks.
+Dernburg watched him sharply and inquisitively, while he continued:
+
+"You apprehend, without doubt, what I mean. I shall be quite candid
+with you, but shall expect just as candid an answer. It is said that
+you have been summoned by Count Conrad to Eckardstein, in order to turn
+to account your former intimacy at Odensburg."
+
+Victor started at this insulting speech.
+
+"Herr Dernburg!"
+
+"Victor, I ask you, is that so?"
+
+The young man cast down his eyes in painful embarrassment.
+
+"You put the question in a way----"
+
+"That admits of no evasion. Yes or no, then?"
+
+"You seem to take my courtship as an insult," said Victor, without
+lifting his eyes from the floor. "Is it such a crime, then, to seek the
+renewal of youthful friendship with such thoughts? Well, yes, I came
+here to seek a happiness that in memory took the shape of a bright
+little elf. What is there bad about that? At my age you would probably
+have done the same."
+
+"But not at the behest of another person!" said Dernburg cuttingly.
+"And when I went courting I had a different fortune to offer from what
+you have, Herr Lieutenant."
+
+The young Count was incensed, and with difficulty restrained himself,
+but his voice trembled, when he answered:
+
+"You make poverty very bitter to me."
+
+"Such is not my desire, for poverty is no disgrace in my eyes. You only
+share the fate of the younger sons in those families whose whole
+property is entailed upon the oldest. But they say that your brother
+has still more pressing reasons for exhorting you to make a so-called
+good match. I am sorry, Sir Count, to hurt your feelings, but you have
+sought this interview yourself, not I."
+
+"So they have informed you of that, too, and you put the most shameful
+interpretation upon it," said Victor bitterly. "If I have been
+indiscreet, my brother has already given me good cause to rue it, and I
+repent tenfold at this moment. Well, yes, I did not keep free of debt,
+could not do so with the small means that were at my command. It would
+have been an easy thing for Conrad to release me from my obligations,
+but he did not do it, even putting before me the possibility of being
+obliged to send in my resignation, and then----"
+
+"Then you acceded to his proposition!" Dernburg's voice had a harsh,
+contemptuous intonation. "I understand that perfectly; but you, on your
+side, will also understand that I am not willing to give my daughter as
+a prize in a financial operation."
+
+The color came and went in the young man's face, but at the last word
+he sprang to his feet with a half-suppressed shriek, and shook his fist
+in the face of the elder man, who looked at him steadily.
+
+"To what end is this, Count Eckardstein? Will you challenge me to a
+duel because I undertake to tell you my view of this matter? A man of
+my years and station does not commit such follies."
+
+Again Victor let his hand drop and stepped back.
+
+"Herr Dernburg, you have been a fatherly friend to me for years,
+Odensburg has been a second home for me, and you are the father of
+Maia, whom I----"
+
+"Whom you love," said Dernburg, with bitter irony, "you were about to
+say."
+
+"Yes, I do love her!" cried Victor, drawing himself up to his full
+height, and his eye met clearly and openly that of the infuriated man.
+"This became clear to me the moment when I met again as a blooming girl
+the child who still lived in my memory. After what you have said
+nothing is left for me but to leave your house, never to enter it
+again; but in bidding farewell, I at least challenge your faith in the
+truth of my feelings for Maia--although she is lost to me."
+
+There was intense anguish, genuine emotion manifest in these last
+words, which would have convinced anybody else but Dernburg. But that
+grave, earnest man there at the desk had never known the frivolities of
+youth, and hence had no idea how to make allowance for its errors.
+Perhaps, too, he, was convinced at this moment, but he could not pardon
+any one for presuming to court his darling for the sake of her wealth.
+
+"I am not authorized to judge of your feelings, Sir Count," said he,
+with a coldness that forbade any further attempt at reconciliation:
+"and yet I understand perfectly why you should avoid Odensburg after
+this conversation. I am sorry that we must part thus, meanwhile as
+things stand, there is no help for it."
+
+Victor answered not a word, but silently bowed and withdrew. Dernburg
+looked after him moodily.
+
+"He, too!" murmured he half aloud. "The honest, open-hearted fellow,
+who, in earlier days, did not know the meaning of calculation!
+Everything goes to destruction in this wild chase after wealth, that
+they call good fortune!--"
+
+At the foot of the broad staircase, that led to the upper story, stood
+Wildenrod and Eric, engaged in conversation. The latter had just come
+in from the park, and, meeting with Oscar, poured out his heart to him.
+
+"I am afraid Cecilia is seriously unwell," said he excitedly. "She
+complains of severe headache and looks dreadfully pale, but has
+forbidden me in the most positive manner from having Hagenbach called.
+She protests that a few hours of undisturbed repose will restore her
+quicker than anything else. I saw her only a few minutes after her
+arrival, and have not been able to learn where she has really been, for
+she preserves an obstinate silence on the subject."
+
+Oscar smiled and shrugged his shoulders. "And you, I suppose, are
+beside yourself over it. I told you awhile ago, that you must calculate
+upon the self-will of our spoilt little princess. When Cecile is in a
+bad humor, she stretches herself on the sofa and will have naught to do
+with anybody; happily she does not keep in this mood long, I can tell
+you that for your comfort. Your father, to be sure, is of opinion that
+you must break her of such whims, but you are not the man for this, my
+dear Eric. There is nothing, then, left for you to do, but to possess
+your soul in patience, and already make preliminary studies for the
+pattern husband, which you will undoubtedly make."
+
+Eric looked at him in amazement. "What has come over you, Oscar? Your
+face fairly beams with joy. Has something very pleasant happened to
+you?"
+
+"Who knows--perhaps!" said Oscar, with a flash of his dark eyes. "And
+therefore I want to take you in hand. You do look desperate. I have
+always had a great deal of influence over my sister, and shall give her
+to understand how unwarrantable a thing it is of her to make you taste
+already the miseries of the married state--properly she has no right to
+do this, until after the wedding is over. You see if she does not
+appear at dinner in as good spirits as ever, and then you, too, I
+trust, will wear a different face--you poor, maltreated lover, who take
+so much to heart the caprices of his ladye-love."
+
+He laughed with a superior air, and waving back a salutation, he
+mounted the stair. Eric looked at him, shaking his head dubiously. Such
+radiant gayety of mood was not at all natural to Oscar von Wildenrod,
+who was hardly recognizable to-day. What could have happened to him?
+
+Up in the parlor, the Baron was met by his sister's maid, who informed
+him that her lady had given her strict orders not to allow her to be
+disturbed, under any circumstances--without exception, no one was to be
+admitted. Not even Herr Dernburg.
+
+"Pshaw, such orders do not include me, you know, Nannon," said
+Wildenrod, cutting her speech short, without ceremony. "I want to speak
+to my sister. Open the door!"
+
+Nannon courtesied, and obeyed, for she knew very well that the Baron
+was not one to brook contradiction. Without further ceremony, he
+entered his sister's chamber, which was next door.
+
+Cecilia lay upon the sofa, with her face buried in a cushion. She did
+not stir, although she must have heard the opening and shutting of the
+door, but her brother evinced no surprise at this, and quietly drew
+nearer.
+
+"Are you once more in an ill-humor, Cecile?" he asked, still in a
+playful tone. "You really do treat Eric in a most unwarrantable manner.
+He has just been pouring his laments into my ears."
+
+Cecilia remained silent and motionless, until Wildenrod finally lost
+patience.
+
+"Will you not at least have the goodness to look at me? I should like
+to ask you in general--" he hushed, for his sister suddenly sat bolt
+upright, and he looked into a face so pale and distorted, that he
+almost shrank back in dismay.
+
+"I have something to say to you, Oscar," said she, softly. "To yourself
+alone. Nannon is in the parlor--send her away, that we may be
+undisturbed."
+
+Oscar knitted his brows,--he could not yet believe that anything
+serious was in question; but in his joyous mood, he was more inclined
+than usual to indulge the whim of another. He therefore went into the
+parlor, sent the maid away on a message, and then turned back.
+
+"Am I finally to learn what all that signifies?" he asked, impatiently.
+"Where in the world were you, Cecile, and what means this early morning
+trip to the mountains? Dernburg has already noticed it with much
+displeasure! You must know that Odensburg is not the place for such
+escapades."
+
+Cecilia had gotten up, and said not a word in her own defense, but
+breathed out in a whisper:
+
+"I have been on the Whitestone."
+
+"On the Whitestone?" exclaimed Oscar. "What foolhardiness! What
+incredible rashness!"
+
+"Let that be, the question is about something else," she interrupted
+him vehemently. "I met up there with--with that friend of Eric's youth,
+and he has said things to me,--Oscar, what happened between you two the
+first time that you met?"
+
+"Nothing!" said the Baron, coldly. "Perhaps I did see him then; it is
+possible; one easily overlooks such people. At all events, I did not
+speak with him, and did not know that he was witness of a painful event
+that took place on that evening."
+
+"What sort of an event was it?"
+
+"Nothing for your ears, my dear, and therefore I should not like Runeck
+to talk with you on the subject. By the way, tell me exactly what he
+did say."
+
+The question was apparently thrown off indifferently, and yet keen
+suspense was apparent in the dark eyes of the questioner.
+
+"He seemed to take for granted my cognizance of the affair, and passed
+on to make insinuations which I did not rightly understand, but behind
+which looked something horrible."
+
+"How? Did he dare to?" said Oscar, flaring up.
+
+"Yes, he did dare to impugn your honor, and treat me as your
+accomplice. He spoke of knowing more about your life than would be
+agreeable to you; he called us adventurers--do you hear? _adventurers!_
+But you will have your revenge, will give him the answer that he
+deserves, and avenge both yourself and me!"
+
+Wildenrod had turned pale. He stood there with darkened brow and
+clinched fists, but he was silent. The passionate outburst of
+indignation, and wrath, that Cecilia had looked and hoped for, did not
+come.
+
+"Did he actually say that to you?" he slowly inquired at last.
+
+"Word for word! And you--you make no answer?"
+
+Wildenrod had recovered his self-possession. He shrugged his shoulders
+with a mocking air of superiority. "What answer am I to make? Would you
+have me take such nonsense seriously?"
+
+"He was in sober earnest, and if, as he maintained, proofs are lacking
+up to this time----"
+
+"Actually?" Oscar laughed, scornfully and triumphantly, while he drew a
+deep, long sigh of relief.
+
+"Well, let him search for those proofs; he will not find them!"
+
+Cecilia supported herself on the back of the chair by which she stood.
+That sigh of relief had not escaped her, and her eyes were fixed upon
+her brother in deadly anguish.
+
+"Have you no other answer, when your honor is assailed? Will you not
+call Runeck to account?"
+
+"That is my affair! Leave it to me to get even with that man! What is
+it to you?"
+
+"What is it to me, when you and I both receive a deadly insult?" cried
+Cecilia, beside herself. "To call us adventurers, to whom Odensburg is
+to fall a prey. Shall a man dare to say such a thing and go unpunished?
+Oscar, look me in the eye! You shrink from chastising that man. You are
+afraid of him! Alas! alas!"
+
+She broke out into a wild and passionate fit of sobbing. Oscar stepped
+quickly up to her, and his voice fell to a low and angry whisper.
+
+"Cecilia, use your reason! You behave like a madwoman. What has come
+over you, anyhow? You have been like a different person since this
+morning."
+
+"Yes, since this morning!" repeated she passionately. "Since I awoke,
+and oh! what a bitter awakening! Do not evade me! You told me that our
+fortune was gone, and I was thoughtless enough not once to inquire how
+it came, that, in spite of this, we lived on a grand scale. When was it
+lost? In what way? I _will_ know!"
+
+Wildenrod looked at her darkly, that threatening tone in his sister was
+as new to her as her whole behavior; he must henceforth give up
+treating her as a child.
+
+"Would you know when our fortune was lost?" asked he roughly. "At the
+time when our house broke with a crash. And our father--laid hands on
+himself."
+
+"Our father!" The eyes of the young girl opened wide, and were full of
+horror. "He did not die from--a stroke of apoplexy?"
+
+"That was what they told the world, the neighborhood, and you, the
+eight-year old child--I know better. Our estate had long been involved
+in debt, ruin was only a question of time, and when it actually came,
+father seized his pistol--and left us behind--beggars."
+
+As unsparing as these words sounded, there was an undercurrent of dull
+grief in them, showing that the man still suffered at the recollection,
+after the lapse of twelve years.
+
+Cecilia did not shriek, did not weep, her tears seeming suddenly to be
+stanched. She only asked dispiritedly: "And then?"
+
+"Then the honor of our name was saved by the personal interposition of
+the king. He bought the estate and satisfied the creditors. Your mother
+obtained a pension from his bounty, and alms of residence in the place
+where she had been mistress, and I--well I went out into the wide
+world, to seek my fortune."
+
+A momentary silence followed; Cecilia had dropped into a chair, and had
+clasped both hands before her face. Finally Wildenrod resumed: "That
+hits you hard, I well believe, but at the time it hit me yet harder. I
+had no suspicion of how it stood with us, and now to be snatched from
+supposed wealth, from a brilliant station in life, from a grand career,
+in order to be confronted by poverty and misery--you do not know what
+that means. They offered me this and that office, either in the postal
+service or as collector of taxes in some remote province, offered _me_,
+whose glowing ambition had dreamed of the highest aims, beggarly
+positions, in which body and soul would have been destroyed in the
+tread-mill of a wretched existence. I was not made for that. I cast
+everything behind me and forsook Germany, to at least save appearances,
+and produce the impression that the sale of property and my resignation
+of office had been voluntary."
+
+Cecilia slowly let her hands drop, and straightened herself up. "And
+yet you maintained your position in society? We were regarded as rich
+the three years that I passed with you, and were surrounded by splendor
+and luxury."
+
+Wildenrod had no answer to this timid and reproachful question; he
+avoided meeting his sister's eye.
+
+"Let that be, Cecilia!" said he after a while. "It was a fierce,
+desperate struggle to maintain that station which I did not want to
+give up at any price, and many a thing happened in so doing that had
+better not be talked about. But I had no choice. In the struggle for
+existence it is either sink or swim. Never mind!" He took a long
+breath. "Now all that trouble is over, you are Eric's betrothed bride
+and I--have something delightful to communicate to you."
+
+He did not, however, get the opportunity to make his communication at
+present, for at the door of the parlor a gentle knock was heard, and
+directly afterwards Eric's voice asked:
+
+"May I come in at last?"
+
+"Eric," exclaimed Cecilia in dismay. "I cannot see him--not now!"
+
+"You must talk with him," whispered Oscar softly, but dictatorially.
+"Is your behavior to strike him as yet more peculiar? Only for a few
+minutes."
+
+"I cannot! Tell him, I am sick, or asleep, or anything you choose!"
+
+She wanted to spring to her feet, but her brother again drew her down
+upon her seat, while he called out in a cheerful tone:
+
+"Just come in, Eric! Here am I--being indulged with a half-hour's
+audience, by this gracious lady!"
+
+"So I heard from Nannon!" said Eric, in a reproachful tone, as he
+entered, after passing through the parlor. "Is your door to remain
+locked to me, when it is open to Oscar? Dear me, how pale and disturbed
+you look! What happened on that unfortunate expedition? I implore you,
+speak!"
+
+He had seized her hand and looked into her face, with deep solicitude.
+Her little hand trembled in his, but there followed no answer.
+
+"You ought rather to scold her, although I have already done so
+sufficiently myself," said Wildenrod. "Do you know where she has been
+this morning? Why, on top of the Whitestone!"
+
+"Lord of heaven!" cried Eric, horrified. "Is that true, Cecile?"
+
+"Literally true! Of course she was dizzy on the way back, came down
+half dead and is now sick from overexertion and the agony endured. She
+was ashamed to confess to you and the doctor, but you had to learn
+about it."
+
+"Cecilia, how could you treat me so?" said the young man reproachfully.
+"Did you not think of my distress, my despair, if anything had happened
+to you? Had I only suspected that it was more than a jest that time
+when you threatened to climb it, in your talk with Egbert and
+me----what is the matter with you?"
+
+At the mention of that name, Cecilia had shuddered; now a couple
+of tears rolled over her cheeks, while she murmured: "Pardon me,
+Eric--pardon me!"
+
+Eric had never before seen his beloved weep, nor ever heard her plead
+for pardon. With overflowing tenderness he kissed her hands. "My
+Cecile, my darling girl, I am not scolding you, I only beg of you,
+never, never again to undertake such an adventure. You promise me that,
+do you not? Done! And now----"
+
+"Now we will indulge her with a little rest. Try to sleep a few hours,
+Cecile; that will soothe your overtaxed nerves. Come, Eric!"
+
+The latter followed, evidently very unwillingly, but since Cecilia,
+too, urged him to go with feverish impatience, he submitted. Oscar
+accompanied him as far as the stairs, and then went into his own room.
+Hardly, however, had the sound of the young man's steps died away
+outside, than he returned to his sister, after bolting the parlor door.
+
+"How can you be so wanting in self-control?" said he, in a suppressed
+voice. "A blessed thing it was that I was by your side. Under these
+circumstances, the best thing to do was to make a clean breast of your
+mountain adventure. But the thing now is to ward off another danger.
+Without proof, Runeck will not venture to undertake anything against
+us, and meanwhile things are coming to a pass that must necessitate a
+rupture between him and Dernburg. Until then--well, I have been equal
+to worse emergencies!" These last words once more betrayed all the rash
+self-confidence of the man, who had already often staked everything
+upon the one card and won the game.
+
+Cecilia had risen from her seat; her eyes were fastened upon him, with
+a singular expression in them. "Then we shall be no more at Odensburg,"
+said she. "Do not flare up so, Oscar! I do not want to know what you
+conceal from me; what you said to me was enough. You must arm yourself
+against a danger that threatens you on the part of Runeck--he told the
+truth, then--he can accuse you. But I _shall_ not be an adventuress,
+who has thrust herself in here and who will one day be driven away in
+shame and disgrace--do you hear?--I _shall_ not! Let us begone, no
+matter whither, under some pretext or other--only away from here, at
+any price!"
+
+"Are you out of your senses?" cried Wildenrod, while he seized her arm,
+as though he had to hinder her from taking to flight that very moment.
+"Away? Whither? Think you that I can again open to you our former mode
+of life? That is past--my sources of revenue are at an end!"
+
+"I hate to think of those sources of revenue," cried Cecilia,
+trembling. "I want to work----"
+
+Oscar laughed aloud and bitterly. "With those hands, perhaps? Do you
+know, what it is to toil for daily bread? One has to be brought up to
+it--people like us would starve at it."
+
+"I cannot stay here, though, now, when my eyes are opened, I cannot! Do
+not try to force me, else I'll tell Eric this very hour, that I do not
+love him, never have loved him; that our engagement has been solely
+your work."
+
+Oscar turned pale. Cecilia had outgrown his power, nothing was to be
+effected here by commands and threats, so he caught at a last
+expedient.
+
+"Do so, then," said he suddenly with a cold, resolute look, "destroy
+yourself and me with you! For, so far as I am concerned the question
+here is 'to be or not to be.' An hour ago I became engaged to Maia."
+
+"To whom?" Cecilia looked at him, as though she did not comprehend his
+words.
+
+"To Maia. She loves me, and all left for me to do now, is to obtain
+Dernburg's consent. If you break with Eric, and tell him the truth,
+then to me, too, Odensburg will be closed forever and then--I follow
+the example of our father."
+
+"Oscar!" It was a shriek of horror.
+
+"I'll do it, my word upon it! Think you that it has been easy for me to
+lead the life of an adventurer, for me, a Wildenrod? Do you know what I
+suffered before it came to that? How often I sought afterwards to burst
+my bonds and soar upwards? Always in vain! And now at last deliverance
+draws near, salvation through the hand of a sweet child, now, at last,
+I grasp the long-sought, so ardently desired happiness--and at the very
+moment, when I am about to clasp it in my arms, it is again to be torn
+from me! Am I to be thrust back and put under the old ban? That is what
+I cannot endure. Rather the end!"
+
+There was an iron determination upon his features and in his tone; that
+was no empty threat. Cecilia shuddered.
+
+"No," whispered she, with failing voice. "No, no, anything but that!"
+
+"Is what I require of you anything so dreadful?" asked Wildenrod, more
+mildly. "You are only to be silent and forget this unhappy hour! I
+wanted to save you from the life into which I had to lead you, ere your
+eyes were opened to its nature, and now I save myself with you. I cast
+behind me the past, and begin a better life. Here at Odensburg a grand
+new field opens before me, and Dernburg is to find in me what his son
+could never be to him. You will be Eric's wife; he loves, idolizes you;
+you can make him happy, and yourself be happy at his side!"
+
+He had stooped over her, and his voice had a tender sound. The eyes of
+his sister were uplifted to him with an expression of infinite woe.
+
+"How am I now to endure Eric's presence with his demonstrations of
+affection? Just now those few minutes put me on the rack. And if I meet
+Runeck again, and have to read in his eyes the same contempt as I did
+early this morning, without being able to feel that he is the slanderer
+of the innocent--contempt from that Runeck!"
+
+This last sentence rang out like a scream. Wildenrod started and fixed
+a strange look upon her.
+
+"Do you dread his contempt so much?" asked he, slowly. "Rest easy,
+after that scene he will himself avoid any meeting; independently of
+that, he enters the family circle no more. Leave everything else to me!
+You have only to keep silent and make yourself easy. Promise me that."
+
+"Yes," murmured Cecilia almost inaudibly.
+
+Oscar bent down and touched her forehead with his lips. "I thank you!
+And now I really shall leave you alone, for I see that you can no
+longer stand this conversation."
+
+He turned to go, but once more paused and gazed intently upon her face.
+"Egbert Runeck is our foe, a deadly foe, who wants to annihilate you
+and me, and if I offer him battle it must be to the knife--do not
+forget that!"
+
+Cecilia gave no answer, but her whole body shook as with an ague, when
+the door fell to behind her brother. The truth that he no longer sought
+to conceal from her, had wounded her to the very depths of her soul.
+The gay glittering world of pleasure and fashion with which alone she
+had been familiar up to this time, lay shattered at her feet, the rock
+was riven--what did it hide in its depths?
+
+
+
+
+                              CHAPTER XII.
+
+                           THE GOAL IN SIGHT.
+
+
+Weeks had elapsed, spring had taken her leave and summer had come in
+the full blaze of her glory. At Odensburg, they had already begun
+preparations for the wedding festivities, which were appointed for the
+last days in August. After the ceremony a grand entertainment was to
+take place, to which the Dernburg family were to invite the whole
+circle of their acquaintance, and immediately afterwards the young
+couple were to set out on their trip to the South.
+
+The officers and operatives belonging to the Dernburg works purposed to
+have their share in the festivities also. They wished to do honor to
+their chief upon occasion of the marriage of his son and heir. The
+director and Doctor Hagenbach were at the head of a committee, who
+planned a grand festal parade, and all had gone into the affair with
+spirit.
+
+But in spite of these joyful preparations, there rested, as it were, a
+cloud over the Manor-house and the Dernburg family. The chief himself
+was out of sorts on account of various annoyances, public and private;
+the approaching elections to the Reichstag were beginning to attract
+sympathy even at his Odensburg, and he knew, only too well, that his
+men were being tampered with. Openly, this was not done, most assuredly
+he held the reins too firmly in his hand for this, but he was not able
+to steer clear of the secret, and on that very account dangerous,
+activity, with which the Socialistic party encroached step by step upon
+his works, that had hitherto been kept so clear of any such tendencies.
+
+Moreover, Eric's health was again causing him grave anxiety; he had
+been obliged almost entirely to renounce the hope of introducing his
+son (as he had hoped and desired) to his future calling. The young man
+was perpetually ailing--needed to have his strength spared just as much
+now as before he went South. Such a thing as his engaging in systematic
+work was not to be thought of. Finally came Wildenrod's wooing and
+Maia's openly acknowledged love for him, which Dernburg had heard of
+with extreme surprise, yes, almost with indignation.
+
+The Baron had asked her father for her hand, on the very same day
+that he had declared himself to the young girl, but had met with a much
+more decided opposition than he had expected. However much Dernburg
+might have been taken with him personally, Oscar was not the husband
+that he had selected for his daughter, and the thought of wedding the
+sixteen-year-old child to a man old enough to be her father, was just
+as repulsive to him as Maia's reciprocating this passion. His darling's
+entreaties availed in so far that the original No was rescinded, but
+just as little was he to be moved to give his consent for a speedy
+betrothal. He declared with all positiveness that his daughter was
+still much too young to bind herself already for a lifetime, saying
+that she must wait and put her feelings to the test; two years hence
+would be ample time to introduce the subject again.
+
+Wait! That was a fatal, an impossible sentence for this man, with whom
+every minute counted, and yet, for the present, no alternative was left
+him, because Maia had been withdrawn from his influence. After that
+declaration he himself had received a gentle but unmistakable hint,
+that under these circumstances, daily intercourse between the pair
+was not to be kept up. But to leave Odensburg now, was equivalent to
+giving up his game as lost. The thing for him now to do was to be
+vigilant, and confront the danger which, since that threat of Runeck,
+had hung over his head like a thunder-cloud. And he must also stand
+by his sister, in order to be sure that she would keep her word with
+him--wrested from her, as it had been, almost by force. She was
+incredibly altered since that unhappy hour. Therefore he had not
+_wanted_ to understand that hint, and had held his ground; but here
+Dernburg interposed immediately, with his wonted determination, and
+under pretext of her paying a visit to a friend of the family, he sent
+his daughter away, not to return until her brother's marriage took
+place.
+
+Egbert Runeck had come from Radefeld, in order to give in his usual
+report to his chief. For weeks past, he had been accustomed, at these
+times, only to tarry awhile in the work-room and then return forthwith
+as soon as he had dispatched his business. He seemed to have become
+quite estranged from the family-circle. But to-day he had sought out
+Eric the first thing, who received him with joyful surprise, but also
+with reproaches.
+
+"Why, Egbert, is that you,--do I actually lay eyes on you once more? I
+thought that you had quite forgotten me, and laid our house under a
+ban. Father is the only one who ever gets a sight of you."
+
+"You know how closely occupied I am," answered Egbert evasively. "My
+works----"
+
+"Oh yes, those works of yours always serve for a pretext! But come, let
+us have a good chat--I am so glad to have you all alone to myself once
+more."
+
+He drew his friend down on the sofa beside him and began to ask
+questions and narrate his own experiences. He had the conversation
+almost entirely to himself however. Runeck showed himself strikingly
+taciturn and absent-minded, and meanwhile he answered mechanically as
+it were, as though he had his mind bent on very different things. Not
+until Eric began to speak of his approaching marriage did he grow more
+attentive.
+
+"We want to set off on our trip immediately after the grand
+entertainment to be held on our wedding-day," said the latter with a
+happy smile. "I think of spending a few weeks, with my young wife in
+Switzerland, but then we shall both wing our flight to the South. To
+the South! You have no idea what a charm that word has for us. This
+cold Northern sky, these gloomy fir-clad mountains, all the bustle and
+stir here, all this lies so heavy upon me. I cannot get perfectly well
+here. Hagenbach, who just left me, thinks so too and proposes that we
+spend the whole winter in Italy. Alas! father, though, will not hear of
+this--it will cost us a battle to carry our point with him."
+
+"Are you feeling worse again?" asked Egbert, whose eyes rested with a
+peculiarly searching expression upon the pale, sunken features of his
+friend.
+
+"Oh, nothing to signify," said Eric, carelessly. "The doctor is only so
+incredibly anxious. He has prohibited my riding, gives me all manner of
+prescriptions, and now wants the wedding-festivities to be on a reduced
+scale, because they might cause me to over-exert myself. Anything but
+excitement. That is the first and last word with him. I am getting
+rather tired of this thing, for he treats me always like a very ill
+patient to whom any excitement might bring death."
+
+Runeck's gaze was fixed yet more intently and gravely upon the young
+man, and there was restrained emotion in his features and his voice,
+when he asked:
+
+"So Dr. Hagenbach dreads excitement for you, does he? To be sure, you
+did have a hemorrhage that time----"
+
+"Dear me, Egbert! that was two years ago, and every trace of it has
+disappeared," interrupted Eric impatiently. "The only thing is,
+Odensburg does not agree with me, any more than it does with Cecile,
+who can never feel at home here. She is made for joy and sunshine, that
+is the element in which, alone, she can thrive; here, where all hinges
+upon labor and duty, where my father's stern eyes hold her spellbound,
+as it were, she cannot be herself. If you knew what a change has been
+wrought in my Cecile, who sparkled with life and exuberant spirits, who
+was so captivating even in her caprices! How pale and quiet she has
+grown in these last weeks, how strangely altered in her whole nature.
+Many a time I am afraid that something quite different lies at the
+bottom of it. If she repents of having plighted her troth to me,
+if--ah, I see specters everywhere!"
+
+"But, Eric, I beseech you," remarked Runeck soothingly. "Is this the
+way you follow the prescription of the doctor? You are stirring
+yourself up in a manner wholly unnecessary."
+
+"No, no!" cried the young man passionately. "I see and feel that Cecile
+is concealing something from me--day before yesterday she betrayed
+herself. I spoke of our wedding-trip,--of Italy, when she suddenly
+burst out with: 'Yes, let us be gone, Eric, wherever you will, only
+far, far away from this place! I can stand it no longer!' What cannot
+she stand? She would not let me question her on the subject, but it
+sounded like a shriek of despair."
+
+Carried out of himself he sprang to his feet. Egbert, too, got up,
+managing as he did so, accidentally as it were, to step out of the
+bright sunshine, that poured in through the window, into the shade. "Do
+you love your betrothed much?" asked he slowly with marked emphasis.
+
+"Do I love her!" Eric's pale face reddened and his eyes beamed with the
+tenderest enthusiasm.
+
+"You have never loved, Egbert, else you could not ask such a question.
+If Cecilia had rejected me that time, when I courted her, I might have
+stood it. If I had to lose her now--it would kill me!"
+
+Egbert was silent. He stood with his face half-averted, his features
+still working from the intensity of the emotions that were warring
+within. At those last words, however, he drew himself up, advanced to
+his friend and laid his hand upon his arm.
+
+"You are not to lose her, Eric," said he firmly, although with
+quivering lips. "You will live and be happy!"
+
+"Do you know that so surely?" asked Eric, looking up in surprise. "Why,
+you talk as if you held the keys to life and death."
+
+"Then take it as a prophecy, which will be fulfilled to you.--But I
+must go, I only came to bid you farewell, for my course at Radefeld has
+come to an end sooner than I had supposed."
+
+"So much the better, for then you can come back to Odensburg, and we
+shall see each other frequently enough, I hope, before I leave."
+
+"I am just on my way now to talk with your father about it."
+
+"You are an enviable fellow!" said Eric with a sigh. "Ever forward,
+ever upward to new aims, without allowing yourself a moment's repose!
+Hardly is one task over, when you are as busy as ever carving out new
+ones. What sort of plans are these, pray?"
+
+"You will hear about them better from your father, now you are in no
+mood for it. Then--farewell, Eric!"
+
+With emotion that struggled for utterance, he offered him his hand,
+which Eric took with no sign of embarrassment.
+
+"You do not mean this as a farewell for any length of time. You will be
+at Radefeld for a while yet?"
+
+"Of course, meanwhile I may leave there very shortly, and who knows
+where I may have pitched my tent, by the time you come back from Italy,
+in the spring?"
+
+"But then we'll see each other once more at my wedding!" remarked Eric.
+
+"If it is possible for me----"
+
+"It must be possible for you, I'll not let you go until you have
+promised me that. You will come under all circumstances, Egbert, do you
+hear? And now I must let you go, for I see that the ground burns under
+your feet. Good-bye, then--to meet again soon!"
+
+"Yes--farewell, Eric!"
+
+It was a vehement, almost convulsive pressure, with which Runeck
+clasped his old friend's hand, then he turned off hurriedly and left
+the room, as though he dreaded being detained. Not until he was on the
+pathway out of doors did he stand still, when, drawing a long breath,
+he murmured to himself:
+
+"That should be overcome! He is right, it would kill him.--No, Eric,
+you are not to die, not through me! _That_ is what I will not take upon
+myself."
+
+As usual, about this time, Dernburg was found in his office. He looked
+grave and troubled, while he listened to Dr. Hagenbach who sat opposite
+to him. Oscar von Wildenrod was likewise present, but he with folded
+arms leaned against the window-frame, without taking any part in the
+conversation, the course of which, however, he followed with breathless
+attention.
+
+"You give yourself too much solicitude," said the physician in a
+soothing tone, although his air was not exactly one calculated
+to inspire confidence. "Here Eric is still suffering from the
+after-effects of our harsh spring. He should have stayed longer in the
+South and then selected some half-way station; the abrupt change of
+climates has been injurious to him. Meanwhile, he must now return to
+Italy, and I have just been talking with him, persuading him to spend
+the winter there. He would prefer Rome, on account of his young wife.
+But I am for Sorrento, or if it must be a larger city than that,
+Palermo."
+
+Dernburg's brow darkened yet more at these last words, and with hardly
+concealed displeasure he asked,
+
+"Do you regard it as absolutely necessary for Eric to spend the whole
+winter away? I had hoped that he would bring his wife back to spend
+Christmas with us."
+
+"No, Herr Dernburg, that will not do for this time," answered Hagenbach
+with decision. "That would be to stake everything that we won last
+winter."
+
+"And what have we won? A half cure, that is questionable after the
+lapse of a few months. Be candid, Doctor. You believe that my son, in
+general, cannot stand this climate."
+
+"Provisionally it would certainly be necessary----"
+
+"Nothing about provisionally; I want to know the truth, the whole
+truth! Do you think that it is at all likely, that Eric can live
+constantly at Odensburg, that he can be my co-worker, my successor some
+day, as I hoped when he returned last spring, apparently cured?"
+
+His eye hung in agonized suspense upon the doctor's lips, and
+Wildenrod's gaze was just as intent, as he now emerged from the
+window-niche.
+
+Hagenbach was slow in answering; it seemed to cost him a great effort.
+At last he said earnestly:
+
+"No, Herr Dernburg--since you desire to know the truth--as things are
+now, a permanent sojourn in the South is a condition of life with your
+son. He can come to Odensburg, for a few months in summer, but he can
+never stand another winter in our mountains, no more than he can the
+fatigues of an active calling. This is my firm conviction, and any of
+my colleagues will indorse my opinion."
+
+Wildenrod made an involuntary movement when he heard this sentence
+pronounced so positively. Dernburg was silent; he only supported his
+head upon his hand, but it was easy to see what a heavy blow was
+inflicted upon him, by the doctor's outspoken opinion, although he must
+have had a foreboding of what it would be.
+
+"That means, then, that I must bid farewell to all the plans that I
+have been cherishing so long," said he softly. "I hoped against
+hope--nevertheless, Eric is my only son. I want his life preserved,
+even though my dearest hopes be buried thereby. Let him, then,
+establish a home somewhere in the South, and limit his activity to
+building and adorning it--I can afford it."
+
+A heavy, half-suppressed sigh betrayed what this resolve cost him. Then
+he turned to the physician and offered him his hand.
+
+"I thank you for your candor, Doctor. Although the truth be bitter, I
+must accommodate myself to it. Let us speak more particularly of it
+another time!"
+
+Hagenbach took his leave. For a few minutes silence prevailed in the
+room, then Wildenrod asked in a subdued voice: "Did that sentence
+surprise you? It did not me, I have long feared something of the sort.
+If Eric only soundly recovers, then, I hope, you and he will both find
+the separation a lighter trial than you apprehend."
+
+"Eric will find it very light," said Dernburg, with swelling
+bitterness. "He has always dreaded assuming the position in life to
+which he was born. He shrank back before this mighty, restless
+enterprise, of which he was to be master and leader, with all its
+duties and responsibilities. He will far rather sit on the shore of the
+blue Mediterranean, making plans for his villa, and be glad if nothing
+disturbs him in his dreamy repose. And I am left alone here; forced,
+one day, to leave my Odensburg, my life-work, to pass into the hands of
+strangers. It is hard!"
+
+"Must you really do that?" asked Oscar significantly, drawing nearer as
+he spoke. "You have still a daughter who can give you a second son, but
+you persistently refuse to the man of her choice the rights of a son."
+
+Dernburg made a gesture expressive of his repugnance to the thought
+suggested.
+
+"Let that be! Not now----"
+
+"Just now, at this hour, I would like to speak to you. You have taken
+my wooing of Maia in a manner that I have neither expected nor
+deserved. You almost reproached me for it as if I had committed a
+crime."
+
+"It is a crime, too, Herr von Wildenrod. You should not have spoken of
+love to a sixteen-year-old child, and bound her to you by the
+confession of your passion, without being sure of her father's consent.
+One pardons a youth for being carried away by the feelings of the
+moment, but not a man of your years."
+
+"And yet, this moment has given me the highest happiness of my life,"
+cried Oscar, ecstatically, "the certainty that Maia loves me. She must
+have repeated this confession to you--we both hoped for a father's
+blessing. Instead of this we are condemned to an endless probation. You
+have banished Maia from Odensburg, depriving yourself of her sweet
+presence, only to withdraw her from my neighborhood----"
+
+"And what else was I to do?" asked Dernburg. "After your premature
+declaration, unembarrassed daily intercourse was no longer possible, if
+I did not agree to the engagement."
+
+"Then do so now! Maia's heart belongs to me, neither time nor
+separation is going to alter that, rest assured, and I love her more
+than I can tell. You have to let your son go to a foreign land--well,
+then, let me step into his place! I have learned to love your
+Odensburg, and bring to it the unbroken energies of a man who is weary
+of his aimless existence and would like to begin a new life. Will you
+refuse me this, only because two decades divide me and her whom I
+love?"
+
+He spoke with passionate entreaty, and could not have selected a better
+time than this hour in which the man, who sat there with darkly clouded
+brow, had seen shattered all the hopes which he had built upon his son
+and upon that other, whom he had, one day, wanted to see by the side of
+his weak and dependent heir--that plan, too, had been wrecked, since he
+knew, that Maia's heart was preoccupied. He need not be separated from
+his darling child if she became Wildenrod's wife, and he with his
+determined, strongly-marked character, offered him indemnity for all
+that he had lost. The choice was indeed not difficult.
+
+"That is a serious, pregnant decision, Herr von Wildenrod," said
+Dernburg, whom this proposition surprised less than Oscar would have
+supposed. "If you really could adapt yourself to so complete a reversal
+of your former mode of life--it is no light task that awaits you, and
+perhaps the only reason that it has a charm for you is, because it is
+new and strange to you. You are unaccustomed to any kind of systematic
+business----"
+
+"But I shall learn method," interposed Wildenrod. "You have often
+called me your assistant in jest, be you now in earnest my instructor
+and guide. You shall have no cause to be ashamed of your scholar! I
+have at last come to the conclusion that one must be useful and
+industrious in order to be happy. And now, pray, grant my request: you
+have allowed Eric to be happy in his own way, will you refuse Maia and
+me the same?"
+
+"We shall see," returned Dernburg, but his tone showed that his point
+was half-conceded. "Eric's wedding will come off in three weeks, then
+Maia returns to Odensburg and----"
+
+"Then I may ask for my bride," impetuously exclaimed Oscar. "Oh, thank
+you, we both thank our stern but good father."
+
+A passing smile illumined Dernburg's brow, and although he had not yet
+given his consent, he did not refuse the expression of gratitude.
+
+"But enough of that now, Oscar," said he, for the first time using the
+familiar form of address. "Else with your impetuosity you will force
+everything possible from me, and I have other business to attend to.
+Egbert ought to be here by this time; he comes in from Radefeld to day
+to report to me."
+
+The radiant expression vanished from Wildenrod's features, and gave
+place, for an instant, to a slightly scornful smile; then, with seeming
+indifference he threw out this hint: "Herr Runeck is very much
+engrossed in another direction, at present. He bestirs himself in his
+party's service at every nook and corner."
+
+"Yes, indeed," responded Dernburg quietly, without appearing to notice
+the insinuation implied. "The socialists begin to feel their own
+importance and their combs swell visibly. They even seem to want to put
+up a candidate of their own in our electoral district--for the first
+time."
+
+"So it is said at all events. Do you know whom they have in view for
+it?"
+
+"Not yet, but I suppose that it will be Landsfeld, who acts the leader
+upon all occasions. To be sure he is nothing but an agitator, his
+affair being merely to bluster, and hound others on. He is not fit for
+the Reichstag, and that party usually know their men pretty thoroughly.
+But the question in hand is, in general, only to test their power. The
+men are not seriously thinking of disputing my right to a seat."
+
+"Is that your belief?" The Baron's eye rested with a peculiar
+expression upon the face of the speaker. "Well, perhaps, Herr Runeck
+can supply you with some more exact information on the subject."
+
+Dernburg impatiently shrugged his shoulders. "Egbert will certainly be
+obliged to make up his mind now, that he knows as well as I do. If he
+votes with his party, in this case it is to go against me, and he and I
+part."
+
+"He has already decided," said Wildenrod coldly. "You do not yet know
+the name of the opposing candidate?--Well, I know it. It touches you
+and Odensburg tolerably close--it is Egbert Runeck."
+
+Dernburg started as though he had been struck; for a few seconds he
+stared hard at the Baron, as though he believed he were not in his
+right senses, but then he declared shortly and concisely: "That is not
+true."
+
+"I beg pardon, I have it from the best authority."
+
+"It is not true, I tell you! You have been falsely informed--must have
+been."
+
+"Hardly, but it can soon be settled, since you are expecting Runeck."
+
+Dernburg started up and began to pace the floor in the greatest
+excitement, but let him consider the matter as he would, it appeared to
+him as incredible as at the first moment.
+
+"Folly! Egbert is not going to act in such a farce. He knows that he
+must oppose me, and enter the lists against his old friend."
+
+"Do you believe that will hinder him?" asked Oscar mockingly. "Herr
+Runeck, at all events, stands high above all those old prejudices of
+gratitude and dependence, and who knows whether his election is so
+hopeless? For months past he has been out at Radefeld, withdrawn from
+observation, and had a few hundred workmen at his disposal. He will, at
+all events, have secured their votes, and each individual ensures him
+ten, nay, twenty votes among his comrades here at Odensburg. He has
+made good use of his time, you may depend."
+
+Dernburg gave no answer, but his step grew ever more hurried, his mien
+more threatening, while Wildenrod continued:
+
+"And this is the man upon whom you have showered benefits! He has to
+thank you for his education, his culture,--all that he is. You gave him
+a position that is envied by all the officers, and he makes use of it
+to secretly undermine your authority and to strike a blow at you here,
+with the votes of your own men."
+
+"Do you deem that possible?" asked Dernburg with sharpness. "I think we
+need give ourselves no anxiety on that score."
+
+"I hope not, but it will at least be attempted, and that is enough. Up
+to this time Runeck has very wisely been silent, although he must have
+known for months what was in agitation. This will finally open your
+eyes to your favorite, or do you still disbelieve my report?"
+
+"I do. As for the rest Egbert will explain matters to me."
+
+"Because he must! It will be an evil hour for you too, for I see how
+the bare possibility excites you, and yet----"
+
+"Go, Oscar!" enjoined Dernburg, frowning. "Egbert may come any minute,
+and whatever may be the issue of the interview, I want to talk with him
+alone."
+
+He held out his hand to the Baron, who took his departure; a proud
+passionate pride of victory flashed from his eyes, as the latter
+crossed the next room. Finally he had set foot upon the ground, where
+his ambition hailed him as future master, sole master, when the present
+ruler of Odensburg should close his eyes. Eric voluntarily vacated the
+field to him, if he took his wife to live in a foreign country and
+became completely estranged from his native place. Now they were to be
+realized--those proud dreams of power and wealth, beside them blooming
+a sweet joy unknown before. A little while longer, and the goal so
+ardently thirsted after would be attained and the past be blotted
+out--buried!
+
+Wildenrod was just entering the front hall, when the door to this
+opened and Egbert Runeck confronted him. Involuntarily he retreated a
+step; Runeck, too, started and then stood still. He saw that the Baron
+wanted to pass him, but he tarried upon the threshold as though he
+would obstruct his passage. For a few seconds they stood thus regarding
+one another, when Oscar asked sharply:
+
+"Have you anything to say to me, Herr Runeck?"
+
+"For the present--no," answered Egbert coldly. "Later, perhaps."
+
+"It is questionable, though, whether I shall then have time and
+inclination to listen to you."
+
+"I believe you will have time, Herr von Wildenrod."
+
+The glances of the two men crossed, one sparkling with fierce and
+deadly hatred, the other full of dark threatening; then said Oscar
+haughtily:
+
+"Meanwhile may I desire you to move aside? You see that I want to go
+out."
+
+Runeck slowly retired and left the doorway clear. Wildenrod passed him
+by, and again there played around his lips that mocking, triumphant
+smile. Now he no longer dreaded the danger that had hitherto hung over
+his head like a thunder-cloud. If his adversary now spoke, he would no
+longer find an auditor. The "evil hour" preparing for him in yonder
+must forever annihilate his foe.
+
+
+
+
+                             CHAPTER XIII.
+
+                        RUNECK LEAVES ODENSBURG.
+
+
+When Runeck entered his chief's work-room, he found him at his desk,
+and there was nothing unusual in the manner of his reception and the
+way in which his salutation was returned. Not until he took out a
+portfolio and opened it did Dernburg say:
+
+"Let that be, you can report to me later; for now I must talk with you
+about something more important."
+
+"I should like to have your attention for a few minutes, beforehand, if
+you please," said Egbert, taking a number of papers from the portfolio.
+"The works at Radefeld are almost finished, the Buchberg is tunneled,
+and the whole water-power of the estate available for Odensburg. Here
+are the plans and the drawings; the only thing to do now is to conduct
+the supply to the works, and this can be done by some one else if I
+withdraw."
+
+"Withdraw? What does that mean? That you will not carry the works on to
+completion?"
+
+"No. I have come to--to beg my dismissal."
+
+The words sounded low, and were evidently hard to utter, and the young
+engineer avoided looking at his superior. The latter gave no sign of
+surprise. He leaned back in his chair and crossed his arms.
+
+"That, indeed! Well, you must know what you have to do. If you really
+want to go, I shall not detain you. But I believed that you would at
+least complete the work you had undertaken. It has not otherwise been
+your way to half do things."
+
+"I am going for that very reason. The voice of another duty calls me,
+that I must obey."
+
+"And which makes it impossible for you to remain at Odensburg?"
+
+"Yes!"
+
+An infinitely bitter expression flitted across Dernburg's features.
+Here was the confirmation of that which he had not wanted to believe;
+there was hardly any need to put the question.
+
+"You mean the approaching elections?" said he with freezing calmness.
+"It is said that the Socialists are going to put up a candidate of
+their own for our district, and you, I suppose, are determined to vote
+for him. In that case, I can well understand how you should ask for
+your discharge. Neither the confidential position that you hold at
+Radefeld, nor your relations to me and my family comport with such a
+step as that. There is no deceiving of ourselves into imagining that
+the antagonism here is against any one but myself."
+
+Egbert stood there speechless, his eyes fixed on the ground. One could
+see how hard it was for him to make a confession, which was not
+lightened for him by word or hint. But suddenly he straightened himself
+up with determination stamped upon his face.
+
+"Herr Dernburg, I have a disclosure to make to you, which you will
+misinterpret, but which you must hear nevertheless. The candidate whom
+my party has nominated is--I."
+
+"Do you actually demean yourself so far as to make me such a
+communication?" asked Dernburg slowly. "I hardly believed it. The
+surprise intended would have been more complete, if I had learned it
+through the newspapers."
+
+"What, you know already----" exclaimed Egbert.
+
+"What you have found good to hide from me until today. Yes, I knew it
+and wish you good luck in your schemes. You are not timid, with your
+eight-and-twenty years; you already boldly grasp at an honor which I
+first felt to be my due after the toil of a lifetime. You have barely
+left apprentice-years behind you, and already allow yourself to be
+lifted upon the shield, as tribune of the people. Well, good luck to
+you!"
+
+Listening to the bitter sarcasm of this speech, Runeck's complexion
+changed rapidly, the color coming and going, while his voice had not
+its wonted firmness, when he replied:
+
+"I have feared that you would take such a view of the matter, and this
+makes yet more painful the position into which I have been forced by
+the action of my party. I resisted to the last moment, but at last
+they----"
+
+"Forced you, did they?" interrupted Dernburg with a bitter laugh, "of
+course you are nothing but a victim to your convictions. I foresaw that
+you would screen yourself thus. Give yourself no trouble, I
+understand."
+
+"I speak truth, I think, you know that," said Egbert, solemnly.
+
+Dernburg got up and stood close in front of him.
+
+"Why did you come back to Odensburg, if you knew that the difference
+between us was an irreconcilable one? You did not need the position
+that I offered you. The whole world stood open to you. Yet why do I
+ask? The thing was to prepare for the contest with me; to undermine the
+ground upon which I stand; to betray me first on my own soil, and then
+strike----"
+
+"No, I did not do that!" impetuously declared Runeck. "When I came
+here, nobody dreamed of the possibility of my election, and I least of
+all. Landsfeld was alone in our eye. This plan did not loom up until
+last month, and culminated only within the last few days, despite my
+opposition. I durst not speak sooner, because it was a party-secret."
+
+"Really! Well, the calculation is very cleverly made. Neither Landsfeld
+nor any other person would have had the least prospect of success.
+Where the matter in hand was to unseat me the plan would have been
+wrecked at the very outset. You are the son of a workman, have grown up
+among my people, gone forth from among their midst, and, in short, they
+are all proud of you. If you make it clear to them that I am, at
+bottom, a tyrant, who has been oppressing them and consuming all their
+substance all these years, if you promise them a return of the golden
+age--it takes hold upon and leads the people astray--you they will
+believe, perhaps; doubtless you are a distinguished orator. If the man,
+who has been treated almost like my own son, puts himself at their
+head, to lead them into battle against me, then their cause must be the
+right one, then they will swear by it."
+
+These were almost the identical words which the young engineer had
+heard months ago from the mouth of Landsfeld, and his eyes fell before
+the piercing looks of Dernburg, who now drew himself up to his full
+height, as he continued:
+
+"But we are not at that point yet. It still remains to be seen if my
+workmen have forgotten that I have labored with them and cared for them
+these thirty years, if a bond that has been forging for a whole
+generation is so easily broken. Try it. If any one can succeed, it will
+be you. You have been trained in my school and mayhap have learned how
+to strike down the old master."
+
+Egbert had turned pale as death; upon his features was mirrored the
+conflict that was raging within his soul. But now he slowly raised his
+eyes.
+
+"You condemn me, and yet, if put in my place, would perhaps not act
+differently. I have often enough heard from your own mouth that
+discipline is the first and highest law of every great undertaking. I
+have bowed and must bow to this iron law--what it has cost me, nobody
+but myself knows."
+
+"I ask obedience from my men," said Dernburg coldly. "I do not compel
+them to commit treason."
+
+Egbert writhed, and a glance almost threatening flashed from his eyes.
+
+"Herr Dernburg, I can take much from you, especially in this hour; but
+that word--that word I cannot bear."
+
+"You will have to bear it. What have you done out yonder at Radefeld?"
+
+"What I can answer for, to you and myself."
+
+"Then you have performed your task poorly and they will have their
+revenge upon you. Yet, why bring up the past? The question is about the
+present. You are the candidate of your party, then, and have accepted
+the nomination?"
+
+"Since it is a party measure--yes! I must submit to it."
+
+"You _must_!" repeated Dernburg with bitter scorn. "That is every third
+word with you, now; formerly you were a stranger to it. Then it was
+only you would. You deemed me a tyrant, because I would not forthwith
+adopt your sublunary ideas about the welfare of the people, and
+rejected this hand, that would have guided you. You wanted your course
+in life to be unimpeded. And, lo! now you bow your neck to a yoke, that
+enchains your whole being, forcing you to break with all that is dear
+to you, that lowers you even down to treachery--do not flare up so,
+Egbert, it is so! You should not have come back to Odensburg, if you
+had known that such an hour as the present must come. You should not
+have remained when you learned that they would force you to heed the
+opposition against me--but you did come back, and stayed because they
+bade you do it. Call it what you like, I call it treachery! And now go,
+we are done with one another!"
+
+He turned off. Egbert, however, did not obey, but drew nearer, yielding
+to an irresistible impulse.
+
+"Herr Dernburg--do not let me go thus! I cannot part from you in this
+way--you have been like a father to me!"
+
+There was in this outbreak of long-pent-up anguish, an intensity of
+grief that was truly appalling in one usually so self-contained as
+Runeck, but the sorely provoked man, who stood before him did not, or
+would not, see it, but drew back; and his whole attitude and manner
+were expressive of repulse, when he said:
+
+"And the son lifts his hand against the 'father.' Yes, I would gladly
+have called you son--you above every one else in the world; I showed it
+to you, too, plainly enough. You might have been lord of Odensburg. See
+if your comrades will thank you for the immense sacrifice which you
+have made for their sakes. And now this is all over--go!"
+
+Egbert was effectually silenced; he made no further attempt at
+reconciliation, slowly he turned to go; only one last agonized glance
+he sent back from the threshold, then the door closed behind him.
+
+Dernburg threw himself back in a chair and put his hands over his eyes.
+Of all the trials that had come down upon him to-day, like an
+avalanche, this was the heaviest. In Egbert he had admired the brave,
+strong spirit, so like his own, that he had wanted to bind to himself
+for the rest of his life, and now it seemed to him that in parting from
+this young man, the best part of his own power and his own life had
+also taken their departure, never to return.
+
+With heavy heart Runeck hurried through the entrance-hall, rushing
+along as though the ground burned beneath his feet. It was plain how
+much this hour had cost him, the hour in which he had torn loose from
+all that was dear to him, how dear, he now felt fully for the first
+time when he had lost it. "You might have been lord of Odensburg!" In
+that one sentence lay the greatness of the sacrifice, which he had
+offered up--and offered up to whom?
+
+It had been long since he had felt any of that joyful enthusiasm which
+neither asks questions nor doubts. However, to resolve and act were no
+longer left to his free choice; it was no longer for him to will--he
+must.
+
+Just then there was heard, quite close to him, the rustling of a
+woman's silk skirt: he looked up and found himself face to face with
+Baroness Wildenrod. For one instant he stood as it were, transfixed,
+then was about to pass by with a profound bow. But Cecilia stepped
+close up to him and said, in a low tone:
+
+"Herr Runeck!"
+
+"Gnädiges Fräulein?"
+
+"I must speak to you."
+
+"Me?" Egbert thought that he could not have heard aright, but she
+repeated in the same tone:
+
+"Speak with you alone--please let me!"
+
+"I am yours to command."
+
+She took the precedence, he following her into the parlor. There was
+nobody there, and even if any one had appeared, the meeting might have
+passed for an accidental one. Cecilia had stepped up to the fireplace,
+as though she wanted to take refuge from the sunshine, which poured in
+its bright golden rays, through the lofty windows. A few minutes passed
+ere she spoke. Runeck, too, was silent; his eyes scanning her
+countenance, which was so entirely different from what it had appeared
+earlier.
+
+Eric was right; the radiantly beautiful creature that he had brought
+home as his promised bride had strangely altered. She was no longer the
+gay, captivating girl, whose whole being sparkled with high spirits and
+the joy of existence. A pale, trembling girl leaned against the marble
+pillars upon which rested the mantelpiece, with downcast eyes, a
+painfully drawn look about the mouth, and she sought after words that
+_would_ not cross her lips.
+
+"I wanted to write to you, Herr Runeck," she finally began. "Then I
+heard to-day that you were in the Manor-house, and determined to speak
+to you in person. There is need of an explanation between us."
+
+She paused, seeming to expect an answer, but as Egbert only bowed in
+silence, she continued with visible effort: "I must recall to your mind
+our interview on the Whitestone; you will have forgotten it as little
+as I have forgotten the words, the threats which you hurled at me. They
+were darkly mysterious to me at the time and are still so, even now;
+but, from that hour, I have known you to be the implacable foe of my
+brother and myself----"
+
+"Not of you, Baroness!" exclaimed Egbert. "I had been in grievous
+error, which was explained away at that time. I begged your pardon,
+which, however, you would not grant. My words like my threats had
+reference to another."
+
+Cecilia lifted her eyes to him, and the deprecatory look in them was
+touching to behold.
+
+"But that other is my brother, and what touches him touches me as well.
+If you ever confront him as you did me that time, the issue will be a
+bloody, a horrible one. For weeks I have been trembling at the thought
+of it, and now I can stand it no longer. I must have certainty,--what
+do you intend to do?"
+
+"Does Herr von Wildenrod know of that scene on the Whitestone?" asked
+Egbert with strong emphasis.
+
+"Yes!" This word was well-nigh inaudible.
+
+Runeck asked no farther. In the first place, he had no need to hear
+what Wildenrod's answer had been, it was written clearly enough in
+Cecilia's distressed looks, and he spared her the painful question.
+
+"Compose yourself," said he earnestly. "The meeting which you fear will
+not take place, for to-morrow morning I quit Radefeld and Odensburg.
+And inasmuch as you are going to the South with Eric, Herr von
+Wildenrod will have no further occasion nor pretext for remaining
+longer after your marriage. That will rid me of the necessity for
+meeting him in a hostile manner. But that there is no need to protect
+Odensburg and the Dernburg family against you, I well know now."
+
+He little suspected what a blow these words inflicted upon Cecilia.
+She knew Oscar's vaulting schemes, she knew that through her betrothal,
+he had only paved the way for the accomplishment of his own aims, that
+the knot between him and Maia, would, sooner or later, be tied, and
+make him master of Odensburg; but she kept her lips tightly closed,
+closed although fully conscious of the wrong that she committed, in
+order that the specter of dread which had just been exorcised, should
+not again be called up, to haunt her again with new terrors.
+
+It was still as death through the length and breadth of that vast
+apartment, only the monotonous ticking of the great standing-clock made
+itself heard, marking the flight of seconds, of minutes--how fast they
+did fly in that farewell hour!
+
+Then Egbert drew one step nearer, and with a peculiarly vibrant sound
+in his voice said:
+
+"I did you great injustice, with those unsparing words of mine, so
+great that you cannot forgive me. I had to believe that you stood, with
+open eyes, in the midst of the relations that encircled you; how could
+I imagine that they had left you in perfect ignorance? Will you, in
+spite of all that has happened, hear from me, one last entreaty, one
+warning?"
+
+The young girl silently nodded her head in the affirmative.
+
+"Your marriage sunders all such connections, and frees you from your
+brother's control--then free yourself from his influence, at any price!
+Let him no longer have any power over your future life, for it is
+unwholesome and brings destruction. What I only suspected formerly, I
+now know for a certainty. The Baron's path leads to an abyss--who can
+say where it will end?"
+
+Cecilia shuddered at these last words. She thought of Oscar's dark
+threat, when she refused to stay at Odensburg, and the image of her
+dead father loomed up before her.
+
+"No farther, Herr Runeck," said she, forcibly recovering her
+self-control. "You are talking of my brother!
+
+"Yes, of your brother," repeated he, with marked emphasis. "And you
+have nothing to say in refutation of my charge. You know then----"
+
+"I know nothing, _will_ know nothing--Oh! my God, have pity on me!"
+
+She clasped both hands before her face, and tottered, as though she
+would fall. The same instant Egbert was already at her side, supporting
+her; just as that time on the Whitestone, the beautiful, fair head,
+with closed eyes, lay upon his shoulder.
+
+"Cecilia!"
+
+It was only a single word, but it escaped Egbert's lips in the fervent
+tone of passion, and at its sound, the large dark eyes opened and met
+his. For a second their looks mingled--rather an eternity. With loud,
+clear strokes, the clock told the midday hour. Egbert let his arm drop
+and drew himself up erect.
+
+"Make Eric happy!" said he, with difficulty, in a hollow tone:
+"Farewell, Cecilia!"
+
+In the next minute he had left the room, and Cecilia, pressing her hot
+brow against the cold marble of the mantel-piece, wept and wept, as
+though her heart would break.
+
+
+
+
+                              CHAPTER XIV.
+
+                    HOW AN OLD BACHELOR MAKES LOVE.
+
+
+The dwellings of the numerous officials attached to Odensburg, formed
+quite a little town of themselves; there also was Dr. Hagenbach's
+house, a small villa, in the Swiss style. It had evidently been built
+for a larger family, but this elderly bachelor had not thought of
+marrying, and had been living alone here for years, with an old
+housekeeper, to whom was now added his nephew. As physician in chief of
+Odensburg, Hagenbach's professional services were constantly in
+requisition, but he also frequently had calls from abroad.
+
+To-day, for instance, there sat in his office a patient from abroad,
+who, to be sure, did not look at all like a sick man. The man was about
+forty years old, and very rotund in person, his hands were folded over
+a very capacious paunch and his eyes almost disappeared behind full,
+puffy, red cheeks. Nevertheless he had a long tale of miseries to
+relate, counting up a whole list of ailments, until Hagenbach abruptly
+cut him short in the midst of it.
+
+"Oh, I know all that you are telling me, by heart, Herr Willmann. I
+have already told you for the last time, that you take too good care of
+Number One. If you will not be moderate in eating and drinking, and
+take no exercise, the remedies that I have prescribed for you cannot
+take effect."
+
+"Be moderate?" repeated Willmann in a soft, melancholy tone. "Dear me!
+Doctor, I am moderation itself. But a hotel-keeper, alas! is in that
+particular a victim of his calling. I must occasionally sit with my
+guests, chatting and drinking--it brings business, you know, and----"
+
+"You take upon yourself this martyrdom with wonderful self-denial. For
+all that I care--but then you have given up wanting any help from me, I
+perceive. I do not care at all to have outside practice; I have my
+hands full here at Odensburg. Why do you not consult my colleague, who
+has a great deal more time?"
+
+"Because I have no faith in him," said Herr Willmann solemnly, without
+looking the least disconcerted by this harsh declaration. "There is
+something about you, Doctor, that inspires a body with confidence."
+
+"Yes, thank God, I throw in the needful grains of rudeness," answered
+Hagenbach with composure of soul. "Then people always have confidence
+in you. You will take my prescriptions, then? Yes or no?"
+
+"Dear me, I submit to you in every particular. If you knew what I have
+stood these last days--those terrible pains in the stomach----"
+
+"For which those good meats and soups are to blame," interposed the
+doctor in cold blood.
+
+"And that want of breath, that dizziness in my head----"
+
+"Comes from the beer, to which you daily treat yourself, your own most
+regular customer. If you omit the beer, and limit your meals to what is
+absolutely necessary to sustain life--" then he began to count off a
+list of remedies that almost drove Herr Willmann wild.
+
+"Why, Doctor, that is a veritable hunger-cure," lamented he. "It will
+put an end to me!"
+
+"Would you rather fall a victim to your calling?" asked Hagenbach. "It
+is all right; but there, go off and leave me in peace!"
+
+The patient sighed deeply and painfully. However, the doctor's
+faith-inspiring roughness must have won the victory over his love of
+good-living, for he folded his hands and looked up at the ceiling.
+
+"If there's no help for it--in God's name!" said he unctuously.
+
+The physician suddenly started, fastened a sharp glance upon him and
+then asked, wholly irrelevantly:
+
+"Have you a brother, Herr Willmann?"
+
+"No, I was the only child of my parents."
+
+"Singular! I was struck with a likeness, that is to say, not exactly a
+likeness--on the contrary, you have not a feature like the person I am
+referring to."
+
+Herr Willmann softly shook his head, in token that these dark words
+were unintelligible to him, while Hagenbach continued: "Can you tell me
+whether you have a relative who has been in Africa, in Egypt, in the
+Sahara or in some part of a desert in those parts?"
+
+Herr Willmann's full cheeks lost something of their rosy tint, and he
+fumbled in an embarrassed way with his gold watch-chain as he answered:
+"Yes--a cousin."
+
+"Was he a missionary?"
+
+"Yes, Doctor."
+
+"And then he died of fever?"
+
+"Yes, Doctor."
+
+"Was his name Engelbert?"
+
+"Yes----"
+
+"And what is your own name, pray?"
+
+"Pan--cra--tius," answered Willmann, drawling it out, while he still
+kept playing with his watch-chain.
+
+"A fine name! Well then, Herr Pancratius Willmann, in three weeks come
+again, and meanwhile, if I should be passing by the 'Golden Lamb' I'll
+give you a call to see how you are getting along. Adieu!"
+
+Willmann took his leave with mild thanks for the advice wasted on him,
+and Hagenbach was left alone.
+
+"The thing agrees," murmured he to himself. "He is a cousin, then, of
+that much lamented Engelbert, whose picture is draped in mourning. They
+both have that pious way of turning up their eyes; it seems to be a
+family-failing. Shall I tell her about it? I'll take good care not to!
+She would send for the dear kinsman on the spot, and then there would
+be a repetition of that tale of woe, and a fresh eulogium of eternal
+constancy. As for the rest, I must give Dagobert the prescription
+I promised, to take with him, as he is about to set out for the
+Manor-house."
+
+So saying he went across to his nephew's room, whom he was glad to
+find still in. The young man had already made his preparations for
+going out. His hat and gloves lay on the table beside a bulky blue
+note-book, but he himself stood before the looking-glass, carefully
+considering his own precious person. He tied his cravat straight, drew
+his fingers through his fair locks, and tried to give a bold air to his
+newly-budding mustache.
+
+Finally Dagobert seemed content with the appearance of his outer man:
+he retired a few steps, laid his hand most touchingly upon his heart,
+sighed profoundly, and then began to say something in a whisper that
+could not be heard by the doctor, who gazed upon the scene from the
+threshold of the door, with increasing astonishment.
+
+"Fellow, have you turned crazy?" asked he, in his gruff manner.
+
+Dagobert started and turned crimson from embarrassment.
+
+"I believe your brain is cracked, all of a sudden," continued his
+uncle, advancing nearer. "What is the meaning of these preparations?"
+
+"I--I am learning English words," declared Dagobert, the doctor,
+meanwhile, shaking his head suspiciously.
+
+"English words, with such heart-breaking sighs? That is a remarkable
+way to learn."
+
+"It was an English poem, that I was once more----Please, dear uncle,
+give it to me--those are my exercises!"
+
+Like a bird of prey Dagobert swooped upon the table, clutching at the
+blue pamphlet, but too late, the doctor had already opened it and begun
+to turn over its leaves.
+
+"Why so excited? You evidently need not be ashamed of your work and
+seem to have gotten tolerably far. Miss Friedberg, too, has given
+herself a great deal of trouble about you, and I hope you are grateful
+for it."
+
+"Yes, indeed, she has given herself trouble--I have given myself
+trouble--we have given ourselves trouble," stammered Dagobert, who,
+manifestly did not know what he was saying, for his eyes were directed
+in agony to the hand of his uncle, who turned over one page after the
+other, while he dryly remarked:
+
+"Well, if that is the way you are going to stammer out your thanks, she
+will not be greatly edified by them--yes, what is this, pray?"
+
+He had stumbled upon a page laid loosely in, at the sight of which his
+unhappy nephew was ready to expire.
+
+"'To Leonie!'" read Hagenbach aghast. "Here are verses!
+
+
+                "'Oh! be not angry if I fall
+                  A suppliant at thy feet----'
+
+
+"Oh! Oh, what does that mean?"
+
+Dagobert stood there like a surprised criminal, while the doctor read
+the poem through, which was nothing more nor less than a full
+declaration of love to the secretly adored preceptress, vowing that
+these feelings should last forever, with the most solemn of oaths.
+
+It was some while before Hagenbach could take in the idea, so monstrous
+did it seem to him. But when he finally apprehended the true
+significance of all this, a storm as of thunder and lightning burst
+forth upon Dagobert's devoted head. He patiently submitted to being
+lectured for a long while, but since it seemed as if the tempest was to
+know no end, he made an attempt at retort.
+
+"Uncle, I owe you gratitude," said he solemnly, "but when the question
+concerns the most sacred feelings of my heart, there is an end put to
+your power as to my obedience. Yes, I love Leonie, I worship her--and
+that is no crime."
+
+"But it is a folly!" cried the doctor, angrily, "a folly, such as has
+never been before! A youth who is just out of school, and not yet a
+student--and in love with a lady, who could be his mother. Such, then,
+were your 'English words'! It was a declaration of love, then, that you
+were studying before the looking-glass! Well, I shall open Miss
+Friedberg's eyes to the character of her pretty scholar, and you may be
+thankful to be out of the way when she learns the story. She will be
+indignant, infuriated."
+
+He grimly folded the fatal sheet together and put it in his pocket. The
+young man saw the verses that he had forged, in the sweat of his brow,
+disappear in the coat-pocket of his unfeeling relative, and the spirit
+of despair gave back to him his self-possession.
+
+"I am no longer a boy," declared he, smiting upon his breast. "You have
+no appreciation of the feelings that stir in a young man's bosom. Your
+heart has long since been dead. When the hoar-frost of age already
+covers your head----"
+
+He suddenly stopped and took refuge as speedily as possible behind the
+great arm-chair, for the doctor, who could not stand the allusions to
+his gray hair, advanced upon him threateningly.
+
+"I forbid such personalities!" cried he, raging. "Hoar-frost of age,
+forsooth? How old do you think I am? You are fancying that this old
+uncle will soon be departing this life, but I shall not think of such a
+thing for a long while to come, mark that! I am now going to Miss
+Friedberg with your scribbling, and meanwhile you can let the feelings
+in your youthful breast storm and bluster away; it will be quite a nice
+little entertainment!"
+
+"Uncle, you have no right to mock at my love," said Dagobert, somewhat
+dejectedly from behind his arm-chair--but the doctor was already
+outside the door, on his way to his sitting-room, whence he got his hat
+and cane.
+
+"Hoar-frost of old age!" growled he. "Silly fellow! I'll teach him
+whether my heart is dead or not! You are to be surprised!" And so
+saying, at a rapid pace he set off for the Manor-house.
+
+Leonie Friedberg sat at her desk, finishing a letter, when the doctor
+was announced; amazed she looked up:
+
+"What, is that you, Doctor? I was just looking for Dagobert, he is
+generally so punctual."
+
+"Dagobert is not coming to-day," answered Hagenbach shortly.
+
+"Why not? Is he unwell?"
+
+"No, but I have ordered him to stay at home--the accursed boy!"
+
+"You are too hard upon the young man. You always treat him as though he
+were still a boy, although he is twenty years old!"
+
+The doctor hardly listened to the fault found with him, but seated
+himself and continued wrathfully:
+
+"A wretched tale he has gotten up again. I ought not to tell you,
+properly, but spare you the vexation. However, there is no help for it,
+you must learn about it."
+
+"Heavens! What has happened?" asked Leonie, uneasily. "Nothing serious,
+I hope?"
+
+Hagenbach's looks certainly portended something serious, as he drew
+forth his nephew's poetic effusion from his coat-pocket, and handed it
+to the lady with the air of one bringing the worst of news.
+
+"Read, please!"
+
+Leonie began to read, conning the verse from beginning to end with an
+indescribable tranquillity, nay, a smile even quivered about her lips.
+The doctor, who waited in vain for an expression of indignation, saw
+himself, finally, compelled to come to the aid of her understanding.
+
+"It is a poem," he enlightened her.
+
+"So I perceive."
+
+"And it is addressed to you."
+
+"According to all probability, inasmuch as my name stands at the head."
+
+"Why, is that pleasant to you?" cried Hagenbach hotly. "You find it all
+right, do you, for him to fall at your feet--' that is the phrase used
+by the scribbler."
+
+Still smiling, Leonie shrugged her shoulders. "Let your nephew indulge
+his little romance; it is harmless enough. I really have no objection
+to it."
+
+"But I?" exclaimed the doctor. "If the simpleton manages a single time
+more to praise you in song, and lay at your feet the passionate
+emotions of his youthful breast, then----"
+
+"What is it to you?" asked Leonie, astonished at this vehement
+outbreak, for which, in her opinion, there was no ground.
+
+"What is it to me? Ah! that indeed--You do not know yet----" Hagenbach
+suddenly arose and stepped close in front of her.
+
+"Look at me for once, Miss Friedberg!"
+
+"I find nothing especially remarkable about you."
+
+"You are not expected to find anything remarkable about me, either,"
+said the doctor, quite hurt. "But I look quite passable, considering my
+years."
+
+"Certainly, Doctor."
+
+"I have a lucrative position, not an inconsiderable fortune, a pretty
+house--that is much too large for me by myself."
+
+"I do not doubt all this, but what is----"
+
+"And as to my roughness," continued Hagenbach, without heeding the
+interruption, "it is only outwardly so. In the main I am a regular
+lamb."
+
+Leonie looked very incredulous at this assertion and listened with
+increasing surprise.
+
+"All in all, a man with whom one might live happily," wound up the
+doctor with great self-complacency. "Do not you agree with me that this
+is so?"
+
+"Why, yes, but----"
+
+"Well, then say 'yes,' then the story is done."
+
+Leonie started from her chair and blushed crimson.
+
+"Doctor--what does this mean?"
+
+"What does it mean? Ah, yes, I have quite forgotten to make you a
+regular offer. But that will do to repeat. There, now--I offer you my
+hand and beg for your consent--let us shake hands on it!"
+
+He stretched out his hand, but the lady of his choice drew three steps
+back and said sharply: "You must take account of my surprise; I have
+really never deemed it possible that you could honor me with an offer."
+
+"You think so, because you have nerves!" said Hagenbach, quite
+unconcernedly. "Oh, that is nothing, I'll soon rid you of them, because
+I am a doctor."
+
+"I only regret that I shall give you no opportunity for this," was the
+cool response, that made the doctor open his eyes in astonishment.
+
+"Am I to consider this as a rejection?" asked he, dejectedly.
+
+"If you choose to call it so. At all events it is the answer to your
+offer put so respectfully and with such uncommon tenderness."
+
+The doctor's face lengthened considerably. He had, most assuredly, not
+deemed it necessary to impose a bridle upon his well-known bluntness,
+and to make any circumlocution in his courtship. He knew very well
+that, in spite of his years and his gray hairs, he was "a good match,"
+and that more than one lady of his acquaintance was ready to share his
+station in life and his property, and here where his offer was
+doubtless a great, hardly-dreamed-of, piece of good fortune for the
+portionless girl, he was unceremoniously discarded! He believed that he
+had not heard aright.
+
+"You actually then reject my offer?" he asked.
+
+"I regret to have to decline the honor destined for me."
+
+There ensued a brief pause. Hagenbach looked alternately upon Leonie
+and upon the desk, or rather the portrait over it, but then his
+restrained vexation got the better of him.
+
+"Why?" asked he brusquely.
+
+"That is my affair."
+
+"Excuse me, it is my affair, if I am discarded: I want, at least, to
+know wherefore."
+
+At every question put, he took one step forward, and at last made such
+demonstrations against the portrait, that Leonie planted herself in
+front of it, as if for a shield.
+
+"If you lay such great stress upon it," said she, suppressing her
+tears, "be it so, then. Yes, Engelbert was my betrothed, whom I shall
+eternally bewail. He stayed in the family as tutor where I was
+governess, our spirits were congenial and we plighted our troth."
+
+"That must have been very touching," growled Hagenbach, fortunately so
+softly that Leonie did not hear him; she continued with quavering
+voice:
+
+"Engelbert then went as traveling-companion to Egypt; there it came
+over him like a revelation, and he determined to devote the rest of his
+life to the conversion of the poor heathen. He magnanimously gave me
+back my word, which I would not accept, however, but declared myself
+ready to share with him his hard, self-sacrificing vocation. It was not
+to be! He wrote me once more before his departure for the interior of
+Africa, and then"--her voice broke into sobs--"then I heard nothing
+more of him."
+
+Hagenbach did not at all share in this grief; he rather felt an
+extraordinary satisfaction over it, viz., that the aforesaid betrothed
+lover and converter of the heathen was really dead and out of the way;
+but the narration mitigated his displeasure. It took away every
+insulting feature of the rejection. He fell into a reconcilable mood,
+that extended even to his rival.
+
+"Peace to his ashes!" said he. "But one day you will cease to bewail
+him, and not spend all your days grieving over him. That may have been
+the fashion in Werther's time, but at the end of the nineteenth century
+the betrothed sheds the usual tears over the departed lover, and then
+takes another one--if such an one, perchance, there be. In our case, he
+is here and repeats his offer. So, then, Leonie, will you have me? Yes
+or no?"
+
+"No!" said Leonie, drawing herself up indignantly. "If I did not know
+what I possessed in the tender, devoted love of my Engelbert, your
+courtship would show me. Perhaps you would not have approached any
+other lady in such an--unceremonious fashion, but the lonely, faded
+girl, the poor, dependent teacher, must esteem it great good luck if a
+'good support' is offered her. To what end use formalities? But I have
+too high a regard for matrimony to consider it only from this point of
+view. I would rather remain as I am, poor and dependent, than be the
+wife of a man, who, not even as a lover, thinks it worth his while to
+treat me with proper respect.--And now, Doctor, we may consider our
+interview as closed." She made him a bow and left the room.
+
+Hagenbach stood there, confounded, watching her disappearing figure.
+
+"That is what you call being lectured," said he. "And I have quietly
+submitted to it. As for the rest, she did not look bad in her
+excitement, with her crimsoned cheeks and flashing eyes. Humph! I
+didn't know how pretty she is.--Yes, these cursed bachelor-ways! One is
+utterly ruined by them."
+
+
+
+
+                              CHAPTER XV.
+
+                             A WEDDING DAY.
+
+
+At Odensburg, flags were flying, cannon being fired off from the
+surrounding heights, and triumphal arches, wreaths of evergreen, and
+flowers, everywhere greeted the young bridal-pair who had just
+returned, after the performance of the marriage-ceremony.
+
+The service had taken place in the somewhat remote church of Saint
+Eustace, where Dernburg, too, had once stood before the altar with his
+own bride. Now the wedding-procession came back, a long line of
+carriages, at the head of which drove the equipage of the newly-married
+couple.
+
+The works were silent to-day, as a matter of course, the workmen
+forming a lane all the way to the Manor-house, and the golden sunshine
+of this beautiful day in late summer enhanced the merriment and jollity
+that had taken possession of Odensburg to its utmost bounds upon this
+great occasion.
+
+Now the carriage drove through the grand triumphal arch, that made a
+gorgeous display with its banners and green wreaths, drawing up in
+front of the terrace. Eric lifted his bride out. The foot of that young
+woman trod literally on flowers, which had been scattered along her
+path in profusion. The entrance-hall was transformed into a garden
+blooming with sweet blossoms, and the entertaining-rooms, now thrown
+wide open for the reception of their new mistress, were likewise
+adorned.
+
+Dernburg followed, with his sister on his arm, his features betraying
+deep emotion, when he embraced his son and daughter-in-law. He had
+offered a costly sacrifice, when he consented to the separation and
+lasting abode of the young pair in the South, but the infinite rapture
+depicted upon Eric's face indemnified the father for it, in some
+measure. Then Dernburg's glance fell upon Maia, who now entered by
+Wildenrod's side. He surveyed the proud bearing and handsome appearance
+of the man, who seemed just fitted, one day, to be the presiding genius
+of Odensburg. He saw the sweet countenance of his darling equally
+illumined by the light of joy, and then the shadow passed away also
+from his own brow. Fate offered him full indemnity for what he had to
+give up.
+
+Maia flew into her brother's arms and then kissed her beautiful
+sister-in-law with the greatest tenderness. Oscar, too, embraced the
+young pair, but as he stooped down to Cecilia, he gave her a dark look,
+half-solicitous, half-threatening: and she must have felt this, too,
+for she slightly shuddered, and by a quick movement, extricated herself
+from his arms.
+
+Not much time was allowed, however, for family greetings, inasmuch as
+other carriages now drove up to the door, and the wedding-guests began
+to assemble. The newly-married pair were congratulated upon all sides
+and soon formed the center of the brilliant circle that had collected
+here. None of the prominent people in the neighborhood were missing,
+with the solitary exception of Count Eckardstein, who had declined the
+invitation.
+
+The young husband was inexpressibly happy. On this day, that had
+witnessed the fulfillment of his most ardent desires, his health also
+seemed to have been given back to him. He no longer looked sickly and
+broken. With flushed cheeks and sparkling eyes, he accepted, with
+smiles, the congratulations offered him, and exhibited a cheerfulness
+and animation, that visually did not belong to his nature. His eyes
+continually turned to her, who had just linked her destiny with his
+own, as though he could not exist a moment without beholding her loved
+face.
+
+And this admiration was pardonable enough. Cecilia looked radiantly
+beautiful in her bridal attire. The white satin gown, costly lace veil,
+and--Eric's present---the diamonds that sparkled on neck and arms,
+enhanced the peculiar charm of her appearance. Only her beautiful face
+looked strangely pale beneath her myrtle-crown. She too smiled and
+bowed, in acknowledgment of the congratulations that were spoken, and
+uttered the usual grateful speeches; but there was something forced and
+cold in that smile, and her voice was without ring. Fortunately this
+attracted nobody's attention, for the right to look pale and serious
+was allowed a bride.
+
+The director of the Odensburg works and Dr. Hagenbach, who were both
+among the guests, stood in a window, somewhat apart. The former had
+undertaken the superintendence of the festal arrangements, with which
+the employés meant to compliment the son of their chief upon his
+wedding-day. All had succeeded beyond their expectations,--the
+triumphal arches, the decoration of the road to the church, the
+delegations, and congratulatory addresses in prose and verse, which had
+been partly attended to the day before. The main thing, however, was
+yet to come--the grand holiday parade of the workmen themselves, who
+were just now forming into line out of doors. The director was mildly
+excited because his management had been called in question, and spoke
+in a low, and forcible manner to the doctor, who, however, listened
+abstractedly and often looked across at the young pair, who were still
+surrounded by a circle of friends.
+
+"I only wish the parade had been appointed for yesterday," said he, in
+a low tone. "The procession will be more than an hour in passing by,
+and all that time the bridal pair will be kept out upon the terrace. It
+is too much upon Eric. The ceremony, the parade, then the state dinner,
+and finally the leave-taking. From the first, I have been opposed to
+these great and noisy festivities, but was out-voted on all sides. Even
+Herr Dernburg wanted the entertainment to be as magnificent as
+possible."
+
+"That is quite in the nature of things, at the wedding of his only
+son," suggested the director, "and the participation of the Odensburg
+hands was not to be rejected. I think we shall gratify him with our
+procession; it must make a fine show in the bright sunlight. As for the
+rest, I cannot understand your solicitude about the young master. He
+looks splendidly--I have never seen him as cheerful and fresh-looking
+as to-day."
+
+"That is the very thing that makes me uneasy. There is something
+feverish in his excitement, and in his condition any excitement is
+poison. Would that he were now quietly seated in the carriage by his
+wife's side, having left all this jubilation behind them."
+
+They were interrupted by a servant announcing that the procession was
+ready to move, only awaiting the appearance of the family. The director
+stepped up to the young couple, and in the name of all the Odensburg
+employés, asked them to accept their homage.
+
+Eric smiled, and offered his arm to his young wife, that he might
+escort her to the terrace. Dernburg and the guests joined them.
+
+That was a fascinating panorama on a grand scale that now unfolded
+itself before their eyes, out of doors, in the bright noonday sun. The
+chief officers stood at the foot of the terrace, while their
+subordinates headed single groups of the gay procession, which had
+taken its position on the broad piece of level ground extending up to
+the works, and now put itself in motion.
+
+In dense and endless masses, with music and waving banners, the
+thousands of workmen marched past, the men from the forges up in the
+mountains having joined them. By a very skillful arrangement they had
+interspersed groups of children, that with happy effect broke the
+monotony of the procession. The pupils of the schools founded by
+Dernburg stepped proudly along, in their Sunday clothes, pleasure in a
+holiday beaming from every face: when they caught sight of the bride
+they waved caps and bunches of flowers, almost splitting their little
+throats with the loud cheers that they gave out one after another.
+
+It cost trouble to keep the way clear for the procession, for the wives
+of the workmen, with the tiniest children in their arms, lined the
+sides of the road, and, besides, the inhabitants of all the region
+round about had streamed hither. All eyes were turned towards the
+terrace, to the white form of the bride, before whom all standards were
+lowered, and for whom all this rejoicing was made: she was the one to
+whom the whole entertainment was given, and received honors such as
+usually fall only to the lot of a princess. Incessantly she bowed her
+head in recognition of the people's kindness, but there was something
+of restraint in her action, and her large, dark eyes looked coldly upon
+all these demonstrations of joy, as though she saw nothing of them, and
+as though in far, far-off space she sought something entirely
+different.
+
+Eric, on the contrary, as was most unusual with him, took the liveliest
+interest in all that was going on. He drew Cecilia's attention to
+special features of the procession, turning repeatedly to the director
+to thank him for all the gratification that his skill was affording
+them, and seemed to have entirely laid aside his timidity and reserve.
+At other times it had been painful and oppressive to him, to be the
+chief person upon occasions of the sort, but to-day he hailed it with
+joyful pride, for the sake of his young wife.
+
+Dernburg stood by his son's side, and received these demonstrations of
+popularity with kindly gravity. Who could blame him, if his chest
+heaved more proudly and his massive form became more erect, at sight of
+the thousands who were marching by? Those were his workmen to whom, for
+thirty long years, he had been a master, but also a father, for whose
+weal he had labored and toiled as for his own, and these they would
+estrange from him! These were to turn from him to follow another, who,
+as yet, had done nothing for them; who had begun his career by setting
+up opposition to the man who had been a greater benefactor to him than
+to all besides! A contemptuous smile played about the lips of the lord
+of Odensburg, the ground upon which he stood was firm as a rock; of
+that he felt impressed more strongly than ever to-day.
+
+But still another looked with swelling bosom and flashing eyes upon the
+masses flowing by,--Oscar von Wildenrod, who stood with Maia under one
+of the orange-trees. Gigantic as had the control of the Odensburg works
+appeared to him, from the start, never had the power and importance of
+Dernburg's position struck him as it did to-day--and this was to be his
+future destination. To be the ruler of such a world, to guide it with a
+word, a sign,--that had been his aim since that first evening when he
+had looked over at those works, veiled as they were in the darkness of
+night. Now, at last, he stood close before his goal.
+
+His glance turned to Maia, and the proud triumph resting upon his
+features melted into a blissful smile. The half-comic, half-solemn
+dignity, with which Maia wore the long train to her blue silk gown,
+unused, as she was to such an appendage, became her charmingly; her
+rosy cheeks glowed from joyous exhilaration. With the frolicsomeness of
+a child she let herself be borne along by the waves of joyful
+excitement that were bounding in her heart. She knew that her father
+had withdrawn his opposition to her love.
+
+"Is it not beautiful?" asked she, lifting her radiant eyes to his face.
+"And Eric is so happy!"
+
+Oscar smiled and bent over her.
+
+"Oh, I know one who will be happier than Eric, when he stands there on
+yonder spot, with his young bride by his side, when----"
+
+"Hush, Oscar!" interposed Maia with glowing face. "You know--papa will
+not allow a whisper of that now."
+
+"Nobody hears us," said Oscar, and indeed the noise of the music and
+cheers drowned his passionate whispering. "And your papa is not so
+stern as he would have us believe. He has, it is true, denied my
+petition to have our engagement publicly announced to-day, it was hard
+enough to wrest a consent from him on any terms. But now you are here,
+and if his darling asks him, he will not say her nay. I shall renew the
+siege to-morrow--will you help me, my Maia?"
+
+She did not answer, only her eyes told him, that he should not lack the
+support asked for: with soft but fervent pressure he took her hand.
+Wildenrod evidently had no objection to the company, guessing what at
+present they were not to be told.
+
+The last group of workmen had just gone by, the marching past was at an
+end, and the whole mass of spectators moved in a body to the now vacant
+railroad station, in order to take the next train. On the terrace, too,
+everything was now in motion. The director once more received the
+thanks of Dernburg and his son, to which were added the compliments of
+the guests present, for the successful manner in which the affair had
+been conducted, and then the young couple with their friends retired
+into the house.
+
+They were greeted in the vast entrance-hall by strains of music, and a
+table stood in waiting, richly decorated with flowers, silver and
+cut-glass, whence the most tempting refreshments were served. Little as
+Dernburg liked ordinarily to make a display of his wealth, to-day no
+expenditure was spared that could add to the splendor of the occasion.
+
+The meal passed as is usual at such times: healths were drunk, and
+after sitting at table for about two hours the dancing began, for which
+the younger portion of the company had waited longingly.
+
+The newly-married pair only participated in the first grand promenade
+and then withdrew. Maia, who was escorted back to her place by
+Wildenrod, saw that they left the hall with some surprise.
+
+"Why do Eric and Cecilia break up already?" asked she. "They are not to
+set off for an hour to come?"
+
+"It is Dr. Hagenbach's fault," declared Oscar. "He fears that Eric has
+over-exerted himself--quite unnecessarily, it seems to me, for Eric has
+never looked better than to-day."
+
+"So it seems to me; but Cecilia looks so much the paler. She was all
+the while so grave and silent--I would have imagined a happy bride
+looking very differently."
+
+Wildenrod's eyes had likewise followed his sister, a dark frown
+gathering upon his brow the while. But then, he shrugged his shoulders
+and replied in a careless tone:
+
+"She is worn out and fagged; no wonder either. The director has imposed
+a little too much upon us, with this endlessly long procession of his,
+for there we had to stay until the last company had marched by."
+
+Maia shook her head, while her childlike features became grave and
+thoughtful. "Eric thinks it is something different, he is anxious to
+learn what."
+
+"What is it that Eric wants to learn?" asked Wildenrod suddenly, so
+sharply that the young girl looked at him in surprise.
+
+"Oh, he is mistaken perhaps, but upon my return he lamented to me the
+alteration that had taken place in Cecilia during the past few weeks.
+He is afraid that some trouble is weighing upon her mind, and hoped
+that she might be persuaded to confide in me, since he had failed to
+learn her secret. I gladly obliged him by approaching her on the
+subject, but got nothing for my pains. She was equally reserved with
+me--Eric was quite miserable about it."
+
+Oscar bit his lip and an expression came out upon his features that
+terrified Maia. As soon, however, as he noticed her questioning look,
+he gave a short laugh and said mockingly: "I am afraid Eric will make
+life hard for himself and his wife, with his overstrained tenderness.
+Fortunately Cecilia is not attuned to such sentimentalities, and will
+laugh him out of his tendency to 'make mountains out of mole-hills.'"
+
+The waltz just now beginning, interrupted the conversation between the
+two. A young officer to whom the daughter of the house was engaged for
+this dance, came up to claim her hand. Maia, who, for the first time
+danced in a large company, entered heartily into this amusement, but
+her eyes quickly turned again to the spot where the Baron stood, or
+rather had stood, for he was no longer there. She sought him in vain;
+he must have left the room.
+
+Eric had attended his young wife to her chamber, and then repaired to
+his own apartments, to change his suit. He smiled over the painful
+solicitude of the doctor, who could never get over treating him as a
+sick man, no matter how well he felt, as for instance to-day. But with
+the prescription itself he was well pleased, for not yet had he been
+allowed a single minute of his wife's society in private. His
+traveling-suit was quickly donned, and now there was still left a half
+hour for a sweet, confidential chat, that nobody could disturb.
+
+Full of impatience the young husband hurried out to go and find his
+wife, but at the foot of the stairs he stood still a moment and gazed
+through the wide-open portals of the grand reception-hall.
+
+Out of doors lay the landscape in the full splendor of the evening-sun,
+whose golden light flooded also the flower-bestrewn terrace, and a
+broad shining beam also crossed the hall. From the works over yonder,
+where the festivities for the workmen took place, came sounds of music
+and rejoicing; and from the open windows of the ball-room, where a
+pause in the dancing had occurred, penetrated the gay talking and
+laughing of the company.
+
+Eric's heart beat high for joy, and he drew a deep breath of
+satisfaction. What a lovely day it had been, this his wedding-day! And
+now life just began for him--now there beckoned to him the wide world,
+the sunny South; he would be free from oppressive, irksome duties, and
+there on the shore of the blue Mediterranean, with a sweet wife by his
+side, dream an enchanting dream of happiness. In the depths of his
+soul, he was pierced with gratitude to the Giver of all good, who had
+showered upon him all these blessings.
+
+With quick steps he mounted the stairs and was about to enter the small
+parlor which separated Cecilia's chamber from that of her brother, when
+he remarked that it had been bolted from the inside; also nobody opened
+in response to his light tap. He was impatient, and took another way.
+
+Oscar's chamber had another peculiar entrance, a little tapestry-door,
+that was seldom or never used. Eric opened it and traversed the
+apartment of his brother-in-law and the adjoining parlor. His step was
+not audible upon the soft carpet, and moreover the door to Cecilia's
+chamber was close. Eric heard Wildenrod's voice from inside and stood
+still.
+
+The brother, he supposed, had sought the bride in order to see her once
+more alone and to say farewell. This was natural and the parting--in
+any case so brief--ought not to be disturbed.
+
+Yet what was that? The Baron's voice sounded stern and threatening, and
+now a wild, passionate sob was heard. Was it Cecilia's voice? It could
+not be she who was thus distressed, weeping so despairingly! Eric
+turned pale, the foreboding of a great sorrow suddenly fell upon him,
+as though an ice-cold hand had laid its weight upon his chest. He
+tarried motionless in his place, every word reaching him through the
+closed door.
+
+"Be reasonable, Cecilia! Have you lost all power of self-control? You
+must show yourself again to the guests and bid them farewell, Eric may
+come in any minute. Do collect yourself!"
+
+No answer, only convulsive, inconsolable weeping.
+
+"I dreaded something of the sort, and therefore sought you, but I was
+not prepared for such an outbreak as this. Cecilia, you must compose
+yourself."
+
+"I cannot!" gasped Cecilia with half-stifled voice. "Leave me, Oscar! I
+have been obliged to smile and lie this livelong day--must do so again
+when I sit in that carriage with Eric--I'll die if I cannot take my cry
+out this once--only this single time."
+
+The brother must have perceived that he could effect nothing here by
+the assumption of a domineering tone, for his voice was milder, when he
+rejoined:
+
+"There it is again, that wretched passionateness of your disposition,
+you should say to yourself, that this is the last of all hours, in
+which to abandon yourself thus. I have done everything to secure to you
+your happiness and you----"
+
+"My happiness?" repeated Cecilia with sarcastic bitterness. "Why that
+lie, Oscar?--we are alone. You managed to deceive me so long as I was a
+thoughtless child, but you know the day that opened my eyes. You only
+wanted, through me, to pave the way to your own fortune, when you set
+yourself to make a match between Eric and me. You wanted to be master
+of Odensburg, therefore, I had to be the victim."
+
+"And if I had this aim in view, I lifted you up with myself," cried
+Wildenrod with emphasis. "I have told you, often enough, that the
+question here for both of us is 'to be or not to be.' You consider
+yourself a victim do you? Why, to-day you received princely homage, and
+as those endless throngs of dependents marched past you, surely it must
+have become clear to you, what significance the name that you now bear,
+has in the world. That life in Odensburg, which you dreaded so, is to
+be spared you. You are to return to Italy. Eric worships you, he lives
+only in your looks, and will leave no wish of yours ungratified,
+showering upon you everything that wealth can give. What more can you
+ask of your marriage? This is good fortune, and one day you will thank
+me for it."
+
+"Never! never!" cried the young woman, beside herself. "Oh! that I had
+fled from this good fortune! But you--you compelled my submission by
+the dreadful threat that you would follow our father's example, and I
+had to stay in order to save you. You have no idea, what torture I have
+endured since that time, in the midst of all Eric's goodness and
+tenderness. I never have loved him, never will love him, and now that
+the chain is irrevocably forged, I feel that it will crush me. I would
+rather lie down in death than in his arms!"
+
+She suddenly hushed. "What was that?" she asked quickly.
+
+"What?"
+
+"I do not know--it sounded like a sigh!"
+
+"Imagination! We are alone, I have secured ourselves against listeners.
+What means that desperate outbreak? Have you waited until your
+wedding-day to be certain that you love another? Do you not know the
+truth, or _will_ you not? I have suspected it ever since that day when
+you and Runeck met on the Whitestone. It seemed as though you would
+lose your senses, at the bare idea of being despised by that man, of
+appearing before him in the light of an adventuress. I did not want to
+warn or frighten you--no one arouses a somnambulist upon his dangerous
+walk. But now it is time to wake up. Since that Egbert has crossed your
+path----"
+
+"No! no!" interposed Cecilia repelling the imputation.
+
+"Yes!" said Oscar with cold insistency. "Do you think, it has escaped
+me how, this morning, when I drove to church with you as bride-man, you
+turned deadly pale and then like one spellbound gazed at one particular
+spot in the woods? You had remarked him, who, I suppose, had come to
+take one last look at you. He was far enough off, it is true,
+half-hidden behind the trees. At such a distance one recognizes only
+his deadly foe or the man whom one loves--and we both recognized him."
+
+His sister made no answer, but did not contradict his assertion. But
+now it was Oscar who started in affright. He had heard close by a noise
+as of a door falling gently to, and seized by an ill-defined
+apprehension, he hurriedly opened the door leading into the parlor.
+Delusion! the parlor was empty, the bolt still undisturbed. But a
+glance at the mantel-clock convinced the Baron that it was high time to
+terminate the interview; he returned to his sister.
+
+"I must go back to the company," said he, in subdued tones, "and you
+too must prepare for your journey. You have had your cry out, now
+consider what you owe to yourself and me! You are Eric's wife, and
+tomorrow miles will already lie between you and that other, whom I hope
+you will never see again. I have seen to it, that he can do no more
+harm at Odensburg, and you will forget him, because you must."
+
+He unbolted the door and rang for the lady's maid.
+
+The tearful eyes of the bride could be explained by the pain of parting
+from her brother; nevertheless, he would not leave her by herself for a
+single minute. Not until Nannon entered did he leave the room.
+
+Down in the front-hall the Baron met a man-servant, bearing Eric's
+hand-satchel and cloak, of whom he asked in passing:
+
+"Can you tell me if Herr Dernburg is in his own room?"
+
+"No, Baron, he is with his lady," answered the man in surprise.
+
+"Oh, no, I have just left my sister."
+
+"But I saw the young master go upstairs myself," the servant ventured
+to reply. "It was about a half hour ago. Have you not seen him
+yourself, sir? He went into your room through the little tapestried
+door."
+
+Wildenrod turned pale to his very lips, for of this entrance he had not
+thought. Whether Eric had really been in the parlor, whether he had
+heard what Oscar dared not carry out the thought, he left the servant
+standing and hurried to his brother-in-law's apartments.
+
+Nobody was in the first room, but when the Baron had opened the
+chamber-door, involuntarily he started back.
+
+Eric lay stretched out on the floor, apparently lifeless, with closed
+eyes. The head had fallen back; and bosom, clothes, and the carpet
+round about were saturated with clear, red blood, that still flowed
+from his lips in single drops.
+
+For the space of a few seconds Oscar stood like one transfixed, but
+then he pulled the bell-rope violently. With the aid of the servants,
+who came running up, he raised the unconscious bridegroom from the
+floor and laid him on his bed, at the same time ordering Dr. Hagenbach
+to be called, so as to excite as little attention as possible.
+
+In a very few minutes the physician was at his post. He silently
+listened to Wildenrod's report, while he felt the pulse and listened to
+the beating of the heart; then he drew himself up and said softly:
+
+"Bring your sister in, Baron, and prepare her for the worst. I shall
+have his father and Maia called."
+
+"Do you fear?" asked Oscar just as softly, but Hagenbach shook his
+head.
+
+"There is no longer room here for either fear or hope. Lead his bride
+here--perhaps he may once more recover consciousness."
+
+A quarter of an hour later, the whole house knew that Eric Dernburg,
+whom they had just seen at the summit of human felicity, now lay on a
+bed of death. It had not been possible to suppress the dread tidings;
+they flew like wild-fire. In the ball-room, the music ceased abruptly,
+the guests stood around in awe-stricken silence or whispered in
+mournful accents, the servants, meanwhile, running to and fro, with
+distorted faces. Like a flash of lightning the stroke had fallen upon
+the festive scene.
+
+The family had gathered around the death-bed. Dr. Hagenbach was still
+busied in the application of various restoratives, but it was evident
+that he expected nothing more from them. By the side of the couch knelt
+the young wife, in her white satin bridal robe that she had not yet
+laid aside when the message of misfortune came. She was tearless, but
+pale as death. She suspected some secret, strange coincidence.
+
+On the other side stood Dernburg, in speechless grief, his eyes riveted
+upon his son, for the preservation of whose life he had been willing to
+make any sacrifice, and, in spite of it all, he was to be snatched from
+him. Maia sobbed on her father's bosom. Wildenrod did not dare to
+approach either her or the death-bed, but, silent and moody, kept in
+the background. He had believed his game to be lost, and now he should
+win anyhow. The poor man, whose life was bleeding away there so slowly,
+could never bring an accusation against him, but take to the grave with
+him what he had heard and what had given him his death-blow.
+
+Motionless, Eric lay there with closed eyes, seeming hardly to suffer
+at all. His breathing became easier and easier, until presently the
+physician laid down the hand which he had been holding while he counted
+the pulse. Cecilia saw this and guessed the significance of the act.
+
+"Eric!" she shrieked. It was a cry of despair, of deadly anguish; and
+it shocked the dying man out of his stupor. Slowly he opened his eyes,
+that, already dimmed by death, sought the beloved countenance that
+leaned over him, but those eyes expressed such infinite love, so deep
+and silent a lament, that Cecilia shuddered and shrank back. It was
+only an instant of consciousness--the last. One more deep sigh from
+that wounded breast--and all was over.
+
+"The end has come!" said the physician softly.
+
+With loud weeping, Maia sank upon the corpse of her brother, and over
+Dernburg's cheeks, too, rolled a few big tears, as he kissed the cold
+brow of his son.
+
+But then he turned to the young wife, gently lifted her up and folded
+her in his arms.
+
+"Here is your place, Cecilia," said he, with deep emotion. "You are my
+son's widow, and my daughter. You shall find in me a father!"
+
+
+
+
+                              CHAPTER XVI.
+
+                      SCENES AT THE "GOLDEN LAMB."
+
+
+In the town, that was the railroad station both for Odensburg and the
+whole region round about, was situated the "Golden Lamb," a well-known
+and much-frequented inn. The immediate neighborhood of the railroad
+station and the lively intercourse that continually took place between
+this place and the Odensburg works, brought much custom to the house.
+All who came from Odensburg or went thither, used to turn in at the
+"Golden Lamb," which had the best repute, so far as accommodations were
+concerned.
+
+The original proprietor had been dead for a long while, but his widow
+had given him a successor in the person of Herr Pancratius Willmann. He
+had once chanced to call here as a guest with the purpose of looking
+out for some small office in the town, but he had then preferred to
+court the rich widow and remain in that snug nest. He had succeeded in
+this plan, and was very comfortably off in consequence. He left it to
+his wife to manage in kitchen and cellar, reserving to himself the more
+pleasant duties of entertaining the guests and showing them, by his own
+example, how excellent was the cookery of the "Golden Lamb."
+
+It was on a gloomy, raw October day, which made one feel that autumn
+had come in earnest, when Dr. Hagenbach's buggy stopped before the inn;
+the doctor himself, though, sat in the comfortable gentlemen's parlor
+upstairs which was only open to favored guests. Dagobert was equipped
+for a journey, since he was to take the next train for Berlin, where he
+was to enter the high school. In spite of his uncle's rigid discipline,
+the young man's stay at Odensburg did not seem to have been
+disadvantageous to him, for he looked more manly and healthier than in
+the spring.
+
+Herr Willmann, who would not let the doctor be served by anybody but
+himself, had informed him, with woful visage, that his health had
+certainly been better since he had strictly followed his prescriptions,
+but that he was half-starved nevertheless. Hagenbach listened, quite
+unmoved, and ordered the continuation of the same treatment, without
+paying the least heed to mine host's dismay.
+
+"Times seem to be lively with you to-day, Herr Willmann. The sitting
+room downstairs is swarming like a veritable bee-hive. You are having a
+grand political gathering. I hear the whole social democracy of the
+town meet at your house. At all events it is a sign for good that the
+gentlemen have selected the 'Lamb' for a place of rendezvous of their
+own accord. It indicates peaceful intentions, at all events."
+
+Herr Willmann folded his hands, and his visage became very rueful.
+
+"Ah, Doctor, do not laugh at me, I am in downright despair. I built the
+new hall last year, for innocent and instructive entertainment--it is
+the largest in the whole town--and now those radicals, those
+revolutionists, those anarchists hold their meetings in it--it is
+dreadful----"
+
+"If it is dreadful to you, why do you take such characters into your
+house?" asked Hagenbach dryly.
+
+"How am I to refuse them anything? They would ruin my business, maybe
+blow up my house with dynamite!" Mine host shuddered at this horrible
+idea. "I did not dare to say no, when that Landsfeld came and demanded
+my hall. I trembled before that man, yes, trembled in every limb."
+
+"That must have been very flattering to Mr. Landsfeld," said the
+doctor, taking a huge draught from the beer mug standing before him,
+while Willmann continued his lamentation.
+
+"But how am I to answer for it to my other customers--you may depend
+they'll make me pay for it--and what will Herr Dernburg say?"
+
+"I suppose Herr Dernburg will be utterly indifferent as to whether the
+Socialists meet at the 'Golden Lamb' or elsewhere, and that you will
+not lose his custom by it either .... for that matter he never did take
+a meal at your house, did he?"
+
+"Oh, Doctor, what are you thinking of? My little house, only imagine
+it! The Odensburg family always drive straight to the depot. All
+the subordinate officers, though, deal with me; why, I put my
+main dependence upon Odensburg, and would not for any money in the
+world----"
+
+"Have it all spoiled for the sake of one party!" said Hagenbach,
+finishing his sentence for him.
+
+"Of course, that is a matter of business, Runeck is to speak to-day;
+not a seat will be vacant in your big hall, and it will yield you a
+pretty profit."
+
+Herr Pancratius Willmann lifted both hands in deprecation and cast his
+eyes up at the ceiling. "What am I caring for the profit? But I cannot
+let my business go to rack and ruin, these hard times. I am the father
+of a family, have six children----"
+
+"Why, the hard times do not seem to have preyed heavily on you,"
+laughed the doctor. "By the way, just at this moment, you bear a most
+remarkable resemblance to your sainted cousin, the man of the desert,
+who used to cast his eyes heavenward, in the same piteous manner. But
+come, Dagobert, we must break up now, else the train will leave you."
+
+He drank out his mug of beer and stood up. The portly host of the
+"Lamb" attended them to the front-door, and once more, in woe-begone
+manner, begged that his most humble respects be presented to Herr
+Dernburg, with the assurance that he, for his part, was firmly devoted
+to the party of law and order, but that, as the father of a family and
+under these distressing circumstances----
+
+"I shall tell him that you are once more the victim of your calling,"
+exclaimed Hagenbach, breaking short his wail. "You just keep on
+trembling in quiet and pocket the jingling cash all the same. Your beer
+is excellent, and no doubt the gentlemen will know how to appreciate
+it. It will dispose them to be more humane and save the 'Golden Lamb'
+from destruction, if it comes to the worst."
+
+Herr Willmann shook his head gently and reproachfully at this waggish
+aspect of the case, and took leave of his guests with a reverential
+bow, who, on their part, now repaired to the railroad station, where
+the train was already in waiting. While Hagenbach was crossing the
+platform with his nephew, he gave him one more impressive lecture, by
+way of farewell. "I would like to be certain of one thing, namely, that
+you will set yourself to studying steadily in Berlin, and not turn
+aside to the follies that played the wild with that fellow Runeck's
+prospects in life," said he with emphasis. "He had always been very
+sensible until he went among those Socialists. I tell you, my boy, if
+you let yourself be taken in by people of that sort----"
+
+He put on such a ferocious look that the pale-faced Dagobert shrank
+back in affright and laid his hand upon his breast in protestation of
+his innocent intentions. "I am not going among radicals, dear uncle,
+certainly not," asserted he, with touching candor.
+
+"They would not make much of a haul when they caught you," opined the
+doctor contemptuously. "But they take all that they can get, and you,
+alas! are ripe for any kind of folly. I only hope that your cursed poem
+'To Leonie' was your first and will be your last. At all events I made
+clear enough to you, I trust, the undesirableness of writing such
+trash.--But the signal for the cars to start has already been given!
+Have you got your satchel in hand? Get in, then, and a pleasant trip to
+you!"
+
+He shut the coach-door and stepped back. Dagobert really did not
+breathe freely until he saw himself separated from his uncle by the
+solid wall of the coach, for, upon his heart, in his vest-pocket rested
+a long, touching farewell poem "To Leonie." After the miscarriage of
+his first attempt, it is true that the young poet had not ventured to
+place in the hands of his _inamorata_ this effusion of his sentiments,
+but he had made up his mind to send it in a letter, from Berlin, with
+the assurance that his love would be eternal, however cruelly the rude
+world might come in between himself and the object of his ardent
+affections.
+
+This "rude world," in the shape of the doctor, stood upon the platform,
+waving another farewell greeting as the train now began to move. Then
+Hagenbach sought the station-master and inquired whether the fast-train
+from Berlin was behind time.
+
+"No, indeed, Doctor, that train will be here punctually in ten
+minutes," answered that official. "Are you expecting any one?"
+
+"Yes, young Count Eckardstein will arrive today."
+
+The station-master's face expressed surprise. "What! Count Victor
+coming? It was said that an irreparable breach was made between his
+brother and himself, that time when he came here in the spring, and
+went away all of a sudden. So, the case at Eckardstein is a desperate
+one?"
+
+"To this extent, at least, that Count Victor had to be informed of it.
+He is the only brother, you know."
+
+"Yes, yes--the lord-proprietor is unmarried as well," wound up the
+railroad agent significantly. "Will you not step into the waiting-room,
+Doctor?"
+
+"No, I thank you. I prefer to stay out of doors; it will be only for a
+few minutes."
+
+Hagenbach was not the only expectant person there. Landsfeld appeared
+with a troop of workmen, who were also evidently awaiting the arrival
+of some one, for they planted themselves on the platform, conversing in
+loud, dictatorial tones about the approaching electorial assembly.
+Finally the train came rushing up. It brought a good many passengers,
+who got out here at the larger railway-station, so that, for a few
+minutes, there was a regular commotion in the great reception hall.
+
+Hagenbach walked along the whole line of coaches, with scrutinizing
+glance, when suddenly he saw before him the tall figure of Runeck, who
+had just left the coach. Both stopped short, the first instant, when
+Egbert made a quick motion, as though he would approach the physician,
+but Landsfeld had already discovered him and pressed up to him with his
+followers. With noisy greetings they encircled the young engineer, took
+him into their midst and as they left the depot, raised a loud cheer
+for him.
+
+"The tribune of the people sails in smooth waters," growled the doctor
+irritably. "A pretty surprise this, that he is preparing for Herr
+Dernburg! I am only curious as to what our Odensburgers are going to
+say. They are in it too, and, as it seems, in goodly numbers."
+
+He quickened his pace, for he just now caught sight of Victor
+Eckardstein alighting from the last coach, in company with an elderly
+gentleman. The young Count also perceived him, and hastened to meet
+him".
+
+"Nothing has happened yet at Eckardstein, has it?" asked he nervously.
+
+"No, Count; the condition of the patient has not perceptibly altered
+since day before yesterday. But as I happened to be at the station, I
+thought I would wait to welcome you."
+
+The young Count now turned and introduced: "Dr. Hagenbach, my uncle,
+Herr von Stettin."
+
+Hagenbach bowed, recognizing the name and knowing that he had before
+him the brother of the deceased Countess Eckardstein. Stettin offered
+him his hand.
+
+"You are treating my nephew, as I learn."
+
+"I am, Herr von Stettin, being called in by the express desire of the
+family physician. My colleague did not want to undertake the
+responsibility alone."
+
+"In that he did perfectly right. His report was so alarming that I
+determined to accompany Victor. The case is a serious one, is it not?"
+
+"An inflammation of the lungs is always serious," answered the doctor
+evasively. "We must build upon the powerful constitution of the
+patient. We considered it a duty, at any rate, not to keep the Count in
+ignorance of the danger hanging over his brother."
+
+"I thank you," said Victor with emotion. He looked pale and agitated,
+the thought of seeing that brother, from whom he had parted in anger,
+lying upon what was perhaps his death-bed, evidently oppressed him
+sorely. He kept silent, while Stettin asked the most particular
+questions, informed himself exactly as to the condition of his elder
+nephew. Out of doors in front of the railroad station stood an
+Eckardstein carriage, and the doctor took leave of the two gentlemen,
+promising to be at the Castle early the next morning. Then he went over
+to the "Golden Lamb" to bid his coachman prepare likewise for
+departure.
+
+In the hall he once more met Runeck and Landsfeld, who had rid
+themselves of their comrades and were just inquiring of the host if he
+could not furnish them with a private room, as they wanted to confer
+about something.
+
+This time Egbert bowed and paused hesitatingly, as though he were in
+doubt whether he should address the doctor or not. At the same time he
+cast an almost shy glance over at the steps where Landsfeld stood.
+
+"Well?" asked he sharply, the word sounding more like a command than a
+summons.
+
+That decided the matter. The young engineer defiantly threw back his
+head and stepped up to the physician.
+
+"A word with you, Doctor! How goes it at Odensburg--in the Manor-house,
+I mean?"
+
+Hagenbach had responded very coolly to his greeting, and answered with
+reserve:
+
+"As you would expect in a house of mourning, where death entered so
+suddenly and shockingly--you have heard, I suppose, how the young
+gentleman died?"
+
+"Yes, I know about it," said Egbert in a voice that betrayed suppressed
+emotion. "How did his father bear it?"
+
+"Worse than he would have one believe. And yet his is an iron nature
+that manfully resists every assault made upon it, and he has not much
+time to devote to his grief either. Affairs in and around Odensburg
+claim his attention more than ever. You will understand how this is
+better than I, Herr Runeck!"
+
+The doctor's thrust, however, seemed to glance aside from the
+apparently thick panoply of Egbert's composure, as he calmly went on
+questioning:
+
+"And Maia? She loved her brother very dearly."
+
+"Why, Miss Maia, you know, is hardly seventeen yet. At that age one
+weeps freely and is then consoled. On the contrary, Mrs. Dernburg
+suffers more acutely under her loss than I could have supposed
+possible."
+
+"The young widow?" asked Egbert in a low tone.
+
+"Yes; those first days she abandoned herself so to grief, that I
+entertained serious apprehensions, and even now she is broken-hearted
+as it were. I would not have attributed to her such exquisite
+sensibility."
+
+Runeck's lips quivered, but he made no reply to this last remark.
+"Remember me to Miss Maia--she perhaps will not spurn my salutation,"
+said he hurriedly. "Farewell, Doctor."
+
+So saying he turned to the stairs, where Landsfeld was still awaiting
+him, and mounted them with him, while Hagenbach called his coachman and
+then seated himself in his carriage.
+
+Herr Willmann, from the front door, made another reverential bow. The
+very next minute, he hurried as fast as his corpulence would admit of,
+after the other two.
+
+And he did not tremble at all when he stood before the dreaded
+Landsfeld, but bent just as low before him as he had done awhile ago to
+the doctor, and in the most fawning manner asked his honored guests to
+take possession of the gentlemen's parlor, where they should be
+entirely undisturbed--he would see to it that nobody came in. Whatever
+their honors wanted in kitchen or cellar, yes, the whole house was at
+their disposal.
+
+"No, we need nothing now," said Landsfeld carelessly. "Only you see to
+it, mine host, that nothing is lacking this evening. The crowd will be
+very great."
+
+The fat host of the "Lamb" exhausted himself in assurances that
+everything should be attended to in the very best of style, and then
+with the greatest self-complacency repaired to his assembly-room, to
+attend to making some arrangements in person. Herr Pancratius Willmann
+possessed, in the highest degree, the art of serving two masters.
+
+The two guests meanwhile had entered. Egbert had seated himself, and
+his head rested in his hand. He looked pale and worn, and there was a
+harsh, bitter look upon his face, not at all habitual with him.
+
+The new candidate for election did not seem, to find much pleasure in
+the honor that had been bestowed upon him. Landsfeld closed the door
+and likewise drew up to the table.
+
+"Have you time for us, at last?" asked he with sharpness.
+
+"I should think I always had that," was the short answer.
+
+"And yet it does not seem so. You let me stand there on those steps
+like a fool, while you were talking with that doctor."
+
+"You need not have listened. Why did you not go ahead of me?"
+
+"Because it amused me to see how impossible you find it to break away
+from those to whom you have so long been in bondage. Ha, ha! to hear
+you inquiring after their health, in that highly sentimental manner. It
+was too funny!"
+
+"What is it to you?" said Egbert harshly. "That is my own affair."
+
+"Not exactly, my young man. You are the candidate of our party, and, as
+such, have decidedly and definitely to break off all connection with
+the enemy's camp. Before all things, you have to care for your
+popularity now, and you will make yourself disliked, yes, suspected, by
+such proceedings,--note that!"
+
+Runeck contemptuously shrugged his shoulders. "I thank you for your
+good advice, but rather think that I ought to be capable of guiding my
+own actions."
+
+"You speak in a very lofty tone forsooth," mocked Landsfeld. "You
+already behold yourself as the all-powerful party-leader, as the chief
+person in the _Reichstag_. You have, in general, quite a dangerous
+touch of the master about you. In this you bear a striking resemblance
+to the old man at Odensburg, no doubt having learned it from him. But
+that this kind of thing does not go down with us you should know by
+this time. If you continue to carry on so, my word for it, your
+election will be impossible."
+
+Egbert suddenly rose to his feet and with furrowed brow planted himself
+right in front of Landsfeld.
+
+"What is all this for? Better say, straight out, that you envy me the
+station to which the party has nominated me. You had calculated upon
+holding it and cannot forgive me for having been preferred before you.
+And you know best of all that this office was thrust upon me. I would
+have gladly committed it to you--only too gladly!"
+
+"What I wished or expected is not to be considered here," answered
+Landsfeld coldly. "There was no prospect of my carrying the election;
+there is one for you, so I had to vacate the field for you, and this I
+do without murmuring. I know the discipline and adhere to it--would
+that others did the same."
+
+Runeck did not seem to hear the last remark, he had stepped up to the
+window and looked out. "How does it stand in Odensburg?" asked he,
+abruptly.
+
+"Well, better at least than we dared to hope. The old man"--Landsfeld
+used this designation for Dernburg by preference, because he knew that
+it wounded his comrade--"the old man, to be sure, feels himself
+impregnable in his high tower, and his eyes will not be opened, either,
+until election-day. But we have worked bravely, and that really was no
+easy matter in this case. Now it is for you to prove your strength!
+Much depends upon your speech this evening, perhaps everything. A part
+of the Odensburg workmen still stick firmly to Dernburg, the rest
+waver, and those are the ones that you are to capture this evening and
+draw over to us. You know how to do that splendidly, at least you used
+to."
+
+"I shall do my duty," said Egbert glumly, without turning around. "But
+I am doubtful as to the result."
+
+"Why so? Hark, it seems to me that your wings have been clipped since
+we played you against the old man at Odensburg. What you have spoken,
+these last weeks in Berlin, was tolerably flat and tiresome. Formerly
+you sparkled with fire and enthusiasm and carried everything before
+you, now when everything depends on it, you are neither cold nor hot.
+Can you really be as besotted over this Dernburg as he over you? I do
+believe he found the death of his son easier to bear than your
+defection. It will be a touching spectacle, to see you two pitted
+against one another in a life to life struggle."
+
+"That's enough now, Landsfeld!" burst forth the young engineer,
+furiously excited. "I have already desired you, once before, not to
+disturb yourself about my personal relations; I forbid it to you now,
+once for all. Hush about that!"
+
+"Yes, you threatened that time at Radefeld to put me out of doors,"
+mocked Landsfeld, seeming only to be amused by Runeck's rage. "Here we
+are in another person's house, where you cannot resort to that measure.
+But let's to business! I only wanted to make it clear to you, that this
+evening you must lay aside all sentimental retrospect if your speech is
+to take effect. You know what the party expects of you."
+
+"Yes--I know."
+
+"Well, then, rally your forces! We _must_ have the Odensburg workmen,
+for their votes will decide the matter. You must therefore make
+energetic front against Dernburg, and against all that he has set in
+motion. You must demonstrate to the people, that his schools and
+asylums and savings-banks, with which he decoys them, are of no value
+in our eyes, a beggar's pence that he casts to his workmen, while he
+rakes in by the million. The people do not believe us, but you they
+will believe, for they know to what end the old man gave you your
+training. You were to be the future superintendent of his works, the
+first after himself, and you refused to receive aught of all this from
+him, for the sake of our cause: this it is that makes you all-powerful
+among the men of Odensburg, and for this alone we nominated you for
+election. You will accomplish nothing by mere talk--you must make
+straight for your adversary and hit at a vital point."
+
+Egbert turned, slowly around, dogged determination was stamped on his
+brow and his voice expressed bitter scorn, when he answered: "Yes,
+indeed, I must--must! I have no longer a will of my own.--Let us go and
+join the rest!"
+
+
+
+
+                             CHAPTER XVII.
+
+                            ELECTION TIMES.
+
+
+All the brightness had departed from the social life at Odensburg,
+which had been so gay all the summer through, its center of attraction
+being ever the young engaged couple. The family were still wearing the
+first deep mourning for him who had been laid in the grave hardly two
+months before, and the atmosphere in the house was as heavy and dull as
+was the bleak foggy autumn day outside.
+
+Only Maia made an exception. Dr. Hagenbach was right--at seventeen
+years of age one weeps out one's grief and is then comforted even for
+the loss of a beloved brother; and moreover here was a particular
+comforter quite close at hand. Oscar von Wildenrod had, of course,
+remained at Odensburg; and although there could be no talk now of a
+public betrothal, yet the father had given his consent in due form.
+
+Maia was infinitely lovely in her deep, quiet happiness, and in the
+family-circle, where he needed not to be under restraint, he showed her
+the tenderest attention and devotion. He seemed greatly altered; the
+harsh features vanished more and more from his face, his whole nature
+being softened under the influence of that budding happiness which
+brought him to the goal of his desires.
+
+Dernburg bore his grief for his son as he was accustomed to bear every
+hard thing in life, composedly and silently, seeking his consolation in
+that occupation, to which he gave himself up with greater zeal than
+ever. Between him and his daughter-in-law Eric's death had unexpectedly
+formed a close and tender tie. For, although the father had received
+the betrothed of his son with cordiality, and treated her as a
+daughter, yet in his inmost soul, he had never become really reconciled
+to this union; the vain, haughty child of the world had always been a
+creature apart from the man of strict duty. But the young widow, with
+her grief passionately expressed at first, but afterwards changing to a
+deep, settled melancholy, found a true father in him. From the moment
+when he had folded her in his arms at Eric's bedside, she had held a
+place in his heart.
+
+He did not suspect, indeed, that this abandoned grief of Cecilia's was
+only remorse--remorse over that hour when she had so strongly expressed
+aversion for the husband, who was even then dying. She did not know the
+worst either, namely, that it was those unfortunate words of hers that
+had pronounced his death-sentence. Oscar had secured the silence of the
+man-servant, who had seen Eric go upstairs and enter the fatal room,
+and no one else was aware of the circumstance. But the young woman had
+some foreboding of the coincidence, and took refuge with her father,
+because she could not overcome a secret horror of her brother.
+
+For that matter though, Dernburg had but little time now to devote to
+his family, for, besides the usual burdens that he took upon his
+shoulders now as ever, the impending election demanded his time and
+strength in large measure. It was considered a matter of course in his
+party that the prerogative of a seat in the _Reichstag_ which he had so
+long exercised would this time, too, fall to his share, but they had
+soon become convinced that, for the first time, the victory must be a
+contested one, for their opponents were working under high pressure.
+The circumstances required activity in all directions, and here
+Dernburg found quite an unexpected prop in Oscar von Wildenrod.
+
+With incredible celerity, he had made himself familiar with the
+political situation, and his keen penetration, accompanied by sound
+judgment, excited the admiration of others who had been in the midst of
+these relations.
+
+The Baron was everywhere that it seemed likely his presence could do
+good: he took part in all mass-meetings and consultations, and went
+into the campaign with the most ardent zeal. The quondam diplomat was
+again launched on the open sea of politics, and it was no wonder that
+every day increased his influence over Dernburg, whose very shadow he
+became.
+
+Finally the day arrived, when the last decisive battle was to be fought
+at the polls. Unusual activity now prevailed in the building devoted to
+the offices connected with the Odensburg works, which had commenced,
+indeed, at an early hour in the morning. The lower floor contained the
+hall usually devoted to lectures and all general assemblies: here all
+the officials were to be found to-day, here telegraphic communications
+were constantly coming from the city, and messengers from the country
+districts, which gave, approximately, at least, the returns from the
+polls. The commonly peaceful assembly-room looked like a camp in
+war-time, the director forming its central figure: and a continuous
+stream of messages was conveyed to the Manor.
+
+It was not until the afternoon was considerably advanced that Dr.
+Hagenbach came in, and was greeted with reproaches on the part of the
+gentlemen present, because of his absence.
+
+"Where in the world have you been hiding, Doctor?" cried the director,
+in rather a fault-finding tone. "Here we have been sitting all day
+immersed in care and anxiety, while, in all tranquillity of soul, you
+have been visiting your patients and not pretending to show your face!"
+
+"I cannot prevent people from getting sick and dying on election-day,"
+said Hagenbach gravely. "I had to go to Eckardstein this morning, and
+there they would have me stay, until all was over."
+
+However much engrossed the gentlemen were by other things, this news
+aroused universal interest.
+
+"Is the Count dead?" asked the director in surprise.
+
+"He died two hours ago."
+
+"That is a sudden turn of fortune's wheel in Count Victor's favor,"
+remarked the upper-engineer. "Yesterday a poor, dependent lieutenant,
+and to-day proprietor of the great Eckardstein estate. Count Conrad had
+not been exactly kind to his younger brother, I believe."
+
+"No; but nevertheless he was as affectionate as possible, at the
+last.--And now, gentlemen, I trust that I have apologized sufficiently
+for my absence, and sincerely hope that I have not been sensibly
+missed. How goes the reckoning? Well, I hope."
+
+"Not so particularly well, either," muttered the upper-engineer. "The
+reports from the country districts are satisfactory, but in town, the
+Socialists evidently have the whip-hand of us."
+
+"Well, we were prepared for that from the beginning," remarked Winning,
+the chief of the technical bureau. "Odensburg gives the casting-vote,
+and with that we are sure of a majority."
+
+"If we can unconditionally calculate upon it--yes," said the director,
+"but I am afraid----"
+
+"What are you afraid of?" asked Hagenbach with a look of concern, as
+the other broke off in the middle of his sentence.
+
+"That we shall be in the minority here too. Runeck's hold upon the
+people seems to be greater than we foresaw--signs of it, indeed, have
+come to light just in the last hour."
+
+"Runeck is a forcible speaker," said Winning, earnestly, "and his great
+speech, recently, at the 'Golden Lamb' carried away his whole audience.
+To be sure it did not reach his former level. He used to speak coldly,
+with stern repose, but every word told--this time he stormed away like
+a runaway horse, without method or aim."
+
+"He was suffering anxiety about his election," mocked the
+upper-engineer. "Yet there comes Helm; perhaps he brings something
+important."
+
+It was one of the younger officials who now entered and handed over a
+telegram just received. The director opened and read it, after which he
+silently handed it to the doctor, who stood at his side. He glanced
+over it and then shook his head. "This is very disagreeable! So, in
+town the victory of the Socialists is already decided! Read it,
+gentlemen!"
+
+The telegram went the rounds, while the director stepped to the
+telephone, that connected the assembly-room with the Manor, in order to
+report to the chief.
+
+"Now the decision rests wholly and solely upon Odensburg," said the
+upper-engineer. "At all events it was imprudent to dismiss that ranter
+Fallner, immediately before the elections. It has made bad blood and
+cost us hundreds of votes, perhaps. But Herr Dernburg was inexorable!"
+
+"Was he to submit placidly to having this man prate against him in his
+own workshops, setting them of his own household against him?" remarked
+Winning. "Things of the kind have never been suffered at Odensburg, and
+now would have been an example of unpardonable weakness."
+
+"But I am afraid that we were only the victims of a party maneuver,"
+persisted the other. "Fallner knew exactly what was before him--must
+have known it--but he belonged to that new set, who do not lose much
+if they go, so that he could afford to give himself to the venture. He
+was to be dismissed, the affair was meant to stir up bad blood among
+the people, for that it was planned. I represented all this to the
+master--but in vain. 'I suffer no rebellion and no stirring up of
+strife on my place. Let this be announced to the man at once.' Such was
+his answer, and thereby he put weapons in the hands of his
+adversaries."
+
+Winning was silent, vexed that nobody would take him up, and contradict
+his assertion. But the director, who now came back from the telephone
+and had heard these last words, said significantly:
+
+"If the matter would only end with our losing votes! I was told only
+yesterday, that the workmen are being worked upon from all quarters, to
+take up for Fallner and insist upon his being allowed to remain. If
+they really do this, we shall have strife."
+
+"But they will not do it, because they know the master," said Dr.
+Hagenbach, mingling in the conversation. "He lets nothing be forced
+from him, even though he should have to close all his works. Our men,
+here, at Odensburg would be simply mad, if they allowed it to come to
+that!"
+
+"And though it were the maddest thing in the world, what care Landsfeld
+and his crew for that?" exclaimed upper-engineer. "They want strife, no
+matter at what price and what sacrifice. At the same time, I believe
+that it was a mistake to dismiss Fallner. Alas! he is still here, and
+does not leave the works until day after to-morrow. If the election is
+lost, and passions consequently become aroused, we may live to get a
+disagreeable surprise."
+
+"Nonsense! You see ghosts!" scolded Winning; but the director said
+gravely:
+
+"I would that this day were past!" Over at the Manor, they waited the
+returns from the elections with the same suspense, and in the master's
+office there was almost as much commotion as in the building where the
+director presided. Dernburg, indeed, took the arrival of reports and
+telegrams, going and coming of officers and their announcements, with
+his wonted calmness. For him it involved no mere question of ambition,
+he sacrificed to his seat in the _Reichstag_, time and strength which
+were needed in his calling, the want of which he sometimes felt now, at
+the coming on of old age. He would willingly have resigned his seat to
+a representative of his own way of thinking, but as things stood, the
+victory of his party linked itself with his name, and, besides, it was
+Odensburg that would decide his election. Thus this election was an
+affair of honor with him.
+
+Dernburg chanced to find himself alone with his daughter-in-law. That
+young lady, looking grave and fair in her widow's garb, leaned against
+the window. She had of late been admitted more and more to the
+confidence of her father-in-law. He allowed her, at times, an insight
+into the workings of his soul, that were else a sealed book: she alone
+knew the reason why his brow was to-day so dark and lowering. It was
+not solicitude lest he be defeated, which, for that matter, he hardly
+deemed possible: no, the bitterness of this conflict lay for him in the
+thought that his opponent was Egbert Runeck.
+
+"Oscar is as much excited as if his own election were at stake," said
+Dernburg, after he had once more read through his dispatches.
+
+"It surprises me, too, to see my brother thus immersed in politics,"
+replied Cecilia, with a slight shake of the head. "He used to care so
+little about them."
+
+"Because he kept aloof from his fatherland for so many years. I just
+now begin to see what he is capable of, when field is given him for a
+great activity."
+
+"Oh, I believe Oscar can perform wonders, if he has a mind to, and he
+_will_ begin a new life at Odensburg: he has promised me to."
+
+These words sounded peculiar, almost like an apology, but Dernburg paid
+no heed to this.
+
+"I wish good luck to him and myself on that account," said he,
+earnestly. "I candidly confess to you, Cecilia, that hitherto I have
+entertained a certain prejudice against your brother, but it has passed
+away; in these last days he has been the greatest comfort to me. For
+this I want to thank him."
+
+The young woman made no answer; she gazed out upon the gray, misty
+October day that was now fast drawing to a close. It was already
+twilight; the servant brought the lamp, and with it came Wildenrod and
+Maia into the room. The Baron looked gloomy and excited. Dernburg
+quickly turned to him.
+
+"Well, how goes it, Oscar? What news do you bring? Nothing good. I see
+from your countenance! Have new returns come in?"
+
+"Yes, from the city. Our fears have been confirmed, the Socialists have
+gotten the majority there."
+
+"Ah, indeed!" cried Dernburg hotly. "It is the first time that they
+have accomplished that. We shall soon, however, dampen the joy of their
+triumph with the half of our Odensburg votes!"
+
+Cecilia's glance sought her brother's with a timid expression, and his
+features betrayed that he did not share this confidence. There was also
+a certain hesitation in his voice as he answered:
+
+"Odensburg certainly has the deciding word, and it will, I hope, be
+spoken for us. Nevertheless, we must prepare for any possibility----"
+
+"But not the possibility of my workmen leaving me in the lurch,"
+remarked Dernburg. "Once for all, I cannot believe such a thing of my
+men. Possess your soul in patience, Oscar, you are marked for a novice
+by your feverish uneasiness. As for the rest, the election must be over
+directly."
+
+He got up, but the way in which he paced up and down the room,
+looking ever and anon at the clock, proved that he was by no means so
+cold-blooded, as he would have them believe. Then his glance fell upon
+Maia, who had almost shyly entered the room and immediately joined her
+sister-in-law, and he stood still:
+
+"My poor little girl has been quite frightened today," said he,
+compassionately. "Yes, bad politics! It engrosses us men to the
+exclusion of everything else. Come to me, my Maia!"
+
+Maia flew to her father and nestled up to him. Her voice sounded very
+dejected, as she replied:
+
+"Ah, papa, I understand so little of political affairs. I am very much
+ashamed of it sometimes."
+
+Dernburg smiled and tenderly stroked the fair hair of his darling. "You
+are not to bother your young head about such grave affairs, my child.
+You can safely commit that to Oscar and me."
+
+"But I shall be obliged to learn some time," said Maia with a heavy
+sigh. "Cecilia has learned, too. Ah, papa, I am jealous of Cecile. You
+have quite closed your heart to everybody else; you consult her about
+everything, while I am always shoved aside as a silly little thing."
+
+"How abominable of me!" sportively returned Dernburg, at the same time
+casting an affectionate glance upon his daughter-in-law. The latter
+smiled, but it was a melancholy, joyless smile.
+
+"I almost believe Maia is put out with me, too, because I have had so
+little time to give her to-day," said Oscar, stepping up to his
+betrothed and taking her hand.
+
+"Yes, to-day you have no thought but for dispatches and
+election-returns," pouted the young girl. "I really do not comprehend,
+why you are all in such anxiety and excitement. Papa will be elected as
+he always is!"
+
+"I think so too," said Dernburg, with calm confidence.
+
+"Well, then, everything is going on right and we need not worry
+ourselves about it," declared Maia, shaking her wise head indignantly.
+"That tactless Egbert, indeed, gives papa a great deal to do. Everybody
+is talking about him and----"
+
+"Silence on that score, Maia!" interposed her father abruptly and with
+an air of displeasure. "The name of Engineer Runeck is daily forced
+upon me in the political arena, but I do not wish to hear it mentioned
+in my family. His relations with us are forever at an end!"
+
+The girl ceased, intimidated by the unwonted tone, and a long silence
+ensued. Time slipped by, but the looked-for tidings still tarried.
+Finally the servant entered and spoke a few whispered words to the
+Baron, who got up quickly and went out. In the dimly-lighted hall he
+found the director and Winning, who awaited him there.
+
+"Do you wish to speak with me, gentlemen?" asked Wildenrod quickly.
+"What brings you?"
+
+"Something unpleasant, alas, Baron," began the director hesitatingly,
+"_very_ unpleasant! Herr Dernburg will have to be prepared for a severe
+disappointment."
+
+"What does that mean? Have you received the expected returns?"
+
+"Runeck is elected!" said the director in a low voice. "Three quarters
+of the Odensburg votes were for him."
+
+The Baron turned pale and his hand doubled up convulsively.
+"Incredible! Unheard of!" he gasped. "And the country-districts? Our
+forges and mines? Have you heard from there already?"
+
+"No, but they can make no alteration in the main result. Runeck has won
+in the city and Odensburg; that is enough to ensure to him the
+majority. Here are the numbers registered."
+
+Wildenrod silently took the paper from the hands of the officer, and
+read the notices through: they agreed--the election was decided, in due
+form, against Dernburg and his party.
+
+"We did not dare to break this news to the Master abruptly," said
+Winning. "He is not at all prepared for it. Perhaps you'll undertake
+it, Baron? He will have to learn the truth; in a half hour all
+Odensburg will have the news."
+
+"I'll communicate it to him," said the Baron, as he folded the paper up
+and put it in his pocket. "But, one thing more, gentlemen! It is just
+possible that when this result of the election gets abroad
+manifestations may be attempted, that, in this case, will be a direct
+insult to our chief. That mad crew, drunk with victory----" here all
+his vexation broke through the self-restraint, that he had heretofore
+with difficulty maintained. "Any attempt at demonstrations of rejoicing
+will be suppressed with the greatest severity, no matter what comes of
+it. We have no longer any motive to consider them, and they shall be
+made to feel this." With a haughty nod, he left.
+
+The two officers looked at one another, and finally the director said,
+with a depressed air: "I wonder who is properly our chief now,--Herr
+Dernburg or Baron Wildenrod?"
+
+"The Baron, it would seem," answered Winning, irritably. "He gives
+orders independently, and orders, too, that may entail the most serious
+consequences. These demonstrations are bound to come. Fallner and his
+adherents are already seeing to that----"
+
+It was no enviable task that Wildenrod had undertaken. When he again
+entered Dernburg's room, he was received with the impatient question:
+
+"What was that message about, pray? They are not tormenting us now
+about other things, I hope--we really have no time for them. But I
+cannot understand the meaning of this obstinate silence over at the
+other house. They should have got the news by this time, at least in
+part, and still not a word do they send us."
+
+"The news has already come, as I have just learned," replied Wildenrod.
+
+"How is that? Why is the announcement delayed then?"
+
+"The director and Winning wanted to bring it over in person. They came
+to me----"
+
+Dernburg started; for the first time a foreboding of ill darted through
+his soul. "To you? Why not to me? What are those men thinking of?"
+
+"They wanted to transfer to me the duty of making the revelation," said
+the Baron, with bridled excitement. "The officers did not dare to
+approach you with it themselves."
+
+Dernburg changed color, but firmly drew himself up to his full height.
+"Has it come to their wanting to act a comedy with me? Out with what
+you have to say!"
+
+Wildenrod looked at the man who confronted him so coldly and
+wrathfully. It was impossible to delay longer. "Runeck has won the
+victory in town----" he began.
+
+"I know that! What else?"
+
+"And in Odensburg as well."
+
+"In Odensburg?" repeated Dernburg, looking at the speaker as if he had
+not taken in his meaning. "My workmen----"
+
+"Have for the most part voted for your opponent, Runeck is elected."
+
+A half-suppressed shriek rang through the apartment; it came from
+Cecilia's lips. Maia looked anxiously upon her father; so much she
+comprehended, namely, that a terrible blow was inflicted upon him by
+these tidings, Dernburg did not speak and did not stir. A dismal
+silence ensued. Finally he held out his hand for the paper that
+Wildenrod had drawn out of his pocket.
+
+"You have the electorial returns?"
+
+"Yes, here they are."
+
+Dernburg approached the table, in order to read, always preserving his
+rigid composure, but as he stood there, in the full light of the lamp,
+he looked deadly pale. Motionless, he gazed at the numbers that spoke
+their relentless message. At last he said coldly: "Quite right.
+Three-quarters of the votes are for him, and me they have cast
+overboard. It is regular treachery--an unparalleled deserting of one's
+colors. To be sure when one has been digging and delving for months--my
+deputy was in a place of trust, having full access to the people, and
+well knew how to turn the situation to----"
+
+"Your magnanimity, your unlimited confidence is to blame for it all,"
+remarked Wildenrod. "You knew the designs, the connections of this man,
+and notwithstanding, let him again set foot upon your soil. He wisely
+profited by this to secure constituents for himself. Now, he had only
+to beckon, and crowds flocked to his standard. You gave him the rights
+of a son--behold the return he makes you this day!"
+
+"Oscar, for heaven's sake desist!" implored Cecilia softly. She saw and
+felt that each one of his words fell like corroding poison into the
+soul of the man, whose heart was as deeply wounded as his pride.
+
+But Oscar could not use forbearance toward his hated adversary, and
+continued with increasing warmth:
+
+"Runeck will triumph and he has every reason to. This is a brilliant
+victory that he has won, to be sure, and over whom? That he gained it
+over you, that alone makes him a famous man. And in this hour the
+result of the election will be known in Odensburg--they will have a
+celebration, vaunting their candidate, and rejoicing until the sound of
+their shouts will be heard at the Manor-house, and you will have to
+listen to them----"
+
+"I shall do no such thing!" declared Dernburg with vehemence, retiring
+a step. It was evident that the poison was taking effect, the man was
+extremely provoked. "The people have used their right to vote--well, I
+shall use mine as a householder, and know how to protect myself against
+insults. Any demonstrations, whatever following upon this election will
+be suppressed. The director must take the proper measures; tell him so,
+Oscar!"
+
+"It has already been done. I foresaw your order, and gave the needful
+directions. I thought that I could be responsible in this case."
+
+On any other occasion, Dernburg would have considered an interference
+of the sort without his knowledge as an unwarrantable piece of
+presumption; now, he only saw in it an evidence of solicitude and did
+not think of censuring.
+
+"It is well," answered he shortly.
+
+"Represent me for to-day, if you please, Oscar; I can see nobody
+now--go, then, and leave me alone!"
+
+"Papa, let me, at least, stay with you," pleaded Maia in touching
+entreaty; but for this once her father did not reciprocate her
+tenderness, but gently put her away.
+
+"No, my child, not even you! Oscar, take Maia with you--I want to be by
+myself."
+
+Oscar whispered to his betrothed a few words, and then led her from the
+room. The door closed behind them, and now, when Dernburg believed
+himself to be alone, his with difficulty maintained composure forsook
+him. He pressed his clinched fists to his temples, a groan heaved his
+chest. He did not feel at this moment the humiliation of the defeat;
+there was something in his grief nobler than mortified ambition.
+Deserted by his workmen, whose gratitude he believed himself to have
+earned through a thirty years' course of fatherly kindness to them!
+Given up for the sake of another, whom he had loved like an own son,
+and who now thanked him in this fashion! His unflinching fortitude gave
+way under this blow.
+
+Then he felt how two arms were thrown around his neck, and starting up
+he perceived his son's young widow, whose pale, tearful countenance met
+his gaze with an expression that he had never seen in it before.
+
+"What means this, Cecilia?" asked he roughly. "Did I not tell you I
+wanted to be alone? The others have gone----"
+
+"But I am not going," said Cecilia with quivering voice. "Repulse me
+not, father! You took me in your arms and pressed me to your heart in
+the hardest hour of my life; now that hour has come to you, and I want
+to share it with you."
+
+Then the stolid bitterness of the horribly excited man broke down, and
+he did not again reject her sympathy. Silently he drew Cecilia to his
+bosom, and as he stooped over, a glowing tear fell upon her forehead.
+She shuddered slightly, stung by remorse--she knew for whom that tear
+was shed.
+
+
+
+
+                             CHAPTER XVIII.
+
+                 FORTUNE SMILES ON VICTOR ECKARDSTEIN.
+
+
+Eckardstein had a new master. Count Conrad had lain eight days in the
+family vault, and his younger brother had taken the reins of authority.
+That young officer, who had hitherto known no other home than in
+barracks save that spring, when he had paid only a short visit to his
+ancestral halls, now suddenly saw himself confronted by quite a new
+task, and placed in entirely new circumstances. It was certainly
+fortunate for him, that he had at his side his uncle and former
+guardian, who was himself a landed proprietor, and now prolonged his
+stay, in order to support his nephew both with advice and by action.
+
+The gray, foggy weather of the last weeks had been followed by a mild
+autumnal day. The sunshine lay bright upon the extensive forests that
+stretched between Odensburg and Eckardstein, belonging, however, for
+the most part, to the latter domain, for in Odensburg the woods had had
+to give way constantly to the great industrial establishments, that had
+continued to spread from year to year. Only a hunting-ground of
+moderate dimensions and a forester's preserve remained.
+
+Upon one of the woodland paths Count Victor and Herr von Stettin were
+walking along. They had been inspecting the condition of the forests
+and had now started on their return to the Castle.
+
+They were about to cross the public road, that here led through the
+middle of the woods, when, an open carriage rolled rapidly by, in which
+sat two ladies in deep mourning. The younger turned with an expression
+of joyful surprise when she perceived the young Count, and upon her
+speaking a few words to the coachman the carriage stopped.
+
+"Oh, Count Victor, I am very glad to see you again--if the occasion had
+only not been such a melancholy one!"
+
+Victor stepped up to the carriage-door with a low bow, but looked as if
+he would rather have paid his respects from a distance. He only touched
+lightly the little hand that was cordially extended to him, and there
+was a perceptible reserve in his words as he answered:
+
+"Yes indeed, a very melancholy occasion--but allow me, ladies, to
+introduce my uncle, Herr von Stettin--Fräulein Maia Dernburg--Fräulein
+Friedberg."
+
+"Properly, I have only to renew an old acquaintance," said Stettin,
+smiling, as he likewise drew near. "Years ago when I was on a visit at
+Eckardstein, I used to see Fräulein Dernburg, but of the child of those
+days, indeed, a young lady has grown up who may not remember me."
+
+"Only dimly, at least, Herr von Stettin, but so much the more plainly
+do I remember all the glad hours that I have passed at Eckardstein,
+with Count Victor and Eric----" The young girl's eyes suddenly filled
+with tears as she pronounced her brother's name. "Ah, death has invaded
+our household too! You know, I suppose, Victor, when and how our poor
+Eric died?"
+
+"I have heard the particulars," said the young Count softly, "and have
+bitterly felt how much I lost in the friend of my youth. His widow
+remains at Odensburg, for the present, I learn."
+
+"Oh, certainly, we could not let her leave us! Eric loved Cecilia so
+dearly! She lives with us."
+
+"And--Baron von Wildenrod?" Victor put this question quite
+irrelevantly; his eyes at the same time being fastened upon the young
+girl's countenance with a look of intense anxiety. She blushed deeply.
+
+"Herr von Wildenrod?" she repeated with embarrassment. "He is also at
+Odensburg."
+
+"And stays there, I presume?"
+
+"I believe so," said Maia with a singular sense of oppression that she
+could not control, and which seemed altogether irrational. What was
+there against it, if her youthful playmate should guess to-day, what
+was no longer to be kept secret? But why did he look at her, in
+general, so coldly and so reproachfully? What was the matter with him?
+
+Herr von Stettin, who, meanwhile, had been talking with Fräulein
+Friedberg, now turned again to the others; a few more questions were
+asked, a few more pieces of information exchanged, then Victor--who
+seemed strangely impatient to move on--closed the interview with the
+remark:
+
+"I am afraid, uncle, that we are detaining the ladies too long. May I
+ask that our compliments be presented to Herr Dernburg?"
+
+"I shall deliver your message to papa--but you will come yourself to
+Odensburg, will you not?"
+
+"Certainly, if it is possible," declared the young Count in a tone that
+betrayed the impossibility of such an occurrence. He bowed and retired,
+the ladies returned his salutation, and the next minute the carriage
+was rolling away.
+
+"That Maia Dernburg has developed into a charming girl!" said Stettin.
+"It strikes me that it would be to your advantage to be a little less
+formal than you were just now. I think you used to be an intimate
+friend of her brother!"
+
+Victor did not answer, and he cast down his eyes before the searching
+glance of his uncle, who now paused in his walk.
+
+"I have long since remarked that something was preying on your mind,"
+said he--"something that has altered your whole being. What has gone
+wrong with you? Be candid, Victor, and maybe your fatherly friend can
+advise and help you."
+
+"You cannot help me," gloomily declared the young lord, "but I will
+confess to you--it may lighten the load on my heart.--You know the
+ground of dissension between Conrad and me. At times Conrad was hard
+upon me, and finally made his assistance, that I absolutely needed,
+dependent upon one condition. He planned a union between Maia Dernburg
+and me, that should henceforth lift me above care, and I--well, I was
+irritated, embittered, I wanted to be rid of that galling dependence at
+any price--and I acquiesced. I came here, saw Maia again, and then all
+was over with calculation and sordid considerations of any kind--for I
+fell ardently in love with the sweet girl the very first time we met.
+And then--then I was punished severely enough, for having once
+calculated."
+
+"You were rejected? Impossible! The young girl awhile ago was as
+cordial and unconstrained in her manners as possible."
+
+"Maia knows nothing of my proposing to address her; it did not even
+come to a declaration. Conrad's plan was reported to her father in the
+most hateful manner. He took me to task about it, and as I could not
+and would not deny the truth, he treated my courtship as a speculation
+of the basest sort, myself as a fortune-hunter. He said the most
+unfeeling things to me----" Victor clinched his teeth at the bare
+recollection. "Excuse me from saying any more."
+
+"So that is the way the matter stands?" said Stettin reflectively. "To
+be sure, what cares this proud industrial prince for a Count
+Eckardstein! Well, do not look so desperate though, my boy;
+circumstances are entirely different from what they were six months
+ago. Providence meanwhile has made you lord of Eckardstein, and you
+have it in your power, by a renewal of your courtship, to prove to that
+old hard-head the purity of your motives."
+
+"I cannot get my own consent to do so--never! Maia is lost to me now
+and forever."
+
+"Do not be so rash, please! A few harsh words can always be borne with
+from a future father-in-law, especially when he has not been altogether
+wrong in the matter. If your pride forbids the making of any advance,
+then let me take the initiatory steps. I shall have a talk with
+Dernburg."
+
+"Just to have it announced to you, with polite regret, that his
+daughter is engaged to Baron von Wildenrod?" said Victor bitterly. "We
+may as well spare ourselves that mortification!"
+
+"What are you thinking of? Wildenrod is in his forties and Fräulein
+Dernburg----"
+
+"Oh, he has some demoniacal power of enchantment, and knows how to use
+it. I am convinced that the insinuation which so infuriated Dernburg
+against me originated with him. I was in his way, he was already basing
+his calculations upon Maia's fortune. And Maia has not remained
+indifferent to him; already they are everywhere talking of an
+engagement, and just now I gained certainty as to the state of her
+affections. Maia betrayed herself--I have nothing more to hope for."
+
+The desperation of the young man plainly showed how deep was the
+passion for his young playmate that stirred in his heart.
+
+Stettin had become very serious.
+
+"That would certainly be Wildenrod's master-stroke," said he, with
+knitted brow. "So, it was not enough for him to share his sister's
+portion, but he must needs win the Odensburg millions for himself!
+There is still time for opening Herr Dernburg's eyes--his daughter
+shall not become the prey of this adventurer."
+
+"An adventurer! Baron von Wildenrod!"
+
+"He became so when fortune and splendor deserted his house. Perhaps
+fate had as much to do with it as guilt--never mind! He has forfeited
+the right to connect himself with an honorable family."
+
+"And were you aware of this that time at Nice, and did you keep
+silence?" asked the young Count with bitter reproach in his tone.
+
+"Was I to turn informer? And for the sake of whom? What right had I to
+force myself upon the confidence of a strange family? At that time what
+were these Dernburgs to me? One does not expose to public odium the son
+of a man at whose house you had been received as a friend for long
+years, without stringent necessity--and in this case I refrained."
+
+"But you might have warned Eric in some way!"
+
+"No warning would have availed at that period. If Eric had wanted to
+see--the double part that his future brother-in-law played was known
+all through Nice: I was not the only knowing one. But he walked blindly
+into the snare spread for him. But comfort yourself. Now when I know
+how close to your heart his sister is, no consideration shall hinder
+his exposure."
+
+"Yes, Maia must be protected from this man, cost what it will!" cried
+Victor impetuously. "Uncle, I have concealed nothing from you, now; be
+as candid towards me! Who and what is this Wildenrod?"
+
+"You shall learn," said Stettin gravely. "But we cannot discuss such
+things here, in the open woods. In ten minutes we shall be in the
+Castle, where we can talk farther on the subject."
+
+
+
+
+                              CHAPTER XIX.
+
+             "OFF WITH THE OLD LOVE, ON WITH THE NEW.----"
+
+
+Maia and her companion, meanwhile, had continued their ride. Their
+destination was the railroad station, whither they went to bring home
+Frau von Ringstedt, who had repaired to Berlin, to prepare the
+family residence there for occupation during the winter. Dernburg's
+re-election had been expected with such certainty, that it had been
+considered in making their household arrangements. Now, whether they
+should go at all to Berlin was questionable, and the old lady was
+returning, for the present, to Odensburg.
+
+"What was the matter with Count Victor to-day?" said Maia thoughtfully.
+"His manners were entirely different from what they usually are, and he
+did not seem at all rejoiced to see us again."
+
+"He is still in first mourning for his brother," objected Leonie. "It
+is to be expected, as a matter of course, that he should be graver and
+more reserved than formerly."
+
+Maia shook her little head; the explanation did not satisfy her. "No,
+no--this was something quite different. Victor went away last spring,
+too, without taking leave! Papa said, it is true, that he had been
+suddenly called away to attend to some military duty, but then he could
+have written. And just now when I invited him to come to Odensburg, he
+looked as if he did not care to do so. What is the meaning of all
+this?"
+
+"I, too, was struck by the Count's restraint of manner," said Leonie,
+"and for that very reason you should not have been so cordial in your
+advances, Maia. You are a grown-up young lady now, and should not
+permit the same freedoms to the country neighbors as when you were a
+child."
+
+"Victor is no mere country neighbor!" cried the young girl indignantly.
+"He was the friend of Eric's youth, and, when a boy, used to be almost
+as much at Odensburg as at Eckardstein. It is ugly of him to be so
+cold, all of a sudden, and act so formally, and I shall tell him so,
+too, when he comes to see us. Oh, I shall read him a good lecture!"
+
+Fräulein Friedberg assumed the air of a monitor, and once more enlarged
+upon the need of circumspection on the part of a grown girl, but she
+preached to deaf ears. Maia dreamed on with open eyes: she was still
+haunted by the gloomy, reproachful glance of the playmate of her youth,
+and although she was far from fathoming the real ground for his altered
+behavior, his reserve grieved her. She realized, for the first time,
+how pleasant his cheerful society had been to her.
+
+At the depot, Dr. Hagenbach received the two ladies with disagreeable
+tidings. He had heard in town of a railroad accident, that was said to
+have occurred in the forenoon. Since he knew that Frau von Ringstedt
+was aboard, he had telegraphed at once for the facts, which,
+fortunately, were comforting. In consequence of the recent violent
+rains, a land-slide had taken place, the track was blocked up for a
+considerable distance, and the passengers had been obliged to take
+another route. The Berlin fast train, then, could only arrive after a
+good deal of delay: no accident, however, had happened to the train
+itself.
+
+After this communication, nothing was left for them to do but to wait.
+There happened to be, however, at the station a large body of troops,
+which had returned from maneuvering, and was now awaiting
+transportation; thus all the space was over-crowded, the waiting-room
+pre-empted by officers, and on all sides there reigned an alarming
+confusion, that made a long stay for the ladies very unpleasant. The
+doctor, therefore, advised that they should go over to the "Golden
+Lamb," secure an apartment, and there await the arrival of the train.
+
+This proposition was adopted, and since Herr Willmann was not at home
+just now, the guests were received by his spouse, who, upon getting
+word that the ladies from Odensburg were honoring the "Golden Lamb"
+with their presence, a thing that had never before happened, came
+rushing out of the kitchen to acknowledge this honor, in the most
+humble and grateful manner.
+
+Frau Willmann's attractions must have lain in the domestic virtues,
+for, most assuredly, they were not in outward appearance. She was
+considerably older than her husband, with repulsive features and a
+loud, sharp voice that lent something rasping to her words. And the
+house-dress in which she received her guests left much to be desired
+both as regards taste and neatness.
+
+She opened the best of her guest-chambers as speedily as possible, tore
+open the window to let in fresh air, set to rights chairs and table,
+while she assured the ladies that she would have brought to them the
+most excellent of coffee, in the shortest space of time possible. She
+then vanished quickly, all zeal and desire to serve.
+
+According to the assertion of the railroad officials, they had to wait
+at least another hour for the Berlin train. Fräulein Maia found it very
+tiresome; she felt a desire to make a tour of discovery in the "Golden
+Lamb," and when, besides, from the window she caught sight of a troop
+of children, who were playing in the yard behind the house, she could
+sit still no longer. In spite of all the exhortations of her teacher,
+she slipped out of the room and left her companions to themselves.
+
+An embarrassed silence reigned for a few minutes. The doctor and
+Fräulein Friedberg had, it is true, long ago come to a sort of tacit
+understanding that that unfortunate offer of marriage should be
+considered as unsaid. It was the only possible way to preserve the
+necessary ease in the almost daily intercourse to which they were
+forced; and, to be candid, they were neither of them so easy in one
+another's company as was desirable. Hagenbach could not help giving
+bent to his mortification at being rejected in various covert ways,
+and, in spite of herself, Leonie continually found herself acting on
+the defensive when he was present. But, in spite of these awkward
+relations, it was a fact that the doctor expended much more care upon
+his outward appearance than ever before, and made every effort to rein
+in his harshness of manner as much as possible. In this latter
+particular he succeeded only to a very moderate extent, but he at least
+showed a desire to be more gentle.
+
+"Maia is not to be calculated upon!" began Fräulein Friedberg finally,
+with a sigh. "I am actually in despair at times. What is one to do with
+a young lady, who is already engaged to be married, and yet cannot
+appreciate the necessity of conforming to social usages?"
+
+"But there is room for a difference of opinion as to that necessity,"
+remarked the doctor, irritably.
+
+"I beg your pardon, the position is not to be disputed at all," was the
+very decided answer. "It is the foundation upon which the whole social
+fabric rests."
+
+"You may well say so--_forms_!" mocked Hagenbach, with unconcealed
+irritation, "they are the main things in the world. What avails it if a
+man be honorable, upright, and true--he must yield to the first goose
+that comes along, who knows how to make bows and exchange polite
+speeches--he, of course, has the precedence!"
+
+"I did not say so."
+
+"But thought it! I have not given much attention to forms in the course
+of my life, have not found it needful either in my practice or the
+management of my household. I am a bachelor, though--thank God!"
+
+The returned thanks, however, to Heaven, on account of his fortunately
+preserved bachelor's estate was in so grim a tone that Leonie preferred
+not to answer. She stepped to the window and looked out. Fortunately
+one of the maids now appeared with the coffee-cups and a huge cake,
+sufficient for at least ten persons, bringing the message that, if the
+ladies and doctor would be patient for a little while longer, Fräulein
+Willmann would prepare the coffee herself.
+
+Leonie started at the name, and turned around eagerly:
+
+"Who did you say?"
+
+"Fräulein Willmann, lady."
+
+"Such is the name of the hostess of the 'Golden Lamb,'" explained
+Hagenbach, who now perceived that silence would profit nothing any
+longer, and that the whole melancholy story would have to be
+recapitulated. Leonie, indeed, did not say a word, but the mantling
+color that mounted to her cheeks betrayed her exceeding sensitiveness
+to anything that reminded her of her former lover. The doctor
+preferred, therefore, to introduce the subject himself, as soon as the
+maid had left the room.
+
+"Does the name strike you?" he asked.
+
+"It was once very dear to me, and still is. The coincidence here can
+only be the result of accident, but I shall try to find out from the
+hostess----"
+
+"That is not necessary, when you can learn of me just as well. The
+proprietor of this inn is a cousin of the lamented Engelbert, the
+converter of heathen, who lies buried in the sands of the desert. He
+has told me so himself--that is to say, not the buried man, but the
+living Herr Pancratius Willmann of the 'Golden Lamb.'"
+
+"A cousin of Engelbert's?" repeated Leonie, in surprise. "To judge by
+the age of his wife, this Herr Pancratius Willmann must be quite far
+advanced in years?"
+
+"Heaven forbid! he is at least twelve years younger than his better
+half, not much over forty. He was just a poor starving wretch and she a
+rich widow. As for the rest, the man is not uncultivated--he has even
+been a student, as he recently informed me, but then concluded that he
+would rather clothe himself in the wool of the 'Golden Lamb.'"
+
+Leonie's lips curled contemptuously. "What a conclusion! This ordinary
+woman----"
+
+"Has money and is a splendid cook," chimed in Hagenbach, who felt a
+satisfaction in this, that at least the lamented Engelbert's cousin had
+no part in the halo of ideality that encircled his kinsman. "As for the
+rest, the marriage of this pair seems to be a very happy one, and they
+also have a numerous progeny--only look at the six young lambs
+disporting themselves in the garden down yonder!" He had likewise
+stepped to the window and pointed down into the small garden, where the
+offspring of the Willmann family were running about, shrieking and
+hallooing. They were certainly not marked by any special attractions,
+but were little well-fed, thick-skulled creatures with yellow locks,
+seeming to take after their mother in things essential.
+
+Leonie shrugged her shoulders. "I do not understand how a cultivated
+man can condescend to such a union. To be sure, self-interest regulates
+the world nowadays. Who asks after the ideal?"
+
+"Not Herr Pancratius Willmann certainly," dryly opined Hagenbach. "He
+holds with the practical, in complete contrast to his cousin. Herr
+Engelbert left home in the lurch, in order to baptize the black heathen
+back in Africa. Now he lies in the sand of the desert--that is the
+return he got."
+
+Leonie looked daggers at him. "You certainly cannot appreciate such a
+resolve, Doctor. Engelbert Willmann had an ideal nature, that followed
+a higher inspiration without any reference to worldly advantages, and
+one must have somewhat of the same nature in order to understand it."
+
+"No, I do not pretend to understand it," declared Hagenbach with an
+outburst of vexation. "I am not constituted 'ideal.' I am a plain
+healer of men's diseases, without higher inspiration, and am myself
+quite an ordinary man, without any ideal--therefore of no account
+whatever."
+
+Thus were they fairly launched into another discussion, when the door
+opened, and Herr Pancratius Willmann appeared upon the threshold, in
+all the stateliness of his obesity, with broad red countenance. He made
+a low bow before the physician, a second one before the lady at the
+window, and then began in his soft, melancholy voice: "I have just
+heard from my wife that the Odensburg family were here, and could not
+deny myself the pleasure of expressing my joy and gratitude for the
+honor that has been done my modest house."
+
+"It is well that you have come, mine host!" said the doctor. "I was
+just talking about you with Fräulein Friedberg----" He was not allowed
+to proceed farther, in consequence of the scene that now unfolded
+before his eyes.
+
+Leonie had started in alarm at the sound of the strange voice, and Herr
+Willmann showed no less agitation at the sight of the lady at the
+window. He fairly quaked, his red cheeks turned pale, and, utterly
+disconcerted, he stared at the lady who now approached him.
+
+"Sir," she began in quavering voice, "you bear a name that is familiar
+to me, and I learn from the doctor here that a relation does, in fact,
+exist----"
+
+She paused and seemed to await an answer, but Herr Pancratius only
+nodded his head in the affirmative; but so low was his bow, that hardly
+a glimpse of his face was to be gotten.
+
+"I certainly discover some resemblance in your features," continued
+Leonie, "and your voice, too, has an almost terrifying similarity with
+that of your deceased cousin, of whom you probably have slight
+recollection."
+
+Willmann did not answer this time either, but shook his head, in sign
+of dissent, but without looking up.
+
+"Why, man, have you lost the power of speech?" cried the doctor,
+vexedly. "What means this dumb show of nodding and shaking your head?"
+
+But Herr Pancratius persisted in his silence; it seemed as though he
+had a regular dread of hearing the sound of his own voice again.
+Instead of this, he cast a shy glance at the door, as though he were
+weighing the possibility of a retreat. Now Hagenbach lost patience.
+
+"What is concealed behind that demeanor?" cried he with aroused
+suspicion. "Is that whole tale of relationship a falsehood after all?
+Out with what you have to say, man!"
+
+The craven, pressed upon two sides, evidently saw no way of escape.
+He cast his eyes up at the ceiling, with exactly the same pious,
+woe-begone expression that had startled the doctor at first, and
+sighed:
+
+"Oh, oh, Doctor, Heaven is my witness----"
+
+A loud shriek interrupted him. Leonie had suddenly turned pale as
+death, and with both hands convulsively clasped the back of the chair
+standing in front of her.
+
+"Engelbert! Gracious master, it is he himself!"
+
+At this instant Herr Willmann seemed to cherish the fervent wish that
+the earth would open at his feet and swallow him up. But as no such
+interposition on the part of Heaven took place, he remained standing in
+the middle of the room, in the full light of day. Dr. Hagenbach,
+however, dropped into the nearest chair; he had strong nerves, and yet,
+somehow, this revelation had a stunning effect upon him.
+
+In spite of this discovery, which must have been an appalling one to
+her, Leonie recovered her self-command in an astonishing manner. She
+neither fell in a swoon, nor fell into convulsions; motionless she
+stood there gazing upon him who had once been her betrothed lover, and
+made no attempt to deny it.
+
+"Leonie, you here?" he stammered in mortal confusion. "I had no idea--I
+will explain everything----"
+
+"Yes, I too would earnestly beg you to do so!" cried the doctor, who
+had now recovered breath and sprang up in a rage. "What! for twelve
+long years, you allowed yourself to be wept as a martyred apostle to
+the heathen, while all the time you were alive and merry here at the
+'Golden Lamb,' flourishing as a happy husband and a six-fold father of
+a family? That is vile."
+
+"Doctor," interrupted Leonie, still trembling in every limb, but still
+with perfect composure, "I have to talk with this--this gentleman.
+Please leave us!"
+
+Hagenbach looked at her rather critically, for he did not exactly trust
+this composure. Yet he could but perceive that during such an
+explanation the presence of a third party would be superfluous. He
+therefore left the room. Little as he was in the habit of playing the
+eavesdropper, this time he kept his post close to a slit in the door,
+without any scruple of conscience whatever. The affair that was being
+settled inside was partly his concern as well.
+
+Herr Engelbert Willmann seemed to be greatly relieved when the witness
+to this painful scene departed, and now prepared finally for the
+promised explanation. He began in a penitential tone: "Leonie, hear
+me!"
+
+Still she kept her place without stirring, and looked as if she would
+not and could not believe that this coarse, common-looking individual
+was one and the same with the ideal being upon whom her youthful
+affections had been set.
+
+"No explanation is needed," said she, with a tranquillity
+incomprehensible to herself. "I only desire you to answer me a few
+questions. Are you really the husband of the woman who received us just
+now; the father of the children playing in the garden down there?"
+
+"Highly rational and practical!" growled the doctor approvingly
+outside. "No sign of convulsions! Matters are progressing quite well."
+
+Leonie's question seemed utterly to confound Herr Willmann. "Do not
+condemn me, Leonie!" he implored stammeringly. "The force of
+circumstances--an unfortunate chain of peculiar----"
+
+"Do not address me in the familiar tone of long ago, Herr Willmann,"
+said Leonie, cutting him short in the midst of his sentence. "How long
+have you been married?"
+
+Willmann hesitated. He would have gladly given as recent a date as
+possible to his admission into the order of Benedict; but there were
+his children making their presence noisily manifest out of doors, his
+eldest, a boy of ten, being likewise in the game of romps. "Eleven
+years," he finally said in a low voice.
+
+"And twelve years ago you wrote me that you wanted to go as missionary
+into the interior of Africa, and from that time your letters ceased.
+Immediately afterwards you must have returned to Germany--without
+letting me know?"
+
+"It was done only for thy--for your sake, Leonie," Engelbert assured
+her, with an attempt to give a tender intonation to his voice. "We were
+both poor, I had no prospects, years might elapse ere I should be in a
+situation to offer you my hand. Should I allow you to waste your youth,
+mourning over me, and perhaps forfeiting a different and a happier
+fate? Never! And since I knew your magnanimity, knew that you would
+never have broken your word to me, with a bleeding heart I did what I
+had to--I restored your freedom to you through my supposed death----"
+
+"Give yourself no trouble. I am not to be deceived again," replied she,
+contemptuously. "Pray remember, Herr Willmann, that all is at an end
+between us, and we have nothing more to say. I only ask one thing of
+you: if accidentally our paths should ever cross again, pass me as a
+stranger and never show by any sign that we were ever friends."
+
+Engelbert secretly breathed more freely at this declaration, for he had
+not hoped to be let off so easily, and now prepared to depart in a very
+dignified manner. "You condemn me--well, I must bear it!" said he
+softly, and in an aggrieved tone. "Farewell, Leonie, appearances are
+against me, but for all that you have been my first and only love!"
+
+He cast a wofully sentimental glance upon his former lady-love, and
+then beat a hasty retreat. But outside fate overtook him in the person
+of Dr. Hagenbach, who unceremoniously grabbed him by the arm. "Now we
+shall have a few words together, Herr Engelbert Willmann," said he,
+dragging the terrified creature regardlessly to the other end of the
+passage, where one was out of ear-shot of the guest-chamber. "I shall
+certainly not have much to do with you, but this one thing I must tell
+you, that you are a rascal!"
+
+Once more he gave the annihilated Willmann another good shaking, then
+left him standing and returned to the room, where he was confident his
+medical services would be in requisition.
+
+"I wanted to see how you were," said the doctor, with a certain
+embarrassment. "I was afraid--yes, my dear young lady, I admit that
+to-day, for once, you have a right to be nervous.--You need not dread
+ever being ridiculed. Mind!"
+
+"I am quite well," protested Leonie, without raising her eyes. "I have
+gone through a very painful experience in having my illusions
+dispelled. You may easily guess, Doctor, how the story runs--spare me
+the shame of repeating it in detail."
+
+"You have nothing to be ashamed of!" cried Hagenbach, with warm
+feeling. "There is no shame in putting firm, inviolable faith in the
+goodness and nobility of a man's nature. And if one has deceived you,
+you need not therefore lose faith in everybody. There is many a one
+among us who deserves to be trusted."
+
+"I know it," replied Leonie, softly, extending her hand to him, "and I
+shall not waste time crying over a recollection that is not worth
+having tears shed over it. Let it be buried!"
+
+"Bravo!" cried the doctor, grasping her proffered hand, as though about
+to shake it. But suddenly he bethought himself, and paused. The "rough
+diamond" must have really been well on the way towards being polished,
+for an unheard-of thing happened--Dr. Hagenbach stooped down and
+imprinted upon that hand an extremely tender kiss.
+
+
+
+
+                              CHAPTER XX.
+
+                          MAIA MUST BE SAVED.
+
+
+The gentlemen's room at the "Golden Lamb" was almost entirely empty, as
+was commonly the case in the early afternoon hours. The visitors were
+not accustomed to come in until towards evening. At present only a
+single guest was there, namely, Landsfeld, who had come to consult with
+the host concerning a mass-meeting that was to take place in the course
+of the next few days. Herr Willmann did not happen to be at home, and
+Landsfeld, who wanted to have the matter settled, had taken possession
+of the gentlemen's room, without further ceremony, where he had already
+been waiting for a quarter of an hour. He had no idea that Herr
+Willmann had already got home and knew of his being there, but
+preferred making a servile bow to the Odensburg family ere he gave as
+respectful a greeting to the leader of the Socialists. Already he began
+to grow impatient, when finally the door opened. But instead of the
+party expected Egbert Runeck came in.
+
+The young delegate, who had gone to Berlin for a few days immediately
+after his election to consult with the leaders of his party, gave a
+strikingly cold and short salutation to his comrade, who, on his side,
+acknowledged it only by a slight nod.
+
+"Back already from Berlin?" asked Landsfeld.
+
+"I got here about an hour ago," answered Runeck. "I went straight to
+your house and heard there that I would be sure to find you at the
+'Golden Lamb.'"
+
+"To my house? That is a rare honor! I want to secure the hall for the
+day after to-morrow, since there turns out to be a necessity for a
+second mass meeting. As for the rest, we did not expect you back. Are
+you through with your business already?"
+
+"Yes, for the time being only some preliminaries were to be settled. My
+permanent presence in Berlin will not be required for four weeks yet,
+when the sessions of the _Reichstag_ begin, and so it seems to me I am
+more needed here just now than there."
+
+"You are mistaken," declared Landsfeld. "We need you here no longer,
+now that your election has been carried. But I thought to myself that
+you would return as speedily as possible, when you heard that trouble
+was brewing for your beloved Odensburg. Yes, we have beaten it into the
+old man's brain at last that he is not infallible. Until now he was so
+inaccessible that nothing could come nigh him; now that he has to
+wrestle with us like the rest of his colleagues, it may go hard enough
+with him!"
+
+"I rather think you have no occasion to triumph," said Egbert gloomily.
+"Dernburg has responded to your challenge by a wholesale discharge."
+
+"Of course! That was to be expected of the obstinate old man, and we
+were perfectly prepared for it."
+
+"Or rather, you have planned for it. And what now?"
+
+"Well, it means bend or break. Either the old man withdraws his
+discharge of the workmen, or all his enterprises come to a standstill."
+
+"Dernburg is not going to bend, that you all know, and to break him you
+have not the power. But he has it, and will use it unsparingly now that
+he has been goaded so far. He can hold out if his works lie idle for
+weeks and months--but not you. The strike is perfectly senseless, and
+the leaders of our party do not wish it--never have wished it. Now the
+decision against it has been definitely made."
+
+"Ah, indeed! I know you did your very best to persuade them to come to
+this decision. Now, didn't you?" asked Landsfeld with a piercing
+glance. "You are one of the leaders yourself now! The youngest and most
+masterful of all. You seem to have got the whip-hand of the others
+already."
+
+Runeck made an unequivocal sign of impatience.
+
+"Have you only personal attacks against me, where the question concerns
+a party measure? I bring you the positive direction, not to proceed to
+extremities--conform to it."
+
+"I am sorry, it is too late; the direction should have come earlier,"
+answered Landsfeld coldly. "The offer has been made, and in case of its
+non-acceptance the strike is announced. The people cannot retract--they
+will see it so in Berlin also."
+
+"Ah, ah, you show your true colors at last," cried Egbert in embittered
+tone. "You, who have always had the word discipline in your mouth, have
+followed your own head entirely!"
+
+"Acted upon my own responsibility, yes! Those narrow-minded cowards,
+those Odensburgers, must at last be thoroughly aroused from their dream
+of security. What trouble we have had in getting them to elect you,
+under what high pressure did we have to work, and all was left in
+doubt, up to the last minute! Now the dull mass is at last in motion;
+now it is of moment to urge them forward!"
+
+"And whither? To certain defeat! They have followed you to the polls,
+and even now they go with you blindly--the intoxication of victory has
+mounted to their heads! You have not preached to them in vain that they
+were almighty. But the intoxication will pass away. Just let the people
+come to their senses for once, and perceive what they lose when they
+turn their backs upon Odensburg, and what sorrows they thereby entail
+upon their wives and children--I tell you, you will not be able to hold
+them together for eight days; they will run back to Dernburg as fast as
+their legs can carry them. But he will be a different man from what he
+has been heretofore; he will not and cannot pardon the insult that they
+have inflicted upon him."
+
+The young engineer had long since lost the cool calmness with which he
+had opened the interview, and had worked himself up into continually
+greater excitement. Landsfeld quietly kept his seat and looked at him
+fixedly: an evil smile played about his lips, as he replied:
+
+"You seem to find this quite in order. On what side do you really
+stand, may I ask?"
+
+"On the side of reason and of right!" exclaimed Runeck passionately.
+"That the workmen elected me in opposition to Dernburg was their right,
+and he would not contest that, either, deeply as it might mortify him.
+But that they celebrated my victory in his works, that they had
+processions and rejoiced over his defeat, almost under his windows,
+that is a bold challenge, and he has given them, in reply, the answer
+they deserved!"
+
+"Ah, indeed? They deserved it, did they?" repeated Landsfeld, in a tone
+that should have warned his young comrade; but he paid no heed to it
+and continued with gathering warmth:
+
+"You had the people stirred up through Fallner, I know this; you goaded
+them into making that senseless demand, which is equivalent to
+inflicting incredible humiliation upon their chief. Is it that you so
+entirely mistake the man with whom you have to deal, or would you have
+war to the knife? Well, you shall have it! Dernburg has shown himself
+the protector of the workman long enough, now he will reveal himself as
+the master, and he does right in this--I would not act differently in
+his place!"
+
+A loud, bitter laugh from Landsfeld brought Egbert to a stop, for he
+had uttered those last words inconsiderately, stung into revolt.
+
+"Bravo! Oh, that is an inestimable confession! There at last you show
+your true face! It was the old man of Odensburg to the life--you are a
+worthy pupil of your master's school. What think you if I report the
+sentiment just heard from you in Berlin?"
+
+Runeck could hardly fail to be aware that he had allowed himself to go
+too far, but he only straightened himself up more defiantly.
+
+"What care I? Do you suppose that I allow myself to be such a slave,
+that I dare not express my opinions freely, when we are among
+ourselves?"
+
+"Among ourselves! Do you actually do us the honor to account yourself
+one of us? It is true you are our delegate! I have warned and counseled
+enough, for I knew long ago how far we would probably get with you.
+They would not listen to me, would secure that genial power to our
+party, and therefore the election must be pushed with all the means at
+our command. It was the hardest to manage of any in the electorial
+campaign--and for whom? The eyes of the others will soon be opened
+too."
+
+"If you want to help them in this, then do so!" said Egbert harshly and
+proudly. But now Landsfeld jumped up and planted himself close in front
+of him.
+
+"Perhaps you would be quite agreed to this. You are regularly planning,
+I believe, to lead up to a breach. Give yourself no trouble, young man:
+we will not do you that favor, we will not release you. If you choose
+to turn traitor and runagate, then let the whole disgrace of it fall
+upon you!"
+
+A bitter expression curled Runeck's lips at these scornful words.
+
+"Traitor! This, then, is what I get for giving myself up to you, body
+and soul, for sacrificing to you a future grander and more brilliant
+than falls to the lot of one in a thousand."
+
+"And now you are on the stool of repentance, naturally?" remarked
+Landsfeld slyly.
+
+"The sacrifice--no! But association with you--yes, I have long ago
+repented of that."
+
+"You are candid, anyhow," mocked Landsfeld, "and recklessly show us
+what a rod we have pickled for ourselves in your election. Yet there is
+no help for that now, and, for the present, you will be obliged to do
+your duty in the _Reichstag_. Fortunately your earlier speeches are in
+the mouths of every one. You could slap yourself in the face; you would
+now whistle to quite another tune, if you could. And once more, young
+man,"--he suddenly dropped the mocking tone and his voice became low
+and threatening,--"make no attempt to meddle in Odensburg affairs,
+which I have now taken in hand myself. I shall know how to answer for
+my conduct to the party--only see to it that you cope with your own
+responsibility. It is not going to be spared you, depend upon that!" So
+saying, he turned his back upon his comrade, and left the room without
+any greeting.
+
+Egbert was left alone; silently and moodily he brooded, with downcast
+eyes. He could not hinder the continual recurrence to his mind of the
+last words that Dernburg had spoken to him ere dismissing him: "You
+might have been lord of Odensburg. See whether your associates will
+thank you for the immense sacrifice that you have made to them!" He had
+just received a token of their gratitude.
+
+Then the door was softly opened, only half-way, however, and a lovely
+young girl's head appeared in the aperture. Timidly and with curiosity
+she peeped in. It was Maia, who, in the course of her tour of discovery
+in the "Golden Lamb," had finally reached the gentlemen's room. She had
+hardly cast in a glance, however, before an exclamation of joyful
+surprise escaped her lips.
+
+"Egbert!"
+
+He started from his reverie, looked at her for a moment in stolid
+amazement, and then sprang to his feet. "Maia--you here?"
+
+Maia quickly glided into the room, drawing the door to behind her.
+Fräulein Friedberg and Dr. Hagenbach should know nothing of this
+meeting, else they would not allow her to have anything to say to
+Egbert--he was tabooed now at Odensburg!
+
+Runeck, too, seemed suddenly to remember their altered relations;
+slowly he let the hand drop that he had stretched forth in greeting,
+and drew back a step.
+
+"May we exchange greetings as we used to do?" asked he softly.
+
+A shadow crossed Maia's face, just an instant before so radiant, but
+she unhesitatingly drew nearer and offered her hand to the friend of
+her childhood. "Alas, Egbert, that it had to come so far! If you only
+knew how it looks now at our house."
+
+"I do know!" was his short and gloomy answer.
+
+"Our Odensburg is no longer to be recognized," lamented the young girl.
+"Formerly, if we went through the works or had anything to say to the
+workmen, how joyfully we would be greeted by all; and if, moreover,
+papa showed himself, then all eyes were fastened upon him, and every
+one was proud of being spoken to by him. Now"--a subdued sob was
+perceptible in her voice--"now papa has forbidden Cecilia and me to
+leave the circuit of the park, since we are not secure against insults
+outside. He himself goes every day to the works, but I see on the faces
+of our officers that they regard it as a risk, that they fear he is in
+danger among his own workmen. But what more than all eats into his
+heart, is what happened on election-day--he did not deserve it at their
+hands."
+
+She did not suspect the effect of those words upon the man, who stood
+half-turned away from her. Not a sound crossed his lips, but his
+countenance expressed tortures that were with difficulty concealed.
+Maia saw this and laid her hand on his arm, with the old cordiality.
+
+"I know it," said she soothingly. "But I am the only one at Odensburg
+who still cleaves to you, and I hardly dare to show it. Papa is
+dreadfully provoked and bitter against you, and Os--I mean Baron von
+Wildenrod--confirms him in this. So my begging does no good whatever,
+and now, besides, Cecilia----"
+
+"She too?" interrupted Runeck, turning suddenly around. "Does she
+condemn me too?"
+
+"I am not sure," said Maia, frightened at the strange look which Egbert
+cast upon her. "But Cecilia will never listen when I talk about you,
+and fairly takes to flight. Ah, Egbert, if any one else stood in
+opposition to my father, I believe he would stand it better. That it
+should be you is what he cannot bear."
+
+"Neither can I!" answered Egbert gloomily. "Tell your father so, Maia,
+if you choose."
+
+The young girl mournfully shook her head. "I cannot--your name is no
+more to be mentioned in his presence. If it happens, by any chance, it
+makes him furiously angry. And he did love you so! Dear me, why do
+people have to hate one another so desperately, just because they
+belong to two different political parties? I really do not understand
+it."
+
+Maia's sweet girlish voice sounded soft and pleading, but nevertheless
+each of her words pierced Egbert's soul, like a glowing reproach. He
+could stand it no longer.
+
+"Let that be, Maia," said he, controlling his emotion by a great
+effort. "He must accept it as a stroke of destiny, that we all find it
+hard to bear. And you, poor child! have we drawn you into the net, too,
+and destroyed the sunny cheerfulness of your spirits?"
+
+The face of the young girl suddenly flushed up, her head drooped, and
+softly, almost shyly, she answered:
+
+"No, no--I am often enough ashamed that, in spite of all this, I am so
+excessively happy; and yet I cannot help it. Do not look at me in such
+surprise, Egbert. Strangers, to be sure, are not to know it yet,
+because we are still wearing mourning for our poor Eric, but I can tell
+you already that I--well, that I am a betrothed bride."
+
+Egbert started back in astonishment. Hitherto he had always considered
+Maia in the light of a child. It had not occurred to him that love
+could have already come to her. Now the unexpected news called a
+fleeting smile to his gloomy countenance, and full of cordiality he
+stretched out his hands to his youthful playmate. "Does our little Maia
+actually have to do with such things?" asked he with an attempt at
+playfulness.
+
+"But I am not so little any more," protested Maia, with a charming
+pout, while she stood on tip-toe and looked him roguishly in the eye.
+"See, I already reach up to your shoulders, and his too."
+
+"His? Why, I have not even asked after the name of your intended. What
+is it?"
+
+"Oscar," whispered Maia softly.
+
+"What did you say?" said Egbert in shocked surprise.
+
+"Oscar von Wildenrod! You know him, yes--dear me, Egbert, what is the
+matter?"
+
+Runeck had turned pale, and his right hand clinched involuntarily with
+a look that was full of commiseration. He fixed his eyes upon the young
+girl, who returned his gaze with a troubled anxious air.
+
+"Baron von Wildenrod is your betrothed?" repeated he at last. "And has
+your father consented?"
+
+"Certainly. He was opposed to it in the beginning, on account of the
+great difference of age, but Oscar besieged him so long, and I, too,
+begged and besought him so hard to let us be happy, that at last he
+gave his consent."
+
+Egbert was thunderstruck, and gazed upon the lovely young creature who
+so heedlessly spoke of her happiness, where misery in reality impended.
+For the second time fate had imposed upon him the task of inflicting a
+deadly blow upon a being who was dear to him, and crushing her supposed
+happiness with a ruthless hand. This had been spared Eric in his dying
+hour; he could be silent when he learned to know Cecilia as she really
+was; here he had no choice and could not keep silence.
+
+"And you do not rejoice with me?" asked Maia, in a mortified and
+reproachful tone, as he still said nothing. "Oh, I remember you had
+something against Oscar, and he has a great deal against you. I have
+known this a long while, although neither of you will own it. But you
+can surely congratulate me, any way.--I am indescribably happy."
+
+Runeck ground his teeth together. He could not wish her joy, even as a
+mere matter of ceremony, which under these circumstances would have
+been the bitterest mockery, and yet he felt that he dared not now and
+in this place keep his secret. Fortunately accident came to his
+assistance, for out in the passage became audible the voice of Dr.
+Hagenbach.
+
+"Have you seen Fräulein Dernburg anywhere? We must hurry to the
+station,--the train will be here in ten minutes."
+
+"I must!" whispered Maia, pricking up her ears. "Farewell, Egbert. I
+shall always hold you dear, whatever happens. And you cannot forget,
+either, that Odensburg was so long your home."
+
+Once more the brown eyes were uplifted to him in fervent deprecation,
+and then the young girl glided quickly away. Runeck breathed a sigh of
+relief that he had no longer to withstand the battery of those happy,
+unsuspecting eyes, but, at the same time, great waves of rebellion came
+rolling over his tortured soul.
+
+This, then, had been Wildenrod's aim. He had set his covetous eye upon
+Odensburg, and would never rest until the booty was his, and Maia's
+hand was to lay it within his grasp. And Cecilia knew this, and did not
+interfere. Indeed, he was her brother, whom she loved in spite of
+everything--it was only to save him that she had become Eric's wife.
+And she did not know the truth. Oh, why had he concealed it from her
+that time? But now her feelings were no longer to be considered,
+either--the thing was to rescue Maia: now, to be silent any longer were
+a crime.
+
+"No, I shall not forget that Odensburg was, for so long a time, my
+home," murmured Egbert, drawing himself up resolutely, "if I do have to
+prove it in a different way from what you expect, my poor little Maia.
+Shall I write to Dernburg? Impossible. I am wholly out of favor with
+him--he believes the worst of me; he would deem the letter a wretched
+calumny, and Wildenrod would win his game nevertheless. There is no
+help for it, I must fight the battle face to face, and not give up
+either, until it is decided, until Maia is released from this bond. Be
+it so, then--I am going to Odensburg."
+
+
+
+
+                              CHAPTER XXI.
+
+                FROM HEIGHTS OF BLISS TO DEPTHS OF WOE.
+
+
+There prevailed at Odensburg the sultriness that portends the gathering
+storm. The air was heavy with it, and, according to every sign, when
+the tempest broke forth it would be a severe one.
+
+This was the day when the workmen who had been discharged, in
+consequence of the proceedings of election-day, had to leave their
+workshops. There were hundreds of them, and all their fellows had
+declared that they, too, would lay down their work, if those dismissals
+were not withdrawn.
+
+In Dernburg's office a conference had just taken place. There were
+present, besides the Baron von Wildenrod, who was never missing upon
+such occasions, the three highest officials; and they had tried, with
+all their might, to bring the chief to a milder view of what had
+happened. It had been in vain.
+
+"The word stands, the orders given are to be carried through with the
+greatest exactness!" he declared. "You will see to it, gentlemen, that
+your subordinates conform precisely to the directions given. Every
+special event is to be immediately announced to me. We are going to
+have a serious, perhaps terrible time, and I calculate upon each one of
+you doing his duty in fullest measure."
+
+"With us that is a matter of course, Herr Dernburg," replied the
+director, "and I believe that I can also answer for our subordinates.
+And perhaps, after all, it will not come to the worst. Many signs go to
+show that the mood at the works is a very depressed one. Many are
+already repenting of the decision, into which they were half enticed
+and half forced. We know exactly what hands here have been active. The
+people have been put up to mischief, and goaded on in an unheard-of
+manner."
+
+"I know that, but they have allowed themselves to be stirred up by
+strangers, and against me. Now, they can have their way."
+
+This answer sounded so stern, that the director lost courage for making
+further representations; he cast a meaning glance at his colleague, and
+now the upper-engineer took up the theme.
+
+"I also am convinced that the majority already begin to be conscious of
+having acted over-hastily. They will silently let drop that crazy
+petition, in which Fallner's remaining was also included. A great part
+will quietly work on, the others will follow sooner or later, and the
+whole move come to nothing, if you could make up your mind, Herr
+Dernburg, to show the slightest disposition to conciliate."
+
+"No!" said Dernburg, with cold severity.
+
+"But what is to be done with the men who go to work as usual to-morrow
+morning?"
+
+"They have to make the express declaration that they are not in accord
+with their fellows, and intend to submit unconditionally to my
+requirements--then they shall be free to resume work."
+
+"They will not come up to that," objected Winning, reflectively.
+
+"Well, then, the workshops remain closed. We shall see who will hold
+out the longer--they or I!"
+
+"Exactly my opinion," remarked Wildenrod. "That you owe to yourself and
+your position. You seem to be of a different opinion, gentlemen, but
+you will soon be convinced yourselves that this is the only right way
+whereby we may force the body of workmen into subjection, and that,
+indeed, in the shortest space of time."
+
+The officers were silent: they were already accustomed to the Baron's
+thus planting himself beside their chief, and the right being conceded
+to him. They certainly did not deem Wildenrod's influence as especially
+salutary, and here he was again doing every thing he possibly could to
+uphold Dernburg in the stand that he had taken. But gradually they had
+come to see in him Dernburg's future son-in-law and the future master
+of Odensburg: they did not attempt, then, to controvert his position,
+which would have been useless; and now when Dernburg gave the sign for
+them to disperse, while he rose to his feet, they parted with a silent
+bow.
+
+"I do believe those gentlemen are apprehensive of some sort of an
+insurrection," mocked Oscar, when the door had closed behind them.
+"They would make every possible concession for the sake of sweet peace.
+I am so glad that you held firm here; any yielding would have been
+unpardonable weakness."
+
+Dernburg had stepped to the window. He seemed to have grown older by
+years in these few days, but however bitter the experience might have
+been, it had not quelled his spirit,--that iron will of his was stamped
+upon every movement. There was something that awed in the stern
+rigidity of his features, whence every trace of mildness had flown. He
+silently gazed over at the works. The chimneys there were still
+smoking, the furnaces glowed, all the mighty forces of those restless
+activities were still astir, still toiled thousands of hands.
+"To-morrow all this will lie there still and dead--for how long?"
+
+Involuntarily he had spoken these last words aloud, and Wildenrod, who
+had drawn near, heard him.
+
+"Why, it will not last long," said he confidently. "In your hands lies
+the power, and it can do the Odensburgers no harm, if at last they are
+made sensible of this. This riff-raff, that left you in the lurch
+without ceremony to run after the first hunter that whistled to them!
+Such a set----"
+
+"Oscar, you are speaking of my workmen!" interrupted Dernburg angrily.
+
+"Yes, indeed, of your workmen, who showed you their devotion in such a
+touching manner! I can feel with you what was then passing in your
+soul."
+
+"No, Oscar, that you cannot," said Dernburg, with grave earnestness.
+"You have come as a stranger to Odensburg. With you, your future
+position here is only a question of power. Perhaps, hereafter, it must
+be the same for me, but formerly it was different. I stood at the head
+of my workmen, but all that I did was done with them and for them, and
+as each one could depend upon me, in times of danger and distress, I
+believed that I could depend upon them, every one. That is all over
+now! Fool that I was! They want no peace, they want war!"
+
+"Yes, that is what they want," remarked Wildenrod, "and they shall find
+us ready. We shall soon put down this rebellious Odensburg."
+
+"Oh, certainly, we are going to conquer," exclaimed Dernburg with
+intense bitterness. "I shall force my workmen to subjection and they
+will submit; but with hatred and malice in their hearts--with hatred
+against me! Every apparent reconciliation will only be an armistice,
+during which they will gather new forces, in order to hurl them against
+me, and then I shall be obliged to quell them again, and thus the
+breach will become wider and wider, until one party is destroyed. Such
+a life I cannot bear!"
+
+With an impetuous movement he turned away from the window, as though he
+could no longer endure the sight of his works over there, and his voice
+had a weary sound, as he continued:
+
+"I have always thought that I would hold the reins at Odensburg as long
+as I lived, but for eight days past, I have been thinking differently.
+Who knows, Oscar, whether I may not turn over the management to you.
+even during my lifetime. In the crisis ahead of us, perhaps you would
+fill the place better than I."
+
+"Heavens, what an idea!" cried Wildenrod, shocked, and at the same time
+dazzled by the unsuspected prospect that opened up before him. "You are
+not seriously thinking of retiring?"
+
+"For the present--no!" said Dernburg, straightening himself up. "I have
+never yet avoided a battle when forced upon me, and shall fight this
+one through also."
+
+"And depend upon me to stand by you!" said Oscar, offering him his
+hand. "But one thing more: the director seems to dread lest there be
+disturbances at the works to-day, when it comes to paying off and
+discharging the offenders. The necessary measures have been taken,
+indeed, but I place myself at your disposal, if the authority of the
+officers should not prove adequate. You yourself should not appear in
+person. You owe it to yourself and your station not to expose yourself
+to insults that, from words, might extend to acts. Leave that to me!"
+
+An infinitely bitter smile played about Dernburg's lips, but he made a
+gesture of dissent.
+
+"I thank you, Oscar. Of your courage I have never had a doubt, but in
+such affairs I allow no one to represent me. But you shall have your
+place by my side. People shall see and know that I concede to you the
+rights of a son. I no longer make any secret of that."
+
+The two men again shook hands warmly, then Wildenrod went. In the
+ante-room, a servant came forward with this announcement:
+
+"Baron von Wildenrod, you will find upon your desk a note from Castle
+Eckardstein, which came about a half hour ago. We did not dare to
+disturb you, and the messenger was not to wait for an answer."
+
+"It is well," said the Baron, abstractedly. He had other things on his
+mind now--that expression which had been dropped just now, Dernburg's
+hint, that he might possibly give up the management of Odensburg very
+shortly. Had this been nothing but an ebullition of anger, a passing
+whim, that one was not to take in earnest? No, the man was cut to the
+quick; if he was actually forced into a prolonged battle with his
+workmen, it was likely, yea, certain, that he would put that thought
+into action,--and Oscar von Wildenrod would step into his place. Was it
+indeed true that the hotly contested goal was so close at hand? Oscar's
+eyes flashed. Oh, he would have no sentimental scruples like his future
+father-in-law--that rebellious Odensburg should learn to know its new
+master, this he vowed to himself.
+
+Not until he entered his own room and saw the note lying on his desk,
+did he recall the servant's message, and with some surprise he picked
+up the communication. From Castle Eckardstein? What could they have to
+say to him from there? The new proprietor knew, or at all events
+suspected, who had stood in the way of his acceptance with Maia, and
+surely would not make the attempt to renew neighborly relations.
+
+Oscar broke open the seal, ran his eye over the first lines and
+stopped. Quickly he turned the page over, looked at the signature, and
+turned pale. "Frederick von Stettin!" he murmured. "What evil spirit
+leads him to Eckardstein, and what does he want of me?"
+
+He began to read uneasily, with sinister looks. "It is a very grave and
+painful matter that I must discuss with you," wrote Herr von Stettin.
+"I have long hesitated as to the way in which this should be done, and
+have finally adopted the mildest expedient, for I cannot and will not
+forget the friendship that bound me to your father. Therefore I only
+say to you that I know your past, from the moment when you left
+Germany, up to your last stay at Nice. When we again met there
+unexpectedly, I procured this knowledge--never mind how. Under the
+circumstances, you will readily comprehend why I challenge you to
+vacate the place that you now occupy at Odensburg. They say that you
+are the betrothed of the daughter of the house: but you yourself best
+know how you have forfeited the right to link your fate with that of a
+pure young girl. It were a crime against Herr Dernburg and his family
+if I should allow such a thing to happen without opening his eyes.
+Spare me the bitter necessity of having to come forward as your
+accuser. Leave Odensburg! A pretext for your departure will be
+found--it will then be your affair to dissolve your connection with the
+family from a distance, in any way you see proper. I will allow you a
+respite of eight days; at the end of that time, if you are still at
+Odensburg, I must speak, and Dernburg learns the truth. I leave you
+time in which to make good your retreat: it is the only thing that I
+can do for the son of an old friend.
+
+                                   "Frederick von Stettin."
+
+
+Oscar let the note drop. He had not known who was the uncle and former
+guardian of both the Counts Eckardstein. During that brief and abruptly
+broken-off intercourse last summer, the name had not been called, and
+when Stettin himself arrived, shortly before Count Conrad's death, the
+relations with Odensburg had already become so strained that no notice
+was taken of the visitors of one family by the other. But Wildenrod
+knew the grave and discreet man from the visits he had paid to his
+father of old. He was not one to deal in mere threats; were he to
+refuse to retire as requested, he would do what he deemed his duty,
+without any hesitation, and then--then all was lost!
+
+Oscar jumped up and paced the floor with disordered steps. Just when he
+had stretched forth his hand to grasp the highest prize, then had come
+this crushing blow. Should he yield?--should he, in secret, cowardly
+flight, turn his back upon Odensburg, of which he had just felt himself
+to be the lord and master? Never!
+
+Eight days' respite was allowed him: it was a long time: what might not
+happen meanwhile? He had so often, already, stood on the verge of a
+precipice, whence it seemed as if a fall were inevitable, and he had
+always been saved by some rash resolve, or unheard-of streak of luck,
+now the thing to do was to put this luck once more to the test. In the
+midst of the wild whirl of thoughts and plans that stormed through his
+soul, only one thing stood out before him, clear and plain: he must
+make sure of Maia at any price, must chain her so firmly to him, that
+no power of earth, not even her father's, could tear her from him. She
+was the shield that would cover him from any attack, she, whose whole
+soul he had captivated, whose every thought and feeling belonged to
+him--this love was to be his salvation.
+
+Oscar again took up the letter and read it once more from beginning to
+end, then crushed it and threw it into the fireplace. The paper flamed
+up and was quickly consumed, while the Baron threw himself back in his
+chair and with lowering countenance gazed into the fire, ever devising
+new plans.
+
+A half hour might have thus elapsed, when the door opened, and the
+servant, coming in, announced:
+
+"Mr. Runeck, the engineer."
+
+"Who?" cried Wildenrod, starting up.
+
+"Herr Runeck wants to speak to you, Baron, about something important."
+
+It actually was Egbert, who followed closely behind the servant. He
+entered without waiting for an answer, and said, with a slight bow:
+
+"Pray do not refuse to listen to me, Baron von Wildenrod, for the
+business that brings me is both weighty and urgent."
+
+Oscar had leaped to his feet, and now silently motioned to the servant
+to withdraw. He did not, for an instant, deceive himself as to the
+significance of this appearance of Runeck, but Stettin's letter had
+prepared and steeled him against whatever might come. He no longer took
+into account one danger the more or less; so far as he was concerned,
+the question was already "To be or not to be?"
+
+"What brings you to me?" he asked coldly. "You will readily apprehend,
+Herr Runeck, that, after what has passed, your appearance is rather a
+surprise to me. I did not suppose that you would ever again cross the
+threshold of Odensburg.
+
+"My coming has to do with yourself alone," replied Egbert in the same
+tone, "and in your own interest I desire you to listen to me."
+
+"I am listening," was the curt answer.
+
+"No introduction should be needed," began Runeck. "You know what was
+spoken about, that time on the Whitestone, between your sister and
+myself. I was then convinced that she shared your life, innocently, in
+utter ignorance as to its tenor, and, for her sake alone, have I kept
+silent so long."
+
+"For Cecilia's sake!" exclaimed Oscar with a mocking laugh. "I
+understand that perfectly. She certainly has a claim to such
+consideration upon your part."
+
+Egbert drew back a step, and his brow contracted threateningly.
+
+"What do you mean to imply? I demand an explanation of that speech."
+
+Again came that short, mocking laugh from Wildenrod's lips, as he
+retorted: "Act no comedy with me; I know perfectly that to which I
+referred. What would poor Eric have done if he had suspected that his
+beloved friend had stolen from him the affections of his bride? Who
+knows from what bitter experiences sudden death saved him?"
+
+"That is a shameful supposition," cried Egbert, indignantly, "and you
+wrong your sister as you do me. You talk as if an understanding existed
+between us. Eric's betrothed was as unapproachable, for me, as is now
+his widow. As to my feelings, I am bound to render no one an account."
+
+"Not even Cecilia's brother?"
+
+"Such a brother--no!"
+
+"Herr Runeck, you are in my own room," reminded Oscar, with sharpness.
+
+"I know that, but I have not come to exchange civilities with you, but
+to have a settlement made that can be postponed no longer."
+
+"About what?" asked Wildenrod, as he stood there motionless, with arms
+crossed.
+
+"Is it possible that I shall have to explain it to you first?"
+
+"If I am to understand--assuredly."
+
+Runeck made a gesture of impatience, but restrained himself and with
+apparent composure went on: "It refers, in the first place, to that
+occurrence in Berlin, at the residence of Frau von Sarewski, that
+doubtless concerned all of those present. But as I did not belong to
+that circle of society and knew none of the participants intimately, I
+did not concern myself further about the matter. Not until you made
+your appearance at Odensburg and I recognized the danger that
+threatened both Eric and his father, through you, did I inquire
+further. I learned that the matter had been subjected to proof, and
+that nothing saved you but your speedy departure and the urgent desire
+of the participants to ward off a public scandal. The proofs then
+obtained I have now in my hands, and witnesses are at my disposal. In
+face of this will you actually play the ignorant?"
+
+Oscar made no further attempt at denial, but his eyes flashed with
+deadly hatred, as fiercely as though he would annihilate his accuser.
+It was not the accusation itself, which left him no way of escape
+whatever, but it was the tone of unutterable contempt in which it was
+made, that provoked the Baron to the utmost. All the pride and
+insolence of his nature revolted against it. He drew himself up to his
+full height. "And what object have you in saying all this to me? I have
+long known what I had to expect of you, and shall know how to defend
+myself. What signify threats? Why have you not dealt the blow long
+since?"
+
+"Because I supposed that you would sooner or later leave Odensburg.
+Neither Eric's marriage nor his death gave you a right to make it your
+permanent home. Just yesterday I learned that you and Maia were
+betrothed, and you will understand well when I tell you that this
+engagement shall not be consummated. I forbid the banns."
+
+"Really! And with what right?"
+
+"With the right of an honest man, who will not consent to see the
+daughter of Eberhard Dernburg and his Odensburg become the spoil of a
+villain."
+
+Wildenrod shrank back and his face became as livid as that of a corpse.
+"Be on your guard!" gasped he with half stifled voice, raising his fist
+as if to strike. "You will answer to me for this speech."
+
+"That will I, but not in the way you mean," said Egbert, fixing his eye
+firmly upon him. "Such battles are only fought out in the courts of
+justice, where one renders an account only through witnesses and
+proofs.--Do not look so earnestly at that revolver, which hangs yonder
+above your desk, Baron von Wildenrod. I readily believe it to be
+loaded, but I am on my guard--at the first step you take in that
+direction, I shall cast myself upon you."
+
+Oscar's eye had indeed turned to the revolver, and a crazy idea had
+darted into his mind, only, however, to be rejected instantly. What
+good would it do if he did shoot down his adversary? Stettin was
+bringing up the same accusation, Victor von Eckardstein likewise knew
+about it, and who knows how many more besides--the net was drawing its
+meshes about him from every side.
+
+"I offer you one way out--the last," began Runeck again. "Leave
+Odensburg forever--this very day, for Maia shall not be called your
+betrothed a single hour longer. Whatever people may then guess, nobody
+will know the full truth, and your sister and Maia will be spared the
+worst. I shall say nothing, if you give me your word that you will go."
+
+"No," said Wildenrod, with a composure that boded no good.
+
+"Baron von Wildenrod----"
+
+"No, I tell you."
+
+"Then I shall go straightway to Herr Dernburg and reveal everything to
+him. Your game is lost; give it up!"
+
+"Do you think so?" asked Oscar, wild with rage. "Do not boast until the
+end comes, Herr Egbert Runeck. Whatever may come of it, I'll not yield
+to you."
+
+"And that is your last word?"
+
+"My last--I stay!"
+
+Egbert silently turned to the door, which, the next minute, had closed
+behind him.
+
+Wildenrod was alone. Slowly he went up to his desk, and took down from
+the wall a revolver that he held for a long while in his hand. The way
+that his father had once taken, when every resource failed, was not to
+survive the disgrace of ruin. Here a deeper disgrace was to be
+expiated! The pale gleaming of the barrel of the pistol seemed to point
+out the same path to the son. But again strong love of life awoke in
+the man to whom life and its belongings had ever been more enticing
+than honor. Must he, indeed, give up the game as lost? He laid down the
+weapon and was soon lost in somber reverie, out of which he suddenly
+roused himself, as if by main force, and rigid determination was
+stamped upon his darkened countenance.
+
+"To Maia!" said he with spirit. "I shall see whether her love for me
+will stand this test. If she gives me up--well, then, there is still
+plenty of time to speak one last word with this last friend here!"
+
+
+
+
+                             CHAPTER XXII.
+
+                       HIS SIN HAD FOUND HIM OUT.
+
+
+"Where are Frau Dernburg and Fräulein Maia? They have stayed in the
+park, I hope, or are safe at home?" With this eager question Dr.
+Hagenbach entered the parlor, where, for the present, only Fräulein
+Friedberg was to be found.
+
+"The ladies set out to visit the young gentleman's grave, that is all I
+know about it," answered she in alarm. "Has anything happened?"
+
+"Not yet, but one cannot know what the next hour may bring forth. So
+the ladies have gone to the grave, have they? Well, it lies at the end
+of the park, in the opposite direction from the works, so that I trust
+there is nothing to fear. It would be well, though, for them to come
+back soon."
+
+"I expect them every moment. Is it so threatening, then, over at the
+works?"
+
+Hagenbach nodded and took a seat opposite the lady.
+
+"Alas! the officers are doing their very best to get through with
+paying off and discharging the workmen in peace and quiet, but this
+does not suit Fallner and his crew, who want to have a row, whether or
+no. A portion of the men have announced their intention to resume work
+to-morrow morning, the others have responded by threats and curses:
+finally, here and there it has come to deeds of violence, and it seems
+as if an insurrection may break forth this very evening."
+
+Leonie folded her hands with anxious mien. "Dear me! what is to be the
+end of all this? Herr Dernburg is as hard and inaccessible as a rock.
+You have no idea in what a mood he is. He will bid defiance to all--I
+am distressed to death."
+
+"Why, there is no need of that! What am I here for?" said Hagenbach,
+with emphasis. "I should protect you in case of necessity, but such
+necessity is not likely to occur. This house and its inmates are
+unconditionally safe, even if there should be some excesses committed
+over there. In that case you can depend upon me."
+
+"I know that," replied Leonie, warmly, holding out her hand to him,
+which he took, too, readily enough; he kept it likewise, and did not
+think of releasing it from his clasp.
+
+"I called to see you this morning," he began again, "but was not
+admitted!"
+
+Leonie cast down her eyes and her voice trembled, as she softly
+answered:
+
+"You will understand that it was painful for me, after the events of
+yesterday----"
+
+"I beg your pardon, I came only as a physician to inquire as to your
+health," remarked Hagenbach. "You look worn, have had a sleepless
+night--for that matter, so have I!"
+
+"You, Doctor?"
+
+"Why, yes, so many things were racking my brain. For example, I thought
+you were quite right in regarding me as a half bear. The only question
+is, whether the attempt would be worth while to try and make something
+human out of me. What is your opinion?"
+
+"My opinion? I have not thought on the subject," said Leonie, with a
+vain effort to disengage her hand.
+
+"But your opinion is a great deal to me," continued he. "You see,
+Fräulein Friedberg, if one goes through life as a bachelor, without
+caring for anybody in particular, and knowing that no one cares
+particularly about him--it is a bad case. If one has, at least, a
+mother or sister, then one can get along somehow; but I have only that
+silly fellow Dagobert, and what I have in him you know yourself."
+
+"But, Doctor, must we discuss this subject just today?" said Leonie,
+trying to evade an answer. "At this hour, when all Odensburg----"
+
+"Odensburg will, I hope, do me the pleasure to defer its rebellion
+until we have arranged our matters," interposed Hagenbach. "And
+arranged they must be now, that I solemnly swore to myself during that
+aforesaid sleepless night. I called upon you, for the second time,
+awhile ago, but did not find you, because you were with Frau von
+Ringstedt. Nevertheless, I took the liberty of going in, because I
+wanted to take a peep at your desk. Over it hangs now the picture of
+your blessed mother, and I yield her that place cheerfully, for she is
+a saint in heaven. You have made short work of it, and bravely
+abandoned old memories and the like--and therefore--yes. What was it
+that I wanted to say?"
+
+The doctor began to get rather entangled in his talk. When he offered
+himself for the first time, he had gone ahead without calculation of
+any kind, and now, this second time, he wanted to proceed most gently
+and considerately--but here he stuck fast. But he made a quick resolve,
+got up and approached the lady of his choice, saying, with simple
+heartiness:
+
+"I love you, Leonie, and although I am a rough fellow--one cannot alter
+the old habits in a trice--yet I mean well, and if you would risk it
+with me, your consent would make me very happy. You say nothing:
+Nothing at all? May I take this as a good sign?"
+
+Leonie sat with glowing cheeks and downcast eyes, conscious of all the
+magnanimity and goodness of heart displayed by the man, whom she had so
+harshly rejected, and who now again offered her his heart and hand. He
+also understood this perfectly, and brought the matter into shape now,
+as quickly as possible, by taking his betrothed into his arms and
+kissing her.
+
+"God be thanked that we have at last got so far," said he, from the
+bottom of his heart. "I shall write to-morrow to that fellow Dagobert.
+Now he can make a wedding-song for us, and celebrate the praises of his
+future aunt--a poem that I shall certainly permit him to indite."
+
+"But, Doctor," admonished Leonie, reproachfully.
+
+"I am called Peter," interposed he. "The name does not please you, I
+know that of old--it is not poetical enough for you--but I was baptized
+so, and you will have to get used to it. Fräulein Leonie Friedberg and
+Dr. Peter Hagenbach--that is the way it will stand on our betrothal
+cards."
+
+"But surely you have other baptismal names besides that one?" the
+bride-elect ventured to suggest.
+
+"Of course. Peter Francis Hugo."
+
+"Hugo, how pretty! I shall call you by that in the future."
+
+"That I protest against," declared Hagenbach, with a positiveness that
+already bespoke the future husband. "I am named Peter after my father
+and grandfather, so I have been always called, and so will my intended
+wife call me too."
+
+With timid familiarity that became her very well, Leonie placed her
+hand on her lover's arm and pleadingly looked him in the eye. "Dear
+Hugo--do you not like the sound of that already?"
+
+"No," growled the doctor, while he turned away.
+
+"Well, as you choose, Hugo. I shall conform in this respect entirely to
+your wishes. But Peter and Leonie do not suit together at all, you must
+perceive that yourself."
+
+Again Hagenbach growled, but this time in a much more subdued tone. He
+did not find his new name so bad, after all, when pronounced in this
+tone. But immediately there loomed up before him the horrors of
+petticoat government, and he felt himself pledged to guard his
+supremacy once for all.
+
+"Peter it stands," he decided. "You must submit to me in this, Leonie."
+
+"I submit myself in everything," asserted Leonie in tenderest tone. "I
+am, in general, a weak, dependent creature, who has no will of her own.
+You shall never listen to a contradiction in the whole course of our
+married life, dear Hugo--but surely you will not refuse the first
+request I make of you, and that on our betrothal-day?"
+
+Dear Hugo began to melt under the softening influence of this gentle
+voice and these pleading eyes, and his constancy as well as supremacy
+showed signs of giving way.
+
+"Well, if it gives you such great pleasure, you can call me so
+yourself," he admitted. "But on the cards of invitation it shall
+stand----"
+
+"Leonie Friedberg and Dr. Hugo Hagenbach! I thank you, Hugo, with all
+my heart, for this proof of your love!"
+
+What was poor Peter Hagenbach to do? He pocketed the thanks and covered
+his shameful retreat by bestowing a kiss upon his beloved. In this
+first dispute the "weaker" half had come off with flying colors and the
+stronger had had to lower his flag--it might be an omen----
+
+Meanwhile Dernburg was in his office, receiving announcements from the
+works that were anything but quieting. At other times, any unusual
+occurrence had found him either in the midst of or at the head of his
+workmen, but now he avoided any contact with them. Of late he had not
+spoken a word to any of the men, or taken the least notice of any,
+although he went daily to the works.
+
+He stood at the window, lost in melancholy brooding, for the moment
+entirely alone, and slowly turned around when the door was opened,
+believing that some new announcement was about to be made. In the next
+second, though, he shrank back and stared at the intruder, as though he
+could not believe his own eyes.
+
+"Egbert!"
+
+Egbert closed the door behind him, but paused on its threshold, while
+he said in a low voice:
+
+"I beg your pardon for having once more made use of my old privilege,
+of entering unannounced--it happens for the last time."
+
+Dernburg had already recovered his self-command, his eyes flashed
+portentously, and his voice was chilling in the extreme.
+
+"I certainly did not expect to see you again at Odensburg. Here Runeck,
+pray what leads the new delegate to me? I thought that we two were to
+have no more to say to one another."
+
+Runeck might have expected such a reception, but his glance was fixed
+reproachfully upon the speaker.
+
+"Herr Dernburg, you are too just to make me responsible for the
+excesses of election-day evening. I was in town----"
+
+"I know--with Landsfeld. And from there the movement was directed."
+
+Egbert turned pale and quickly drew one step nearer. "Am I to bear this
+reproach, too? Is it possible that you believe I could have had a share
+in those insults, that I could have known of them and not prevented
+them?"
+
+"Let us leave that," said Dernburg in the same cold tone. "We are now
+only political opponents, Herr Runeck. As such we shall occasionally
+meet in public life, but there no longer exists between us relations of
+any other sort. If you really have further communications to make to
+me, I would prefer to have them in writing. Since, however, you are
+here this time, what would you have of me?"
+
+"I _could_ not select writing as my medium," returned Runeck, firmly.
+"If my coming surprises you----"
+
+"Not at all! I am only astonished that you seek me here in my office.
+Your proper place is over yonder at the works among your constituents,
+who are just about to repeat the proceedings of election-day. Will you
+not place yourself at their head, and lead them against me? I am
+prepared for that step!"
+
+One who had looked at the young engineer must have seen how deeply he
+was wounded by these cruel words, and he was no longer able to maintain
+his calm demeanor. "Dernburg, not this tone!" he cried. "Shake out over
+me all the vials of your wrath--I will bear it--but do not speak to me
+in that tone; such a punishment I have not deserved."
+
+"Punishment? I thought you had outgrown my discipline," said Dernburg,
+with intense bitterness, although he did indeed drop the mocking tone.
+"Once more, what will you have here? Would you, perhaps, offer to
+protect me from those over there? They will obey the mere nod of their
+own delegate. I thank you, I shall cope with them single-handed. Half
+the men already repent of their enforced resolve to lay down their
+work, and to-morrow will resume it. But I forbid them to go to work
+unless they submit unconditionally and renounce their leaders."
+
+"Dernburg----"
+
+"They will not venture upon that, think you? Maybe so. You hold them
+with too tight a rein. Well, then, war is openly declared. You forced
+me to extremities in the first instance, now extremities I _will_
+have."
+
+Runeck was silent for a few minutes, then he said with sad earnestness:
+"That is a hard saying."
+
+"I know it. Think you I do not know the trend of coming events, if the
+ten thousand engaged in my enterprises take holiday for weeks, perhaps
+for months? The people will be driven to wretchedness, to despair, and
+I must be the witness of it. The responsibility for this, however,
+rests upon you and your fellows--you have left me no choice. For a
+generation, peace and blessedness had their abode at Odensburg, and
+whatever a man could do for his workmen, that I did. You have
+introduced discord and hatred, the dragon-seed has sprung up. See to
+it, now, how you shall manage the harvest."
+
+He turned away impetuously, and several times strode up and down the
+room. Then he paused in front of the young engineer, who, with clouded
+brow and downcast eyes, stood there without attempting a reply. "You
+are very likely afraid of the spirits that you have exorcised yourself,
+and would now like to play the part of mediator?" he asked, with
+scornful intonation. "You would be the last to whom I should accord
+such a privilege. I want to hear nothing of mediation in general. The
+bridges are broken down between me and these people, henceforth we have
+to treat with one another only as enemies."
+
+"I have not come as a mediator," said Egbert, straightening himself up.
+"My coming, in general, has nothing to do with this affair. What leads
+me here is a painful duty that I cannot escape from. It concerns Baron
+von Wildenrod, to whom you have promised Maia's hand."
+
+Dernburg started and looked at him in surprise.
+
+"What, you know of this engagement! Never mind: I no longer make any
+secret of it."
+
+"And fortunately I have heard of it in time to interpose."
+
+"Will you make any objection to it?" asked Dernburg, sharply. "There
+was a time when I would have admitted your claim to her, when the way
+to Maia's hand and heart stood open to you.--You know what blocked it
+up. You have sacrificed your love, like everything else, to your
+'convictions.'"
+
+"I never loved Maia," returned Runeck, firmly. "I saw in her only my
+young playmate, Eric's sister, and never entertained for her any other
+feelings than those of a brother."
+
+This explanation was given with such decision that it was no longer
+possible to doubt its truth.
+
+"Then in this, too, I have been mistaken," said Dernburg, slowly. "But
+what concern, then, of yours is my daughter's marriage?"
+
+"I want to guard Maia from becoming the prey of a--villain."
+
+"Egbert! have you lost your senses?" exclaimed Dernburg, passionately.
+"Do you know what you are saying? This mad accusation----"
+
+"I shall prove. I would have spoken long ago, but I have only just
+succeeded in obtaining the documents, only just learned of the Baron's
+plan to usurp control of Odensburg, together with Maia's hand. Now, I
+must speak, and you must listen to me."
+
+Dernburg had turned pale, but still revolted against giving credence to
+this unheard-of thing that seemed to him inconceivable.
+
+"I shall require the proofs of you for everything," resumed he,
+menacingly. "And now go on, I am listening!"
+
+"Baron von Wildenrod has the reputation here of being rich, but in
+reality is not worth a stiver. It must be twelve years now since he
+forsook the diplomatic career, because his father's loss of fortune
+deprived him of all means of maintaining himself in proper style. The
+old Baron shot himself, and the family had only to thank their noble
+name for the interposition in their favor of the reigning Prince. He
+bought the estates, that were heavily encumbered with debt, satisfied
+their creditors, and granted the widow a small pension as long as she
+lived. The son forsook Germany and has never since been heard of in his
+native land."
+
+Dernburg listened with darkly contracted eyebrows. He had once received
+a different account, which, indeed, contained no direct untruth, but
+concealed the decisive element, namely, the ruined fortunes of the
+family.
+
+"I became acquainted with Oscar von Wildenrod three years ago,"
+continued Runeck. "It was in Berlin, at the house of a Frau von
+Sarewski, a wealthy widow who lived in very handsome style. I gave her
+children drawing-lessons, at which she was often present, and by her
+desire I drew a sketch of an addition planned for her villa. This met
+with her full approval, and she wanted to give me a sign of
+recognition, by inviting me to one of her evening entertainments. I
+dared not decline, for I was dependent upon the fees I received from
+teaching drawing for the means to continue my studies. A perfect
+stranger in that fashionable circle, which inspired me with not the
+slightest interest, I retired that evening into a side-room, where the
+brother of the lady of the house was seated at cards with a few other
+gentlemen. Among them was Baron von Wildenrod, who, as I learned from
+their conversation, had been in Berlin for three months, and expected
+to pass the winter there. He was strikingly favored by fortune in his
+play, while the others had just as decided ill-luck. The brother of
+Frau von Sarewski, passionately devoted to card-playing, set the stakes
+ever higher and higher, his losses being proportionate, while Wildenrod
+had already won a little fortune. This whole carrying-on was repulsive
+to me, and I was in the act of withdrawal, when an elderly gentleman, a
+Count Almers, who was likewise among the card-players, suddenly seized
+the Baron's hand, held it fast, and, in a voice quivering with rage,
+pronounced him a black-leg."
+
+"Did you see that yourself?" asked Dernburg, sternly.
+
+"With my own eyes! I was also a witness to that which followed. The
+gentlemen sprang to their feet, and everything was astir; the loud
+talking pro and con brought all the other guests, Frau von Sarewski
+also making her appearance. She begged and implored those present to
+let the matter rest, and spare her house the notoriety of a public
+scandal. Wildenrod acted the man of outraged, deeply wounded feelings:
+he threatened to challenge the Count, but made use of this show of
+indignation as a pretext to withdraw as speedily as possible. Now Count
+Almers declared that he had been on the track of this deceiver for a
+long while, but had only to-day found the opportunity to unmask him. He
+insisted upon following up the investigation, since Wildenrod moved in
+the first circles, and elements of this sort must be ruthlessly
+ejected. The entreaties of Frau von Sarewski and the representations of
+her brother finally had the effect of moving the witnesses to keep
+silence, provided that Wildenrod could be induced to leave the city at
+once. This was superfluous, for he had no idea of either challenging
+the Count or attempting to clear himself. The next morning it was
+discovered that he had taken his departure in the night."
+
+Those were plain facts that Runeck reported, but his bearing and tone
+gave to the narration a frightful emphasis. It was seen what a crushing
+revelation this was to the listener, although he gave no outward sign
+of sympathy.
+
+"What else?" said he, bluntly and roughly.
+
+"I neither heard nor saw anything more of Wildenrod until the
+moment when he made his appearance at Odensburg, as Eric's future
+brother-in-law. I recognized him at the first glance, while he had no
+recollection whatever of my personality: a hint that I gave he repelled
+with great haughtiness."
+
+"And you concealed this from me? You did not mention it at once?"
+
+"Would you have believed me without proofs?"
+
+"No, but I would have set investigations afoot and learned the truth."
+
+"I did that in your stead. I had manifold relations with Berlin, that I
+now availed myself of: I turned to Wildenrod's native place and to Nice
+where Eric had made his acquaintance, and it was not my fault that
+months elapsed before my inquiries were answered. What you would have
+done was attended to by me, and information was given to me as a
+stranger that would hardly have been obtainable by you, under the
+circumstances. Nevertheless, I did think of warning you, provisionally,
+but then, I suppose, you would have dissolved the tie on which depended
+the happiness of Eric's life, and that would have been the death of
+him. He told me himself, once--when apparently without design I
+suggested such a possibility--that to lose Cecilia would be the death
+of him. I knew that he spoke the truth--such consequences I could not
+and would not take upon myself."
+
+"Cecilia?" repeated Dernburg with a gleam of suspicion. "Quite right.
+She too is deeply concerned in this thing. What part did she play in
+the affair? What did she know about it?"
+
+"Nothing--not the least thing! She lived unsuspectingly by her
+brother's side, deeming him a rich man. Under this impression she
+engaged herself to Eric, and it was here at Odensburg that she became
+aware of something dark and mysterious in her brother's past. What it
+was I did not have the heart to tell her, but the manner in which she
+took my hints gave me convincing proof that not the slightest blame was
+to be attached to her."
+
+Dernburg's deep sigh of relief betrayed the dread that he had
+entertained lest a shadow might also fall upon his daughter-in-law. A
+hardly audible "God be thanked!" came from his lips.
+
+Egbert drew out a pocket-book, and took from it a number of papers.
+
+"Here is a letter from Count Almers, who gives his word of honor for
+the assertion that he made that time; here are accounts as to what
+happened at the death of the old Baron, and here information from Nice.
+Eric must have been blind, or they purposely kept him aloof from other
+society, else he would have known that his brother already had the
+reputation of being a doubtful character throughout the bounds of Nice,
+being looked upon as a professional gambler. How he managed to force
+his 'luck,' was suspected here and there, perhaps, but not to be
+proved, and that gave him the possibility of maintaining an appearance
+of respectability."
+
+Dernburg took the proffered papers and stepped at once to the table,
+whereon stood a bell.
+
+"First of all I must hear Wildenrod himself! You will not shrink, I
+hope, from repeating your accusation in his presence?"
+
+"I have just done that--I came from his room. It was a last effort to
+end the matter in a way that would spare his exposure, but it failed.
+The Baron knows that I am revealing all this to you, at this hour--he
+has not followed me to answer for himself."
+
+"Never mind, he is to render me an account!" Dernburg pressed on the
+bell and called to the servant who entered: "Tell Baron von Wildenrod
+to come to me, please, at once."
+
+The servant went; along, awkward silence ensued. Nothing was heard but
+the rustling of the papers that Dernburg opened one after the other and
+looked through: he turned ever paler as he proceeded. Egbert tarried,
+silent and motionless, in his place. Thus the minutes elapsed. It was
+long, very long, before the door was opened, and then it was not
+Wildenrod who entered but the servant who returned, saying:
+
+"The Baron is not in his rooms, nor, indeed, anywhere about the house.
+Perhaps he has already ridden away."
+
+"Ridden away? Where to?"
+
+"Apparently to the city. He ordered the horses put to the carriage and
+that it should drive to the back gate of the park. He must be there by
+this time."
+
+A silent nod dismissed the servant, and then Dernburg's self-control
+gave way. He sank into a chair, and a cry of despair escaped his lips.
+
+"My child! my poor, poor Maia! She loves this man with all her heart."
+
+There was something appalling in the grief of this man, who with lofty
+brow went into a battle that threatened his existence, but who seemed
+unable to bear the misfortune of his darling.
+
+Egbert gently approached and stooped over him. "Herr Dernburg," said
+he, with trembling voice.
+
+A fierce and repellent gesture waved him back. "Go! What do you here?"
+
+"Eric is dead, and you have to spurn from you the man who was to take
+his place. Give me only this once more--only for this hour--the right
+that I once possessed."
+
+"No," cried Dernburg, drawing himself up, and his features were again
+as cold and hard as ever. "You have renounced me and mine; you have
+forfeited the right to endure suffering with us. Go over to your
+friends and comrades, to whom you have sacrificed me, and who now rage
+around me like a pack of hounds just let loose. To them you belong;
+there is your place! They have treated me ill, but you worst of all,
+because you stood next my heart. From you I want no sympathy and no
+support--I will go to destruction first."
+
+He walked into the adjacent library and slammed the door to behind him.
+The bridge between him and Egbert was broken.
+
+
+
+
+                             CHAPTER XXIII.
+
+                            A LOVERS' TRYST.
+
+
+The park trees rocked and rustled in the wind, which now, towards
+evening, threatened to become a storm. It drove the red and yellow
+leaves whirling through the air, and a gray, cloud-covered sky looked
+down upon the autumnal earth.
+
+Maia came back alone from her brother's resting-place, while Cecilia
+still lingered there. It had required persuasion to induce the former
+to go at all. In the midst of life's sunny springtime, the young girl
+felt a secret horror of all connected with death and burial. Existence
+beckoned to her, and happiness by the side of the man she loved.
+
+On her way back she came past the Rose Lake, where Oscar had first
+confessed his love to her. Today, indeed, the spot looked very
+different from what it had done on that May-day in the splendor of
+sunshine and spring. Dry leaves covered the ground, and the reeds
+lining the shore were likewise withered and dry, while the lake itself
+looked black and uninviting in the dull light of that stormy day. No
+sweet singing of birds any longer sounded from the thicket, laid bare
+as it was by autumnal blasts; all was lifeless and still, while the
+mountain-chain, that had once looked so dreamily blue from the
+distance, was wrapped to-day in a dense fog.
+
+Involuntarily Maia's steps were arrested here; she gazed fixedly upon
+the sadly altered spot, and, shivering, drew her mantle closer around
+her shoulders. Then she heard approaching steps, and the next minute
+Oscar von Wildenrod emerged from the coppice.
+
+"I have been all through the park looking for you, Maia," said he,
+petulantly, "and had despaired of finding you."
+
+"I was with Cecilia at Eric's grave," replied the young girl. "She is
+still there."
+
+"So much the better, for what I have to say is for yourself alone. Will
+you listen to me?"
+
+Without waiting for an answer, he drew her down upon the bench, over
+which the beech now stretched her ghostlike arms, half-stripped as they
+were of their foliage. Not till now had Maia observed that he wore hat
+and overcoat, and that his features had a strangely disordered
+expression.
+
+"Nothing bad has happened, has there?" she asked in great agitation.
+"Papa----"
+
+"The matter does not concern him, but me, or rather both of us. Maia, I
+have something serious--hard to tell you. You are to show me, now,
+whether your love for me stands firm. You love me still, do you not?
+You once gave yourself fully to me, on this very spot. I thought, then,
+I was asking your hand only for happiness, for a life full of sunshine
+and joy--have you the courage to share sorrow with me also?"
+
+Maia was stunned, as it were, by this torrent of words; she shuddered.
+
+"Oscar, for heaven's sake, tell me what you mean? You distress me
+unutterably by these dark hints."
+
+"I ask of you a sacrifice--a great, heavy sacrifice. Will you make it
+for my sake?"
+
+"If you ask it. Everything, everything that you want!"
+
+"Suppose that I were to ask you to leave father and home, to go with me
+far away into a foreign land--would you follow me?"
+
+"Father! Home!" repeated the young girl, mechanically. "But we stay
+here at Odensburg."
+
+"No. I must begone--will you go with me?"
+
+"I--I do not understand you," said Maia, trembling in every limb.
+
+He threw his arm around her and drew her to him. His face was as pale
+as death, and in his eyes glowed that threatening flame which had so
+alarmed her when they first met.
+
+"I told you once of my earlier life," he began, "of a wild, restless
+pursuit of fortune, that seemed ever to flee before me, until I finally
+found it here in possessing you--do you remember that?"
+
+"Yes," whispered Maia. Did she remember it! It had been the same hour
+in which he had declared his love for her.
+
+"I could not unveil that past to your pure child-eyes," continued
+Wildenrod, his voice sinking into a whisper; "and cannot to-day either,
+but there is a shadow in it-----"
+
+"A misfortune--was it not?" The question had a dispirited sound.
+
+"Yes--a misfortune, that deprived me of my profession, and enticed me
+into evil and guilt. I had cast all this from me and wanted to begin a
+new life, here at your side. But again the old shadow looms up, and
+threatens me again--yes, threatens to snatch you from me, Maia."
+
+"No, no, I am not going to leave you, whatever has happened, or may
+happen!" cried Maia, vehemently, clinging to him. "My father is lord of
+Odensburg, he will protect you."
+
+"No, your father will dissolve our engagement, and part us irrevocably.
+Stern man that he is, with his rigid principles, he would rather see
+you dead than at the side of a husband whose past is not what it should
+he. There is only one way for you to be preserved to me, one single
+one--but you must have courage."
+
+"What--what am I to do?" she stammered, powerless under the ban
+of his eyes and his voice. He stooped lower down to her and these
+words streamed hotly and passionately over his lips: "You are my
+betrothed--I have the right to claim you as my wife! Let us fly from
+Odensburg, and just as soon as we cross the German boundary line, I
+shall lead you to the altar. Then nobody, not even your father, will
+have the right to take you from me--no power can stand against our
+marriage. And you will be mine indissolubly."
+
+Oscar von Wildenrod knew very well that a marriage of this kind was
+null and void in the eyes of the law; but what cared he for that, if it
+only satisfied Maia and made her believe herself to be his wife? Then
+Dernburg would have to consent; for the sake of the honor of his name,
+he could not admit that his daughter had lived for a while in a foreign
+land with a man who was not her husband, and the legal forms could be
+gone through with hereafter. After all, his claim to Odensburg might
+yet be made good. Was not Maia still her father's heir? Hence upon her
+hand depended freedom and wealth.
+
+It was a wild, crazy scheme, suggested to the Baron by despair.
+Meanwhile it was practicable, if Maia only gave her consent. But now,
+in horror, she started back, releasing herself from his arms.
+
+"Oscar! What is it that you ask of me?"
+
+"My salvation!" he exclaimed, vehemently. "I am lost if I stay--you
+alone can save me. Go with me, Maia; be my wife, my shield, and I shall
+thank you for it on my knees. Only two paths are left to me now--the
+one with you leads to life, the other without you----"
+
+"To death!" shrieked Maia. "Oh, how dreadful! Oh! no, no, Oscar, you
+are not to die. I am going with you, wherever you choose."
+
+A cry of joy escaped his lips; he overwhelmed his betrothed with
+passionate caresses. "My Maia! I knew it. You would not forsake me,
+even though all others forsook me. And now, come! we have no time to
+lose."
+
+"Now? This very hour?" asked Maia, shuddering. "Am I to see my father
+no more?"
+
+"Impossible! You would betray yourself! We must leave on the spot. The
+carriage is in waiting to carry us to the station, at the gate in the
+rear of the park; I have with me my papers and a sum of money. In the
+excitement prevailing to-day at Odensburg, our departure will not be
+noticed. I shall see to it that they find not a trace of us, until I
+can announce our union to your father."
+
+Maia's eyes were fixedly riveted upon the speaker, but hers were no
+longer glad, innocent child-eyes; there was an expression in them that
+Oscar could not fathom.
+
+"Not say farewell to my father?" repeated she, mechanically. "Not even
+that, when I am giving him up forever?"
+
+"Not forever," said Wildenrod, soothingly. "Your father will be
+reconciled to us. I shall take upon myself alone all the blame and
+responsibility of this step. We shall come back."
+
+"Not I!" said the young girl, softly. "I shall die of that life in a
+foreign land, of separation from my father, of that--that dreadful
+thing, which you will not name before me. Oh, your love will be my
+death!"
+
+"Maia!" cried he, interrupting her in angry surprise, but she would not
+be diverted, and continued:
+
+"Somehow, I have always known it. When you first entered our house, and
+I looked into your eyes for the first time, a sense of distress came
+over me, as though I were standing on the edge of a precipice and must
+fall down. And this sense of distress has come ever again, even in that
+hour when you told me that you loved me, even in the midst of the
+happiness of these last weeks. I did not want to know the meaning of
+it, have struggled against it and clung to my supposed happiness. Now
+you point me to the abyss, and I--I must plunge down."
+
+"And still you are willing to go with me?" asked Oscar, slowly: it was
+as though breath failed him.
+
+"Yes, Oscar! You say that I can save you, how dare I hesitate?"
+
+She laid her head upon his breast, with a low, heart-rending sob, in
+which the young creature buried her happiness. Wildenrod stood there,
+motionless, and looked down upon her: from the beech-tree withered
+leaves rained slowly down upon the pair.
+
+At last Maia straightened herself up and dried her tears. "Let us go--I
+am ready!"
+
+"No!" said Oscar, almost rudely, while he let her out of his arms.
+
+The young girl looked at him in surprise.
+
+"What did you say?"
+
+He took off his hat and stroked his forehead, as though he would wipe
+something away. Suddenly his features appeared to be strangely altered:
+a few minutes before they had portrayed all the fierce passionateness
+of his nature, now they were cold and stolid in their calmness.
+
+"I perceive that you are right," said he, and his voice sounded
+unnaturally composed. "It would be cruel to hinder you from taking
+leave of your father. Go to him and tell him--what you choose."
+
+"And you?" asked Maia, astonished at this sudden change of mind.
+
+"I shall wait for you here. It is better, perhaps, that you should
+speak to him once more, ere we venture upon that last desperate
+measure. Perhaps you will succeed in changing his mind."
+
+It was only a faint glimmer of light that he showed her, but no more
+was needed for the rekindling of bright hopes in Maia's heart.
+
+"Yes, I shall go to papa!" she cried. "I shall implore him on my knees
+not to part us. You cannot have done anything so dreadful, so
+unpardonable, and he will and shall hear me. But--would it not be
+better for you to go with me?"
+
+"No, it would be in vain! But now go! go!--time is precious."
+
+He urged her almost anxiously to leave, and yet when she actually did
+turn to go, he suddenly stretched out to her both arms.
+
+"Come to me, Maia! Tell me once more that you love me, that you wanted
+to go with me, in spite of everything?"
+
+The young girl flew back to him again and nestled up to him.
+
+"You dread lest I should not stand firm? I'll share everything with
+you, Oscar, though it were the worst. Nothing can separate us. I love
+you beyond everything."
+
+"Thank you!" said he, fervently. Suppressed feeling quivered in his
+voice; from his eyes, too, that sinister glare had departed, and they
+now beamed with unutterable tenderness. "Thank you, my Maia! You have
+no idea what a freeing, absolving influence that speech has had upon
+me, what a boon you bestow upon me in its utterance. Perhaps you are
+about to learn from your father's lips what I cannot tell you. If all
+of you, then, condemn and cast me from you forever, then remember that
+I loved you, loved you devotedly. How much I never realized until this
+moment--and I shall prove it to you."
+
+"Oscar, you stay here?" asked Maia, agonized by a dark foreboding.
+
+"I stay at Odensburg, my word for it--and now, go, my dear!"
+
+He kissed his betrothed once more and then released her. She walked
+slowly away: on the edge of the thicket, she turned around. Wildenrod
+was still standing there motionless gazing after her; but he smiled,
+and that quieted the anxiety of the young girl, who now moved briskly
+forward into the fog, where she was soon lost in the gathering mist.
+
+Oscar followed the slender form with his eyes until she had vanished,
+then he went slowly back to the bench and tentatively laid his hand
+upon his breast-pocket. There rested his papers, the sum of money he
+carried on his person, and--something else, that he had provided for
+all emergencies. Now, here it was safe ... but no, not here, not
+so near to the house! Then what mattered one hour the more or the
+less--night suited his purpose better.
+
+"Poor Maia!" said he, softly. "You will weep bitterly, but your father
+will fold you in his arms. You are right: such a life and my guilt
+would kill you.--You shall be saved. I am going alone--to destruction!"
+
+
+The Dernburg family burying-ground lay in the rear of the park. It was
+no showy mausoleum, but merely a peaceful spot, encircled by dark
+fir-trees. Plain marble memorial stones adorned the green hillocks that
+were mantled in ivy. Here rested Dernburg's father and wife, and here
+his son Eric had also found a resting-place.
+
+The young widow still lingered alone at the grave, but the
+ever-increasing violence of the wind warned her that it was time for
+her, too, to be going. She had just stooped down to readjust the fresh
+wreath that she had laid on the grave, and was now rising, when all of
+a sudden she gave a start. Egbert Runeck had emerged from the fir-trees
+and stood opposite to her. He had evidently had no idea of meeting her
+here, but quickly composed himself, and said, with a bow: "I beg your
+pardon, lady, if I disturb you. I expected to find the place solitary!"
+
+"Are you at Odensburg, Herr Runeck?" asked Cecilia, without concealing
+her surprise.
+
+"I was calling upon Herr Dernburg, and could not let the opportunity
+pass by without visiting the burial-place of the friend of my youth. It
+is the first, and probably will be the last, time that I see it."
+
+As he spoke his eye scanned furtively the young widow's figure that was
+draped in black: then he drew near the grave and looked down upon it
+long and silently.
+
+"Poor Eric!" said he, after a while. "He had to depart so early, and
+yet--it is an enviable fate, to die thus in the midst of happiness!"
+
+"You are mistaken--Eric did not die happy!" said Cecilia, in a low
+tone.
+
+"You believe that he was conscious of approach of death and felt the
+pangs of parting? I heard, though, that the hemorrhage came upon him in
+apparently full health, and that he never recovered consciousness."
+
+"I do not know; for me, there was something mysterious in Eric's last
+moments," replied Cecilia, dejectedly. "When he once more opened his
+eyes, shortly before he died, I saw that he recognized me. That look
+still pursues me; I cannot get rid of it. It was so full of woe and
+reproach, as though he had known or suspected----" she suddenly broke
+off.
+
+"What could he have suspected?" asked Runeck, impulsively.
+
+Cecilia was silent here; least of all could she say what she feared.
+
+"My brother thinks it is imagination," she then replied evasively. "He
+may be right, and yet I can never recall that moment but with a sharp,
+keen pang."
+
+She bowed distantly to Egbert and was on the point of going; he
+evidently struggled with himself, then made a movement as though to
+detain the young widow.
+
+"I believe it will be better to prepare you, lady, for the news that
+you will hear when you reach the house. Baron von Wildenrod has left
+for good?"
+
+"My brother?" cried Cecilia, her anxieties at once aroused. "And you
+here at Odensburg? What have you done?"
+
+"Fulfilled a painful duty!" he gravely replied. "Your brother has left
+me no choice. He was warned through you--he should have been satisfied
+with what he had already accomplished--Maia ought not to be sacrificed!
+I have opened her father's eyes."
+
+"And Oscar? He has gone off you say--where to?"
+
+"That nobody knows as yet. He will certainly communicate with you
+after a while; you stand as high as ever in the affections of your
+father-in-law. He knows that not the slightest reproach attaches to
+you."
+
+"The question here is not about myself, is it?" cried the young woman,
+vehemently. "Do you think that I can live quietly here at Odensburg,
+with my brother a wanderer upon the face of the earth, once more a prey
+to those inimical forces that have already brought him so low? You have
+done your duty--yes, thoroughly well! What asks a stern nature like
+yours, about whom and what has been crushed in the process?"
+
+"Cecilia!" interposed Runeck, his tone betraying the torture he endured
+while listening to these reproaches. But Cecilia paid no heed and
+continued with increasing bitterness:
+
+"Maia's hand and love would have saved Oscar, that I do know, for there
+was in him as mighty a power for good as for evil. Now he has been
+hurled back into the old life; now he is lost."
+
+"Through me--is that what you would say?"
+
+She did not answer, but the reproachful glance that she cast upon the
+young engineer was bitter in the extreme. Proudly but sadly he stood
+before her.
+
+"You are right," said he, harshly. "Destiny has certainly condemned me
+to bring woe and misery upon all that I hold dear. I had to wound in
+the cruelest manner the man who had been more than a father to me. I
+had likewise to inflict no less a blow upon poor little Maia's heart.
+But the hardest of all was what I had to do to you, Cecilia, and for
+which you now condemn me!"
+
+He waited in vain for a reply. Cecilia persisted in her silence. There
+was a rushing and roaring around the pair, as at that time when they
+stood at the foot of the Whitestone. Mysteriously came this roaring as
+from a far distance; on, on it came, ever swelling stronger and then
+sinking and dying away with the breath of the wind. But now the autumn
+storm howled furiously among the trees, half-bare of foliage as they
+were; the first gray shadows of evening began to steal upward, and what
+mingled with that rushing and roaring was not the peaceful Sabbath
+bells as before, but strange and dismal noises. A far-off and confused
+murmur it was, too undecided to determine what it was, for again and
+again it was swallowed up by the storm. But now the wind lulled for a
+few minutes, when it came across more loudly and distinctly. Cecilia
+drew herself up and listened intently. "What was that? Did it come from
+the house?"
+
+"No, it seemed to come from the works," declared Runeck. "I heard it a
+while ago."
+
+Both now listened, with bated breath, and suddenly Egbert exclaimed,
+with a start:
+
+"I hear the voices of men! It is the raging of an angry mob. Something
+is going on over at the works--I must go over!"
+
+"You, Herr Runeck? What would you there?"
+
+"Protect the master of Odensburg from his people! I best know how they
+have been goaded and set against him. If he shows himself now, he is no
+longer safe among his workmen."
+
+"For Heaven's sake!" cried Cecilia, horrified.
+
+"Fear nothing!" Runeck hastened to assure her. "So long as I stand by
+his side, no one will come near him. Woe to him who risks it!"
+
+Cecilia had sprung forward: a few minutes before she had believed that
+she could not pardon her brother's accuser, and now all that supposed
+hatred was swallowed up in anguish over him, over _his_ life. She flew
+forward and embraced his arm with both hands.
+
+"Egbert!"
+
+He was in the act of hurrying away, but now stood still as though
+spellbound.
+
+"Cecilia! Do you call me thus?"
+
+"Do you mean to brave that infuriated mob over there? Oh, you court
+death!" cried the young widow, beside herself. "Egbert, think of me and
+my mortal anxiety about you!"
+
+With an impetuous shout of joy, Egbert wanted to draw his beloved to
+him, but his eye fell upon her mourning garb and upon the grave of his
+old friend, and he only drew her hand silently to his lips; but a
+bright ray of happiness lit up his face, as he said softly,
+
+"I _will_ think of it--farewell, Cecilia!" With that he rushed off.
+
+
+That evening the Odensburg works had been the theater of wild and
+stormy scenes. The moderation and circumspection with which the
+officers sought to keep down the angry excitement on the part of the
+mass of the workmen, and to maintain quiet and order among those
+dismissed, had been in vain; all was wrecked by the aggressive bearing
+of that party which Landsfeld secretly guided, and at the head of which
+stood Fallner here at the works.
+
+To-day the Socialist leader had found it altogether necessary to come
+himself to Odensburg, a thing that he usually avoided; for he knew this
+time what was at stake.
+
+Most of the workmen had already come to their senses, more than half of
+them having determined to resume work on the morrow, and to submit to
+the conditions of the chief. The effect of this example upon the others
+was to be foreseen. It was of importance, then, to incite to scenes of
+violence, cost what it would, in order that reconciliation be made
+impossible. And in this he had already succeeded.
+
+The works were full of waving, noisy masses of men, who, by way of
+preliminary, were threatening one another. Fallner and his adherents
+hurled terms of opprobrium against the opposite party: "Cowards!
+Traitors! Hounds!" they cried, in a confused medley of invective, and
+those they attacked were not slow in returning the compliment. They
+threw it up to their comrades that they had been goaded into
+insurrection, and that a conclusion had been forced upon them which
+they had not liked. As yet fists played only a secondary part, but it
+was felt that a bloody encounter might ensue at any moment, and unchain
+all the fury of the excited multitude.
+
+In the superintendent's building the officers had to sustain a regular
+siege. From the now closed workshops and bureaux, the younger ones had
+taken refuge here with their superiors, who were themselves thoroughly
+nonplused. The measures taken had proved themselves inefficacious. They
+were just now consulting as to the wisest thing to do.
+
+
+
+
+                             CHAPTER XXIV.
+
+                   A DEED THAT WIPES OUT OLD SCORES.
+
+
+"There is no help for it, we must call in the master," said the
+director. "He was determined, whether or no, to interfere in case of
+necessity--I am at my wits' end now."
+
+"For Heaven's sake no!" objected Winning. "He ought not to show
+himself. He will hardly be in the mood to speak kindly to the people,
+and if he meets them with asperity, then the worst is to be feared."
+
+"What are those men out there after, anyhow?" cried Dr. Hagenbach, who
+was likewise present, because he feared that his medical services might
+be needed. "Whom are they threatening? Herr Dernburg? Us? Or are they
+quarreling among themselves?"
+
+"I presume they themselves know least of all," replied the
+upper-engineer. "You may depend, their leader Landsfeld is at the
+bottom of it. He is to be in Odensburg to-day, when we may certainly
+expect matters to take a grave aspect."
+
+"So much the less can I assume any longer the responsibility all by
+myself," declared the director. "I shall tell our chief that we are no
+longer masters of the situation. He can then do what he chooses."
+
+He started for the telephone, when all of a sudden the noise ceased. He
+hushed quite suddenly, only a few individual voices being heard; then
+these too were silent and a deathlike silence prevailed. The officers
+hurried to the window, in order to see what was going on.
+
+"There is the master!" exclaimed Winning. "I thought that he would
+appear without summons, if he heard that tumult."
+
+"But how he does look!" added Hagenbach, in a whisper. "I fear that
+nature will give way."
+
+"Let us open the doors, so that he can retreat here in case of
+necessity," said the director, who had likewise come up. "He is quite
+alone, not even Wildenrod is with him. We must go to him! Quick,
+gentlemen!"
+
+The doors were opened that had been locked from the inside, but the
+officers could neither reach their chief, nor he them--a dense mass of
+men stood between, and held the square before the house. The attempt of
+the director and his colleagues, to break through this living wall, was
+vain--the workmen standing nearest assumed so threatening an attitude,
+the gentlemen desisted, so as not to tempt to a deed of violence that
+would have immediately reacted against Dernburg.
+
+He had made use of the little by-path that led from the Manor to the
+superintendent's building, without going near the works. Nobody had
+seen his approach, and now he suddenly stood among his workmen as if he
+had sprung from the ground. The whole force of his personal presence
+was shown at this moment--his bare appearance had the most subduing
+effect upon the just now fiercely excited multitude, who suddenly
+stood, as it were, spellbound. All eyes were directed toward that tall
+form, with darkly knitted eyebrows; all waited for the first word from
+his mouth. His glance slowly swept over the crowd that he had once
+swayed by a single nod, and who now withstood him thus. Still he spoke
+not, for it seemed as though utterance had failed him.
+
+Unfortunately it happened that Landsfeld, with Fallner, was in
+immediate proximity to him. There, in front of the superintendent's
+building, where they had cooped in the officers, the rashest of his
+followers had found themselves together, the Socialist leader had taken
+his stand. Dernburg's appearance seemed to him to be neither surprising
+nor undesired; on the contrary, there flashed into his eyes a look as
+of satisfaction, as he whispered to Fallner, who was constantly at his
+side, as a sort of adjutant:
+
+"There is the old man! I knew that he would not stay quietly at home
+while the devil was to pay over at his works. Now the ball begins to
+roll!"
+
+Finally Dernburg began to speak: his voice was loud and firm, and the
+deep silence round about caused every word to be distinctly heard.
+
+"What means this noise here at the works? There is no reason for it.
+You gave warning, and I have had the workshops closed and shall keep
+them closed. You have been paid your wages, so now go home!"
+
+The workmen were startled; they had been accustomed to their chiefs
+speaking shortly and dictatorially, but this cold, contemptuous tone
+they heard from his lips now for the first time. They felt it at once,
+without being able exactly to account for it.
+
+Now Landsfeld deemed that the hour had come for his personal
+interference. "You and the rest follow me," was his brief command to
+Fallner, and then, without further ceremony, he turned to Dernburg.
+
+"The question here is not one of pay," he began, with insolent mien.
+"What the workmen want of you, Herr Dernburg, they have already
+communicated to you. Those unjust dismissals are to----"
+
+"Who are you? Who gives you the right to put in a word here?"
+interrupted Dernburg, although he knew the speaker by sight as well as
+that person knew him.
+
+"My name is Landsfeld," was the haughty reply. "I think that suffices
+for my justification."
+
+"Intermeddling from without I do not brook. Leave Odensburg on the
+spot!"
+
+This order sounded proud and contemptuous. Landsfeld retired a step and
+measured from head to foot the man who stood before him, unsupported,
+and yet dared to speak thus.
+
+"Such an order I shall not heed," answered he, scornfully. "I stand
+here in the name of my party, which Odensburg matters very nearly
+concern. Comrades! do you recognize me as your proxy? Am I to speak for
+you?"
+
+Fallner and his men, who had followed their leader and encircled him on
+all sides, answered with stormy approval, while the others remained
+silent. Landsfeld triumphantly raised his head.
+
+"You hear it! I tell you, then, that the conditions imposed by you
+before the resumption of work are shameful and degrading. I declare the
+man that submits to them to be a coward and traitor."
+
+"And I declare that I have nothing to do with you or the like of you,"
+cried Dernburg, extremely provoked by this challenge. "I made
+conditions for my workmen, to whom alone I shall re-open the
+works--with men of your stamp I have nothing at all to do."
+
+Landsfeld started up, enraged. "With men of my stamp? We are indeed
+only worms in the eyes of this high and mighty lord? Comrades! do you
+put up with this?"
+
+He did not appeal in vain to his comrades. Abusive words and threats
+were hurled at Dernburg, who was ever more closely wedged in by the
+mob. Cut off from any assistance, at any instant he might look for the
+worst.
+
+Then were heard in the distance loud clamor and shouts, not of a fierce
+and menacing kind, though, but as if some one was being joyfully
+received, Now they could even distinguish an enthusiastic "huzza" that
+was loud and long-drawn-out, and continually came nearer. "Long live
+Runeck! Long live Egbert Runeck!" sounded from all quarters, and,
+through the midst of the densely-packed masses, a way was opened for
+the engineer, who rapidly drew near.
+
+Breathless from his impetuous walk, he placed himself by Dernburg's
+side with an air that showed plainly enough that he was determined to
+stand by him and fall with him. He looked defiance at Landsfeld, who
+returned his glance with a scornful shrug of the shoulders.
+
+"Are you actually here, my dear fellow?" he murmured. "If you _will_
+break your own neck, then I need not do it for you."
+
+Runeck, meanwhile, had taken a rapid survey of the situation; he
+recognized its peril, and seized the sole means that had promise of
+safety.
+
+"Back from the house!" was his order to the workmen who held the
+superintendent's office beleaguered. "Do you not see that Herr Dernburg
+wants to get to his officers? I'll escort him; make room!"
+
+The people were surprised, shocked at the part taken; they obeyed,
+however, and began to retire. The square in front of the house was
+gradually emptied, and if Dernburg were once there in the midst of his
+officers, he would be also in safety. If Runeck, then, remained at his
+side, the whole affair would wind up peacefully. But this did not at
+all fit into Landsfeld's plan, and again he struck in.
+
+"What means this?" he cried in a sharp stentorian voice. "Our delegate
+takes part against us, and ranges himself on the enemy's side, does he?
+Herr Runeck! your place is with us. You have to represent us--or do you
+mean to turn traitor?"
+
+That evil word "traitor" immediately took effect, and a low threatening
+murmur became audible. Now Runeck lost the moderation that he had
+hitherto found it hard enough to preserve in face of Landsfeld's
+effrontery.
+
+"You yourselves are traitors and villains if you assault the man who
+has helped you in every way that he could," he thundered. "Back from
+him! whoever touches him, I shall strike to the ground!"
+
+His bearing was wild and threatening, so that all shrank back save
+Landsfeld only.
+
+"Suppose you try that on me, then?" he yelled, rushing forward to
+attack Dernburg, but in the same minute, felled by a powerful blow of
+Egbert's fist, he sank to the ground with a loud outcry, where he lay
+with blood streaming over him.
+
+The sudden lightning-like deed unchained all the passions of the raging
+mob.
+
+With a fierce shout, Fallner and his fellows rushed upon Runeck, who
+threw himself in front of Dernburg and covered him with his body. For a
+few minutes his gigantic strength held out against the assailants, but
+the end of this unequal contest was to be foreseen. Then suddenly a
+knife flashed in Fallner's uplifted hand, a mighty thrust--and Egbert
+fell down, bleeding.
+
+But this time the deed had a different effect from what it had had
+before, the multitude standing paralyzed, as it were, by horror.
+Suddenly the monstrous character of the whole proceeding seemed to
+strike them. Fallner himself stood there motionless, as though shocked
+by his own deed. The tumult was hushed; nobody hindered Dernburg, who,
+with pale face and compressed lips, slowly stooped down and took the
+unconscious Egbert in his arms.
+
+Meanwhile, seeing that the square in front of the house was clear, the
+officers made a renewed attempt to force their way to the chief; it had
+only succeeded in a measure, but they already found themselves quite
+near to him, when that bloody incident supervened. Doctor Hagenbach,
+with quick presence of mind, profited by it to accomplish their end.
+"Room for the surgeon!" cried he, pressing forward. "Let me through!"
+
+This word availed; a narrow path was opened for him in the
+densely-packed throng, and the officers crowded after; in a few minutes
+Dernburg was surrounded by them. But he did not concern himself on that
+score; he knelt by Egbert, whose head he supported, and when the doctor
+now stooped down and examined the wound, he asked softly, in a tone of
+deep distress:
+
+"Is he--mortally wounded?"
+
+"Very severely!" said Hagenbach, loudly and earnestly. "He must be
+conveyed somewhere instantly."
+
+"To the Manor-house!" suggested Dernburg.
+
+"Yes, indeed, that is best." He quickly put on a bandage, and then
+turned, in passing, to the bleeding Landsfeld, in order to examine him
+as well.
+
+"There is no danger here!" he called aloud to the bystanders. "The blow
+has only stunned the man. Carry him into the house--he will soon again
+come to his senses--there is no cause for uneasiness about him. But
+Runeck--he is badly hurt!"
+
+His manner showed that he feared the worst, and this decided the mood
+of the multitude. There arose an agitated murmur, that was transmitted
+from mouth to mouth, until it reached the ranks of those who had stood
+too far off to see what had been going on. And now, when Egbert was
+picked up and borne away, a movement of horror passed through the
+throng of human beings. They saw their deputy, whom they had elected in
+defiance of their chief, and lifted upon the shield with loud
+rejoicings lying lifeless and covered with blood, in the arms of the
+officers, who bore him away, and their chief walked by his side and
+held in his the hand of the unconscious young man. No request was
+needed to induce them to make way: all moved silently aside, when the
+melancholy procession came past--not a word, not a sound was to be
+heard. A silence as of death fell upon all those thousands.
+
+
+
+
+                              CHAPTER XXV.
+
+                         TWIXT LIFE AND DEATH.
+
+
+Meanwhile, in the Manor-house they were awaiting in terrible anxiety
+the issue of the noise and commotion, that were plainly audible as
+coming from the works. When Maia came from the park, her father had
+already gone forth to quell the workmen, and she could not, therefore,
+talk with him. She took refuge with Cecilia, wanting to unbosom herself
+to her, but had found her in such grief and distress, that it was
+useless to expect from her attention and sympathy.
+
+"Leave me, Maia!" pleaded the young widow in accents of despair. "Only
+leave me now! Later, I will listen to everything you have to say, and
+advise you, too, but now I can think of nothing, and feel nothing but
+_his_ danger!" So saying, she rushed out upon the terrace, whence one
+could overlook the works.
+
+Poor Maia's heart grew still heavier. _His_ danger! By that she could
+only mean her father, to whom Cecilia, too, was tenderly devoted. Was
+he actually in such sore peril when among his workmen?
+
+Thus more than an hour had elapsed, and Maia could stand it no longer.
+What was Oscar to think of her staying away? He would believe that she
+had wavered in her resolution, and was minded to let him go alone to
+destruction. She _must_ go back to him, if only for a few minutes, in
+order to tell him that it was impossible to speak with her father now!
+With quickening breath she hurried into the park, which already lay
+shadowed in twilight gloom. There who should come to meet her but her
+father.
+
+Dernburg, with his attendants, had selected the shortest way, the same
+little by-path which he had used awhile ago on his way to the works,
+and which could not be seen from the terrace either. Through the
+movement of the stretcher and pain of the wound Egbert had been brought
+back to consciousness: his first question had reference to Landsfeld.
+Hagenbach assured him that the man's wound was insignificant and did
+not involve the slightest danger, and a deep sigh of relief showed how
+much comfort this assurance gave the young engineer. Maia, who at first
+only saw her father, threw herself impetuously on his bosom.
+
+"You live, papa, you are saved! Thank God, now all will be well!"
+
+"Yes, I am saved--at this price!" said Dernburg in a whisper, while he
+pointed behind him. Now, for the first time, the young girl caught
+sight of the wounded man, and uttered a shriek of horror.
+
+"Hush, my child!" admonished Dernburg. "I did not want to frighten you.
+Where is Cecilia?"
+
+"Out on the terrace. I must run and tell her; she is almost distressed
+to death about you," whispered Maia, with a glance at the friend of her
+youth, that was full of anguish, for he looked like one dying. Then she
+hurried off to her sister-in-law.
+
+Dernburg had Egbert carried into his own chamber, and helped to lay him
+on the bed, while Dr. Hagenbach exerted himself in his behalf, and gave
+a few directions to the servant-man who came hurrying in. Then the door
+opened, and in Maia's company appeared Cecilia. Without disturbing
+herself about witnesses, without even seeing them, with a wild
+movement, she rushed up to the couch, and there fell upon her knees.
+
+"Egbert, you had promised me to live!" she cried despairingly, "and yet
+you sought death."
+
+Dernburg stood there as though struck by lightning. He had never had
+even the faintest suspicion of this love, and now one unguarded moment
+betrayed everything to him.
+
+"I did not want to die, Cecilia, assuredly not," said Egbert, faintly.
+"But there was no other possibility of saving _him_."
+
+His eye turned upon Dernburg, who now approached, and continued to look
+from one to the other, as though dazed.
+
+"Is that the way it stands between you two?" asked he, slowly.
+
+The young woman did not answer; she only clasped Egbert's right hand in
+both her own, as though she feared that they might be parted. He tried
+to speak, but Dernburg would not allow him to make the effort.
+
+"Be tranquil, Egbert," said he, earnestly. "I know that Eric's
+betrothed was sacred from your approach: you need not assure me of
+that; and after his death, you have to-day, for the first time, entered
+Odensburg. My poor boy! That interposition has been fatal to you--you
+have been obliged to pay for it with your heart's blood."
+
+"But this blood has forced me from that chain!" cried Egbert, with a
+return of his old fire. "You, none of you, have any idea how hard I
+have found it to wear. Now it is broken--I am free!"
+
+He sank back, exhausted, and now Dr. Hagenbach asserted himself. In the
+most decided manner, he forbade any talking, and any further agitation
+of exciting topics, in the presence of the wounded man, from whom he
+did not conceal the perilous in his situation.
+
+Dernburg looked upon his daughter-in-law, who, with folded hands,
+looked entreatingly at him, and he understood the silent appeal.
+
+"Egbert, then, needs entire repose," said he, earnestly, "and
+self-sacrificing care. I commit him to you, Cecilia--you will be the
+best nurse here!" Once more he stooped down to the wounded man,
+exchanged a few whispered words with the surgeon, and then went into
+his office. Maia, who had hitherto stood silent in the doorway, now
+followed him, but she approached her father as shyly and timidly as
+though she had some grievous fault of her own to confess.
+
+"Papa, I have something to say to you," she whispered, with downcast
+eyes. "I know you have already gone through terrible experiences
+to-day--but I cannot wait. Somebody out in the park is awaiting your
+decision and mine--I must convey it to him. Will you hear me?"
+
+Dernburg had turned to her. Yes, indeed, what he had gone through with
+that day was hard, but this was the hardest of all. He held out both
+arms, and folding his darling to his heart, said in a breaking voice:
+
+"My little Maia! My poor, poor child----"
+
+
+Night had come, a dark stormy night, with heavy clouds covering the
+face of the sky. The Odensburg works, which, a few hours before, had
+been full of boisterous life, now lay there silent and forsaken. It had
+needed no special regulations, not even a reminder, to induce the
+workmen to go home. Since their deputy-elect had struck down their
+leader, and fallen himself by the knife of one of themselves,
+consternation had laid hold of the people. They felt all that was hard
+in these proceedings, although they did not clearly understand their
+full bearing. Fallner was shyly avoided; and when the news got wind
+that Landsfeld--who came to in little over a half hour--had left
+Odensburg on foot, there was a complete revolution in the sentiments of
+the whole laboring community. There were bitter accusations and
+reproaches, but not against him who was struggling with death over
+yonder in the Manor-house--all the bitterness was directed against
+Landsfeld alone.
+
+Through night and storm came a tall, solitary figure, that remained
+standing in front of the Manor-house, where dim candle-light was
+visible behind several windows, in the apartment where Egbert lay under
+Cecilia's charge, and also in the rooms of Maia and Dernburg. None of
+them slept that night. The man who stood so motionless below knew
+nothing of these last events. He had heard, it is true, the noise at
+the works when he left the Rose Lake, and he knew also the
+apprehensions entertained for the evening, but what was Odensburg to
+him now, or what was life in general?
+
+Oscar von Wildenrod was ready for the final step. He knew that he could
+not, dared not see his beloved again, and yet, with an irresistible
+longing, he was drawn once more into her neighborhood, to the spot
+where abode the only being upon earth that he truly loved. He had
+proven it, although not until the very last hour. The means of escape
+that was offered him at that time he had put from him for Maia's sake,
+and with that sacrifice fell off all that had been calculating in his
+love. It remained the only pure sentiment in a corrupt and blasted
+life, which was now to be ended by a bullet.
+
+Wildenrod lived over, in memory, the first evening that he had spent at
+Odensburg. Then he had stood at that window, up there, his head full of
+ambitious schemes and his heart swelling with the first sweet
+sensations of love for the charming girl, to whose hand was appended
+that wealth which he so ardently coveted. Then he had vowed to be, one
+day, lord and master of this world of industrial achievement, and in
+the full confidence of his coming victory had gazed proudly upon those
+works, out of whose gigantic furnaces mounted upward sheaves of
+flashing sparks. Now all lay in total quiet, the restless machinery
+stood still, the fires were extinguished. Only over yonder, where the
+rolling-mills were situated, glimmered a pale, uncertain light, that
+gradually, however, grew brighter. Oscar eyed this indifferently, at
+first, but then more sharply. Now the light vanished, to shoot up again
+directly afterwards; now it quivered here and there, and then all at
+once it was as if a flash of lightning rent the sky. A flame darted on
+high, and in its glare one saw that the whole environs were full of
+moving columns of smoke.
+
+Wildenrod started up at this spectacle; in the next minute he had
+rushed to the house and was striking against the window of the porter's
+lodge.
+
+"There is a fire at the works. Awaken Herr Dernburg! I'll hurry on!"
+
+"Fire on this stormy night! God be with us!" cried the horrified voice
+of the man, startled out of his sleep. Oscar did not hear what he said,
+for he was far on his way to the works, where the conflagration became
+more and more distinctly visible. Where, formerly, even at night,
+hundreds used to be astir, to-day only the inspectors remained, and
+they lay wrapt in slumber.
+
+Wildenrod knew the works thoroughly: he turned first to the cottage of
+old Mertens, who, since work at Radefeld had come to an end, had held a
+place here, and aroused him also. The alarm was sounded; in a few
+minutes some twenty men had assembled, and now the sensational, howling
+tones of the fire-horn were heard. Odensburg had the most admirable
+arrangements for extinguishing fire to be found far or near: Dernburg
+had formed a volunteer fire-company out of his working force, and the
+men were excellently drilled. But now all the bonds of order were
+loosed, the workmen were scattered in their remote dwellings, so that
+assistance from them was hardly to be expected.
+
+Now appeared Dernburg himself, who had been sitting up alone in his
+office, when the alarm of fire was given, and at the same time came
+hurrying up some of the officers whose residences were near by.
+Wildenrod suddenly saw himself face to face with the man, who, a few
+hours ago, had admitted him to the rights of a son, and who, meanwhile,
+must have heard that crushing revelation. Dernburg, also, involuntarily
+shrank back upon catching sight of the Baron, whom he had supposed to
+have taken to flight, and imagined already as far away. But now there
+was no time for any discussion whatever--Oscar had resolutely gone up
+to Dernburg.
+
+"I was the first to discover the fire," said he, "and had the
+fire-signal sounded at once. The flames seem to have broken out in the
+rolling-mills."
+
+"Yes, that is the place!" agreed Dernburg. "But it cannot have arisen
+there through heedlessness--no work has been done there since noon. It
+must be the work of an incendiary!"
+
+Those present all shared his opinion, it was plain, but Wildenrod cut
+off any further remarks. "Never mind, we must penetrate to the seat of
+the fire!" he cried. "In this wind all the works are in the greatest
+danger."
+
+"In this wind they are lost!" said Dernburg, gloomily. "We have not the
+hands for putting it out."
+
+"But our fire-company! The workmen----" objected old Mertens, but a
+bitter laugh from his master interrupted him.
+
+"My workmen? They will let burn whatever is afire. Call them up as much
+as you please with your fire-horns, nobody is coming--nobody, I tell
+you! They are my works, not a hand will stir!"
+
+But, as if in reply, loud shouts and voices were now heard, and torches
+were seen gleaming at the entrance to the works. A troop of workmen
+appeared in closed ranks, with fire-helmets on their heads and asbestos
+frocks thrown on, while behind them thundered the engines. And after
+five minutes came a second troop, and then a third and a fourth. Now
+the cry of "fire!" was heard on all sides; near and far it resounded,
+until the whole valley was alive, and lights were shining in all
+quarters. The works filled with men; all came and all were prepared to
+help.
+
+In the beginning Dernburg had been almost petrified at the sight of
+these arrivals; but now, when one procession after the other emerged
+from the darkness, when the people came as though on a race between
+life and death--anything so as only to arrive in time--when the engines
+drove up at a gallop, then the lord of Odensburg heaved a long, deep
+sigh; he straightened himself up, as though he had cast from him a
+burden long borne, and shouted:
+
+"Well, men, if you want to help, then, forward! Down with the fire!"
+
+This was done, but the conflagration had already found too abundant
+aliment. The whole interior of the rolling-mills seemed to be in
+flames, and in vain they sought to force their way in. Dernburg had
+undertaken, in person, the superintendence of the attempts to quench
+the fire, and guided his men by word and look, while they obeyed him as
+punctually and studiously as ever.
+
+But Oscar von Wildenrod also worked unweariedly to the same end. He did
+not stop to ask whether they would concede to him this right--he simply
+took it. He was everywhere as the emergency demanded. But although he
+courageously and undauntedly led forward single detachments again and
+again, although the engines incessantly hurled their hissing streams
+into the fiercest of the flames, yet the fire had an overpoweringly
+strong ally in the prevailing wind, and, in union with it, defied all
+their exertions. Like fiery serpents the flames darted out of the house
+windows, licking the walls and shooting their tongues forth venomously
+from the roof. The wind was already driving them across to other roofs;
+it bore burning bits of wood aloft through the air, in order to drop
+them again where they would kindle and extend the disaster.
+
+Already the fire had broken out in single spots, and wherever this
+happened, detachments had to be sent for its extinction.
+
+Oscar von Wildenrod had just returned from one of these side-fires,
+which he had had put out under his own supervision, to the starting
+point of the conflagration, where Herr Dernburg had planted himself
+like a rock. Dernburg was just talking with the upper-engineer, who
+stood before him with the crestfallen look of one at his wits' end.
+
+"We are not subduing it, Herr Dernburg," said he. "Only see, the fire
+already threatens to catch the foundries, and if they burn, then it
+will make a clean sweep of the whole. There might be one expedient,
+perhaps, but you will not consent to it--suppose we made the attempt to
+turn on the water from the Radefeld aqueduct."
+
+"No, never--that would imperil human life! Maybe volunteers might be
+found; in their present mood the people are capable of any sacrifice,
+but no man's life shall be victimized for my sake--rather let the works
+all burn down."
+
+He stepped up to the engineers that were advancing to a new attack with
+their water-jets, and there gave a few orders, while Wildenrod, who had
+been listening, turned to the upper-engineer.
+
+"What is that about the Radefeld aqueduct?" asked he, eagerly.
+
+"The aqueduct is immediately adjacent to the rolling-mills," answered
+the officer. "If it had been possible promptly to open the large main
+pipe, then the fire might have been quenched. But there it originated
+and burned most fiercely, so that we could gain no access to its focus.
+The pipe lies----"
+
+"I know," interposed Wildenrod. "I was present when the conduit was
+joined on and tested, and saw, too, how they opened the afflux. Access
+is impossible to it, do you say?"
+
+The upper-engineer shrugged his shoulders and pointed to the state of
+the conflagration. "Earlier it might have been possible to have cleared
+a way with our engines, at least for a short while, but Herr Dernburg
+is right, the attempt would cost human life. Who would venture into
+those glowing walls that may cave in at any moment? And even if one did
+succeed in opening the pipe, and conducting the mass of water in the
+reservoir to the seat of the fire, how would our men get back? The
+smoke would smother them. If the water escapes no one would come forth
+alive."
+
+"The only question is, how one may get in alive," murmured Oscar, with
+his eye fixed upon the leaping flames. The upper-engineer looked at him
+in surprise, but before he could answer the chief came back. "You
+assume the command over there," was his order. "Winning can hold out no
+longer."
+
+The officer hurried away, and Dernburg scanned the Baron with a
+forbidding look. "What do you want here?" asked he in a subdued tone.
+"There are hands enough for putting out the fire, we do not need your
+help."
+
+"More than you think, perhaps!" said Wildenrod, with a strange smile.
+
+Dernburg stepped close up to him. "I did not want to expose you before
+my officers and workmen, but now I tell you, you are no longer in place
+here, Baron von Wildenrod. Go!"
+
+Wildenrod met firmly the eyes that were fastened upon him so
+menacingly, then said slowly and earnestly: "I am going! Bid Maia
+farewell for me; perhaps you will still allow her--to weep for me!"
+
+He turned off and was lost in the crowd of toilers.
+
+Those were awful experiences that Odensburg passed through that night.
+The wind-chased clouds, tinted blood-red by the aspiring flames, the
+waving masses of men rushing hither and thither, a commingling of
+dreadful sounds, shouts, cries, and the clattering of the engines--it
+was a dismal scene.
+
+Then, all of a sudden, there arose a mighty column of smoke from the
+very center of the fire, that spread out farther and farther, while at
+the same time a peculiar hissing and roaring became audible. The flames
+no longer leaped up so high as before; they seemed to sink, to flee
+before some mysterious power, while the smoke and the roaring were ever
+on the increase. Those standing around could not explain the
+phenomenon: suppositions of all sorts were heard, but Dernburg was the
+first one to solve the problem. "The Radefeld aqueduct is open!" he
+cried. "The water has broken in. Perhaps the pipe has burst or the fire
+has sprung the lock. Never mind--it brings us deliverance!"
+
+Breathlessly all watched the conflict between the two hostile elements,
+but soon the flood conquered, which evidently deluged the whole surface
+where the fire had found its chief nutriment. Different spots on the
+roof were still afire, it is true, but these could be put out, and were
+put out, when the sea of flame in the interior had disappeared for
+good. Again the engines played with renewed force and activity, and now
+a portion of the long tottering walls tumbled down, the main building
+caved in, its sides falling inwards. Thus was averted all danger to the
+neighboring houses and the fire restricted to its own hearth.
+
+"That was help in time of need!" said Dernburg to the officers standing
+around. "And that the water broke loose at the critical moment was
+assuredly more than accident--the interposition of a Higher Hand."
+
+"I am afraid that it was a human hand!" returned the upper-engineer,
+softly.
+
+Dernburg turned to him in surprise. "What mean you to say?"
+
+"Baron von Wildenrod is nowhere to be found," explained that official
+gravely. "He spoke with me awhile ago as to the possibility of opening
+the conduit, and at the same time made use of a singular expression
+that startled me at the time. A few minutes later I saw him hurrying in
+that direction and there vanish. There has been no accident in this
+case."
+
+Dernburg turned pale: now all of a sudden Oscar's last speech became
+clear to him and he understood it all. "For God's sake!" he exclaimed,
+with a start, "then we must penetrate to the seat of the conflagration,
+must at least try----"
+
+"Impossible!" interposed the director. "Beneath those glowing, smoking
+ruins no living thing yet breathes."
+
+What he said was only too true, Dernburg was obliged himself to admit.
+Deeply shaken, he covered his eyes with his hand. For him there was no
+longer any doubt but that the man who had coveted Odensburg for his
+own, at any price, had sacrificed himself to save Odensburg!
+
+Hours of labor were still needed at the scene of the fire. Here and
+there forks of flame shot up again and had to be extinguished, the area
+covered by the conflagration had to be isolated, and the ever-flowing
+streams of the Radefeld aqueduct had to be cut off.
+
+Day had already dawned, when it was finally possible to dismiss the
+people, only retaining a sufficient number of men to act as a guard.
+All had done their utmost, vying with one another in courage and
+endurance; now the men waited for their chief, exhausted as they were
+from their long labors, with faces blackened by smoke and their clothes
+dripping wet. All eyes were silently and questioningly fastened upon
+him, as he now stepped into their midst, his voice, although full of
+deep feeling, was audible to a great distance.
+
+"I thank you, children! I shall never forget you and what you have done
+for me this night. You gave me warning that you had quit work, and I
+wanted to forbid your taking it up again. Now, you have worked for me
+and my Odensburg, and so I think"--here he suddenly held out both hands
+to an old workman with hoary head, who stood close before him--"we'll
+stay together now, and work together as we have done for the past
+thirty years!"
+
+And in the hearty shout of rejoicing that rang forth from all quarters
+ended the strike at Odensburg.
+
+
+
+
+                             CHAPTER XXVI.
+
+                 HOW FORCES THAT ARE OPPOSED MAY BLEND.
+
+
+More than two years had elapsed since that stormy night when the
+conflagration had raged at the Odensburg works, but out of the wind and
+fire of that period, which had threatened everything with annihilation,
+had come forth new life and activity.
+
+Those occurrences, which had then affected Dernburg's family circle as
+seriously as they had done his position as lord of Odensburg, had
+gradually retreated into the background, although, for a long while,
+they had shown their pregnant results. On the day after the fire, the
+charred remains of Oscar von Wildenrod had been found. His magnanimous
+action--of which there could be no doubt--was everywhere admired; only
+Dernburg and Egbert knew, while a few of the formerly initiated
+suspected, that a stained and abandoned life had been atoned for by
+this voluntary self-immolation. For all the rest, the memory of the
+Baron remained pure, laid to rest as he had been in the family
+burying-ground by Eric's side, and beneath the rustling fir-trees of
+the Odensburg park.
+
+The universal impression continued to be that the fire had been the
+work of an incendiary, but the proof of this had not been found, and
+was not to be, either. Fallner, to whom one suspicious circumstance
+pointed, had left Germany, to escape the prosecution impending over
+him, on account of his murderous assault upon Runeck. Since all these
+events had acquired a publicity that was altogether undesirable, they
+wanted, by all means, to avoid being forced into notice again through a
+lawsuit.
+
+On this point Dernburg and his opponents were fully agreed.
+
+He did his very best to cause the mantle of silence to be thrown over
+the whole affair, in order that the newly-won peace with his workmen
+might not be imperiled by bitter memories and discussions.
+
+From his sick-bed Runeck had sent word to his party, that he must lay
+down his commission. This resolve would have been unavoidable, even
+without the severe wound which chained him to his couch for weeks, and
+forbade his engaging in any serious business for months. The bond
+between him and his former comrades, which already, for a long time,
+had only existed outwardly, was now definitively severed. The result of
+the new election might have been easily predicted: there was only one
+man who could have disputed the place with the master of Odensburg, and
+he had withdrawn. From the second casting of the ballot Eberhard
+Dernburg came out with an overwhelming majority, and this time his
+Odensburg employés all stood by him to a man. The reconciliation had
+been complete.
+
+After his recovery, Egbert had left Odensburg and stayed away for a
+long while. He, like Dernburg, felt that the new future, about which
+they were fully agreed, was not to be linked immediately and
+unceremoniously to the past, seeing that many an inward wound must
+close up ere the outward one should be perfectly healed. The young
+engineer had traveled widely and spent a full year in America, where
+there was so much for him to see and learn. There he had completed the
+studies which he had once begun in England. Now, when at last he
+returned to Odensburg, his long waiting was at an end, and he dared to
+claim the good fortune that had once bloomed for him on the very verge
+of the grave; after a short engagement, his marriage with Cecilia took
+place in all quietness.
+
+To-day the cheerful sounds betokening festivity were to be heard in the
+Manor-house, for they were looking for the return of the bridal pair
+from their wedding-trip. And Frau Dr. Hagenbach was just adding a few
+last touches to the preparations for their reception, that lady having
+retained her old intimate relations with the Dernburg household after
+her marriage. The rooms that were now fitted up for Egbert and Cecilia
+Runeck were entirely different from those that had once received Eric's
+betrothed, being situated on the opposite side of the house, and
+destined for their permanent abode.
+
+Leonie placed a few more flowers in the reception-room. From the
+sickly, nervous, and rather wan old maid had emerged a smiling and
+graceful matron: Dr. Hagenbach having asserted his rights as a
+physician as well as husband, and completely cured his wife of those
+detested nervous attacks.
+
+Frau Hagenbach had just completed her task, when the door opened and
+her husband entered. Wedded life seemed to have agreed well with him,
+too, for he had a highly contented look, while both his manners and
+mode of speech were changed for the better.--It was easy to see that he
+had gone to work in earnest to become "humanized." He nodded to his
+wife and said:
+
+"I have come up only for a minute, to let you know that I have to visit
+one more patient first. It will not take me long, though, so that I
+shall be in time for the reception, anyhow."
+
+"They will not arrive much before two o'clock," remarked his wife. "One
+more question, though, dear Hugo--have you considered that matter of
+Dagobert's?"
+
+The doctor again made one of those grimaces, once so common with him,
+and his voice sounded rather gruff as he answered:
+
+"There is nothing to be considered! I shall take care not to send the
+fellow the three hundred marks, that, according to his assertion, he
+needs so urgently. He must make out with the allowance that I have
+settled upon him, once for all."
+
+"But the sum is not so large after all," objected Mrs. Hagenbach, "and
+in other respects you have no fault to find with Dagobert. He works
+industriously, writes to us frequently----"
+
+"And still persistently reviles you in prose and verse," said
+Hagenbach, finishing her sentence for her. "To be sure no rational man
+would demean himself by being jealous of such a simpleton, although he
+did presume to write to me, after the reception of our wedding-cards,
+that I had inflicted a mortal wound upon his betrayed heart. A pierced
+heart does not, however, hinder him from hiding behind his aunt, when
+he wants to get anything out of me, the traitor, and she, alas! always
+takes his part. But this time nothing helps him--he does not get that
+money, so much is settled!"
+
+Leonie did not contradict him, she only smiled with a submissive look,
+and let the subject drop.
+
+"We shall be in the strictest seclusion to-day," she remarked. "Count
+Eckardstein is the only person invited."
+
+"Well, I hope that means that we are soon to have another bride in the
+house, and that it will not be too long before a young countess makes
+her entrée into Eckardstein."
+
+His wife shook her head dubiously. "I am afraid this is by no means
+settled. Herr Dernburg doubtless desires it, but Maia's demeanor is
+anything but encouraging. Who knows what answer she will give, if the
+Count actually proposes."
+
+"But she cannot grieve forever over her former betrothed--she was
+little else than a child then."
+
+"And yet his death very nearly cost her her life."
+
+"Yes, a fine time we had of it, truly!" said Hagenbach with a sigh. "On
+one side there was Egbert, who for weeks hovered between life and
+death, on the other Fräulein Maia, likewise making preparations to die,
+and between them Madame Cecilia, who, one day, when Runeck was at the
+worst, coolly declared to me, that if I did not save her Egbert, she
+did not care to live longer, either. We did not have the jolliest of
+times during our engagement, did we, my dear? Thank God, it has been
+better since we were married. But I must be gone! I must go home.
+First, though, have you any order to give?"
+
+"Only a trifle to be attended to. You were going to send the coachman
+to the station, you know--he can take with him the letter and
+post-office order."
+
+"What post-office order?" asked the doctor, suspiciously.
+
+"Why, the three hundred marks for Dagobert. I have already filled out
+the order, which is lying on your desk; you will have nothing to do but
+to supply the money----"
+
+"I am not thinking of such a thing," cried the doctor, fuming.
+
+"Yes, but you are thinking of it, though," protested Frau Dr.
+Hagenbach, with a decision, alas! that was not to be gainsaid. "You are
+only afraid of somewhat weakening your authority, and in this you are
+right, as you always are. Therefore I acted in your stead and wrote to
+Dagobert myself. It was done only for your sake, you perceive that,
+dear Hugo."
+
+"Leonie, what are you thinking of?" exclaimed Hagenbach, irritably. "I
+have told you once, and now tell you again----"
+
+He did not succeed in repeating his remark, however, for his wife
+interrupted him. "I know, Hugo, you are in the habit of representing
+yourself as hardhearted when you are goodness itself. You made up your
+mind long ago to send the poor youth that money, dear Hugo----"
+
+The "dear Hugo" had learned many a thing already since he had entered
+the estate of matrimony. He never heard a contradiction, it is true,
+and everything was done exclusively out of deference to his will--this
+his wife told him daily, and he believed it, too, for the most part;
+but the Odensburg people were of a different opinion. In that village
+it was positively asserted, that "the madam ruled the roost." In this
+particular case, it is certain that the post-office order for three
+hundred marks was sent off in the course of the next hour.
+
+In the parlor sat Maia Dernburg alone, at the window: at her feet lay
+the elderly Puck: he had become orderly and intelligent, and had
+entirely laid aside his inclination to attack in the rear men who wore
+plaid pantaloons. To be sure he was not so much teased as formerly; his
+young mistress stroked and caressed him still, it is true, but the
+merry romps that she used to carry on with him had long since ceased.
+In general, "little Maia" no longer existed, that fascinating childlike
+creature with exuberant spirits and laughing eyes. The slender,
+white-robed young lady there at the window certainly possessed great
+attractions, having developed from the laughing child into the quiet,
+gentle maiden, and in those brown eyes lay, as it were, deep, dark
+shadows, telling of a grief not yet altogether overcome.
+
+It was quiet round about, and Maia was looking dreamily out upon the
+bright summer landscape, when her father entered. His hair had turned
+gray during these last years, but in every other respect he was the
+same erect, hale old man that we have known.
+
+"Are you already on the lookout for the carriage?" he asked.
+
+"No, papa, it is too early for that as yet," replied the young girl.
+"Egbert and Cecilia cannot be here for an hour yet, but as we have
+finished all our preparations for their reception----"
+
+"So much the better, for then we shall have an hour to devote to our
+guest alone. Eckardstein is already here--over in my office."
+
+"Ah! Why, then, did he not come with you?"
+
+"Because he deemed it necessary to send me in advance, as his
+spokesman. We have had a long and interesting interview--am I to repeat
+to you what was said, or do you guess the tenor of our remarks?"
+
+Maia had risen to her feet: she had become pale, while her eyes were
+full of entreaty as she fixed them upon her father.
+
+"Papa--could you not spare me this?"
+
+"No, my child," said Dernburg, earnestly. "Victor has determined to
+bring the matter to an issue, and you will be obliged to listen to his
+suit. He has begged me to intercede for him, and I have promised him to
+do so, for I owe him reparation for the injustice I once did him. He
+asked for leave to pay his addresses to you three years ago, although
+it did not come to an open declaration; in this wooing of a portionless
+young officer I saw nothing but calculation, and my insinuations made
+him feel very bitterly. He has proved, however, that his love was true
+and genuine. The lord-proprietor of Eckardstein needs to ask for no
+dowry with his bride, and I would gladly, very gladly, place my Maia's
+happiness in his hands."
+
+"I should like to stay with you, papa," whispered the young girl, in
+painful agitation nestling up to his side. "Will you not keep me,
+then?"
+
+"My child, we shall not be separated, even if you do become Victor's
+wife. You best know what has hitherto kept him aloof from Eckardstein:
+your consent would immediately determine him to resign his commission
+in the army, and henceforth devote himself to the care of his estates.
+Then we should still be together, Eckardstein is so near, you know."
+
+"I cannot!" cried Maia, vehemently, while she drew herself up. "Oscar
+chained me indissolubly to himself in life, and I am not free from him
+in death, either! How often has my heart been heavy when I caught the
+expression of Victor's speaking eyes, not being able to misunderstand
+the mute plea that I read there--but I cannot be happy at the side of
+any other."
+
+"There are only a few destined to be happy," said Dernburg, with strong
+emphasis, "but the duty of making others happy, when it is in our
+power, that duty belongs to us all. Victor knows what has happened, and
+does not demand of you that passionate love which linked you to
+Oscar--perhaps, he would not even understand it. But you are necessary
+to his happiness, and his faithful, honorable devotion is well worth
+the sacrifice of those memories. Of course, you are at full liberty to
+do as you choose, Maia--only consider this one thing: whoever would
+truly live, must also live for others!"
+
+The young girl made no answer, a few large tears rolled slowly down her
+cheeks; the grave admonition had not been without effect.
+
+"Well, what am I to say to the Count?" asked Dernburg, after a pause.
+
+Mala pressed both hands to her heart, as though she would keep down a
+self-asserting pain there, then she bowed her head and answered, almost
+inaudibly:
+
+"Tell him--that I am expecting him!"
+
+Then she felt her father's lips upon her forehead, and folding her in
+his arms, he said with profound emotion:
+
+"That is right, my poor--my brave child!"
+
+Five minutes later Victor Eckardstein entered, almost unaltered in his
+outward appearance, save that his features were graver and more manly.
+Now, indeed, his whole manner bespoke nothing but excitement and
+uneasiness.
+
+"Your father told me that I would find you alone, Maia," he began. "I
+have so much that I should like to confide to you, and yet know not
+whether you will listen to me."
+
+Maia stood before him with downcast eyes; a slight blush mantled her
+cheek, as she bowed her head in acquiescence, without opening her lips.
+
+The Count seemed to have expected some other sign of encouragement, for
+his voice acquired a touch of bitterness, as he continued:
+
+"It has been hard enough for me to approach any other with my
+entreaties and desires, even although it was your father. But your
+manner to me has always been so distant, allowing me room for so little
+hope, that I did not dare to address to you first the question, on
+which the happiness of my life depends. I feel only too sensitively
+that here I needed an intercessor."
+
+"I would not willingly hurt you feelings, Victor, certainly not," Maia
+assured him, and with her old childlike cordiality she held out her
+hand to him, which he firmly clasped in his own.
+
+"You have given me pain enough by that constantly kept-up cold reserve
+of yours," said he, reproachfully. "Oh! from the hour when I found that
+little elf in the cottage in the woods, from the moment when the sweet
+little face of my former playmate emerged from the gray hood that had
+concealed it, I knew where centered the happiness of my life. May I
+speak now, at last? Maia, I love you beyond everything; I cannot live
+without you!"
+
+These were no glowing, impassioned words of love, such as the young
+girl had once listened to from the lips of another, but they expressed
+warm, fervent devotion, and Maia would have been no true woman had she
+remained indifferent, in presence of this constant, true love.
+
+"You will have it so--then take me?" said she in a low tone. "I have
+cared for you since we were children."
+
+With an exclamation of joy, Victor clasped her to his heart, to the
+admiration of Puck, who stared at them both, and evidently could not
+exactly understand the situation.
+
+The engagement, which, was now announced to her father, as may
+well be understood, so engrossed the minds of all the inmates of the
+Manor-house, that they no longer thought of keeping a lookout for the
+carriage, that could now be espied making its way along the wooded
+heights. The road led for some distance over this plateau, ere it
+dipped into the valley. There, in the midst of green, fir-clad hills,
+was situated that mighty hive of industry, Odensburg. The rolling-mills
+had long since arisen from their ashes, more capacious in extent than
+before, and new establishments of a different kind had been associated
+with them, for there was no standstill in the Dernburg works, and they
+expanded with every year.
+
+The bride, in a simple, gray traveling-suit, leaned out of the open
+carriage, eager to catch a glimpse of the Manor-house, now visible
+behind the trees of the park. Cecilia had always been a beautiful girl,
+but the woman was, if possible, more beautiful, in the full development
+of that peculiar charm, which had, at all times, won her affection.
+There could, indeed, be no greater contrast than was presented by this
+refined, still rather foreigner-like being and the husband who sat by
+her side. This was the same old Egbert Runeck, so far as his somewhat
+rough, forceful personality was concerned, impressing one as ready to
+defy the whole world and fight the battle through. Only the gray eyes
+beneath that broad, massive brow had a different expression from what
+they had had before; they diffused a warm, bright radiance, and it was
+not hard to guess whence this light emanated.
+
+"There lies our home, Cecilia!" said Runeck, while he pointed down into
+the valley. "You, indeed, have never liked Odensburg--will you be able,
+think you, to endure permanent residence there?"
+
+"If I am with you!--How can you ask that question again?" replied his
+young wife, somewhat reproachfully.
+
+"Yes, with me, your headstrong Egbert, who will not always have time to
+devote even to you, when he once again becomes immersed in work. On our
+wedding-trip I have belonged to you alone: then we could dream our
+fairy-dreams; but now come earnest workdays with their duties and
+cares, and often enough will they call me from your side. Will you
+understand how that is, Cecilia? Hitherto you have stood so far aloof
+from all this."
+
+He looked upon his wife with a certain uneasiness, but the response
+that he met in her eyes was cheerful and reassuring.
+
+"Well, then, I must learn to take part in your cares and duties. Will
+you teach me how, Egbert? But what do you know of fairy-dreams, you man
+of stern reality, that you are? Where did you learn about them?"
+
+Runeck's eye swept over the mountain range until it rested upon the
+distant, solitary peak, from the summit of which, glittering in
+sunlight, greeted them a cross--the symbol of the Whitestone.
+
+"Up there," said he, softly, "when the forest made music around us
+and the voice of the bells came up from below. Oh, that was a trying
+hour--a horrible one for you, my poor wife. Pitilessly I had to arouse
+you, acquainting you with the unreality of your future, and crumbling
+into ruins the gay, glittering world, in which you had hitherto
+lived--that I might point out to you the precipice on which you stood."
+
+"Find no fault with that hour!" pleaded Cecilia, nestling up to his
+side. "Then I awoke, there I learned to see and to think. Do you know,
+Egbert," and a playful smile took the place of the gravity that had
+rested upon her features, "I never think of it without being reminded
+of the old legend of the caper-spurge, that cleaves the rock where
+buried treasures lie? At that time, you indeed, without any compassion
+at all, called out to me: 'The deep is empty and dead, and there are no
+longer any such things as hidden treasures!' And now----"
+
+"Now, I have myself turned out to be a digger after buried treasures!"
+chimed in Egbert, while he stooped down and gazed into the dark,
+lustrous eyes of his young wife. "You are right, that was the hour in
+which I won you, in spite of everything.
+
+
+                "'I lifted out of night and gloom
+                  That wondrous golden shrine,
+                  And all its sparkling treasures
+                  And all its gold are mine!'"
+
+
+It was a few hours later; the reception and welcome to the Manor-house
+were over, and while Cecilia was still in the parlor chatting with Maia
+and Count Eckardstein, Dernburg went with Runeck out upon the terrace.
+
+"It was high time for you to come, Egbert," said he. "The director in
+his present weak state of health is no longer equal to the duties of
+his office: months ago, he wanted to send in his resignation, and was
+only induced to remain until you should arrive and undertake the
+superintendence of the works. I am also very glad to have Cecilia in
+the house again, for I am not to keep Maia much longer. Victor is
+already talking of the wedding, being quite carried away with his
+happiness."
+
+"But Maia herself does not look as happy as I should like to see her,
+under the circumstances. Did she give her consent gladly?"
+
+"No, but of her own free will. And now that her promise has once been
+given, it will chase away the dark shadow that Oscar's love and death
+have cast over her life. Now a duty stands between her and that memory,
+she will overcome it."
+
+"And Count Victor will make this easy for her," suggested Egbert. "Of
+that I am convinced; his is no nature on a grand scale like"--Dernburg
+cast a side-glance at his adopted son--"like another person of my
+acquaintance, whom I had selected for Maia at one time, but that other
+one, alas! would always go his own way and follow his own hard head,
+and thus he has done in love as in all things else."
+
+"Truly you have so far had but little satisfaction in your son," said
+Egbert, with difficulty controlling his deep emotion--"he even stood in
+open opposition to you; but, believe me, father, I have been the
+severest sufferer from this cause, and now all my powers belong to you
+and your Odensburg."
+
+"We can make good use of them," declared Dernburg. "At times I feel my
+age and the decline of strength--who knows how long it will last?
+Meanwhile, you stand by my side, and I think, upon the ground of common
+work, we shall find the accommodation for all that still divides us the
+one from the other. We talked over this, you remember, when you
+returned from America."
+
+Fully and clearly Egbert's eye met that of the speaker. "Yes, and I
+recognized that I owed it to you to tell the entire truth, when you
+summoned me to the guidance of your works. I have forever renounced my
+former party, but not that which is great and true in that movement.
+This I cleave to still. This I shall stand up for and contend for so
+long as life shall last."
+
+"I know it," said Dernburg, offering him his hand. "But I too have
+learned something during these days of trial. I am no longer the old
+blockhead who supposed that, alone, he could stem the tide of a new
+era. I cannot, indeed, welcome this new era with open arms; for the
+period of a whole generation I have stood on different ground and
+cannot be untrue to myself, but I can summon to my side a young, fresh
+force that is in sympathy with the present. When, hereafter, I give
+Odensburg entirely into your hands, then keep it up with the times,
+Egbert. I shall not oppose it! Until then, though, let there be for us
+all a clear track!"
+
+
+
+                               FOOTNOTE:
+
+[Footnote 1: Caper-spurge.]
+
+
+
+                                THE END.
+
+
+
+
+
+
+End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of 'Clear the Track', by 
+Elisabeth Buerstenbinder (AKA E. Werner)
+
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diff --git a/35201-8.zip b/35201-8.zip
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@@ -0,0 +1,13113 @@
+<!DOCTYPE HTML PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD HTML 4.01 Transitional//EN">
+<html>
+<head>
+<title>&quot;Clear the Track!&quot;</title>
+<meta name="Author" content="E. Werner">
+<meta name="Publisher" content="The International News Company">
+<meta name="Date" content="1893">
+<meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=ISO-8859-1">
+<style type="text/css">
+body  {margin-left:10%;
+       margin-right:10%; background-color:#FFFFFF;}
+
+
+
+p.normal  {text-indent:.25in; text-align: justify;}
+p.center   {text-align:center; margin-top:9pt;}
+
+
+p.right          {text-align:right; margin-right:20%;}
+
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+
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+
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+
+span.sc		    {font-variant: small-caps; font-size:100%;}
+span.sc2		{font-variant: small-caps; font-size:90%;}
+
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+               color:black;}
+
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+               color:black;}
+
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+hr.W90        {width:90%; margin-top:12pt; color:black;}
+
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+
+
+<pre>
+
+The Project Gutenberg EBook of 'Clear the Track', by 
+Elisabeth Buerstenbinder (AKA E. Werner)
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org
+
+
+Title: 'Clear the Track'
+       A Story of To-day
+
+Author: Elisabeth Buerstenbinder (AKA E. Werner)
+
+Translator: Mary Stuart Smith
+
+Release Date: February 7, 2011 [EBook #35201]
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: ISO-8859-1
+
+*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 'CLEAR THE TRACK' ***
+
+
+
+
+Produced by Charles Bowen, from page scans provided by Google Books
+
+
+
+
+
+</pre>
+
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<p class="hang1">Transcriber's Note:<br>
+1. Page scan source:
+http://books.google.com/books?id=fhInAAAAMAAJ&amp;dq</p>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<h1>&quot;CLEAR THE TRACK!&quot;</h1>
+
+<h4>(FREIE BAHN)</h4>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<h3><i>A STORY OF TO-DAY</i></h3>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<h5>BY</h5>
+<h2>E. WERNER</h2>
+<h4><i>Author of</i> &quot;<i>The Alpine Fay</i>,&quot; &quot;<i>Banned and Blessed</i>,&quot; &quot;<i>Danira</i>,&quot;<br>
+&quot;<i>Vineta</i>,&quot; &quot;<i>At a High Price</i>,&quot; <i>etc</i>. <i>etc</i>.</h4>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<h3>TRANSLATED BY MARY STUART SMITH</h3>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<h5>THE TRADE SUPPLIED BY</h5>
+<h3>THE INTERNATIONAL NEWS COMPANY</h3>
+<h5>LONDON<span style="letter-spacing:150px">&nbsp;&nbsp;</span> LEIPSIC</h5>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<h4>Copyright, 1893.<br>
+<span class="sc2">BY</span><br>
+ERNST KEIL'S NACHFOLGER</h4>
+<hr class="W10">
+<h4>[<i>All rights reserved</i>]</h4>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<h2>CONTENTS.</h2>
+<br>
+
+<p class="normal"><span class="sc2">CHAP</span>.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">1. <a name="div1Ref_01" href="#div1_01">The Feast of Flowers at Nice</a></p>
+
+<p class="normal">2. <a name="div1Ref_02" href="#div1_02">In Council</a></p>
+
+<p class="normal">3. <a name="div1Ref_03" href="#div1_03">&quot;See the Path is Clear to a Grand Career&quot;</a></p>
+
+<p class="normal">4. <a name="div1Ref_04" href="#div1_04">Odensburg Manor</a></p>
+
+<p class="normal">5. <a name="div1Ref_05" href="#div1_05">A Victory Wop</a></p>
+
+<p class="normal">6. <a name="div1Ref_06" href="#div1_06">In Which More Than One Charmer Charms</a></p>
+
+<p class="normal">7. <a name="div1Ref_07" href="#div1_07">Cecilia Visits Radefeld</a></p>
+
+<p class="normal">8. <a name="div1Ref_08" href="#div1_08">A Bough of Apple-Blossoms</a></p>
+
+<p class="normal">9. <a name="div1Ref_09" href="#div1_09">The Cross on the Whitestone</a></p>
+
+<p class="normal">10. <a name="div1Ref_10" href="#div1_10">Maia's Choice</a></p>
+
+<p class="normal">11. <a name="div1Ref_11" href="#div1_11">A Secret Foe and Open Enemy</a></p>
+
+<p class="normal">12. <a name="div1Ref_12" href="#div1_12">The Goal in Sight</a></p>
+
+<p class="normal">13. <a name="div1Ref_13" href="#div1_13">Runeck leaves Odensburg</a></p>
+
+<p class="normal">14. <a name="div1Ref_14" href="#div1_14">How an Old Bachelor makes Love</a></p>
+
+<p class="normal">15. <a name="div1Ref_15" href="#div1_15">A Wedding Day</a></p>
+
+<p class="normal">16. <a name="div1Ref_16" href="#div1_16">Scenes at the &quot;Golden Lamb&quot;</a></p>
+
+<p class="normal">17. <a name="div1Ref_17" href="#div1_17">Election Times</a></p>
+
+<p class="normal">18. <a name="div1Ref_18" href="#div1_18">Fortune Smiles on Victor Eckardstein</a></p>
+
+<p class="normal">19. <a name="div1Ref_19" href="#div1_19">&quot;Off With the Old Love, On With the New&quot;</a></p>
+
+<p class="normal">20. <a name="div1Ref_20" href="#div1_20">Maia Must be Saved</a></p>
+
+<p class="normal">21. <a name="div1Ref_21" href="#div1_21">From Heights of Bliss to Depths of Woe</a></p>
+
+<p class="normal">22. <a name="div1Ref_22" href="#div1_22">His Sin had found Him out</a></p>
+
+<p class="normal">23. <a name="div1Ref_23" href="#div1_23">A Lover's Tryst</a></p>
+
+<p class="normal">24. <a name="div1Ref_24" href="#div1_24">A Deed that Wipes Out Old Scores</a></p>
+
+<p class="normal">25. <a name="div1Ref_25" href="#div1_25">'Twixt Life and Death</a></p>
+
+<p class="normal">26. <a name="div1Ref_26" href="#div1_26">How Forces that Are Opposed May Blend</a></p>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<h1>CLEAR THE TRACK!</h1>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<h2>CHAPTER I.</h2>
+
+<h3><a name="div1_01" href="#div1Ref_01">THE FEAST OF FLOWERS AT NICE.</a></h3>
+<br>
+
+<p class="normal">A spring day at the South! Sky and sea are radiant in their deep blue,
+flooded with light and splendor, the waves breaking gently upon the
+shores of the Riviera, to which spring had already come in all its
+glory, while, at the North, snow-storms are still raging.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Here rests golden sunshine upon the white houses and villas of the
+town, that embraces the shore within the radius of a vast semicircle,
+adorned by lofty palms, and embowered in the green of the laurel and
+myrtle. Among thousands of shrubs, the camellia is conspicuous from its
+wealth of bloom, in every stage of perfection, its colors ranging from
+pure white to richest crimson; and could anything excel the richness of
+its glistening foliage? From the adjacent hills hoary monasteries look
+down, and modern churches surrounded by tall cypress trees; friendly
+orchards stand out from pine and olive groves, and in the distance the
+blue Alps, with their snow-crowned summits, are half hidden in sunny
+mist.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Nice was celebrating one of its spring-and-flower festivals, and the
+whole city and its environs had turned out in gala-attire, whether
+stranger or native-born. Gayly-decked equipages passed by in endless
+procession, every window and balcony being filled with spectators, and
+on the sidewalks, under the palms, thronged a merry multitude, the
+brown and picturesque forms of fishermen and peasants being everywhere
+conspicuous.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The battle of flowers on the Corso was in full swing, the sweet
+missiles being constantly shot through the air, here hitting their
+mark, there missing it: blossoms, that are treasured at the North as
+rare and expensive, were here scattered heedlessly and lavishly. Added
+to this, there were everywhere waving handkerchiefs, shouts of joy,
+bands of music playing, and the intoxicating perfume of violets,--the
+whole of this enchantingly beautiful picture being enhanced by the
+golden sunshine of spring with which heaven and earth was filled.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Upon the terrace of one of the fashionable hotels stood a small group
+of gentlemen, evidently foreigners, who had chanced to meet here, for
+they conversed in the German language. The lively interest with which
+the two younger men gazed upon the entrancing scene betrayed the fact
+that it was new to them; while the third, a man of riper years, looked
+rather listlessly upon what was going on.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I must go now,&quot; said he, with a glance at his watch. &quot;One soon gets
+tired of all this hubbub and confusion, and longs after a quiet spot.
+You, gentlemen, it seems, want to stay a while longer?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">His companions certainly seemed to have that intention, and one of
+them, a handsome man, with slender figure, evidently an officer in
+civilian's dress, answered laughingly:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Of course we do, Herr von Stettin. We feel no need for rest whatever.
+The scene has a fairy-like aspect for us Northmen, has it not,
+Wittenau?--Ah! there come the Wildenrods! That is what I call taste;
+one can hardly see the carriage for the flowers, and the lovely Cecilia
+looks the very impersonation of Spring.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The carriage that was just driving by was indeed remarkable through its
+peculiarly rich ornamentation of flowers. Everywhere appeared
+camellias, the coachman and outriders wore bunches of them in their
+hats, and even the horses were decked with them.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">On the front seat were a gentleman of proud and noble bearing, and a
+young lady in a changeable silk dress of reddish hue, her dark hair
+surmounted by a dainty little white hat trimmed with roses. Upon the
+back seat a young man had taken his place, who exerted himself to take
+care of the heaps of flowers that were fairly showered upon this
+particular equipage. Among them were the costliest bouquets, evidently
+given in compliment to the beautiful girl, who sat smiling in the midst
+of all her floral treasures, and looking with great, beaming eyes upon
+the festive scene around her.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The officer, also, had taken a bunch of violets, and dexterously flung
+it into the carriage, but instead of the lady, her escort caught it,
+and carelessly added it to the pile of floral offerings heaped up on
+the seat beside him.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;That was not exactly meant for Herr Dernburg,&quot; said the dispenser of
+flowers rather irritably. &quot;There he is again in the Wildenrod carriage.
+He is never to be seen but when dancing attendance upon them.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Yes, since this Dernburg has put in his appearance, the attentions of
+all other men seem superfluous,&quot; chimed in Wittenau, sending a dark
+look after the carriage.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Have your observations, too, carried you so far already?&quot; said the
+young officer tauntingly. &quot;Yes, millionaires; alas! are always to the
+fore, and I believe Herr von Wildenrod knows how to appreciate this
+quality in his friends, for I hear that luck sometimes deserts him over
+yonder at Monaco.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;You must be mistaken; there can be no talk of any such thing as that,&quot;
+replied Wittenau, almost indignantly. &quot;The Baron produces the
+impression that he is a perfect gentleman, and associates here with our
+very first people.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The other laughingly shrugged his shoulders.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;That is not saying much, dear Wittenau. Just here, at Nice, the line
+separating the <i>élite</i> from the world of adventurers is strangely lost
+sight of. One never rightly knows where the one ceases and the other
+begins, and there is some mystery about this Wildenrod. As to whether
+his claim to nobility is altogether genuine----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Undoubtedly genuine, I can certify as to that,&quot; said Stettin, who had
+hitherto been a silent listener, but now came forward and joined in the
+conversation.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Ah, you are acquainted with the family, are you?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Years ago, I used to visit at the house of the old Baron, who has died
+since, and there I also met his son. I cannot pretend to have any
+particular acquaintance with the latter, but he has a full right to the
+name and title that he bears.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;So much the better,&quot; said the officer, lightly. &quot;As for the rest, it
+is only a traveling acquaintance, and no obligation is incurred.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Assuredly not, if one lays aside such relations as easily as they are
+assumed,&quot; remarked Stettin with a peculiar intonation. &quot;But I must be
+off now--I hope to meet you soon again, gentlemen!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I am going with you,&quot; said Wittenau, who seemed suddenly to have lost
+his appetite for sight-seeing. &quot;The rows of carriages begin to thin out
+already. Nevertheless, it will be a hard matter to get through.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">They took leave of their comrade, who was not thinking of departure
+yet, and had just supplied himself with flowers again, and together
+left the terrace. It was certainly no easy thing to make one's way
+through the densely-packed throng, and quite a while elapsed ere they
+left noise and stir behind them. Gradually, however, their way grew
+clearer, while the shouts of the multitude died away in the distance.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The talk between the two gentlemen was rather monosyllabic. The younger
+one, particularly, appeared to be either out of sorts or absent-minded,
+and suddenly remarked, quite irrelevantly:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;It seems that you know all about the Wildenrods, and yet mention it
+to-day for the first time. And, moreover, you have had nothing to do
+with them.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;No,&quot; said Herr von Stettin coolly, &quot;and I should have preferred other
+associates for you. I several times intimated as much to you, but you
+would not understand my hints.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I was introduced to them by a fellow-countryman, and you said nothing
+decided----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Because I know nothing decided. The associations of which I told you,
+a while ago, date twelve years back, and many changes have taken place
+since then. Your friend is right, the line of demarcation between the
+Bohemian and man of society gets strangely confused, and I am afraid
+that Wildenrod is on the wrong side of the barrier.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;You do not believe him to be wealthy, then?&quot; asked Wittenau, with some
+emotion. &quot;He lives with his sister, in high style, being apparently in
+the easiest circumstances, and, at all events, has command of abundant
+means, for the present.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Stettin significantly shrugged his shoulders.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Inquire at the faro-bank of Monaco; he is a regular guest there, and
+is said, too, to have good luck in play, for the most part--so long as
+it lasts! One hears, too, occasionally of other things, that are yet
+more significant. I have not felt disposed to renew the former
+acquaintance, although our intercourse had been rather frequent, for
+what used to be the Wildenrod possessions lay in the immediate
+neighborhood of our family property, that is now in my hands.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;What used to be?&quot; asked the young man. &quot;Those possessions have been
+sold, then? I perceive, however, that you do not like to speak on the
+subject.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;To strangers, most assuredly not. I shall give what information I have
+to you, though, because you have a real interest in the matter.
+Remember, however, that what I say is strictly confidential!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;My word upon it, that nothing you tell me shall go any farther.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Well, then,&quot; said Stettin gravely, &quot;it is a brief, melancholy, but,
+alas! not an unusual story. Although the estate had long been heavily
+encumbered with debt, the establishment was maintained upon a most
+expensive scale. The old Baron had contracted a second marriage, in
+later life, long after his son was a grown man. He could not thwart his
+young wife in a single wish, and her wants were many, very many. The
+son, who was in the diplomatic service, was also accustomed to high
+living; various other losses ensued, and finally came the catastrophe.
+The Baron suddenly died of a stroke of apoplexy--at least so it was
+said.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Did he lay violent hands on himself?&quot; asked Wittenau in a whisper.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Probably. It has not been ascertained for certain, but it is supposed
+that he was not willing to survive the misery and disgrace of his ruin.
+Disgrace was certainly averted, for the family still holds the most
+honorable position. The Wildenrods rank with the highest nobility in
+the land, and the name was to be shielded at any price. The castle and
+lands adjacent became a royal domain, so that the creditors could be
+pacified at least, and, by the general public, the sale was deemed a
+voluntary one. The widow with her little daughter would have been given
+over to utter poverty if, by the king's grace, she had not been allowed
+a home in the castle and had an annuity settled upon her. As for the
+rest, she died soon afterwards.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;And the son? The young Baron?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Of course he resigned his position, had to do so, under the
+circumstances, for he could not be <i>attaché</i> of affairs without some
+fortune of his own. It must have been a severe blow upon the proud,
+ambitious man, who had, most likely, been kept in utter ignorance of
+the state of his father's affairs, and, now, all of a sudden, found
+himself stopped short in his career. To be sure, many another honorable
+calling stood open to him; friends would doubtless have secured some
+situation for him, but this would have necessitated descent from the
+sphere in which he had hitherto played a chief part; necessitated
+sober, unremitting toil in an obscure station, and those were things
+that Oscar Von Wildenrod could not brook. He rejected all offers of
+employment, left the country, and was no more heard of in his native
+place. Now, after the lapse of twelve years, I meet him here at Nice
+with his young sister, who, meanwhile, has come to woman's estate, but
+we prefer, it seems, on both sides, to treat each other as strangers.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">While this narration was being made, 'Wittenau became very thoughtful,
+but made no comment whatever. Noticing this, his friend laid his hand
+upon his arm, and said gently:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;You should not have given young Dernburg such angry glances, for it
+has been his appearance upon the scene, I fancy, that has saved you
+from committing a folly--a great folly.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">A glowing blush suffused the young man's face at this intimation, and
+he was evidently much embarrassed.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Herr von Stettin, I----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Now, do not understand me as reproaching you on account of looking too
+deeply into a pair of fine eyes,&quot; interposed Stettin. &quot;That is so
+natural at your age; but in this case, it might have been fatal. Ask
+yourself, whether a girl thus brought up, who has grown up amid such
+influences and surroundings, would make a good farmer's wife, or be
+happy in a country neighborhood. As for the rest, you would hardly have
+found acceptance as Cecilia Wildenrod's suitor, because her brother
+will give the decisive voice, and he wants a millionaire for a
+brother-in-law.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;And Dernburg is heir to several millions, people say,&quot; remarked
+Wittenau with undisguised bitterness. &quot;So, he will be the one upon whom
+this honor is to be bestowed.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;It is not mere say so, it is fact. The great Dernburg iron and steel
+works are the most important in all Germany, and admirably conducted.
+Their present chief is such a man as one rarely meets. I speak from
+personal knowledge, having accidentally made his acquaintance a few
+years ago. But see, there are the Wildenrods coming back again.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">There, indeed, was the Baron's equipage, which had left the Corso a
+little while ago, and was now on its way back to their hotel. The fiery
+horses, which had with difficulty been curbed in, so as to keep step
+with a procession, were now going at full speed, and rushed past the
+two gentlemen, who had stepped aside, and looked upon the cloud of dust
+that had been raised.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I am sorry about that Oscar Wildenrod,&quot; said Stettin earnestly. &quot;He
+does not belong to the ordinary herd of mankind, and might perhaps have
+accomplished great things, if fate had not so suddenly and rudely
+snatched him away from the sphere for which he had been born and
+reared. Do not look so downcast, dear Wittenau! You will get over this
+dream of your youth, and after you get home to your fields and meadows,
+will thank your stars that it was nothing but a dream.&quot;</p>
+<br>
+
+<p class="normal">The carriage, meanwhile, had gone on its way, and now stopped before
+one of those grand hotels, whose exterior sufficiently showed that it
+was only at the disposal of rich and distinguished guests.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The suite of rooms occupied by Baron von Wildenrod and his sister was
+one of the best, and, of course, most expensive in the house, and
+lacked none of the conveniences and luxuries to which pampered guests
+lay claim. The rooms were splendidly furnished, but there was about
+them that air of the public-house that takes away, in large measure,
+any sense of genuine comfort.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The gentlemen were already in the parlor. Cecilia had retired in order
+to lay aside her hat and gloves, while her brother, chatting
+pleasantly, conducted their visitor to the veranda, whence was to be
+seen a fine view of the sea and a portion of Nice.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Young Dernburg appeared to be twenty-four or five years old, his looks
+making an impression that was insignificant rather than disagreeable.
+His diminutive figure, with its somewhat stooping carriage and pale
+complexion, with that peculiar tell-tale flush upon the cheeks,
+betrayed the fact that he had sought the sunny shores of the Riviera,
+not for the sake of pleasure, but out of regard for health. His face
+had its attractive features, but its lineaments were much too weak for
+a man, and this weakness culminated in the dreamy, somewhat veiled,
+look of his brown eyes. The self-consciousness of the rich heir seemed
+to be entirely lacking in this young man, his manners being unassuming,
+almost shy, and had not the name he bore everywhere procured him
+consideration, he would have been apt to be overlooked by the
+generality of the world.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The Baron's personality was in every respect the reverse. Oscar von
+Wildenrod was no longer young, being already not far from fifty years
+old.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">There was something imposing in his lofty stature, and his clean-cut,
+regular features could but be regarded as handsome still, in spite of
+the sharp lines engraven upon them, and the deep furrow between the
+brows, that lent a rather sinister aspect to his countenance. Only a
+cool, considerate calm seemed perceptible in his dark eyes, and yet
+they flashed occasionally, with a fierceness that betokened the
+existence of a passionate, unbridled nature. As for the rest, there was
+something thoroughly distinguished in the Baron's whole appearance, his
+manners united the complaisance of a man of the world combined quite
+naturally with the pride inalienable from the scion of an ancient stock
+of nobility, which was manifested, however, in a manner by no means
+offensive.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;You are not seriously thinking of taking your leave of Nice?&quot; asked
+he, in the course of conversation. &quot;It would be much too early, for you
+would just be in time for that season of storms and rain, which they
+honor with the name of spring, in that dear Germany of ours. You have
+spent the whole winter in Cairo, have been just six weeks at Nice, and
+should not expose yourself now to the asperities of that harsh Northern
+climate, if you would not imperil the health that is restored to you,
+but can hardly be established as yet.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;The question is not one of to-day or to-morrow,&quot; said Dernburg, &quot;but I
+cannot defer too long my return home. I have been more than a year in
+the South, feel perfectly well again, and my father urgently requests
+that I return to Odensburg as soon as possible, provided that the
+doctors give me their permission.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;That Odensburg must be a grand creation,&quot; remarked the Baron.
+&quot;According to all that I hear from you and others, your father must
+almost occupy the position of a small potentate; only his authority is
+more unlimited than that of a prince.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Certainly, but he has also the whole care and responsibility of his
+station. You have no idea what it is to be at the head of such an
+undertaking. It requires a constitution of iron, such as my father
+possesses; the burden that he carries on his shoulders is that of a
+very Atlas.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Never mind, it is power, and power is always a delight!&quot; said
+Wildenrod, with flashing eyes.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The young man smiled rather sadly.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;To you, and very likely to my father, too--I am differently
+constituted. I should prefer a quiet life, in a modest home, located in
+such a terrestrial paradise as this delicious climate supplies; but it
+is not worth while to talk; as an only son, it must one day devolve on
+me to superintend the work at Odensburg.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;You are ungrateful, Dernburg! A good fairy endowed you, when in your
+cradle, with a destiny such as thousands aspire to, with eager
+longing--and I verily believe you sigh over it.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Because I feel that I am not qualified for it. When I behold what my
+father accomplishes, and reflect that one day the task will devolve
+upon me, of filling his place, there comes over me a sense of
+discouragement and timidity that I cannot control.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Wildenrod's eyes were fastened, with a peculiar expression upon the
+diminutive figure and pale features of the young heir.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;One day!&quot; he repeated. &quot;Who cares now about the distant future. Your
+father is still living and working in the plenitude of his powers, and
+in the worst case he will leave you capable officers, who have been
+trained in his school. So you will actually stay no longer at Nice? I
+am sorry for that; we shall miss you a great deal.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;We?&quot; asked Dernburg softly. &quot;Do you speak in your sister's name also?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Certainly, Cecilia will be very sorry to lose her trustiest knight. To
+be sure, there will be plenty to try and console her--do you know,
+yesterday I had a regular quarrel upon my hands with Marville, because
+I offered you the seat in our carriage, upon which he had surely
+calculated?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">This last remark was apparently made carelessly, without any design,
+but it had its effect. The young man's brow became clouded, and with
+unmistakable irritation, he replied:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Vicomte de Marville constantly claims a place by the Baroness, and I
+plainly perceive that he would like to supplant me in her favor
+altogether.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;If you voluntarily resign your vantage-ground--very likely. So far,
+Cecilia has continually manifested a preference for her German
+compatriot, and yet there is no doubt but that the amiable Frenchman
+pleases her, and the absent is always at a disadvantage, especially
+where young ladies are concerned.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">He spoke in a jesting tone, as though no weight were to be attached to
+his words, since he did not look upon the matter at all in a serious
+light. This only made Dernburg more solicitous to come to an
+understanding. He made no reply, he was evidently struggling with
+himself, and finally began, unsteadily and with hesitation:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Herr von Wildenrod, I have had something on my heart--for a long while
+already--but I have not ventured until now----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The Baron had turned and looked at him wonderingly. There lurked in his
+dark eyes a half-mocking, half-compassionate expression, the look
+seeming to say: &quot;You have millions to offer and yet hesitate?&quot; but
+aloud he replied: &quot;Speak out, pray; we are no strangers, and I hope
+that I have a claim to your confidence.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;It is, perhaps, no longer a secret to you that I love your sister,&quot;
+said Dernburg almost timidly. &quot;But allow me to say to you, that I
+should account myself the happiest of men, if I could hope to win
+Cecilia--that I would do everything to make her happy--may I hope?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Wildenrod did not indeed affect any surprise at this confession, he
+only smiled, but it was a smile that was full of promise.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;First of all, you must address your question to Cecilia herself. Young
+ladies are rather self-willed on such points, and my sister peculiarly
+so. Perhaps I am too considerate of her, and she is completely spoiled
+in society now, how much so you saw for yourself again to-day, during
+our ride on the Corso.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Yes, I saw it,&quot; and the young man's tone showed deep depression, &quot;and
+just on that account, I have never before been able to find the courage
+to speak of my love.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Really? Well, then, I shall have to come to the help of your timidity.
+It is true that our whimsical little princess is not to be counted
+upon, but, to speak confidentially, I have no fear of your being
+rejected by her.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Do you really think so?&quot; exclaimed Dernburg rapturously. &quot;And how as
+to yourself, Herr von Wildenrod?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I shall gladly welcome you as a brother-in-law, and see my sister's
+happiness entrusted to you without a qualm of anxiety. My sole desire
+is to see this child happy and beloved, for you must know that my
+relation to her has always been that of a father rather than a
+brother.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">He extended his hand, which was grasped by the young suitor, and warmly
+pressed.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I thank you. You make me very, very happy by this consent, by the hope
+that you give me, and now----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;You would like to hear this consent spoken by other lips,&quot; said
+Wildenrod, laughingly finishing his sentence for him. &quot;I'll gladly give
+you the opportunity to speak, but you must plead your own cause. I
+allow my sister entire freedom to act as pleases her best. I think,
+however, my blabbing has inspired you with courage, so venture boldly,
+dear Eric.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">He gave him a friendly nod, and went. Eric Dernburg also returned again
+to the parlor, and his glance took in the quantities of flowers that
+the servant had brought up and piled upon the table. Yes, indeed,
+Cecilia Wildenrod was petted and spoiled as is the lot of few of her
+sex. Again to-day how had she been overwhelmed with flowers and tokens
+of homage! She had only to choose: dared he indulge the hope that her
+choice would fall upon one like him? He had wealth to offer, but she
+was rich herself, for her brother's style of living left no doubt on
+that head, and moreover she came of an ancient and noble family. As he
+thus pondered, the scale oscillated painfully. In spite of the
+encouragement that he had received, the young man's face showed that he
+feared just as much as he hoped.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Wildenrod, meanwhile, had passed through the adjoining apartment, and
+now entered his sister's chamber.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Ah, is that you, Oscar? I am coming directly. I only want to stick
+another flower in my hair.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The Baron looked at the magnificent bunch of pale yellow roses that lay
+half-loosened upon the dressing-table, and asked abruptly:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Are those the flowers that Dernburg gave you?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Certainly; he brought them to me, when he came for the drive on the
+Corso.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Good! adorn yourself with them!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;And I should have done so all the same without your most gracious
+permission,&quot; laughed the young lady, &quot;for they are the loveliest of
+all.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">She selected one of the roses, and held it, experimentally, against her
+hair: there was an uncommon, but indeed very conscious, grace in this
+movement: the slender girl of nineteen resembled her brother little, if
+at all: at first sight they seemed to have nothing in common but the
+dark color of their hair and eyes, otherwise hardly a feature betrayed
+the nearness of their relationship.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Cecilia Wildenrod had that style of appearance which seems to have an
+irresistible fascination for the opposite sex. Her features were more
+irregular than those of her brother, but their mobility and variety of
+expression gave them a peculiar charm that never wore out. Her dark
+hair, that was so abundant as not to be always brought down to the
+requirements of the latest fashion, and complexion, that was of the
+clear brunette type, made one suspect that she could not be of purely
+German origin; and from beneath long black eyelashes gleamed a pair of
+lustrous eyes, that allured one who looked deeply into them with all
+the fascination of a riddle to be solved. In these mysterious depths,
+too, glowed a spark that might well be fanned into a flame; they, too,
+having some of that glow of passion, which in Oscar's case was hidden
+under a semblance of excessive coldness. This constituted the sole
+resemblance between the brother and sister, but it was a resemblance
+that stood for much.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Cecilia still wore the silk dress in which she had appeared on the
+Corso, already a few pale yellow, half-open, rosebuds adorned her
+bosom, and now she placed a full-blown rose among the dark waves of her
+hair. Nature's adorning became her wondrously, and her brother's glance
+rested upon her with evident satisfaction. He had closed both doors
+carefully behind him, nevertheless he now lowered his voice and said in
+a whisper:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Eric Dernburg has something besides roses to offer you--his hand. He
+has just had a talk with me, and is now going to address himself to
+you.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The young lady likewise heard this news without any surprise.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">She turned her head to one side, that she might see how the flower
+looked in her hair, and asked with apparent indifference:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;So soon?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Soon? Why, I have been expecting a declaration from him this long
+while, and he would have made it, too, only you seem to have given him
+poor encouragement.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">A fold appeared between Cecilia's brows, exactly in the same spot where
+a deep furrow had seamed her brother's.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;If he were only not so abominably tiresome!&quot; murmured she.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Cecilia, you know that I am anxious for this marriage, exceedingly
+anxious, and I hope that you will regulate your conduct accordingly.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">His tone was very positive, seeming to preclude any chance of
+opposition on the part of his sister, who now pushed away the rest of
+the roses with a gesture of impatience.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Why had it to be this Dernburg, and no one else? Vicomte de Marville
+is much handsomer, much more agreeable----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;But is not thinking of offering you his hand,&quot; interposed Wildenrod.
+&quot;He, just as little as all the other triflers who swarm around you. You
+need not put on that injured air, Cecilia, you may rely implicitly upon
+my judgment: I know men, I tell you, girl. Now this union with Dernburg
+secures to you a brilliant destiny; he is very rich.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Well, so are we, for that matter.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;No,&quot; said the Baron shortly and sharply.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The young lady looked at him in amazement: he stepped up to her and
+laid his hand upon her arm.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;We are <i>not</i> rich! I am obliged to tell you this now, that you may not
+ruin your future prospects, through caprice or childishness, and I
+confidently expect you to accept this offer.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Cecilia still looked at her brother, half shocked, half-incredulous,
+but she was evidently accustomed to submitting to his will in silence,
+and attempted no further opposition.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;As if I should dare to say 'no,' when my stern brother dictates a
+'yes,'&quot; pouted she. &quot;But I can tell Dernburg one thing, he need not
+flatter himself with the idea that I am going to bury myself with him
+in that horrid Odensburg. To live among droves of day-laborers, at
+those iron works, full of dust and soot--it makes me shudder just to
+think of it.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;All that can be accommodated afterwards,&quot; said Wildenrod calmly. &quot;As
+for the rest, you have no idea what it is to be some day master of the
+Odensburg works, and what a stand you will take in the world, by his
+side. When you do come to comprehend the situation fully, you will be
+grateful to me for the choice that I have made. But come, we should not
+keep your future husband waiting any longer.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">He took her arm, and led her to the parlor, where Dernburg was awaiting
+them in restless suspense. The Baron pretended not to observe his
+uneasiness, and chatted unrestrainedly with him and his sister about
+their drive on the Corso, and various little incidents that had
+occurred, until it suddenly occurred to him to admire the sunset, that
+promised to be particularly beautiful this evening. He stepped out upon
+the veranda, as if undesignedly, let the glass doors fall to behind
+him, and thus gave the young couple an opportunity to be alone.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Why, it looks just like a flower-market!&quot; exclaimed Cecilia
+laughingly, as she pointed to the table that was overladen with
+bouquets. &quot;Francis has, of course, piled them up with a reckless
+disregard of taste: I must really arrange them better. Will you not
+help me to do so, Herr Dernburg?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">She began to divide out the various sorts and put them in vases and
+bowls, and with the remainder to decorate the hearth. Dernburg helped
+her, but he was not a very efficient helper, for he could not take his
+eyes off the slender form, flitting to and fro, in dainty garb, with
+that lovely rose in her dark hair.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">At the first glance, he had perceived that those were his roses that
+she wore, and a happy smile played about his lips. He wondered if her
+brother had already given her a hint? She was so free from
+embarrassment, laughed so heartily at his absence of mind, and treated
+him with the same pretty insolence as usual--she could not possibly
+know that he meant to address her!</p>
+
+<p class="normal">In Cecilia's manner, there was most assuredly nothing of the sweet
+shyness and embarrassment of a young girl who, for the first time,
+listens to the addresses of a lover. In fact, it hardly seemed that she
+comprehended the seriousness of the situation. She would soon be twenty
+years old, at which age girls in her circle often married or, rather,
+were given in marriage, for their families usually decided the matter
+for them. Individually, moreover, she had no objection to marrying. It
+would be very pleasant to enjoy the freedom allowed a married woman, to
+be wholly untrammeled as to expenditure in dress, jewels, etc., and to
+be no longer obliged to submit to the will of a brother, who was at
+times very despotic, only--how much handsomer and more agreeable was
+Viscount de Marville than this Dernburg, who had not even rank to
+recommend him. It was really outrageous, that a Baroness Wildenrod
+would, in future, have to bear the name of a simple citizen!</p>
+
+<p class="normal">She had just taken up the last bouquet, preparatory to decorating the
+hearth with it, when she heard her name breathed softly but fervently.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Cecilia!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">She turned around and met the gaze of Eric, who stood beside her, and
+continued in the same tone:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;You have only eyes and thoughts for the flowers--have you not a single
+glance for me?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Why, do you stand so much in need of that glance?&quot; asked Cecilia
+archly.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Oh! how very much I need it! It is to give me courage for a
+confession--will you hear it?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">She smiled and laid down the bunch of flowers that she held in her
+hand.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Why, that sounds quite portentous. Is it something so important?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;No less than the happiness of my life, for which I look to you!&quot;
+replied Dernburg impetuously. &quot;I love you, Cecilia, have done so from
+the first moment that my eyes rested upon you. You must have known this
+for a long while, could not help guessing it, but I always saw you so
+surrounded by admirers, and so rarely obtained the least excuse for the
+indulgence of hope, that I dared not press my suit. Now, though, that
+the time for my departure draws near, I cannot go, without certainty as
+to my fate. Will you be mine, Cecilia? I will lay everything,
+everything, at your feet, gratify every wish, and all my life long
+guard you as the most precious of treasures. Say one word, only a
+single one, that shall give me hope, but do not say 'no,' for that I
+could not stand.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">He had caught both her hands, his face, commonly so pale, was now
+suffused with a bright flush, and his voice quivered with emotion. This
+was no stormy, passionate declaration, but each word expressed the
+truest love, the fullest tenderness, and the young girl who had so
+often been besieged by flattery and adulation, heard this tone for the
+first time, and listened, half perplexed, half fascinated.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Cecilia had not supposed the quiet, bashful lover, whom she had often
+treated with great disdain, capable of such a wooing, and as he now
+went on, more tenderly, more urgently, the 'yes' pleaded for came at
+last from her lips, rather hesitatingly, it is true, but without any
+sign of repugnance.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">In a transport of rapture, Dernburg wanted to fold his betrothed to his
+heart, but she shrank back. It was an involuntary, half unconscious
+movement of shyness, almost aversion, such as perhaps would have
+wounded and chilled anybody else, but Eric only saw in it the sweet
+modesty of the young girl, and while he still softly clasped her hands,
+he whispered:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Oh, Cecilia, if you did but know how I love you!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">There was no mistaking in his tone the genuine accents of devoted love,
+and it did not fail to make its impression upon Cecilia, who now began
+to realize that she had no right to be so reserved with the man to whom
+she had plighted her troth.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Well, then, you deserve that I should give you a little love in
+return, Eric!&quot; said she, with a charming smile, at the same time
+suffering him to draw her to his side and imprint a first kiss upon her
+lips.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Wildenrod was still standing out upon the veranda, and turned around
+with a smile as the young couple approached him. Beaming with pride and
+happiness, Dernburg led his betrothed up to him, and received the
+congratulations of his future brother-in-law, who first embraced his
+sister, then Eric.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Then there began a lively, cheerful conversation, out upon the balcony,
+where the soft breezes of spring were still sporting. The dazzling
+splendor of daylight was already breaking up into that gorgeous
+blending of colors, as is only witnessed in the South, at sundown. The
+city and surrounding heights were glorified, as it were, by the
+resplendent sheen that glistened and sparkled like molten gold upon the
+waves of the sea, and while the distant mountains were veiled in a
+roseate mist, the sun itself, a fiery ball, sank lower and lower, until
+it finally vanished from view.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Eric had slipped his arm around the waist of his betrothed, and
+whispered into her ear tender and loving words. Irradiated with glory
+as was the lovely landscape before them, so seemed the future to him,
+by the side of that precious girl. Wildenrod stood apart, apparently
+wholly absorbed in the contemplation of that magnificent spectacle, but
+nevertheless, a deep sigh of relief escaped his chest, and while his
+eyes flashed in triumph, he murmured, almost inaudibly: &quot;At last!&quot;</p>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<h2>CHAPTER II.</h2>
+
+<h3><a name="div1_02" href="#div1Ref_02">IN COUNCIL.</a></h3>
+<br>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I Am sorry, gentlemen, but I have to pronounce all your plans and
+proposals unsatisfactory. The question is to draw all the water-power
+we need from the Radefeld low-grounds, in the shortest way, and with
+the least possible expense. But, without exception, your designs call
+for such vast and expensive outlays, that it is not worth while to talk
+of their being carried into effect.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">It was Eberhard Dernburg, the proprietor of the Odensburg Works, who
+thus declined the plans laid before him by his officers, in this
+decided manner. The gentlemen shrugged their shoulders and looked at
+the plans and drawings that were spread out upon the table, when,
+finally, one of them said:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;But, you see, Herr Dernburg, that we have to contend here with the
+greatest difficulties. The land lies in the most unfavorable of all
+ways, mountains and valleys alternating along the whole line.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;And the pipes must be secured against all casualties,&quot; remarked a
+second; while the third added:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;The laying of them down will certainly occasion a large expenditure,
+but as things are now, this cannot be altered.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">These three gentlemen, the director and head-manager of the Odensburg
+works, the superintendent of the technical bureau, and the
+chief-engineer, were unanimous in their views. This conference was
+being held in Dernburg's office, where that gentleman usually received
+the reports of his subordinates, with whom his son also was found
+to-day. It was a large apartment, quite plainly furnished, but its
+walls were lined with bookcases. His desk was heaped up with letters
+and other papers; on the side-tables lay plans and maps of all sorts;
+and the great portfolios, that were visible in an open press, seemed to
+contain similar matter. It was evident, that this room was the central
+point, whence came the guidance of the whole gigantic enterprise,--a
+spot devoted to never-ending toil and unflagging activity.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;You do not, then, think any other solution possible?&quot; began Dernburg
+again, as he drew out a paper from a portfolio near by, and spread it
+out before him. &quot;Please glance at this, gentlemen! Here the course
+taken is to start from the higher ground, but it penetrates the
+Buchberg, and then, without further difficulty, is to be conveyed to
+the works across Radefeld itself--there is the solution sought for.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The officers looked somewhat chagrined, and eagerly bent over the
+drawing. Evidently none of them had thought of this plan, and yet they
+did not seem to consider it with any special good-will.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;The Buchberg is to be penetrated, did you say?&quot; asked the director. &quot;A
+very bold thought, that would assuredly offer great advantages, but I
+do not deem it feasible.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Neither do I,&quot; chimed in the chief-engineer. &quot;At all events, a
+searching examination is needed, to ascertain if it is possible. The
+Buchberg----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Is to be mastered,&quot; interposed Dernburg. &quot;The preliminary works have
+already been executed. Runeck established the fact of their
+possibility, at the outset, when he made the outer measurements, and
+treats of it expressly in the explanation now lying before us.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;So the plan emanates from him, does it?&quot; asked the superintendent of
+the technical bureau.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;From Egbert Runeck--he and none other.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I thought so.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;What do you mean, Herr Winning?&quot; asked Dernburg, quickly turning upon
+him.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Herr Winning made haste to protest that he had no particular meaning;
+that the affair only interested him because the young technician was in
+his own department, immediately under his superintendence: the other
+two said nothing but cast upon their chief, strange looks of inquiry,
+which he did not appear to observe.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I have decided upon adopting Runeck's plan,&quot; said he quietly, but, at
+the same time, with a certain sharpness. &quot;It fulfills all my
+requirements, and the estimate of expenses amounts to about half of
+yours. We must consult, of course, over the details, but anyhow, the
+work is to begin as soon as possible. We'll talk it all over another
+time, gentlemen.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">He rose from his seat, and in so doing gave the signal to disperse, for
+the officers bowed and took their leave; but in the ante-chamber,
+however, the director paused, and asked in a whisper:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;What do you say to it?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I do not understand Herr Dernburg,&quot; answered the chief-engineer, with
+a voice likewise cautiously lowered. &quot;Is it that he actually does not
+or <i>will</i> not know?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Of course he knows it. I myself have given him information on the
+subject, and the Socialist gentleman himself does not pretend to make
+any secret of the course he is pursuing; he recklessly admits the stand
+that he has taken. Should any other man here at Odensburg dare to do
+the same, he would obtain his dismissal on the spot, but Runeck's
+discharge seems as yet to be a thing of the dim future. You see his
+plan has been accepted without any question, while we were plainly
+given to understand that ours were good for nothing. That surpasses
+anything that has happened yet----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;You just wait,&quot; interposed Winning calmly. &quot;On that point our chief is
+not to be trifled with, we all know. At the right time he will speak
+authoritatively, and, if Runeck does not yield then, it is all up with
+him, let him be ten times over the young master's bosom-friend and
+deliverer from death. You may rely upon that!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Let us hope so,&quot; said the director. &quot;By the way, how poorly Mr. Eric
+does look still, and how remarkably silent he is. Why, I do not believe
+he uttered ten words during the whole debate.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Because he did not understand what we were talking about,&quot; explained
+the chief-engineer, shrugging his shoulders. &quot;They have taken pains
+enough to drill it into him, but very evidently not much has stuck
+to him. He has inherited nothing from his father, whether outwardly
+or inwardly. I must be gone, though, I have to drive out to
+Radefeld--Good-morning, gentlemen!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Father and son had been left together by themselves, and the former
+walked silently up and down the room, evidently quite out of sorts.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">In spite of his sixty years Eberhard Dernburg was still in the full
+vigor of life, and nothing but his gray hair and wrinkled forehead gave
+any indication that he had already crossed the threshold of old age.
+His face, with its firm, grave features, told no such story, any more
+than did his glance, which was keen and clear, and his tall figure was
+as erect as ever. His address and speech were those of a man accustomed
+to command, and to receive unfailing obedience, and in his outward
+appearance there was something that spoke of the sternness attributed
+to him alike by friend and foe.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">It was plainly to be seen now, that his son bore not a shadow of
+resemblance to the father, but a glance at the half-length portrait
+that hung over the desk explained this, in some sort. It represented
+Dernburg's deceased wife, and Eric was speakingly like her. There was
+the same countenance, with its delicate, meaningless features, the
+soft, uncertain lineaments, the dreamy, reserved look.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;There sit my deputies with all their wisdom,&quot; began Dernburg, finally,
+in a half-mocking, half-angry tone. &quot;For months they have been
+pottering over the task, concocting all manner of designs, not one of
+which was worth anything; and, on the other hand, there is Egbert,
+without any commission at all, going quietly along, taking the
+necessary measurements, and studying the situation, until he matures a
+plan, and lays on the table before me a scheme that is simply masterly!
+How do you like his sketch, Eric?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The young man cast an embarrassed look upon the drawing which he still
+held in his hand.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;You find it excellent, father. I--pardon me--I cannot exactly get a
+clear idea of its bearings.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Why, I should think it ought to be clear enough, since you have been
+pondering over it since yesterday evening. If you require so much time
+for comprehending a simple plan, for which all the necessary
+explanations are given, how will you acquire the quick insight into
+affairs, indispensably necessary for the future owner of the Odensburg
+works?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I have been absent fully a year and a half,&quot; said Eric in apology,
+&quot;and during all that time, the physicians enjoined it upon me to
+refrain from all exertion, particularly prohibiting any mental strain.
+You must make allowances, father, and give me time to fit into harness
+again.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;You have always had to be on your guard against over-exertion, and
+been restricted in work,&quot; said Dernburg with a frown. &quot;On account of
+your continual sickness, you were never able to pursue any serious
+study, or engage in anything that required bodily activity. I fixed all
+my hope upon your return from the South, and now--do not look so
+disconsolate, Eric! I do not mean to reproach you; it is not your
+fault, but it is a misfortune in the station to which you are now
+called.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Eric suppressed a sigh; once more he was feeling this enviable station
+to be a sorely heavy burden. His father continued impatiently:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;What is to be done, when I shall no longer be here? I have capable
+subordinates, but they are all dependent upon my guidance. I am
+accustomed to do everything myself, I never let the reins slip out of
+my hands, and your hands, I am afraid, will never be strong enough to
+manage them alone. I have long perceived the necessity of securing you
+a support for the future--and just at this crisis, Egbert disappoints
+me by being guilty of the madness of allowing himself to be caught in
+the net of the socialistic democrats! It is enough to drive one mad!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">He stamped passionately with his foot. Eric looked at his father, with
+a certain shyness, then said gently:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Perhaps the matter is not so bad as you have been informed. The
+director may have exaggerated many a thing.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Nothing has been exaggerated. My investigations have ratified every
+word. His period of study in that cursed Berlin has been fatal to the
+young man. I ought to have taken the alarm, indeed, when he wrote me
+word, after the first few months of his stay there, that he no longer
+needed the means which I had placed at his disposal, for he could
+manage to support himself by giving drawing-lessons and by other work.
+It must have been hard enough for him, but I liked his pride and
+independence of spirit, and let him have his way. Now I see more
+clearly! Those mad ideas were already beginning to seethe in his brain,
+the first meshes of the net were already woven about him, in which he
+has since been caught, and he would accept nothing more from me, for he
+knew that all was at an end between us, if I learned anything about
+it.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I have not spoken with him yet, and therefore cannot judge. He is out
+at Radefeld, I hear.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;He is coming in to-day. I am expecting him before the hour is out.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;And you are going to talk to him on the subject?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Of course--it is high time.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Father, let me implore you not to be hard upon Egbert. Have you
+forgotten----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;That he drew you out of the water? No, but he has forgotten that since
+then he has been almost treated like a son of the house. Do not meddle
+in this matter, Eric, you do not understand it.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The young man was silent, not daring to oppose his father, who, for the
+last few minutes, had resumed his pacing of the floor. Now he paused in
+his walk, and said grumblingly: &quot;I have on my mind all manner of
+disagreeable things, and lo! here you come, with your love-affairs, and
+prating about marriage. It was dreadfully precipitate of you to bind
+yourself without first obtaining my consent.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I believed myself certain of your approval, and so did Wildenrod, when
+he promised me his sister's hand. What objection have you to make to my
+choice, father? The daughter that I am going to present to you is so
+lovely and sweet. How beautiful she is that picture shows. She is,
+moreover, rich, from a highly-esteemed family--indeed she belongs to a
+line of the ancient nobility----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I do not attach the slightest consequence to that,&quot; brusquely
+interrupted his father. &quot;No matter how suitable your choice was, it
+should have been first referred to me; instead of which you even
+allowed the engagement to be announced at Nice before my answer had
+arrived. It almost looks as if there was a purpose to obviate any
+possible opposition on my part.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;But there can be no talk of that! My relations with Cecilia had not
+been unobserved, it was already the theme of town-talk; and Oscar
+explained to me that he had to acknowledge the truth, to avoid any
+misinterpretation of our actions.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Never mind, it was a piece of unwarrantable presumption. My
+investigations have certainly proved satisfactory.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Ah! you have had yourself informed?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Of course, since a family connection is at stake. I have certainly not
+turned to Nice--a mere transient sojourn like that offers no reliable
+hold--but to the native place of the Wildenrods. Their former
+possessions are now part of the royal domain, and I got the information
+I wanted from the court-marshal's office.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;That was superfluous, father,&quot; said the young man reproachfully.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I, however, deemed it needful for your sake,&quot; was the dry rejoinder.
+&quot;There is no doubt but that the Wildenrods belong to the most ancient
+nobility in the land. The old Baron seems to have lived rather
+extravagantly, but was universally respected. His estates were sold
+after his death, and, for a respectable sum were transferred to the
+king, on condition that the widow might still be allowed a home in the
+castle. This certainly agrees with the information furnished you by
+Herr von Wildenrod, a person, by the way, with whom I cannot have the
+slightest affinity.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;But you do not know him yet. Oscar is an intellectual man, and in many
+respects a remarkable one.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;That may be, but a man who no sooner succeeds to the paternal
+inheritance than he makes haste to dispose of the family estates, at as
+high a price as possible, deserting the service of his fatherland, and
+roving around in the wide world, without any profession or occupation
+of any kind,--such a man inspires me with but little respect. This
+gypsy life on the part of these high-born drones, that wander homeless
+from place to place, everywhere seeking nothing but their own pleasure,
+revolts me to my inmost soul. I also regard the Baron as lacking
+greatly in delicate feeling, when he allows his young sister to share
+in such a life.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;He loves Cecilia with the greatest tenderness, and she has never had
+anybody in the world to depend on but him. Should he commit his only
+sister to the hands of strangers?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Perhaps it would have been better. When he deprives a young girl of
+home and family, he takes the ground from under her feet. However, she
+would find both here again. You love her, at all events, and if you are
+really sure that she reciprocates your love----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Otherwise would she have plighted her troth to me?&quot; cried Eric. &quot;I
+have already described to you, father, the extent to which she was
+idolized and courted, with the whole world at her feet, as it were. She
+had so many to choose from and chose me!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;That is just what surprises me,&quot; said Dernburg, coolly. &quot;You do not
+possess one of those shining qualities which girls of her claims and
+education covet. However, that may be--first of all, I want to get
+personally acquainted with Fräulein von Wildenrod and her brother. Let
+us invite them to Odensburg, and we shall see what will come of it.
+Meanwhile, I entreat that no greater publicity be given to the affair
+than it has already unfortunately attained.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">So saying he left the room, and went into his library, which was
+immediately adjacent.</p>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<h2>CHAPTER III.</h2>
+
+<p style="margin-left:40%; text-indent:-9px"><a name="div1_03" href="#div1Ref_03">&quot;See the path is clear<br>
+To a grand career.&quot;</a></p>
+<br>
+
+<p class="normal">Eric remained alone. He had thrown himself into a chair, and rested his
+head in his hand. The manner in which his engagement had been taken at
+home depressed and disenchanted him. He had not thought of the
+possibility of objections, expecting that his father would hail his
+selection with joyful approval, instead of which investigations had
+been entered into, and doubts and scruples suggested. His father
+actually seemed to entertain serious mistrust, and evidently claimed,
+even now, the decisive voice. The young man fired up at the thought of
+his petted, idolized betrothed, and her haughty brother, being first
+put on probation, as it were, here at Odensburg, ere they should
+ultimately be admitted into their family. Just here the door was
+opened, and he started up from his reverie.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Egbert!&quot; he cried, joyfully springing to his feet, and hurrying to
+meet a young man, who came in with outstretched hand.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Welcome home, Eric!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Yes, I have been away from it a long while, so long that I am quite a
+stranger in it,&quot; said Eric, returning the pressure of his hand, &quot;and we
+have not seen one another for an eternity.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I, too, have been away two years in England, only returning a short
+time ago. But first of all, how is your health now?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Egbert Runeck was very little older than the young heir, but he had the
+appearance of being more mature by some years. His <i>personnel</i> made the
+impression of manly vigor in the highest degree, and his tall figure
+towered so over Eric's, that the latter had to look up when he spoke to
+him. His face, tanned by exposure to sun and wind, was anything but
+handsome, yet there was expression and energy in every feature. His
+light brown hair and full beard had a slightly reddish hue, and
+underneath a broad and massive brow shone a pair of dark-gray eyes,
+that had a peculiarly cold and earnest look. The man wore the air of
+one who had hitherto tasted only the toils of life, neither knowing nor
+seeking its pleasures. Moreover, there was something harsh and arrogant
+in his manner, that, toned down into mildness at this moment, was
+nevertheless the predominant trait of his whole mien. Such an
+appearance might be striking--attractive it was not.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Oh, I am perfectly well again, thank you,&quot; said Eric, in answer to the
+inquiry after his health. &quot;The journey has fatigued me some, of course;
+I am suffering, too, from the change of climate, but this is a mere
+passing annoyance.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Egbert's eyes were fastened upon his friend's face, that to-day looked
+rather pale and pinched, and his voice, too, softened as he replied:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Certainly, you will have to get accustomed to the North, again.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;If it were only not so hard for me!&quot; sighed Eric. &quot;You do not know
+what held me fast in the sunny South so long and so irresistibly.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Why, I guessed the truth easily enough, from those hints in your last
+letters--or is it to be a secret still?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">A bright, joyous smile flitted across Eric's features, while he gently
+shook his head.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Not from you, Egbert. My father does not want it known at Odensburg
+for the present, but I may say to you, that, under the palms of the
+Riviera, on the shores of the blue Mediterranean, I have found
+happiness, such enchanting, fairy-like happiness as I never dreamed of
+before. If you could only see my Cecilia, with her ravishing beauty,
+her winning sweetness----Ah! there it is again, that cold, mocking
+laugh of yours, with which you used always to set at naught any
+romance, any warmth of feeling, you stern Cato you, who never have
+known nor ever will know love.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Runeck shrugged his shoulders.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I have had to devote all my energies to work, from earliest youth, and
+the romantic seldom forms a large ingredient in such a life as that.
+The like of us has no time for what you call love.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">This reckless remark hurt the feelings of the lover, who said
+excitedly:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;So, love is in your estimation only a pastime for the idle? You are
+the same old fellow, Egbert! To be sure, you never did believe in that
+mysterious, overpowering force, that irresistibly draws two people
+together, and binds them indissolubly together.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;No!&quot; said Egbert, with an air of cool, almost mocking, superiority.
+&quot;But do not let us dispute over it. You, with your soft heart, must
+give and receive love,--for you it is a necessity of life. I am not
+made for that sort of thing--have had other aims in view from the
+beginning--such as do not comport with dreamt of love. The name of your
+betrothed is Cecilia, then?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Cecilia von Wildenrod. What is the matter? Do you know the name?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Runeck had certainly started when the name was pronounced, and the
+glance that he cast upon the friend of his youth was a peculiarly
+searching one.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I believe I have heard it somewhere before,&quot; he replied. &quot;The talk
+there was of a Baron von Wildenrod.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;My future brother-in-law, I suppose,&quot; said Eric with unconcern. &quot;He
+belongs to a well-known family of the ancient nobility. But, first of
+all, you must see my Cecilia. I have introduced her to father and
+sister, at least, through her portrait.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">He took a rather large likeness that lay on his father's desk, and
+handed it to his friend. Although the photograph was faithful, it had
+by no means the charm of the original, but it showed what a beauty she
+was, and the large, dark eyes looked full at the inspector. Egbert
+looked down upon it silently, without uttering a word, until meeting
+the expectant gaze of the girl's lover, he said:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;A very beautiful girl.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The tone in which he spoke these words was peculiarly frigid, and Eric
+was chilled by it, too. He knew, to be sure, that his old friend was
+not at all susceptible to the charms of female beauty, but,
+notwithstanding, he had calculated upon a warmer expression of
+admiration. They both stood by the desk--Runeck's glance fell
+accidentally upon a second photograph, that likewise lay there, and
+again there flitted across his features the same peculiar expression as
+a while ago, upon the mention of that name, a sudden shiver, that
+lasted but for an instant.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;And this one, here, I suppose, is the brother of your betrothed?&quot; said
+he. &quot;It may be seen by the likeness.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;That is Oscar von Wildenrod certainly, but, properly speaking, there
+is no likeness whatever. Cecilia does not resemble her brother in the
+least; their features are quite different.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;But the same eyes!&quot; said Egbert slowly, continuing to regard the two
+pictures fixedly; then he suddenly pushed them from him, and turned
+away.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;And you have not even a congratulation for me?&quot; asked Eric
+reproachfully, being mortified at this indifference.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Pardon me, I forgot it. May you be happy, as happy as you deserve to
+be! But I must go to your father, who is expecting me, and requires,
+you know, undeviating punctuality.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">He evidently wanted to cut short this interview. Eric, too, remembered
+now what was impending, and the subject that was to be brought into
+discussion.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Father is in his library,&quot; he remarked, &quot;and you know he will not be
+disturbed there. He has summoned you from Radefeld----do you know why?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I suspect so, at least. Has he spoken to you about it?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Yes, and from him I heard the first word on the subject, Egbert--for
+heaven's sake, be on your guard. You know my father, and are aware that
+he will never tolerate such a bent in his works.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;In general he tolerates no other bent than his own,&quot; rejoined Egbert
+coldly. &quot;He never can nor will comprehend, that the boy, who has to
+thank him for education and culture, has become a man, who presumes to
+have his own views, and go his own way.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;This way seems to diverge very widely from ours,&quot; said Eric sadly.
+&quot;But you did not give me the slightest intimation of this in your
+letters.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Why should I? You had to be spared and guarded against excitement, and
+you would not have understood me, either, Eric. You have always shunned
+all the questions and conflicts of the present, while I have confronted
+them, and, of late years, stood in the very midst of them. If, thereby,
+a gulf has opened between us, I cannot help it.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Do not say between <i>us</i>, Egbert! We are friends and must remain such,
+let happen what will. Think you that I have forgotten to whom I owe my
+life? Yes, I know you do not like to be reminded of it, but it ever
+abides in my memory--the plunge into the ice-cold flood, the deadly
+anguish, when the rushing waters overwhelmed me, and then the rescue,
+when your arm encircled me. I did not make it easy for you; I clutched
+you so convulsively, that I hardly left you room to move, and put you
+in extreme peril. Any other would have shaken off the dangerous burden,
+but you did not let me go, you held me with your mighty strength, and
+worked your way forward until we reached the blessed shore. That was an
+heroic deed for a lad of sixteen years.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;It put my powers as a swimmer to a good test, that was all,&quot; answered
+Runeck, declining any claim to merit. &quot;I shook the water from my
+clothes and was all right again, while the shock and chill brought on
+you an illness that well-nigh proved fatal.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">He broke off, for, just now Dernburg entered with a book in his hand,
+and responded to the young engineer's greeting as composedly as if
+there was no agitating subject to be broached between them.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;You enjoy meeting after your long separation, do you not?&quot; asked he.
+&quot;You see Eric for the first time to-day--how do you find him?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;He looks rather delicate yet, and will have to be prudent for a while
+longer, it seems to me,&quot; said Runeck, with a glance at his friend's
+pale face.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;The doctor is of the same opinion. And to-day you do look especially
+feeble, Eric! Go to your room, and take a good rest.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The young man looked irresolutely from one to the other. He would
+gladly have stayed, to interpose some soothing word between these two,
+if the discussion grew too hot; but his father's direction sounded very
+peremptory, and now Egbert, also, said in a low tone:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Go, I implore you.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">With a sensation of bitterness Eric submitted, feeling that there was
+something humiliating in the compassionate indulgence, and that it
+extended further than to his bodily condition. He had never been
+treated by his father as an equal, capable of independent action, and
+properly, not by his friend either. Now he was sent away to take his
+rest, which meant, that they wanted to spare him from being witness to
+a scene that would almost assuredly be stormy, and he--he, indeed,
+allowed himself to be thus dismissed, depressingly conscious that his
+presence would be superfluous and useless!</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The other two found themselves alone. Dernburg had seated himself, and
+again taken in hand the drawings of the Radefeld aqueduct, that he once
+more proceeded to inspect.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I have decided upon carrying out your plan. Egbert,&quot; said he. &quot;It is
+the best of all laid before me, and solves all the difficulties in an
+astonishing manner. I have to consider further on a single point; but,
+taken as a whole, the plan is excellent, and it is to be carried into
+effect forthwith. Will you undertake its superintendence? I offer you
+the appointment.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The young engineer seemed to be surprised; he had probably expected a
+totally different introduction; unmistakable satisfaction was depicted
+upon his features, at this recognition, emanating from his chief, who
+was usually so chary with his praise.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Very gladly,&quot; replied he; &quot;but this much I know, the chief-engineer
+has the affair already in hand. I was commissioned by him to attend to
+the outworks.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;But if I now decide differently, the chief-engineer has nothing to do
+but to submit;&quot; declared Dernburg emphatically. &quot;It depends only upon
+yourself, whether you shall undertake the execution of your own plan,
+and, in this regard, there is certainly another matter to be discussed
+and cleared up first.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">So far he had spoken in a calm, business-like tone, but Egbert was
+sufficiently prepared; he knew what subject was now to be introduced,
+and yet he obviously did not shrink. The transient mildness that he had
+manifested awhile ago in conversation with Eric had long since
+vanished, and the stolid and determined in his character stood forth
+undisguised, as he now firmly met the dark looks of his chief.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I have long since remarked that you had come back a changed man,&quot;
+resumed Dernburg; &quot;in many respects this was to have been expected. You
+were three years in Berlin, and two in England, where your sphere of
+observation was broadened; indeed, I sent you out into the world, that
+you might see and judge for yourself. But now things have come to my
+ears, concerning which I must apply to you for more exact information.
+I do not like long circumlocution, so briefly and clearly: is it true
+that you constantly associate with the socialists in our town, that you
+publicly own yourself to be one of them, and that you are upon very
+intimate terms with that Landsfeld, their leader? Yes, or no?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Yes,&quot; said Egbert simply.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Dernburg did not seem to have expected so reckless a confession. He
+frowned still more darkly.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Really! And do you say that so composedly to my face?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Am I to deny the truth?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;And since when have you been a member of that party?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;For four years.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;The thing started, then, in Berlin: I thought as much. And you have
+actually allowed yourself to be thus ensnared. To be sure you were very
+young and inexperienced, but still I would have expected you to be
+wiser.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">One could see that the young man was wounded by the manner in which he
+was spoken to. Calmly, but with sharper intonation, he replied: &quot;Those
+are <i>your</i> views, Herr Dernburg; I regret that mine differ from them.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;And it is not for me to disturb myself about them, you think,&quot;
+supplemented Dernburg. &quot;There you are mistaken, though. I do concern
+myself about the political opinions of my employés. But I do not
+condescend to enter into explanations with them. Whoever does not like
+Odensburg can quit. I force nobody to stay; but he who does remain has
+to submit absolutely to its regulations. Either----or! There is no
+third way here.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Then I shall be obliged to choose that 'or,'&quot; said Egbert coldly.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Will it be so easy for you to leave us?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The young man looked down moodily.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I am in your debt, Herr Dernburg, I know it----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;That you are not! If I have given you education and culture, you have
+saved my Eric for me; but for you I should have lost my only son. So
+far as that goes, we are quits, if we propose to balance accounts on a
+purely business basis. If that is what you propose, speak out openly,
+and we are done with each other.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;You do me injustice,&quot; said Runeck, with suppressed emotion. &quot;It is
+hard enough for me thus to oppose you.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Well, who forces you to do so? Only those wild ideas, that have run
+away with you so. Do you think it is an easy thing for me to give you
+up? Be reasonable, Egbert. It is not your chief who speaks to you--he
+would have long since cut the matter short! But for years you have been
+almost a child of my house.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The half-fatherly, half-masterful tone entirely missed its aim. The
+young engineer, with arrogant self-assertion, raised his head, as he
+answered:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I <i>am</i> possessed by those 'wild ideas,' and stick to them. There comes
+a time when the boy becomes of age, and I reached this state when out
+in the world, and I cannot go back to the irresponsibility of boyhood.
+Whatever you demand of the engineer, the official, shall be done to the
+best of my ability. The blind subjection that you demand of the man, I
+cannot and <i>will</i> not take upon myself. I must have free course in
+life.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Which you have not with me?&quot; asked Dernburg in an irritated tone.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;No!&quot; said Egbert firmly. &quot;You are a father to your subordinates so
+long as they submit themselves unquestioningly, but in Odensburg they
+recognize only one law--viz., your will. The director yields just as
+unconditionally as does the lowest laborer; no one has an opinion of
+his own at your works, or ever will have, so long as you are at the
+head of things.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Those are pretty things, to be sure, that you attribute to me,&quot; said
+Dernburg fiercely. &quot;You say, plainly, that I am a tyrant. You, to be
+sure, have always been allowed to take more liberties than all the rest
+put together--have done so, candidly, too. You never were passively
+obedient, nor was such a thing required of you, either, for we'll talk
+of that later. Free course! There again is one of your catch-words.
+With you, all is to be down, all, and then you will have free
+course--to destruction.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">He had risen to his feet, and walked to and fro several times, like a
+person trying to compose himself, then he paused in front of the young
+man, and said with bitter scorn:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;In spite of your youth, you seem to have quite a significant part to
+play in your party. They make no secret of setting the greatest hopes
+upon you, and seeing in you one of their future leaders. Those people
+are not so stupid as some suppose; they know their men, and with less
+attractive bait would not have caught you.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Herr Dernburg!&quot; exclaimed Runeck, &quot;do you believe me capable of low
+calculation?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;No, but of ambition!&quot; said the older man coldly. &quot;You may not
+acknowledge to yourself what has driven you into those ranks, but I
+will tell you how it is: to be a clever engineer, and gradually work
+one's way up to be chief-engineer, is an honorable career, but much too
+modest a one for a man of a disposition like yours. To guide thousands
+by a word, a nod; to fling forth burning words in the Reichstag, such
+as the whole country shall hear; to be lifted upon a shield, like a
+conqueror, that is power, that would charm you. Do not contradict me,
+Egbert; with my experience I see farther than you do--in ten years let
+us talk together again!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Whether the words hit home was not to be decided. Runeck stood there
+with lowering brow and compressed lips, but replied by not a syllable.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Well, I suppose my Odensburg will have to do without you, meanwhile,&quot;
+began Dernburg again. &quot;I am master here and suffer no rival rule,
+whether open or secret; tell that to your party-comrades, if they
+should not know it already. But what was your idea, when you came back
+to me with such views? You knew me! Why did you not stay in Berlin, or
+England, and send your challenge from there?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Again Egbert made no answer, but this was not the defiant silence of a
+while ago, in which lay ten contradictions; now his eye sought the
+ground, and a deep blush slowly mantled his cheeks and brow. Dernburg
+saw this, and his countenance, just before so dark, brightened up, and
+there was even a slight smile upon it, as he continued in a milder
+tone:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Well, we shall suppose that it was attachment for me and my family.
+Eric and Maia are as devoted to you as if they were your own brother
+and sister. Yes, ere you are completely lost to us, you are to know
+what you resign, and what a future you slight for the sake of your mad
+schemes.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Runeck gave him a questioning glance; he evidently did not guess
+whither the words tended.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;You mean----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I mean Eric's health, which still costs me constant solicitude. Even
+if danger to his life has been averted for the present, he has not come
+back from the south cured. He will always need to be spared exertion,
+and can never perform the duties of an able-bodied man; moreover, he is
+of a soft, dependent nature, accessible to influences of all sorts. I
+cannot conceal from myself the fact that he is not qualified to fill
+the position that one day will be his, and I want, after my eyes are
+closed, to be assured of the perpetuity of the enterprise that I have
+established, and this assurance I can only have if it is left in
+powerful hands. Nominally, Eric will be my successor; virtually, it
+must be some one else--and for this I had calculated upon you, Egbert.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Egbert started, and there was stamped upon his features a surprise that
+was almost painful.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;On me! I am to----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Some day guide the reins at Odensburg, when they shall drop from my
+hands,&quot; said Dernburg, finishing his sentence for him. &quot;Of all that I
+have reared in my school, only one is of the right stuff for it, and
+now he will scatter to the winds all my plans for the future. My Maia
+is still half a child, and I cannot foresee whether her future husband
+will be fitted for such a position, ardently as I desire it. I am not
+of the number of those fools who buy for their daughters the title of
+some count or baron; I care only for the man, no matter what station he
+occupies, and from what stock he springs, provided that he has secured
+the affections of my child.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">He said all this slowly and with full emphasis.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">That was a dazzling promise, which, although unspoken, yet loomed up
+plainly enough before the young man, and which he comprehended only too
+well. His lips quivered, impulsively he drew one step nearer, and said
+with suppressed emotion:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Herr Dernburg--send me away!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Now a smile relaxed Dernburg's features, and he laid his hand upon the
+shoulder of the agitated young man.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;No, my boy, I'll do no such thing. We must both make one more trial at
+getting along together. First of all, take charge of the Radefeld
+aqueduct. I'll see that you are left perfectly untrammeled. If we call
+in all available forces, we can finish by the autumn. Will you take
+hold?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Egbert was evidently battling with himself. A few seconds elapsed ere
+he answered; then he said in a low tone:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Herr Dernburg, it is a risk--for both of us!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Possibly, but I'll adventure it with you, and I think that there is no
+such haste about your making the people happy, that you cannot ponder
+the matter for a few months longer. Meanwhile, we declare a truce. And
+now, go to Eric! I know he is dreadfully anxious as to the result of
+our conversation, and Maia, too, will be rejoiced to see you again, for
+you are always out at Radefeld these days. But to-day you are not going
+to drive out until evening, and must dine with us. Done!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">He held out his hand, and Egbert silently laid his own within it. It
+was plain to see what an effect the goodness of the usually stern,
+unyielding man had had upon him, and, more yet, perhaps, the
+recognition of what he was worth to the man who thus spoke to him.
+Dernburg had adopted the right remedy, the only one that was of avail
+here. He required no promise and no sacrifice, both of which would have
+been rejected, but he showed implicit confidence in his unruly
+favorite, and in so doing disarmed him.</p>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<h2>CHAPTER IV.</h2>
+
+<h3><a name="div1_04" href="#div1Ref_04">ODENSBURG MANOR.</a></h3>
+<br>
+
+<p class="normal">The Dernburg iron and steel works had a worldwide reputation, and could
+compare, indeed, with the greatest undertakings of this sort in the old
+as well as in the new world.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Odensburg was situated in a wooded valley between mountains, the chief
+wealth of which consisted in its inexhaustible mines, and, a generation
+before, the father of the present proprietor had established here a
+plain foundry and iron factory, that kept growing as the years went by.
+But it had only assumed its present truly vast proportions under his
+son, who really created the present works, that were upon an
+astonishingly vast scale. He had gradually bought in all the mines and
+forges of the region round about, absorbing also all the labor at
+command, and giving to his undertakings an expansion that controlled
+the industrial life of the whole province.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">It required, indeed, an unusual amount of energy to devise such an
+enterprise, and then carry it on to success, but Dernburg was equal to
+the occasion. He had a whole array of engineers, technicians, and
+administrative officials; but the director, like the humblest workman,
+knew that all the reins joined in the master's hand, who decided
+everything important for himself. This master had the character of
+being stern and unbending, but likewise just, and if he was conscious
+of the whole power of his position, he had an equally high idea of its
+duties.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The accommodations that he provided for his workmen were on a scale
+commensurate with the other departments of his works, and were
+everywhere pronounced to be the most excellent conceivable. They were
+only possible for a man who had millions at his disposal, and was not
+stingy with his wealth, when the welfare of his subordinates was in
+question.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">But in return for this, Dernburg demanded complete subjection to his
+will, and planted himself like a rock against the advent of modern
+ideas, such as that every individual has the right to follow his own
+convictions. At Odensburg, strikes, rebellion, and conflicts, such as
+are so common in other industrial establishments, were things unknown.
+It was well understood that nothing was to be gotten out of the chief
+by force, and, with their situations, the people well knew they
+lost certain provision, in the future, for themselves and their
+families,--thus all those incitements to insubordination, that were not
+lacking here either, failed to get foothold, and even if they were
+listened to here and there, came to nothing so far as actions were
+concerned.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">And yet this man, who was the very embodiment of strength, had an only
+son for whose life he had perpetually to tremble. From his very infancy
+Eric had been puny and delicate, and that fall into the water, caused
+by his own imprudence, brought on him a dangerous illness, that lasted
+for months. He recovered, it is true, but could never again be called a
+well man, and two years before so significant a symptom as hemorrhage
+from the lungs had appeared, which necessitated his speedy removal from
+the harsh climate of home, and a long sojourn in the South.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The peculiar relation in which the youth who had saved Eric's life
+stood to the Dernburg family, had always been a matter of surprise in
+the village, and to many of envy as well. Egbert Runeck, the son of a
+workman employed in the foundry, had passed his early boyhood amid the
+plainest surroundings, and continued to move in the same sphere as his
+parents, until nearly grown. If, nevertheless, he learned more than any
+of his companions of the same age, he had, in the first place, to thank
+the excellent schools, which Dernburg had established for the children
+of his employés, and upon which he lavished uncommon care. The rarely
+endowed boy, with his unflagging diligence, had already, in earlier
+days, attracted the chief's attention, but after he had saved the life
+of his only son his future was decided. He shared Eric's lessons, was
+treated almost as a member of the family, and was finally sent to
+Berlin for the completion of his education.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The Manor-house lay quite apart from the works, on an eminence that
+commanded the whole valley. It was an imposing edifice, built in good
+style, with a broad terrace, long rows of windows, and a great covered
+piazza in front, the roof of which was supported upon columns. Dotted
+here and there, ever the broad expanse of lawn and park, were monarchs
+of the forest that had been spared in clearing, the long line of wooded
+hills in the rear, with their grand old trees, forming an extremely
+effective background for the picture. It was a fair and stately abode,
+that might well have merited the name of castle, but Dernburg did not
+like it at all when they applied that designation to it, and so it was
+called in the end as in the beginning, &quot;Odensburg Manor.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The family were accustomed to spend the greatest part of the year here,
+although Dernburg possessed several other estates that were more
+beautifully situated, and he also had a residence in Berlin. But he
+never went to the capital, unless his duty as a member of the diet
+called him there; for the most part, too, he only paid short and flying
+visits to his other estates. Odensburg needed the master's hand and
+eye, and was it not the creation of his own brain? Upon this ground he
+was unlimited ruler; here his will alone held sway; here much could be
+won or lost; and therefore it had been and continued to be his favorite
+abode.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">There was as little to be found fault with in the family-life of the
+Dernburgs as in their outward surroundings. He and his gentle,
+shrinking wife, had been a model married couple, she being in perfect
+subjection to her domineering husband. Now his only sister, the widowed
+Frau von Ringstedt took the part of lady of the house. She had lived
+with her brother for a good many years, and tried to make up to his
+children for the loss of their mother, who had died young.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">It was towards the end of April, but the weather was still cold and
+uncomfortable. In the South, for two months already Spring had
+gladdened the earth with her wealth of bloom, but here, at the North,
+buds and leaves even now hardly dared to burst their sheaths, and a
+gray, cloud-covered sky spanned the somber, dark green foliage of the
+fir-trees.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Guests were expected at the Manor to-day. The curtains to the
+guest-chambers of the upper story were put far back, and the little
+parlor belonging to that suite of rooms had a festal air. Everywhere
+bloomed flowers, dispensing their sweet odors around; sweet,
+bright-hued children of Spring, that to be sure, even now had to be
+grown in hot-houses, decorated in lavish profusion the room evidently
+destined for a lady.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Two ladies were in it at this very moment, also. One, the younger,
+was amusing herself with teasing a little, soft, white Spitz dog, that
+she incessantly egged on to bark and jump, while the other lady
+surveyed the parlor with a critical eye, here straightening a chair,
+there pushing a curtain back, and once more arranging the pretty
+writing-materials on the desk.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Must you always have that pug about you, Maia?&quot; said she
+discontentedly. &quot;He puts everything out of order, and just now came
+very near dragging off the table the vase of flowers as well as the
+cloth.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I did lock him up, but he got out and ran after me,&quot; cried Maia.
+&quot;Down, Puck. You must be good. Miss Friedberg says positively you
+must.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">She laughingly called him, and, at the same time, cut at the little
+beast, with her pocket handkerchief, that, of course tried to catch
+hold of the handkerchief with loud barking. Miss Friedberg shuddered
+nervously and heaved a sigh.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;And do you call these the manners of a grown-up young lady! I felt
+obliged recently to complain to Herr Dernburg, and tell him that
+nothing was to be done with you. You will not be anything but the
+veriest child, and, if possible, exceed Puck himself in playing all
+manner of monkey-tricks. Tell me, if you ever intend to be earnest and
+rational?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Not for a long while, I hope,&quot; declared Maia. &quot;Everything is so
+horribly earnest and rational at Odensburg already. Papa, aunt, you,
+Miss Leona, and lately Eric has been intolerable, too, sighing and
+longing after his lady-love from morning to night. And am I, too, to be
+made rational? But we do not like that, do we, Puck? We, at least, want
+to be merry.&quot; And so saying, she seized Puck by the fore-paws, and made
+him dance on his hind-legs, although he gave unmistakable signs of
+displeasure.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Maia Dernburg, who objected so emphatically to being rational, was
+evidently in the first bloom of young girlhood, not being a day over
+seventeen years of age. She was one of those creatures, at sight of
+whom the heart bounds, and who gladden the beholder as does bright
+sunshine. Her lovely face, that bore only a very remote likeness to her
+brother, beamed in the rosy freshness of youth and health, and her
+beautiful brown eyes had nothing mysterious about them like Eric's,
+They shone clear and bright, dimmed by no shadow in the world. Her fair
+hair, that glistened like gold, when the sun's rays struck it, only
+confined by a ribbon, fell in rich curls over her shoulders, while a
+few tiny ringlets, that would not submit to be bound, enhanced greatly
+the beauty of her brow. Her features were still half child-like, and
+the delicate, pretty figure had apparently not yet attained its full
+height; but this very thing gave to the young girl an unspeakable
+charm.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Miss Leona Friedberg, the governess of the young daughter of the
+house, who still filled an office that was by no means a sinecure,
+although, properly speaking, Maia's education was finished, was about
+five-and-thirty years old, and, although no longer young, had an
+attractive appearance: a slight, delicate form, with dark hair and eyes
+and a somewhat languid expression upon the pale but pleasant features.
+She responded to the rash remark of her pupil with a shrug of the
+shoulders, and then cast a searching look through the room.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;There, now we are ready! But you have been too extravagant with your
+flowers; Maia, the perfume is almost intoxicating.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Oh! a promised bride must have flowers showered upon her! Cecilia is
+to find her future home beautiful, and flowers are the only things,
+with which we can welcome her. Papa will not hear of a grand reception
+taking place.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Of course, since the betrothal is to be publicly announced first from
+here.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;And then there is to be a betrothal-party and a grand, grand wedding!&quot;
+shouted Maia. &quot;Oh! I am so curious to see Eric's betrothed. She must be
+beautiful, very beautiful. Eric is continually raving over her to me;
+but he does behave so comically as a love-sick swain. He never has a
+bright day now, because he is always dreaming of his Cecilia. Sometimes
+papa gets seriously vexed over it, and yesterday he said to me: 'You
+will behave more sensibly, my little Maia, when you are engaged, will
+you not?' Of course I shall: I'll be a model of good sense, I will!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">And to prove this incontestably, she took Puck in her arms, and whirled
+about the room with him, like a spinning-top.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Oh yes! that is very likely!&quot; cried Miss Leona, indignantly. &quot;Maia,
+once more, I beseech you not to behave like a wild tom-boy, when your
+new connections come. What are the Baroness Wildenrod and her brother
+to think of your bringing-up, if they see a young lady almost seventeen
+years old behaving in that wild, hoydenish manner.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Maia, meanwhile, had finished her round dance and let loose her Puck,
+and now seated herself in a ceremonious manner, before her governess.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I shall behave so as to satisfy the most fastidious, for I know
+the points thoroughly. Miss Wilson she tutored me: that English
+governess, you know, with the sallow face, turned-up nose, and no end
+of learning--do not look so provoked, Miss Leona, I am not talking
+about you!--Miss Wilson was really very tiresome, but I learned to
+curtesy as they do at court from her anyhow, look, so!&quot; She made a low
+and solemn reverence. &quot;You see I shall make an impression upon my
+future sister-in-law with my fine manners, and then I shall fall upon
+her neck and kiss her so and so;&quot; and with this she overwhelmed the
+unsuspecting lady with impetuous caresses.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;But, Maia, you will choke me to death,&quot; cried the horrified lady,
+freeing herself with some difficulty. &quot;Why, dear me, it is striking
+twelve already! We must go down. I shall only cast one more glance into
+the chamber, to see if all there is in order.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">She left the parlor, and Maia fluttered down the steps like a
+butterfly, Puck bounding after her, as a matter of course. The
+dwelling-rooms of the family were in the lower story; there the
+large reception hall was likewise decorated, in honor of the expected
+guests with tall laurel, and orange-trees and the whole flora, of the
+hot-houses. There stood a young man, who seemed to be waiting for
+somebody, who, upon seeing the young lady of the house, made a very low
+and reverential bow. Maia bestowed upon him a casual nod.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Good-day, Herr Hagenbach. Is the doctor here too?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;He is, and at your service, Miss Dernburg,&quot; answered the person
+interrogated, with a second bow just as low. &quot;My uncle is with your
+father, laying before him the week's report of the infirmary, and I--I
+am waiting here for him--with your most gracious permission.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Oh, yes, you have my permission,&quot; said Maia, highly amused at this
+overstrained reverence, while Puck eyed, with somewhat critical
+glances, the stranger whose plaid pantaloons seemed to excite his
+displeasure.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Herr Hagenbach was a very young man, with exceedingly light hair, and
+exceedingly pale blue eyes, and a timid, awkward gait. The meeting
+evidently threw him into great embarrassment, for he reddened and
+stammered considerably. Nevertheless, he seemed to feel the necessity
+of showing himself versed in the usages of society, for several times
+he made the effort to speak in vain, and finally succeeded in getting
+out the words:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;May--may I venture to ask after your health, Miss Dernburg?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I thank you, my health is perfectly good,&quot; answered Maia, the corners
+of whose mouth began to twitch.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I am exceedingly glad to hear it,&quot; asseverated the young man. He had
+really purposed to say something else, something intellectual,
+important, but nothing, alas! occurred to him, and so he continued:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I cannot tell you how delighted I am to hear it, and I hope Madam von
+Ringstedt is well, too.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Maia, with difficulty suppressed a laugh, while she answered his
+question in the affirmative. Herr Hagenbach, who was still on his vain
+chase after the witty remark, meanwhile persisting convulsively in
+inquiring after the health of every member of the family, then asked
+for the third time: &quot;And young Herr Dernburg----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Has gone to the railroad station,&quot; wound up Maia, who could no longer
+restrain her merriment. &quot;You may be easy as to the condition of my
+brother, however, and of my father, as well--the whole family thank you
+for your extraordinary kindness in asking after our health.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Herr Hagenbach's embarrassment increased perceptibly. In his confusion
+he bowed down before Puck, who was still devoting his attention to the
+plaid pantaloons, and tried to stroke him, while he remarked: &quot;What a
+dear little doggie!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The dear little doggie, however, showed himself very unappreciative of
+this caress, and darted, with a loud bark, at the legs of the young man
+who jumped back, but Puck sprang after and stuck his teeth into the gay
+trousers. The person attacked, who did not dare to drive away the young
+lady's dog, took refuge behind the tub of flowers, at his heels his
+pursuer, who now aimed his attack at his legs, while Maia, instead of
+calling off the dog, was highly amused at the scene.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Fortunately help now came from a different direction. Out of the door
+leading to Dernburg's apartments, stepped an elderly gentleman, who,
+without further ceremony, seized the still yelping Spitz by the nape of
+his woolly neck, and lifted him up, while he said fretfully,</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Why did you not defend yourself, Dagobert? Were you going to let him
+tear your pantaloons off you? Puck is such an artful little rascal!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Dagobert, all out of breath, stood under a laurel-tree, looking greatly
+relieved--and now Maia also came forward.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Let go the evil-doer, do, Dr. Hagenbach. There would really have been
+no risk to your nephew's life. In the whole course of the one year of
+Puck's life he has never torn a single man to pieces.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;It is enough to make a dead-set at pantaloons, especially when they
+are such magnificent ones as the pair that has just been imperiled,&quot;
+answered Doctor Hagenbach pleasantly, as he set down the tiny,
+struggling creature. &quot;A good-day to you, Miss Maia! No need to ask
+after your health, I perceive.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;No, indeed, it has certainly been sufficiently asked after, for one
+day,&quot; protested the young lady, with a saucy look at Dagobert. She took
+her little dog upon her arm and caused it to make a comical bow.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Beg pardon, Puck, and promise that you will not do it again.
+Good-morning, gentlemen, I must go to papa as fast as ever I can.&quot; And
+with a careless salutation she flew off to her father's rooms.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Dr. Hagenbach, the surgeon for the works and Dernburg family-physician,
+was a man of forty-five or forty-six years, whose hair already began to
+be tinged with gray here and there, and whose figure tended to rather
+too much fullness, was, on the whole a fine-looking man, the perfect
+counterpart of the nephew to whom he now turned.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;You have played the part of a veritable hero, to be sure!&quot; mocked he.
+&quot;That ungovernable little thing only wanted to play, and you to run
+away!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I did not want to treat the young lady's pet roughly,&quot; explained
+Dagobert, solicitously examining his pantaloons, that fortunately had
+not been damaged. The uncle silently shrugged his shoulders.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;We shall hardly be able to make the visit to-day to Miss Friedberg,&quot;
+said he then. &quot;As I just learned, they are expecting the party from
+Nice in about an hour, and the whole house is upset, preparing to
+receive them. But since we are here, I'll make the attempt, anyhow, to
+speak with the lady; you meanwhile can be recovering composure, both as
+to the outward and inner man.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">He mounted the stairs, and at the top met the governess, who had just
+come out of the parlor. Almost daily she saw the doctor, who, for long
+years, had stood upon a very friendly footing with the Dernburg family,
+nevertheless, there was a perceptible reserve in her manner as she
+returned his greeting. Hagenbach seemed not to remark this, he asked
+lightly after her health, listening in the same way to her answer, and
+then said:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I had an especial reason for calling upon you, Miss Friedberg. The
+time is badly chosen, it is true, for apparently you, too, are
+engrossed by the coming reception of the expected guests, but my
+request can be made in a few minutes, so permit me to lay it before
+you, just as we stand.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;You have a request to make of me?&quot; asked Leona, with cool surprise.
+&quot;Actually?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;You think I can do nothing but give orders and write prescriptions, I
+suppose. Yes, Miss Friedberg, it is the physician's right, he must
+preserve his authority under all circumstances, especially when he has
+to do with so-called <i>nervous</i> patients.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">He emphasized the word, in a way that evidently provoked his hearer,
+for she replied tartly:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Why, I believe your authority remains undisputed, security is given
+for that by your very considerate manner of ensuring obedience.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Even as--I know patients upon whom all love's labors are lost,&quot;
+replied Hagenbach composedly. &quot;But--now to the errand that brought me
+here. You know my nephew, who has been three weeks at Odensburg?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Yes, indeed, your brother's son. The young man has no longer any
+parents?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;No, he is a double orphan, and I am his guardian, having, indeed, to
+charge myself entirely with his future, for his parents were so
+unmindful of their duty as not to leave him a single penny. They
+thought very likely that I, as a confirmed old bachelor, might need an
+heir.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Leona's countenance plainly betrayed that she thought this mode of
+expressing himself very indelicate; the doctor saw this, too, but
+disturbed himself not in the least about it, but continued in the same
+tone:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Dagobert has gone through the gymnasium, and also passed the
+examination for admission to college, with much groaning, to be sure,
+for he is not a specially clear-headed fellow. Now he looks wretchedly
+from sitting so steadily at his books and drudging. Only think, the
+fellow is nervous, too, or at least fancies himself to be so, therefore
+I have undertaken to cure him. I'll teach him to forget that he has
+nerves.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Then I only hope the young man will survive the cure,&quot; said the lady
+sharply. &quot;You love heroic measures, doctor?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;When they are in place, certainly. As for the rest I shall not put an
+end to my nephew, as you seem to fear. He is to spend the summer over
+here and take a good rest ere he enters the high school. If the fellow
+has nothing at all to do, he will fall into folly of various kinds, so
+he may as well learn a little about languages, modern languages I mean.
+They have drilled him sufficiently in Latin and Greek, but he seems to
+know very little French and English, and so I wanted to inquire if you
+would give him a little help in this, you speak both fluently, I hear.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;If Mr. Dernburg has no objection----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Mr. Dernburg is agreed. I have just spoken with him on the
+subject--the only question is, whether you are willing. I know, indeed,
+that I am not much in your favor----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Pray do not go on, doctor,&quot; coolly interposed the lady. &quot;I am very
+glad that you give me an opportunity to prove my gratitude for the
+medical advice that you have given me several times.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Yes, in your 'nervous' attacks. Very well, the matter's settled.
+Dagobert, boy, where are you hiding? Come up!&quot; He shouted these last
+words down the steps in a very peremptory tone.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Leona fairly shrank and said disapprovingly: &quot;You treat the young man
+exactly as if he were a schoolboy.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Am I to put on more than usual ceremony with the youth? He would
+evidently like to take the part of a man in society--and at the same
+time he blushes and stammers as soon as he addresses a stranger. Well,
+there you are, Dagobert! This lady is going to have the goodness to
+take you as a pupil. Return your thanks!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Again Dagobert made an uncommonly low and reverential bow--he seemed to
+have made a regular study of it--again blushed and began:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I am very grateful to the lady--I am perfectly delighted--I cannot
+begin to say, how glad I am----&quot; There he stuck fast, but Leona came to
+the help of his embarrassment, and turned to him kindly:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I am not going to be a strict teacher, and I think we shall get on
+nicely together, Herr Hagenbach.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Call him simply 'Dagobert,'&quot; interrupted the doctor in his reckless
+way. &quot;He has such an odd name though.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Have you any objection to make to his name. I think it very pretty.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I am not at all of that way of thinking,&quot; declared Hagenbach, without
+observing the deeply injured mien of his nephew. &quot;By rights, he should
+have been named Peter, for that is my name, and I am his godfather. But
+that was not poetical enough for my sister-in-law, and so she fell upon
+Dagobert. Dagobert Hagenbach--there is a jaw-breaker for you!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">A smile, unmistakably derisive, played about Leona's lips, as she
+replied: &quot;In that case your sister-in-law was undoubtedly right. The
+name Peter has not only poetry opposed to it.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;What objection have you to make to it?&quot; cried the doctor irritably,
+while he straightened himself up, ready for combat. &quot;Peter is a good
+name, a famous name, a Bible name. I should think the Apostle Peter
+would have been a fine enough man.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;But, you have only the quarrelsomeness of the Apostle--nothing else,&quot;
+remarked Leona cheerfully. &quot;So, Herr Hagenbach, I shall look for you
+to-morrow afternoon, when we shall settle upon the time and plan of
+instruction. It will give me pleasure to push you forward as much as
+possible.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The shy Dagobert seemed very agreeably touched by this friendliness,
+and had just begun again to assure her that he was extremely glad,
+etc., when his uncle interposed, in a highly ungracious mood:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;We have detained the lady long enough. Come, Dagobert, else we'll be
+caught, and figure as unbidden guests at the family reunion.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">So saying, he and his nephew took their leave. As they went downstairs
+the latter adventured the remark: &quot;Fräulein Friedberg is a very amiable
+lady.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;But nervous and eccentric,&quot; growled Hagenbach. &quot;Cannot bear the name
+Peter. Why not, I wonder? Had your lamented parents baptized you Peter,
+you would have been another sort of a fellow! But so, you look like a
+girl with the green-sickness, that was dubbed Dagobert by mistake!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">He placed a very contemptuous emphasis upon the name. Meanwhile, they
+had left the house, and now emerged upon the terrace, where they met
+Egbert Runeck. The doctor was for passing him by with a short, very
+formal salutation, but the young engineer stood still and said:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I have just been to your house, doctor, to solicit your help. One of
+my workmen, through heedlessness, has come by a hurt. It is not
+dangerous, so far as I can judge, but medical aid is necessary. I have
+brought him to Odensburg and left him in the hospital. Let me commend
+him to your particular attention.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I shall see after him immediately,&quot; replied Hagenbach. &quot;Are you on
+your way to the Manor, Herr Runeck? They are just now expecting the
+party from Nice, and Herr Dernburg will hardly----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I know,&quot; interposed Runeck. &quot;It was on that very account that I came
+in from Radefeld. Good-morning, doctor!&quot; He bowed and went on his way.
+Hagenbach looked after him, then struck his cane hard upon the ground,
+and said in a low tone:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;That is going it strong!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Did you notice, uncle, that he wore a dress-suit under his overcoat,&quot;
+remarked Dagobert. &quot;He is specially invited.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;It would really seem so!&quot; ejaculated the doctor wrathfully. &quot;Invited
+too, to this reception, which was to be strictly confined to the limits
+of the family circle.--Strange things happen at Odensburg!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;And all Odensburg is talking about it too,&quot; said Dagobert, under
+his breath, looking cautiously around. &quot;There is only one voice of
+fault-finding and regret over this incredible weakness of Herr
+Dernburg, for----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;What do you know about it, saucebox?&quot; continued the doctor. &quot;At
+Odensburg nobody either finds fault with the chief or presumes to
+regret what he does--they simply obey him. Herr Dernburg always knows
+what he is about, and is not going to make any mistake in this case,
+either, unless his <i>protégé</i> should, perchance, disappoint him. He too
+is one bent on having his own way, like his lord and master, and when
+steel and stone meet there are sparks. But, now, make haste and get
+home, for I must be seeing after the Radefeld workman.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">So saying, he took the path to the infirmary, and dismissed his nephew,
+who was evidently rejoiced to be rid of his tyrannical uncle.</p>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<h2>CHAPTER V.</h2>
+
+<h3><a name="div1_05" href="#div1Ref_05">A VICTORY WON.</a></h3>
+<br>
+
+<p class="normal">Runeck had gone into the house and there met Miss Friedberg, who was
+just coming downstairs. Here, too, his salutation was not exactly
+received with cordiality, and the young lady drew three steps back and
+cast a pleading look around, which, in response, brought a somewhat
+derisive smile to the lips of the young engineer, as, with the greatest
+possible politeness, he inquired whether Herr Dernburg was in his
+office.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The lady was saved an answer, for, at that instant the door opened and
+Dernburg himself appeared with his daughter, who immediately came
+forward to meet Runeck and greeted him with the most unaffected
+cordiality.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Is that you at last, Egbert? We thought you would miss the reception,
+we are expecting the carriage every minute.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I was detained by an accident,&quot; answered Egbert, &quot;and moreover had to
+drive very slowly, since I had a wounded man with me, else I should
+have been here long ago.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">He stepped up to Dernburg and reported the case to him; while Miss
+Friedberg, who had looked on with real horror at Maia's friendliness
+with the engineer, now whispered to her pupil:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;But, Maia, what unbecoming familiarity--you are no longer a child now!
+How often have I implored you to remember your years and your position.
+Must I really have to appeal to your father's authority?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Maia paid no heed to this lecture, not the first one which had been
+delivered to her on this subject, but waited impatiently until Runeck
+had gotten through with his report. Dernburg had himself accurately
+informed as to the nature of the hurt, and seemed satisfied when he
+heard that it was not dangerous, and that the surgeon had already been
+called in; finally he let Egbert off, who now turned to the young girl.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;You hear, Miss Maia, it was not my fault that I am late, so you must
+not be angry with me for it.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I am very angry with you, though, for insisting upon calling me
+'Miss,' as long as we have lived in the same house!&quot; cried Maia,
+seeming to be highly wrought up. &quot;I'll not stand it, Egbert, do you
+hear, I will not, indeed.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">She stamped her little foot and pouted charmingly, while her governess
+darted a shocked glance at the master of the house. It was high time
+for him to interpose his authority, since hers had failed so
+ignominiously. But Dernburg appeared not at all to share her
+sentiments, for he said with perfect composure:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Well, if Maia insists upon it, you must let her have her way, Egbert!
+You are one of our family, you know.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Miss Friedberg did not trust her own ears--the permission of such a
+liberty appeared so monstrous to her, that she gathered up her forces
+for resistance.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Herr Dernburg, I think----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;What, Miss Friedberg?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">His question was only a short one, spoken quite composedly, but the
+governess instantly lost her desire to continue her opposition.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I think that we had better station a servant on the terrace to let us
+know the moment the young gentleman's carriage comes in sight.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;You are right, pray give orders to that effect,&quot; said Dernburg: &quot;but I
+think we had better go in now, for Eric may be belated likewise.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">He moved towards the parlor, Maia with him, but she archly looked back
+over her shoulder.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;You have heard your orders, Master Engineer Runeck, and you are to
+obey on the spot, I tell you!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">There was such a pretty playfulness in her tone and gesture, that even
+the grave Egbert was thawed by it, and answered with pleasant raillery.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Maia was as full of glee as a child over this victory, that put so
+effectually to flight the shy reserve of this friend of her youth, and
+Dernburg smiled at it. There was an expression of tenderness rarely
+seen upon his stern features, as he looked upon the bright and lovely
+creature at his side. It was plain to see that Maia was his favorite,
+and that she was closer to his heart than her brother.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The patience of the expectant group was not put to too severe a test,
+for they had hardly waited a quarter of an hour, before the
+announcement was made that the carriage was in sight, and the grand
+folding-doors of the entrance hall were flung wide open. There stood
+Dernburg with his sister, a dignified old lady rather stiff in her
+bearing, Maia at their side, all joy and expectation, while Egbert and
+the governess stayed back in the house.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Now the carriage approached, a half-covered landau drawn by a
+magnificent pair of bays, and halted in front of the terrace. The
+servant opened the carriage-door. Eric was the first to jump out and
+help his betrothed to alight, while behind them the tall form of the
+Baron became visible.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Dernburg had taken one step forward and stood erect on the threshold of
+his house. His demeanor betrayed all the pride of the commoner about to
+receive the youthful representative of a long line of noble ancestry,
+all the self-satisfaction of a man who has climbed aloft through the
+exertion of his individual force. It was he, who did an honor to the
+Baroness Wildenrod, when he received her into the bosom of his family.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Cecilia bowed lightly, with the grace peculiar to her, when Eric
+presented her to his father. She had thrown back her veil and now
+lifted her eyes to that stern countenance, which, however, had no
+terrors for her. She knew too well the witchery of her own presence,
+and here too it failed not of its effect. Youth and beauty make easy
+conquest of even cold and critical age. To be sure Dernburg's glance
+for a few seconds, scrutinized her features keenly and questioningly,
+but then he stooped down and kissed her brow.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Welcome to my house, my dear,&quot; said he, earnestly, but kindly.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Eric secretly drew a breath of relief. With those words his father's
+opposition was given up. Cecilia had been received and recognized by
+him as a daughter: here, too, she had conquered by her mere appearance!
+He recognized this with joyful pride.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Frau von Ringstedt followed her brother's example and welcomed the
+young Baroness with simple cordiality. Wildenrod, meanwhile, exchanged
+greetings with the master of the house, while Maia was wholly taken up
+with admiration of her beautiful sister that was to be. She forgot
+entirely the courtesy, that she had practiced so dutifully, and,
+instead, impetuously threw her arms around her neck, with the
+exclamation:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Oh, Cecilia, I never imagined that you were so beautiful!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Cecilia smiled, accustomed as she was to compliments and flattery of
+all sorts, nevertheless, this artless, childish confession delighted
+her, and with a gush of real tenderness she kissed &quot;that sweet little
+Maia,&quot; of whom she had heard Eric talk so much.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;You have showered so many kind attentions upon my sister, dear young
+lady,&quot; suddenly said a deep but sonorous voice, &quot;that I indulge the
+hope that I too may obtain a friendly greeting.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Maia turned around and looked into a pair of deep, dark eyes, that
+rested upon her countenance, with an expression that affected her
+strangely, almost painfully, and yet she felt that there was admiration
+written there. Yet she shrank from that gaze with a slight shudder,
+something like a bodeful feeling of dread taking hold upon her, and her
+voice had not its usual joyous, saucy sound, when she replied, half
+interrogatively:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Herr von Wildenrod?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Yes, it is Oscar von Wildenrod, who begs to be allowed to shake hands
+with the young lady of the house.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">There was some reproof implied in these words. It was very true that
+Maia had not yet offered her hand to this man, who was soon to be a
+connection of the family, but now she extended it with hesitation, and
+a timidity that was something entirely new to her. Wildenrod stooped
+down and pressed his lips to it. This was but a common piece of
+courtesy, and yet the young girl trembled at the contact, while her
+eyes were spell-bound at the same time, by that gaze which seemed to
+exercise a mysterious charm upon her.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Dernburg now offered his arm to the young Baroness, to escort her in,
+the Baron stepped up to Frau von Ringstedt, while Maia, with a quick
+movement, took her brother's arm. Eric was in the happiest of moods,
+and pressed gratefully and tenderly the hand of the sister, who had
+received his betrothed with so much affection.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Does Cecilia please you, then?&quot; he asked. &quot;Have I told you too much
+about her?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Oh, no, she is far, far prettier than her picture. She is just my idea
+of the princess in a fairy tale.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;And what do you think of my future brother-in-law? A chivalrous
+looking fellow, is he not, although he is far from being young?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I do not know,&quot; said Maia, slowly and reflectively. &quot;He has such
+singular eyes--so deep and dark--almost evil-looking.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Little simpleton, I verily believe you are afraid of him,&quot; laughed
+Eric. &quot;That does not look like our high-spirited little Maia, and Oscar
+will not be much edified by this first impression of his character. But
+you must get better acquainted with him first; he is excellent company,
+and a really brilliant conversationalist.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Maia did not answer forthwith. Afraid? Why, yes, what she had felt was
+very like fear, but she was already very much ashamed of this childish
+feeling, and darted an extremely ungracious look at the Baron, who was
+walking just in front of her with her aunt. All her audacity came back
+to her, and tossing her head she called out, laughingly:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Oh, I shall have to learn what the sensation of fear is, like the hero
+in the fairy tale.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">* * * * *</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The weather, that had looked threatening in the forenoon, had now
+became much worse. The mountains were veiled in thick fog, from time to
+time showers of rain fell, and the wind howled in the trees of the
+park.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">It was so much the more comfortable in the large parlor of the
+Manor-house, a vast room with lofty ceiling, richly draped and
+upholstered in dark crimson, with carved oak furniture, and a huge
+fireplace faced with black marble. The colors might have been regarded
+as rather dark, but through the wide glass doors that opened upon the
+terrace, broad light streamed in. Only a few, but choice, pictures
+adorned the walls, and some family portraits. In the fireplace burned a
+bright fire and the whole room gave the impression of solid wealth and
+perfect comfort.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">They had just risen from table and the younger members of the family
+seated themselves by the fireside and engaged in lively chat: Frau von
+Ringstedt sat upon a sofa in the corner with Miss Friedberg, and the
+master of the house was absorbed in serious conversation with Oscar von
+Wildenrod. They were talking of the Odensburg works, in which the Baron
+showed not only an uncommon interest, but his questions and remarks
+also demonstrated, that he was by no means so little versed in such
+matters as Dernburg had imagined, and he had just said:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I had no idea, that you were so familiar with all these things, Herr
+von Wildenrod. Such work as ours generally has no charm outside of the
+profession. But you seem to be well acquainted with all its bearings.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I have read a great deal about it,&quot; lightly answered Wildenrod. &quot;One
+who, like myself, has no regular profession undertakes little private
+studies, and I have always had a fancy for mining and the manufactory
+of iron. My knowledge, to be sure, represents only the superficial
+observations of an amateur. Perhaps you will allow me to perfect them
+here, in some degree?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;It will give me pleasure to act as your guide myself, in this
+pursuit,&quot; said Dernburg warmly. &quot;In your ride, you only touched upon a
+small section of the works, but from the terrace, here, one has quite a
+comprehensive view of the whole.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">He opened one of the glass doors and stepped out with his guest. The
+mist had not yet disappeared, but the works that stretched along as far
+as to the foot of the mountain-chain, and the teaming life astir there
+that pressed up to the very Manor itself, lost nothing of its grandeur
+on that account, which might have struck a stranger as well-nigh
+overpowering. It did seem to have made this impression upon the Baron
+too, for his eyes turned slowly from one end of the valley to the
+other, while he remarked:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;A mighty creation is this Odensburg! Why, you have caused to spring up
+here a regular city, in the solitude of mountains and forests. Those
+huge buildings there that tower aloft in the center, are----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Those are the cylinders and foundries: yonder, farther on, are the
+forges.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;And those grounds to the right, that look almost like a colony of
+villas?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Those are the residences of our officers; the workmen's homes lie on
+the other side. To be sure I have only been able to accommodate the
+very smallest number in Odensburg, the most of them living about in the
+adjoining villages.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I know, Eric showed me as we rode along. How many workmen, exactly, do
+you employ, Herr Dernburg?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Nine thousand here in the works: the mines up in the mountains have
+their own force of laborers, and their own officers.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Wildenrod looked at the man, who, with such perfect composure and
+evidently through no impulse of vanity, unfolded before him the
+description of a power and wealth that would have made any other man
+dizzy. Each one of those mines and furnaces, that he mentioned so
+casually, represented a fortune: of his other estates, that ranked
+among the richest in the province, he spoke not at all. And moreover,
+there was not the slightest trace of boasting in his words, he simply
+gave information asked for, nothing further. The Baron leaned against
+the stone parapet and looked out again, then he said slowly:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I had already heard a great deal of your Odensburg from Eric and
+others, but to form a conception of the magnificence of the scale upon
+which the enterprise is planned one must see it with his own eyes. It
+must be an intoxicating feeling to know one's self to be the absolute
+ruler of such a world, and to be able to put ten thousand men in motion
+by a single word.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;It took me thirty years to reach that point,&quot; answered Dernburg
+coolly. &quot;He who has had to battle for every victory won, and mount
+upward step by step, is not the one to be intoxicated by success. There
+is many a heavy burden to bear, too, which you, Herr von Wildenrod
+would hardly take upon yourself. The management of the property
+inherited from your father was a load that you shook off.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">There was a certain asperity in these last words, that was understood,
+too, but Wildenrod evinced no sensitiveness, he quietly answered:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;You mean to reproach me for the course I took Herr Dernburg----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Not so; what right would I have to do such a thing? Every man's life
+cannot be shaped after the same model. The one seeks his happiness in
+work, the other----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;In idling, do you think?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;In the enjoyments of life, I wanted to say.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Nevertheless I expressed your thought, and alas! I must own that you
+are right. But I never was attracted by activity on any but a large
+scale, and my inheritance was no vast estate adequate to bring this
+impulse into play. I could not bear to bury myself in barren monotony
+of every-day country life, in the wearisome round of a management that
+any good overseer could conduct as well as myself. I was not made for
+that sort of thing.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Why, then, did you not stay in the diplomatic service?&quot; remarked
+Dernburg. &quot;Certainly there was a field commensurate with the widest
+ambition.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">It was an expression of unspeakable bitterness that curled Wildenrod's
+lips at this question, to be sure only for a second, when he quietly
+replied:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Personal considerations were to blame. I had had disagreements with
+the chief of the bureau, believed myself slighted and overlooked, hence
+rashly broke my supposed chains, in a fit of sensitiveness. I was still
+young at that time, and the wide world with its dreams of a golden
+future, attracted me irresistibly--how the prospect changes, with the
+lapse of time! I have long since felt that my life lacked serious
+purpose and will feel this yet more sensibly after Cecilia leaves me.
+Deep dissatisfaction results from leading such an existence.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;For which you have to bear the sole responsibility, yourself,&quot; said
+Dernburg gravely. &quot;You are still in the enjoyment of a full manly
+vigor, you have an independent fortune--Only come to a resolve.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Quite right, a resolve is what is needed, and yet that is precisely
+what I have not been able to make up my mind to. To me toil and
+industry ever presented themselves under the image of what was small
+and wearisome. Here, in sight of your Odensburg, I comprehend for the
+first time, what a power lies in it, and what incredible results it can
+achieve. That could stir me up too, engage my every power, I admit.
+Will you kindly afford 'the idler,' Herr Dernburg, a deeper insight
+into your world of work? Perhaps he may yet profit by the lesson.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">There was something uncommonly winning in this request and the whole
+manner of the Baron, and Dernburg was very agreeably impressed by this
+candor. His hitherto rather cool civility gave way now to a warmer
+tone, as he answered:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I shall be delighted if Odensburg gives you such lessons. I indeed
+have had to plow my way through all the pettiness and weariness of
+routine. If I had not bestirred head and arms, probably the simple
+forge bequeathed me by my father, would still be standing here--but
+then, everybody need not handle a spade with one's own hands. If
+everybody only does something, and fills the place allotted him in life
+that is the main thing after all.&quot;</p>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<h2>CHAPTER VI.</h2>
+
+<h3><a name="div1_06" href="#div1Ref_06">TO WHICH MORE THAN ONE CHARMER CHARMS.</a></h3>
+<br>
+
+<p class="normal">In the parlors, meanwhile, Cecilia formed the center of the group drawn
+up around the fireplace. She could be very amiable when she pleased,
+and her young sister-in-law was perfectly enchanted by her, while Eric
+who, to-day in general, had neither eyes nor ears for any one but his
+betrothed, hardly stirred from her side. Only Egbert Runeck took no
+part in the conversation. He looked out upon the terrace where those
+two gentlemen were engaged in such lively conversation, and then again
+his eyes rested upon the young Baroness; but in doing so his brow
+contracted almost threateningly.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;No, Eric, you need not try to persuade me that there ever is any
+spring here in your fatherland,&quot; exclaimed Cecilia laughing. &quot;On the
+Riviera flowers have been blooming and diffusing sweet odors for months
+past; but since we have crossed the Alps, we have had nothing but
+storms and cold. And now, to crown all, this ride to Odensburg!
+Everywhere wintry wastes, nothing but the melancholy green of these
+everlasting fir-forests, besides mist and clouds and, for a change,
+sleety rain! Dear me! how I freeze in your cold, gray Germany.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">She shivered, every movement she made, somehow adding charms to her
+naïve beauty, and then turned to the fire:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;In your Germany?&quot; repeated Eric with tender reproach in his tone.
+&quot;But, Cecilia, it is your Germany as well!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Of course it is, but I always have to put myself in mind, before I can
+realize that I am actually a child of this hateful North, where I am
+such a total stranger. I was hardly eight years old, when my father
+died, and two years later I lost my mother also. Then I was carried
+first to relations in Austria, and later to Lausanne, where I went to
+boarding-school. When I grew up, Oscar took me away, and since then we
+have lived mostly in the South. At Rome and Naples, the Riviera and
+Florence, in Switzerland, too, we have been a few times, and once in
+France. But Germany we have never come near!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Poor Cecilia! so you have never had a home!&quot; cried Maia,
+compassionately.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Cecilia looked at her in great astonishment; such a life of vanity as
+she had led, continually changing both her society and surroundings
+seemed to her the only enviable one.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Home! That was quite a novel idea to her. Her eyes took a hasty survey
+of the parlor where they sat--yes, indeed, it wore an entirely
+different air from the gay and yet commonplace hotel-apartments, in
+which she had been living for years.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Those rich dark tapestries and curtains, that oaken furniture, every
+piece of which had an artistic value--the family portraits on the
+walls, and above all the breath of comfort that pervaded the whole!
+But, on the other hand, all this appeared so somber and dark, in the
+light of this gray, rainy day--as grave as all the people here, with
+the solitary exception of Maia--and the spoilt child of the world
+inwardly shuddered at the thought of her bridegroom's &quot;home.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Do you really and truly spend the largest part of the year here at
+Odensburg?&quot; asked she. &quot;It must be very monotonous. You have such a
+handsome residence in Berlin, as Eric has told me, and you hardly spend
+two months in the winter there. I do not understand it.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;My father think he has no time to move around the world,&quot; said Maia,
+in a wholly unembarrassed manner--&quot;and I have only been a few times to
+the Baths with my aunt and governess. I like it here at Odensburg.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Maia has not been introduced into society yet,&quot; explained Eric. &quot;She
+is to come out next winter, for the first time, for she has completed
+her seventeenth year. Until now little sister has always had to stay up
+in the nursery, even when we had a large reception at home; and as to
+city life, she knows nothing of it whatever.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I went into society when I was sixteen,&quot; remarked Cecilia. &quot;Poor Maia,
+to think of their keeping you waiting so long--it is incomprehensible?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The young girl laughed merrily at being the object of such genuine
+commiseration.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Oh, I do not consider that as such a great misfortune, for then I must
+'behave' myself as Miss Friedberg calls it, must be so dreadfully prim
+and staid, and no longer dance around with Puck--why, Puck! I do
+believe you have gone to sleep in broad daylight! Are you not ashamed?
+Will you wake up, I say!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Therewith she rushed to one corner of the parlor, where Puck, greatly
+discontented at so little attention being paid him to-day, lay on a
+footstool, having yielded himself to the sweetest of slumbers.
+Cecilia's lip curled.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Maia is nothing but a child, sure enough!&quot; said she in an aside to
+Eric. &quot;Well, Oscar, has the rain driven you in?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Yes, indeed,&quot; answered Wildenrod who had just come in. &quot;We have been
+inspecting Odensburg, for the present, only from the terrace, but,
+Eric, your father has promised to introduce me into his realm within
+the next few days.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Certainly, and Cecilia must get acquainted with it too,&quot; chimed in
+Eric. &quot;Then we'll drive out, some day, to Radefeld, too, where the
+Buchberg is being tunneled.&quot; &quot;Egbert,&quot; said he, turning to that young
+man, who had sat by, a silent listener, &quot;you observe that we are
+inviting ourselves to pay you a visit some day.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I am only afraid that our works will not interest Herr von Wildenrod,&quot;
+answered Egbert. &quot;Externally they have very little of interest to show,
+and, as for the rest, we have not come to the tunneling yet.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Wildenrod turned to the young engineer, who had of course been
+presented to him upon his arrival. He knew through Eric that this
+friend of his youth occupied an anomalous position, but his presence
+here upon occasion of this exclusively family-party surprised him none
+the less, and he knew too how to give expression to this surprise.
+Through all the politeness, with which he treated Runeck, there was
+ever clearly transparent in his eyes the question: &quot;What business have
+you here?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;You sketched the plan for these works, did you not, Herr Runeck?&quot; he
+asked. &quot;Eric has spoken to me about it, and I am glad to make the
+acquaintance of so clever an engineer.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The words sounded very obliging, but the &quot;engineer&quot; was emphasized and
+thereby the barrier raised that separated the son of the worker in iron
+from the family of the millionaire, however much they might see fit to
+ignore this at Odensburg. Egbert bowed just as obligingly, while he
+replied:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I have already had the pleasure of making your acquaintance, Herr von
+Wildenrod.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Mine? I do not remember that we ever met before.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;That is comprehensible, for it took place at a large party--three
+years ago in Berlin--at the house of Frau von Sarewski.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The Baron pricked up his ears, and fixed his keen eyes searchingly upon
+the young engineer, but at the same time a mocking smile played about
+his lips.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;And so you saw me there? Really, I would not have expected you to move
+in such circles.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Nor do I, in fact. It was an exceptional case, and I was not there as
+a guest, either. Perhaps you may remember the circumstance if I recall
+the day to your mind--it was the twentieth of September.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The hand which rested on the back of Cecilia's chair trembled slightly,
+and at the same time there flashed from Wildenrod's eyes a glance of
+suspicion, that was threatening as well, but it produced no effect upon
+the perfectly unmoved features of Runeck. It lasted, indeed, only a
+second; then the Baron said carelessly:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;You really expect too much of my memory. I have really been introduced
+to so many people traveling about as much as I have done these last ten
+years, that I no longer distinguish individuals. What circumstance do
+you allude to?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">He spoke with perfect composure, not the slightest change being
+perceptible in his features, although those dark gray eyes of his were
+fastened fixedly upon Runeck, with an expression of threatening
+determination.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;If you have forgotten it, sir, it is hardly worth while to recur to
+it,&quot; said Egbert coolly. &quot;But your features and individuality impressed
+themselves upon me in a manner that I have never forgotten.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Very flattering to me!&quot; Wildenrod bowed haughtily to the young
+engineer, and then turned his back upon him. He proceeded to the other
+end of the parlor, where Maia was tugging at the white coat of her pet,
+that had by no means taken in good part being suddenly disturbed in its
+siesta.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The game was at an end, though, when the Baron came up, and Fräulein
+Maia drew herself up, in a way that said plainly she was ready for
+battle, for she felt the urgent necessity for having an act of oblivion
+cast over her former childish timidity. No opportunity for this had
+been given at dinner because Frau von Ringstedt had absorbed the entire
+attention of the new family connection who was seated beside her: but
+now he was to see that nobody was in the least afraid of him; now she
+was fully determined to let him see that she could hold her own.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Alas! Oscar Wildenrod paid no attention whatever to this warlike mood,
+he began, in all innocence, to tease, first the little dog, and then
+its mistress, and, without any embarrassment whatever, took a place at
+her side.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Then he began to chat of all imaginable things, in a half playful, but
+uncommonly fascinating manner, that was quite new to the young girl. He
+quietly took it for granted that the connection which was so soon to
+exist between their families justified him in approaching her with the
+freedom of a relation, and he gently and naturally asserted this claim,
+and finally set himself seriously to work to gain Puck's friendship,
+and was fully successful in the effort.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">All this was not without its influence upon Maia, who gradually gave up
+standing on the defensive, and became more sociable. She, too, began to
+talk now and tell about all sorts of things. The conversation was in
+full swing, when Wildenrod suddenly asked, quite irrelevantly:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;So, you are no longer afraid of me?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I?&quot; The young lady was disposed to contradict what was said
+indignantly, and yet could not hinder the hot blood from mounting to
+her cheeks.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Yes, you, Fräulein Dernburg! I plainly saw it when we exchanged our
+first greeting--or will you deny what I say?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The blush upon Maia's face grew still deeper. He had only seen too
+clearly, but she was annoyed at this inconvenient sharp-sightedness on
+his part, and thought it very inconsiderate in him thus to take her to
+task.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;You are only making sport of me, Herr von Wildenrod!&quot; said she
+indignantly.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">He smiled, and it was remarkable what an improvement it wrought in his
+face. That dark fold between his eyes seemed to smooth down, all the
+sharp, stern lineaments softened, and his voice, too, sounded strangely
+soft, as he replied:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Do I really look as if I would make sport of you? Can you really
+believe it?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Maia looked up at him. No, those eyes were not mocking, at least not
+now, but again they exerted the same spell over her as they had done
+awhile ago, and she was helpless to resist it--and there again was that
+inexplicably oppressive sensation. No answer occurred to the young
+girl, and she only gently shook her head.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;No?&quot; asked Wildenrod. &quot;Well then, prove to me that the guest who has
+arrived to-day does not inspire you with fear by gratifying me in a
+request--will you?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I must first know what your request is,&quot; said Maia, taken captive, and
+with a vain attempt at resuming her old petulant tone. Wildenrod
+stooped down to her, and his voice sank into a low whisper.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Everybody here calls you Maia, everybody in this circle has the right
+to address you simply by your name, which is the prettiest one in the
+world. Even that Herr Runeck has been granted that privilege--only I am
+left out in the cold. I am not so bold as to claim the same right as
+Cecilia, who uses the sisterly 'thee' when addressing you, but--may I,
+too, call you Maia?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">He had taken her hand, as though accidentally. His request was neither
+so very presumptuous nor so unusual, the elderly man might certainly be
+allowed this freedom in addressing a girl of seventeen, of whose
+brother he was soon to be the brother-in-law--nevertheless, Maia
+delayed her answer, delayed so long, that he asked reproachfully:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Do you refuse me?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Oh, no, certainly not, you are Cecilia's brother, Herr von Wildenrod.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Yes, indeed, and Cecilia's brother has another name, which he would
+also like to hear called by you, Maia,--my name is Oscar.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">No answer followed, but the little hand quivered within his grasp and
+tried to free itself, but in vain, he held it fast.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;You will not?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I--I cannot!&quot; There was an almost agonized repulse in these words.
+Oscar smiled again.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">With a gentle pressure he released her hand. Maia! How strangely he
+pronounced the name, it was a sound that penetrated the young girl with
+a feeling never experienced before, at once sweet and torturing, but
+she breathed deeply, as though relieved, when Eric approached and said
+playfully:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I do believe, Oscar, you are slyly paying court to our little Maia.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;For the present I am only paving my way to the intimacy of future
+relationship,&quot; was the cheerful reply. &quot;Maia has just given me leave to
+give up addressing her formally as Miss Dernburg. You have no
+objection, I hope.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Not the least,&quot; said Eric, laughing. &quot;You will play the part of uncle
+to our little girl, with great dignity, I fancy. Only see to it that
+you treat her with all due deference!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">A singular expression flitted across Oscar's features at this harmless
+conception, but he made no response to it. Maia had not heard this last
+remark, for she had hurried to her father, who had joined the two older
+ladies. With an almost impetuous movement, she cuddled up to him, as
+though she sought shelter in his arms, shelter from some unknown peril,
+that still lay far away in the dim distance, and which, nevertheless,
+cast a shadow athwart the glowing present.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Cecilia still sat by the fireside, and Runeck, too, had not left his
+place--the &quot;stony guest,&quot; as Cecilia had awhile ago styled him in a
+whisper to her betrothed. Egbert's silence had indeed been striking, at
+least to Eric and Maia, Baron Wildenrod thought it natural enough under
+the circumstances. The young man evidently felt out of place in the
+circle, to which he did not belong of right, and the favor evinced him
+by this invitation evidently oppressed more than it gratified him.
+Cecilia fully shared her brother's sentiments on this point, and, like
+him, up to this time, she had only taken very casual notice of the
+young engineer. And yet it had not escaped her that he was observing
+herself; she took this, of course, for admiration, and therefore, in
+the most gracious manner, now opened a conversation with him.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;You were already acquainted with my brother, it seems, Herr Runeck?
+That is a remarkable coincidence.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Hardly, in a large city,&quot; was the quiet reply. &quot;As for the rest it was
+only a very brief interview that we had, of which, as you have heard,
+Herr von Wildenrod thought no more.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I remember myself, he was in Berlin three years ago. He came from
+there to Lausanne, to take me away from school, but, I believe, Oscar
+is not particularly fond of the Capital. You were there quite a long
+while, were you not?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Several years. I studied at Berlin.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Ah, indeed! Well, I shall make acquaintance with it, too, next winter,
+at Eric's side. Society must be brilliant there, especially in the
+height of the season.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Alas! I can give you no information on that point,&quot; said Egbert
+coolly. &quot;I was in Berlin, to study and to work.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;But that does not consume all of one's time?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Oh, yes, noble lady, every bit of one's time.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">This answer sounded very positive, almost uncouth: it thoroughly
+displeased Cecilia, but yet more he displeased her who had given
+utterance to it, and whom she took this opportunity of observing
+closely for the first time. This friend of Eric's youth was--coldly
+considered--anything but attractive in personal appearance. It is true,
+that his tall, commanding figure made a certain impression, but it was
+not at all suited to the parlor. Add to this, those homely, irregular
+features, where everything was stamped with such sharpness and
+hardness, and the stiff, disobliging manner, that did not soften even
+now, when one was exerting herself to draw him into conversation. Why,
+that answer sounded almost as if this Runeck would like to teach a
+lesson to her, Baroness Wildenrod! She remarked, to her astonishment,
+that here was nothing of timidity and conscious inferiority, and now,
+too, she awoke to the fact that it was not admiration which spoke in
+those cold, gray eyes, but rather enmity. But what would have chilled,
+and perhaps dismayed, any one else, was just the thing that attracted
+Cecilia Wildenrod, and so, instead of letting the conversation drop,
+she took it up again.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">She propped her pretty foot against the fender and leaned far back in
+the arm-chair, her attitude being a negligent, but infinitely graceful
+one. The late afternoon hour and the dark rain-clouds out of doors had
+already produced twilight in this part of the parlor, and the fire,
+sometimes flaring up and again dying down, cast its light upon the
+slender form that sat there, draped hi a light silk gown, covered with
+lace, falling upon the roses that she wore on her bosom, and upon the
+beautiful head that was pillowed upon a rich crimson cushion.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Dear me! how shall I accommodate myself to this Odensburg?&quot; said she
+pettishly. &quot;Every third word here is work! They seem, in general, not
+to have another idea. I, frivolous worldling that I am, feel quite
+intimidated by it and know I shall inevitably fall into disgrace with
+my father-in-law-to-be, who is himself a first-class genius of work.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">She spoke with an arrogance that challenged reply. It was the tone that
+had been deemed piquant and fascinating in the sphere of society in
+which she had been accustomed to move. But it made no impression here:
+Runeck seemed to be utterly insensible to it.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Certainly, Herr Dernburg is a model to us all in this respect,&quot;
+answered he. &quot;I certainly do not anticipate seeing you contented at
+Odensburg, Baroness Wildenrod. But surely, Eric must have given you a
+fair picture of it, ere you made up your mind to come here.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I believe that Eric's taste is the same as mine,&quot; remarked Cecilia.
+&quot;He likewise loves the joyous, sunny South, and raves of a villa
+on the shores of the blue Mediterranean, beneath palm-trees and
+laurel-bushes.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Eric was sick and suffered under the severe climate of his native
+land, which, nevertheless, he loves: the South has restored him to
+health. As for the rest, he is rich enough to purchase a place anywhere
+in Italy that he chooses, and to pass there his time for recreation,
+although his regular home must continue to be at Odensburg.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Do you think that so absolutely necessary?&quot; Slight derision was
+perceptible in the tone of her question.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Most assuredly, for he is the only son, and one day must take charge
+of the works. That is a duty which he cannot shirk and of which he as
+well as his future wife must render an account.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Must?&quot; repeated Cecilia. &quot;That seems to be your favorite word, Herr
+Runeck. You use it at every opportunity. I cannot bear that
+uncomfortable word, and I do not believe I shall ever be reconciled to
+it, either.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Egbert seemed to find no special satisfaction in this sort of dialogue,
+his reply having a touch of impatience about it, that was entirely too
+suggestive of faultfinding.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;We shall do better not to dispute over it. We belong to two entirely
+different worlds, and so, naturally, do not understand one another.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Cecilia smiled at having finally moved this man from his imperturbable
+equilibrium, which she interpreted to almost as an insult. She had not
+been accustomed anyone denying her the toll of admiration, or speaking
+of &quot;must,&quot; to her. The fire again blazed up brightly, and while Runeck
+stood aside in the shade, the reflection fell full upon the beautiful
+girl, who still reclined in her chair, in the same attitude as a while
+ago. There was something ensnaring in the flickering play of the
+flames, in the abrupt transition from light to shade; something that
+was akin to the appearance of the girl herself, who now looked up at
+the young engineer with moisture dimming the luster of her dark and
+glowing eyes.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Why, there may be a bridge that can unite these two worlds,&quot; said she
+playfully. &quot;Perhaps we may come to understand each other--or, think you
+that it is not worth the trouble?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;No.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">This &quot;no&quot; had a perfectly frigid sound. Cecilia suddenly straightened
+herself up and darted a look of withering anger upon Egbert.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;You are very--candid, Herr Runeck.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;You misunderstand me, Baroness Wildenrod,&quot; said he calmly. &quot;I meant,
+of course, that it was not worth your while to descend to so inferior a
+world--nothing more.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Baroness Wildenrod bit her lip. He had parried her thrust in masterly
+style, and yet she knew what he had meant, she understood the bitter
+taunt, hidden behind his words. What sort of a man was this, that dared
+thus to confront the betrothed of his best friend, the future daughter
+of the house, in which he had received so many favors? Previously she
+had hardly had a glance to bestow upon this engineer in his subordinate
+station, now a burning sense of hostility seized her--he was to suffer
+for having provoked her!</p>
+
+<p class="normal">She arose with a brisk movement and turned to Eric and her brother, who
+were talking together. Egbert remained where he was, but his eyes
+followed the brother and sister, while he murmured under his breath:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Poor Eric, you have fallen into bad hands!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Night had come and the family had already separated. They wanted their
+guests--who had made rather a fatiguing journey that day--to retire
+early to rest, but this they had not yet done.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">In the boudoir, attached to the suite of company-rooms, were Oscar and
+Cecilia Wildenrod to be found. They were alone. The perfume of the
+flowers with which Maia had given so graceful a welcome to her future
+sister-in-law, still filled the room, but neither of this pair paid any
+heed to it. Cecilia stood in the center of the room, but the smile that
+she had worn and the amiability which she had manifested all day had
+both vanished now. She looked excited, provoked, and her voice had the
+intonation of suppressed passion.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;And so you are not content with me, Oscar? I should think that I had
+done everything possible to be done this day, and still you have fault
+to find with me.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;You were too incautious in your expressions,&quot; criticised Oscar; &quot;much
+too incautious. You hardly took the trouble to conceal your disapproval
+of Odensburg. Take heed, Eric's father, is very sensitive on that
+point, anything like that he does not pardon.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Am I, for whole weeks here to act a farce, and pretend to be
+enthusiastic over this abominable place, that is far more unbearable
+even than I had supposed? One is cut off here and thrust out of the
+world, as it were, buried between mountains and dark forests. Then the
+immediate proximity of those works with their noise and their crowd of
+coarse laborers, but above all these people here! Little Maia is the
+only one endurable. My future father-in-law, though, seems to have a
+very domineering nature, and tyrannizes over his whole household. I
+shudder before his stern countenance. What a look he gave me upon my
+arrival, as though he wanted to look me through and through. And that
+tiresome Frau von Ringstedt with her prim state, and that just as
+stupid pale-looking governess--but, above all, that so-called friend of
+Eric's youth, who said things to me--&quot; she suddenly broke off, and with
+a pettish movement threw her fan upon the table. Wildenrod had quietly
+listened to all this harangue, without making any attempt to soothe
+her, at those last words, however, he grew attentive.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;What things?&quot; he asked quickly and sharply. &quot;What did he say to you?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Oh, not so much in words, but I knew perfectly well what was implied,
+although not expressed. If we had not just met for the first time, I
+should believe that he hated both you and me. There was something so
+inimical in his cold, steel-gray eyes, when he talked to me and they
+had precisely the same expression when he mentioned, to you, your
+having met in Berlin.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Wildenrod gazed upon his sister in surprise, he had never before
+perceived that she was gifted with such keen powers of observation.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;You seem to have been studying him very closely,&quot; he remarked. &quot;As for
+the rest, you have judged quite correctly. This Runeck is extremely
+disagreeable, perhaps even dangerous. We'll be even with him though.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Once for all, I cannot stand such surroundings!&quot; cried Cecilia with
+renewed heat. &quot;You have always told me that Eric would live with me in
+the great world, we have never had any other idea, but here there seems
+to be no talk of any such thing. They regard it as a matter of course
+that we should take up our residence at Odensburg, and have ruthlessly
+made the announcement to me already. Upon my marriage, am I to renounce
+everything that lends life its charm for me, and under the oversight of
+my high-and-mighty father-in-law, learn housekeeping and all the other
+domestic virtues that he seems to rate so high, and for my reward to be
+allowed a daily promenade through his works? For there seems to be no
+talk here of any other pleasure.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;The question is not one of pleasure but necessity,&quot; said Oscar in a
+low sharp tone: &quot;I thought I had made that sufficiently clear to you
+when we accepted the invitation. Already, on the day of your
+engagement, you forced me to give you a hint of the truth, that I would
+have preferred to conceal from you, and since then you have learned all
+without reserve. Our fortune has been all lost, how and when does not
+concern you, but what you have to deal with is the fact. I have
+hitherto managed to maintain ourselves in handsome style, through what
+sacrifices I alone know; but there comes a time when even the last
+resources fail, and to that point we have now arrived. If you cast
+away, through your own folly, the brilliant future that I have opened
+up to you by tying this knot, know that you will no longer have any
+pretension to what you call life: then you must descend to an existence
+of poverty and privation--must I once more recall this to your mind?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">This harsh exhortation had its effect: poverty and privation were two
+things from which Baroness Wildenrod shrank, although she had only a
+misty idea of what they were. Already the bare idea that she might be
+forced to give up the brilliant life that she had hitherto led
+horrified her, and broke down her resistance. She bowed her head and
+was silent, while her brother continued:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I have hitherto treated you, for the most part, as they do spoiled
+children, not deeming it needful to show you the serious phase of life;
+but now I require--do you hear, Cecilia, I <i>require</i>--that you submit
+absolutely to my will, and do as I shall direct. You are not married
+yet, and Dernburg is just the man to break the engagement at the last
+minute, if there should arise in his mind grave doubts as to its
+expediency. You have to cultivate his favor first of all, for Eric is
+altogether passive in his disposition, and will always submit to his
+father's will. It is all-important to be prudent! Be assured of one
+thing--<i>my</i> plans are not to be thwarted through your self-will--you
+know me!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">This was a tone of command, of menace, and Cecilia looked up at her
+brother with shy eyes. It was not the first time, that he had bent her
+under his will, but so earnestly and darkly he had never spoken to her
+before. She heaved an impatient sigh and threw herself into a chair;
+but she did not think of making any further opposition.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The pause of a second ensued, when Oscar stepped up to her, and his
+voice was milder as he said:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;How you do allow yourself to be carried away by your feelings! Other
+girls would give anything in the world to change places with you;
+thousands at this moment, are envying your fate, while you are disposed
+to throw away your good fortune, like a toy that did not please
+you--yours is not a calculating nature.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;But you are!&quot; said Cecilia, in an angry and embittered tone.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I?&quot; Again Wildenrod's face darkened. &quot;I am and have been many a thing
+that my spirit revolted against. He who has battled with the waves of
+life for twelve long years, like myself, knows only one watchword. Stay
+on top, at any price! Thank God, that you have been spared this battle,
+and thank me for landing you safe on shore ere you knew of the perils
+to which you were exposed. You are to enter a highly-respected family,
+your marriage will give you a right to almost countless wealth, and
+your future husband knows no greater happiness than to gratify your
+wishes--I think that is enough.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;And what will you do when I am married?&quot; asked Cecilia, struck by his
+words, that she only half understood.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Commit that to me!&quot; A fleeting smile flashed across Oscar's features.
+&quot;At all events, I do not intend to live on my rich sister's charity,
+for I was not made for such a fate--Now, good-night, child; you will be
+more prudent in future, and never let a hint drop of Odensburg not
+being to your mind. I hope you will need no second lecture.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">He lightly touched her brow with his lips and passed into his own
+chamber that adjoined the boudoir. Out of doors it was already dark,
+and the Manor was wrapt in silence and gloom, only a candle glimmering
+here and there in the rooms of individuals. The wind had lulled, and
+profound quiet reigned in the immediate environs.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">But over yonder at the works there was still astir that mighty
+throbbing life, that rested not fully, even during the night, and if by
+day it was heard only in occasional, far-away sounds, now every noise
+made there was distinctly heard. At times there was a great glare of
+light from the blazing forges, while here and there one of the huge
+chimneys sent up a flashing spark to the starless sky, and there where
+the furnaces lay, the vaporous wreaths of smoke were reddened by the
+glow of the fire. It was a sublime and fascinating spectacle.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Oscar Wildenrod seemed to find it so, too, for he stood long at the
+window and gazed out. The admiration that he had expressed in the
+afternoon had not been assumed. His breast heaved with the deep breath
+he drew, and he said in an undertone:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;To be the lord and master of such a world--to move thousands by a
+single word of power! How that man stood on the threshold of his own
+house when he received us--like a prince and ruler, and such in fact he
+is. Success no longer intoxicates him--me it will intoxicate.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">He drew himself up, proudly, to his full height, but all of a sudden a
+more tender expression rested upon his features, while he continued
+almost inaudibly:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;What a sweet pretty child that Maia is! So pure, so untouched by any
+shadow--and to the hand of that child is attached the other half of
+this power and this wealth.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">He opened the window and leaned far out; restless, ambitious thoughts
+were working in the soul of this man, while he looked down upon the
+vast establishment at his feet. The rash gambler was not satisfied with
+his one lucky stroke, he was making ready for a second which was to be
+his master-stroke. Oscar von Wildenrod was not indeed made to live upon
+the bounty of his sister.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Cecilia, too, had not yet gone to rest, but, nestling among the
+cushions of an arm-chair, still sat motionless in the same spot that
+her brother had left her. She had taken the roses from her bosom and
+was heedlessly pulling them to pieces. They had been a present from
+Eric; he had welcomed her with them upon her arrival. Magnificent, pale
+yellow roses to remind her of their betrothal-day, when she had worn
+these same flowers. The withered leaves showered down upon her gown and
+upon the floor, but the intended bride heeded them not; she gazed into
+space like one lost in dreams. Evidently the visions that haunted
+her were of no friendly nature. Upon her forehead between those
+finely-arched eyebrows, there was again that fold, the significant
+feature which she had in common with her brother, and there, too, were
+his eyes that looked from her countenance--at this minute, it was easy
+to see that the two were of one blood.</p>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<h2>CHAPTER VII.</h2>
+
+<h3><a name="div1_07" href="#div1Ref_07">CECILA VISITS RADEFELD.</a></h3>
+<br>
+
+<p class="normal">The engagement of the young heir of Odensburg to Baroness Wildenrod had
+now indeed been announced and had excited great surprise in
+neighborhood circles, that had always supposed that in this matter,
+too, Dernburg would act as his son's guardian, and have the first word
+to say as to this union, and now Eric had made his own choice, far away
+at the South, without asking either his advice or permission. The
+beauty of the bride-elect, her good old name and her evidently
+brilliant fortune and connections, lent to this choice, it is true, the
+prestige of a thoroughly suitable one. And the father's consent was
+taken as a thing for granted.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">At present, Cecilia had no ground for complaint as to the dreaded
+solitude of Odensburg, for her betrothal made the usually quiet Manor
+the scene of a constant round of social festivities. The engaged couple
+had made the usual visits, and now received return-calls from all the
+neighbors, by far the larger number of whom were the families of the
+large landed proprietors of that district. There were numerous
+invitations, larger and smaller entertainments, of which Cecilia was
+ever the center of attraction. Here, too, homage was paid to her
+wherever she appeared, and happily Eric had not the foible of jealousy.
+So swam Cecilia with full sails, upon the stream of satisfaction; new
+acquaintances and surroundings, new triumphs that hardly allowed her,
+for the moment at least, to miss the life to which she was accustomed.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The appearance of Baron von Wildenrod made the most favorable
+impression on every one. His distinguished appearance and his gifts as
+a brilliant conversationalist in general, won the favor of every one
+that he wanted to win, and here he was treated with double honor, as
+the future relative of the Dernburg family. Already, during the few
+weeks of his sojourn here, he had attained to a prominent position in
+these circles, and well knew how to maintain it.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">At Radefeld the works had been forwarded with all the forces available.
+The men, for the most part, had been accommodated in the adjacent
+village, and the chief engineer had also taken up his quarters there,
+in order to avoid the loss of time in a daily ride to and from
+Odensburg. He usually went there only once or twice a week to give in
+his report to his chief.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Radefeld, indeed, was only a little village in the woods, and a stay
+there was not comfortable in the least. The two confined rooms in which
+Egbert lodged at a peasant's house, were meanly furnished, but the
+young engineer was not a Sybarite. He had taken nothing with him from
+his ordinary residence but his books, his plans, and drawings, and as
+for the rest, contented himself with things as he found them.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Runeck was usually to be found early at his place of business. But
+to-day he had had a visitor from the city. His guest, a man of about
+fifty years, with sharply-cut features and dark eyes, sat in the old
+arm-chair, that here had to take the place of a sofa. The two seemed to
+have had an earnest and interesting conversation.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;As for the rest,&quot; said the stranger, &quot;I should like to ask why you so
+seldom come to town now? You have not been there for weeks, and if one
+wants to have a talk with you, he has to institute a veritable search
+after you.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I have a great deal to do,&quot; answered Egbert, who stood at the window,
+with a rather clouded brow. &quot;You see for yourself how immersed I am in
+work.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Work?&quot; mocked the other. &quot;I should think that <i>our</i> work was more
+important than digging and rooting here in the woods. You contrived the
+plan, so I learn. Will you, perhaps, earn another million for your
+chief to add to the other millions that he already has?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;That is not the question, but whether I shall perform a duty that I
+have undertaken to perform,&quot; was the brief reply. &quot;The execution of
+this plan was properly the upper-engineer's work, and I have to justify
+the confidence that called me to do it, in his stead.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;To chain you fast here at Radefeld, so that you will not be dangerous
+at Odensburg! The old man is not stupid, nobody can accuse him of that,
+he always knows very well what he is about, and you may depend he knows
+a thing or two about your proclivities already.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Be done with your insinuations, Landsfeld,&quot; interposed Egbert
+impatiently, &quot;of course Dernburg knows, from my own lips. He called me
+up for a talk, and I gave him my views without any reserve. I naturally
+expected my dismissal after that--but instead the superintendence of
+the Radefeld water-works was entrusted to me.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Landsfeld started and directed a searching glance at the young
+engineer.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;That is remarkable, to be sure, it does not look like the old man! He
+must either be perfectly infatuated with you, or he has some object to
+subserve. He is capable of anything. As for the rest, your candor was
+very out of place in this case, for now, of course, your movements at
+Odensburg will no longer be free. You have managed very awkwardly,
+young man!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Was I to deny the truth?&quot; asked Egbert with knitted brow.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Why not, if it could serve a good purpose?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Then look out for some one else who is more practiced in lying! I
+regard it as cowardice, to deny one's convictions and one's party, and
+acted accordingly.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;That is to say, you have again followed your own head, and acted in
+utter defiance of orders. Odensburg is your field of labor, you are to
+get the fellows there to affiliate with you, instead of which, here you
+are quietly constructing water-works at Radefeld, at the same time that
+you are being coddled in the so-called Manor-house, and yet you know
+perfectly why we sent you here!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;And you know that I resisted from the very beginning, that finally
+only a direct order from headquarters forced me into line.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Alas! I suppose you confided that to your chief, too?&quot; The question
+came in the sharpest of tones.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;No,&quot; answered Runeck coldly; &quot;he attributed my return to an entirely
+false motive, and I left him in his error. Never again would I have
+gone voluntarily to Odensburg, and I cannot stay here either, my
+position is an untenable one, as I foresaw.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;And nevertheless you will be obliged to remain,&quot; said Landsfeld dryly.
+&quot;This Odensburg is like an impregnable fortress, that defies all
+attacks. The old man has made his people tame, with his schools and
+infirmaries and funds for the poor, they dread to lose the good berths
+they have, and, above all, they have an incurable fear of their
+tyrant--the cowards! However often we applied the lever, nothing was to
+be done, he has made them thoroughly suspicious of our agitators. You
+are a child of a workman, have grown up in their midst, and even now
+have intimate relations with their chief. They will listen to you, and
+follow you too, if it comes to that.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;And to what end?&quot; asked Runeck moodily. &quot;I have often enough explained
+to you that a strike at Odensburg would be perfectly futile. Dernburg
+is not a man to be coerced: I know him--he would rather close his
+works. He is a man after this sort, that he would rather take any loss
+upon himself than to yield, and he is rich enough to resist to the
+uttermost.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Just for that very reason he must be brought down from his throne of
+infallibility! He shall see, that there are men who dare to make head
+against him, puffed up as he is, sitting there on his millions in
+luxury and idleness, while----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;That is not true!&quot; burst forth Egbert passionately, &quot;and you know that
+what you say is a lie! Dernburg works more than you and I. Often enough
+have I been compelled to admire his immense strength and wonderful
+powers of endurance, that actually put to the blush the youngest among
+us. And he seeks recreation only in his family-circle. Once for all,
+I'll not stand having that man slandered in my presence.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Oho, you speak in that tone, do you?&quot; cried Landsfeld, now irritated
+in his turn. &quot;You take sides with him against us? It only shows how
+tame living the life of a lord makes one, if he once gets a taste of
+it.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Take heed, else you might learn that I am anything but tame,&quot; said
+Egbert, more quietly, but in a threatening tone. &quot;I repeat it, I'll
+submit to nothing of the sort, for it has nothing to do with our cause.
+Either you will omit these personal attacks upon Dernburg or----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Or?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I'll never more cross your threshold and shall know how to protect
+mine from things that I <i>will</i> not hear.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Landsfeld shrugged his shoulders, as much as to say that he did not
+care.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;That means, in other words, that you will put me out of doors? Right
+friendly and brotherly, to be sure, but we will not dispute about that.
+It is not our way anyhow to pass many compliments. You are coming to
+our next meeting, are you not?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Yes.&quot; This word sounded harsh and sullen.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Well, I am going to depend upon that. An important matter is to be
+brought up. We expect a few comrades from Berlin, and it is likely you
+will be taken pretty sharply to task, on account of your inactivity up
+to this time.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Until next week then!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">He nodded shortly and went out in front of the house, however, he stood
+still and sent back a look of hatred, while he murmured in an
+undertone:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;If we did not need you, absolutely need you! But it is impossible to
+get along without you at Odensburg. Just wait though, my young man, and
+we'll see if we cannot curb that haughty spirit of yours!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Egbert, being left alone, stood in the middle of the room, with fist
+doubled up and deeply-furrowed brow. It was manifest that a fierce
+battle was being waged in his soul, but suddenly he straightened
+himself up and stamped with his foot, as though he would quell by main
+force the storms that were raging within.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;No, and again no! I have made my choice and will abide by it!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The Radefeld estate, ordinarily a quiet, lonely valley in the midst of
+a forest, now again resounded with the noise of laborers who were hard
+at work. Everywhere there was shoveling, ditching, and blasting; trees
+and shrubs fell beneath the stroke of the ax; the indefatigable host
+having already progressed as far as the foot of the Buchberg, the
+tunneling of which was the enterprise afoot.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Runeck, who had come later than usual, stood upon an eminence and
+thence directed a tremendous blast. In obedience to his order, all the
+workmen had retired from the neighborhood of the mine, which now
+exploded with dull, muffled sounds. The cliff against which the work of
+destruction was aimed, was split in two, one part still standing erect,
+while the other fell with a crash; the earth round about trembled when
+the mighty boulders rolled heavily down.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The group of laborers at the foot of the eminence dispersed: Runeck,
+too, left his place, to examine closely what had been effected, when an
+old inspector stepped forward and announced:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Herr Runeck--the master's family from Odensburg.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Egbert looked up, in expectation of seeing the wagon of Dernburg, who
+frequently came out to inspect the condition of the works, but suddenly
+gave such a violent start that the old man looked up in surprise.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Over at the entrance to the ravine Eric Dernburg and Cecilia Wildenrod
+had halted, on horseback, while the groom had dismounted, and had
+firmly by the bridle their animals, who seemed to have been made unruly
+by the noise of the blasting. The young engineer, meanwhile, had
+quickly recovered from his surprise, and went across to pay his
+respects to his waiting visitors. Eric cordially stretched out his
+hand.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;We have kept our word, Egbert, and come upon you without any warning.
+Will you allow us an insight into your province?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I shall be delighted to be of the least service,&quot; replied Runeck,
+while he bowed to the young lady, who now gracefully and lightly swung
+herself out of the saddle, and in doing so hardly touched the proffered
+hand of her betrothed.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;We stopped at Radefeld and through the open windows cast a glance in
+at your lodgings, Herr Runeck,&quot; said she. &quot;Dear me, what surroundings!
+Do you really intend to spend the whole summer there?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Why not?&quot; asked Egbert composedly. &quot;We engineers are sometimes here,
+sometimes there, and have to accept work wherever it is offered.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;But you have your comfortable home at Odensburg, and a carriage is
+always at your disposal. Why do you not stay there?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Because then I would daily lose three hours in going and coming. I
+have my books and works at Radefeld, and as for the rest I am entirely
+independent of my surroundings.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Yes, you are a Spartan by constitution, physically as well as
+intellectually,&quot; said Eric with a sigh. &quot;I wish that I could do like
+you, but, alas! there is no chance of that. I have gotten too much
+spoiled at the South and must now do penance.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">He drew himself up and shivered; evidently he suffered more from his
+native climate than he himself was willing to confess. He looked pale
+and worn, the ride through the woods seeming to have been an exertion
+to him rather than a pleasure.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">So much the more blooming appeared the young lady by his side. For her
+the brisk, rather long, ride had been only an exhilaration, and she had
+reined her horse in impatiently enough out of respect to Eric. She had
+been accustomed to race at full-speed, having been tutored into this by
+her brother, and she did not understand how any one could be cautious
+and circumspect in riding like Eric. As for the rest, she was beaming
+with cheerfulness and high spirits, even Egbert was treated with
+perfect amiability, not a look, not a word, reminded of that
+disagreement when they first met.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The laborers reverentially greeted the young master and his promised
+bride, whom all eyes followed with admiration. Even here Cecilia's
+beauty celebrated a triumph, only Egbert Runeck seemed perfectly
+insensible to its charms.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">He became their guide through grounds in the act of being laid out,
+taking pains to show his guests whatever was worth seeing, but he
+observed towards the Baroness Wildenrod the same cold reserve as
+before, and turned mostly to Eric; in him, to be sure, he did not have
+a particularly attentive listener. The young heir showed only a faint,
+half-forced sympathy in all these things, with which he should properly
+have felt himself identified.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;It is incredible, the quantity of work that you have all done in these
+few weeks,&quot; said he, finally, with genuine admiration. &quot;That would be
+something for my brother-in-law, who now buries himself all day in the
+Odensburg works and has regularly constituted himself my father's
+assistant. I would never have believed that Oscar had so keen a relish
+for such things.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Runeck did not answer, but his lip curled contemptuously at these last
+words. Eric, who did not observe this, continued in the most
+unembarrassed way:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;One thing more, Egbert, we recently made an excursion into the
+mountains, and some of our party noticed that the great cross on the
+Whitestone had sunk. Father wishes the matter to be carefully looked
+into, so that no accident may happen. Is there any one among your
+people here, who will undertake the dangerous task?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Certainly,&quot; assented Runeck. &quot;It would be very perilous, if that heavy
+cross should one day fall from that high cliff, since the road runs
+along just below. I shall go up and see about it myself in the course
+of the next few days.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Upon the Whitestone?&quot; asked Cecilia, whose attention had been
+awakened. &quot;How is that? They say it is inaccessible.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Assuredly it is for ordinary people,&quot; mocked Eric. &quot;One's name must be
+Egbert Runeck to undertake such a walk on our most dangerous cliff. I
+believe he has been up there already three or four times.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I am practiced in mountain-climbing,&quot; said Egbert composedly. &quot;When a
+boy I used to be familiar with every cliff and mountain of my native
+district, and that is knowledge which is not unlearned. As for the
+rest, the Whitestone is not inaccessible, it only demands a steady
+head, clear eye and the necessary fearlessness, then the way is to be
+forced.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Dear me, do not say that!&quot; cried Eric laughing, but yet with a certain
+unrest. He really feared lest Cecilia might be seized with one of those
+madcap fancies by which she had recently so frightened him. &quot;She was
+wild to go to the top of the Whitestone.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Runeck seemed to think this project something unheard of, he looked
+doubtingly and in surprise upon the young lady, who replied in a
+haughty tone:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Why, yes! I should like just for once to stand on such a dizzy height,
+immediately above that abrupt precipice. It must be a thrillingly sweet
+sensation! Eric was horrified at the bare idea.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Cecilia, you torture me with such jests!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;How do you know that it is a jest? And suppose I act upon it in
+earnest--would you go with me?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I?&quot; The young man looked as if he thought they expected him to jump
+down from the cliff in question. About the lips of his betrothed played
+a half-compassionate, half-contemptuous smile; almost imperceptibly she
+elevated her shoulders.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Compose yourself, pray! I shall not demand such a proof of love--I
+would go alone.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Let me implore you, Cecile, not to think of such a thing!&quot; exclaimed
+Eric, now alarmed in good earnest, but Egbert interrupted him with
+quiet decision.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;You need not disturb yourself on that score. That is no path for the
+dainty feet of a lady to tread. Baroness Wildenrod will hardly make the
+attempt, and, if she should do so, she would give it up again in five
+minutes.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Cecilia tossed her head, and her eyes flashed as she asked in a
+peculiar tone:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Are you so certain of that, Herr Runeck?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Yes, noble lady, for I know the Whitestone.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;But you do not know me!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;May be so.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Cecilia started, the answer seemed to surprise her, but her glance
+strayed to her betrothed, and she laughed scornfully.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Do not look so miserable, Eric! All this is only bantering! I am not
+thinking of the Whitestone and its break-neck cliffs.--How do you
+manage, really, Herr Runeck, when you blow up these colossal masses of
+rock?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Eric breathed more freely after the conversation had taken this new
+turn. He was already accustomed to being put on the rack by various
+whims and wild ideas suggested by his promised bride, that had no
+substantial basis, however, and were never to be taken seriously. Being
+restored to his composure now, he turned to the old inspector, who
+stood close by, expecting, evidently, to be noticed.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Old Mertens had served the father of the present chief, and now
+they had given him to perform the light and lucrative duties of an
+upper-inspector of the Radefeld works. Eric, who had known him from
+childhood, spoke kindly to him, making particular inquiries after his
+family, and afterwards greeted with the same kindliness the other
+workmen within speaking distance. Any stranger seeing him stand thus
+among the people, with stooping gait, delicate, worn features and
+almost timid manner, would never in the world have suspected him of
+being the future lord of Odensburg. There was nothing of the master at
+all about him.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Perhaps Baroness Wildenrod had imbibed this same impression, for her
+delicately-arched eyebrows contracted as though from displeasure, and
+then her glance turned slowly to the young engineer, who stood in front
+of her. Hitherto she had only seen him in company-suit, to-day he wore
+a gray woolen jacket and high-top boots, such as wind and weather asked
+for, but he gained wonderfully by this simple garb. It matched so
+admirably with the bold manliness of his appearance; here on his own
+territory his individuality was most strikingly manifest. The first
+glance showed that here it was his to command, and that he was fully
+equal to the trust reposed in him; the diminutive form of the friend of
+his youth shrank into nothingness at his side.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">He gave the explanation desired, fully and in detail, illustrating what
+he said by showing the mine already laid to that part of the cliff
+which still stood erect, yet in doing this, he turned his whole
+attention to the rocks and had hardly a look to bestow upon his fair
+listener, who now said smilingly:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;We saw the blasting from over yonder, and the explosion was extremely
+effective. You were enthroned yonder on the height like the
+mountain-sprite in his own person--all the others like ministering
+gnomes at your feet--a wave of your hand, and with the sound of muffled
+thunder the cliffs were split and sank in ruins--a genuine glimpse of
+fairyland!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Why, do you know anything of the tales and legends of our mountains?&quot;
+asked Egbert coolly. &quot;I really would not have supposed it.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Only Maia is to be thanked for it. She has introduced me into the
+legends of her native hills, and I verily believe the little thing
+believes them to be solidly true. Maia sometimes is still a real
+child.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">These last words sounded very scornful. The slender young lady
+who stood there, leaning against the wall of rock, in a stylish
+riding-habit of silver-gray, with hat and plumes to match, could not,
+by any means, be accused of being a child. Even here she was the lady
+of fashion and distinction, who was making it her pastime just to see
+for once how the sons of labor lived and delved. And yet she was
+ensnaringly beautiful, despite her pride and self-consciousness;
+radiant and certain of conquest she stood before the man who alone
+seemed to have neither eye nor ear for charms that had never elsewhere
+played her false. Perhaps it was this very insensibility which
+attracted the spoiled girl, who now continued in taunting tone:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;When I beheld that telling picture of which you formed the center, I
+could not help thinking of the old saying about the caper-spurge. That
+is the mysterious magic wand of the mountains, to which every bolt
+yields and every cavern opens. And then the buried treasures of the
+earth shine and beckon to the chosen one, who is to bring them to the
+light.</p>
+<div style="margin-left:25%; margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:12pt; font-size:90%">
+<p class="t4" style="text-indent:-8px">'He takes from night and darkness</p>
+<p class="t5">Their treasures, hidden deep,</p>
+<p class="t4">And he those jewels sparkling</p>
+<p class="t5">And all that gold may keep.'</p>
+</div>
+
+<p class="continue">What think you--has not Maia had an apt scholar?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">She looked at him smilingly as she repeated the verse of that old song
+which told of the all-powerful enchanting rod, but the young engineer's
+manner did not soften, in spite of all her blandness. His face,
+embrowned by exposure to sun and wind, was a shade paler, perhaps, than
+usual, but his voice sounded cool and self-controlled, as he answered:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Our time no longer has need of an enchanter's wand. It has found
+another sort of one for splitting rocks and opening the earth--You see
+it, do you not?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Yes, indeed. I see bald destruction, rubbish and splintered
+quartz--but the treasures stay buried below.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;It is empty and dead below--there are no longer any buried treasures.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The answer had a harsh and joyless sound, and the tone in which it was
+spoken did not soften its asperity.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Perhaps it is only because the magical word has been lost, without
+which the wand remains powerless,&quot; answered Cecilia lightly, without
+observing, apparently, his forbidding manner. &quot;Do you not think so,
+Herr Runeck?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I think, Baroness Wildenrod, that the world of fairies and magicians
+has long been left behind us. We no longer comprehend it, and no longer
+<i>want</i> to comprehend it.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">There was something almost menacing in these apparently insignificant
+words. Cecilia bit her lips, and through the sunny brightness of her
+smile there gleamed a flash of hostility from her eyes, but then she
+laughed gayly.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;How grim that sounds! The poor gnomes and dwarfs have a determined
+enemy, I perceive. Only hear, Eric, how your friend denounces the whole
+legendary world.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Yes, it is not worth while to approach Egbert with such things,&quot; said
+Eric, who just now came up. &quot;He has no opinion of poetry, either,
+that one cannot make by line and plummets, nor needs to draw plans
+for--therefore he regards it as a highly superfluous thing. I have not
+yet forgiven him for the way in which he took the news of my
+engagement--actually, with formal commiseration! And when I indignantly
+hurled at him the reproach that he knew nothing about love, nor cared
+to know it either--would you believe that I got for answer a frigid
+'No.'&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Cecilia fixed her large, dark eyes upon the young engineer, and again
+that demoniacal spark flashed in them as she said smilingly:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;And were you really in earnest, Herr Runeck?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Some seconds elapsed ere he answered. He seemed yet paler than awhile
+ago, but his eye met that look fully and darkly, while he coldly
+replied:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Yes, Baroness Wildenrod.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;There, you hear it for yourself,&quot; cried Eric, half-laughing, half
+vexed. &quot;He is as hard as these rocks.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The young lady tapped lightly with her riding-whip against the pile of
+rocks that lay heaped up in front of her.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Maybe. But rocks, too, can be brought to yield, we see. Take heed,
+Herr Runeck, you have mocked and defied those mysterious powers----they
+will have their revenge!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The words should have sounded playful, and yet there was a perceptible
+breath of defiance in them. Egbert answered not a word, while Eric
+looked in amazement from one to the other.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Of what were you talking?&quot; asked he.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;We were speaking of the caper-spurge, which cleaves rocks asunder, and
+unlocks the hidden treasures of earth.--But I think we had better go
+now, if you approve.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Eric assented, and then turned to Runeck.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;There is to be more blasting, I perceive; wait, though, before you
+apply the match, until we get beyond the region of the ravine. Our
+horses were made very unmanageable by it awhile ago, the groom could
+hardly hold them.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Again that wicked and contemptuous smile played about Cecilia's lips,
+for she had been quick to note awhile ago, that Eric had nervously
+started at the dull sounds of the explosion and had summoned the groom
+to his side. Her horse, too, had become very restive, but she had held
+it firmly in with the bit. Meanwhile she suppressed any remark and only
+said, while Egbert guided her and Eric to the place where the horses
+stood:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Accept our thanks for your friendly guidance and explanation. You will
+be glad to be rid of such disturbing guests.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Runeck bowed low and formally.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Oh, do not speak of it, I pray. Eric is here as proprietor on his own
+estate, there can be no talk of disturbance.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;And yet it would seem so. You were fairly shocked, when you caught
+sight of us in the entrance to the ravine.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I? Have you such sharp eyes, noble lady?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Oh, yes, Eric often teases me about my 'falcon-glance.'&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;In this case, however, your sight deceived you. I was only anxious,
+when I caught sight of you so near--horses are so easily frightened by
+blasting.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The riding-whip struck impatiently against the folds of her silver-gray
+habit. Did that rock resist everything?</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Meanwhile they had reached the spot where their horses were tied.
+Cecilia and Eric mounted. The former nodded slightly an adieu, then
+applied her switch sharply to her beautiful roan, The fiery animal
+reared, and immediately set off at a gallop, so that the other could
+hardly follow him.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">They were still visible for about five minutes, on the forest-road that
+led to Radefeld. Like some apparition flew the slender girlish figure
+on the back of her racing steed, with her habit fluttering and the
+plumes in her hat streaming behind. Once more she was seen at the bend,
+then the forest closed behind her.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Egbert was still standing motionless in his place, looking with fixed
+and burning eyes upon that road through the woods. His lips were firmly
+compressed, and on his features rested a singular expression, as though
+of stifled pain or wrath: finally, he straightened himself up and
+turned to go.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Then he perceived something at his feet, soft and white, as though some
+blossom had blown there.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The foot of the young man seemed suddenly to be rooted to the ground,
+then he slowly stooped and picked it up.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">It was a fine lace handkerchief, delicately perfumed, that appealed to
+Egbert's senses in a bewitchingly flattering manner. Involuntarily his
+fingers clutched the airy fabric tighter and tighter.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Herr Runeck!&quot; said a voice behind him.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Runeck started and turned around. It was old Mertens.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;The men would like to know if they are to go on with the blasting, it
+is all ready.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Certainly, I am coming directly.--Mertens, you are going to Odensburg
+this evening, I suppose?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Yes, Herr Engineer, I want to spend Sunday with my children.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Well, then, take----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Runeck stopped, and the old man looked at him in amazement. It was
+exactly as if the engineer was with difficulty, struggling for breath.
+And yet it lasted only a second, when he continued with a peculiarly
+gruff voice,</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Take this handkerchief with you, and hand it in at the Manor-house.
+Baroness Wildenrod has lost it.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Mertens took the handkerchief held out to him, and stuck it in his
+pocket, while Egbert went back to the workmen, who were only waiting
+for his appearance. He gave the signal, and the magic wand of the new
+times did its duty. The startling explosion took place, and the cliff
+still uninjured, that had stood there so proud and lofty, was split in
+twain. It trembled, tottered, and then fell in ruins at Runeck's feet
+dragging trees and shrubs to destruction with it.</p>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<h2>CHAPTER VIII.</h2>
+
+<h3><a name="div1_08" href="#div1Ref_08">A BOUGH OF APPLE-BLOSSOMS.</a></h3>
+<br>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;As I tell you, Miss Friedberg, the nerves are a mere habit, and one of
+the worst of ones at that. Since the ladies have discovered nerves, we
+doctors have been the most tormented people in the world. It may be a
+right useful invention so far as husbands are concerned, but a hardened
+bachelor like myself has not the least respect for it.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">With these words Dr. Hagenbach closed a rather long harangue which he
+had been giving in Miss Friedberg's chamber. Leonie, who looked pale
+and worn, had called him in professionally, and in reply to his
+questions had only repeated again and again that she was &quot;through and
+through nervous.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I believe. Doctor, you are the only physician who denies the existence
+of nerves,&quot; she said. &quot;I should think science----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;What science calls 'nerves' has my deepest respect&quot;--she was
+interrupted by Hagenbach. &quot;But what ladies give out to be such, in
+their stead, does not exist. Why do you not have yourself treated by
+the city health-officer, who makes a profound bow to each nerve of his
+patients, or by one of my young colleagues here in Odensburg, who also
+advocates the thing, although with a certain timidity. If you give
+yourself into my hands, there is no favor shown, that you know.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Yes, I do know it!&quot; she answered with some feeling. &quot;And now may I ask
+for your prescriptions.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Which, of course, you have no mind to follow. But never mind that,
+I'll use strict vigilance. In the first place, then, the air in your
+room will not do, it is much too damp and heavy. Above all things, let
+us open the window.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I beg pardon,&quot; opposed Leonie with warmth. &quot;A keen north wind is
+blowing, which is more than I can stand.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Wonderful air!&quot; said Hagenbach, as, without paying any heed to her
+objection, he proceeded to the window and threw open both casements.
+&quot;Were you out of doors yesterday?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;No, we had a terrible rain-storm.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Where were your umbrella and waterproof, I allow <i>them</i>
+unquestionably. Follow your pupil's example--down yonder in the park
+Miss Maia sails along quite merrily in the face of the storm, and that
+tiny thing, Puck, sails along with her, although he is almost blown
+away.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Maia is young, a happy child, that knows nothing but laughter and
+sunshine,&quot; said Leonie with a sigh. &quot;She knows nothing yet of sorrow
+and tears, of all the hard and bitter that is imposed upon us by fate.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">As she spoke, her eye involuntarily sought the desk, above which a
+large photograph took the main place on the wall. Some sweet yet
+painful memory must have been linked to that picture, for it was
+decorated by a mourning veil of black crape, and below it was a bowl
+full of sweet violets, that seemed like a sacrificial offering.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">That glance did not escape the doctor's sharp eyes. As though
+accidentally he stepped up to the desk and began to inspect the
+likenesses to be found there, while he dryly remarked:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Every man has his troubles, but they are far better borne with
+good-humor than with wailing and mourning. Ah! there is the picture of
+the little lady--very like! And her brother by her side--remarkable,
+that he does not resemble his father in the least. Whom does that
+photograph represent?&quot; He pointed to the picture draped in mourning.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">This unexpected question seemed to embarrass Leonie, she blushed
+faintly and answered with a somewhat unsteady voice:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;A--a relation.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Your brother, perhaps?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;No, a cousin--quite a distant relation.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Ah, indeed?&quot; drawled Hagenbach.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The remote relation seemed to interest him, he examined very narrowly
+the features of the very pale and lank young man, with sleek hair and
+eyes romantically upturned, and then continued in an indifferent tone:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;That face has a familiar look to me. I must have seen it before
+somewhere.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;You are in error as to that.&quot; Leonie's voice quivered perceptibly. &quot;It
+has been long since he was counted among the living. He has lain in his
+grave for years: the hot deserts of Africa.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Heaven rest his soul!&quot; said the doctor with provoking equanimity. &quot;But
+what took him to Africa and into the desert? Did he go as an explorer
+perhaps?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;No, he died a martyr to a holy cause. He had attached himself to a
+mission to the heathen, and succumbed to the climate.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I can only say he might have done a cleverer thing!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Leonie, who had just carried her handkerchief to her eyes, overcome
+with emotion, stopped, utterly shocked at his lack of feeling:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Doctor!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Yes, I cannot help thinking so. Miss Friedberg. I deem it very
+superfluous, in the first place, to be going away off to Africa to
+convert the black heathen, while so many white heathens, are roving
+around here in Germany, who know nothing of Christianity, although
+they are baptized. If your cousin had preached the Word of God, as a
+well-installed pastor to his own people----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;He was not a minister, but a teacher,&quot; the angry lady managed to put
+in.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Never mind; then, emphatically, he should have taught the dear
+school-boys the fear of God and flogged them into it, too, if needful.
+Classes have little enough of that nowadays.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Leonie's face betrayed the indignation she felt at this mode of
+expression, but reply was spared her, however, for at this moment came
+a timid knock at the door, and immediately afterwards Dagobert entered,
+but was hardly allowed to pay his respects to the lady; his uncle
+calling out to him, in his threatening voice, just as soon as he laid
+eyes on him:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;No English lesson to-day. Miss Friedberg has just declared that she is
+'nervous through and through,' and nerves and grammar do not agree.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The young man must have valued this instruction highly, for he was
+quite shocked at this announcement. But Leonie said most positively:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I beg pardon, stay, dear Dagobert! Our English studies are not to
+suffer from my bad feelings, we shall have our accustomed lesson. I'll
+go for our books.&quot; So saying, she got up and went into the next room.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The doctor, with a vexed look, followed her with his eyes. &quot;I never did
+have such a contrary patient! Always the embodiment of contradiction!
+Hark ye, Dagobert, you are tolerably well-informed--what sort of a man
+is the one hanging yonder?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Hanging? Whore?&quot; asked the horror-stricken Dagobert, while,
+shuddering, he looked across at the trees in the park.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Why, you need not be thinking directly of a rope,&quot; said his uncle. &quot;I
+mean that picture over the desk, with the crazy decoration of crape and
+violets.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;It is a relative of Miss Friedberg, a cousin----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Yes, indeed, quite a remote one! She has told me that, too, but I know
+she must have been engaged to him. Tiresome enough he looks to have
+been. Do you know his name, perhaps?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Miss Friedberg told it to me once--Engelbert.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;So the man was named Engelbert, too!&quot; cried the excited doctor. &quot;The
+name is just as sentimental as that unbearable face. Engelbert and
+Leonie--they match splendidly together! How the two would have sat and
+cooed together like a pair of turtle-doves!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;He is dead, poor man!&quot; remarked Dagobert.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Was not of much account in life,&quot; growled Hagenbach, &quot;and does not
+seem to have had specially good nourishment either, before he hied him
+to the desert. What a wretched woe-begone face it is! I must away now,
+give my compliments to Miss Friedberg. Much satisfaction may you get
+out of your 'nervous' English hour.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">So saying the doctor picked up hat and cane and left. Ill-humoredly he
+descended the stairs, that sentimental &quot;man of the desert&quot; seemed to
+have thoroughly spoiled his temper. Suddenly he stood still.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I have seen that face somewhere else, I stick to that, but strange--it
+looked entirely different!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">With this oracular remark he shook his head with a puzzled look and
+left the house.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The weather out of doors did not indeed look very inviting, being one
+of those cold, stormy spring-days, such as occur so frequently in the
+mountains. It is true the landscape no longer wore the bleak, wintry
+aspect that it had done a few weeks before, the trees having already
+decked themselves in fresh green, while the first flowers were
+blossoming in the meadows and fields, but this blooming and growing
+went forward only slowly, because sunshine was lacking.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Dark masses of cloud chased each other over the face of the sky, the
+rustling tree-tops bent before the wind, but this did not trouble the
+young girl, who, with light step, hurried forward on a narrow path
+through the woods.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Maia knew, to be sure, that her father did not approve of her taking
+such long walks unattended, but in the beginning she had confined her
+stroll to the park-limits, then Puck darted across the meadows and she
+after him, and then he went into the woods only a little distance, but
+it was so beautiful there under the murmuring pines, it enticed her on
+and on into the green solitude. What delight, to be, for once, so
+entirely alone, running races with the barking Puck, as if for a wager!
+Absorbed in this pleasure, Maia forgot entirely about the way back,
+until rather rudely reminded of it.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The dark clouds, which had been already threatening the whole day long,
+seemed finally to determine to fulfill their promise, for it began to
+rain, at first softly, then harder and harder, until there poured such
+torrents from the sky as accompany a regular thunder-storm.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Maia had taken refuge beneath a huge fir-tree, but found protection
+there only for the moment. It did not last long, on account of the
+dripping and trickling from every limb; she stood as though under the
+eaves of a roof, and the heavens grew ever darker. It was no quickly
+passing shower, so there was nothing for it but to run as fast as
+possible to the little lodge, only a quarter of a mile away, that
+offered a secure shelter. No sooner thought than done! The young girl
+rushed along over stick and stone, on the wet mossy soil, between
+dripping trees, finally, across a clearing in the forest, where wind
+and rain assailed her with full force, until, at last, breathless and
+thoroughly drenched, she found herself, with her four-footed companion,
+in a dry spot where they could bid defiance to the storm.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">This lodge belonged to the forestry equipment at Odensburg, but
+was almost a half league from it, in the midst of the woods. In
+winter-time, when deep snow had fallen, they fed the hungry game here
+and also stored food for their cattle.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">It was a small building constructed of boards and the trunks of trees
+joined together, with a water-tight roof and two low windows, now in
+the spring empty and unused, but a welcome place of refuge for the two
+fugitives.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Maia shook herself, so that the drops splashed in all directions. The
+rain had not hurt her waterproof at all, although it poured out of its
+folds, but her pretty hat, which she now took from her head, was so
+much the worse treated. The dainty thing, with its feathers and lace,
+was now nothing but a shapeless mass, and Puck did not look much
+better. His white coat was dripping, and its usually long silky hairs
+were hanging down in wet strands, giving him such a comically
+disconsolate look, that his young mistress laughed aloud.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Only look, Puck! what a thing we have made of it!&quot; said she in mock
+despair. &quot;Why were we not sensible enough to stay in the park! How we
+do look, and how papa will scold! But you are to blame, you were the
+first to run off to the woods. Thank God, that at least we have a dry
+spot to sit in, else both of us would have been washed down to
+Radefeld, and Egbert would have had to fish us out.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">She hurled the utterly spoiled hat upon the low bench that lined the
+wall on one side, seated herself and looked through the little window
+out upon the tempest. The rain was still coming down in torrents, and
+the wind howled around the lodge as though it would like to demolish
+it. Return home at present was not to be thought of. Mala yielded to
+the inevitable, drew the hood of her waterproof over her head, and
+watched Puck, who had stuck his nose through the small opening made by
+the door being left slightly ajar, and discontentedly followed with his
+eyes the falling drops.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Just then there appeared on the verge of the forest a person, who stood
+still for a moment and cast a searching glance around, but then started
+at a running pace over the clearing, straightway to the forest lodge.
+Now it was reached by the stranger, who was evidently likewise a
+fugitive from the storm, with a bold leap he cleared the little lake
+that had already been formed in front of the door, and kicked this open
+so violently, the inquisitive Puck was driven back by the shock. But
+then, with a loud bark, he rushed upon the intruder, who thus presumed
+to contest the sole possession of the house with himself and his
+mistress.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Not so fierce, you little yelper!&quot; cried the stranger, laughing. &quot;Are
+you the lord and master in this enchanted cottage, or is it that little
+gray dryad cowering over yonder on that bench?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">He had stooped down to grasp the little animal, that quickly eluded him
+and took refuge in the corner, whence was now heard a suppressed laugh
+and a thin little voice saying:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;The dryad thanks you for your good opinion.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The stranger pricked up his ears; the answer showed him that it was no
+child of a collier or peasant, as he had at first supposed, who was
+crouched up there in the half-darkness of the ill-lit room. He gave a
+sharper look, but the low-drawn hood allowed nothing farther to be seen
+than a rosy little mouth, a pretty nose, and a pair of large brown
+eyes, that now, in their turn, were surveying the intruder with
+curiosity and astonishment.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">He was a young man of about four-and-twenty years, with a handsome,
+open countenance, brown wavy hair, and bright laughing eyes. The
+weather had treated him ill, for he was without any waterproof: the
+gray traveling suit that he wore was dripping wet, and when he pulled
+off his hat, and waved it in salutation, the water fell from the brim
+in little rivulets on the floor.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Let me implore you,&quot; said he &quot;to grant most graciously to a lost
+traveler who has been caught in the rain, opportunity for a little
+rest. I am really an ordinary mortal, and no water-sprite, as my
+outward appearance would certainly lead you to suppose. May I come
+closer?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Just stay where you are at the door!&quot; sounded from out of the corner.
+&quot;Water-sprites and the little people of the wood cannot bear one
+another you know, I suppose, from the fairy-tales.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Is that so? Well, then, nothing is left for me, but to come forward
+with all my human attributes, such as, name, rank, family, and other
+earthly props. So: Count Eckardstein, lieutenant of infantry, brother
+of the hereditary lord of Eckardstein, to which place I am now on my
+way. At Radefeld I sent my carriage on ahead, in order to take that
+beautiful walk through the Odensburg forests, when lo! these pitiless
+clouds resolved to empty themselves on my devoted head. Thence come my
+watery habiliments, laying me open to so vile a suspicion, but it is
+the only fairy-like thing about me--may I regard myself as sufficiently
+introduced?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I believe so. His native place, then, may be congratulated upon seeing
+Count Victor again, after an absence of six years?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The young Count started, and, despite the prohibition, impulsively drew
+a few steps nearer. &quot;Do you know me?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Dryads are all-knowing.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;But they do not remain invisible after they have once lowered
+themselves to converse with mortals. Am I actually, then, not to be
+permitted to see what is hidden under that gray wrap?&quot; As he uttered
+these last words, he made a new attempt to get a near look at the face
+of that mysterious being, but in vain, for, a rosy little hand that
+suddenly became visible, drew the hood down so low that nothing but the
+tip of a nose could be discerned, and again sounded that low, mocking
+laugh, that rippled like the twittering of larks.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Guess, Count!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Impossible, how can I? I know nobody at Eckardstein or rather at
+Odensburg, for we are still on Odensburg land.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">He paused, as if waiting for an answer, but he only heard repeated
+that:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Guess!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Count Victor perceived that he would not carry his point in this way,
+but the clear laugh and voice betrayed to him the fact that it must be
+a very young girl, who played &quot;hide-and-seek&quot; with him in this way.
+There was a gleam of haughtiness in his eye, as, with a deep bow and
+apparent earnestness he said:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Indeed, I believe I do recognize now the voice and also the figure--I
+have the honor of standing in the presence of the Honorable Miss Corona
+Von Schmettwitz?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">This expedient served his purpose; quick as a wink the dryad suddenly
+darted forth from her dark corner, the hood flew back, and while her
+fair hair, released from confinement, flowed in rich light waves over
+the gray mantle, there appeared also Maia's shapely head and sweet
+innocent face, that, at this moment, indeed, was crimsoned by anger.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Corona von Schmettwitz, indeed! That forty-year-old canoness, with high
+shoulders and grating voice! She to look so, indeed! She to talk that
+way! She cast a withering look upon the Count.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">He could have had no idea that the gray mantle concealed anything so
+lovely, for, motionless, he gazed in blank astonishment upon the young
+girl, whose bright appearance shone like a sunbeam in that gloomy
+environment. At the first instant, he evidently did not recognize her,
+but then a remembrance dawned upon him, and, almost shouting for joy,
+he exclaimed:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Little Maia!--I beg your pardon, Fräulein Dernburg, that was but a
+memento of the days of our childhood!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Maia laughed merrily. &quot;Yes, then I wore short-clothes and long, long
+plaits, by which you always used to hold me fast. But now I am angry,
+Count, very angry--you took me for Corona von Schmettwitz.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;A stratagem of war, for which you must pardon the soldier. By no other
+means could I have learned the truth. Or, do you seriously believe that
+I could mistake you for that lady, whom even as a boy I used to stand
+in such dread of, that I regularly ran away, when she was seen coming
+to Eckardstein?--How, still angry with your brother's former
+playfellow? He has often enough been yours as well.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Yes, indeed, you did often condescend to play with 'little Maia,'&quot;
+pouted she, while she threw back her hair, that was not yet perfectly
+dry. &quot;The name is the only thing that you have retained.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Yes, but I did retain something else,&quot; said the young Count slowly,
+while his eye was riveted upon that lovely little face. &quot;Else I should
+not have immediately recognized you, when the gray mantle fell. At any
+rate, I should have gone to Odensburg within the next few days. Eric is
+at home, as I hear?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Yes, and he is engaged to be married! I suppose you have hardly heard
+of that yet?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Yes, I got an announcement of his betrothal, and must present to him
+my congratulations. I have, in general, so much to ask and hear, having
+become almost an entire stranger at home, and now we just have time--&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;We have no time at all,&quot; cried Maia, with a glance at the still
+half-open door. &quot;Only see how it has cleared, and the rain has ceased.
+I believe the storm is over.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Count Victor stepped to the door and examined the clouds, but with an
+air that betrayed great disappointment. He had complained awhile ago of
+the pitiless shower-bath to which he had been exposed, but now he
+seemed to find the clearing up of the weather a greater infliction by
+far.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Yes, the rain has stopped, to be sure, but it will soon begin again,&quot;
+said he hopefully. &quot;At all events, we must wait until the next shower
+is over.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Just to be shut up here for good by the rain?&quot; remarked Maia. &quot;No, I
+mean to take advantage of the lull and run to Odensburg as fast as I
+can. Come, Puck, let's run!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Then I'll run with you,&quot; laughed the Count. &quot;So, Puck is the name of
+the little white creature that wanted to deny me the hospitality of the
+lodge. Come here, yelper, and let us make acquaintance.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Puck had scrutinized the stranger in the beginning with very critical
+mien, and, evidently, had not yet made up his mind whether to treat him
+as friend or foe, but now decided favorably. When the young man invited
+him to approach, he trustfully came nearer, and allowed himself to be
+stroked.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Thus the three set out sociably together on the way back. The rain had
+certainly ceased, but the wind raged in full force while they crossed
+the clearing, and after they had gained the shelter of the forest, the
+swaying tree-tops performed a little after-piece that well represented
+a driving rain, while such a dripping and drizzling came from every
+branch! And the somewhat low-lying foot-path had been converted into a
+running brooklet, so that Maia and her escort had to make their way
+sideways over moss and the roots of trees. The forest-stream itself was
+very much swollen, and had inundated the shore on both sides of the
+high bridge. They had to attempt a passage, leaping from rock to rock.
+In doing this Puck lost his balance, slid into the water, and howled
+piteously because he could not swim in the vortex. Maia, who already
+stood upon the bank, uttered also a shriek of anguish at sight of her
+pet's distress, and Count Eckardstein jumped with both feet into the
+water, seized the floundering creature, and brought it to his mistress,
+who bestowed a grateful look upon the gallant rescuer. Finally, in the
+middle of the woods, a wild apple-tree was discovered in full bloom,
+which drew from the young girl a shout of rapture and gave the Count an
+opportunity to display his skill as an athlete. But, alas! he was left
+hanging to a bough from which he had broken a branch, and came to the
+ground again, with a gaping slit in his sleeve.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">It was a course full of adventure. The two young wanderers cheerfully
+breasted the storm, laughed brightly when a gust of wind tore through
+the trees, and sprinkled them freshly and heavily with rain, ever
+good-humoredly they jumped and climbed over stones and stumps and
+prostrate trunks of trees, always the better pleased the more
+impassable proved the woods. There was an endless laughing and talking,
+questioning and answering. All the old memories of childhood and youth
+came trooping back as lively as ever. Gray mist was hovering closely
+over the fir-trees, and dark clouds chased each other across the sky,
+but over these two children of men arched the clear sunshine of youth
+and happiness. What cared they for wind and weather!</p>
+
+<p class="normal">At last the Odensburg park was reached, that almost immediately
+adjoined the wooded mountain. Maia was just going up to the little
+wicket-gate, through which she had gone out of bounds a few hours ago,
+when it was suddenly opened and Oscar von Wildenrod excitedly
+confronted her.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;But, Maia, how could you go out alone in such weather--?&quot; He suddenly
+broke off, and with marked surprise looked up and down her escort, of
+whom he had just caught sight.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Maia, who had again drawn her hood over her head and hung her ruined
+hat on her arm, laughed defiantly. &quot;You thought, did you, that Puck and
+I would have been drowned in that water-spout. No, here we both are,
+safe and sound, and have even found company on the way. I believe you
+gentlemen are not acquainted. Count Victor von Eckardstein--Baron von
+Wildenrod, a connection of my brother Eric.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Wildenrod responded with a certain reserve to the friendly greeting of
+the stranger, who said laughingly:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I am glad to make your acquaintance, Baron, although you find me in
+this soaked condition. I am accustomed to be drier, I assure you, but
+really I was not prepared for an introduction to-day. I only meant to
+escort Fräulein Dernburg to the park-gate and then take my leave.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Will you not stop long enough to see Papa and Eric?&quot; asked Maia.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;No, no, Fräulein Dernburg, I should not like to appear before the
+Dernburg family in such attire as this. But I am coming very soon--if I
+may!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">As he spoke these last words, his eyes sought those of the young girl,
+who coquettishly said: &quot;Are you afraid that I shall forbid it you?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Who knows? Water-sprites and dryads do not agree, I had to hear a
+while ago from your own mouth. Nevertheless, I shall venture it.
+Meanwhile, I beg of you to accept this token of peace from me. You know
+how hardly it has been obtained.&quot; With a slight bow he handed her the
+blossom-laden bough, that he still carried in his hand.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Wildenrod listened silently, but he gazed fixedly upon the pair. The
+tone of familiarity seemed to surprise him in the highest degree, and
+upon the Count's now taking his leave, he only bowed his head with cool
+civility, spoke a few words just as coolly, and then quickly followed
+Maia into the park, letting the wicket gate slam to behind them.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;You seem to be very well acquainted with that gentleman,&quot; he remarked,
+while they struck into the path leading to the house.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Oh, certainly,&quot; answered his companion, without the least
+embarrassment. &quot;Count Victor used to be a playmate of Eric's, when they
+were boys, and he used often enough to let me join in their sports. I
+was very glad to meet him again after the lapse of six years.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Ah, indeed!&quot; said the Baron slowly. He turned around, and with a
+peculiar glance scanned the form of the Count, who was just
+disappearing between the trees, while Maia innocently chatted on:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;If I can only slip into my own room unobserved--Papa will be angry if
+he sees me.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Yes, indeed, he will scold,&quot; said Wildenrod with emphasis, &quot;and I
+should like to do the same. I had gone into the park to look for you
+when that storm burst forth, and I heard from the gardener that you had
+already been for an hour somewhere in the woods. How imprudent! Did you
+not think how uneasy the people at home would be about you?--that I
+would be distressing myself?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The reproachful tone of this question called a bright blush to the
+young girl's face. &quot;Oh, that was altogether uncalled for. Here in
+Odensburg every workman and child knows me.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Never mind, you should never again venture forth so far without
+attendance. You promise me this, do you not, Maia? And as a pledge that
+you will keep your word, I ask this of you.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">As though in sport, he caught at the blooming branch, but Maia looked
+at him, half-shocked and half-indignant.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;My branch? No, why?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Because I ask you for it.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The request sounded like a demand, and this must have awakened Maia's
+pride. With a decided gesture of repulse, she drew back a step.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;No, Herr von Wildenrod. I'll not give up my blossoms.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">A flash of angry surprise shot from the Baron's eyes: he had not
+believed the child capable of such decided opposition to <i>his</i> will,
+and it was precisely this that goaded him into having his way, at any
+price.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Do you attach so great value to it?&quot; he asked, with bitter scorn. &quot;The
+Count seemed to do so too. Perhaps this 'pledge of peace' has some
+secret significance for you both?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;A jest, nothing more! Victor is an old playmate----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;And I am a stranger to you! Is that what you would say, Maia? I
+understand.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">At these words, spoken with intense bitterness, the brown eyes were
+lifted to his in a shocked and pleading manner. &quot;Oh, no, Herr Von
+Wildenrod, I did not mean that--Oh, certainly not.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;No? And yet you speak of 'Victor' and immediately grant him a renewal
+of the former familiar relations. I have been, and still am, nothing to
+you but 'Herr Von Wildenrod.' How often have I begged you to call me by
+my first name, just for once. I have never yet heard it from your
+lips.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Maia gave no reply, there she stood motionless, with glowing cheeks and
+downcast eyes; but still she felt the fervent glance that rested upon
+her.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Is it so hard for you to give me a name, that the future family
+connection has nevertheless the right to claim? Is it really so hard?
+Well, I will be content to forego my claim when others are present, but
+now, that we are alone, I must and shall hear it ... Maia!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The delay of another second, and then it came, softly and tremblingly,
+from her lips: &quot;Oscar!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">A gleam of transporting joy lighted up the man's dark features, and he
+made an impetuous movement, as though he would draw to his heart the
+young girl who stood before him, shy and trembling. But he controlled
+himself; only he seized and clasped firmly her quivering little hand.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;At last! And now that other, the second request.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Herr Von Wildenrod----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;The branch, Maia, which another gave to you, and which I, therefore,
+<i>will</i> not leave in your hands. Please give it to me?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Maia resisted no longer. Powerless beneath the ban of those eyes and
+that voice, she held out to him the blooming bough.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Thanks!&quot; said Oscar softly. It was only a single word, but it had the
+sound of tenderness with difficulty restrained.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Now Miss Friedberg was seen at the open window of the house, which the
+two were now approaching, and, with clasped hands, she expressed her
+horror at seeing her pupil in such a plight.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Maia, for heaven's sake tell me, have you actually been abroad in this
+weather? How you do look! Be quick, take off that wet mantle--you will
+catch your death of cold!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Yes, I should give her the same advice,&quot; said Oscar, smiling. &quot;Quick,
+quick, go in the house!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The girl slipped off with a passing nod. Wildenrod slowly followed her,
+but stood still in the garden-hall, and his brow darkened again as he
+looked at the blossom-laden bough in his hand. For the first time he
+realized that the success of his wooing might be imperiled by delay,
+and yet he knew that he durst not speak as yet. He did not yet stand
+firm enough in the favor of Dernburg, who could hardly be brought to
+give up his darling to a man so much older than herself, without
+further inducement, nor was he as yet sure even of Maia. An unwise word
+here, spoken prematurely, might spoil everything. And just at this
+crisis had to start up most provokingly this Count Eckardstein, who had
+lost not a minute's time in laying claim to his old footing of the
+familiar friend of childish days!</p>
+
+<p class="normal">For a few moments Wildenrod stood lost in dark forebodings, then he
+drew himself up with a jerk, and in his eyes again flamed proud,
+triumphant self-confidence. Good--Maia was not to be won without a
+struggle--he was not the one to shun it. How pusillanimous, to doubt
+gaining the victory over that young coxcomb with his smooth face! Let
+him beware of crossing his path!</p>
+
+<p class="normal">At the window of her own room stood Maia, who had not yet laid off her
+wet mantle, nor was even conscious that she still wore it. She gazed up
+at the cloud-beleaguered sky, with a strange dreamy look upon her face,
+and a slight, happy smile played about her lips.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Forgotten was the meeting in the forest-lodge, banished the form of her
+old playmate--she only saw one thing--those deep, dark eyes, the look
+that had woven such a spell upon her spirit, she only heard that
+subdued voice, thrilling with restrained passion. It was a sweet,
+disturbing dream,--a feeling, of which she did not herself know whether
+it portended woe or bliss.</p>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<h2>CHAPTER IX.</h2>
+
+<h3><a name="div1_09" href="#div1Ref_09">THE CROSS ON THE WHITE STONE.</a></h3>
+<br>
+
+<p class="normal">Spring had fully come. Through storm and cold, through frost and fog,
+it had victoriously fought its way through, and awakened the earth
+everywhere to a new and sunny life.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">A solitary wanderer was vigorously climbing upward through the green
+woods. It was still early in the day: the forest still-rested in deep
+bluish gray shadow, while heavy and moist lay the dew upon the mossy
+ground. Only the voices of individual birds sounded through the
+stillness of morning, and the tree-tops rustled and sighed as they
+bowed before the wind.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Egbert Runeck was on his way to the Whitestone, wanting to keep his
+word and examine the condition of the cross up there himself. Now he
+emerged from the woods, coming out upon a small elevated plateau, while
+just in front of him towered the mighty wall of cliff. Naked and steep
+it reared its crest above the dark fir-trees that fringed its base. The
+whole upper part was wildly cleft and riven, here only a few dwarf
+pines and stunted bushes were rooted in the fissures. From the summit a
+gigantic cross was visible to a great distance, identifying the
+mountain for all beholders.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">That high, solitary peak played a chief part in the legends of the
+region round about. Already its name was linked with the world of
+fairies and elves that once had their mysterious being in these
+mountain-forests, and still survived in the superstitions of the
+people. The Whitestone concealed buried treasures, that, slumbering
+deep within its rock-bound caves, waited for release, and already many
+a one had paid the penalty of death for meddling with its secrets. Only
+the almighty <i>Springwürzel</i><a name="div2Ref_01" href="#div2_01"><sup>[1]</sup></a>
+opens these locked-up depths.</p>
+
+<div style="margin-left:25%; margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:12pt; font-size:90%">
+<p class="t4" style="text-indent:-10px">&quot;He takes from night and darkness</p>
+<p class="t5">Their treasures, hidden deep,</p>
+<p class="t4">And he those jewels sparkling</p>
+<p class="t5">And all that gold may keep.&quot;</p>
+</div>
+
+<p class="normal">How strange! Those words kept ringing in the ears of the man who stood
+on the edge of the mountain-meadow. It was the last stanza of an old
+popular ballad, that he too had been familiar with in childhood, but
+had long since forgotten. For him there were no longer hidden
+treasures, for him the depths were empty and dead, and yet that song
+kept ringing incessantly in his soul, but rather the voice from which
+he had last heard it. He hated at the bottom of his heart that
+beautiful syren who had ensnared by her wiles the friend of his youth,
+and now was to be mistress of Odensburg, but he could not rid himself
+of the entrancing sound of that voice, of the demoniacal charm of those
+eyes, and no labor, no exertion of will-power availed for his
+deliverance.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">He crossed, over the mountain meadow, and, looking up, scrutinized the
+Whitestone. The weight of the winter's snows and the latest storms of
+spring might very well have shaken its foundations, and yet it seemed
+to stand firm and sure. But suddenly Egbert started, his foot seemed
+rooted to the spot, while his gaze clung spell-bound, to the top of the
+peak. Something was stirring up yonder; he saw the outlines of a bright
+form, that were clearly defined--his sharp eye recognized them in spite
+of the distance.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">It had been no mere boast then, no passing whim, the madcap had really
+undertaken the adventure, and, undertaken it alone, as it seemed!
+Egbert's brow contracted, yet, for him to retrace his steps was not to
+be thought of--he, too, had almost certainly been already seen. He
+grasped his staff, then, and slowly began to climb.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The path that from here upward led to the crag certainly required a
+steady head and a fearless heart. It was a sort of hunter's track, that
+wound along close to the steep precipice, and the view of the awful
+depths below was always left open. At times it would vanish entirely,
+and then one would be forced to look out a path for himself, until the
+beaten track after a while again became visible.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The young engineer had lost the imperturbable coolness, with which he
+usually accomplished such a climb, often he stopped, his foot slipped,
+and he had consumed much more time than usual when he finally reached
+the top. There before him stood Cecilia Wildenrod, flooded by the
+bright light of morning, radiant in beauty and overweening pride.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;See there, Herr Runeck, we meet on the summit of the Whitestone! You
+have taken your time for the climb--I came faster!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I know the danger of the way,&quot; answered Egbert, composedly, &quot;and
+therefore do not challenge it.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Danger? I did not think of that! You thought I would not dare to
+follow this path, or, at best give up and go back in five minutes. What
+say you now?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">She gave him a challenging glance,--now, at last, a word of admiration
+must come from those stern lips! But there came only the cool
+counter-question:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Do they know of your expedition at Odensburg, noble lady?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Why, no!&quot; cried the young lady laughing. &quot;Then they would have
+confined me to the house or at least set a guard over my going out and
+coming in. I set off this morning betimes, while they were all asleep,
+slipped away secretly, had the horses hitched up and drove to
+Crownwood. From there the road can hardly be missed, and, you see I
+have found it.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Alone? That was more than incautious! If you had made a false step, if
+you had fallen, no help was at hand and then----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Dear me? Do not you begin to preach at me,&quot; interrupted she
+impatiently. &quot;I shall hear enough of lectures when I get back to
+Odensburg.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I have neither the purpose nor the right to preach to you, Fräulein
+von Wildenrod, that is for Eric to do, if any one.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;And he is the very last from whom I would take it.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;What, not from your future husband?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Just on that very account. I have made up my mind to rule in the
+establishment.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;That would not be hard to do in this case, Eric is of a gentle,
+yielding temper. He will never try to resist you.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Resist?&quot; repeated Cecilia, provoked and amused at the same time. &quot;You
+seem to consider our marriage as on a war-basis--a flattering
+compliment to me.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I beg pardon, if I now inspect the cross,&quot; said Egbert, interrupting
+the Baroness. &quot;I came up here, solely on that account, you know. The
+thing is to hinder the possibility of an accident, the results of which
+might be fatal.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Cecilia bit her lip at this rejection of the confidential tone, which
+she had found good to adopt, and an angry glance was hurled at the man
+who dared to treat her thus.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Cecilia looked silently on as Runeck proceeded to the cross, which
+stood on the extreme verge of the precipice upon the side facing the
+valley, and tested it. He did this thoroughly and scientifically, and
+probably ten minutes elapsed ere he turned around again.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Those gentlemen were mistaken,&quot; said he quietly. &quot;The cross is
+standing perfectly firm and secure, and there is no fear of its
+falling. Perhaps you will have the goodness to report this at
+Odensburg. I shall not get there until day after to-morrow, and I take
+it for granted that you have no idea of making a secret of your
+adventure.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;On the contrary, I am fully purposed to boast freely of it. Do not
+look so astounded, Herr Runeck. You see this lace veil does not exactly
+belong to my tourist's equipment: I have brought it with me on purpose
+to prove that I really have been on the top of the Whitestone. I could
+have no idea that I should meet you here, and did not therefore
+calculate upon having your testimony to the feat.&quot; And so saying
+Cecilia loosened the white veil, that was flung loosely around her
+shoulder and waist, and advanced towards the cross.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;What are you going to do with it?&quot; asked Egbert, looking after her in
+surprise.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I have already told you,--to leave behind, a token, so that they may
+believe at Odensburg, that I actually performed the achievement. My
+veil is to wave from the cross yonder.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;For what? It is rashness, foolhardiness! Come back, please!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">His call sounded commanding, frenzied, but Cecilia paid no heed to it.
+Standing immediately on the verge of the precipice, she flung her veil
+around the cross. It was an agonizing spectacle--one single incautious
+movement, and she would lie crushed at the base.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Fräulein von Wildenrod, come back! I implore you!&quot; The voice of the
+young engineer was muffled and full of emotion. He seemed to suffer the
+agonies of a life-time in that moment.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Cecilia turned around and smiled. &quot;Can you really beg, Herr Runeck? I
+am coming directly, only one more look into that chasm, which has its
+fascination for me.&quot; And, with her arm slung around the cross, she
+actually bent over the abruptly precipitous wall of rock, and looked
+fearlessly down.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Egbert involuntarily took one step forward, his arm quivered, as though
+he would drag her away by force from her dangerous position. He did
+not, however, but every drop of blood seemed to have left his face,
+when she finally left her place and came to him again.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Do you believe now in my fearlessness?&quot; she asked, tauntingly.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;That rash sport was really not necessary to convince me of it,&quot; said
+he harshly, and yet he drew a sigh of relief, when he once more saw the
+foolhardy girl on firm ground. &quot;A misstep on that spot and you would
+have been lost!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">She recklessly shrugged her shoulders. &quot;I never get dizzy, and just
+wanted for once to feel that deliciously thrilling sensation of
+standing up there, close over the precipice. One feels something like a
+demoniacal drawing to the bottom, it is as though one must rush to
+destruction, whether or no. Have you ever felt anything like it?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;No,&quot; said Egbert coldly. &quot;One must have a great deal of--time, to
+indulge themselves in such feelings.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Which you deem objectionable.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Unhealthy, to say the least. He who needs his life for work, knows how
+to prize it, and risks it only at the call of duty.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">This reproof sounded very rude, and if it had come from the lips of any
+other person, Cecilia would probably have turned her back upon the
+&quot;insolent creature,&quot; in silent contempt. Here she said nothing, for a
+minute perhaps, and at the same time scanned the sunburnt countenance
+of the young man, that had not by any means recovered its color as yet.
+Then she smiled again. &quot;Thanks for the lesson. We just do not
+understand one another, Herr Runeck.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I have told you so already--we belong to two different worlds----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;And yet we stand so near together on the narrow space furnished by
+Whitestone's crest,&quot; mocked Cecilia. &quot;As for the rest, I have enjoyed
+this unique pleasure long enough. I must go down now.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Then permit me to attend you! The descent is far more dangerous than
+the ascent, and I could not answer to Erie for letting you go alone.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;To Eric? That indeed!&quot; Her lips curled haughtily at the mention of her
+betrothed; then she cast a look up at the cross, where the loose
+hanging ends of the veil were fluttering in the morning breeze.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;That old weather-beaten cross has never been dressed up so before! I
+present it to the guardian spirits of the Whitestone; may be, out of
+gratitude, they will open their caverns to me and give me a sight of
+their buried treasures.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">With a light laugh she turned to go. Silently Runeck led the way. He
+was right, the greater danger lay in the descent.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">From time to time, at especially critical places, he exhorted her to be
+cautious, with a few words, or by a movement of the arm offered his
+assistance, which, however, was not accepted. His beautiful companion
+walked along over the giddy, steep path, as carelessly as over the
+smoothest of roads. Her light foot carried her over the rubble-stones,
+where Egbert's heavier tread found no good hold, and where there was
+climbing or leaping to do, with the help of her staff, she would swing
+herself from rock to rock. There was a bewitching grace in every moment
+of her slender white form, although, at the same time, that bold rash
+sport with danger that sets foresight at defiance.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">They had already accomplished the greatest part of the way, already the
+bright green of the little mountain meadow was smiling a welcome, when
+Cecilia heedlessly again set her foot upon a loose rubble-stone, but
+this time it gave way, and rolled into the chasm; she lost her balance,
+tottered, stumbled--now the horrible instant of her fall, a loud shriek
+of dismay, then it grew dark before her eyes.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">But the next second she was seized and held. Flinging his stout staff
+from him, Egbert had turned around as quick as lightning, and propping
+himself with gigantic strength against the cliff, he caught up the
+girl's trembling form and convulsively held her tight in his arms.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Cecilia had hardly lost her consciousness for more than a minute,
+almost immediately it was restored to her, and her large, dark eyes
+were shyly lifted up to her deliverer's face, that was bent over her.
+She saw that it was deadly pale, saw the expression of unspeakable
+agony upon his usually cold features, and felt the wild, stormy beating
+of the heart against which her head rested! <i>She</i> was the one who had
+been in peril, but upon <i>his</i> countenance was stamped the agony of
+death!</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Thus they tarried awhile, motionless, when Runeck slowly let his arm
+drop. &quot;Rest upon my shoulder,&quot; said he softly. &quot;Right firmly--look not
+to the right nor left, only upon the path in front of you--I am holding
+you.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">He picked up his staff and then put his right arm about her, so as best
+to give her support. Cecilia passively obeyed; that horrible danger,
+the nature of which she now, for the first time, realized, had broken
+her spirit of opposition; she still trembled in every limb and her head
+swam. Thus they slowly continued the descent. That light, delicate
+figure could hardly have been felt as a burden by so strong a man, and
+yet his breath came quickly and heavily, and a dark flush glowed upon
+his cheek.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Finally, the solid ground was reached, and they stood in the meadow.
+All the way down they had exchanged not a single word, but now Cecilia
+straightened herself up. She was still pale, but she tried to smile as
+she offered her hand to the man who had saved her life.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Herr Runeck--I thank you.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">There was a strange ring in those words, something that told of a
+genuinely warm heart and overflowing gratitude, but Egbert only touched
+lightly the proffered hand, and immediately let it drop again.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I deserve no thanks, lady. I would have done the same service to any
+other whom I had seen in such peril. When you have recovered somewhat
+from your fright, I shall conduct you to Crownwood, where you said you
+had left your carriage and horses. Even that is tolerably far.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Cecilia looked at him in surprise, almost in dismay. Was that the same
+man, who had awhile ago bent over her in such tender solicitude, whose
+whole being had quivered in wild, feverish excitement as he had borne
+rather than led her down the mountain? There stood he before her, with
+stolid features, speaking with the same old calm composure, as though
+the memory of those last fifteen minutes had already been expunged from
+his memory. But they had been, nevertheless--a pair of dark eyes had
+looked into depths hitherto strongly locked up and knew not what it
+concealed.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Do you take me to be so cowardly, that I tremble for hours over a
+danger surmounted?&quot; asked Cecilia softly. &quot;I am only tired from the
+difficulties of the walk and my feet pain me; I must rest for a quarter
+of an hour.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">She let herself down under a tall fir-tree, the moss-covered roots of
+which offered a natural resting-place. She was indeed exhausted and
+over-fatigued, it was easy to see, but her companion had not a word of
+commiseration to spare her. He seemed to have but one wish, and that
+was to give up his office as guide as quickly as possible.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The mountain-meadow, with its sunny green, shone bright in contrast
+with the dark forests. Behind it loomed up the Whitestone, while in
+front an extensive view of the mountains was afforded. The landscape
+had nothing of the bright smiling beauty of the south, nor the
+overpowering grandeur of the Alps, but there rested upon it a peculiar
+charm, dreamy and melancholy as its legendary world.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Deep down lay the valleys, wrapt in bluish shadows, while the heights
+round about were flooded by bright sunshine, and over the valleys and
+hills spread an infinite expanse of green forest, out of which, only
+here and there, a bare wall of rock emerged, or a brook plunged wildly
+downward, splashing and foaming as it went. Mysteriously, as though
+from a far distance, came the soughing of the wind through the trees,
+swelling ever stronger and stronger, and then sinking again, dying away
+like a long-drawn sigh.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">And yet other sounds were borne upon the breeze from the depths below.
+It was a Sunday morning and the churches of all the little villages
+scattered through the woods were calling to the service of God.
+Everywhere bells were ringing, one here sounded clear and full, another
+there low and sweet, mingling, as it died away, with the rustling of
+the trees.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Cecilia had taken off her hat and leaned against the trunk of the tree.
+Egbert stood a few steps apart, but his eyes hung upon her, as though
+riveted there by some wizard's spell. It availed nothing for him to
+forcibly resist; again they returned to feast themselves upon her
+captivating beauty, that graceful form clad in a simple white woolen
+gown, or that shining hair, which to-day was only lightly brushed back,
+and, held by a silver pin, fell loose on her neck. Her appearance was
+quite different from what Egbert had ever seen it before--so much
+lovelier--so much more dangerous!</p>
+
+<p class="normal">For minutes had the silence lasted, when Cecilia looked up and asked in
+a low voice:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;And you are not going to scold me at all?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I? Why should I?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Why, you have good right to be angry with me, since, through my
+folly, your life, too, was exposed to imminent peril. I missed, by a
+hair's-breadth, dragging you down with me into that abyss--I am ashamed
+of myself.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">This was uttered pleadingly, almost timidly--the tone was a strange one
+from that mouth. A dark flush appeared upon Egbert's brow, but his
+voice was as cold and distant as ever.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;You were not aware of the danger, but will not be so rash again.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Will you not accept of my apology, but treat it as you did my thanks?&quot;
+asked Cecilia reproachfully. &quot;You have saved my life at the risk of
+your own--but at this moment you actually look as if you bitterly
+repent of it.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I?&quot; exclaimed Egbert vehemently.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Yes, you! You stand there with an air that seems to say, you must
+defend yourself against an enemy in deadly fray. Against whom, pray?
+Only I am here!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Again there was that roaring and rushing in the woods. It drew on above
+the hills like the waving of invisible giant-wings, and fuller and
+stronger sounded the church-bells from below. The whole air was
+instinct with sound, it seemed to soar on the sunbeams, and to swim and
+to shape themselves into a marvelous song, that at first sounded only
+in single detached chords, and then gradually changed to a melody that
+seemed mysterious but infinitely sweet, and both to shout and to
+lament.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">True, those two up yonder, on that solitary, sunlit mountain-meadow,
+belonged to two different worlds,--it is true that a deep chasm parted
+them in all their thoughts and feelings. But the vain, spoiled child of
+fashionable society, who hitherto had only lived in a whirl of gayety,
+in an eternal chase after pleasure, to whom, heretofore, solitude had
+been synonymous with unbearable <i>ennui</i>--she now listened to that
+sweet, strange dream, like one lost in reverie. And the man, too, to
+whom hard work had never allowed time for meditation and dreams, in
+vain resisted the magical influence. He was wont to stand firm on the
+soil of reality, in the broad daylight, and to look into life with cool
+and penetrating vision--into a life full of toil and strife, full of
+hard, irreconcilable contrasts. He was made for this. What to him were
+the fantastic dreams of the world of the imagination? And yet now they
+held him fast within their toils, and through the midst of it all, with
+captivating sweetness, echoed a human voice:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Against whom are you defending yourself? Only I am here.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Egbert drew his hand across his forehead, as though he would arouse
+himself forcibly from this dreamy state.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I beg your pardon, Baroness Wildenrod,&quot; said he. &quot;I was thinking of
+unpleasantnesses that I had had with my men at Radefeld. One like me,
+who has his work forever on his mind, is but poor company, as you see.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Have I asked to be entertained by you?&quot; asked Cecilia, with slight
+reproof in her accent. &quot;Eric is right, you are as hard as your native
+rocks, rugged and inaccessible as the Whitestone itself. If one
+believes, that at last the magical word has been found, if the deep
+opens for one brief instant, the very next it closes, and a sealed
+surface of cold stone confronts the seeker.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Runeck made no reply. He had not idly dreaded this interview: he knew
+that he had betrayed himself in that moment of deadly peril and agony
+untold!</p>
+
+<p class="normal">And his adversary, who had now learned to know her power, was
+inexorable and wanted to enjoy her triumph at any price. It had
+cost her trouble enough to impose her chains upon this brave, proud
+man,--chains which all others were so glad and willing to wear; now he
+was conquered, and she wanted to see him, too, at her feet.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Eric bitterly laments that he sees so little of you now,&quot; she began
+again. &quot;If you come to Odensburg--and you <i>must</i> come sometimes--you
+confine yourself exclusively to his father's work-room and decline
+every invitation to join the family circle. Your engagements at
+Radefeld furnish you with the pretext for this mode of procedure, but I
+know better what keeps you away.--It is my presence and my brother's.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Mein Fräulein----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Do not attempt to deny it. From the very first minute, I have been
+conscious of the mute hostility that you bear to us, and have often
+enough asked myself why--I have never found an answer to my question.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Then ask Herr von Wildenrod, he will give you that answer.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The tone of his voice should have warned Cecilia, it sounded hollow and
+threatening, but she paid no heed to it.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Something happened to make you dislike one another that time you first
+met, did it not? I have suspected it! But since then years have
+elapsed. Oscar has long forgotten the affair, as you have heard from
+himself. Will you alone be so implacable? And may I not know what
+happened then--will you not tell me, too?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Her voice sounded yet softer and sweeter than before; her large, dark
+eyes were lifted imploringly to the man, who clearly felt how the net
+was being drawn closer and closer about him, how will and power were
+succumbing to the flattering sounds of that voice, as clearly he also
+suspected that the beautiful soulless creature there by his side was
+only playing a contemptible game with him and feeling nothing but the
+triumph of vanity. Then he rallied his forces with a last desperate
+resolve to burst his chains.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Do you speak as commissioned by Herr von Wildenrod, Baroness?&quot; he
+asked, with such terrible bitterness, that the young lady started and
+looked at him in surprise.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;What do you mean?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I mean, that for the Baron much depends upon his learning what I
+really know, and his sister may well seem to him the tool well fitted
+for the purpose.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Cecilia rose to her feet, shocked and excited. Although these words
+were perfectly unintelligible to her, so much she did understand, that
+the matter involved here was something very different from the expected
+conquest. This was not the language of a man upon whose lips hovered a
+declaration of love. Something like hatred and contempt flashed upon
+her from his eyes.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I do not understand you, Herr Runeck,&quot; said she, with rising warmth,
+&quot;but I have a feeling that you insult me and my brother. Now, I <i>will</i>
+know, what happened that time between you two, and you are to tell it
+me!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Should that really be necessary?&quot; asked he, cuttingly. &quot;Herr von
+Wildenrod will have sufficiently instructed you. Well, then, tell him I
+know more of his past, than might be pleasant to him!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Cecilia turned pale; her eyes, too, flashed threateningly, the same
+lurid light burning in them as in the glance of her brother when he was
+provoked.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;What does that mean?&quot; cried she, trembling from excitement. &quot;To whom
+do your words refer? Beware, lest Oscar call you to account!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Her warning came too late, producing not the slightest effect upon
+Egbert, whose nervous system had been subjected to great strain,
+through the silent, torturing conflict, which he had been waging for
+months. He was intensely excited. Had he been the calm and collected
+man of earlier days, he would not have spoken, at least not at this
+hour and this place; he would have spared in Cecilia, the woman. But
+now there fermented within him only that wild desire after revenge upon
+her who had stolen his soul from him, who, syren-like, had chained to
+herself all his thoughts and feelings, and whom he believed that he
+hated, wanted to hate, because he despised her. If he should now
+inflict a deadly insult upon her, if he should open a gulf between them
+that no bridge could span--no word nor look cross--that would bring
+deliverance, break the spell, then an end would be put to it!</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Baron von Wildenrod is to call me to account, is he?&quot; cried he, with
+bitter scorn. &quot;The thing might shape itself differently. I have
+hitherto been silent, had to be silent, for my own conviction, however
+firm it might stand, would go for nothing against Eric's passion and
+his father's sense of justice. They will demand proofs, and I have them
+not at present. But I shall know how to find them, and then my
+forbearance ceases.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Are you out of your senses?&quot; interposed Cecilia, but he continued with
+increasing vehemence.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Eric may possibly bleed to death from the wound that I must inflict
+upon him, but this is a blow that must strike him sooner or later.
+Better that it should happen now, when there is still room for retreat,
+when he is not yet chained to a woman who will risk his love and
+happiness as awhile ago she did her own life, making sport of them as
+she has hitherto done of all who came near to her. You are your
+brother's sister, Baroness Wildenrod, and have doubtless been taught by
+him how cards are shuffled. He and you already feel yourselves to be
+the owners of Odensburg; do not triumph too soon! You do not yet bear
+the name of Dernburg, and ere it comes to that, I shall stake
+everything upon guarding that name and Odensburg from becoming the prey
+of two--adventurers!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The horrible word was out, and Cecilia shrank as though she had been
+struck. Pale as a ghost, incapable of speech, she stared at the man,
+whom she had fancied to be enthralled by her charms, and who now
+suddenly stood unmasked as a pitiless foe. She did not perceive the
+fierce pain, almost amounting to delirium, that raged in his soul and
+carried him away beyond all the bounds of discretion, knew not that
+every one of those words, that he hurled so crushingly at her, bit
+himself with tenfold force; she only felt the deadly insult that he had
+inflicted upon her. Not until he ceased to speak, did she recover from
+that paralyzing shock.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Ah, that is too much--too much! You heap up one slander, one insult
+upon the other. I do not know at what your insinuations point, but I do
+know that they are all lies, shameful lies, that you will have to
+render an account for!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Here was such a glowing outburst of indignation, such stormy revolt
+against unmerited contumely, that it removed any doubt as to the truth
+of her words. Egbert, too, seemed to feel this, for in his dark,
+threatening eyes flashed something like a gleam of hope.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">With an impulsive movement, he drew one step nearer.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;You do not understand me? Actually not? You are not your brother's
+confidante? Answer me!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;No--no!&quot; gasped Cecilia, still quivering from rage, but, against her
+will, constrained by the torturing suspense conveyed in that question.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Egbert looked at her, his glance seemed to penetrate her inmost soul,
+as though he would therein read the truth, then his chest heaved with a
+deep, deep sigh. &quot;No,&quot; said he, dispiritedly, &quot;You know nothing!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">There followed a long, trying pause. The ringing of bells in the valley
+had gradually ceased, only a single one softly sounding from a great
+distance. So much the loader roared the wind, wailing as though it bore
+bad tidings on its mighty wings.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Then I have to beg your pardon,&quot; began Egbert again, his voice having
+a singularly veiled sound. &quot;I do not take back my accusation against
+the Baron. Repeat to him word for word what I said, looking him in the
+eye, as you do so--perhaps you will then no longer rail against me as a
+liar.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">In spite of the subdued tone there was such terrible positiveness in
+these words, that Cecilia quaked. For the first time, a dread fear, a
+secret anguish, took possession of her. This Runeck looked as if he
+were ready to maintain the truth of his words in the face of the whole
+world. Only suppose that he had not spoken falsely--suppose--she cast
+the thought far from her, but nevertheless she turned faint and dizzy.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Leave me!&quot; said she, with quivering lips. &quot;Go!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Egbert's eye rested moodily upon her countenance, then he bowed his
+head.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;You cannot forgive the affront I gave you. I understand that. But,
+believe me, this has also been a trying hour for me--the most trying of
+my life!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">He went, and when Cecilia looked up, he had already disappeared among
+the trees, and she stood alone. High up on the cross of the Whitestone
+her veil was waving and fluttering, about her murmured the woods, and
+the last church-bell died softly away in the distance.</p>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<h2>CHAPTER X.</h2>
+
+<h3><a name="div1_10" href="#div1Ref_10">MAIA'S CHOICE.</a></h3>
+<br>
+
+<p class="normal">On the terrace of the Odensburg manor-house Eberhardt Dernburg and
+Oscar von Wildenrod were walking up and down, engaged in conversation.
+They had become absorbed in a political discussion, that was conducted
+with much animation on the part of the older gentleman, while the
+younger, contrary to his custom, appeared to be silent and abstracted.
+From time to time his glance would be directed to the large grassplot
+where Maia was playing croquet with Count Victor von Eckardstein.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;There will be a hot contest at this session of the Reichstag, as is
+plainly to be foreseen,&quot; Dernburg was just saying. &quot;It is to be called
+together immediately after the elections and I must just make up my
+mind, to sacrifice the greatest part of the winter to my duties as a
+member.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Do you calculate then, positively, upon being re-elected?&quot; asked
+Wildenrod.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Of course I do!&quot; Dernburg looked at him in surprise. &quot;I have been
+representing my electoral district for the past twenty years, and the
+Odensburg votes alone suffice to ensure my election.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I was just going to ask you about that. Are you perfectly sure of
+those votes too? Much has altered in the last three years.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Not with me,&quot; said Dernburg quietly. &quot;My workmen and I have known each
+other for tens of years. I know that insurrectionary influences have
+been at work--insinuations and the like. Trying with all my might I
+have not been able to protect Odensburg from these, and perhaps here
+and there these whisperings may have found individuals who would
+listen; but the mass of my men stand fast by me.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Let us hope so!&quot; A slight doubt was perceptible in the voice of the
+Baron, who, in spite of his short stay, showed himself perfectly <i>au
+fait</i> with the situation of affairs. &quot;The socialists in the region
+round about have been uncommonly active, preaching, agitating, and
+stirring up things generally, and in many an electoral district, the
+candidate who was perfectly sure of an overwhelming majority, awoke to
+unpleasant surprises.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;But here I stand--and I believe myself fully equal to cope with those
+gentlemen,&quot; said Dernburg with the quiet conviction of a man who feels
+that he occupies a position that is unassailable. Wildenrod was about
+to answer, when a joyous laugh rang forth from the play-ground, and
+thither his glance was forthwith directed.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">They presented an attractive picture, those two slender young people
+with their graceful movements, their cheeks glowing from warmth and
+excitement. Each thought to get the better of the other, triumphing
+when the opposing side failed to hit the mark, and between whiles
+chasing and teasing one another with unrestrained glee, like a couple
+of children.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Dernburg's eye had followed the direction taken by his companion's
+glance, and his grave features were lit up by a fleeting smile.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Those frolicksome children! One might certainly excuse my little Maia,
+with her sixteen years, for allowing her spirits to run away with her a
+little too much, but the Lieutenant seems to forget entirely that he is
+no longer a boy.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I am afraid, that Count Eckardstein will never have the earnestness
+that becomes a man,&quot; said Wildenrod coolly. &quot;He has an amiable but a
+very superficial nature.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;There you do him injustice! Victor is a scatterbrain--alas--and has
+many a time caused his parents anxiety by various mad pranks--some of
+which Odensburg could tell of--but he always kept his heart in the
+right place. He is no genius, but open and honorable and intelligent
+enough to make a splendid officer some day.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;So much the better,&quot; remarked the Baron. &quot;For the Count and--for
+Maia.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Dernburg turned around and looked at him in amazement. &quot;What do you
+mean by that?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;For Maia!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;An explanation would hardly seem to be needed. Count Eckardstein shows
+his wishes and designs plainly enough, and I am convinced that it did
+not cost him the least struggle to fall in with his brother's scheme.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;What scheme?&quot; A fold appeared between Dernburg's brows as he put this
+question.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Wildenrod slightly shrugged his shoulders.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Well, it seems that the young Count is something of a spendthrift. You
+admit yourself that he has always been that, and is dependent entirely
+upon his brother, to whom fell the family estate. That a wild young
+officer should incur debts is natural enough, but in this case the
+measure to be tolerated must have been transgressed, at least that was
+the view Count Conrad took of it. It is said that violent scenes were
+enacted between the brothers, and really one cannot blame the elder for
+planning an heroic remedy for his younger brother.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">These words were well calculated: each one struck home, as was
+manifest, although Dernburg asked with apparent composure:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;And, pray, what might that remedy be?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;A rich marriage! It is said that the young Count has come back, by the
+desire or command of his brother, to resume the relations with
+Odensburg, that had been long since dropped, in order to gain an end
+that is easily guessed. Do you wonder that I am so accurately informed
+with regard to this matter? An accident! When we were recently invited
+to Eckardstein, I overheard a conversation between two gentlemen, who,
+indeed, had no idea that I was in the next room, else they would not
+have spoken so freely on private matters. They seem to regard the
+alliance as already an accomplished fact.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Dernburg's brow grew darker and darker during the progress of this
+speech, but his voice had its wonted resonance, when he replied:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Ere such a thing could be 'fact' I would have the last word to say,
+for Maia is hardly anything more than a child yet--certainly much too
+young for any talk about her marriage.--Why, Eric, here you are, but
+with such a despairing look upon your face! Has Cecilia not deigned to
+make her appearance yet?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Eric, who had just now joined them, did indeed look anxious and
+excited. &quot;No, indeed, not yet!&quot; answered he in a worried tone. &quot;I have
+been over to the stables to inquire, but nobody knows where she can
+have driven to. She had the pony-carriage gotten up very early this
+morning while all the rest of us were asleep, and took nobody with her
+but Bertram. I really do not understand it.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;It will turn out to be some caprice on her part,&quot; remarked Oscar.
+&quot;Cecile is simply incalculable in her whims; you will have to get used
+to them, dear brother-in-law.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I think Eric would do better to cure his future wife of this want of
+consideration,&quot; said Dernburg with some asperity. &quot;It would not conduce
+to the happiness of a marriage.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Poor Eric did not look as if he had either the will or the inclination
+to break his betrothed of any habit. Wildenrod, however, quickly and
+soothingly suggested:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Most likely some playful jest is at the bottom of it. I'll lay a wager
+that Cecile intends giving us a surprise by this mysterious
+expedition.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The game on the grass-plot, meanwhile, had gone on its way, now seeming
+to break up in a quarrel, which, however, was carried on by both sides
+good-humoredly, and finally ended in a reconciliation and a peal of
+laughter. Dernburg looked over at the pair anew, but no smile played
+upon his features now, and he called impatiently: &quot;I should think,
+Maia, it was time to stop. Come to me, my child!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Maia obeyed. Coming promptly, still heated as she was from the game,
+and Victor Eckardstein followed close behind her.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I have a request to proffer to you in my brother's name, Herr
+Dernburg,&quot; said he in his open, cordial manner. &quot;Conrad celebrates his
+birthday on Wednesday--there will be only a very limited number of
+guests, there, but the Odensburg family cannot be left out. May we
+count upon the pleasure of your company?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">This request was made in a tone which showed that the acceptance of the
+invitation was taken quite for granted. The answer, however, was very
+cool.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I am sorry, Count Eckardstein, but we are expecting company ourselves
+from town on Wednesday, and shall have to perform the duty of hosts
+ourselves.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Company? who, papa?&quot; asked Maia in surprise, and with some curiosity.
+&quot;I have not heard a word of it.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Then you hear it now. At all events we regret that we cannot accept
+the invitation.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">This declaration was made so positively, that any further discussion
+was precluded. Victor was silent, but the strangely cool tone struck
+him as well as the formal manner in which he was addressed, as Dernburg
+had always been in the habit of calling him by his first name. The
+young man's glance was involuntarily directed towards Wildenrod, as
+though he suspected he had been exerting some malign influence over his
+friend.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Such thoughts, however, are not apt to disturb young people for any
+length of time. Maia, with her merry talk, soon had the ball of
+conversation flying again, although Eric responded only in
+monosyllables and was as absent-minded as possible. He allowed himself,
+however, to be drawn by the other two into the conservatory, where two
+new orchids had just come into bloom.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">On the terrace, silence reigned for a few minutes, then the Baron said
+in a muffled voice: &quot;I should be sorry, if my report of the young count
+had injured him in your eyes, but circumstanced as we now are, I felt
+it to be my duty to speak.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Dernburg nodded approvingly. &quot;Certainly, I thank you for it. As for the
+rest, I am not accustomed to condemn anybody upon the strength of mere
+gossip, but I shall find means to come at the truth in regard to the
+matter.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Do so,&quot; said Wildenrod, with quiet assurance. &quot;But as to Maia's too
+great youth, girls in our society often marry at that age, and if a man
+really engages her affections----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Engages in the pursuit of a rich heiress, forsooth, in order to settle
+up his affairs,&quot; remarked Dernburg with a bitterness which showed that
+the report had had its effect, nevertheless. &quot;I shall guard my child
+against such a fate as that.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;It will not be easy to do, for a suitor must come forward who is free
+and independent, besides being rich enough himself to be exalted above
+the suspicion of interested motives. All others will have their eye
+upon your millions.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">These words were thrown off with a certain premeditation, but Dernburg
+did not observe this.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Not all!&quot; said he, with emphasis. &quot;I know one who's poor and possesses
+nothing but his brains--they count for much, though, and guarantee him
+a future. The path to wealth and independence was pointed out to him,
+all that he had to do was to stretch forth his hand, but in order to do
+this he had to sacrifice principle, and he did not go that way.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Oscar started, an uncomfortable suspicion being aroused in his mind.
+&quot;Of whom are you speaking?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Of Egbert Runeck! Are you so much surprised. I have long since
+perceived that Eric would never be able, alone, to superintend at
+Odensburg, as must, some day, be his place to do--a man of my stamp is
+needed for that, and such an one is Egbert, who has not been brought up
+in my school for naught. But in Berlin, they caught him so fast in
+their Socialistic toils, that I almost despair of ever getting him
+loose.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Have you really tried that, in spite of knowing--?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;In spite of knowing everything--yes, I did, because I am convinced
+that some day his eyes will be opened--if it is only not too late for
+both of us.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Wildenrod's lips were tightly compressed, as though he wanted to force
+back an angry rejoinder, at last he said slowly: &quot;Herr Dernburg, for
+the first time, I do not understand you.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Maybe so, but you can always trust to this, that I shall not be the
+one to throw a firebrand into my Odensburg, with my own hand. If Egbert
+continues obstinate in his present convictions, then all is over
+between me and him. But he will not do so. Free course in life is what
+he needs, he will struggle and strive upward at any price: but also
+build up, create and finally be ruler over that which he has created.
+Such natures bend not lastingly under the yoke of a party that claims
+blind obedience, allowing no scope to individuality, no mighty
+preponderance of the single mind. I am only afraid that he will come to
+his senses after he has thrust his happiness far from him. I offered it
+to him--but he sacrificed it to his mad fancies!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The Baron must already stand very high in his future connection's good
+graces, for him to speak to him thus of things that he had not even
+broached to his son; but Oscar did not seem to be pleasantly affected
+by this proof of confidence. A threatening cloud was upon his brow, and
+a yet more threatening fire flashed from his eyes, as he said with a
+voice almost stifled by passion: &quot;You overestimate your favorite
+greatly. But, never mind--you seem to hint at something--&quot; he broke
+off.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;What then, Herr von Wildenrod?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I would do better not to express it, since it involves a sheer
+impossibility.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Why so?&quot; asked Dernburg irritably.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Because Egbert is the son of a common laborer? His parents are dead,
+but even if they were living----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I am above such prejudices.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Wildenrod was silent, he did not look at the speaker but away over at
+the works. There was a disagreeable look upon his face.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;You are of a different opinion on that point, I see,&quot; began Dernburg
+again. &quot;In you stir the feelings of the aristocrat, to whom such a
+thing appears unheard of. I think differently. I let Eric choose upon
+his own responsibility, but I shall have to stand sponsor for my
+daughter's happiness. My little Maia,&quot;--the voice of the man usually so
+stern had a strangely tender intonation,--&quot;she was given to me late,
+but she is the sunshine of my life. How often have the merry tones of
+her clear young voice and the light of her bright eyes lifted me out of
+despondency. She is not to be the prey of the fortune-hunter. She shall
+be beloved and happy--and so far I know only one person into whose
+hands I could commit her future without solicitude, for I am convinced
+that he loves her. He is not calculating, he has proved that to me!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">A peculiar pallor lay upon the Baron's face. Was it anger or shame that
+palpitated in his soul at those last words? At all events he was spared
+any answer, for at this moment a servant entered with the announcement
+that the director was in the work-room and wanted to speak with the
+master.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;On Sunday? It must be about something very important!&quot; said Dernburg,
+as he turned to go. &quot;But one thing more, Herr von Wildenrod--do not let
+what we just talked about go any farther than ourselves. Consider it as
+confidential.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">He went into the house, leaving Oscar alone. Now he knew that he was
+unobserved, and his brow resembled a threatening thunder-cloud, as he
+leaned with folded arms on the parapet of the terrace. Here was a
+danger that he had not apprehended, and with which he had never
+calculated upon having to cope, but in contrast with which the looming
+up of Count Eckardstein, that had just now appeared to him so menacing,
+faded away to a mere shadow. Dernburg evidently had settled it in his
+own mind that an attachment existed between his daughter and that
+Runeck, the simpleton, who had sacrificed the high prize offered him to
+a mere chimera,--that so-called conviction. About Wildenrod's lips now
+played a scornful smile of conscious superiority. He knew better to
+whom Maia's love was given, he felt himself equal to the conquest of
+this new adversary also. And there must be no more delay and no more
+pausing to reflect, the thing was to act! Oscar drew himself up with a
+determined air, it was not the first time in his life, that he had
+played <i>va banque</i>, and here the stake was happiness and a future that
+promised him everything.</p>
+<br>
+
+<p class="normal">At the end of the extended grounds of Odensburg, where they bordered on
+the wooded mountain, lay the &quot;Rose Lake,&quot; a small sheet of water, that
+took its name from the water-roses, with which its surface was covered
+in summer. Now, indeed, none of the white blossoms had opened, only the
+whispering reeds and sedge-grass edged its shores; a huge beech-tree
+stretched its branches over it, with its foliage of fresh and tender
+green, and a dense thicket of blooming shrubbery fenced it in on all
+sides. It was a snug and quiet retreat, made, as it were, for solitary
+dreams.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Upon a bench beneath the beech-tree sat Maia, her hands full of flowers
+that she had plucked on her way, and now wanted to arrange. But this
+task was not accomplished, for by her sat Oscar von Wildenrod, who had
+accidentally sought the same spot, and managed to fascinate her so by
+his conversational powers, that she forgot flowers and everything else
+in her absorption.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">He spoke of his travels at the North and South, there was hardly a land
+in Europe that he was not acquainted with, and he was a masterly
+narrator. His descriptions shaped themselves into pictures, in which
+landscapes, people and events came forth as though living before the
+listener. Maia followed him in his narrative with breathless sympathy,
+it all sounded so strange and unreal to her, whose world had hitherto
+been confined to the family circle.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Oh! what have you not seen and experienced!&quot; cried she admiringly.
+&quot;What an entirely different sphere you moved in before you came to us
+at Odensburg!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Another, but not a better one,&quot; said Wildenrod earnestly. &quot;It has,
+indeed, something blinding and intoxicating--this living in boundless
+freedom, with its perpetual change and fullness of impressions, and it
+blinded me, too, once upon a time, but that has long since past. There
+comes a day when one awakens from his intoxication, when one feels how
+hollow and empty and vain all this is, when one finds himself alone in
+that concourse of men and in that longed-for freedom--quite alone.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;But you have your sister!&quot; Maia put in reproachfully.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;How long, though! In a few months she deserts me to belong to her
+husband, and I have a regular horror of going back to that empty and
+aimless existence. You have no idea, Maia, how I envy your father. He
+stands firmly and surely upon the foundation of his own labor and its
+results; to thousands he gives bread, and the blessings, love and
+admiration of all compass him about, and will follow him to the grave.
+When I sum up the results of my life--what is the remainder?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Perplexed, almost shocked, Maia looked up at him who had uttered these
+bitter words. It was the first time that Wildenrod had adopted such a
+tone in her presence; she knew him as the brilliant man of the world,
+who, even when he approached her confidentially, always maintained the
+character of the elderly man, who conversed half-jocularly with the
+half-grown girl. To-day he spoke very differently, to-day he had let
+her have a glimpse of his inner life, and that overcame her shyness. &quot;I
+have always thought that you were happy in that life, which seems
+lovely as a fairy-dream, when you tell about it,&quot; said she softly.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Happy!&quot; repeated he gloomily. &quot;No, Maia, I have never been so, not for
+a day, nor for an hour.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Yes, but--why did you lead that life so long?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Oscar looked into those clear child-eyes, that looked up at him with
+earnest questioning in their depths, and involuntarily his eyes sought
+the ground.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Why? Yes, why does one live at all? To win that happiness, of which
+they sing to us while we are still in our cradles, and of which we
+think in youth that it lies out in the wide world, in the dim blue
+distance. Restlessly, feverishly, we pursue it, ever thinking to attain
+to it, while it retreats farther and farther from us, until at last
+it fades away like a shadow until finally we give up the restless
+chase--and with it hope.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">In spite of his strong effort to command himself, the disquiet of a
+tortured spirit was but only too transparent in these words, that had
+the ring of perfect sincerity. None knew better than Oscar Wildenrod
+what was that wild chase after happiness, which he had sought all these
+years--by what paths, indeed, he alone knew.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">That woful confession sounded strange in these surroundings, at this
+season of spring, when everything breathed only beauty and peace.
+Bright lay the sunshine upon the mirror of the little lake, over which
+the dragon-flies were hovering dreamily, with their gay-colored,
+scintillating wings. Golden rays stole through the young leaves of the
+beech and played in the tender May-green. Round about bloomed the
+lilac, filling the air with its fragrance, varied by clumps of the
+yellow laburnum, covered with its rich freight of pendant clusters of
+bloom, and the lower shrubbery was strewn over, as it were, with wild
+hedge-roses. There was no end to the blooms, and in the background rose
+a distant chain of blue mountains, gravely taking a look into this
+little sunny paradise.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Wildenrod's chest heaved with his deep and heavy breathing; it seemed
+as though he wanted to inhale the peace and purity of his environment.
+Then he looked upon the young being at his side, upon the innocent,
+rosy countenance, that was so untouched by the slightest breath of that
+life which he had drunk of to its very dregs. But the brown eyes that
+were now fixed upon him were swimming in tears, and a low, quivering
+voice said:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;All that you have just been saying sounds so hard, so desperate. Do
+you really believe no longer in any happiness?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Oh, yes, now I believe in it!&quot; cried Oscar with enthusiasm. &quot;Here at
+Odensburg, I have learned again to hope. It is the old story of the
+jewel that one goes out into the world to look for, in a thousand ways,
+meanwhile it rests hidden in the deep and silent woods, until the happy
+man draws near, who finds it--and perhaps I am such a lucky fellow!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">He had caught the young girl's hand and clasped it firmly in his own.
+With sudden force, Maia recognized in these words, this movement, what
+had hitherto been but a dim, half-understood impression resting in her
+soul; there sprang up within her a sweet sense of joy and yet, at the
+same time, again came that mysterious, uneasy sensation, which she had
+experienced already at their first meeting, the dread of that dark,
+flaming glance, which seemed to magnetize her, as it were. Her hand
+trembled in that of the Baron.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Herr von Wildenrod----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;My name is Oscar!&quot; interposed he beseechingly.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Oscar--leave me!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;No, I will not leave you!&quot; ejaculated he passionately. &quot;I have found
+the jewel, now I will catch it and keep it all my life long. Maia,
+years, tens of years part us, I have no longer youth to offer you, but
+I love you with all the fervent ardor of youth. From the instant when
+you advanced to meet me on the threshold of your father's house, I knew
+that you were my destiny, my all. And you love me too, I know it--let
+me hear it now from your own lips. Speak, Maia, say that you will be
+mine! You have no idea what power this word will exert over me--to
+deliver and to save.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">He had thrown his arm around her, his passionate, glowing words passing
+over the trembling girl like the breath of a burning flame. Her head
+rested upon his bosom, and fixedly she looked up at him. Now she no
+longer shrank from meeting his eyes, she only saw the melting
+tenderness in them, heard only the confession of his love, and that
+bodeful dread was lost in triumphant rapture.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Yes, I do love you, Oscar,&quot; said she softly. &quot;Dearly love you.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;My Maia!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">It rang out like a shout of joy. Oscar folded her in his arms, kissing
+again and again the light hair and rosy lips of his beloved. An
+intoxication of bliss had come over him. The past, with its dark
+shadows, sank into oblivion, and to the man who was already approaching
+the autumn of life sounded joyously the message that every blossom was
+repeating: Spring is here!</p>
+
+<p class="normal">After a while Maia gently extricated herself from his arms, her lovely
+face all aglow.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;But my father, Oscar, will he consent?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Wildenrod smiled. He knew that the difference of age between himself
+and his betrothed would be an objection hard for Dernburg to overcome,
+that his consent would neither be easily nor quickly obtained, but this
+did not frighten him. &quot;Your father desires only to see you beloved and
+happy, I know that from his own mouth,&quot; said he with overflowing
+tenderness. &quot;And my Maia, my sweet, pretty child, you shall be happy
+and beloved!&quot;</p>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<h2>CHAPTER XI.</h2>
+
+<h3><a name="div1_11" href="#div1Ref_11">A SECRET FOE AND OPEN ENEMY.</a></h3>
+<br>
+
+<p class="normal">Dernburg sat in his office at the desk. He had just had a lengthy talk
+with the director of his works and was looking over the papers which he
+had left when the door was again opened. Count Eckardstein entered,
+who, as a guest of the house, needed no special announcement.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I just saw the director leave,&quot; said he. &quot;May I disturb you for a few
+minutes? I only come, preparatory to bidding adieu.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Why, you will not be at dinner, as usual?&quot; asked Dernburg, somewhat
+surprised.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I thank you, I must return to Eckardstein.--Must I really have to
+report to my brother that you decline his invitation? We had depended
+so confidently upon your presence and that of your family.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I am sorry. You have already heard that we have invited company to
+dinner, ourselves, for the day named.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">This refusal of the invitation sounded just as positive as chilling,
+and so the young Count could but feel it to be. He impulsively drew a
+few steps nearer, and asked in a whisper:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Herr Dernburg--what have you against me?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I? Nothing! What put such an idea into your mind, Sir Count?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Your very address proves it to me. This morning you called me Victor
+and treated me with your wonted kindness. Have I, then, become a
+stranger to you in the course of a few months? I am afraid that another
+influence has been brought to bear upon you, that I can guess.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Dernburg frowned, the hint at Wildenrod, which was only too
+intelligible, wounded him, but he was accustomed to go about things in
+a direct manner. Why seek to find out what he wanted to know by
+indirect methods. He looked at the handsome, open countenance of the
+young man, then he said slowly:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I do not allow myself to be influenced, and it is not my way to
+condemn any one unheard, least of all you, Victor, whom I have known
+from the days of your earliest boyhood. Now that you introduce the
+subject yourself, it may as well be discussed between us. Will you
+answer me a few questions?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;With pleasure, proceed.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;You stayed away from home a long while, and did not set foot on
+Eckardstein soil for years. Why was that?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;It resulted from personal, family relations----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Which you would rather not talk about--I perceive.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;No, Herr Dernburg, I do not care to have concealments with you,&quot; said
+Victor, in a low tone. &quot;My relation to my brother was never an
+especially friendly one, and since the death of our father has grown to
+be positively painful. Conrad is the elder, and heir of the entailed
+property, I am dependent upon him, and cannot maintain my rank as an
+officer without his assistance. He has often enough made me feel his
+unwillingness to do this, and in so insulting a manner, that I prefer
+to keep aloof from him.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">One could see that it was exceedingly trying to the young Count to give
+this explanation, and still he was telling nothing that his hearer did
+not already know. The strained relations existing between the brothers
+was known to the whole neighborhood, but the main fault was attributed
+to the elder. Count Conrad, who, at the time, was still unmarried, and
+the senior of Victor by only a few years, was regarded as haughty and
+unmindful of the rights of others, and his ambition was a fact known to
+all. He was, therefore, anything but popular. Dernburg knew this
+likewise, but made not the slightest allusion to it, only asking:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;And yet you have come now?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;This happened by my brother's express desire.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;He has concocted plans in conjunction with you--I know.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Victor started, and the blood began slowly to mount into his cheeks.
+Dernburg watched him sharply and inquisitively, while he continued:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;You apprehend, without doubt, what I mean. I shall be quite candid
+with you, but shall expect just as candid an answer. It is said that
+you have been summoned by Count Conrad to Eckardstein, in order to turn
+to account your former intimacy at Odensburg.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Victor started at this insulting speech.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Herr Dernburg!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Victor, I ask you, is that so?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The young man cast down his eyes in painful embarrassment.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;You put the question in a way----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;That admits of no evasion. Yes or no, then?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;You seem to take my courtship as an insult,&quot; said Victor, without
+lifting his eyes from the floor. &quot;Is it such a crime, then, to seek the
+renewal of youthful friendship with such thoughts? Well, yes, I came
+here to seek a happiness that in memory took the shape of a bright
+little elf. What is there bad about that? At my age you would probably
+have done the same.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;But not at the behest of another person!&quot; said Dernburg cuttingly.
+&quot;And when I went courting I had a different fortune to offer from what
+you have, Herr Lieutenant.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The young Count was incensed, and with difficulty restrained himself,
+but his voice trembled, when he answered:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;You make poverty very bitter to me.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Such is not my desire, for poverty is no disgrace in my eyes. You only
+share the fate of the younger sons in those families whose whole
+property is entailed upon the oldest. But they say that your brother
+has still more pressing reasons for exhorting you to make a so-called
+good match. I am sorry, Sir Count, to hurt your feelings, but you have
+sought this interview yourself, not I.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;So they have informed you of that, too, and you put the most shameful
+interpretation upon it,&quot; said Victor bitterly. &quot;If I have been
+indiscreet, my brother has already given me good cause to rue it, and I
+repent tenfold at this moment. Well, yes, I did not keep free of debt,
+could not do so with the small means that were at my command. It would
+have been an easy thing for Conrad to release me from my obligations,
+but he did not do it, even putting before me the possibility of being
+obliged to send in my resignation, and then----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Then you acceded to his proposition!&quot; Dernburg's voice had a harsh,
+contemptuous intonation. &quot;I understand that perfectly; but you, on your
+side, will also understand that I am not willing to give my daughter as
+a prize in a financial operation.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The color came and went in the young man's face, but at the last word
+he sprang to his feet with a half-suppressed shriek, and shook his fist
+in the face of the elder man, who looked at him steadily.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;To what end is this, Count Eckardstein? Will you challenge me to a
+duel because I undertake to tell you my view of this matter? A man of
+my years and station does not commit such follies.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Again Victor let his hand drop and stepped back.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Herr Dernburg, you have been a fatherly friend to me for years,
+Odensburg has been a second home for me, and you are the father of
+Maia, whom I----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Whom you love,&quot; said Dernburg, with bitter irony, &quot;you were about to
+say.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Yes, I do love her!&quot; cried Victor, drawing himself up to his full
+height, and his eye met clearly and openly that of the infuriated man.
+&quot;This became clear to me the moment when I met again as a blooming girl
+the child who still lived in my memory. After what you have said
+nothing is left for me but to leave your house, never to enter it
+again; but in bidding farewell, I at least challenge your faith in the
+truth of my feelings for Maia--although she is lost to me.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">There was intense anguish, genuine emotion manifest in these last
+words, which would have convinced anybody else but Dernburg. But that
+grave, earnest man there at the desk had never known the frivolities of
+youth, and hence had no idea how to make allowance for its errors.
+Perhaps, too, he, was convinced at this moment, but he could not pardon
+any one for presuming to court his darling for the sake of her wealth.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I am not authorized to judge of your feelings, Sir Count,&quot; said he,
+with a coldness that forbade any further attempt at reconciliation:
+&quot;and yet I understand perfectly why you should avoid Odensburg after
+this conversation. I am sorry that we must part thus, meanwhile as
+things stand, there is no help for it.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Victor answered not a word, but silently bowed and withdrew. Dernburg
+looked after him moodily.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;He, too!&quot; murmured he half aloud. &quot;The honest, open-hearted fellow,
+who, in earlier days, did not know the meaning of calculation!
+Everything goes to destruction in this wild chase after wealth, that
+they call good fortune!--&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">At the foot of the broad staircase, that led to the upper story, stood
+Wildenrod and Eric, engaged in conversation. The latter had just come
+in from the park, and, meeting with Oscar, poured out his heart to him.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I am afraid Cecilia is seriously unwell,&quot; said he excitedly. &quot;She
+complains of severe headache and looks dreadfully pale, but has
+forbidden me in the most positive manner from having Hagenbach called.
+She protests that a few hours of undisturbed repose will restore her
+quicker than anything else. I saw her only a few minutes after her
+arrival, and have not been able to learn where she has really been, for
+she preserves an obstinate silence on the subject.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Oscar smiled and shrugged his shoulders. &quot;And you, I suppose, are
+beside yourself over it. I told you awhile ago, that you must calculate
+upon the self-will of our spoilt little princess. When Cecile is in a
+bad humor, she stretches herself on the sofa and will have naught to do
+with anybody; happily she does not keep in this mood long, I can tell
+you that for your comfort. Your father, to be sure, is of opinion that
+you must break her of such whims, but you are not the man for this, my
+dear Eric. There is nothing, then, left for you to do, but to possess
+your soul in patience, and already make preliminary studies for the
+pattern husband, which you will undoubtedly make.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Eric looked at him in amazement. &quot;What has come over you, Oscar? Your
+face fairly beams with joy. Has something very pleasant happened to
+you?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Who knows--perhaps!&quot; said Oscar, with a flash of his dark eyes. &quot;And
+therefore I want to take you in hand. You do look desperate. I have
+always had a great deal of influence over my sister, and shall give her
+to understand how unwarrantable a thing it is of her to make you taste
+already the miseries of the married state--properly she has no right to
+do this, until after the wedding is over. You see if she does not
+appear at dinner in as good spirits as ever, and then you, too, I
+trust, will wear a different face--you poor, maltreated lover, who take
+so much to heart the caprices of his ladye-love.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">He laughed with a superior air, and waving back a salutation, he
+mounted the stair. Eric looked at him, shaking his head dubiously. Such
+radiant gayety of mood was not at all natural to Oscar von Wildenrod,
+who was hardly recognizable to-day. What could have happened to him?</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Up in the parlor, the Baron was met by his sister's maid, who informed
+him that her lady had given her strict orders not to allow her to be
+disturbed, under any circumstances--without exception, no one was to be
+admitted. Not even Herr Dernburg.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Pshaw, such orders do not include me, you know, Nannon,&quot; said
+Wildenrod, cutting her speech short, without ceremony. &quot;I want to speak
+to my sister. Open the door!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Nannon courtesied, and obeyed, for she knew very well that the Baron
+was not one to brook contradiction. Without further ceremony, he
+entered his sister's chamber, which was next door.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Cecilia lay upon the sofa, with her face buried in a cushion. She did
+not stir, although she must have heard the opening and shutting of the
+door, but her brother evinced no surprise at this, and quietly drew
+nearer.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Are you once more in an ill-humor, Cecile?&quot; he asked, still in a
+playful tone. &quot;You really do treat Eric in a most unwarrantable manner.
+He has just been pouring his laments into my ears.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Cecilia remained silent and motionless, until Wildenrod finally lost
+patience.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Will you not at least have the goodness to look at me? I should like
+to ask you in general--&quot; he hushed, for his sister suddenly sat bolt
+upright, and he looked into a face so pale and distorted, that he
+almost shrank back in dismay.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I have something to say to you, Oscar,&quot; said she, softly. &quot;To yourself
+alone. Nannon is in the parlor--send her away, that we may be
+undisturbed.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Oscar knitted his brows,--he could not yet believe that anything
+serious was in question; but in his joyous mood, he was more inclined
+than usual to indulge the whim of another. He therefore went into the
+parlor, sent the maid away on a message, and then turned back.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Am I finally to learn what all that signifies?&quot; he asked, impatiently.
+&quot;Where in the world were you, Cecile, and what means this early morning
+trip to the mountains? Dernburg has already noticed it with much
+displeasure! You must know that Odensburg is not the place for such
+escapades.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Cecilia had gotten up, and said not a word in her own defense, but
+breathed out in a whisper:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I have been on the Whitestone.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;On the Whitestone?&quot; exclaimed Oscar. &quot;What foolhardiness! What
+incredible rashness!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Let that be, the question is about something else,&quot; she interrupted
+him vehemently. &quot;I met up there with--with that friend of Eric's youth,
+and he has said things to me,--Oscar, what happened between you two the
+first time that you met?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Nothing!&quot; said the Baron, coldly. &quot;Perhaps I did see him then; it is
+possible; one easily overlooks such people. At all events, I did not
+speak with him, and did not know that he was witness of a painful event
+that took place on that evening.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;What sort of an event was it?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Nothing for your ears, my dear, and therefore I should not like Runeck
+to talk with you on the subject. By the way, tell me exactly what he
+did say.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The question was apparently thrown off indifferently, and yet keen
+suspense was apparent in the dark eyes of the questioner.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;He seemed to take for granted my cognizance of the affair, and passed
+on to make insinuations which I did not rightly understand, but behind
+which looked something horrible.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;How? Did he dare to?&quot; said Oscar, flaring up.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Yes, he did dare to impugn your honor, and treat me as your
+accomplice. He spoke of knowing more about your life than would be
+agreeable to you; he called us adventurers--do you hear? <i>adventurers!</i>
+But you will have your revenge, will give him the answer that he
+deserves, and avenge both yourself and me!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Wildenrod had turned pale. He stood there with darkened brow and
+clinched fists, but he was silent. The passionate outburst of
+indignation, and wrath, that Cecilia had looked and hoped for, did not
+come.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Did he actually say that to you?&quot; he slowly inquired at last.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Word for word! And you--you make no answer?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Wildenrod had recovered his self-possession. He shrugged his shoulders
+with a mocking air of superiority. &quot;What answer am I to make? Would you
+have me take such nonsense seriously?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;He was in sober earnest, and if, as he maintained, proofs are lacking
+up to this time----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Actually?&quot; Oscar laughed, scornfully and triumphantly, while he drew a
+deep, long sigh of relief.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Well, let him search for those proofs; he will not find them!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Cecilia supported herself on the back of the chair by which she stood.
+That sigh of relief had not escaped her, and her eyes were fixed upon
+her brother in deadly anguish.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Have you no other answer, when your honor is assailed? Will you not
+call Runeck to account?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;That is my affair! Leave it to me to get even with that man! What is
+it to you?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;What is it to me, when you and I both receive a deadly insult?&quot; cried
+Cecilia, beside herself. &quot;To call us adventurers, to whom Odensburg is
+to fall a prey. Shall a man dare to say such a thing and go unpunished?
+Oscar, look me in the eye! You shrink from chastising that man. You are
+afraid of him! Alas! alas!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">She broke out into a wild and passionate fit of sobbing. Oscar stepped
+quickly up to her, and his voice fell to a low and angry whisper.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Cecilia, use your reason! You behave like a madwoman. What has come
+over you, anyhow? You have been like a different person since this
+morning.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Yes, since this morning!&quot; repeated she passionately. &quot;Since I awoke,
+and oh! what a bitter awakening! Do not evade me! You told me that our
+fortune was gone, and I was thoughtless enough not once to inquire how
+it came, that, in spite of this, we lived on a grand scale. When was it
+lost? In what way? I <i>will</i> know!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Wildenrod looked at her darkly, that threatening tone in his sister was
+as new to her as her whole behavior; he must henceforth give up
+treating her as a child.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Would you know when our fortune was lost?&quot; asked he roughly. &quot;At the
+time when our house broke with a crash. And our father--laid hands on
+himself.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Our father!&quot; The eyes of the young girl opened wide, and were full of
+horror. &quot;He did not die from--a stroke of apoplexy?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;That was what they told the world, the neighborhood, and you, the
+eight-year old child--I know better. Our estate had long been involved
+in debt, ruin was only a question of time, and when it actually came,
+father seized his pistol--and left us behind--beggars.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">As unsparing as these words sounded, there was an undercurrent of dull
+grief in them, showing that the man still suffered at the recollection,
+after the lapse of twelve years.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Cecilia did not shriek, did not weep, her tears seeming suddenly to be
+stanched. She only asked dispiritedly: &quot;And then?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Then the honor of our name was saved by the personal interposition of
+the king. He bought the estate and satisfied the creditors. Your mother
+obtained a pension from his bounty, and alms of residence in the place
+where she had been mistress, and I--well I went out into the wide
+world, to seek my fortune.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">A momentary silence followed; Cecilia had dropped into a chair, and had
+clasped both hands before her face. Finally Wildenrod resumed: &quot;That
+hits you hard, I well believe, but at the time it hit me yet harder. I
+had no suspicion of how it stood with us, and now to be snatched from
+supposed wealth, from a brilliant station in life, from a grand career,
+in order to be confronted by poverty and misery--you do not know what
+that means. They offered me this and that office, either in the postal
+service or as collector of taxes in some remote province, offered <i>me</i>,
+whose glowing ambition had dreamed of the highest aims, beggarly
+positions, in which body and soul would have been destroyed in the
+tread-mill of a wretched existence. I was not made for that. I cast
+everything behind me and forsook Germany, to at least save appearances,
+and produce the impression that the sale of property and my resignation
+of office had been voluntary.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Cecilia slowly let her hands drop, and straightened herself up. &quot;And
+yet you maintained your position in society? We were regarded as rich
+the three years that I passed with you, and were surrounded by splendor
+and luxury.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Wildenrod had no answer to this timid and reproachful question; he
+avoided meeting his sister's eye.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Let that be, Cecilia!&quot; said he after a while. &quot;It was a fierce,
+desperate struggle to maintain that station which I did not want to
+give up at any price, and many a thing happened in so doing that had
+better not be talked about. But I had no choice. In the struggle for
+existence it is either sink or swim. Never mind!&quot; He took a long
+breath. &quot;Now all that trouble is over, you are Eric's betrothed bride
+and I--have something delightful to communicate to you.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">He did not, however, get the opportunity to make his communication at
+present, for at the door of the parlor a gentle knock was heard, and
+directly afterwards Eric's voice asked:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;May I come in at last?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Eric,&quot; exclaimed Cecilia in dismay. &quot;I cannot see him--not now!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;You must talk with him,&quot; whispered Oscar softly, but dictatorially.
+&quot;Is your behavior to strike him as yet more peculiar? Only for a few
+minutes.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I cannot! Tell him, I am sick, or asleep, or anything you choose!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">She wanted to spring to her feet, but her brother again drew her down
+upon her seat, while he called out in a cheerful tone:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Just come in, Eric! Here am I--being indulged with a half-hour's
+audience, by this gracious lady!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;So I heard from Nannon!&quot; said Eric, in a reproachful tone, as he
+entered, after passing through the parlor. &quot;Is your door to remain
+locked to me, when it is open to Oscar? Dear me, how pale and disturbed
+you look! What happened on that unfortunate expedition? I implore you,
+speak!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">He had seized her hand and looked into her face, with deep solicitude.
+Her little hand trembled in his, but there followed no answer.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;You ought rather to scold her, although I have already done so
+sufficiently myself,&quot; said Wildenrod. &quot;Do you know where she has been
+this morning? Why, on top of the Whitestone!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Lord of heaven!&quot; cried Eric, horrified. &quot;Is that true, Cecile?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Literally true! Of course she was dizzy on the way back, came down
+half dead and is now sick from overexertion and the agony endured. She
+was ashamed to confess to you and the doctor, but you had to learn
+about it.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Cecilia, how could you treat me so?&quot; said the young man reproachfully.
+&quot;Did you not think of my distress, my despair, if anything had happened
+to you? Had I only suspected that it was more than a jest that time
+when you threatened to climb it, in your talk with Egbert and
+me----what is the matter with you?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">At the mention of that name, Cecilia had shuddered; now a couple
+of tears rolled over her cheeks, while she murmured: &quot;Pardon me,
+Eric--pardon me!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Eric had never before seen his beloved weep, nor ever heard her plead
+for pardon. With overflowing tenderness he kissed her hands. &quot;My
+Cecile, my darling girl, I am not scolding you, I only beg of you,
+never, never again to undertake such an adventure. You promise me that,
+do you not? Done! And now----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Now we will indulge her with a little rest. Try to sleep a few hours,
+Cecile; that will soothe your overtaxed nerves. Come, Eric!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The latter followed, evidently very unwillingly, but since Cecilia,
+too, urged him to go with feverish impatience, he submitted. Oscar
+accompanied him as far as the stairs, and then went into his own room.
+Hardly, however, had the sound of the young man's steps died away
+outside, than he returned to his sister, after bolting the parlor door.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;How can you be so wanting in self-control?&quot; said he, in a suppressed
+voice. &quot;A blessed thing it was that I was by your side. Under these
+circumstances, the best thing to do was to make a clean breast of your
+mountain adventure. But the thing now is to ward off another danger.
+Without proof, Runeck will not venture to undertake anything against
+us, and meanwhile things are coming to a pass that must necessitate a
+rupture between him and Dernburg. Until then--well, I have been equal
+to worse emergencies!&quot; These last words once more betrayed all the rash
+self-confidence of the man, who had already often staked everything
+upon the one card and won the game.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Cecilia had risen from her seat; her eyes were fastened upon him, with
+a singular expression in them. &quot;Then we shall be no more at Odensburg,&quot;
+said she. &quot;Do not flare up so, Oscar! I do not want to know what you
+conceal from me; what you said to me was enough. You must arm yourself
+against a danger that threatens you on the part of Runeck--he told the
+truth, then--he can accuse you. But I <i>shall</i> not be an adventuress,
+who has thrust herself in here and who will one day be driven away in
+shame and disgrace--do you hear?--I <i>shall</i> not! Let us begone, no
+matter whither, under some pretext or other--only away from here, at
+any price!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Are you out of your senses?&quot; cried Wildenrod, while he seized her arm,
+as though he had to hinder her from taking to flight that very moment.
+&quot;Away? Whither? Think you that I can again open to you our former mode
+of life? That is past--my sources of revenue are at an end!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I hate to think of those sources of revenue,&quot; cried Cecilia,
+trembling. &quot;I want to work----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Oscar laughed aloud and bitterly. &quot;With those hands, perhaps? Do you
+know, what it is to toil for daily bread? One has to be brought up to
+it--people like us would starve at it.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I cannot stay here, though, now, when my eyes are opened, I cannot! Do
+not try to force me, else I'll tell Eric this very hour, that I do not
+love him, never have loved him; that our engagement has been solely
+your work.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Oscar turned pale. Cecilia had outgrown his power, nothing was to be
+effected here by commands and threats, so he caught at a last
+expedient.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Do so, then,&quot; said he suddenly with a cold, resolute look, &quot;destroy
+yourself and me with you! For, so far as I am concerned the question
+here is 'to be or not to be.' An hour ago I became engaged to Maia.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;To whom?&quot; Cecilia looked at him, as though she did not comprehend his
+words.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;To Maia. She loves me, and all left for me to do now, is to obtain
+Dernburg's consent. If you break with Eric, and tell him the truth,
+then to me, too, Odensburg will be closed forever and then--I follow
+the example of our father.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Oscar!&quot; It was a shriek of horror.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I'll do it, my word upon it! Think you that it has been easy for me to
+lead the life of an adventurer, for me, a Wildenrod? Do you know what I
+suffered before it came to that? How often I sought afterwards to burst
+my bonds and soar upwards? Always in vain! And now at last deliverance
+draws near, salvation through the hand of a sweet child, now, at last,
+I grasp the long-sought, so ardently desired happiness--and at the very
+moment, when I am about to clasp it in my arms, it is again to be torn
+from me! Am I to be thrust back and put under the old ban? That is what
+I cannot endure. Rather the end!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">There was an iron determination upon his features and in his tone; that
+was no empty threat. Cecilia shuddered.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;No,&quot; whispered she, with failing voice. &quot;No, no, anything but that!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Is what I require of you anything so dreadful?&quot; asked Wildenrod, more
+mildly. &quot;You are only to be silent and forget this unhappy hour! I
+wanted to save you from the life into which I had to lead you, ere your
+eyes were opened to its nature, and now I save myself with you. I cast
+behind me the past, and begin a better life. Here at Odensburg a grand
+new field opens before me, and Dernburg is to find in me what his son
+could never be to him. You will be Eric's wife; he loves, idolizes you;
+you can make him happy, and yourself be happy at his side!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">He had stooped over her, and his voice had a tender sound. The eyes of
+his sister were uplifted to him with an expression of infinite woe.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;How am I now to endure Eric's presence with his demonstrations of
+affection? Just now those few minutes put me on the rack. And if I meet
+Runeck again, and have to read in his eyes the same contempt as I did
+early this morning, without being able to feel that he is the slanderer
+of the innocent--contempt from that Runeck!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">This last sentence rang out like a scream. Wildenrod started and fixed
+a strange look upon her.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Do you dread his contempt so much?&quot; asked he, slowly. &quot;Rest easy,
+after that scene he will himself avoid any meeting; independently of
+that, he enters the family circle no more. Leave everything else to me!
+You have only to keep silent and make yourself easy. Promise me that.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Yes,&quot; murmured Cecilia almost inaudibly.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Oscar bent down and touched her forehead with his lips. &quot;I thank you!
+And now I really shall leave you alone, for I see that you can no
+longer stand this conversation.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">He turned to go, but once more paused and gazed intently upon her face.
+&quot;Egbert Runeck is our foe, a deadly foe, who wants to annihilate you
+and me, and if I offer him battle it must be to the knife--do not
+forget that!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Cecilia gave no answer, but her whole body shook as with an ague, when
+the door fell to behind her brother. The truth that he no longer sought
+to conceal from her, had wounded her to the very depths of her soul.
+The gay glittering world of pleasure and fashion with which alone she
+had been familiar up to this time, lay shattered at her feet, the rock
+was riven--what did it hide in its depths?</p>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<h2>CHAPTER XII.</h2>
+
+<h3><a name="div1_12" href="#div1Ref_12">THE GOAL IN SIGHT.</a></h3>
+<br>
+
+<p class="normal">Weeks had elapsed, spring had taken her leave and summer had come in
+the full blaze of her glory. At Odensburg, they had already begun
+preparations for the wedding festivities, which were appointed for the
+last days in August. After the ceremony a grand entertainment was to
+take place, to which the Dernburg family were to invite the whole
+circle of their acquaintance, and immediately afterwards the young
+couple were to set out on their trip to the South.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The officers and operatives belonging to the Dernburg works purposed to
+have their share in the festivities also. They wished to do honor to
+their chief upon occasion of the marriage of his son and heir. The
+director and Doctor Hagenbach were at the head of a committee, who
+planned a grand festal parade, and all had gone into the affair with
+spirit.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">But in spite of these joyful preparations, there rested, as it were, a
+cloud over the Manor-house and the Dernburg family. The chief himself
+was out of sorts on account of various annoyances, public and private;
+the approaching elections to the Reichstag were beginning to attract
+sympathy even at his Odensburg, and he knew, only too well, that his
+men were being tampered with. Openly, this was not done, most assuredly
+he held the reins too firmly in his hand for this, but he was not able
+to steer clear of the secret, and on that very account dangerous,
+activity, with which the Socialistic party encroached step by step upon
+his works, that had hitherto been kept so clear of any such tendencies.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Moreover, Eric's health was again causing him grave anxiety; he had
+been obliged almost entirely to renounce the hope of introducing his
+son (as he had hoped and desired) to his future calling. The young man
+was perpetually ailing--needed to have his strength spared just as much
+now as before he went South. Such a thing as his engaging in systematic
+work was not to be thought of. Finally came Wildenrod's wooing and
+Maia's openly acknowledged love for him, which Dernburg had heard of
+with extreme surprise, yes, almost with indignation.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The Baron had asked her father for her hand, on the very same day
+that he had declared himself to the young girl, but had met with a much
+more decided opposition than he had expected. However much Dernburg
+might have been taken with him personally, Oscar was not the husband
+that he had selected for his daughter, and the thought of wedding the
+sixteen-year-old child to a man old enough to be her father, was just
+as repulsive to him as Maia's reciprocating this passion. His darling's
+entreaties availed in so far that the original No was rescinded, but
+just as little was he to be moved to give his consent for a speedy
+betrothal. He declared with all positiveness that his daughter was
+still much too young to bind herself already for a lifetime, saying
+that she must wait and put her feelings to the test; two years hence
+would be ample time to introduce the subject again.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Wait! That was a fatal, an impossible sentence for this man, with whom
+every minute counted, and yet, for the present, no alternative was left
+him, because Maia had been withdrawn from his influence. After that
+declaration he himself had received a gentle but unmistakable hint,
+that under these circumstances, daily intercourse between the pair
+was not to be kept up. But to leave Odensburg now, was equivalent to
+giving up his game as lost. The thing for him now to do was to be
+vigilant, and confront the danger which, since that threat of Runeck,
+had hung over his head like a thunder-cloud. And he must also stand
+by his sister, in order to be sure that she would keep her word with
+him--wrested from her, as it had been, almost by force. She was
+incredibly altered since that unhappy hour. Therefore he had not
+<i>wanted</i> to understand that hint, and had held his ground; but here
+Dernburg interposed immediately, with his wonted determination, and
+under pretext of her paying a visit to a friend of the family, he sent
+his daughter away, not to return until her brother's marriage took
+place.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Egbert Runeck had come from Radefeld, in order to give in his usual
+report to his chief. For weeks past, he had been accustomed, at these
+times, only to tarry awhile in the work-room and then return forthwith
+as soon as he had dispatched his business. He seemed to have become
+quite estranged from the family-circle. But to-day he had sought out
+Eric the first thing, who received him with joyful surprise, but also
+with reproaches.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Why, Egbert, is that you,--do I actually lay eyes on you once more? I
+thought that you had quite forgotten me, and laid our house under a
+ban. Father is the only one who ever gets a sight of you.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;You know how closely occupied I am,&quot; answered Egbert evasively. &quot;My
+works----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Oh yes, those works of yours always serve for a pretext! But come, let
+us have a good chat--I am so glad to have you all alone to myself once
+more.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">He drew his friend down on the sofa beside him and began to ask
+questions and narrate his own experiences. He had the conversation
+almost entirely to himself however. Runeck showed himself strikingly
+taciturn and absent-minded, and meanwhile he answered mechanically as
+it were, as though he had his mind bent on very different things. Not
+until Eric began to speak of his approaching marriage did he grow more
+attentive.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;We want to set off on our trip immediately after the grand
+entertainment to be held on our wedding-day,&quot; said the latter with a
+happy smile. &quot;I think of spending a few weeks, with my young wife in
+Switzerland, but then we shall both wing our flight to the South. To
+the South! You have no idea what a charm that word has for us. This
+cold Northern sky, these gloomy fir-clad mountains, all the bustle and
+stir here, all this lies so heavy upon me. I cannot get perfectly well
+here. Hagenbach, who just left me, thinks so too and proposes that we
+spend the whole winter in Italy. Alas! father, though, will not hear of
+this--it will cost us a battle to carry our point with him.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Are you feeling worse again?&quot; asked Egbert, whose eyes rested with a
+peculiarly searching expression upon the pale, sunken features of his
+friend.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Oh, nothing to signify,&quot; said Eric, carelessly. &quot;The doctor is only so
+incredibly anxious. He has prohibited my riding, gives me all manner of
+prescriptions, and now wants the wedding-festivities to be on a reduced
+scale, because they might cause me to over-exert myself. Anything but
+excitement. That is the first and last word with him. I am getting
+rather tired of this thing, for he treats me always like a very ill
+patient to whom any excitement might bring death.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Runeck's gaze was fixed yet more intently and gravely upon the young
+man, and there was restrained emotion in his features and his voice,
+when he asked:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;So Dr. Hagenbach dreads excitement for you, does he? To be sure, you
+did have a hemorrhage that time----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Dear me, Egbert! that was two years ago, and every trace of it has
+disappeared,&quot; interrupted Eric impatiently. &quot;The only thing is,
+Odensburg does not agree with me, any more than it does with Cecile,
+who can never feel at home here. She is made for joy and sunshine, that
+is the element in which, alone, she can thrive; here, where all hinges
+upon labor and duty, where my father's stern eyes hold her spellbound,
+as it were, she cannot be herself. If you knew what a change has been
+wrought in my Cecile, who sparkled with life and exuberant spirits, who
+was so captivating even in her caprices! How pale and quiet she has
+grown in these last weeks, how strangely altered in her whole nature.
+Many a time I am afraid that something quite different lies at the
+bottom of it. If she repents of having plighted her troth to me,
+if--ah, I see specters everywhere!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;But, Eric, I beseech you,&quot; remarked Runeck soothingly. &quot;Is this the
+way you follow the prescription of the doctor? You are stirring
+yourself up in a manner wholly unnecessary.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;No, no!&quot; cried the young man passionately. &quot;I see and feel that Cecile
+is concealing something from me--day before yesterday she betrayed
+herself. I spoke of our wedding-trip,--of Italy, when she suddenly
+burst out with: 'Yes, let us be gone, Eric, wherever you will, only
+far, far away from this place! I can stand it no longer!' What cannot
+she stand? She would not let me question her on the subject, but it
+sounded like a shriek of despair.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Carried out of himself he sprang to his feet. Egbert, too, got up,
+managing as he did so, accidentally as it were, to step out of the
+bright sunshine, that poured in through the window, into the shade. &quot;Do
+you love your betrothed much?&quot; asked he slowly with marked emphasis.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Do I love her!&quot; Eric's pale face reddened and his eyes beamed with the
+tenderest enthusiasm.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;You have never loved, Egbert, else you could not ask such a question.
+If Cecilia had rejected me that time, when I courted her, I might have
+stood it. If I had to lose her now--it would kill me!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Egbert was silent. He stood with his face half-averted, his features
+still working from the intensity of the emotions that were warring
+within. At those last words, however, he drew himself up, advanced to
+his friend and laid his hand upon his arm.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;You are not to lose her, Eric,&quot; said he firmly, although with
+quivering lips. &quot;You will live and be happy!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Do you know that so surely?&quot; asked Eric, looking up in surprise. &quot;Why,
+you talk as if you held the keys to life and death.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Then take it as a prophecy, which will be fulfilled to you.--But I
+must go, I only came to bid you farewell, for my course at Radefeld has
+come to an end sooner than I had supposed.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;So much the better, for then you can come back to Odensburg, and we
+shall see each other frequently enough, I hope, before I leave.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I am just on my way now to talk with your father about it.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;You are an enviable fellow!&quot; said Eric with a sigh. &quot;Ever forward,
+ever upward to new aims, without allowing yourself a moment's repose!
+Hardly is one task over, when you are as busy as ever carving out new
+ones. What sort of plans are these, pray?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;You will hear about them better from your father, now you are in no
+mood for it. Then--farewell, Eric!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">With emotion that struggled for utterance, he offered him his hand,
+which Eric took with no sign of embarrassment.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;You do not mean this as a farewell for any length of time. You will be
+at Radefeld for a while yet?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Of course, meanwhile I may leave there very shortly, and who knows
+where I may have pitched my tent, by the time you come back from Italy,
+in the spring?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;But then we'll see each other once more at my wedding!&quot; remarked Eric.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;If it is possible for me----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;It must be possible for you, I'll not let you go until you have
+promised me that. You will come under all circumstances, Egbert, do you
+hear? And now I must let you go, for I see that the ground burns under
+your feet. Good-bye, then--to meet again soon!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Yes--farewell, Eric!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">It was a vehement, almost convulsive pressure, with which Runeck
+clasped his old friend's hand, then he turned off hurriedly and left
+the room, as though he dreaded being detained. Not until he was on the
+pathway out of doors did he stand still, when, drawing a long breath,
+he murmured to himself:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;That should be overcome! He is right, it would kill him.--No, Eric,
+you are not to die, not through me! <i>That</i> is what I will not take upon
+myself.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">As usual, about this time, Dernburg was found in his office. He looked
+grave and troubled, while he listened to Dr. Hagenbach who sat opposite
+to him. Oscar von Wildenrod was likewise present, but he with folded
+arms leaned against the window-frame, without taking any part in the
+conversation, the course of which, however, he followed with breathless
+attention.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;You give yourself too much solicitude,&quot; said the physician in a
+soothing tone, although his air was not exactly one calculated
+to inspire confidence. &quot;Here Eric is still suffering from the
+after-effects of our harsh spring. He should have stayed longer in the
+South and then selected some half-way station; the abrupt change of
+climates has been injurious to him. Meanwhile, he must now return to
+Italy, and I have just been talking with him, persuading him to spend
+the winter there. He would prefer Rome, on account of his young wife.
+But I am for Sorrento, or if it must be a larger city than that,
+Palermo.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Dernburg's brow darkened yet more at these last words, and with hardly
+concealed displeasure he asked,</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Do you regard it as absolutely necessary for Eric to spend the whole
+winter away? I had hoped that he would bring his wife back to spend
+Christmas with us.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;No, Herr Dernburg, that will not do for this time,&quot; answered Hagenbach
+with decision. &quot;That would be to stake everything that we won last
+winter.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;And what have we won? A half cure, that is questionable after the
+lapse of a few months. Be candid, Doctor. You believe that my son, in
+general, cannot stand this climate.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Provisionally it would certainly be necessary----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Nothing about provisionally; I want to know the truth, the whole
+truth! Do you think that it is at all likely, that Eric can live
+constantly at Odensburg, that he can be my co-worker, my successor some
+day, as I hoped when he returned last spring, apparently cured?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">His eye hung in agonized suspense upon the doctor's lips, and
+Wildenrod's gaze was just as intent, as he now emerged from the
+window-niche.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Hagenbach was slow in answering; it seemed to cost him a great effort.
+At last he said earnestly:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;No, Herr Dernburg--since you desire to know the truth--as things are
+now, a permanent sojourn in the South is a condition of life with your
+son. He can come to Odensburg, for a few months in summer, but he can
+never stand another winter in our mountains, no more than he can the
+fatigues of an active calling. This is my firm conviction, and any of
+my colleagues will indorse my opinion.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Wildenrod made an involuntary movement when he heard this sentence
+pronounced so positively. Dernburg was silent; he only supported his
+head upon his hand, but it was easy to see what a heavy blow was
+inflicted upon him, by the doctor's outspoken opinion, although he must
+have had a foreboding of what it would be.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;That means, then, that I must bid farewell to all the plans that I
+have been cherishing so long,&quot; said he softly. &quot;I hoped against
+hope--nevertheless, Eric is my only son. I want his life preserved,
+even though my dearest hopes be buried thereby. Let him, then,
+establish a home somewhere in the South, and limit his activity to
+building and adorning it--I can afford it.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">A heavy, half-suppressed sigh betrayed what this resolve cost him. Then
+he turned to the physician and offered him his hand.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I thank you for your candor, Doctor. Although the truth be bitter, I
+must accommodate myself to it. Let us speak more particularly of it
+another time!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Hagenbach took his leave. For a few minutes silence prevailed in the
+room, then Wildenrod asked in a subdued voice: &quot;Did that sentence
+surprise you? It did not me, I have long feared something of the sort.
+If Eric only soundly recovers, then, I hope, you and he will both find
+the separation a lighter trial than you apprehend.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Eric will find it very light,&quot; said Dernburg, with swelling
+bitterness. &quot;He has always dreaded assuming the position in life to
+which he was born. He shrank back before this mighty, restless
+enterprise, of which he was to be master and leader, with all its
+duties and responsibilities. He will far rather sit on the shore of the
+blue Mediterranean, making plans for his villa, and be glad if nothing
+disturbs him in his dreamy repose. And I am left alone here; forced,
+one day, to leave my Odensburg, my life-work, to pass into the hands of
+strangers. It is hard!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Must you really do that?&quot; asked Oscar significantly, drawing nearer as
+he spoke. &quot;You have still a daughter who can give you a second son, but
+you persistently refuse to the man of her choice the rights of a son.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Dernburg made a gesture expressive of his repugnance to the thought
+suggested.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Let that be! Not now----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Just now, at this hour, I would like to speak to you. You have taken
+my wooing of Maia in a manner that I have neither expected nor
+deserved. You almost reproached me for it as if I had committed a
+crime.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;It is a crime, too, Herr von Wildenrod. You should not have spoken of
+love to a sixteen-year-old child, and bound her to you by the
+confession of your passion, without being sure of her father's consent.
+One pardons a youth for being carried away by the feelings of the
+moment, but not a man of your years.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;And yet, this moment has given me the highest happiness of my life,&quot;
+cried Oscar, ecstatically, &quot;the certainty that Maia loves me. She must
+have repeated this confession to you--we both hoped for a father's
+blessing. Instead of this we are condemned to an endless probation. You
+have banished Maia from Odensburg, depriving yourself of her sweet
+presence, only to withdraw her from my neighborhood----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;And what else was I to do?&quot; asked Dernburg. &quot;After your premature
+declaration, unembarrassed daily intercourse was no longer possible, if
+I did not agree to the engagement.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Then do so now! Maia's heart belongs to me, neither time nor
+separation is going to alter that, rest assured, and I love her more
+than I can tell. You have to let your son go to a foreign land--well,
+then, let me step into his place! I have learned to love your
+Odensburg, and bring to it the unbroken energies of a man who is weary
+of his aimless existence and would like to begin a new life. Will you
+refuse me this, only because two decades divide me and her whom I
+love?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">He spoke with passionate entreaty, and could not have selected a better
+time than this hour in which the man, who sat there with darkly clouded
+brow, had seen shattered all the hopes which he had built upon his son
+and upon that other, whom he had, one day, wanted to see by the side of
+his weak and dependent heir--that plan, too, had been wrecked, since he
+knew, that Maia's heart was preoccupied. He need not be separated from
+his darling child if she became Wildenrod's wife, and he with his
+determined, strongly-marked character, offered him indemnity for all
+that he had lost. The choice was indeed not difficult.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;That is a serious, pregnant decision, Herr von Wildenrod,&quot; said
+Dernburg, whom this proposition surprised less than Oscar would have
+supposed. &quot;If you really could adapt yourself to so complete a reversal
+of your former mode of life--it is no light task that awaits you, and
+perhaps the only reason that it has a charm for you is, because it is
+new and strange to you. You are unaccustomed to any kind of systematic
+business----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;But I shall learn method,&quot; interposed Wildenrod. &quot;You have often
+called me your assistant in jest, be you now in earnest my instructor
+and guide. You shall have no cause to be ashamed of your scholar! I
+have at last come to the conclusion that one must be useful and
+industrious in order to be happy. And now, pray, grant my request: you
+have allowed Eric to be happy in his own way, will you refuse Maia and
+me the same?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;We shall see,&quot; returned Dernburg, but his tone showed that his point
+was half-conceded. &quot;Eric's wedding will come off in three weeks, then
+Maia returns to Odensburg and----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Then I may ask for my bride,&quot; impetuously exclaimed Oscar. &quot;Oh, thank
+you, we both thank our stern but good father.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">A passing smile illumined Dernburg's brow, and although he had not yet
+given his consent, he did not refuse the expression of gratitude.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;But enough of that now, Oscar,&quot; said he, for the first time using the
+familiar form of address. &quot;Else with your impetuosity you will force
+everything possible from me, and I have other business to attend to.
+Egbert ought to be here by this time; he comes in from Radefeld to day
+to report to me.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The radiant expression vanished from Wildenrod's features, and gave
+place, for an instant, to a slightly scornful smile; then, with seeming
+indifference he threw out this hint: &quot;Herr Runeck is very much
+engrossed in another direction, at present. He bestirs himself in his
+party's service at every nook and corner.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Yes, indeed,&quot; responded Dernburg quietly, without appearing to notice
+the insinuation implied. &quot;The socialists begin to feel their own
+importance and their combs swell visibly. They even seem to want to put
+up a candidate of their own in our electoral district--for the first
+time.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;So it is said at all events. Do you know whom they have in view for
+it?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Not yet, but I suppose that it will be Landsfeld, who acts the leader
+upon all occasions. To be sure he is nothing but an agitator, his
+affair being merely to bluster, and hound others on. He is not fit for
+the Reichstag, and that party usually know their men pretty thoroughly.
+But the question in hand is, in general, only to test their power. The
+men are not seriously thinking of disputing my right to a seat.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Is that your belief?&quot; The Baron's eye rested with a peculiar
+expression upon the face of the speaker. &quot;Well, perhaps, Herr Runeck
+can supply you with some more exact information on the subject.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Dernburg impatiently shrugged his shoulders. &quot;Egbert will certainly be
+obliged to make up his mind now, that he knows as well as I do. If he
+votes with his party, in this case it is to go against me, and he and I
+part.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;He has already decided,&quot; said Wildenrod coldly. &quot;You do not yet know
+the name of the opposing candidate?--Well, I know it. It touches you
+and Odensburg tolerably close--it is Egbert Runeck.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Dernburg started as though he had been struck; for a few seconds he
+stared hard at the Baron, as though he believed he were not in his
+right senses, but then he declared shortly and concisely: &quot;That is not
+true.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I beg pardon, I have it from the best authority.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;It is not true, I tell you! You have been falsely informed--must have
+been.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Hardly, but it can soon be settled, since you are expecting Runeck.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Dernburg started up and began to pace the floor in the greatest
+excitement, but let him consider the matter as he would, it appeared to
+him as incredible as at the first moment.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Folly! Egbert is not going to act in such a farce. He knows that he
+must oppose me, and enter the lists against his old friend.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Do you believe that will hinder him?&quot; asked Oscar mockingly. &quot;Herr
+Runeck, at all events, stands high above all those old prejudices of
+gratitude and dependence, and who knows whether his election is so
+hopeless? For months past he has been out at Radefeld, withdrawn from
+observation, and had a few hundred workmen at his disposal. He will, at
+all events, have secured their votes, and each individual ensures him
+ten, nay, twenty votes among his comrades here at Odensburg. He has
+made good use of his time, you may depend.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Dernburg gave no answer, but his step grew ever more hurried, his mien
+more threatening, while Wildenrod continued:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;And this is the man upon whom you have showered benefits! He has to
+thank you for his education, his culture,--all that he is. You gave him
+a position that is envied by all the officers, and he makes use of it
+to secretly undermine your authority and to strike a blow at you here,
+with the votes of your own men.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Do you deem that possible?&quot; asked Dernburg with sharpness. &quot;I think we
+need give ourselves no anxiety on that score.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I hope not, but it will at least be attempted, and that is enough. Up
+to this time Runeck has very wisely been silent, although he must have
+known for months what was in agitation. This will finally open your
+eyes to your favorite, or do you still disbelieve my report?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I do. As for the rest Egbert will explain matters to me.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Because he must! It will be an evil hour for you too, for I see how
+the bare possibility excites you, and yet----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Go, Oscar!&quot; enjoined Dernburg, frowning. &quot;Egbert may come any minute,
+and whatever may be the issue of the interview, I want to talk with him
+alone.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">He held out his hand to the Baron, who took his departure; a proud
+passionate pride of victory flashed from his eyes, as the latter
+crossed the next room. Finally he had set foot upon the ground, where
+his ambition hailed him as future master, sole master, when the present
+ruler of Odensburg should close his eyes. Eric voluntarily vacated the
+field to him, if he took his wife to live in a foreign country and
+became completely estranged from his native place. Now they were to be
+realized--those proud dreams of power and wealth, beside them blooming
+a sweet joy unknown before. A little while longer, and the goal so
+ardently thirsted after would be attained and the past be blotted
+out--buried!</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Wildenrod was just entering the front hall, when the door to this
+opened and Egbert Runeck confronted him. Involuntarily he retreated a
+step; Runeck, too, started and then stood still. He saw that the Baron
+wanted to pass him, but he tarried upon the threshold as though he
+would obstruct his passage. For a few seconds they stood thus regarding
+one another, when Oscar asked sharply:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Have you anything to say to me, Herr Runeck?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;For the present--no,&quot; answered Egbert coldly. &quot;Later, perhaps.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;It is questionable, though, whether I shall then have time and
+inclination to listen to you.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I believe you will have time, Herr von Wildenrod.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The glances of the two men crossed, one sparkling with fierce and
+deadly hatred, the other full of dark threatening; then said Oscar
+haughtily:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Meanwhile may I desire you to move aside? You see that I want to go
+out.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Runeck slowly retired and left the doorway clear. Wildenrod passed him
+by, and again there played around his lips that mocking, triumphant
+smile. Now he no longer dreaded the danger that had hitherto hung over
+his head like a thunder-cloud. If his adversary now spoke, he would no
+longer find an auditor. The &quot;evil hour&quot; preparing for him in yonder
+must forever annihilate his foe.</p>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<h2>CHAPTER XIII.</h2>
+
+<h3><a name="div1_13" href="#div1Ref_13">RUNECK LEAVES ODENSBURG.</a></h3>
+<br>
+
+<p class="normal">When Runeck entered his chief's work-room, he found him at his desk,
+and there was nothing unusual in the manner of his reception and the
+way in which his salutation was returned. Not until he took out a
+portfolio and opened it did Dernburg say:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Let that be, you can report to me later; for now I must talk with you
+about something more important.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I should like to have your attention for a few minutes, beforehand, if
+you please,&quot; said Egbert, taking a number of papers from the portfolio.
+&quot;The works at Radefeld are almost finished, the Buchberg is tunneled,
+and the whole water-power of the estate available for Odensburg. Here
+are the plans and the drawings; the only thing to do now is to conduct
+the supply to the works, and this can be done by some one else if I
+withdraw.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Withdraw? What does that mean? That you will not carry the works on to
+completion?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;No. I have come to--to beg my dismissal.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The words sounded low, and were evidently hard to utter, and the young
+engineer avoided looking at his superior. The latter gave no sign of
+surprise. He leaned back in his chair and crossed his arms.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;That, indeed! Well, you must know what you have to do. If you really
+want to go, I shall not detain you. But I believed that you would at
+least complete the work you had undertaken. It has not otherwise been
+your way to half do things.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I am going for that very reason. The voice of another duty calls me,
+that I must obey.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;And which makes it impossible for you to remain at Odensburg?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Yes!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">An infinitely bitter expression flitted across Dernburg's features.
+Here was the confirmation of that which he had not wanted to believe;
+there was hardly any need to put the question.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;You mean the approaching elections?&quot; said he with freezing calmness.
+&quot;It is said that the Socialists are going to put up a candidate of
+their own for our district, and you, I suppose, are determined to vote
+for him. In that case, I can well understand how you should ask for
+your discharge. Neither the confidential position that you hold at
+Radefeld, nor your relations to me and my family comport with such a
+step as that. There is no deceiving of ourselves into imagining that
+the antagonism here is against any one but myself.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Egbert stood there speechless, his eyes fixed on the ground. One could
+see how hard it was for him to make a confession, which was not
+lightened for him by word or hint. But suddenly he straightened himself
+up with determination stamped upon his face.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Herr Dernburg, I have a disclosure to make to you, which you will
+misinterpret, but which you must hear nevertheless. The candidate whom
+my party has nominated is--I.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Do you actually demean yourself so far as to make me such a
+communication?&quot; asked Dernburg slowly. &quot;I hardly believed it. The
+surprise intended would have been more complete, if I had learned it
+through the newspapers.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;What, you know already----&quot; exclaimed Egbert.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;What you have found good to hide from me until today. Yes, I knew it
+and wish you good luck in your schemes. You are not timid, with your
+eight-and-twenty years; you already boldly grasp at an honor which I
+first felt to be my due after the toil of a lifetime. You have barely
+left apprentice-years behind you, and already allow yourself to be
+lifted upon the shield, as tribune of the people. Well, good luck to
+you!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Listening to the bitter sarcasm of this speech, Runeck's complexion
+changed rapidly, the color coming and going, while his voice had not
+its wonted firmness, when he replied:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I have feared that you would take such a view of the matter, and this
+makes yet more painful the position into which I have been forced by
+the action of my party. I resisted to the last moment, but at last
+they----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Forced you, did they?&quot; interrupted Dernburg with a bitter laugh, &quot;of
+course you are nothing but a victim to your convictions. I foresaw that
+you would screen yourself thus. Give yourself no trouble, I
+understand.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I speak truth, I think, you know that,&quot; said Egbert, solemnly.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Dernburg got up and stood close in front of him.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Why did you come back to Odensburg, if you knew that the difference
+between us was an irreconcilable one? You did not need the position
+that I offered you. The whole world stood open to you. Yet why do I
+ask? The thing was to prepare for the contest with me; to undermine the
+ground upon which I stand; to betray me first on my own soil, and then
+strike----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;No, I did not do that!&quot; impetuously declared Runeck. &quot;When I came
+here, nobody dreamed of the possibility of my election, and I least of
+all. Landsfeld was alone in our eye. This plan did not loom up until
+last month, and culminated only within the last few days, despite my
+opposition. I durst not speak sooner, because it was a party-secret.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Really! Well, the calculation is very cleverly made. Neither Landsfeld
+nor any other person would have had the least prospect of success.
+Where the matter in hand was to unseat me the plan would have been
+wrecked at the very outset. You are the son of a workman, have grown up
+among my people, gone forth from among their midst, and, in short, they
+are all proud of you. If you make it clear to them that I am, at
+bottom, a tyrant, who has been oppressing them and consuming all their
+substance all these years, if you promise them a return of the golden
+age--it takes hold upon and leads the people astray--you they will
+believe, perhaps; doubtless you are a distinguished orator. If the man,
+who has been treated almost like my own son, puts himself at their
+head, to lead them into battle against me, then their cause must be the
+right one, then they will swear by it.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">These were almost the identical words which the young engineer had
+heard months ago from the mouth of Landsfeld, and his eyes fell before
+the piercing looks of Dernburg, who now drew himself up to his full
+height, as he continued:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;But we are not at that point yet. It still remains to be seen if my
+workmen have forgotten that I have labored with them and cared for them
+these thirty years, if a bond that has been forging for a whole
+generation is so easily broken. Try it. If any one can succeed, it will
+be you. You have been trained in my school and mayhap have learned how
+to strike down the old master.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Egbert had turned pale as death; upon his features was mirrored the
+conflict that was raging within his soul. But now he slowly raised his
+eyes.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;You condemn me, and yet, if put in my place, would perhaps not act
+differently. I have often enough heard from your own mouth that
+discipline is the first and highest law of every great undertaking. I
+have bowed and must bow to this iron law--what it has cost me, nobody
+but myself knows.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I ask obedience from my men,&quot; said Dernburg coldly. &quot;I do not compel
+them to commit treason.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Egbert writhed, and a glance almost threatening flashed from his eyes.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Herr Dernburg, I can take much from you, especially in this hour; but
+that word--that word I cannot bear.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;You will have to bear it. What have you done out yonder at Radefeld?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;What I can answer for, to you and myself.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Then you have performed your task poorly and they will have their
+revenge upon you. Yet, why bring up the past? The question is about the
+present. You are the candidate of your party, then, and have accepted
+the nomination?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Since it is a party measure--yes! I must submit to it.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;You <i>must</i>!&quot; repeated Dernburg with bitter scorn. &quot;That is every third
+word with you, now; formerly you were a stranger to it. Then it was
+only you would. You deemed me a tyrant, because I would not forthwith
+adopt your sublunary ideas about the welfare of the people, and
+rejected this hand, that would have guided you. You wanted your course
+in life to be unimpeded. And, lo! now you bow your neck to a yoke, that
+enchains your whole being, forcing you to break with all that is dear
+to you, that lowers you even down to treachery--do not flare up so,
+Egbert, it is so! You should not have come back to Odensburg, if you
+had known that such an hour as the present must come. You should not
+have remained when you learned that they would force you to heed the
+opposition against me--but you did come back, and stayed because they
+bade you do it. Call it what you like, I call it treachery! And now go,
+we are done with one another!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">He turned off. Egbert, however, did not obey, but drew nearer, yielding
+to an irresistible impulse.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Herr Dernburg--do not let me go thus! I cannot part from you in this
+way--you have been like a father to me!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">There was in this outbreak of long-pent-up anguish, an intensity of
+grief that was truly appalling in one usually so self-contained as
+Runeck, but the sorely provoked man, who stood before him did not, or
+would not, see it, but drew back; and his whole attitude and manner
+were expressive of repulse, when he said:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;And the son lifts his hand against the 'father.' Yes, I would gladly
+have called you son--you above every one else in the world; I showed it
+to you, too, plainly enough. You might have been lord of Odensburg. See
+if your comrades will thank you for the immense sacrifice which you
+have made for their sakes. And now this is all over--go!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Egbert was effectually silenced; he made no further attempt at
+reconciliation, slowly he turned to go; only one last agonized glance
+he sent back from the threshold, then the door closed behind him.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Dernburg threw himself back in a chair and put his hands over his eyes.
+Of all the trials that had come down upon him to-day, like an
+avalanche, this was the heaviest. In Egbert he had admired the brave,
+strong spirit, so like his own, that he had wanted to bind to himself
+for the rest of his life, and now it seemed to him that in parting from
+this young man, the best part of his own power and his own life had
+also taken their departure, never to return.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">With heavy heart Runeck hurried through the entrance-hall, rushing
+along as though the ground burned beneath his feet. It was plain how
+much this hour had cost him, the hour in which he had torn loose from
+all that was dear to him, how dear, he now felt fully for the first
+time when he had lost it. &quot;You might have been lord of Odensburg!&quot; In
+that one sentence lay the greatness of the sacrifice, which he had
+offered up--and offered up to whom?</p>
+
+<p class="normal">It had been long since he had felt any of that joyful enthusiasm which
+neither asks questions nor doubts. However, to resolve and act were no
+longer left to his free choice; it was no longer for him to will--he
+must.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Just then there was heard, quite close to him, the rustling of a
+woman's silk skirt: he looked up and found himself face to face with
+Baroness Wildenrod. For one instant he stood as it were, transfixed,
+then was about to pass by with a profound bow. But Cecilia stepped
+close up to him and said, in a low tone:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Herr Runeck!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Gnädiges Fräulein?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I must speak to you.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Me?&quot; Egbert thought that he could not have heard aright, but she
+repeated in the same tone:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Speak with you alone--please let me!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I am yours to command.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">She took the precedence, he following her into the parlor. There was
+nobody there, and even if any one had appeared, the meeting might have
+passed for an accidental one. Cecilia had stepped up to the fireplace,
+as though she wanted to take refuge from the sunshine, which poured in
+its bright golden rays, through the lofty windows. A few minutes passed
+ere she spoke. Runeck, too, was silent; his eyes scanning her
+countenance, which was so entirely different from what it had appeared
+earlier.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Eric was right; the radiantly beautiful creature that he had brought
+home as his promised bride had strangely altered. She was no longer the
+gay, captivating girl, whose whole being sparkled with high spirits and
+the joy of existence. A pale, trembling girl leaned against the marble
+pillars upon which rested the mantelpiece, with downcast eyes, a
+painfully drawn look about the mouth, and she sought after words that
+<i>would</i> not cross her lips.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I wanted to write to you, Herr Runeck,&quot; she finally began. &quot;Then I
+heard to-day that you were in the Manor-house, and determined to speak
+to you in person. There is need of an explanation between us.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">She paused, seeming to expect an answer, but as Egbert only bowed in
+silence, she continued with visible effort: &quot;I must recall to your mind
+our interview on the Whitestone; you will have forgotten it as little
+as I have forgotten the words, the threats which you hurled at me. They
+were darkly mysterious to me at the time and are still so, even now;
+but, from that hour, I have known you to be the implacable foe of my
+brother and myself----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Not of you, Baroness!&quot; exclaimed Egbert. &quot;I had been in grievous
+error, which was explained away at that time. I begged your pardon,
+which, however, you would not grant. My words like my threats had
+reference to another.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Cecilia lifted her eyes to him, and the deprecatory look in them was
+touching to behold.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;But that other is my brother, and what touches him touches me as well.
+If you ever confront him as you did me that time, the issue will be a
+bloody, a horrible one. For weeks I have been trembling at the thought
+of it, and now I can stand it no longer. I must have certainty,--what
+do you intend to do?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Does Herr von Wildenrod know of that scene on the Whitestone?&quot; asked
+Egbert with strong emphasis.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Yes!&quot; This word was well-nigh inaudible.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Runeck asked no farther. In the first place, he had no need to hear
+what Wildenrod's answer had been, it was written clearly enough in
+Cecilia's distressed looks, and he spared her the painful question.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Compose yourself,&quot; said he earnestly. &quot;The meeting which you fear will
+not take place, for to-morrow morning I quit Radefeld and Odensburg.
+And inasmuch as you are going to the South with Eric, Herr von
+Wildenrod will have no further occasion nor pretext for remaining
+longer after your marriage. That will rid me of the necessity for
+meeting him in a hostile manner. But that there is no need to protect
+Odensburg and the Dernburg family against you, I well know now.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">He little suspected what a blow these words inflicted upon Cecilia.
+She knew Oscar's vaulting schemes, she knew that through her betrothal,
+he had only paved the way for the accomplishment of his own aims, that
+the knot between him and Maia, would, sooner or later, be tied, and
+make him master of Odensburg; but she kept her lips tightly closed,
+closed although fully conscious of the wrong that she committed, in
+order that the specter of dread which had just been exorcised, should
+not again be called up, to haunt her again with new terrors.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">It was still as death through the length and breadth of that vast
+apartment, only the monotonous ticking of the great standing-clock made
+itself heard, marking the flight of seconds, of minutes--how fast they
+did fly in that farewell hour!</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Then Egbert drew one step nearer, and with a peculiarly vibrant sound
+in his voice said:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I did you great injustice, with those unsparing words of mine, so
+great that you cannot forgive me. I had to believe that you stood, with
+open eyes, in the midst of the relations that encircled you; how could
+I imagine that they had left you in perfect ignorance? Will you, in
+spite of all that has happened, hear from me, one last entreaty, one
+warning?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The young girl silently nodded her head in the affirmative.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Your marriage sunders all such connections, and frees you from your
+brother's control--then free yourself from his influence, at any price!
+Let him no longer have any power over your future life, for it is
+unwholesome and brings destruction. What I only suspected formerly, I
+now know for a certainty. The Baron's path leads to an abyss--who can
+say where it will end?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Cecilia shuddered at these last words. She thought of Oscar's dark
+threat, when she refused to stay at Odensburg, and the image of her
+dead father loomed up before her.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;No farther, Herr Runeck,&quot; said she, forcibly recovering her
+self-control. &quot;You are talking of my brother!</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Yes, of your brother,&quot; repeated he, with marked emphasis. &quot;And you
+have nothing to say in refutation of my charge. You know then----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I know nothing, <i>will</i> know nothing--Oh! my God, have pity on me!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">She clasped both hands before her face, and tottered, as though she
+would fall. The same instant Egbert was already at her side, supporting
+her; just as that time on the Whitestone, the beautiful, fair head,
+with closed eyes, lay upon his shoulder.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Cecilia!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">It was only a single word, but it escaped Egbert's lips in the fervent
+tone of passion, and at its sound, the large dark eyes opened and met
+his. For a second their looks mingled--rather an eternity. With loud,
+clear strokes, the clock told the midday hour. Egbert let his arm drop
+and drew himself up erect.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Make Eric happy!&quot; said he, with difficulty, in a hollow tone:
+&quot;Farewell, Cecilia!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">In the next minute he had left the room, and Cecilia, pressing her hot
+brow against the cold marble of the mantel-piece, wept and wept, as
+though her heart would break.</p>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<h2>CHAPTER XIV.</h2>
+
+<h3><a name="div1_14" href="#div1Ref_14">HOW AN OLD BACHELOR MAKES LOVE.</a></h3>
+<br>
+
+<p class="normal">The dwellings of the numerous officials attached to Odensburg, formed
+quite a little town of themselves; there also was Dr. Hagenbach's
+house, a small villa, in the Swiss style. It had evidently been built
+for a larger family, but this elderly bachelor had not thought of
+marrying, and had been living alone here for years, with an old
+housekeeper, to whom was now added his nephew. As physician in chief of
+Odensburg, Hagenbach's professional services were constantly in
+requisition, but he also frequently had calls from abroad.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">To-day, for instance, there sat in his office a patient from abroad,
+who, to be sure, did not look at all like a sick man. The man was about
+forty years old, and very rotund in person, his hands were folded over
+a very capacious paunch and his eyes almost disappeared behind full,
+puffy, red cheeks. Nevertheless he had a long tale of miseries to
+relate, counting up a whole list of ailments, until Hagenbach abruptly
+cut him short in the midst of it.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Oh, I know all that you are telling me, by heart, Herr Willmann. I
+have already told you for the last time, that you take too good care of
+Number One. If you will not be moderate in eating and drinking, and
+take no exercise, the remedies that I have prescribed for you cannot
+take effect.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Be moderate?&quot; repeated Willmann in a soft, melancholy tone. &quot;Dear me!
+Doctor, I am moderation itself. But a hotel-keeper, alas! is in that
+particular a victim of his calling. I must occasionally sit with my
+guests, chatting and drinking--it brings business, you know, and----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;You take upon yourself this martyrdom with wonderful self-denial. For
+all that I care--but then you have given up wanting any help from me, I
+perceive. I do not care at all to have outside practice; I have my
+hands full here at Odensburg. Why do you not consult my colleague, who
+has a great deal more time?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Because I have no faith in him,&quot; said Herr Willmann solemnly, without
+looking the least disconcerted by this harsh declaration. &quot;There is
+something about you, Doctor, that inspires a body with confidence.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Yes, thank God, I throw in the needful grains of rudeness,&quot; answered
+Hagenbach with composure of soul. &quot;Then people always have confidence
+in you. You will take my prescriptions, then? Yes or no?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Dear me, I submit to you in every particular. If you knew what I have
+stood these last days--those terrible pains in the stomach----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;For which those good meats and soups are to blame,&quot; interposed the
+doctor in cold blood.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;And that want of breath, that dizziness in my head----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Comes from the beer, to which you daily treat yourself, your own most
+regular customer. If you omit the beer, and limit your meals to what is
+absolutely necessary to sustain life--&quot; then he began to count off a
+list of remedies that almost drove Herr Willmann wild.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Why, Doctor, that is a veritable hunger-cure,&quot; lamented he. &quot;It will
+put an end to me!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Would you rather fall a victim to your calling?&quot; asked Hagenbach. &quot;It
+is all right; but there, go off and leave me in peace!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The patient sighed deeply and painfully. However, the doctor's
+faith-inspiring roughness must have won the victory over his love of
+good-living, for he folded his hands and looked up at the ceiling.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;If there's no help for it--in God's name!&quot; said he unctuously.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The physician suddenly started, fastened a sharp glance upon him and
+then asked, wholly irrelevantly:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Have you a brother, Herr Willmann?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;No, I was the only child of my parents.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Singular! I was struck with a likeness, that is to say, not exactly a
+likeness--on the contrary, you have not a feature like the person I am
+referring to.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Herr Willmann softly shook his head, in token that these dark words
+were unintelligible to him, while Hagenbach continued: &quot;Can you tell me
+whether you have a relative who has been in Africa, in Egypt, in the
+Sahara or in some part of a desert in those parts?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Herr Willmann's full cheeks lost something of their rosy tint, and he
+fumbled in an embarrassed way with his gold watch-chain as he answered:
+&quot;Yes--a cousin.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Was he a missionary?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Yes, Doctor.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;And then he died of fever?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Yes, Doctor.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Was his name Engelbert?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Yes----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;And what is your own name, pray?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Pan--cra--tius,&quot; answered Willmann, drawling it out, while he still
+kept playing with his watch-chain.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;A fine name! Well then, Herr Pancratius Willmann, in three weeks come
+again, and meanwhile, if I should be passing by the 'Golden Lamb' I'll
+give you a call to see how you are getting along. Adieu!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Willmann took his leave with mild thanks for the advice wasted on him,
+and Hagenbach was left alone.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;The thing agrees,&quot; murmured he to himself. &quot;He is a cousin, then, of
+that much lamented Engelbert, whose picture is draped in mourning. They
+both have that pious way of turning up their eyes; it seems to be a
+family-failing. Shall I tell her about it? I'll take good care not to!
+She would send for the dear kinsman on the spot, and then there would
+be a repetition of that tale of woe, and a fresh eulogium of eternal
+constancy. As for the rest, I must give Dagobert the prescription
+I promised, to take with him, as he is about to set out for the
+Manor-house.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">So saying he went across to his nephew's room, whom he was glad to
+find still in. The young man had already made his preparations for
+going out. His hat and gloves lay on the table beside a bulky blue
+note-book, but he himself stood before the looking-glass, carefully
+considering his own precious person. He tied his cravat straight, drew
+his fingers through his fair locks, and tried to give a bold air to his
+newly-budding mustache.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Finally Dagobert seemed content with the appearance of his outer man:
+he retired a few steps, laid his hand most touchingly upon his heart,
+sighed profoundly, and then began to say something in a whisper that
+could not be heard by the doctor, who gazed upon the scene from the
+threshold of the door, with increasing astonishment.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Fellow, have you turned crazy?&quot; asked he, in his gruff manner.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Dagobert started and turned crimson from embarrassment.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I believe your brain is cracked, all of a sudden,&quot; continued his
+uncle, advancing nearer. &quot;What is the meaning of these preparations?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I--I am learning English words,&quot; declared Dagobert, the doctor,
+meanwhile, shaking his head suspiciously.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;English words, with such heart-breaking sighs? That is a remarkable
+way to learn.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;It was an English poem, that I was once more----Please, dear uncle,
+give it to me--those are my exercises!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Like a bird of prey Dagobert swooped upon the table, clutching at the
+blue pamphlet, but too late, the doctor had already opened it and begun
+to turn over its leaves.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Why so excited? You evidently need not be ashamed of your work and
+seem to have gotten tolerably far. Miss Friedberg, too, has given
+herself a great deal of trouble about you, and I hope you are grateful
+for it.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Yes, indeed, she has given herself trouble--I have given myself
+trouble--we have given ourselves trouble,&quot; stammered Dagobert, who,
+manifestly did not know what he was saying, for his eyes were directed
+in agony to the hand of his uncle, who turned over one page after the
+other, while he dryly remarked:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Well, if that is the way you are going to stammer out your thanks, she
+will not be greatly edified by them--yes, what is this, pray?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">He had stumbled upon a page laid loosely in, at the sight of which his
+unhappy nephew was ready to expire.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;'To Leonie!'&quot; read Hagenbach aghast. &quot;Here are verses!</p>
+
+<div style="margin-left:25%; margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:12pt; font-size:90%">
+<p class="t4" style="text-indent:-18px">&quot;'Oh! be not angry if I fall</p>
+<p class="t4">A suppliant at thy feet----'</p>
+</div>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Oh! Oh, what does that mean?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Dagobert stood there like a surprised criminal, while the doctor read
+the poem through, which was nothing more nor less than a full
+declaration of love to the secretly adored preceptress, vowing that
+these feelings should last forever, with the most solemn of oaths.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">It was some while before Hagenbach could take in the idea, so monstrous
+did it seem to him. But when he finally apprehended the true
+significance of all this, a storm as of thunder and lightning burst
+forth upon Dagobert's devoted head. He patiently submitted to being
+lectured for a long while, but since it seemed as if the tempest was to
+know no end, he made an attempt at retort.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Uncle, I owe you gratitude,&quot; said he solemnly, &quot;but when the question
+concerns the most sacred feelings of my heart, there is an end put to
+your power as to my obedience. Yes, I love Leonie, I worship her--and
+that is no crime.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;But it is a folly!&quot; cried the doctor, angrily, &quot;a folly, such as has
+never been before! A youth who is just out of school, and not yet a
+student--and in love with a lady, who could be his mother. Such, then,
+were your 'English words'! It was a declaration of love, then, that you
+were studying before the looking-glass! Well, I shall open Miss
+Friedberg's eyes to the character of her pretty scholar, and you may be
+thankful to be out of the way when she learns the story. She will be
+indignant, infuriated.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">He grimly folded the fatal sheet together and put it in his pocket. The
+young man saw the verses that he had forged, in the sweat of his brow,
+disappear in the coat-pocket of his unfeeling relative, and the spirit
+of despair gave back to him his self-possession.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I am no longer a boy,&quot; declared he, smiting upon his breast. &quot;You have
+no appreciation of the feelings that stir in a young man's bosom. Your
+heart has long since been dead. When the hoar-frost of age already
+covers your head----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">He suddenly stopped and took refuge as speedily as possible behind the
+great arm-chair, for the doctor, who could not stand the allusions to
+his gray hair, advanced upon him threateningly.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I forbid such personalities!&quot; cried he, raging. &quot;Hoar-frost of age,
+forsooth? How old do you think I am? You are fancying that this old
+uncle will soon be departing this life, but I shall not think of such a
+thing for a long while to come, mark that! I am now going to Miss
+Friedberg with your scribbling, and meanwhile you can let the feelings
+in your youthful breast storm and bluster away; it will be quite a nice
+little entertainment!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Uncle, you have no right to mock at my love,&quot; said Dagobert, somewhat
+dejectedly from behind his arm-chair--but the doctor was already
+outside the door, on his way to his sitting-room, whence he got his hat
+and cane.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Hoar-frost of old age!&quot; growled he. &quot;Silly fellow! I'll teach him
+whether my heart is dead or not! You are to be surprised!&quot; And so
+saying, at a rapid pace he set off for the Manor-house.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Leonie Friedberg sat at her desk, finishing a letter, when the doctor
+was announced; amazed she looked up:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;What, is that you, Doctor? I was just looking for Dagobert, he is
+generally so punctual.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Dagobert is not coming to-day,&quot; answered Hagenbach shortly.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Why not? Is he unwell?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;No, but I have ordered him to stay at home--the accursed boy!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;You are too hard upon the young man. You always treat him as though he
+were still a boy, although he is twenty years old!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The doctor hardly listened to the fault found with him, but seated
+himself and continued wrathfully:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;A wretched tale he has gotten up again. I ought not to tell you,
+properly, but spare you the vexation. However, there is no help for it,
+you must learn about it.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Heavens! What has happened?&quot; asked Leonie, uneasily. &quot;Nothing serious,
+I hope?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Hagenbach's looks certainly portended something serious, as he drew
+forth his nephew's poetic effusion from his coat-pocket, and handed it
+to the lady with the air of one bringing the worst of news.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Read, please!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Leonie began to read, conning the verse from beginning to end with an
+indescribable tranquillity, nay, a smile even quivered about her lips.
+The doctor, who waited in vain for an expression of indignation, saw
+himself, finally, compelled to come to the aid of her understanding.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;It is a poem,&quot; he enlightened her.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;So I perceive.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;And it is addressed to you.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;According to all probability, inasmuch as my name stands at the head.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Why, is that pleasant to you?&quot; cried Hagenbach hotly. &quot;You find it all
+right, do you, for him to fall at your feet--' that is the phrase used
+by the scribbler.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Still smiling, Leonie shrugged her shoulders. &quot;Let your nephew indulge
+his little romance; it is harmless enough. I really have no objection
+to it.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;But I?&quot; exclaimed the doctor. &quot;If the simpleton manages a single time
+more to praise you in song, and lay at your feet the passionate
+emotions of his youthful breast, then----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;What is it to you?&quot; asked Leonie, astonished at this vehement
+outbreak, for which, in her opinion, there was no ground.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;What is it to me? Ah! that indeed--You do not know yet----&quot; Hagenbach
+suddenly arose and stepped close in front of her.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Look at me for once, Miss Friedberg!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I find nothing especially remarkable about you.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;You are not expected to find anything remarkable about me, either,&quot;
+said the doctor, quite hurt. &quot;But I look quite passable, considering my
+years.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Certainly, Doctor.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I have a lucrative position, not an inconsiderable fortune, a pretty
+house--that is much too large for me by myself.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I do not doubt all this, but what is----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;And as to my roughness,&quot; continued Hagenbach, without heeding the
+interruption, &quot;it is only outwardly so. In the main I am a regular
+lamb.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Leonie looked very incredulous at this assertion and listened with
+increasing surprise.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;All in all, a man with whom one might live happily,&quot; wound up the
+doctor with great self-complacency. &quot;Do not you agree with me that this
+is so?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Why, yes, but----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Well, then say 'yes,' then the story is done.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Leonie started from her chair and blushed crimson.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Doctor--what does this mean?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;What does it mean? Ah, yes, I have quite forgotten to make you a
+regular offer. But that will do to repeat. There, now--I offer you my
+hand and beg for your consent--let us shake hands on it!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">He stretched out his hand, but the lady of his choice drew three steps
+back and said sharply: &quot;You must take account of my surprise; I have
+really never deemed it possible that you could honor me with an offer.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;You think so, because you have nerves!&quot; said Hagenbach, quite
+unconcernedly. &quot;Oh, that is nothing, I'll soon rid you of them, because
+I am a doctor.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I only regret that I shall give you no opportunity for this,&quot; was the
+cool response, that made the doctor open his eyes in astonishment.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Am I to consider this as a rejection?&quot; asked he, dejectedly.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;If you choose to call it so. At all events it is the answer to your
+offer put so respectfully and with such uncommon tenderness.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The doctor's face lengthened considerably. He had, most assuredly, not
+deemed it necessary to impose a bridle upon his well-known bluntness,
+and to make any circumlocution in his courtship. He knew very well
+that, in spite of his years and his gray hairs, he was &quot;a good match,&quot;
+and that more than one lady of his acquaintance was ready to share his
+station in life and his property, and here where his offer was
+doubtless a great, hardly-dreamed-of, piece of good fortune for the
+portionless girl, he was unceremoniously discarded! He believed that he
+had not heard aright.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;You actually then reject my offer?&quot; he asked.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I regret to have to decline the honor destined for me.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">There ensued a brief pause. Hagenbach looked alternately upon Leonie
+and upon the desk, or rather the portrait over it, but then his
+restrained vexation got the better of him.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Why?&quot; asked he brusquely.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;That is my affair.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Excuse me, it is my affair, if I am discarded: I want, at least, to
+know wherefore.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">At every question put, he took one step forward, and at last made such
+demonstrations against the portrait, that Leonie planted herself in
+front of it, as if for a shield.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;If you lay such great stress upon it,&quot; said she, suppressing her
+tears, &quot;be it so, then. Yes, Engelbert was my betrothed, whom I shall
+eternally bewail. He stayed in the family as tutor where I was
+governess, our spirits were congenial and we plighted our troth.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;That must have been very touching,&quot; growled Hagenbach, fortunately so
+softly that Leonie did not hear him; she continued with quavering
+voice:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Engelbert then went as traveling-companion to Egypt; there it came
+over him like a revelation, and he determined to devote the rest of his
+life to the conversion of the poor heathen. He magnanimously gave me
+back my word, which I would not accept, however, but declared myself
+ready to share with him his hard, self-sacrificing vocation. It was not
+to be! He wrote me once more before his departure for the interior of
+Africa, and then&quot;--her voice broke into sobs--&quot;then I heard nothing
+more of him.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Hagenbach did not at all share in this grief; he rather felt an
+extraordinary satisfaction over it, viz., that the aforesaid betrothed
+lover and converter of the heathen was really dead and out of the way;
+but the narration mitigated his displeasure. It took away every
+insulting feature of the rejection. He fell into a reconcilable mood,
+that extended even to his rival.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Peace to his ashes!&quot; said he. &quot;But one day you will cease to bewail
+him, and not spend all your days grieving over him. That may have been
+the fashion in Werther's time, but at the end of the nineteenth century
+the betrothed sheds the usual tears over the departed lover, and then
+takes another one--if such an one, perchance, there be. In our case, he
+is here and repeats his offer. So, then, Leonie, will you have me? Yes
+or no?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;No!&quot; said Leonie, drawing herself up indignantly. &quot;If I did not know
+what I possessed in the tender, devoted love of my Engelbert, your
+courtship would show me. Perhaps you would not have approached any
+other lady in such an--unceremonious fashion, but the lonely, faded
+girl, the poor, dependent teacher, must esteem it great good luck if a
+'good support' is offered her. To what end use formalities? But I have
+too high a regard for matrimony to consider it only from this point of
+view. I would rather remain as I am, poor and dependent, than be the
+wife of a man, who, not even as a lover, thinks it worth his while to
+treat me with proper respect.--And now, Doctor, we may consider our
+interview as closed.&quot; She made him a bow and left the room.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Hagenbach stood there, confounded, watching her disappearing figure.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;That is what you call being lectured,&quot; said he. &quot;And I have quietly
+submitted to it. As for the rest, she did not look bad in her
+excitement, with her crimsoned cheeks and flashing eyes. Humph! I
+didn't know how pretty she is.--Yes, these cursed bachelor-ways! One is
+utterly ruined by them.&quot;</p>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<h2>CHAPTER XV.</h2>
+
+<h3><a name="div1_15" href="#div1Ref_15">A WEDDING DAY.</a></h3>
+<br>
+
+<p class="normal">At Odensburg, flags were flying, cannon being fired off from the
+surrounding heights, and triumphal arches, wreaths of evergreen, and
+flowers, everywhere greeted the young bridal-pair who had just
+returned, after the performance of the marriage-ceremony.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The service had taken place in the somewhat remote church of Saint
+Eustace, where Dernburg, too, had once stood before the altar with his
+own bride. Now the wedding-procession came back, a long line of
+carriages, at the head of which drove the equipage of the newly-married
+couple.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The works were silent to-day, as a matter of course, the workmen
+forming a lane all the way to the Manor-house, and the golden sunshine
+of this beautiful day in late summer enhanced the merriment and jollity
+that had taken possession of Odensburg to its utmost bounds upon this
+great occasion.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Now the carriage drove through the grand triumphal arch, that made a
+gorgeous display with its banners and green wreaths, drawing up in
+front of the terrace. Eric lifted his bride out. The foot of that young
+woman trod literally on flowers, which had been scattered along her
+path in profusion. The entrance-hall was transformed into a garden
+blooming with sweet blossoms, and the entertaining-rooms, now thrown
+wide open for the reception of their new mistress, were likewise
+adorned.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Dernburg followed, with his sister on his arm, his features betraying
+deep emotion, when he embraced his son and daughter-in-law. He had
+offered a costly sacrifice, when he consented to the separation and
+lasting abode of the young pair in the South, but the infinite rapture
+depicted upon Eric's face indemnified the father for it, in some
+measure. Then Dernburg's glance fell upon Maia, who now entered by
+Wildenrod's side. He surveyed the proud bearing and handsome appearance
+of the man, who seemed just fitted, one day, to be the presiding genius
+of Odensburg. He saw the sweet countenance of his darling equally
+illumined by the light of joy, and then the shadow passed away also
+from his own brow. Fate offered him full indemnity for what he had to
+give up.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Maia flew into her brother's arms and then kissed her beautiful
+sister-in-law with the greatest tenderness. Oscar, too, embraced the
+young pair, but as he stooped down to Cecilia, he gave her a dark look,
+half-solicitous, half-threatening: and she must have felt this, too,
+for she slightly shuddered, and by a quick movement, extricated herself
+from his arms.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Not much time was allowed, however, for family greetings, inasmuch as
+other carriages now drove up to the door, and the wedding-guests began
+to assemble. The newly-married pair were congratulated upon all sides
+and soon formed the center of the brilliant circle that had collected
+here. None of the prominent people in the neighborhood were missing,
+with the solitary exception of Count Eckardstein, who had declined the
+invitation.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The young husband was inexpressibly happy. On this day, that had
+witnessed the fulfillment of his most ardent desires, his health also
+seemed to have been given back to him. He no longer looked sickly and
+broken. With flushed cheeks and sparkling eyes, he accepted, with
+smiles, the congratulations offered him, and exhibited a cheerfulness
+and animation, that visually did not belong to his nature. His eyes
+continually turned to her, who had just linked her destiny with his
+own, as though he could not exist a moment without beholding her loved
+face.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">And this admiration was pardonable enough. Cecilia looked radiantly
+beautiful in her bridal attire. The white satin gown, costly lace veil,
+and--Eric's present---the diamonds that sparkled on neck and arms,
+enhanced the peculiar charm of her appearance. Only her beautiful face
+looked strangely pale beneath her myrtle-crown. She too smiled and
+bowed, in acknowledgment of the congratulations that were spoken, and
+uttered the usual grateful speeches; but there was something forced and
+cold in that smile, and her voice was without ring. Fortunately this
+attracted nobody's attention, for the right to look pale and serious
+was allowed a bride.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The director of the Odensburg works and Dr. Hagenbach, who were both
+among the guests, stood in a window, somewhat apart. The former had
+undertaken the superintendence of the festal arrangements, with which
+the employés meant to compliment the son of their chief upon his
+wedding-day. All had succeeded beyond their expectations,--the
+triumphal arches, the decoration of the road to the church, the
+delegations, and congratulatory addresses in prose and verse, which had
+been partly attended to the day before. The main thing, however, was
+yet to come--the grand holiday parade of the workmen themselves, who
+were just now forming into line out of doors. The director was mildly
+excited because his management had been called in question, and spoke
+in a low, and forcible manner to the doctor, who, however, listened
+abstractedly and often looked across at the young pair, who were still
+surrounded by a circle of friends.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I only wish the parade had been appointed for yesterday,&quot; said he, in
+a low tone. &quot;The procession will be more than an hour in passing by,
+and all that time the bridal pair will be kept out upon the terrace. It
+is too much upon Eric. The ceremony, the parade, then the state dinner,
+and finally the leave-taking. From the first, I have been opposed to
+these great and noisy festivities, but was out-voted on all sides. Even
+Herr Dernburg wanted the entertainment to be as magnificent as
+possible.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;That is quite in the nature of things, at the wedding of his only
+son,&quot; suggested the director, &quot;and the participation of the Odensburg
+hands was not to be rejected. I think we shall gratify him with our
+procession; it must make a fine show in the bright sunlight. As for the
+rest, I cannot understand your solicitude about the young master. He
+looks splendidly--I have never seen him as cheerful and fresh-looking
+as to-day.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;That is the very thing that makes me uneasy. There is something
+feverish in his excitement, and in his condition any excitement is
+poison. Would that he were now quietly seated in the carriage by his
+wife's side, having left all this jubilation behind them.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">They were interrupted by a servant announcing that the procession was
+ready to move, only awaiting the appearance of the family. The director
+stepped up to the young couple, and in the name of all the Odensburg
+employés, asked them to accept their homage.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Eric smiled, and offered his arm to his young wife, that he might
+escort her to the terrace. Dernburg and the guests joined them.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">That was a fascinating panorama on a grand scale that now unfolded
+itself before their eyes, out of doors, in the bright noonday sun. The
+chief officers stood at the foot of the terrace, while their
+subordinates headed single groups of the gay procession, which had
+taken its position on the broad piece of level ground extending up to
+the works, and now put itself in motion.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">In dense and endless masses, with music and waving banners, the
+thousands of workmen marched past, the men from the forges up in the
+mountains having joined them. By a very skillful arrangement they had
+interspersed groups of children, that with happy effect broke the
+monotony of the procession. The pupils of the schools founded by
+Dernburg stepped proudly along, in their Sunday clothes, pleasure in a
+holiday beaming from every face: when they caught sight of the bride
+they waved caps and bunches of flowers, almost splitting their little
+throats with the loud cheers that they gave out one after another.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">It cost trouble to keep the way clear for the procession, for the wives
+of the workmen, with the tiniest children in their arms, lined the
+sides of the road, and, besides, the inhabitants of all the region
+round about had streamed hither. All eyes were turned towards the
+terrace, to the white form of the bride, before whom all standards were
+lowered, and for whom all this rejoicing was made: she was the one to
+whom the whole entertainment was given, and received honors such as
+usually fall only to the lot of a princess. Incessantly she bowed her
+head in recognition of the people's kindness, but there was something
+of restraint in her action, and her large, dark eyes looked coldly upon
+all these demonstrations of joy, as though she saw nothing of them, and
+as though in far, far-off space she sought something entirely
+different.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Eric, on the contrary, as was most unusual with him, took the liveliest
+interest in all that was going on. He drew Cecilia's attention to
+special features of the procession, turning repeatedly to the director
+to thank him for all the gratification that his skill was affording
+them, and seemed to have entirely laid aside his timidity and reserve.
+At other times it had been painful and oppressive to him, to be the
+chief person upon occasions of the sort, but to-day he hailed it with
+joyful pride, for the sake of his young wife.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Dernburg stood by his son's side, and received these demonstrations of
+popularity with kindly gravity. Who could blame him, if his chest
+heaved more proudly and his massive form became more erect, at sight of
+the thousands who were marching by? Those were his workmen to whom, for
+thirty long years, he had been a master, but also a father, for whose
+weal he had labored and toiled as for his own, and these they would
+estrange from him! These were to turn from him to follow another, who,
+as yet, had done nothing for them; who had begun his career by setting
+up opposition to the man who had been a greater benefactor to him than
+to all besides! A contemptuous smile played about the lips of the lord
+of Odensburg, the ground upon which he stood was firm as a rock; of
+that he felt impressed more strongly than ever to-day.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">But still another looked with swelling bosom and flashing eyes upon the
+masses flowing by,--Oscar von Wildenrod, who stood with Maia under one
+of the orange-trees. Gigantic as had the control of the Odensburg works
+appeared to him, from the start, never had the power and importance of
+Dernburg's position struck him as it did to-day--and this was to be his
+future destination. To be the ruler of such a world, to guide it with a
+word, a sign,--that had been his aim since that first evening when he
+had looked over at those works, veiled as they were in the darkness of
+night. Now, at last, he stood close before his goal.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">His glance turned to Maia, and the proud triumph resting upon his
+features melted into a blissful smile. The half-comic, half-solemn
+dignity, with which Maia wore the long train to her blue silk gown,
+unused, as she was to such an appendage, became her charmingly; her
+rosy cheeks glowed from joyous exhilaration. With the frolicsomeness of
+a child she let herself be borne along by the waves of joyful
+excitement that were bounding in her heart. She knew that her father
+had withdrawn his opposition to her love.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Is it not beautiful?&quot; asked she, lifting her radiant eyes to his face.
+&quot;And Eric is so happy!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Oscar smiled and bent over her.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Oh, I know one who will be happier than Eric, when he stands there on
+yonder spot, with his young bride by his side, when----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Hush, Oscar!&quot; interposed Maia with glowing face. &quot;You know--papa will
+not allow a whisper of that now.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Nobody hears us,&quot; said Oscar, and indeed the noise of the music and
+cheers drowned his passionate whispering. &quot;And your papa is not so
+stern as he would have us believe. He has, it is true, denied my
+petition to have our engagement publicly announced to-day, it was hard
+enough to wrest a consent from him on any terms. But now you are here,
+and if his darling asks him, he will not say her nay. I shall renew the
+siege to-morrow--will you help me, my Maia?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">She did not answer, only her eyes told him, that he should not lack the
+support asked for: with soft but fervent pressure he took her hand.
+Wildenrod evidently had no objection to the company, guessing what at
+present they were not to be told.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The last group of workmen had just gone by, the marching past was at an
+end, and the whole mass of spectators moved in a body to the now vacant
+railroad station, in order to take the next train. On the terrace, too,
+everything was now in motion. The director once more received the
+thanks of Dernburg and his son, to which were added the compliments of
+the guests present, for the successful manner in which the affair had
+been conducted, and then the young couple with their friends retired
+into the house.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">They were greeted in the vast entrance-hall by strains of music, and a
+table stood in waiting, richly decorated with flowers, silver and
+cut-glass, whence the most tempting refreshments were served. Little as
+Dernburg liked ordinarily to make a display of his wealth, to-day no
+expenditure was spared that could add to the splendor of the occasion.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The meal passed as is usual at such times: healths were drunk, and
+after sitting at table for about two hours the dancing began, for which
+the younger portion of the company had waited longingly.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The newly-married pair only participated in the first grand promenade
+and then withdrew. Maia, who was escorted back to her place by
+Wildenrod, saw that they left the hall with some surprise.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Why do Eric and Cecilia break up already?&quot; asked she. &quot;They are not to
+set off for an hour to come?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;It is Dr. Hagenbach's fault,&quot; declared Oscar. &quot;He fears that Eric has
+over-exerted himself--quite unnecessarily, it seems to me, for Eric has
+never looked better than to-day.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;So it seems to me; but Cecilia looks so much the paler. She was all
+the while so grave and silent--I would have imagined a happy bride
+looking very differently.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Wildenrod's eyes had likewise followed his sister, a dark frown
+gathering upon his brow the while. But then, he shrugged his shoulders
+and replied in a careless tone:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;She is worn out and fagged; no wonder either. The director has imposed
+a little too much upon us, with this endlessly long procession of his,
+for there we had to stay until the last company had marched by.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Maia shook her head, while her childlike features became grave and
+thoughtful. &quot;Eric thinks it is something different, he is anxious to
+learn what.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;What is it that Eric wants to learn?&quot; asked Wildenrod suddenly, so
+sharply that the young girl looked at him in surprise.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Oh, he is mistaken perhaps, but upon my return he lamented to me the
+alteration that had taken place in Cecilia during the past few weeks.
+He is afraid that some trouble is weighing upon her mind, and hoped
+that she might be persuaded to confide in me, since he had failed to
+learn her secret. I gladly obliged him by approaching her on the
+subject, but got nothing for my pains. She was equally reserved with
+me--Eric was quite miserable about it.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Oscar bit his lip and an expression came out upon his features that
+terrified Maia. As soon, however, as he noticed her questioning look,
+he gave a short laugh and said mockingly: &quot;I am afraid Eric will make
+life hard for himself and his wife, with his overstrained tenderness.
+Fortunately Cecilia is not attuned to such sentimentalities, and will
+laugh him out of his tendency to 'make mountains out of mole-hills.'&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The waltz just now beginning, interrupted the conversation between the
+two. A young officer to whom the daughter of the house was engaged for
+this dance, came up to claim her hand. Maia, who, for the first time
+danced in a large company, entered heartily into this amusement, but
+her eyes quickly turned again to the spot where the Baron stood, or
+rather had stood, for he was no longer there. She sought him in vain;
+he must have left the room.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Eric had attended his young wife to her chamber, and then repaired to
+his own apartments, to change his suit. He smiled over the painful
+solicitude of the doctor, who could never get over treating him as a
+sick man, no matter how well he felt, as for instance to-day. But with
+the prescription itself he was well pleased, for not yet had he been
+allowed a single minute of his wife's society in private. His
+traveling-suit was quickly donned, and now there was still left a half
+hour for a sweet, confidential chat, that nobody could disturb.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Full of impatience the young husband hurried out to go and find his
+wife, but at the foot of the stairs he stood still a moment and gazed
+through the wide-open portals of the grand reception-hall.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Out of doors lay the landscape in the full splendor of the evening-sun,
+whose golden light flooded also the flower-bestrewn terrace, and a
+broad shining beam also crossed the hall. From the works over yonder,
+where the festivities for the workmen took place, came sounds of music
+and rejoicing; and from the open windows of the ball-room, where a
+pause in the dancing had occurred, penetrated the gay talking and
+laughing of the company.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Eric's heart beat high for joy, and he drew a deep breath of
+satisfaction. What a lovely day it had been, this his wedding-day! And
+now life just began for him--now there beckoned to him the wide world,
+the sunny South; he would be free from oppressive, irksome duties, and
+there on the shore of the blue Mediterranean, with a sweet wife by his
+side, dream an enchanting dream of happiness. In the depths of his
+soul, he was pierced with gratitude to the Giver of all good, who had
+showered upon him all these blessings.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">With quick steps he mounted the stairs and was about to enter the small
+parlor which separated Cecilia's chamber from that of her brother, when
+he remarked that it had been bolted from the inside; also nobody opened
+in response to his light tap. He was impatient, and took another way.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Oscar's chamber had another peculiar entrance, a little tapestry-door,
+that was seldom or never used. Eric opened it and traversed the
+apartment of his brother-in-law and the adjoining parlor. His step was
+not audible upon the soft carpet, and moreover the door to Cecilia's
+chamber was close. Eric heard Wildenrod's voice from inside and stood
+still.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The brother, he supposed, had sought the bride in order to see her once
+more alone and to say farewell. This was natural and the parting--in
+any case so brief--ought not to be disturbed.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Yet what was that? The Baron's voice sounded stern and threatening, and
+now a wild, passionate sob was heard. Was it Cecilia's voice? It could
+not be she who was thus distressed, weeping so despairingly! Eric
+turned pale, the foreboding of a great sorrow suddenly fell upon him,
+as though an ice-cold hand had laid its weight upon his chest. He
+tarried motionless in his place, every word reaching him through the
+closed door.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Be reasonable, Cecilia! Have you lost all power of self-control? You
+must show yourself again to the guests and bid them farewell, Eric may
+come in any minute. Do collect yourself!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">No answer, only convulsive, inconsolable weeping.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I dreaded something of the sort, and therefore sought you, but I was
+not prepared for such an outbreak as this. Cecilia, you must compose
+yourself.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I cannot!&quot; gasped Cecilia with half-stifled voice. &quot;Leave me, Oscar! I
+have been obliged to smile and lie this livelong day--must do so again
+when I sit in that carriage with Eric--I'll die if I cannot take my cry
+out this once--only this single time.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The brother must have perceived that he could effect nothing here by
+the assumption of a domineering tone, for his voice was milder, when he
+rejoined:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;There it is again, that wretched passionateness of your disposition,
+you should say to yourself, that this is the last of all hours, in
+which to abandon yourself thus. I have done everything to secure to you
+your happiness and you----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;My happiness?&quot; repeated Cecilia with sarcastic bitterness. &quot;Why that
+lie, Oscar?--we are alone. You managed to deceive me so long as I was a
+thoughtless child, but you know the day that opened my eyes. You only
+wanted, through me, to pave the way to your own fortune, when you set
+yourself to make a match between Eric and me. You wanted to be master
+of Odensburg, therefore, I had to be the victim.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;And if I had this aim in view, I lifted you up with myself,&quot; cried
+Wildenrod with emphasis. &quot;I have told you, often enough, that the
+question here for both of us is 'to be or not to be.' You consider
+yourself a victim do you? Why, to-day you received princely homage, and
+as those endless throngs of dependents marched past you, surely it must
+have become clear to you, what significance the name that you now bear,
+has in the world. That life in Odensburg, which you dreaded so, is to
+be spared you. You are to return to Italy. Eric worships you, he lives
+only in your looks, and will leave no wish of yours ungratified,
+showering upon you everything that wealth can give. What more can you
+ask of your marriage? This is good fortune, and one day you will thank
+me for it.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Never! never!&quot; cried the young woman, beside herself. &quot;Oh! that I had
+fled from this good fortune! But you--you compelled my submission by
+the dreadful threat that you would follow our father's example, and I
+had to stay in order to save you. You have no idea, what torture I have
+endured since that time, in the midst of all Eric's goodness and
+tenderness. I never have loved him, never will love him, and now that
+the chain is irrevocably forged, I feel that it will crush me. I would
+rather lie down in death than in his arms!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">She suddenly hushed. &quot;What was that?&quot; she asked quickly.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;What?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I do not know--it sounded like a sigh!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Imagination! We are alone, I have secured ourselves against listeners.
+What means that desperate outbreak? Have you waited until your
+wedding-day to be certain that you love another? Do you not know the
+truth, or <i>will</i> you not? I have suspected it ever since that day when
+you and Runeck met on the Whitestone. It seemed as though you would
+lose your senses, at the bare idea of being despised by that man, of
+appearing before him in the light of an adventuress. I did not want to
+warn or frighten you--no one arouses a somnambulist upon his dangerous
+walk. But now it is time to wake up. Since that Egbert has crossed your
+path----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;No! no!&quot; interposed Cecilia repelling the imputation.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Yes!&quot; said Oscar with cold insistency. &quot;Do you think, it has escaped
+me how, this morning, when I drove to church with you as bride-man, you
+turned deadly pale and then like one spellbound gazed at one particular
+spot in the woods? You had remarked him, who, I suppose, had come to
+take one last look at you. He was far enough off, it is true,
+half-hidden behind the trees. At such a distance one recognizes only
+his deadly foe or the man whom one loves--and we both recognized him.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">His sister made no answer, but did not contradict his assertion. But
+now it was Oscar who started in affright. He had heard close by a noise
+as of a door falling gently to, and seized by an ill-defined
+apprehension, he hurriedly opened the door leading into the parlor.
+Delusion! the parlor was empty, the bolt still undisturbed. But a
+glance at the mantel-clock convinced the Baron that it was high time to
+terminate the interview; he returned to his sister.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I must go back to the company,&quot; said he, in subdued tones, &quot;and you
+too must prepare for your journey. You have had your cry out, now
+consider what you owe to yourself and me! You are Eric's wife, and
+tomorrow miles will already lie between you and that other, whom I hope
+you will never see again. I have seen to it, that he can do no more
+harm at Odensburg, and you will forget him, because you must.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">He unbolted the door and rang for the lady's maid.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The tearful eyes of the bride could be explained by the pain of parting
+from her brother; nevertheless, he would not leave her by herself for a
+single minute. Not until Nannon entered did he leave the room.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Down in the front-hall the Baron met a man-servant, bearing Eric's
+hand-satchel and cloak, of whom he asked in passing:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Can you tell me if Herr Dernburg is in his own room?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;No, Baron, he is with his lady,&quot; answered the man in surprise.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Oh, no, I have just left my sister.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;But I saw the young master go upstairs myself,&quot; the servant ventured
+to reply. &quot;It was about a half hour ago. Have you not seen him
+yourself, sir? He went into your room through the little tapestried
+door.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Wildenrod turned pale to his very lips, for of this entrance he had not
+thought. Whether Eric had really been in the parlor, whether he had
+heard what Oscar dared not carry out the thought, he left the servant
+standing and hurried to his brother-in-law's apartments.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Nobody was in the first room, but when the Baron had opened the
+chamber-door, involuntarily he started back.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Eric lay stretched out on the floor, apparently lifeless, with closed
+eyes. The head had fallen back; and bosom, clothes, and the carpet
+round about were saturated with clear, red blood, that still flowed
+from his lips in single drops.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">For the space of a few seconds Oscar stood like one transfixed, but
+then he pulled the bell-rope violently. With the aid of the servants,
+who came running up, he raised the unconscious bridegroom from the
+floor and laid him on his bed, at the same time ordering Dr. Hagenbach
+to be called, so as to excite as little attention as possible.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">In a very few minutes the physician was at his post. He silently
+listened to Wildenrod's report, while he felt the pulse and listened to
+the beating of the heart; then he drew himself up and said softly:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Bring your sister in, Baron, and prepare her for the worst. I shall
+have his father and Maia called.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Do you fear?&quot; asked Oscar just as softly, but Hagenbach shook his
+head.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;There is no longer room here for either fear or hope. Lead his bride
+here--perhaps he may once more recover consciousness.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">A quarter of an hour later, the whole house knew that Eric Dernburg,
+whom they had just seen at the summit of human felicity, now lay on a
+bed of death. It had not been possible to suppress the dread tidings;
+they flew like wild-fire. In the ball-room, the music ceased abruptly,
+the guests stood around in awe-stricken silence or whispered in
+mournful accents, the servants, meanwhile, running to and fro, with
+distorted faces. Like a flash of lightning the stroke had fallen upon
+the festive scene.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The family had gathered around the death-bed. Dr. Hagenbach was still
+busied in the application of various restoratives, but it was evident
+that he expected nothing more from them. By the side of the couch knelt
+the young wife, in her white satin bridal robe that she had not yet
+laid aside when the message of misfortune came. She was tearless, but
+pale as death. She suspected some secret, strange coincidence.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">On the other side stood Dernburg, in speechless grief, his eyes riveted
+upon his son, for the preservation of whose life he had been willing to
+make any sacrifice, and, in spite of it all, he was to be snatched from
+him. Maia sobbed on her father's bosom. Wildenrod did not dare to
+approach either her or the death-bed, but, silent and moody, kept in
+the background. He had believed his game to be lost, and now he should
+win anyhow. The poor man, whose life was bleeding away there so slowly,
+could never bring an accusation against him, but take to the grave with
+him what he had heard and what had given him his death-blow.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Motionless, Eric lay there with closed eyes, seeming hardly to suffer
+at all. His breathing became easier and easier, until presently the
+physician laid down the hand which he had been holding while he counted
+the pulse. Cecilia saw this and guessed the significance of the act.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Eric!&quot; she shrieked. It was a cry of despair, of deadly anguish; and
+it shocked the dying man out of his stupor. Slowly he opened his eyes,
+that, already dimmed by death, sought the beloved countenance that
+leaned over him, but those eyes expressed such infinite love, so deep
+and silent a lament, that Cecilia shuddered and shrank back. It was
+only an instant of consciousness--the last. One more deep sigh from
+that wounded breast--and all was over.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;The end has come!&quot; said the physician softly.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">With loud weeping, Maia sank upon the corpse of her brother, and over
+Dernburg's cheeks, too, rolled a few big tears, as he kissed the cold
+brow of his son.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">But then he turned to the young wife, gently lifted her up and folded
+her in his arms.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Here is your place, Cecilia,&quot; said he, with deep emotion. &quot;You are my
+son's widow, and my daughter. You shall find in me a father!&quot;</p>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<h2>CHAPTER XVI.</h2>
+
+<h3><a name="div1_16" href="#div1Ref_16">SCENES AT THE &quot;GOLDEN LAMB.&quot;</a></h3>
+<br>
+
+<p class="normal">In the town, that was the railroad station both for Odensburg and the
+whole region round about, was situated the &quot;Golden Lamb,&quot; a well-known
+and much-frequented inn. The immediate neighborhood of the railroad
+station and the lively intercourse that continually took place between
+this place and the Odensburg works, brought much custom to the house.
+All who came from Odensburg or went thither, used to turn in at the
+&quot;Golden Lamb,&quot; which had the best repute, so far as accommodations were
+concerned.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The original proprietor had been dead for a long while, but his widow
+had given him a successor in the person of Herr Pancratius Willmann. He
+had once chanced to call here as a guest with the purpose of looking
+out for some small office in the town, but he had then preferred to
+court the rich widow and remain in that snug nest. He had succeeded in
+this plan, and was very comfortably off in consequence. He left it to
+his wife to manage in kitchen and cellar, reserving to himself the more
+pleasant duties of entertaining the guests and showing them, by his own
+example, how excellent was the cookery of the &quot;Golden Lamb.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">It was on a gloomy, raw October day, which made one feel that autumn
+had come in earnest, when Dr. Hagenbach's buggy stopped before the inn;
+the doctor himself, though, sat in the comfortable gentlemen's parlor
+upstairs which was only open to favored guests. Dagobert was equipped
+for a journey, since he was to take the next train for Berlin, where he
+was to enter the high school. In spite of his uncle's rigid discipline,
+the young man's stay at Odensburg did not seem to have been
+disadvantageous to him, for he looked more manly and healthier than in
+the spring.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Herr Willmann, who would not let the doctor be served by anybody but
+himself, had informed him, with woful visage, that his health had
+certainly been better since he had strictly followed his prescriptions,
+but that he was half-starved nevertheless. Hagenbach listened, quite
+unmoved, and ordered the continuation of the same treatment, without
+paying the least heed to mine host's dismay.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Times seem to be lively with you to-day, Herr Willmann. The sitting
+room downstairs is swarming like a veritable bee-hive. You are having a
+grand political gathering. I hear the whole social democracy of the
+town meet at your house. At all events it is a sign for good that the
+gentlemen have selected the 'Lamb' for a place of rendezvous of their
+own accord. It indicates peaceful intentions, at all events.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Herr Willmann folded his hands, and his visage became very rueful.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Ah, Doctor, do not laugh at me, I am in downright despair. I built the
+new hall last year, for innocent and instructive entertainment--it is
+the largest in the whole town--and now those radicals, those
+revolutionists, those anarchists hold their meetings in it--it is
+dreadful----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;If it is dreadful to you, why do you take such characters into your
+house?&quot; asked Hagenbach dryly.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;How am I to refuse them anything? They would ruin my business, maybe
+blow up my house with dynamite!&quot; Mine host shuddered at this horrible
+idea. &quot;I did not dare to say no, when that Landsfeld came and demanded
+my hall. I trembled before that man, yes, trembled in every limb.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;That must have been very flattering to Mr. Landsfeld,&quot; said the
+doctor, taking a huge draught from the beer mug standing before him,
+while Willmann continued his lamentation.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;But how am I to answer for it to my other customers--you may depend
+they'll make me pay for it--and what will Herr Dernburg say?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I suppose Herr Dernburg will be utterly indifferent as to whether the
+Socialists meet at the 'Golden Lamb' or elsewhere, and that you will
+not lose his custom by it either .... for that matter he never did take
+a meal at your house, did he?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Oh, Doctor, what are you thinking of? My little house, only imagine
+it! The Odensburg family always drive straight to the depot. All
+the subordinate officers, though, deal with me; why, I put my
+main dependence upon Odensburg, and would not for any money in the
+world----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Have it all spoiled for the sake of one party!&quot; said Hagenbach,
+finishing his sentence for him.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Of course, that is a matter of business, Runeck is to speak to-day;
+not a seat will be vacant in your big hall, and it will yield you a
+pretty profit.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Herr Pancratius Willmann lifted both hands in deprecation and cast his
+eyes up at the ceiling. &quot;What am I caring for the profit? But I cannot
+let my business go to rack and ruin, these hard times. I am the father
+of a family, have six children----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Why, the hard times do not seem to have preyed heavily on you,&quot;
+laughed the doctor. &quot;By the way, just at this moment, you bear a most
+remarkable resemblance to your sainted cousin, the man of the desert,
+who used to cast his eyes heavenward, in the same piteous manner. But
+come, Dagobert, we must break up now, else the train will leave you.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">He drank out his mug of beer and stood up. The portly host of the
+&quot;Lamb&quot; attended them to the front-door, and once more, in woe-begone
+manner, begged that his most humble respects be presented to Herr
+Dernburg, with the assurance that he, for his part, was firmly devoted
+to the party of law and order, but that, as the father of a family and
+under these distressing circumstances----</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I shall tell him that you are once more the victim of your calling,&quot;
+exclaimed Hagenbach, breaking short his wail. &quot;You just keep on
+trembling in quiet and pocket the jingling cash all the same. Your beer
+is excellent, and no doubt the gentlemen will know how to appreciate
+it. It will dispose them to be more humane and save the 'Golden Lamb'
+from destruction, if it comes to the worst.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Herr Willmann shook his head gently and reproachfully at this waggish
+aspect of the case, and took leave of his guests with a reverential
+bow, who, on their part, now repaired to the railroad station, where
+the train was already in waiting. While Hagenbach was crossing the
+platform with his nephew, he gave him one more impressive lecture, by
+way of farewell. &quot;I would like to be certain of one thing, namely, that
+you will set yourself to studying steadily in Berlin, and not turn
+aside to the follies that played the wild with that fellow Runeck's
+prospects in life,&quot; said he with emphasis. &quot;He had always been very
+sensible until he went among those Socialists. I tell you, my boy, if
+you let yourself be taken in by people of that sort----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">He put on such a ferocious look that the pale-faced Dagobert shrank
+back in affright and laid his hand upon his breast in protestation of
+his innocent intentions. &quot;I am not going among radicals, dear uncle,
+certainly not,&quot; asserted he, with touching candor.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;They would not make much of a haul when they caught you,&quot; opined the
+doctor contemptuously. &quot;But they take all that they can get, and you,
+alas! are ripe for any kind of folly. I only hope that your cursed poem
+'To Leonie' was your first and will be your last. At all events I made
+clear enough to you, I trust, the undesirableness of writing such
+trash.--But the signal for the cars to start has already been given!
+Have you got your satchel in hand? Get in, then, and a pleasant trip to
+you!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">He shut the coach-door and stepped back. Dagobert really did not
+breathe freely until he saw himself separated from his uncle by the
+solid wall of the coach, for, upon his heart, in his vest-pocket rested
+a long, touching farewell poem &quot;To Leonie.&quot; After the miscarriage of
+his first attempt, it is true that the young poet had not ventured to
+place in the hands of his <i>inamorata</i> this effusion of his sentiments,
+but he had made up his mind to send it in a letter, from Berlin, with
+the assurance that his love would be eternal, however cruelly the rude
+world might come in between himself and the object of his ardent
+affections.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">This &quot;rude world,&quot; in the shape of the doctor, stood upon the platform,
+waving another farewell greeting as the train now began to move. Then
+Hagenbach sought the station-master and inquired whether the fast-train
+from Berlin was behind time.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;No, indeed, Doctor, that train will be here punctually in ten
+minutes,&quot; answered that official. &quot;Are you expecting any one?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Yes, young Count Eckardstein will arrive today.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The station-master's face expressed surprise. &quot;What! Count Victor
+coming? It was said that an irreparable breach was made between his
+brother and himself, that time when he came here in the spring, and
+went away all of a sudden. So, the case at Eckardstein is a desperate
+one?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;To this extent, at least, that Count Victor had to be informed of it.
+He is the only brother, you know.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Yes, yes--the lord-proprietor is unmarried as well,&quot; wound up the
+railroad agent significantly. &quot;Will you not step into the waiting-room,
+Doctor?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;No, I thank you. I prefer to stay out of doors; it will be only for a
+few minutes.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Hagenbach was not the only expectant person there. Landsfeld appeared
+with a troop of workmen, who were also evidently awaiting the arrival
+of some one, for they planted themselves on the platform, conversing in
+loud, dictatorial tones about the approaching electorial assembly.
+Finally the train came rushing up. It brought a good many passengers,
+who got out here at the larger railway-station, so that, for a few
+minutes, there was a regular commotion in the great reception hall.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Hagenbach walked along the whole line of coaches, with scrutinizing
+glance, when suddenly he saw before him the tall figure of Runeck, who
+had just left the coach. Both stopped short, the first instant, when
+Egbert made a quick motion, as though he would approach the physician,
+but Landsfeld had already discovered him and pressed up to him with his
+followers. With noisy greetings they encircled the young engineer, took
+him into their midst and as they left the depot, raised a loud cheer
+for him.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;The tribune of the people sails in smooth waters,&quot; growled the doctor
+irritably. &quot;A pretty surprise this, that he is preparing for Herr
+Dernburg! I am only curious as to what our Odensburgers are going to
+say. They are in it too, and, as it seems, in goodly numbers.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">He quickened his pace, for he just now caught sight of Victor
+Eckardstein alighting from the last coach, in company with an elderly
+gentleman. The young Count also perceived him, and hastened to meet
+him&quot;.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Nothing has happened yet at Eckardstein, has it?&quot; asked he nervously.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;No, Count; the condition of the patient has not perceptibly altered
+since day before yesterday. But as I happened to be at the station, I
+thought I would wait to welcome you.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The young Count now turned and introduced: &quot;Dr. Hagenbach, my uncle,
+Herr von Stettin.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Hagenbach bowed, recognizing the name and knowing that he had before
+him the brother of the deceased Countess Eckardstein. Stettin offered
+him his hand.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;You are treating my nephew, as I learn.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I am, Herr von Stettin, being called in by the express desire of the
+family physician. My colleague did not want to undertake the
+responsibility alone.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;In that he did perfectly right. His report was so alarming that I
+determined to accompany Victor. The case is a serious one, is it not?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;An inflammation of the lungs is always serious,&quot; answered the doctor
+evasively. &quot;We must build upon the powerful constitution of the
+patient. We considered it a duty, at any rate, not to keep the Count in
+ignorance of the danger hanging over his brother.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I thank you,&quot; said Victor with emotion. He looked pale and agitated,
+the thought of seeing that brother, from whom he had parted in anger,
+lying upon what was perhaps his death-bed, evidently oppressed him
+sorely. He kept silent, while Stettin asked the most particular
+questions, informed himself exactly as to the condition of his elder
+nephew. Out of doors in front of the railroad station stood an
+Eckardstein carriage, and the doctor took leave of the two gentlemen,
+promising to be at the Castle early the next morning. Then he went over
+to the &quot;Golden Lamb&quot; to bid his coachman prepare likewise for
+departure.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">In the hall he once more met Runeck and Landsfeld, who had rid
+themselves of their comrades and were just inquiring of the host if he
+could not furnish them with a private room, as they wanted to confer
+about something.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">This time Egbert bowed and paused hesitatingly, as though he were in
+doubt whether he should address the doctor or not. At the same time he
+cast an almost shy glance over at the steps where Landsfeld stood.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Well?&quot; asked he sharply, the word sounding more like a command than a
+summons.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">That decided the matter. The young engineer defiantly threw back his
+head and stepped up to the physician.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;A word with you, Doctor! How goes it at Odensburg--in the Manor-house,
+I mean?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Hagenbach had responded very coolly to his greeting, and answered with
+reserve:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;As you would expect in a house of mourning, where death entered so
+suddenly and shockingly--you have heard, I suppose, how the young
+gentleman died?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Yes, I know about it,&quot; said Egbert in a voice that betrayed suppressed
+emotion. &quot;How did his father bear it?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Worse than he would have one believe. And yet his is an iron nature
+that manfully resists every assault made upon it, and he has not much
+time to devote to his grief either. Affairs in and around Odensburg
+claim his attention more than ever. You will understand how this is
+better than I, Herr Runeck!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The doctor's thrust, however, seemed to glance aside from the
+apparently thick panoply of Egbert's composure, as he calmly went on
+questioning:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;And Maia? She loved her brother very dearly.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Why, Miss Maia, you know, is hardly seventeen yet. At that age one
+weeps freely and is then consoled. On the contrary, Mrs. Dernburg
+suffers more acutely under her loss than I could have supposed
+possible.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;The young widow?&quot; asked Egbert in a low tone.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Yes; those first days she abandoned herself so to grief, that I
+entertained serious apprehensions, and even now she is broken-hearted
+as it were. I would not have attributed to her such exquisite
+sensibility.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Runeck's lips quivered, but he made no reply to this last remark.
+&quot;Remember me to Miss Maia--she perhaps will not spurn my salutation,&quot;
+said he hurriedly. &quot;Farewell, Doctor.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">So saying he turned to the stairs, where Landsfeld was still awaiting
+him, and mounted them with him, while Hagenbach called his coachman and
+then seated himself in his carriage.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Herr Willmann, from the front door, made another reverential bow. The
+very next minute, he hurried as fast as his corpulence would admit of,
+after the other two.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">And he did not tremble at all when he stood before the dreaded
+Landsfeld, but bent just as low before him as he had done awhile ago to
+the doctor, and in the most fawning manner asked his honored guests to
+take possession of the gentlemen's parlor, where they should be
+entirely undisturbed--he would see to it that nobody came in. Whatever
+their honors wanted in kitchen or cellar, yes, the whole house was at
+their disposal.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;No, we need nothing now,&quot; said Landsfeld carelessly. &quot;Only you see to
+it, mine host, that nothing is lacking this evening. The crowd will be
+very great.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The fat host of the &quot;Lamb&quot; exhausted himself in assurances that
+everything should be attended to in the very best of style, and then
+with the greatest self-complacency repaired to his assembly-room, to
+attend to making some arrangements in person. Herr Pancratius Willmann
+possessed, in the highest degree, the art of serving two masters.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The two guests meanwhile had entered. Egbert had seated himself, and
+his head rested in his hand. He looked pale and worn, and there was a
+harsh, bitter look upon his face, not at all habitual with him.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The new candidate for election did not seem, to find much pleasure in
+the honor that had been bestowed upon him. Landsfeld closed the door
+and likewise drew up to the table.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Have you time for us, at last?&quot; asked he with sharpness.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I should think I always had that,&quot; was the short answer.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;And yet it does not seem so. You let me stand there on those steps
+like a fool, while you were talking with that doctor.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;You need not have listened. Why did you not go ahead of me?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Because it amused me to see how impossible you find it to break away
+from those to whom you have so long been in bondage. Ha, ha! to hear
+you inquiring after their health, in that highly sentimental manner. It
+was too funny!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;What is it to you?&quot; said Egbert harshly. &quot;That is my own affair.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Not exactly, my young man. You are the candidate of our party, and, as
+such, have decidedly and definitely to break off all connection with
+the enemy's camp. Before all things, you have to care for your
+popularity now, and you will make yourself disliked, yes, suspected, by
+such proceedings,--note that!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Runeck contemptuously shrugged his shoulders. &quot;I thank you for your
+good advice, but rather think that I ought to be capable of guiding my
+own actions.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;You speak in a very lofty tone forsooth,&quot; mocked Landsfeld. &quot;You
+already behold yourself as the all-powerful party-leader, as the chief
+person in the <i>Reichstag</i>. You have, in general, quite a dangerous
+touch of the master about you. In this you bear a striking resemblance
+to the old man at Odensburg, no doubt having learned it from him. But
+that this kind of thing does not go down with us you should know by
+this time. If you continue to carry on so, my word for it, your
+election will be impossible.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Egbert suddenly rose to his feet and with furrowed brow planted himself
+right in front of Landsfeld.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;What is all this for? Better say, straight out, that you envy me the
+station to which the party has nominated me. You had calculated upon
+holding it and cannot forgive me for having been preferred before you.
+And you know best of all that this office was thrust upon me. I would
+have gladly committed it to you--only too gladly!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;What I wished or expected is not to be considered here,&quot; answered
+Landsfeld coldly. &quot;There was no prospect of my carrying the election;
+there is one for you, so I had to vacate the field for you, and this I
+do without murmuring. I know the discipline and adhere to it--would
+that others did the same.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Runeck did not seem to hear the last remark, he had stepped up to the
+window and looked out. &quot;How does it stand in Odensburg?&quot; asked he,
+abruptly.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Well, better at least than we dared to hope. The old man&quot;--Landsfeld
+used this designation for Dernburg by preference, because he knew that
+it wounded his comrade--&quot;the old man, to be sure, feels himself
+impregnable in his high tower, and his eyes will not be opened, either,
+until election-day. But we have worked bravely, and that really was no
+easy matter in this case. Now it is for you to prove your strength!
+Much depends upon your speech this evening, perhaps everything. A part
+of the Odensburg workmen still stick firmly to Dernburg, the rest
+waver, and those are the ones that you are to capture this evening and
+draw over to us. You know how to do that splendidly, at least you used
+to.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I shall do my duty,&quot; said Egbert glumly, without turning around. &quot;But
+I am doubtful as to the result.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Why so? Hark, it seems to me that your wings have been clipped since
+we played you against the old man at Odensburg. What you have spoken,
+these last weeks in Berlin, was tolerably flat and tiresome. Formerly
+you sparkled with fire and enthusiasm and carried everything before
+you, now when everything depends on it, you are neither cold nor hot.
+Can you really be as besotted over this Dernburg as he over you? I do
+believe he found the death of his son easier to bear than your
+defection. It will be a touching spectacle, to see you two pitted
+against one another in a life to life struggle.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;That's enough now, Landsfeld!&quot; burst forth the young engineer,
+furiously excited. &quot;I have already desired you, once before, not to
+disturb yourself about my personal relations; I forbid it to you now,
+once for all. Hush about that!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Yes, you threatened that time at Radefeld to put me out of doors,&quot;
+mocked Landsfeld, seeming only to be amused by Runeck's rage. &quot;Here we
+are in another person's house, where you cannot resort to that measure.
+But let's to business! I only wanted to make it clear to you, that this
+evening you must lay aside all sentimental retrospect if your speech is
+to take effect. You know what the party expects of you.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Yes--I know.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Well, then, rally your forces! We <i>must</i> have the Odensburg workmen,
+for their votes will decide the matter. You must therefore make
+energetic front against Dernburg, and against all that he has set in
+motion. You must demonstrate to the people, that his schools and
+asylums and savings-banks, with which he decoys them, are of no value
+in our eyes, a beggar's pence that he casts to his workmen, while he
+rakes in by the million. The people do not believe us, but you they
+will believe, for they know to what end the old man gave you your
+training. You were to be the future superintendent of his works, the
+first after himself, and you refused to receive aught of all this from
+him, for the sake of our cause: this it is that makes you all-powerful
+among the men of Odensburg, and for this alone we nominated you for
+election. You will accomplish nothing by mere talk--you must make
+straight for your adversary and hit at a vital point.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Egbert turned, slowly around, dogged determination was stamped on his
+brow and his voice expressed bitter scorn, when he answered: &quot;Yes,
+indeed, I must--must! I have no longer a will of my own.--Let us go and
+join the rest!&quot;</p>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<h2>CHAPTER XVII.</h2>
+
+<h3><a name="div1_17" href="#div1Ref_17">ELECTION TIMES.</a></h3>
+<br>
+
+<p class="normal">All the brightness had departed from the social life at Odensburg,
+which had been so gay all the summer through, its center of attraction
+being ever the young engaged couple. The family were still wearing the
+first deep mourning for him who had been laid in the grave hardly two
+months before, and the atmosphere in the house was as heavy and dull as
+was the bleak foggy autumn day outside.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Only Maia made an exception. Dr. Hagenbach was right--at seventeen
+years of age one weeps out one's grief and is then comforted even for
+the loss of a beloved brother; and moreover here was a particular
+comforter quite close at hand. Oscar von Wildenrod had, of course,
+remained at Odensburg; and although there could be no talk now of a
+public betrothal, yet the father had given his consent in due form.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Maia was infinitely lovely in her deep, quiet happiness, and in the
+family-circle, where he needed not to be under restraint, he showed her
+the tenderest attention and devotion. He seemed greatly altered; the
+harsh features vanished more and more from his face, his whole nature
+being softened under the influence of that budding happiness which
+brought him to the goal of his desires.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Dernburg bore his grief for his son as he was accustomed to bear every
+hard thing in life, composedly and silently, seeking his consolation in
+that occupation, to which he gave himself up with greater zeal than
+ever. Between him and his daughter-in-law Eric's death had unexpectedly
+formed a close and tender tie. For, although the father had received
+the betrothed of his son with cordiality, and treated her as a
+daughter, yet in his inmost soul, he had never become really reconciled
+to this union; the vain, haughty child of the world had always been a
+creature apart from the man of strict duty. But the young widow, with
+her grief passionately expressed at first, but afterwards changing to a
+deep, settled melancholy, found a true father in him. From the moment
+when he had folded her in his arms at Eric's bedside, she had held a
+place in his heart.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">He did not suspect, indeed, that this abandoned grief of Cecilia's was
+only remorse--remorse over that hour when she had so strongly expressed
+aversion for the husband, who was even then dying. She did not know the
+worst either, namely, that it was those unfortunate words of hers that
+had pronounced his death-sentence. Oscar had secured the silence of the
+man-servant, who had seen Eric go upstairs and enter the fatal room,
+and no one else was aware of the circumstance. But the young woman had
+some foreboding of the coincidence, and took refuge with her father,
+because she could not overcome a secret horror of her brother.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">For that matter though, Dernburg had but little time now to devote to
+his family, for, besides the usual burdens that he took upon his
+shoulders now as ever, the impending election demanded his time and
+strength in large measure. It was considered a matter of course in his
+party that the prerogative of a seat in the <i>Reichstag</i> which he had so
+long exercised would this time, too, fall to his share, but they had
+soon become convinced that, for the first time, the victory must be a
+contested one, for their opponents were working under high pressure.
+The circumstances required activity in all directions, and here
+Dernburg found quite an unexpected prop in Oscar von Wildenrod.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">With incredible celerity, he had made himself familiar with the
+political situation, and his keen penetration, accompanied by sound
+judgment, excited the admiration of others who had been in the midst of
+these relations.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The Baron was everywhere that it seemed likely his presence could do
+good: he took part in all mass-meetings and consultations, and went
+into the campaign with the most ardent zeal. The quondam diplomat was
+again launched on the open sea of politics, and it was no wonder that
+every day increased his influence over Dernburg, whose very shadow he
+became.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Finally the day arrived, when the last decisive battle was to be fought
+at the polls. Unusual activity now prevailed in the building devoted to
+the offices connected with the Odensburg works, which had commenced,
+indeed, at an early hour in the morning. The lower floor contained the
+hall usually devoted to lectures and all general assemblies: here all
+the officials were to be found to-day, here telegraphic communications
+were constantly coming from the city, and messengers from the country
+districts, which gave, approximately, at least, the returns from the
+polls. The commonly peaceful assembly-room looked like a camp in
+war-time, the director forming its central figure: and a continuous
+stream of messages was conveyed to the Manor.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">It was not until the afternoon was considerably advanced that Dr.
+Hagenbach came in, and was greeted with reproaches on the part of the
+gentlemen present, because of his absence.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Where in the world have you been hiding, Doctor?&quot; cried the director,
+in rather a fault-finding tone. &quot;Here we have been sitting all day
+immersed in care and anxiety, while, in all tranquillity of soul, you
+have been visiting your patients and not pretending to show your face!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I cannot prevent people from getting sick and dying on election-day,&quot;
+said Hagenbach gravely. &quot;I had to go to Eckardstein this morning, and
+there they would have me stay, until all was over.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">However much engrossed the gentlemen were by other things, this news
+aroused universal interest.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Is the Count dead?&quot; asked the director in surprise.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;He died two hours ago.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;That is a sudden turn of fortune's wheel in Count Victor's favor,&quot;
+remarked the upper-engineer. &quot;Yesterday a poor, dependent lieutenant,
+and to-day proprietor of the great Eckardstein estate. Count Conrad had
+not been exactly kind to his younger brother, I believe.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;No; but nevertheless he was as affectionate as possible, at the
+last.--And now, gentlemen, I trust that I have apologized sufficiently
+for my absence, and sincerely hope that I have not been sensibly
+missed. How goes the reckoning? Well, I hope.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Not so particularly well, either,&quot; muttered the upper-engineer. &quot;The
+reports from the country districts are satisfactory, but in town, the
+Socialists evidently have the whip-hand of us.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Well, we were prepared for that from the beginning,&quot; remarked Winning,
+the chief of the technical bureau. &quot;Odensburg gives the casting-vote,
+and with that we are sure of a majority.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;If we can unconditionally calculate upon it--yes,&quot; said the director,
+&quot;but I am afraid----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;What are you afraid of?&quot; asked Hagenbach with a look of concern, as
+the other broke off in the middle of his sentence.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;That we shall be in the minority here too. Runeck's hold upon the
+people seems to be greater than we foresaw--signs of it, indeed, have
+come to light just in the last hour.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Runeck is a forcible speaker,&quot; said Winning, earnestly, &quot;and his great
+speech, recently, at the 'Golden Lamb' carried away his whole audience.
+To be sure it did not reach his former level. He used to speak coldly,
+with stern repose, but every word told--this time he stormed away like
+a runaway horse, without method or aim.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;He was suffering anxiety about his election,&quot; mocked the
+upper-engineer. &quot;Yet there comes Helm; perhaps he brings something
+important.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">It was one of the younger officials who now entered and handed over a
+telegram just received. The director opened and read it, after which he
+silently handed it to the doctor, who stood at his side. He glanced
+over it and then shook his head. &quot;This is very disagreeable! So, in
+town the victory of the Socialists is already decided! Read it,
+gentlemen!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The telegram went the rounds, while the director stepped to the
+telephone, that connected the assembly-room with the Manor, in order to
+report to the chief.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Now the decision rests wholly and solely upon Odensburg,&quot; said the
+upper-engineer. &quot;At all events it was imprudent to dismiss that ranter
+Fallner, immediately before the elections. It has made bad blood and
+cost us hundreds of votes, perhaps. But Herr Dernburg was inexorable!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Was he to submit placidly to having this man prate against him in his
+own workshops, setting them of his own household against him?&quot; remarked
+Winning. &quot;Things of the kind have never been suffered at Odensburg, and
+now would have been an example of unpardonable weakness.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;But I am afraid that we were only the victims of a party maneuver,&quot;
+persisted the other. &quot;Fallner knew exactly what was before him--must
+have known it--but he belonged to that new set, who do not lose much
+if they go, so that he could afford to give himself to the venture. He
+was to be dismissed, the affair was meant to stir up bad blood among
+the people, for that it was planned. I represented all this to the
+master--but in vain. 'I suffer no rebellion and no stirring up of
+strife on my place. Let this be announced to the man at once.' Such was
+his answer, and thereby he put weapons in the hands of his
+adversaries.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Winning was silent, vexed that nobody would take him up, and contradict
+his assertion. But the director, who now came back from the telephone
+and had heard these last words, said significantly:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;If the matter would only end with our losing votes! I was told only
+yesterday, that the workmen are being worked upon from all quarters, to
+take up for Fallner and insist upon his being allowed to remain. If
+they really do this, we shall have strife.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;But they will not do it, because they know the master,&quot; said Dr.
+Hagenbach, mingling in the conversation. &quot;He lets nothing be forced
+from him, even though he should have to close all his works. Our men,
+here, at Odensburg would be simply mad, if they allowed it to come to
+that!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;And though it were the maddest thing in the world, what care Landsfeld
+and his crew for that?&quot; exclaimed upper-engineer. &quot;They want strife, no
+matter at what price and what sacrifice. At the same time, I believe
+that it was a mistake to dismiss Fallner. Alas! he is still here, and
+does not leave the works until day after to-morrow. If the election is
+lost, and passions consequently become aroused, we may live to get a
+disagreeable surprise.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Nonsense! You see ghosts!&quot; scolded Winning; but the director said
+gravely:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I would that this day were past!&quot; Over at the Manor, they waited the
+returns from the elections with the same suspense, and in the master's
+office there was almost as much commotion as in the building where the
+director presided. Dernburg, indeed, took the arrival of reports and
+telegrams, going and coming of officers and their announcements, with
+his wonted calmness. For him it involved no mere question of ambition,
+he sacrificed to his seat in the <i>Reichstag</i>, time and strength which
+were needed in his calling, the want of which he sometimes felt now, at
+the coming on of old age. He would willingly have resigned his seat to
+a representative of his own way of thinking, but as things stood, the
+victory of his party linked itself with his name, and, besides, it was
+Odensburg that would decide his election. Thus this election was an
+affair of honor with him.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Dernburg chanced to find himself alone with his daughter-in-law. That
+young lady, looking grave and fair in her widow's garb, leaned against
+the window. She had of late been admitted more and more to the
+confidence of her father-in-law. He allowed her, at times, an insight
+into the workings of his soul, that were else a sealed book: she alone
+knew the reason why his brow was to-day so dark and lowering. It was
+not solicitude lest he be defeated, which, for that matter, he hardly
+deemed possible: no, the bitterness of this conflict lay for him in the
+thought that his opponent was Egbert Runeck.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Oscar is as much excited as if his own election were at stake,&quot; said
+Dernburg, after he had once more read through his dispatches.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;It surprises me, too, to see my brother thus immersed in politics,&quot;
+replied Cecilia, with a slight shake of the head. &quot;He used to care so
+little about them.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Because he kept aloof from his fatherland for so many years. I just
+now begin to see what he is capable of, when field is given him for a
+great activity.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Oh, I believe Oscar can perform wonders, if he has a mind to, and he
+<i>will</i> begin a new life at Odensburg: he has promised me to.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">These words sounded peculiar, almost like an apology, but Dernburg paid
+no heed to this.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I wish good luck to him and myself on that account,&quot; said he,
+earnestly. &quot;I candidly confess to you, Cecilia, that hitherto I have
+entertained a certain prejudice against your brother, but it has passed
+away; in these last days he has been the greatest comfort to me. For
+this I want to thank him.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The young woman made no answer; she gazed out upon the gray, misty
+October day that was now fast drawing to a close. It was already
+twilight; the servant brought the lamp, and with it came Wildenrod and
+Maia into the room. The Baron looked gloomy and excited. Dernburg
+quickly turned to him.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Well, how goes it, Oscar? What news do you bring? Nothing good. I see
+from your countenance! Have new returns come in?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Yes, from the city. Our fears have been confirmed, the Socialists have
+gotten the majority there.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Ah, indeed!&quot; cried Dernburg hotly. &quot;It is the first time that they
+have accomplished that. We shall soon, however, dampen the joy of their
+triumph with the half of our Odensburg votes!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Cecilia's glance sought her brother's with a timid expression, and his
+features betrayed that he did not share this confidence. There was also
+a certain hesitation in his voice as he answered:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Odensburg certainly has the deciding word, and it will, I hope, be
+spoken for us. Nevertheless, we must prepare for any possibility----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;But not the possibility of my workmen leaving me in the lurch,&quot;
+remarked Dernburg. &quot;Once for all, I cannot believe such a thing of my
+men. Possess your soul in patience, Oscar, you are marked for a novice
+by your feverish uneasiness. As for the rest, the election must be over
+directly.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">He got up, but the way in which he paced up and down the room,
+looking ever and anon at the clock, proved that he was by no means so
+cold-blooded, as he would have them believe. Then his glance fell upon
+Maia, who had almost shyly entered the room and immediately joined her
+sister-in-law, and he stood still:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;My poor little girl has been quite frightened today,&quot; said he,
+compassionately. &quot;Yes, bad politics! It engrosses us men to the
+exclusion of everything else. Come to me, my Maia!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Maia flew to her father and nestled up to him. Her voice sounded very
+dejected, as she replied:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Ah, papa, I understand so little of political affairs. I am very much
+ashamed of it sometimes.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Dernburg smiled and tenderly stroked the fair hair of his darling. &quot;You
+are not to bother your young head about such grave affairs, my child.
+You can safely commit that to Oscar and me.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;But I shall be obliged to learn some time,&quot; said Maia with a heavy
+sigh. &quot;Cecilia has learned, too. Ah, papa, I am jealous of Cecile. You
+have quite closed your heart to everybody else; you consult her about
+everything, while I am always shoved aside as a silly little thing.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;How abominable of me!&quot; sportively returned Dernburg, at the same time
+casting an affectionate glance upon his daughter-in-law. The latter
+smiled, but it was a melancholy, joyless smile.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I almost believe Maia is put out with me, too, because I have had so
+little time to give her to-day,&quot; said Oscar, stepping up to his
+betrothed and taking her hand.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Yes, to-day you have no thought but for dispatches and
+election-returns,&quot; pouted the young girl. &quot;I really do not comprehend,
+why you are all in such anxiety and excitement. Papa will be elected as
+he always is!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I think so too,&quot; said Dernburg, with calm confidence.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Well, then, everything is going on right and we need not worry
+ourselves about it,&quot; declared Maia, shaking her wise head indignantly.
+&quot;That tactless Egbert, indeed, gives papa a great deal to do. Everybody
+is talking about him and----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Silence on that score, Maia!&quot; interposed her father abruptly and with
+an air of displeasure. &quot;The name of Engineer Runeck is daily forced
+upon me in the political arena, but I do not wish to hear it mentioned
+in my family. His relations with us are forever at an end!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The girl ceased, intimidated by the unwonted tone, and a long silence
+ensued. Time slipped by, but the looked-for tidings still tarried.
+Finally the servant entered and spoke a few whispered words to the
+Baron, who got up quickly and went out. In the dimly-lighted hall he
+found the director and Winning, who awaited him there.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Do you wish to speak with me, gentlemen?&quot; asked Wildenrod quickly.
+&quot;What brings you?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Something unpleasant, alas, Baron,&quot; began the director hesitatingly,
+&quot;<i>very</i> unpleasant! Herr Dernburg will have to be prepared for a severe
+disappointment.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;What does that mean? Have you received the expected returns?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Runeck is elected!&quot; said the director in a low voice. &quot;Three quarters
+of the Odensburg votes were for him.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The Baron turned pale and his hand doubled up convulsively.
+&quot;Incredible! Unheard of!&quot; he gasped. &quot;And the country-districts? Our
+forges and mines? Have you heard from there already?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;No, but they can make no alteration in the main result. Runeck has won
+in the city and Odensburg; that is enough to ensure to him the
+majority. Here are the numbers registered.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Wildenrod silently took the paper from the hands of the officer, and
+read the notices through: they agreed--the election was decided, in due
+form, against Dernburg and his party.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;We did not dare to break this news to the Master abruptly,&quot; said
+Winning. &quot;He is not at all prepared for it. Perhaps you'll undertake
+it, Baron? He will have to learn the truth; in a half hour all
+Odensburg will have the news.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I'll communicate it to him,&quot; said the Baron, as he folded the paper up
+and put it in his pocket. &quot;But, one thing more, gentlemen! It is just
+possible that when this result of the election gets abroad
+manifestations may be attempted, that, in this case, will be a direct
+insult to our chief. That mad crew, drunk with victory----&quot; here all
+his vexation broke through the self-restraint, that he had heretofore
+with difficulty maintained. &quot;Any attempt at demonstrations of rejoicing
+will be suppressed with the greatest severity, no matter what comes of
+it. We have no longer any motive to consider them, and they shall be
+made to feel this.&quot; With a haughty nod, he left.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The two officers looked at one another, and finally the director said,
+with a depressed air: &quot;I wonder who is properly our chief now,--Herr
+Dernburg or Baron Wildenrod?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;The Baron, it would seem,&quot; answered Winning, irritably. &quot;He gives
+orders independently, and orders, too, that may entail the most serious
+consequences. These demonstrations are bound to come. Fallner and his
+adherents are already seeing to that----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">It was no enviable task that Wildenrod had undertaken. When he again
+entered Dernburg's room, he was received with the impatient question:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;What was that message about, pray? They are not tormenting us now
+about other things, I hope--we really have no time for them. But I
+cannot understand the meaning of this obstinate silence over at the
+other house. They should have got the news by this time, at least in
+part, and still not a word do they send us.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;The news has already come, as I have just learned,&quot; replied Wildenrod.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;How is that? Why is the announcement delayed then?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;The director and Winning wanted to bring it over in person. They came
+to me----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Dernburg started; for the first time a foreboding of ill darted through
+his soul. &quot;To you? Why not to me? What are those men thinking of?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;They wanted to transfer to me the duty of making the revelation,&quot; said
+the Baron, with bridled excitement. &quot;The officers did not dare to
+approach you with it themselves.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Dernburg changed color, but firmly drew himself up to his full height.
+&quot;Has it come to their wanting to act a comedy with me? Out with what
+you have to say!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Wildenrod looked at the man who confronted him so coldly and
+wrathfully. It was impossible to delay longer. &quot;Runeck has won the
+victory in town----&quot; he began.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I know that! What else?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;And in Odensburg as well.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;In Odensburg?&quot; repeated Dernburg, looking at the speaker as if he had
+not taken in his meaning. &quot;My workmen----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Have for the most part voted for your opponent, Runeck is elected.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">A half-suppressed shriek rang through the apartment; it came from
+Cecilia's lips. Maia looked anxiously upon her father; so much she
+comprehended, namely, that a terrible blow was inflicted upon him by
+these tidings, Dernburg did not speak and did not stir. A dismal
+silence ensued. Finally he held out his hand for the paper that
+Wildenrod had drawn out of his pocket.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;You have the electorial returns?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Yes, here they are.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Dernburg approached the table, in order to read, always preserving his
+rigid composure, but as he stood there, in the full light of the lamp,
+he looked deadly pale. Motionless, he gazed at the numbers that spoke
+their relentless message. At last he said coldly: &quot;Quite right.
+Three-quarters of the votes are for him, and me they have cast
+overboard. It is regular treachery--an unparalleled deserting of one's
+colors. To be sure when one has been digging and delving for months--my
+deputy was in a place of trust, having full access to the people, and
+well knew how to turn the situation to----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Your magnanimity, your unlimited confidence is to blame for it all,&quot;
+remarked Wildenrod. &quot;You knew the designs, the connections of this man,
+and notwithstanding, let him again set foot upon your soil. He wisely
+profited by this to secure constituents for himself. Now, he had only
+to beckon, and crowds flocked to his standard. You gave him the rights
+of a son--behold the return he makes you this day!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Oscar, for heaven's sake desist!&quot; implored Cecilia softly. She saw and
+felt that each one of his words fell like corroding poison into the
+soul of the man, whose heart was as deeply wounded as his pride.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">But Oscar could not use forbearance toward his hated adversary, and
+continued with increasing warmth:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Runeck will triumph and he has every reason to. This is a brilliant
+victory that he has won, to be sure, and over whom? That he gained it
+over you, that alone makes him a famous man. And in this hour the
+result of the election will be known in Odensburg--they will have a
+celebration, vaunting their candidate, and rejoicing until the sound of
+their shouts will be heard at the Manor-house, and you will have to
+listen to them----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I shall do no such thing!&quot; declared Dernburg with vehemence, retiring
+a step. It was evident that the poison was taking effect, the man was
+extremely provoked. &quot;The people have used their right to vote--well, I
+shall use mine as a householder, and know how to protect myself against
+insults. Any demonstrations, whatever following upon this election will
+be suppressed. The director must take the proper measures; tell him so,
+Oscar!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;It has already been done. I foresaw your order, and gave the needful
+directions. I thought that I could be responsible in this case.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">On any other occasion, Dernburg would have considered an interference
+of the sort without his knowledge as an unwarrantable piece of
+presumption; now, he only saw in it an evidence of solicitude and did
+not think of censuring.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;It is well,&quot; answered he shortly.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Represent me for to-day, if you please, Oscar; I can see nobody
+now--go, then, and leave me alone!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Papa, let me, at least, stay with you,&quot; pleaded Maia in touching
+entreaty; but for this once her father did not reciprocate her
+tenderness, but gently put her away.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;No, my child, not even you! Oscar, take Maia with you--I want to be by
+myself.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Oscar whispered to his betrothed a few words, and then led her from the
+room. The door closed behind them, and now, when Dernburg believed
+himself to be alone, his with difficulty maintained composure forsook
+him. He pressed his clinched fists to his temples, a groan heaved his
+chest. He did not feel at this moment the humiliation of the defeat;
+there was something in his grief nobler than mortified ambition.
+Deserted by his workmen, whose gratitude he believed himself to have
+earned through a thirty years' course of fatherly kindness to them!
+Given up for the sake of another, whom he had loved like an own son,
+and who now thanked him in this fashion! His unflinching fortitude gave
+way under this blow.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Then he felt how two arms were thrown around his neck, and starting up
+he perceived his son's young widow, whose pale, tearful countenance met
+his gaze with an expression that he had never seen in it before.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;What means this, Cecilia?&quot; asked he roughly. &quot;Did I not tell you I
+wanted to be alone? The others have gone----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;But I am not going,&quot; said Cecilia with quivering voice. &quot;Repulse me
+not, father! You took me in your arms and pressed me to your heart in
+the hardest hour of my life; now that hour has come to you, and I want
+to share it with you.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Then the stolid bitterness of the horribly excited man broke down, and
+he did not again reject her sympathy. Silently he drew Cecilia to his
+bosom, and as he stooped over, a glowing tear fell upon her forehead.
+She shuddered slightly, stung by remorse--she knew for whom that tear
+was shed.</p>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<h2>CHAPTER XVIII.</h2>
+
+<h3><a name="div1_18" href="#div1Ref_18">FORTUNE SMILES ON VICTOR ECKARDSTEIN.</a></h3>
+<br>
+
+<p class="normal">Eckardstein had a new master. Count Conrad had lain eight days in the
+family vault, and his younger brother had taken the reins of authority.
+That young officer, who had hitherto known no other home than in
+barracks save that spring, when he had paid only a short visit to his
+ancestral halls, now suddenly saw himself confronted by quite a new
+task, and placed in entirely new circumstances. It was certainly
+fortunate for him, that he had at his side his uncle and former
+guardian, who was himself a landed proprietor, and now prolonged his
+stay, in order to support his nephew both with advice and by action.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The gray, foggy weather of the last weeks had been followed by a mild
+autumnal day. The sunshine lay bright upon the extensive forests that
+stretched between Odensburg and Eckardstein, belonging, however, for
+the most part, to the latter domain, for in Odensburg the woods had had
+to give way constantly to the great industrial establishments, that had
+continued to spread from year to year. Only a hunting-ground of
+moderate dimensions and a forester's preserve remained.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Upon one of the woodland paths Count Victor and Herr von Stettin were
+walking along. They had been inspecting the condition of the forests
+and had now started on their return to the Castle.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">They were about to cross the public road, that here led through the
+middle of the woods, when, an open carriage rolled rapidly by, in which
+sat two ladies in deep mourning. The younger turned with an expression
+of joyful surprise when she perceived the young Count, and upon her
+speaking a few words to the coachman the carriage stopped.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Oh, Count Victor, I am very glad to see you again--if the occasion had
+only not been such a melancholy one!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Victor stepped up to the carriage-door with a low bow, but looked as if
+he would rather have paid his respects from a distance. He only touched
+lightly the little hand that was cordially extended to him, and there
+was a perceptible reserve in his words as he answered:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Yes indeed, a very melancholy occasion--but allow me, ladies, to
+introduce my uncle, Herr von Stettin--Fräulein Maia Dernburg--Fräulein
+Friedberg.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Properly, I have only to renew an old acquaintance,&quot; said Stettin,
+smiling, as he likewise drew near. &quot;Years ago when I was on a visit at
+Eckardstein, I used to see Fräulein Dernburg, but of the child of those
+days, indeed, a young lady has grown up who may not remember me.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Only dimly, at least, Herr von Stettin, but so much the more plainly
+do I remember all the glad hours that I have passed at Eckardstein,
+with Count Victor and Eric----&quot; The young girl's eyes suddenly filled
+with tears as she pronounced her brother's name. &quot;Ah, death has invaded
+our household too! You know, I suppose, Victor, when and how our poor
+Eric died?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I have heard the particulars,&quot; said the young Count softly, &quot;and have
+bitterly felt how much I lost in the friend of my youth. His widow
+remains at Odensburg, for the present, I learn.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Oh, certainly, we could not let her leave us! Eric loved Cecilia so
+dearly! She lives with us.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;And--Baron von Wildenrod?&quot; Victor put this question quite
+irrelevantly; his eyes at the same time being fastened upon the young
+girl's countenance with a look of intense anxiety. She blushed deeply.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Herr von Wildenrod?&quot; she repeated with embarrassment. &quot;He is also at
+Odensburg.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;And stays there, I presume?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I believe so,&quot; said Maia with a singular sense of oppression that she
+could not control, and which seemed altogether irrational. What was
+there against it, if her youthful playmate should guess to-day, what
+was no longer to be kept secret? But why did he look at her, in
+general, so coldly and so reproachfully? What was the matter with him?</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Herr von Stettin, who, meanwhile, had been talking with Fräulein
+Friedberg, now turned again to the others; a few more questions were
+asked, a few more pieces of information exchanged, then Victor--who
+seemed strangely impatient to move on--closed the interview with the
+remark:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I am afraid, uncle, that we are detaining the ladies too long. May I
+ask that our compliments be presented to Herr Dernburg?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I shall deliver your message to papa--but you will come yourself to
+Odensburg, will you not?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Certainly, if it is possible,&quot; declared the young Count in a tone that
+betrayed the impossibility of such an occurrence. He bowed and retired,
+the ladies returned his salutation, and the next minute the carriage
+was rolling away.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;That Maia Dernburg has developed into a charming girl!&quot; said Stettin.
+&quot;It strikes me that it would be to your advantage to be a little less
+formal than you were just now. I think you used to be an intimate
+friend of her brother!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Victor did not answer, and he cast down his eyes before the searching
+glance of his uncle, who now paused in his walk.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I have long since remarked that something was preying on your mind,&quot;
+said he--&quot;something that has altered your whole being. What has gone
+wrong with you? Be candid, Victor, and maybe your fatherly friend can
+advise and help you.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;You cannot help me,&quot; gloomily declared the young lord, &quot;but I will
+confess to you--it may lighten the load on my heart.--You know the
+ground of dissension between Conrad and me. At times Conrad was hard
+upon me, and finally made his assistance, that I absolutely needed,
+dependent upon one condition. He planned a union between Maia Dernburg
+and me, that should henceforth lift me above care, and I--well, I was
+irritated, embittered, I wanted to be rid of that galling dependence at
+any price--and I acquiesced. I came here, saw Maia again, and then all
+was over with calculation and sordid considerations of any kind--for I
+fell ardently in love with the sweet girl the very first time we met.
+And then--then I was punished severely enough, for having once
+calculated.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;You were rejected? Impossible! The young girl awhile ago was as
+cordial and unconstrained in her manners as possible.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Maia knows nothing of my proposing to address her; it did not even
+come to a declaration. Conrad's plan was reported to her father in the
+most hateful manner. He took me to task about it, and as I could not
+and would not deny the truth, he treated my courtship as a speculation
+of the basest sort, myself as a fortune-hunter. He said the most
+unfeeling things to me----&quot; Victor clinched his teeth at the bare
+recollection. &quot;Excuse me from saying any more.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;So that is the way the matter stands?&quot; said Stettin reflectively. &quot;To
+be sure, what cares this proud industrial prince for a Count
+Eckardstein! Well, do not look so desperate though, my boy;
+circumstances are entirely different from what they were six months
+ago. Providence meanwhile has made you lord of Eckardstein, and you
+have it in your power, by a renewal of your courtship, to prove to that
+old hard-head the purity of your motives.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I cannot get my own consent to do so--never! Maia is lost to me now
+and forever.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Do not be so rash, please! A few harsh words can always be borne with
+from a future father-in-law, especially when he has not been altogether
+wrong in the matter. If your pride forbids the making of any advance,
+then let me take the initiatory steps. I shall have a talk with
+Dernburg.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Just to have it announced to you, with polite regret, that his
+daughter is engaged to Baron von Wildenrod?&quot; said Victor bitterly. &quot;We
+may as well spare ourselves that mortification!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;What are you thinking of? Wildenrod is in his forties and Fräulein
+Dernburg----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Oh, he has some demoniacal power of enchantment, and knows how to use
+it. I am convinced that the insinuation which so infuriated Dernburg
+against me originated with him. I was in his way, he was already basing
+his calculations upon Maia's fortune. And Maia has not remained
+indifferent to him; already they are everywhere talking of an
+engagement, and just now I gained certainty as to the state of her
+affections. Maia betrayed herself--I have nothing more to hope for.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The desperation of the young man plainly showed how deep was the
+passion for his young playmate that stirred in his heart.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Stettin had become very serious.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;That would certainly be Wildenrod's master-stroke,&quot; said he, with
+knitted brow. &quot;So, it was not enough for him to share his sister's
+portion, but he must needs win the Odensburg millions for himself!
+There is still time for opening Herr Dernburg's eyes--his daughter
+shall not become the prey of this adventurer.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;An adventurer! Baron von Wildenrod!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;He became so when fortune and splendor deserted his house. Perhaps
+fate had as much to do with it as guilt--never mind! He has forfeited
+the right to connect himself with an honorable family.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;And were you aware of this that time at Nice, and did you keep
+silence?&quot; asked the young Count with bitter reproach in his tone.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Was I to turn informer? And for the sake of whom? What right had I to
+force myself upon the confidence of a strange family? At that time what
+were these Dernburgs to me? One does not expose to public odium the son
+of a man at whose house you had been received as a friend for long
+years, without stringent necessity--and in this case I refrained.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;But you might have warned Eric in some way!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;No warning would have availed at that period. If Eric had wanted to
+see--the double part that his future brother-in-law played was known
+all through Nice: I was not the only knowing one. But he walked blindly
+into the snare spread for him. But comfort yourself. Now when I know
+how close to your heart his sister is, no consideration shall hinder
+his exposure.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Yes, Maia must be protected from this man, cost what it will!&quot; cried
+Victor impetuously. &quot;Uncle, I have concealed nothing from you, now; be
+as candid towards me! Who and what is this Wildenrod?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;You shall learn,&quot; said Stettin gravely. &quot;But we cannot discuss such
+things here, in the open woods. In ten minutes we shall be in the
+Castle, where we can talk farther on the subject.&quot;</p>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<h2>CHAPTER XIX.</h2>
+
+<h3><a name="div1_19" href="#div1Ref_19">&quot;OFF WITH THE OLD LOVE, ON WITH THE NEW.----&quot;</a></h3>
+<br>
+
+<p class="normal">Maia and her companion, meanwhile, had continued their ride. Their
+destination was the railroad station, whither they went to bring home
+Frau von Ringstedt, who had repaired to Berlin, to prepare the
+family residence there for occupation during the winter. Dernburg's
+re-election had been expected with such certainty, that it had been
+considered in making their household arrangements. Now, whether they
+should go at all to Berlin was questionable, and the old lady was
+returning, for the present, to Odensburg.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;What was the matter with Count Victor to-day?&quot; said Maia thoughtfully.
+&quot;His manners were entirely different from what they usually are, and he
+did not seem at all rejoiced to see us again.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;He is still in first mourning for his brother,&quot; objected Leonie. &quot;It
+is to be expected, as a matter of course, that he should be graver and
+more reserved than formerly.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Maia shook her little head; the explanation did not satisfy her. &quot;No,
+no--this was something quite different. Victor went away last spring,
+too, without taking leave! Papa said, it is true, that he had been
+suddenly called away to attend to some military duty, but then he could
+have written. And just now when I invited him to come to Odensburg, he
+looked as if he did not care to do so. What is the meaning of all
+this?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I, too, was struck by the Count's restraint of manner,&quot; said Leonie,
+&quot;and for that very reason you should not have been so cordial in your
+advances, Maia. You are a grown-up young lady now, and should not
+permit the same freedoms to the country neighbors as when you were a
+child.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Victor is no mere country neighbor!&quot; cried the young girl indignantly.
+&quot;He was the friend of Eric's youth, and, when a boy, used to be almost
+as much at Odensburg as at Eckardstein. It is ugly of him to be so
+cold, all of a sudden, and act so formally, and I shall tell him so,
+too, when he comes to see us. Oh, I shall read him a good lecture!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Fräulein Friedberg assumed the air of a monitor, and once more enlarged
+upon the need of circumspection on the part of a grown girl, but she
+preached to deaf ears. Maia dreamed on with open eyes: she was still
+haunted by the gloomy, reproachful glance of the playmate of her youth,
+and although she was far from fathoming the real ground for his altered
+behavior, his reserve grieved her. She realized, for the first time,
+how pleasant his cheerful society had been to her.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">At the depot, Dr. Hagenbach received the two ladies with disagreeable
+tidings. He had heard in town of a railroad accident, that was said to
+have occurred in the forenoon. Since he knew that Frau von Ringstedt
+was aboard, he had telegraphed at once for the facts, which,
+fortunately, were comforting. In consequence of the recent violent
+rains, a land-slide had taken place, the track was blocked up for a
+considerable distance, and the passengers had been obliged to take
+another route. The Berlin fast train, then, could only arrive after a
+good deal of delay: no accident, however, had happened to the train
+itself.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">After this communication, nothing was left for them to do but to wait.
+There happened to be, however, at the station a large body of troops,
+which had returned from maneuvering, and was now awaiting
+transportation; thus all the space was over-crowded, the waiting-room
+pre-empted by officers, and on all sides there reigned an alarming
+confusion, that made a long stay for the ladies very unpleasant. The
+doctor, therefore, advised that they should go over to the &quot;Golden
+Lamb,&quot; secure an apartment, and there await the arrival of the train.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">This proposition was adopted, and since Herr Willmann was not at home
+just now, the guests were received by his spouse, who, upon getting
+word that the ladies from Odensburg were honoring the &quot;Golden Lamb&quot;
+with their presence, a thing that had never before happened, came
+rushing out of the kitchen to acknowledge this honor, in the most
+humble and grateful manner.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Frau Willmann's attractions must have lain in the domestic virtues,
+for, most assuredly, they were not in outward appearance. She was
+considerably older than her husband, with repulsive features and a
+loud, sharp voice that lent something rasping to her words. And the
+house-dress in which she received her guests left much to be desired
+both as regards taste and neatness.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">She opened the best of her guest-chambers as speedily as possible, tore
+open the window to let in fresh air, set to rights chairs and table,
+while she assured the ladies that she would have brought to them the
+most excellent of coffee, in the shortest space of time possible. She
+then vanished quickly, all zeal and desire to serve.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">According to the assertion of the railroad officials, they had to wait
+at least another hour for the Berlin train. Fräulein Maia found it very
+tiresome; she felt a desire to make a tour of discovery in the &quot;Golden
+Lamb,&quot; and when, besides, from the window she caught sight of a troop
+of children, who were playing in the yard behind the house, she could
+sit still no longer. In spite of all the exhortations of her teacher,
+she slipped out of the room and left her companions to themselves.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">An embarrassed silence reigned for a few minutes. The doctor and
+Fräulein Friedberg had, it is true, long ago come to a sort of tacit
+understanding that that unfortunate offer of marriage should be
+considered as unsaid. It was the only possible way to preserve the
+necessary ease in the almost daily intercourse to which they were
+forced; and, to be candid, they were neither of them so easy in one
+another's company as was desirable. Hagenbach could not help giving
+bent to his mortification at being rejected in various covert ways,
+and, in spite of herself, Leonie continually found herself acting on
+the defensive when he was present. But, in spite of these awkward
+relations, it was a fact that the doctor expended much more care upon
+his outward appearance than ever before, and made every effort to rein
+in his harshness of manner as much as possible. In this latter
+particular he succeeded only to a very moderate extent, but he at least
+showed a desire to be more gentle.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Maia is not to be calculated upon!&quot; began Fräulein Friedberg finally,
+with a sigh. &quot;I am actually in despair at times. What is one to do with
+a young lady, who is already engaged to be married, and yet cannot
+appreciate the necessity of conforming to social usages?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;But there is room for a difference of opinion as to that necessity,&quot;
+remarked the doctor, irritably.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I beg your pardon, the position is not to be disputed at all,&quot; was the
+very decided answer. &quot;It is the foundation upon which the whole social
+fabric rests.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;You may well say so--<i>forms</i>!&quot; mocked Hagenbach, with unconcealed
+irritation, &quot;they are the main things in the world. What avails it if a
+man be honorable, upright, and true--he must yield to the first goose
+that comes along, who knows how to make bows and exchange polite
+speeches--he, of course, has the precedence!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I did not say so.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;But thought it! I have not given much attention to forms in the course
+of my life, have not found it needful either in my practice or the
+management of my household. I am a bachelor, though--thank God!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The returned thanks, however, to Heaven, on account of his fortunately
+preserved bachelor's estate was in so grim a tone that Leonie preferred
+not to answer. She stepped to the window and looked out. Fortunately
+one of the maids now appeared with the coffee-cups and a huge cake,
+sufficient for at least ten persons, bringing the message that, if the
+ladies and doctor would be patient for a little while longer, Fräulein
+Willmann would prepare the coffee herself.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Leonie started at the name, and turned around eagerly:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Who did you say?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Fräulein Willmann, lady.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Such is the name of the hostess of the 'Golden Lamb,'&quot; explained
+Hagenbach, who now perceived that silence would profit nothing any
+longer, and that the whole melancholy story would have to be
+recapitulated. Leonie, indeed, did not say a word, but the mantling
+color that mounted to her cheeks betrayed her exceeding sensitiveness
+to anything that reminded her of her former lover. The doctor
+preferred, therefore, to introduce the subject himself, as soon as the
+maid had left the room.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Does the name strike you?&quot; he asked.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;It was once very dear to me, and still is. The coincidence here can
+only be the result of accident, but I shall try to find out from the
+hostess----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;That is not necessary, when you can learn of me just as well. The
+proprietor of this inn is a cousin of the lamented Engelbert, the
+converter of heathen, who lies buried in the sands of the desert. He
+has told me so himself--that is to say, not the buried man, but the
+living Herr Pancratius Willmann of the 'Golden Lamb.'&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;A cousin of Engelbert's?&quot; repeated Leonie, in surprise. &quot;To judge by
+the age of his wife, this Herr Pancratius Willmann must be quite far
+advanced in years?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Heaven forbid! he is at least twelve years younger than his better
+half, not much over forty. He was just a poor starving wretch and she a
+rich widow. As for the rest, the man is not uncultivated--he has even
+been a student, as he recently informed me, but then concluded that he
+would rather clothe himself in the wool of the 'Golden Lamb.'&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Leonie's lips curled contemptuously. &quot;What a conclusion! This ordinary
+woman----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Has money and is a splendid cook,&quot; chimed in Hagenbach, who felt a
+satisfaction in this, that at least the lamented Engelbert's cousin had
+no part in the halo of ideality that encircled his kinsman. &quot;As for the
+rest, the marriage of this pair seems to be a very happy one, and they
+also have a numerous progeny--only look at the six young lambs
+disporting themselves in the garden down yonder!&quot; He had likewise
+stepped to the window and pointed down into the small garden, where the
+offspring of the Willmann family were running about, shrieking and
+hallooing. They were certainly not marked by any special attractions,
+but were little well-fed, thick-skulled creatures with yellow locks,
+seeming to take after their mother in things essential.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Leonie shrugged her shoulders. &quot;I do not understand how a cultivated
+man can condescend to such a union. To be sure, self-interest regulates
+the world nowadays. Who asks after the ideal?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Not Herr Pancratius Willmann certainly,&quot; dryly opined Hagenbach. &quot;He
+holds with the practical, in complete contrast to his cousin. Herr
+Engelbert left home in the lurch, in order to baptize the black heathen
+back in Africa. Now he lies in the sand of the desert--that is the
+return he got.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Leonie looked daggers at him. &quot;You certainly cannot appreciate such a
+resolve, Doctor. Engelbert Willmann had an ideal nature, that followed
+a higher inspiration without any reference to worldly advantages, and
+one must have somewhat of the same nature in order to understand it.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;No, I do not pretend to understand it,&quot; declared Hagenbach with an
+outburst of vexation. &quot;I am not constituted 'ideal.' I am a plain
+healer of men's diseases, without higher inspiration, and am myself
+quite an ordinary man, without any ideal--therefore of no account
+whatever.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Thus were they fairly launched into another discussion, when the door
+opened, and Herr Pancratius Willmann appeared upon the threshold, in
+all the stateliness of his obesity, with broad red countenance. He made
+a low bow before the physician, a second one before the lady at the
+window, and then began in his soft, melancholy voice: &quot;I have just
+heard from my wife that the Odensburg family were here, and could not
+deny myself the pleasure of expressing my joy and gratitude for the
+honor that has been done my modest house.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;It is well that you have come, mine host!&quot; said the doctor. &quot;I was
+just talking about you with Fräulein Friedberg----&quot; He was not allowed
+to proceed farther, in consequence of the scene that now unfolded
+before his eyes.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Leonie had started in alarm at the sound of the strange voice, and Herr
+Willmann showed no less agitation at the sight of the lady at the
+window. He fairly quaked, his red cheeks turned pale, and, utterly
+disconcerted, he stared at the lady who now approached him.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Sir,&quot; she began in quavering voice, &quot;you bear a name that is familiar
+to me, and I learn from the doctor here that a relation does, in fact,
+exist----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">She paused and seemed to await an answer, but Herr Pancratius only
+nodded his head in the affirmative; but so low was his bow, that hardly
+a glimpse of his face was to be gotten.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I certainly discover some resemblance in your features,&quot; continued
+Leonie, &quot;and your voice, too, has an almost terrifying similarity with
+that of your deceased cousin, of whom you probably have slight
+recollection.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Willmann did not answer this time either, but shook his head, in sign
+of dissent, but without looking up.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Why, man, have you lost the power of speech?&quot; cried the doctor,
+vexedly. &quot;What means this dumb show of nodding and shaking your head?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">But Herr Pancratius persisted in his silence; it seemed as though he
+had a regular dread of hearing the sound of his own voice again.
+Instead of this, he cast a shy glance at the door, as though he were
+weighing the possibility of a retreat. Now Hagenbach lost patience.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;What is concealed behind that demeanor?&quot; cried he with aroused
+suspicion. &quot;Is that whole tale of relationship a falsehood after all?
+Out with what you have to say, man!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The craven, pressed upon two sides, evidently saw no way of escape.
+He cast his eyes up at the ceiling, with exactly the same pious,
+woe-begone expression that had startled the doctor at first, and
+sighed:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Oh, oh, Doctor, Heaven is my witness----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">A loud shriek interrupted him. Leonie had suddenly turned pale as
+death, and with both hands convulsively clasped the back of the chair
+standing in front of her.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Engelbert! Gracious master, it is he himself!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">At this instant Herr Willmann seemed to cherish the fervent wish that
+the earth would open at his feet and swallow him up. But as no such
+interposition on the part of Heaven took place, he remained standing in
+the middle of the room, in the full light of day. Dr. Hagenbach,
+however, dropped into the nearest chair; he had strong nerves, and yet,
+somehow, this revelation had a stunning effect upon him.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">In spite of this discovery, which must have been an appalling one to
+her, Leonie recovered her self-command in an astonishing manner. She
+neither fell in a swoon, nor fell into convulsions; motionless she
+stood there gazing upon him who had once been her betrothed lover, and
+made no attempt to deny it.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Leonie, you here?&quot; he stammered in mortal confusion. &quot;I had no idea--I
+will explain everything----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Yes, I too would earnestly beg you to do so!&quot; cried the doctor, who
+had now recovered breath and sprang up in a rage. &quot;What! for twelve
+long years, you allowed yourself to be wept as a martyred apostle to
+the heathen, while all the time you were alive and merry here at the
+'Golden Lamb,' flourishing as a happy husband and a six-fold father of
+a family? That is vile.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Doctor,&quot; interrupted Leonie, still trembling in every limb, but still
+with perfect composure, &quot;I have to talk with this--this gentleman.
+Please leave us!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Hagenbach looked at her rather critically, for he did not exactly trust
+this composure. Yet he could but perceive that during such an
+explanation the presence of a third party would be superfluous. He
+therefore left the room. Little as he was in the habit of playing the
+eavesdropper, this time he kept his post close to a slit in the door,
+without any scruple of conscience whatever. The affair that was being
+settled inside was partly his concern as well.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Herr Engelbert Willmann seemed to be greatly relieved when the witness
+to this painful scene departed, and now prepared finally for the
+promised explanation. He began in a penitential tone: &quot;Leonie, hear
+me!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Still she kept her place without stirring, and looked as if she would
+not and could not believe that this coarse, common-looking individual
+was one and the same with the ideal being upon whom her youthful
+affections had been set.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;No explanation is needed,&quot; said she, with a tranquillity
+incomprehensible to herself. &quot;I only desire you to answer me a few
+questions. Are you really the husband of the woman who received us just
+now; the father of the children playing in the garden down there?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Highly rational and practical!&quot; growled the doctor approvingly
+outside. &quot;No sign of convulsions! Matters are progressing quite well.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Leonie's question seemed utterly to confound Herr Willmann. &quot;Do not
+condemn me, Leonie!&quot; he implored stammeringly. &quot;The force of
+circumstances--an unfortunate chain of peculiar----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Do not address me in the familiar tone of long ago, Herr Willmann,&quot;
+said Leonie, cutting him short in the midst of his sentence. &quot;How long
+have you been married?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Willmann hesitated. He would have gladly given as recent a date as
+possible to his admission into the order of Benedict; but there were
+his children making their presence noisily manifest out of doors, his
+eldest, a boy of ten, being likewise in the game of romps. &quot;Eleven
+years,&quot; he finally said in a low voice.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;And twelve years ago you wrote me that you wanted to go as missionary
+into the interior of Africa, and from that time your letters ceased.
+Immediately afterwards you must have returned to Germany--without
+letting me know?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;It was done only for thy--for your sake, Leonie,&quot; Engelbert assured
+her, with an attempt to give a tender intonation to his voice. &quot;We were
+both poor, I had no prospects, years might elapse ere I should be in a
+situation to offer you my hand. Should I allow you to waste your youth,
+mourning over me, and perhaps forfeiting a different and a happier
+fate? Never! And since I knew your magnanimity, knew that you would
+never have broken your word to me, with a bleeding heart I did what I
+had to--I restored your freedom to you through my supposed death----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Give yourself no trouble. I am not to be deceived again,&quot; replied she,
+contemptuously. &quot;Pray remember, Herr Willmann, that all is at an end
+between us, and we have nothing more to say. I only ask one thing of
+you: if accidentally our paths should ever cross again, pass me as a
+stranger and never show by any sign that we were ever friends.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Engelbert secretly breathed more freely at this declaration, for he had
+not hoped to be let off so easily, and now prepared to depart in a very
+dignified manner. &quot;You condemn me--well, I must bear it!&quot; said he
+softly, and in an aggrieved tone. &quot;Farewell, Leonie, appearances are
+against me, but for all that you have been my first and only love!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">He cast a wofully sentimental glance upon his former lady-love, and
+then beat a hasty retreat. But outside fate overtook him in the person
+of Dr. Hagenbach, who unceremoniously grabbed him by the arm. &quot;Now we
+shall have a few words together, Herr Engelbert Willmann,&quot; said he,
+dragging the terrified creature regardlessly to the other end of the
+passage, where one was out of ear-shot of the guest-chamber. &quot;I shall
+certainly not have much to do with you, but this one thing I must tell
+you, that you are a rascal!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Once more he gave the annihilated Willmann another good shaking, then
+left him standing and returned to the room, where he was confident his
+medical services would be in requisition.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I wanted to see how you were,&quot; said the doctor, with a certain
+embarrassment. &quot;I was afraid--yes, my dear young lady, I admit that
+to-day, for once, you have a right to be nervous.--You need not dread
+ever being ridiculed. Mind!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I am quite well,&quot; protested Leonie, without raising her eyes. &quot;I have
+gone through a very painful experience in having my illusions
+dispelled. You may easily guess, Doctor, how the story runs--spare me
+the shame of repeating it in detail.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;You have nothing to be ashamed of!&quot; cried Hagenbach, with warm
+feeling. &quot;There is no shame in putting firm, inviolable faith in the
+goodness and nobility of a man's nature. And if one has deceived you,
+you need not therefore lose faith in everybody. There is many a one
+among us who deserves to be trusted.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I know it,&quot; replied Leonie, softly, extending her hand to him, &quot;and I
+shall not waste time crying over a recollection that is not worth
+having tears shed over it. Let it be buried!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Bravo!&quot; cried the doctor, grasping her proffered hand, as though about
+to shake it. But suddenly he bethought himself, and paused. The &quot;rough
+diamond&quot; must have really been well on the way towards being polished,
+for an unheard-of thing happened--Dr. Hagenbach stooped down and
+imprinted upon that hand an extremely tender kiss.</p>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<h2>CHAPTER XX.</h2>
+
+<h3><a name="div1_20" href="#div1Ref_20">MAIA MUST BE SAVED.</a></h3>
+<br>
+
+<p class="normal">The gentlemen's room at the &quot;Golden Lamb&quot; was almost entirely empty, as
+was commonly the case in the early afternoon hours. The visitors were
+not accustomed to come in until towards evening. At present only a
+single guest was there, namely, Landsfeld, who had come to consult with
+the host concerning a mass-meeting that was to take place in the course
+of the next few days. Herr Willmann did not happen to be at home, and
+Landsfeld, who wanted to have the matter settled, had taken possession
+of the gentlemen's room, without further ceremony, where he had already
+been waiting for a quarter of an hour. He had no idea that Herr
+Willmann had already got home and knew of his being there, but
+preferred making a servile bow to the Odensburg family ere he gave as
+respectful a greeting to the leader of the Socialists. Already he began
+to grow impatient, when finally the door opened. But instead of the
+party expected Egbert Runeck came in.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The young delegate, who had gone to Berlin for a few days immediately
+after his election to consult with the leaders of his party, gave a
+strikingly cold and short salutation to his comrade, who, on his side,
+acknowledged it only by a slight nod.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Back already from Berlin?&quot; asked Landsfeld.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I got here about an hour ago,&quot; answered Runeck. &quot;I went straight to
+your house and heard there that I would be sure to find you at the
+'Golden Lamb.'&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;To my house? That is a rare honor! I want to secure the hall for the
+day after to-morrow, since there turns out to be a necessity for a
+second mass meeting. As for the rest, we did not expect you back. Are
+you through with your business already?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Yes, for the time being only some preliminaries were to be settled. My
+permanent presence in Berlin will not be required for four weeks yet,
+when the sessions of the <i>Reichstag</i> begin, and so it seems to me I am
+more needed here just now than there.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;You are mistaken,&quot; declared Landsfeld. &quot;We need you here no longer,
+now that your election has been carried. But I thought to myself that
+you would return as speedily as possible, when you heard that trouble
+was brewing for your beloved Odensburg. Yes, we have beaten it into the
+old man's brain at last that he is not infallible. Until now he was so
+inaccessible that nothing could come nigh him; now that he has to
+wrestle with us like the rest of his colleagues, it may go hard enough
+with him!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I rather think you have no occasion to triumph,&quot; said Egbert gloomily.
+&quot;Dernburg has responded to your challenge by a wholesale discharge.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Of course! That was to be expected of the obstinate old man, and we
+were perfectly prepared for it.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Or rather, you have planned for it. And what now?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Well, it means bend or break. Either the old man withdraws his
+discharge of the workmen, or all his enterprises come to a standstill.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Dernburg is not going to bend, that you all know, and to break him you
+have not the power. But he has it, and will use it unsparingly now that
+he has been goaded so far. He can hold out if his works lie idle for
+weeks and months--but not you. The strike is perfectly senseless, and
+the leaders of our party do not wish it--never have wished it. Now the
+decision against it has been definitely made.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Ah, indeed! I know you did your very best to persuade them to come to
+this decision. Now, didn't you?&quot; asked Landsfeld with a piercing
+glance. &quot;You are one of the leaders yourself now! The youngest and most
+masterful of all. You seem to have got the whip-hand of the others
+already.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Runeck made an unequivocal sign of impatience.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Have you only personal attacks against me, where the question concerns
+a party measure? I bring you the positive direction, not to proceed to
+extremities--conform to it.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I am sorry, it is too late; the direction should have come earlier,&quot;
+answered Landsfeld coldly. &quot;The offer has been made, and in case of its
+non-acceptance the strike is announced. The people cannot retract--they
+will see it so in Berlin also.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Ah, ah, you show your true colors at last,&quot; cried Egbert in embittered
+tone. &quot;You, who have always had the word discipline in your mouth, have
+followed your own head entirely!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Acted upon my own responsibility, yes! Those narrow-minded cowards,
+those Odensburgers, must at last be thoroughly aroused from their dream
+of security. What trouble we have had in getting them to elect you,
+under what high pressure did we have to work, and all was left in
+doubt, up to the last minute! Now the dull mass is at last in motion;
+now it is of moment to urge them forward!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;And whither? To certain defeat! They have followed you to the polls,
+and even now they go with you blindly--the intoxication of victory has
+mounted to their heads! You have not preached to them in vain that they
+were almighty. But the intoxication will pass away. Just let the people
+come to their senses for once, and perceive what they lose when they
+turn their backs upon Odensburg, and what sorrows they thereby entail
+upon their wives and children--I tell you, you will not be able to hold
+them together for eight days; they will run back to Dernburg as fast as
+their legs can carry them. But he will be a different man from what he
+has been heretofore; he will not and cannot pardon the insult that they
+have inflicted upon him.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The young engineer had long since lost the cool calmness with which he
+had opened the interview, and had worked himself up into continually
+greater excitement. Landsfeld quietly kept his seat and looked at him
+fixedly: an evil smile played about his lips, as he replied:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;You seem to find this quite in order. On what side do you really
+stand, may I ask?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;On the side of reason and of right!&quot; exclaimed Runeck passionately.
+&quot;That the workmen elected me in opposition to Dernburg was their right,
+and he would not contest that, either, deeply as it might mortify him.
+But that they celebrated my victory in his works, that they had
+processions and rejoiced over his defeat, almost under his windows,
+that is a bold challenge, and he has given them, in reply, the answer
+they deserved!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Ah, indeed? They deserved it, did they?&quot; repeated Landsfeld, in a tone
+that should have warned his young comrade; but he paid no heed to it
+and continued with gathering warmth:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;You had the people stirred up through Fallner, I know this; you goaded
+them into making that senseless demand, which is equivalent to
+inflicting incredible humiliation upon their chief. Is it that you so
+entirely mistake the man with whom you have to deal, or would you have
+war to the knife? Well, you shall have it! Dernburg has shown himself
+the protector of the workman long enough, now he will reveal himself as
+the master, and he does right in this--I would not act differently in
+his place!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">A loud, bitter laugh from Landsfeld brought Egbert to a stop, for he
+had uttered those last words inconsiderately, stung into revolt.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Bravo! Oh, that is an inestimable confession! There at last you show
+your true face! It was the old man of Odensburg to the life--you are a
+worthy pupil of your master's school. What think you if I report the
+sentiment just heard from you in Berlin?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Runeck could hardly fail to be aware that he had allowed himself to go
+too far, but he only straightened himself up more defiantly.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;What care I? Do you suppose that I allow myself to be such a slave,
+that I dare not express my opinions freely, when we are among
+ourselves?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Among ourselves! Do you actually do us the honor to account yourself
+one of us? It is true you are our delegate! I have warned and counseled
+enough, for I knew long ago how far we would probably get with you.
+They would not listen to me, would secure that genial power to our
+party, and therefore the election must be pushed with all the means at
+our command. It was the hardest to manage of any in the electorial
+campaign--and for whom? The eyes of the others will soon be opened
+too.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;If you want to help them in this, then do so!&quot; said Egbert harshly and
+proudly. But now Landsfeld jumped up and planted himself close in front
+of him.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Perhaps you would be quite agreed to this. You are regularly planning,
+I believe, to lead up to a breach. Give yourself no trouble, young man:
+we will not do you that favor, we will not release you. If you choose
+to turn traitor and runagate, then let the whole disgrace of it fall
+upon you!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">A bitter expression curled Runeck's lips at these scornful words.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Traitor! This, then, is what I get for giving myself up to you, body
+and soul, for sacrificing to you a future grander and more brilliant
+than falls to the lot of one in a thousand.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;And now you are on the stool of repentance, naturally?&quot; remarked
+Landsfeld slyly.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;The sacrifice--no! But association with you--yes, I have long ago
+repented of that.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;You are candid, anyhow,&quot; mocked Landsfeld, &quot;and recklessly show us
+what a rod we have pickled for ourselves in your election. Yet there is
+no help for that now, and, for the present, you will be obliged to do
+your duty in the <i>Reichstag</i>. Fortunately your earlier speeches are in
+the mouths of every one. You could slap yourself in the face; you would
+now whistle to quite another tune, if you could. And once more, young
+man,&quot;--he suddenly dropped the mocking tone and his voice became low
+and threatening,--&quot;make no attempt to meddle in Odensburg affairs,
+which I have now taken in hand myself. I shall know how to answer for
+my conduct to the party--only see to it that you cope with your own
+responsibility. It is not going to be spared you, depend upon that!&quot; So
+saying, he turned his back upon his comrade, and left the room without
+any greeting.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Egbert was left alone; silently and moodily he brooded, with downcast
+eyes. He could not hinder the continual recurrence to his mind of the
+last words that Dernburg had spoken to him ere dismissing him: &quot;You
+might have been lord of Odensburg. See whether your associates will
+thank you for the immense sacrifice that you have made to them!&quot; He had
+just received a token of their gratitude.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Then the door was softly opened, only half-way, however, and a lovely
+young girl's head appeared in the aperture. Timidly and with curiosity
+she peeped in. It was Maia, who, in the course of her tour of discovery
+in the &quot;Golden Lamb,&quot; had finally reached the gentlemen's room. She had
+hardly cast in a glance, however, before an exclamation of joyful
+surprise escaped her lips.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Egbert!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">He started from his reverie, looked at her for a moment in stolid
+amazement, and then sprang to his feet. &quot;Maia--you here?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Maia quickly glided into the room, drawing the door to behind her.
+Fräulein Friedberg and Dr. Hagenbach should know nothing of this
+meeting, else they would not allow her to have anything to say to
+Egbert--he was tabooed now at Odensburg!</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Runeck, too, seemed suddenly to remember their altered relations;
+slowly he let the hand drop that he had stretched forth in greeting,
+and drew back a step.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;May we exchange greetings as we used to do?&quot; asked he softly.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">A shadow crossed Maia's face, just an instant before so radiant, but
+she unhesitatingly drew nearer and offered her hand to the friend of
+her childhood. &quot;Alas, Egbert, that it had to come so far! If you only
+knew how it looks now at our house.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I do know!&quot; was his short and gloomy answer.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Our Odensburg is no longer to be recognized,&quot; lamented the young girl.
+&quot;Formerly, if we went through the works or had anything to say to the
+workmen, how joyfully we would be greeted by all; and if, moreover,
+papa showed himself, then all eyes were fastened upon him, and every
+one was proud of being spoken to by him. Now&quot;--a subdued sob was
+perceptible in her voice--&quot;now papa has forbidden Cecilia and me to
+leave the circuit of the park, since we are not secure against insults
+outside. He himself goes every day to the works, but I see on the faces
+of our officers that they regard it as a risk, that they fear he is in
+danger among his own workmen. But what more than all eats into his
+heart, is what happened on election-day--he did not deserve it at their
+hands.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">She did not suspect the effect of those words upon the man, who stood
+half-turned away from her. Not a sound crossed his lips, but his
+countenance expressed tortures that were with difficulty concealed.
+Maia saw this and laid her hand on his arm, with the old cordiality.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I know it,&quot; said she soothingly. &quot;But I am the only one at Odensburg
+who still cleaves to you, and I hardly dare to show it. Papa is
+dreadfully provoked and bitter against you, and Os--I mean Baron von
+Wildenrod--confirms him in this. So my begging does no good whatever,
+and now, besides, Cecilia----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;She too?&quot; interrupted Runeck, turning suddenly around. &quot;Does she
+condemn me too?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I am not sure,&quot; said Maia, frightened at the strange look which Egbert
+cast upon her. &quot;But Cecilia will never listen when I talk about you,
+and fairly takes to flight. Ah, Egbert, if any one else stood in
+opposition to my father, I believe he would stand it better. That it
+should be you is what he cannot bear.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Neither can I!&quot; answered Egbert gloomily. &quot;Tell your father so, Maia,
+if you choose.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The young girl mournfully shook her head. &quot;I cannot--your name is no
+more to be mentioned in his presence. If it happens, by any chance, it
+makes him furiously angry. And he did love you so! Dear me, why do
+people have to hate one another so desperately, just because they
+belong to two different political parties? I really do not understand
+it.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Maia's sweet girlish voice sounded soft and pleading, but nevertheless
+each of her words pierced Egbert's soul, like a glowing reproach. He
+could stand it no longer.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Let that be, Maia,&quot; said he, controlling his emotion by a great
+effort. &quot;He must accept it as a stroke of destiny, that we all find it
+hard to bear. And you, poor child! have we drawn you into the net, too,
+and destroyed the sunny cheerfulness of your spirits?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The face of the young girl suddenly flushed up, her head drooped, and
+softly, almost shyly, she answered:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;No, no--I am often enough ashamed that, in spite of all this, I am so
+excessively happy; and yet I cannot help it. Do not look at me in such
+surprise, Egbert. Strangers, to be sure, are not to know it yet,
+because we are still wearing mourning for our poor Eric, but I can tell
+you already that I--well, that I am a betrothed bride.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Egbert started back in astonishment. Hitherto he had always considered
+Maia in the light of a child. It had not occurred to him that love
+could have already come to her. Now the unexpected news called a
+fleeting smile to his gloomy countenance, and full of cordiality he
+stretched out his hands to his youthful playmate. &quot;Does our little Maia
+actually have to do with such things?&quot; asked he with an attempt at
+playfulness.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;But I am not so little any more,&quot; protested Maia, with a charming
+pout, while she stood on tip-toe and looked him roguishly in the eye.
+&quot;See, I already reach up to your shoulders, and his too.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;His? Why, I have not even asked after the name of your intended. What
+is it?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Oscar,&quot; whispered Maia softly.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;What did you say?&quot; said Egbert in shocked surprise.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Oscar von Wildenrod! You know him, yes--dear me, Egbert, what is the
+matter?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Runeck had turned pale, and his right hand clinched involuntarily with
+a look that was full of commiseration. He fixed his eyes upon the young
+girl, who returned his gaze with a troubled anxious air.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Baron von Wildenrod is your betrothed?&quot; repeated he at last. &quot;And has
+your father consented?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Certainly. He was opposed to it in the beginning, on account of the
+great difference of age, but Oscar besieged him so long, and I, too,
+begged and besought him so hard to let us be happy, that at last he
+gave his consent.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Egbert was thunderstruck, and gazed upon the lovely young creature who
+so heedlessly spoke of her happiness, where misery in reality impended.
+For the second time fate had imposed upon him the task of inflicting a
+deadly blow upon a being who was dear to him, and crushing her supposed
+happiness with a ruthless hand. This had been spared Eric in his dying
+hour; he could be silent when he learned to know Cecilia as she really
+was; here he had no choice and could not keep silence.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;And you do not rejoice with me?&quot; asked Maia, in a mortified and
+reproachful tone, as he still said nothing. &quot;Oh, I remember you had
+something against Oscar, and he has a great deal against you. I have
+known this a long while, although neither of you will own it. But you
+can surely congratulate me, any way.--I am indescribably happy.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Runeck ground his teeth together. He could not wish her joy, even as a
+mere matter of ceremony, which under these circumstances would have
+been the bitterest mockery, and yet he felt that he dared not now and
+in this place keep his secret. Fortunately accident came to his
+assistance, for out in the passage became audible the voice of Dr.
+Hagenbach.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Have you seen Fräulein Dernburg anywhere? We must hurry to the
+station,--the train will be here in ten minutes.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I must!&quot; whispered Maia, pricking up her ears. &quot;Farewell, Egbert. I
+shall always hold you dear, whatever happens. And you cannot forget,
+either, that Odensburg was so long your home.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Once more the brown eyes were uplifted to him in fervent deprecation,
+and then the young girl glided quickly away. Runeck breathed a sigh of
+relief that he had no longer to withstand the battery of those happy,
+unsuspecting eyes, but, at the same time, great waves of rebellion came
+rolling over his tortured soul.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">This, then, had been Wildenrod's aim. He had set his covetous eye upon
+Odensburg, and would never rest until the booty was his, and Maia's
+hand was to lay it within his grasp. And Cecilia knew this, and did not
+interfere. Indeed, he was her brother, whom she loved in spite of
+everything--it was only to save him that she had become Eric's wife.
+And she did not know the truth. Oh, why had he concealed it from her
+that time? But now her feelings were no longer to be considered,
+either--the thing was to rescue Maia: now, to be silent any longer were
+a crime.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;No, I shall not forget that Odensburg was, for so long a time, my
+home,&quot; murmured Egbert, drawing himself up resolutely, &quot;if I do have to
+prove it in a different way from what you expect, my poor little Maia.
+Shall I write to Dernburg? Impossible. I am wholly out of favor with
+him--he believes the worst of me; he would deem the letter a wretched
+calumny, and Wildenrod would win his game nevertheless. There is no
+help for it, I must fight the battle face to face, and not give up
+either, until it is decided, until Maia is released from this bond. Be
+it so, then--I am going to Odensburg.&quot;</p>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<h2>CHAPTER XXI.</h2>
+
+<h3><a name="div1_21" href="#div1Ref_21">FROM HEIGHTS OF BLISS TO DEPTHS OF WOE.</a></h3>
+<br>
+
+<p class="normal">There prevailed at Odensburg the sultriness that portends the gathering
+storm. The air was heavy with it, and, according to every sign, when
+the tempest broke forth it would be a severe one.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">This was the day when the workmen who had been discharged, in
+consequence of the proceedings of election-day, had to leave their
+workshops. There were hundreds of them, and all their fellows had
+declared that they, too, would lay down their work, if those dismissals
+were not withdrawn.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">In Dernburg's office a conference had just taken place. There were
+present, besides the Baron von Wildenrod, who was never missing upon
+such occasions, the three highest officials; and they had tried, with
+all their might, to bring the chief to a milder view of what had
+happened. It had been in vain.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;The word stands, the orders given are to be carried through with the
+greatest exactness!&quot; he declared. &quot;You will see to it, gentlemen, that
+your subordinates conform precisely to the directions given. Every
+special event is to be immediately announced to me. We are going to
+have a serious, perhaps terrible time, and I calculate upon each one of
+you doing his duty in fullest measure.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;With us that is a matter of course, Herr Dernburg,&quot; replied the
+director, &quot;and I believe that I can also answer for our subordinates.
+And perhaps, after all, it will not come to the worst. Many signs go to
+show that the mood at the works is a very depressed one. Many are
+already repenting of the decision, into which they were half enticed
+and half forced. We know exactly what hands here have been active. The
+people have been put up to mischief, and goaded on in an unheard-of
+manner.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I know that, but they have allowed themselves to be stirred up by
+strangers, and against me. Now, they can have their way.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">This answer sounded so stern, that the director lost courage for making
+further representations; he cast a meaning glance at his colleague, and
+now the upper-engineer took up the theme.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I also am convinced that the majority already begin to be conscious of
+having acted over-hastily. They will silently let drop that crazy
+petition, in which Fallner's remaining was also included. A great part
+will quietly work on, the others will follow sooner or later, and the
+whole move come to nothing, if you could make up your mind, Herr
+Dernburg, to show the slightest disposition to conciliate.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;No!&quot; said Dernburg, with cold severity.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;But what is to be done with the men who go to work as usual to-morrow
+morning?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;They have to make the express declaration that they are not in accord
+with their fellows, and intend to submit unconditionally to my
+requirements--then they shall be free to resume work.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;They will not come up to that,&quot; objected Winning, reflectively.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Well, then, the workshops remain closed. We shall see who will hold
+out the longer--they or I!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Exactly my opinion,&quot; remarked Wildenrod. &quot;That you owe to yourself and
+your position. You seem to be of a different opinion, gentlemen, but
+you will soon be convinced yourselves that this is the only right way
+whereby we may force the body of workmen into subjection, and that,
+indeed, in the shortest space of time.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The officers were silent: they were already accustomed to the Baron's
+thus planting himself beside their chief, and the right being conceded
+to him. They certainly did not deem Wildenrod's influence as especially
+salutary, and here he was again doing every thing he possibly could to
+uphold Dernburg in the stand that he had taken. But gradually they had
+come to see in him Dernburg's future son-in-law and the future master
+of Odensburg: they did not attempt, then, to controvert his position,
+which would have been useless; and now when Dernburg gave the sign for
+them to disperse, while he rose to his feet, they parted with a silent
+bow.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I do believe those gentlemen are apprehensive of some sort of an
+insurrection,&quot; mocked Oscar, when the door had closed behind them.
+&quot;They would make every possible concession for the sake of sweet peace.
+I am so glad that you held firm here; any yielding would have been
+unpardonable weakness.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Dernburg had stepped to the window. He seemed to have grown older by
+years in these few days, but however bitter the experience might have
+been, it had not quelled his spirit,--that iron will of his was stamped
+upon every movement. There was something that awed in the stern
+rigidity of his features, whence every trace of mildness had flown. He
+silently gazed over at the works. The chimneys there were still
+smoking, the furnaces glowed, all the mighty forces of those restless
+activities were still astir, still toiled thousands of hands.
+&quot;To-morrow all this will lie there still and dead--for how long?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Involuntarily he had spoken these last words aloud, and Wildenrod, who
+had drawn near, heard him.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Why, it will not last long,&quot; said he confidently. &quot;In your hands lies
+the power, and it can do the Odensburgers no harm, if at last they are
+made sensible of this. This riff-raff, that left you in the lurch
+without ceremony to run after the first hunter that whistled to them!
+Such a set----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Oscar, you are speaking of my workmen!&quot; interrupted Dernburg angrily.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Yes, indeed, of your workmen, who showed you their devotion in such a
+touching manner! I can feel with you what was then passing in your
+soul.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;No, Oscar, that you cannot,&quot; said Dernburg, with grave earnestness.
+&quot;You have come as a stranger to Odensburg. With you, your future
+position here is only a question of power. Perhaps, hereafter, it must
+be the same for me, but formerly it was different. I stood at the head
+of my workmen, but all that I did was done with them and for them, and
+as each one could depend upon me, in times of danger and distress, I
+believed that I could depend upon them, every one. That is all over
+now! Fool that I was! They want no peace, they want war!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Yes, that is what they want,&quot; remarked Wildenrod, &quot;and they shall find
+us ready. We shall soon put down this rebellious Odensburg.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Oh, certainly, we are going to conquer,&quot; exclaimed Dernburg with
+intense bitterness. &quot;I shall force my workmen to subjection and they
+will submit; but with hatred and malice in their hearts--with hatred
+against me! Every apparent reconciliation will only be an armistice,
+during which they will gather new forces, in order to hurl them against
+me, and then I shall be obliged to quell them again, and thus the
+breach will become wider and wider, until one party is destroyed. Such
+a life I cannot bear!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">With an impetuous movement he turned away from the window, as though he
+could no longer endure the sight of his works over there, and his voice
+had a weary sound, as he continued:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I have always thought that I would hold the reins at Odensburg as long
+as I lived, but for eight days past, I have been thinking differently.
+Who knows, Oscar, whether I may not turn over the management to you.
+even during my lifetime. In the crisis ahead of us, perhaps you would
+fill the place better than I.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Heavens, what an idea!&quot; cried Wildenrod, shocked, and at the same time
+dazzled by the unsuspected prospect that opened up before him. &quot;You are
+not seriously thinking of retiring?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;For the present--no!&quot; said Dernburg, straightening himself up. &quot;I have
+never yet avoided a battle when forced upon me, and shall fight this
+one through also.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;And depend upon me to stand by you!&quot; said Oscar, offering him his
+hand. &quot;But one thing more: the director seems to dread lest there be
+disturbances at the works to-day, when it comes to paying off and
+discharging the offenders. The necessary measures have been taken,
+indeed, but I place myself at your disposal, if the authority of the
+officers should not prove adequate. You yourself should not appear in
+person. You owe it to yourself and your station not to expose yourself
+to insults that, from words, might extend to acts. Leave that to me!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">An infinitely bitter smile played about Dernburg's lips, but he made a
+gesture of dissent.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I thank you, Oscar. Of your courage I have never had a doubt, but in
+such affairs I allow no one to represent me. But you shall have your
+place by my side. People shall see and know that I concede to you the
+rights of a son. I no longer make any secret of that.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The two men again shook hands warmly, then Wildenrod went. In the
+ante-room, a servant came forward with this announcement:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Baron von Wildenrod, you will find upon your desk a note from Castle
+Eckardstein, which came about a half hour ago. We did not dare to
+disturb you, and the messenger was not to wait for an answer.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;It is well,&quot; said the Baron, abstractedly. He had other things on his
+mind now--that expression which had been dropped just now, Dernburg's
+hint, that he might possibly give up the management of Odensburg very
+shortly. Had this been nothing but an ebullition of anger, a passing
+whim, that one was not to take in earnest? No, the man was cut to the
+quick; if he was actually forced into a prolonged battle with his
+workmen, it was likely, yea, certain, that he would put that thought
+into action,--and Oscar von Wildenrod would step into his place. Was it
+indeed true that the hotly contested goal was so close at hand? Oscar's
+eyes flashed. Oh, he would have no sentimental scruples like his future
+father-in-law--that rebellious Odensburg should learn to know its new
+master, this he vowed to himself.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Not until he entered his own room and saw the note lying on his desk,
+did he recall the servant's message, and with some surprise he picked
+up the communication. From Castle Eckardstein? What could they have to
+say to him from there? The new proprietor knew, or at all events
+suspected, who had stood in the way of his acceptance with Maia, and
+surely would not make the attempt to renew neighborly relations.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Oscar broke open the seal, ran his eye over the first lines and
+stopped. Quickly he turned the page over, looked at the signature, and
+turned pale. &quot;Frederick von Stettin!&quot; he murmured. &quot;What evil spirit
+leads him to Eckardstein, and what does he want of me?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">He began to read uneasily, with sinister looks. &quot;It is a very grave and
+painful matter that I must discuss with you,&quot; wrote Herr von Stettin.
+&quot;I have long hesitated as to the way in which this should be done, and
+have finally adopted the mildest expedient, for I cannot and will not
+forget the friendship that bound me to your father. Therefore I only
+say to you that I know your past, from the moment when you left
+Germany, up to your last stay at Nice. When we again met there
+unexpectedly, I procured this knowledge--never mind how. Under the
+circumstances, you will readily comprehend why I challenge you to
+vacate the place that you now occupy at Odensburg. They say that you
+are the betrothed of the daughter of the house: but you yourself best
+know how you have forfeited the right to link your fate with that of a
+pure young girl. It were a crime against Herr Dernburg and his family
+if I should allow such a thing to happen without opening his eyes.
+Spare me the bitter necessity of having to come forward as your
+accuser. Leave Odensburg! A pretext for your departure will be
+found--it will then be your affair to dissolve your connection with the
+family from a distance, in any way you see proper. I will allow you a
+respite of eight days; at the end of that time, if you are still at
+Odensburg, I must speak, and Dernburg learns the truth. I leave you
+time in which to make good your retreat: it is the only thing that I
+can do for the son of an old friend.</p>
+
+<p class="right">&quot;<span class="sc">Frederick von Stettin</span>.&quot;</p>
+<br>
+
+<p class="normal">Oscar let the note drop. He had not known who was the uncle and former
+guardian of both the Counts Eckardstein. During that brief and abruptly
+broken-off intercourse last summer, the name had not been called, and
+when Stettin himself arrived, shortly before Count Conrad's death, the
+relations with Odensburg had already become so strained that no notice
+was taken of the visitors of one family by the other. But Wildenrod
+knew the grave and discreet man from the visits he had paid to his
+father of old. He was not one to deal in mere threats; were he to
+refuse to retire as requested, he would do what he deemed his duty,
+without any hesitation, and then--then all was lost!</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Oscar jumped up and paced the floor with disordered steps. Just when he
+had stretched forth his hand to grasp the highest prize, then had come
+this crushing blow. Should he yield?--should he, in secret, cowardly
+flight, turn his back upon Odensburg, of which he had just felt himself
+to be the lord and master? Never!</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Eight days' respite was allowed him: it was a long time: what might not
+happen meanwhile? He had so often, already, stood on the verge of a
+precipice, whence it seemed as if a fall were inevitable, and he had
+always been saved by some rash resolve, or unheard-of streak of luck,
+now the thing to do was to put this luck once more to the test. In the
+midst of the wild whirl of thoughts and plans that stormed through his
+soul, only one thing stood out before him, clear and plain: he must
+make sure of Maia at any price, must chain her so firmly to him, that
+no power of earth, not even her father's, could tear her from him. She
+was the shield that would cover him from any attack, she, whose whole
+soul he had captivated, whose every thought and feeling belonged to
+him--this love was to be his salvation.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Oscar again took up the letter and read it once more from beginning to
+end, then crushed it and threw it into the fireplace. The paper flamed
+up and was quickly consumed, while the Baron threw himself back in his
+chair and with lowering countenance gazed into the fire, ever devising
+new plans.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">A half hour might have thus elapsed, when the door opened, and the
+servant, coming in, announced:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Mr. Runeck, the engineer.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Who?&quot; cried Wildenrod, starting up.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Herr Runeck wants to speak to you, Baron, about something important.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">It actually was Egbert, who followed closely behind the servant. He
+entered without waiting for an answer, and said, with a slight bow:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Pray do not refuse to listen to me, Baron von Wildenrod, for the
+business that brings me is both weighty and urgent.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Oscar had leaped to his feet, and now silently motioned to the servant
+to withdraw. He did not, for an instant, deceive himself as to the
+significance of this appearance of Runeck, but Stettin's letter had
+prepared and steeled him against whatever might come. He no longer took
+into account one danger the more or less; so far as he was concerned,
+the question was already &quot;To be or not to be?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;What brings you to me?&quot; he asked coldly. &quot;You will readily apprehend,
+Herr Runeck, that, after what has passed, your appearance is rather a
+surprise to me. I did not suppose that you would ever again cross the
+threshold of Odensburg.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;My coming has to do with yourself alone,&quot; replied Egbert in the same
+tone, &quot;and in your own interest I desire you to listen to me.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I am listening,&quot; was the curt answer.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;No introduction should be needed,&quot; began Runeck. &quot;You know what was
+spoken about, that time on the Whitestone, between your sister and
+myself. I was then convinced that she shared your life, innocently, in
+utter ignorance as to its tenor, and, for her sake alone, have I kept
+silent so long.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;For Cecilia's sake!&quot; exclaimed Oscar with a mocking laugh. &quot;I
+understand that perfectly. She certainly has a claim to such
+consideration upon your part.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Egbert drew back a step, and his brow contracted threateningly.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;What do you mean to imply? I demand an explanation of that speech.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Again came that short, mocking laugh from Wildenrod's lips, as he
+retorted: &quot;Act no comedy with me; I know perfectly that to which I
+referred. What would poor Eric have done if he had suspected that his
+beloved friend had stolen from him the affections of his bride? Who
+knows from what bitter experiences sudden death saved him?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;That is a shameful supposition,&quot; cried Egbert, indignantly, &quot;and you
+wrong your sister as you do me. You talk as if an understanding existed
+between us. Eric's betrothed was as unapproachable, for me, as is now
+his widow. As to my feelings, I am bound to render no one an account.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Not even Cecilia's brother?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Such a brother--no!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Herr Runeck, you are in my own room,&quot; reminded Oscar, with sharpness.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I know that, but I have not come to exchange civilities with you, but
+to have a settlement made that can be postponed no longer.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;About what?&quot; asked Wildenrod, as he stood there motionless, with arms
+crossed.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Is it possible that I shall have to explain it to you first?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;If I am to understand--assuredly.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Runeck made a gesture of impatience, but restrained himself and with
+apparent composure went on: &quot;It refers, in the first place, to that
+occurrence in Berlin, at the residence of Frau von Sarewski, that
+doubtless concerned all of those present. But as I did not belong to
+that circle of society and knew none of the participants intimately, I
+did not concern myself further about the matter. Not until you made
+your appearance at Odensburg and I recognized the danger that
+threatened both Eric and his father, through you, did I inquire
+further. I learned that the matter had been subjected to proof, and
+that nothing saved you but your speedy departure and the urgent desire
+of the participants to ward off a public scandal. The proofs then
+obtained I have now in my hands, and witnesses are at my disposal. In
+face of this will you actually play the ignorant?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Oscar made no further attempt at denial, but his eyes flashed with
+deadly hatred, as fiercely as though he would annihilate his accuser.
+It was not the accusation itself, which left him no way of escape
+whatever, but it was the tone of unutterable contempt in which it was
+made, that provoked the Baron to the utmost. All the pride and
+insolence of his nature revolted against it. He drew himself up to his
+full height. &quot;And what object have you in saying all this to me? I have
+long known what I had to expect of you, and shall know how to defend
+myself. What signify threats? Why have you not dealt the blow long
+since?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Because I supposed that you would sooner or later leave Odensburg.
+Neither Eric's marriage nor his death gave you a right to make it your
+permanent home. Just yesterday I learned that you and Maia were
+betrothed, and you will understand well when I tell you that this
+engagement shall not be consummated. I forbid the banns.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Really! And with what right?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;With the right of an honest man, who will not consent to see the
+daughter of Eberhard Dernburg and his Odensburg become the spoil of a
+villain.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Wildenrod shrank back and his face became as livid as that of a corpse.
+&quot;Be on your guard!&quot; gasped he with half stifled voice, raising his fist
+as if to strike. &quot;You will answer to me for this speech.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;That will I, but not in the way you mean,&quot; said Egbert, fixing his eye
+firmly upon him. &quot;Such battles are only fought out in the courts of
+justice, where one renders an account only through witnesses and
+proofs.--Do not look so earnestly at that revolver, which hangs yonder
+above your desk, Baron von Wildenrod. I readily believe it to be
+loaded, but I am on my guard--at the first step you take in that
+direction, I shall cast myself upon you.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Oscar's eye had indeed turned to the revolver, and a crazy idea had
+darted into his mind, only, however, to be rejected instantly. What
+good would it do if he did shoot down his adversary? Stettin was
+bringing up the same accusation, Victor von Eckardstein likewise knew
+about it, and who knows how many more besides--the net was drawing its
+meshes about him from every side.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I offer you one way out--the last,&quot; began Runeck again. &quot;Leave
+Odensburg forever--this very day, for Maia shall not be called your
+betrothed a single hour longer. Whatever people may then guess, nobody
+will know the full truth, and your sister and Maia will be spared the
+worst. I shall say nothing, if you give me your word that you will go.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;No,&quot; said Wildenrod, with a composure that boded no good.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Baron von Wildenrod----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;No, I tell you.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Then I shall go straightway to Herr Dernburg and reveal everything to
+him. Your game is lost; give it up!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Do you think so?&quot; asked Oscar, wild with rage. &quot;Do not boast until the
+end comes, Herr Egbert Runeck. Whatever may come of it, I'll not yield
+to you.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;And that is your last word?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;My last--I stay!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Egbert silently turned to the door, which, the next minute, had closed
+behind him.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Wildenrod was alone. Slowly he went up to his desk, and took down from
+the wall a revolver that he held for a long while in his hand. The way
+that his father had once taken, when every resource failed, was not to
+survive the disgrace of ruin. Here a deeper disgrace was to be
+expiated! The pale gleaming of the barrel of the pistol seemed to point
+out the same path to the son. But again strong love of life awoke in
+the man to whom life and its belongings had ever been more enticing
+than honor. Must he, indeed, give up the game as lost? He laid down the
+weapon and was soon lost in somber reverie, out of which he suddenly
+roused himself, as if by main force, and rigid determination was
+stamped upon his darkened countenance.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;To Maia!&quot; said he with spirit. &quot;I shall see whether her love for me
+will stand this test. If she gives me up--well, then, there is still
+plenty of time to speak one last word with this last friend here!&quot;</p>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<h2>CHAPTER XXII.</h2>
+
+<h3><a name="div1_22" href="#div1Ref_22">HIS SIN HAD FOUND HIM OUT.</a></h3>
+<br>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Where are Frau Dernburg and Fräulein Maia? They have stayed in the
+park, I hope, or are safe at home?&quot; With this eager question Dr.
+Hagenbach entered the parlor, where, for the present, only Fräulein
+Friedberg was to be found.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;The ladies set out to visit the young gentleman's grave, that is all I
+know about it,&quot; answered she in alarm. &quot;Has anything happened?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Not yet, but one cannot know what the next hour may bring forth. So
+the ladies have gone to the grave, have they? Well, it lies at the end
+of the park, in the opposite direction from the works, so that I trust
+there is nothing to fear. It would be well, though, for them to come
+back soon.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I expect them every moment. Is it so threatening, then, over at the
+works?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Hagenbach nodded and took a seat opposite the lady.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Alas! the officers are doing their very best to get through with
+paying off and discharging the workmen in peace and quiet, but this
+does not suit Fallner and his crew, who want to have a row, whether or
+no. A portion of the men have announced their intention to resume work
+to-morrow morning, the others have responded by threats and curses:
+finally, here and there it has come to deeds of violence, and it seems
+as if an insurrection may break forth this very evening.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Leonie folded her hands with anxious mien. &quot;Dear me! what is to be the
+end of all this? Herr Dernburg is as hard and inaccessible as a rock.
+You have no idea in what a mood he is. He will bid defiance to all--I
+am distressed to death.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Why, there is no need of that! What am I here for?&quot; said Hagenbach,
+with emphasis. &quot;I should protect you in case of necessity, but such
+necessity is not likely to occur. This house and its inmates are
+unconditionally safe, even if there should be some excesses committed
+over there. In that case you can depend upon me.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I know that,&quot; replied Leonie, warmly, holding out her hand to him,
+which he took, too, readily enough; he kept it likewise, and did not
+think of releasing it from his clasp.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I called to see you this morning,&quot; he began again, &quot;but was not
+admitted!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Leonie cast down her eyes and her voice trembled, as she softly
+answered:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;You will understand that it was painful for me, after the events of
+yesterday----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I beg your pardon, I came only as a physician to inquire as to your
+health,&quot; remarked Hagenbach. &quot;You look worn, have had a sleepless
+night--for that matter, so have I!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;You, Doctor?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Why, yes, so many things were racking my brain. For example, I thought
+you were quite right in regarding me as a half bear. The only question
+is, whether the attempt would be worth while to try and make something
+human out of me. What is your opinion?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;My opinion? I have not thought on the subject,&quot; said Leonie, with a
+vain effort to disengage her hand.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;But your opinion is a great deal to me,&quot; continued he. &quot;You see,
+Fräulein Friedberg, if one goes through life as a bachelor, without
+caring for anybody in particular, and knowing that no one cares
+particularly about him--it is a bad case. If one has, at least, a
+mother or sister, then one can get along somehow; but I have only that
+silly fellow Dagobert, and what I have in him you know yourself.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;But, Doctor, must we discuss this subject just today?&quot; said Leonie,
+trying to evade an answer. &quot;At this hour, when all Odensburg----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Odensburg will, I hope, do me the pleasure to defer its rebellion
+until we have arranged our matters,&quot; interposed Hagenbach. &quot;And
+arranged they must be now, that I solemnly swore to myself during that
+aforesaid sleepless night. I called upon you, for the second time,
+awhile ago, but did not find you, because you were with Frau von
+Ringstedt. Nevertheless, I took the liberty of going in, because I
+wanted to take a peep at your desk. Over it hangs now the picture of
+your blessed mother, and I yield her that place cheerfully, for she is
+a saint in heaven. You have made short work of it, and bravely
+abandoned old memories and the like--and therefore--yes. What was it
+that I wanted to say?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The doctor began to get rather entangled in his talk. When he offered
+himself for the first time, he had gone ahead without calculation of
+any kind, and now, this second time, he wanted to proceed most gently
+and considerately--but here he stuck fast. But he made a quick resolve,
+got up and approached the lady of his choice, saying, with simple
+heartiness:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I love you, Leonie, and although I am a rough fellow--one cannot alter
+the old habits in a trice--yet I mean well, and if you would risk it
+with me, your consent would make me very happy. You say nothing:
+Nothing at all? May I take this as a good sign?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Leonie sat with glowing cheeks and downcast eyes, conscious of all the
+magnanimity and goodness of heart displayed by the man, whom she had so
+harshly rejected, and who now again offered her his heart and hand. He
+also understood this perfectly, and brought the matter into shape now,
+as quickly as possible, by taking his betrothed into his arms and
+kissing her.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;God be thanked that we have at last got so far,&quot; said he, from the
+bottom of his heart. &quot;I shall write to-morrow to that fellow Dagobert.
+Now he can make a wedding-song for us, and celebrate the praises of his
+future aunt--a poem that I shall certainly permit him to indite.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;But, Doctor,&quot; admonished Leonie, reproachfully.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I am called Peter,&quot; interposed he. &quot;The name does not please you, I
+know that of old--it is not poetical enough for you--but I was baptized
+so, and you will have to get used to it. Fräulein Leonie Friedberg and
+Dr. Peter Hagenbach--that is the way it will stand on our betrothal
+cards.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;But surely you have other baptismal names besides that one?&quot; the
+bride-elect ventured to suggest.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Of course. Peter Francis Hugo.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Hugo, how pretty! I shall call you by that in the future.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;That I protest against,&quot; declared Hagenbach, with a positiveness that
+already bespoke the future husband. &quot;I am named Peter after my father
+and grandfather, so I have been always called, and so will my intended
+wife call me too.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">With timid familiarity that became her very well, Leonie placed her
+hand on her lover's arm and pleadingly looked him in the eye. &quot;Dear
+Hugo--do you not like the sound of that already?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;No,&quot; growled the doctor, while he turned away.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Well, as you choose, Hugo. I shall conform in this respect entirely to
+your wishes. But Peter and Leonie do not suit together at all, you must
+perceive that yourself.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Again Hagenbach growled, but this time in a much more subdued tone. He
+did not find his new name so bad, after all, when pronounced in this
+tone. But immediately there loomed up before him the horrors of
+petticoat government, and he felt himself pledged to guard his
+supremacy once for all.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Peter it stands,&quot; he decided. &quot;You must submit to me in this, Leonie.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I submit myself in everything,&quot; asserted Leonie in tenderest tone. &quot;I
+am, in general, a weak, dependent creature, who has no will of her own.
+You shall never listen to a contradiction in the whole course of our
+married life, dear Hugo--but surely you will not refuse the first
+request I make of you, and that on our betrothal-day?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Dear Hugo began to melt under the softening influence of this gentle
+voice and these pleading eyes, and his constancy as well as supremacy
+showed signs of giving way.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Well, if it gives you such great pleasure, you can call me so
+yourself,&quot; he admitted. &quot;But on the cards of invitation it shall
+stand----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Leonie Friedberg and Dr. Hugo Hagenbach! I thank you, Hugo, with all
+my heart, for this proof of your love!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">What was poor Peter Hagenbach to do? He pocketed the thanks and covered
+his shameful retreat by bestowing a kiss upon his beloved. In this
+first dispute the &quot;weaker&quot; half had come off with flying colors and the
+stronger had had to lower his flag--it might be an omen----</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Meanwhile Dernburg was in his office, receiving announcements from the
+works that were anything but quieting. At other times, any unusual
+occurrence had found him either in the midst of or at the head of his
+workmen, but now he avoided any contact with them. Of late he had not
+spoken a word to any of the men, or taken the least notice of any,
+although he went daily to the works.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">He stood at the window, lost in melancholy brooding, for the moment
+entirely alone, and slowly turned around when the door was opened,
+believing that some new announcement was about to be made. In the next
+second, though, he shrank back and stared at the intruder, as though he
+could not believe his own eyes.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Egbert!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Egbert closed the door behind him, but paused on its threshold, while
+he said in a low voice:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I beg your pardon for having once more made use of my old privilege,
+of entering unannounced--it happens for the last time.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Dernburg had already recovered his self-command, his eyes flashed
+portentously, and his voice was chilling in the extreme.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I certainly did not expect to see you again at Odensburg. Here Runeck,
+pray what leads the new delegate to me? I thought that we two were to
+have no more to say to one another.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Runeck might have expected such a reception, but his glance was fixed
+reproachfully upon the speaker.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Herr Dernburg, you are too just to make me responsible for the
+excesses of election-day evening. I was in town----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I know--with Landsfeld. And from there the movement was directed.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Egbert turned pale and quickly drew one step nearer. &quot;Am I to bear this
+reproach, too? Is it possible that you believe I could have had a share
+in those insults, that I could have known of them and not prevented
+them?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Let us leave that,&quot; said Dernburg in the same cold tone. &quot;We are now
+only political opponents, Herr Runeck. As such we shall occasionally
+meet in public life, but there no longer exists between us relations of
+any other sort. If you really have further communications to make to
+me, I would prefer to have them in writing. Since, however, you are
+here this time, what would you have of me?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I <i>could</i> not select writing as my medium,&quot; returned Runeck, firmly.
+&quot;If my coming surprises you----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Not at all! I am only astonished that you seek me here in my office.
+Your proper place is over yonder at the works among your constituents,
+who are just about to repeat the proceedings of election-day. Will you
+not place yourself at their head, and lead them against me? I am
+prepared for that step!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">One who had looked at the young engineer must have seen how deeply he
+was wounded by these cruel words, and he was no longer able to maintain
+his calm demeanor. &quot;Dernburg, not this tone!&quot; he cried. &quot;Shake out over
+me all the vials of your wrath--I will bear it--but do not speak to me
+in that tone; such a punishment I have not deserved.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Punishment? I thought you had outgrown my discipline,&quot; said Dernburg,
+with intense bitterness, although he did indeed drop the mocking tone.
+&quot;Once more, what will you have here? Would you, perhaps, offer to
+protect me from those over there? They will obey the mere nod of their
+own delegate. I thank you, I shall cope with them single-handed. Half
+the men already repent of their enforced resolve to lay down their
+work, and to-morrow will resume it. But I forbid them to go to work
+unless they submit unconditionally and renounce their leaders.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Dernburg----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;They will not venture upon that, think you? Maybe so. You hold them
+with too tight a rein. Well, then, war is openly declared. You forced
+me to extremities in the first instance, now extremities I <i>will</i>
+have.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Runeck was silent for a few minutes, then he said with sad earnestness:
+&quot;That is a hard saying.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I know it. Think you I do not know the trend of coming events, if the
+ten thousand engaged in my enterprises take holiday for weeks, perhaps
+for months? The people will be driven to wretchedness, to despair, and
+I must be the witness of it. The responsibility for this, however,
+rests upon you and your fellows--you have left me no choice. For a
+generation, peace and blessedness had their abode at Odensburg, and
+whatever a man could do for his workmen, that I did. You have
+introduced discord and hatred, the dragon-seed has sprung up. See to
+it, now, how you shall manage the harvest.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">He turned away impetuously, and several times strode up and down the
+room. Then he paused in front of the young engineer, who, with clouded
+brow and downcast eyes, stood there without attempting a reply. &quot;You
+are very likely afraid of the spirits that you have exorcised yourself,
+and would now like to play the part of mediator?&quot; he asked, with
+scornful intonation. &quot;You would be the last to whom I should accord
+such a privilege. I want to hear nothing of mediation in general. The
+bridges are broken down between me and these people, henceforth we have
+to treat with one another only as enemies.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I have not come as a mediator,&quot; said Egbert, straightening himself up.
+&quot;My coming, in general, has nothing to do with this affair. What leads
+me here is a painful duty that I cannot escape from. It concerns Baron
+von Wildenrod, to whom you have promised Maia's hand.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Dernburg started and looked at him in surprise.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;What, you know of this engagement! Never mind: I no longer make any
+secret of it.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;And fortunately I have heard of it in time to interpose.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Will you make any objection to it?&quot; asked Dernburg, sharply. &quot;There
+was a time when I would have admitted your claim to her, when the way
+to Maia's hand and heart stood open to you.--You know what blocked it
+up. You have sacrificed your love, like everything else, to your
+'convictions.'&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I never loved Maia,&quot; returned Runeck, firmly. &quot;I saw in her only my
+young playmate, Eric's sister, and never entertained for her any other
+feelings than those of a brother.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">This explanation was given with such decision that it was no longer
+possible to doubt its truth.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Then in this, too, I have been mistaken,&quot; said Dernburg, slowly. &quot;But
+what concern, then, of yours is my daughter's marriage?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I want to guard Maia from becoming the prey of a--villain.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Egbert! have you lost your senses?&quot; exclaimed Dernburg, passionately.
+&quot;Do you know what you are saying? This mad accusation----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I shall prove. I would have spoken long ago, but I have only just
+succeeded in obtaining the documents, only just learned of the Baron's
+plan to usurp control of Odensburg, together with Maia's hand. Now, I
+must speak, and you must listen to me.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Dernburg had turned pale, but still revolted against giving credence to
+this unheard-of thing that seemed to him inconceivable.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I shall require the proofs of you for everything,&quot; resumed he,
+menacingly. &quot;And now go on, I am listening!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Baron von Wildenrod has the reputation here of being rich, but in
+reality is not worth a stiver. It must be twelve years now since he
+forsook the diplomatic career, because his father's loss of fortune
+deprived him of all means of maintaining himself in proper style. The
+old Baron shot himself, and the family had only to thank their noble
+name for the interposition in their favor of the reigning Prince. He
+bought the estates, that were heavily encumbered with debt, satisfied
+their creditors, and granted the widow a small pension as long as she
+lived. The son forsook Germany and has never since been heard of in his
+native land.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Dernburg listened with darkly contracted eyebrows. He had once received
+a different account, which, indeed, contained no direct untruth, but
+concealed the decisive element, namely, the ruined fortunes of the
+family.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I became acquainted with Oscar von Wildenrod three years ago,&quot;
+continued Runeck. &quot;It was in Berlin, at the house of a Frau von
+Sarewski, a wealthy widow who lived in very handsome style. I gave her
+children drawing-lessons, at which she was often present, and by her
+desire I drew a sketch of an addition planned for her villa. This met
+with her full approval, and she wanted to give me a sign of
+recognition, by inviting me to one of her evening entertainments. I
+dared not decline, for I was dependent upon the fees I received from
+teaching drawing for the means to continue my studies. A perfect
+stranger in that fashionable circle, which inspired me with not the
+slightest interest, I retired that evening into a side-room, where the
+brother of the lady of the house was seated at cards with a few other
+gentlemen. Among them was Baron von Wildenrod, who, as I learned from
+their conversation, had been in Berlin for three months, and expected
+to pass the winter there. He was strikingly favored by fortune in his
+play, while the others had just as decided ill-luck. The brother of
+Frau von Sarewski, passionately devoted to card-playing, set the stakes
+ever higher and higher, his losses being proportionate, while Wildenrod
+had already won a little fortune. This whole carrying-on was repulsive
+to me, and I was in the act of withdrawal, when an elderly gentleman, a
+Count Almers, who was likewise among the card-players, suddenly seized
+the Baron's hand, held it fast, and, in a voice quivering with rage,
+pronounced him a black-leg.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Did you see that yourself?&quot; asked Dernburg, sternly.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;With my own eyes! I was also a witness to that which followed. The
+gentlemen sprang to their feet, and everything was astir; the loud
+talking pro and con brought all the other guests, Frau von Sarewski
+also making her appearance. She begged and implored those present to
+let the matter rest, and spare her house the notoriety of a public
+scandal. Wildenrod acted the man of outraged, deeply wounded feelings:
+he threatened to challenge the Count, but made use of this show of
+indignation as a pretext to withdraw as speedily as possible. Now Count
+Almers declared that he had been on the track of this deceiver for a
+long while, but had only to-day found the opportunity to unmask him. He
+insisted upon following up the investigation, since Wildenrod moved in
+the first circles, and elements of this sort must be ruthlessly
+ejected. The entreaties of Frau von Sarewski and the representations of
+her brother finally had the effect of moving the witnesses to keep
+silence, provided that Wildenrod could be induced to leave the city at
+once. This was superfluous, for he had no idea of either challenging
+the Count or attempting to clear himself. The next morning it was
+discovered that he had taken his departure in the night.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Those were plain facts that Runeck reported, but his bearing and tone
+gave to the narration a frightful emphasis. It was seen what a crushing
+revelation this was to the listener, although he gave no outward sign
+of sympathy.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;What else?&quot; said he, bluntly and roughly.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I neither heard nor saw anything more of Wildenrod until the
+moment when he made his appearance at Odensburg, as Eric's future
+brother-in-law. I recognized him at the first glance, while he had no
+recollection whatever of my personality: a hint that I gave he repelled
+with great haughtiness.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;And you concealed this from me? You did not mention it at once?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Would you have believed me without proofs?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;No, but I would have set investigations afoot and learned the truth.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I did that in your stead. I had manifold relations with Berlin, that I
+now availed myself of: I turned to Wildenrod's native place and to Nice
+where Eric had made his acquaintance, and it was not my fault that
+months elapsed before my inquiries were answered. What you would have
+done was attended to by me, and information was given to me as a
+stranger that would hardly have been obtainable by you, under the
+circumstances. Nevertheless, I did think of warning you, provisionally,
+but then, I suppose, you would have dissolved the tie on which depended
+the happiness of Eric's life, and that would have been the death of
+him. He told me himself, once--when apparently without design I
+suggested such a possibility--that to lose Cecilia would be the death
+of him. I knew that he spoke the truth--such consequences I could not
+and would not take upon myself.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Cecilia?&quot; repeated Dernburg with a gleam of suspicion. &quot;Quite right.
+She too is deeply concerned in this thing. What part did she play in
+the affair? What did she know about it?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Nothing--not the least thing! She lived unsuspectingly by her
+brother's side, deeming him a rich man. Under this impression she
+engaged herself to Eric, and it was here at Odensburg that she became
+aware of something dark and mysterious in her brother's past. What it
+was I did not have the heart to tell her, but the manner in which she
+took my hints gave me convincing proof that not the slightest blame was
+to be attached to her.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Dernburg's deep sigh of relief betrayed the dread that he had
+entertained lest a shadow might also fall upon his daughter-in-law. A
+hardly audible &quot;God be thanked!&quot; came from his lips.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Egbert drew out a pocket-book, and took from it a number of papers.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Here is a letter from Count Almers, who gives his word of honor for
+the assertion that he made that time; here are accounts as to what
+happened at the death of the old Baron, and here information from Nice.
+Eric must have been blind, or they purposely kept him aloof from other
+society, else he would have known that his brother already had the
+reputation of being a doubtful character throughout the bounds of Nice,
+being looked upon as a professional gambler. How he managed to force
+his 'luck,' was suspected here and there, perhaps, but not to be
+proved, and that gave him the possibility of maintaining an appearance
+of respectability.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Dernburg took the proffered papers and stepped at once to the table,
+whereon stood a bell.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;First of all I must hear Wildenrod himself! You will not shrink, I
+hope, from repeating your accusation in his presence?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I have just done that--I came from his room. It was a last effort to
+end the matter in a way that would spare his exposure, but it failed.
+The Baron knows that I am revealing all this to you, at this hour--he
+has not followed me to answer for himself.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Never mind, he is to render me an account!&quot; Dernburg pressed on the
+bell and called to the servant who entered: &quot;Tell Baron von Wildenrod
+to come to me, please, at once.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The servant went; along, awkward silence ensued. Nothing was heard but
+the rustling of the papers that Dernburg opened one after the other and
+looked through: he turned ever paler as he proceeded. Egbert tarried,
+silent and motionless, in his place. Thus the minutes elapsed. It was
+long, very long, before the door was opened, and then it was not
+Wildenrod who entered but the servant who returned, saying:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;The Baron is not in his rooms, nor, indeed, anywhere about the house.
+Perhaps he has already ridden away.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Ridden away? Where to?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Apparently to the city. He ordered the horses put to the carriage and
+that it should drive to the back gate of the park. He must be there by
+this time.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">A silent nod dismissed the servant, and then Dernburg's self-control
+gave way. He sank into a chair, and a cry of despair escaped his lips.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;My child! my poor, poor Maia! She loves this man with all her heart.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">There was something appalling in the grief of this man, who with lofty
+brow went into a battle that threatened his existence, but who seemed
+unable to bear the misfortune of his darling.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Egbert gently approached and stooped over him. &quot;Herr Dernburg,&quot; said
+he, with trembling voice.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">A fierce and repellent gesture waved him back. &quot;Go! What do you here?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Eric is dead, and you have to spurn from you the man who was to take
+his place. Give me only this once more--only for this hour--the right
+that I once possessed.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;No,&quot; cried Dernburg, drawing himself up, and his features were again
+as cold and hard as ever. &quot;You have renounced me and mine; you have
+forfeited the right to endure suffering with us. Go over to your
+friends and comrades, to whom you have sacrificed me, and who now rage
+around me like a pack of hounds just let loose. To them you belong;
+there is your place! They have treated me ill, but you worst of all,
+because you stood next my heart. From you I want no sympathy and no
+support--I will go to destruction first.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">He walked into the adjacent library and slammed the door to behind him.
+The bridge between him and Egbert was broken.</p>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<h2>CHAPTER XXIII.</h2>
+
+<h3><a name="div1_23" href="#div1Ref_23">A LOVERS' TRYST.</a></h3>
+<br>
+
+<p class="normal">The park trees rocked and rustled in the wind, which now, towards
+evening, threatened to become a storm. It drove the red and yellow
+leaves whirling through the air, and a gray, cloud-covered sky looked
+down upon the autumnal earth.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Maia came back alone from her brother's resting-place, while Cecilia
+still lingered there. It had required persuasion to induce the former
+to go at all. In the midst of life's sunny springtime, the young girl
+felt a secret horror of all connected with death and burial. Existence
+beckoned to her, and happiness by the side of the man she loved.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">On her way back she came past the Rose Lake, where Oscar had first
+confessed his love to her. Today, indeed, the spot looked very
+different from what it had done on that May-day in the splendor of
+sunshine and spring. Dry leaves covered the ground, and the reeds
+lining the shore were likewise withered and dry, while the lake itself
+looked black and uninviting in the dull light of that stormy day. No
+sweet singing of birds any longer sounded from the thicket, laid bare
+as it was by autumnal blasts; all was lifeless and still, while the
+mountain-chain, that had once looked so dreamily blue from the
+distance, was wrapped to-day in a dense fog.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Involuntarily Maia's steps were arrested here; she gazed fixedly upon
+the sadly altered spot, and, shivering, drew her mantle closer around
+her shoulders. Then she heard approaching steps, and the next minute
+Oscar von Wildenrod emerged from the coppice.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I have been all through the park looking for you, Maia,&quot; said he,
+petulantly, &quot;and had despaired of finding you.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I was with Cecilia at Eric's grave,&quot; replied the young girl. &quot;She is
+still there.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;So much the better, for what I have to say is for yourself alone. Will
+you listen to me?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Without waiting for an answer, he drew her down upon the bench, over
+which the beech now stretched her ghostlike arms, half-stripped as they
+were of their foliage. Not till now had Maia observed that he wore hat
+and overcoat, and that his features had a strangely disordered
+expression.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Nothing bad has happened, has there?&quot; she asked in great agitation.
+&quot;Papa----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;The matter does not concern him, but me, or rather both of us. Maia, I
+have something serious--hard to tell you. You are to show me, now,
+whether your love for me stands firm. You love me still, do you not?
+You once gave yourself fully to me, on this very spot. I thought, then,
+I was asking your hand only for happiness, for a life full of sunshine
+and joy--have you the courage to share sorrow with me also?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Maia was stunned, as it were, by this torrent of words; she shuddered.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Oscar, for heaven's sake, tell me what you mean? You distress me
+unutterably by these dark hints.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I ask of you a sacrifice--a great, heavy sacrifice. Will you make it
+for my sake?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;If you ask it. Everything, everything that you want!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Suppose that I were to ask you to leave father and home, to go with me
+far away into a foreign land--would you follow me?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Father! Home!&quot; repeated the young girl, mechanically. &quot;But we stay
+here at Odensburg.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;No. I must begone--will you go with me?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I--I do not understand you,&quot; said Maia, trembling in every limb.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">He threw his arm around her and drew her to him. His face was as pale
+as death, and in his eyes glowed that threatening flame which had so
+alarmed her when they first met.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I told you once of my earlier life,&quot; he began, &quot;of a wild, restless
+pursuit of fortune, that seemed ever to flee before me, until I finally
+found it here in possessing you--do you remember that?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Yes,&quot; whispered Maia. Did she remember it! It had been the same hour
+in which he had declared his love for her.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I could not unveil that past to your pure child-eyes,&quot; continued
+Wildenrod, his voice sinking into a whisper; &quot;and cannot to-day either,
+but there is a shadow in it-----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;A misfortune--was it not?&quot; The question had a dispirited sound.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Yes--a misfortune, that deprived me of my profession, and enticed me
+into evil and guilt. I had cast all this from me and wanted to begin a
+new life, here at your side. But again the old shadow looms up, and
+threatens me again--yes, threatens to snatch you from me, Maia.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;No, no, I am not going to leave you, whatever has happened, or may
+happen!&quot; cried Maia, vehemently, clinging to him. &quot;My father is lord of
+Odensburg, he will protect you.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;No, your father will dissolve our engagement, and part us irrevocably.
+Stern man that he is, with his rigid principles, he would rather see
+you dead than at the side of a husband whose past is not what it should
+he. There is only one way for you to be preserved to me, one single
+one--but you must have courage.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;What--what am I to do?&quot; she stammered, powerless under the ban
+of his eyes and his voice. He stooped lower down to her and these
+words streamed hotly and passionately over his lips: &quot;You are my
+betrothed--I have the right to claim you as my wife! Let us fly from
+Odensburg, and just as soon as we cross the German boundary line, I
+shall lead you to the altar. Then nobody, not even your father, will
+have the right to take you from me--no power can stand against our
+marriage. And you will be mine indissolubly.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Oscar von Wildenrod knew very well that a marriage of this kind was
+null and void in the eyes of the law; but what cared he for that, if it
+only satisfied Maia and made her believe herself to be his wife? Then
+Dernburg would have to consent; for the sake of the honor of his name,
+he could not admit that his daughter had lived for a while in a foreign
+land with a man who was not her husband, and the legal forms could be
+gone through with hereafter. After all, his claim to Odensburg might
+yet be made good. Was not Maia still her father's heir? Hence upon her
+hand depended freedom and wealth.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">It was a wild, crazy scheme, suggested to the Baron by despair.
+Meanwhile it was practicable, if Maia only gave her consent. But now,
+in horror, she started back, releasing herself from his arms.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Oscar! What is it that you ask of me?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;My salvation!&quot; he exclaimed, vehemently. &quot;I am lost if I stay--you
+alone can save me. Go with me, Maia; be my wife, my shield, and I shall
+thank you for it on my knees. Only two paths are left to me now--the
+one with you leads to life, the other without you----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;To death!&quot; shrieked Maia. &quot;Oh, how dreadful! Oh! no, no, Oscar, you
+are not to die. I am going with you, wherever you choose.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">A cry of joy escaped his lips; he overwhelmed his betrothed with
+passionate caresses. &quot;My Maia! I knew it. You would not forsake me,
+even though all others forsook me. And now, come! we have no time to
+lose.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Now? This very hour?&quot; asked Maia, shuddering. &quot;Am I to see my father
+no more?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Impossible! You would betray yourself! We must leave on the spot. The
+carriage is in waiting to carry us to the station, at the gate in the
+rear of the park; I have with me my papers and a sum of money. In the
+excitement prevailing to-day at Odensburg, our departure will not be
+noticed. I shall see to it that they find not a trace of us, until I
+can announce our union to your father.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Maia's eyes were fixedly riveted upon the speaker, but hers were no
+longer glad, innocent child-eyes; there was an expression in them that
+Oscar could not fathom.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Not say farewell to my father?&quot; repeated she, mechanically. &quot;Not even
+that, when I am giving him up forever?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Not forever,&quot; said Wildenrod, soothingly. &quot;Your father will be
+reconciled to us. I shall take upon myself alone all the blame and
+responsibility of this step. We shall come back.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Not I!&quot; said the young girl, softly. &quot;I shall die of that life in a
+foreign land, of separation from my father, of that--that dreadful
+thing, which you will not name before me. Oh, your love will be my
+death!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Maia!&quot; cried he, interrupting her in angry surprise, but she would not
+be diverted, and continued:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Somehow, I have always known it. When you first entered our house, and
+I looked into your eyes for the first time, a sense of distress came
+over me, as though I were standing on the edge of a precipice and must
+fall down. And this sense of distress has come ever again, even in that
+hour when you told me that you loved me, even in the midst of the
+happiness of these last weeks. I did not want to know the meaning of
+it, have struggled against it and clung to my supposed happiness. Now
+you point me to the abyss, and I--I must plunge down.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;And still you are willing to go with me?&quot; asked Oscar, slowly: it was
+as though breath failed him.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Yes, Oscar! You say that I can save you, how dare I hesitate?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">She laid her head upon his breast, with a low, heart-rending sob, in
+which the young creature buried her happiness. Wildenrod stood there,
+motionless, and looked down upon her: from the beech-tree withered
+leaves rained slowly down upon the pair.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">At last Maia straightened herself up and dried her tears. &quot;Let us go--I
+am ready!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;No!&quot; said Oscar, almost rudely, while he let her out of his arms.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The young girl looked at him in surprise.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;What did you say?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">He took off his hat and stroked his forehead, as though he would wipe
+something away. Suddenly his features appeared to be strangely altered:
+a few minutes before they had portrayed all the fierce passionateness
+of his nature, now they were cold and stolid in their calmness.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I perceive that you are right,&quot; said he, and his voice sounded
+unnaturally composed. &quot;It would be cruel to hinder you from taking
+leave of your father. Go to him and tell him--what you choose.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;And you?&quot; asked Maia, astonished at this sudden change of mind.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I shall wait for you here. It is better, perhaps, that you should
+speak to him once more, ere we venture upon that last desperate
+measure. Perhaps you will succeed in changing his mind.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">It was only a faint glimmer of light that he showed her, but no more
+was needed for the rekindling of bright hopes in Maia's heart.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Yes, I shall go to papa!&quot; she cried. &quot;I shall implore him on my knees
+not to part us. You cannot have done anything so dreadful, so
+unpardonable, and he will and shall hear me. But--would it not be
+better for you to go with me?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;No, it would be in vain! But now go! go!--time is precious.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">He urged her almost anxiously to leave, and yet when she actually did
+turn to go, he suddenly stretched out to her both arms.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Come to me, Maia! Tell me once more that you love me, that you wanted
+to go with me, in spite of everything?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The young girl flew back to him again and nestled up to him.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;You dread lest I should not stand firm? I'll share everything with
+you, Oscar, though it were the worst. Nothing can separate us. I love
+you beyond everything.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Thank you!&quot; said he, fervently. Suppressed feeling quivered in his
+voice; from his eyes, too, that sinister glare had departed, and they
+now beamed with unutterable tenderness. &quot;Thank you, my Maia! You have
+no idea what a freeing, absolving influence that speech has had upon
+me, what a boon you bestow upon me in its utterance. Perhaps you are
+about to learn from your father's lips what I cannot tell you. If all
+of you, then, condemn and cast me from you forever, then remember that
+I loved you, loved you devotedly. How much I never realized until this
+moment--and I shall prove it to you.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Oscar, you stay here?&quot; asked Maia, agonized by a dark foreboding.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I stay at Odensburg, my word for it--and now, go, my dear!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">He kissed his betrothed once more and then released her. She walked
+slowly away: on the edge of the thicket, she turned around. Wildenrod
+was still standing there motionless gazing after her; but he smiled,
+and that quieted the anxiety of the young girl, who now moved briskly
+forward into the fog, where she was soon lost in the gathering mist.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Oscar followed the slender form with his eyes until she had vanished,
+then he went slowly back to the bench and tentatively laid his hand
+upon his breast-pocket. There rested his papers, the sum of money he
+carried on his person, and--something else, that he had provided for
+all emergencies. Now, here it was safe ... but no, not here, not
+so near to the house! Then what mattered one hour the more or the
+less--night suited his purpose better.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Poor Maia!&quot; said he, softly. &quot;You will weep bitterly, but your father
+will fold you in his arms. You are right: such a life and my guilt
+would kill you.--You shall be saved. I am going alone--to destruction!&quot;</p>
+<br>
+
+<p class="normal">The Dernburg family burying-ground lay in the rear of the park. It was
+no showy mausoleum, but merely a peaceful spot, encircled by dark
+fir-trees. Plain marble memorial stones adorned the green hillocks that
+were mantled in ivy. Here rested Dernburg's father and wife, and here
+his son Eric had also found a resting-place.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The young widow still lingered alone at the grave, but the
+ever-increasing violence of the wind warned her that it was time for
+her, too, to be going. She had just stooped down to readjust the fresh
+wreath that she had laid on the grave, and was now rising, when all of
+a sudden she gave a start. Egbert Runeck had emerged from the fir-trees
+and stood opposite to her. He had evidently had no idea of meeting her
+here, but quickly composed himself, and said, with a bow: &quot;I beg your
+pardon, lady, if I disturb you. I expected to find the place solitary!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Are you at Odensburg, Herr Runeck?&quot; asked Cecilia, without concealing
+her surprise.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I was calling upon Herr Dernburg, and could not let the opportunity
+pass by without visiting the burial-place of the friend of my youth. It
+is the first, and probably will be the last, time that I see it.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">As he spoke his eye scanned furtively the young widow's figure that was
+draped in black: then he drew near the grave and looked down upon it
+long and silently.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Poor Eric!&quot; said he, after a while. &quot;He had to depart so early, and
+yet--it is an enviable fate, to die thus in the midst of happiness!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;You are mistaken--Eric did not die happy!&quot; said Cecilia, in a low
+tone.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;You believe that he was conscious of approach of death and felt the
+pangs of parting? I heard, though, that the hemorrhage came upon him in
+apparently full health, and that he never recovered consciousness.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I do not know; for me, there was something mysterious in Eric's last
+moments,&quot; replied Cecilia, dejectedly. &quot;When he once more opened his
+eyes, shortly before he died, I saw that he recognized me. That look
+still pursues me; I cannot get rid of it. It was so full of woe and
+reproach, as though he had known or suspected----&quot; she suddenly broke
+off.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;What could he have suspected?&quot; asked Runeck, impulsively.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Cecilia was silent here; least of all could she say what she feared.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;My brother thinks it is imagination,&quot; she then replied evasively. &quot;He
+may be right, and yet I can never recall that moment but with a sharp,
+keen pang.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">She bowed distantly to Egbert and was on the point of going; he
+evidently struggled with himself, then made a movement as though to
+detain the young widow.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I believe it will be better to prepare you, lady, for the news that
+you will hear when you reach the house. Baron von Wildenrod has left
+for good?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;My brother?&quot; cried Cecilia, her anxieties at once aroused. &quot;And you
+here at Odensburg? What have you done?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Fulfilled a painful duty!&quot; he gravely replied. &quot;Your brother has left
+me no choice. He was warned through you--he should have been satisfied
+with what he had already accomplished--Maia ought not to be sacrificed!
+I have opened her father's eyes.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;And Oscar? He has gone off you say--where to?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;That nobody knows as yet. He will certainly communicate with you
+after a while; you stand as high as ever in the affections of your
+father-in-law. He knows that not the slightest reproach attaches to
+you.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;The question here is not about myself, is it?&quot; cried the young woman,
+vehemently. &quot;Do you think that I can live quietly here at Odensburg,
+with my brother a wanderer upon the face of the earth, once more a prey
+to those inimical forces that have already brought him so low? You have
+done your duty--yes, thoroughly well! What asks a stern nature like
+yours, about whom and what has been crushed in the process?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Cecilia!&quot; interposed Runeck, his tone betraying the torture he endured
+while listening to these reproaches. But Cecilia paid no heed and
+continued with increasing bitterness:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Maia's hand and love would have saved Oscar, that I do know, for there
+was in him as mighty a power for good as for evil. Now he has been
+hurled back into the old life; now he is lost.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Through me--is that what you would say?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">She did not answer, but the reproachful glance that she cast upon the
+young engineer was bitter in the extreme. Proudly but sadly he stood
+before her.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;You are right,&quot; said he, harshly. &quot;Destiny has certainly condemned me
+to bring woe and misery upon all that I hold dear. I had to wound in
+the cruelest manner the man who had been more than a father to me. I
+had likewise to inflict no less a blow upon poor little Maia's heart.
+But the hardest of all was what I had to do to you, Cecilia, and for
+which you now condemn me!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">He waited in vain for a reply. Cecilia persisted in her silence. There
+was a rushing and roaring around the pair, as at that time when they
+stood at the foot of the Whitestone. Mysteriously came this roaring as
+from a far distance; on, on it came, ever swelling stronger and then
+sinking and dying away with the breath of the wind. But now the autumn
+storm howled furiously among the trees, half-bare of foliage as they
+were; the first gray shadows of evening began to steal upward, and what
+mingled with that rushing and roaring was not the peaceful Sabbath
+bells as before, but strange and dismal noises. A far-off and confused
+murmur it was, too undecided to determine what it was, for again and
+again it was swallowed up by the storm. But now the wind lulled for a
+few minutes, when it came across more loudly and distinctly. Cecilia
+drew herself up and listened intently. &quot;What was that? Did it come from
+the house?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;No, it seemed to come from the works,&quot; declared Runeck. &quot;I heard it a
+while ago.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Both now listened, with bated breath, and suddenly Egbert exclaimed,
+with a start:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I hear the voices of men! It is the raging of an angry mob. Something
+is going on over at the works--I must go over!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;You, Herr Runeck? What would you there?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Protect the master of Odensburg from his people! I best know how they
+have been goaded and set against him. If he shows himself now, he is no
+longer safe among his workmen.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;For Heaven's sake!&quot; cried Cecilia, horrified.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Fear nothing!&quot; Runeck hastened to assure her. &quot;So long as I stand by
+his side, no one will come near him. Woe to him who risks it!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Cecilia had sprung forward: a few minutes before she had believed that
+she could not pardon her brother's accuser, and now all that supposed
+hatred was swallowed up in anguish over him, over <i>his</i> life. She flew
+forward and embraced his arm with both hands.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Egbert!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">He was in the act of hurrying away, but now stood still as though
+spellbound.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Cecilia! Do you call me thus?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Do you mean to brave that infuriated mob over there? Oh, you court
+death!&quot; cried the young widow, beside herself. &quot;Egbert, think of me and
+my mortal anxiety about you!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">With an impetuous shout of joy, Egbert wanted to draw his beloved to
+him, but his eye fell upon her mourning garb and upon the grave of his
+old friend, and he only drew her hand silently to his lips; but a
+bright ray of happiness lit up his face, as he said softly,</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I <i>will</i> think of it--farewell, Cecilia!&quot; With that he rushed off.</p>
+<br>
+
+<p class="normal">That evening the Odensburg works had been the theater of wild and
+stormy scenes. The moderation and circumspection with which the
+officers sought to keep down the angry excitement on the part of the
+mass of the workmen, and to maintain quiet and order among those
+dismissed, had been in vain; all was wrecked by the aggressive bearing
+of that party which Landsfeld secretly guided, and at the head of which
+stood Fallner here at the works.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">To-day the Socialist leader had found it altogether necessary to come
+himself to Odensburg, a thing that he usually avoided; for he knew this
+time what was at stake.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Most of the workmen had already come to their senses, more than half of
+them having determined to resume work on the morrow, and to submit to
+the conditions of the chief. The effect of this example upon the others
+was to be foreseen. It was of importance, then, to incite to scenes of
+violence, cost what it would, in order that reconciliation be made
+impossible. And in this he had already succeeded.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The works were full of waving, noisy masses of men, who, by way of
+preliminary, were threatening one another. Fallner and his adherents
+hurled terms of opprobrium against the opposite party: &quot;Cowards!
+Traitors! Hounds!&quot; they cried, in a confused medley of invective, and
+those they attacked were not slow in returning the compliment. They
+threw it up to their comrades that they had been goaded into
+insurrection, and that a conclusion had been forced upon them which
+they had not liked. As yet fists played only a secondary part, but it
+was felt that a bloody encounter might ensue at any moment, and unchain
+all the fury of the excited multitude.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">In the superintendent's building the officers had to sustain a regular
+siege. From the now closed workshops and bureaux, the younger ones had
+taken refuge here with their superiors, who were themselves thoroughly
+nonplused. The measures taken had proved themselves inefficacious. They
+were just now consulting as to the wisest thing to do.</p>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<h2>CHAPTER XXIV.</h2>
+
+<h3><a name="div1_24" href="#div1Ref_24">A DEED THAT WIPES OUT OLD SCORES.</a></h3>
+<br>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;There is no help for it, we must call in the master,&quot; said the
+director. &quot;He was determined, whether or no, to interfere in case of
+necessity--I am at my wits' end now.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;For Heaven's sake no!&quot; objected Winning. &quot;He ought not to show
+himself. He will hardly be in the mood to speak kindly to the people,
+and if he meets them with asperity, then the worst is to be feared.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;What are those men out there after, anyhow?&quot; cried Dr. Hagenbach, who
+was likewise present, because he feared that his medical services might
+be needed. &quot;Whom are they threatening? Herr Dernburg? Us? Or are they
+quarreling among themselves?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I presume they themselves know least of all,&quot; replied the
+upper-engineer. &quot;You may depend, their leader Landsfeld is at the
+bottom of it. He is to be in Odensburg to-day, when we may certainly
+expect matters to take a grave aspect.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;So much the less can I assume any longer the responsibility all by
+myself,&quot; declared the director. &quot;I shall tell our chief that we are no
+longer masters of the situation. He can then do what he chooses.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">He started for the telephone, when all of a sudden the noise ceased. He
+hushed quite suddenly, only a few individual voices being heard; then
+these too were silent and a deathlike silence prevailed. The officers
+hurried to the window, in order to see what was going on.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;There is the master!&quot; exclaimed Winning. &quot;I thought that he would
+appear without summons, if he heard that tumult.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;But how he does look!&quot; added Hagenbach, in a whisper. &quot;I fear that
+nature will give way.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Let us open the doors, so that he can retreat here in case of
+necessity,&quot; said the director, who had likewise come up. &quot;He is quite
+alone, not even Wildenrod is with him. We must go to him! Quick,
+gentlemen!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The doors were opened that had been locked from the inside, but the
+officers could neither reach their chief, nor he them--a dense mass of
+men stood between, and held the square before the house. The attempt of
+the director and his colleagues, to break through this living wall, was
+vain--the workmen standing nearest assumed so threatening an attitude,
+the gentlemen desisted, so as not to tempt to a deed of violence that
+would have immediately reacted against Dernburg.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">He had made use of the little by-path that led from the Manor to the
+superintendent's building, without going near the works. Nobody had
+seen his approach, and now he suddenly stood among his workmen as if he
+had sprung from the ground. The whole force of his personal presence
+was shown at this moment--his bare appearance had the most subduing
+effect upon the just now fiercely excited multitude, who suddenly
+stood, as it were, spellbound. All eyes were directed toward that tall
+form, with darkly knitted eyebrows; all waited for the first word from
+his mouth. His glance slowly swept over the crowd that he had once
+swayed by a single nod, and who now withstood him thus. Still he spoke
+not, for it seemed as though utterance had failed him.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Unfortunately it happened that Landsfeld, with Fallner, was in
+immediate proximity to him. There, in front of the superintendent's
+building, where they had cooped in the officers, the rashest of his
+followers had found themselves together, the Socialist leader had taken
+his stand. Dernburg's appearance seemed to him to be neither surprising
+nor undesired; on the contrary, there flashed into his eyes a look as
+of satisfaction, as he whispered to Fallner, who was constantly at his
+side, as a sort of adjutant:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;There is the old man! I knew that he would not stay quietly at home
+while the devil was to pay over at his works. Now the ball begins to
+roll!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Finally Dernburg began to speak: his voice was loud and firm, and the
+deep silence round about caused every word to be distinctly heard.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;What means this noise here at the works? There is no reason for it.
+You gave warning, and I have had the workshops closed and shall keep
+them closed. You have been paid your wages, so now go home!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The workmen were startled; they had been accustomed to their chiefs
+speaking shortly and dictatorially, but this cold, contemptuous tone
+they heard from his lips now for the first time. They felt it at once,
+without being able exactly to account for it.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Now Landsfeld deemed that the hour had come for his personal
+interference. &quot;You and the rest follow me,&quot; was his brief command to
+Fallner, and then, without further ceremony, he turned to Dernburg.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;The question here is not one of pay,&quot; he began, with insolent mien.
+&quot;What the workmen want of you, Herr Dernburg, they have already
+communicated to you. Those unjust dismissals are to----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Who are you? Who gives you the right to put in a word here?&quot;
+interrupted Dernburg, although he knew the speaker by sight as well as
+that person knew him.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;My name is Landsfeld,&quot; was the haughty reply. &quot;I think that suffices
+for my justification.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Intermeddling from without I do not brook. Leave Odensburg on the
+spot!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">This order sounded proud and contemptuous. Landsfeld retired a step and
+measured from head to foot the man who stood before him, unsupported,
+and yet dared to speak thus.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Such an order I shall not heed,&quot; answered he, scornfully. &quot;I stand
+here in the name of my party, which Odensburg matters very nearly
+concern. Comrades! do you recognize me as your proxy? Am I to speak for
+you?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Fallner and his men, who had followed their leader and encircled him on
+all sides, answered with stormy approval, while the others remained
+silent. Landsfeld triumphantly raised his head.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;You hear it! I tell you, then, that the conditions imposed by you
+before the resumption of work are shameful and degrading. I declare the
+man that submits to them to be a coward and traitor.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;And I declare that I have nothing to do with you or the like of you,&quot;
+cried Dernburg, extremely provoked by this challenge. &quot;I made
+conditions for my workmen, to whom alone I shall re-open the
+works--with men of your stamp I have nothing at all to do.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Landsfeld started up, enraged. &quot;With men of my stamp? We are indeed
+only worms in the eyes of this high and mighty lord? Comrades! do you
+put up with this?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">He did not appeal in vain to his comrades. Abusive words and threats
+were hurled at Dernburg, who was ever more closely wedged in by the
+mob. Cut off from any assistance, at any instant he might look for the
+worst.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Then were heard in the distance loud clamor and shouts, not of a fierce
+and menacing kind, though, but as if some one was being joyfully
+received, Now they could even distinguish an enthusiastic &quot;huzza&quot; that
+was loud and long-drawn-out, and continually came nearer. &quot;Long live
+Runeck! Long live Egbert Runeck!&quot; sounded from all quarters, and,
+through the midst of the densely-packed masses, a way was opened for
+the engineer, who rapidly drew near.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Breathless from his impetuous walk, he placed himself by Dernburg's
+side with an air that showed plainly enough that he was determined to
+stand by him and fall with him. He looked defiance at Landsfeld, who
+returned his glance with a scornful shrug of the shoulders.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Are you actually here, my dear fellow?&quot; he murmured. &quot;If you <i>will</i>
+break your own neck, then I need not do it for you.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Runeck, meanwhile, had taken a rapid survey of the situation; he
+recognized its peril, and seized the sole means that had promise of
+safety.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Back from the house!&quot; was his order to the workmen who held the
+superintendent's office beleaguered. &quot;Do you not see that Herr Dernburg
+wants to get to his officers? I'll escort him; make room!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The people were surprised, shocked at the part taken; they obeyed,
+however, and began to retire. The square in front of the house was
+gradually emptied, and if Dernburg were once there in the midst of his
+officers, he would be also in safety. If Runeck, then, remained at his
+side, the whole affair would wind up peacefully. But this did not at
+all fit into Landsfeld's plan, and again he struck in.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;What means this?&quot; he cried in a sharp stentorian voice. &quot;Our delegate
+takes part against us, and ranges himself on the enemy's side, does he?
+Herr Runeck! your place is with us. You have to represent us--or do you
+mean to turn traitor?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">That evil word &quot;traitor&quot; immediately took effect, and a low threatening
+murmur became audible. Now Runeck lost the moderation that he had
+hitherto found it hard enough to preserve in face of Landsfeld's
+effrontery.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;You yourselves are traitors and villains if you assault the man who
+has helped you in every way that he could,&quot; he thundered. &quot;Back from
+him! whoever touches him, I shall strike to the ground!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">His bearing was wild and threatening, so that all shrank back save
+Landsfeld only.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Suppose you try that on me, then?&quot; he yelled, rushing forward to
+attack Dernburg, but in the same minute, felled by a powerful blow of
+Egbert's fist, he sank to the ground with a loud outcry, where he lay
+with blood streaming over him.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The sudden lightning-like deed unchained all the passions of the raging
+mob.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">With a fierce shout, Fallner and his fellows rushed upon Runeck, who
+threw himself in front of Dernburg and covered him with his body. For a
+few minutes his gigantic strength held out against the assailants, but
+the end of this unequal contest was to be foreseen. Then suddenly a
+knife flashed in Fallner's uplifted hand, a mighty thrust--and Egbert
+fell down, bleeding.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">But this time the deed had a different effect from what it had had
+before, the multitude standing paralyzed, as it were, by horror.
+Suddenly the monstrous character of the whole proceeding seemed to
+strike them. Fallner himself stood there motionless, as though shocked
+by his own deed. The tumult was hushed; nobody hindered Dernburg, who,
+with pale face and compressed lips, slowly stooped down and took the
+unconscious Egbert in his arms.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Meanwhile, seeing that the square in front of the house was clear, the
+officers made a renewed attempt to force their way to the chief; it had
+only succeeded in a measure, but they already found themselves quite
+near to him, when that bloody incident supervened. Doctor Hagenbach,
+with quick presence of mind, profited by it to accomplish their end.
+&quot;Room for the surgeon!&quot; cried he, pressing forward. &quot;Let me through!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">This word availed; a narrow path was opened for him in the
+densely-packed throng, and the officers crowded after; in a few minutes
+Dernburg was surrounded by them. But he did not concern himself on that
+score; he knelt by Egbert, whose head he supported, and when the doctor
+now stooped down and examined the wound, he asked softly, in a tone of
+deep distress:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Is he--mortally wounded?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Very severely!&quot; said Hagenbach, loudly and earnestly. &quot;He must be
+conveyed somewhere instantly.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;To the Manor-house!&quot; suggested Dernburg.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Yes, indeed, that is best.&quot; He quickly put on a bandage, and then
+turned, in passing, to the bleeding Landsfeld, in order to examine him
+as well.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;There is no danger here!&quot; he called aloud to the bystanders. &quot;The blow
+has only stunned the man. Carry him into the house--he will soon again
+come to his senses--there is no cause for uneasiness about him. But
+Runeck--he is badly hurt!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">His manner showed that he feared the worst, and this decided the mood
+of the multitude. There arose an agitated murmur, that was transmitted
+from mouth to mouth, until it reached the ranks of those who had stood
+too far off to see what had been going on. And now, when Egbert was
+picked up and borne away, a movement of horror passed through the
+throng of human beings. They saw their deputy, whom they had elected in
+defiance of their chief, and lifted upon the shield with loud
+rejoicings lying lifeless and covered with blood, in the arms of the
+officers, who bore him away, and their chief walked by his side and
+held in his the hand of the unconscious young man. No request was
+needed to induce them to make way: all moved silently aside, when the
+melancholy procession came past--not a word, not a sound was to be
+heard. A silence as of death fell upon all those thousands.</p>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<h2>CHAPTER XXV.</h2>
+
+<h3><a name="div1_25" href="#div1Ref_25">TWIXT LIFE AND DEATH.</a></h3>
+<br>
+
+<p class="normal">Meanwhile, in the Manor-house they were awaiting in terrible anxiety
+the issue of the noise and commotion, that were plainly audible as
+coming from the works. When Maia came from the park, her father had
+already gone forth to quell the workmen, and she could not, therefore,
+talk with him. She took refuge with Cecilia, wanting to unbosom herself
+to her, but had found her in such grief and distress, that it was
+useless to expect from her attention and sympathy.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Leave me, Maia!&quot; pleaded the young widow in accents of despair. &quot;Only
+leave me now! Later, I will listen to everything you have to say, and
+advise you, too, but now I can think of nothing, and feel nothing but
+<i>his</i> danger!&quot; So saying, she rushed out upon the terrace, whence one
+could overlook the works.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Poor Maia's heart grew still heavier. <i>His</i> danger! By that she could
+only mean her father, to whom Cecilia, too, was tenderly devoted. Was
+he actually in such sore peril when among his workmen?</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Thus more than an hour had elapsed, and Maia could stand it no longer.
+What was Oscar to think of her staying away? He would believe that she
+had wavered in her resolution, and was minded to let him go alone to
+destruction. She <i>must</i> go back to him, if only for a few minutes, in
+order to tell him that it was impossible to speak with her father now!
+With quickening breath she hurried into the park, which already lay
+shadowed in twilight gloom. There who should come to meet her but her
+father.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Dernburg, with his attendants, had selected the shortest way, the same
+little by-path which he had used awhile ago on his way to the works,
+and which could not be seen from the terrace either. Through the
+movement of the stretcher and pain of the wound Egbert had been brought
+back to consciousness: his first question had reference to Landsfeld.
+Hagenbach assured him that the man's wound was insignificant and did
+not involve the slightest danger, and a deep sigh of relief showed how
+much comfort this assurance gave the young engineer. Maia, who at first
+only saw her father, threw herself impetuously on his bosom.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;You live, papa, you are saved! Thank God, now all will be well!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Yes, I am saved--at this price!&quot; said Dernburg in a whisper, while he
+pointed behind him. Now, for the first time, the young girl caught
+sight of the wounded man, and uttered a shriek of horror.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Hush, my child!&quot; admonished Dernburg. &quot;I did not want to frighten you.
+Where is Cecilia?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Out on the terrace. I must run and tell her; she is almost distressed
+to death about you,&quot; whispered Maia, with a glance at the friend of her
+youth, that was full of anguish, for he looked like one dying. Then she
+hurried off to her sister-in-law.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Dernburg had Egbert carried into his own chamber, and helped to lay him
+on the bed, while Dr. Hagenbach exerted himself in his behalf, and gave
+a few directions to the servant-man who came hurrying in. Then the door
+opened, and in Maia's company appeared Cecilia. Without disturbing
+herself about witnesses, without even seeing them, with a wild
+movement, she rushed up to the couch, and there fell upon her knees.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Egbert, you had promised me to live!&quot; she cried despairingly, &quot;and yet
+you sought death.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Dernburg stood there as though struck by lightning. He had never had
+even the faintest suspicion of this love, and now one unguarded moment
+betrayed everything to him.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I did not want to die, Cecilia, assuredly not,&quot; said Egbert, faintly.
+&quot;But there was no other possibility of saving <i>him</i>.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">His eye turned upon Dernburg, who now approached, and continued to look
+from one to the other, as though dazed.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Is that the way it stands between you two?&quot; asked he, slowly.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The young woman did not answer; she only clasped Egbert's right hand in
+both her own, as though she feared that they might be parted. He tried
+to speak, but Dernburg would not allow him to make the effort.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Be tranquil, Egbert,&quot; said he, earnestly. &quot;I know that Eric's
+betrothed was sacred from your approach: you need not assure me of
+that; and after his death, you have to-day, for the first time, entered
+Odensburg. My poor boy! That interposition has been fatal to you--you
+have been obliged to pay for it with your heart's blood.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;But this blood has forced me from that chain!&quot; cried Egbert, with a
+return of his old fire. &quot;You, none of you, have any idea how hard I
+have found it to wear. Now it is broken--I am free!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">He sank back, exhausted, and now Dr. Hagenbach asserted himself. In the
+most decided manner, he forbade any talking, and any further agitation
+of exciting topics, in the presence of the wounded man, from whom he
+did not conceal the perilous in his situation.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Dernburg looked upon his daughter-in-law, who, with folded hands,
+looked entreatingly at him, and he understood the silent appeal.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Egbert, then, needs entire repose,&quot; said he, earnestly, &quot;and
+self-sacrificing care. I commit him to you, Cecilia--you will be the
+best nurse here!&quot; Once more he stooped down to the wounded man,
+exchanged a few whispered words with the surgeon, and then went into
+his office. Maia, who had hitherto stood silent in the doorway, now
+followed him, but she approached her father as shyly and timidly as
+though she had some grievous fault of her own to confess.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Papa, I have something to say to you,&quot; she whispered, with downcast
+eyes. &quot;I know you have already gone through terrible experiences
+to-day--but I cannot wait. Somebody out in the park is awaiting your
+decision and mine--I must convey it to him. Will you hear me?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Dernburg had turned to her. Yes, indeed, what he had gone through with
+that day was hard, but this was the hardest of all. He held out both
+arms, and folding his darling to his heart, said in a breaking voice:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;My little Maia! My poor, poor child----&quot;</p>
+<br>
+
+<p class="normal">Night had come, a dark stormy night, with heavy clouds covering the
+face of the sky. The Odensburg works, which, a few hours before, had
+been full of boisterous life, now lay there silent and forsaken. It had
+needed no special regulations, not even a reminder, to induce the
+workmen to go home. Since their deputy-elect had struck down their
+leader, and fallen himself by the knife of one of themselves,
+consternation had laid hold of the people. They felt all that was hard
+in these proceedings, although they did not clearly understand their
+full bearing. Fallner was shyly avoided; and when the news got wind
+that Landsfeld--who came to in little over a half hour--had left
+Odensburg on foot, there was a complete revolution in the sentiments of
+the whole laboring community. There were bitter accusations and
+reproaches, but not against him who was struggling with death over
+yonder in the Manor-house--all the bitterness was directed against
+Landsfeld alone.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Through night and storm came a tall, solitary figure, that remained
+standing in front of the Manor-house, where dim candle-light was
+visible behind several windows, in the apartment where Egbert lay under
+Cecilia's charge, and also in the rooms of Maia and Dernburg. None of
+them slept that night. The man who stood so motionless below knew
+nothing of these last events. He had heard, it is true, the noise at
+the works when he left the Rose Lake, and he knew also the
+apprehensions entertained for the evening, but what was Odensburg to
+him now, or what was life in general?</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Oscar von Wildenrod was ready for the final step. He knew that he could
+not, dared not see his beloved again, and yet, with an irresistible
+longing, he was drawn once more into her neighborhood, to the spot
+where abode the only being upon earth that he truly loved. He had
+proven it, although not until the very last hour. The means of escape
+that was offered him at that time he had put from him for Maia's sake,
+and with that sacrifice fell off all that had been calculating in his
+love. It remained the only pure sentiment in a corrupt and blasted
+life, which was now to be ended by a bullet.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Wildenrod lived over, in memory, the first evening that he had spent at
+Odensburg. Then he had stood at that window, up there, his head full of
+ambitious schemes and his heart swelling with the first sweet
+sensations of love for the charming girl, to whose hand was appended
+that wealth which he so ardently coveted. Then he had vowed to be, one
+day, lord and master of this world of industrial achievement, and in
+the full confidence of his coming victory had gazed proudly upon those
+works, out of whose gigantic furnaces mounted upward sheaves of
+flashing sparks. Now all lay in total quiet, the restless machinery
+stood still, the fires were extinguished. Only over yonder, where the
+rolling-mills were situated, glimmered a pale, uncertain light, that
+gradually, however, grew brighter. Oscar eyed this indifferently, at
+first, but then more sharply. Now the light vanished, to shoot up again
+directly afterwards; now it quivered here and there, and then all at
+once it was as if a flash of lightning rent the sky. A flame darted on
+high, and in its glare one saw that the whole environs were full of
+moving columns of smoke.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Wildenrod started up at this spectacle; in the next minute he had
+rushed to the house and was striking against the window of the porter's
+lodge.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;There is a fire at the works. Awaken Herr Dernburg! I'll hurry on!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Fire on this stormy night! God be with us!&quot; cried the horrified voice
+of the man, startled out of his sleep. Oscar did not hear what he said,
+for he was far on his way to the works, where the conflagration became
+more and more distinctly visible. Where, formerly, even at night,
+hundreds used to be astir, to-day only the inspectors remained, and
+they lay wrapt in slumber.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Wildenrod knew the works thoroughly: he turned first to the cottage of
+old Mertens, who, since work at Radefeld had come to an end, had held a
+place here, and aroused him also. The alarm was sounded; in a few
+minutes some twenty men had assembled, and now the sensational, howling
+tones of the fire-horn were heard. Odensburg had the most admirable
+arrangements for extinguishing fire to be found far or near: Dernburg
+had formed a volunteer fire-company out of his working force, and the
+men were excellently drilled. But now all the bonds of order were
+loosed, the workmen were scattered in their remote dwellings, so that
+assistance from them was hardly to be expected.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Now appeared Dernburg himself, who had been sitting up alone in his
+office, when the alarm of fire was given, and at the same time came
+hurrying up some of the officers whose residences were near by.
+Wildenrod suddenly saw himself face to face with the man, who, a few
+hours ago, had admitted him to the rights of a son, and who, meanwhile,
+must have heard that crushing revelation. Dernburg, also, involuntarily
+shrank back upon catching sight of the Baron, whom he had supposed to
+have taken to flight, and imagined already as far away. But now there
+was no time for any discussion whatever--Oscar had resolutely gone up
+to Dernburg.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I was the first to discover the fire,&quot; said he, &quot;and had the
+fire-signal sounded at once. The flames seem to have broken out in the
+rolling-mills.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Yes, that is the place!&quot; agreed Dernburg. &quot;But it cannot have arisen
+there through heedlessness--no work has been done there since noon. It
+must be the work of an incendiary!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Those present all shared his opinion, it was plain, but Wildenrod cut
+off any further remarks. &quot;Never mind, we must penetrate to the seat of
+the fire!&quot; he cried. &quot;In this wind all the works are in the greatest
+danger.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;In this wind they are lost!&quot; said Dernburg, gloomily. &quot;We have not the
+hands for putting it out.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;But our fire-company! The workmen----&quot; objected old Mertens, but a
+bitter laugh from his master interrupted him.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;My workmen? They will let burn whatever is afire. Call them up as much
+as you please with your fire-horns, nobody is coming--nobody, I tell
+you! They are my works, not a hand will stir!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">But, as if in reply, loud shouts and voices were now heard, and torches
+were seen gleaming at the entrance to the works. A troop of workmen
+appeared in closed ranks, with fire-helmets on their heads and asbestos
+frocks thrown on, while behind them thundered the engines. And after
+five minutes came a second troop, and then a third and a fourth. Now
+the cry of &quot;fire!&quot; was heard on all sides; near and far it resounded,
+until the whole valley was alive, and lights were shining in all
+quarters. The works filled with men; all came and all were prepared to
+help.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">In the beginning Dernburg had been almost petrified at the sight of
+these arrivals; but now, when one procession after the other emerged
+from the darkness, when the people came as though on a race between
+life and death--anything so as only to arrive in time--when the engines
+drove up at a gallop, then the lord of Odensburg heaved a long, deep
+sigh; he straightened himself up, as though he had cast from him a
+burden long borne, and shouted:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Well, men, if you want to help, then, forward! Down with the fire!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">This was done, but the conflagration had already found too abundant
+aliment. The whole interior of the rolling-mills seemed to be in
+flames, and in vain they sought to force their way in. Dernburg had
+undertaken, in person, the superintendence of the attempts to quench
+the fire, and guided his men by word and look, while they obeyed him as
+punctually and studiously as ever.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">But Oscar von Wildenrod also worked unweariedly to the same end. He did
+not stop to ask whether they would concede to him this right--he simply
+took it. He was everywhere as the emergency demanded. But although he
+courageously and undauntedly led forward single detachments again and
+again, although the engines incessantly hurled their hissing streams
+into the fiercest of the flames, yet the fire had an overpoweringly
+strong ally in the prevailing wind, and, in union with it, defied all
+their exertions. Like fiery serpents the flames darted out of the house
+windows, licking the walls and shooting their tongues forth venomously
+from the roof. The wind was already driving them across to other roofs;
+it bore burning bits of wood aloft through the air, in order to drop
+them again where they would kindle and extend the disaster.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Already the fire had broken out in single spots, and wherever this
+happened, detachments had to be sent for its extinction.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Oscar von Wildenrod had just returned from one of these side-fires,
+which he had had put out under his own supervision, to the starting
+point of the conflagration, where Herr Dernburg had planted himself
+like a rock. Dernburg was just talking with the upper-engineer, who
+stood before him with the crestfallen look of one at his wits' end.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;We are not subduing it, Herr Dernburg,&quot; said he. &quot;Only see, the fire
+already threatens to catch the foundries, and if they burn, then it
+will make a clean sweep of the whole. There might be one expedient,
+perhaps, but you will not consent to it--suppose we made the attempt to
+turn on the water from the Radefeld aqueduct.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;No, never--that would imperil human life! Maybe volunteers might be
+found; in their present mood the people are capable of any sacrifice,
+but no man's life shall be victimized for my sake--rather let the works
+all burn down.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">He stepped up to the engineers that were advancing to a new attack with
+their water-jets, and there gave a few orders, while Wildenrod, who had
+been listening, turned to the upper-engineer.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;What is that about the Radefeld aqueduct?&quot; asked he, eagerly.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;The aqueduct is immediately adjacent to the rolling-mills,&quot; answered
+the officer. &quot;If it had been possible promptly to open the large main
+pipe, then the fire might have been quenched. But there it originated
+and burned most fiercely, so that we could gain no access to its focus.
+The pipe lies----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I know,&quot; interposed Wildenrod. &quot;I was present when the conduit was
+joined on and tested, and saw, too, how they opened the afflux. Access
+is impossible to it, do you say?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The upper-engineer shrugged his shoulders and pointed to the state of
+the conflagration. &quot;Earlier it might have been possible to have cleared
+a way with our engines, at least for a short while, but Herr Dernburg
+is right, the attempt would cost human life. Who would venture into
+those glowing walls that may cave in at any moment? And even if one did
+succeed in opening the pipe, and conducting the mass of water in the
+reservoir to the seat of the fire, how would our men get back? The
+smoke would smother them. If the water escapes no one would come forth
+alive.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;The only question is, how one may get in alive,&quot; murmured Oscar, with
+his eye fixed upon the leaping flames. The upper-engineer looked at him
+in surprise, but before he could answer the chief came back. &quot;You
+assume the command over there,&quot; was his order. &quot;Winning can hold out no
+longer.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The officer hurried away, and Dernburg scanned the Baron with a
+forbidding look. &quot;What do you want here?&quot; asked he in a subdued tone.
+&quot;There are hands enough for putting out the fire, we do not need your
+help.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;More than you think, perhaps!&quot; said Wildenrod, with a strange smile.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Dernburg stepped close up to him. &quot;I did not want to expose you before
+my officers and workmen, but now I tell you, you are no longer in place
+here, Baron von Wildenrod. Go!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Wildenrod met firmly the eyes that were fastened upon him so
+menacingly, then said slowly and earnestly: &quot;I am going! Bid Maia
+farewell for me; perhaps you will still allow her--to weep for me!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">He turned off and was lost in the crowd of toilers.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Those were awful experiences that Odensburg passed through that night.
+The wind-chased clouds, tinted blood-red by the aspiring flames, the
+waving masses of men rushing hither and thither, a commingling of
+dreadful sounds, shouts, cries, and the clattering of the engines--it
+was a dismal scene.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Then, all of a sudden, there arose a mighty column of smoke from the
+very center of the fire, that spread out farther and farther, while at
+the same time a peculiar hissing and roaring became audible. The flames
+no longer leaped up so high as before; they seemed to sink, to flee
+before some mysterious power, while the smoke and the roaring were ever
+on the increase. Those standing around could not explain the
+phenomenon: suppositions of all sorts were heard, but Dernburg was the
+first one to solve the problem. &quot;The Radefeld aqueduct is open!&quot; he
+cried. &quot;The water has broken in. Perhaps the pipe has burst or the fire
+has sprung the lock. Never mind--it brings us deliverance!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Breathlessly all watched the conflict between the two hostile elements,
+but soon the flood conquered, which evidently deluged the whole surface
+where the fire had found its chief nutriment. Different spots on the
+roof were still afire, it is true, but these could be put out, and were
+put out, when the sea of flame in the interior had disappeared for
+good. Again the engines played with renewed force and activity, and now
+a portion of the long tottering walls tumbled down, the main building
+caved in, its sides falling inwards. Thus was averted all danger to the
+neighboring houses and the fire restricted to its own hearth.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;That was help in time of need!&quot; said Dernburg to the officers standing
+around. &quot;And that the water broke loose at the critical moment was
+assuredly more than accident--the interposition of a Higher Hand.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I am afraid that it was a human hand!&quot; returned the upper-engineer,
+softly.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Dernburg turned to him in surprise. &quot;What mean you to say?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Baron von Wildenrod is nowhere to be found,&quot; explained that official
+gravely. &quot;He spoke with me awhile ago as to the possibility of opening
+the conduit, and at the same time made use of a singular expression
+that startled me at the time. A few minutes later I saw him hurrying in
+that direction and there vanish. There has been no accident in this
+case.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Dernburg turned pale: now all of a sudden Oscar's last speech became
+clear to him and he understood it all. &quot;For God's sake!&quot; he exclaimed,
+with a start, &quot;then we must penetrate to the seat of the conflagration,
+must at least try----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Impossible!&quot; interposed the director. &quot;Beneath those glowing, smoking
+ruins no living thing yet breathes.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">What he said was only too true, Dernburg was obliged himself to admit.
+Deeply shaken, he covered his eyes with his hand. For him there was no
+longer any doubt but that the man who had coveted Odensburg for his
+own, at any price, had sacrificed himself to save Odensburg!</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Hours of labor were still needed at the scene of the fire. Here and
+there forks of flame shot up again and had to be extinguished, the area
+covered by the conflagration had to be isolated, and the ever-flowing
+streams of the Radefeld aqueduct had to be cut off.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Day had already dawned, when it was finally possible to dismiss the
+people, only retaining a sufficient number of men to act as a guard.
+All had done their utmost, vying with one another in courage and
+endurance; now the men waited for their chief, exhausted as they were
+from their long labors, with faces blackened by smoke and their clothes
+dripping wet. All eyes were silently and questioningly fastened upon
+him, as he now stepped into their midst, his voice, although full of
+deep feeling, was audible to a great distance.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I thank you, children! I shall never forget you and what you have done
+for me this night. You gave me warning that you had quit work, and I
+wanted to forbid your taking it up again. Now, you have worked for me
+and my Odensburg, and so I think&quot;--here he suddenly held out both hands
+to an old workman with hoary head, who stood close before him--&quot;we'll
+stay together now, and work together as we have done for the past
+thirty years!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">And in the hearty shout of rejoicing that rang forth from all quarters
+ended the strike at Odensburg.</p>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<h2>CHAPTER XXVI.</h2>
+
+<h3><a name="div1_26" href="#div1Ref_26">HOW FORCES THAT ARE OPPOSED MAY BLEND.</a></h3>
+<br>
+
+<p class="normal">More than two years had elapsed since that stormy night when the
+conflagration had raged at the Odensburg works, but out of the wind and
+fire of that period, which had threatened everything with annihilation,
+had come forth new life and activity.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Those occurrences, which had then affected Dernburg's family circle as
+seriously as they had done his position as lord of Odensburg, had
+gradually retreated into the background, although, for a long while,
+they had shown their pregnant results. On the day after the fire, the
+charred remains of Oscar von Wildenrod had been found. His magnanimous
+action--of which there could be no doubt--was everywhere admired; only
+Dernburg and Egbert knew, while a few of the formerly initiated
+suspected, that a stained and abandoned life had been atoned for by
+this voluntary self-immolation. For all the rest, the memory of the
+Baron remained pure, laid to rest as he had been in the family
+burying-ground by Eric's side, and beneath the rustling fir-trees of
+the Odensburg park.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The universal impression continued to be that the fire had been the
+work of an incendiary, but the proof of this had not been found, and
+was not to be, either. Fallner, to whom one suspicious circumstance
+pointed, had left Germany, to escape the prosecution impending over
+him, on account of his murderous assault upon Runeck. Since all these
+events had acquired a publicity that was altogether undesirable, they
+wanted, by all means, to avoid being forced into notice again through a
+lawsuit.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">On this point Dernburg and his opponents were fully agreed.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">He did his very best to cause the mantle of silence to be thrown over
+the whole affair, in order that the newly-won peace with his workmen
+might not be imperiled by bitter memories and discussions.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">From his sick-bed Runeck had sent word to his party, that he must lay
+down his commission. This resolve would have been unavoidable, even
+without the severe wound which chained him to his couch for weeks, and
+forbade his engaging in any serious business for months. The bond
+between him and his former comrades, which already, for a long time,
+had only existed outwardly, was now definitively severed. The result of
+the new election might have been easily predicted: there was only one
+man who could have disputed the place with the master of Odensburg, and
+he had withdrawn. From the second casting of the ballot Eberhard
+Dernburg came out with an overwhelming majority, and this time his
+Odensburg employés all stood by him to a man. The reconciliation had
+been complete.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">After his recovery, Egbert had left Odensburg and stayed away for a
+long while. He, like Dernburg, felt that the new future, about which
+they were fully agreed, was not to be linked immediately and
+unceremoniously to the past, seeing that many an inward wound must
+close up ere the outward one should be perfectly healed. The young
+engineer had traveled widely and spent a full year in America, where
+there was so much for him to see and learn. There he had completed the
+studies which he had once begun in England. Now, when at last he
+returned to Odensburg, his long waiting was at an end, and he dared to
+claim the good fortune that had once bloomed for him on the very verge
+of the grave; after a short engagement, his marriage with Cecilia took
+place in all quietness.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">To-day the cheerful sounds betokening festivity were to be heard in the
+Manor-house, for they were looking for the return of the bridal pair
+from their wedding-trip. And Frau Dr. Hagenbach was just adding a few
+last touches to the preparations for their reception, that lady having
+retained her old intimate relations with the Dernburg household after
+her marriage. The rooms that were now fitted up for Egbert and Cecilia
+Runeck were entirely different from those that had once received Eric's
+betrothed, being situated on the opposite side of the house, and
+destined for their permanent abode.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Leonie placed a few more flowers in the reception-room. From the
+sickly, nervous, and rather wan old maid had emerged a smiling and
+graceful matron: Dr. Hagenbach having asserted his rights as a
+physician as well as husband, and completely cured his wife of those
+detested nervous attacks.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Frau Hagenbach had just completed her task, when the door opened and
+her husband entered. Wedded life seemed to have agreed well with him,
+too, for he had a highly contented look, while both his manners and
+mode of speech were changed for the better.--It was easy to see that he
+had gone to work in earnest to become &quot;humanized.&quot; He nodded to his
+wife and said:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I have come up only for a minute, to let you know that I have to visit
+one more patient first. It will not take me long, though, so that I
+shall be in time for the reception, anyhow.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;They will not arrive much before two o'clock,&quot; remarked his wife. &quot;One
+more question, though, dear Hugo--have you considered that matter of
+Dagobert's?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The doctor again made one of those grimaces, once so common with him,
+and his voice sounded rather gruff as he answered:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;There is nothing to be considered! I shall take care not to send the
+fellow the three hundred marks, that, according to his assertion, he
+needs so urgently. He must make out with the allowance that I have
+settled upon him, once for all.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;But the sum is not so large after all,&quot; objected Mrs. Hagenbach, &quot;and
+in other respects you have no fault to find with Dagobert. He works
+industriously, writes to us frequently----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;And still persistently reviles you in prose and verse,&quot; said
+Hagenbach, finishing her sentence for her. &quot;To be sure no rational man
+would demean himself by being jealous of such a simpleton, although he
+did presume to write to me, after the reception of our wedding-cards,
+that I had inflicted a mortal wound upon his betrayed heart. A pierced
+heart does not, however, hinder him from hiding behind his aunt, when
+he wants to get anything out of me, the traitor, and she, alas! always
+takes his part. But this time nothing helps him--he does not get that
+money, so much is settled!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Leonie did not contradict him, she only smiled with a submissive look,
+and let the subject drop.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;We shall be in the strictest seclusion to-day,&quot; she remarked. &quot;Count
+Eckardstein is the only person invited.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Well, I hope that means that we are soon to have another bride in the
+house, and that it will not be too long before a young countess makes
+her entrée into Eckardstein.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">His wife shook her head dubiously. &quot;I am afraid this is by no means
+settled. Herr Dernburg doubtless desires it, but Maia's demeanor is
+anything but encouraging. Who knows what answer she will give, if the
+Count actually proposes.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;But she cannot grieve forever over her former betrothed--she was
+little else than a child then.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;And yet his death very nearly cost her her life.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Yes, a fine time we had of it, truly!&quot; said Hagenbach with a sigh. &quot;On
+one side there was Egbert, who for weeks hovered between life and
+death, on the other Fräulein Maia, likewise making preparations to die,
+and between them Madame Cecilia, who, one day, when Runeck was at the
+worst, coolly declared to me, that if I did not save her Egbert, she
+did not care to live longer, either. We did not have the jolliest of
+times during our engagement, did we, my dear? Thank God, it has been
+better since we were married. But I must be gone! I must go home.
+First, though, have you any order to give?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Only a trifle to be attended to. You were going to send the coachman
+to the station, you know--he can take with him the letter and
+post-office order.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;What post-office order?&quot; asked the doctor, suspiciously.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Why, the three hundred marks for Dagobert. I have already filled out
+the order, which is lying on your desk; you will have nothing to do but
+to supply the money----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I am not thinking of such a thing,&quot; cried the doctor, fuming.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Yes, but you are thinking of it, though,&quot; protested Frau Dr.
+Hagenbach, with a decision, alas! that was not to be gainsaid. &quot;You are
+only afraid of somewhat weakening your authority, and in this you are
+right, as you always are. Therefore I acted in your stead and wrote to
+Dagobert myself. It was done only for your sake, you perceive that,
+dear Hugo.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Leonie, what are you thinking of?&quot; exclaimed Hagenbach, irritably. &quot;I
+have told you once, and now tell you again----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">He did not succeed in repeating his remark, however, for his wife
+interrupted him. &quot;I know, Hugo, you are in the habit of representing
+yourself as hardhearted when you are goodness itself. You made up your
+mind long ago to send the poor youth that money, dear Hugo----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The &quot;dear Hugo&quot; had learned many a thing already since he had entered
+the estate of matrimony. He never heard a contradiction, it is true,
+and everything was done exclusively out of deference to his will--this
+his wife told him daily, and he believed it, too, for the most part;
+but the Odensburg people were of a different opinion. In that village
+it was positively asserted, that &quot;the madam ruled the roost.&quot; In this
+particular case, it is certain that the post-office order for three
+hundred marks was sent off in the course of the next hour.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">In the parlor sat Maia Dernburg alone, at the window: at her feet lay
+the elderly Puck: he had become orderly and intelligent, and had
+entirely laid aside his inclination to attack in the rear men who wore
+plaid pantaloons. To be sure he was not so much teased as formerly; his
+young mistress stroked and caressed him still, it is true, but the
+merry romps that she used to carry on with him had long since ceased.
+In general, &quot;little Maia&quot; no longer existed, that fascinating childlike
+creature with exuberant spirits and laughing eyes. The slender,
+white-robed young lady there at the window certainly possessed great
+attractions, having developed from the laughing child into the quiet,
+gentle maiden, and in those brown eyes lay, as it were, deep, dark
+shadows, telling of a grief not yet altogether overcome.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">It was quiet round about, and Maia was looking dreamily out upon the
+bright summer landscape, when her father entered. His hair had turned
+gray during these last years, but in every other respect he was the
+same erect, hale old man that we have known.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Are you already on the lookout for the carriage?&quot; he asked.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;No, papa, it is too early for that as yet,&quot; replied the young girl.
+&quot;Egbert and Cecilia cannot be here for an hour yet, but as we have
+finished all our preparations for their reception----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;So much the better, for then we shall have an hour to devote to our
+guest alone. Eckardstein is already here--over in my office.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Ah! Why, then, did he not come with you?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Because he deemed it necessary to send me in advance, as his
+spokesman. We have had a long and interesting interview--am I to repeat
+to you what was said, or do you guess the tenor of our remarks?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Maia had risen to her feet: she had become pale, while her eyes were
+full of entreaty as she fixed them upon her father.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Papa--could you not spare me this?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;No, my child,&quot; said Dernburg, earnestly. &quot;Victor has determined to
+bring the matter to an issue, and you will be obliged to listen to his
+suit. He has begged me to intercede for him, and I have promised him to
+do so, for I owe him reparation for the injustice I once did him. He
+asked for leave to pay his addresses to you three years ago, although
+it did not come to an open declaration; in this wooing of a portionless
+young officer I saw nothing but calculation, and my insinuations made
+him feel very bitterly. He has proved, however, that his love was true
+and genuine. The lord-proprietor of Eckardstein needs to ask for no
+dowry with his bride, and I would gladly, very gladly, place my Maia's
+happiness in his hands.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I should like to stay with you, papa,&quot; whispered the young girl, in
+painful agitation nestling up to his side. &quot;Will you not keep me,
+then?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;My child, we shall not be separated, even if you do become Victor's
+wife. You best know what has hitherto kept him aloof from Eckardstein:
+your consent would immediately determine him to resign his commission
+in the army, and henceforth devote himself to the care of his estates.
+Then we should still be together, Eckardstein is so near, you know.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I cannot!&quot; cried Maia, vehemently, while she drew herself up. &quot;Oscar
+chained me indissolubly to himself in life, and I am not free from him
+in death, either! How often has my heart been heavy when I caught the
+expression of Victor's speaking eyes, not being able to misunderstand
+the mute plea that I read there--but I cannot be happy at the side of
+any other.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;There are only a few destined to be happy,&quot; said Dernburg, with strong
+emphasis, &quot;but the duty of making others happy, when it is in our
+power, that duty belongs to us all. Victor knows what has happened, and
+does not demand of you that passionate love which linked you to
+Oscar--perhaps, he would not even understand it. But you are necessary
+to his happiness, and his faithful, honorable devotion is well worth
+the sacrifice of those memories. Of course, you are at full liberty to
+do as you choose, Maia--only consider this one thing: whoever would
+truly live, must also live for others!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The young girl made no answer, a few large tears rolled slowly down her
+cheeks; the grave admonition had not been without effect.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Well, what am I to say to the Count?&quot; asked Dernburg, after a pause.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Mala pressed both hands to her heart, as though she would keep down a
+self-asserting pain there, then she bowed her head and answered, almost
+inaudibly:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Tell him--that I am expecting him!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Then she felt her father's lips upon her forehead, and folding her in
+his arms, he said with profound emotion:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;That is right, my poor--my brave child!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Five minutes later Victor Eckardstein entered, almost unaltered in his
+outward appearance, save that his features were graver and more manly.
+Now, indeed, his whole manner bespoke nothing but excitement and
+uneasiness.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Your father told me that I would find you alone, Maia,&quot; he began. &quot;I
+have so much that I should like to confide to you, and yet know not
+whether you will listen to me.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Maia stood before him with downcast eyes; a slight blush mantled her
+cheek, as she bowed her head in acquiescence, without opening her lips.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The Count seemed to have expected some other sign of encouragement, for
+his voice acquired a touch of bitterness, as he continued:</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;It has been hard enough for me to approach any other with my
+entreaties and desires, even although it was your father. But your
+manner to me has always been so distant, allowing me room for so little
+hope, that I did not dare to address to you first the question, on
+which the happiness of my life depends. I feel only too sensitively
+that here I needed an intercessor.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I would not willingly hurt you feelings, Victor, certainly not,&quot; Maia
+assured him, and with her old childlike cordiality she held out her
+hand to him, which he firmly clasped in his own.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;You have given me pain enough by that constantly kept-up cold reserve
+of yours,&quot; said he, reproachfully. &quot;Oh! from the hour when I found that
+little elf in the cottage in the woods, from the moment when the sweet
+little face of my former playmate emerged from the gray hood that had
+concealed it, I knew where centered the happiness of my life. May I
+speak now, at last? Maia, I love you beyond everything; I cannot live
+without you!&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">These were no glowing, impassioned words of love, such as the young
+girl had once listened to from the lips of another, but they expressed
+warm, fervent devotion, and Maia would have been no true woman had she
+remained indifferent, in presence of this constant, true love.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;You will have it so--then take me?&quot; said she in a low tone. &quot;I have
+cared for you since we were children.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">With an exclamation of joy, Victor clasped her to his heart, to the
+admiration of Puck, who stared at them both, and evidently could not
+exactly understand the situation.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The engagement, which, was now announced to her father, as may
+well be understood, so engrossed the minds of all the inmates of the
+Manor-house, that they no longer thought of keeping a lookout for the
+carriage, that could now be espied making its way along the wooded
+heights. The road led for some distance over this plateau, ere it
+dipped into the valley. There, in the midst of green, fir-clad hills,
+was situated that mighty hive of industry, Odensburg. The rolling-mills
+had long since arisen from their ashes, more capacious in extent than
+before, and new establishments of a different kind had been associated
+with them, for there was no standstill in the Dernburg works, and they
+expanded with every year.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">The bride, in a simple, gray traveling-suit, leaned out of the open
+carriage, eager to catch a glimpse of the Manor-house, now visible
+behind the trees of the park. Cecilia had always been a beautiful girl,
+but the woman was, if possible, more beautiful, in the full development
+of that peculiar charm, which had, at all times, won her affection.
+There could, indeed, be no greater contrast than was presented by this
+refined, still rather foreigner-like being and the husband who sat by
+her side. This was the same old Egbert Runeck, so far as his somewhat
+rough, forceful personality was concerned, impressing one as ready to
+defy the whole world and fight the battle through. Only the gray eyes
+beneath that broad, massive brow had a different expression from what
+they had had before; they diffused a warm, bright radiance, and it was
+not hard to guess whence this light emanated.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;There lies our home, Cecilia!&quot; said Runeck, while he pointed down into
+the valley. &quot;You, indeed, have never liked Odensburg--will you be able,
+think you, to endure permanent residence there?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;If I am with you!--How can you ask that question again?&quot; replied his
+young wife, somewhat reproachfully.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Yes, with me, your headstrong Egbert, who will not always have time to
+devote even to you, when he once again becomes immersed in work. On our
+wedding-trip I have belonged to you alone: then we could dream our
+fairy-dreams; but now come earnest workdays with their duties and
+cares, and often enough will they call me from your side. Will you
+understand how that is, Cecilia? Hitherto you have stood so far aloof
+from all this.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">He looked upon his wife with a certain uneasiness, but the response
+that he met in her eyes was cheerful and reassuring.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Well, then, I must learn to take part in your cares and duties. Will
+you teach me how, Egbert? But what do you know of fairy-dreams, you man
+of stern reality, that you are? Where did you learn about them?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Runeck's eye swept over the mountain range until it rested upon the
+distant, solitary peak, from the summit of which, glittering in
+sunlight, greeted them a cross--the symbol of the Whitestone.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Up there,&quot; said he, softly, &quot;when the forest made music around us
+and the voice of the bells came up from below. Oh, that was a trying
+hour--a horrible one for you, my poor wife. Pitilessly I had to arouse
+you, acquainting you with the unreality of your future, and crumbling
+into ruins the gay, glittering world, in which you had hitherto
+lived--that I might point out to you the precipice on which you stood.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Find no fault with that hour!&quot; pleaded Cecilia, nestling up to his
+side. &quot;Then I awoke, there I learned to see and to think. Do you know,
+Egbert,&quot; and a playful smile took the place of the gravity that had
+rested upon her features, &quot;I never think of it without being reminded
+of the old legend of the caper-spurge, that cleaves the rock where
+buried treasures lie? At that time, you indeed, without any compassion
+at all, called out to me: 'The deep is empty and dead, and there are no
+longer any such things as hidden treasures!' And now----&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Now, I have myself turned out to be a digger after buried treasures!&quot;
+chimed in Egbert, while he stooped down and gazed into the dark,
+lustrous eyes of his young wife. &quot;You are right, that was the hour in
+which I won you, in spite of everything.</p>
+<div style="margin-left:25%; margin-top:12pt; margin-bottom:12pt; font-size:90%">
+<p class="t4" style="text-indent:-18px">
+&quot;'I lifted out of night and gloom<br>
+That wondrous golden shrine,<br>
+And all its sparkling treasures<br>
+And all its gold are mine!'&quot;</p>
+</div>
+
+<p class="normal">It was a few hours later; the reception and welcome to the Manor-house
+were over, and while Cecilia was still in the parlor chatting with Maia
+and Count Eckardstein, Dernburg went with Runeck out upon the terrace.</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;It was high time for you to come, Egbert,&quot; said he. &quot;The director in
+his present weak state of health is no longer equal to the duties of
+his office: months ago, he wanted to send in his resignation, and was
+only induced to remain until you should arrive and undertake the
+superintendence of the works. I am also very glad to have Cecilia in
+the house again, for I am not to keep Maia much longer. Victor is
+already talking of the wedding, being quite carried away with his
+happiness.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;But Maia herself does not look as happy as I should like to see her,
+under the circumstances. Did she give her consent gladly?&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;No, but of her own free will. And now that her promise has once been
+given, it will chase away the dark shadow that Oscar's love and death
+have cast over her life. Now a duty stands between her and that memory,
+she will overcome it.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;And Count Victor will make this easy for her,&quot; suggested Egbert. &quot;Of
+that I am convinced; his is no nature on a grand scale like&quot;--Dernburg
+cast a side-glance at his adopted son--&quot;like another person of my
+acquaintance, whom I had selected for Maia at one time, but that other
+one, alas! would always go his own way and follow his own hard head,
+and thus he has done in love as in all things else.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;Truly you have so far had but little satisfaction in your son,&quot; said
+Egbert, with difficulty controlling his deep emotion--&quot;he even stood in
+open opposition to you; but, believe me, father, I have been the
+severest sufferer from this cause, and now all my powers belong to you
+and your Odensburg.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;We can make good use of them,&quot; declared Dernburg. &quot;At times I feel my
+age and the decline of strength--who knows how long it will last?
+Meanwhile, you stand by my side, and I think, upon the ground of common
+work, we shall find the accommodation for all that still divides us the
+one from the other. We talked over this, you remember, when you
+returned from America.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">Fully and clearly Egbert's eye met that of the speaker. &quot;Yes, and I
+recognized that I owed it to you to tell the entire truth, when you
+summoned me to the guidance of your works. I have forever renounced my
+former party, but not that which is great and true in that movement.
+This I cleave to still. This I shall stand up for and contend for so
+long as life shall last.&quot;</p>
+
+<p class="normal">&quot;I know it,&quot; said Dernburg, offering him his hand. &quot;But I too have
+learned something during these days of trial. I am no longer the old
+blockhead who supposed that, alone, he could stem the tide of a new
+era. I cannot, indeed, welcome this new era with open arms; for the
+period of a whole generation I have stood on different ground and
+cannot be untrue to myself, but I can summon to my side a young, fresh
+force that is in sympathy with the present. When, hereafter, I give
+Odensburg entirely into your hands, then keep it up with the times,
+Egbert. I shall not oppose it! Until then, though, let there be for us
+all a clear track!&quot;</p>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<h3>FOOTNOTE:</h3>
+<br>
+<p class="hang1"><a name="div2_01" href="#div2Ref_01">Footnote 1</a>:
+Caper-spurge.</p>
+<br>
+<br>
+<br>
+<h3>THE END.</h3>
+<br>
+<br>
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+<pre>
+
+
+
+
+
+End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of 'Clear the Track', by 
+Elisabeth Buerstenbinder (AKA E. Werner)
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+
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+The Project Gutenberg EBook of 'Clear the Track', by
+Elisabeth Buerstenbinder (AKA E. Werner)
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org
+
+
+Title: 'Clear the Track'
+       A Story of To-day
+
+Author: Elisabeth Buerstenbinder (AKA E. Werner)
+
+Translator: Mary Stuart Smith
+
+Release Date: February 7, 2011 [EBook #35201]
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: ASCII
+
+*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 'CLEAR THE TRACK' ***
+
+
+
+
+Produced by Charles Bowen, from page scans provided by Google Books
+
+
+
+
+
+
+Transcriber's Note:
+   1. Page scan source:
+      http://books.google.com/books?id=fhInAAAAMAAJ&dq
+
+
+
+
+
+
+                           "CLEAR THE TRACK!"
+
+                              (FREIE BAHN)
+
+
+
+                          _A STORY OF TO-DAY_
+
+
+
+                                   BY
+                               E. WERNER
+      _Author of "The Alpine Fay," "Banned and Blessed," "Danira,"
+                "Vineta," "At a High Price," etc. etc_.
+
+
+
+                    TRANSLATED BY MARY STUART SMITH
+
+
+
+                         THE TRADE SUPPLIED BY
+                     THE INTERNATIONAL NEWS COMPANY
+                   LONDON                       LEIPSIC
+
+
+
+
+
+                            Copyright, 1893.
+                                   BY
+                        ERNST KEIL'S NACHFOLGER
+                               *   *   *
+                        [_All rights reserved_]
+
+
+
+
+
+                                CONTENTS.
+
+
+   CHAP.
+
+      1. The Feast of Flowers at Nice
+
+      2. In Council
+
+      3. "See the Path is Clear to a Grand Career"
+
+      4. Odensburg Manor
+
+      5. A Victory Wop
+
+      6. In Which More Than One Charmer Charms
+
+      7. Cecilia Visits Radefeld
+
+      8. A Bough of Apple-Blossoms
+
+      9. The Cross on the Whitestone
+
+     10. Maia's Choice
+
+     11. A Secret Foe and Open Enemy
+
+     12. The Goal in Sight
+
+     13. Runeck leaves Odensburg
+
+     14. How an Old Bachelor makes Love
+
+     15. A Wedding Day
+
+     16. Scenes at the "Golden Lamb"
+
+     17. Election Times
+
+     18. Fortune Smiles on Victor Eckardstein
+
+     19. "Off With the Old Love, On With the New"
+
+     20. Maia Must be Saved
+
+     21. From Heights of Bliss to Depths of Woe
+
+     22. His Sin had found Him out
+
+     23. A Lover's Tryst
+
+     24. A Deed that Wipes Out Old Scores
+
+     25. 'Twixt Life and Death
+
+     26. How Forces that Are Opposed May Blend
+
+
+
+
+
+
+                            CLEAR THE TRACK!
+
+
+
+
+                               CHAPTER I.
+
+                     THE FEAST OF FLOWERS AT NICE.
+
+
+A spring day at the South! Sky and sea are radiant in their deep blue,
+flooded with light and splendor, the waves breaking gently upon the
+shores of the Riviera, to which spring had already come in all its
+glory, while, at the North, snow-storms are still raging.
+
+Here rests golden sunshine upon the white houses and villas of the
+town, that embraces the shore within the radius of a vast semicircle,
+adorned by lofty palms, and embowered in the green of the laurel and
+myrtle. Among thousands of shrubs, the camellia is conspicuous from its
+wealth of bloom, in every stage of perfection, its colors ranging from
+pure white to richest crimson; and could anything excel the richness of
+its glistening foliage? From the adjacent hills hoary monasteries look
+down, and modern churches surrounded by tall cypress trees; friendly
+orchards stand out from pine and olive groves, and in the distance the
+blue Alps, with their snow-crowned summits, are half hidden in sunny
+mist.
+
+Nice was celebrating one of its spring-and-flower festivals, and the
+whole city and its environs had turned out in gala-attire, whether
+stranger or native-born. Gayly-decked equipages passed by in endless
+procession, every window and balcony being filled with spectators, and
+on the sidewalks, under the palms, thronged a merry multitude, the
+brown and picturesque forms of fishermen and peasants being everywhere
+conspicuous.
+
+The battle of flowers on the Corso was in full swing, the sweet
+missiles being constantly shot through the air, here hitting their
+mark, there missing it: blossoms, that are treasured at the North as
+rare and expensive, were here scattered heedlessly and lavishly. Added
+to this, there were everywhere waving handkerchiefs, shouts of joy,
+bands of music playing, and the intoxicating perfume of violets,--the
+whole of this enchantingly beautiful picture being enhanced by the
+golden sunshine of spring with which heaven and earth was filled.
+
+Upon the terrace of one of the fashionable hotels stood a small group
+of gentlemen, evidently foreigners, who had chanced to meet here, for
+they conversed in the German language. The lively interest with which
+the two younger men gazed upon the entrancing scene betrayed the fact
+that it was new to them; while the third, a man of riper years, looked
+rather listlessly upon what was going on.
+
+"I must go now," said he, with a glance at his watch. "One soon gets
+tired of all this hubbub and confusion, and longs after a quiet spot.
+You, gentlemen, it seems, want to stay a while longer?"
+
+His companions certainly seemed to have that intention, and one of
+them, a handsome man, with slender figure, evidently an officer in
+civilian's dress, answered laughingly:
+
+"Of course we do, Herr von Stettin. We feel no need for rest whatever.
+The scene has a fairy-like aspect for us Northmen, has it not,
+Wittenau?--Ah! there come the Wildenrods! That is what I call taste;
+one can hardly see the carriage for the flowers, and the lovely Cecilia
+looks the very impersonation of Spring."
+
+The carriage that was just driving by was indeed remarkable through its
+peculiarly rich ornamentation of flowers. Everywhere appeared
+camellias, the coachman and outriders wore bunches of them in their
+hats, and even the horses were decked with them.
+
+On the front seat were a gentleman of proud and noble bearing, and a
+young lady in a changeable silk dress of reddish hue, her dark hair
+surmounted by a dainty little white hat trimmed with roses. Upon the
+back seat a young man had taken his place, who exerted himself to take
+care of the heaps of flowers that were fairly showered upon this
+particular equipage. Among them were the costliest bouquets, evidently
+given in compliment to the beautiful girl, who sat smiling in the midst
+of all her floral treasures, and looking with great, beaming eyes upon
+the festive scene around her.
+
+The officer, also, had taken a bunch of violets, and dexterously flung
+it into the carriage, but instead of the lady, her escort caught it,
+and carelessly added it to the pile of floral offerings heaped up on
+the seat beside him.
+
+"That was not exactly meant for Herr Dernburg," said the dispenser of
+flowers rather irritably. "There he is again in the Wildenrod carriage.
+He is never to be seen but when dancing attendance upon them."
+
+"Yes, since this Dernburg has put in his appearance, the attentions of
+all other men seem superfluous," chimed in Wittenau, sending a dark
+look after the carriage.
+
+"Have your observations, too, carried you so far already?" said the
+young officer tauntingly. "Yes, millionaires; alas! are always to the
+fore, and I believe Herr von Wildenrod knows how to appreciate this
+quality in his friends, for I hear that luck sometimes deserts him over
+yonder at Monaco."
+
+"You must be mistaken; there can be no talk of any such thing as that,"
+replied Wittenau, almost indignantly. "The Baron produces the
+impression that he is a perfect gentleman, and associates here with our
+very first people."
+
+The other laughingly shrugged his shoulders.
+
+"That is not saying much, dear Wittenau. Just here, at Nice, the line
+separating the _elite_ from the world of adventurers is strangely lost
+sight of. One never rightly knows where the one ceases and the other
+begins, and there is some mystery about this Wildenrod. As to whether
+his claim to nobility is altogether genuine----"
+
+"Undoubtedly genuine, I can certify as to that," said Stettin, who had
+hitherto been a silent listener, but now came forward and joined in the
+conversation.
+
+"Ah, you are acquainted with the family, are you?"
+
+"Years ago, I used to visit at the house of the old Baron, who has died
+since, and there I also met his son. I cannot pretend to have any
+particular acquaintance with the latter, but he has a full right to the
+name and title that he bears."
+
+"So much the better," said the officer, lightly. "As for the rest, it
+is only a traveling acquaintance, and no obligation is incurred."
+
+"Assuredly not, if one lays aside such relations as easily as they are
+assumed," remarked Stettin with a peculiar intonation. "But I must be
+off now--I hope to meet you soon again, gentlemen!"
+
+"I am going with you," said Wittenau, who seemed suddenly to have lost
+his appetite for sight-seeing. "The rows of carriages begin to thin out
+already. Nevertheless, it will be a hard matter to get through."
+
+They took leave of their comrade, who was not thinking of departure
+yet, and had just supplied himself with flowers again, and together
+left the terrace. It was certainly no easy thing to make one's way
+through the densely-packed throng, and quite a while elapsed ere they
+left noise and stir behind them. Gradually, however, their way grew
+clearer, while the shouts of the multitude died away in the distance.
+
+The talk between the two gentlemen was rather monosyllabic. The younger
+one, particularly, appeared to be either out of sorts or absent-minded,
+and suddenly remarked, quite irrelevantly:
+
+"It seems that you know all about the Wildenrods, and yet mention it
+to-day for the first time. And, moreover, you have had nothing to do
+with them."
+
+"No," said Herr von Stettin coolly, "and I should have preferred other
+associates for you. I several times intimated as much to you, but you
+would not understand my hints."
+
+"I was introduced to them by a fellow-countryman, and you said nothing
+decided----"
+
+"Because I know nothing decided. The associations of which I told you,
+a while ago, date twelve years back, and many changes have taken place
+since then. Your friend is right, the line of demarcation between the
+Bohemian and man of society gets strangely confused, and I am afraid
+that Wildenrod is on the wrong side of the barrier."
+
+"You do not believe him to be wealthy, then?" asked Wittenau, with some
+emotion. "He lives with his sister, in high style, being apparently in
+the easiest circumstances, and, at all events, has command of abundant
+means, for the present."
+
+Stettin significantly shrugged his shoulders.
+
+"Inquire at the faro-bank of Monaco; he is a regular guest there, and
+is said, too, to have good luck in play, for the most part--so long as
+it lasts! One hears, too, occasionally of other things, that are yet
+more significant. I have not felt disposed to renew the former
+acquaintance, although our intercourse had been rather frequent, for
+what used to be the Wildenrod possessions lay in the immediate
+neighborhood of our family property, that is now in my hands."
+
+"What used to be?" asked the young man. "Those possessions have been
+sold, then? I perceive, however, that you do not like to speak on the
+subject."
+
+"To strangers, most assuredly not. I shall give what information I have
+to you, though, because you have a real interest in the matter.
+Remember, however, that what I say is strictly confidential!"
+
+"My word upon it, that nothing you tell me shall go any farther."
+
+"Well, then," said Stettin gravely, "it is a brief, melancholy, but,
+alas! not an unusual story. Although the estate had long been heavily
+encumbered with debt, the establishment was maintained upon a most
+expensive scale. The old Baron had contracted a second marriage, in
+later life, long after his son was a grown man. He could not thwart his
+young wife in a single wish, and her wants were many, very many. The
+son, who was in the diplomatic service, was also accustomed to high
+living; various other losses ensued, and finally came the catastrophe.
+The Baron suddenly died of a stroke of apoplexy--at least so it was
+said."
+
+"Did he lay violent hands on himself?" asked Wittenau in a whisper.
+
+"Probably. It has not been ascertained for certain, but it is supposed
+that he was not willing to survive the misery and disgrace of his ruin.
+Disgrace was certainly averted, for the family still holds the most
+honorable position. The Wildenrods rank with the highest nobility in
+the land, and the name was to be shielded at any price. The castle and
+lands adjacent became a royal domain, so that the creditors could be
+pacified at least, and, by the general public, the sale was deemed a
+voluntary one. The widow with her little daughter would have been given
+over to utter poverty if, by the king's grace, she had not been allowed
+a home in the castle and had an annuity settled upon her. As for the
+rest, she died soon afterwards."
+
+"And the son? The young Baron?"
+
+"Of course he resigned his position, had to do so, under the
+circumstances, for he could not be _attache_ of affairs without some
+fortune of his own. It must have been a severe blow upon the proud,
+ambitious man, who had, most likely, been kept in utter ignorance of
+the state of his father's affairs, and, now, all of a sudden, found
+himself stopped short in his career. To be sure, many another honorable
+calling stood open to him; friends would doubtless have secured some
+situation for him, but this would have necessitated descent from the
+sphere in which he had hitherto played a chief part; necessitated
+sober, unremitting toil in an obscure station, and those were things
+that Oscar Von Wildenrod could not brook. He rejected all offers of
+employment, left the country, and was no more heard of in his native
+place. Now, after the lapse of twelve years, I meet him here at Nice
+with his young sister, who, meanwhile, has come to woman's estate, but
+we prefer, it seems, on both sides, to treat each other as strangers."
+
+While this narration was being made, 'Wittenau became very thoughtful,
+but made no comment whatever. Noticing this, his friend laid his hand
+upon his arm, and said gently:
+
+"You should not have given young Dernburg such angry glances, for it
+has been his appearance upon the scene, I fancy, that has saved you
+from committing a folly--a great folly."
+
+A glowing blush suffused the young man's face at this intimation, and
+he was evidently much embarrassed.
+
+"Herr von Stettin, I----"
+
+"Now, do not understand me as reproaching you on account of looking too
+deeply into a pair of fine eyes," interposed Stettin. "That is so
+natural at your age; but in this case, it might have been fatal. Ask
+yourself, whether a girl thus brought up, who has grown up amid such
+influences and surroundings, would make a good farmer's wife, or be
+happy in a country neighborhood. As for the rest, you would hardly have
+found acceptance as Cecilia Wildenrod's suitor, because her brother
+will give the decisive voice, and he wants a millionaire for a
+brother-in-law."
+
+"And Dernburg is heir to several millions, people say," remarked
+Wittenau with undisguised bitterness. "So, he will be the one upon whom
+this honor is to be bestowed."
+
+"It is not mere say so, it is fact. The great Dernburg iron and steel
+works are the most important in all Germany, and admirably conducted.
+Their present chief is such a man as one rarely meets. I speak from
+personal knowledge, having accidentally made his acquaintance a few
+years ago. But see, there are the Wildenrods coming back again."
+
+There, indeed, was the Baron's equipage, which had left the Corso a
+little while ago, and was now on its way back to their hotel. The fiery
+horses, which had with difficulty been curbed in, so as to keep step
+with a procession, were now going at full speed, and rushed past the
+two gentlemen, who had stepped aside, and looked upon the cloud of dust
+that had been raised.
+
+"I am sorry about that Oscar Wildenrod," said Stettin earnestly. "He
+does not belong to the ordinary herd of mankind, and might perhaps have
+accomplished great things, if fate had not so suddenly and rudely
+snatched him away from the sphere for which he had been born and
+reared. Do not look so downcast, dear Wittenau! You will get over this
+dream of your youth, and after you get home to your fields and meadows,
+will thank your stars that it was nothing but a dream."
+
+
+The carriage, meanwhile, had gone on its way, and now stopped before
+one of those grand hotels, whose exterior sufficiently showed that it
+was only at the disposal of rich and distinguished guests.
+
+The suite of rooms occupied by Baron von Wildenrod and his sister was
+one of the best, and, of course, most expensive in the house, and
+lacked none of the conveniences and luxuries to which pampered guests
+lay claim. The rooms were splendidly furnished, but there was about
+them that air of the public-house that takes away, in large measure,
+any sense of genuine comfort.
+
+The gentlemen were already in the parlor. Cecilia had retired in order
+to lay aside her hat and gloves, while her brother, chatting
+pleasantly, conducted their visitor to the veranda, whence was to be
+seen a fine view of the sea and a portion of Nice.
+
+Young Dernburg appeared to be twenty-four or five years old, his looks
+making an impression that was insignificant rather than disagreeable.
+His diminutive figure, with its somewhat stooping carriage and pale
+complexion, with that peculiar tell-tale flush upon the cheeks,
+betrayed the fact that he had sought the sunny shores of the Riviera,
+not for the sake of pleasure, but out of regard for health. His face
+had its attractive features, but its lineaments were much too weak for
+a man, and this weakness culminated in the dreamy, somewhat veiled,
+look of his brown eyes. The self-consciousness of the rich heir seemed
+to be entirely lacking in this young man, his manners being unassuming,
+almost shy, and had not the name he bore everywhere procured him
+consideration, he would have been apt to be overlooked by the
+generality of the world.
+
+The Baron's personality was in every respect the reverse. Oscar von
+Wildenrod was no longer young, being already not far from fifty years
+old.
+
+There was something imposing in his lofty stature, and his clean-cut,
+regular features could but be regarded as handsome still, in spite of
+the sharp lines engraven upon them, and the deep furrow between the
+brows, that lent a rather sinister aspect to his countenance. Only a
+cool, considerate calm seemed perceptible in his dark eyes, and yet
+they flashed occasionally, with a fierceness that betokened the
+existence of a passionate, unbridled nature. As for the rest, there was
+something thoroughly distinguished in the Baron's whole appearance, his
+manners united the complaisance of a man of the world combined quite
+naturally with the pride inalienable from the scion of an ancient stock
+of nobility, which was manifested, however, in a manner by no means
+offensive.
+
+"You are not seriously thinking of taking your leave of Nice?" asked
+he, in the course of conversation. "It would be much too early, for you
+would just be in time for that season of storms and rain, which they
+honor with the name of spring, in that dear Germany of ours. You have
+spent the whole winter in Cairo, have been just six weeks at Nice, and
+should not expose yourself now to the asperities of that harsh Northern
+climate, if you would not imperil the health that is restored to you,
+but can hardly be established as yet."
+
+"The question is not one of to-day or to-morrow," said Dernburg, "but I
+cannot defer too long my return home. I have been more than a year in
+the South, feel perfectly well again, and my father urgently requests
+that I return to Odensburg as soon as possible, provided that the
+doctors give me their permission."
+
+"That Odensburg must be a grand creation," remarked the Baron.
+"According to all that I hear from you and others, your father must
+almost occupy the position of a small potentate; only his authority is
+more unlimited than that of a prince."
+
+"Certainly, but he has also the whole care and responsibility of his
+station. You have no idea what it is to be at the head of such an
+undertaking. It requires a constitution of iron, such as my father
+possesses; the burden that he carries on his shoulders is that of a
+very Atlas."
+
+"Never mind, it is power, and power is always a delight!" said
+Wildenrod, with flashing eyes.
+
+The young man smiled rather sadly.
+
+"To you, and very likely to my father, too--I am differently
+constituted. I should prefer a quiet life, in a modest home, located in
+such a terrestrial paradise as this delicious climate supplies; but it
+is not worth while to talk; as an only son, it must one day devolve on
+me to superintend the work at Odensburg."
+
+"You are ungrateful, Dernburg! A good fairy endowed you, when in your
+cradle, with a destiny such as thousands aspire to, with eager
+longing--and I verily believe you sigh over it."
+
+"Because I feel that I am not qualified for it. When I behold what my
+father accomplishes, and reflect that one day the task will devolve
+upon me, of filling his place, there comes over me a sense of
+discouragement and timidity that I cannot control."
+
+Wildenrod's eyes were fastened, with a peculiar expression upon the
+diminutive figure and pale features of the young heir.
+
+"One day!" he repeated. "Who cares now about the distant future. Your
+father is still living and working in the plenitude of his powers, and
+in the worst case he will leave you capable officers, who have been
+trained in his school. So you will actually stay no longer at Nice? I
+am sorry for that; we shall miss you a great deal."
+
+"We?" asked Dernburg softly. "Do you speak in your sister's name also?"
+
+"Certainly, Cecilia will be very sorry to lose her trustiest knight. To
+be sure, there will be plenty to try and console her--do you know,
+yesterday I had a regular quarrel upon my hands with Marville, because
+I offered you the seat in our carriage, upon which he had surely
+calculated?"
+
+This last remark was apparently made carelessly, without any design,
+but it had its effect. The young man's brow became clouded, and with
+unmistakable irritation, he replied:
+
+"Vicomte de Marville constantly claims a place by the Baroness, and I
+plainly perceive that he would like to supplant me in her favor
+altogether."
+
+"If you voluntarily resign your vantage-ground--very likely. So far,
+Cecilia has continually manifested a preference for her German
+compatriot, and yet there is no doubt but that the amiable Frenchman
+pleases her, and the absent is always at a disadvantage, especially
+where young ladies are concerned."
+
+He spoke in a jesting tone, as though no weight were to be attached to
+his words, since he did not look upon the matter at all in a serious
+light. This only made Dernburg more solicitous to come to an
+understanding. He made no reply, he was evidently struggling with
+himself, and finally began, unsteadily and with hesitation:
+
+"Herr von Wildenrod, I have had something on my heart--for a long while
+already--but I have not ventured until now----"
+
+The Baron had turned and looked at him wonderingly. There lurked in his
+dark eyes a half-mocking, half-compassionate expression, the look
+seeming to say: "You have millions to offer and yet hesitate?" but
+aloud he replied: "Speak out, pray; we are no strangers, and I hope
+that I have a claim to your confidence."
+
+"It is, perhaps, no longer a secret to you that I love your sister,"
+said Dernburg almost timidly. "But allow me to say to you, that I
+should account myself the happiest of men, if I could hope to win
+Cecilia--that I would do everything to make her happy--may I hope?"
+
+Wildenrod did not indeed affect any surprise at this confession, he
+only smiled, but it was a smile that was full of promise.
+
+"First of all, you must address your question to Cecilia herself. Young
+ladies are rather self-willed on such points, and my sister peculiarly
+so. Perhaps I am too considerate of her, and she is completely spoiled
+in society now, how much so you saw for yourself again to-day, during
+our ride on the Corso."
+
+"Yes, I saw it," and the young man's tone showed deep depression, "and
+just on that account, I have never before been able to find the courage
+to speak of my love."
+
+"Really? Well, then, I shall have to come to the help of your timidity.
+It is true that our whimsical little princess is not to be counted
+upon, but, to speak confidentially, I have no fear of your being
+rejected by her."
+
+"Do you really think so?" exclaimed Dernburg rapturously. "And how as
+to yourself, Herr von Wildenrod?"
+
+"I shall gladly welcome you as a brother-in-law, and see my sister's
+happiness entrusted to you without a qualm of anxiety. My sole desire
+is to see this child happy and beloved, for you must know that my
+relation to her has always been that of a father rather than a
+brother."
+
+He extended his hand, which was grasped by the young suitor, and warmly
+pressed.
+
+"I thank you. You make me very, very happy by this consent, by the hope
+that you give me, and now----"
+
+"You would like to hear this consent spoken by other lips," said
+Wildenrod, laughingly finishing his sentence for him. "I'll gladly give
+you the opportunity to speak, but you must plead your own cause. I
+allow my sister entire freedom to act as pleases her best. I think,
+however, my blabbing has inspired you with courage, so venture boldly,
+dear Eric."
+
+He gave him a friendly nod, and went. Eric Dernburg also returned again
+to the parlor, and his glance took in the quantities of flowers that
+the servant had brought up and piled upon the table. Yes, indeed,
+Cecilia Wildenrod was petted and spoiled as is the lot of few of her
+sex. Again to-day how had she been overwhelmed with flowers and tokens
+of homage! She had only to choose: dared he indulge the hope that her
+choice would fall upon one like him? He had wealth to offer, but she
+was rich herself, for her brother's style of living left no doubt on
+that head, and moreover she came of an ancient and noble family. As he
+thus pondered, the scale oscillated painfully. In spite of the
+encouragement that he had received, the young man's face showed that he
+feared just as much as he hoped.
+
+Wildenrod, meanwhile, had passed through the adjoining apartment, and
+now entered his sister's chamber.
+
+"Ah, is that you, Oscar? I am coming directly. I only want to stick
+another flower in my hair."
+
+The Baron looked at the magnificent bunch of pale yellow roses that lay
+half-loosened upon the dressing-table, and asked abruptly:
+
+"Are those the flowers that Dernburg gave you?"
+
+"Certainly; he brought them to me, when he came for the drive on the
+Corso."
+
+"Good! adorn yourself with them!"
+
+"And I should have done so all the same without your most gracious
+permission," laughed the young lady, "for they are the loveliest of
+all."
+
+She selected one of the roses, and held it, experimentally, against her
+hair: there was an uncommon, but indeed very conscious, grace in this
+movement: the slender girl of nineteen resembled her brother little, if
+at all: at first sight they seemed to have nothing in common but the
+dark color of their hair and eyes, otherwise hardly a feature betrayed
+the nearness of their relationship.
+
+Cecilia Wildenrod had that style of appearance which seems to have an
+irresistible fascination for the opposite sex. Her features were more
+irregular than those of her brother, but their mobility and variety of
+expression gave them a peculiar charm that never wore out. Her dark
+hair, that was so abundant as not to be always brought down to the
+requirements of the latest fashion, and complexion, that was of the
+clear brunette type, made one suspect that she could not be of purely
+German origin; and from beneath long black eyelashes gleamed a pair of
+lustrous eyes, that allured one who looked deeply into them with all
+the fascination of a riddle to be solved. In these mysterious depths,
+too, glowed a spark that might well be fanned into a flame; they, too,
+having some of that glow of passion, which in Oscar's case was hidden
+under a semblance of excessive coldness. This constituted the sole
+resemblance between the brother and sister, but it was a resemblance
+that stood for much.
+
+Cecilia still wore the silk dress in which she had appeared on the
+Corso, already a few pale yellow, half-open, rosebuds adorned her
+bosom, and now she placed a full-blown rose among the dark waves of her
+hair. Nature's adorning became her wondrously, and her brother's glance
+rested upon her with evident satisfaction. He had closed both doors
+carefully behind him, nevertheless he now lowered his voice and said in
+a whisper:
+
+"Eric Dernburg has something besides roses to offer you--his hand. He
+has just had a talk with me, and is now going to address himself to
+you."
+
+The young lady likewise heard this news without any surprise.
+
+She turned her head to one side, that she might see how the flower
+looked in her hair, and asked with apparent indifference:
+
+"So soon?"
+
+"Soon? Why, I have been expecting a declaration from him this long
+while, and he would have made it, too, only you seem to have given him
+poor encouragement."
+
+A fold appeared between Cecilia's brows, exactly in the same spot where
+a deep furrow had seamed her brother's.
+
+"If he were only not so abominably tiresome!" murmured she.
+
+"Cecilia, you know that I am anxious for this marriage, exceedingly
+anxious, and I hope that you will regulate your conduct accordingly."
+
+His tone was very positive, seeming to preclude any chance of
+opposition on the part of his sister, who now pushed away the rest of
+the roses with a gesture of impatience.
+
+"Why had it to be this Dernburg, and no one else? Vicomte de Marville
+is much handsomer, much more agreeable----"
+
+"But is not thinking of offering you his hand," interposed Wildenrod.
+"He, just as little as all the other triflers who swarm around you. You
+need not put on that injured air, Cecilia, you may rely implicitly upon
+my judgment: I know men, I tell you, girl. Now this union with Dernburg
+secures to you a brilliant destiny; he is very rich."
+
+"Well, so are we, for that matter."
+
+"No," said the Baron shortly and sharply.
+
+The young lady looked at him in amazement: he stepped up to her and
+laid his hand upon her arm.
+
+"We are _not_ rich! I am obliged to tell you this now, that you may not
+ruin your future prospects, through caprice or childishness, and I
+confidently expect you to accept this offer."
+
+Cecilia still looked at her brother, half shocked, half-incredulous,
+but she was evidently accustomed to submitting to his will in silence,
+and attempted no further opposition.
+
+"As if I should dare to say 'no,' when my stern brother dictates a
+'yes,'" pouted she. "But I can tell Dernburg one thing, he need not
+flatter himself with the idea that I am going to bury myself with him
+in that horrid Odensburg. To live among droves of day-laborers, at
+those iron works, full of dust and soot--it makes me shudder just to
+think of it."
+
+"All that can be accommodated afterwards," said Wildenrod calmly. "As
+for the rest, you have no idea what it is to be some day master of the
+Odensburg works, and what a stand you will take in the world, by his
+side. When you do come to comprehend the situation fully, you will be
+grateful to me for the choice that I have made. But come, we should not
+keep your future husband waiting any longer."
+
+He took her arm, and led her to the parlor, where Dernburg was awaiting
+them in restless suspense. The Baron pretended not to observe his
+uneasiness, and chatted unrestrainedly with him and his sister about
+their drive on the Corso, and various little incidents that had
+occurred, until it suddenly occurred to him to admire the sunset, that
+promised to be particularly beautiful this evening. He stepped out upon
+the veranda, as if undesignedly, let the glass doors fall to behind
+him, and thus gave the young couple an opportunity to be alone.
+
+"Why, it looks just like a flower-market!" exclaimed Cecilia
+laughingly, as she pointed to the table that was overladen with
+bouquets. "Francis has, of course, piled them up with a reckless
+disregard of taste: I must really arrange them better. Will you not
+help me to do so, Herr Dernburg?"
+
+She began to divide out the various sorts and put them in vases and
+bowls, and with the remainder to decorate the hearth. Dernburg helped
+her, but he was not a very efficient helper, for he could not take his
+eyes off the slender form, flitting to and fro, in dainty garb, with
+that lovely rose in her dark hair.
+
+At the first glance, he had perceived that those were his roses that
+she wore, and a happy smile played about his lips. He wondered if her
+brother had already given her a hint? She was so free from
+embarrassment, laughed so heartily at his absence of mind, and treated
+him with the same pretty insolence as usual--she could not possibly
+know that he meant to address her!
+
+In Cecilia's manner, there was most assuredly nothing of the sweet
+shyness and embarrassment of a young girl who, for the first time,
+listens to the addresses of a lover. In fact, it hardly seemed that she
+comprehended the seriousness of the situation. She would soon be twenty
+years old, at which age girls in her circle often married or, rather,
+were given in marriage, for their families usually decided the matter
+for them. Individually, moreover, she had no objection to marrying. It
+would be very pleasant to enjoy the freedom allowed a married woman, to
+be wholly untrammeled as to expenditure in dress, jewels, etc., and to
+be no longer obliged to submit to the will of a brother, who was at
+times very despotic, only--how much handsomer and more agreeable was
+Viscount de Marville than this Dernburg, who had not even rank to
+recommend him. It was really outrageous, that a Baroness Wildenrod
+would, in future, have to bear the name of a simple citizen!
+
+She had just taken up the last bouquet, preparatory to decorating the
+hearth with it, when she heard her name breathed softly but fervently.
+
+"Cecilia!"
+
+She turned around and met the gaze of Eric, who stood beside her, and
+continued in the same tone:
+
+"You have only eyes and thoughts for the flowers--have you not a single
+glance for me?"
+
+"Why, do you stand so much in need of that glance?" asked Cecilia
+archly.
+
+"Oh! how very much I need it! It is to give me courage for a
+confession--will you hear it?"
+
+She smiled and laid down the bunch of flowers that she held in her
+hand.
+
+"Why, that sounds quite portentous. Is it something so important?"
+
+"No less than the happiness of my life, for which I look to you!"
+replied Dernburg impetuously. "I love you, Cecilia, have done so from
+the first moment that my eyes rested upon you. You must have known this
+for a long while, could not help guessing it, but I always saw you so
+surrounded by admirers, and so rarely obtained the least excuse for the
+indulgence of hope, that I dared not press my suit. Now, though, that
+the time for my departure draws near, I cannot go, without certainty as
+to my fate. Will you be mine, Cecilia? I will lay everything,
+everything, at your feet, gratify every wish, and all my life long
+guard you as the most precious of treasures. Say one word, only a
+single one, that shall give me hope, but do not say 'no,' for that I
+could not stand."
+
+He had caught both her hands, his face, commonly so pale, was now
+suffused with a bright flush, and his voice quivered with emotion. This
+was no stormy, passionate declaration, but each word expressed the
+truest love, the fullest tenderness, and the young girl who had so
+often been besieged by flattery and adulation, heard this tone for the
+first time, and listened, half perplexed, half fascinated.
+
+Cecilia had not supposed the quiet, bashful lover, whom she had often
+treated with great disdain, capable of such a wooing, and as he now
+went on, more tenderly, more urgently, the 'yes' pleaded for came at
+last from her lips, rather hesitatingly, it is true, but without any
+sign of repugnance.
+
+In a transport of rapture, Dernburg wanted to fold his betrothed to his
+heart, but she shrank back. It was an involuntary, half unconscious
+movement of shyness, almost aversion, such as perhaps would have
+wounded and chilled anybody else, but Eric only saw in it the sweet
+modesty of the young girl, and while he still softly clasped her hands,
+he whispered:
+
+"Oh, Cecilia, if you did but know how I love you!"
+
+There was no mistaking in his tone the genuine accents of devoted love,
+and it did not fail to make its impression upon Cecilia, who now began
+to realize that she had no right to be so reserved with the man to whom
+she had plighted her troth.
+
+"Well, then, you deserve that I should give you a little love in
+return, Eric!" said she, with a charming smile, at the same time
+suffering him to draw her to his side and imprint a first kiss upon her
+lips.
+
+Wildenrod was still standing out upon the veranda, and turned around
+with a smile as the young couple approached him. Beaming with pride and
+happiness, Dernburg led his betrothed up to him, and received the
+congratulations of his future brother-in-law, who first embraced his
+sister, then Eric.
+
+Then there began a lively, cheerful conversation, out upon the balcony,
+where the soft breezes of spring were still sporting. The dazzling
+splendor of daylight was already breaking up into that gorgeous
+blending of colors, as is only witnessed in the South, at sundown. The
+city and surrounding heights were glorified, as it were, by the
+resplendent sheen that glistened and sparkled like molten gold upon the
+waves of the sea, and while the distant mountains were veiled in a
+roseate mist, the sun itself, a fiery ball, sank lower and lower, until
+it finally vanished from view.
+
+Eric had slipped his arm around the waist of his betrothed, and
+whispered into her ear tender and loving words. Irradiated with glory
+as was the lovely landscape before them, so seemed the future to him,
+by the side of that precious girl. Wildenrod stood apart, apparently
+wholly absorbed in the contemplation of that magnificent spectacle, but
+nevertheless, a deep sigh of relief escaped his chest, and while his
+eyes flashed in triumph, he murmured, almost inaudibly: "At last!"
+
+
+
+
+                              CHAPTER II.
+
+                              IN COUNCIL.
+
+
+"I Am sorry, gentlemen, but I have to pronounce all your plans and
+proposals unsatisfactory. The question is to draw all the water-power
+we need from the Radefeld low-grounds, in the shortest way, and with
+the least possible expense. But, without exception, your designs call
+for such vast and expensive outlays, that it is not worth while to talk
+of their being carried into effect."
+
+It was Eberhard Dernburg, the proprietor of the Odensburg Works, who
+thus declined the plans laid before him by his officers, in this
+decided manner. The gentlemen shrugged their shoulders and looked at
+the plans and drawings that were spread out upon the table, when,
+finally, one of them said:
+
+"But, you see, Herr Dernburg, that we have to contend here with the
+greatest difficulties. The land lies in the most unfavorable of all
+ways, mountains and valleys alternating along the whole line."
+
+"And the pipes must be secured against all casualties," remarked a
+second; while the third added:
+
+"The laying of them down will certainly occasion a large expenditure,
+but as things are now, this cannot be altered."
+
+These three gentlemen, the director and head-manager of the Odensburg
+works, the superintendent of the technical bureau, and the
+chief-engineer, were unanimous in their views. This conference was
+being held in Dernburg's office, where that gentleman usually received
+the reports of his subordinates, with whom his son also was found
+to-day. It was a large apartment, quite plainly furnished, but its
+walls were lined with bookcases. His desk was heaped up with letters
+and other papers; on the side-tables lay plans and maps of all sorts;
+and the great portfolios, that were visible in an open press, seemed to
+contain similar matter. It was evident, that this room was the central
+point, whence came the guidance of the whole gigantic enterprise,--a
+spot devoted to never-ending toil and unflagging activity.
+
+"You do not, then, think any other solution possible?" began Dernburg
+again, as he drew out a paper from a portfolio near by, and spread it
+out before him. "Please glance at this, gentlemen! Here the course
+taken is to start from the higher ground, but it penetrates the
+Buchberg, and then, without further difficulty, is to be conveyed to
+the works across Radefeld itself--there is the solution sought for."
+
+The officers looked somewhat chagrined, and eagerly bent over the
+drawing. Evidently none of them had thought of this plan, and yet they
+did not seem to consider it with any special good-will.
+
+"The Buchberg is to be penetrated, did you say?" asked the director. "A
+very bold thought, that would assuredly offer great advantages, but I
+do not deem it feasible."
+
+"Neither do I," chimed in the chief-engineer. "At all events, a
+searching examination is needed, to ascertain if it is possible. The
+Buchberg----"
+
+"Is to be mastered," interposed Dernburg. "The preliminary works have
+already been executed. Runeck established the fact of their
+possibility, at the outset, when he made the outer measurements, and
+treats of it expressly in the explanation now lying before us."
+
+"So the plan emanates from him, does it?" asked the superintendent of
+the technical bureau.
+
+"From Egbert Runeck--he and none other."
+
+"I thought so."
+
+"What do you mean, Herr Winning?" asked Dernburg, quickly turning upon
+him.
+
+Herr Winning made haste to protest that he had no particular meaning;
+that the affair only interested him because the young technician was in
+his own department, immediately under his superintendence: the other
+two said nothing but cast upon their chief, strange looks of inquiry,
+which he did not appear to observe.
+
+"I have decided upon adopting Runeck's plan," said he quietly, but, at
+the same time, with a certain sharpness. "It fulfills all my
+requirements, and the estimate of expenses amounts to about half of
+yours. We must consult, of course, over the details, but anyhow, the
+work is to begin as soon as possible. We'll talk it all over another
+time, gentlemen."
+
+He rose from his seat, and in so doing gave the signal to disperse, for
+the officers bowed and took their leave; but in the ante-chamber,
+however, the director paused, and asked in a whisper:
+
+"What do you say to it?"
+
+"I do not understand Herr Dernburg," answered the chief-engineer, with
+a voice likewise cautiously lowered. "Is it that he actually does not
+or _will_ not know?"
+
+"Of course he knows it. I myself have given him information on the
+subject, and the Socialist gentleman himself does not pretend to make
+any secret of the course he is pursuing; he recklessly admits the stand
+that he has taken. Should any other man here at Odensburg dare to do
+the same, he would obtain his dismissal on the spot, but Runeck's
+discharge seems as yet to be a thing of the dim future. You see his
+plan has been accepted without any question, while we were plainly
+given to understand that ours were good for nothing. That surpasses
+anything that has happened yet----"
+
+"You just wait," interposed Winning calmly. "On that point our chief is
+not to be trifled with, we all know. At the right time he will speak
+authoritatively, and, if Runeck does not yield then, it is all up with
+him, let him be ten times over the young master's bosom-friend and
+deliverer from death. You may rely upon that!"
+
+"Let us hope so," said the director. "By the way, how poorly Mr. Eric
+does look still, and how remarkably silent he is. Why, I do not believe
+he uttered ten words during the whole debate."
+
+"Because he did not understand what we were talking about," explained
+the chief-engineer, shrugging his shoulders. "They have taken pains
+enough to drill it into him, but very evidently not much has stuck
+to him. He has inherited nothing from his father, whether outwardly
+or inwardly. I must be gone, though, I have to drive out to
+Radefeld--Good-morning, gentlemen!"
+
+Father and son had been left together by themselves, and the former
+walked silently up and down the room, evidently quite out of sorts.
+
+In spite of his sixty years Eberhard Dernburg was still in the full
+vigor of life, and nothing but his gray hair and wrinkled forehead gave
+any indication that he had already crossed the threshold of old age.
+His face, with its firm, grave features, told no such story, any more
+than did his glance, which was keen and clear, and his tall figure was
+as erect as ever. His address and speech were those of a man accustomed
+to command, and to receive unfailing obedience, and in his outward
+appearance there was something that spoke of the sternness attributed
+to him alike by friend and foe.
+
+It was plainly to be seen now, that his son bore not a shadow of
+resemblance to the father, but a glance at the half-length portrait
+that hung over the desk explained this, in some sort. It represented
+Dernburg's deceased wife, and Eric was speakingly like her. There was
+the same countenance, with its delicate, meaningless features, the
+soft, uncertain lineaments, the dreamy, reserved look.
+
+"There sit my deputies with all their wisdom," began Dernburg, finally,
+in a half-mocking, half-angry tone. "For months they have been
+pottering over the task, concocting all manner of designs, not one of
+which was worth anything; and, on the other hand, there is Egbert,
+without any commission at all, going quietly along, taking the
+necessary measurements, and studying the situation, until he matures a
+plan, and lays on the table before me a scheme that is simply masterly!
+How do you like his sketch, Eric?"
+
+The young man cast an embarrassed look upon the drawing which he still
+held in his hand.
+
+"You find it excellent, father. I--pardon me--I cannot exactly get a
+clear idea of its bearings."
+
+"Why, I should think it ought to be clear enough, since you have been
+pondering over it since yesterday evening. If you require so much time
+for comprehending a simple plan, for which all the necessary
+explanations are given, how will you acquire the quick insight into
+affairs, indispensably necessary for the future owner of the Odensburg
+works?"
+
+"I have been absent fully a year and a half," said Eric in apology,
+"and during all that time, the physicians enjoined it upon me to
+refrain from all exertion, particularly prohibiting any mental strain.
+You must make allowances, father, and give me time to fit into harness
+again."
+
+"You have always had to be on your guard against over-exertion, and
+been restricted in work," said Dernburg with a frown. "On account of
+your continual sickness, you were never able to pursue any serious
+study, or engage in anything that required bodily activity. I fixed all
+my hope upon your return from the South, and now--do not look so
+disconsolate, Eric! I do not mean to reproach you; it is not your
+fault, but it is a misfortune in the station to which you are now
+called."
+
+Eric suppressed a sigh; once more he was feeling this enviable station
+to be a sorely heavy burden. His father continued impatiently:
+
+"What is to be done, when I shall no longer be here? I have capable
+subordinates, but they are all dependent upon my guidance. I am
+accustomed to do everything myself, I never let the reins slip out of
+my hands, and your hands, I am afraid, will never be strong enough to
+manage them alone. I have long perceived the necessity of securing you
+a support for the future--and just at this crisis, Egbert disappoints
+me by being guilty of the madness of allowing himself to be caught in
+the net of the socialistic democrats! It is enough to drive one mad!"
+
+He stamped passionately with his foot. Eric looked at his father, with
+a certain shyness, then said gently:
+
+"Perhaps the matter is not so bad as you have been informed. The
+director may have exaggerated many a thing."
+
+"Nothing has been exaggerated. My investigations have ratified every
+word. His period of study in that cursed Berlin has been fatal to the
+young man. I ought to have taken the alarm, indeed, when he wrote me
+word, after the first few months of his stay there, that he no longer
+needed the means which I had placed at his disposal, for he could
+manage to support himself by giving drawing-lessons and by other work.
+It must have been hard enough for him, but I liked his pride and
+independence of spirit, and let him have his way. Now I see more
+clearly! Those mad ideas were already beginning to seethe in his brain,
+the first meshes of the net were already woven about him, in which he
+has since been caught, and he would accept nothing more from me, for he
+knew that all was at an end between us, if I learned anything about
+it."
+
+"I have not spoken with him yet, and therefore cannot judge. He is out
+at Radefeld, I hear."
+
+"He is coming in to-day. I am expecting him before the hour is out."
+
+"And you are going to talk to him on the subject?"
+
+"Of course--it is high time."
+
+"Father, let me implore you not to be hard upon Egbert. Have you
+forgotten----"
+
+"That he drew you out of the water? No, but he has forgotten that since
+then he has been almost treated like a son of the house. Do not meddle
+in this matter, Eric, you do not understand it."
+
+The young man was silent, not daring to oppose his father, who, for the
+last few minutes, had resumed his pacing of the floor. Now he paused in
+his walk, and said grumblingly: "I have on my mind all manner of
+disagreeable things, and lo! here you come, with your love-affairs, and
+prating about marriage. It was dreadfully precipitate of you to bind
+yourself without first obtaining my consent."
+
+"I believed myself certain of your approval, and so did Wildenrod, when
+he promised me his sister's hand. What objection have you to make to my
+choice, father? The daughter that I am going to present to you is so
+lovely and sweet. How beautiful she is that picture shows. She is,
+moreover, rich, from a highly-esteemed family--indeed she belongs to a
+line of the ancient nobility----"
+
+"I do not attach the slightest consequence to that," brusquely
+interrupted his father. "No matter how suitable your choice was, it
+should have been first referred to me; instead of which you even
+allowed the engagement to be announced at Nice before my answer had
+arrived. It almost looks as if there was a purpose to obviate any
+possible opposition on my part."
+
+"But there can be no talk of that! My relations with Cecilia had not
+been unobserved, it was already the theme of town-talk; and Oscar
+explained to me that he had to acknowledge the truth, to avoid any
+misinterpretation of our actions."
+
+"Never mind, it was a piece of unwarrantable presumption. My
+investigations have certainly proved satisfactory."
+
+"Ah! you have had yourself informed?"
+
+"Of course, since a family connection is at stake. I have certainly not
+turned to Nice--a mere transient sojourn like that offers no reliable
+hold--but to the native place of the Wildenrods. Their former
+possessions are now part of the royal domain, and I got the information
+I wanted from the court-marshal's office."
+
+"That was superfluous, father," said the young man reproachfully.
+
+"I, however, deemed it needful for your sake," was the dry rejoinder.
+"There is no doubt but that the Wildenrods belong to the most ancient
+nobility in the land. The old Baron seems to have lived rather
+extravagantly, but was universally respected. His estates were sold
+after his death, and, for a respectable sum were transferred to the
+king, on condition that the widow might still be allowed a home in the
+castle. This certainly agrees with the information furnished you by
+Herr von Wildenrod, a person, by the way, with whom I cannot have the
+slightest affinity."
+
+"But you do not know him yet. Oscar is an intellectual man, and in many
+respects a remarkable one."
+
+"That may be, but a man who no sooner succeeds to the paternal
+inheritance than he makes haste to dispose of the family estates, at as
+high a price as possible, deserting the service of his fatherland, and
+roving around in the wide world, without any profession or occupation
+of any kind,--such a man inspires me with but little respect. This
+gypsy life on the part of these high-born drones, that wander homeless
+from place to place, everywhere seeking nothing but their own pleasure,
+revolts me to my inmost soul. I also regard the Baron as lacking
+greatly in delicate feeling, when he allows his young sister to share
+in such a life."
+
+"He loves Cecilia with the greatest tenderness, and she has never had
+anybody in the world to depend on but him. Should he commit his only
+sister to the hands of strangers?"
+
+"Perhaps it would have been better. When he deprives a young girl of
+home and family, he takes the ground from under her feet. However, she
+would find both here again. You love her, at all events, and if you are
+really sure that she reciprocates your love----"
+
+"Otherwise would she have plighted her troth to me?" cried Eric. "I
+have already described to you, father, the extent to which she was
+idolized and courted, with the whole world at her feet, as it were. She
+had so many to choose from and chose me!"
+
+"That is just what surprises me," said Dernburg, coolly. "You do not
+possess one of those shining qualities which girls of her claims and
+education covet. However, that may be--first of all, I want to get
+personally acquainted with Fraeulein von Wildenrod and her brother. Let
+us invite them to Odensburg, and we shall see what will come of it.
+Meanwhile, I entreat that no greater publicity be given to the affair
+than it has already unfortunately attained."
+
+So saying he left the room, and went into his library, which was
+immediately adjacent.
+
+
+
+
+                              CHAPTER III.
+
+                         "See the path is clear
+                          To a grand career."
+
+
+Eric remained alone. He had thrown himself into a chair, and rested his
+head in his hand. The manner in which his engagement had been taken at
+home depressed and disenchanted him. He had not thought of the
+possibility of objections, expecting that his father would hail his
+selection with joyful approval, instead of which investigations had
+been entered into, and doubts and scruples suggested. His father
+actually seemed to entertain serious mistrust, and evidently claimed,
+even now, the decisive voice. The young man fired up at the thought of
+his petted, idolized betrothed, and her haughty brother, being first
+put on probation, as it were, here at Odensburg, ere they should
+ultimately be admitted into their family. Just here the door was
+opened, and he started up from his reverie.
+
+"Egbert!" he cried, joyfully springing to his feet, and hurrying to
+meet a young man, who came in with outstretched hand.
+
+"Welcome home, Eric!"
+
+"Yes, I have been away from it a long while, so long that I am quite a
+stranger in it," said Eric, returning the pressure of his hand, "and we
+have not seen one another for an eternity."
+
+"I, too, have been away two years in England, only returning a short
+time ago. But first of all, how is your health now?"
+
+Egbert Runeck was very little older than the young heir, but he had the
+appearance of being more mature by some years. His _personnel_ made the
+impression of manly vigor in the highest degree, and his tall figure
+towered so over Eric's, that the latter had to look up when he spoke to
+him. His face, tanned by exposure to sun and wind, was anything but
+handsome, yet there was expression and energy in every feature. His
+light brown hair and full beard had a slightly reddish hue, and
+underneath a broad and massive brow shone a pair of dark-gray eyes,
+that had a peculiarly cold and earnest look. The man wore the air of
+one who had hitherto tasted only the toils of life, neither knowing nor
+seeking its pleasures. Moreover, there was something harsh and arrogant
+in his manner, that, toned down into mildness at this moment, was
+nevertheless the predominant trait of his whole mien. Such an
+appearance might be striking--attractive it was not.
+
+"Oh, I am perfectly well again, thank you," said Eric, in answer to the
+inquiry after his health. "The journey has fatigued me some, of course;
+I am suffering, too, from the change of climate, but this is a mere
+passing annoyance."
+
+Egbert's eyes were fastened upon his friend's face, that to-day looked
+rather pale and pinched, and his voice, too, softened as he replied:
+
+"Certainly, you will have to get accustomed to the North, again."
+
+"If it were only not so hard for me!" sighed Eric. "You do not know
+what held me fast in the sunny South so long and so irresistibly."
+
+"Why, I guessed the truth easily enough, from those hints in your last
+letters--or is it to be a secret still?"
+
+A bright, joyous smile flitted across Eric's features, while he gently
+shook his head.
+
+"Not from you, Egbert. My father does not want it known at Odensburg
+for the present, but I may say to you, that, under the palms of the
+Riviera, on the shores of the blue Mediterranean, I have found
+happiness, such enchanting, fairy-like happiness as I never dreamed of
+before. If you could only see my Cecilia, with her ravishing beauty,
+her winning sweetness----Ah! there it is again, that cold, mocking
+laugh of yours, with which you used always to set at naught any
+romance, any warmth of feeling, you stern Cato you, who never have
+known nor ever will know love."
+
+Runeck shrugged his shoulders.
+
+"I have had to devote all my energies to work, from earliest youth, and
+the romantic seldom forms a large ingredient in such a life as that.
+The like of us has no time for what you call love."
+
+This reckless remark hurt the feelings of the lover, who said
+excitedly:
+
+"So, love is in your estimation only a pastime for the idle? You are
+the same old fellow, Egbert! To be sure, you never did believe in that
+mysterious, overpowering force, that irresistibly draws two people
+together, and binds them indissolubly together."
+
+"No!" said Egbert, with an air of cool, almost mocking, superiority.
+"But do not let us dispute over it. You, with your soft heart, must
+give and receive love,--for you it is a necessity of life. I am not
+made for that sort of thing--have had other aims in view from the
+beginning--such as do not comport with dreamt of love. The name of your
+betrothed is Cecilia, then?"
+
+"Cecilia von Wildenrod. What is the matter? Do you know the name?"
+
+Runeck had certainly started when the name was pronounced, and the
+glance that he cast upon the friend of his youth was a peculiarly
+searching one.
+
+"I believe I have heard it somewhere before," he replied. "The talk
+there was of a Baron von Wildenrod."
+
+"My future brother-in-law, I suppose," said Eric with unconcern. "He
+belongs to a well-known family of the ancient nobility. But, first of
+all, you must see my Cecilia. I have introduced her to father and
+sister, at least, through her portrait."
+
+He took a rather large likeness that lay on his father's desk, and
+handed it to his friend. Although the photograph was faithful, it had
+by no means the charm of the original, but it showed what a beauty she
+was, and the large, dark eyes looked full at the inspector. Egbert
+looked down upon it silently, without uttering a word, until meeting
+the expectant gaze of the girl's lover, he said:
+
+"A very beautiful girl."
+
+The tone in which he spoke these words was peculiarly frigid, and Eric
+was chilled by it, too. He knew, to be sure, that his old friend was
+not at all susceptible to the charms of female beauty, but,
+notwithstanding, he had calculated upon a warmer expression of
+admiration. They both stood by the desk--Runeck's glance fell
+accidentally upon a second photograph, that likewise lay there, and
+again there flitted across his features the same peculiar expression as
+a while ago, upon the mention of that name, a sudden shiver, that
+lasted but for an instant.
+
+"And this one, here, I suppose, is the brother of your betrothed?" said
+he. "It may be seen by the likeness."
+
+"That is Oscar von Wildenrod certainly, but, properly speaking, there
+is no likeness whatever. Cecilia does not resemble her brother in the
+least; their features are quite different."
+
+"But the same eyes!" said Egbert slowly, continuing to regard the two
+pictures fixedly; then he suddenly pushed them from him, and turned
+away.
+
+"And you have not even a congratulation for me?" asked Eric
+reproachfully, being mortified at this indifference.
+
+"Pardon me, I forgot it. May you be happy, as happy as you deserve to
+be! But I must go to your father, who is expecting me, and requires,
+you know, undeviating punctuality."
+
+He evidently wanted to cut short this interview. Eric, too, remembered
+now what was impending, and the subject that was to be brought into
+discussion.
+
+"Father is in his library," he remarked, "and you know he will not be
+disturbed there. He has summoned you from Radefeld----do you know why?"
+
+"I suspect so, at least. Has he spoken to you about it?"
+
+"Yes, and from him I heard the first word on the subject, Egbert--for
+heaven's sake, be on your guard. You know my father, and are aware that
+he will never tolerate such a bent in his works."
+
+"In general he tolerates no other bent than his own," rejoined Egbert
+coldly. "He never can nor will comprehend, that the boy, who has to
+thank him for education and culture, has become a man, who presumes to
+have his own views, and go his own way."
+
+"This way seems to diverge very widely from ours," said Eric sadly.
+"But you did not give me the slightest intimation of this in your
+letters."
+
+"Why should I? You had to be spared and guarded against excitement, and
+you would not have understood me, either, Eric. You have always shunned
+all the questions and conflicts of the present, while I have confronted
+them, and, of late years, stood in the very midst of them. If, thereby,
+a gulf has opened between us, I cannot help it."
+
+"Do not say between _us_, Egbert! We are friends and must remain such,
+let happen what will. Think you that I have forgotten to whom I owe my
+life? Yes, I know you do not like to be reminded of it, but it ever
+abides in my memory--the plunge into the ice-cold flood, the deadly
+anguish, when the rushing waters overwhelmed me, and then the rescue,
+when your arm encircled me. I did not make it easy for you; I clutched
+you so convulsively, that I hardly left you room to move, and put you
+in extreme peril. Any other would have shaken off the dangerous burden,
+but you did not let me go, you held me with your mighty strength, and
+worked your way forward until we reached the blessed shore. That was an
+heroic deed for a lad of sixteen years."
+
+"It put my powers as a swimmer to a good test, that was all," answered
+Runeck, declining any claim to merit. "I shook the water from my
+clothes and was all right again, while the shock and chill brought on
+you an illness that well-nigh proved fatal."
+
+He broke off, for, just now Dernburg entered with a book in his hand,
+and responded to the young engineer's greeting as composedly as if
+there was no agitating subject to be broached between them.
+
+"You enjoy meeting after your long separation, do you not?" asked he.
+"You see Eric for the first time to-day--how do you find him?"
+
+"He looks rather delicate yet, and will have to be prudent for a while
+longer, it seems to me," said Runeck, with a glance at his friend's
+pale face.
+
+"The doctor is of the same opinion. And to-day you do look especially
+feeble, Eric! Go to your room, and take a good rest."
+
+The young man looked irresolutely from one to the other. He would
+gladly have stayed, to interpose some soothing word between these two,
+if the discussion grew too hot; but his father's direction sounded very
+peremptory, and now Egbert, also, said in a low tone:
+
+"Go, I implore you."
+
+With a sensation of bitterness Eric submitted, feeling that there was
+something humiliating in the compassionate indulgence, and that it
+extended further than to his bodily condition. He had never been
+treated by his father as an equal, capable of independent action, and
+properly, not by his friend either. Now he was sent away to take his
+rest, which meant, that they wanted to spare him from being witness to
+a scene that would almost assuredly be stormy, and he--he, indeed,
+allowed himself to be thus dismissed, depressingly conscious that his
+presence would be superfluous and useless!
+
+The other two found themselves alone. Dernburg had seated himself, and
+again taken in hand the drawings of the Radefeld aqueduct, that he once
+more proceeded to inspect.
+
+"I have decided upon carrying out your plan. Egbert," said he. "It is
+the best of all laid before me, and solves all the difficulties in an
+astonishing manner. I have to consider further on a single point; but,
+taken as a whole, the plan is excellent, and it is to be carried into
+effect forthwith. Will you undertake its superintendence? I offer you
+the appointment."
+
+The young engineer seemed to be surprised; he had probably expected a
+totally different introduction; unmistakable satisfaction was depicted
+upon his features, at this recognition, emanating from his chief, who
+was usually so chary with his praise.
+
+"Very gladly," replied he; "but this much I know, the chief-engineer
+has the affair already in hand. I was commissioned by him to attend to
+the outworks."
+
+"But if I now decide differently, the chief-engineer has nothing to do
+but to submit;" declared Dernburg emphatically. "It depends only upon
+yourself, whether you shall undertake the execution of your own plan,
+and, in this regard, there is certainly another matter to be discussed
+and cleared up first."
+
+So far he had spoken in a calm, business-like tone, but Egbert was
+sufficiently prepared; he knew what subject was now to be introduced,
+and yet he obviously did not shrink. The transient mildness that he had
+manifested awhile ago in conversation with Eric had long since
+vanished, and the stolid and determined in his character stood forth
+undisguised, as he now firmly met the dark looks of his chief.
+
+"I have long since remarked that you had come back a changed man,"
+resumed Dernburg; "in many respects this was to have been expected. You
+were three years in Berlin, and two in England, where your sphere of
+observation was broadened; indeed, I sent you out into the world, that
+you might see and judge for yourself. But now things have come to my
+ears, concerning which I must apply to you for more exact information.
+I do not like long circumlocution, so briefly and clearly: is it true
+that you constantly associate with the socialists in our town, that you
+publicly own yourself to be one of them, and that you are upon very
+intimate terms with that Landsfeld, their leader? Yes, or no?"
+
+"Yes," said Egbert simply.
+
+Dernburg did not seem to have expected so reckless a confession. He
+frowned still more darkly.
+
+"Really! And do you say that so composedly to my face?"
+
+"Am I to deny the truth?"
+
+"And since when have you been a member of that party?"
+
+"For four years."
+
+"The thing started, then, in Berlin: I thought as much. And you have
+actually allowed yourself to be thus ensnared. To be sure you were very
+young and inexperienced, but still I would have expected you to be
+wiser."
+
+One could see that the young man was wounded by the manner in which he
+was spoken to. Calmly, but with sharper intonation, he replied: "Those
+are _your_ views, Herr Dernburg; I regret that mine differ from them."
+
+"And it is not for me to disturb myself about them, you think,"
+supplemented Dernburg. "There you are mistaken, though. I do concern
+myself about the political opinions of my employes. But I do not
+condescend to enter into explanations with them. Whoever does not like
+Odensburg can quit. I force nobody to stay; but he who does remain has
+to submit absolutely to its regulations. Either----or! There is no
+third way here."
+
+"Then I shall be obliged to choose that 'or,'" said Egbert coldly.
+
+"Will it be so easy for you to leave us?"
+
+The young man looked down moodily.
+
+"I am in your debt, Herr Dernburg, I know it----"
+
+"That you are not! If I have given you education and culture, you have
+saved my Eric for me; but for you I should have lost my only son. So
+far as that goes, we are quits, if we propose to balance accounts on a
+purely business basis. If that is what you propose, speak out openly,
+and we are done with each other."
+
+"You do me injustice," said Runeck, with suppressed emotion. "It is
+hard enough for me thus to oppose you."
+
+"Well, who forces you to do so? Only those wild ideas, that have run
+away with you so. Do you think it is an easy thing for me to give you
+up? Be reasonable, Egbert. It is not your chief who speaks to you--he
+would have long since cut the matter short! But for years you have been
+almost a child of my house."
+
+The half-fatherly, half-masterful tone entirely missed its aim. The
+young engineer, with arrogant self-assertion, raised his head, as he
+answered:
+
+"I _am_ possessed by those 'wild ideas,' and stick to them. There comes
+a time when the boy becomes of age, and I reached this state when out
+in the world, and I cannot go back to the irresponsibility of boyhood.
+Whatever you demand of the engineer, the official, shall be done to the
+best of my ability. The blind subjection that you demand of the man, I
+cannot and _will_ not take upon myself. I must have free course in
+life."
+
+"Which you have not with me?" asked Dernburg in an irritated tone.
+
+"No!" said Egbert firmly. "You are a father to your subordinates so
+long as they submit themselves unquestioningly, but in Odensburg they
+recognize only one law--viz., your will. The director yields just as
+unconditionally as does the lowest laborer; no one has an opinion of
+his own at your works, or ever will have, so long as you are at the
+head of things."
+
+"Those are pretty things, to be sure, that you attribute to me," said
+Dernburg fiercely. "You say, plainly, that I am a tyrant. You, to be
+sure, have always been allowed to take more liberties than all the rest
+put together--have done so, candidly, too. You never were passively
+obedient, nor was such a thing required of you, either, for we'll talk
+of that later. Free course! There again is one of your catch-words.
+With you, all is to be down, all, and then you will have free
+course--to destruction."
+
+He had risen to his feet, and walked to and fro several times, like a
+person trying to compose himself, then he paused in front of the young
+man, and said with bitter scorn:
+
+"In spite of your youth, you seem to have quite a significant part to
+play in your party. They make no secret of setting the greatest hopes
+upon you, and seeing in you one of their future leaders. Those people
+are not so stupid as some suppose; they know their men, and with less
+attractive bait would not have caught you."
+
+"Herr Dernburg!" exclaimed Runeck, "do you believe me capable of low
+calculation?"
+
+"No, but of ambition!" said the older man coldly. "You may not
+acknowledge to yourself what has driven you into those ranks, but I
+will tell you how it is: to be a clever engineer, and gradually work
+one's way up to be chief-engineer, is an honorable career, but much too
+modest a one for a man of a disposition like yours. To guide thousands
+by a word, a nod; to fling forth burning words in the Reichstag, such
+as the whole country shall hear; to be lifted upon a shield, like a
+conqueror, that is power, that would charm you. Do not contradict me,
+Egbert; with my experience I see farther than you do--in ten years let
+us talk together again!"
+
+Whether the words hit home was not to be decided. Runeck stood there
+with lowering brow and compressed lips, but replied by not a syllable.
+
+"Well, I suppose my Odensburg will have to do without you, meanwhile,"
+began Dernburg again. "I am master here and suffer no rival rule,
+whether open or secret; tell that to your party-comrades, if they
+should not know it already. But what was your idea, when you came back
+to me with such views? You knew me! Why did you not stay in Berlin, or
+England, and send your challenge from there?"
+
+Again Egbert made no answer, but this was not the defiant silence of a
+while ago, in which lay ten contradictions; now his eye sought the
+ground, and a deep blush slowly mantled his cheeks and brow. Dernburg
+saw this, and his countenance, just before so dark, brightened up, and
+there was even a slight smile upon it, as he continued in a milder
+tone:
+
+"Well, we shall suppose that it was attachment for me and my family.
+Eric and Maia are as devoted to you as if they were your own brother
+and sister. Yes, ere you are completely lost to us, you are to know
+what you resign, and what a future you slight for the sake of your mad
+schemes."
+
+Runeck gave him a questioning glance; he evidently did not guess
+whither the words tended.
+
+"You mean----"
+
+"I mean Eric's health, which still costs me constant solicitude. Even
+if danger to his life has been averted for the present, he has not come
+back from the south cured. He will always need to be spared exertion,
+and can never perform the duties of an able-bodied man; moreover, he is
+of a soft, dependent nature, accessible to influences of all sorts. I
+cannot conceal from myself the fact that he is not qualified to fill
+the position that one day will be his, and I want, after my eyes are
+closed, to be assured of the perpetuity of the enterprise that I have
+established, and this assurance I can only have if it is left in
+powerful hands. Nominally, Eric will be my successor; virtually, it
+must be some one else--and for this I had calculated upon you, Egbert."
+
+Egbert started, and there was stamped upon his features a surprise that
+was almost painful.
+
+"On me! I am to----"
+
+"Some day guide the reins at Odensburg, when they shall drop from my
+hands," said Dernburg, finishing his sentence for him. "Of all that I
+have reared in my school, only one is of the right stuff for it, and
+now he will scatter to the winds all my plans for the future. My Maia
+is still half a child, and I cannot foresee whether her future husband
+will be fitted for such a position, ardently as I desire it. I am not
+of the number of those fools who buy for their daughters the title of
+some count or baron; I care only for the man, no matter what station he
+occupies, and from what stock he springs, provided that he has secured
+the affections of my child."
+
+He said all this slowly and with full emphasis.
+
+That was a dazzling promise, which, although unspoken, yet loomed up
+plainly enough before the young man, and which he comprehended only too
+well. His lips quivered, impulsively he drew one step nearer, and said
+with suppressed emotion:
+
+"Herr Dernburg--send me away!"
+
+Now a smile relaxed Dernburg's features, and he laid his hand upon the
+shoulder of the agitated young man.
+
+"No, my boy, I'll do no such thing. We must both make one more trial at
+getting along together. First of all, take charge of the Radefeld
+aqueduct. I'll see that you are left perfectly untrammeled. If we call
+in all available forces, we can finish by the autumn. Will you take
+hold?"
+
+Egbert was evidently battling with himself. A few seconds elapsed ere
+he answered; then he said in a low tone:
+
+"Herr Dernburg, it is a risk--for both of us!"
+
+"Possibly, but I'll adventure it with you, and I think that there is no
+such haste about your making the people happy, that you cannot ponder
+the matter for a few months longer. Meanwhile, we declare a truce. And
+now, go to Eric! I know he is dreadfully anxious as to the result of
+our conversation, and Maia, too, will be rejoiced to see you again, for
+you are always out at Radefeld these days. But to-day you are not going
+to drive out until evening, and must dine with us. Done!"
+
+He held out his hand, and Egbert silently laid his own within it. It
+was plain to see what an effect the goodness of the usually stern,
+unyielding man had had upon him, and, more yet, perhaps, the
+recognition of what he was worth to the man who thus spoke to him.
+Dernburg had adopted the right remedy, the only one that was of avail
+here. He required no promise and no sacrifice, both of which would have
+been rejected, but he showed implicit confidence in his unruly
+favorite, and in so doing disarmed him.
+
+
+
+
+                              CHAPTER IV.
+
+                            ODENSBURG MANOR.
+
+
+The Dernburg iron and steel works had a worldwide reputation, and could
+compare, indeed, with the greatest undertakings of this sort in the old
+as well as in the new world.
+
+Odensburg was situated in a wooded valley between mountains, the chief
+wealth of which consisted in its inexhaustible mines, and, a generation
+before, the father of the present proprietor had established here a
+plain foundry and iron factory, that kept growing as the years went by.
+But it had only assumed its present truly vast proportions under his
+son, who really created the present works, that were upon an
+astonishingly vast scale. He had gradually bought in all the mines and
+forges of the region round about, absorbing also all the labor at
+command, and giving to his undertakings an expansion that controlled
+the industrial life of the whole province.
+
+It required, indeed, an unusual amount of energy to devise such an
+enterprise, and then carry it on to success, but Dernburg was equal to
+the occasion. He had a whole array of engineers, technicians, and
+administrative officials; but the director, like the humblest workman,
+knew that all the reins joined in the master's hand, who decided
+everything important for himself. This master had the character of
+being stern and unbending, but likewise just, and if he was conscious
+of the whole power of his position, he had an equally high idea of its
+duties.
+
+The accommodations that he provided for his workmen were on a scale
+commensurate with the other departments of his works, and were
+everywhere pronounced to be the most excellent conceivable. They were
+only possible for a man who had millions at his disposal, and was not
+stingy with his wealth, when the welfare of his subordinates was in
+question.
+
+But in return for this, Dernburg demanded complete subjection to his
+will, and planted himself like a rock against the advent of modern
+ideas, such as that every individual has the right to follow his own
+convictions. At Odensburg, strikes, rebellion, and conflicts, such as
+are so common in other industrial establishments, were things unknown.
+It was well understood that nothing was to be gotten out of the chief
+by force, and, with their situations, the people well knew they
+lost certain provision, in the future, for themselves and their
+families,--thus all those incitements to insubordination, that were not
+lacking here either, failed to get foothold, and even if they were
+listened to here and there, came to nothing so far as actions were
+concerned.
+
+And yet this man, who was the very embodiment of strength, had an only
+son for whose life he had perpetually to tremble. From his very infancy
+Eric had been puny and delicate, and that fall into the water, caused
+by his own imprudence, brought on him a dangerous illness, that lasted
+for months. He recovered, it is true, but could never again be called a
+well man, and two years before so significant a symptom as hemorrhage
+from the lungs had appeared, which necessitated his speedy removal from
+the harsh climate of home, and a long sojourn in the South.
+
+The peculiar relation in which the youth who had saved Eric's life
+stood to the Dernburg family, had always been a matter of surprise in
+the village, and to many of envy as well. Egbert Runeck, the son of a
+workman employed in the foundry, had passed his early boyhood amid the
+plainest surroundings, and continued to move in the same sphere as his
+parents, until nearly grown. If, nevertheless, he learned more than any
+of his companions of the same age, he had, in the first place, to thank
+the excellent schools, which Dernburg had established for the children
+of his employes, and upon which he lavished uncommon care. The rarely
+endowed boy, with his unflagging diligence, had already, in earlier
+days, attracted the chief's attention, but after he had saved the life
+of his only son his future was decided. He shared Eric's lessons, was
+treated almost as a member of the family, and was finally sent to
+Berlin for the completion of his education.
+
+The Manor-house lay quite apart from the works, on an eminence that
+commanded the whole valley. It was an imposing edifice, built in good
+style, with a broad terrace, long rows of windows, and a great covered
+piazza in front, the roof of which was supported upon columns. Dotted
+here and there, ever the broad expanse of lawn and park, were monarchs
+of the forest that had been spared in clearing, the long line of wooded
+hills in the rear, with their grand old trees, forming an extremely
+effective background for the picture. It was a fair and stately abode,
+that might well have merited the name of castle, but Dernburg did not
+like it at all when they applied that designation to it, and so it was
+called in the end as in the beginning, "Odensburg Manor."
+
+The family were accustomed to spend the greatest part of the year here,
+although Dernburg possessed several other estates that were more
+beautifully situated, and he also had a residence in Berlin. But he
+never went to the capital, unless his duty as a member of the diet
+called him there; for the most part, too, he only paid short and flying
+visits to his other estates. Odensburg needed the master's hand and
+eye, and was it not the creation of his own brain? Upon this ground he
+was unlimited ruler; here his will alone held sway; here much could be
+won or lost; and therefore it had been and continued to be his favorite
+abode.
+
+There was as little to be found fault with in the family-life of the
+Dernburgs as in their outward surroundings. He and his gentle,
+shrinking wife, had been a model married couple, she being in perfect
+subjection to her domineering husband. Now his only sister, the widowed
+Frau von Ringstedt took the part of lady of the house. She had lived
+with her brother for a good many years, and tried to make up to his
+children for the loss of their mother, who had died young.
+
+It was towards the end of April, but the weather was still cold and
+uncomfortable. In the South, for two months already Spring had
+gladdened the earth with her wealth of bloom, but here, at the North,
+buds and leaves even now hardly dared to burst their sheaths, and a
+gray, cloud-covered sky spanned the somber, dark green foliage of the
+fir-trees.
+
+Guests were expected at the Manor to-day. The curtains to the
+guest-chambers of the upper story were put far back, and the little
+parlor belonging to that suite of rooms had a festal air. Everywhere
+bloomed flowers, dispensing their sweet odors around; sweet,
+bright-hued children of Spring, that to be sure, even now had to be
+grown in hot-houses, decorated in lavish profusion the room evidently
+destined for a lady.
+
+Two ladies were in it at this very moment, also. One, the younger,
+was amusing herself with teasing a little, soft, white Spitz dog, that
+she incessantly egged on to bark and jump, while the other lady
+surveyed the parlor with a critical eye, here straightening a chair,
+there pushing a curtain back, and once more arranging the pretty
+writing-materials on the desk.
+
+"Must you always have that pug about you, Maia?" said she
+discontentedly. "He puts everything out of order, and just now came
+very near dragging off the table the vase of flowers as well as the
+cloth."
+
+"I did lock him up, but he got out and ran after me," cried Maia.
+"Down, Puck. You must be good. Miss Friedberg says positively you
+must."
+
+She laughingly called him, and, at the same time, cut at the little
+beast, with her pocket handkerchief, that, of course tried to catch
+hold of the handkerchief with loud barking. Miss Friedberg shuddered
+nervously and heaved a sigh.
+
+"And do you call these the manners of a grown-up young lady! I felt
+obliged recently to complain to Herr Dernburg, and tell him that
+nothing was to be done with you. You will not be anything but the
+veriest child, and, if possible, exceed Puck himself in playing all
+manner of monkey-tricks. Tell me, if you ever intend to be earnest and
+rational?"
+
+"Not for a long while, I hope," declared Maia. "Everything is so
+horribly earnest and rational at Odensburg already. Papa, aunt, you,
+Miss Leona, and lately Eric has been intolerable, too, sighing and
+longing after his lady-love from morning to night. And am I, too, to be
+made rational? But we do not like that, do we, Puck? We, at least, want
+to be merry." And so saying, she seized Puck by the fore-paws, and made
+him dance on his hind-legs, although he gave unmistakable signs of
+displeasure.
+
+Maia Dernburg, who objected so emphatically to being rational, was
+evidently in the first bloom of young girlhood, not being a day over
+seventeen years of age. She was one of those creatures, at sight of
+whom the heart bounds, and who gladden the beholder as does bright
+sunshine. Her lovely face, that bore only a very remote likeness to her
+brother, beamed in the rosy freshness of youth and health, and her
+beautiful brown eyes had nothing mysterious about them like Eric's,
+They shone clear and bright, dimmed by no shadow in the world. Her fair
+hair, that glistened like gold, when the sun's rays struck it, only
+confined by a ribbon, fell in rich curls over her shoulders, while a
+few tiny ringlets, that would not submit to be bound, enhanced greatly
+the beauty of her brow. Her features were still half child-like, and
+the delicate, pretty figure had apparently not yet attained its full
+height; but this very thing gave to the young girl an unspeakable
+charm.
+
+Miss Leona Friedberg, the governess of the young daughter of the
+house, who still filled an office that was by no means a sinecure,
+although, properly speaking, Maia's education was finished, was about
+five-and-thirty years old, and, although no longer young, had an
+attractive appearance: a slight, delicate form, with dark hair and eyes
+and a somewhat languid expression upon the pale but pleasant features.
+She responded to the rash remark of her pupil with a shrug of the
+shoulders, and then cast a searching look through the room.
+
+"There, now we are ready! But you have been too extravagant with your
+flowers; Maia, the perfume is almost intoxicating."
+
+"Oh! a promised bride must have flowers showered upon her! Cecilia is
+to find her future home beautiful, and flowers are the only things,
+with which we can welcome her. Papa will not hear of a grand reception
+taking place."
+
+"Of course, since the betrothal is to be publicly announced first from
+here."
+
+"And then there is to be a betrothal-party and a grand, grand wedding!"
+shouted Maia. "Oh! I am so curious to see Eric's betrothed. She must be
+beautiful, very beautiful. Eric is continually raving over her to me;
+but he does behave so comically as a love-sick swain. He never has a
+bright day now, because he is always dreaming of his Cecilia. Sometimes
+papa gets seriously vexed over it, and yesterday he said to me: 'You
+will behave more sensibly, my little Maia, when you are engaged, will
+you not?' Of course I shall: I'll be a model of good sense, I will!"
+
+And to prove this incontestably, she took Puck in her arms, and whirled
+about the room with him, like a spinning-top.
+
+"Oh yes! that is very likely!" cried Miss Leona, indignantly. "Maia,
+once more, I beseech you not to behave like a wild tom-boy, when your
+new connections come. What are the Baroness Wildenrod and her brother
+to think of your bringing-up, if they see a young lady almost seventeen
+years old behaving in that wild, hoydenish manner."
+
+Maia, meanwhile, had finished her round dance and let loose her Puck,
+and now seated herself in a ceremonious manner, before her governess.
+
+"I shall behave so as to satisfy the most fastidious, for I know
+the points thoroughly. Miss Wilson she tutored me: that English
+governess, you know, with the sallow face, turned-up nose, and no end
+of learning--do not look so provoked, Miss Leona, I am not talking
+about you!--Miss Wilson was really very tiresome, but I learned to
+curtesy as they do at court from her anyhow, look, so!" She made a low
+and solemn reverence. "You see I shall make an impression upon my
+future sister-in-law with my fine manners, and then I shall fall upon
+her neck and kiss her so and so;" and with this she overwhelmed the
+unsuspecting lady with impetuous caresses.
+
+"But, Maia, you will choke me to death," cried the horrified lady,
+freeing herself with some difficulty. "Why, dear me, it is striking
+twelve already! We must go down. I shall only cast one more glance into
+the chamber, to see if all there is in order."
+
+She left the parlor, and Maia fluttered down the steps like a
+butterfly, Puck bounding after her, as a matter of course. The
+dwelling-rooms of the family were in the lower story; there the
+large reception hall was likewise decorated, in honor of the expected
+guests with tall laurel, and orange-trees and the whole flora, of the
+hot-houses. There stood a young man, who seemed to be waiting for
+somebody, who, upon seeing the young lady of the house, made a very low
+and reverential bow. Maia bestowed upon him a casual nod.
+
+"Good-day, Herr Hagenbach. Is the doctor here too?"
+
+"He is, and at your service, Miss Dernburg," answered the person
+interrogated, with a second bow just as low. "My uncle is with your
+father, laying before him the week's report of the infirmary, and I--I
+am waiting here for him--with your most gracious permission."
+
+"Oh, yes, you have my permission," said Maia, highly amused at this
+overstrained reverence, while Puck eyed, with somewhat critical
+glances, the stranger whose plaid pantaloons seemed to excite his
+displeasure.
+
+Herr Hagenbach was a very young man, with exceedingly light hair, and
+exceedingly pale blue eyes, and a timid, awkward gait. The meeting
+evidently threw him into great embarrassment, for he reddened and
+stammered considerably. Nevertheless, he seemed to feel the necessity
+of showing himself versed in the usages of society, for several times
+he made the effort to speak in vain, and finally succeeded in getting
+out the words:
+
+"May--may I venture to ask after your health, Miss Dernburg?"
+
+"I thank you, my health is perfectly good," answered Maia, the corners
+of whose mouth began to twitch.
+
+"I am exceedingly glad to hear it," asseverated the young man. He had
+really purposed to say something else, something intellectual,
+important, but nothing, alas! occurred to him, and so he continued:
+
+"I cannot tell you how delighted I am to hear it, and I hope Madam von
+Ringstedt is well, too."
+
+Maia, with difficulty suppressed a laugh, while she answered his
+question in the affirmative. Herr Hagenbach, who was still on his vain
+chase after the witty remark, meanwhile persisting convulsively in
+inquiring after the health of every member of the family, then asked
+for the third time: "And young Herr Dernburg----"
+
+"Has gone to the railroad station," wound up Maia, who could no longer
+restrain her merriment. "You may be easy as to the condition of my
+brother, however, and of my father, as well--the whole family thank you
+for your extraordinary kindness in asking after our health."
+
+Herr Hagenbach's embarrassment increased perceptibly. In his confusion
+he bowed down before Puck, who was still devoting his attention to the
+plaid pantaloons, and tried to stroke him, while he remarked: "What a
+dear little doggie!"
+
+The dear little doggie, however, showed himself very unappreciative of
+this caress, and darted, with a loud bark, at the legs of the young man
+who jumped back, but Puck sprang after and stuck his teeth into the gay
+trousers. The person attacked, who did not dare to drive away the young
+lady's dog, took refuge behind the tub of flowers, at his heels his
+pursuer, who now aimed his attack at his legs, while Maia, instead of
+calling off the dog, was highly amused at the scene.
+
+Fortunately help now came from a different direction. Out of the door
+leading to Dernburg's apartments, stepped an elderly gentleman, who,
+without further ceremony, seized the still yelping Spitz by the nape of
+his woolly neck, and lifted him up, while he said fretfully,
+
+"Why did you not defend yourself, Dagobert? Were you going to let him
+tear your pantaloons off you? Puck is such an artful little rascal!"
+
+Dagobert, all out of breath, stood under a laurel-tree, looking greatly
+relieved--and now Maia also came forward.
+
+"Let go the evil-doer, do, Dr. Hagenbach. There would really have been
+no risk to your nephew's life. In the whole course of the one year of
+Puck's life he has never torn a single man to pieces."
+
+"It is enough to make a dead-set at pantaloons, especially when they
+are such magnificent ones as the pair that has just been imperiled,"
+answered Doctor Hagenbach pleasantly, as he set down the tiny,
+struggling creature. "A good-day to you, Miss Maia! No need to ask
+after your health, I perceive."
+
+"No, indeed, it has certainly been sufficiently asked after, for one
+day," protested the young lady, with a saucy look at Dagobert. She took
+her little dog upon her arm and caused it to make a comical bow.
+
+"Beg pardon, Puck, and promise that you will not do it again.
+Good-morning, gentlemen, I must go to papa as fast as ever I can." And
+with a careless salutation she flew off to her father's rooms.
+
+Dr. Hagenbach, the surgeon for the works and Dernburg family-physician,
+was a man of forty-five or forty-six years, whose hair already began to
+be tinged with gray here and there, and whose figure tended to rather
+too much fullness, was, on the whole a fine-looking man, the perfect
+counterpart of the nephew to whom he now turned.
+
+"You have played the part of a veritable hero, to be sure!" mocked he.
+"That ungovernable little thing only wanted to play, and you to run
+away!"
+
+"I did not want to treat the young lady's pet roughly," explained
+Dagobert, solicitously examining his pantaloons, that fortunately had
+not been damaged. The uncle silently shrugged his shoulders.
+
+"We shall hardly be able to make the visit to-day to Miss Friedberg,"
+said he then. "As I just learned, they are expecting the party from
+Nice in about an hour, and the whole house is upset, preparing to
+receive them. But since we are here, I'll make the attempt, anyhow, to
+speak with the lady; you meanwhile can be recovering composure, both as
+to the outward and inner man."
+
+He mounted the stairs, and at the top met the governess, who had just
+come out of the parlor. Almost daily she saw the doctor, who, for long
+years, had stood upon a very friendly footing with the Dernburg family,
+nevertheless, there was a perceptible reserve in her manner as she
+returned his greeting. Hagenbach seemed not to remark this, he asked
+lightly after her health, listening in the same way to her answer, and
+then said:
+
+"I had an especial reason for calling upon you, Miss Friedberg. The
+time is badly chosen, it is true, for apparently you, too, are
+engrossed by the coming reception of the expected guests, but my
+request can be made in a few minutes, so permit me to lay it before
+you, just as we stand."
+
+"You have a request to make of me?" asked Leona, with cool surprise.
+"Actually?"
+
+"You think I can do nothing but give orders and write prescriptions, I
+suppose. Yes, Miss Friedberg, it is the physician's right, he must
+preserve his authority under all circumstances, especially when he has
+to do with so-called _nervous_ patients."
+
+He emphasized the word, in a way that evidently provoked his hearer,
+for she replied tartly:
+
+"Why, I believe your authority remains undisputed, security is given
+for that by your very considerate manner of ensuring obedience."
+
+"Even as--I know patients upon whom all love's labors are lost,"
+replied Hagenbach composedly. "But--now to the errand that brought me
+here. You know my nephew, who has been three weeks at Odensburg?"
+
+"Yes, indeed, your brother's son. The young man has no longer any
+parents?"
+
+"No, he is a double orphan, and I am his guardian, having, indeed, to
+charge myself entirely with his future, for his parents were so
+unmindful of their duty as not to leave him a single penny. They
+thought very likely that I, as a confirmed old bachelor, might need an
+heir."
+
+Leona's countenance plainly betrayed that she thought this mode of
+expressing himself very indelicate; the doctor saw this, too, but
+disturbed himself not in the least about it, but continued in the same
+tone:
+
+"Dagobert has gone through the gymnasium, and also passed the
+examination for admission to college, with much groaning, to be sure,
+for he is not a specially clear-headed fellow. Now he looks wretchedly
+from sitting so steadily at his books and drudging. Only think, the
+fellow is nervous, too, or at least fancies himself to be so, therefore
+I have undertaken to cure him. I'll teach him to forget that he has
+nerves."
+
+"Then I only hope the young man will survive the cure," said the lady
+sharply. "You love heroic measures, doctor?"
+
+"When they are in place, certainly. As for the rest I shall not put an
+end to my nephew, as you seem to fear. He is to spend the summer over
+here and take a good rest ere he enters the high school. If the fellow
+has nothing at all to do, he will fall into folly of various kinds, so
+he may as well learn a little about languages, modern languages I mean.
+They have drilled him sufficiently in Latin and Greek, but he seems to
+know very little French and English, and so I wanted to inquire if you
+would give him a little help in this, you speak both fluently, I hear."
+
+"If Mr. Dernburg has no objection----"
+
+"Mr. Dernburg is agreed. I have just spoken with him on the
+subject--the only question is, whether you are willing. I know, indeed,
+that I am not much in your favor----"
+
+"Pray do not go on, doctor," coolly interposed the lady. "I am very
+glad that you give me an opportunity to prove my gratitude for the
+medical advice that you have given me several times."
+
+"Yes, in your 'nervous' attacks. Very well, the matter's settled.
+Dagobert, boy, where are you hiding? Come up!" He shouted these last
+words down the steps in a very peremptory tone.
+
+Leona fairly shrank and said disapprovingly: "You treat the young man
+exactly as if he were a schoolboy."
+
+"Am I to put on more than usual ceremony with the youth? He would
+evidently like to take the part of a man in society--and at the same
+time he blushes and stammers as soon as he addresses a stranger. Well,
+there you are, Dagobert! This lady is going to have the goodness to
+take you as a pupil. Return your thanks!"
+
+Again Dagobert made an uncommonly low and reverential bow--he seemed to
+have made a regular study of it--again blushed and began:
+
+"I am very grateful to the lady--I am perfectly delighted--I cannot
+begin to say, how glad I am----" There he stuck fast, but Leona came to
+the help of his embarrassment, and turned to him kindly:
+
+"I am not going to be a strict teacher, and I think we shall get on
+nicely together, Herr Hagenbach."
+
+"Call him simply 'Dagobert,'" interrupted the doctor in his reckless
+way. "He has such an odd name though."
+
+"Have you any objection to make to his name. I think it very pretty."
+
+"I am not at all of that way of thinking," declared Hagenbach, without
+observing the deeply injured mien of his nephew. "By rights, he should
+have been named Peter, for that is my name, and I am his godfather. But
+that was not poetical enough for my sister-in-law, and so she fell upon
+Dagobert. Dagobert Hagenbach--there is a jaw-breaker for you!"
+
+A smile, unmistakably derisive, played about Leona's lips, as she
+replied: "In that case your sister-in-law was undoubtedly right. The
+name Peter has not only poetry opposed to it."
+
+"What objection have you to make to it?" cried the doctor irritably,
+while he straightened himself up, ready for combat. "Peter is a good
+name, a famous name, a Bible name. I should think the Apostle Peter
+would have been a fine enough man."
+
+"But, you have only the quarrelsomeness of the Apostle--nothing else,"
+remarked Leona cheerfully. "So, Herr Hagenbach, I shall look for you
+to-morrow afternoon, when we shall settle upon the time and plan of
+instruction. It will give me pleasure to push you forward as much as
+possible."
+
+The shy Dagobert seemed very agreeably touched by this friendliness,
+and had just begun again to assure her that he was extremely glad,
+etc., when his uncle interposed, in a highly ungracious mood:
+
+"We have detained the lady long enough. Come, Dagobert, else we'll be
+caught, and figure as unbidden guests at the family reunion."
+
+So saying, he and his nephew took their leave. As they went downstairs
+the latter adventured the remark: "Fraeulein Friedberg is a very amiable
+lady."
+
+"But nervous and eccentric," growled Hagenbach. "Cannot bear the name
+Peter. Why not, I wonder? Had your lamented parents baptized you Peter,
+you would have been another sort of a fellow! But so, you look like a
+girl with the green-sickness, that was dubbed Dagobert by mistake!"
+
+He placed a very contemptuous emphasis upon the name. Meanwhile, they
+had left the house, and now emerged upon the terrace, where they met
+Egbert Runeck. The doctor was for passing him by with a short, very
+formal salutation, but the young engineer stood still and said:
+
+"I have just been to your house, doctor, to solicit your help. One of
+my workmen, through heedlessness, has come by a hurt. It is not
+dangerous, so far as I can judge, but medical aid is necessary. I have
+brought him to Odensburg and left him in the hospital. Let me commend
+him to your particular attention."
+
+"I shall see after him immediately," replied Hagenbach. "Are you on
+your way to the Manor, Herr Runeck? They are just now expecting the
+party from Nice, and Herr Dernburg will hardly----"
+
+"I know," interposed Runeck. "It was on that very account that I came
+in from Radefeld. Good-morning, doctor!" He bowed and went on his way.
+Hagenbach looked after him, then struck his cane hard upon the ground,
+and said in a low tone:
+
+"That is going it strong!"
+
+"Did you notice, uncle, that he wore a dress-suit under his overcoat,"
+remarked Dagobert. "He is specially invited."
+
+"It would really seem so!" ejaculated the doctor wrathfully. "Invited
+too, to this reception, which was to be strictly confined to the limits
+of the family circle.--Strange things happen at Odensburg!"
+
+"And all Odensburg is talking about it too," said Dagobert, under
+his breath, looking cautiously around. "There is only one voice of
+fault-finding and regret over this incredible weakness of Herr
+Dernburg, for----"
+
+"What do you know about it, saucebox?" continued the doctor. "At
+Odensburg nobody either finds fault with the chief or presumes to
+regret what he does--they simply obey him. Herr Dernburg always knows
+what he is about, and is not going to make any mistake in this case,
+either, unless his _protege_ should, perchance, disappoint him. He too
+is one bent on having his own way, like his lord and master, and when
+steel and stone meet there are sparks. But, now, make haste and get
+home, for I must be seeing after the Radefeld workman."
+
+So saying, he took the path to the infirmary, and dismissed his nephew,
+who was evidently rejoiced to be rid of his tyrannical uncle.
+
+
+
+
+                               CHAPTER V.
+
+                             A VICTORY WON.
+
+
+Runeck had gone into the house and there met Miss Friedberg, who was
+just coming downstairs. Here, too, his salutation was not exactly
+received with cordiality, and the young lady drew three steps back and
+cast a pleading look around, which, in response, brought a somewhat
+derisive smile to the lips of the young engineer, as, with the greatest
+possible politeness, he inquired whether Herr Dernburg was in his
+office.
+
+The lady was saved an answer, for, at that instant the door opened and
+Dernburg himself appeared with his daughter, who immediately came
+forward to meet Runeck and greeted him with the most unaffected
+cordiality.
+
+"Is that you at last, Egbert? We thought you would miss the reception,
+we are expecting the carriage every minute."
+
+"I was detained by an accident," answered Egbert, "and moreover had to
+drive very slowly, since I had a wounded man with me, else I should
+have been here long ago."
+
+He stepped up to Dernburg and reported the case to him; while Miss
+Friedberg, who had looked on with real horror at Maia's friendliness
+with the engineer, now whispered to her pupil:
+
+"But, Maia, what unbecoming familiarity--you are no longer a child now!
+How often have I implored you to remember your years and your position.
+Must I really have to appeal to your father's authority?"
+
+Maia paid no heed to this lecture, not the first one which had been
+delivered to her on this subject, but waited impatiently until Runeck
+had gotten through with his report. Dernburg had himself accurately
+informed as to the nature of the hurt, and seemed satisfied when he
+heard that it was not dangerous, and that the surgeon had already been
+called in; finally he let Egbert off, who now turned to the young girl.
+
+"You hear, Miss Maia, it was not my fault that I am late, so you must
+not be angry with me for it."
+
+"I am very angry with you, though, for insisting upon calling me
+'Miss,' as long as we have lived in the same house!" cried Maia,
+seeming to be highly wrought up. "I'll not stand it, Egbert, do you
+hear, I will not, indeed."
+
+She stamped her little foot and pouted charmingly, while her governess
+darted a shocked glance at the master of the house. It was high time
+for him to interpose his authority, since hers had failed so
+ignominiously. But Dernburg appeared not at all to share her
+sentiments, for he said with perfect composure:
+
+"Well, if Maia insists upon it, you must let her have her way, Egbert!
+You are one of our family, you know."
+
+Miss Friedberg did not trust her own ears--the permission of such a
+liberty appeared so monstrous to her, that she gathered up her forces
+for resistance.
+
+"Herr Dernburg, I think----"
+
+"What, Miss Friedberg?"
+
+His question was only a short one, spoken quite composedly, but the
+governess instantly lost her desire to continue her opposition.
+
+"I think that we had better station a servant on the terrace to let us
+know the moment the young gentleman's carriage comes in sight."
+
+"You are right, pray give orders to that effect," said Dernburg: "but I
+think we had better go in now, for Eric may be belated likewise."
+
+He moved towards the parlor, Maia with him, but she archly looked back
+over her shoulder.
+
+"You have heard your orders, Master Engineer Runeck, and you are to
+obey on the spot, I tell you!"
+
+There was such a pretty playfulness in her tone and gesture, that even
+the grave Egbert was thawed by it, and answered with pleasant raillery.
+
+Maia was as full of glee as a child over this victory, that put so
+effectually to flight the shy reserve of this friend of her youth, and
+Dernburg smiled at it. There was an expression of tenderness rarely
+seen upon his stern features, as he looked upon the bright and lovely
+creature at his side. It was plain to see that Maia was his favorite,
+and that she was closer to his heart than her brother.
+
+The patience of the expectant group was not put to too severe a test,
+for they had hardly waited a quarter of an hour, before the
+announcement was made that the carriage was in sight, and the grand
+folding-doors of the entrance hall were flung wide open. There stood
+Dernburg with his sister, a dignified old lady rather stiff in her
+bearing, Maia at their side, all joy and expectation, while Egbert and
+the governess stayed back in the house.
+
+Now the carriage approached, a half-covered landau drawn by a
+magnificent pair of bays, and halted in front of the terrace. The
+servant opened the carriage-door. Eric was the first to jump out and
+help his betrothed to alight, while behind them the tall form of the
+Baron became visible.
+
+Dernburg had taken one step forward and stood erect on the threshold of
+his house. His demeanor betrayed all the pride of the commoner about to
+receive the youthful representative of a long line of noble ancestry,
+all the self-satisfaction of a man who has climbed aloft through the
+exertion of his individual force. It was he, who did an honor to the
+Baroness Wildenrod, when he received her into the bosom of his family.
+
+Cecilia bowed lightly, with the grace peculiar to her, when Eric
+presented her to his father. She had thrown back her veil and now
+lifted her eyes to that stern countenance, which, however, had no
+terrors for her. She knew too well the witchery of her own presence,
+and here too it failed not of its effect. Youth and beauty make easy
+conquest of even cold and critical age. To be sure Dernburg's glance
+for a few seconds, scrutinized her features keenly and questioningly,
+but then he stooped down and kissed her brow.
+
+"Welcome to my house, my dear," said he, earnestly, but kindly.
+
+Eric secretly drew a breath of relief. With those words his father's
+opposition was given up. Cecilia had been received and recognized by
+him as a daughter: here, too, she had conquered by her mere appearance!
+He recognized this with joyful pride.
+
+Frau von Ringstedt followed her brother's example and welcomed the
+young Baroness with simple cordiality. Wildenrod, meanwhile, exchanged
+greetings with the master of the house, while Maia was wholly taken up
+with admiration of her beautiful sister that was to be. She forgot
+entirely the courtesy, that she had practiced so dutifully, and,
+instead, impetuously threw her arms around her neck, with the
+exclamation:
+
+"Oh, Cecilia, I never imagined that you were so beautiful!"
+
+Cecilia smiled, accustomed as she was to compliments and flattery of
+all sorts, nevertheless, this artless, childish confession delighted
+her, and with a gush of real tenderness she kissed "that sweet little
+Maia," of whom she had heard Eric talk so much.
+
+"You have showered so many kind attentions upon my sister, dear young
+lady," suddenly said a deep but sonorous voice, "that I indulge the
+hope that I too may obtain a friendly greeting."
+
+Maia turned around and looked into a pair of deep, dark eyes, that
+rested upon her countenance, with an expression that affected her
+strangely, almost painfully, and yet she felt that there was admiration
+written there. Yet she shrank from that gaze with a slight shudder,
+something like a bodeful feeling of dread taking hold upon her, and her
+voice had not its usual joyous, saucy sound, when she replied, half
+interrogatively:
+
+"Herr von Wildenrod?"
+
+"Yes, it is Oscar von Wildenrod, who begs to be allowed to shake hands
+with the young lady of the house."
+
+There was some reproof implied in these words. It was very true that
+Maia had not yet offered her hand to this man, who was soon to be a
+connection of the family, but now she extended it with hesitation, and
+a timidity that was something entirely new to her. Wildenrod stooped
+down and pressed his lips to it. This was but a common piece of
+courtesy, and yet the young girl trembled at the contact, while her
+eyes were spell-bound at the same time, by that gaze which seemed to
+exercise a mysterious charm upon her.
+
+Dernburg now offered his arm to the young Baroness, to escort her in,
+the Baron stepped up to Frau von Ringstedt, while Maia, with a quick
+movement, took her brother's arm. Eric was in the happiest of moods,
+and pressed gratefully and tenderly the hand of the sister, who had
+received his betrothed with so much affection.
+
+"Does Cecilia please you, then?" he asked. "Have I told you too much
+about her?"
+
+"Oh, no, she is far, far prettier than her picture. She is just my idea
+of the princess in a fairy tale."
+
+"And what do you think of my future brother-in-law? A chivalrous
+looking fellow, is he not, although he is far from being young?"
+
+"I do not know," said Maia, slowly and reflectively. "He has such
+singular eyes--so deep and dark--almost evil-looking."
+
+"Little simpleton, I verily believe you are afraid of him," laughed
+Eric. "That does not look like our high-spirited little Maia, and Oscar
+will not be much edified by this first impression of his character. But
+you must get better acquainted with him first; he is excellent company,
+and a really brilliant conversationalist."
+
+Maia did not answer forthwith. Afraid? Why, yes, what she had felt was
+very like fear, but she was already very much ashamed of this childish
+feeling, and darted an extremely ungracious look at the Baron, who was
+walking just in front of her with her aunt. All her audacity came back
+to her, and tossing her head she called out, laughingly:
+
+"Oh, I shall have to learn what the sensation of fear is, like the hero
+in the fairy tale."
+
+                           *   *   *   *   *
+
+The weather, that had looked threatening in the forenoon, had now
+became much worse. The mountains were veiled in thick fog, from time to
+time showers of rain fell, and the wind howled in the trees of the
+park.
+
+It was so much the more comfortable in the large parlor of the
+Manor-house, a vast room with lofty ceiling, richly draped and
+upholstered in dark crimson, with carved oak furniture, and a huge
+fireplace faced with black marble. The colors might have been regarded
+as rather dark, but through the wide glass doors that opened upon the
+terrace, broad light streamed in. Only a few, but choice, pictures
+adorned the walls, and some family portraits. In the fireplace burned a
+bright fire and the whole room gave the impression of solid wealth and
+perfect comfort.
+
+They had just risen from table and the younger members of the family
+seated themselves by the fireside and engaged in lively chat: Frau von
+Ringstedt sat upon a sofa in the corner with Miss Friedberg, and the
+master of the house was absorbed in serious conversation with Oscar von
+Wildenrod. They were talking of the Odensburg works, in which the Baron
+showed not only an uncommon interest, but his questions and remarks
+also demonstrated, that he was by no means so little versed in such
+matters as Dernburg had imagined, and he had just said:
+
+"I had no idea, that you were so familiar with all these things, Herr
+von Wildenrod. Such work as ours generally has no charm outside of the
+profession. But you seem to be well acquainted with all its bearings."
+
+"I have read a great deal about it," lightly answered Wildenrod. "One
+who, like myself, has no regular profession undertakes little private
+studies, and I have always had a fancy for mining and the manufactory
+of iron. My knowledge, to be sure, represents only the superficial
+observations of an amateur. Perhaps you will allow me to perfect them
+here, in some degree?"
+
+"It will give me pleasure to act as your guide myself, in this
+pursuit," said Dernburg warmly. "In your ride, you only touched upon a
+small section of the works, but from the terrace, here, one has quite a
+comprehensive view of the whole."
+
+He opened one of the glass doors and stepped out with his guest. The
+mist had not yet disappeared, but the works that stretched along as far
+as to the foot of the mountain-chain, and the teaming life astir there
+that pressed up to the very Manor itself, lost nothing of its grandeur
+on that account, which might have struck a stranger as well-nigh
+overpowering. It did seem to have made this impression upon the Baron
+too, for his eyes turned slowly from one end of the valley to the
+other, while he remarked:
+
+"A mighty creation is this Odensburg! Why, you have caused to spring up
+here a regular city, in the solitude of mountains and forests. Those
+huge buildings there that tower aloft in the center, are----"
+
+"Those are the cylinders and foundries: yonder, farther on, are the
+forges."
+
+"And those grounds to the right, that look almost like a colony of
+villas?"
+
+"Those are the residences of our officers; the workmen's homes lie on
+the other side. To be sure I have only been able to accommodate the
+very smallest number in Odensburg, the most of them living about in the
+adjoining villages."
+
+"I know, Eric showed me as we rode along. How many workmen, exactly, do
+you employ, Herr Dernburg?"
+
+"Nine thousand here in the works: the mines up in the mountains have
+their own force of laborers, and their own officers."
+
+Wildenrod looked at the man, who, with such perfect composure and
+evidently through no impulse of vanity, unfolded before him the
+description of a power and wealth that would have made any other man
+dizzy. Each one of those mines and furnaces, that he mentioned so
+casually, represented a fortune: of his other estates, that ranked
+among the richest in the province, he spoke not at all. And moreover,
+there was not the slightest trace of boasting in his words, he simply
+gave information asked for, nothing further. The Baron leaned against
+the stone parapet and looked out again, then he said slowly:
+
+"I had already heard a great deal of your Odensburg from Eric and
+others, but to form a conception of the magnificence of the scale upon
+which the enterprise is planned one must see it with his own eyes. It
+must be an intoxicating feeling to know one's self to be the absolute
+ruler of such a world, and to be able to put ten thousand men in motion
+by a single word."
+
+"It took me thirty years to reach that point," answered Dernburg
+coolly. "He who has had to battle for every victory won, and mount
+upward step by step, is not the one to be intoxicated by success. There
+is many a heavy burden to bear, too, which you, Herr von Wildenrod
+would hardly take upon yourself. The management of the property
+inherited from your father was a load that you shook off."
+
+There was a certain asperity in these last words, that was understood,
+too, but Wildenrod evinced no sensitiveness, he quietly answered:
+
+"You mean to reproach me for the course I took Herr Dernburg----"
+
+"Not so; what right would I have to do such a thing? Every man's life
+cannot be shaped after the same model. The one seeks his happiness in
+work, the other----"
+
+"In idling, do you think?"
+
+"In the enjoyments of life, I wanted to say."
+
+"Nevertheless I expressed your thought, and alas! I must own that you
+are right. But I never was attracted by activity on any but a large
+scale, and my inheritance was no vast estate adequate to bring this
+impulse into play. I could not bear to bury myself in barren monotony
+of every-day country life, in the wearisome round of a management that
+any good overseer could conduct as well as myself. I was not made for
+that sort of thing."
+
+"Why, then, did you not stay in the diplomatic service?" remarked
+Dernburg. "Certainly there was a field commensurate with the widest
+ambition."
+
+It was an expression of unspeakable bitterness that curled Wildenrod's
+lips at this question, to be sure only for a second, when he quietly
+replied:
+
+"Personal considerations were to blame. I had had disagreements with
+the chief of the bureau, believed myself slighted and overlooked, hence
+rashly broke my supposed chains, in a fit of sensitiveness. I was still
+young at that time, and the wide world with its dreams of a golden
+future, attracted me irresistibly--how the prospect changes, with the
+lapse of time! I have long since felt that my life lacked serious
+purpose and will feel this yet more sensibly after Cecilia leaves me.
+Deep dissatisfaction results from leading such an existence."
+
+"For which you have to bear the sole responsibility, yourself," said
+Dernburg gravely. "You are still in the enjoyment of a full manly
+vigor, you have an independent fortune--Only come to a resolve."
+
+"Quite right, a resolve is what is needed, and yet that is precisely
+what I have not been able to make up my mind to. To me toil and
+industry ever presented themselves under the image of what was small
+and wearisome. Here, in sight of your Odensburg, I comprehend for the
+first time, what a power lies in it, and what incredible results it can
+achieve. That could stir me up too, engage my every power, I admit.
+Will you kindly afford 'the idler,' Herr Dernburg, a deeper insight
+into your world of work? Perhaps he may yet profit by the lesson."
+
+There was something uncommonly winning in this request and the whole
+manner of the Baron, and Dernburg was very agreeably impressed by this
+candor. His hitherto rather cool civility gave way now to a warmer
+tone, as he answered:
+
+"I shall be delighted if Odensburg gives you such lessons. I indeed
+have had to plow my way through all the pettiness and weariness of
+routine. If I had not bestirred head and arms, probably the simple
+forge bequeathed me by my father, would still be standing here--but
+then, everybody need not handle a spade with one's own hands. If
+everybody only does something, and fills the place allotted him in life
+that is the main thing after all."
+
+
+
+
+                              CHAPTER VI.
+
+                 TO WHICH MORE THAN ONE CHARMER CHARMS.
+
+
+In the parlors, meanwhile, Cecilia formed the center of the group drawn
+up around the fireplace. She could be very amiable when she pleased,
+and her young sister-in-law was perfectly enchanted by her, while Eric
+who, to-day in general, had neither eyes nor ears for any one but his
+betrothed, hardly stirred from her side. Only Egbert Runeck took no
+part in the conversation. He looked out upon the terrace where those
+two gentlemen were engaged in such lively conversation, and then again
+his eyes rested upon the young Baroness; but in doing so his brow
+contracted almost threateningly.
+
+"No, Eric, you need not try to persuade me that there ever is any
+spring here in your fatherland," exclaimed Cecilia laughing. "On the
+Riviera flowers have been blooming and diffusing sweet odors for months
+past; but since we have crossed the Alps, we have had nothing but
+storms and cold. And now, to crown all, this ride to Odensburg!
+Everywhere wintry wastes, nothing but the melancholy green of these
+everlasting fir-forests, besides mist and clouds and, for a change,
+sleety rain! Dear me! how I freeze in your cold, gray Germany."
+
+She shivered, every movement she made, somehow adding charms to her
+naive beauty, and then turned to the fire:
+
+"In your Germany?" repeated Eric with tender reproach in his tone.
+"But, Cecilia, it is your Germany as well!"
+
+"Of course it is, but I always have to put myself in mind, before I can
+realize that I am actually a child of this hateful North, where I am
+such a total stranger. I was hardly eight years old, when my father
+died, and two years later I lost my mother also. Then I was carried
+first to relations in Austria, and later to Lausanne, where I went to
+boarding-school. When I grew up, Oscar took me away, and since then we
+have lived mostly in the South. At Rome and Naples, the Riviera and
+Florence, in Switzerland, too, we have been a few times, and once in
+France. But Germany we have never come near!"
+
+"Poor Cecilia! so you have never had a home!" cried Maia,
+compassionately.
+
+Cecilia looked at her in great astonishment; such a life of vanity as
+she had led, continually changing both her society and surroundings
+seemed to her the only enviable one.
+
+Home! That was quite a novel idea to her. Her eyes took a hasty survey
+of the parlor where they sat--yes, indeed, it wore an entirely
+different air from the gay and yet commonplace hotel-apartments, in
+which she had been living for years.
+
+Those rich dark tapestries and curtains, that oaken furniture, every
+piece of which had an artistic value--the family portraits on the
+walls, and above all the breath of comfort that pervaded the whole!
+But, on the other hand, all this appeared so somber and dark, in the
+light of this gray, rainy day--as grave as all the people here, with
+the solitary exception of Maia--and the spoilt child of the world
+inwardly shuddered at the thought of her bridegroom's "home."
+
+"Do you really and truly spend the largest part of the year here at
+Odensburg?" asked she. "It must be very monotonous. You have such a
+handsome residence in Berlin, as Eric has told me, and you hardly spend
+two months in the winter there. I do not understand it."
+
+"My father think he has no time to move around the world," said Maia,
+in a wholly unembarrassed manner--"and I have only been a few times to
+the Baths with my aunt and governess. I like it here at Odensburg."
+
+"Maia has not been introduced into society yet," explained Eric. "She
+is to come out next winter, for the first time, for she has completed
+her seventeenth year. Until now little sister has always had to stay up
+in the nursery, even when we had a large reception at home; and as to
+city life, she knows nothing of it whatever."
+
+"I went into society when I was sixteen," remarked Cecilia. "Poor Maia,
+to think of their keeping you waiting so long--it is incomprehensible?"
+
+The young girl laughed merrily at being the object of such genuine
+commiseration.
+
+"Oh, I do not consider that as such a great misfortune, for then I must
+'behave' myself as Miss Friedberg calls it, must be so dreadfully prim
+and staid, and no longer dance around with Puck--why, Puck! I do
+believe you have gone to sleep in broad daylight! Are you not ashamed?
+Will you wake up, I say!"
+
+Therewith she rushed to one corner of the parlor, where Puck, greatly
+discontented at so little attention being paid him to-day, lay on a
+footstool, having yielded himself to the sweetest of slumbers.
+Cecilia's lip curled.
+
+"Maia is nothing but a child, sure enough!" said she in an aside to
+Eric. "Well, Oscar, has the rain driven you in?"
+
+"Yes, indeed," answered Wildenrod who had just come in. "We have been
+inspecting Odensburg, for the present, only from the terrace, but,
+Eric, your father has promised to introduce me into his realm within
+the next few days."
+
+"Certainly, and Cecilia must get acquainted with it too," chimed in
+Eric. "Then we'll drive out, some day, to Radefeld, too, where the
+Buchberg is being tunneled." "Egbert," said he, turning to that young
+man, who had sat by, a silent listener, "you observe that we are
+inviting ourselves to pay you a visit some day."
+
+"I am only afraid that our works will not interest Herr von Wildenrod,"
+answered Egbert. "Externally they have very little of interest to show,
+and, as for the rest, we have not come to the tunneling yet."
+
+Wildenrod turned to the young engineer, who had of course been
+presented to him upon his arrival. He knew through Eric that this
+friend of his youth occupied an anomalous position, but his presence
+here upon occasion of this exclusively family-party surprised him none
+the less, and he knew too how to give expression to this surprise.
+Through all the politeness, with which he treated Runeck, there was
+ever clearly transparent in his eyes the question: "What business have
+you here?"
+
+"You sketched the plan for these works, did you not, Herr Runeck?" he
+asked. "Eric has spoken to me about it, and I am glad to make the
+acquaintance of so clever an engineer."
+
+The words sounded very obliging, but the "engineer" was emphasized and
+thereby the barrier raised that separated the son of the worker in iron
+from the family of the millionaire, however much they might see fit to
+ignore this at Odensburg. Egbert bowed just as obligingly, while he
+replied:
+
+"I have already had the pleasure of making your acquaintance, Herr von
+Wildenrod."
+
+"Mine? I do not remember that we ever met before."
+
+"That is comprehensible, for it took place at a large party--three
+years ago in Berlin--at the house of Frau von Sarewski."
+
+The Baron pricked up his ears, and fixed his keen eyes searchingly upon
+the young engineer, but at the same time a mocking smile played about
+his lips.
+
+"And so you saw me there? Really, I would not have expected you to move
+in such circles."
+
+"Nor do I, in fact. It was an exceptional case, and I was not there as
+a guest, either. Perhaps you may remember the circumstance if I recall
+the day to your mind--it was the twentieth of September."
+
+The hand which rested on the back of Cecilia's chair trembled slightly,
+and at the same time there flashed from Wildenrod's eyes a glance of
+suspicion, that was threatening as well, but it produced no effect upon
+the perfectly unmoved features of Runeck. It lasted, indeed, only a
+second; then the Baron said carelessly:
+
+"You really expect too much of my memory. I have really been introduced
+to so many people traveling about as much as I have done these last ten
+years, that I no longer distinguish individuals. What circumstance do
+you allude to?"
+
+He spoke with perfect composure, not the slightest change being
+perceptible in his features, although those dark gray eyes of his were
+fastened fixedly upon Runeck, with an expression of threatening
+determination.
+
+"If you have forgotten it, sir, it is hardly worth while to recur to
+it," said Egbert coolly. "But your features and individuality impressed
+themselves upon me in a manner that I have never forgotten."
+
+"Very flattering to me!" Wildenrod bowed haughtily to the young
+engineer, and then turned his back upon him. He proceeded to the other
+end of the parlor, where Maia was tugging at the white coat of her pet,
+that had by no means taken in good part being suddenly disturbed in its
+siesta.
+
+The game was at an end, though, when the Baron came up, and Fraeulein
+Maia drew herself up, in a way that said plainly she was ready for
+battle, for she felt the urgent necessity for having an act of oblivion
+cast over her former childish timidity. No opportunity for this had
+been given at dinner because Frau von Ringstedt had absorbed the entire
+attention of the new family connection who was seated beside her: but
+now he was to see that nobody was in the least afraid of him; now she
+was fully determined to let him see that she could hold her own.
+
+Alas! Oscar Wildenrod paid no attention whatever to this warlike mood,
+he began, in all innocence, to tease, first the little dog, and then
+its mistress, and, without any embarrassment whatever, took a place at
+her side.
+
+Then he began to chat of all imaginable things, in a half playful, but
+uncommonly fascinating manner, that was quite new to the young girl. He
+quietly took it for granted that the connection which was so soon to
+exist between their families justified him in approaching her with the
+freedom of a relation, and he gently and naturally asserted this claim,
+and finally set himself seriously to work to gain Puck's friendship,
+and was fully successful in the effort.
+
+All this was not without its influence upon Maia, who gradually gave up
+standing on the defensive, and became more sociable. She, too, began to
+talk now and tell about all sorts of things. The conversation was in
+full swing, when Wildenrod suddenly asked, quite irrelevantly:
+
+"So, you are no longer afraid of me?"
+
+"I?" The young lady was disposed to contradict what was said
+indignantly, and yet could not hinder the hot blood from mounting to
+her cheeks.
+
+"Yes, you, Fraeulein Dernburg! I plainly saw it when we exchanged our
+first greeting--or will you deny what I say?"
+
+The blush upon Maia's face grew still deeper. He had only seen too
+clearly, but she was annoyed at this inconvenient sharp-sightedness on
+his part, and thought it very inconsiderate in him thus to take her to
+task.
+
+"You are only making sport of me, Herr von Wildenrod!" said she
+indignantly.
+
+He smiled, and it was remarkable what an improvement it wrought in his
+face. That dark fold between his eyes seemed to smooth down, all the
+sharp, stern lineaments softened, and his voice, too, sounded strangely
+soft, as he replied:
+
+"Do I really look as if I would make sport of you? Can you really
+believe it?"
+
+Maia looked up at him. No, those eyes were not mocking, at least not
+now, but again they exerted the same spell over her as they had done
+awhile ago, and she was helpless to resist it--and there again was that
+inexplicably oppressive sensation. No answer occurred to the young
+girl, and she only gently shook her head.
+
+"No?" asked Wildenrod. "Well then, prove to me that the guest who has
+arrived to-day does not inspire you with fear by gratifying me in a
+request--will you?"
+
+"I must first know what your request is," said Maia, taken captive, and
+with a vain attempt at resuming her old petulant tone. Wildenrod
+stooped down to her, and his voice sank into a low whisper.
+
+"Everybody here calls you Maia, everybody in this circle has the right
+to address you simply by your name, which is the prettiest one in the
+world. Even that Herr Runeck has been granted that privilege--only I am
+left out in the cold. I am not so bold as to claim the same right as
+Cecilia, who uses the sisterly 'thee' when addressing you, but--may I,
+too, call you Maia?"
+
+He had taken her hand, as though accidentally. His request was neither
+so very presumptuous nor so unusual, the elderly man might certainly be
+allowed this freedom in addressing a girl of seventeen, of whose
+brother he was soon to be the brother-in-law--nevertheless, Maia
+delayed her answer, delayed so long, that he asked reproachfully:
+
+"Do you refuse me?"
+
+"Oh, no, certainly not, you are Cecilia's brother, Herr von Wildenrod."
+
+"Yes, indeed, and Cecilia's brother has another name, which he would
+also like to hear called by you, Maia,--my name is Oscar."
+
+No answer followed, but the little hand quivered within his grasp and
+tried to free itself, but in vain, he held it fast.
+
+"You will not?"
+
+"I--I cannot!" There was an almost agonized repulse in these words.
+Oscar smiled again.
+
+With a gentle pressure he released her hand. Maia! How strangely he
+pronounced the name, it was a sound that penetrated the young girl with
+a feeling never experienced before, at once sweet and torturing, but
+she breathed deeply, as though relieved, when Eric approached and said
+playfully:
+
+"I do believe, Oscar, you are slyly paying court to our little Maia."
+
+"For the present I am only paving my way to the intimacy of future
+relationship," was the cheerful reply. "Maia has just given me leave to
+give up addressing her formally as Miss Dernburg. You have no
+objection, I hope."
+
+"Not the least," said Eric, laughing. "You will play the part of uncle
+to our little girl, with great dignity, I fancy. Only see to it that
+you treat her with all due deference!"
+
+A singular expression flitted across Oscar's features at this harmless
+conception, but he made no response to it. Maia had not heard this last
+remark, for she had hurried to her father, who had joined the two older
+ladies. With an almost impetuous movement, she cuddled up to him, as
+though she sought shelter in his arms, shelter from some unknown peril,
+that still lay far away in the dim distance, and which, nevertheless,
+cast a shadow athwart the glowing present.
+
+Cecilia still sat by the fireside, and Runeck, too, had not left his
+place--the "stony guest," as Cecilia had awhile ago styled him in a
+whisper to her betrothed. Egbert's silence had indeed been striking, at
+least to Eric and Maia, Baron Wildenrod thought it natural enough under
+the circumstances. The young man evidently felt out of place in the
+circle, to which he did not belong of right, and the favor evinced him
+by this invitation evidently oppressed more than it gratified him.
+Cecilia fully shared her brother's sentiments on this point, and, like
+him, up to this time, she had only taken very casual notice of the
+young engineer. And yet it had not escaped her that he was observing
+herself; she took this, of course, for admiration, and therefore, in
+the most gracious manner, now opened a conversation with him.
+
+"You were already acquainted with my brother, it seems, Herr Runeck?
+That is a remarkable coincidence."
+
+"Hardly, in a large city," was the quiet reply. "As for the rest it was
+only a very brief interview that we had, of which, as you have heard,
+Herr von Wildenrod thought no more."
+
+"I remember myself, he was in Berlin three years ago. He came from
+there to Lausanne, to take me away from school, but, I believe, Oscar
+is not particularly fond of the Capital. You were there quite a long
+while, were you not?"
+
+"Several years. I studied at Berlin."
+
+"Ah, indeed! Well, I shall make acquaintance with it, too, next winter,
+at Eric's side. Society must be brilliant there, especially in the
+height of the season."
+
+"Alas! I can give you no information on that point," said Egbert
+coolly. "I was in Berlin, to study and to work."
+
+"But that does not consume all of one's time?"
+
+"Oh, yes, noble lady, every bit of one's time."
+
+This answer sounded very positive, almost uncouth: it thoroughly
+displeased Cecilia, but yet more he displeased her who had given
+utterance to it, and whom she took this opportunity of observing
+closely for the first time. This friend of Eric's youth was--coldly
+considered--anything but attractive in personal appearance. It is true,
+that his tall, commanding figure made a certain impression, but it was
+not at all suited to the parlor. Add to this, those homely, irregular
+features, where everything was stamped with such sharpness and
+hardness, and the stiff, disobliging manner, that did not soften even
+now, when one was exerting herself to draw him into conversation. Why,
+that answer sounded almost as if this Runeck would like to teach a
+lesson to her, Baroness Wildenrod! She remarked, to her astonishment,
+that here was nothing of timidity and conscious inferiority, and now,
+too, she awoke to the fact that it was not admiration which spoke in
+those cold, gray eyes, but rather enmity. But what would have chilled,
+and perhaps dismayed, any one else, was just the thing that attracted
+Cecilia Wildenrod, and so, instead of letting the conversation drop,
+she took it up again.
+
+She propped her pretty foot against the fender and leaned far back in
+the arm-chair, her attitude being a negligent, but infinitely graceful
+one. The late afternoon hour and the dark rain-clouds out of doors had
+already produced twilight in this part of the parlor, and the fire,
+sometimes flaring up and again dying down, cast its light upon the
+slender form that sat there, draped hi a light silk gown, covered with
+lace, falling upon the roses that she wore on her bosom, and upon the
+beautiful head that was pillowed upon a rich crimson cushion.
+
+"Dear me! how shall I accommodate myself to this Odensburg?" said she
+pettishly. "Every third word here is work! They seem, in general, not
+to have another idea. I, frivolous worldling that I am, feel quite
+intimidated by it and know I shall inevitably fall into disgrace with
+my father-in-law-to-be, who is himself a first-class genius of work."
+
+She spoke with an arrogance that challenged reply. It was the tone that
+had been deemed piquant and fascinating in the sphere of society in
+which she had been accustomed to move. But it made no impression here:
+Runeck seemed to be utterly insensible to it.
+
+"Certainly, Herr Dernburg is a model to us all in this respect,"
+answered he. "I certainly do not anticipate seeing you contented at
+Odensburg, Baroness Wildenrod. But surely, Eric must have given you a
+fair picture of it, ere you made up your mind to come here."
+
+"I believe that Eric's taste is the same as mine," remarked Cecilia.
+"He likewise loves the joyous, sunny South, and raves of a villa
+on the shores of the blue Mediterranean, beneath palm-trees and
+laurel-bushes."
+
+"Eric was sick and suffered under the severe climate of his native
+land, which, nevertheless, he loves: the South has restored him to
+health. As for the rest, he is rich enough to purchase a place anywhere
+in Italy that he chooses, and to pass there his time for recreation,
+although his regular home must continue to be at Odensburg."
+
+"Do you think that so absolutely necessary?" Slight derision was
+perceptible in the tone of her question.
+
+"Most assuredly, for he is the only son, and one day must take charge
+of the works. That is a duty which he cannot shirk and of which he as
+well as his future wife must render an account."
+
+"Must?" repeated Cecilia. "That seems to be your favorite word, Herr
+Runeck. You use it at every opportunity. I cannot bear that
+uncomfortable word, and I do not believe I shall ever be reconciled to
+it, either."
+
+Egbert seemed to find no special satisfaction in this sort of dialogue,
+his reply having a touch of impatience about it, that was entirely too
+suggestive of faultfinding.
+
+"We shall do better not to dispute over it. We belong to two entirely
+different worlds, and so, naturally, do not understand one another."
+
+Cecilia smiled at having finally moved this man from his imperturbable
+equilibrium, which she interpreted to almost as an insult. She had not
+been accustomed anyone denying her the toll of admiration, or speaking
+of "must," to her. The fire again blazed up brightly, and while Runeck
+stood aside in the shade, the reflection fell full upon the beautiful
+girl, who still reclined in her chair, in the same attitude as a while
+ago. There was something ensnaring in the flickering play of the
+flames, in the abrupt transition from light to shade; something that
+was akin to the appearance of the girl herself, who now looked up at
+the young engineer with moisture dimming the luster of her dark and
+glowing eyes.
+
+"Why, there may be a bridge that can unite these two worlds," said she
+playfully. "Perhaps we may come to understand each other--or, think you
+that it is not worth the trouble?"
+
+"No."
+
+This "no" had a perfectly frigid sound. Cecilia suddenly straightened
+herself up and darted a look of withering anger upon Egbert.
+
+"You are very--candid, Herr Runeck."
+
+"You misunderstand me, Baroness Wildenrod," said he calmly. "I meant,
+of course, that it was not worth your while to descend to so inferior a
+world--nothing more."
+
+Baroness Wildenrod bit her lip. He had parried her thrust in masterly
+style, and yet she knew what he had meant, she understood the bitter
+taunt, hidden behind his words. What sort of a man was this, that dared
+thus to confront the betrothed of his best friend, the future daughter
+of the house, in which he had received so many favors? Previously she
+had hardly had a glance to bestow upon this engineer in his subordinate
+station, now a burning sense of hostility seized her--he was to suffer
+for having provoked her!
+
+She arose with a brisk movement and turned to Eric and her brother, who
+were talking together. Egbert remained where he was, but his eyes
+followed the brother and sister, while he murmured under his breath:
+
+"Poor Eric, you have fallen into bad hands!"
+
+Night had come and the family had already separated. They wanted their
+guests--who had made rather a fatiguing journey that day--to retire
+early to rest, but this they had not yet done.
+
+In the boudoir, attached to the suite of company-rooms, were Oscar and
+Cecilia Wildenrod to be found. They were alone. The perfume of the
+flowers with which Maia had given so graceful a welcome to her future
+sister-in-law, still filled the room, but neither of this pair paid any
+heed to it. Cecilia stood in the center of the room, but the smile that
+she had worn and the amiability which she had manifested all day had
+both vanished now. She looked excited, provoked, and her voice had the
+intonation of suppressed passion.
+
+"And so you are not content with me, Oscar? I should think that I had
+done everything possible to be done this day, and still you have fault
+to find with me."
+
+"You were too incautious in your expressions," criticised Oscar; "much
+too incautious. You hardly took the trouble to conceal your disapproval
+of Odensburg. Take heed, Eric's father, is very sensitive on that
+point, anything like that he does not pardon."
+
+"Am I, for whole weeks here to act a farce, and pretend to be
+enthusiastic over this abominable place, that is far more unbearable
+even than I had supposed? One is cut off here and thrust out of the
+world, as it were, buried between mountains and dark forests. Then the
+immediate proximity of those works with their noise and their crowd of
+coarse laborers, but above all these people here! Little Maia is the
+only one endurable. My future father-in-law, though, seems to have a
+very domineering nature, and tyrannizes over his whole household. I
+shudder before his stern countenance. What a look he gave me upon my
+arrival, as though he wanted to look me through and through. And that
+tiresome Frau von Ringstedt with her prim state, and that just as
+stupid pale-looking governess--but, above all, that so-called friend of
+Eric's youth, who said things to me--" she suddenly broke off, and with
+a pettish movement threw her fan upon the table. Wildenrod had quietly
+listened to all this harangue, without making any attempt to soothe
+her, at those last words, however, he grew attentive.
+
+"What things?" he asked quickly and sharply. "What did he say to you?"
+
+"Oh, not so much in words, but I knew perfectly well what was implied,
+although not expressed. If we had not just met for the first time, I
+should believe that he hated both you and me. There was something so
+inimical in his cold, steel-gray eyes, when he talked to me and they
+had precisely the same expression when he mentioned, to you, your
+having met in Berlin."
+
+Wildenrod gazed upon his sister in surprise, he had never before
+perceived that she was gifted with such keen powers of observation.
+
+"You seem to have been studying him very closely," he remarked. "As for
+the rest, you have judged quite correctly. This Runeck is extremely
+disagreeable, perhaps even dangerous. We'll be even with him though."
+
+"Once for all, I cannot stand such surroundings!" cried Cecilia with
+renewed heat. "You have always told me that Eric would live with me in
+the great world, we have never had any other idea, but here there seems
+to be no talk of any such thing. They regard it as a matter of course
+that we should take up our residence at Odensburg, and have ruthlessly
+made the announcement to me already. Upon my marriage, am I to renounce
+everything that lends life its charm for me, and under the oversight of
+my high-and-mighty father-in-law, learn housekeeping and all the other
+domestic virtues that he seems to rate so high, and for my reward to be
+allowed a daily promenade through his works? For there seems to be no
+talk here of any other pleasure."
+
+"The question is not one of pleasure but necessity," said Oscar in a
+low sharp tone: "I thought I had made that sufficiently clear to you
+when we accepted the invitation. Already, on the day of your
+engagement, you forced me to give you a hint of the truth, that I would
+have preferred to conceal from you, and since then you have learned all
+without reserve. Our fortune has been all lost, how and when does not
+concern you, but what you have to deal with is the fact. I have
+hitherto managed to maintain ourselves in handsome style, through what
+sacrifices I alone know; but there comes a time when even the last
+resources fail, and to that point we have now arrived. If you cast
+away, through your own folly, the brilliant future that I have opened
+up to you by tying this knot, know that you will no longer have any
+pretension to what you call life: then you must descend to an existence
+of poverty and privation--must I once more recall this to your mind?"
+
+This harsh exhortation had its effect: poverty and privation were two
+things from which Baroness Wildenrod shrank, although she had only a
+misty idea of what they were. Already the bare idea that she might be
+forced to give up the brilliant life that she had hitherto led
+horrified her, and broke down her resistance. She bowed her head and
+was silent, while her brother continued:
+
+"I have hitherto treated you, for the most part, as they do spoiled
+children, not deeming it needful to show you the serious phase of life;
+but now I require--do you hear, Cecilia, I _require_--that you submit
+absolutely to my will, and do as I shall direct. You are not married
+yet, and Dernburg is just the man to break the engagement at the last
+minute, if there should arise in his mind grave doubts as to its
+expediency. You have to cultivate his favor first of all, for Eric is
+altogether passive in his disposition, and will always submit to his
+father's will. It is all-important to be prudent! Be assured of one
+thing--_my_ plans are not to be thwarted through your self-will--you
+know me!"
+
+This was a tone of command, of menace, and Cecilia looked up at her
+brother with shy eyes. It was not the first time, that he had bent her
+under his will, but so earnestly and darkly he had never spoken to her
+before. She heaved an impatient sigh and threw herself into a chair;
+but she did not think of making any further opposition.
+
+The pause of a second ensued, when Oscar stepped up to her, and his
+voice was milder as he said:
+
+"How you do allow yourself to be carried away by your feelings! Other
+girls would give anything in the world to change places with you;
+thousands at this moment, are envying your fate, while you are disposed
+to throw away your good fortune, like a toy that did not please
+you--yours is not a calculating nature."
+
+"But you are!" said Cecilia, in an angry and embittered tone.
+
+"I?" Again Wildenrod's face darkened. "I am and have been many a thing
+that my spirit revolted against. He who has battled with the waves of
+life for twelve long years, like myself, knows only one watchword. Stay
+on top, at any price! Thank God, that you have been spared this battle,
+and thank me for landing you safe on shore ere you knew of the perils
+to which you were exposed. You are to enter a highly-respected family,
+your marriage will give you a right to almost countless wealth, and
+your future husband knows no greater happiness than to gratify your
+wishes--I think that is enough."
+
+"And what will you do when I am married?" asked Cecilia, struck by his
+words, that she only half understood.
+
+"Commit that to me!" A fleeting smile flashed across Oscar's features.
+"At all events, I do not intend to live on my rich sister's charity,
+for I was not made for such a fate--Now, good-night, child; you will be
+more prudent in future, and never let a hint drop of Odensburg not
+being to your mind. I hope you will need no second lecture."
+
+He lightly touched her brow with his lips and passed into his own
+chamber that adjoined the boudoir. Out of doors it was already dark,
+and the Manor was wrapt in silence and gloom, only a candle glimmering
+here and there in the rooms of individuals. The wind had lulled, and
+profound quiet reigned in the immediate environs.
+
+But over yonder at the works there was still astir that mighty
+throbbing life, that rested not fully, even during the night, and if by
+day it was heard only in occasional, far-away sounds, now every noise
+made there was distinctly heard. At times there was a great glare of
+light from the blazing forges, while here and there one of the huge
+chimneys sent up a flashing spark to the starless sky, and there where
+the furnaces lay, the vaporous wreaths of smoke were reddened by the
+glow of the fire. It was a sublime and fascinating spectacle.
+
+Oscar Wildenrod seemed to find it so, too, for he stood long at the
+window and gazed out. The admiration that he had expressed in the
+afternoon had not been assumed. His breast heaved with the deep breath
+he drew, and he said in an undertone:
+
+"To be the lord and master of such a world--to move thousands by a
+single word of power! How that man stood on the threshold of his own
+house when he received us--like a prince and ruler, and such in fact he
+is. Success no longer intoxicates him--me it will intoxicate."
+
+He drew himself up, proudly, to his full height, but all of a sudden a
+more tender expression rested upon his features, while he continued
+almost inaudibly:
+
+"What a sweet pretty child that Maia is! So pure, so untouched by any
+shadow--and to the hand of that child is attached the other half of
+this power and this wealth."
+
+He opened the window and leaned far out; restless, ambitious thoughts
+were working in the soul of this man, while he looked down upon the
+vast establishment at his feet. The rash gambler was not satisfied with
+his one lucky stroke, he was making ready for a second which was to be
+his master-stroke. Oscar von Wildenrod was not indeed made to live upon
+the bounty of his sister.
+
+Cecilia, too, had not yet gone to rest, but, nestling among the
+cushions of an arm-chair, still sat motionless in the same spot that
+her brother had left her. She had taken the roses from her bosom and
+was heedlessly pulling them to pieces. They had been a present from
+Eric; he had welcomed her with them upon her arrival. Magnificent, pale
+yellow roses to remind her of their betrothal-day, when she had worn
+these same flowers. The withered leaves showered down upon her gown and
+upon the floor, but the intended bride heeded them not; she gazed into
+space like one lost in dreams. Evidently the visions that haunted
+her were of no friendly nature. Upon her forehead between those
+finely-arched eyebrows, there was again that fold, the significant
+feature which she had in common with her brother, and there, too, were
+his eyes that looked from her countenance--at this minute, it was easy
+to see that the two were of one blood.
+
+
+
+
+                              CHAPTER VII.
+
+                        CECILA VISITS RADEFELD.
+
+
+The engagement of the young heir of Odensburg to Baroness Wildenrod had
+now indeed been announced and had excited great surprise in
+neighborhood circles, that had always supposed that in this matter,
+too, Dernburg would act as his son's guardian, and have the first word
+to say as to this union, and now Eric had made his own choice, far away
+at the South, without asking either his advice or permission. The
+beauty of the bride-elect, her good old name and her evidently
+brilliant fortune and connections, lent to this choice, it is true, the
+prestige of a thoroughly suitable one. And the father's consent was
+taken as a thing for granted.
+
+At present, Cecilia had no ground for complaint as to the dreaded
+solitude of Odensburg, for her betrothal made the usually quiet Manor
+the scene of a constant round of social festivities. The engaged couple
+had made the usual visits, and now received return-calls from all the
+neighbors, by far the larger number of whom were the families of the
+large landed proprietors of that district. There were numerous
+invitations, larger and smaller entertainments, of which Cecilia was
+ever the center of attraction. Here, too, homage was paid to her
+wherever she appeared, and happily Eric had not the foible of jealousy.
+So swam Cecilia with full sails, upon the stream of satisfaction; new
+acquaintances and surroundings, new triumphs that hardly allowed her,
+for the moment at least, to miss the life to which she was accustomed.
+
+The appearance of Baron von Wildenrod made the most favorable
+impression on every one. His distinguished appearance and his gifts as
+a brilliant conversationalist in general, won the favor of every one
+that he wanted to win, and here he was treated with double honor, as
+the future relative of the Dernburg family. Already, during the few
+weeks of his sojourn here, he had attained to a prominent position in
+these circles, and well knew how to maintain it.
+
+At Radefeld the works had been forwarded with all the forces available.
+The men, for the most part, had been accommodated in the adjacent
+village, and the chief engineer had also taken up his quarters there,
+in order to avoid the loss of time in a daily ride to and from
+Odensburg. He usually went there only once or twice a week to give in
+his report to his chief.
+
+Radefeld, indeed, was only a little village in the woods, and a stay
+there was not comfortable in the least. The two confined rooms in which
+Egbert lodged at a peasant's house, were meanly furnished, but the
+young engineer was not a Sybarite. He had taken nothing with him from
+his ordinary residence but his books, his plans, and drawings, and as
+for the rest, contented himself with things as he found them.
+
+Runeck was usually to be found early at his place of business. But
+to-day he had had a visitor from the city. His guest, a man of about
+fifty years, with sharply-cut features and dark eyes, sat in the old
+arm-chair, that here had to take the place of a sofa. The two seemed to
+have had an earnest and interesting conversation.
+
+"As for the rest," said the stranger, "I should like to ask why you so
+seldom come to town now? You have not been there for weeks, and if one
+wants to have a talk with you, he has to institute a veritable search
+after you."
+
+"I have a great deal to do," answered Egbert, who stood at the window,
+with a rather clouded brow. "You see for yourself how immersed I am in
+work."
+
+"Work?" mocked the other. "I should think that _our_ work was more
+important than digging and rooting here in the woods. You contrived the
+plan, so I learn. Will you, perhaps, earn another million for your
+chief to add to the other millions that he already has?"
+
+"That is not the question, but whether I shall perform a duty that I
+have undertaken to perform," was the brief reply. "The execution of
+this plan was properly the upper-engineer's work, and I have to justify
+the confidence that called me to do it, in his stead."
+
+"To chain you fast here at Radefeld, so that you will not be dangerous
+at Odensburg! The old man is not stupid, nobody can accuse him of that,
+he always knows very well what he is about, and you may depend he knows
+a thing or two about your proclivities already."
+
+"Be done with your insinuations, Landsfeld," interposed Egbert
+impatiently, "of course Dernburg knows, from my own lips. He called me
+up for a talk, and I gave him my views without any reserve. I naturally
+expected my dismissal after that--but instead the superintendence of
+the Radefeld water-works was entrusted to me."
+
+Landsfeld started and directed a searching glance at the young
+engineer.
+
+"That is remarkable, to be sure, it does not look like the old man! He
+must either be perfectly infatuated with you, or he has some object to
+subserve. He is capable of anything. As for the rest, your candor was
+very out of place in this case, for now, of course, your movements at
+Odensburg will no longer be free. You have managed very awkwardly,
+young man!"
+
+"Was I to deny the truth?" asked Egbert with knitted brow.
+
+"Why not, if it could serve a good purpose?"
+
+"Then look out for some one else who is more practiced in lying! I
+regard it as cowardice, to deny one's convictions and one's party, and
+acted accordingly."
+
+"That is to say, you have again followed your own head, and acted in
+utter defiance of orders. Odensburg is your field of labor, you are to
+get the fellows there to affiliate with you, instead of which, here you
+are quietly constructing water-works at Radefeld, at the same time that
+you are being coddled in the so-called Manor-house, and yet you know
+perfectly why we sent you here!"
+
+"And you know that I resisted from the very beginning, that finally
+only a direct order from headquarters forced me into line."
+
+"Alas! I suppose you confided that to your chief, too?" The question
+came in the sharpest of tones.
+
+"No," answered Runeck coldly; "he attributed my return to an entirely
+false motive, and I left him in his error. Never again would I have
+gone voluntarily to Odensburg, and I cannot stay here either, my
+position is an untenable one, as I foresaw."
+
+"And nevertheless you will be obliged to remain," said Landsfeld dryly.
+"This Odensburg is like an impregnable fortress, that defies all
+attacks. The old man has made his people tame, with his schools and
+infirmaries and funds for the poor, they dread to lose the good berths
+they have, and, above all, they have an incurable fear of their
+tyrant--the cowards! However often we applied the lever, nothing was to
+be done, he has made them thoroughly suspicious of our agitators. You
+are a child of a workman, have grown up in their midst, and even now
+have intimate relations with their chief. They will listen to you, and
+follow you too, if it comes to that."
+
+"And to what end?" asked Runeck moodily. "I have often enough explained
+to you that a strike at Odensburg would be perfectly futile. Dernburg
+is not a man to be coerced: I know him--he would rather close his
+works. He is a man after this sort, that he would rather take any loss
+upon himself than to yield, and he is rich enough to resist to the
+uttermost."
+
+"Just for that very reason he must be brought down from his throne of
+infallibility! He shall see, that there are men who dare to make head
+against him, puffed up as he is, sitting there on his millions in
+luxury and idleness, while----"
+
+"That is not true!" burst forth Egbert passionately, "and you know that
+what you say is a lie! Dernburg works more than you and I. Often enough
+have I been compelled to admire his immense strength and wonderful
+powers of endurance, that actually put to the blush the youngest among
+us. And he seeks recreation only in his family-circle. Once for all,
+I'll not stand having that man slandered in my presence."
+
+"Oho, you speak in that tone, do you?" cried Landsfeld, now irritated
+in his turn. "You take sides with him against us? It only shows how
+tame living the life of a lord makes one, if he once gets a taste of
+it."
+
+"Take heed, else you might learn that I am anything but tame," said
+Egbert, more quietly, but in a threatening tone. "I repeat it, I'll
+submit to nothing of the sort, for it has nothing to do with our cause.
+Either you will omit these personal attacks upon Dernburg or----"
+
+"Or?"
+
+"I'll never more cross your threshold and shall know how to protect
+mine from things that I _will_ not hear."
+
+Landsfeld shrugged his shoulders, as much as to say that he did not
+care.
+
+"That means, in other words, that you will put me out of doors? Right
+friendly and brotherly, to be sure, but we will not dispute about that.
+It is not our way anyhow to pass many compliments. You are coming to
+our next meeting, are you not?"
+
+"Yes." This word sounded harsh and sullen.
+
+"Well, I am going to depend upon that. An important matter is to be
+brought up. We expect a few comrades from Berlin, and it is likely you
+will be taken pretty sharply to task, on account of your inactivity up
+to this time."
+
+"Until next week then!"
+
+He nodded shortly and went out in front of the house, however, he stood
+still and sent back a look of hatred, while he murmured in an
+undertone:
+
+"If we did not need you, absolutely need you! But it is impossible to
+get along without you at Odensburg. Just wait though, my young man, and
+we'll see if we cannot curb that haughty spirit of yours!"
+
+Egbert, being left alone, stood in the middle of the room, with fist
+doubled up and deeply-furrowed brow. It was manifest that a fierce
+battle was being waged in his soul, but suddenly he straightened
+himself up and stamped with his foot, as though he would quell by main
+force the storms that were raging within.
+
+"No, and again no! I have made my choice and will abide by it!"
+
+The Radefeld estate, ordinarily a quiet, lonely valley in the midst of
+a forest, now again resounded with the noise of laborers who were hard
+at work. Everywhere there was shoveling, ditching, and blasting; trees
+and shrubs fell beneath the stroke of the ax; the indefatigable host
+having already progressed as far as the foot of the Buchberg, the
+tunneling of which was the enterprise afoot.
+
+Runeck, who had come later than usual, stood upon an eminence and
+thence directed a tremendous blast. In obedience to his order, all the
+workmen had retired from the neighborhood of the mine, which now
+exploded with dull, muffled sounds. The cliff against which the work of
+destruction was aimed, was split in two, one part still standing erect,
+while the other fell with a crash; the earth round about trembled when
+the mighty boulders rolled heavily down.
+
+The group of laborers at the foot of the eminence dispersed: Runeck,
+too, left his place, to examine closely what had been effected, when an
+old inspector stepped forward and announced:
+
+"Herr Runeck--the master's family from Odensburg."
+
+Egbert looked up, in expectation of seeing the wagon of Dernburg, who
+frequently came out to inspect the condition of the works, but suddenly
+gave such a violent start that the old man looked up in surprise.
+
+Over at the entrance to the ravine Eric Dernburg and Cecilia Wildenrod
+had halted, on horseback, while the groom had dismounted, and had
+firmly by the bridle their animals, who seemed to have been made unruly
+by the noise of the blasting. The young engineer, meanwhile, had
+quickly recovered from his surprise, and went across to pay his
+respects to his waiting visitors. Eric cordially stretched out his
+hand.
+
+"We have kept our word, Egbert, and come upon you without any warning.
+Will you allow us an insight into your province?"
+
+"I shall be delighted to be of the least service," replied Runeck,
+while he bowed to the young lady, who now gracefully and lightly swung
+herself out of the saddle, and in doing so hardly touched the proffered
+hand of her betrothed.
+
+"We stopped at Radefeld and through the open windows cast a glance in
+at your lodgings, Herr Runeck," said she. "Dear me, what surroundings!
+Do you really intend to spend the whole summer there?"
+
+"Why not?" asked Egbert composedly. "We engineers are sometimes here,
+sometimes there, and have to accept work wherever it is offered."
+
+"But you have your comfortable home at Odensburg, and a carriage is
+always at your disposal. Why do you not stay there?"
+
+"Because then I would daily lose three hours in going and coming. I
+have my books and works at Radefeld, and as for the rest I am entirely
+independent of my surroundings."
+
+"Yes, you are a Spartan by constitution, physically as well as
+intellectually," said Eric with a sigh. "I wish that I could do like
+you, but, alas! there is no chance of that. I have gotten too much
+spoiled at the South and must now do penance."
+
+He drew himself up and shivered; evidently he suffered more from his
+native climate than he himself was willing to confess. He looked pale
+and worn, the ride through the woods seeming to have been an exertion
+to him rather than a pleasure.
+
+So much the more blooming appeared the young lady by his side. For her
+the brisk, rather long, ride had been only an exhilaration, and she had
+reined her horse in impatiently enough out of respect to Eric. She had
+been accustomed to race at full-speed, having been tutored into this by
+her brother, and she did not understand how any one could be cautious
+and circumspect in riding like Eric. As for the rest, she was beaming
+with cheerfulness and high spirits, even Egbert was treated with
+perfect amiability, not a look, not a word, reminded of that
+disagreement when they first met.
+
+The laborers reverentially greeted the young master and his promised
+bride, whom all eyes followed with admiration. Even here Cecilia's
+beauty celebrated a triumph, only Egbert Runeck seemed perfectly
+insensible to its charms.
+
+He became their guide through grounds in the act of being laid out,
+taking pains to show his guests whatever was worth seeing, but he
+observed towards the Baroness Wildenrod the same cold reserve as
+before, and turned mostly to Eric; in him, to be sure, he did not have
+a particularly attentive listener. The young heir showed only a faint,
+half-forced sympathy in all these things, with which he should properly
+have felt himself identified.
+
+"It is incredible, the quantity of work that you have all done in these
+few weeks," said he, finally, with genuine admiration. "That would be
+something for my brother-in-law, who now buries himself all day in the
+Odensburg works and has regularly constituted himself my father's
+assistant. I would never have believed that Oscar had so keen a relish
+for such things."
+
+Runeck did not answer, but his lip curled contemptuously at these last
+words. Eric, who did not observe this, continued in the most
+unembarrassed way:
+
+"One thing more, Egbert, we recently made an excursion into the
+mountains, and some of our party noticed that the great cross on the
+Whitestone had sunk. Father wishes the matter to be carefully looked
+into, so that no accident may happen. Is there any one among your
+people here, who will undertake the dangerous task?"
+
+"Certainly," assented Runeck. "It would be very perilous, if that heavy
+cross should one day fall from that high cliff, since the road runs
+along just below. I shall go up and see about it myself in the course
+of the next few days."
+
+"Upon the Whitestone?" asked Cecilia, whose attention had been
+awakened. "How is that? They say it is inaccessible."
+
+"Assuredly it is for ordinary people," mocked Eric. "One's name must be
+Egbert Runeck to undertake such a walk on our most dangerous cliff. I
+believe he has been up there already three or four times."
+
+"I am practiced in mountain-climbing," said Egbert composedly. "When a
+boy I used to be familiar with every cliff and mountain of my native
+district, and that is knowledge which is not unlearned. As for the
+rest, the Whitestone is not inaccessible, it only demands a steady
+head, clear eye and the necessary fearlessness, then the way is to be
+forced."
+
+"Dear me, do not say that!" cried Eric laughing, but yet with a certain
+unrest. He really feared lest Cecilia might be seized with one of those
+madcap fancies by which she had recently so frightened him. "She was
+wild to go to the top of the Whitestone."
+
+Runeck seemed to think this project something unheard of, he looked
+doubtingly and in surprise upon the young lady, who replied in a
+haughty tone:
+
+"Why, yes! I should like just for once to stand on such a dizzy height,
+immediately above that abrupt precipice. It must be a thrillingly sweet
+sensation! Eric was horrified at the bare idea."
+
+"Cecilia, you torture me with such jests!"
+
+"How do you know that it is a jest? And suppose I act upon it in
+earnest--would you go with me?"
+
+"I?" The young man looked as if he thought they expected him to jump
+down from the cliff in question. About the lips of his betrothed played
+a half-compassionate, half-contemptuous smile; almost imperceptibly she
+elevated her shoulders.
+
+"Compose yourself, pray! I shall not demand such a proof of love--I
+would go alone."
+
+"Let me implore you, Cecile, not to think of such a thing!" exclaimed
+Eric, now alarmed in good earnest, but Egbert interrupted him with
+quiet decision.
+
+"You need not disturb yourself on that score. That is no path for the
+dainty feet of a lady to tread. Baroness Wildenrod will hardly make the
+attempt, and, if she should do so, she would give it up again in five
+minutes."
+
+"Cecilia tossed her head, and her eyes flashed as she asked in a
+peculiar tone:
+
+"Are you so certain of that, Herr Runeck?"
+
+"Yes, noble lady, for I know the Whitestone."
+
+"But you do not know me!"
+
+"May be so."
+
+Cecilia started, the answer seemed to surprise her, but her glance
+strayed to her betrothed, and she laughed scornfully.
+
+"Do not look so miserable, Eric! All this is only bantering! I am not
+thinking of the Whitestone and its break-neck cliffs.--How do you
+manage, really, Herr Runeck, when you blow up these colossal masses of
+rock?"
+
+Eric breathed more freely after the conversation had taken this new
+turn. He was already accustomed to being put on the rack by various
+whims and wild ideas suggested by his promised bride, that had no
+substantial basis, however, and were never to be taken seriously. Being
+restored to his composure now, he turned to the old inspector, who
+stood close by, expecting, evidently, to be noticed.
+
+Old Mertens had served the father of the present chief, and now
+they had given him to perform the light and lucrative duties of an
+upper-inspector of the Radefeld works. Eric, who had known him from
+childhood, spoke kindly to him, making particular inquiries after his
+family, and afterwards greeted with the same kindliness the other
+workmen within speaking distance. Any stranger seeing him stand thus
+among the people, with stooping gait, delicate, worn features and
+almost timid manner, would never in the world have suspected him of
+being the future lord of Odensburg. There was nothing of the master at
+all about him.
+
+Perhaps Baroness Wildenrod had imbibed this same impression, for her
+delicately-arched eyebrows contracted as though from displeasure, and
+then her glance turned slowly to the young engineer, who stood in front
+of her. Hitherto she had only seen him in company-suit, to-day he wore
+a gray woolen jacket and high-top boots, such as wind and weather asked
+for, but he gained wonderfully by this simple garb. It matched so
+admirably with the bold manliness of his appearance; here on his own
+territory his individuality was most strikingly manifest. The first
+glance showed that here it was his to command, and that he was fully
+equal to the trust reposed in him; the diminutive form of the friend of
+his youth shrank into nothingness at his side.
+
+He gave the explanation desired, fully and in detail, illustrating what
+he said by showing the mine already laid to that part of the cliff
+which still stood erect, yet in doing this, he turned his whole
+attention to the rocks and had hardly a look to bestow upon his fair
+listener, who now said smilingly:
+
+"We saw the blasting from over yonder, and the explosion was extremely
+effective. You were enthroned yonder on the height like the
+mountain-sprite in his own person--all the others like ministering
+gnomes at your feet--a wave of your hand, and with the sound of muffled
+thunder the cliffs were split and sank in ruins--a genuine glimpse of
+fairyland!"
+
+"Why, do you know anything of the tales and legends of our mountains?"
+asked Egbert coolly. "I really would not have supposed it."
+
+"Only Maia is to be thanked for it. She has introduced me into the
+legends of her native hills, and I verily believe the little thing
+believes them to be solidly true. Maia sometimes is still a real
+child."
+
+These last words sounded very scornful. The slender young lady
+who stood there, leaning against the wall of rock, in a stylish
+riding-habit of silver-gray, with hat and plumes to match, could not,
+by any means, be accused of being a child. Even here she was the lady
+of fashion and distinction, who was making it her pastime just to see
+for once how the sons of labor lived and delved. And yet she was
+ensnaringly beautiful, despite her pride and self-consciousness;
+radiant and certain of conquest she stood before the man who alone
+seemed to have neither eye nor ear for charms that had never elsewhere
+played her false. Perhaps it was this very insensibility which
+attracted the spoiled girl, who now continued in taunting tone:
+
+"When I beheld that telling picture of which you formed the center, I
+could not help thinking of the old saying about the caper-spurge. That
+is the mysterious magic wand of the mountains, to which every bolt
+yields and every cavern opens. And then the buried treasures of the
+earth shine and beckon to the chosen one, who is to bring them to the
+light.
+
+
+                 'He takes from night and darkness
+                    Their treasures, hidden deep,
+                  And he those jewels sparkling
+                    And all that gold may keep.'
+
+
+What think you--has not Maia had an apt scholar?"
+
+She looked at him smilingly as she repeated the verse of that old song
+which told of the all-powerful enchanting rod, but the young engineer's
+manner did not soften, in spite of all her blandness. His face,
+embrowned by exposure to sun and wind, was a shade paler, perhaps, than
+usual, but his voice sounded cool and self-controlled, as he answered:
+
+"Our time no longer has need of an enchanter's wand. It has found
+another sort of one for splitting rocks and opening the earth--You see
+it, do you not?"
+
+"Yes, indeed. I see bald destruction, rubbish and splintered
+quartz--but the treasures stay buried below."
+
+"It is empty and dead below--there are no longer any buried treasures."
+
+The answer had a harsh and joyless sound, and the tone in which it was
+spoken did not soften its asperity.
+
+"Perhaps it is only because the magical word has been lost, without
+which the wand remains powerless," answered Cecilia lightly, without
+observing, apparently, his forbidding manner. "Do you not think so,
+Herr Runeck?"
+
+"I think, Baroness Wildenrod, that the world of fairies and magicians
+has long been left behind us. We no longer comprehend it, and no longer
+_want_ to comprehend it."
+
+There was something almost menacing in these apparently insignificant
+words. Cecilia bit her lips, and through the sunny brightness of her
+smile there gleamed a flash of hostility from her eyes, but then she
+laughed gayly.
+
+"How grim that sounds! The poor gnomes and dwarfs have a determined
+enemy, I perceive. Only hear, Eric, how your friend denounces the whole
+legendary world."
+
+"Yes, it is not worth while to approach Egbert with such things," said
+Eric, who just now came up. "He has no opinion of poetry, either,
+that one cannot make by line and plummets, nor needs to draw plans
+for--therefore he regards it as a highly superfluous thing. I have not
+yet forgiven him for the way in which he took the news of my
+engagement--actually, with formal commiseration! And when I indignantly
+hurled at him the reproach that he knew nothing about love, nor cared
+to know it either--would you believe that I got for answer a frigid
+'No.'"
+
+Cecilia fixed her large, dark eyes upon the young engineer, and again
+that demoniacal spark flashed in them as she said smilingly:
+
+"And were you really in earnest, Herr Runeck?"
+
+Some seconds elapsed ere he answered. He seemed yet paler than awhile
+ago, but his eye met that look fully and darkly, while he coldly
+replied:
+
+"Yes, Baroness Wildenrod."
+
+"There, you hear it for yourself," cried Eric, half-laughing, half
+vexed. "He is as hard as these rocks."
+
+The young lady tapped lightly with her riding-whip against the pile of
+rocks that lay heaped up in front of her.
+
+"Maybe. But rocks, too, can be brought to yield, we see. Take heed,
+Herr Runeck, you have mocked and defied those mysterious powers----they
+will have their revenge!"
+
+The words should have sounded playful, and yet there was a perceptible
+breath of defiance in them. Egbert answered not a word, while Eric
+looked in amazement from one to the other.
+
+"Of what were you talking?" asked he.
+
+"We were speaking of the caper-spurge, which cleaves rocks asunder, and
+unlocks the hidden treasures of earth.--But I think we had better go
+now, if you approve."
+
+Eric assented, and then turned to Runeck.
+
+"There is to be more blasting, I perceive; wait, though, before you
+apply the match, until we get beyond the region of the ravine. Our
+horses were made very unmanageable by it awhile ago, the groom could
+hardly hold them."
+
+Again that wicked and contemptuous smile played about Cecilia's lips,
+for she had been quick to note awhile ago, that Eric had nervously
+started at the dull sounds of the explosion and had summoned the groom
+to his side. Her horse, too, had become very restive, but she had held
+it firmly in with the bit. Meanwhile she suppressed any remark and only
+said, while Egbert guided her and Eric to the place where the horses
+stood:
+
+"Accept our thanks for your friendly guidance and explanation. You will
+be glad to be rid of such disturbing guests."
+
+Runeck bowed low and formally.
+
+"Oh, do not speak of it, I pray. Eric is here as proprietor on his own
+estate, there can be no talk of disturbance."
+
+"And yet it would seem so. You were fairly shocked, when you caught
+sight of us in the entrance to the ravine."
+
+"I? Have you such sharp eyes, noble lady?"
+
+"Oh, yes, Eric often teases me about my 'falcon-glance.'"
+
+"In this case, however, your sight deceived you. I was only anxious,
+when I caught sight of you so near--horses are so easily frightened by
+blasting."
+
+The riding-whip struck impatiently against the folds of her silver-gray
+habit. Did that rock resist everything?
+
+Meanwhile they had reached the spot where their horses were tied.
+Cecilia and Eric mounted. The former nodded slightly an adieu, then
+applied her switch sharply to her beautiful roan, The fiery animal
+reared, and immediately set off at a gallop, so that the other could
+hardly follow him.
+
+They were still visible for about five minutes, on the forest-road that
+led to Radefeld. Like some apparition flew the slender girlish figure
+on the back of her racing steed, with her habit fluttering and the
+plumes in her hat streaming behind. Once more she was seen at the bend,
+then the forest closed behind her.
+
+Egbert was still standing motionless in his place, looking with fixed
+and burning eyes upon that road through the woods. His lips were firmly
+compressed, and on his features rested a singular expression, as though
+of stifled pain or wrath: finally, he straightened himself up and
+turned to go.
+
+Then he perceived something at his feet, soft and white, as though some
+blossom had blown there.
+
+The foot of the young man seemed suddenly to be rooted to the ground,
+then he slowly stooped and picked it up.
+
+It was a fine lace handkerchief, delicately perfumed, that appealed to
+Egbert's senses in a bewitchingly flattering manner. Involuntarily his
+fingers clutched the airy fabric tighter and tighter.
+
+"Herr Runeck!" said a voice behind him.
+
+Runeck started and turned around. It was old Mertens.
+
+"The men would like to know if they are to go on with the blasting, it
+is all ready."
+
+"Certainly, I am coming directly.--Mertens, you are going to Odensburg
+this evening, I suppose?"
+
+"Yes, Herr Engineer, I want to spend Sunday with my children."
+
+"Well, then, take----"
+
+Runeck stopped, and the old man looked at him in amazement. It was
+exactly as if the engineer was with difficulty, struggling for breath.
+And yet it lasted only a second, when he continued with a peculiarly
+gruff voice,
+
+"Take this handkerchief with you, and hand it in at the Manor-house.
+Baroness Wildenrod has lost it."
+
+Mertens took the handkerchief held out to him, and stuck it in his
+pocket, while Egbert went back to the workmen, who were only waiting
+for his appearance. He gave the signal, and the magic wand of the new
+times did its duty. The startling explosion took place, and the cliff
+still uninjured, that had stood there so proud and lofty, was split in
+twain. It trembled, tottered, and then fell in ruins at Runeck's feet
+dragging trees and shrubs to destruction with it.
+
+
+
+
+                             CHAPTER VIII.
+
+                       A BOUGH OF APPLE-BLOSSOMS.
+
+
+"As I tell you, Miss Friedberg, the nerves are a mere habit, and one of
+the worst of ones at that. Since the ladies have discovered nerves, we
+doctors have been the most tormented people in the world. It may be a
+right useful invention so far as husbands are concerned, but a hardened
+bachelor like myself has not the least respect for it."
+
+With these words Dr. Hagenbach closed a rather long harangue which he
+had been giving in Miss Friedberg's chamber. Leonie, who looked pale
+and worn, had called him in professionally, and in reply to his
+questions had only repeated again and again that she was "through and
+through nervous."
+
+"I believe. Doctor, you are the only physician who denies the existence
+of nerves," she said. "I should think science----"
+
+"What science calls 'nerves' has my deepest respect"--she was
+interrupted by Hagenbach. "But what ladies give out to be such, in
+their stead, does not exist. Why do you not have yourself treated by
+the city health-officer, who makes a profound bow to each nerve of his
+patients, or by one of my young colleagues here in Odensburg, who also
+advocates the thing, although with a certain timidity. If you give
+yourself into my hands, there is no favor shown, that you know."
+
+"Yes, I do know it!" she answered with some feeling. "And now may I ask
+for your prescriptions."
+
+"Which, of course, you have no mind to follow. But never mind that,
+I'll use strict vigilance. In the first place, then, the air in your
+room will not do, it is much too damp and heavy. Above all things, let
+us open the window."
+
+"I beg pardon," opposed Leonie with warmth. "A keen north wind is
+blowing, which is more than I can stand."
+
+"Wonderful air!" said Hagenbach, as, without paying any heed to her
+objection, he proceeded to the window and threw open both casements.
+"Were you out of doors yesterday?"
+
+"No, we had a terrible rain-storm."
+
+"Where were your umbrella and waterproof, I allow _them_
+unquestionably. Follow your pupil's example--down yonder in the park
+Miss Maia sails along quite merrily in the face of the storm, and that
+tiny thing, Puck, sails along with her, although he is almost blown
+away."
+
+"Maia is young, a happy child, that knows nothing but laughter and
+sunshine," said Leonie with a sigh. "She knows nothing yet of sorrow
+and tears, of all the hard and bitter that is imposed upon us by fate."
+
+As she spoke, her eye involuntarily sought the desk, above which a
+large photograph took the main place on the wall. Some sweet yet
+painful memory must have been linked to that picture, for it was
+decorated by a mourning veil of black crape, and below it was a bowl
+full of sweet violets, that seemed like a sacrificial offering.
+
+That glance did not escape the doctor's sharp eyes. As though
+accidentally he stepped up to the desk and began to inspect the
+likenesses to be found there, while he dryly remarked:
+
+"Every man has his troubles, but they are far better borne with
+good-humor than with wailing and mourning. Ah! there is the picture of
+the little lady--very like! And her brother by her side--remarkable,
+that he does not resemble his father in the least. Whom does that
+photograph represent?" He pointed to the picture draped in mourning.
+
+This unexpected question seemed to embarrass Leonie, she blushed
+faintly and answered with a somewhat unsteady voice:
+
+"A--a relation."
+
+"Your brother, perhaps?"
+
+"No, a cousin--quite a distant relation."
+
+"Ah, indeed?" drawled Hagenbach.
+
+The remote relation seemed to interest him, he examined very narrowly
+the features of the very pale and lank young man, with sleek hair and
+eyes romantically upturned, and then continued in an indifferent tone:
+
+"That face has a familiar look to me. I must have seen it before
+somewhere."
+
+"You are in error as to that." Leonie's voice quivered perceptibly. "It
+has been long since he was counted among the living. He has lain in his
+grave for years: the hot deserts of Africa."
+
+"Heaven rest his soul!" said the doctor with provoking equanimity. "But
+what took him to Africa and into the desert? Did he go as an explorer
+perhaps?"
+
+"No, he died a martyr to a holy cause. He had attached himself to a
+mission to the heathen, and succumbed to the climate."
+
+"I can only say he might have done a cleverer thing!"
+
+Leonie, who had just carried her handkerchief to her eyes, overcome
+with emotion, stopped, utterly shocked at his lack of feeling:
+
+"Doctor!"
+
+"Yes, I cannot help thinking so. Miss Friedberg. I deem it very
+superfluous, in the first place, to be going away off to Africa to
+convert the black heathen, while so many white heathens, are roving
+around here in Germany, who know nothing of Christianity, although
+they are baptized. If your cousin had preached the Word of God, as a
+well-installed pastor to his own people----"
+
+"He was not a minister, but a teacher," the angry lady managed to put
+in.
+
+"Never mind; then, emphatically, he should have taught the dear
+school-boys the fear of God and flogged them into it, too, if needful.
+Classes have little enough of that nowadays."
+
+Leonie's face betrayed the indignation she felt at this mode of
+expression, but reply was spared her, however, for at this moment came
+a timid knock at the door, and immediately afterwards Dagobert entered,
+but was hardly allowed to pay his respects to the lady; his uncle
+calling out to him, in his threatening voice, just as soon as he laid
+eyes on him:
+
+"No English lesson to-day. Miss Friedberg has just declared that she is
+'nervous through and through,' and nerves and grammar do not agree."
+
+The young man must have valued this instruction highly, for he was
+quite shocked at this announcement. But Leonie said most positively:
+
+"I beg pardon, stay, dear Dagobert! Our English studies are not to
+suffer from my bad feelings, we shall have our accustomed lesson. I'll
+go for our books." So saying, she got up and went into the next room.
+
+The doctor, with a vexed look, followed her with his eyes. "I never did
+have such a contrary patient! Always the embodiment of contradiction!
+Hark ye, Dagobert, you are tolerably well-informed--what sort of a man
+is the one hanging yonder?"
+
+"Hanging? Whore?" asked the horror-stricken Dagobert, while,
+shuddering, he looked across at the trees in the park.
+
+"Why, you need not be thinking directly of a rope," said his uncle. "I
+mean that picture over the desk, with the crazy decoration of crape and
+violets."
+
+"It is a relative of Miss Friedberg, a cousin----"
+
+"Yes, indeed, quite a remote one! She has told me that, too, but I know
+she must have been engaged to him. Tiresome enough he looks to have
+been. Do you know his name, perhaps?"
+
+"Miss Friedberg told it to me once--Engelbert."
+
+"So the man was named Engelbert, too!" cried the excited doctor. "The
+name is just as sentimental as that unbearable face. Engelbert and
+Leonie--they match splendidly together! How the two would have sat and
+cooed together like a pair of turtle-doves!"
+
+"He is dead, poor man!" remarked Dagobert.
+
+"Was not of much account in life," growled Hagenbach, "and does not
+seem to have had specially good nourishment either, before he hied him
+to the desert. What a wretched woe-begone face it is! I must away now,
+give my compliments to Miss Friedberg. Much satisfaction may you get
+out of your 'nervous' English hour."
+
+So saying the doctor picked up hat and cane and left. Ill-humoredly he
+descended the stairs, that sentimental "man of the desert" seemed to
+have thoroughly spoiled his temper. Suddenly he stood still.
+
+"I have seen that face somewhere else, I stick to that, but strange--it
+looked entirely different!"
+
+With this oracular remark he shook his head with a puzzled look and
+left the house.
+
+The weather out of doors did not indeed look very inviting, being one
+of those cold, stormy spring-days, such as occur so frequently in the
+mountains. It is true the landscape no longer wore the bleak, wintry
+aspect that it had done a few weeks before, the trees having already
+decked themselves in fresh green, while the first flowers were
+blossoming in the meadows and fields, but this blooming and growing
+went forward only slowly, because sunshine was lacking.
+
+Dark masses of cloud chased each other over the face of the sky, the
+rustling tree-tops bent before the wind, but this did not trouble the
+young girl, who, with light step, hurried forward on a narrow path
+through the woods.
+
+Maia knew, to be sure, that her father did not approve of her taking
+such long walks unattended, but in the beginning she had confined her
+stroll to the park-limits, then Puck darted across the meadows and she
+after him, and then he went into the woods only a little distance, but
+it was so beautiful there under the murmuring pines, it enticed her on
+and on into the green solitude. What delight, to be, for once, so
+entirely alone, running races with the barking Puck, as if for a wager!
+Absorbed in this pleasure, Maia forgot entirely about the way back,
+until rather rudely reminded of it.
+
+The dark clouds, which had been already threatening the whole day long,
+seemed finally to determine to fulfill their promise, for it began to
+rain, at first softly, then harder and harder, until there poured such
+torrents from the sky as accompany a regular thunder-storm.
+
+Maia had taken refuge beneath a huge fir-tree, but found protection
+there only for the moment. It did not last long, on account of the
+dripping and trickling from every limb; she stood as though under the
+eaves of a roof, and the heavens grew ever darker. It was no quickly
+passing shower, so there was nothing for it but to run as fast as
+possible to the little lodge, only a quarter of a mile away, that
+offered a secure shelter. No sooner thought than done! The young girl
+rushed along over stick and stone, on the wet mossy soil, between
+dripping trees, finally, across a clearing in the forest, where wind
+and rain assailed her with full force, until, at last, breathless and
+thoroughly drenched, she found herself, with her four-footed companion,
+in a dry spot where they could bid defiance to the storm.
+
+This lodge belonged to the forestry equipment at Odensburg, but
+was almost a half league from it, in the midst of the woods. In
+winter-time, when deep snow had fallen, they fed the hungry game here
+and also stored food for their cattle.
+
+It was a small building constructed of boards and the trunks of trees
+joined together, with a water-tight roof and two low windows, now in
+the spring empty and unused, but a welcome place of refuge for the two
+fugitives.
+
+Maia shook herself, so that the drops splashed in all directions. The
+rain had not hurt her waterproof at all, although it poured out of its
+folds, but her pretty hat, which she now took from her head, was so
+much the worse treated. The dainty thing, with its feathers and lace,
+was now nothing but a shapeless mass, and Puck did not look much
+better. His white coat was dripping, and its usually long silky hairs
+were hanging down in wet strands, giving him such a comically
+disconsolate look, that his young mistress laughed aloud.
+
+"Only look, Puck! what a thing we have made of it!" said she in mock
+despair. "Why were we not sensible enough to stay in the park! How we
+do look, and how papa will scold! But you are to blame, you were the
+first to run off to the woods. Thank God, that at least we have a dry
+spot to sit in, else both of us would have been washed down to
+Radefeld, and Egbert would have had to fish us out."
+
+She hurled the utterly spoiled hat upon the low bench that lined the
+wall on one side, seated herself and looked through the little window
+out upon the tempest. The rain was still coming down in torrents, and
+the wind howled around the lodge as though it would like to demolish
+it. Return home at present was not to be thought of. Mala yielded to
+the inevitable, drew the hood of her waterproof over her head, and
+watched Puck, who had stuck his nose through the small opening made by
+the door being left slightly ajar, and discontentedly followed with his
+eyes the falling drops.
+
+Just then there appeared on the verge of the forest a person, who stood
+still for a moment and cast a searching glance around, but then started
+at a running pace over the clearing, straightway to the forest lodge.
+Now it was reached by the stranger, who was evidently likewise a
+fugitive from the storm, with a bold leap he cleared the little lake
+that had already been formed in front of the door, and kicked this open
+so violently, the inquisitive Puck was driven back by the shock. But
+then, with a loud bark, he rushed upon the intruder, who thus presumed
+to contest the sole possession of the house with himself and his
+mistress.
+
+"Not so fierce, you little yelper!" cried the stranger, laughing. "Are
+you the lord and master in this enchanted cottage, or is it that little
+gray dryad cowering over yonder on that bench?"
+
+He had stooped down to grasp the little animal, that quickly eluded him
+and took refuge in the corner, whence was now heard a suppressed laugh
+and a thin little voice saying:
+
+"The dryad thanks you for your good opinion."
+
+The stranger pricked up his ears; the answer showed him that it was no
+child of a collier or peasant, as he had at first supposed, who was
+crouched up there in the half-darkness of the ill-lit room. He gave a
+sharper look, but the low-drawn hood allowed nothing farther to be seen
+than a rosy little mouth, a pretty nose, and a pair of large brown
+eyes, that now, in their turn, were surveying the intruder with
+curiosity and astonishment.
+
+He was a young man of about four-and-twenty years, with a handsome,
+open countenance, brown wavy hair, and bright laughing eyes. The
+weather had treated him ill, for he was without any waterproof: the
+gray traveling suit that he wore was dripping wet, and when he pulled
+off his hat, and waved it in salutation, the water fell from the brim
+in little rivulets on the floor.
+
+"Let me implore you," said he "to grant most graciously to a lost
+traveler who has been caught in the rain, opportunity for a little
+rest. I am really an ordinary mortal, and no water-sprite, as my
+outward appearance would certainly lead you to suppose. May I come
+closer?"
+
+"Just stay where you are at the door!" sounded from out of the corner.
+"Water-sprites and the little people of the wood cannot bear one
+another you know, I suppose, from the fairy-tales."
+
+"Is that so? Well, then, nothing is left for me, but to come forward
+with all my human attributes, such as, name, rank, family, and other
+earthly props. So: Count Eckardstein, lieutenant of infantry, brother
+of the hereditary lord of Eckardstein, to which place I am now on my
+way. At Radefeld I sent my carriage on ahead, in order to take that
+beautiful walk through the Odensburg forests, when lo! these pitiless
+clouds resolved to empty themselves on my devoted head. Thence come my
+watery habiliments, laying me open to so vile a suspicion, but it is
+the only fairy-like thing about me--may I regard myself as sufficiently
+introduced?"
+
+"I believe so. His native place, then, may be congratulated upon seeing
+Count Victor again, after an absence of six years?"
+
+The young Count started, and, despite the prohibition, impulsively drew
+a few steps nearer. "Do you know me?"
+
+"Dryads are all-knowing."
+
+"But they do not remain invisible after they have once lowered
+themselves to converse with mortals. Am I actually, then, not to be
+permitted to see what is hidden under that gray wrap?" As he uttered
+these last words, he made a new attempt to get a near look at the face
+of that mysterious being, but in vain, for, a rosy little hand that
+suddenly became visible, drew the hood down so low that nothing but the
+tip of a nose could be discerned, and again sounded that low, mocking
+laugh, that rippled like the twittering of larks.
+
+"Guess, Count!"
+
+"Impossible, how can I? I know nobody at Eckardstein or rather at
+Odensburg, for we are still on Odensburg land."
+
+He paused, as if waiting for an answer, but he only heard repeated
+that:
+
+"Guess!"
+
+Count Victor perceived that he would not carry his point in this way,
+but the clear laugh and voice betrayed to him the fact that it must be
+a very young girl, who played "hide-and-seek" with him in this way.
+There was a gleam of haughtiness in his eye, as, with a deep bow and
+apparent earnestness he said:
+
+"Indeed, I believe I do recognize now the voice and also the figure--I
+have the honor of standing in the presence of the Honorable Miss Corona
+Von Schmettwitz?"
+
+This expedient served his purpose; quick as a wink the dryad suddenly
+darted forth from her dark corner, the hood flew back, and while her
+fair hair, released from confinement, flowed in rich light waves over
+the gray mantle, there appeared also Maia's shapely head and sweet
+innocent face, that, at this moment, indeed, was crimsoned by anger.
+
+Corona von Schmettwitz, indeed! That forty-year-old canoness, with high
+shoulders and grating voice! She to look so, indeed! She to talk that
+way! She cast a withering look upon the Count.
+
+He could have had no idea that the gray mantle concealed anything so
+lovely, for, motionless, he gazed in blank astonishment upon the young
+girl, whose bright appearance shone like a sunbeam in that gloomy
+environment. At the first instant, he evidently did not recognize her,
+but then a remembrance dawned upon him, and, almost shouting for joy,
+he exclaimed:
+
+"Little Maia!--I beg your pardon, Fraeulein Dernburg, that was but a
+memento of the days of our childhood!"
+
+Maia laughed merrily. "Yes, then I wore short-clothes and long, long
+plaits, by which you always used to hold me fast. But now I am angry,
+Count, very angry--you took me for Corona von Schmettwitz."
+
+"A stratagem of war, for which you must pardon the soldier. By no other
+means could I have learned the truth. Or, do you seriously believe that
+I could mistake you for that lady, whom even as a boy I used to stand
+in such dread of, that I regularly ran away, when she was seen coming
+to Eckardstein?--How, still angry with your brother's former
+playfellow? He has often enough been yours as well."
+
+"Yes, indeed, you did often condescend to play with 'little Maia,'"
+pouted she, while she threw back her hair, that was not yet perfectly
+dry. "The name is the only thing that you have retained."
+
+"Yes, but I did retain something else," said the young Count slowly,
+while his eye was riveted upon that lovely little face. "Else I should
+not have immediately recognized you, when the gray mantle fell. At any
+rate, I should have gone to Odensburg within the next few days. Eric is
+at home, as I hear?"
+
+"Yes, and he is engaged to be married! I suppose you have hardly heard
+of that yet?"
+
+"Yes, I got an announcement of his betrothal, and must present to him
+my congratulations. I have, in general, so much to ask and hear, having
+become almost an entire stranger at home, and now we just have time--"
+
+"We have no time at all," cried Maia, with a glance at the still
+half-open door. "Only see how it has cleared, and the rain has ceased.
+I believe the storm is over."
+
+Count Victor stepped to the door and examined the clouds, but with an
+air that betrayed great disappointment. He had complained awhile ago of
+the pitiless shower-bath to which he had been exposed, but now he
+seemed to find the clearing up of the weather a greater infliction by
+far.
+
+"Yes, the rain has stopped, to be sure, but it will soon begin again,"
+said he hopefully. "At all events, we must wait until the next shower
+is over."
+
+"Just to be shut up here for good by the rain?" remarked Maia. "No, I
+mean to take advantage of the lull and run to Odensburg as fast as I
+can. Come, Puck, let's run!"
+
+"Then I'll run with you," laughed the Count. "So, Puck is the name of
+the little white creature that wanted to deny me the hospitality of the
+lodge. Come here, yelper, and let us make acquaintance."
+
+Puck had scrutinized the stranger in the beginning with very critical
+mien, and, evidently, had not yet made up his mind whether to treat him
+as friend or foe, but now decided favorably. When the young man invited
+him to approach, he trustfully came nearer, and allowed himself to be
+stroked.
+
+Thus the three set out sociably together on the way back. The rain had
+certainly ceased, but the wind raged in full force while they crossed
+the clearing, and after they had gained the shelter of the forest, the
+swaying tree-tops performed a little after-piece that well represented
+a driving rain, while such a dripping and drizzling came from every
+branch! And the somewhat low-lying foot-path had been converted into a
+running brooklet, so that Maia and her escort had to make their way
+sideways over moss and the roots of trees. The forest-stream itself was
+very much swollen, and had inundated the shore on both sides of the
+high bridge. They had to attempt a passage, leaping from rock to rock.
+In doing this Puck lost his balance, slid into the water, and howled
+piteously because he could not swim in the vortex. Maia, who already
+stood upon the bank, uttered also a shriek of anguish at sight of her
+pet's distress, and Count Eckardstein jumped with both feet into the
+water, seized the floundering creature, and brought it to his mistress,
+who bestowed a grateful look upon the gallant rescuer. Finally, in the
+middle of the woods, a wild apple-tree was discovered in full bloom,
+which drew from the young girl a shout of rapture and gave the Count an
+opportunity to display his skill as an athlete. But, alas! he was left
+hanging to a bough from which he had broken a branch, and came to the
+ground again, with a gaping slit in his sleeve.
+
+It was a course full of adventure. The two young wanderers cheerfully
+breasted the storm, laughed brightly when a gust of wind tore through
+the trees, and sprinkled them freshly and heavily with rain, ever
+good-humoredly they jumped and climbed over stones and stumps and
+prostrate trunks of trees, always the better pleased the more
+impassable proved the woods. There was an endless laughing and talking,
+questioning and answering. All the old memories of childhood and youth
+came trooping back as lively as ever. Gray mist was hovering closely
+over the fir-trees, and dark clouds chased each other across the sky,
+but over these two children of men arched the clear sunshine of youth
+and happiness. What cared they for wind and weather!
+
+At last the Odensburg park was reached, that almost immediately
+adjoined the wooded mountain. Maia was just going up to the little
+wicket-gate, through which she had gone out of bounds a few hours ago,
+when it was suddenly opened and Oscar von Wildenrod excitedly
+confronted her.
+
+"But, Maia, how could you go out alone in such weather--?" He suddenly
+broke off, and with marked surprise looked up and down her escort, of
+whom he had just caught sight.
+
+Maia, who had again drawn her hood over her head and hung her ruined
+hat on her arm, laughed defiantly. "You thought, did you, that Puck and
+I would have been drowned in that water-spout. No, here we both are,
+safe and sound, and have even found company on the way. I believe you
+gentlemen are not acquainted. Count Victor von Eckardstein--Baron von
+Wildenrod, a connection of my brother Eric."
+
+Wildenrod responded with a certain reserve to the friendly greeting of
+the stranger, who said laughingly:
+
+"I am glad to make your acquaintance, Baron, although you find me in
+this soaked condition. I am accustomed to be drier, I assure you, but
+really I was not prepared for an introduction to-day. I only meant to
+escort Fraeulein Dernburg to the park-gate and then take my leave."
+
+"Will you not stop long enough to see Papa and Eric?" asked Maia.
+
+"No, no, Fraeulein Dernburg, I should not like to appear before the
+Dernburg family in such attire as this. But I am coming very soon--if I
+may!"
+
+As he spoke these last words, his eyes sought those of the young girl,
+who coquettishly said: "Are you afraid that I shall forbid it you?"
+
+"Who knows? Water-sprites and dryads do not agree, I had to hear a
+while ago from your own mouth. Nevertheless, I shall venture it.
+Meanwhile, I beg of you to accept this token of peace from me. You know
+how hardly it has been obtained." With a slight bow he handed her the
+blossom-laden bough, that he still carried in his hand.
+
+Wildenrod listened silently, but he gazed fixedly upon the pair. The
+tone of familiarity seemed to surprise him in the highest degree, and
+upon the Count's now taking his leave, he only bowed his head with cool
+civility, spoke a few words just as coolly, and then quickly followed
+Maia into the park, letting the wicket gate slam to behind them.
+
+"You seem to be very well acquainted with that gentleman," he remarked,
+while they struck into the path leading to the house.
+
+"Oh, certainly," answered his companion, without the least
+embarrassment. "Count Victor used to be a playmate of Eric's, when they
+were boys, and he used often enough to let me join in their sports. I
+was very glad to meet him again after the lapse of six years."
+
+"Ah, indeed!" said the Baron slowly. He turned around, and with a
+peculiar glance scanned the form of the Count, who was just
+disappearing between the trees, while Maia innocently chatted on:
+
+"If I can only slip into my own room unobserved--Papa will be angry if
+he sees me."
+
+"Yes, indeed, he will scold," said Wildenrod with emphasis, "and I
+should like to do the same. I had gone into the park to look for you
+when that storm burst forth, and I heard from the gardener that you had
+already been for an hour somewhere in the woods. How imprudent! Did you
+not think how uneasy the people at home would be about you?--that I
+would be distressing myself?"
+
+The reproachful tone of this question called a bright blush to the
+young girl's face. "Oh, that was altogether uncalled for. Here in
+Odensburg every workman and child knows me."
+
+"Never mind, you should never again venture forth so far without
+attendance. You promise me this, do you not, Maia? And as a pledge that
+you will keep your word, I ask this of you."
+
+As though in sport, he caught at the blooming branch, but Maia looked
+at him, half-shocked and half-indignant.
+
+"My branch? No, why?"
+
+"Because I ask you for it."
+
+The request sounded like a demand, and this must have awakened Maia's
+pride. With a decided gesture of repulse, she drew back a step.
+
+"No, Herr von Wildenrod. I'll not give up my blossoms."
+
+A flash of angry surprise shot from the Baron's eyes: he had not
+believed the child capable of such decided opposition to _his_ will,
+and it was precisely this that goaded him into having his way, at any
+price.
+
+"Do you attach so great value to it?" he asked, with bitter scorn. "The
+Count seemed to do so too. Perhaps this 'pledge of peace' has some
+secret significance for you both?"
+
+"A jest, nothing more! Victor is an old playmate----"
+
+"And I am a stranger to you! Is that what you would say, Maia? I
+understand."
+
+At these words, spoken with intense bitterness, the brown eyes were
+lifted to his in a shocked and pleading manner. "Oh, no, Herr Von
+Wildenrod, I did not mean that--Oh, certainly not."
+
+"No? And yet you speak of 'Victor' and immediately grant him a renewal
+of the former familiar relations. I have been, and still am, nothing to
+you but 'Herr Von Wildenrod.' How often have I begged you to call me by
+my first name, just for once. I have never yet heard it from your
+lips."
+
+Maia gave no reply, there she stood motionless, with glowing cheeks and
+downcast eyes; but still she felt the fervent glance that rested upon
+her.
+
+"Is it so hard for you to give me a name, that the future family
+connection has nevertheless the right to claim? Is it really so hard?
+Well, I will be content to forego my claim when others are present, but
+now, that we are alone, I must and shall hear it ... Maia!"
+
+The delay of another second, and then it came, softly and tremblingly,
+from her lips: "Oscar!"
+
+A gleam of transporting joy lighted up the man's dark features, and he
+made an impetuous movement, as though he would draw to his heart the
+young girl who stood before him, shy and trembling. But he controlled
+himself; only he seized and clasped firmly her quivering little hand.
+
+"At last! And now that other, the second request."
+
+"Herr Von Wildenrod----"
+
+"The branch, Maia, which another gave to you, and which I, therefore,
+_will_ not leave in your hands. Please give it to me?"
+
+Maia resisted no longer. Powerless beneath the ban of those eyes and
+that voice, she held out to him the blooming bough.
+
+"Thanks!" said Oscar softly. It was only a single word, but it had the
+sound of tenderness with difficulty restrained.
+
+Now Miss Friedberg was seen at the open window of the house, which the
+two were now approaching, and, with clasped hands, she expressed her
+horror at seeing her pupil in such a plight.
+
+"Maia, for heaven's sake tell me, have you actually been abroad in this
+weather? How you do look! Be quick, take off that wet mantle--you will
+catch your death of cold!"
+
+"Yes, I should give her the same advice," said Oscar, smiling. "Quick,
+quick, go in the house!"
+
+The girl slipped off with a passing nod. Wildenrod slowly followed her,
+but stood still in the garden-hall, and his brow darkened again as he
+looked at the blossom-laden bough in his hand. For the first time he
+realized that the success of his wooing might be imperiled by delay,
+and yet he knew that he durst not speak as yet. He did not yet stand
+firm enough in the favor of Dernburg, who could hardly be brought to
+give up his darling to a man so much older than herself, without
+further inducement, nor was he as yet sure even of Maia. An unwise word
+here, spoken prematurely, might spoil everything. And just at this
+crisis had to start up most provokingly this Count Eckardstein, who had
+lost not a minute's time in laying claim to his old footing of the
+familiar friend of childish days!
+
+For a few moments Wildenrod stood lost in dark forebodings, then he
+drew himself up with a jerk, and in his eyes again flamed proud,
+triumphant self-confidence. Good--Maia was not to be won without a
+struggle--he was not the one to shun it. How pusillanimous, to doubt
+gaining the victory over that young coxcomb with his smooth face! Let
+him beware of crossing his path!
+
+At the window of her own room stood Maia, who had not yet laid off her
+wet mantle, nor was even conscious that she still wore it. She gazed up
+at the cloud-beleaguered sky, with a strange dreamy look upon her face,
+and a slight, happy smile played about her lips.
+
+Forgotten was the meeting in the forest-lodge, banished the form of her
+old playmate--she only saw one thing--those deep, dark eyes, the look
+that had woven such a spell upon her spirit, she only heard that
+subdued voice, thrilling with restrained passion. It was a sweet,
+disturbing dream,--a feeling, of which she did not herself know whether
+it portended woe or bliss.
+
+
+
+
+                              CHAPTER IX.
+
+                     THE CROSS ON THE WHITE STONE.
+
+
+Spring had fully come. Through storm and cold, through frost and fog,
+it had victoriously fought its way through, and awakened the earth
+everywhere to a new and sunny life.
+
+A solitary wanderer was vigorously climbing upward through the green
+woods. It was still early in the day: the forest still-rested in deep
+bluish gray shadow, while heavy and moist lay the dew upon the mossy
+ground. Only the voices of individual birds sounded through the
+stillness of morning, and the tree-tops rustled and sighed as they
+bowed before the wind.
+
+Egbert Runeck was on his way to the Whitestone, wanting to keep his
+word and examine the condition of the cross up there himself. Now he
+emerged from the woods, coming out upon a small elevated plateau, while
+just in front of him towered the mighty wall of cliff. Naked and steep
+it reared its crest above the dark fir-trees that fringed its base. The
+whole upper part was wildly cleft and riven, here only a few dwarf
+pines and stunted bushes were rooted in the fissures. From the summit a
+gigantic cross was visible to a great distance, identifying the
+mountain for all beholders.
+
+That high, solitary peak played a chief part in the legends of the
+region round about. Already its name was linked with the world of
+fairies and elves that once had their mysterious being in these
+mountain-forests, and still survived in the superstitions of the
+people. The Whitestone concealed buried treasures, that, slumbering
+deep within its rock-bound caves, waited for release, and already many
+a one had paid the penalty of death for meddling with its secrets. Only
+the almighty _Springwuerzel_[1] opens these locked-up depths.
+
+
+                 "He takes from night and darkness
+                    Their treasures hidden deep,
+                  And he those jewels sparkling
+                    And all that gold may keep."
+
+
+How strange! Those words kept ringing in the ears of the man who stood
+on the edge of the mountain-meadow. It was the last stanza of an old
+popular ballad, that he too had been familiar with in childhood, but
+had long since forgotten. For him there were no longer hidden
+treasures, for him the depths were empty and dead, and yet that song
+kept ringing incessantly in his soul, but rather the voice from which
+he had last heard it. He hated at the bottom of his heart that
+beautiful syren who had ensnared by her wiles the friend of his youth,
+and now was to be mistress of Odensburg, but he could not rid himself
+of the entrancing sound of that voice, of the demoniacal charm of those
+eyes, and no labor, no exertion of will-power availed for his
+deliverance.
+
+He crossed, over the mountain meadow, and, looking up, scrutinized the
+Whitestone. The weight of the winter's snows and the latest storms of
+spring might very well have shaken its foundations, and yet it seemed
+to stand firm and sure. But suddenly Egbert started, his foot seemed
+rooted to the spot, while his gaze clung spell-bound, to the top of the
+peak. Something was stirring up yonder; he saw the outlines of a bright
+form, that were clearly defined--his sharp eye recognized them in spite
+of the distance.
+
+It had been no mere boast then, no passing whim, the madcap had really
+undertaken the adventure, and, undertaken it alone, as it seemed!
+Egbert's brow contracted, yet, for him to retrace his steps was not to
+be thought of--he, too, had almost certainly been already seen. He
+grasped his staff, then, and slowly began to climb.
+
+The path that from here upward led to the crag certainly required a
+steady head and a fearless heart. It was a sort of hunter's track, that
+wound along close to the steep precipice, and the view of the awful
+depths below was always left open. At times it would vanish entirely,
+and then one would be forced to look out a path for himself, until the
+beaten track after a while again became visible.
+
+The young engineer had lost the imperturbable coolness, with which he
+usually accomplished such a climb, often he stopped, his foot slipped,
+and he had consumed much more time than usual when he finally reached
+the top. There before him stood Cecilia Wildenrod, flooded by the
+bright light of morning, radiant in beauty and overweening pride.
+
+"See there, Herr Runeck, we meet on the summit of the Whitestone! You
+have taken your time for the climb--I came faster!"
+
+"I know the danger of the way," answered Egbert, composedly, "and
+therefore do not challenge it."
+
+"Danger? I did not think of that! You thought I would not dare to
+follow this path, or, at best give up and go back in five minutes. What
+say you now?"
+
+She gave him a challenging glance,--now, at last, a word of admiration
+must come from those stern lips! But there came only the cool
+counter-question:
+
+"Do they know of your expedition at Odensburg, noble lady?"
+
+"Why, no!" cried the young lady laughing. "Then they would have
+confined me to the house or at least set a guard over my going out and
+coming in. I set off this morning betimes, while they were all asleep,
+slipped away secretly, had the horses hitched up and drove to
+Crownwood. From there the road can hardly be missed, and, you see I
+have found it."
+
+"Alone? That was more than incautious! If you had made a false step, if
+you had fallen, no help was at hand and then----"
+
+"Dear me? Do not you begin to preach at me," interrupted she
+impatiently. "I shall hear enough of lectures when I get back to
+Odensburg."
+
+"I have neither the purpose nor the right to preach to you, Fraeulein
+von Wildenrod, that is for Eric to do, if any one."
+
+"And he is the very last from whom I would take it."
+
+"What, not from your future husband?"
+
+"Just on that very account. I have made up my mind to rule in the
+establishment."
+
+"That would not be hard to do in this case, Eric is of a gentle,
+yielding temper. He will never try to resist you."
+
+"Resist?" repeated Cecilia, provoked and amused at the same time. "You
+seem to consider our marriage as on a war-basis--a flattering
+compliment to me."
+
+"I beg pardon, if I now inspect the cross," said Egbert, interrupting
+the Baroness. "I came up here, solely on that account, you know. The
+thing is to hinder the possibility of an accident, the results of which
+might be fatal."
+
+Cecilia bit her lip at this rejection of the confidential tone, which
+she had found good to adopt, and an angry glance was hurled at the man
+who dared to treat her thus.
+
+Cecilia looked silently on as Runeck proceeded to the cross, which
+stood on the extreme verge of the precipice upon the side facing the
+valley, and tested it. He did this thoroughly and scientifically, and
+probably ten minutes elapsed ere he turned around again.
+
+"Those gentlemen were mistaken," said he quietly. "The cross is
+standing perfectly firm and secure, and there is no fear of its
+falling. Perhaps you will have the goodness to report this at
+Odensburg. I shall not get there until day after to-morrow, and I take
+it for granted that you have no idea of making a secret of your
+adventure."
+
+"On the contrary, I am fully purposed to boast freely of it. Do not
+look so astounded, Herr Runeck. You see this lace veil does not exactly
+belong to my tourist's equipment: I have brought it with me on purpose
+to prove that I really have been on the top of the Whitestone. I could
+have no idea that I should meet you here, and did not therefore
+calculate upon having your testimony to the feat." And so saying
+Cecilia loosened the white veil, that was flung loosely around her
+shoulder and waist, and advanced towards the cross.
+
+"What are you going to do with it?" asked Egbert, looking after her in
+surprise.
+
+"I have already told you,--to leave behind, a token, so that they may
+believe at Odensburg, that I actually performed the achievement. My
+veil is to wave from the cross yonder."
+
+"For what? It is rashness, foolhardiness! Come back, please!"
+
+His call sounded commanding, frenzied, but Cecilia paid no heed to it.
+Standing immediately on the verge of the precipice, she flung her veil
+around the cross. It was an agonizing spectacle--one single incautious
+movement, and she would lie crushed at the base.
+
+"Fraeulein von Wildenrod, come back! I implore you!" The voice of the
+young engineer was muffled and full of emotion. He seemed to suffer the
+agonies of a life-time in that moment.
+
+Cecilia turned around and smiled. "Can you really beg, Herr Runeck? I
+am coming directly, only one more look into that chasm, which has its
+fascination for me." And, with her arm slung around the cross, she
+actually bent over the abruptly precipitous wall of rock, and looked
+fearlessly down.
+
+Egbert involuntarily took one step forward, his arm quivered, as though
+he would drag her away by force from her dangerous position. He did
+not, however, but every drop of blood seemed to have left his face,
+when she finally left her place and came to him again.
+
+"Do you believe now in my fearlessness?" she asked, tauntingly.
+
+"That rash sport was really not necessary to convince me of it," said
+he harshly, and yet he drew a sigh of relief, when he once more saw the
+foolhardy girl on firm ground. "A misstep on that spot and you would
+have been lost!"
+
+She recklessly shrugged her shoulders. "I never get dizzy, and just
+wanted for once to feel that deliciously thrilling sensation of
+standing up there, close over the precipice. One feels something like a
+demoniacal drawing to the bottom, it is as though one must rush to
+destruction, whether or no. Have you ever felt anything like it?"
+
+"No," said Egbert coldly. "One must have a great deal of--time, to
+indulge themselves in such feelings."
+
+"Which you deem objectionable."
+
+"Unhealthy, to say the least. He who needs his life for work, knows how
+to prize it, and risks it only at the call of duty."
+
+This reproof sounded very rude, and if it had come from the lips of any
+other person, Cecilia would probably have turned her back upon the
+"insolent creature," in silent contempt. Here she said nothing, for a
+minute perhaps, and at the same time scanned the sunburnt countenance
+of the young man, that had not by any means recovered its color as yet.
+Then she smiled again. "Thanks for the lesson. We just do not
+understand one another, Herr Runeck."
+
+"I have told you so already--we belong to two different worlds----"
+
+"And yet we stand so near together on the narrow space furnished by
+Whitestone's crest," mocked Cecilia. "As for the rest, I have enjoyed
+this unique pleasure long enough. I must go down now."
+
+"Then permit me to attend you! The descent is far more dangerous than
+the ascent, and I could not answer to Erie for letting you go alone."
+
+"To Eric? That indeed!" Her lips curled haughtily at the mention of her
+betrothed; then she cast a look up at the cross, where the loose
+hanging ends of the veil were fluttering in the morning breeze.
+
+"That old weather-beaten cross has never been dressed up so before! I
+present it to the guardian spirits of the Whitestone; may be, out of
+gratitude, they will open their caverns to me and give me a sight of
+their buried treasures."
+
+With a light laugh she turned to go. Silently Runeck led the way. He
+was right, the greater danger lay in the descent.
+
+From time to time, at especially critical places, he exhorted her to be
+cautious, with a few words, or by a movement of the arm offered his
+assistance, which, however, was not accepted. His beautiful companion
+walked along over the giddy, steep path, as carelessly as over the
+smoothest of roads. Her light foot carried her over the rubble-stones,
+where Egbert's heavier tread found no good hold, and where there was
+climbing or leaping to do, with the help of her staff, she would swing
+herself from rock to rock. There was a bewitching grace in every moment
+of her slender white form, although, at the same time, that bold rash
+sport with danger that sets foresight at defiance.
+
+They had already accomplished the greatest part of the way, already the
+bright green of the little mountain meadow was smiling a welcome, when
+Cecilia heedlessly again set her foot upon a loose rubble-stone, but
+this time it gave way, and rolled into the chasm; she lost her balance,
+tottered, stumbled--now the horrible instant of her fall, a loud shriek
+of dismay, then it grew dark before her eyes.
+
+But the next second she was seized and held. Flinging his stout staff
+from him, Egbert had turned around as quick as lightning, and propping
+himself with gigantic strength against the cliff, he caught up the
+girl's trembling form and convulsively held her tight in his arms.
+
+Cecilia had hardly lost her consciousness for more than a minute,
+almost immediately it was restored to her, and her large, dark eyes
+were shyly lifted up to her deliverer's face, that was bent over her.
+She saw that it was deadly pale, saw the expression of unspeakable
+agony upon his usually cold features, and felt the wild, stormy beating
+of the heart against which her head rested! _She_ was the one who had
+been in peril, but upon _his_ countenance was stamped the agony of
+death!
+
+Thus they tarried awhile, motionless, when Runeck slowly let his arm
+drop. "Rest upon my shoulder," said he softly. "Right firmly--look not
+to the right nor left, only upon the path in front of you--I am holding
+you."
+
+He picked up his staff and then put his right arm about her, so as best
+to give her support. Cecilia passively obeyed; that horrible danger,
+the nature of which she now, for the first time, realized, had broken
+her spirit of opposition; she still trembled in every limb and her head
+swam. Thus they slowly continued the descent. That light, delicate
+figure could hardly have been felt as a burden by so strong a man, and
+yet his breath came quickly and heavily, and a dark flush glowed upon
+his cheek.
+
+Finally, the solid ground was reached, and they stood in the meadow.
+All the way down they had exchanged not a single word, but now Cecilia
+straightened herself up. She was still pale, but she tried to smile as
+she offered her hand to the man who had saved her life.
+
+"Herr Runeck--I thank you."
+
+There was a strange ring in those words, something that told of a
+genuinely warm heart and overflowing gratitude, but Egbert only touched
+lightly the proffered hand, and immediately let it drop again.
+
+"I deserve no thanks, lady. I would have done the same service to any
+other whom I had seen in such peril. When you have recovered somewhat
+from your fright, I shall conduct you to Crownwood, where you said you
+had left your carriage and horses. Even that is tolerably far."
+
+Cecilia looked at him in surprise, almost in dismay. Was that the same
+man, who had awhile ago bent over her in such tender solicitude, whose
+whole being had quivered in wild, feverish excitement as he had borne
+rather than led her down the mountain? There stood he before her, with
+stolid features, speaking with the same old calm composure, as though
+the memory of those last fifteen minutes had already been expunged from
+his memory. But they had been, nevertheless--a pair of dark eyes had
+looked into depths hitherto strongly locked up and knew not what it
+concealed.
+
+"Do you take me to be so cowardly, that I tremble for hours over a
+danger surmounted?" asked Cecilia softly. "I am only tired from the
+difficulties of the walk and my feet pain me; I must rest for a quarter
+of an hour."
+
+She let herself down under a tall fir-tree, the moss-covered roots of
+which offered a natural resting-place. She was indeed exhausted and
+over-fatigued, it was easy to see, but her companion had not a word of
+commiseration to spare her. He seemed to have but one wish, and that
+was to give up his office as guide as quickly as possible.
+
+The mountain-meadow, with its sunny green, shone bright in contrast
+with the dark forests. Behind it loomed up the Whitestone, while in
+front an extensive view of the mountains was afforded. The landscape
+had nothing of the bright smiling beauty of the south, nor the
+overpowering grandeur of the Alps, but there rested upon it a peculiar
+charm, dreamy and melancholy as its legendary world.
+
+Deep down lay the valleys, wrapt in bluish shadows, while the heights
+round about were flooded by bright sunshine, and over the valleys and
+hills spread an infinite expanse of green forest, out of which, only
+here and there, a bare wall of rock emerged, or a brook plunged wildly
+downward, splashing and foaming as it went. Mysteriously, as though
+from a far distance, came the soughing of the wind through the trees,
+swelling ever stronger and stronger, and then sinking again, dying away
+like a long-drawn sigh.
+
+And yet other sounds were borne upon the breeze from the depths below.
+It was a Sunday morning and the churches of all the little villages
+scattered through the woods were calling to the service of God.
+Everywhere bells were ringing, one here sounded clear and full, another
+there low and sweet, mingling, as it died away, with the rustling of
+the trees.
+
+Cecilia had taken off her hat and leaned against the trunk of the tree.
+Egbert stood a few steps apart, but his eyes hung upon her, as though
+riveted there by some wizard's spell. It availed nothing for him to
+forcibly resist; again they returned to feast themselves upon her
+captivating beauty, that graceful form clad in a simple white woolen
+gown, or that shining hair, which to-day was only lightly brushed back,
+and, held by a silver pin, fell loose on her neck. Her appearance was
+quite different from what Egbert had ever seen it before--so much
+lovelier--so much more dangerous!
+
+For minutes had the silence lasted, when Cecilia looked up and asked in
+a low voice:
+
+"And you are not going to scold me at all?"
+
+"I? Why should I?"
+
+"Why, you have good right to be angry with me, since, through my
+folly, your life, too, was exposed to imminent peril. I missed, by a
+hair's-breadth, dragging you down with me into that abyss--I am ashamed
+of myself."
+
+This was uttered pleadingly, almost timidly--the tone was a strange one
+from that mouth. A dark flush appeared upon Egbert's brow, but his
+voice was as cold and distant as ever.
+
+"You were not aware of the danger, but will not be so rash again."
+
+"Will you not accept of my apology, but treat it as you did my thanks?"
+asked Cecilia reproachfully. "You have saved my life at the risk of
+your own--but at this moment you actually look as if you bitterly
+repent of it."
+
+"I?" exclaimed Egbert vehemently.
+
+"Yes, you! You stand there with an air that seems to say, you must
+defend yourself against an enemy in deadly fray. Against whom, pray?
+Only I am here!"
+
+Again there was that roaring and rushing in the woods. It drew on above
+the hills like the waving of invisible giant-wings, and fuller and
+stronger sounded the church-bells from below. The whole air was
+instinct with sound, it seemed to soar on the sunbeams, and to swim and
+to shape themselves into a marvelous song, that at first sounded only
+in single detached chords, and then gradually changed to a melody that
+seemed mysterious but infinitely sweet, and both to shout and to
+lament.
+
+True, those two up yonder, on that solitary, sunlit mountain-meadow,
+belonged to two different worlds,--it is true that a deep chasm parted
+them in all their thoughts and feelings. But the vain, spoiled child of
+fashionable society, who hitherto had only lived in a whirl of gayety,
+in an eternal chase after pleasure, to whom, heretofore, solitude had
+been synonymous with unbearable _ennui_--she now listened to that
+sweet, strange dream, like one lost in reverie. And the man, too, to
+whom hard work had never allowed time for meditation and dreams, in
+vain resisted the magical influence. He was wont to stand firm on the
+soil of reality, in the broad daylight, and to look into life with cool
+and penetrating vision--into a life full of toil and strife, full of
+hard, irreconcilable contrasts. He was made for this. What to him were
+the fantastic dreams of the world of the imagination? And yet now they
+held him fast within their toils, and through the midst of it all, with
+captivating sweetness, echoed a human voice:
+
+"Against whom are you defending yourself? Only I am here."
+
+Egbert drew his hand across his forehead, as though he would arouse
+himself forcibly from this dreamy state.
+
+"I beg your pardon, Baroness Wildenrod," said he. "I was thinking of
+unpleasantnesses that I had had with my men at Radefeld. One like me,
+who has his work forever on his mind, is but poor company, as you see."
+
+"Have I asked to be entertained by you?" asked Cecilia, with slight
+reproof in her accent. "Eric is right, you are as hard as your native
+rocks, rugged and inaccessible as the Whitestone itself. If one
+believes, that at last the magical word has been found, if the deep
+opens for one brief instant, the very next it closes, and a sealed
+surface of cold stone confronts the seeker."
+
+Runeck made no reply. He had not idly dreaded this interview: he knew
+that he had betrayed himself in that moment of deadly peril and agony
+untold!
+
+And his adversary, who had now learned to know her power, was
+inexorable and wanted to enjoy her triumph at any price. It had
+cost her trouble enough to impose her chains upon this brave, proud
+man,--chains which all others were so glad and willing to wear; now he
+was conquered, and she wanted to see him, too, at her feet.
+
+"Eric bitterly laments that he sees so little of you now," she began
+again. "If you come to Odensburg--and you _must_ come sometimes--you
+confine yourself exclusively to his father's work-room and decline
+every invitation to join the family circle. Your engagements at
+Radefeld furnish you with the pretext for this mode of procedure, but I
+know better what keeps you away.--It is my presence and my brother's."
+
+"Mein Fraeulein----"
+
+"Do not attempt to deny it. From the very first minute, I have been
+conscious of the mute hostility that you bear to us, and have often
+enough asked myself why--I have never found an answer to my question."
+
+"Then ask Herr von Wildenrod, he will give you that answer."
+
+The tone of his voice should have warned Cecilia, it sounded hollow and
+threatening, but she paid no heed to it.
+
+"Something happened to make you dislike one another that time you first
+met, did it not? I have suspected it! But since then years have
+elapsed. Oscar has long forgotten the affair, as you have heard from
+himself. Will you alone be so implacable? And may I not know what
+happened then--will you not tell me, too?"
+
+Her voice sounded yet softer and sweeter than before; her large, dark
+eyes were lifted imploringly to the man, who clearly felt how the net
+was being drawn closer and closer about him, how will and power were
+succumbing to the flattering sounds of that voice, as clearly he also
+suspected that the beautiful soulless creature there by his side was
+only playing a contemptible game with him and feeling nothing but the
+triumph of vanity. Then he rallied his forces with a last desperate
+resolve to burst his chains.
+
+"Do you speak as commissioned by Herr von Wildenrod, Baroness?" he
+asked, with such terrible bitterness, that the young lady started and
+looked at him in surprise.
+
+"What do you mean?"
+
+"I mean, that for the Baron much depends upon his learning what I
+really know, and his sister may well seem to him the tool well fitted
+for the purpose."
+
+Cecilia rose to her feet, shocked and excited. Although these words
+were perfectly unintelligible to her, so much she did understand, that
+the matter involved here was something very different from the expected
+conquest. This was not the language of a man upon whose lips hovered a
+declaration of love. Something like hatred and contempt flashed upon
+her from his eyes.
+
+"I do not understand you, Herr Runeck," said she, with rising warmth,
+"but I have a feeling that you insult me and my brother. Now, I _will_
+know, what happened that time between you two, and you are to tell it
+me!"
+
+"Should that really be necessary?" asked he, cuttingly. "Herr von
+Wildenrod will have sufficiently instructed you. Well, then, tell him I
+know more of his past, than might be pleasant to him!"
+
+Cecilia turned pale; her eyes, too, flashed threateningly, the same
+lurid light burning in them as in the glance of her brother when he was
+provoked.
+
+"What does that mean?" cried she, trembling from excitement. "To whom
+do your words refer? Beware, lest Oscar call you to account!"
+
+Her warning came too late, producing not the slightest effect upon
+Egbert, whose nervous system had been subjected to great strain,
+through the silent, torturing conflict, which he had been waging for
+months. He was intensely excited. Had he been the calm and collected
+man of earlier days, he would not have spoken, at least not at this
+hour and this place; he would have spared in Cecilia, the woman. But
+now there fermented within him only that wild desire after revenge upon
+her who had stolen his soul from him, who, syren-like, had chained to
+herself all his thoughts and feelings, and whom he believed that he
+hated, wanted to hate, because he despised her. If he should now
+inflict a deadly insult upon her, if he should open a gulf between them
+that no bridge could span--no word nor look cross--that would bring
+deliverance, break the spell, then an end would be put to it!
+
+"Baron von Wildenrod is to call me to account, is he?" cried he, with
+bitter scorn. "The thing might shape itself differently. I have
+hitherto been silent, had to be silent, for my own conviction, however
+firm it might stand, would go for nothing against Eric's passion and
+his father's sense of justice. They will demand proofs, and I have them
+not at present. But I shall know how to find them, and then my
+forbearance ceases."
+
+"Are you out of your senses?" interposed Cecilia, but he continued with
+increasing vehemence.
+
+"Eric may possibly bleed to death from the wound that I must inflict
+upon him, but this is a blow that must strike him sooner or later.
+Better that it should happen now, when there is still room for retreat,
+when he is not yet chained to a woman who will risk his love and
+happiness as awhile ago she did her own life, making sport of them as
+she has hitherto done of all who came near to her. You are your
+brother's sister, Baroness Wildenrod, and have doubtless been taught by
+him how cards are shuffled. He and you already feel yourselves to be
+the owners of Odensburg; do not triumph too soon! You do not yet bear
+the name of Dernburg, and ere it comes to that, I shall stake
+everything upon guarding that name and Odensburg from becoming the prey
+of two--adventurers!"
+
+The horrible word was out, and Cecilia shrank as though she had been
+struck. Pale as a ghost, incapable of speech, she stared at the man,
+whom she had fancied to be enthralled by her charms, and who now
+suddenly stood unmasked as a pitiless foe. She did not perceive the
+fierce pain, almost amounting to delirium, that raged in his soul and
+carried him away beyond all the bounds of discretion, knew not that
+every one of those words, that he hurled so crushingly at her, bit
+himself with tenfold force; she only felt the deadly insult that he had
+inflicted upon her. Not until he ceased to speak, did she recover from
+that paralyzing shock.
+
+"Ah, that is too much--too much! You heap up one slander, one insult
+upon the other. I do not know at what your insinuations point, but I do
+know that they are all lies, shameful lies, that you will have to
+render an account for!"
+
+Here was such a glowing outburst of indignation, such stormy revolt
+against unmerited contumely, that it removed any doubt as to the truth
+of her words. Egbert, too, seemed to feel this, for in his dark,
+threatening eyes flashed something like a gleam of hope.
+
+With an impulsive movement, he drew one step nearer.
+
+"You do not understand me? Actually not? You are not your brother's
+confidante? Answer me!"
+
+"No--no!" gasped Cecilia, still quivering from rage, but, against her
+will, constrained by the torturing suspense conveyed in that question.
+
+Egbert looked at her, his glance seemed to penetrate her inmost soul,
+as though he would therein read the truth, then his chest heaved with a
+deep, deep sigh. "No," said he, dispiritedly, "You know nothing!"
+
+There followed a long, trying pause. The ringing of bells in the valley
+had gradually ceased, only a single one softly sounding from a great
+distance. So much the loader roared the wind, wailing as though it bore
+bad tidings on its mighty wings.
+
+"Then I have to beg your pardon," began Egbert again, his voice having
+a singularly veiled sound. "I do not take back my accusation against
+the Baron. Repeat to him word for word what I said, looking him in the
+eye, as you do so--perhaps you will then no longer rail against me as a
+liar."
+
+In spite of the subdued tone there was such terrible positiveness in
+these words, that Cecilia quaked. For the first time, a dread fear, a
+secret anguish, took possession of her. This Runeck looked as if he
+were ready to maintain the truth of his words in the face of the whole
+world. Only suppose that he had not spoken falsely--suppose--she cast
+the thought far from her, but nevertheless she turned faint and dizzy.
+
+"Leave me!" said she, with quivering lips. "Go!"
+
+Egbert's eye rested moodily upon her countenance, then he bowed his
+head.
+
+"You cannot forgive the affront I gave you. I understand that. But,
+believe me, this has also been a trying hour for me--the most trying of
+my life!"
+
+He went, and when Cecilia looked up, he had already disappeared among
+the trees, and she stood alone. High up on the cross of the Whitestone
+her veil was waving and fluttering, about her murmured the woods, and
+the last church-bell died softly away in the distance.
+
+
+
+
+                               CHAPTER X.
+
+                             MAIA'S CHOICE.
+
+
+On the terrace of the Odensburg manor-house Eberhardt Dernburg and
+Oscar von Wildenrod were walking up and down, engaged in conversation.
+They had become absorbed in a political discussion, that was conducted
+with much animation on the part of the older gentleman, while the
+younger, contrary to his custom, appeared to be silent and abstracted.
+From time to time his glance would be directed to the large grassplot
+where Maia was playing croquet with Count Victor von Eckardstein.
+
+"There will be a hot contest at this session of the Reichstag, as is
+plainly to be foreseen," Dernburg was just saying. "It is to be called
+together immediately after the elections and I must just make up my
+mind, to sacrifice the greatest part of the winter to my duties as a
+member."
+
+"Do you calculate then, positively, upon being re-elected?" asked
+Wildenrod.
+
+"Of course I do!" Dernburg looked at him in surprise. "I have been
+representing my electoral district for the past twenty years, and the
+Odensburg votes alone suffice to ensure my election."
+
+"I was just going to ask you about that. Are you perfectly sure of
+those votes too? Much has altered in the last three years."
+
+"Not with me," said Dernburg quietly. "My workmen and I have known each
+other for tens of years. I know that insurrectionary influences have
+been at work--insinuations and the like. Trying with all my might I
+have not been able to protect Odensburg from these, and perhaps here
+and there these whisperings may have found individuals who would
+listen; but the mass of my men stand fast by me."
+
+"Let us hope so!" A slight doubt was perceptible in the voice of the
+Baron, who, in spite of his short stay, showed himself perfectly _au
+fait_ with the situation of affairs. "The socialists in the region
+round about have been uncommonly active, preaching, agitating, and
+stirring up things generally, and in many an electoral district, the
+candidate who was perfectly sure of an overwhelming majority, awoke to
+unpleasant surprises."
+
+"But here I stand--and I believe myself fully equal to cope with those
+gentlemen," said Dernburg with the quiet conviction of a man who feels
+that he occupies a position that is unassailable. Wildenrod was about
+to answer, when a joyous laugh rang forth from the play-ground, and
+thither his glance was forthwith directed.
+
+They presented an attractive picture, those two slender young people
+with their graceful movements, their cheeks glowing from warmth and
+excitement. Each thought to get the better of the other, triumphing
+when the opposing side failed to hit the mark, and between whiles
+chasing and teasing one another with unrestrained glee, like a couple
+of children.
+
+Dernburg's eye had followed the direction taken by his companion's
+glance, and his grave features were lit up by a fleeting smile.
+
+"Those frolicksome children! One might certainly excuse my little Maia,
+with her sixteen years, for allowing her spirits to run away with her a
+little too much, but the Lieutenant seems to forget entirely that he is
+no longer a boy."
+
+"I am afraid, that Count Eckardstein will never have the earnestness
+that becomes a man," said Wildenrod coolly. "He has an amiable but a
+very superficial nature."
+
+"There you do him injustice! Victor is a scatterbrain--alas--and has
+many a time caused his parents anxiety by various mad pranks--some of
+which Odensburg could tell of--but he always kept his heart in the
+right place. He is no genius, but open and honorable and intelligent
+enough to make a splendid officer some day."
+
+"So much the better," remarked the Baron. "For the Count and--for
+Maia."
+
+Dernburg turned around and looked at him in amazement. "What do you
+mean by that?"
+
+"For Maia!"
+
+"An explanation would hardly seem to be needed. Count Eckardstein shows
+his wishes and designs plainly enough, and I am convinced that it did
+not cost him the least struggle to fall in with his brother's scheme."
+
+"What scheme?" A fold appeared between Dernburg's brows as he put this
+question.
+
+Wildenrod slightly shrugged his shoulders.
+
+"Well, it seems that the young Count is something of a spendthrift. You
+admit yourself that he has always been that, and is dependent entirely
+upon his brother, to whom fell the family estate. That a wild young
+officer should incur debts is natural enough, but in this case the
+measure to be tolerated must have been transgressed, at least that was
+the view Count Conrad took of it. It is said that violent scenes were
+enacted between the brothers, and really one cannot blame the elder for
+planning an heroic remedy for his younger brother."
+
+These words were well calculated: each one struck home, as was
+manifest, although Dernburg asked with apparent composure:
+
+"And, pray, what might that remedy be?"
+
+"A rich marriage! It is said that the young Count has come back, by the
+desire or command of his brother, to resume the relations with
+Odensburg, that had been long since dropped, in order to gain an end
+that is easily guessed. Do you wonder that I am so accurately informed
+with regard to this matter? An accident! When we were recently invited
+to Eckardstein, I overheard a conversation between two gentlemen, who,
+indeed, had no idea that I was in the next room, else they would not
+have spoken so freely on private matters. They seem to regard the
+alliance as already an accomplished fact."
+
+Dernburg's brow grew darker and darker during the progress of this
+speech, but his voice had its wonted resonance, when he replied:
+
+"Ere such a thing could be 'fact' I would have the last word to say,
+for Maia is hardly anything more than a child yet--certainly much too
+young for any talk about her marriage.--Why, Eric, here you are, but
+with such a despairing look upon your face! Has Cecilia not deigned to
+make her appearance yet?"
+
+Eric, who had just now joined them, did indeed look anxious and
+excited. "No, indeed, not yet!" answered he in a worried tone. "I have
+been over to the stables to inquire, but nobody knows where she can
+have driven to. She had the pony-carriage gotten up very early this
+morning while all the rest of us were asleep, and took nobody with her
+but Bertram. I really do not understand it."
+
+"It will turn out to be some caprice on her part," remarked Oscar.
+"Cecile is simply incalculable in her whims; you will have to get used
+to them, dear brother-in-law."
+
+"I think Eric would do better to cure his future wife of this want of
+consideration," said Dernburg with some asperity. "It would not conduce
+to the happiness of a marriage."
+
+Poor Eric did not look as if he had either the will or the inclination
+to break his betrothed of any habit. Wildenrod, however, quickly and
+soothingly suggested:
+
+"Most likely some playful jest is at the bottom of it. I'll lay a wager
+that Cecile intends giving us a surprise by this mysterious
+expedition."
+
+The game on the grass-plot, meanwhile, had gone on its way, now seeming
+to break up in a quarrel, which, however, was carried on by both sides
+good-humoredly, and finally ended in a reconciliation and a peal of
+laughter. Dernburg looked over at the pair anew, but no smile played
+upon his features now, and he called impatiently: "I should think,
+Maia, it was time to stop. Come to me, my child!"
+
+Maia obeyed. Coming promptly, still heated as she was from the game,
+and Victor Eckardstein followed close behind her.
+
+"I have a request to proffer to you in my brother's name, Herr
+Dernburg," said he in his open, cordial manner. "Conrad celebrates his
+birthday on Wednesday--there will be only a very limited number of
+guests, there, but the Odensburg family cannot be left out. May we
+count upon the pleasure of your company?"
+
+This request was made in a tone which showed that the acceptance of the
+invitation was taken quite for granted. The answer, however, was very
+cool.
+
+"I am sorry, Count Eckardstein, but we are expecting company ourselves
+from town on Wednesday, and shall have to perform the duty of hosts
+ourselves."
+
+"Company? who, papa?" asked Maia in surprise, and with some curiosity.
+"I have not heard a word of it."
+
+"Then you hear it now. At all events we regret that we cannot accept
+the invitation."
+
+This declaration was made so positively, that any further discussion
+was precluded. Victor was silent, but the strangely cool tone struck
+him as well as the formal manner in which he was addressed, as Dernburg
+had always been in the habit of calling him by his first name. The
+young man's glance was involuntarily directed towards Wildenrod, as
+though he suspected he had been exerting some malign influence over his
+friend.
+
+Such thoughts, however, are not apt to disturb young people for any
+length of time. Maia, with her merry talk, soon had the ball of
+conversation flying again, although Eric responded only in
+monosyllables and was as absent-minded as possible. He allowed himself,
+however, to be drawn by the other two into the conservatory, where two
+new orchids had just come into bloom.
+
+On the terrace, silence reigned for a few minutes, then the Baron said
+in a muffled voice: "I should be sorry, if my report of the young count
+had injured him in your eyes, but circumstanced as we now are, I felt
+it to be my duty to speak."
+
+Dernburg nodded approvingly. "Certainly, I thank you for it. As for the
+rest, I am not accustomed to condemn anybody upon the strength of mere
+gossip, but I shall find means to come at the truth in regard to the
+matter."
+
+"Do so," said Wildenrod, with quiet assurance. "But as to Maia's too
+great youth, girls in our society often marry at that age, and if a man
+really engages her affections----"
+
+"Engages in the pursuit of a rich heiress, forsooth, in order to settle
+up his affairs," remarked Dernburg with a bitterness which showed that
+the report had had its effect, nevertheless. "I shall guard my child
+against such a fate as that."
+
+"It will not be easy to do, for a suitor must come forward who is free
+and independent, besides being rich enough himself to be exalted above
+the suspicion of interested motives. All others will have their eye
+upon your millions."
+
+These words were thrown off with a certain premeditation, but Dernburg
+did not observe this.
+
+"Not all!" said he, with emphasis. "I know one who's poor and possesses
+nothing but his brains--they count for much, though, and guarantee him
+a future. The path to wealth and independence was pointed out to him,
+all that he had to do was to stretch forth his hand, but in order to do
+this he had to sacrifice principle, and he did not go that way."
+
+Oscar started, an uncomfortable suspicion being aroused in his mind.
+"Of whom are you speaking?"
+
+"Of Egbert Runeck! Are you so much surprised. I have long since
+perceived that Eric would never be able, alone, to superintend at
+Odensburg, as must, some day, be his place to do--a man of my stamp is
+needed for that, and such an one is Egbert, who has not been brought up
+in my school for naught. But in Berlin, they caught him so fast in
+their Socialistic toils, that I almost despair of ever getting him
+loose."
+
+"Have you really tried that, in spite of knowing--?"
+
+"In spite of knowing everything--yes, I did, because I am convinced
+that some day his eyes will be opened--if it is only not too late for
+both of us."
+
+Wildenrod's lips were tightly compressed, as though he wanted to force
+back an angry rejoinder, at last he said slowly: "Herr Dernburg, for
+the first time, I do not understand you."
+
+"Maybe so, but you can always trust to this, that I shall not be the
+one to throw a firebrand into my Odensburg, with my own hand. If Egbert
+continues obstinate in his present convictions, then all is over
+between me and him. But he will not do so. Free course in life is what
+he needs, he will struggle and strive upward at any price: but also
+build up, create and finally be ruler over that which he has created.
+Such natures bend not lastingly under the yoke of a party that claims
+blind obedience, allowing no scope to individuality, no mighty
+preponderance of the single mind. I am only afraid that he will come to
+his senses after he has thrust his happiness far from him. I offered it
+to him--but he sacrificed it to his mad fancies!"
+
+The Baron must already stand very high in his future connection's good
+graces, for him to speak to him thus of things that he had not even
+broached to his son; but Oscar did not seem to be pleasantly affected
+by this proof of confidence. A threatening cloud was upon his brow, and
+a yet more threatening fire flashed from his eyes, as he said with a
+voice almost stifled by passion: "You overestimate your favorite
+greatly. But, never mind--you seem to hint at something--" he broke
+off.
+
+"What then, Herr von Wildenrod?"
+
+"I would do better not to express it, since it involves a sheer
+impossibility."
+
+"Why so?" asked Dernburg irritably.
+
+"Because Egbert is the son of a common laborer? His parents are dead,
+but even if they were living----"
+
+"I am above such prejudices."
+
+Wildenrod was silent, he did not look at the speaker but away over at
+the works. There was a disagreeable look upon his face.
+
+"You are of a different opinion on that point, I see," began Dernburg
+again. "In you stir the feelings of the aristocrat, to whom such a
+thing appears unheard of. I think differently. I let Eric choose upon
+his own responsibility, but I shall have to stand sponsor for my
+daughter's happiness. My little Maia,"--the voice of the man usually so
+stern had a strangely tender intonation,--"she was given to me late,
+but she is the sunshine of my life. How often have the merry tones of
+her clear young voice and the light of her bright eyes lifted me out of
+despondency. She is not to be the prey of the fortune-hunter. She shall
+be beloved and happy--and so far I know only one person into whose
+hands I could commit her future without solicitude, for I am convinced
+that he loves her. He is not calculating, he has proved that to me!"
+
+A peculiar pallor lay upon the Baron's face. Was it anger or shame that
+palpitated in his soul at those last words? At all events he was spared
+any answer, for at this moment a servant entered with the announcement
+that the director was in the work-room and wanted to speak with the
+master.
+
+"On Sunday? It must be about something very important!" said Dernburg,
+as he turned to go. "But one thing more, Herr von Wildenrod--do not let
+what we just talked about go any farther than ourselves. Consider it as
+confidential."
+
+He went into the house, leaving Oscar alone. Now he knew that he was
+unobserved, and his brow resembled a threatening thunder-cloud, as he
+leaned with folded arms on the parapet of the terrace. Here was a
+danger that he had not apprehended, and with which he had never
+calculated upon having to cope, but in contrast with which the looming
+up of Count Eckardstein, that had just now appeared to him so menacing,
+faded away to a mere shadow. Dernburg evidently had settled it in his
+own mind that an attachment existed between his daughter and that
+Runeck, the simpleton, who had sacrificed the high prize offered him to
+a mere chimera,--that so-called conviction. About Wildenrod's lips now
+played a scornful smile of conscious superiority. He knew better to
+whom Maia's love was given, he felt himself equal to the conquest of
+this new adversary also. And there must be no more delay and no more
+pausing to reflect, the thing was to act! Oscar drew himself up with a
+determined air, it was not the first time in his life, that he had
+played _va banque_, and here the stake was happiness and a future that
+promised him everything.
+
+
+At the end of the extended grounds of Odensburg, where they bordered on
+the wooded mountain, lay the "Rose Lake," a small sheet of water, that
+took its name from the water-roses, with which its surface was covered
+in summer. Now, indeed, none of the white blossoms had opened, only the
+whispering reeds and sedge-grass edged its shores; a huge beech-tree
+stretched its branches over it, with its foliage of fresh and tender
+green, and a dense thicket of blooming shrubbery fenced it in on all
+sides. It was a snug and quiet retreat, made, as it were, for solitary
+dreams.
+
+Upon a bench beneath the beech-tree sat Maia, her hands full of flowers
+that she had plucked on her way, and now wanted to arrange. But this
+task was not accomplished, for by her sat Oscar von Wildenrod, who had
+accidentally sought the same spot, and managed to fascinate her so by
+his conversational powers, that she forgot flowers and everything else
+in her absorption.
+
+He spoke of his travels at the North and South, there was hardly a land
+in Europe that he was not acquainted with, and he was a masterly
+narrator. His descriptions shaped themselves into pictures, in which
+landscapes, people and events came forth as though living before the
+listener. Maia followed him in his narrative with breathless sympathy,
+it all sounded so strange and unreal to her, whose world had hitherto
+been confined to the family circle.
+
+"Oh! what have you not seen and experienced!" cried she admiringly.
+"What an entirely different sphere you moved in before you came to us
+at Odensburg!"
+
+"Another, but not a better one," said Wildenrod earnestly. "It has,
+indeed, something blinding and intoxicating--this living in boundless
+freedom, with its perpetual change and fullness of impressions, and it
+blinded me, too, once upon a time, but that has long since past. There
+comes a day when one awakens from his intoxication, when one feels how
+hollow and empty and vain all this is, when one finds himself alone in
+that concourse of men and in that longed-for freedom--quite alone."
+
+"But you have your sister!" Maia put in reproachfully.
+
+"How long, though! In a few months she deserts me to belong to her
+husband, and I have a regular horror of going back to that empty and
+aimless existence. You have no idea, Maia, how I envy your father. He
+stands firmly and surely upon the foundation of his own labor and its
+results; to thousands he gives bread, and the blessings, love and
+admiration of all compass him about, and will follow him to the grave.
+When I sum up the results of my life--what is the remainder?"
+
+Perplexed, almost shocked, Maia looked up at him who had uttered these
+bitter words. It was the first time that Wildenrod had adopted such a
+tone in her presence; she knew him as the brilliant man of the world,
+who, even when he approached her confidentially, always maintained the
+character of the elderly man, who conversed half-jocularly with the
+half-grown girl. To-day he spoke very differently, to-day he had let
+her have a glimpse of his inner life, and that overcame her shyness. "I
+have always thought that you were happy in that life, which seems
+lovely as a fairy-dream, when you tell about it," said she softly.
+
+"Happy!" repeated he gloomily. "No, Maia, I have never been so, not for
+a day, nor for an hour."
+
+"Yes, but--why did you lead that life so long?"
+
+Oscar looked into those clear child-eyes, that looked up at him with
+earnest questioning in their depths, and involuntarily his eyes sought
+the ground.
+
+"Why? Yes, why does one live at all? To win that happiness, of which
+they sing to us while we are still in our cradles, and of which we
+think in youth that it lies out in the wide world, in the dim blue
+distance. Restlessly, feverishly, we pursue it, ever thinking to attain
+to it, while it retreats farther and farther from us, until at last
+it fades away like a shadow until finally we give up the restless
+chase--and with it hope."
+
+In spite of his strong effort to command himself, the disquiet of a
+tortured spirit was but only too transparent in these words, that had
+the ring of perfect sincerity. None knew better than Oscar Wildenrod
+what was that wild chase after happiness, which he had sought all these
+years--by what paths, indeed, he alone knew.
+
+That woful confession sounded strange in these surroundings, at this
+season of spring, when everything breathed only beauty and peace.
+Bright lay the sunshine upon the mirror of the little lake, over which
+the dragon-flies were hovering dreamily, with their gay-colored,
+scintillating wings. Golden rays stole through the young leaves of the
+beech and played in the tender May-green. Round about bloomed the
+lilac, filling the air with its fragrance, varied by clumps of the
+yellow laburnum, covered with its rich freight of pendant clusters of
+bloom, and the lower shrubbery was strewn over, as it were, with wild
+hedge-roses. There was no end to the blooms, and in the background rose
+a distant chain of blue mountains, gravely taking a look into this
+little sunny paradise.
+
+Wildenrod's chest heaved with his deep and heavy breathing; it seemed
+as though he wanted to inhale the peace and purity of his environment.
+Then he looked upon the young being at his side, upon the innocent,
+rosy countenance, that was so untouched by the slightest breath of that
+life which he had drunk of to its very dregs. But the brown eyes that
+were now fixed upon him were swimming in tears, and a low, quivering
+voice said:
+
+"All that you have just been saying sounds so hard, so desperate. Do
+you really believe no longer in any happiness?"
+
+"Oh, yes, now I believe in it!" cried Oscar with enthusiasm. "Here at
+Odensburg, I have learned again to hope. It is the old story of the
+jewel that one goes out into the world to look for, in a thousand ways,
+meanwhile it rests hidden in the deep and silent woods, until the happy
+man draws near, who finds it--and perhaps I am such a lucky fellow!"
+
+He had caught the young girl's hand and clasped it firmly in his own.
+With sudden force, Maia recognized in these words, this movement, what
+had hitherto been but a dim, half-understood impression resting in her
+soul; there sprang up within her a sweet sense of joy and yet, at the
+same time, again came that mysterious, uneasy sensation, which she had
+experienced already at their first meeting, the dread of that dark,
+flaming glance, which seemed to magnetize her, as it were. Her hand
+trembled in that of the Baron.
+
+"Herr von Wildenrod----"
+
+"My name is Oscar!" interposed he beseechingly.
+
+"Oscar--leave me!"
+
+"No, I will not leave you!" ejaculated he passionately. "I have found
+the jewel, now I will catch it and keep it all my life long. Maia,
+years, tens of years part us, I have no longer youth to offer you, but
+I love you with all the fervent ardor of youth. From the instant when
+you advanced to meet me on the threshold of your father's house, I knew
+that you were my destiny, my all. And you love me too, I know it--let
+me hear it now from your own lips. Speak, Maia, say that you will be
+mine! You have no idea what power this word will exert over me--to
+deliver and to save."
+
+He had thrown his arm around her, his passionate, glowing words passing
+over the trembling girl like the breath of a burning flame. Her head
+rested upon his bosom, and fixedly she looked up at him. Now she no
+longer shrank from meeting his eyes, she only saw the melting
+tenderness in them, heard only the confession of his love, and that
+bodeful dread was lost in triumphant rapture.
+
+"Yes, I do love you, Oscar," said she softly. "Dearly love you."
+
+"My Maia!"
+
+It rang out like a shout of joy. Oscar folded her in his arms, kissing
+again and again the light hair and rosy lips of his beloved. An
+intoxication of bliss had come over him. The past, with its dark
+shadows, sank into oblivion, and to the man who was already approaching
+the autumn of life sounded joyously the message that every blossom was
+repeating: Spring is here!
+
+After a while Maia gently extricated herself from his arms, her lovely
+face all aglow.
+
+"But my father, Oscar, will he consent?"
+
+Wildenrod smiled. He knew that the difference of age between himself
+and his betrothed would be an objection hard for Dernburg to overcome,
+that his consent would neither be easily nor quickly obtained, but this
+did not frighten him. "Your father desires only to see you beloved and
+happy, I know that from his own mouth," said he with overflowing
+tenderness. "And my Maia, my sweet, pretty child, you shall be happy
+and beloved!"
+
+
+
+
+                              CHAPTER XI.
+
+                      A SECRET FOE AND OPEN ENEMY.
+
+
+Dernburg sat in his office at the desk. He had just had a lengthy talk
+with the director of his works and was looking over the papers which he
+had left when the door was again opened. Count Eckardstein entered,
+who, as a guest of the house, needed no special announcement.
+
+"I just saw the director leave," said he. "May I disturb you for a few
+minutes? I only come, preparatory to bidding adieu."
+
+"Why, you will not be at dinner, as usual?" asked Dernburg, somewhat
+surprised.
+
+"I thank you, I must return to Eckardstein.--Must I really have to
+report to my brother that you decline his invitation? We had depended
+so confidently upon your presence and that of your family."
+
+"I am sorry. You have already heard that we have invited company to
+dinner, ourselves, for the day named."
+
+This refusal of the invitation sounded just as positive as chilling,
+and so the young Count could but feel it to be. He impulsively drew a
+few steps nearer, and asked in a whisper:
+
+"Herr Dernburg--what have you against me?"
+
+"I? Nothing! What put such an idea into your mind, Sir Count?"
+
+"Your very address proves it to me. This morning you called me Victor
+and treated me with your wonted kindness. Have I, then, become a
+stranger to you in the course of a few months? I am afraid that another
+influence has been brought to bear upon you, that I can guess."
+
+Dernburg frowned, the hint at Wildenrod, which was only too
+intelligible, wounded him, but he was accustomed to go about things in
+a direct manner. Why seek to find out what he wanted to know by
+indirect methods. He looked at the handsome, open countenance of the
+young man, then he said slowly:
+
+"I do not allow myself to be influenced, and it is not my way to
+condemn any one unheard, least of all you, Victor, whom I have known
+from the days of your earliest boyhood. Now that you introduce the
+subject yourself, it may as well be discussed between us. Will you
+answer me a few questions?"
+
+"With pleasure, proceed."
+
+"You stayed away from home a long while, and did not set foot on
+Eckardstein soil for years. Why was that?"
+
+"It resulted from personal, family relations----"
+
+"Which you would rather not talk about--I perceive."
+
+"No, Herr Dernburg, I do not care to have concealments with you," said
+Victor, in a low tone. "My relation to my brother was never an
+especially friendly one, and since the death of our father has grown to
+be positively painful. Conrad is the elder, and heir of the entailed
+property, I am dependent upon him, and cannot maintain my rank as an
+officer without his assistance. He has often enough made me feel his
+unwillingness to do this, and in so insulting a manner, that I prefer
+to keep aloof from him."
+
+One could see that it was exceedingly trying to the young Count to give
+this explanation, and still he was telling nothing that his hearer did
+not already know. The strained relations existing between the brothers
+was known to the whole neighborhood, but the main fault was attributed
+to the elder. Count Conrad, who, at the time, was still unmarried, and
+the senior of Victor by only a few years, was regarded as haughty and
+unmindful of the rights of others, and his ambition was a fact known to
+all. He was, therefore, anything but popular. Dernburg knew this
+likewise, but made not the slightest allusion to it, only asking:
+
+"And yet you have come now?"
+
+"This happened by my brother's express desire."
+
+"He has concocted plans in conjunction with you--I know."
+
+Victor started, and the blood began slowly to mount into his cheeks.
+Dernburg watched him sharply and inquisitively, while he continued:
+
+"You apprehend, without doubt, what I mean. I shall be quite candid
+with you, but shall expect just as candid an answer. It is said that
+you have been summoned by Count Conrad to Eckardstein, in order to turn
+to account your former intimacy at Odensburg."
+
+Victor started at this insulting speech.
+
+"Herr Dernburg!"
+
+"Victor, I ask you, is that so?"
+
+The young man cast down his eyes in painful embarrassment.
+
+"You put the question in a way----"
+
+"That admits of no evasion. Yes or no, then?"
+
+"You seem to take my courtship as an insult," said Victor, without
+lifting his eyes from the floor. "Is it such a crime, then, to seek the
+renewal of youthful friendship with such thoughts? Well, yes, I came
+here to seek a happiness that in memory took the shape of a bright
+little elf. What is there bad about that? At my age you would probably
+have done the same."
+
+"But not at the behest of another person!" said Dernburg cuttingly.
+"And when I went courting I had a different fortune to offer from what
+you have, Herr Lieutenant."
+
+The young Count was incensed, and with difficulty restrained himself,
+but his voice trembled, when he answered:
+
+"You make poverty very bitter to me."
+
+"Such is not my desire, for poverty is no disgrace in my eyes. You only
+share the fate of the younger sons in those families whose whole
+property is entailed upon the oldest. But they say that your brother
+has still more pressing reasons for exhorting you to make a so-called
+good match. I am sorry, Sir Count, to hurt your feelings, but you have
+sought this interview yourself, not I."
+
+"So they have informed you of that, too, and you put the most shameful
+interpretation upon it," said Victor bitterly. "If I have been
+indiscreet, my brother has already given me good cause to rue it, and I
+repent tenfold at this moment. Well, yes, I did not keep free of debt,
+could not do so with the small means that were at my command. It would
+have been an easy thing for Conrad to release me from my obligations,
+but he did not do it, even putting before me the possibility of being
+obliged to send in my resignation, and then----"
+
+"Then you acceded to his proposition!" Dernburg's voice had a harsh,
+contemptuous intonation. "I understand that perfectly; but you, on your
+side, will also understand that I am not willing to give my daughter as
+a prize in a financial operation."
+
+The color came and went in the young man's face, but at the last word
+he sprang to his feet with a half-suppressed shriek, and shook his fist
+in the face of the elder man, who looked at him steadily.
+
+"To what end is this, Count Eckardstein? Will you challenge me to a
+duel because I undertake to tell you my view of this matter? A man of
+my years and station does not commit such follies."
+
+Again Victor let his hand drop and stepped back.
+
+"Herr Dernburg, you have been a fatherly friend to me for years,
+Odensburg has been a second home for me, and you are the father of
+Maia, whom I----"
+
+"Whom you love," said Dernburg, with bitter irony, "you were about to
+say."
+
+"Yes, I do love her!" cried Victor, drawing himself up to his full
+height, and his eye met clearly and openly that of the infuriated man.
+"This became clear to me the moment when I met again as a blooming girl
+the child who still lived in my memory. After what you have said
+nothing is left for me but to leave your house, never to enter it
+again; but in bidding farewell, I at least challenge your faith in the
+truth of my feelings for Maia--although she is lost to me."
+
+There was intense anguish, genuine emotion manifest in these last
+words, which would have convinced anybody else but Dernburg. But that
+grave, earnest man there at the desk had never known the frivolities of
+youth, and hence had no idea how to make allowance for its errors.
+Perhaps, too, he, was convinced at this moment, but he could not pardon
+any one for presuming to court his darling for the sake of her wealth.
+
+"I am not authorized to judge of your feelings, Sir Count," said he,
+with a coldness that forbade any further attempt at reconciliation:
+"and yet I understand perfectly why you should avoid Odensburg after
+this conversation. I am sorry that we must part thus, meanwhile as
+things stand, there is no help for it."
+
+Victor answered not a word, but silently bowed and withdrew. Dernburg
+looked after him moodily.
+
+"He, too!" murmured he half aloud. "The honest, open-hearted fellow,
+who, in earlier days, did not know the meaning of calculation!
+Everything goes to destruction in this wild chase after wealth, that
+they call good fortune!--"
+
+At the foot of the broad staircase, that led to the upper story, stood
+Wildenrod and Eric, engaged in conversation. The latter had just come
+in from the park, and, meeting with Oscar, poured out his heart to him.
+
+"I am afraid Cecilia is seriously unwell," said he excitedly. "She
+complains of severe headache and looks dreadfully pale, but has
+forbidden me in the most positive manner from having Hagenbach called.
+She protests that a few hours of undisturbed repose will restore her
+quicker than anything else. I saw her only a few minutes after her
+arrival, and have not been able to learn where she has really been, for
+she preserves an obstinate silence on the subject."
+
+Oscar smiled and shrugged his shoulders. "And you, I suppose, are
+beside yourself over it. I told you awhile ago, that you must calculate
+upon the self-will of our spoilt little princess. When Cecile is in a
+bad humor, she stretches herself on the sofa and will have naught to do
+with anybody; happily she does not keep in this mood long, I can tell
+you that for your comfort. Your father, to be sure, is of opinion that
+you must break her of such whims, but you are not the man for this, my
+dear Eric. There is nothing, then, left for you to do, but to possess
+your soul in patience, and already make preliminary studies for the
+pattern husband, which you will undoubtedly make."
+
+Eric looked at him in amazement. "What has come over you, Oscar? Your
+face fairly beams with joy. Has something very pleasant happened to
+you?"
+
+"Who knows--perhaps!" said Oscar, with a flash of his dark eyes. "And
+therefore I want to take you in hand. You do look desperate. I have
+always had a great deal of influence over my sister, and shall give her
+to understand how unwarrantable a thing it is of her to make you taste
+already the miseries of the married state--properly she has no right to
+do this, until after the wedding is over. You see if she does not
+appear at dinner in as good spirits as ever, and then you, too, I
+trust, will wear a different face--you poor, maltreated lover, who take
+so much to heart the caprices of his ladye-love."
+
+He laughed with a superior air, and waving back a salutation, he
+mounted the stair. Eric looked at him, shaking his head dubiously. Such
+radiant gayety of mood was not at all natural to Oscar von Wildenrod,
+who was hardly recognizable to-day. What could have happened to him?
+
+Up in the parlor, the Baron was met by his sister's maid, who informed
+him that her lady had given her strict orders not to allow her to be
+disturbed, under any circumstances--without exception, no one was to be
+admitted. Not even Herr Dernburg.
+
+"Pshaw, such orders do not include me, you know, Nannon," said
+Wildenrod, cutting her speech short, without ceremony. "I want to speak
+to my sister. Open the door!"
+
+Nannon courtesied, and obeyed, for she knew very well that the Baron
+was not one to brook contradiction. Without further ceremony, he
+entered his sister's chamber, which was next door.
+
+Cecilia lay upon the sofa, with her face buried in a cushion. She did
+not stir, although she must have heard the opening and shutting of the
+door, but her brother evinced no surprise at this, and quietly drew
+nearer.
+
+"Are you once more in an ill-humor, Cecile?" he asked, still in a
+playful tone. "You really do treat Eric in a most unwarrantable manner.
+He has just been pouring his laments into my ears."
+
+Cecilia remained silent and motionless, until Wildenrod finally lost
+patience.
+
+"Will you not at least have the goodness to look at me? I should like
+to ask you in general--" he hushed, for his sister suddenly sat bolt
+upright, and he looked into a face so pale and distorted, that he
+almost shrank back in dismay.
+
+"I have something to say to you, Oscar," said she, softly. "To yourself
+alone. Nannon is in the parlor--send her away, that we may be
+undisturbed."
+
+Oscar knitted his brows,--he could not yet believe that anything
+serious was in question; but in his joyous mood, he was more inclined
+than usual to indulge the whim of another. He therefore went into the
+parlor, sent the maid away on a message, and then turned back.
+
+"Am I finally to learn what all that signifies?" he asked, impatiently.
+"Where in the world were you, Cecile, and what means this early morning
+trip to the mountains? Dernburg has already noticed it with much
+displeasure! You must know that Odensburg is not the place for such
+escapades."
+
+Cecilia had gotten up, and said not a word in her own defense, but
+breathed out in a whisper:
+
+"I have been on the Whitestone."
+
+"On the Whitestone?" exclaimed Oscar. "What foolhardiness! What
+incredible rashness!"
+
+"Let that be, the question is about something else," she interrupted
+him vehemently. "I met up there with--with that friend of Eric's youth,
+and he has said things to me,--Oscar, what happened between you two the
+first time that you met?"
+
+"Nothing!" said the Baron, coldly. "Perhaps I did see him then; it is
+possible; one easily overlooks such people. At all events, I did not
+speak with him, and did not know that he was witness of a painful event
+that took place on that evening."
+
+"What sort of an event was it?"
+
+"Nothing for your ears, my dear, and therefore I should not like Runeck
+to talk with you on the subject. By the way, tell me exactly what he
+did say."
+
+The question was apparently thrown off indifferently, and yet keen
+suspense was apparent in the dark eyes of the questioner.
+
+"He seemed to take for granted my cognizance of the affair, and passed
+on to make insinuations which I did not rightly understand, but behind
+which looked something horrible."
+
+"How? Did he dare to?" said Oscar, flaring up.
+
+"Yes, he did dare to impugn your honor, and treat me as your
+accomplice. He spoke of knowing more about your life than would be
+agreeable to you; he called us adventurers--do you hear? _adventurers!_
+But you will have your revenge, will give him the answer that he
+deserves, and avenge both yourself and me!"
+
+Wildenrod had turned pale. He stood there with darkened brow and
+clinched fists, but he was silent. The passionate outburst of
+indignation, and wrath, that Cecilia had looked and hoped for, did not
+come.
+
+"Did he actually say that to you?" he slowly inquired at last.
+
+"Word for word! And you--you make no answer?"
+
+Wildenrod had recovered his self-possession. He shrugged his shoulders
+with a mocking air of superiority. "What answer am I to make? Would you
+have me take such nonsense seriously?"
+
+"He was in sober earnest, and if, as he maintained, proofs are lacking
+up to this time----"
+
+"Actually?" Oscar laughed, scornfully and triumphantly, while he drew a
+deep, long sigh of relief.
+
+"Well, let him search for those proofs; he will not find them!"
+
+Cecilia supported herself on the back of the chair by which she stood.
+That sigh of relief had not escaped her, and her eyes were fixed upon
+her brother in deadly anguish.
+
+"Have you no other answer, when your honor is assailed? Will you not
+call Runeck to account?"
+
+"That is my affair! Leave it to me to get even with that man! What is
+it to you?"
+
+"What is it to me, when you and I both receive a deadly insult?" cried
+Cecilia, beside herself. "To call us adventurers, to whom Odensburg is
+to fall a prey. Shall a man dare to say such a thing and go unpunished?
+Oscar, look me in the eye! You shrink from chastising that man. You are
+afraid of him! Alas! alas!"
+
+She broke out into a wild and passionate fit of sobbing. Oscar stepped
+quickly up to her, and his voice fell to a low and angry whisper.
+
+"Cecilia, use your reason! You behave like a madwoman. What has come
+over you, anyhow? You have been like a different person since this
+morning."
+
+"Yes, since this morning!" repeated she passionately. "Since I awoke,
+and oh! what a bitter awakening! Do not evade me! You told me that our
+fortune was gone, and I was thoughtless enough not once to inquire how
+it came, that, in spite of this, we lived on a grand scale. When was it
+lost? In what way? I _will_ know!"
+
+Wildenrod looked at her darkly, that threatening tone in his sister was
+as new to her as her whole behavior; he must henceforth give up
+treating her as a child.
+
+"Would you know when our fortune was lost?" asked he roughly. "At the
+time when our house broke with a crash. And our father--laid hands on
+himself."
+
+"Our father!" The eyes of the young girl opened wide, and were full of
+horror. "He did not die from--a stroke of apoplexy?"
+
+"That was what they told the world, the neighborhood, and you, the
+eight-year old child--I know better. Our estate had long been involved
+in debt, ruin was only a question of time, and when it actually came,
+father seized his pistol--and left us behind--beggars."
+
+As unsparing as these words sounded, there was an undercurrent of dull
+grief in them, showing that the man still suffered at the recollection,
+after the lapse of twelve years.
+
+Cecilia did not shriek, did not weep, her tears seeming suddenly to be
+stanched. She only asked dispiritedly: "And then?"
+
+"Then the honor of our name was saved by the personal interposition of
+the king. He bought the estate and satisfied the creditors. Your mother
+obtained a pension from his bounty, and alms of residence in the place
+where she had been mistress, and I--well I went out into the wide
+world, to seek my fortune."
+
+A momentary silence followed; Cecilia had dropped into a chair, and had
+clasped both hands before her face. Finally Wildenrod resumed: "That
+hits you hard, I well believe, but at the time it hit me yet harder. I
+had no suspicion of how it stood with us, and now to be snatched from
+supposed wealth, from a brilliant station in life, from a grand career,
+in order to be confronted by poverty and misery--you do not know what
+that means. They offered me this and that office, either in the postal
+service or as collector of taxes in some remote province, offered _me_,
+whose glowing ambition had dreamed of the highest aims, beggarly
+positions, in which body and soul would have been destroyed in the
+tread-mill of a wretched existence. I was not made for that. I cast
+everything behind me and forsook Germany, to at least save appearances,
+and produce the impression that the sale of property and my resignation
+of office had been voluntary."
+
+Cecilia slowly let her hands drop, and straightened herself up. "And
+yet you maintained your position in society? We were regarded as rich
+the three years that I passed with you, and were surrounded by splendor
+and luxury."
+
+Wildenrod had no answer to this timid and reproachful question; he
+avoided meeting his sister's eye.
+
+"Let that be, Cecilia!" said he after a while. "It was a fierce,
+desperate struggle to maintain that station which I did not want to
+give up at any price, and many a thing happened in so doing that had
+better not be talked about. But I had no choice. In the struggle for
+existence it is either sink or swim. Never mind!" He took a long
+breath. "Now all that trouble is over, you are Eric's betrothed bride
+and I--have something delightful to communicate to you."
+
+He did not, however, get the opportunity to make his communication at
+present, for at the door of the parlor a gentle knock was heard, and
+directly afterwards Eric's voice asked:
+
+"May I come in at last?"
+
+"Eric," exclaimed Cecilia in dismay. "I cannot see him--not now!"
+
+"You must talk with him," whispered Oscar softly, but dictatorially.
+"Is your behavior to strike him as yet more peculiar? Only for a few
+minutes."
+
+"I cannot! Tell him, I am sick, or asleep, or anything you choose!"
+
+She wanted to spring to her feet, but her brother again drew her down
+upon her seat, while he called out in a cheerful tone:
+
+"Just come in, Eric! Here am I--being indulged with a half-hour's
+audience, by this gracious lady!"
+
+"So I heard from Nannon!" said Eric, in a reproachful tone, as he
+entered, after passing through the parlor. "Is your door to remain
+locked to me, when it is open to Oscar? Dear me, how pale and disturbed
+you look! What happened on that unfortunate expedition? I implore you,
+speak!"
+
+He had seized her hand and looked into her face, with deep solicitude.
+Her little hand trembled in his, but there followed no answer.
+
+"You ought rather to scold her, although I have already done so
+sufficiently myself," said Wildenrod. "Do you know where she has been
+this morning? Why, on top of the Whitestone!"
+
+"Lord of heaven!" cried Eric, horrified. "Is that true, Cecile?"
+
+"Literally true! Of course she was dizzy on the way back, came down
+half dead and is now sick from overexertion and the agony endured. She
+was ashamed to confess to you and the doctor, but you had to learn
+about it."
+
+"Cecilia, how could you treat me so?" said the young man reproachfully.
+"Did you not think of my distress, my despair, if anything had happened
+to you? Had I only suspected that it was more than a jest that time
+when you threatened to climb it, in your talk with Egbert and
+me----what is the matter with you?"
+
+At the mention of that name, Cecilia had shuddered; now a couple
+of tears rolled over her cheeks, while she murmured: "Pardon me,
+Eric--pardon me!"
+
+Eric had never before seen his beloved weep, nor ever heard her plead
+for pardon. With overflowing tenderness he kissed her hands. "My
+Cecile, my darling girl, I am not scolding you, I only beg of you,
+never, never again to undertake such an adventure. You promise me that,
+do you not? Done! And now----"
+
+"Now we will indulge her with a little rest. Try to sleep a few hours,
+Cecile; that will soothe your overtaxed nerves. Come, Eric!"
+
+The latter followed, evidently very unwillingly, but since Cecilia,
+too, urged him to go with feverish impatience, he submitted. Oscar
+accompanied him as far as the stairs, and then went into his own room.
+Hardly, however, had the sound of the young man's steps died away
+outside, than he returned to his sister, after bolting the parlor door.
+
+"How can you be so wanting in self-control?" said he, in a suppressed
+voice. "A blessed thing it was that I was by your side. Under these
+circumstances, the best thing to do was to make a clean breast of your
+mountain adventure. But the thing now is to ward off another danger.
+Without proof, Runeck will not venture to undertake anything against
+us, and meanwhile things are coming to a pass that must necessitate a
+rupture between him and Dernburg. Until then--well, I have been equal
+to worse emergencies!" These last words once more betrayed all the rash
+self-confidence of the man, who had already often staked everything
+upon the one card and won the game.
+
+Cecilia had risen from her seat; her eyes were fastened upon him, with
+a singular expression in them. "Then we shall be no more at Odensburg,"
+said she. "Do not flare up so, Oscar! I do not want to know what you
+conceal from me; what you said to me was enough. You must arm yourself
+against a danger that threatens you on the part of Runeck--he told the
+truth, then--he can accuse you. But I _shall_ not be an adventuress,
+who has thrust herself in here and who will one day be driven away in
+shame and disgrace--do you hear?--I _shall_ not! Let us begone, no
+matter whither, under some pretext or other--only away from here, at
+any price!"
+
+"Are you out of your senses?" cried Wildenrod, while he seized her arm,
+as though he had to hinder her from taking to flight that very moment.
+"Away? Whither? Think you that I can again open to you our former mode
+of life? That is past--my sources of revenue are at an end!"
+
+"I hate to think of those sources of revenue," cried Cecilia,
+trembling. "I want to work----"
+
+Oscar laughed aloud and bitterly. "With those hands, perhaps? Do you
+know, what it is to toil for daily bread? One has to be brought up to
+it--people like us would starve at it."
+
+"I cannot stay here, though, now, when my eyes are opened, I cannot! Do
+not try to force me, else I'll tell Eric this very hour, that I do not
+love him, never have loved him; that our engagement has been solely
+your work."
+
+Oscar turned pale. Cecilia had outgrown his power, nothing was to be
+effected here by commands and threats, so he caught at a last
+expedient.
+
+"Do so, then," said he suddenly with a cold, resolute look, "destroy
+yourself and me with you! For, so far as I am concerned the question
+here is 'to be or not to be.' An hour ago I became engaged to Maia."
+
+"To whom?" Cecilia looked at him, as though she did not comprehend his
+words.
+
+"To Maia. She loves me, and all left for me to do now, is to obtain
+Dernburg's consent. If you break with Eric, and tell him the truth,
+then to me, too, Odensburg will be closed forever and then--I follow
+the example of our father."
+
+"Oscar!" It was a shriek of horror.
+
+"I'll do it, my word upon it! Think you that it has been easy for me to
+lead the life of an adventurer, for me, a Wildenrod? Do you know what I
+suffered before it came to that? How often I sought afterwards to burst
+my bonds and soar upwards? Always in vain! And now at last deliverance
+draws near, salvation through the hand of a sweet child, now, at last,
+I grasp the long-sought, so ardently desired happiness--and at the very
+moment, when I am about to clasp it in my arms, it is again to be torn
+from me! Am I to be thrust back and put under the old ban? That is what
+I cannot endure. Rather the end!"
+
+There was an iron determination upon his features and in his tone; that
+was no empty threat. Cecilia shuddered.
+
+"No," whispered she, with failing voice. "No, no, anything but that!"
+
+"Is what I require of you anything so dreadful?" asked Wildenrod, more
+mildly. "You are only to be silent and forget this unhappy hour! I
+wanted to save you from the life into which I had to lead you, ere your
+eyes were opened to its nature, and now I save myself with you. I cast
+behind me the past, and begin a better life. Here at Odensburg a grand
+new field opens before me, and Dernburg is to find in me what his son
+could never be to him. You will be Eric's wife; he loves, idolizes you;
+you can make him happy, and yourself be happy at his side!"
+
+He had stooped over her, and his voice had a tender sound. The eyes of
+his sister were uplifted to him with an expression of infinite woe.
+
+"How am I now to endure Eric's presence with his demonstrations of
+affection? Just now those few minutes put me on the rack. And if I meet
+Runeck again, and have to read in his eyes the same contempt as I did
+early this morning, without being able to feel that he is the slanderer
+of the innocent--contempt from that Runeck!"
+
+This last sentence rang out like a scream. Wildenrod started and fixed
+a strange look upon her.
+
+"Do you dread his contempt so much?" asked he, slowly. "Rest easy,
+after that scene he will himself avoid any meeting; independently of
+that, he enters the family circle no more. Leave everything else to me!
+You have only to keep silent and make yourself easy. Promise me that."
+
+"Yes," murmured Cecilia almost inaudibly.
+
+Oscar bent down and touched her forehead with his lips. "I thank you!
+And now I really shall leave you alone, for I see that you can no
+longer stand this conversation."
+
+He turned to go, but once more paused and gazed intently upon her face.
+"Egbert Runeck is our foe, a deadly foe, who wants to annihilate you
+and me, and if I offer him battle it must be to the knife--do not
+forget that!"
+
+Cecilia gave no answer, but her whole body shook as with an ague, when
+the door fell to behind her brother. The truth that he no longer sought
+to conceal from her, had wounded her to the very depths of her soul.
+The gay glittering world of pleasure and fashion with which alone she
+had been familiar up to this time, lay shattered at her feet, the rock
+was riven--what did it hide in its depths?
+
+
+
+
+                              CHAPTER XII.
+
+                           THE GOAL IN SIGHT.
+
+
+Weeks had elapsed, spring had taken her leave and summer had come in
+the full blaze of her glory. At Odensburg, they had already begun
+preparations for the wedding festivities, which were appointed for the
+last days in August. After the ceremony a grand entertainment was to
+take place, to which the Dernburg family were to invite the whole
+circle of their acquaintance, and immediately afterwards the young
+couple were to set out on their trip to the South.
+
+The officers and operatives belonging to the Dernburg works purposed to
+have their share in the festivities also. They wished to do honor to
+their chief upon occasion of the marriage of his son and heir. The
+director and Doctor Hagenbach were at the head of a committee, who
+planned a grand festal parade, and all had gone into the affair with
+spirit.
+
+But in spite of these joyful preparations, there rested, as it were, a
+cloud over the Manor-house and the Dernburg family. The chief himself
+was out of sorts on account of various annoyances, public and private;
+the approaching elections to the Reichstag were beginning to attract
+sympathy even at his Odensburg, and he knew, only too well, that his
+men were being tampered with. Openly, this was not done, most assuredly
+he held the reins too firmly in his hand for this, but he was not able
+to steer clear of the secret, and on that very account dangerous,
+activity, with which the Socialistic party encroached step by step upon
+his works, that had hitherto been kept so clear of any such tendencies.
+
+Moreover, Eric's health was again causing him grave anxiety; he had
+been obliged almost entirely to renounce the hope of introducing his
+son (as he had hoped and desired) to his future calling. The young man
+was perpetually ailing--needed to have his strength spared just as much
+now as before he went South. Such a thing as his engaging in systematic
+work was not to be thought of. Finally came Wildenrod's wooing and
+Maia's openly acknowledged love for him, which Dernburg had heard of
+with extreme surprise, yes, almost with indignation.
+
+The Baron had asked her father for her hand, on the very same day
+that he had declared himself to the young girl, but had met with a much
+more decided opposition than he had expected. However much Dernburg
+might have been taken with him personally, Oscar was not the husband
+that he had selected for his daughter, and the thought of wedding the
+sixteen-year-old child to a man old enough to be her father, was just
+as repulsive to him as Maia's reciprocating this passion. His darling's
+entreaties availed in so far that the original No was rescinded, but
+just as little was he to be moved to give his consent for a speedy
+betrothal. He declared with all positiveness that his daughter was
+still much too young to bind herself already for a lifetime, saying
+that she must wait and put her feelings to the test; two years hence
+would be ample time to introduce the subject again.
+
+Wait! That was a fatal, an impossible sentence for this man, with whom
+every minute counted, and yet, for the present, no alternative was left
+him, because Maia had been withdrawn from his influence. After that
+declaration he himself had received a gentle but unmistakable hint,
+that under these circumstances, daily intercourse between the pair
+was not to be kept up. But to leave Odensburg now, was equivalent to
+giving up his game as lost. The thing for him now to do was to be
+vigilant, and confront the danger which, since that threat of Runeck,
+had hung over his head like a thunder-cloud. And he must also stand
+by his sister, in order to be sure that she would keep her word with
+him--wrested from her, as it had been, almost by force. She was
+incredibly altered since that unhappy hour. Therefore he had not
+_wanted_ to understand that hint, and had held his ground; but here
+Dernburg interposed immediately, with his wonted determination, and
+under pretext of her paying a visit to a friend of the family, he sent
+his daughter away, not to return until her brother's marriage took
+place.
+
+Egbert Runeck had come from Radefeld, in order to give in his usual
+report to his chief. For weeks past, he had been accustomed, at these
+times, only to tarry awhile in the work-room and then return forthwith
+as soon as he had dispatched his business. He seemed to have become
+quite estranged from the family-circle. But to-day he had sought out
+Eric the first thing, who received him with joyful surprise, but also
+with reproaches.
+
+"Why, Egbert, is that you,--do I actually lay eyes on you once more? I
+thought that you had quite forgotten me, and laid our house under a
+ban. Father is the only one who ever gets a sight of you."
+
+"You know how closely occupied I am," answered Egbert evasively. "My
+works----"
+
+"Oh yes, those works of yours always serve for a pretext! But come, let
+us have a good chat--I am so glad to have you all alone to myself once
+more."
+
+He drew his friend down on the sofa beside him and began to ask
+questions and narrate his own experiences. He had the conversation
+almost entirely to himself however. Runeck showed himself strikingly
+taciturn and absent-minded, and meanwhile he answered mechanically as
+it were, as though he had his mind bent on very different things. Not
+until Eric began to speak of his approaching marriage did he grow more
+attentive.
+
+"We want to set off on our trip immediately after the grand
+entertainment to be held on our wedding-day," said the latter with a
+happy smile. "I think of spending a few weeks, with my young wife in
+Switzerland, but then we shall both wing our flight to the South. To
+the South! You have no idea what a charm that word has for us. This
+cold Northern sky, these gloomy fir-clad mountains, all the bustle and
+stir here, all this lies so heavy upon me. I cannot get perfectly well
+here. Hagenbach, who just left me, thinks so too and proposes that we
+spend the whole winter in Italy. Alas! father, though, will not hear of
+this--it will cost us a battle to carry our point with him."
+
+"Are you feeling worse again?" asked Egbert, whose eyes rested with a
+peculiarly searching expression upon the pale, sunken features of his
+friend.
+
+"Oh, nothing to signify," said Eric, carelessly. "The doctor is only so
+incredibly anxious. He has prohibited my riding, gives me all manner of
+prescriptions, and now wants the wedding-festivities to be on a reduced
+scale, because they might cause me to over-exert myself. Anything but
+excitement. That is the first and last word with him. I am getting
+rather tired of this thing, for he treats me always like a very ill
+patient to whom any excitement might bring death."
+
+Runeck's gaze was fixed yet more intently and gravely upon the young
+man, and there was restrained emotion in his features and his voice,
+when he asked:
+
+"So Dr. Hagenbach dreads excitement for you, does he? To be sure, you
+did have a hemorrhage that time----"
+
+"Dear me, Egbert! that was two years ago, and every trace of it has
+disappeared," interrupted Eric impatiently. "The only thing is,
+Odensburg does not agree with me, any more than it does with Cecile,
+who can never feel at home here. She is made for joy and sunshine, that
+is the element in which, alone, she can thrive; here, where all hinges
+upon labor and duty, where my father's stern eyes hold her spellbound,
+as it were, she cannot be herself. If you knew what a change has been
+wrought in my Cecile, who sparkled with life and exuberant spirits, who
+was so captivating even in her caprices! How pale and quiet she has
+grown in these last weeks, how strangely altered in her whole nature.
+Many a time I am afraid that something quite different lies at the
+bottom of it. If she repents of having plighted her troth to me,
+if--ah, I see specters everywhere!"
+
+"But, Eric, I beseech you," remarked Runeck soothingly. "Is this the
+way you follow the prescription of the doctor? You are stirring
+yourself up in a manner wholly unnecessary."
+
+"No, no!" cried the young man passionately. "I see and feel that Cecile
+is concealing something from me--day before yesterday she betrayed
+herself. I spoke of our wedding-trip,--of Italy, when she suddenly
+burst out with: 'Yes, let us be gone, Eric, wherever you will, only
+far, far away from this place! I can stand it no longer!' What cannot
+she stand? She would not let me question her on the subject, but it
+sounded like a shriek of despair."
+
+Carried out of himself he sprang to his feet. Egbert, too, got up,
+managing as he did so, accidentally as it were, to step out of the
+bright sunshine, that poured in through the window, into the shade. "Do
+you love your betrothed much?" asked he slowly with marked emphasis.
+
+"Do I love her!" Eric's pale face reddened and his eyes beamed with the
+tenderest enthusiasm.
+
+"You have never loved, Egbert, else you could not ask such a question.
+If Cecilia had rejected me that time, when I courted her, I might have
+stood it. If I had to lose her now--it would kill me!"
+
+Egbert was silent. He stood with his face half-averted, his features
+still working from the intensity of the emotions that were warring
+within. At those last words, however, he drew himself up, advanced to
+his friend and laid his hand upon his arm.
+
+"You are not to lose her, Eric," said he firmly, although with
+quivering lips. "You will live and be happy!"
+
+"Do you know that so surely?" asked Eric, looking up in surprise. "Why,
+you talk as if you held the keys to life and death."
+
+"Then take it as a prophecy, which will be fulfilled to you.--But I
+must go, I only came to bid you farewell, for my course at Radefeld has
+come to an end sooner than I had supposed."
+
+"So much the better, for then you can come back to Odensburg, and we
+shall see each other frequently enough, I hope, before I leave."
+
+"I am just on my way now to talk with your father about it."
+
+"You are an enviable fellow!" said Eric with a sigh. "Ever forward,
+ever upward to new aims, without allowing yourself a moment's repose!
+Hardly is one task over, when you are as busy as ever carving out new
+ones. What sort of plans are these, pray?"
+
+"You will hear about them better from your father, now you are in no
+mood for it. Then--farewell, Eric!"
+
+With emotion that struggled for utterance, he offered him his hand,
+which Eric took with no sign of embarrassment.
+
+"You do not mean this as a farewell for any length of time. You will be
+at Radefeld for a while yet?"
+
+"Of course, meanwhile I may leave there very shortly, and who knows
+where I may have pitched my tent, by the time you come back from Italy,
+in the spring?"
+
+"But then we'll see each other once more at my wedding!" remarked Eric.
+
+"If it is possible for me----"
+
+"It must be possible for you, I'll not let you go until you have
+promised me that. You will come under all circumstances, Egbert, do you
+hear? And now I must let you go, for I see that the ground burns under
+your feet. Good-bye, then--to meet again soon!"
+
+"Yes--farewell, Eric!"
+
+It was a vehement, almost convulsive pressure, with which Runeck
+clasped his old friend's hand, then he turned off hurriedly and left
+the room, as though he dreaded being detained. Not until he was on the
+pathway out of doors did he stand still, when, drawing a long breath,
+he murmured to himself:
+
+"That should be overcome! He is right, it would kill him.--No, Eric,
+you are not to die, not through me! _That_ is what I will not take upon
+myself."
+
+As usual, about this time, Dernburg was found in his office. He looked
+grave and troubled, while he listened to Dr. Hagenbach who sat opposite
+to him. Oscar von Wildenrod was likewise present, but he with folded
+arms leaned against the window-frame, without taking any part in the
+conversation, the course of which, however, he followed with breathless
+attention.
+
+"You give yourself too much solicitude," said the physician in a
+soothing tone, although his air was not exactly one calculated
+to inspire confidence. "Here Eric is still suffering from the
+after-effects of our harsh spring. He should have stayed longer in the
+South and then selected some half-way station; the abrupt change of
+climates has been injurious to him. Meanwhile, he must now return to
+Italy, and I have just been talking with him, persuading him to spend
+the winter there. He would prefer Rome, on account of his young wife.
+But I am for Sorrento, or if it must be a larger city than that,
+Palermo."
+
+Dernburg's brow darkened yet more at these last words, and with hardly
+concealed displeasure he asked,
+
+"Do you regard it as absolutely necessary for Eric to spend the whole
+winter away? I had hoped that he would bring his wife back to spend
+Christmas with us."
+
+"No, Herr Dernburg, that will not do for this time," answered Hagenbach
+with decision. "That would be to stake everything that we won last
+winter."
+
+"And what have we won? A half cure, that is questionable after the
+lapse of a few months. Be candid, Doctor. You believe that my son, in
+general, cannot stand this climate."
+
+"Provisionally it would certainly be necessary----"
+
+"Nothing about provisionally; I want to know the truth, the whole
+truth! Do you think that it is at all likely, that Eric can live
+constantly at Odensburg, that he can be my co-worker, my successor some
+day, as I hoped when he returned last spring, apparently cured?"
+
+His eye hung in agonized suspense upon the doctor's lips, and
+Wildenrod's gaze was just as intent, as he now emerged from the
+window-niche.
+
+Hagenbach was slow in answering; it seemed to cost him a great effort.
+At last he said earnestly:
+
+"No, Herr Dernburg--since you desire to know the truth--as things are
+now, a permanent sojourn in the South is a condition of life with your
+son. He can come to Odensburg, for a few months in summer, but he can
+never stand another winter in our mountains, no more than he can the
+fatigues of an active calling. This is my firm conviction, and any of
+my colleagues will indorse my opinion."
+
+Wildenrod made an involuntary movement when he heard this sentence
+pronounced so positively. Dernburg was silent; he only supported his
+head upon his hand, but it was easy to see what a heavy blow was
+inflicted upon him, by the doctor's outspoken opinion, although he must
+have had a foreboding of what it would be.
+
+"That means, then, that I must bid farewell to all the plans that I
+have been cherishing so long," said he softly. "I hoped against
+hope--nevertheless, Eric is my only son. I want his life preserved,
+even though my dearest hopes be buried thereby. Let him, then,
+establish a home somewhere in the South, and limit his activity to
+building and adorning it--I can afford it."
+
+A heavy, half-suppressed sigh betrayed what this resolve cost him. Then
+he turned to the physician and offered him his hand.
+
+"I thank you for your candor, Doctor. Although the truth be bitter, I
+must accommodate myself to it. Let us speak more particularly of it
+another time!"
+
+Hagenbach took his leave. For a few minutes silence prevailed in the
+room, then Wildenrod asked in a subdued voice: "Did that sentence
+surprise you? It did not me, I have long feared something of the sort.
+If Eric only soundly recovers, then, I hope, you and he will both find
+the separation a lighter trial than you apprehend."
+
+"Eric will find it very light," said Dernburg, with swelling
+bitterness. "He has always dreaded assuming the position in life to
+which he was born. He shrank back before this mighty, restless
+enterprise, of which he was to be master and leader, with all its
+duties and responsibilities. He will far rather sit on the shore of the
+blue Mediterranean, making plans for his villa, and be glad if nothing
+disturbs him in his dreamy repose. And I am left alone here; forced,
+one day, to leave my Odensburg, my life-work, to pass into the hands of
+strangers. It is hard!"
+
+"Must you really do that?" asked Oscar significantly, drawing nearer as
+he spoke. "You have still a daughter who can give you a second son, but
+you persistently refuse to the man of her choice the rights of a son."
+
+Dernburg made a gesture expressive of his repugnance to the thought
+suggested.
+
+"Let that be! Not now----"
+
+"Just now, at this hour, I would like to speak to you. You have taken
+my wooing of Maia in a manner that I have neither expected nor
+deserved. You almost reproached me for it as if I had committed a
+crime."
+
+"It is a crime, too, Herr von Wildenrod. You should not have spoken of
+love to a sixteen-year-old child, and bound her to you by the
+confession of your passion, without being sure of her father's consent.
+One pardons a youth for being carried away by the feelings of the
+moment, but not a man of your years."
+
+"And yet, this moment has given me the highest happiness of my life,"
+cried Oscar, ecstatically, "the certainty that Maia loves me. She must
+have repeated this confession to you--we both hoped for a father's
+blessing. Instead of this we are condemned to an endless probation. You
+have banished Maia from Odensburg, depriving yourself of her sweet
+presence, only to withdraw her from my neighborhood----"
+
+"And what else was I to do?" asked Dernburg. "After your premature
+declaration, unembarrassed daily intercourse was no longer possible, if
+I did not agree to the engagement."
+
+"Then do so now! Maia's heart belongs to me, neither time nor
+separation is going to alter that, rest assured, and I love her more
+than I can tell. You have to let your son go to a foreign land--well,
+then, let me step into his place! I have learned to love your
+Odensburg, and bring to it the unbroken energies of a man who is weary
+of his aimless existence and would like to begin a new life. Will you
+refuse me this, only because two decades divide me and her whom I
+love?"
+
+He spoke with passionate entreaty, and could not have selected a better
+time than this hour in which the man, who sat there with darkly clouded
+brow, had seen shattered all the hopes which he had built upon his son
+and upon that other, whom he had, one day, wanted to see by the side of
+his weak and dependent heir--that plan, too, had been wrecked, since he
+knew, that Maia's heart was preoccupied. He need not be separated from
+his darling child if she became Wildenrod's wife, and he with his
+determined, strongly-marked character, offered him indemnity for all
+that he had lost. The choice was indeed not difficult.
+
+"That is a serious, pregnant decision, Herr von Wildenrod," said
+Dernburg, whom this proposition surprised less than Oscar would have
+supposed. "If you really could adapt yourself to so complete a reversal
+of your former mode of life--it is no light task that awaits you, and
+perhaps the only reason that it has a charm for you is, because it is
+new and strange to you. You are unaccustomed to any kind of systematic
+business----"
+
+"But I shall learn method," interposed Wildenrod. "You have often
+called me your assistant in jest, be you now in earnest my instructor
+and guide. You shall have no cause to be ashamed of your scholar! I
+have at last come to the conclusion that one must be useful and
+industrious in order to be happy. And now, pray, grant my request: you
+have allowed Eric to be happy in his own way, will you refuse Maia and
+me the same?"
+
+"We shall see," returned Dernburg, but his tone showed that his point
+was half-conceded. "Eric's wedding will come off in three weeks, then
+Maia returns to Odensburg and----"
+
+"Then I may ask for my bride," impetuously exclaimed Oscar. "Oh, thank
+you, we both thank our stern but good father."
+
+A passing smile illumined Dernburg's brow, and although he had not yet
+given his consent, he did not refuse the expression of gratitude.
+
+"But enough of that now, Oscar," said he, for the first time using the
+familiar form of address. "Else with your impetuosity you will force
+everything possible from me, and I have other business to attend to.
+Egbert ought to be here by this time; he comes in from Radefeld to day
+to report to me."
+
+The radiant expression vanished from Wildenrod's features, and gave
+place, for an instant, to a slightly scornful smile; then, with seeming
+indifference he threw out this hint: "Herr Runeck is very much
+engrossed in another direction, at present. He bestirs himself in his
+party's service at every nook and corner."
+
+"Yes, indeed," responded Dernburg quietly, without appearing to notice
+the insinuation implied. "The socialists begin to feel their own
+importance and their combs swell visibly. They even seem to want to put
+up a candidate of their own in our electoral district--for the first
+time."
+
+"So it is said at all events. Do you know whom they have in view for
+it?"
+
+"Not yet, but I suppose that it will be Landsfeld, who acts the leader
+upon all occasions. To be sure he is nothing but an agitator, his
+affair being merely to bluster, and hound others on. He is not fit for
+the Reichstag, and that party usually know their men pretty thoroughly.
+But the question in hand is, in general, only to test their power. The
+men are not seriously thinking of disputing my right to a seat."
+
+"Is that your belief?" The Baron's eye rested with a peculiar
+expression upon the face of the speaker. "Well, perhaps, Herr Runeck
+can supply you with some more exact information on the subject."
+
+Dernburg impatiently shrugged his shoulders. "Egbert will certainly be
+obliged to make up his mind now, that he knows as well as I do. If he
+votes with his party, in this case it is to go against me, and he and I
+part."
+
+"He has already decided," said Wildenrod coldly. "You do not yet know
+the name of the opposing candidate?--Well, I know it. It touches you
+and Odensburg tolerably close--it is Egbert Runeck."
+
+Dernburg started as though he had been struck; for a few seconds he
+stared hard at the Baron, as though he believed he were not in his
+right senses, but then he declared shortly and concisely: "That is not
+true."
+
+"I beg pardon, I have it from the best authority."
+
+"It is not true, I tell you! You have been falsely informed--must have
+been."
+
+"Hardly, but it can soon be settled, since you are expecting Runeck."
+
+Dernburg started up and began to pace the floor in the greatest
+excitement, but let him consider the matter as he would, it appeared to
+him as incredible as at the first moment.
+
+"Folly! Egbert is not going to act in such a farce. He knows that he
+must oppose me, and enter the lists against his old friend."
+
+"Do you believe that will hinder him?" asked Oscar mockingly. "Herr
+Runeck, at all events, stands high above all those old prejudices of
+gratitude and dependence, and who knows whether his election is so
+hopeless? For months past he has been out at Radefeld, withdrawn from
+observation, and had a few hundred workmen at his disposal. He will, at
+all events, have secured their votes, and each individual ensures him
+ten, nay, twenty votes among his comrades here at Odensburg. He has
+made good use of his time, you may depend."
+
+Dernburg gave no answer, but his step grew ever more hurried, his mien
+more threatening, while Wildenrod continued:
+
+"And this is the man upon whom you have showered benefits! He has to
+thank you for his education, his culture,--all that he is. You gave him
+a position that is envied by all the officers, and he makes use of it
+to secretly undermine your authority and to strike a blow at you here,
+with the votes of your own men."
+
+"Do you deem that possible?" asked Dernburg with sharpness. "I think we
+need give ourselves no anxiety on that score."
+
+"I hope not, but it will at least be attempted, and that is enough. Up
+to this time Runeck has very wisely been silent, although he must have
+known for months what was in agitation. This will finally open your
+eyes to your favorite, or do you still disbelieve my report?"
+
+"I do. As for the rest Egbert will explain matters to me."
+
+"Because he must! It will be an evil hour for you too, for I see how
+the bare possibility excites you, and yet----"
+
+"Go, Oscar!" enjoined Dernburg, frowning. "Egbert may come any minute,
+and whatever may be the issue of the interview, I want to talk with him
+alone."
+
+He held out his hand to the Baron, who took his departure; a proud
+passionate pride of victory flashed from his eyes, as the latter
+crossed the next room. Finally he had set foot upon the ground, where
+his ambition hailed him as future master, sole master, when the present
+ruler of Odensburg should close his eyes. Eric voluntarily vacated the
+field to him, if he took his wife to live in a foreign country and
+became completely estranged from his native place. Now they were to be
+realized--those proud dreams of power and wealth, beside them blooming
+a sweet joy unknown before. A little while longer, and the goal so
+ardently thirsted after would be attained and the past be blotted
+out--buried!
+
+Wildenrod was just entering the front hall, when the door to this
+opened and Egbert Runeck confronted him. Involuntarily he retreated a
+step; Runeck, too, started and then stood still. He saw that the Baron
+wanted to pass him, but he tarried upon the threshold as though he
+would obstruct his passage. For a few seconds they stood thus regarding
+one another, when Oscar asked sharply:
+
+"Have you anything to say to me, Herr Runeck?"
+
+"For the present--no," answered Egbert coldly. "Later, perhaps."
+
+"It is questionable, though, whether I shall then have time and
+inclination to listen to you."
+
+"I believe you will have time, Herr von Wildenrod."
+
+The glances of the two men crossed, one sparkling with fierce and
+deadly hatred, the other full of dark threatening; then said Oscar
+haughtily:
+
+"Meanwhile may I desire you to move aside? You see that I want to go
+out."
+
+Runeck slowly retired and left the doorway clear. Wildenrod passed him
+by, and again there played around his lips that mocking, triumphant
+smile. Now he no longer dreaded the danger that had hitherto hung over
+his head like a thunder-cloud. If his adversary now spoke, he would no
+longer find an auditor. The "evil hour" preparing for him in yonder
+must forever annihilate his foe.
+
+
+
+
+                             CHAPTER XIII.
+
+                        RUNECK LEAVES ODENSBURG.
+
+
+When Runeck entered his chief's work-room, he found him at his desk,
+and there was nothing unusual in the manner of his reception and the
+way in which his salutation was returned. Not until he took out a
+portfolio and opened it did Dernburg say:
+
+"Let that be, you can report to me later; for now I must talk with you
+about something more important."
+
+"I should like to have your attention for a few minutes, beforehand, if
+you please," said Egbert, taking a number of papers from the portfolio.
+"The works at Radefeld are almost finished, the Buchberg is tunneled,
+and the whole water-power of the estate available for Odensburg. Here
+are the plans and the drawings; the only thing to do now is to conduct
+the supply to the works, and this can be done by some one else if I
+withdraw."
+
+"Withdraw? What does that mean? That you will not carry the works on to
+completion?"
+
+"No. I have come to--to beg my dismissal."
+
+The words sounded low, and were evidently hard to utter, and the young
+engineer avoided looking at his superior. The latter gave no sign of
+surprise. He leaned back in his chair and crossed his arms.
+
+"That, indeed! Well, you must know what you have to do. If you really
+want to go, I shall not detain you. But I believed that you would at
+least complete the work you had undertaken. It has not otherwise been
+your way to half do things."
+
+"I am going for that very reason. The voice of another duty calls me,
+that I must obey."
+
+"And which makes it impossible for you to remain at Odensburg?"
+
+"Yes!"
+
+An infinitely bitter expression flitted across Dernburg's features.
+Here was the confirmation of that which he had not wanted to believe;
+there was hardly any need to put the question.
+
+"You mean the approaching elections?" said he with freezing calmness.
+"It is said that the Socialists are going to put up a candidate of
+their own for our district, and you, I suppose, are determined to vote
+for him. In that case, I can well understand how you should ask for
+your discharge. Neither the confidential position that you hold at
+Radefeld, nor your relations to me and my family comport with such a
+step as that. There is no deceiving of ourselves into imagining that
+the antagonism here is against any one but myself."
+
+Egbert stood there speechless, his eyes fixed on the ground. One could
+see how hard it was for him to make a confession, which was not
+lightened for him by word or hint. But suddenly he straightened himself
+up with determination stamped upon his face.
+
+"Herr Dernburg, I have a disclosure to make to you, which you will
+misinterpret, but which you must hear nevertheless. The candidate whom
+my party has nominated is--I."
+
+"Do you actually demean yourself so far as to make me such a
+communication?" asked Dernburg slowly. "I hardly believed it. The
+surprise intended would have been more complete, if I had learned it
+through the newspapers."
+
+"What, you know already----" exclaimed Egbert.
+
+"What you have found good to hide from me until today. Yes, I knew it
+and wish you good luck in your schemes. You are not timid, with your
+eight-and-twenty years; you already boldly grasp at an honor which I
+first felt to be my due after the toil of a lifetime. You have barely
+left apprentice-years behind you, and already allow yourself to be
+lifted upon the shield, as tribune of the people. Well, good luck to
+you!"
+
+Listening to the bitter sarcasm of this speech, Runeck's complexion
+changed rapidly, the color coming and going, while his voice had not
+its wonted firmness, when he replied:
+
+"I have feared that you would take such a view of the matter, and this
+makes yet more painful the position into which I have been forced by
+the action of my party. I resisted to the last moment, but at last
+they----"
+
+"Forced you, did they?" interrupted Dernburg with a bitter laugh, "of
+course you are nothing but a victim to your convictions. I foresaw that
+you would screen yourself thus. Give yourself no trouble, I
+understand."
+
+"I speak truth, I think, you know that," said Egbert, solemnly.
+
+Dernburg got up and stood close in front of him.
+
+"Why did you come back to Odensburg, if you knew that the difference
+between us was an irreconcilable one? You did not need the position
+that I offered you. The whole world stood open to you. Yet why do I
+ask? The thing was to prepare for the contest with me; to undermine the
+ground upon which I stand; to betray me first on my own soil, and then
+strike----"
+
+"No, I did not do that!" impetuously declared Runeck. "When I came
+here, nobody dreamed of the possibility of my election, and I least of
+all. Landsfeld was alone in our eye. This plan did not loom up until
+last month, and culminated only within the last few days, despite my
+opposition. I durst not speak sooner, because it was a party-secret."
+
+"Really! Well, the calculation is very cleverly made. Neither Landsfeld
+nor any other person would have had the least prospect of success.
+Where the matter in hand was to unseat me the plan would have been
+wrecked at the very outset. You are the son of a workman, have grown up
+among my people, gone forth from among their midst, and, in short, they
+are all proud of you. If you make it clear to them that I am, at
+bottom, a tyrant, who has been oppressing them and consuming all their
+substance all these years, if you promise them a return of the golden
+age--it takes hold upon and leads the people astray--you they will
+believe, perhaps; doubtless you are a distinguished orator. If the man,
+who has been treated almost like my own son, puts himself at their
+head, to lead them into battle against me, then their cause must be the
+right one, then they will swear by it."
+
+These were almost the identical words which the young engineer had
+heard months ago from the mouth of Landsfeld, and his eyes fell before
+the piercing looks of Dernburg, who now drew himself up to his full
+height, as he continued:
+
+"But we are not at that point yet. It still remains to be seen if my
+workmen have forgotten that I have labored with them and cared for them
+these thirty years, if a bond that has been forging for a whole
+generation is so easily broken. Try it. If any one can succeed, it will
+be you. You have been trained in my school and mayhap have learned how
+to strike down the old master."
+
+Egbert had turned pale as death; upon his features was mirrored the
+conflict that was raging within his soul. But now he slowly raised his
+eyes.
+
+"You condemn me, and yet, if put in my place, would perhaps not act
+differently. I have often enough heard from your own mouth that
+discipline is the first and highest law of every great undertaking. I
+have bowed and must bow to this iron law--what it has cost me, nobody
+but myself knows."
+
+"I ask obedience from my men," said Dernburg coldly. "I do not compel
+them to commit treason."
+
+Egbert writhed, and a glance almost threatening flashed from his eyes.
+
+"Herr Dernburg, I can take much from you, especially in this hour; but
+that word--that word I cannot bear."
+
+"You will have to bear it. What have you done out yonder at Radefeld?"
+
+"What I can answer for, to you and myself."
+
+"Then you have performed your task poorly and they will have their
+revenge upon you. Yet, why bring up the past? The question is about the
+present. You are the candidate of your party, then, and have accepted
+the nomination?"
+
+"Since it is a party measure--yes! I must submit to it."
+
+"You _must_!" repeated Dernburg with bitter scorn. "That is every third
+word with you, now; formerly you were a stranger to it. Then it was
+only you would. You deemed me a tyrant, because I would not forthwith
+adopt your sublunary ideas about the welfare of the people, and
+rejected this hand, that would have guided you. You wanted your course
+in life to be unimpeded. And, lo! now you bow your neck to a yoke, that
+enchains your whole being, forcing you to break with all that is dear
+to you, that lowers you even down to treachery--do not flare up so,
+Egbert, it is so! You should not have come back to Odensburg, if you
+had known that such an hour as the present must come. You should not
+have remained when you learned that they would force you to heed the
+opposition against me--but you did come back, and stayed because they
+bade you do it. Call it what you like, I call it treachery! And now go,
+we are done with one another!"
+
+He turned off. Egbert, however, did not obey, but drew nearer, yielding
+to an irresistible impulse.
+
+"Herr Dernburg--do not let me go thus! I cannot part from you in this
+way--you have been like a father to me!"
+
+There was in this outbreak of long-pent-up anguish, an intensity of
+grief that was truly appalling in one usually so self-contained as
+Runeck, but the sorely provoked man, who stood before him did not, or
+would not, see it, but drew back; and his whole attitude and manner
+were expressive of repulse, when he said:
+
+"And the son lifts his hand against the 'father.' Yes, I would gladly
+have called you son--you above every one else in the world; I showed it
+to you, too, plainly enough. You might have been lord of Odensburg. See
+if your comrades will thank you for the immense sacrifice which you
+have made for their sakes. And now this is all over--go!"
+
+Egbert was effectually silenced; he made no further attempt at
+reconciliation, slowly he turned to go; only one last agonized glance
+he sent back from the threshold, then the door closed behind him.
+
+Dernburg threw himself back in a chair and put his hands over his eyes.
+Of all the trials that had come down upon him to-day, like an
+avalanche, this was the heaviest. In Egbert he had admired the brave,
+strong spirit, so like his own, that he had wanted to bind to himself
+for the rest of his life, and now it seemed to him that in parting from
+this young man, the best part of his own power and his own life had
+also taken their departure, never to return.
+
+With heavy heart Runeck hurried through the entrance-hall, rushing
+along as though the ground burned beneath his feet. It was plain how
+much this hour had cost him, the hour in which he had torn loose from
+all that was dear to him, how dear, he now felt fully for the first
+time when he had lost it. "You might have been lord of Odensburg!" In
+that one sentence lay the greatness of the sacrifice, which he had
+offered up--and offered up to whom?
+
+It had been long since he had felt any of that joyful enthusiasm which
+neither asks questions nor doubts. However, to resolve and act were no
+longer left to his free choice; it was no longer for him to will--he
+must.
+
+Just then there was heard, quite close to him, the rustling of a
+woman's silk skirt: he looked up and found himself face to face with
+Baroness Wildenrod. For one instant he stood as it were, transfixed,
+then was about to pass by with a profound bow. But Cecilia stepped
+close up to him and said, in a low tone:
+
+"Herr Runeck!"
+
+"Gnaediges Fraeulein?"
+
+"I must speak to you."
+
+"Me?" Egbert thought that he could not have heard aright, but she
+repeated in the same tone:
+
+"Speak with you alone--please let me!"
+
+"I am yours to command."
+
+She took the precedence, he following her into the parlor. There was
+nobody there, and even if any one had appeared, the meeting might have
+passed for an accidental one. Cecilia had stepped up to the fireplace,
+as though she wanted to take refuge from the sunshine, which poured in
+its bright golden rays, through the lofty windows. A few minutes passed
+ere she spoke. Runeck, too, was silent; his eyes scanning her
+countenance, which was so entirely different from what it had appeared
+earlier.
+
+Eric was right; the radiantly beautiful creature that he had brought
+home as his promised bride had strangely altered. She was no longer the
+gay, captivating girl, whose whole being sparkled with high spirits and
+the joy of existence. A pale, trembling girl leaned against the marble
+pillars upon which rested the mantelpiece, with downcast eyes, a
+painfully drawn look about the mouth, and she sought after words that
+_would_ not cross her lips.
+
+"I wanted to write to you, Herr Runeck," she finally began. "Then I
+heard to-day that you were in the Manor-house, and determined to speak
+to you in person. There is need of an explanation between us."
+
+She paused, seeming to expect an answer, but as Egbert only bowed in
+silence, she continued with visible effort: "I must recall to your mind
+our interview on the Whitestone; you will have forgotten it as little
+as I have forgotten the words, the threats which you hurled at me. They
+were darkly mysterious to me at the time and are still so, even now;
+but, from that hour, I have known you to be the implacable foe of my
+brother and myself----"
+
+"Not of you, Baroness!" exclaimed Egbert. "I had been in grievous
+error, which was explained away at that time. I begged your pardon,
+which, however, you would not grant. My words like my threats had
+reference to another."
+
+Cecilia lifted her eyes to him, and the deprecatory look in them was
+touching to behold.
+
+"But that other is my brother, and what touches him touches me as well.
+If you ever confront him as you did me that time, the issue will be a
+bloody, a horrible one. For weeks I have been trembling at the thought
+of it, and now I can stand it no longer. I must have certainty,--what
+do you intend to do?"
+
+"Does Herr von Wildenrod know of that scene on the Whitestone?" asked
+Egbert with strong emphasis.
+
+"Yes!" This word was well-nigh inaudible.
+
+Runeck asked no farther. In the first place, he had no need to hear
+what Wildenrod's answer had been, it was written clearly enough in
+Cecilia's distressed looks, and he spared her the painful question.
+
+"Compose yourself," said he earnestly. "The meeting which you fear will
+not take place, for to-morrow morning I quit Radefeld and Odensburg.
+And inasmuch as you are going to the South with Eric, Herr von
+Wildenrod will have no further occasion nor pretext for remaining
+longer after your marriage. That will rid me of the necessity for
+meeting him in a hostile manner. But that there is no need to protect
+Odensburg and the Dernburg family against you, I well know now."
+
+He little suspected what a blow these words inflicted upon Cecilia.
+She knew Oscar's vaulting schemes, she knew that through her betrothal,
+he had only paved the way for the accomplishment of his own aims, that
+the knot between him and Maia, would, sooner or later, be tied, and
+make him master of Odensburg; but she kept her lips tightly closed,
+closed although fully conscious of the wrong that she committed, in
+order that the specter of dread which had just been exorcised, should
+not again be called up, to haunt her again with new terrors.
+
+It was still as death through the length and breadth of that vast
+apartment, only the monotonous ticking of the great standing-clock made
+itself heard, marking the flight of seconds, of minutes--how fast they
+did fly in that farewell hour!
+
+Then Egbert drew one step nearer, and with a peculiarly vibrant sound
+in his voice said:
+
+"I did you great injustice, with those unsparing words of mine, so
+great that you cannot forgive me. I had to believe that you stood, with
+open eyes, in the midst of the relations that encircled you; how could
+I imagine that they had left you in perfect ignorance? Will you, in
+spite of all that has happened, hear from me, one last entreaty, one
+warning?"
+
+The young girl silently nodded her head in the affirmative.
+
+"Your marriage sunders all such connections, and frees you from your
+brother's control--then free yourself from his influence, at any price!
+Let him no longer have any power over your future life, for it is
+unwholesome and brings destruction. What I only suspected formerly, I
+now know for a certainty. The Baron's path leads to an abyss--who can
+say where it will end?"
+
+Cecilia shuddered at these last words. She thought of Oscar's dark
+threat, when she refused to stay at Odensburg, and the image of her
+dead father loomed up before her.
+
+"No farther, Herr Runeck," said she, forcibly recovering her
+self-control. "You are talking of my brother!
+
+"Yes, of your brother," repeated he, with marked emphasis. "And you
+have nothing to say in refutation of my charge. You know then----"
+
+"I know nothing, _will_ know nothing--Oh! my God, have pity on me!"
+
+She clasped both hands before her face, and tottered, as though she
+would fall. The same instant Egbert was already at her side, supporting
+her; just as that time on the Whitestone, the beautiful, fair head,
+with closed eyes, lay upon his shoulder.
+
+"Cecilia!"
+
+It was only a single word, but it escaped Egbert's lips in the fervent
+tone of passion, and at its sound, the large dark eyes opened and met
+his. For a second their looks mingled--rather an eternity. With loud,
+clear strokes, the clock told the midday hour. Egbert let his arm drop
+and drew himself up erect.
+
+"Make Eric happy!" said he, with difficulty, in a hollow tone:
+"Farewell, Cecilia!"
+
+In the next minute he had left the room, and Cecilia, pressing her hot
+brow against the cold marble of the mantel-piece, wept and wept, as
+though her heart would break.
+
+
+
+
+                              CHAPTER XIV.
+
+                    HOW AN OLD BACHELOR MAKES LOVE.
+
+
+The dwellings of the numerous officials attached to Odensburg, formed
+quite a little town of themselves; there also was Dr. Hagenbach's
+house, a small villa, in the Swiss style. It had evidently been built
+for a larger family, but this elderly bachelor had not thought of
+marrying, and had been living alone here for years, with an old
+housekeeper, to whom was now added his nephew. As physician in chief of
+Odensburg, Hagenbach's professional services were constantly in
+requisition, but he also frequently had calls from abroad.
+
+To-day, for instance, there sat in his office a patient from abroad,
+who, to be sure, did not look at all like a sick man. The man was about
+forty years old, and very rotund in person, his hands were folded over
+a very capacious paunch and his eyes almost disappeared behind full,
+puffy, red cheeks. Nevertheless he had a long tale of miseries to
+relate, counting up a whole list of ailments, until Hagenbach abruptly
+cut him short in the midst of it.
+
+"Oh, I know all that you are telling me, by heart, Herr Willmann. I
+have already told you for the last time, that you take too good care of
+Number One. If you will not be moderate in eating and drinking, and
+take no exercise, the remedies that I have prescribed for you cannot
+take effect."
+
+"Be moderate?" repeated Willmann in a soft, melancholy tone. "Dear me!
+Doctor, I am moderation itself. But a hotel-keeper, alas! is in that
+particular a victim of his calling. I must occasionally sit with my
+guests, chatting and drinking--it brings business, you know, and----"
+
+"You take upon yourself this martyrdom with wonderful self-denial. For
+all that I care--but then you have given up wanting any help from me, I
+perceive. I do not care at all to have outside practice; I have my
+hands full here at Odensburg. Why do you not consult my colleague, who
+has a great deal more time?"
+
+"Because I have no faith in him," said Herr Willmann solemnly, without
+looking the least disconcerted by this harsh declaration. "There is
+something about you, Doctor, that inspires a body with confidence."
+
+"Yes, thank God, I throw in the needful grains of rudeness," answered
+Hagenbach with composure of soul. "Then people always have confidence
+in you. You will take my prescriptions, then? Yes or no?"
+
+"Dear me, I submit to you in every particular. If you knew what I have
+stood these last days--those terrible pains in the stomach----"
+
+"For which those good meats and soups are to blame," interposed the
+doctor in cold blood.
+
+"And that want of breath, that dizziness in my head----"
+
+"Comes from the beer, to which you daily treat yourself, your own most
+regular customer. If you omit the beer, and limit your meals to what is
+absolutely necessary to sustain life--" then he began to count off a
+list of remedies that almost drove Herr Willmann wild.
+
+"Why, Doctor, that is a veritable hunger-cure," lamented he. "It will
+put an end to me!"
+
+"Would you rather fall a victim to your calling?" asked Hagenbach. "It
+is all right; but there, go off and leave me in peace!"
+
+The patient sighed deeply and painfully. However, the doctor's
+faith-inspiring roughness must have won the victory over his love of
+good-living, for he folded his hands and looked up at the ceiling.
+
+"If there's no help for it--in God's name!" said he unctuously.
+
+The physician suddenly started, fastened a sharp glance upon him and
+then asked, wholly irrelevantly:
+
+"Have you a brother, Herr Willmann?"
+
+"No, I was the only child of my parents."
+
+"Singular! I was struck with a likeness, that is to say, not exactly a
+likeness--on the contrary, you have not a feature like the person I am
+referring to."
+
+Herr Willmann softly shook his head, in token that these dark words
+were unintelligible to him, while Hagenbach continued: "Can you tell me
+whether you have a relative who has been in Africa, in Egypt, in the
+Sahara or in some part of a desert in those parts?"
+
+Herr Willmann's full cheeks lost something of their rosy tint, and he
+fumbled in an embarrassed way with his gold watch-chain as he answered:
+"Yes--a cousin."
+
+"Was he a missionary?"
+
+"Yes, Doctor."
+
+"And then he died of fever?"
+
+"Yes, Doctor."
+
+"Was his name Engelbert?"
+
+"Yes----"
+
+"And what is your own name, pray?"
+
+"Pan--cra--tius," answered Willmann, drawling it out, while he still
+kept playing with his watch-chain.
+
+"A fine name! Well then, Herr Pancratius Willmann, in three weeks come
+again, and meanwhile, if I should be passing by the 'Golden Lamb' I'll
+give you a call to see how you are getting along. Adieu!"
+
+Willmann took his leave with mild thanks for the advice wasted on him,
+and Hagenbach was left alone.
+
+"The thing agrees," murmured he to himself. "He is a cousin, then, of
+that much lamented Engelbert, whose picture is draped in mourning. They
+both have that pious way of turning up their eyes; it seems to be a
+family-failing. Shall I tell her about it? I'll take good care not to!
+She would send for the dear kinsman on the spot, and then there would
+be a repetition of that tale of woe, and a fresh eulogium of eternal
+constancy. As for the rest, I must give Dagobert the prescription
+I promised, to take with him, as he is about to set out for the
+Manor-house."
+
+So saying he went across to his nephew's room, whom he was glad to
+find still in. The young man had already made his preparations for
+going out. His hat and gloves lay on the table beside a bulky blue
+note-book, but he himself stood before the looking-glass, carefully
+considering his own precious person. He tied his cravat straight, drew
+his fingers through his fair locks, and tried to give a bold air to his
+newly-budding mustache.
+
+Finally Dagobert seemed content with the appearance of his outer man:
+he retired a few steps, laid his hand most touchingly upon his heart,
+sighed profoundly, and then began to say something in a whisper that
+could not be heard by the doctor, who gazed upon the scene from the
+threshold of the door, with increasing astonishment.
+
+"Fellow, have you turned crazy?" asked he, in his gruff manner.
+
+Dagobert started and turned crimson from embarrassment.
+
+"I believe your brain is cracked, all of a sudden," continued his
+uncle, advancing nearer. "What is the meaning of these preparations?"
+
+"I--I am learning English words," declared Dagobert, the doctor,
+meanwhile, shaking his head suspiciously.
+
+"English words, with such heart-breaking sighs? That is a remarkable
+way to learn."
+
+"It was an English poem, that I was once more----Please, dear uncle,
+give it to me--those are my exercises!"
+
+Like a bird of prey Dagobert swooped upon the table, clutching at the
+blue pamphlet, but too late, the doctor had already opened it and begun
+to turn over its leaves.
+
+"Why so excited? You evidently need not be ashamed of your work and
+seem to have gotten tolerably far. Miss Friedberg, too, has given
+herself a great deal of trouble about you, and I hope you are grateful
+for it."
+
+"Yes, indeed, she has given herself trouble--I have given myself
+trouble--we have given ourselves trouble," stammered Dagobert, who,
+manifestly did not know what he was saying, for his eyes were directed
+in agony to the hand of his uncle, who turned over one page after the
+other, while he dryly remarked:
+
+"Well, if that is the way you are going to stammer out your thanks, she
+will not be greatly edified by them--yes, what is this, pray?"
+
+He had stumbled upon a page laid loosely in, at the sight of which his
+unhappy nephew was ready to expire.
+
+"'To Leonie!'" read Hagenbach aghast. "Here are verses!
+
+
+                "'Oh! be not angry if I fall
+                  A suppliant at thy feet----'
+
+
+"Oh! Oh, what does that mean?"
+
+Dagobert stood there like a surprised criminal, while the doctor read
+the poem through, which was nothing more nor less than a full
+declaration of love to the secretly adored preceptress, vowing that
+these feelings should last forever, with the most solemn of oaths.
+
+It was some while before Hagenbach could take in the idea, so monstrous
+did it seem to him. But when he finally apprehended the true
+significance of all this, a storm as of thunder and lightning burst
+forth upon Dagobert's devoted head. He patiently submitted to being
+lectured for a long while, but since it seemed as if the tempest was to
+know no end, he made an attempt at retort.
+
+"Uncle, I owe you gratitude," said he solemnly, "but when the question
+concerns the most sacred feelings of my heart, there is an end put to
+your power as to my obedience. Yes, I love Leonie, I worship her--and
+that is no crime."
+
+"But it is a folly!" cried the doctor, angrily, "a folly, such as has
+never been before! A youth who is just out of school, and not yet a
+student--and in love with a lady, who could be his mother. Such, then,
+were your 'English words'! It was a declaration of love, then, that you
+were studying before the looking-glass! Well, I shall open Miss
+Friedberg's eyes to the character of her pretty scholar, and you may be
+thankful to be out of the way when she learns the story. She will be
+indignant, infuriated."
+
+He grimly folded the fatal sheet together and put it in his pocket. The
+young man saw the verses that he had forged, in the sweat of his brow,
+disappear in the coat-pocket of his unfeeling relative, and the spirit
+of despair gave back to him his self-possession.
+
+"I am no longer a boy," declared he, smiting upon his breast. "You have
+no appreciation of the feelings that stir in a young man's bosom. Your
+heart has long since been dead. When the hoar-frost of age already
+covers your head----"
+
+He suddenly stopped and took refuge as speedily as possible behind the
+great arm-chair, for the doctor, who could not stand the allusions to
+his gray hair, advanced upon him threateningly.
+
+"I forbid such personalities!" cried he, raging. "Hoar-frost of age,
+forsooth? How old do you think I am? You are fancying that this old
+uncle will soon be departing this life, but I shall not think of such a
+thing for a long while to come, mark that! I am now going to Miss
+Friedberg with your scribbling, and meanwhile you can let the feelings
+in your youthful breast storm and bluster away; it will be quite a nice
+little entertainment!"
+
+"Uncle, you have no right to mock at my love," said Dagobert, somewhat
+dejectedly from behind his arm-chair--but the doctor was already
+outside the door, on his way to his sitting-room, whence he got his hat
+and cane.
+
+"Hoar-frost of old age!" growled he. "Silly fellow! I'll teach him
+whether my heart is dead or not! You are to be surprised!" And so
+saying, at a rapid pace he set off for the Manor-house.
+
+Leonie Friedberg sat at her desk, finishing a letter, when the doctor
+was announced; amazed she looked up:
+
+"What, is that you, Doctor? I was just looking for Dagobert, he is
+generally so punctual."
+
+"Dagobert is not coming to-day," answered Hagenbach shortly.
+
+"Why not? Is he unwell?"
+
+"No, but I have ordered him to stay at home--the accursed boy!"
+
+"You are too hard upon the young man. You always treat him as though he
+were still a boy, although he is twenty years old!"
+
+The doctor hardly listened to the fault found with him, but seated
+himself and continued wrathfully:
+
+"A wretched tale he has gotten up again. I ought not to tell you,
+properly, but spare you the vexation. However, there is no help for it,
+you must learn about it."
+
+"Heavens! What has happened?" asked Leonie, uneasily. "Nothing serious,
+I hope?"
+
+Hagenbach's looks certainly portended something serious, as he drew
+forth his nephew's poetic effusion from his coat-pocket, and handed it
+to the lady with the air of one bringing the worst of news.
+
+"Read, please!"
+
+Leonie began to read, conning the verse from beginning to end with an
+indescribable tranquillity, nay, a smile even quivered about her lips.
+The doctor, who waited in vain for an expression of indignation, saw
+himself, finally, compelled to come to the aid of her understanding.
+
+"It is a poem," he enlightened her.
+
+"So I perceive."
+
+"And it is addressed to you."
+
+"According to all probability, inasmuch as my name stands at the head."
+
+"Why, is that pleasant to you?" cried Hagenbach hotly. "You find it all
+right, do you, for him to fall at your feet--' that is the phrase used
+by the scribbler."
+
+Still smiling, Leonie shrugged her shoulders. "Let your nephew indulge
+his little romance; it is harmless enough. I really have no objection
+to it."
+
+"But I?" exclaimed the doctor. "If the simpleton manages a single time
+more to praise you in song, and lay at your feet the passionate
+emotions of his youthful breast, then----"
+
+"What is it to you?" asked Leonie, astonished at this vehement
+outbreak, for which, in her opinion, there was no ground.
+
+"What is it to me? Ah! that indeed--You do not know yet----" Hagenbach
+suddenly arose and stepped close in front of her.
+
+"Look at me for once, Miss Friedberg!"
+
+"I find nothing especially remarkable about you."
+
+"You are not expected to find anything remarkable about me, either,"
+said the doctor, quite hurt. "But I look quite passable, considering my
+years."
+
+"Certainly, Doctor."
+
+"I have a lucrative position, not an inconsiderable fortune, a pretty
+house--that is much too large for me by myself."
+
+"I do not doubt all this, but what is----"
+
+"And as to my roughness," continued Hagenbach, without heeding the
+interruption, "it is only outwardly so. In the main I am a regular
+lamb."
+
+Leonie looked very incredulous at this assertion and listened with
+increasing surprise.
+
+"All in all, a man with whom one might live happily," wound up the
+doctor with great self-complacency. "Do not you agree with me that this
+is so?"
+
+"Why, yes, but----"
+
+"Well, then say 'yes,' then the story is done."
+
+Leonie started from her chair and blushed crimson.
+
+"Doctor--what does this mean?"
+
+"What does it mean? Ah, yes, I have quite forgotten to make you a
+regular offer. But that will do to repeat. There, now--I offer you my
+hand and beg for your consent--let us shake hands on it!"
+
+He stretched out his hand, but the lady of his choice drew three steps
+back and said sharply: "You must take account of my surprise; I have
+really never deemed it possible that you could honor me with an offer."
+
+"You think so, because you have nerves!" said Hagenbach, quite
+unconcernedly. "Oh, that is nothing, I'll soon rid you of them, because
+I am a doctor."
+
+"I only regret that I shall give you no opportunity for this," was the
+cool response, that made the doctor open his eyes in astonishment.
+
+"Am I to consider this as a rejection?" asked he, dejectedly.
+
+"If you choose to call it so. At all events it is the answer to your
+offer put so respectfully and with such uncommon tenderness."
+
+The doctor's face lengthened considerably. He had, most assuredly, not
+deemed it necessary to impose a bridle upon his well-known bluntness,
+and to make any circumlocution in his courtship. He knew very well
+that, in spite of his years and his gray hairs, he was "a good match,"
+and that more than one lady of his acquaintance was ready to share his
+station in life and his property, and here where his offer was
+doubtless a great, hardly-dreamed-of, piece of good fortune for the
+portionless girl, he was unceremoniously discarded! He believed that he
+had not heard aright.
+
+"You actually then reject my offer?" he asked.
+
+"I regret to have to decline the honor destined for me."
+
+There ensued a brief pause. Hagenbach looked alternately upon Leonie
+and upon the desk, or rather the portrait over it, but then his
+restrained vexation got the better of him.
+
+"Why?" asked he brusquely.
+
+"That is my affair."
+
+"Excuse me, it is my affair, if I am discarded: I want, at least, to
+know wherefore."
+
+At every question put, he took one step forward, and at last made such
+demonstrations against the portrait, that Leonie planted herself in
+front of it, as if for a shield.
+
+"If you lay such great stress upon it," said she, suppressing her
+tears, "be it so, then. Yes, Engelbert was my betrothed, whom I shall
+eternally bewail. He stayed in the family as tutor where I was
+governess, our spirits were congenial and we plighted our troth."
+
+"That must have been very touching," growled Hagenbach, fortunately so
+softly that Leonie did not hear him; she continued with quavering
+voice:
+
+"Engelbert then went as traveling-companion to Egypt; there it came
+over him like a revelation, and he determined to devote the rest of his
+life to the conversion of the poor heathen. He magnanimously gave me
+back my word, which I would not accept, however, but declared myself
+ready to share with him his hard, self-sacrificing vocation. It was not
+to be! He wrote me once more before his departure for the interior of
+Africa, and then"--her voice broke into sobs--"then I heard nothing
+more of him."
+
+Hagenbach did not at all share in this grief; he rather felt an
+extraordinary satisfaction over it, viz., that the aforesaid betrothed
+lover and converter of the heathen was really dead and out of the way;
+but the narration mitigated his displeasure. It took away every
+insulting feature of the rejection. He fell into a reconcilable mood,
+that extended even to his rival.
+
+"Peace to his ashes!" said he. "But one day you will cease to bewail
+him, and not spend all your days grieving over him. That may have been
+the fashion in Werther's time, but at the end of the nineteenth century
+the betrothed sheds the usual tears over the departed lover, and then
+takes another one--if such an one, perchance, there be. In our case, he
+is here and repeats his offer. So, then, Leonie, will you have me? Yes
+or no?"
+
+"No!" said Leonie, drawing herself up indignantly. "If I did not know
+what I possessed in the tender, devoted love of my Engelbert, your
+courtship would show me. Perhaps you would not have approached any
+other lady in such an--unceremonious fashion, but the lonely, faded
+girl, the poor, dependent teacher, must esteem it great good luck if a
+'good support' is offered her. To what end use formalities? But I have
+too high a regard for matrimony to consider it only from this point of
+view. I would rather remain as I am, poor and dependent, than be the
+wife of a man, who, not even as a lover, thinks it worth his while to
+treat me with proper respect.--And now, Doctor, we may consider our
+interview as closed." She made him a bow and left the room.
+
+Hagenbach stood there, confounded, watching her disappearing figure.
+
+"That is what you call being lectured," said he. "And I have quietly
+submitted to it. As for the rest, she did not look bad in her
+excitement, with her crimsoned cheeks and flashing eyes. Humph! I
+didn't know how pretty she is.--Yes, these cursed bachelor-ways! One is
+utterly ruined by them."
+
+
+
+
+                              CHAPTER XV.
+
+                             A WEDDING DAY.
+
+
+At Odensburg, flags were flying, cannon being fired off from the
+surrounding heights, and triumphal arches, wreaths of evergreen, and
+flowers, everywhere greeted the young bridal-pair who had just
+returned, after the performance of the marriage-ceremony.
+
+The service had taken place in the somewhat remote church of Saint
+Eustace, where Dernburg, too, had once stood before the altar with his
+own bride. Now the wedding-procession came back, a long line of
+carriages, at the head of which drove the equipage of the newly-married
+couple.
+
+The works were silent to-day, as a matter of course, the workmen
+forming a lane all the way to the Manor-house, and the golden sunshine
+of this beautiful day in late summer enhanced the merriment and jollity
+that had taken possession of Odensburg to its utmost bounds upon this
+great occasion.
+
+Now the carriage drove through the grand triumphal arch, that made a
+gorgeous display with its banners and green wreaths, drawing up in
+front of the terrace. Eric lifted his bride out. The foot of that young
+woman trod literally on flowers, which had been scattered along her
+path in profusion. The entrance-hall was transformed into a garden
+blooming with sweet blossoms, and the entertaining-rooms, now thrown
+wide open for the reception of their new mistress, were likewise
+adorned.
+
+Dernburg followed, with his sister on his arm, his features betraying
+deep emotion, when he embraced his son and daughter-in-law. He had
+offered a costly sacrifice, when he consented to the separation and
+lasting abode of the young pair in the South, but the infinite rapture
+depicted upon Eric's face indemnified the father for it, in some
+measure. Then Dernburg's glance fell upon Maia, who now entered by
+Wildenrod's side. He surveyed the proud bearing and handsome appearance
+of the man, who seemed just fitted, one day, to be the presiding genius
+of Odensburg. He saw the sweet countenance of his darling equally
+illumined by the light of joy, and then the shadow passed away also
+from his own brow. Fate offered him full indemnity for what he had to
+give up.
+
+Maia flew into her brother's arms and then kissed her beautiful
+sister-in-law with the greatest tenderness. Oscar, too, embraced the
+young pair, but as he stooped down to Cecilia, he gave her a dark look,
+half-solicitous, half-threatening: and she must have felt this, too,
+for she slightly shuddered, and by a quick movement, extricated herself
+from his arms.
+
+Not much time was allowed, however, for family greetings, inasmuch as
+other carriages now drove up to the door, and the wedding-guests began
+to assemble. The newly-married pair were congratulated upon all sides
+and soon formed the center of the brilliant circle that had collected
+here. None of the prominent people in the neighborhood were missing,
+with the solitary exception of Count Eckardstein, who had declined the
+invitation.
+
+The young husband was inexpressibly happy. On this day, that had
+witnessed the fulfillment of his most ardent desires, his health also
+seemed to have been given back to him. He no longer looked sickly and
+broken. With flushed cheeks and sparkling eyes, he accepted, with
+smiles, the congratulations offered him, and exhibited a cheerfulness
+and animation, that visually did not belong to his nature. His eyes
+continually turned to her, who had just linked her destiny with his
+own, as though he could not exist a moment without beholding her loved
+face.
+
+And this admiration was pardonable enough. Cecilia looked radiantly
+beautiful in her bridal attire. The white satin gown, costly lace veil,
+and--Eric's present---the diamonds that sparkled on neck and arms,
+enhanced the peculiar charm of her appearance. Only her beautiful face
+looked strangely pale beneath her myrtle-crown. She too smiled and
+bowed, in acknowledgment of the congratulations that were spoken, and
+uttered the usual grateful speeches; but there was something forced and
+cold in that smile, and her voice was without ring. Fortunately this
+attracted nobody's attention, for the right to look pale and serious
+was allowed a bride.
+
+The director of the Odensburg works and Dr. Hagenbach, who were both
+among the guests, stood in a window, somewhat apart. The former had
+undertaken the superintendence of the festal arrangements, with which
+the employes meant to compliment the son of their chief upon his
+wedding-day. All had succeeded beyond their expectations,--the
+triumphal arches, the decoration of the road to the church, the
+delegations, and congratulatory addresses in prose and verse, which had
+been partly attended to the day before. The main thing, however, was
+yet to come--the grand holiday parade of the workmen themselves, who
+were just now forming into line out of doors. The director was mildly
+excited because his management had been called in question, and spoke
+in a low, and forcible manner to the doctor, who, however, listened
+abstractedly and often looked across at the young pair, who were still
+surrounded by a circle of friends.
+
+"I only wish the parade had been appointed for yesterday," said he, in
+a low tone. "The procession will be more than an hour in passing by,
+and all that time the bridal pair will be kept out upon the terrace. It
+is too much upon Eric. The ceremony, the parade, then the state dinner,
+and finally the leave-taking. From the first, I have been opposed to
+these great and noisy festivities, but was out-voted on all sides. Even
+Herr Dernburg wanted the entertainment to be as magnificent as
+possible."
+
+"That is quite in the nature of things, at the wedding of his only
+son," suggested the director, "and the participation of the Odensburg
+hands was not to be rejected. I think we shall gratify him with our
+procession; it must make a fine show in the bright sunlight. As for the
+rest, I cannot understand your solicitude about the young master. He
+looks splendidly--I have never seen him as cheerful and fresh-looking
+as to-day."
+
+"That is the very thing that makes me uneasy. There is something
+feverish in his excitement, and in his condition any excitement is
+poison. Would that he were now quietly seated in the carriage by his
+wife's side, having left all this jubilation behind them."
+
+They were interrupted by a servant announcing that the procession was
+ready to move, only awaiting the appearance of the family. The director
+stepped up to the young couple, and in the name of all the Odensburg
+employes, asked them to accept their homage.
+
+Eric smiled, and offered his arm to his young wife, that he might
+escort her to the terrace. Dernburg and the guests joined them.
+
+That was a fascinating panorama on a grand scale that now unfolded
+itself before their eyes, out of doors, in the bright noonday sun. The
+chief officers stood at the foot of the terrace, while their
+subordinates headed single groups of the gay procession, which had
+taken its position on the broad piece of level ground extending up to
+the works, and now put itself in motion.
+
+In dense and endless masses, with music and waving banners, the
+thousands of workmen marched past, the men from the forges up in the
+mountains having joined them. By a very skillful arrangement they had
+interspersed groups of children, that with happy effect broke the
+monotony of the procession. The pupils of the schools founded by
+Dernburg stepped proudly along, in their Sunday clothes, pleasure in a
+holiday beaming from every face: when they caught sight of the bride
+they waved caps and bunches of flowers, almost splitting their little
+throats with the loud cheers that they gave out one after another.
+
+It cost trouble to keep the way clear for the procession, for the wives
+of the workmen, with the tiniest children in their arms, lined the
+sides of the road, and, besides, the inhabitants of all the region
+round about had streamed hither. All eyes were turned towards the
+terrace, to the white form of the bride, before whom all standards were
+lowered, and for whom all this rejoicing was made: she was the one to
+whom the whole entertainment was given, and received honors such as
+usually fall only to the lot of a princess. Incessantly she bowed her
+head in recognition of the people's kindness, but there was something
+of restraint in her action, and her large, dark eyes looked coldly upon
+all these demonstrations of joy, as though she saw nothing of them, and
+as though in far, far-off space she sought something entirely
+different.
+
+Eric, on the contrary, as was most unusual with him, took the liveliest
+interest in all that was going on. He drew Cecilia's attention to
+special features of the procession, turning repeatedly to the director
+to thank him for all the gratification that his skill was affording
+them, and seemed to have entirely laid aside his timidity and reserve.
+At other times it had been painful and oppressive to him, to be the
+chief person upon occasions of the sort, but to-day he hailed it with
+joyful pride, for the sake of his young wife.
+
+Dernburg stood by his son's side, and received these demonstrations of
+popularity with kindly gravity. Who could blame him, if his chest
+heaved more proudly and his massive form became more erect, at sight of
+the thousands who were marching by? Those were his workmen to whom, for
+thirty long years, he had been a master, but also a father, for whose
+weal he had labored and toiled as for his own, and these they would
+estrange from him! These were to turn from him to follow another, who,
+as yet, had done nothing for them; who had begun his career by setting
+up opposition to the man who had been a greater benefactor to him than
+to all besides! A contemptuous smile played about the lips of the lord
+of Odensburg, the ground upon which he stood was firm as a rock; of
+that he felt impressed more strongly than ever to-day.
+
+But still another looked with swelling bosom and flashing eyes upon the
+masses flowing by,--Oscar von Wildenrod, who stood with Maia under one
+of the orange-trees. Gigantic as had the control of the Odensburg works
+appeared to him, from the start, never had the power and importance of
+Dernburg's position struck him as it did to-day--and this was to be his
+future destination. To be the ruler of such a world, to guide it with a
+word, a sign,--that had been his aim since that first evening when he
+had looked over at those works, veiled as they were in the darkness of
+night. Now, at last, he stood close before his goal.
+
+His glance turned to Maia, and the proud triumph resting upon his
+features melted into a blissful smile. The half-comic, half-solemn
+dignity, with which Maia wore the long train to her blue silk gown,
+unused, as she was to such an appendage, became her charmingly; her
+rosy cheeks glowed from joyous exhilaration. With the frolicsomeness of
+a child she let herself be borne along by the waves of joyful
+excitement that were bounding in her heart. She knew that her father
+had withdrawn his opposition to her love.
+
+"Is it not beautiful?" asked she, lifting her radiant eyes to his face.
+"And Eric is so happy!"
+
+Oscar smiled and bent over her.
+
+"Oh, I know one who will be happier than Eric, when he stands there on
+yonder spot, with his young bride by his side, when----"
+
+"Hush, Oscar!" interposed Maia with glowing face. "You know--papa will
+not allow a whisper of that now."
+
+"Nobody hears us," said Oscar, and indeed the noise of the music and
+cheers drowned his passionate whispering. "And your papa is not so
+stern as he would have us believe. He has, it is true, denied my
+petition to have our engagement publicly announced to-day, it was hard
+enough to wrest a consent from him on any terms. But now you are here,
+and if his darling asks him, he will not say her nay. I shall renew the
+siege to-morrow--will you help me, my Maia?"
+
+She did not answer, only her eyes told him, that he should not lack the
+support asked for: with soft but fervent pressure he took her hand.
+Wildenrod evidently had no objection to the company, guessing what at
+present they were not to be told.
+
+The last group of workmen had just gone by, the marching past was at an
+end, and the whole mass of spectators moved in a body to the now vacant
+railroad station, in order to take the next train. On the terrace, too,
+everything was now in motion. The director once more received the
+thanks of Dernburg and his son, to which were added the compliments of
+the guests present, for the successful manner in which the affair had
+been conducted, and then the young couple with their friends retired
+into the house.
+
+They were greeted in the vast entrance-hall by strains of music, and a
+table stood in waiting, richly decorated with flowers, silver and
+cut-glass, whence the most tempting refreshments were served. Little as
+Dernburg liked ordinarily to make a display of his wealth, to-day no
+expenditure was spared that could add to the splendor of the occasion.
+
+The meal passed as is usual at such times: healths were drunk, and
+after sitting at table for about two hours the dancing began, for which
+the younger portion of the company had waited longingly.
+
+The newly-married pair only participated in the first grand promenade
+and then withdrew. Maia, who was escorted back to her place by
+Wildenrod, saw that they left the hall with some surprise.
+
+"Why do Eric and Cecilia break up already?" asked she. "They are not to
+set off for an hour to come?"
+
+"It is Dr. Hagenbach's fault," declared Oscar. "He fears that Eric has
+over-exerted himself--quite unnecessarily, it seems to me, for Eric has
+never looked better than to-day."
+
+"So it seems to me; but Cecilia looks so much the paler. She was all
+the while so grave and silent--I would have imagined a happy bride
+looking very differently."
+
+Wildenrod's eyes had likewise followed his sister, a dark frown
+gathering upon his brow the while. But then, he shrugged his shoulders
+and replied in a careless tone:
+
+"She is worn out and fagged; no wonder either. The director has imposed
+a little too much upon us, with this endlessly long procession of his,
+for there we had to stay until the last company had marched by."
+
+Maia shook her head, while her childlike features became grave and
+thoughtful. "Eric thinks it is something different, he is anxious to
+learn what."
+
+"What is it that Eric wants to learn?" asked Wildenrod suddenly, so
+sharply that the young girl looked at him in surprise.
+
+"Oh, he is mistaken perhaps, but upon my return he lamented to me the
+alteration that had taken place in Cecilia during the past few weeks.
+He is afraid that some trouble is weighing upon her mind, and hoped
+that she might be persuaded to confide in me, since he had failed to
+learn her secret. I gladly obliged him by approaching her on the
+subject, but got nothing for my pains. She was equally reserved with
+me--Eric was quite miserable about it."
+
+Oscar bit his lip and an expression came out upon his features that
+terrified Maia. As soon, however, as he noticed her questioning look,
+he gave a short laugh and said mockingly: "I am afraid Eric will make
+life hard for himself and his wife, with his overstrained tenderness.
+Fortunately Cecilia is not attuned to such sentimentalities, and will
+laugh him out of his tendency to 'make mountains out of mole-hills.'"
+
+The waltz just now beginning, interrupted the conversation between the
+two. A young officer to whom the daughter of the house was engaged for
+this dance, came up to claim her hand. Maia, who, for the first time
+danced in a large company, entered heartily into this amusement, but
+her eyes quickly turned again to the spot where the Baron stood, or
+rather had stood, for he was no longer there. She sought him in vain;
+he must have left the room.
+
+Eric had attended his young wife to her chamber, and then repaired to
+his own apartments, to change his suit. He smiled over the painful
+solicitude of the doctor, who could never get over treating him as a
+sick man, no matter how well he felt, as for instance to-day. But with
+the prescription itself he was well pleased, for not yet had he been
+allowed a single minute of his wife's society in private. His
+traveling-suit was quickly donned, and now there was still left a half
+hour for a sweet, confidential chat, that nobody could disturb.
+
+Full of impatience the young husband hurried out to go and find his
+wife, but at the foot of the stairs he stood still a moment and gazed
+through the wide-open portals of the grand reception-hall.
+
+Out of doors lay the landscape in the full splendor of the evening-sun,
+whose golden light flooded also the flower-bestrewn terrace, and a
+broad shining beam also crossed the hall. From the works over yonder,
+where the festivities for the workmen took place, came sounds of music
+and rejoicing; and from the open windows of the ball-room, where a
+pause in the dancing had occurred, penetrated the gay talking and
+laughing of the company.
+
+Eric's heart beat high for joy, and he drew a deep breath of
+satisfaction. What a lovely day it had been, this his wedding-day! And
+now life just began for him--now there beckoned to him the wide world,
+the sunny South; he would be free from oppressive, irksome duties, and
+there on the shore of the blue Mediterranean, with a sweet wife by his
+side, dream an enchanting dream of happiness. In the depths of his
+soul, he was pierced with gratitude to the Giver of all good, who had
+showered upon him all these blessings.
+
+With quick steps he mounted the stairs and was about to enter the small
+parlor which separated Cecilia's chamber from that of her brother, when
+he remarked that it had been bolted from the inside; also nobody opened
+in response to his light tap. He was impatient, and took another way.
+
+Oscar's chamber had another peculiar entrance, a little tapestry-door,
+that was seldom or never used. Eric opened it and traversed the
+apartment of his brother-in-law and the adjoining parlor. His step was
+not audible upon the soft carpet, and moreover the door to Cecilia's
+chamber was close. Eric heard Wildenrod's voice from inside and stood
+still.
+
+The brother, he supposed, had sought the bride in order to see her once
+more alone and to say farewell. This was natural and the parting--in
+any case so brief--ought not to be disturbed.
+
+Yet what was that? The Baron's voice sounded stern and threatening, and
+now a wild, passionate sob was heard. Was it Cecilia's voice? It could
+not be she who was thus distressed, weeping so despairingly! Eric
+turned pale, the foreboding of a great sorrow suddenly fell upon him,
+as though an ice-cold hand had laid its weight upon his chest. He
+tarried motionless in his place, every word reaching him through the
+closed door.
+
+"Be reasonable, Cecilia! Have you lost all power of self-control? You
+must show yourself again to the guests and bid them farewell, Eric may
+come in any minute. Do collect yourself!"
+
+No answer, only convulsive, inconsolable weeping.
+
+"I dreaded something of the sort, and therefore sought you, but I was
+not prepared for such an outbreak as this. Cecilia, you must compose
+yourself."
+
+"I cannot!" gasped Cecilia with half-stifled voice. "Leave me, Oscar! I
+have been obliged to smile and lie this livelong day--must do so again
+when I sit in that carriage with Eric--I'll die if I cannot take my cry
+out this once--only this single time."
+
+The brother must have perceived that he could effect nothing here by
+the assumption of a domineering tone, for his voice was milder, when he
+rejoined:
+
+"There it is again, that wretched passionateness of your disposition,
+you should say to yourself, that this is the last of all hours, in
+which to abandon yourself thus. I have done everything to secure to you
+your happiness and you----"
+
+"My happiness?" repeated Cecilia with sarcastic bitterness. "Why that
+lie, Oscar?--we are alone. You managed to deceive me so long as I was a
+thoughtless child, but you know the day that opened my eyes. You only
+wanted, through me, to pave the way to your own fortune, when you set
+yourself to make a match between Eric and me. You wanted to be master
+of Odensburg, therefore, I had to be the victim."
+
+"And if I had this aim in view, I lifted you up with myself," cried
+Wildenrod with emphasis. "I have told you, often enough, that the
+question here for both of us is 'to be or not to be.' You consider
+yourself a victim do you? Why, to-day you received princely homage, and
+as those endless throngs of dependents marched past you, surely it must
+have become clear to you, what significance the name that you now bear,
+has in the world. That life in Odensburg, which you dreaded so, is to
+be spared you. You are to return to Italy. Eric worships you, he lives
+only in your looks, and will leave no wish of yours ungratified,
+showering upon you everything that wealth can give. What more can you
+ask of your marriage? This is good fortune, and one day you will thank
+me for it."
+
+"Never! never!" cried the young woman, beside herself. "Oh! that I had
+fled from this good fortune! But you--you compelled my submission by
+the dreadful threat that you would follow our father's example, and I
+had to stay in order to save you. You have no idea, what torture I have
+endured since that time, in the midst of all Eric's goodness and
+tenderness. I never have loved him, never will love him, and now that
+the chain is irrevocably forged, I feel that it will crush me. I would
+rather lie down in death than in his arms!"
+
+She suddenly hushed. "What was that?" she asked quickly.
+
+"What?"
+
+"I do not know--it sounded like a sigh!"
+
+"Imagination! We are alone, I have secured ourselves against listeners.
+What means that desperate outbreak? Have you waited until your
+wedding-day to be certain that you love another? Do you not know the
+truth, or _will_ you not? I have suspected it ever since that day when
+you and Runeck met on the Whitestone. It seemed as though you would
+lose your senses, at the bare idea of being despised by that man, of
+appearing before him in the light of an adventuress. I did not want to
+warn or frighten you--no one arouses a somnambulist upon his dangerous
+walk. But now it is time to wake up. Since that Egbert has crossed your
+path----"
+
+"No! no!" interposed Cecilia repelling the imputation.
+
+"Yes!" said Oscar with cold insistency. "Do you think, it has escaped
+me how, this morning, when I drove to church with you as bride-man, you
+turned deadly pale and then like one spellbound gazed at one particular
+spot in the woods? You had remarked him, who, I suppose, had come to
+take one last look at you. He was far enough off, it is true,
+half-hidden behind the trees. At such a distance one recognizes only
+his deadly foe or the man whom one loves--and we both recognized him."
+
+His sister made no answer, but did not contradict his assertion. But
+now it was Oscar who started in affright. He had heard close by a noise
+as of a door falling gently to, and seized by an ill-defined
+apprehension, he hurriedly opened the door leading into the parlor.
+Delusion! the parlor was empty, the bolt still undisturbed. But a
+glance at the mantel-clock convinced the Baron that it was high time to
+terminate the interview; he returned to his sister.
+
+"I must go back to the company," said he, in subdued tones, "and you
+too must prepare for your journey. You have had your cry out, now
+consider what you owe to yourself and me! You are Eric's wife, and
+tomorrow miles will already lie between you and that other, whom I hope
+you will never see again. I have seen to it, that he can do no more
+harm at Odensburg, and you will forget him, because you must."
+
+He unbolted the door and rang for the lady's maid.
+
+The tearful eyes of the bride could be explained by the pain of parting
+from her brother; nevertheless, he would not leave her by herself for a
+single minute. Not until Nannon entered did he leave the room.
+
+Down in the front-hall the Baron met a man-servant, bearing Eric's
+hand-satchel and cloak, of whom he asked in passing:
+
+"Can you tell me if Herr Dernburg is in his own room?"
+
+"No, Baron, he is with his lady," answered the man in surprise.
+
+"Oh, no, I have just left my sister."
+
+"But I saw the young master go upstairs myself," the servant ventured
+to reply. "It was about a half hour ago. Have you not seen him
+yourself, sir? He went into your room through the little tapestried
+door."
+
+Wildenrod turned pale to his very lips, for of this entrance he had not
+thought. Whether Eric had really been in the parlor, whether he had
+heard what Oscar dared not carry out the thought, he left the servant
+standing and hurried to his brother-in-law's apartments.
+
+Nobody was in the first room, but when the Baron had opened the
+chamber-door, involuntarily he started back.
+
+Eric lay stretched out on the floor, apparently lifeless, with closed
+eyes. The head had fallen back; and bosom, clothes, and the carpet
+round about were saturated with clear, red blood, that still flowed
+from his lips in single drops.
+
+For the space of a few seconds Oscar stood like one transfixed, but
+then he pulled the bell-rope violently. With the aid of the servants,
+who came running up, he raised the unconscious bridegroom from the
+floor and laid him on his bed, at the same time ordering Dr. Hagenbach
+to be called, so as to excite as little attention as possible.
+
+In a very few minutes the physician was at his post. He silently
+listened to Wildenrod's report, while he felt the pulse and listened to
+the beating of the heart; then he drew himself up and said softly:
+
+"Bring your sister in, Baron, and prepare her for the worst. I shall
+have his father and Maia called."
+
+"Do you fear?" asked Oscar just as softly, but Hagenbach shook his
+head.
+
+"There is no longer room here for either fear or hope. Lead his bride
+here--perhaps he may once more recover consciousness."
+
+A quarter of an hour later, the whole house knew that Eric Dernburg,
+whom they had just seen at the summit of human felicity, now lay on a
+bed of death. It had not been possible to suppress the dread tidings;
+they flew like wild-fire. In the ball-room, the music ceased abruptly,
+the guests stood around in awe-stricken silence or whispered in
+mournful accents, the servants, meanwhile, running to and fro, with
+distorted faces. Like a flash of lightning the stroke had fallen upon
+the festive scene.
+
+The family had gathered around the death-bed. Dr. Hagenbach was still
+busied in the application of various restoratives, but it was evident
+that he expected nothing more from them. By the side of the couch knelt
+the young wife, in her white satin bridal robe that she had not yet
+laid aside when the message of misfortune came. She was tearless, but
+pale as death. She suspected some secret, strange coincidence.
+
+On the other side stood Dernburg, in speechless grief, his eyes riveted
+upon his son, for the preservation of whose life he had been willing to
+make any sacrifice, and, in spite of it all, he was to be snatched from
+him. Maia sobbed on her father's bosom. Wildenrod did not dare to
+approach either her or the death-bed, but, silent and moody, kept in
+the background. He had believed his game to be lost, and now he should
+win anyhow. The poor man, whose life was bleeding away there so slowly,
+could never bring an accusation against him, but take to the grave with
+him what he had heard and what had given him his death-blow.
+
+Motionless, Eric lay there with closed eyes, seeming hardly to suffer
+at all. His breathing became easier and easier, until presently the
+physician laid down the hand which he had been holding while he counted
+the pulse. Cecilia saw this and guessed the significance of the act.
+
+"Eric!" she shrieked. It was a cry of despair, of deadly anguish; and
+it shocked the dying man out of his stupor. Slowly he opened his eyes,
+that, already dimmed by death, sought the beloved countenance that
+leaned over him, but those eyes expressed such infinite love, so deep
+and silent a lament, that Cecilia shuddered and shrank back. It was
+only an instant of consciousness--the last. One more deep sigh from
+that wounded breast--and all was over.
+
+"The end has come!" said the physician softly.
+
+With loud weeping, Maia sank upon the corpse of her brother, and over
+Dernburg's cheeks, too, rolled a few big tears, as he kissed the cold
+brow of his son.
+
+But then he turned to the young wife, gently lifted her up and folded
+her in his arms.
+
+"Here is your place, Cecilia," said he, with deep emotion. "You are my
+son's widow, and my daughter. You shall find in me a father!"
+
+
+
+
+                              CHAPTER XVI.
+
+                      SCENES AT THE "GOLDEN LAMB."
+
+
+In the town, that was the railroad station both for Odensburg and the
+whole region round about, was situated the "Golden Lamb," a well-known
+and much-frequented inn. The immediate neighborhood of the railroad
+station and the lively intercourse that continually took place between
+this place and the Odensburg works, brought much custom to the house.
+All who came from Odensburg or went thither, used to turn in at the
+"Golden Lamb," which had the best repute, so far as accommodations were
+concerned.
+
+The original proprietor had been dead for a long while, but his widow
+had given him a successor in the person of Herr Pancratius Willmann. He
+had once chanced to call here as a guest with the purpose of looking
+out for some small office in the town, but he had then preferred to
+court the rich widow and remain in that snug nest. He had succeeded in
+this plan, and was very comfortably off in consequence. He left it to
+his wife to manage in kitchen and cellar, reserving to himself the more
+pleasant duties of entertaining the guests and showing them, by his own
+example, how excellent was the cookery of the "Golden Lamb."
+
+It was on a gloomy, raw October day, which made one feel that autumn
+had come in earnest, when Dr. Hagenbach's buggy stopped before the inn;
+the doctor himself, though, sat in the comfortable gentlemen's parlor
+upstairs which was only open to favored guests. Dagobert was equipped
+for a journey, since he was to take the next train for Berlin, where he
+was to enter the high school. In spite of his uncle's rigid discipline,
+the young man's stay at Odensburg did not seem to have been
+disadvantageous to him, for he looked more manly and healthier than in
+the spring.
+
+Herr Willmann, who would not let the doctor be served by anybody but
+himself, had informed him, with woful visage, that his health had
+certainly been better since he had strictly followed his prescriptions,
+but that he was half-starved nevertheless. Hagenbach listened, quite
+unmoved, and ordered the continuation of the same treatment, without
+paying the least heed to mine host's dismay.
+
+"Times seem to be lively with you to-day, Herr Willmann. The sitting
+room downstairs is swarming like a veritable bee-hive. You are having a
+grand political gathering. I hear the whole social democracy of the
+town meet at your house. At all events it is a sign for good that the
+gentlemen have selected the 'Lamb' for a place of rendezvous of their
+own accord. It indicates peaceful intentions, at all events."
+
+Herr Willmann folded his hands, and his visage became very rueful.
+
+"Ah, Doctor, do not laugh at me, I am in downright despair. I built the
+new hall last year, for innocent and instructive entertainment--it is
+the largest in the whole town--and now those radicals, those
+revolutionists, those anarchists hold their meetings in it--it is
+dreadful----"
+
+"If it is dreadful to you, why do you take such characters into your
+house?" asked Hagenbach dryly.
+
+"How am I to refuse them anything? They would ruin my business, maybe
+blow up my house with dynamite!" Mine host shuddered at this horrible
+idea. "I did not dare to say no, when that Landsfeld came and demanded
+my hall. I trembled before that man, yes, trembled in every limb."
+
+"That must have been very flattering to Mr. Landsfeld," said the
+doctor, taking a huge draught from the beer mug standing before him,
+while Willmann continued his lamentation.
+
+"But how am I to answer for it to my other customers--you may depend
+they'll make me pay for it--and what will Herr Dernburg say?"
+
+"I suppose Herr Dernburg will be utterly indifferent as to whether the
+Socialists meet at the 'Golden Lamb' or elsewhere, and that you will
+not lose his custom by it either .... for that matter he never did take
+a meal at your house, did he?"
+
+"Oh, Doctor, what are you thinking of? My little house, only imagine
+it! The Odensburg family always drive straight to the depot. All
+the subordinate officers, though, deal with me; why, I put my
+main dependence upon Odensburg, and would not for any money in the
+world----"
+
+"Have it all spoiled for the sake of one party!" said Hagenbach,
+finishing his sentence for him.
+
+"Of course, that is a matter of business, Runeck is to speak to-day;
+not a seat will be vacant in your big hall, and it will yield you a
+pretty profit."
+
+Herr Pancratius Willmann lifted both hands in deprecation and cast his
+eyes up at the ceiling. "What am I caring for the profit? But I cannot
+let my business go to rack and ruin, these hard times. I am the father
+of a family, have six children----"
+
+"Why, the hard times do not seem to have preyed heavily on you,"
+laughed the doctor. "By the way, just at this moment, you bear a most
+remarkable resemblance to your sainted cousin, the man of the desert,
+who used to cast his eyes heavenward, in the same piteous manner. But
+come, Dagobert, we must break up now, else the train will leave you."
+
+He drank out his mug of beer and stood up. The portly host of the
+"Lamb" attended them to the front-door, and once more, in woe-begone
+manner, begged that his most humble respects be presented to Herr
+Dernburg, with the assurance that he, for his part, was firmly devoted
+to the party of law and order, but that, as the father of a family and
+under these distressing circumstances----
+
+"I shall tell him that you are once more the victim of your calling,"
+exclaimed Hagenbach, breaking short his wail. "You just keep on
+trembling in quiet and pocket the jingling cash all the same. Your beer
+is excellent, and no doubt the gentlemen will know how to appreciate
+it. It will dispose them to be more humane and save the 'Golden Lamb'
+from destruction, if it comes to the worst."
+
+Herr Willmann shook his head gently and reproachfully at this waggish
+aspect of the case, and took leave of his guests with a reverential
+bow, who, on their part, now repaired to the railroad station, where
+the train was already in waiting. While Hagenbach was crossing the
+platform with his nephew, he gave him one more impressive lecture, by
+way of farewell. "I would like to be certain of one thing, namely, that
+you will set yourself to studying steadily in Berlin, and not turn
+aside to the follies that played the wild with that fellow Runeck's
+prospects in life," said he with emphasis. "He had always been very
+sensible until he went among those Socialists. I tell you, my boy, if
+you let yourself be taken in by people of that sort----"
+
+He put on such a ferocious look that the pale-faced Dagobert shrank
+back in affright and laid his hand upon his breast in protestation of
+his innocent intentions. "I am not going among radicals, dear uncle,
+certainly not," asserted he, with touching candor.
+
+"They would not make much of a haul when they caught you," opined the
+doctor contemptuously. "But they take all that they can get, and you,
+alas! are ripe for any kind of folly. I only hope that your cursed poem
+'To Leonie' was your first and will be your last. At all events I made
+clear enough to you, I trust, the undesirableness of writing such
+trash.--But the signal for the cars to start has already been given!
+Have you got your satchel in hand? Get in, then, and a pleasant trip to
+you!"
+
+He shut the coach-door and stepped back. Dagobert really did not
+breathe freely until he saw himself separated from his uncle by the
+solid wall of the coach, for, upon his heart, in his vest-pocket rested
+a long, touching farewell poem "To Leonie." After the miscarriage of
+his first attempt, it is true that the young poet had not ventured to
+place in the hands of his _inamorata_ this effusion of his sentiments,
+but he had made up his mind to send it in a letter, from Berlin, with
+the assurance that his love would be eternal, however cruelly the rude
+world might come in between himself and the object of his ardent
+affections.
+
+This "rude world," in the shape of the doctor, stood upon the platform,
+waving another farewell greeting as the train now began to move. Then
+Hagenbach sought the station-master and inquired whether the fast-train
+from Berlin was behind time.
+
+"No, indeed, Doctor, that train will be here punctually in ten
+minutes," answered that official. "Are you expecting any one?"
+
+"Yes, young Count Eckardstein will arrive today."
+
+The station-master's face expressed surprise. "What! Count Victor
+coming? It was said that an irreparable breach was made between his
+brother and himself, that time when he came here in the spring, and
+went away all of a sudden. So, the case at Eckardstein is a desperate
+one?"
+
+"To this extent, at least, that Count Victor had to be informed of it.
+He is the only brother, you know."
+
+"Yes, yes--the lord-proprietor is unmarried as well," wound up the
+railroad agent significantly. "Will you not step into the waiting-room,
+Doctor?"
+
+"No, I thank you. I prefer to stay out of doors; it will be only for a
+few minutes."
+
+Hagenbach was not the only expectant person there. Landsfeld appeared
+with a troop of workmen, who were also evidently awaiting the arrival
+of some one, for they planted themselves on the platform, conversing in
+loud, dictatorial tones about the approaching electorial assembly.
+Finally the train came rushing up. It brought a good many passengers,
+who got out here at the larger railway-station, so that, for a few
+minutes, there was a regular commotion in the great reception hall.
+
+Hagenbach walked along the whole line of coaches, with scrutinizing
+glance, when suddenly he saw before him the tall figure of Runeck, who
+had just left the coach. Both stopped short, the first instant, when
+Egbert made a quick motion, as though he would approach the physician,
+but Landsfeld had already discovered him and pressed up to him with his
+followers. With noisy greetings they encircled the young engineer, took
+him into their midst and as they left the depot, raised a loud cheer
+for him.
+
+"The tribune of the people sails in smooth waters," growled the doctor
+irritably. "A pretty surprise this, that he is preparing for Herr
+Dernburg! I am only curious as to what our Odensburgers are going to
+say. They are in it too, and, as it seems, in goodly numbers."
+
+He quickened his pace, for he just now caught sight of Victor
+Eckardstein alighting from the last coach, in company with an elderly
+gentleman. The young Count also perceived him, and hastened to meet
+him".
+
+"Nothing has happened yet at Eckardstein, has it?" asked he nervously.
+
+"No, Count; the condition of the patient has not perceptibly altered
+since day before yesterday. But as I happened to be at the station, I
+thought I would wait to welcome you."
+
+The young Count now turned and introduced: "Dr. Hagenbach, my uncle,
+Herr von Stettin."
+
+Hagenbach bowed, recognizing the name and knowing that he had before
+him the brother of the deceased Countess Eckardstein. Stettin offered
+him his hand.
+
+"You are treating my nephew, as I learn."
+
+"I am, Herr von Stettin, being called in by the express desire of the
+family physician. My colleague did not want to undertake the
+responsibility alone."
+
+"In that he did perfectly right. His report was so alarming that I
+determined to accompany Victor. The case is a serious one, is it not?"
+
+"An inflammation of the lungs is always serious," answered the doctor
+evasively. "We must build upon the powerful constitution of the
+patient. We considered it a duty, at any rate, not to keep the Count in
+ignorance of the danger hanging over his brother."
+
+"I thank you," said Victor with emotion. He looked pale and agitated,
+the thought of seeing that brother, from whom he had parted in anger,
+lying upon what was perhaps his death-bed, evidently oppressed him
+sorely. He kept silent, while Stettin asked the most particular
+questions, informed himself exactly as to the condition of his elder
+nephew. Out of doors in front of the railroad station stood an
+Eckardstein carriage, and the doctor took leave of the two gentlemen,
+promising to be at the Castle early the next morning. Then he went over
+to the "Golden Lamb" to bid his coachman prepare likewise for
+departure.
+
+In the hall he once more met Runeck and Landsfeld, who had rid
+themselves of their comrades and were just inquiring of the host if he
+could not furnish them with a private room, as they wanted to confer
+about something.
+
+This time Egbert bowed and paused hesitatingly, as though he were in
+doubt whether he should address the doctor or not. At the same time he
+cast an almost shy glance over at the steps where Landsfeld stood.
+
+"Well?" asked he sharply, the word sounding more like a command than a
+summons.
+
+That decided the matter. The young engineer defiantly threw back his
+head and stepped up to the physician.
+
+"A word with you, Doctor! How goes it at Odensburg--in the Manor-house,
+I mean?"
+
+Hagenbach had responded very coolly to his greeting, and answered with
+reserve:
+
+"As you would expect in a house of mourning, where death entered so
+suddenly and shockingly--you have heard, I suppose, how the young
+gentleman died?"
+
+"Yes, I know about it," said Egbert in a voice that betrayed suppressed
+emotion. "How did his father bear it?"
+
+"Worse than he would have one believe. And yet his is an iron nature
+that manfully resists every assault made upon it, and he has not much
+time to devote to his grief either. Affairs in and around Odensburg
+claim his attention more than ever. You will understand how this is
+better than I, Herr Runeck!"
+
+The doctor's thrust, however, seemed to glance aside from the
+apparently thick panoply of Egbert's composure, as he calmly went on
+questioning:
+
+"And Maia? She loved her brother very dearly."
+
+"Why, Miss Maia, you know, is hardly seventeen yet. At that age one
+weeps freely and is then consoled. On the contrary, Mrs. Dernburg
+suffers more acutely under her loss than I could have supposed
+possible."
+
+"The young widow?" asked Egbert in a low tone.
+
+"Yes; those first days she abandoned herself so to grief, that I
+entertained serious apprehensions, and even now she is broken-hearted
+as it were. I would not have attributed to her such exquisite
+sensibility."
+
+Runeck's lips quivered, but he made no reply to this last remark.
+"Remember me to Miss Maia--she perhaps will not spurn my salutation,"
+said he hurriedly. "Farewell, Doctor."
+
+So saying he turned to the stairs, where Landsfeld was still awaiting
+him, and mounted them with him, while Hagenbach called his coachman and
+then seated himself in his carriage.
+
+Herr Willmann, from the front door, made another reverential bow. The
+very next minute, he hurried as fast as his corpulence would admit of,
+after the other two.
+
+And he did not tremble at all when he stood before the dreaded
+Landsfeld, but bent just as low before him as he had done awhile ago to
+the doctor, and in the most fawning manner asked his honored guests to
+take possession of the gentlemen's parlor, where they should be
+entirely undisturbed--he would see to it that nobody came in. Whatever
+their honors wanted in kitchen or cellar, yes, the whole house was at
+their disposal.
+
+"No, we need nothing now," said Landsfeld carelessly. "Only you see to
+it, mine host, that nothing is lacking this evening. The crowd will be
+very great."
+
+The fat host of the "Lamb" exhausted himself in assurances that
+everything should be attended to in the very best of style, and then
+with the greatest self-complacency repaired to his assembly-room, to
+attend to making some arrangements in person. Herr Pancratius Willmann
+possessed, in the highest degree, the art of serving two masters.
+
+The two guests meanwhile had entered. Egbert had seated himself, and
+his head rested in his hand. He looked pale and worn, and there was a
+harsh, bitter look upon his face, not at all habitual with him.
+
+The new candidate for election did not seem, to find much pleasure in
+the honor that had been bestowed upon him. Landsfeld closed the door
+and likewise drew up to the table.
+
+"Have you time for us, at last?" asked he with sharpness.
+
+"I should think I always had that," was the short answer.
+
+"And yet it does not seem so. You let me stand there on those steps
+like a fool, while you were talking with that doctor."
+
+"You need not have listened. Why did you not go ahead of me?"
+
+"Because it amused me to see how impossible you find it to break away
+from those to whom you have so long been in bondage. Ha, ha! to hear
+you inquiring after their health, in that highly sentimental manner. It
+was too funny!"
+
+"What is it to you?" said Egbert harshly. "That is my own affair."
+
+"Not exactly, my young man. You are the candidate of our party, and, as
+such, have decidedly and definitely to break off all connection with
+the enemy's camp. Before all things, you have to care for your
+popularity now, and you will make yourself disliked, yes, suspected, by
+such proceedings,--note that!"
+
+Runeck contemptuously shrugged his shoulders. "I thank you for your
+good advice, but rather think that I ought to be capable of guiding my
+own actions."
+
+"You speak in a very lofty tone forsooth," mocked Landsfeld. "You
+already behold yourself as the all-powerful party-leader, as the chief
+person in the _Reichstag_. You have, in general, quite a dangerous
+touch of the master about you. In this you bear a striking resemblance
+to the old man at Odensburg, no doubt having learned it from him. But
+that this kind of thing does not go down with us you should know by
+this time. If you continue to carry on so, my word for it, your
+election will be impossible."
+
+Egbert suddenly rose to his feet and with furrowed brow planted himself
+right in front of Landsfeld.
+
+"What is all this for? Better say, straight out, that you envy me the
+station to which the party has nominated me. You had calculated upon
+holding it and cannot forgive me for having been preferred before you.
+And you know best of all that this office was thrust upon me. I would
+have gladly committed it to you--only too gladly!"
+
+"What I wished or expected is not to be considered here," answered
+Landsfeld coldly. "There was no prospect of my carrying the election;
+there is one for you, so I had to vacate the field for you, and this I
+do without murmuring. I know the discipline and adhere to it--would
+that others did the same."
+
+Runeck did not seem to hear the last remark, he had stepped up to the
+window and looked out. "How does it stand in Odensburg?" asked he,
+abruptly.
+
+"Well, better at least than we dared to hope. The old man"--Landsfeld
+used this designation for Dernburg by preference, because he knew that
+it wounded his comrade--"the old man, to be sure, feels himself
+impregnable in his high tower, and his eyes will not be opened, either,
+until election-day. But we have worked bravely, and that really was no
+easy matter in this case. Now it is for you to prove your strength!
+Much depends upon your speech this evening, perhaps everything. A part
+of the Odensburg workmen still stick firmly to Dernburg, the rest
+waver, and those are the ones that you are to capture this evening and
+draw over to us. You know how to do that splendidly, at least you used
+to."
+
+"I shall do my duty," said Egbert glumly, without turning around. "But
+I am doubtful as to the result."
+
+"Why so? Hark, it seems to me that your wings have been clipped since
+we played you against the old man at Odensburg. What you have spoken,
+these last weeks in Berlin, was tolerably flat and tiresome. Formerly
+you sparkled with fire and enthusiasm and carried everything before
+you, now when everything depends on it, you are neither cold nor hot.
+Can you really be as besotted over this Dernburg as he over you? I do
+believe he found the death of his son easier to bear than your
+defection. It will be a touching spectacle, to see you two pitted
+against one another in a life to life struggle."
+
+"That's enough now, Landsfeld!" burst forth the young engineer,
+furiously excited. "I have already desired you, once before, not to
+disturb yourself about my personal relations; I forbid it to you now,
+once for all. Hush about that!"
+
+"Yes, you threatened that time at Radefeld to put me out of doors,"
+mocked Landsfeld, seeming only to be amused by Runeck's rage. "Here we
+are in another person's house, where you cannot resort to that measure.
+But let's to business! I only wanted to make it clear to you, that this
+evening you must lay aside all sentimental retrospect if your speech is
+to take effect. You know what the party expects of you."
+
+"Yes--I know."
+
+"Well, then, rally your forces! We _must_ have the Odensburg workmen,
+for their votes will decide the matter. You must therefore make
+energetic front against Dernburg, and against all that he has set in
+motion. You must demonstrate to the people, that his schools and
+asylums and savings-banks, with which he decoys them, are of no value
+in our eyes, a beggar's pence that he casts to his workmen, while he
+rakes in by the million. The people do not believe us, but you they
+will believe, for they know to what end the old man gave you your
+training. You were to be the future superintendent of his works, the
+first after himself, and you refused to receive aught of all this from
+him, for the sake of our cause: this it is that makes you all-powerful
+among the men of Odensburg, and for this alone we nominated you for
+election. You will accomplish nothing by mere talk--you must make
+straight for your adversary and hit at a vital point."
+
+Egbert turned, slowly around, dogged determination was stamped on his
+brow and his voice expressed bitter scorn, when he answered: "Yes,
+indeed, I must--must! I have no longer a will of my own.--Let us go and
+join the rest!"
+
+
+
+
+                             CHAPTER XVII.
+
+                            ELECTION TIMES.
+
+
+All the brightness had departed from the social life at Odensburg,
+which had been so gay all the summer through, its center of attraction
+being ever the young engaged couple. The family were still wearing the
+first deep mourning for him who had been laid in the grave hardly two
+months before, and the atmosphere in the house was as heavy and dull as
+was the bleak foggy autumn day outside.
+
+Only Maia made an exception. Dr. Hagenbach was right--at seventeen
+years of age one weeps out one's grief and is then comforted even for
+the loss of a beloved brother; and moreover here was a particular
+comforter quite close at hand. Oscar von Wildenrod had, of course,
+remained at Odensburg; and although there could be no talk now of a
+public betrothal, yet the father had given his consent in due form.
+
+Maia was infinitely lovely in her deep, quiet happiness, and in the
+family-circle, where he needed not to be under restraint, he showed her
+the tenderest attention and devotion. He seemed greatly altered; the
+harsh features vanished more and more from his face, his whole nature
+being softened under the influence of that budding happiness which
+brought him to the goal of his desires.
+
+Dernburg bore his grief for his son as he was accustomed to bear every
+hard thing in life, composedly and silently, seeking his consolation in
+that occupation, to which he gave himself up with greater zeal than
+ever. Between him and his daughter-in-law Eric's death had unexpectedly
+formed a close and tender tie. For, although the father had received
+the betrothed of his son with cordiality, and treated her as a
+daughter, yet in his inmost soul, he had never become really reconciled
+to this union; the vain, haughty child of the world had always been a
+creature apart from the man of strict duty. But the young widow, with
+her grief passionately expressed at first, but afterwards changing to a
+deep, settled melancholy, found a true father in him. From the moment
+when he had folded her in his arms at Eric's bedside, she had held a
+place in his heart.
+
+He did not suspect, indeed, that this abandoned grief of Cecilia's was
+only remorse--remorse over that hour when she had so strongly expressed
+aversion for the husband, who was even then dying. She did not know the
+worst either, namely, that it was those unfortunate words of hers that
+had pronounced his death-sentence. Oscar had secured the silence of the
+man-servant, who had seen Eric go upstairs and enter the fatal room,
+and no one else was aware of the circumstance. But the young woman had
+some foreboding of the coincidence, and took refuge with her father,
+because she could not overcome a secret horror of her brother.
+
+For that matter though, Dernburg had but little time now to devote to
+his family, for, besides the usual burdens that he took upon his
+shoulders now as ever, the impending election demanded his time and
+strength in large measure. It was considered a matter of course in his
+party that the prerogative of a seat in the _Reichstag_ which he had so
+long exercised would this time, too, fall to his share, but they had
+soon become convinced that, for the first time, the victory must be a
+contested one, for their opponents were working under high pressure.
+The circumstances required activity in all directions, and here
+Dernburg found quite an unexpected prop in Oscar von Wildenrod.
+
+With incredible celerity, he had made himself familiar with the
+political situation, and his keen penetration, accompanied by sound
+judgment, excited the admiration of others who had been in the midst of
+these relations.
+
+The Baron was everywhere that it seemed likely his presence could do
+good: he took part in all mass-meetings and consultations, and went
+into the campaign with the most ardent zeal. The quondam diplomat was
+again launched on the open sea of politics, and it was no wonder that
+every day increased his influence over Dernburg, whose very shadow he
+became.
+
+Finally the day arrived, when the last decisive battle was to be fought
+at the polls. Unusual activity now prevailed in the building devoted to
+the offices connected with the Odensburg works, which had commenced,
+indeed, at an early hour in the morning. The lower floor contained the
+hall usually devoted to lectures and all general assemblies: here all
+the officials were to be found to-day, here telegraphic communications
+were constantly coming from the city, and messengers from the country
+districts, which gave, approximately, at least, the returns from the
+polls. The commonly peaceful assembly-room looked like a camp in
+war-time, the director forming its central figure: and a continuous
+stream of messages was conveyed to the Manor.
+
+It was not until the afternoon was considerably advanced that Dr.
+Hagenbach came in, and was greeted with reproaches on the part of the
+gentlemen present, because of his absence.
+
+"Where in the world have you been hiding, Doctor?" cried the director,
+in rather a fault-finding tone. "Here we have been sitting all day
+immersed in care and anxiety, while, in all tranquillity of soul, you
+have been visiting your patients and not pretending to show your face!"
+
+"I cannot prevent people from getting sick and dying on election-day,"
+said Hagenbach gravely. "I had to go to Eckardstein this morning, and
+there they would have me stay, until all was over."
+
+However much engrossed the gentlemen were by other things, this news
+aroused universal interest.
+
+"Is the Count dead?" asked the director in surprise.
+
+"He died two hours ago."
+
+"That is a sudden turn of fortune's wheel in Count Victor's favor,"
+remarked the upper-engineer. "Yesterday a poor, dependent lieutenant,
+and to-day proprietor of the great Eckardstein estate. Count Conrad had
+not been exactly kind to his younger brother, I believe."
+
+"No; but nevertheless he was as affectionate as possible, at the
+last.--And now, gentlemen, I trust that I have apologized sufficiently
+for my absence, and sincerely hope that I have not been sensibly
+missed. How goes the reckoning? Well, I hope."
+
+"Not so particularly well, either," muttered the upper-engineer. "The
+reports from the country districts are satisfactory, but in town, the
+Socialists evidently have the whip-hand of us."
+
+"Well, we were prepared for that from the beginning," remarked Winning,
+the chief of the technical bureau. "Odensburg gives the casting-vote,
+and with that we are sure of a majority."
+
+"If we can unconditionally calculate upon it--yes," said the director,
+"but I am afraid----"
+
+"What are you afraid of?" asked Hagenbach with a look of concern, as
+the other broke off in the middle of his sentence.
+
+"That we shall be in the minority here too. Runeck's hold upon the
+people seems to be greater than we foresaw--signs of it, indeed, have
+come to light just in the last hour."
+
+"Runeck is a forcible speaker," said Winning, earnestly, "and his great
+speech, recently, at the 'Golden Lamb' carried away his whole audience.
+To be sure it did not reach his former level. He used to speak coldly,
+with stern repose, but every word told--this time he stormed away like
+a runaway horse, without method or aim."
+
+"He was suffering anxiety about his election," mocked the
+upper-engineer. "Yet there comes Helm; perhaps he brings something
+important."
+
+It was one of the younger officials who now entered and handed over a
+telegram just received. The director opened and read it, after which he
+silently handed it to the doctor, who stood at his side. He glanced
+over it and then shook his head. "This is very disagreeable! So, in
+town the victory of the Socialists is already decided! Read it,
+gentlemen!"
+
+The telegram went the rounds, while the director stepped to the
+telephone, that connected the assembly-room with the Manor, in order to
+report to the chief.
+
+"Now the decision rests wholly and solely upon Odensburg," said the
+upper-engineer. "At all events it was imprudent to dismiss that ranter
+Fallner, immediately before the elections. It has made bad blood and
+cost us hundreds of votes, perhaps. But Herr Dernburg was inexorable!"
+
+"Was he to submit placidly to having this man prate against him in his
+own workshops, setting them of his own household against him?" remarked
+Winning. "Things of the kind have never been suffered at Odensburg, and
+now would have been an example of unpardonable weakness."
+
+"But I am afraid that we were only the victims of a party maneuver,"
+persisted the other. "Fallner knew exactly what was before him--must
+have known it--but he belonged to that new set, who do not lose much
+if they go, so that he could afford to give himself to the venture. He
+was to be dismissed, the affair was meant to stir up bad blood among
+the people, for that it was planned. I represented all this to the
+master--but in vain. 'I suffer no rebellion and no stirring up of
+strife on my place. Let this be announced to the man at once.' Such was
+his answer, and thereby he put weapons in the hands of his
+adversaries."
+
+Winning was silent, vexed that nobody would take him up, and contradict
+his assertion. But the director, who now came back from the telephone
+and had heard these last words, said significantly:
+
+"If the matter would only end with our losing votes! I was told only
+yesterday, that the workmen are being worked upon from all quarters, to
+take up for Fallner and insist upon his being allowed to remain. If
+they really do this, we shall have strife."
+
+"But they will not do it, because they know the master," said Dr.
+Hagenbach, mingling in the conversation. "He lets nothing be forced
+from him, even though he should have to close all his works. Our men,
+here, at Odensburg would be simply mad, if they allowed it to come to
+that!"
+
+"And though it were the maddest thing in the world, what care Landsfeld
+and his crew for that?" exclaimed upper-engineer. "They want strife, no
+matter at what price and what sacrifice. At the same time, I believe
+that it was a mistake to dismiss Fallner. Alas! he is still here, and
+does not leave the works until day after to-morrow. If the election is
+lost, and passions consequently become aroused, we may live to get a
+disagreeable surprise."
+
+"Nonsense! You see ghosts!" scolded Winning; but the director said
+gravely:
+
+"I would that this day were past!" Over at the Manor, they waited the
+returns from the elections with the same suspense, and in the master's
+office there was almost as much commotion as in the building where the
+director presided. Dernburg, indeed, took the arrival of reports and
+telegrams, going and coming of officers and their announcements, with
+his wonted calmness. For him it involved no mere question of ambition,
+he sacrificed to his seat in the _Reichstag_, time and strength which
+were needed in his calling, the want of which he sometimes felt now, at
+the coming on of old age. He would willingly have resigned his seat to
+a representative of his own way of thinking, but as things stood, the
+victory of his party linked itself with his name, and, besides, it was
+Odensburg that would decide his election. Thus this election was an
+affair of honor with him.
+
+Dernburg chanced to find himself alone with his daughter-in-law. That
+young lady, looking grave and fair in her widow's garb, leaned against
+the window. She had of late been admitted more and more to the
+confidence of her father-in-law. He allowed her, at times, an insight
+into the workings of his soul, that were else a sealed book: she alone
+knew the reason why his brow was to-day so dark and lowering. It was
+not solicitude lest he be defeated, which, for that matter, he hardly
+deemed possible: no, the bitterness of this conflict lay for him in the
+thought that his opponent was Egbert Runeck.
+
+"Oscar is as much excited as if his own election were at stake," said
+Dernburg, after he had once more read through his dispatches.
+
+"It surprises me, too, to see my brother thus immersed in politics,"
+replied Cecilia, with a slight shake of the head. "He used to care so
+little about them."
+
+"Because he kept aloof from his fatherland for so many years. I just
+now begin to see what he is capable of, when field is given him for a
+great activity."
+
+"Oh, I believe Oscar can perform wonders, if he has a mind to, and he
+_will_ begin a new life at Odensburg: he has promised me to."
+
+These words sounded peculiar, almost like an apology, but Dernburg paid
+no heed to this.
+
+"I wish good luck to him and myself on that account," said he,
+earnestly. "I candidly confess to you, Cecilia, that hitherto I have
+entertained a certain prejudice against your brother, but it has passed
+away; in these last days he has been the greatest comfort to me. For
+this I want to thank him."
+
+The young woman made no answer; she gazed out upon the gray, misty
+October day that was now fast drawing to a close. It was already
+twilight; the servant brought the lamp, and with it came Wildenrod and
+Maia into the room. The Baron looked gloomy and excited. Dernburg
+quickly turned to him.
+
+"Well, how goes it, Oscar? What news do you bring? Nothing good. I see
+from your countenance! Have new returns come in?"
+
+"Yes, from the city. Our fears have been confirmed, the Socialists have
+gotten the majority there."
+
+"Ah, indeed!" cried Dernburg hotly. "It is the first time that they
+have accomplished that. We shall soon, however, dampen the joy of their
+triumph with the half of our Odensburg votes!"
+
+Cecilia's glance sought her brother's with a timid expression, and his
+features betrayed that he did not share this confidence. There was also
+a certain hesitation in his voice as he answered:
+
+"Odensburg certainly has the deciding word, and it will, I hope, be
+spoken for us. Nevertheless, we must prepare for any possibility----"
+
+"But not the possibility of my workmen leaving me in the lurch,"
+remarked Dernburg. "Once for all, I cannot believe such a thing of my
+men. Possess your soul in patience, Oscar, you are marked for a novice
+by your feverish uneasiness. As for the rest, the election must be over
+directly."
+
+He got up, but the way in which he paced up and down the room,
+looking ever and anon at the clock, proved that he was by no means so
+cold-blooded, as he would have them believe. Then his glance fell upon
+Maia, who had almost shyly entered the room and immediately joined her
+sister-in-law, and he stood still:
+
+"My poor little girl has been quite frightened today," said he,
+compassionately. "Yes, bad politics! It engrosses us men to the
+exclusion of everything else. Come to me, my Maia!"
+
+Maia flew to her father and nestled up to him. Her voice sounded very
+dejected, as she replied:
+
+"Ah, papa, I understand so little of political affairs. I am very much
+ashamed of it sometimes."
+
+Dernburg smiled and tenderly stroked the fair hair of his darling. "You
+are not to bother your young head about such grave affairs, my child.
+You can safely commit that to Oscar and me."
+
+"But I shall be obliged to learn some time," said Maia with a heavy
+sigh. "Cecilia has learned, too. Ah, papa, I am jealous of Cecile. You
+have quite closed your heart to everybody else; you consult her about
+everything, while I am always shoved aside as a silly little thing."
+
+"How abominable of me!" sportively returned Dernburg, at the same time
+casting an affectionate glance upon his daughter-in-law. The latter
+smiled, but it was a melancholy, joyless smile.
+
+"I almost believe Maia is put out with me, too, because I have had so
+little time to give her to-day," said Oscar, stepping up to his
+betrothed and taking her hand.
+
+"Yes, to-day you have no thought but for dispatches and
+election-returns," pouted the young girl. "I really do not comprehend,
+why you are all in such anxiety and excitement. Papa will be elected as
+he always is!"
+
+"I think so too," said Dernburg, with calm confidence.
+
+"Well, then, everything is going on right and we need not worry
+ourselves about it," declared Maia, shaking her wise head indignantly.
+"That tactless Egbert, indeed, gives papa a great deal to do. Everybody
+is talking about him and----"
+
+"Silence on that score, Maia!" interposed her father abruptly and with
+an air of displeasure. "The name of Engineer Runeck is daily forced
+upon me in the political arena, but I do not wish to hear it mentioned
+in my family. His relations with us are forever at an end!"
+
+The girl ceased, intimidated by the unwonted tone, and a long silence
+ensued. Time slipped by, but the looked-for tidings still tarried.
+Finally the servant entered and spoke a few whispered words to the
+Baron, who got up quickly and went out. In the dimly-lighted hall he
+found the director and Winning, who awaited him there.
+
+"Do you wish to speak with me, gentlemen?" asked Wildenrod quickly.
+"What brings you?"
+
+"Something unpleasant, alas, Baron," began the director hesitatingly,
+"_very_ unpleasant! Herr Dernburg will have to be prepared for a severe
+disappointment."
+
+"What does that mean? Have you received the expected returns?"
+
+"Runeck is elected!" said the director in a low voice. "Three quarters
+of the Odensburg votes were for him."
+
+The Baron turned pale and his hand doubled up convulsively.
+"Incredible! Unheard of!" he gasped. "And the country-districts? Our
+forges and mines? Have you heard from there already?"
+
+"No, but they can make no alteration in the main result. Runeck has won
+in the city and Odensburg; that is enough to ensure to him the
+majority. Here are the numbers registered."
+
+Wildenrod silently took the paper from the hands of the officer, and
+read the notices through: they agreed--the election was decided, in due
+form, against Dernburg and his party.
+
+"We did not dare to break this news to the Master abruptly," said
+Winning. "He is not at all prepared for it. Perhaps you'll undertake
+it, Baron? He will have to learn the truth; in a half hour all
+Odensburg will have the news."
+
+"I'll communicate it to him," said the Baron, as he folded the paper up
+and put it in his pocket. "But, one thing more, gentlemen! It is just
+possible that when this result of the election gets abroad
+manifestations may be attempted, that, in this case, will be a direct
+insult to our chief. That mad crew, drunk with victory----" here all
+his vexation broke through the self-restraint, that he had heretofore
+with difficulty maintained. "Any attempt at demonstrations of rejoicing
+will be suppressed with the greatest severity, no matter what comes of
+it. We have no longer any motive to consider them, and they shall be
+made to feel this." With a haughty nod, he left.
+
+The two officers looked at one another, and finally the director said,
+with a depressed air: "I wonder who is properly our chief now,--Herr
+Dernburg or Baron Wildenrod?"
+
+"The Baron, it would seem," answered Winning, irritably. "He gives
+orders independently, and orders, too, that may entail the most serious
+consequences. These demonstrations are bound to come. Fallner and his
+adherents are already seeing to that----"
+
+It was no enviable task that Wildenrod had undertaken. When he again
+entered Dernburg's room, he was received with the impatient question:
+
+"What was that message about, pray? They are not tormenting us now
+about other things, I hope--we really have no time for them. But I
+cannot understand the meaning of this obstinate silence over at the
+other house. They should have got the news by this time, at least in
+part, and still not a word do they send us."
+
+"The news has already come, as I have just learned," replied Wildenrod.
+
+"How is that? Why is the announcement delayed then?"
+
+"The director and Winning wanted to bring it over in person. They came
+to me----"
+
+Dernburg started; for the first time a foreboding of ill darted through
+his soul. "To you? Why not to me? What are those men thinking of?"
+
+"They wanted to transfer to me the duty of making the revelation," said
+the Baron, with bridled excitement. "The officers did not dare to
+approach you with it themselves."
+
+Dernburg changed color, but firmly drew himself up to his full height.
+"Has it come to their wanting to act a comedy with me? Out with what
+you have to say!"
+
+Wildenrod looked at the man who confronted him so coldly and
+wrathfully. It was impossible to delay longer. "Runeck has won the
+victory in town----" he began.
+
+"I know that! What else?"
+
+"And in Odensburg as well."
+
+"In Odensburg?" repeated Dernburg, looking at the speaker as if he had
+not taken in his meaning. "My workmen----"
+
+"Have for the most part voted for your opponent, Runeck is elected."
+
+A half-suppressed shriek rang through the apartment; it came from
+Cecilia's lips. Maia looked anxiously upon her father; so much she
+comprehended, namely, that a terrible blow was inflicted upon him by
+these tidings, Dernburg did not speak and did not stir. A dismal
+silence ensued. Finally he held out his hand for the paper that
+Wildenrod had drawn out of his pocket.
+
+"You have the electorial returns?"
+
+"Yes, here they are."
+
+Dernburg approached the table, in order to read, always preserving his
+rigid composure, but as he stood there, in the full light of the lamp,
+he looked deadly pale. Motionless, he gazed at the numbers that spoke
+their relentless message. At last he said coldly: "Quite right.
+Three-quarters of the votes are for him, and me they have cast
+overboard. It is regular treachery--an unparalleled deserting of one's
+colors. To be sure when one has been digging and delving for months--my
+deputy was in a place of trust, having full access to the people, and
+well knew how to turn the situation to----"
+
+"Your magnanimity, your unlimited confidence is to blame for it all,"
+remarked Wildenrod. "You knew the designs, the connections of this man,
+and notwithstanding, let him again set foot upon your soil. He wisely
+profited by this to secure constituents for himself. Now, he had only
+to beckon, and crowds flocked to his standard. You gave him the rights
+of a son--behold the return he makes you this day!"
+
+"Oscar, for heaven's sake desist!" implored Cecilia softly. She saw and
+felt that each one of his words fell like corroding poison into the
+soul of the man, whose heart was as deeply wounded as his pride.
+
+But Oscar could not use forbearance toward his hated adversary, and
+continued with increasing warmth:
+
+"Runeck will triumph and he has every reason to. This is a brilliant
+victory that he has won, to be sure, and over whom? That he gained it
+over you, that alone makes him a famous man. And in this hour the
+result of the election will be known in Odensburg--they will have a
+celebration, vaunting their candidate, and rejoicing until the sound of
+their shouts will be heard at the Manor-house, and you will have to
+listen to them----"
+
+"I shall do no such thing!" declared Dernburg with vehemence, retiring
+a step. It was evident that the poison was taking effect, the man was
+extremely provoked. "The people have used their right to vote--well, I
+shall use mine as a householder, and know how to protect myself against
+insults. Any demonstrations, whatever following upon this election will
+be suppressed. The director must take the proper measures; tell him so,
+Oscar!"
+
+"It has already been done. I foresaw your order, and gave the needful
+directions. I thought that I could be responsible in this case."
+
+On any other occasion, Dernburg would have considered an interference
+of the sort without his knowledge as an unwarrantable piece of
+presumption; now, he only saw in it an evidence of solicitude and did
+not think of censuring.
+
+"It is well," answered he shortly.
+
+"Represent me for to-day, if you please, Oscar; I can see nobody
+now--go, then, and leave me alone!"
+
+"Papa, let me, at least, stay with you," pleaded Maia in touching
+entreaty; but for this once her father did not reciprocate her
+tenderness, but gently put her away.
+
+"No, my child, not even you! Oscar, take Maia with you--I want to be by
+myself."
+
+Oscar whispered to his betrothed a few words, and then led her from the
+room. The door closed behind them, and now, when Dernburg believed
+himself to be alone, his with difficulty maintained composure forsook
+him. He pressed his clinched fists to his temples, a groan heaved his
+chest. He did not feel at this moment the humiliation of the defeat;
+there was something in his grief nobler than mortified ambition.
+Deserted by his workmen, whose gratitude he believed himself to have
+earned through a thirty years' course of fatherly kindness to them!
+Given up for the sake of another, whom he had loved like an own son,
+and who now thanked him in this fashion! His unflinching fortitude gave
+way under this blow.
+
+Then he felt how two arms were thrown around his neck, and starting up
+he perceived his son's young widow, whose pale, tearful countenance met
+his gaze with an expression that he had never seen in it before.
+
+"What means this, Cecilia?" asked he roughly. "Did I not tell you I
+wanted to be alone? The others have gone----"
+
+"But I am not going," said Cecilia with quivering voice. "Repulse me
+not, father! You took me in your arms and pressed me to your heart in
+the hardest hour of my life; now that hour has come to you, and I want
+to share it with you."
+
+Then the stolid bitterness of the horribly excited man broke down, and
+he did not again reject her sympathy. Silently he drew Cecilia to his
+bosom, and as he stooped over, a glowing tear fell upon her forehead.
+She shuddered slightly, stung by remorse--she knew for whom that tear
+was shed.
+
+
+
+
+                             CHAPTER XVIII.
+
+                 FORTUNE SMILES ON VICTOR ECKARDSTEIN.
+
+
+Eckardstein had a new master. Count Conrad had lain eight days in the
+family vault, and his younger brother had taken the reins of authority.
+That young officer, who had hitherto known no other home than in
+barracks save that spring, when he had paid only a short visit to his
+ancestral halls, now suddenly saw himself confronted by quite a new
+task, and placed in entirely new circumstances. It was certainly
+fortunate for him, that he had at his side his uncle and former
+guardian, who was himself a landed proprietor, and now prolonged his
+stay, in order to support his nephew both with advice and by action.
+
+The gray, foggy weather of the last weeks had been followed by a mild
+autumnal day. The sunshine lay bright upon the extensive forests that
+stretched between Odensburg and Eckardstein, belonging, however, for
+the most part, to the latter domain, for in Odensburg the woods had had
+to give way constantly to the great industrial establishments, that had
+continued to spread from year to year. Only a hunting-ground of
+moderate dimensions and a forester's preserve remained.
+
+Upon one of the woodland paths Count Victor and Herr von Stettin were
+walking along. They had been inspecting the condition of the forests
+and had now started on their return to the Castle.
+
+They were about to cross the public road, that here led through the
+middle of the woods, when, an open carriage rolled rapidly by, in which
+sat two ladies in deep mourning. The younger turned with an expression
+of joyful surprise when she perceived the young Count, and upon her
+speaking a few words to the coachman the carriage stopped.
+
+"Oh, Count Victor, I am very glad to see you again--if the occasion had
+only not been such a melancholy one!"
+
+Victor stepped up to the carriage-door with a low bow, but looked as if
+he would rather have paid his respects from a distance. He only touched
+lightly the little hand that was cordially extended to him, and there
+was a perceptible reserve in his words as he answered:
+
+"Yes indeed, a very melancholy occasion--but allow me, ladies, to
+introduce my uncle, Herr von Stettin--Fraeulein Maia Dernburg--Fraeulein
+Friedberg."
+
+"Properly, I have only to renew an old acquaintance," said Stettin,
+smiling, as he likewise drew near. "Years ago when I was on a visit at
+Eckardstein, I used to see Fraeulein Dernburg, but of the child of those
+days, indeed, a young lady has grown up who may not remember me."
+
+"Only dimly, at least, Herr von Stettin, but so much the more plainly
+do I remember all the glad hours that I have passed at Eckardstein,
+with Count Victor and Eric----" The young girl's eyes suddenly filled
+with tears as she pronounced her brother's name. "Ah, death has invaded
+our household too! You know, I suppose, Victor, when and how our poor
+Eric died?"
+
+"I have heard the particulars," said the young Count softly, "and have
+bitterly felt how much I lost in the friend of my youth. His widow
+remains at Odensburg, for the present, I learn."
+
+"Oh, certainly, we could not let her leave us! Eric loved Cecilia so
+dearly! She lives with us."
+
+"And--Baron von Wildenrod?" Victor put this question quite
+irrelevantly; his eyes at the same time being fastened upon the young
+girl's countenance with a look of intense anxiety. She blushed deeply.
+
+"Herr von Wildenrod?" she repeated with embarrassment. "He is also at
+Odensburg."
+
+"And stays there, I presume?"
+
+"I believe so," said Maia with a singular sense of oppression that she
+could not control, and which seemed altogether irrational. What was
+there against it, if her youthful playmate should guess to-day, what
+was no longer to be kept secret? But why did he look at her, in
+general, so coldly and so reproachfully? What was the matter with him?
+
+Herr von Stettin, who, meanwhile, had been talking with Fraeulein
+Friedberg, now turned again to the others; a few more questions were
+asked, a few more pieces of information exchanged, then Victor--who
+seemed strangely impatient to move on--closed the interview with the
+remark:
+
+"I am afraid, uncle, that we are detaining the ladies too long. May I
+ask that our compliments be presented to Herr Dernburg?"
+
+"I shall deliver your message to papa--but you will come yourself to
+Odensburg, will you not?"
+
+"Certainly, if it is possible," declared the young Count in a tone that
+betrayed the impossibility of such an occurrence. He bowed and retired,
+the ladies returned his salutation, and the next minute the carriage
+was rolling away.
+
+"That Maia Dernburg has developed into a charming girl!" said Stettin.
+"It strikes me that it would be to your advantage to be a little less
+formal than you were just now. I think you used to be an intimate
+friend of her brother!"
+
+Victor did not answer, and he cast down his eyes before the searching
+glance of his uncle, who now paused in his walk.
+
+"I have long since remarked that something was preying on your mind,"
+said he--"something that has altered your whole being. What has gone
+wrong with you? Be candid, Victor, and maybe your fatherly friend can
+advise and help you."
+
+"You cannot help me," gloomily declared the young lord, "but I will
+confess to you--it may lighten the load on my heart.--You know the
+ground of dissension between Conrad and me. At times Conrad was hard
+upon me, and finally made his assistance, that I absolutely needed,
+dependent upon one condition. He planned a union between Maia Dernburg
+and me, that should henceforth lift me above care, and I--well, I was
+irritated, embittered, I wanted to be rid of that galling dependence at
+any price--and I acquiesced. I came here, saw Maia again, and then all
+was over with calculation and sordid considerations of any kind--for I
+fell ardently in love with the sweet girl the very first time we met.
+And then--then I was punished severely enough, for having once
+calculated."
+
+"You were rejected? Impossible! The young girl awhile ago was as
+cordial and unconstrained in her manners as possible."
+
+"Maia knows nothing of my proposing to address her; it did not even
+come to a declaration. Conrad's plan was reported to her father in the
+most hateful manner. He took me to task about it, and as I could not
+and would not deny the truth, he treated my courtship as a speculation
+of the basest sort, myself as a fortune-hunter. He said the most
+unfeeling things to me----" Victor clinched his teeth at the bare
+recollection. "Excuse me from saying any more."
+
+"So that is the way the matter stands?" said Stettin reflectively. "To
+be sure, what cares this proud industrial prince for a Count
+Eckardstein! Well, do not look so desperate though, my boy;
+circumstances are entirely different from what they were six months
+ago. Providence meanwhile has made you lord of Eckardstein, and you
+have it in your power, by a renewal of your courtship, to prove to that
+old hard-head the purity of your motives."
+
+"I cannot get my own consent to do so--never! Maia is lost to me now
+and forever."
+
+"Do not be so rash, please! A few harsh words can always be borne with
+from a future father-in-law, especially when he has not been altogether
+wrong in the matter. If your pride forbids the making of any advance,
+then let me take the initiatory steps. I shall have a talk with
+Dernburg."
+
+"Just to have it announced to you, with polite regret, that his
+daughter is engaged to Baron von Wildenrod?" said Victor bitterly. "We
+may as well spare ourselves that mortification!"
+
+"What are you thinking of? Wildenrod is in his forties and Fraeulein
+Dernburg----"
+
+"Oh, he has some demoniacal power of enchantment, and knows how to use
+it. I am convinced that the insinuation which so infuriated Dernburg
+against me originated with him. I was in his way, he was already basing
+his calculations upon Maia's fortune. And Maia has not remained
+indifferent to him; already they are everywhere talking of an
+engagement, and just now I gained certainty as to the state of her
+affections. Maia betrayed herself--I have nothing more to hope for."
+
+The desperation of the young man plainly showed how deep was the
+passion for his young playmate that stirred in his heart.
+
+Stettin had become very serious.
+
+"That would certainly be Wildenrod's master-stroke," said he, with
+knitted brow. "So, it was not enough for him to share his sister's
+portion, but he must needs win the Odensburg millions for himself!
+There is still time for opening Herr Dernburg's eyes--his daughter
+shall not become the prey of this adventurer."
+
+"An adventurer! Baron von Wildenrod!"
+
+"He became so when fortune and splendor deserted his house. Perhaps
+fate had as much to do with it as guilt--never mind! He has forfeited
+the right to connect himself with an honorable family."
+
+"And were you aware of this that time at Nice, and did you keep
+silence?" asked the young Count with bitter reproach in his tone.
+
+"Was I to turn informer? And for the sake of whom? What right had I to
+force myself upon the confidence of a strange family? At that time what
+were these Dernburgs to me? One does not expose to public odium the son
+of a man at whose house you had been received as a friend for long
+years, without stringent necessity--and in this case I refrained."
+
+"But you might have warned Eric in some way!"
+
+"No warning would have availed at that period. If Eric had wanted to
+see--the double part that his future brother-in-law played was known
+all through Nice: I was not the only knowing one. But he walked blindly
+into the snare spread for him. But comfort yourself. Now when I know
+how close to your heart his sister is, no consideration shall hinder
+his exposure."
+
+"Yes, Maia must be protected from this man, cost what it will!" cried
+Victor impetuously. "Uncle, I have concealed nothing from you, now; be
+as candid towards me! Who and what is this Wildenrod?"
+
+"You shall learn," said Stettin gravely. "But we cannot discuss such
+things here, in the open woods. In ten minutes we shall be in the
+Castle, where we can talk farther on the subject."
+
+
+
+
+                              CHAPTER XIX.
+
+             "OFF WITH THE OLD LOVE, ON WITH THE NEW.----"
+
+
+Maia and her companion, meanwhile, had continued their ride. Their
+destination was the railroad station, whither they went to bring home
+Frau von Ringstedt, who had repaired to Berlin, to prepare the
+family residence there for occupation during the winter. Dernburg's
+re-election had been expected with such certainty, that it had been
+considered in making their household arrangements. Now, whether they
+should go at all to Berlin was questionable, and the old lady was
+returning, for the present, to Odensburg.
+
+"What was the matter with Count Victor to-day?" said Maia thoughtfully.
+"His manners were entirely different from what they usually are, and he
+did not seem at all rejoiced to see us again."
+
+"He is still in first mourning for his brother," objected Leonie. "It
+is to be expected, as a matter of course, that he should be graver and
+more reserved than formerly."
+
+Maia shook her little head; the explanation did not satisfy her. "No,
+no--this was something quite different. Victor went away last spring,
+too, without taking leave! Papa said, it is true, that he had been
+suddenly called away to attend to some military duty, but then he could
+have written. And just now when I invited him to come to Odensburg, he
+looked as if he did not care to do so. What is the meaning of all
+this?"
+
+"I, too, was struck by the Count's restraint of manner," said Leonie,
+"and for that very reason you should not have been so cordial in your
+advances, Maia. You are a grown-up young lady now, and should not
+permit the same freedoms to the country neighbors as when you were a
+child."
+
+"Victor is no mere country neighbor!" cried the young girl indignantly.
+"He was the friend of Eric's youth, and, when a boy, used to be almost
+as much at Odensburg as at Eckardstein. It is ugly of him to be so
+cold, all of a sudden, and act so formally, and I shall tell him so,
+too, when he comes to see us. Oh, I shall read him a good lecture!"
+
+Fraeulein Friedberg assumed the air of a monitor, and once more enlarged
+upon the need of circumspection on the part of a grown girl, but she
+preached to deaf ears. Maia dreamed on with open eyes: she was still
+haunted by the gloomy, reproachful glance of the playmate of her youth,
+and although she was far from fathoming the real ground for his altered
+behavior, his reserve grieved her. She realized, for the first time,
+how pleasant his cheerful society had been to her.
+
+At the depot, Dr. Hagenbach received the two ladies with disagreeable
+tidings. He had heard in town of a railroad accident, that was said to
+have occurred in the forenoon. Since he knew that Frau von Ringstedt
+was aboard, he had telegraphed at once for the facts, which,
+fortunately, were comforting. In consequence of the recent violent
+rains, a land-slide had taken place, the track was blocked up for a
+considerable distance, and the passengers had been obliged to take
+another route. The Berlin fast train, then, could only arrive after a
+good deal of delay: no accident, however, had happened to the train
+itself.
+
+After this communication, nothing was left for them to do but to wait.
+There happened to be, however, at the station a large body of troops,
+which had returned from maneuvering, and was now awaiting
+transportation; thus all the space was over-crowded, the waiting-room
+pre-empted by officers, and on all sides there reigned an alarming
+confusion, that made a long stay for the ladies very unpleasant. The
+doctor, therefore, advised that they should go over to the "Golden
+Lamb," secure an apartment, and there await the arrival of the train.
+
+This proposition was adopted, and since Herr Willmann was not at home
+just now, the guests were received by his spouse, who, upon getting
+word that the ladies from Odensburg were honoring the "Golden Lamb"
+with their presence, a thing that had never before happened, came
+rushing out of the kitchen to acknowledge this honor, in the most
+humble and grateful manner.
+
+Frau Willmann's attractions must have lain in the domestic virtues,
+for, most assuredly, they were not in outward appearance. She was
+considerably older than her husband, with repulsive features and a
+loud, sharp voice that lent something rasping to her words. And the
+house-dress in which she received her guests left much to be desired
+both as regards taste and neatness.
+
+She opened the best of her guest-chambers as speedily as possible, tore
+open the window to let in fresh air, set to rights chairs and table,
+while she assured the ladies that she would have brought to them the
+most excellent of coffee, in the shortest space of time possible. She
+then vanished quickly, all zeal and desire to serve.
+
+According to the assertion of the railroad officials, they had to wait
+at least another hour for the Berlin train. Fraeulein Maia found it very
+tiresome; she felt a desire to make a tour of discovery in the "Golden
+Lamb," and when, besides, from the window she caught sight of a troop
+of children, who were playing in the yard behind the house, she could
+sit still no longer. In spite of all the exhortations of her teacher,
+she slipped out of the room and left her companions to themselves.
+
+An embarrassed silence reigned for a few minutes. The doctor and
+Fraeulein Friedberg had, it is true, long ago come to a sort of tacit
+understanding that that unfortunate offer of marriage should be
+considered as unsaid. It was the only possible way to preserve the
+necessary ease in the almost daily intercourse to which they were
+forced; and, to be candid, they were neither of them so easy in one
+another's company as was desirable. Hagenbach could not help giving
+bent to his mortification at being rejected in various covert ways,
+and, in spite of herself, Leonie continually found herself acting on
+the defensive when he was present. But, in spite of these awkward
+relations, it was a fact that the doctor expended much more care upon
+his outward appearance than ever before, and made every effort to rein
+in his harshness of manner as much as possible. In this latter
+particular he succeeded only to a very moderate extent, but he at least
+showed a desire to be more gentle.
+
+"Maia is not to be calculated upon!" began Fraeulein Friedberg finally,
+with a sigh. "I am actually in despair at times. What is one to do with
+a young lady, who is already engaged to be married, and yet cannot
+appreciate the necessity of conforming to social usages?"
+
+"But there is room for a difference of opinion as to that necessity,"
+remarked the doctor, irritably.
+
+"I beg your pardon, the position is not to be disputed at all," was the
+very decided answer. "It is the foundation upon which the whole social
+fabric rests."
+
+"You may well say so--_forms_!" mocked Hagenbach, with unconcealed
+irritation, "they are the main things in the world. What avails it if a
+man be honorable, upright, and true--he must yield to the first goose
+that comes along, who knows how to make bows and exchange polite
+speeches--he, of course, has the precedence!"
+
+"I did not say so."
+
+"But thought it! I have not given much attention to forms in the course
+of my life, have not found it needful either in my practice or the
+management of my household. I am a bachelor, though--thank God!"
+
+The returned thanks, however, to Heaven, on account of his fortunately
+preserved bachelor's estate was in so grim a tone that Leonie preferred
+not to answer. She stepped to the window and looked out. Fortunately
+one of the maids now appeared with the coffee-cups and a huge cake,
+sufficient for at least ten persons, bringing the message that, if the
+ladies and doctor would be patient for a little while longer, Fraeulein
+Willmann would prepare the coffee herself.
+
+Leonie started at the name, and turned around eagerly:
+
+"Who did you say?"
+
+"Fraeulein Willmann, lady."
+
+"Such is the name of the hostess of the 'Golden Lamb,'" explained
+Hagenbach, who now perceived that silence would profit nothing any
+longer, and that the whole melancholy story would have to be
+recapitulated. Leonie, indeed, did not say a word, but the mantling
+color that mounted to her cheeks betrayed her exceeding sensitiveness
+to anything that reminded her of her former lover. The doctor
+preferred, therefore, to introduce the subject himself, as soon as the
+maid had left the room.
+
+"Does the name strike you?" he asked.
+
+"It was once very dear to me, and still is. The coincidence here can
+only be the result of accident, but I shall try to find out from the
+hostess----"
+
+"That is not necessary, when you can learn of me just as well. The
+proprietor of this inn is a cousin of the lamented Engelbert, the
+converter of heathen, who lies buried in the sands of the desert. He
+has told me so himself--that is to say, not the buried man, but the
+living Herr Pancratius Willmann of the 'Golden Lamb.'"
+
+"A cousin of Engelbert's?" repeated Leonie, in surprise. "To judge by
+the age of his wife, this Herr Pancratius Willmann must be quite far
+advanced in years?"
+
+"Heaven forbid! he is at least twelve years younger than his better
+half, not much over forty. He was just a poor starving wretch and she a
+rich widow. As for the rest, the man is not uncultivated--he has even
+been a student, as he recently informed me, but then concluded that he
+would rather clothe himself in the wool of the 'Golden Lamb.'"
+
+Leonie's lips curled contemptuously. "What a conclusion! This ordinary
+woman----"
+
+"Has money and is a splendid cook," chimed in Hagenbach, who felt a
+satisfaction in this, that at least the lamented Engelbert's cousin had
+no part in the halo of ideality that encircled his kinsman. "As for the
+rest, the marriage of this pair seems to be a very happy one, and they
+also have a numerous progeny--only look at the six young lambs
+disporting themselves in the garden down yonder!" He had likewise
+stepped to the window and pointed down into the small garden, where the
+offspring of the Willmann family were running about, shrieking and
+hallooing. They were certainly not marked by any special attractions,
+but were little well-fed, thick-skulled creatures with yellow locks,
+seeming to take after their mother in things essential.
+
+Leonie shrugged her shoulders. "I do not understand how a cultivated
+man can condescend to such a union. To be sure, self-interest regulates
+the world nowadays. Who asks after the ideal?"
+
+"Not Herr Pancratius Willmann certainly," dryly opined Hagenbach. "He
+holds with the practical, in complete contrast to his cousin. Herr
+Engelbert left home in the lurch, in order to baptize the black heathen
+back in Africa. Now he lies in the sand of the desert--that is the
+return he got."
+
+Leonie looked daggers at him. "You certainly cannot appreciate such a
+resolve, Doctor. Engelbert Willmann had an ideal nature, that followed
+a higher inspiration without any reference to worldly advantages, and
+one must have somewhat of the same nature in order to understand it."
+
+"No, I do not pretend to understand it," declared Hagenbach with an
+outburst of vexation. "I am not constituted 'ideal.' I am a plain
+healer of men's diseases, without higher inspiration, and am myself
+quite an ordinary man, without any ideal--therefore of no account
+whatever."
+
+Thus were they fairly launched into another discussion, when the door
+opened, and Herr Pancratius Willmann appeared upon the threshold, in
+all the stateliness of his obesity, with broad red countenance. He made
+a low bow before the physician, a second one before the lady at the
+window, and then began in his soft, melancholy voice: "I have just
+heard from my wife that the Odensburg family were here, and could not
+deny myself the pleasure of expressing my joy and gratitude for the
+honor that has been done my modest house."
+
+"It is well that you have come, mine host!" said the doctor. "I was
+just talking about you with Fraeulein Friedberg----" He was not allowed
+to proceed farther, in consequence of the scene that now unfolded
+before his eyes.
+
+Leonie had started in alarm at the sound of the strange voice, and Herr
+Willmann showed no less agitation at the sight of the lady at the
+window. He fairly quaked, his red cheeks turned pale, and, utterly
+disconcerted, he stared at the lady who now approached him.
+
+"Sir," she began in quavering voice, "you bear a name that is familiar
+to me, and I learn from the doctor here that a relation does, in fact,
+exist----"
+
+She paused and seemed to await an answer, but Herr Pancratius only
+nodded his head in the affirmative; but so low was his bow, that hardly
+a glimpse of his face was to be gotten.
+
+"I certainly discover some resemblance in your features," continued
+Leonie, "and your voice, too, has an almost terrifying similarity with
+that of your deceased cousin, of whom you probably have slight
+recollection."
+
+Willmann did not answer this time either, but shook his head, in sign
+of dissent, but without looking up.
+
+"Why, man, have you lost the power of speech?" cried the doctor,
+vexedly. "What means this dumb show of nodding and shaking your head?"
+
+But Herr Pancratius persisted in his silence; it seemed as though he
+had a regular dread of hearing the sound of his own voice again.
+Instead of this, he cast a shy glance at the door, as though he were
+weighing the possibility of a retreat. Now Hagenbach lost patience.
+
+"What is concealed behind that demeanor?" cried he with aroused
+suspicion. "Is that whole tale of relationship a falsehood after all?
+Out with what you have to say, man!"
+
+The craven, pressed upon two sides, evidently saw no way of escape.
+He cast his eyes up at the ceiling, with exactly the same pious,
+woe-begone expression that had startled the doctor at first, and
+sighed:
+
+"Oh, oh, Doctor, Heaven is my witness----"
+
+A loud shriek interrupted him. Leonie had suddenly turned pale as
+death, and with both hands convulsively clasped the back of the chair
+standing in front of her.
+
+"Engelbert! Gracious master, it is he himself!"
+
+At this instant Herr Willmann seemed to cherish the fervent wish that
+the earth would open at his feet and swallow him up. But as no such
+interposition on the part of Heaven took place, he remained standing in
+the middle of the room, in the full light of day. Dr. Hagenbach,
+however, dropped into the nearest chair; he had strong nerves, and yet,
+somehow, this revelation had a stunning effect upon him.
+
+In spite of this discovery, which must have been an appalling one to
+her, Leonie recovered her self-command in an astonishing manner. She
+neither fell in a swoon, nor fell into convulsions; motionless she
+stood there gazing upon him who had once been her betrothed lover, and
+made no attempt to deny it.
+
+"Leonie, you here?" he stammered in mortal confusion. "I had no idea--I
+will explain everything----"
+
+"Yes, I too would earnestly beg you to do so!" cried the doctor, who
+had now recovered breath and sprang up in a rage. "What! for twelve
+long years, you allowed yourself to be wept as a martyred apostle to
+the heathen, while all the time you were alive and merry here at the
+'Golden Lamb,' flourishing as a happy husband and a six-fold father of
+a family? That is vile."
+
+"Doctor," interrupted Leonie, still trembling in every limb, but still
+with perfect composure, "I have to talk with this--this gentleman.
+Please leave us!"
+
+Hagenbach looked at her rather critically, for he did not exactly trust
+this composure. Yet he could but perceive that during such an
+explanation the presence of a third party would be superfluous. He
+therefore left the room. Little as he was in the habit of playing the
+eavesdropper, this time he kept his post close to a slit in the door,
+without any scruple of conscience whatever. The affair that was being
+settled inside was partly his concern as well.
+
+Herr Engelbert Willmann seemed to be greatly relieved when the witness
+to this painful scene departed, and now prepared finally for the
+promised explanation. He began in a penitential tone: "Leonie, hear
+me!"
+
+Still she kept her place without stirring, and looked as if she would
+not and could not believe that this coarse, common-looking individual
+was one and the same with the ideal being upon whom her youthful
+affections had been set.
+
+"No explanation is needed," said she, with a tranquillity
+incomprehensible to herself. "I only desire you to answer me a few
+questions. Are you really the husband of the woman who received us just
+now; the father of the children playing in the garden down there?"
+
+"Highly rational and practical!" growled the doctor approvingly
+outside. "No sign of convulsions! Matters are progressing quite well."
+
+Leonie's question seemed utterly to confound Herr Willmann. "Do not
+condemn me, Leonie!" he implored stammeringly. "The force of
+circumstances--an unfortunate chain of peculiar----"
+
+"Do not address me in the familiar tone of long ago, Herr Willmann,"
+said Leonie, cutting him short in the midst of his sentence. "How long
+have you been married?"
+
+Willmann hesitated. He would have gladly given as recent a date as
+possible to his admission into the order of Benedict; but there were
+his children making their presence noisily manifest out of doors, his
+eldest, a boy of ten, being likewise in the game of romps. "Eleven
+years," he finally said in a low voice.
+
+"And twelve years ago you wrote me that you wanted to go as missionary
+into the interior of Africa, and from that time your letters ceased.
+Immediately afterwards you must have returned to Germany--without
+letting me know?"
+
+"It was done only for thy--for your sake, Leonie," Engelbert assured
+her, with an attempt to give a tender intonation to his voice. "We were
+both poor, I had no prospects, years might elapse ere I should be in a
+situation to offer you my hand. Should I allow you to waste your youth,
+mourning over me, and perhaps forfeiting a different and a happier
+fate? Never! And since I knew your magnanimity, knew that you would
+never have broken your word to me, with a bleeding heart I did what I
+had to--I restored your freedom to you through my supposed death----"
+
+"Give yourself no trouble. I am not to be deceived again," replied she,
+contemptuously. "Pray remember, Herr Willmann, that all is at an end
+between us, and we have nothing more to say. I only ask one thing of
+you: if accidentally our paths should ever cross again, pass me as a
+stranger and never show by any sign that we were ever friends."
+
+Engelbert secretly breathed more freely at this declaration, for he had
+not hoped to be let off so easily, and now prepared to depart in a very
+dignified manner. "You condemn me--well, I must bear it!" said he
+softly, and in an aggrieved tone. "Farewell, Leonie, appearances are
+against me, but for all that you have been my first and only love!"
+
+He cast a wofully sentimental glance upon his former lady-love, and
+then beat a hasty retreat. But outside fate overtook him in the person
+of Dr. Hagenbach, who unceremoniously grabbed him by the arm. "Now we
+shall have a few words together, Herr Engelbert Willmann," said he,
+dragging the terrified creature regardlessly to the other end of the
+passage, where one was out of ear-shot of the guest-chamber. "I shall
+certainly not have much to do with you, but this one thing I must tell
+you, that you are a rascal!"
+
+Once more he gave the annihilated Willmann another good shaking, then
+left him standing and returned to the room, where he was confident his
+medical services would be in requisition.
+
+"I wanted to see how you were," said the doctor, with a certain
+embarrassment. "I was afraid--yes, my dear young lady, I admit that
+to-day, for once, you have a right to be nervous.--You need not dread
+ever being ridiculed. Mind!"
+
+"I am quite well," protested Leonie, without raising her eyes. "I have
+gone through a very painful experience in having my illusions
+dispelled. You may easily guess, Doctor, how the story runs--spare me
+the shame of repeating it in detail."
+
+"You have nothing to be ashamed of!" cried Hagenbach, with warm
+feeling. "There is no shame in putting firm, inviolable faith in the
+goodness and nobility of a man's nature. And if one has deceived you,
+you need not therefore lose faith in everybody. There is many a one
+among us who deserves to be trusted."
+
+"I know it," replied Leonie, softly, extending her hand to him, "and I
+shall not waste time crying over a recollection that is not worth
+having tears shed over it. Let it be buried!"
+
+"Bravo!" cried the doctor, grasping her proffered hand, as though about
+to shake it. But suddenly he bethought himself, and paused. The "rough
+diamond" must have really been well on the way towards being polished,
+for an unheard-of thing happened--Dr. Hagenbach stooped down and
+imprinted upon that hand an extremely tender kiss.
+
+
+
+
+                              CHAPTER XX.
+
+                          MAIA MUST BE SAVED.
+
+
+The gentlemen's room at the "Golden Lamb" was almost entirely empty, as
+was commonly the case in the early afternoon hours. The visitors were
+not accustomed to come in until towards evening. At present only a
+single guest was there, namely, Landsfeld, who had come to consult with
+the host concerning a mass-meeting that was to take place in the course
+of the next few days. Herr Willmann did not happen to be at home, and
+Landsfeld, who wanted to have the matter settled, had taken possession
+of the gentlemen's room, without further ceremony, where he had already
+been waiting for a quarter of an hour. He had no idea that Herr
+Willmann had already got home and knew of his being there, but
+preferred making a servile bow to the Odensburg family ere he gave as
+respectful a greeting to the leader of the Socialists. Already he began
+to grow impatient, when finally the door opened. But instead of the
+party expected Egbert Runeck came in.
+
+The young delegate, who had gone to Berlin for a few days immediately
+after his election to consult with the leaders of his party, gave a
+strikingly cold and short salutation to his comrade, who, on his side,
+acknowledged it only by a slight nod.
+
+"Back already from Berlin?" asked Landsfeld.
+
+"I got here about an hour ago," answered Runeck. "I went straight to
+your house and heard there that I would be sure to find you at the
+'Golden Lamb.'"
+
+"To my house? That is a rare honor! I want to secure the hall for the
+day after to-morrow, since there turns out to be a necessity for a
+second mass meeting. As for the rest, we did not expect you back. Are
+you through with your business already?"
+
+"Yes, for the time being only some preliminaries were to be settled. My
+permanent presence in Berlin will not be required for four weeks yet,
+when the sessions of the _Reichstag_ begin, and so it seems to me I am
+more needed here just now than there."
+
+"You are mistaken," declared Landsfeld. "We need you here no longer,
+now that your election has been carried. But I thought to myself that
+you would return as speedily as possible, when you heard that trouble
+was brewing for your beloved Odensburg. Yes, we have beaten it into the
+old man's brain at last that he is not infallible. Until now he was so
+inaccessible that nothing could come nigh him; now that he has to
+wrestle with us like the rest of his colleagues, it may go hard enough
+with him!"
+
+"I rather think you have no occasion to triumph," said Egbert gloomily.
+"Dernburg has responded to your challenge by a wholesale discharge."
+
+"Of course! That was to be expected of the obstinate old man, and we
+were perfectly prepared for it."
+
+"Or rather, you have planned for it. And what now?"
+
+"Well, it means bend or break. Either the old man withdraws his
+discharge of the workmen, or all his enterprises come to a standstill."
+
+"Dernburg is not going to bend, that you all know, and to break him you
+have not the power. But he has it, and will use it unsparingly now that
+he has been goaded so far. He can hold out if his works lie idle for
+weeks and months--but not you. The strike is perfectly senseless, and
+the leaders of our party do not wish it--never have wished it. Now the
+decision against it has been definitely made."
+
+"Ah, indeed! I know you did your very best to persuade them to come to
+this decision. Now, didn't you?" asked Landsfeld with a piercing
+glance. "You are one of the leaders yourself now! The youngest and most
+masterful of all. You seem to have got the whip-hand of the others
+already."
+
+Runeck made an unequivocal sign of impatience.
+
+"Have you only personal attacks against me, where the question concerns
+a party measure? I bring you the positive direction, not to proceed to
+extremities--conform to it."
+
+"I am sorry, it is too late; the direction should have come earlier,"
+answered Landsfeld coldly. "The offer has been made, and in case of its
+non-acceptance the strike is announced. The people cannot retract--they
+will see it so in Berlin also."
+
+"Ah, ah, you show your true colors at last," cried Egbert in embittered
+tone. "You, who have always had the word discipline in your mouth, have
+followed your own head entirely!"
+
+"Acted upon my own responsibility, yes! Those narrow-minded cowards,
+those Odensburgers, must at last be thoroughly aroused from their dream
+of security. What trouble we have had in getting them to elect you,
+under what high pressure did we have to work, and all was left in
+doubt, up to the last minute! Now the dull mass is at last in motion;
+now it is of moment to urge them forward!"
+
+"And whither? To certain defeat! They have followed you to the polls,
+and even now they go with you blindly--the intoxication of victory has
+mounted to their heads! You have not preached to them in vain that they
+were almighty. But the intoxication will pass away. Just let the people
+come to their senses for once, and perceive what they lose when they
+turn their backs upon Odensburg, and what sorrows they thereby entail
+upon their wives and children--I tell you, you will not be able to hold
+them together for eight days; they will run back to Dernburg as fast as
+their legs can carry them. But he will be a different man from what he
+has been heretofore; he will not and cannot pardon the insult that they
+have inflicted upon him."
+
+The young engineer had long since lost the cool calmness with which he
+had opened the interview, and had worked himself up into continually
+greater excitement. Landsfeld quietly kept his seat and looked at him
+fixedly: an evil smile played about his lips, as he replied:
+
+"You seem to find this quite in order. On what side do you really
+stand, may I ask?"
+
+"On the side of reason and of right!" exclaimed Runeck passionately.
+"That the workmen elected me in opposition to Dernburg was their right,
+and he would not contest that, either, deeply as it might mortify him.
+But that they celebrated my victory in his works, that they had
+processions and rejoiced over his defeat, almost under his windows,
+that is a bold challenge, and he has given them, in reply, the answer
+they deserved!"
+
+"Ah, indeed? They deserved it, did they?" repeated Landsfeld, in a tone
+that should have warned his young comrade; but he paid no heed to it
+and continued with gathering warmth:
+
+"You had the people stirred up through Fallner, I know this; you goaded
+them into making that senseless demand, which is equivalent to
+inflicting incredible humiliation upon their chief. Is it that you so
+entirely mistake the man with whom you have to deal, or would you have
+war to the knife? Well, you shall have it! Dernburg has shown himself
+the protector of the workman long enough, now he will reveal himself as
+the master, and he does right in this--I would not act differently in
+his place!"
+
+A loud, bitter laugh from Landsfeld brought Egbert to a stop, for he
+had uttered those last words inconsiderately, stung into revolt.
+
+"Bravo! Oh, that is an inestimable confession! There at last you show
+your true face! It was the old man of Odensburg to the life--you are a
+worthy pupil of your master's school. What think you if I report the
+sentiment just heard from you in Berlin?"
+
+Runeck could hardly fail to be aware that he had allowed himself to go
+too far, but he only straightened himself up more defiantly.
+
+"What care I? Do you suppose that I allow myself to be such a slave,
+that I dare not express my opinions freely, when we are among
+ourselves?"
+
+"Among ourselves! Do you actually do us the honor to account yourself
+one of us? It is true you are our delegate! I have warned and counseled
+enough, for I knew long ago how far we would probably get with you.
+They would not listen to me, would secure that genial power to our
+party, and therefore the election must be pushed with all the means at
+our command. It was the hardest to manage of any in the electorial
+campaign--and for whom? The eyes of the others will soon be opened
+too."
+
+"If you want to help them in this, then do so!" said Egbert harshly and
+proudly. But now Landsfeld jumped up and planted himself close in front
+of him.
+
+"Perhaps you would be quite agreed to this. You are regularly planning,
+I believe, to lead up to a breach. Give yourself no trouble, young man:
+we will not do you that favor, we will not release you. If you choose
+to turn traitor and runagate, then let the whole disgrace of it fall
+upon you!"
+
+A bitter expression curled Runeck's lips at these scornful words.
+
+"Traitor! This, then, is what I get for giving myself up to you, body
+and soul, for sacrificing to you a future grander and more brilliant
+than falls to the lot of one in a thousand."
+
+"And now you are on the stool of repentance, naturally?" remarked
+Landsfeld slyly.
+
+"The sacrifice--no! But association with you--yes, I have long ago
+repented of that."
+
+"You are candid, anyhow," mocked Landsfeld, "and recklessly show us
+what a rod we have pickled for ourselves in your election. Yet there is
+no help for that now, and, for the present, you will be obliged to do
+your duty in the _Reichstag_. Fortunately your earlier speeches are in
+the mouths of every one. You could slap yourself in the face; you would
+now whistle to quite another tune, if you could. And once more, young
+man,"--he suddenly dropped the mocking tone and his voice became low
+and threatening,--"make no attempt to meddle in Odensburg affairs,
+which I have now taken in hand myself. I shall know how to answer for
+my conduct to the party--only see to it that you cope with your own
+responsibility. It is not going to be spared you, depend upon that!" So
+saying, he turned his back upon his comrade, and left the room without
+any greeting.
+
+Egbert was left alone; silently and moodily he brooded, with downcast
+eyes. He could not hinder the continual recurrence to his mind of the
+last words that Dernburg had spoken to him ere dismissing him: "You
+might have been lord of Odensburg. See whether your associates will
+thank you for the immense sacrifice that you have made to them!" He had
+just received a token of their gratitude.
+
+Then the door was softly opened, only half-way, however, and a lovely
+young girl's head appeared in the aperture. Timidly and with curiosity
+she peeped in. It was Maia, who, in the course of her tour of discovery
+in the "Golden Lamb," had finally reached the gentlemen's room. She had
+hardly cast in a glance, however, before an exclamation of joyful
+surprise escaped her lips.
+
+"Egbert!"
+
+He started from his reverie, looked at her for a moment in stolid
+amazement, and then sprang to his feet. "Maia--you here?"
+
+Maia quickly glided into the room, drawing the door to behind her.
+Fraeulein Friedberg and Dr. Hagenbach should know nothing of this
+meeting, else they would not allow her to have anything to say to
+Egbert--he was tabooed now at Odensburg!
+
+Runeck, too, seemed suddenly to remember their altered relations;
+slowly he let the hand drop that he had stretched forth in greeting,
+and drew back a step.
+
+"May we exchange greetings as we used to do?" asked he softly.
+
+A shadow crossed Maia's face, just an instant before so radiant, but
+she unhesitatingly drew nearer and offered her hand to the friend of
+her childhood. "Alas, Egbert, that it had to come so far! If you only
+knew how it looks now at our house."
+
+"I do know!" was his short and gloomy answer.
+
+"Our Odensburg is no longer to be recognized," lamented the young girl.
+"Formerly, if we went through the works or had anything to say to the
+workmen, how joyfully we would be greeted by all; and if, moreover,
+papa showed himself, then all eyes were fastened upon him, and every
+one was proud of being spoken to by him. Now"--a subdued sob was
+perceptible in her voice--"now papa has forbidden Cecilia and me to
+leave the circuit of the park, since we are not secure against insults
+outside. He himself goes every day to the works, but I see on the faces
+of our officers that they regard it as a risk, that they fear he is in
+danger among his own workmen. But what more than all eats into his
+heart, is what happened on election-day--he did not deserve it at their
+hands."
+
+She did not suspect the effect of those words upon the man, who stood
+half-turned away from her. Not a sound crossed his lips, but his
+countenance expressed tortures that were with difficulty concealed.
+Maia saw this and laid her hand on his arm, with the old cordiality.
+
+"I know it," said she soothingly. "But I am the only one at Odensburg
+who still cleaves to you, and I hardly dare to show it. Papa is
+dreadfully provoked and bitter against you, and Os--I mean Baron von
+Wildenrod--confirms him in this. So my begging does no good whatever,
+and now, besides, Cecilia----"
+
+"She too?" interrupted Runeck, turning suddenly around. "Does she
+condemn me too?"
+
+"I am not sure," said Maia, frightened at the strange look which Egbert
+cast upon her. "But Cecilia will never listen when I talk about you,
+and fairly takes to flight. Ah, Egbert, if any one else stood in
+opposition to my father, I believe he would stand it better. That it
+should be you is what he cannot bear."
+
+"Neither can I!" answered Egbert gloomily. "Tell your father so, Maia,
+if you choose."
+
+The young girl mournfully shook her head. "I cannot--your name is no
+more to be mentioned in his presence. If it happens, by any chance, it
+makes him furiously angry. And he did love you so! Dear me, why do
+people have to hate one another so desperately, just because they
+belong to two different political parties? I really do not understand
+it."
+
+Maia's sweet girlish voice sounded soft and pleading, but nevertheless
+each of her words pierced Egbert's soul, like a glowing reproach. He
+could stand it no longer.
+
+"Let that be, Maia," said he, controlling his emotion by a great
+effort. "He must accept it as a stroke of destiny, that we all find it
+hard to bear. And you, poor child! have we drawn you into the net, too,
+and destroyed the sunny cheerfulness of your spirits?"
+
+The face of the young girl suddenly flushed up, her head drooped, and
+softly, almost shyly, she answered:
+
+"No, no--I am often enough ashamed that, in spite of all this, I am so
+excessively happy; and yet I cannot help it. Do not look at me in such
+surprise, Egbert. Strangers, to be sure, are not to know it yet,
+because we are still wearing mourning for our poor Eric, but I can tell
+you already that I--well, that I am a betrothed bride."
+
+Egbert started back in astonishment. Hitherto he had always considered
+Maia in the light of a child. It had not occurred to him that love
+could have already come to her. Now the unexpected news called a
+fleeting smile to his gloomy countenance, and full of cordiality he
+stretched out his hands to his youthful playmate. "Does our little Maia
+actually have to do with such things?" asked he with an attempt at
+playfulness.
+
+"But I am not so little any more," protested Maia, with a charming
+pout, while she stood on tip-toe and looked him roguishly in the eye.
+"See, I already reach up to your shoulders, and his too."
+
+"His? Why, I have not even asked after the name of your intended. What
+is it?"
+
+"Oscar," whispered Maia softly.
+
+"What did you say?" said Egbert in shocked surprise.
+
+"Oscar von Wildenrod! You know him, yes--dear me, Egbert, what is the
+matter?"
+
+Runeck had turned pale, and his right hand clinched involuntarily with
+a look that was full of commiseration. He fixed his eyes upon the young
+girl, who returned his gaze with a troubled anxious air.
+
+"Baron von Wildenrod is your betrothed?" repeated he at last. "And has
+your father consented?"
+
+"Certainly. He was opposed to it in the beginning, on account of the
+great difference of age, but Oscar besieged him so long, and I, too,
+begged and besought him so hard to let us be happy, that at last he
+gave his consent."
+
+Egbert was thunderstruck, and gazed upon the lovely young creature who
+so heedlessly spoke of her happiness, where misery in reality impended.
+For the second time fate had imposed upon him the task of inflicting a
+deadly blow upon a being who was dear to him, and crushing her supposed
+happiness with a ruthless hand. This had been spared Eric in his dying
+hour; he could be silent when he learned to know Cecilia as she really
+was; here he had no choice and could not keep silence.
+
+"And you do not rejoice with me?" asked Maia, in a mortified and
+reproachful tone, as he still said nothing. "Oh, I remember you had
+something against Oscar, and he has a great deal against you. I have
+known this a long while, although neither of you will own it. But you
+can surely congratulate me, any way.--I am indescribably happy."
+
+Runeck ground his teeth together. He could not wish her joy, even as a
+mere matter of ceremony, which under these circumstances would have
+been the bitterest mockery, and yet he felt that he dared not now and
+in this place keep his secret. Fortunately accident came to his
+assistance, for out in the passage became audible the voice of Dr.
+Hagenbach.
+
+"Have you seen Fraeulein Dernburg anywhere? We must hurry to the
+station,--the train will be here in ten minutes."
+
+"I must!" whispered Maia, pricking up her ears. "Farewell, Egbert. I
+shall always hold you dear, whatever happens. And you cannot forget,
+either, that Odensburg was so long your home."
+
+Once more the brown eyes were uplifted to him in fervent deprecation,
+and then the young girl glided quickly away. Runeck breathed a sigh of
+relief that he had no longer to withstand the battery of those happy,
+unsuspecting eyes, but, at the same time, great waves of rebellion came
+rolling over his tortured soul.
+
+This, then, had been Wildenrod's aim. He had set his covetous eye upon
+Odensburg, and would never rest until the booty was his, and Maia's
+hand was to lay it within his grasp. And Cecilia knew this, and did not
+interfere. Indeed, he was her brother, whom she loved in spite of
+everything--it was only to save him that she had become Eric's wife.
+And she did not know the truth. Oh, why had he concealed it from her
+that time? But now her feelings were no longer to be considered,
+either--the thing was to rescue Maia: now, to be silent any longer were
+a crime.
+
+"No, I shall not forget that Odensburg was, for so long a time, my
+home," murmured Egbert, drawing himself up resolutely, "if I do have to
+prove it in a different way from what you expect, my poor little Maia.
+Shall I write to Dernburg? Impossible. I am wholly out of favor with
+him--he believes the worst of me; he would deem the letter a wretched
+calumny, and Wildenrod would win his game nevertheless. There is no
+help for it, I must fight the battle face to face, and not give up
+either, until it is decided, until Maia is released from this bond. Be
+it so, then--I am going to Odensburg."
+
+
+
+
+                              CHAPTER XXI.
+
+                FROM HEIGHTS OF BLISS TO DEPTHS OF WOE.
+
+
+There prevailed at Odensburg the sultriness that portends the gathering
+storm. The air was heavy with it, and, according to every sign, when
+the tempest broke forth it would be a severe one.
+
+This was the day when the workmen who had been discharged, in
+consequence of the proceedings of election-day, had to leave their
+workshops. There were hundreds of them, and all their fellows had
+declared that they, too, would lay down their work, if those dismissals
+were not withdrawn.
+
+In Dernburg's office a conference had just taken place. There were
+present, besides the Baron von Wildenrod, who was never missing upon
+such occasions, the three highest officials; and they had tried, with
+all their might, to bring the chief to a milder view of what had
+happened. It had been in vain.
+
+"The word stands, the orders given are to be carried through with the
+greatest exactness!" he declared. "You will see to it, gentlemen, that
+your subordinates conform precisely to the directions given. Every
+special event is to be immediately announced to me. We are going to
+have a serious, perhaps terrible time, and I calculate upon each one of
+you doing his duty in fullest measure."
+
+"With us that is a matter of course, Herr Dernburg," replied the
+director, "and I believe that I can also answer for our subordinates.
+And perhaps, after all, it will not come to the worst. Many signs go to
+show that the mood at the works is a very depressed one. Many are
+already repenting of the decision, into which they were half enticed
+and half forced. We know exactly what hands here have been active. The
+people have been put up to mischief, and goaded on in an unheard-of
+manner."
+
+"I know that, but they have allowed themselves to be stirred up by
+strangers, and against me. Now, they can have their way."
+
+This answer sounded so stern, that the director lost courage for making
+further representations; he cast a meaning glance at his colleague, and
+now the upper-engineer took up the theme.
+
+"I also am convinced that the majority already begin to be conscious of
+having acted over-hastily. They will silently let drop that crazy
+petition, in which Fallner's remaining was also included. A great part
+will quietly work on, the others will follow sooner or later, and the
+whole move come to nothing, if you could make up your mind, Herr
+Dernburg, to show the slightest disposition to conciliate."
+
+"No!" said Dernburg, with cold severity.
+
+"But what is to be done with the men who go to work as usual to-morrow
+morning?"
+
+"They have to make the express declaration that they are not in accord
+with their fellows, and intend to submit unconditionally to my
+requirements--then they shall be free to resume work."
+
+"They will not come up to that," objected Winning, reflectively.
+
+"Well, then, the workshops remain closed. We shall see who will hold
+out the longer--they or I!"
+
+"Exactly my opinion," remarked Wildenrod. "That you owe to yourself and
+your position. You seem to be of a different opinion, gentlemen, but
+you will soon be convinced yourselves that this is the only right way
+whereby we may force the body of workmen into subjection, and that,
+indeed, in the shortest space of time."
+
+The officers were silent: they were already accustomed to the Baron's
+thus planting himself beside their chief, and the right being conceded
+to him. They certainly did not deem Wildenrod's influence as especially
+salutary, and here he was again doing every thing he possibly could to
+uphold Dernburg in the stand that he had taken. But gradually they had
+come to see in him Dernburg's future son-in-law and the future master
+of Odensburg: they did not attempt, then, to controvert his position,
+which would have been useless; and now when Dernburg gave the sign for
+them to disperse, while he rose to his feet, they parted with a silent
+bow.
+
+"I do believe those gentlemen are apprehensive of some sort of an
+insurrection," mocked Oscar, when the door had closed behind them.
+"They would make every possible concession for the sake of sweet peace.
+I am so glad that you held firm here; any yielding would have been
+unpardonable weakness."
+
+Dernburg had stepped to the window. He seemed to have grown older by
+years in these few days, but however bitter the experience might have
+been, it had not quelled his spirit,--that iron will of his was stamped
+upon every movement. There was something that awed in the stern
+rigidity of his features, whence every trace of mildness had flown. He
+silently gazed over at the works. The chimneys there were still
+smoking, the furnaces glowed, all the mighty forces of those restless
+activities were still astir, still toiled thousands of hands.
+"To-morrow all this will lie there still and dead--for how long?"
+
+Involuntarily he had spoken these last words aloud, and Wildenrod, who
+had drawn near, heard him.
+
+"Why, it will not last long," said he confidently. "In your hands lies
+the power, and it can do the Odensburgers no harm, if at last they are
+made sensible of this. This riff-raff, that left you in the lurch
+without ceremony to run after the first hunter that whistled to them!
+Such a set----"
+
+"Oscar, you are speaking of my workmen!" interrupted Dernburg angrily.
+
+"Yes, indeed, of your workmen, who showed you their devotion in such a
+touching manner! I can feel with you what was then passing in your
+soul."
+
+"No, Oscar, that you cannot," said Dernburg, with grave earnestness.
+"You have come as a stranger to Odensburg. With you, your future
+position here is only a question of power. Perhaps, hereafter, it must
+be the same for me, but formerly it was different. I stood at the head
+of my workmen, but all that I did was done with them and for them, and
+as each one could depend upon me, in times of danger and distress, I
+believed that I could depend upon them, every one. That is all over
+now! Fool that I was! They want no peace, they want war!"
+
+"Yes, that is what they want," remarked Wildenrod, "and they shall find
+us ready. We shall soon put down this rebellious Odensburg."
+
+"Oh, certainly, we are going to conquer," exclaimed Dernburg with
+intense bitterness. "I shall force my workmen to subjection and they
+will submit; but with hatred and malice in their hearts--with hatred
+against me! Every apparent reconciliation will only be an armistice,
+during which they will gather new forces, in order to hurl them against
+me, and then I shall be obliged to quell them again, and thus the
+breach will become wider and wider, until one party is destroyed. Such
+a life I cannot bear!"
+
+With an impetuous movement he turned away from the window, as though he
+could no longer endure the sight of his works over there, and his voice
+had a weary sound, as he continued:
+
+"I have always thought that I would hold the reins at Odensburg as long
+as I lived, but for eight days past, I have been thinking differently.
+Who knows, Oscar, whether I may not turn over the management to you.
+even during my lifetime. In the crisis ahead of us, perhaps you would
+fill the place better than I."
+
+"Heavens, what an idea!" cried Wildenrod, shocked, and at the same time
+dazzled by the unsuspected prospect that opened up before him. "You are
+not seriously thinking of retiring?"
+
+"For the present--no!" said Dernburg, straightening himself up. "I have
+never yet avoided a battle when forced upon me, and shall fight this
+one through also."
+
+"And depend upon me to stand by you!" said Oscar, offering him his
+hand. "But one thing more: the director seems to dread lest there be
+disturbances at the works to-day, when it comes to paying off and
+discharging the offenders. The necessary measures have been taken,
+indeed, but I place myself at your disposal, if the authority of the
+officers should not prove adequate. You yourself should not appear in
+person. You owe it to yourself and your station not to expose yourself
+to insults that, from words, might extend to acts. Leave that to me!"
+
+An infinitely bitter smile played about Dernburg's lips, but he made a
+gesture of dissent.
+
+"I thank you, Oscar. Of your courage I have never had a doubt, but in
+such affairs I allow no one to represent me. But you shall have your
+place by my side. People shall see and know that I concede to you the
+rights of a son. I no longer make any secret of that."
+
+The two men again shook hands warmly, then Wildenrod went. In the
+ante-room, a servant came forward with this announcement:
+
+"Baron von Wildenrod, you will find upon your desk a note from Castle
+Eckardstein, which came about a half hour ago. We did not dare to
+disturb you, and the messenger was not to wait for an answer."
+
+"It is well," said the Baron, abstractedly. He had other things on his
+mind now--that expression which had been dropped just now, Dernburg's
+hint, that he might possibly give up the management of Odensburg very
+shortly. Had this been nothing but an ebullition of anger, a passing
+whim, that one was not to take in earnest? No, the man was cut to the
+quick; if he was actually forced into a prolonged battle with his
+workmen, it was likely, yea, certain, that he would put that thought
+into action,--and Oscar von Wildenrod would step into his place. Was it
+indeed true that the hotly contested goal was so close at hand? Oscar's
+eyes flashed. Oh, he would have no sentimental scruples like his future
+father-in-law--that rebellious Odensburg should learn to know its new
+master, this he vowed to himself.
+
+Not until he entered his own room and saw the note lying on his desk,
+did he recall the servant's message, and with some surprise he picked
+up the communication. From Castle Eckardstein? What could they have to
+say to him from there? The new proprietor knew, or at all events
+suspected, who had stood in the way of his acceptance with Maia, and
+surely would not make the attempt to renew neighborly relations.
+
+Oscar broke open the seal, ran his eye over the first lines and
+stopped. Quickly he turned the page over, looked at the signature, and
+turned pale. "Frederick von Stettin!" he murmured. "What evil spirit
+leads him to Eckardstein, and what does he want of me?"
+
+He began to read uneasily, with sinister looks. "It is a very grave and
+painful matter that I must discuss with you," wrote Herr von Stettin.
+"I have long hesitated as to the way in which this should be done, and
+have finally adopted the mildest expedient, for I cannot and will not
+forget the friendship that bound me to your father. Therefore I only
+say to you that I know your past, from the moment when you left
+Germany, up to your last stay at Nice. When we again met there
+unexpectedly, I procured this knowledge--never mind how. Under the
+circumstances, you will readily comprehend why I challenge you to
+vacate the place that you now occupy at Odensburg. They say that you
+are the betrothed of the daughter of the house: but you yourself best
+know how you have forfeited the right to link your fate with that of a
+pure young girl. It were a crime against Herr Dernburg and his family
+if I should allow such a thing to happen without opening his eyes.
+Spare me the bitter necessity of having to come forward as your
+accuser. Leave Odensburg! A pretext for your departure will be
+found--it will then be your affair to dissolve your connection with the
+family from a distance, in any way you see proper. I will allow you a
+respite of eight days; at the end of that time, if you are still at
+Odensburg, I must speak, and Dernburg learns the truth. I leave you
+time in which to make good your retreat: it is the only thing that I
+can do for the son of an old friend.
+
+                                   "Frederick von Stettin."
+
+
+Oscar let the note drop. He had not known who was the uncle and former
+guardian of both the Counts Eckardstein. During that brief and abruptly
+broken-off intercourse last summer, the name had not been called, and
+when Stettin himself arrived, shortly before Count Conrad's death, the
+relations with Odensburg had already become so strained that no notice
+was taken of the visitors of one family by the other. But Wildenrod
+knew the grave and discreet man from the visits he had paid to his
+father of old. He was not one to deal in mere threats; were he to
+refuse to retire as requested, he would do what he deemed his duty,
+without any hesitation, and then--then all was lost!
+
+Oscar jumped up and paced the floor with disordered steps. Just when he
+had stretched forth his hand to grasp the highest prize, then had come
+this crushing blow. Should he yield?--should he, in secret, cowardly
+flight, turn his back upon Odensburg, of which he had just felt himself
+to be the lord and master? Never!
+
+Eight days' respite was allowed him: it was a long time: what might not
+happen meanwhile? He had so often, already, stood on the verge of a
+precipice, whence it seemed as if a fall were inevitable, and he had
+always been saved by some rash resolve, or unheard-of streak of luck,
+now the thing to do was to put this luck once more to the test. In the
+midst of the wild whirl of thoughts and plans that stormed through his
+soul, only one thing stood out before him, clear and plain: he must
+make sure of Maia at any price, must chain her so firmly to him, that
+no power of earth, not even her father's, could tear her from him. She
+was the shield that would cover him from any attack, she, whose whole
+soul he had captivated, whose every thought and feeling belonged to
+him--this love was to be his salvation.
+
+Oscar again took up the letter and read it once more from beginning to
+end, then crushed it and threw it into the fireplace. The paper flamed
+up and was quickly consumed, while the Baron threw himself back in his
+chair and with lowering countenance gazed into the fire, ever devising
+new plans.
+
+A half hour might have thus elapsed, when the door opened, and the
+servant, coming in, announced:
+
+"Mr. Runeck, the engineer."
+
+"Who?" cried Wildenrod, starting up.
+
+"Herr Runeck wants to speak to you, Baron, about something important."
+
+It actually was Egbert, who followed closely behind the servant. He
+entered without waiting for an answer, and said, with a slight bow:
+
+"Pray do not refuse to listen to me, Baron von Wildenrod, for the
+business that brings me is both weighty and urgent."
+
+Oscar had leaped to his feet, and now silently motioned to the servant
+to withdraw. He did not, for an instant, deceive himself as to the
+significance of this appearance of Runeck, but Stettin's letter had
+prepared and steeled him against whatever might come. He no longer took
+into account one danger the more or less; so far as he was concerned,
+the question was already "To be or not to be?"
+
+"What brings you to me?" he asked coldly. "You will readily apprehend,
+Herr Runeck, that, after what has passed, your appearance is rather a
+surprise to me. I did not suppose that you would ever again cross the
+threshold of Odensburg.
+
+"My coming has to do with yourself alone," replied Egbert in the same
+tone, "and in your own interest I desire you to listen to me."
+
+"I am listening," was the curt answer.
+
+"No introduction should be needed," began Runeck. "You know what was
+spoken about, that time on the Whitestone, between your sister and
+myself. I was then convinced that she shared your life, innocently, in
+utter ignorance as to its tenor, and, for her sake alone, have I kept
+silent so long."
+
+"For Cecilia's sake!" exclaimed Oscar with a mocking laugh. "I
+understand that perfectly. She certainly has a claim to such
+consideration upon your part."
+
+Egbert drew back a step, and his brow contracted threateningly.
+
+"What do you mean to imply? I demand an explanation of that speech."
+
+Again came that short, mocking laugh from Wildenrod's lips, as he
+retorted: "Act no comedy with me; I know perfectly that to which I
+referred. What would poor Eric have done if he had suspected that his
+beloved friend had stolen from him the affections of his bride? Who
+knows from what bitter experiences sudden death saved him?"
+
+"That is a shameful supposition," cried Egbert, indignantly, "and you
+wrong your sister as you do me. You talk as if an understanding existed
+between us. Eric's betrothed was as unapproachable, for me, as is now
+his widow. As to my feelings, I am bound to render no one an account."
+
+"Not even Cecilia's brother?"
+
+"Such a brother--no!"
+
+"Herr Runeck, you are in my own room," reminded Oscar, with sharpness.
+
+"I know that, but I have not come to exchange civilities with you, but
+to have a settlement made that can be postponed no longer."
+
+"About what?" asked Wildenrod, as he stood there motionless, with arms
+crossed.
+
+"Is it possible that I shall have to explain it to you first?"
+
+"If I am to understand--assuredly."
+
+Runeck made a gesture of impatience, but restrained himself and with
+apparent composure went on: "It refers, in the first place, to that
+occurrence in Berlin, at the residence of Frau von Sarewski, that
+doubtless concerned all of those present. But as I did not belong to
+that circle of society and knew none of the participants intimately, I
+did not concern myself further about the matter. Not until you made
+your appearance at Odensburg and I recognized the danger that
+threatened both Eric and his father, through you, did I inquire
+further. I learned that the matter had been subjected to proof, and
+that nothing saved you but your speedy departure and the urgent desire
+of the participants to ward off a public scandal. The proofs then
+obtained I have now in my hands, and witnesses are at my disposal. In
+face of this will you actually play the ignorant?"
+
+Oscar made no further attempt at denial, but his eyes flashed with
+deadly hatred, as fiercely as though he would annihilate his accuser.
+It was not the accusation itself, which left him no way of escape
+whatever, but it was the tone of unutterable contempt in which it was
+made, that provoked the Baron to the utmost. All the pride and
+insolence of his nature revolted against it. He drew himself up to his
+full height. "And what object have you in saying all this to me? I have
+long known what I had to expect of you, and shall know how to defend
+myself. What signify threats? Why have you not dealt the blow long
+since?"
+
+"Because I supposed that you would sooner or later leave Odensburg.
+Neither Eric's marriage nor his death gave you a right to make it your
+permanent home. Just yesterday I learned that you and Maia were
+betrothed, and you will understand well when I tell you that this
+engagement shall not be consummated. I forbid the banns."
+
+"Really! And with what right?"
+
+"With the right of an honest man, who will not consent to see the
+daughter of Eberhard Dernburg and his Odensburg become the spoil of a
+villain."
+
+Wildenrod shrank back and his face became as livid as that of a corpse.
+"Be on your guard!" gasped he with half stifled voice, raising his fist
+as if to strike. "You will answer to me for this speech."
+
+"That will I, but not in the way you mean," said Egbert, fixing his eye
+firmly upon him. "Such battles are only fought out in the courts of
+justice, where one renders an account only through witnesses and
+proofs.--Do not look so earnestly at that revolver, which hangs yonder
+above your desk, Baron von Wildenrod. I readily believe it to be
+loaded, but I am on my guard--at the first step you take in that
+direction, I shall cast myself upon you."
+
+Oscar's eye had indeed turned to the revolver, and a crazy idea had
+darted into his mind, only, however, to be rejected instantly. What
+good would it do if he did shoot down his adversary? Stettin was
+bringing up the same accusation, Victor von Eckardstein likewise knew
+about it, and who knows how many more besides--the net was drawing its
+meshes about him from every side.
+
+"I offer you one way out--the last," began Runeck again. "Leave
+Odensburg forever--this very day, for Maia shall not be called your
+betrothed a single hour longer. Whatever people may then guess, nobody
+will know the full truth, and your sister and Maia will be spared the
+worst. I shall say nothing, if you give me your word that you will go."
+
+"No," said Wildenrod, with a composure that boded no good.
+
+"Baron von Wildenrod----"
+
+"No, I tell you."
+
+"Then I shall go straightway to Herr Dernburg and reveal everything to
+him. Your game is lost; give it up!"
+
+"Do you think so?" asked Oscar, wild with rage. "Do not boast until the
+end comes, Herr Egbert Runeck. Whatever may come of it, I'll not yield
+to you."
+
+"And that is your last word?"
+
+"My last--I stay!"
+
+Egbert silently turned to the door, which, the next minute, had closed
+behind him.
+
+Wildenrod was alone. Slowly he went up to his desk, and took down from
+the wall a revolver that he held for a long while in his hand. The way
+that his father had once taken, when every resource failed, was not to
+survive the disgrace of ruin. Here a deeper disgrace was to be
+expiated! The pale gleaming of the barrel of the pistol seemed to point
+out the same path to the son. But again strong love of life awoke in
+the man to whom life and its belongings had ever been more enticing
+than honor. Must he, indeed, give up the game as lost? He laid down the
+weapon and was soon lost in somber reverie, out of which he suddenly
+roused himself, as if by main force, and rigid determination was
+stamped upon his darkened countenance.
+
+"To Maia!" said he with spirit. "I shall see whether her love for me
+will stand this test. If she gives me up--well, then, there is still
+plenty of time to speak one last word with this last friend here!"
+
+
+
+
+                             CHAPTER XXII.
+
+                       HIS SIN HAD FOUND HIM OUT.
+
+
+"Where are Frau Dernburg and Fraeulein Maia? They have stayed in the
+park, I hope, or are safe at home?" With this eager question Dr.
+Hagenbach entered the parlor, where, for the present, only Fraeulein
+Friedberg was to be found.
+
+"The ladies set out to visit the young gentleman's grave, that is all I
+know about it," answered she in alarm. "Has anything happened?"
+
+"Not yet, but one cannot know what the next hour may bring forth. So
+the ladies have gone to the grave, have they? Well, it lies at the end
+of the park, in the opposite direction from the works, so that I trust
+there is nothing to fear. It would be well, though, for them to come
+back soon."
+
+"I expect them every moment. Is it so threatening, then, over at the
+works?"
+
+Hagenbach nodded and took a seat opposite the lady.
+
+"Alas! the officers are doing their very best to get through with
+paying off and discharging the workmen in peace and quiet, but this
+does not suit Fallner and his crew, who want to have a row, whether or
+no. A portion of the men have announced their intention to resume work
+to-morrow morning, the others have responded by threats and curses:
+finally, here and there it has come to deeds of violence, and it seems
+as if an insurrection may break forth this very evening."
+
+Leonie folded her hands with anxious mien. "Dear me! what is to be the
+end of all this? Herr Dernburg is as hard and inaccessible as a rock.
+You have no idea in what a mood he is. He will bid defiance to all--I
+am distressed to death."
+
+"Why, there is no need of that! What am I here for?" said Hagenbach,
+with emphasis. "I should protect you in case of necessity, but such
+necessity is not likely to occur. This house and its inmates are
+unconditionally safe, even if there should be some excesses committed
+over there. In that case you can depend upon me."
+
+"I know that," replied Leonie, warmly, holding out her hand to him,
+which he took, too, readily enough; he kept it likewise, and did not
+think of releasing it from his clasp.
+
+"I called to see you this morning," he began again, "but was not
+admitted!"
+
+Leonie cast down her eyes and her voice trembled, as she softly
+answered:
+
+"You will understand that it was painful for me, after the events of
+yesterday----"
+
+"I beg your pardon, I came only as a physician to inquire as to your
+health," remarked Hagenbach. "You look worn, have had a sleepless
+night--for that matter, so have I!"
+
+"You, Doctor?"
+
+"Why, yes, so many things were racking my brain. For example, I thought
+you were quite right in regarding me as a half bear. The only question
+is, whether the attempt would be worth while to try and make something
+human out of me. What is your opinion?"
+
+"My opinion? I have not thought on the subject," said Leonie, with a
+vain effort to disengage her hand.
+
+"But your opinion is a great deal to me," continued he. "You see,
+Fraeulein Friedberg, if one goes through life as a bachelor, without
+caring for anybody in particular, and knowing that no one cares
+particularly about him--it is a bad case. If one has, at least, a
+mother or sister, then one can get along somehow; but I have only that
+silly fellow Dagobert, and what I have in him you know yourself."
+
+"But, Doctor, must we discuss this subject just today?" said Leonie,
+trying to evade an answer. "At this hour, when all Odensburg----"
+
+"Odensburg will, I hope, do me the pleasure to defer its rebellion
+until we have arranged our matters," interposed Hagenbach. "And
+arranged they must be now, that I solemnly swore to myself during that
+aforesaid sleepless night. I called upon you, for the second time,
+awhile ago, but did not find you, because you were with Frau von
+Ringstedt. Nevertheless, I took the liberty of going in, because I
+wanted to take a peep at your desk. Over it hangs now the picture of
+your blessed mother, and I yield her that place cheerfully, for she is
+a saint in heaven. You have made short work of it, and bravely
+abandoned old memories and the like--and therefore--yes. What was it
+that I wanted to say?"
+
+The doctor began to get rather entangled in his talk. When he offered
+himself for the first time, he had gone ahead without calculation of
+any kind, and now, this second time, he wanted to proceed most gently
+and considerately--but here he stuck fast. But he made a quick resolve,
+got up and approached the lady of his choice, saying, with simple
+heartiness:
+
+"I love you, Leonie, and although I am a rough fellow--one cannot alter
+the old habits in a trice--yet I mean well, and if you would risk it
+with me, your consent would make me very happy. You say nothing:
+Nothing at all? May I take this as a good sign?"
+
+Leonie sat with glowing cheeks and downcast eyes, conscious of all the
+magnanimity and goodness of heart displayed by the man, whom she had so
+harshly rejected, and who now again offered her his heart and hand. He
+also understood this perfectly, and brought the matter into shape now,
+as quickly as possible, by taking his betrothed into his arms and
+kissing her.
+
+"God be thanked that we have at last got so far," said he, from the
+bottom of his heart. "I shall write to-morrow to that fellow Dagobert.
+Now he can make a wedding-song for us, and celebrate the praises of his
+future aunt--a poem that I shall certainly permit him to indite."
+
+"But, Doctor," admonished Leonie, reproachfully.
+
+"I am called Peter," interposed he. "The name does not please you, I
+know that of old--it is not poetical enough for you--but I was baptized
+so, and you will have to get used to it. Fraeulein Leonie Friedberg and
+Dr. Peter Hagenbach--that is the way it will stand on our betrothal
+cards."
+
+"But surely you have other baptismal names besides that one?" the
+bride-elect ventured to suggest.
+
+"Of course. Peter Francis Hugo."
+
+"Hugo, how pretty! I shall call you by that in the future."
+
+"That I protest against," declared Hagenbach, with a positiveness that
+already bespoke the future husband. "I am named Peter after my father
+and grandfather, so I have been always called, and so will my intended
+wife call me too."
+
+With timid familiarity that became her very well, Leonie placed her
+hand on her lover's arm and pleadingly looked him in the eye. "Dear
+Hugo--do you not like the sound of that already?"
+
+"No," growled the doctor, while he turned away.
+
+"Well, as you choose, Hugo. I shall conform in this respect entirely to
+your wishes. But Peter and Leonie do not suit together at all, you must
+perceive that yourself."
+
+Again Hagenbach growled, but this time in a much more subdued tone. He
+did not find his new name so bad, after all, when pronounced in this
+tone. But immediately there loomed up before him the horrors of
+petticoat government, and he felt himself pledged to guard his
+supremacy once for all.
+
+"Peter it stands," he decided. "You must submit to me in this, Leonie."
+
+"I submit myself in everything," asserted Leonie in tenderest tone. "I
+am, in general, a weak, dependent creature, who has no will of her own.
+You shall never listen to a contradiction in the whole course of our
+married life, dear Hugo--but surely you will not refuse the first
+request I make of you, and that on our betrothal-day?"
+
+Dear Hugo began to melt under the softening influence of this gentle
+voice and these pleading eyes, and his constancy as well as supremacy
+showed signs of giving way.
+
+"Well, if it gives you such great pleasure, you can call me so
+yourself," he admitted. "But on the cards of invitation it shall
+stand----"
+
+"Leonie Friedberg and Dr. Hugo Hagenbach! I thank you, Hugo, with all
+my heart, for this proof of your love!"
+
+What was poor Peter Hagenbach to do? He pocketed the thanks and covered
+his shameful retreat by bestowing a kiss upon his beloved. In this
+first dispute the "weaker" half had come off with flying colors and the
+stronger had had to lower his flag--it might be an omen----
+
+Meanwhile Dernburg was in his office, receiving announcements from the
+works that were anything but quieting. At other times, any unusual
+occurrence had found him either in the midst of or at the head of his
+workmen, but now he avoided any contact with them. Of late he had not
+spoken a word to any of the men, or taken the least notice of any,
+although he went daily to the works.
+
+He stood at the window, lost in melancholy brooding, for the moment
+entirely alone, and slowly turned around when the door was opened,
+believing that some new announcement was about to be made. In the next
+second, though, he shrank back and stared at the intruder, as though he
+could not believe his own eyes.
+
+"Egbert!"
+
+Egbert closed the door behind him, but paused on its threshold, while
+he said in a low voice:
+
+"I beg your pardon for having once more made use of my old privilege,
+of entering unannounced--it happens for the last time."
+
+Dernburg had already recovered his self-command, his eyes flashed
+portentously, and his voice was chilling in the extreme.
+
+"I certainly did not expect to see you again at Odensburg. Here Runeck,
+pray what leads the new delegate to me? I thought that we two were to
+have no more to say to one another."
+
+Runeck might have expected such a reception, but his glance was fixed
+reproachfully upon the speaker.
+
+"Herr Dernburg, you are too just to make me responsible for the
+excesses of election-day evening. I was in town----"
+
+"I know--with Landsfeld. And from there the movement was directed."
+
+Egbert turned pale and quickly drew one step nearer. "Am I to bear this
+reproach, too? Is it possible that you believe I could have had a share
+in those insults, that I could have known of them and not prevented
+them?"
+
+"Let us leave that," said Dernburg in the same cold tone. "We are now
+only political opponents, Herr Runeck. As such we shall occasionally
+meet in public life, but there no longer exists between us relations of
+any other sort. If you really have further communications to make to
+me, I would prefer to have them in writing. Since, however, you are
+here this time, what would you have of me?"
+
+"I _could_ not select writing as my medium," returned Runeck, firmly.
+"If my coming surprises you----"
+
+"Not at all! I am only astonished that you seek me here in my office.
+Your proper place is over yonder at the works among your constituents,
+who are just about to repeat the proceedings of election-day. Will you
+not place yourself at their head, and lead them against me? I am
+prepared for that step!"
+
+One who had looked at the young engineer must have seen how deeply he
+was wounded by these cruel words, and he was no longer able to maintain
+his calm demeanor. "Dernburg, not this tone!" he cried. "Shake out over
+me all the vials of your wrath--I will bear it--but do not speak to me
+in that tone; such a punishment I have not deserved."
+
+"Punishment? I thought you had outgrown my discipline," said Dernburg,
+with intense bitterness, although he did indeed drop the mocking tone.
+"Once more, what will you have here? Would you, perhaps, offer to
+protect me from those over there? They will obey the mere nod of their
+own delegate. I thank you, I shall cope with them single-handed. Half
+the men already repent of their enforced resolve to lay down their
+work, and to-morrow will resume it. But I forbid them to go to work
+unless they submit unconditionally and renounce their leaders."
+
+"Dernburg----"
+
+"They will not venture upon that, think you? Maybe so. You hold them
+with too tight a rein. Well, then, war is openly declared. You forced
+me to extremities in the first instance, now extremities I _will_
+have."
+
+Runeck was silent for a few minutes, then he said with sad earnestness:
+"That is a hard saying."
+
+"I know it. Think you I do not know the trend of coming events, if the
+ten thousand engaged in my enterprises take holiday for weeks, perhaps
+for months? The people will be driven to wretchedness, to despair, and
+I must be the witness of it. The responsibility for this, however,
+rests upon you and your fellows--you have left me no choice. For a
+generation, peace and blessedness had their abode at Odensburg, and
+whatever a man could do for his workmen, that I did. You have
+introduced discord and hatred, the dragon-seed has sprung up. See to
+it, now, how you shall manage the harvest."
+
+He turned away impetuously, and several times strode up and down the
+room. Then he paused in front of the young engineer, who, with clouded
+brow and downcast eyes, stood there without attempting a reply. "You
+are very likely afraid of the spirits that you have exorcised yourself,
+and would now like to play the part of mediator?" he asked, with
+scornful intonation. "You would be the last to whom I should accord
+such a privilege. I want to hear nothing of mediation in general. The
+bridges are broken down between me and these people, henceforth we have
+to treat with one another only as enemies."
+
+"I have not come as a mediator," said Egbert, straightening himself up.
+"My coming, in general, has nothing to do with this affair. What leads
+me here is a painful duty that I cannot escape from. It concerns Baron
+von Wildenrod, to whom you have promised Maia's hand."
+
+Dernburg started and looked at him in surprise.
+
+"What, you know of this engagement! Never mind: I no longer make any
+secret of it."
+
+"And fortunately I have heard of it in time to interpose."
+
+"Will you make any objection to it?" asked Dernburg, sharply. "There
+was a time when I would have admitted your claim to her, when the way
+to Maia's hand and heart stood open to you.--You know what blocked it
+up. You have sacrificed your love, like everything else, to your
+'convictions.'"
+
+"I never loved Maia," returned Runeck, firmly. "I saw in her only my
+young playmate, Eric's sister, and never entertained for her any other
+feelings than those of a brother."
+
+This explanation was given with such decision that it was no longer
+possible to doubt its truth.
+
+"Then in this, too, I have been mistaken," said Dernburg, slowly. "But
+what concern, then, of yours is my daughter's marriage?"
+
+"I want to guard Maia from becoming the prey of a--villain."
+
+"Egbert! have you lost your senses?" exclaimed Dernburg, passionately.
+"Do you know what you are saying? This mad accusation----"
+
+"I shall prove. I would have spoken long ago, but I have only just
+succeeded in obtaining the documents, only just learned of the Baron's
+plan to usurp control of Odensburg, together with Maia's hand. Now, I
+must speak, and you must listen to me."
+
+Dernburg had turned pale, but still revolted against giving credence to
+this unheard-of thing that seemed to him inconceivable.
+
+"I shall require the proofs of you for everything," resumed he,
+menacingly. "And now go on, I am listening!"
+
+"Baron von Wildenrod has the reputation here of being rich, but in
+reality is not worth a stiver. It must be twelve years now since he
+forsook the diplomatic career, because his father's loss of fortune
+deprived him of all means of maintaining himself in proper style. The
+old Baron shot himself, and the family had only to thank their noble
+name for the interposition in their favor of the reigning Prince. He
+bought the estates, that were heavily encumbered with debt, satisfied
+their creditors, and granted the widow a small pension as long as she
+lived. The son forsook Germany and has never since been heard of in his
+native land."
+
+Dernburg listened with darkly contracted eyebrows. He had once received
+a different account, which, indeed, contained no direct untruth, but
+concealed the decisive element, namely, the ruined fortunes of the
+family.
+
+"I became acquainted with Oscar von Wildenrod three years ago,"
+continued Runeck. "It was in Berlin, at the house of a Frau von
+Sarewski, a wealthy widow who lived in very handsome style. I gave her
+children drawing-lessons, at which she was often present, and by her
+desire I drew a sketch of an addition planned for her villa. This met
+with her full approval, and she wanted to give me a sign of
+recognition, by inviting me to one of her evening entertainments. I
+dared not decline, for I was dependent upon the fees I received from
+teaching drawing for the means to continue my studies. A perfect
+stranger in that fashionable circle, which inspired me with not the
+slightest interest, I retired that evening into a side-room, where the
+brother of the lady of the house was seated at cards with a few other
+gentlemen. Among them was Baron von Wildenrod, who, as I learned from
+their conversation, had been in Berlin for three months, and expected
+to pass the winter there. He was strikingly favored by fortune in his
+play, while the others had just as decided ill-luck. The brother of
+Frau von Sarewski, passionately devoted to card-playing, set the stakes
+ever higher and higher, his losses being proportionate, while Wildenrod
+had already won a little fortune. This whole carrying-on was repulsive
+to me, and I was in the act of withdrawal, when an elderly gentleman, a
+Count Almers, who was likewise among the card-players, suddenly seized
+the Baron's hand, held it fast, and, in a voice quivering with rage,
+pronounced him a black-leg."
+
+"Did you see that yourself?" asked Dernburg, sternly.
+
+"With my own eyes! I was also a witness to that which followed. The
+gentlemen sprang to their feet, and everything was astir; the loud
+talking pro and con brought all the other guests, Frau von Sarewski
+also making her appearance. She begged and implored those present to
+let the matter rest, and spare her house the notoriety of a public
+scandal. Wildenrod acted the man of outraged, deeply wounded feelings:
+he threatened to challenge the Count, but made use of this show of
+indignation as a pretext to withdraw as speedily as possible. Now Count
+Almers declared that he had been on the track of this deceiver for a
+long while, but had only to-day found the opportunity to unmask him. He
+insisted upon following up the investigation, since Wildenrod moved in
+the first circles, and elements of this sort must be ruthlessly
+ejected. The entreaties of Frau von Sarewski and the representations of
+her brother finally had the effect of moving the witnesses to keep
+silence, provided that Wildenrod could be induced to leave the city at
+once. This was superfluous, for he had no idea of either challenging
+the Count or attempting to clear himself. The next morning it was
+discovered that he had taken his departure in the night."
+
+Those were plain facts that Runeck reported, but his bearing and tone
+gave to the narration a frightful emphasis. It was seen what a crushing
+revelation this was to the listener, although he gave no outward sign
+of sympathy.
+
+"What else?" said he, bluntly and roughly.
+
+"I neither heard nor saw anything more of Wildenrod until the
+moment when he made his appearance at Odensburg, as Eric's future
+brother-in-law. I recognized him at the first glance, while he had no
+recollection whatever of my personality: a hint that I gave he repelled
+with great haughtiness."
+
+"And you concealed this from me? You did not mention it at once?"
+
+"Would you have believed me without proofs?"
+
+"No, but I would have set investigations afoot and learned the truth."
+
+"I did that in your stead. I had manifold relations with Berlin, that I
+now availed myself of: I turned to Wildenrod's native place and to Nice
+where Eric had made his acquaintance, and it was not my fault that
+months elapsed before my inquiries were answered. What you would have
+done was attended to by me, and information was given to me as a
+stranger that would hardly have been obtainable by you, under the
+circumstances. Nevertheless, I did think of warning you, provisionally,
+but then, I suppose, you would have dissolved the tie on which depended
+the happiness of Eric's life, and that would have been the death of
+him. He told me himself, once--when apparently without design I
+suggested such a possibility--that to lose Cecilia would be the death
+of him. I knew that he spoke the truth--such consequences I could not
+and would not take upon myself."
+
+"Cecilia?" repeated Dernburg with a gleam of suspicion. "Quite right.
+She too is deeply concerned in this thing. What part did she play in
+the affair? What did she know about it?"
+
+"Nothing--not the least thing! She lived unsuspectingly by her
+brother's side, deeming him a rich man. Under this impression she
+engaged herself to Eric, and it was here at Odensburg that she became
+aware of something dark and mysterious in her brother's past. What it
+was I did not have the heart to tell her, but the manner in which she
+took my hints gave me convincing proof that not the slightest blame was
+to be attached to her."
+
+Dernburg's deep sigh of relief betrayed the dread that he had
+entertained lest a shadow might also fall upon his daughter-in-law. A
+hardly audible "God be thanked!" came from his lips.
+
+Egbert drew out a pocket-book, and took from it a number of papers.
+
+"Here is a letter from Count Almers, who gives his word of honor for
+the assertion that he made that time; here are accounts as to what
+happened at the death of the old Baron, and here information from Nice.
+Eric must have been blind, or they purposely kept him aloof from other
+society, else he would have known that his brother already had the
+reputation of being a doubtful character throughout the bounds of Nice,
+being looked upon as a professional gambler. How he managed to force
+his 'luck,' was suspected here and there, perhaps, but not to be
+proved, and that gave him the possibility of maintaining an appearance
+of respectability."
+
+Dernburg took the proffered papers and stepped at once to the table,
+whereon stood a bell.
+
+"First of all I must hear Wildenrod himself! You will not shrink, I
+hope, from repeating your accusation in his presence?"
+
+"I have just done that--I came from his room. It was a last effort to
+end the matter in a way that would spare his exposure, but it failed.
+The Baron knows that I am revealing all this to you, at this hour--he
+has not followed me to answer for himself."
+
+"Never mind, he is to render me an account!" Dernburg pressed on the
+bell and called to the servant who entered: "Tell Baron von Wildenrod
+to come to me, please, at once."
+
+The servant went; along, awkward silence ensued. Nothing was heard but
+the rustling of the papers that Dernburg opened one after the other and
+looked through: he turned ever paler as he proceeded. Egbert tarried,
+silent and motionless, in his place. Thus the minutes elapsed. It was
+long, very long, before the door was opened, and then it was not
+Wildenrod who entered but the servant who returned, saying:
+
+"The Baron is not in his rooms, nor, indeed, anywhere about the house.
+Perhaps he has already ridden away."
+
+"Ridden away? Where to?"
+
+"Apparently to the city. He ordered the horses put to the carriage and
+that it should drive to the back gate of the park. He must be there by
+this time."
+
+A silent nod dismissed the servant, and then Dernburg's self-control
+gave way. He sank into a chair, and a cry of despair escaped his lips.
+
+"My child! my poor, poor Maia! She loves this man with all her heart."
+
+There was something appalling in the grief of this man, who with lofty
+brow went into a battle that threatened his existence, but who seemed
+unable to bear the misfortune of his darling.
+
+Egbert gently approached and stooped over him. "Herr Dernburg," said
+he, with trembling voice.
+
+A fierce and repellent gesture waved him back. "Go! What do you here?"
+
+"Eric is dead, and you have to spurn from you the man who was to take
+his place. Give me only this once more--only for this hour--the right
+that I once possessed."
+
+"No," cried Dernburg, drawing himself up, and his features were again
+as cold and hard as ever. "You have renounced me and mine; you have
+forfeited the right to endure suffering with us. Go over to your
+friends and comrades, to whom you have sacrificed me, and who now rage
+around me like a pack of hounds just let loose. To them you belong;
+there is your place! They have treated me ill, but you worst of all,
+because you stood next my heart. From you I want no sympathy and no
+support--I will go to destruction first."
+
+He walked into the adjacent library and slammed the door to behind him.
+The bridge between him and Egbert was broken.
+
+
+
+
+                             CHAPTER XXIII.
+
+                            A LOVERS' TRYST.
+
+
+The park trees rocked and rustled in the wind, which now, towards
+evening, threatened to become a storm. It drove the red and yellow
+leaves whirling through the air, and a gray, cloud-covered sky looked
+down upon the autumnal earth.
+
+Maia came back alone from her brother's resting-place, while Cecilia
+still lingered there. It had required persuasion to induce the former
+to go at all. In the midst of life's sunny springtime, the young girl
+felt a secret horror of all connected with death and burial. Existence
+beckoned to her, and happiness by the side of the man she loved.
+
+On her way back she came past the Rose Lake, where Oscar had first
+confessed his love to her. Today, indeed, the spot looked very
+different from what it had done on that May-day in the splendor of
+sunshine and spring. Dry leaves covered the ground, and the reeds
+lining the shore were likewise withered and dry, while the lake itself
+looked black and uninviting in the dull light of that stormy day. No
+sweet singing of birds any longer sounded from the thicket, laid bare
+as it was by autumnal blasts; all was lifeless and still, while the
+mountain-chain, that had once looked so dreamily blue from the
+distance, was wrapped to-day in a dense fog.
+
+Involuntarily Maia's steps were arrested here; she gazed fixedly upon
+the sadly altered spot, and, shivering, drew her mantle closer around
+her shoulders. Then she heard approaching steps, and the next minute
+Oscar von Wildenrod emerged from the coppice.
+
+"I have been all through the park looking for you, Maia," said he,
+petulantly, "and had despaired of finding you."
+
+"I was with Cecilia at Eric's grave," replied the young girl. "She is
+still there."
+
+"So much the better, for what I have to say is for yourself alone. Will
+you listen to me?"
+
+Without waiting for an answer, he drew her down upon the bench, over
+which the beech now stretched her ghostlike arms, half-stripped as they
+were of their foliage. Not till now had Maia observed that he wore hat
+and overcoat, and that his features had a strangely disordered
+expression.
+
+"Nothing bad has happened, has there?" she asked in great agitation.
+"Papa----"
+
+"The matter does not concern him, but me, or rather both of us. Maia, I
+have something serious--hard to tell you. You are to show me, now,
+whether your love for me stands firm. You love me still, do you not?
+You once gave yourself fully to me, on this very spot. I thought, then,
+I was asking your hand only for happiness, for a life full of sunshine
+and joy--have you the courage to share sorrow with me also?"
+
+Maia was stunned, as it were, by this torrent of words; she shuddered.
+
+"Oscar, for heaven's sake, tell me what you mean? You distress me
+unutterably by these dark hints."
+
+"I ask of you a sacrifice--a great, heavy sacrifice. Will you make it
+for my sake?"
+
+"If you ask it. Everything, everything that you want!"
+
+"Suppose that I were to ask you to leave father and home, to go with me
+far away into a foreign land--would you follow me?"
+
+"Father! Home!" repeated the young girl, mechanically. "But we stay
+here at Odensburg."
+
+"No. I must begone--will you go with me?"
+
+"I--I do not understand you," said Maia, trembling in every limb.
+
+He threw his arm around her and drew her to him. His face was as pale
+as death, and in his eyes glowed that threatening flame which had so
+alarmed her when they first met.
+
+"I told you once of my earlier life," he began, "of a wild, restless
+pursuit of fortune, that seemed ever to flee before me, until I finally
+found it here in possessing you--do you remember that?"
+
+"Yes," whispered Maia. Did she remember it! It had been the same hour
+in which he had declared his love for her.
+
+"I could not unveil that past to your pure child-eyes," continued
+Wildenrod, his voice sinking into a whisper; "and cannot to-day either,
+but there is a shadow in it-----"
+
+"A misfortune--was it not?" The question had a dispirited sound.
+
+"Yes--a misfortune, that deprived me of my profession, and enticed me
+into evil and guilt. I had cast all this from me and wanted to begin a
+new life, here at your side. But again the old shadow looms up, and
+threatens me again--yes, threatens to snatch you from me, Maia."
+
+"No, no, I am not going to leave you, whatever has happened, or may
+happen!" cried Maia, vehemently, clinging to him. "My father is lord of
+Odensburg, he will protect you."
+
+"No, your father will dissolve our engagement, and part us irrevocably.
+Stern man that he is, with his rigid principles, he would rather see
+you dead than at the side of a husband whose past is not what it should
+he. There is only one way for you to be preserved to me, one single
+one--but you must have courage."
+
+"What--what am I to do?" she stammered, powerless under the ban
+of his eyes and his voice. He stooped lower down to her and these
+words streamed hotly and passionately over his lips: "You are my
+betrothed--I have the right to claim you as my wife! Let us fly from
+Odensburg, and just as soon as we cross the German boundary line, I
+shall lead you to the altar. Then nobody, not even your father, will
+have the right to take you from me--no power can stand against our
+marriage. And you will be mine indissolubly."
+
+Oscar von Wildenrod knew very well that a marriage of this kind was
+null and void in the eyes of the law; but what cared he for that, if it
+only satisfied Maia and made her believe herself to be his wife? Then
+Dernburg would have to consent; for the sake of the honor of his name,
+he could not admit that his daughter had lived for a while in a foreign
+land with a man who was not her husband, and the legal forms could be
+gone through with hereafter. After all, his claim to Odensburg might
+yet be made good. Was not Maia still her father's heir? Hence upon her
+hand depended freedom and wealth.
+
+It was a wild, crazy scheme, suggested to the Baron by despair.
+Meanwhile it was practicable, if Maia only gave her consent. But now,
+in horror, she started back, releasing herself from his arms.
+
+"Oscar! What is it that you ask of me?"
+
+"My salvation!" he exclaimed, vehemently. "I am lost if I stay--you
+alone can save me. Go with me, Maia; be my wife, my shield, and I shall
+thank you for it on my knees. Only two paths are left to me now--the
+one with you leads to life, the other without you----"
+
+"To death!" shrieked Maia. "Oh, how dreadful! Oh! no, no, Oscar, you
+are not to die. I am going with you, wherever you choose."
+
+A cry of joy escaped his lips; he overwhelmed his betrothed with
+passionate caresses. "My Maia! I knew it. You would not forsake me,
+even though all others forsook me. And now, come! we have no time to
+lose."
+
+"Now? This very hour?" asked Maia, shuddering. "Am I to see my father
+no more?"
+
+"Impossible! You would betray yourself! We must leave on the spot. The
+carriage is in waiting to carry us to the station, at the gate in the
+rear of the park; I have with me my papers and a sum of money. In the
+excitement prevailing to-day at Odensburg, our departure will not be
+noticed. I shall see to it that they find not a trace of us, until I
+can announce our union to your father."
+
+Maia's eyes were fixedly riveted upon the speaker, but hers were no
+longer glad, innocent child-eyes; there was an expression in them that
+Oscar could not fathom.
+
+"Not say farewell to my father?" repeated she, mechanically. "Not even
+that, when I am giving him up forever?"
+
+"Not forever," said Wildenrod, soothingly. "Your father will be
+reconciled to us. I shall take upon myself alone all the blame and
+responsibility of this step. We shall come back."
+
+"Not I!" said the young girl, softly. "I shall die of that life in a
+foreign land, of separation from my father, of that--that dreadful
+thing, which you will not name before me. Oh, your love will be my
+death!"
+
+"Maia!" cried he, interrupting her in angry surprise, but she would not
+be diverted, and continued:
+
+"Somehow, I have always known it. When you first entered our house, and
+I looked into your eyes for the first time, a sense of distress came
+over me, as though I were standing on the edge of a precipice and must
+fall down. And this sense of distress has come ever again, even in that
+hour when you told me that you loved me, even in the midst of the
+happiness of these last weeks. I did not want to know the meaning of
+it, have struggled against it and clung to my supposed happiness. Now
+you point me to the abyss, and I--I must plunge down."
+
+"And still you are willing to go with me?" asked Oscar, slowly: it was
+as though breath failed him.
+
+"Yes, Oscar! You say that I can save you, how dare I hesitate?"
+
+She laid her head upon his breast, with a low, heart-rending sob, in
+which the young creature buried her happiness. Wildenrod stood there,
+motionless, and looked down upon her: from the beech-tree withered
+leaves rained slowly down upon the pair.
+
+At last Maia straightened herself up and dried her tears. "Let us go--I
+am ready!"
+
+"No!" said Oscar, almost rudely, while he let her out of his arms.
+
+The young girl looked at him in surprise.
+
+"What did you say?"
+
+He took off his hat and stroked his forehead, as though he would wipe
+something away. Suddenly his features appeared to be strangely altered:
+a few minutes before they had portrayed all the fierce passionateness
+of his nature, now they were cold and stolid in their calmness.
+
+"I perceive that you are right," said he, and his voice sounded
+unnaturally composed. "It would be cruel to hinder you from taking
+leave of your father. Go to him and tell him--what you choose."
+
+"And you?" asked Maia, astonished at this sudden change of mind.
+
+"I shall wait for you here. It is better, perhaps, that you should
+speak to him once more, ere we venture upon that last desperate
+measure. Perhaps you will succeed in changing his mind."
+
+It was only a faint glimmer of light that he showed her, but no more
+was needed for the rekindling of bright hopes in Maia's heart.
+
+"Yes, I shall go to papa!" she cried. "I shall implore him on my knees
+not to part us. You cannot have done anything so dreadful, so
+unpardonable, and he will and shall hear me. But--would it not be
+better for you to go with me?"
+
+"No, it would be in vain! But now go! go!--time is precious."
+
+He urged her almost anxiously to leave, and yet when she actually did
+turn to go, he suddenly stretched out to her both arms.
+
+"Come to me, Maia! Tell me once more that you love me, that you wanted
+to go with me, in spite of everything?"
+
+The young girl flew back to him again and nestled up to him.
+
+"You dread lest I should not stand firm? I'll share everything with
+you, Oscar, though it were the worst. Nothing can separate us. I love
+you beyond everything."
+
+"Thank you!" said he, fervently. Suppressed feeling quivered in his
+voice; from his eyes, too, that sinister glare had departed, and they
+now beamed with unutterable tenderness. "Thank you, my Maia! You have
+no idea what a freeing, absolving influence that speech has had upon
+me, what a boon you bestow upon me in its utterance. Perhaps you are
+about to learn from your father's lips what I cannot tell you. If all
+of you, then, condemn and cast me from you forever, then remember that
+I loved you, loved you devotedly. How much I never realized until this
+moment--and I shall prove it to you."
+
+"Oscar, you stay here?" asked Maia, agonized by a dark foreboding.
+
+"I stay at Odensburg, my word for it--and now, go, my dear!"
+
+He kissed his betrothed once more and then released her. She walked
+slowly away: on the edge of the thicket, she turned around. Wildenrod
+was still standing there motionless gazing after her; but he smiled,
+and that quieted the anxiety of the young girl, who now moved briskly
+forward into the fog, where she was soon lost in the gathering mist.
+
+Oscar followed the slender form with his eyes until she had vanished,
+then he went slowly back to the bench and tentatively laid his hand
+upon his breast-pocket. There rested his papers, the sum of money he
+carried on his person, and--something else, that he had provided for
+all emergencies. Now, here it was safe ... but no, not here, not
+so near to the house! Then what mattered one hour the more or the
+less--night suited his purpose better.
+
+"Poor Maia!" said he, softly. "You will weep bitterly, but your father
+will fold you in his arms. You are right: such a life and my guilt
+would kill you.--You shall be saved. I am going alone--to destruction!"
+
+
+The Dernburg family burying-ground lay in the rear of the park. It was
+no showy mausoleum, but merely a peaceful spot, encircled by dark
+fir-trees. Plain marble memorial stones adorned the green hillocks that
+were mantled in ivy. Here rested Dernburg's father and wife, and here
+his son Eric had also found a resting-place.
+
+The young widow still lingered alone at the grave, but the
+ever-increasing violence of the wind warned her that it was time for
+her, too, to be going. She had just stooped down to readjust the fresh
+wreath that she had laid on the grave, and was now rising, when all of
+a sudden she gave a start. Egbert Runeck had emerged from the fir-trees
+and stood opposite to her. He had evidently had no idea of meeting her
+here, but quickly composed himself, and said, with a bow: "I beg your
+pardon, lady, if I disturb you. I expected to find the place solitary!"
+
+"Are you at Odensburg, Herr Runeck?" asked Cecilia, without concealing
+her surprise.
+
+"I was calling upon Herr Dernburg, and could not let the opportunity
+pass by without visiting the burial-place of the friend of my youth. It
+is the first, and probably will be the last, time that I see it."
+
+As he spoke his eye scanned furtively the young widow's figure that was
+draped in black: then he drew near the grave and looked down upon it
+long and silently.
+
+"Poor Eric!" said he, after a while. "He had to depart so early, and
+yet--it is an enviable fate, to die thus in the midst of happiness!"
+
+"You are mistaken--Eric did not die happy!" said Cecilia, in a low
+tone.
+
+"You believe that he was conscious of approach of death and felt the
+pangs of parting? I heard, though, that the hemorrhage came upon him in
+apparently full health, and that he never recovered consciousness."
+
+"I do not know; for me, there was something mysterious in Eric's last
+moments," replied Cecilia, dejectedly. "When he once more opened his
+eyes, shortly before he died, I saw that he recognized me. That look
+still pursues me; I cannot get rid of it. It was so full of woe and
+reproach, as though he had known or suspected----" she suddenly broke
+off.
+
+"What could he have suspected?" asked Runeck, impulsively.
+
+Cecilia was silent here; least of all could she say what she feared.
+
+"My brother thinks it is imagination," she then replied evasively. "He
+may be right, and yet I can never recall that moment but with a sharp,
+keen pang."
+
+She bowed distantly to Egbert and was on the point of going; he
+evidently struggled with himself, then made a movement as though to
+detain the young widow.
+
+"I believe it will be better to prepare you, lady, for the news that
+you will hear when you reach the house. Baron von Wildenrod has left
+for good?"
+
+"My brother?" cried Cecilia, her anxieties at once aroused. "And you
+here at Odensburg? What have you done?"
+
+"Fulfilled a painful duty!" he gravely replied. "Your brother has left
+me no choice. He was warned through you--he should have been satisfied
+with what he had already accomplished--Maia ought not to be sacrificed!
+I have opened her father's eyes."
+
+"And Oscar? He has gone off you say--where to?"
+
+"That nobody knows as yet. He will certainly communicate with you
+after a while; you stand as high as ever in the affections of your
+father-in-law. He knows that not the slightest reproach attaches to
+you."
+
+"The question here is not about myself, is it?" cried the young woman,
+vehemently. "Do you think that I can live quietly here at Odensburg,
+with my brother a wanderer upon the face of the earth, once more a prey
+to those inimical forces that have already brought him so low? You have
+done your duty--yes, thoroughly well! What asks a stern nature like
+yours, about whom and what has been crushed in the process?"
+
+"Cecilia!" interposed Runeck, his tone betraying the torture he endured
+while listening to these reproaches. But Cecilia paid no heed and
+continued with increasing bitterness:
+
+"Maia's hand and love would have saved Oscar, that I do know, for there
+was in him as mighty a power for good as for evil. Now he has been
+hurled back into the old life; now he is lost."
+
+"Through me--is that what you would say?"
+
+She did not answer, but the reproachful glance that she cast upon the
+young engineer was bitter in the extreme. Proudly but sadly he stood
+before her.
+
+"You are right," said he, harshly. "Destiny has certainly condemned me
+to bring woe and misery upon all that I hold dear. I had to wound in
+the cruelest manner the man who had been more than a father to me. I
+had likewise to inflict no less a blow upon poor little Maia's heart.
+But the hardest of all was what I had to do to you, Cecilia, and for
+which you now condemn me!"
+
+He waited in vain for a reply. Cecilia persisted in her silence. There
+was a rushing and roaring around the pair, as at that time when they
+stood at the foot of the Whitestone. Mysteriously came this roaring as
+from a far distance; on, on it came, ever swelling stronger and then
+sinking and dying away with the breath of the wind. But now the autumn
+storm howled furiously among the trees, half-bare of foliage as they
+were; the first gray shadows of evening began to steal upward, and what
+mingled with that rushing and roaring was not the peaceful Sabbath
+bells as before, but strange and dismal noises. A far-off and confused
+murmur it was, too undecided to determine what it was, for again and
+again it was swallowed up by the storm. But now the wind lulled for a
+few minutes, when it came across more loudly and distinctly. Cecilia
+drew herself up and listened intently. "What was that? Did it come from
+the house?"
+
+"No, it seemed to come from the works," declared Runeck. "I heard it a
+while ago."
+
+Both now listened, with bated breath, and suddenly Egbert exclaimed,
+with a start:
+
+"I hear the voices of men! It is the raging of an angry mob. Something
+is going on over at the works--I must go over!"
+
+"You, Herr Runeck? What would you there?"
+
+"Protect the master of Odensburg from his people! I best know how they
+have been goaded and set against him. If he shows himself now, he is no
+longer safe among his workmen."
+
+"For Heaven's sake!" cried Cecilia, horrified.
+
+"Fear nothing!" Runeck hastened to assure her. "So long as I stand by
+his side, no one will come near him. Woe to him who risks it!"
+
+Cecilia had sprung forward: a few minutes before she had believed that
+she could not pardon her brother's accuser, and now all that supposed
+hatred was swallowed up in anguish over him, over _his_ life. She flew
+forward and embraced his arm with both hands.
+
+"Egbert!"
+
+He was in the act of hurrying away, but now stood still as though
+spellbound.
+
+"Cecilia! Do you call me thus?"
+
+"Do you mean to brave that infuriated mob over there? Oh, you court
+death!" cried the young widow, beside herself. "Egbert, think of me and
+my mortal anxiety about you!"
+
+With an impetuous shout of joy, Egbert wanted to draw his beloved to
+him, but his eye fell upon her mourning garb and upon the grave of his
+old friend, and he only drew her hand silently to his lips; but a
+bright ray of happiness lit up his face, as he said softly,
+
+"I _will_ think of it--farewell, Cecilia!" With that he rushed off.
+
+
+That evening the Odensburg works had been the theater of wild and
+stormy scenes. The moderation and circumspection with which the
+officers sought to keep down the angry excitement on the part of the
+mass of the workmen, and to maintain quiet and order among those
+dismissed, had been in vain; all was wrecked by the aggressive bearing
+of that party which Landsfeld secretly guided, and at the head of which
+stood Fallner here at the works.
+
+To-day the Socialist leader had found it altogether necessary to come
+himself to Odensburg, a thing that he usually avoided; for he knew this
+time what was at stake.
+
+Most of the workmen had already come to their senses, more than half of
+them having determined to resume work on the morrow, and to submit to
+the conditions of the chief. The effect of this example upon the others
+was to be foreseen. It was of importance, then, to incite to scenes of
+violence, cost what it would, in order that reconciliation be made
+impossible. And in this he had already succeeded.
+
+The works were full of waving, noisy masses of men, who, by way of
+preliminary, were threatening one another. Fallner and his adherents
+hurled terms of opprobrium against the opposite party: "Cowards!
+Traitors! Hounds!" they cried, in a confused medley of invective, and
+those they attacked were not slow in returning the compliment. They
+threw it up to their comrades that they had been goaded into
+insurrection, and that a conclusion had been forced upon them which
+they had not liked. As yet fists played only a secondary part, but it
+was felt that a bloody encounter might ensue at any moment, and unchain
+all the fury of the excited multitude.
+
+In the superintendent's building the officers had to sustain a regular
+siege. From the now closed workshops and bureaux, the younger ones had
+taken refuge here with their superiors, who were themselves thoroughly
+nonplused. The measures taken had proved themselves inefficacious. They
+were just now consulting as to the wisest thing to do.
+
+
+
+
+                             CHAPTER XXIV.
+
+                   A DEED THAT WIPES OUT OLD SCORES.
+
+
+"There is no help for it, we must call in the master," said the
+director. "He was determined, whether or no, to interfere in case of
+necessity--I am at my wits' end now."
+
+"For Heaven's sake no!" objected Winning. "He ought not to show
+himself. He will hardly be in the mood to speak kindly to the people,
+and if he meets them with asperity, then the worst is to be feared."
+
+"What are those men out there after, anyhow?" cried Dr. Hagenbach, who
+was likewise present, because he feared that his medical services might
+be needed. "Whom are they threatening? Herr Dernburg? Us? Or are they
+quarreling among themselves?"
+
+"I presume they themselves know least of all," replied the
+upper-engineer. "You may depend, their leader Landsfeld is at the
+bottom of it. He is to be in Odensburg to-day, when we may certainly
+expect matters to take a grave aspect."
+
+"So much the less can I assume any longer the responsibility all by
+myself," declared the director. "I shall tell our chief that we are no
+longer masters of the situation. He can then do what he chooses."
+
+He started for the telephone, when all of a sudden the noise ceased. He
+hushed quite suddenly, only a few individual voices being heard; then
+these too were silent and a deathlike silence prevailed. The officers
+hurried to the window, in order to see what was going on.
+
+"There is the master!" exclaimed Winning. "I thought that he would
+appear without summons, if he heard that tumult."
+
+"But how he does look!" added Hagenbach, in a whisper. "I fear that
+nature will give way."
+
+"Let us open the doors, so that he can retreat here in case of
+necessity," said the director, who had likewise come up. "He is quite
+alone, not even Wildenrod is with him. We must go to him! Quick,
+gentlemen!"
+
+The doors were opened that had been locked from the inside, but the
+officers could neither reach their chief, nor he them--a dense mass of
+men stood between, and held the square before the house. The attempt of
+the director and his colleagues, to break through this living wall, was
+vain--the workmen standing nearest assumed so threatening an attitude,
+the gentlemen desisted, so as not to tempt to a deed of violence that
+would have immediately reacted against Dernburg.
+
+He had made use of the little by-path that led from the Manor to the
+superintendent's building, without going near the works. Nobody had
+seen his approach, and now he suddenly stood among his workmen as if he
+had sprung from the ground. The whole force of his personal presence
+was shown at this moment--his bare appearance had the most subduing
+effect upon the just now fiercely excited multitude, who suddenly
+stood, as it were, spellbound. All eyes were directed toward that tall
+form, with darkly knitted eyebrows; all waited for the first word from
+his mouth. His glance slowly swept over the crowd that he had once
+swayed by a single nod, and who now withstood him thus. Still he spoke
+not, for it seemed as though utterance had failed him.
+
+Unfortunately it happened that Landsfeld, with Fallner, was in
+immediate proximity to him. There, in front of the superintendent's
+building, where they had cooped in the officers, the rashest of his
+followers had found themselves together, the Socialist leader had taken
+his stand. Dernburg's appearance seemed to him to be neither surprising
+nor undesired; on the contrary, there flashed into his eyes a look as
+of satisfaction, as he whispered to Fallner, who was constantly at his
+side, as a sort of adjutant:
+
+"There is the old man! I knew that he would not stay quietly at home
+while the devil was to pay over at his works. Now the ball begins to
+roll!"
+
+Finally Dernburg began to speak: his voice was loud and firm, and the
+deep silence round about caused every word to be distinctly heard.
+
+"What means this noise here at the works? There is no reason for it.
+You gave warning, and I have had the workshops closed and shall keep
+them closed. You have been paid your wages, so now go home!"
+
+The workmen were startled; they had been accustomed to their chiefs
+speaking shortly and dictatorially, but this cold, contemptuous tone
+they heard from his lips now for the first time. They felt it at once,
+without being able exactly to account for it.
+
+Now Landsfeld deemed that the hour had come for his personal
+interference. "You and the rest follow me," was his brief command to
+Fallner, and then, without further ceremony, he turned to Dernburg.
+
+"The question here is not one of pay," he began, with insolent mien.
+"What the workmen want of you, Herr Dernburg, they have already
+communicated to you. Those unjust dismissals are to----"
+
+"Who are you? Who gives you the right to put in a word here?"
+interrupted Dernburg, although he knew the speaker by sight as well as
+that person knew him.
+
+"My name is Landsfeld," was the haughty reply. "I think that suffices
+for my justification."
+
+"Intermeddling from without I do not brook. Leave Odensburg on the
+spot!"
+
+This order sounded proud and contemptuous. Landsfeld retired a step and
+measured from head to foot the man who stood before him, unsupported,
+and yet dared to speak thus.
+
+"Such an order I shall not heed," answered he, scornfully. "I stand
+here in the name of my party, which Odensburg matters very nearly
+concern. Comrades! do you recognize me as your proxy? Am I to speak for
+you?"
+
+Fallner and his men, who had followed their leader and encircled him on
+all sides, answered with stormy approval, while the others remained
+silent. Landsfeld triumphantly raised his head.
+
+"You hear it! I tell you, then, that the conditions imposed by you
+before the resumption of work are shameful and degrading. I declare the
+man that submits to them to be a coward and traitor."
+
+"And I declare that I have nothing to do with you or the like of you,"
+cried Dernburg, extremely provoked by this challenge. "I made
+conditions for my workmen, to whom alone I shall re-open the
+works--with men of your stamp I have nothing at all to do."
+
+Landsfeld started up, enraged. "With men of my stamp? We are indeed
+only worms in the eyes of this high and mighty lord? Comrades! do you
+put up with this?"
+
+He did not appeal in vain to his comrades. Abusive words and threats
+were hurled at Dernburg, who was ever more closely wedged in by the
+mob. Cut off from any assistance, at any instant he might look for the
+worst.
+
+Then were heard in the distance loud clamor and shouts, not of a fierce
+and menacing kind, though, but as if some one was being joyfully
+received, Now they could even distinguish an enthusiastic "huzza" that
+was loud and long-drawn-out, and continually came nearer. "Long live
+Runeck! Long live Egbert Runeck!" sounded from all quarters, and,
+through the midst of the densely-packed masses, a way was opened for
+the engineer, who rapidly drew near.
+
+Breathless from his impetuous walk, he placed himself by Dernburg's
+side with an air that showed plainly enough that he was determined to
+stand by him and fall with him. He looked defiance at Landsfeld, who
+returned his glance with a scornful shrug of the shoulders.
+
+"Are you actually here, my dear fellow?" he murmured. "If you _will_
+break your own neck, then I need not do it for you."
+
+Runeck, meanwhile, had taken a rapid survey of the situation; he
+recognized its peril, and seized the sole means that had promise of
+safety.
+
+"Back from the house!" was his order to the workmen who held the
+superintendent's office beleaguered. "Do you not see that Herr Dernburg
+wants to get to his officers? I'll escort him; make room!"
+
+The people were surprised, shocked at the part taken; they obeyed,
+however, and began to retire. The square in front of the house was
+gradually emptied, and if Dernburg were once there in the midst of his
+officers, he would be also in safety. If Runeck, then, remained at his
+side, the whole affair would wind up peacefully. But this did not at
+all fit into Landsfeld's plan, and again he struck in.
+
+"What means this?" he cried in a sharp stentorian voice. "Our delegate
+takes part against us, and ranges himself on the enemy's side, does he?
+Herr Runeck! your place is with us. You have to represent us--or do you
+mean to turn traitor?"
+
+That evil word "traitor" immediately took effect, and a low threatening
+murmur became audible. Now Runeck lost the moderation that he had
+hitherto found it hard enough to preserve in face of Landsfeld's
+effrontery.
+
+"You yourselves are traitors and villains if you assault the man who
+has helped you in every way that he could," he thundered. "Back from
+him! whoever touches him, I shall strike to the ground!"
+
+His bearing was wild and threatening, so that all shrank back save
+Landsfeld only.
+
+"Suppose you try that on me, then?" he yelled, rushing forward to
+attack Dernburg, but in the same minute, felled by a powerful blow of
+Egbert's fist, he sank to the ground with a loud outcry, where he lay
+with blood streaming over him.
+
+The sudden lightning-like deed unchained all the passions of the raging
+mob.
+
+With a fierce shout, Fallner and his fellows rushed upon Runeck, who
+threw himself in front of Dernburg and covered him with his body. For a
+few minutes his gigantic strength held out against the assailants, but
+the end of this unequal contest was to be foreseen. Then suddenly a
+knife flashed in Fallner's uplifted hand, a mighty thrust--and Egbert
+fell down, bleeding.
+
+But this time the deed had a different effect from what it had had
+before, the multitude standing paralyzed, as it were, by horror.
+Suddenly the monstrous character of the whole proceeding seemed to
+strike them. Fallner himself stood there motionless, as though shocked
+by his own deed. The tumult was hushed; nobody hindered Dernburg, who,
+with pale face and compressed lips, slowly stooped down and took the
+unconscious Egbert in his arms.
+
+Meanwhile, seeing that the square in front of the house was clear, the
+officers made a renewed attempt to force their way to the chief; it had
+only succeeded in a measure, but they already found themselves quite
+near to him, when that bloody incident supervened. Doctor Hagenbach,
+with quick presence of mind, profited by it to accomplish their end.
+"Room for the surgeon!" cried he, pressing forward. "Let me through!"
+
+This word availed; a narrow path was opened for him in the
+densely-packed throng, and the officers crowded after; in a few minutes
+Dernburg was surrounded by them. But he did not concern himself on that
+score; he knelt by Egbert, whose head he supported, and when the doctor
+now stooped down and examined the wound, he asked softly, in a tone of
+deep distress:
+
+"Is he--mortally wounded?"
+
+"Very severely!" said Hagenbach, loudly and earnestly. "He must be
+conveyed somewhere instantly."
+
+"To the Manor-house!" suggested Dernburg.
+
+"Yes, indeed, that is best." He quickly put on a bandage, and then
+turned, in passing, to the bleeding Landsfeld, in order to examine him
+as well.
+
+"There is no danger here!" he called aloud to the bystanders. "The blow
+has only stunned the man. Carry him into the house--he will soon again
+come to his senses--there is no cause for uneasiness about him. But
+Runeck--he is badly hurt!"
+
+His manner showed that he feared the worst, and this decided the mood
+of the multitude. There arose an agitated murmur, that was transmitted
+from mouth to mouth, until it reached the ranks of those who had stood
+too far off to see what had been going on. And now, when Egbert was
+picked up and borne away, a movement of horror passed through the
+throng of human beings. They saw their deputy, whom they had elected in
+defiance of their chief, and lifted upon the shield with loud
+rejoicings lying lifeless and covered with blood, in the arms of the
+officers, who bore him away, and their chief walked by his side and
+held in his the hand of the unconscious young man. No request was
+needed to induce them to make way: all moved silently aside, when the
+melancholy procession came past--not a word, not a sound was to be
+heard. A silence as of death fell upon all those thousands.
+
+
+
+
+                              CHAPTER XXV.
+
+                         TWIXT LIFE AND DEATH.
+
+
+Meanwhile, in the Manor-house they were awaiting in terrible anxiety
+the issue of the noise and commotion, that were plainly audible as
+coming from the works. When Maia came from the park, her father had
+already gone forth to quell the workmen, and she could not, therefore,
+talk with him. She took refuge with Cecilia, wanting to unbosom herself
+to her, but had found her in such grief and distress, that it was
+useless to expect from her attention and sympathy.
+
+"Leave me, Maia!" pleaded the young widow in accents of despair. "Only
+leave me now! Later, I will listen to everything you have to say, and
+advise you, too, but now I can think of nothing, and feel nothing but
+_his_ danger!" So saying, she rushed out upon the terrace, whence one
+could overlook the works.
+
+Poor Maia's heart grew still heavier. _His_ danger! By that she could
+only mean her father, to whom Cecilia, too, was tenderly devoted. Was
+he actually in such sore peril when among his workmen?
+
+Thus more than an hour had elapsed, and Maia could stand it no longer.
+What was Oscar to think of her staying away? He would believe that she
+had wavered in her resolution, and was minded to let him go alone to
+destruction. She _must_ go back to him, if only for a few minutes, in
+order to tell him that it was impossible to speak with her father now!
+With quickening breath she hurried into the park, which already lay
+shadowed in twilight gloom. There who should come to meet her but her
+father.
+
+Dernburg, with his attendants, had selected the shortest way, the same
+little by-path which he had used awhile ago on his way to the works,
+and which could not be seen from the terrace either. Through the
+movement of the stretcher and pain of the wound Egbert had been brought
+back to consciousness: his first question had reference to Landsfeld.
+Hagenbach assured him that the man's wound was insignificant and did
+not involve the slightest danger, and a deep sigh of relief showed how
+much comfort this assurance gave the young engineer. Maia, who at first
+only saw her father, threw herself impetuously on his bosom.
+
+"You live, papa, you are saved! Thank God, now all will be well!"
+
+"Yes, I am saved--at this price!" said Dernburg in a whisper, while he
+pointed behind him. Now, for the first time, the young girl caught
+sight of the wounded man, and uttered a shriek of horror.
+
+"Hush, my child!" admonished Dernburg. "I did not want to frighten you.
+Where is Cecilia?"
+
+"Out on the terrace. I must run and tell her; she is almost distressed
+to death about you," whispered Maia, with a glance at the friend of her
+youth, that was full of anguish, for he looked like one dying. Then she
+hurried off to her sister-in-law.
+
+Dernburg had Egbert carried into his own chamber, and helped to lay him
+on the bed, while Dr. Hagenbach exerted himself in his behalf, and gave
+a few directions to the servant-man who came hurrying in. Then the door
+opened, and in Maia's company appeared Cecilia. Without disturbing
+herself about witnesses, without even seeing them, with a wild
+movement, she rushed up to the couch, and there fell upon her knees.
+
+"Egbert, you had promised me to live!" she cried despairingly, "and yet
+you sought death."
+
+Dernburg stood there as though struck by lightning. He had never had
+even the faintest suspicion of this love, and now one unguarded moment
+betrayed everything to him.
+
+"I did not want to die, Cecilia, assuredly not," said Egbert, faintly.
+"But there was no other possibility of saving _him_."
+
+His eye turned upon Dernburg, who now approached, and continued to look
+from one to the other, as though dazed.
+
+"Is that the way it stands between you two?" asked he, slowly.
+
+The young woman did not answer; she only clasped Egbert's right hand in
+both her own, as though she feared that they might be parted. He tried
+to speak, but Dernburg would not allow him to make the effort.
+
+"Be tranquil, Egbert," said he, earnestly. "I know that Eric's
+betrothed was sacred from your approach: you need not assure me of
+that; and after his death, you have to-day, for the first time, entered
+Odensburg. My poor boy! That interposition has been fatal to you--you
+have been obliged to pay for it with your heart's blood."
+
+"But this blood has forced me from that chain!" cried Egbert, with a
+return of his old fire. "You, none of you, have any idea how hard I
+have found it to wear. Now it is broken--I am free!"
+
+He sank back, exhausted, and now Dr. Hagenbach asserted himself. In the
+most decided manner, he forbade any talking, and any further agitation
+of exciting topics, in the presence of the wounded man, from whom he
+did not conceal the perilous in his situation.
+
+Dernburg looked upon his daughter-in-law, who, with folded hands,
+looked entreatingly at him, and he understood the silent appeal.
+
+"Egbert, then, needs entire repose," said he, earnestly, "and
+self-sacrificing care. I commit him to you, Cecilia--you will be the
+best nurse here!" Once more he stooped down to the wounded man,
+exchanged a few whispered words with the surgeon, and then went into
+his office. Maia, who had hitherto stood silent in the doorway, now
+followed him, but she approached her father as shyly and timidly as
+though she had some grievous fault of her own to confess.
+
+"Papa, I have something to say to you," she whispered, with downcast
+eyes. "I know you have already gone through terrible experiences
+to-day--but I cannot wait. Somebody out in the park is awaiting your
+decision and mine--I must convey it to him. Will you hear me?"
+
+Dernburg had turned to her. Yes, indeed, what he had gone through with
+that day was hard, but this was the hardest of all. He held out both
+arms, and folding his darling to his heart, said in a breaking voice:
+
+"My little Maia! My poor, poor child----"
+
+
+Night had come, a dark stormy night, with heavy clouds covering the
+face of the sky. The Odensburg works, which, a few hours before, had
+been full of boisterous life, now lay there silent and forsaken. It had
+needed no special regulations, not even a reminder, to induce the
+workmen to go home. Since their deputy-elect had struck down their
+leader, and fallen himself by the knife of one of themselves,
+consternation had laid hold of the people. They felt all that was hard
+in these proceedings, although they did not clearly understand their
+full bearing. Fallner was shyly avoided; and when the news got wind
+that Landsfeld--who came to in little over a half hour--had left
+Odensburg on foot, there was a complete revolution in the sentiments of
+the whole laboring community. There were bitter accusations and
+reproaches, but not against him who was struggling with death over
+yonder in the Manor-house--all the bitterness was directed against
+Landsfeld alone.
+
+Through night and storm came a tall, solitary figure, that remained
+standing in front of the Manor-house, where dim candle-light was
+visible behind several windows, in the apartment where Egbert lay under
+Cecilia's charge, and also in the rooms of Maia and Dernburg. None of
+them slept that night. The man who stood so motionless below knew
+nothing of these last events. He had heard, it is true, the noise at
+the works when he left the Rose Lake, and he knew also the
+apprehensions entertained for the evening, but what was Odensburg to
+him now, or what was life in general?
+
+Oscar von Wildenrod was ready for the final step. He knew that he could
+not, dared not see his beloved again, and yet, with an irresistible
+longing, he was drawn once more into her neighborhood, to the spot
+where abode the only being upon earth that he truly loved. He had
+proven it, although not until the very last hour. The means of escape
+that was offered him at that time he had put from him for Maia's sake,
+and with that sacrifice fell off all that had been calculating in his
+love. It remained the only pure sentiment in a corrupt and blasted
+life, which was now to be ended by a bullet.
+
+Wildenrod lived over, in memory, the first evening that he had spent at
+Odensburg. Then he had stood at that window, up there, his head full of
+ambitious schemes and his heart swelling with the first sweet
+sensations of love for the charming girl, to whose hand was appended
+that wealth which he so ardently coveted. Then he had vowed to be, one
+day, lord and master of this world of industrial achievement, and in
+the full confidence of his coming victory had gazed proudly upon those
+works, out of whose gigantic furnaces mounted upward sheaves of
+flashing sparks. Now all lay in total quiet, the restless machinery
+stood still, the fires were extinguished. Only over yonder, where the
+rolling-mills were situated, glimmered a pale, uncertain light, that
+gradually, however, grew brighter. Oscar eyed this indifferently, at
+first, but then more sharply. Now the light vanished, to shoot up again
+directly afterwards; now it quivered here and there, and then all at
+once it was as if a flash of lightning rent the sky. A flame darted on
+high, and in its glare one saw that the whole environs were full of
+moving columns of smoke.
+
+Wildenrod started up at this spectacle; in the next minute he had
+rushed to the house and was striking against the window of the porter's
+lodge.
+
+"There is a fire at the works. Awaken Herr Dernburg! I'll hurry on!"
+
+"Fire on this stormy night! God be with us!" cried the horrified voice
+of the man, startled out of his sleep. Oscar did not hear what he said,
+for he was far on his way to the works, where the conflagration became
+more and more distinctly visible. Where, formerly, even at night,
+hundreds used to be astir, to-day only the inspectors remained, and
+they lay wrapt in slumber.
+
+Wildenrod knew the works thoroughly: he turned first to the cottage of
+old Mertens, who, since work at Radefeld had come to an end, had held a
+place here, and aroused him also. The alarm was sounded; in a few
+minutes some twenty men had assembled, and now the sensational, howling
+tones of the fire-horn were heard. Odensburg had the most admirable
+arrangements for extinguishing fire to be found far or near: Dernburg
+had formed a volunteer fire-company out of his working force, and the
+men were excellently drilled. But now all the bonds of order were
+loosed, the workmen were scattered in their remote dwellings, so that
+assistance from them was hardly to be expected.
+
+Now appeared Dernburg himself, who had been sitting up alone in his
+office, when the alarm of fire was given, and at the same time came
+hurrying up some of the officers whose residences were near by.
+Wildenrod suddenly saw himself face to face with the man, who, a few
+hours ago, had admitted him to the rights of a son, and who, meanwhile,
+must have heard that crushing revelation. Dernburg, also, involuntarily
+shrank back upon catching sight of the Baron, whom he had supposed to
+have taken to flight, and imagined already as far away. But now there
+was no time for any discussion whatever--Oscar had resolutely gone up
+to Dernburg.
+
+"I was the first to discover the fire," said he, "and had the
+fire-signal sounded at once. The flames seem to have broken out in the
+rolling-mills."
+
+"Yes, that is the place!" agreed Dernburg. "But it cannot have arisen
+there through heedlessness--no work has been done there since noon. It
+must be the work of an incendiary!"
+
+Those present all shared his opinion, it was plain, but Wildenrod cut
+off any further remarks. "Never mind, we must penetrate to the seat of
+the fire!" he cried. "In this wind all the works are in the greatest
+danger."
+
+"In this wind they are lost!" said Dernburg, gloomily. "We have not the
+hands for putting it out."
+
+"But our fire-company! The workmen----" objected old Mertens, but a
+bitter laugh from his master interrupted him.
+
+"My workmen? They will let burn whatever is afire. Call them up as much
+as you please with your fire-horns, nobody is coming--nobody, I tell
+you! They are my works, not a hand will stir!"
+
+But, as if in reply, loud shouts and voices were now heard, and torches
+were seen gleaming at the entrance to the works. A troop of workmen
+appeared in closed ranks, with fire-helmets on their heads and asbestos
+frocks thrown on, while behind them thundered the engines. And after
+five minutes came a second troop, and then a third and a fourth. Now
+the cry of "fire!" was heard on all sides; near and far it resounded,
+until the whole valley was alive, and lights were shining in all
+quarters. The works filled with men; all came and all were prepared to
+help.
+
+In the beginning Dernburg had been almost petrified at the sight of
+these arrivals; but now, when one procession after the other emerged
+from the darkness, when the people came as though on a race between
+life and death--anything so as only to arrive in time--when the engines
+drove up at a gallop, then the lord of Odensburg heaved a long, deep
+sigh; he straightened himself up, as though he had cast from him a
+burden long borne, and shouted:
+
+"Well, men, if you want to help, then, forward! Down with the fire!"
+
+This was done, but the conflagration had already found too abundant
+aliment. The whole interior of the rolling-mills seemed to be in
+flames, and in vain they sought to force their way in. Dernburg had
+undertaken, in person, the superintendence of the attempts to quench
+the fire, and guided his men by word and look, while they obeyed him as
+punctually and studiously as ever.
+
+But Oscar von Wildenrod also worked unweariedly to the same end. He did
+not stop to ask whether they would concede to him this right--he simply
+took it. He was everywhere as the emergency demanded. But although he
+courageously and undauntedly led forward single detachments again and
+again, although the engines incessantly hurled their hissing streams
+into the fiercest of the flames, yet the fire had an overpoweringly
+strong ally in the prevailing wind, and, in union with it, defied all
+their exertions. Like fiery serpents the flames darted out of the house
+windows, licking the walls and shooting their tongues forth venomously
+from the roof. The wind was already driving them across to other roofs;
+it bore burning bits of wood aloft through the air, in order to drop
+them again where they would kindle and extend the disaster.
+
+Already the fire had broken out in single spots, and wherever this
+happened, detachments had to be sent for its extinction.
+
+Oscar von Wildenrod had just returned from one of these side-fires,
+which he had had put out under his own supervision, to the starting
+point of the conflagration, where Herr Dernburg had planted himself
+like a rock. Dernburg was just talking with the upper-engineer, who
+stood before him with the crestfallen look of one at his wits' end.
+
+"We are not subduing it, Herr Dernburg," said he. "Only see, the fire
+already threatens to catch the foundries, and if they burn, then it
+will make a clean sweep of the whole. There might be one expedient,
+perhaps, but you will not consent to it--suppose we made the attempt to
+turn on the water from the Radefeld aqueduct."
+
+"No, never--that would imperil human life! Maybe volunteers might be
+found; in their present mood the people are capable of any sacrifice,
+but no man's life shall be victimized for my sake--rather let the works
+all burn down."
+
+He stepped up to the engineers that were advancing to a new attack with
+their water-jets, and there gave a few orders, while Wildenrod, who had
+been listening, turned to the upper-engineer.
+
+"What is that about the Radefeld aqueduct?" asked he, eagerly.
+
+"The aqueduct is immediately adjacent to the rolling-mills," answered
+the officer. "If it had been possible promptly to open the large main
+pipe, then the fire might have been quenched. But there it originated
+and burned most fiercely, so that we could gain no access to its focus.
+The pipe lies----"
+
+"I know," interposed Wildenrod. "I was present when the conduit was
+joined on and tested, and saw, too, how they opened the afflux. Access
+is impossible to it, do you say?"
+
+The upper-engineer shrugged his shoulders and pointed to the state of
+the conflagration. "Earlier it might have been possible to have cleared
+a way with our engines, at least for a short while, but Herr Dernburg
+is right, the attempt would cost human life. Who would venture into
+those glowing walls that may cave in at any moment? And even if one did
+succeed in opening the pipe, and conducting the mass of water in the
+reservoir to the seat of the fire, how would our men get back? The
+smoke would smother them. If the water escapes no one would come forth
+alive."
+
+"The only question is, how one may get in alive," murmured Oscar, with
+his eye fixed upon the leaping flames. The upper-engineer looked at him
+in surprise, but before he could answer the chief came back. "You
+assume the command over there," was his order. "Winning can hold out no
+longer."
+
+The officer hurried away, and Dernburg scanned the Baron with a
+forbidding look. "What do you want here?" asked he in a subdued tone.
+"There are hands enough for putting out the fire, we do not need your
+help."
+
+"More than you think, perhaps!" said Wildenrod, with a strange smile.
+
+Dernburg stepped close up to him. "I did not want to expose you before
+my officers and workmen, but now I tell you, you are no longer in place
+here, Baron von Wildenrod. Go!"
+
+Wildenrod met firmly the eyes that were fastened upon him so
+menacingly, then said slowly and earnestly: "I am going! Bid Maia
+farewell for me; perhaps you will still allow her--to weep for me!"
+
+He turned off and was lost in the crowd of toilers.
+
+Those were awful experiences that Odensburg passed through that night.
+The wind-chased clouds, tinted blood-red by the aspiring flames, the
+waving masses of men rushing hither and thither, a commingling of
+dreadful sounds, shouts, cries, and the clattering of the engines--it
+was a dismal scene.
+
+Then, all of a sudden, there arose a mighty column of smoke from the
+very center of the fire, that spread out farther and farther, while at
+the same time a peculiar hissing and roaring became audible. The flames
+no longer leaped up so high as before; they seemed to sink, to flee
+before some mysterious power, while the smoke and the roaring were ever
+on the increase. Those standing around could not explain the
+phenomenon: suppositions of all sorts were heard, but Dernburg was the
+first one to solve the problem. "The Radefeld aqueduct is open!" he
+cried. "The water has broken in. Perhaps the pipe has burst or the fire
+has sprung the lock. Never mind--it brings us deliverance!"
+
+Breathlessly all watched the conflict between the two hostile elements,
+but soon the flood conquered, which evidently deluged the whole surface
+where the fire had found its chief nutriment. Different spots on the
+roof were still afire, it is true, but these could be put out, and were
+put out, when the sea of flame in the interior had disappeared for
+good. Again the engines played with renewed force and activity, and now
+a portion of the long tottering walls tumbled down, the main building
+caved in, its sides falling inwards. Thus was averted all danger to the
+neighboring houses and the fire restricted to its own hearth.
+
+"That was help in time of need!" said Dernburg to the officers standing
+around. "And that the water broke loose at the critical moment was
+assuredly more than accident--the interposition of a Higher Hand."
+
+"I am afraid that it was a human hand!" returned the upper-engineer,
+softly.
+
+Dernburg turned to him in surprise. "What mean you to say?"
+
+"Baron von Wildenrod is nowhere to be found," explained that official
+gravely. "He spoke with me awhile ago as to the possibility of opening
+the conduit, and at the same time made use of a singular expression
+that startled me at the time. A few minutes later I saw him hurrying in
+that direction and there vanish. There has been no accident in this
+case."
+
+Dernburg turned pale: now all of a sudden Oscar's last speech became
+clear to him and he understood it all. "For God's sake!" he exclaimed,
+with a start, "then we must penetrate to the seat of the conflagration,
+must at least try----"
+
+"Impossible!" interposed the director. "Beneath those glowing, smoking
+ruins no living thing yet breathes."
+
+What he said was only too true, Dernburg was obliged himself to admit.
+Deeply shaken, he covered his eyes with his hand. For him there was no
+longer any doubt but that the man who had coveted Odensburg for his
+own, at any price, had sacrificed himself to save Odensburg!
+
+Hours of labor were still needed at the scene of the fire. Here and
+there forks of flame shot up again and had to be extinguished, the area
+covered by the conflagration had to be isolated, and the ever-flowing
+streams of the Radefeld aqueduct had to be cut off.
+
+Day had already dawned, when it was finally possible to dismiss the
+people, only retaining a sufficient number of men to act as a guard.
+All had done their utmost, vying with one another in courage and
+endurance; now the men waited for their chief, exhausted as they were
+from their long labors, with faces blackened by smoke and their clothes
+dripping wet. All eyes were silently and questioningly fastened upon
+him, as he now stepped into their midst, his voice, although full of
+deep feeling, was audible to a great distance.
+
+"I thank you, children! I shall never forget you and what you have done
+for me this night. You gave me warning that you had quit work, and I
+wanted to forbid your taking it up again. Now, you have worked for me
+and my Odensburg, and so I think"--here he suddenly held out both hands
+to an old workman with hoary head, who stood close before him--"we'll
+stay together now, and work together as we have done for the past
+thirty years!"
+
+And in the hearty shout of rejoicing that rang forth from all quarters
+ended the strike at Odensburg.
+
+
+
+
+                             CHAPTER XXVI.
+
+                 HOW FORCES THAT ARE OPPOSED MAY BLEND.
+
+
+More than two years had elapsed since that stormy night when the
+conflagration had raged at the Odensburg works, but out of the wind and
+fire of that period, which had threatened everything with annihilation,
+had come forth new life and activity.
+
+Those occurrences, which had then affected Dernburg's family circle as
+seriously as they had done his position as lord of Odensburg, had
+gradually retreated into the background, although, for a long while,
+they had shown their pregnant results. On the day after the fire, the
+charred remains of Oscar von Wildenrod had been found. His magnanimous
+action--of which there could be no doubt--was everywhere admired; only
+Dernburg and Egbert knew, while a few of the formerly initiated
+suspected, that a stained and abandoned life had been atoned for by
+this voluntary self-immolation. For all the rest, the memory of the
+Baron remained pure, laid to rest as he had been in the family
+burying-ground by Eric's side, and beneath the rustling fir-trees of
+the Odensburg park.
+
+The universal impression continued to be that the fire had been the
+work of an incendiary, but the proof of this had not been found, and
+was not to be, either. Fallner, to whom one suspicious circumstance
+pointed, had left Germany, to escape the prosecution impending over
+him, on account of his murderous assault upon Runeck. Since all these
+events had acquired a publicity that was altogether undesirable, they
+wanted, by all means, to avoid being forced into notice again through a
+lawsuit.
+
+On this point Dernburg and his opponents were fully agreed.
+
+He did his very best to cause the mantle of silence to be thrown over
+the whole affair, in order that the newly-won peace with his workmen
+might not be imperiled by bitter memories and discussions.
+
+From his sick-bed Runeck had sent word to his party, that he must lay
+down his commission. This resolve would have been unavoidable, even
+without the severe wound which chained him to his couch for weeks, and
+forbade his engaging in any serious business for months. The bond
+between him and his former comrades, which already, for a long time,
+had only existed outwardly, was now definitively severed. The result of
+the new election might have been easily predicted: there was only one
+man who could have disputed the place with the master of Odensburg, and
+he had withdrawn. From the second casting of the ballot Eberhard
+Dernburg came out with an overwhelming majority, and this time his
+Odensburg employes all stood by him to a man. The reconciliation had
+been complete.
+
+After his recovery, Egbert had left Odensburg and stayed away for a
+long while. He, like Dernburg, felt that the new future, about which
+they were fully agreed, was not to be linked immediately and
+unceremoniously to the past, seeing that many an inward wound must
+close up ere the outward one should be perfectly healed. The young
+engineer had traveled widely and spent a full year in America, where
+there was so much for him to see and learn. There he had completed the
+studies which he had once begun in England. Now, when at last he
+returned to Odensburg, his long waiting was at an end, and he dared to
+claim the good fortune that had once bloomed for him on the very verge
+of the grave; after a short engagement, his marriage with Cecilia took
+place in all quietness.
+
+To-day the cheerful sounds betokening festivity were to be heard in the
+Manor-house, for they were looking for the return of the bridal pair
+from their wedding-trip. And Frau Dr. Hagenbach was just adding a few
+last touches to the preparations for their reception, that lady having
+retained her old intimate relations with the Dernburg household after
+her marriage. The rooms that were now fitted up for Egbert and Cecilia
+Runeck were entirely different from those that had once received Eric's
+betrothed, being situated on the opposite side of the house, and
+destined for their permanent abode.
+
+Leonie placed a few more flowers in the reception-room. From the
+sickly, nervous, and rather wan old maid had emerged a smiling and
+graceful matron: Dr. Hagenbach having asserted his rights as a
+physician as well as husband, and completely cured his wife of those
+detested nervous attacks.
+
+Frau Hagenbach had just completed her task, when the door opened and
+her husband entered. Wedded life seemed to have agreed well with him,
+too, for he had a highly contented look, while both his manners and
+mode of speech were changed for the better.--It was easy to see that he
+had gone to work in earnest to become "humanized." He nodded to his
+wife and said:
+
+"I have come up only for a minute, to let you know that I have to visit
+one more patient first. It will not take me long, though, so that I
+shall be in time for the reception, anyhow."
+
+"They will not arrive much before two o'clock," remarked his wife. "One
+more question, though, dear Hugo--have you considered that matter of
+Dagobert's?"
+
+The doctor again made one of those grimaces, once so common with him,
+and his voice sounded rather gruff as he answered:
+
+"There is nothing to be considered! I shall take care not to send the
+fellow the three hundred marks, that, according to his assertion, he
+needs so urgently. He must make out with the allowance that I have
+settled upon him, once for all."
+
+"But the sum is not so large after all," objected Mrs. Hagenbach, "and
+in other respects you have no fault to find with Dagobert. He works
+industriously, writes to us frequently----"
+
+"And still persistently reviles you in prose and verse," said
+Hagenbach, finishing her sentence for her. "To be sure no rational man
+would demean himself by being jealous of such a simpleton, although he
+did presume to write to me, after the reception of our wedding-cards,
+that I had inflicted a mortal wound upon his betrayed heart. A pierced
+heart does not, however, hinder him from hiding behind his aunt, when
+he wants to get anything out of me, the traitor, and she, alas! always
+takes his part. But this time nothing helps him--he does not get that
+money, so much is settled!"
+
+Leonie did not contradict him, she only smiled with a submissive look,
+and let the subject drop.
+
+"We shall be in the strictest seclusion to-day," she remarked. "Count
+Eckardstein is the only person invited."
+
+"Well, I hope that means that we are soon to have another bride in the
+house, and that it will not be too long before a young countess makes
+her entree into Eckardstein."
+
+His wife shook her head dubiously. "I am afraid this is by no means
+settled. Herr Dernburg doubtless desires it, but Maia's demeanor is
+anything but encouraging. Who knows what answer she will give, if the
+Count actually proposes."
+
+"But she cannot grieve forever over her former betrothed--she was
+little else than a child then."
+
+"And yet his death very nearly cost her her life."
+
+"Yes, a fine time we had of it, truly!" said Hagenbach with a sigh. "On
+one side there was Egbert, who for weeks hovered between life and
+death, on the other Fraeulein Maia, likewise making preparations to die,
+and between them Madame Cecilia, who, one day, when Runeck was at the
+worst, coolly declared to me, that if I did not save her Egbert, she
+did not care to live longer, either. We did not have the jolliest of
+times during our engagement, did we, my dear? Thank God, it has been
+better since we were married. But I must be gone! I must go home.
+First, though, have you any order to give?"
+
+"Only a trifle to be attended to. You were going to send the coachman
+to the station, you know--he can take with him the letter and
+post-office order."
+
+"What post-office order?" asked the doctor, suspiciously.
+
+"Why, the three hundred marks for Dagobert. I have already filled out
+the order, which is lying on your desk; you will have nothing to do but
+to supply the money----"
+
+"I am not thinking of such a thing," cried the doctor, fuming.
+
+"Yes, but you are thinking of it, though," protested Frau Dr.
+Hagenbach, with a decision, alas! that was not to be gainsaid. "You are
+only afraid of somewhat weakening your authority, and in this you are
+right, as you always are. Therefore I acted in your stead and wrote to
+Dagobert myself. It was done only for your sake, you perceive that,
+dear Hugo."
+
+"Leonie, what are you thinking of?" exclaimed Hagenbach, irritably. "I
+have told you once, and now tell you again----"
+
+He did not succeed in repeating his remark, however, for his wife
+interrupted him. "I know, Hugo, you are in the habit of representing
+yourself as hardhearted when you are goodness itself. You made up your
+mind long ago to send the poor youth that money, dear Hugo----"
+
+The "dear Hugo" had learned many a thing already since he had entered
+the estate of matrimony. He never heard a contradiction, it is true,
+and everything was done exclusively out of deference to his will--this
+his wife told him daily, and he believed it, too, for the most part;
+but the Odensburg people were of a different opinion. In that village
+it was positively asserted, that "the madam ruled the roost." In this
+particular case, it is certain that the post-office order for three
+hundred marks was sent off in the course of the next hour.
+
+In the parlor sat Maia Dernburg alone, at the window: at her feet lay
+the elderly Puck: he had become orderly and intelligent, and had
+entirely laid aside his inclination to attack in the rear men who wore
+plaid pantaloons. To be sure he was not so much teased as formerly; his
+young mistress stroked and caressed him still, it is true, but the
+merry romps that she used to carry on with him had long since ceased.
+In general, "little Maia" no longer existed, that fascinating childlike
+creature with exuberant spirits and laughing eyes. The slender,
+white-robed young lady there at the window certainly possessed great
+attractions, having developed from the laughing child into the quiet,
+gentle maiden, and in those brown eyes lay, as it were, deep, dark
+shadows, telling of a grief not yet altogether overcome.
+
+It was quiet round about, and Maia was looking dreamily out upon the
+bright summer landscape, when her father entered. His hair had turned
+gray during these last years, but in every other respect he was the
+same erect, hale old man that we have known.
+
+"Are you already on the lookout for the carriage?" he asked.
+
+"No, papa, it is too early for that as yet," replied the young girl.
+"Egbert and Cecilia cannot be here for an hour yet, but as we have
+finished all our preparations for their reception----"
+
+"So much the better, for then we shall have an hour to devote to our
+guest alone. Eckardstein is already here--over in my office."
+
+"Ah! Why, then, did he not come with you?"
+
+"Because he deemed it necessary to send me in advance, as his
+spokesman. We have had a long and interesting interview--am I to repeat
+to you what was said, or do you guess the tenor of our remarks?"
+
+Maia had risen to her feet: she had become pale, while her eyes were
+full of entreaty as she fixed them upon her father.
+
+"Papa--could you not spare me this?"
+
+"No, my child," said Dernburg, earnestly. "Victor has determined to
+bring the matter to an issue, and you will be obliged to listen to his
+suit. He has begged me to intercede for him, and I have promised him to
+do so, for I owe him reparation for the injustice I once did him. He
+asked for leave to pay his addresses to you three years ago, although
+it did not come to an open declaration; in this wooing of a portionless
+young officer I saw nothing but calculation, and my insinuations made
+him feel very bitterly. He has proved, however, that his love was true
+and genuine. The lord-proprietor of Eckardstein needs to ask for no
+dowry with his bride, and I would gladly, very gladly, place my Maia's
+happiness in his hands."
+
+"I should like to stay with you, papa," whispered the young girl, in
+painful agitation nestling up to his side. "Will you not keep me,
+then?"
+
+"My child, we shall not be separated, even if you do become Victor's
+wife. You best know what has hitherto kept him aloof from Eckardstein:
+your consent would immediately determine him to resign his commission
+in the army, and henceforth devote himself to the care of his estates.
+Then we should still be together, Eckardstein is so near, you know."
+
+"I cannot!" cried Maia, vehemently, while she drew herself up. "Oscar
+chained me indissolubly to himself in life, and I am not free from him
+in death, either! How often has my heart been heavy when I caught the
+expression of Victor's speaking eyes, not being able to misunderstand
+the mute plea that I read there--but I cannot be happy at the side of
+any other."
+
+"There are only a few destined to be happy," said Dernburg, with strong
+emphasis, "but the duty of making others happy, when it is in our
+power, that duty belongs to us all. Victor knows what has happened, and
+does not demand of you that passionate love which linked you to
+Oscar--perhaps, he would not even understand it. But you are necessary
+to his happiness, and his faithful, honorable devotion is well worth
+the sacrifice of those memories. Of course, you are at full liberty to
+do as you choose, Maia--only consider this one thing: whoever would
+truly live, must also live for others!"
+
+The young girl made no answer, a few large tears rolled slowly down her
+cheeks; the grave admonition had not been without effect.
+
+"Well, what am I to say to the Count?" asked Dernburg, after a pause.
+
+Mala pressed both hands to her heart, as though she would keep down a
+self-asserting pain there, then she bowed her head and answered, almost
+inaudibly:
+
+"Tell him--that I am expecting him!"
+
+Then she felt her father's lips upon her forehead, and folding her in
+his arms, he said with profound emotion:
+
+"That is right, my poor--my brave child!"
+
+Five minutes later Victor Eckardstein entered, almost unaltered in his
+outward appearance, save that his features were graver and more manly.
+Now, indeed, his whole manner bespoke nothing but excitement and
+uneasiness.
+
+"Your father told me that I would find you alone, Maia," he began. "I
+have so much that I should like to confide to you, and yet know not
+whether you will listen to me."
+
+Maia stood before him with downcast eyes; a slight blush mantled her
+cheek, as she bowed her head in acquiescence, without opening her lips.
+
+The Count seemed to have expected some other sign of encouragement, for
+his voice acquired a touch of bitterness, as he continued:
+
+"It has been hard enough for me to approach any other with my
+entreaties and desires, even although it was your father. But your
+manner to me has always been so distant, allowing me room for so little
+hope, that I did not dare to address to you first the question, on
+which the happiness of my life depends. I feel only too sensitively
+that here I needed an intercessor."
+
+"I would not willingly hurt you feelings, Victor, certainly not," Maia
+assured him, and with her old childlike cordiality she held out her
+hand to him, which he firmly clasped in his own.
+
+"You have given me pain enough by that constantly kept-up cold reserve
+of yours," said he, reproachfully. "Oh! from the hour when I found that
+little elf in the cottage in the woods, from the moment when the sweet
+little face of my former playmate emerged from the gray hood that had
+concealed it, I knew where centered the happiness of my life. May I
+speak now, at last? Maia, I love you beyond everything; I cannot live
+without you!"
+
+These were no glowing, impassioned words of love, such as the young
+girl had once listened to from the lips of another, but they expressed
+warm, fervent devotion, and Maia would have been no true woman had she
+remained indifferent, in presence of this constant, true love.
+
+"You will have it so--then take me?" said she in a low tone. "I have
+cared for you since we were children."
+
+With an exclamation of joy, Victor clasped her to his heart, to the
+admiration of Puck, who stared at them both, and evidently could not
+exactly understand the situation.
+
+The engagement, which, was now announced to her father, as may
+well be understood, so engrossed the minds of all the inmates of the
+Manor-house, that they no longer thought of keeping a lookout for the
+carriage, that could now be espied making its way along the wooded
+heights. The road led for some distance over this plateau, ere it
+dipped into the valley. There, in the midst of green, fir-clad hills,
+was situated that mighty hive of industry, Odensburg. The rolling-mills
+had long since arisen from their ashes, more capacious in extent than
+before, and new establishments of a different kind had been associated
+with them, for there was no standstill in the Dernburg works, and they
+expanded with every year.
+
+The bride, in a simple, gray traveling-suit, leaned out of the open
+carriage, eager to catch a glimpse of the Manor-house, now visible
+behind the trees of the park. Cecilia had always been a beautiful girl,
+but the woman was, if possible, more beautiful, in the full development
+of that peculiar charm, which had, at all times, won her affection.
+There could, indeed, be no greater contrast than was presented by this
+refined, still rather foreigner-like being and the husband who sat by
+her side. This was the same old Egbert Runeck, so far as his somewhat
+rough, forceful personality was concerned, impressing one as ready to
+defy the whole world and fight the battle through. Only the gray eyes
+beneath that broad, massive brow had a different expression from what
+they had had before; they diffused a warm, bright radiance, and it was
+not hard to guess whence this light emanated.
+
+"There lies our home, Cecilia!" said Runeck, while he pointed down into
+the valley. "You, indeed, have never liked Odensburg--will you be able,
+think you, to endure permanent residence there?"
+
+"If I am with you!--How can you ask that question again?" replied his
+young wife, somewhat reproachfully.
+
+"Yes, with me, your headstrong Egbert, who will not always have time to
+devote even to you, when he once again becomes immersed in work. On our
+wedding-trip I have belonged to you alone: then we could dream our
+fairy-dreams; but now come earnest workdays with their duties and
+cares, and often enough will they call me from your side. Will you
+understand how that is, Cecilia? Hitherto you have stood so far aloof
+from all this."
+
+He looked upon his wife with a certain uneasiness, but the response
+that he met in her eyes was cheerful and reassuring.
+
+"Well, then, I must learn to take part in your cares and duties. Will
+you teach me how, Egbert? But what do you know of fairy-dreams, you man
+of stern reality, that you are? Where did you learn about them?"
+
+Runeck's eye swept over the mountain range until it rested upon the
+distant, solitary peak, from the summit of which, glittering in
+sunlight, greeted them a cross--the symbol of the Whitestone.
+
+"Up there," said he, softly, "when the forest made music around us
+and the voice of the bells came up from below. Oh, that was a trying
+hour--a horrible one for you, my poor wife. Pitilessly I had to arouse
+you, acquainting you with the unreality of your future, and crumbling
+into ruins the gay, glittering world, in which you had hitherto
+lived--that I might point out to you the precipice on which you stood."
+
+"Find no fault with that hour!" pleaded Cecilia, nestling up to his
+side. "Then I awoke, there I learned to see and to think. Do you know,
+Egbert," and a playful smile took the place of the gravity that had
+rested upon her features, "I never think of it without being reminded
+of the old legend of the caper-spurge, that cleaves the rock where
+buried treasures lie? At that time, you indeed, without any compassion
+at all, called out to me: 'The deep is empty and dead, and there are no
+longer any such things as hidden treasures!' And now----"
+
+"Now, I have myself turned out to be a digger after buried treasures!"
+chimed in Egbert, while he stooped down and gazed into the dark,
+lustrous eyes of his young wife. "You are right, that was the hour in
+which I won you, in spite of everything.
+
+
+                "'I lifted out of night and gloom
+                  That wondrous golden shrine,
+                  And all its sparkling treasures
+                  And all its gold are mine!'"
+
+
+It was a few hours later; the reception and welcome to the Manor-house
+were over, and while Cecilia was still in the parlor chatting with Maia
+and Count Eckardstein, Dernburg went with Runeck out upon the terrace.
+
+"It was high time for you to come, Egbert," said he. "The director in
+his present weak state of health is no longer equal to the duties of
+his office: months ago, he wanted to send in his resignation, and was
+only induced to remain until you should arrive and undertake the
+superintendence of the works. I am also very glad to have Cecilia in
+the house again, for I am not to keep Maia much longer. Victor is
+already talking of the wedding, being quite carried away with his
+happiness."
+
+"But Maia herself does not look as happy as I should like to see her,
+under the circumstances. Did she give her consent gladly?"
+
+"No, but of her own free will. And now that her promise has once been
+given, it will chase away the dark shadow that Oscar's love and death
+have cast over her life. Now a duty stands between her and that memory,
+she will overcome it."
+
+"And Count Victor will make this easy for her," suggested Egbert. "Of
+that I am convinced; his is no nature on a grand scale like"--Dernburg
+cast a side-glance at his adopted son--"like another person of my
+acquaintance, whom I had selected for Maia at one time, but that other
+one, alas! would always go his own way and follow his own hard head,
+and thus he has done in love as in all things else."
+
+"Truly you have so far had but little satisfaction in your son," said
+Egbert, with difficulty controlling his deep emotion--"he even stood in
+open opposition to you; but, believe me, father, I have been the
+severest sufferer from this cause, and now all my powers belong to you
+and your Odensburg."
+
+"We can make good use of them," declared Dernburg. "At times I feel my
+age and the decline of strength--who knows how long it will last?
+Meanwhile, you stand by my side, and I think, upon the ground of common
+work, we shall find the accommodation for all that still divides us the
+one from the other. We talked over this, you remember, when you
+returned from America."
+
+Fully and clearly Egbert's eye met that of the speaker. "Yes, and I
+recognized that I owed it to you to tell the entire truth, when you
+summoned me to the guidance of your works. I have forever renounced my
+former party, but not that which is great and true in that movement.
+This I cleave to still. This I shall stand up for and contend for so
+long as life shall last."
+
+"I know it," said Dernburg, offering him his hand. "But I too have
+learned something during these days of trial. I am no longer the old
+blockhead who supposed that, alone, he could stem the tide of a new
+era. I cannot, indeed, welcome this new era with open arms; for the
+period of a whole generation I have stood on different ground and
+cannot be untrue to myself, but I can summon to my side a young, fresh
+force that is in sympathy with the present. When, hereafter, I give
+Odensburg entirely into your hands, then keep it up with the times,
+Egbert. I shall not oppose it! Until then, though, let there be for us
+all a clear track!"
+
+
+
+                               FOOTNOTE:
+
+[Footnote 1: Caper-spurge.]
+
+
+
+                                THE END.
+
+
+
+
+
+
+End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of 'Clear the Track', by
+Elisabeth Buerstenbinder (AKA E. Werner)
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