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| author | Roger Frank <rfrank@pglaf.org> | 2025-10-15 05:29:50 -0700 |
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| committer | Roger Frank <rfrank@pglaf.org> | 2025-10-15 05:29:50 -0700 |
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diff --git a/7513-h/7513-h.htm b/7513-h/7513-h.htm new file mode 100644 index 0000000..7c88202 --- /dev/null +++ b/7513-h/7513-h.htm @@ -0,0 +1,13094 @@ +<?xml version="1.0" encoding="utf-8"?> + +<!DOCTYPE html + PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Strict//EN" + "http://www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-strict.dtd" > + +<html xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" lang="en"> + <head> + <meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html;charset=UTF-8" /> + <title> + O. T., by Hans Christian Andersen + </title> + <style type="text/css" xml:space="preserve"> + + body { margin:5%; background:#faebd0; text-align:justify} + P { text-indent: 1em; margin-top: .25em; margin-bottom: .25em; } + H1,H2,H3,H4,H5,H6 { text-align: center; margin-left: 15%; margin-right: 15%; } + hr { width: 50%; text-align: center;} + .foot { margin-left: 20%; margin-right: 20%; text-align: justify; text-indent: -3em; font-size: 90%; } + blockquote {font-size: 97%; font-style: italic; margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%;} + .mynote {background-color: #DDE; color: #000; padding: .5em; margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 95%;} + .toc { margin-left: 10%; margin-bottom: .75em;} + .toc2 { margin-left: 20%;} + div.fig { display:block; margin:0 auto; text-align:center; } + div.middle { margin-left: 20%; margin-right: 20%; text-align: justify; } + .figleft {float: left; margin-left: 0%; margin-right: 1%;} + .figright {float: right; margin-right: 0%; margin-left: 1%;} + .pagenum {display:inline; font-size: 70%; font-style:normal; + margin: 0; padding: 0; position: absolute; right: 1%; + text-align: right;} + pre { font-style: italic; font-size: 90%; margin-left: 10%;} + +</style> + </head> + <body> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + +The Project Gutenberg EBook of O. T., by Hans Christian Andersen + +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: O. T. + A Danish Romance + +Author: Hans Christian Andersen + +Release Date: August 3, 2009 [EBook #7513] +Last Updated: October 31, 2016 + +Language: English + +Character set encoding: UTF-8 + +*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK O. T. *** + + + + +Produced by Nicole Apostola, and David Widger + + + + + + +</pre> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <h1> + O. T. + </h1> + <h2> + A Danish Romance + </h2> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <h2> + by Hans Christian Andersen + </h2> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <h3> + Author of the “Improvisatore” and the “Two Baronesses” + </h3> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <blockquote> + <p class="toc"> + <big><b>CONTENTS</b></big> + </p> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0001"> CHAPTER I </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0002"> CHAPTER II </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0003"> CHAPTER III </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0004"> CHAPTER IV </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0005"> CHAPTER V </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0006"> CHAPTER VI </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0007"> CHAPTER VII </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0008"> CHAPTER VIII </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0009"> CHAPTER IX </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0010"> CHAPTER X </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0011"> CHAPTER XI </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0012"> CHAPTER XII </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0013"> CHAPTER XIII </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0014"> CHAPTER XIV </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0015"> CHAPTER XV </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0016"> CHAPTER XVI </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0017"> CHAPTER XVII </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0018"> CHAPTER XVIII </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0019"> CHAPTER XIX </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0020"> CHAPTER XX </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0021"> CHAPTER XXI </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0022"> CHAPTER XXII </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0023"> CHAPTER XXIII </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0024"> CHAPTER XXIV </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0025"> CHAPTER XXV </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0026"> CHAPTER XXVI </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0027"> CHAPTER XXVII </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0028"> CHAPTER XXVIII </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0029"> CHAPTER XXIX </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0030"> CHAPTER XXX </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0031"> CHAPTER XXXI </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0032"> CHAPTER XXXII </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0033"> CHAPTER XXXIII </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0034"> CHAPTER XXXIV </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0035"> CHAPTER XXXV </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0036"> CHAPTER XXXVI. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0037"> CHAPTER XXXVII </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0038"> CHAPTER XXXVIII </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0039"> CHAPTER XXXIX </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0040"> CHAPTER XL </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0041"> CHAPTER XLI </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0042"> CHAPTER XLII </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0043"> CHAPTER XLIII </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0044"> CHAPTER XLIV </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0045"> CHAPTER XLV </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0046"> CHAPTER XLVI </a> + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="link2HCH0001" id="link2HCH0001"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <h2> + CHAPTER I + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “Quod felix faustumque sit!” + </pre> + <p> + There is a happiness which no poet has yet properly sung, which no + lady-reader, let her be ever so amiable, has experienced or ever will + experience in this world. This is a condition of happiness which alone + belongs to the male sex, and even then alone to the elect. It is a moment + of life which seizes upon our feelings, our minds, our whole being. Tears + have been shed by the innocent, sleepless nights been passed, during which + the pious mother, the loving sister, have put up prayers to God for this + critical moment in the life of the son or the brother. + </p> + <p> + Happy moment, which no woman, let her be ever so good, so beautiful, or + intellectual, can experience—that of becoming a student, or, to + describe it by a more usual term, the passing of the first examination! + </p> + <p> + The cadet who becomes an officer, the scholar who becomes an academical + burgher, the apprentice who becomes a journeyman, all know, in a greater + or less degree, this loosening of the wings, this bounding over the limits + of maturity into the lists of philosophy. We all strive after a wider + field, and rush thither like the stream which at length loses itself in + the ocean. + </p> + <p> + Then for the first time does the youthful soul rightly feel her freedom, + and, therefore, feels it doubly; the soul struggles for activity, she + comprehends her individuality; it has been proved and not found too light; + she is still in possession of the dreams of childhood, which have not yet + proved delusive. Not even the joy of love, not the enthusiasm for art and + science, so thrills through all the nerves as the words, “Now am I a + student!” + </p> + <p> + This spring-day of life, on which the ice-covering of the school is + broken, when the tree of Hope puts forth its buds and the sun of Freedom + shines, falls with us, as is well known, in the month of October, just + when Nature loses her foliage, when the evenings begin to grow darker, and + when heavy winter-clouds draw together, as though they would say to youth,—“Your + spring, the birth of the examination, is only a dream! even now does your + life become earnest!” But our happy youths think not of these things, + neither will we be joyous with the gay, and pay a visit to their circle. + In such a one our story takes its commencement. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0002" id="link2HCH0002"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER II + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “At last we separate: + To Jutland one, to Fünen others go; + And still the quick thought comes, + —A day so bright, so full of fun, + Never again on us shall rise.”—CARL BAGGER. +</pre> + <p> + It was in October of the year 1829. Examen artium had been passed through. + Several young students were assembled in the evening at the abode of one + of their comrades, a young Copenhagener of eighteen, whose parents were + giving him and his new friends a banquet in honor of the examination. The + mother and sister had arranged everything in the nicest manner, the father + had given excellent wine out of the cellar, and the student himself, here + the rex convivii, had provided tobacco, genuine Oronoko-canaster. With + regard to Latin, the invitation—which was, of course, composed in + Latin—informed the guests that each should bring his own. + </p> + <p> + The company, consisting of one and twenty persons—and these were + only the most intimate friends—was already assembled. About one + third of the friends were from the provinces, the remainder out of + Copenhagen. + </p> + <p> + “Old Father Homer shall stand in the middle of the table!” said one of the + liveliest guests, whilst he took down from the stove a plaster bust and + placed it upon the covered table. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, certainly, he will have drunk as much as the other poets!” said an + older one. “Give me one of thy exercise-books, Ludwig! I will cut him out + a wreath of vine-leaves, since we have no roses and since I cannot cut out + any.” + </p> + <p> + “I have no libation!” cried a third,—“Favete linguis.” And he + sprinkled a small quantity of salt, from the point of a knife, upon the + bust, at the same time raising his glass to moisten it with a few drops of + wine. + </p> + <p> + “Do not use my Homer as you would an ox!” cried the host. “Homer shall + have the place of honor, between the bowl and the garland-cake! He is + especially my poet! It was he who in Greek assisted me to laudabilis et + quidem egregie. Now we will mutually drink healths! Jörgen shall be + magister bibendi, and then we will sing ‘Gaudeamus igitur,’ and ‘Integer + vitae.’” + </p> + <p> + “The Sexton with the cardinal’s hat shall be the precentor!” cried one of + the youths from the provinces, pointing toward a rosy-cheeked companion. + </p> + <p> + “O, now I am no longer sexton!” returned the other laughing. “If thou + bringest old histories up again, thou wilt receive thy old school-name, + ‘the Smoke-squirter.’” + </p> + <p> + “But that is a very nice little history!” said the other. “We called him + ‘Sexton,’ from the office his father held; but that, after all, is not + particularly witty. It was better with the hat, for it did, indeed, + resemble a cardinal’s hat. I, in the mean time, got my name in a more + amusing manner.” + </p> + <p> + “He lived near the school,” pursued the other; “he could always slip home + when we had out free quarters of an hour: and then one day he had filled + his mouth with tobacco smoke, intending to blow it into our faces; but + when he entered the passage with his filled cheeks the quarter of an hour + was over, and we were again in class: the rector was still standing in the + doorway; he could not, therefore, blow the smoke out of his mouth, and so + wished to slip in as he was. ‘What have you there in your mouth?’ asked + the rector; but Philip could answer nothing, without at the same time + losing the smoke. ‘Now, cannot you speak?’ cried the rector, and gave him + a box on the ear, so that the smoke burst through nose and mouth. This + looked quite exquisite; the affair caused the rector such pleasure, that + he presented the poor sinner with the nota bene.” + </p> + <p> + “Integer vitae!” broke in the Precentor, and harmoniously followed the + other voices. After this, a young Copenhagener exhibited his dramatic + talent by mimicking most illusively the professors of the Academy, and + giving their peculiarities, yet in such a good-natured manner that it must + have amused even the offended parties themselves. Now followed the healths—“Vivant + omnes hi et hae!” + </p> + <p> + “A health to the prettiest girl!” boldly cried one of the merriest + brothers. “The prettiest girl!” repeated a pair of the younger ones, and + pushed their glasses toward each other, whilst the blood rushed to their + cheeks at this their boldness, for they had never thought of a beloved + being, which, nevertheless, belonged to their new life. The roundelay now + commenced, in which each one must give the Christian name of his + lady-love, and assuredly every second youth caught a name out of the air; + some, however, repeated a name with a certain palpitation of the heart. + The discourse became more animated; the approaching military exercises, + the handsome uniform, the reception in the students’ club, and its + pleasures, were all matters of the highest interest. But there was the + future philologicum and philosophicum—yes, that also was discussed; + there they must exhibit their knowledge of Latin. + </p> + <p> + “What do you think,” said one of the party, “if once a week we alternately + met at each other’s rooms, and held disputations? No Danish word must be + spoken. This might be an excellent scheme.” + </p> + <p> + “I agree to that!” cried several. + </p> + <p> + “Regular laws must be drawn up.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, and we must have our best Latin scholar, the Jutlander, Otto + Thostrup, with us! He wrote his themes in hexameters.” + </p> + <p> + “He is not invited here this evening,” remarked the neighbor, the young + Baron Wilhelm of Funen, the only nobleman in the company. + </p> + <p> + “Otto Thostrup!” answered the host. “Yes, truly he’s a clever fellow, but + he seems to me so haughty. There is something about him that does not + please me at all. We are still no dunces, although he did receive nine + prae caeteris!” + </p> + <p> + “Yet it was very provoking,” cried another, “that he received the only Non + in mathematics. Otherwise he would have been called in. Now he will only + have to vex himself about his many brilliant characters.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, and he is well versed in mathematics!” added Wilhelm “There was + something incorrect in the writing; the inspector was to blame for that, + but how I know not. Thostrup is terribly vehement, and can set all respect + at defiance; he became angry, and went out. There was only a piece of + unwritten paper presented from him, and this brought him a cipher, which + the verbal examination could not bring higher than non. Thostrup is + certainly a glorious fellow. We have made a tour together in the steamboat + from Helsingöer to Copenhagen, and in the written examination we sat + beside each other until the day when we had mathematics, and then I sat + below him. I like him very much, his pride excepted; and of that we must + break him.” + </p> + <p> + “Herr Baron,” said his neighbor, “I am of your opinion. Shall not we drink + the Thou-brotherhood?” + </p> + <p> + “To-night we will all of us drink the Thou!” said the host; “it is nothing + if comrades and good friends call each other <i>you</i>.” + </p> + <p> + “Evoe Bacchus!” they joyously shouted. The glasses were filled, one arm + was thrown round that of the neighbor, and the glasses were emptied, + whilst several commenced singing “dulce cum sodalibus!” + </p> + <p> + “Tell me what thou art called?” demanded one of the younger guests of his + new Thou-brother. + </p> + <p> + “What am I called?” replied he. “With the exception of one letter, the + same as the Baron.” + </p> + <p> + “The Baron!” cried a third; “yes, where is he?” + </p> + <p> + “There he stands talking at the door; take your glasses! now have all of + us drank the Thou-brotherhood?” + </p> + <p> + The glasses were again raised; the young Baron laughed, clinked his glass, + and shouted in the circle, “Thou, Thou!” But in his whole bearing there + lay something constrained, which, however, none of the young men remarked, + far less allowed themselves to imagine that his sudden retreat, during the + first drinking, perhaps occurred from the sole object of avoiding it. But + soon was he again one of the most extravagant; promised each youth who + would study theology a living on his estate when he should once get it + into his own hands; and proposed that the Latin disputations should + commence with him, and on the following Friday. Otto Thostrup, however, + should be of the party—if he chose, of course being understood; for + he was a capital student, and his friend they had made a journey together + and had been neighbors at the green table. + </p> + <p> + Among those who were the earliest to make their valete amici was the + Baron. Several were not yet inclined to quit this joyous circle. The + deepest silence reigned in the streets; it was the most beautiful + moonlight. In most houses all had retired to rest—only here and + there was a light still seen, most persons slept, even those whose sense + of duty should leave banished the god of sleep: thus sat a poor + hackney-coachman, aloft upon his coach-box, before the house where he + awaited his party, and enjoyed, the reins wound about his hand, the + much-desired rest. Wilhelm (henceforth we will only call the young Baron + by his Christian name) walked alone through the street. The wine had + heated his northern blood—besides which it never flowed slowly; his + youthful spirits, his jovial mood, and the gayety occasioned by the merry + company he had just quitted did not permit him quietly to pass by this + sleeping Endymion. Suddenly it occurred to him to open the coach-door and + leap in; which having done, he let the glass fall and called out with a + loud voice, “Drive on!” The coachman started up out of his blessed sleep + and asked, quite confused, “Where to?” Without reflecting about the + matter, Wilhelm cried, “To the Ship in West Street.” The coachman drove + on; about half-way, Wilhelm again opened the coach-door, a bold spring + helped him out, and the coach rolled on. It stopped at the public-house of + the Ship. The coachman got down and opened the door; there was no one + within; he thrust his head in thoroughly to convince himself; but no, the + carriage was empty! “Extraordinary!” said the fellow; “can I have dreamed + it? But still I heard, quite distinctly, how I was told to drive to the + Ship! Lord preserve us! now they are waiting for me!” He leaped upon the + box and drove rapidly back again. + </p> + <p> + In the mean time Wilhelm had reached his abode in Vineyard Street; he + opened a window to enjoy the beautiful night, and gazed out upon the + desolate church-yard which is shut in by shops. He had no inclination for + sleep, although everything in the street, even the watchmen not excepted, + appeared to rejoice the gift of God. Wilhelm thought upon the merry + evening party, upon his adventure with the poor hackney-coachman, then + took down his violin from the wall and began to play certain variations. + </p> + <p> + The last remaining guests from the honorable carousal, merrier than when + Wilhelm left them, now came wandering up the street. One of them jodeled + sweetly, and no watchman showed himself as a disturbing principle. They + heard Wilhelm violin and recognized the musician. + </p> + <p> + “Play us a Française, thou up there!” cried they. + </p> + <p> + “But the watchman?” whispered one of the less courageous. + </p> + <p> + “Zounds, there he sits!” cried a third, and pointed toward a sleeping + object which leaned its head upon a large wooden chest before a closed + booth. + </p> + <p> + “He is happy!” said the first speaker. “If we had only the strong + Icelander here, he would soon hang him up by his bandelier upon one of the + iron hooks. He has done that before now; he has the strength of a bear. He + seized such a lazy fellow as this right daintily by his girdle on one of + the hooks at the weighing-booth. There hung the watchman and whistled to + the others; the first who hastened to the spot was immediately hung up + beside him, and away ran the Icelander whilst the two blew a duet.” + </p> + <p> + “Here, take hold!” cried one of the merry brothers, quickly opening the + chest, the lid of which was fastened by a peg. “Let us put the watchman + into the chest; he sleeps indeed like a horse!” In a moment, the four had + seized the sleeper, who certainly awoke during the operation, but he + already lay in the chest. The lid flew down, and two or three of the + friends sprang upon it whilst the peg was stuck in again. The watchman + immediately seized his whistle and drew the most heart-rending tones from + it. Quickly the tormenting spirits withdrew themselves; yet not so far but + that they could still hear the whistle and observe what would take place. + </p> + <p> + The watchmen now came up. + </p> + <p> + “The deuce! where art thou?” cried they, and then discovered the place. + </p> + <p> + “Ah, God help me!” cried the prisoner. “Let me out, let me out! I must + call!” + </p> + <p> + “Thou hast drunk more than thy thirst required, comrade!” said the others. + “If thou hast fallen into the chest, remain lying there, thou swine!” And + laughing they left him. + </p> + <p> + “O, the rascals!” sighed he, and worked in vain at opening the lid. + Through all his powerful exertions the box fell over. The young men now + stepped forth, and, as though they were highly astonished at the whole + history which he related to them, they let themselves be prevailed upon to + open the box, but only upon condition that he should keep street free from + the interference of the other watchmen whilst they danced a Française to + Wilhelm’s violin. + </p> + <p> + The poor man was delivered from his captivity, and must obligingly play + the sentinel whilst they arranged them for the dance. Wilhelm was called + upon to play, and the dance commenced; a partner, however, was wanting. + Just then a quiet citizen passed by. The gentleman who had no partner + approached the citizen with comic respect, and besought him to take part + in the amusement. + </p> + <p> + “I never dance!” said the man, laughing, and wished to pursue his way. + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” replied the cavalier, “yet you must still do me this pleasure, or + else I shall have no dance.” Saying this he took hold of him by the waist + and the dance commenced, whether the good man would or no. + </p> + <p> + “The watchman should receive a present from every one!” said they, when + the Française was at an end. “He is an excellent man who thus keeps order + in the street, so that one can enjoy a little dance.” + </p> + <p> + “These are honest people’s children!” said the watchman to himself, whilst + he with much pleasure thrust the money into his leathern purse. + </p> + <p> + All was again quiet in the street; the violin was also silent. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0003" id="link2HCH0003"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER III + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “Who looks into the shadowy realm of my heart?” + A. V. CHAMISSO. +</pre> + <p> + In the former chapter we heard mention made of a young student, Otto + Thostrup, a clever fellow, with nine prae caeteris, as his comrades said, + but also of a proud spirit, of which he must be broken. Not at the + disputations, which have been already mentioned, will we make his + acquaintance, although there we must be filled with respect for the good + Latin scholar; not in large companies, where his handsome exterior and his + speaking, melancholy glance must make him interesting; as little in the + pit of the Opera although his few yet striking observations there would + show him to be a very intellectual young man; but we will seek him out for + the first time at the house of his friend, the young Baron Wilhelm. It is + the beginning of November: we find them both with their pipes in their + mouths; upon the table lie Tibullus and Anacreon, which they are reading + together for the approaching philologicum. + </p> + <p> + In the room stands a piano-forte, with a number of music-books; upon the + walls hang the portraits of Weyse and Beethoven, for our young Baron is + musical, nay a composer himself. + </p> + <p> + “See, here we have again this lovely, clinging mist!” said Wilhelm. “Out + of doors one can fairly taste it; at home it would be a real plague to me, + here it only Londonizes the city.” + </p> + <p> + “I like it!” said Otto. “To me it is like an old acquaintance from + Vestervovov. It is as though the mist brought me greetings from the sea + and sand-hills.” + </p> + <p> + “I should like to see the North Sea, but the devil might live there! What + town lies nearest to your grandfather’s estate?” + </p> + <p> + “Lernvig,” answered Otto. “If any one wish to see the North Sea properly, + they ought to go up as far as Thisted and Hjörring. I have travelled + there, have visited the family in Börglum-Kloster; and, besides this, have + made other small journeys. Never shall I forget one evening; yes, it was a + storm of which people in the interior of the country can form no + conception. I rode—I was then a mere boy, and a very wild lad—with + one of our men. When the storm commenced we found ourselves among the + sand-hills. Ah! that you should have seen! The sand forms along the strand + high banks, which serve as dikes against the sea; these are overgrown with + sea-grass, but, if the storm bursts a single hole, the whole is carried + away. This spectacle we chanced to witness. It is a true Arabian + sand-storm, and the North Sea bellowed so that it might be heard at the + distance of many miles. The salt foam flew together with the sand into our + faces.” + </p> + <p> + “That must have been splendid!” exclaimed Wilhelm, and his eyes sparkled. + “Jutland is certainly the most romantic part of Denmark. Since I read + Steen-Blicher’s novels I have felt a real interest for that country. It + seems to me that it must greatly resemble the Lowlands of Scotland. And + gypsies are also found there, are they not?” + </p> + <p> + “Vagabonds, we call them,” said Otto, with an involuntary motion of the + mouth. “They correspond to the name!” + </p> + <p> + “The fishermen, also, on the coast are not much better! Do they still from + the pulpit pray for wrecks? Do they still slay shipwrecked mariners?” + </p> + <p> + “I have heard our preacher, who is an old man, relate how, in the first + years after he had obtained his office and dignity, he was obliged to pray + in the church that, if ships stranded, they might strand in his district; + but this I have never heard myself. But with regard to what is related of + murdering, why, the fishermen—sea-geese, as they are called—are + by no means a tender-hearted people; but it is not as bad as that in our + days. A peasant died in the neighborhood, of whom it was certainly related + that in bad weather he had bound a lantern under his horse’s belly and let + it wander up and down the beach, so that the strange mariner who was + sailing in those seas might imagine it some cruising ship, and thus fancy + himself still a considerable way from land. By this means many a ship is + said to have been destroyed. But observe, these are stories out of the + district of Thisted, and of an elder age, before my power of observation + had developed itself; this was that golden age when in tumble-down + fishers’ huts, after one of these good shipwrecks, valuable shawls, but + little damaged by the sea, might be found employed as bed-hangings. Boots + and shoes were smeared with the finest pomatum. If such things now reach + their hands, they know better how to turn them into money. The + Strand-commissioners are now on the watch; now it is said to be a real age + of copper.” + </p> + <p> + “Have you seen a vessel stranded?” inquired Wilhelm, with increasing + interest. + </p> + <p> + “Our estate lies only half a mile from the sea. Every year about this + time, when the mist spreads itself out as it does to-day and the storms + begin to rage, then was it most animated. In my wild spirits, when I was a + boy, and especially in the midst of our monotonous life, I truly yearned + after it. Once, upon a journey to Börglum-Kloster, I experienced a storm. + In the early morning; it was quite calm, but gray, and we witnessed a kind + of Fata Morgana. A ship, which had not yet risen above the horizon, showed + itself in the distance, but the rigging was turned upside down; the masts + were below, the hull above. This is called the ship of death, and when it + is seen people are sure of bad weather and shipwreck. Later, about midday, + it began to blow, and in an hour’s time we had a regular tempest. The sea + growled quite charmingly; we travelled on between sand-hills—they + resemble hills and dales in winter time, but here it is not snow which + melts away; here never grows a single green blade; a black stake stands up + here and there, and these are rudders from wrecks, the histories of which + are unknown. In the afternoon arose a storm such as I had experienced when + riding with the man between the sand-hills. We could not proceed farther, + and were obliged on this account to seek shelter in one of the huts which + the fishermen hail erected among the white sand-hills. There we remained, + and I saw the stranding of a vessel: I shall never forget it! An American + ship lay not a musket-shot from land. They cut the mast; six or seven men + clung fast to it in the waters. O, how they rocked backward and forward in + the dashing spray! The mast took a direction toward the shore; at length + only three men were left clinging to the mast; it was dashed upon land, + but the returning waves again bore it away; it had crushed the arms and + legs of the clinging wretches—ground them like worms! I dreamed of + this for many nights. The waves flung the hull of the vessel up high on + the shore, and drove it into the sand, where it was afterward found. + Later, as we retraced our steps, were the stem and sternpost gone: you saw + two strong wooden walls, between which the road took its course. You even + still travel through the wreck!” + </p> + <p> + “Up in your country every poetical mind must become a Byron,” said + Wilhelm. “On my parents’ estate we have only idyls; the whole of Funen is + a garden. We mutually visit each other upon our different estates, where + we lead most merry lives, dance with the peasant-girls at the + brewing-feast, hunt in the woods, and fish in the lakes. The only + melancholy object which presents itself with us is a funeral, and the only + romantic characters we possess are a little hump-backed musician, a wise + woman, and an honest schoolmaster, who still firmly believes, as Jeronimus + did, that the earth is flat, and that, were it to turn round, we should + fall, the devil knows where!” + </p> + <p> + “I love nature in Jutland!” exclaimed Otto. “The open sea, the brown + heath, and the bushy moorland. You should see the wild moor in Vendsyssel—that + is an extent! Almost always wet mists float over its unapproachable + interior, which is known to no one. It is not yet fifty years since it + served as an abode for wolves. Often it bursts into flames, for it is + impregnated with sulphuric gas,—one can see the fire for miles.” + </p> + <p> + “My sister Sophie ought to hear all this!” said Wilhelm. “You would make + your fortune with her! The dear girl! she has the best head at home, but + she loves effect. Hoffman and Victor Hugo are her favorites. Byron rests + every night under her pillow. If you related such things of the west coast + of Jutland, and of heaths and moors, you might persuade her to make a + journey thither. One really would not believe that we possessed in our own + country such romantic situations!” + </p> + <p> + “Is she your only sister?” inquired Otto. + </p> + <p> + “No,” returned Wilhelm, “I have two—the other is named Louise; she + is of quite an opposite character: I do not know of which one ought to + think most. Have you no brothers or sisters?” he asked of Otto. + </p> + <p> + “No!” returned the latter, with his former involuntary, half-melancholy + expression. “I am an only child. In my house it is solitary and silent. My + grandfather alone is left alive. He is an active, strong man, but very + grave. He instructed me in mathematics, which he thoroughly understands. + The preacher taught me Latin, Greek, and history: two persons, however, + occupied themselves with my religious education—the preacher and my + old Rosalie. She is a good soul. How often have I teased her, been + petulant, and almost angry with her! She thought so much of me, she was + both mother and sister to me, and instructed me in religion as well as the + preacher, although she is a Catholic. Since my father’s childhood she has + been a sort of governante in the house. You should have seen her + melancholy smile when she heard my geography lesson, and we read of her + dear Switzerland, where she was born, and of the south of France, where + she had travelled as a child. The west coast of Jutland may also appear + very barren in comparison with these countries!” + </p> + <p> + “She might have made you a Catholic! But surely nothing of this still + clings to you?” + </p> + <p> + “Rosalie was a prudent old creature; Luther himself need not have been + ashamed of her doctrine. Whatever is holy to the heart of man, remains + also holy in every religion!” + </p> + <p> + “But then, to erect altars to the Madonna!” exclaimed Wilhelm; “to pray to + a being; whom the Bible does not make a saint!—that is rather too + much. And their tricks with burning of incense and ringing of bells! Yes, + indeed, it would give me no little pleasure to cut off the heads of the + Pope and of the whole clerical body! To purchase indulgence!—Those + must, indeed, be curious people who can place thorough faith in such + things! I will never once take off my hat before the Madonna!” + </p> + <p> + “But that will I do, and in my heart bow myself before her!” answered + Otto, gravely. + </p> + <p> + “Did I not think so? she has made you a Catholic!” + </p> + <p> + “No such thing! I am as good a Protestant as you yourself: but wherefore + should we not respect the mother of Christ? With regard to the ceremonials + of Catholicism, indulgence, and all these additions of the priesthood, I + agree with you in wishing to strike off the heads of all who, in such a + manner, degrade God and the human understanding. But in many respects we + are unjust: we so easily forget the first and greatest commandment, ‘Love + thy neighbor as thyself!’ We are not tolerant. Among our festivals we have + still one for the Three Kings—it is yet celebrated by the common + people; but what have these three kings done? They knelt before the manger + in which Christ lay, and on this account we honor them. On the contrary, + the mother of God has no festival-day; nay, the multitude even smile at + her name! If you will only quietly listen to my simple argument, we shall + soon agree. You will take off your hat and bow before the Madonna. Only + two things are to be considered—either Christ was entirely human, or + He was, as the Bible teaches us, a divine being. I will now admit the + latter. He is God Himself, who in some inexplicable manner, is born to us + of the Virgin Mary. She must therefore be the purest, the most perfect + feminine being, since God found her worthy to bring into the world the + Son, the only one; through this she becomes as holy as any human being + can, and low we must bow ourselves before the pure, the exalted one. Take + it for granted that Christ was human, like ourselves, otherwise He cannot, + according to my belief, call upon us to imitate Him; neither would it be + great, as God, to meet a corporeal death, from which He could remove each + pain. Were He only a man, born of Mary, we must doubly admire Him; we must + bow in the dust before His mighty spirit, His enlightening and consoling + doctrine. But can we then forget how much the mother has must have + influenced the child, how sublime and profound the soul must have been + which spoke to His heart? We must reverence and honor her! Everywhere in + the Scriptures where she appears we see an example of care and love; with + her whole soul she adheres to her Son. Think how uneasy she became, and + sought for Him in the temple—think of her gentle reproaches! The + words of the Son always sounded harsh in my ears. ‘Those are the powerful + expressions of the East!’ said my old preacher. The Saviour was severe, + severe as He must be! Already there seemed to me severity in His words! + She was completely the mother; she was it then, even as when she wept at + Golgotha. Honor and reverence she deserves from us!” + </p> + <p> + “These she also receives!” returned Wilhelm; and striking him upon the + shoulder he added, with a smile, “you are, according to the Roman Catholic + manner, near exalting the mother above the Son! Old Rosalie has made a + proselyte; after all, you are half a Catholic!” + </p> + <p> + “That am I not!” answered Otto, “and that will I not be!” + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “See! the thunder-cloud advances!” + </pre> + <p> + resounded below in the court: the sweet Neapolitan song reached the ears + of the friends. They stepped into the adjoining room and opened the + window. Three poor boys stood below in the wind and rain, and commenced + the song. The tallest was, perhaps, fourteen or fifteen years old, his + deep, rough voice seemed to have attained its strength and depth more + through rain and bad weather than through age. The dirty wet clothes hung + in rags about his body; the shoes upon the wet feet, and the hat held + together with white threads, were articles of luxury. The other two boys + had neither hat nor shoes, but their clothes were whole and clean. The + youngest appeared six or seven years old; his silvery white hair formed a + contrast with his brown face, his dark eyes and long brown eyelashes. His + voice sounded like the voice of a little girl, as fine and soft, beside + the voices of the others, as the breeze of an autumnal evening beside that + of rude November weather. + </p> + <p> + “That is a handsome boy!” exclaimed the two friends at the same time. + </p> + <p> + “And a lovely melody!” added Otto. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, but they sing falsely!” answered Wilhelm: “one sings half a tone too + low, the other half a tone too high!” + </p> + <p> + “Now, thank God that I cannot hear that!” said Otto. “It sounds sweetly, + and the little one might become a singer. Poor child!” added he gravely: + “bare feet, wet to the very skin; and then the elder one will certainly + lead him to brandy drinking! Within a month, perhaps, the voice will be + gone! Then is the nightingale dead!” He quickly threw down some skillings, + wrapped in paper. + </p> + <p> + “Come up!” cried Wilhelm, and beckoned. The eldest of the boys flew up + like an arrow; Wilhelm, however, said it was the youngest who was meant. + The others remained standing before the door; the youngest stepped in. + </p> + <p> + “Whose son art thou?” asked Wilhelm. The boy was silent, and cast down his + eyes in an embarrassed manner. “Now, don’t be bashful! Thou art of a good + family—that one can see from thy appearance! Art not thou thy + mother’s son? I will give thee stockings and—the deuce! here is a + pair of boots which are too small for me; if thou dost not get drowned in + them they shall be thy property: but now thou must sing.” And he seated + himself at the piano-forte and struck the keys. “Now, where art thou?” he + cried, rather displeased. The little one gazed upon the ground. + </p> + <p> + “How! dost thou weep; or is it the rain which hangs in thy black + eyelashes?” said Otto, and raised his head: “we only wish to do thee a + kindness. There—thou hast another skilling from me.” + </p> + <p> + The little one still remained somewhat laconic. All that they learned was + that he was named Jonas, and that his grandmother thought so much of him. + </p> + <p> + “Here thou hast the stockings!” said Wilhelm; “and see here! a coat with a + velvet collar, a much-to-be-prized keepsake! The boots! Thou canst + certainly stick both legs into one boot! See! that is as good as having + two pairs to change about with! Let us see!” + </p> + <p> + The boy’s eyes sparkled with joy; the boots he drew on, the stockings went + into his pocket, and the bundle he took under his arm. + </p> + <p> + “But thou must sing us a little song!” said Wilhelm, and the little one + commenced the old song out of the “Woman-hater,” “Cupid never can be + trusted!” + </p> + <p> + The lively expression in the dark eyes, the boy himself in his wet, + wretched clothes and big boots, with the bundle under his arm; nay, the + whole had something so characteristic in it, that had it been painted, and + had the painter called the picture “Cupid on his Wanderings,” every one + would have found the little god strikingly excellent, although he were not + blind. + </p> + <p> + “Something might be made of the boy and of his voice!” said Wilhelm, when + little Jonas, in a joyous mood, had left the house with the other lads. + </p> + <p> + “The poor child!” sighed Otto. “I have fairly lost my good spirits through + all this. It seizes upon me so strangely when I see misery and genius + mated. Once there came to our estate in Jutland a man who played the + Pandean-pipes, and at the same time beat the drum and cymbals: near him + stood a little girl, and struck the triangle. I was forced to weep over + this spectacle; without understanding how it was, I felt the misery of the + poor child. I was myself yet a mere boy.” + </p> + <p> + “He looked so comic in the big boots that I became quite merry, and not + grave,” said Wilhelm. “Nevertheless what a pity it is that such gentle + blood, which at the first glance one perceives he is, that such a pretty + child should become a rude fellow, and his beautiful voice change into a + howl, like that with which the other tall Laban saluted us. Who knows + whether little Jonas might not become the first singer on the Danish + stage? Yes, if he received education of mind and voice, who knows? I could + really have, pleasure in attempting it, and help every one on in the + world, before I myself am rightly in the way!” + </p> + <p> + “If he is born to a beggar’s estate,” said Otto, “let him as beggar live + and die, and learn nothing higher. That is better, that is more to be + desired!” + </p> + <p> + Wilhelm seated himself at the piano-forte, and played some of his own + compositions. “That is difficult,” said he; “every one cannot play that.” + </p> + <p> + “The simpler the sweeter!” replied Otto. + </p> + <p> + “You must not speak about music!” returned the friend “upon that you know + not how to pass judgment. Light Italian operas are not difficult to + write.” + </p> + <p> + In the evening the friends separated. Whilst Otto took his hat, there was + a low knock at the door. Wilhelm opened it. Without stood a poor old + woman, with pale sharp features; by the hand she led a little boy—it + was Jonas: thus then it was a visit from him and his grandmother. + </p> + <p> + The other boys had sold the boots and shoes which had been given him. They + ought to have a share, they maintained. This atrocious injustice had + induced the old grandmother to go immediately with little Jonas to the two + good gentlemen, and relate how little the poor lad had received of flint + which they had assigned to him alone. + </p> + <p> + Wilhelm spoke of the boy’s sweet voice, and thought that by might make his + fortune at the theatre; but then he ought not now to be left running about + with bare feet in the wind and rain. + </p> + <p> + “But by this means he brings a skilling home,” said the old woman. “That’s + what his father and mother look to, and the skilling they can always + employ. Nevertheless she had herself already thought of bringing him out + at the theatre,—but that was to have been in dancing, for they got + shoes and stockings to dance in, and with these they might also run home; + and that would be an advantage.” + </p> + <p> + “I will teach the boy music!” said Wilhelm; “he can come to me sometimes.” + </p> + <p> + “And then he will, perhaps, get a little cast-off clothing, good sir,” + said the grandmother; “a shirt, or a waistcoat, just as it happens?” + </p> + <p> + “Become a tailor, or shoemaker,” said Otto, gravely, and laid his hand + upon the boy’s head. + </p> + <p> + “He shall be a genius!” said Wilhelm. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0004" id="link2HCH0004"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER IV + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “Christmas-tide, + When in the wood the snow shines bright.” + OEHLENSCHLÄGER’S Helge +</pre> + <p> + We again let several weeks pass by; it was Christmas Eve, which brings us + the beautiful Christmas festival. We find the two friends taking a walk. + </p> + <p> + Describe to an inhabitant of the south a country where the earth appears + covered with the purest Carrara marble, where the tree twigs resemble + white branches of coral sprinkled with diamonds, and above a sky as blue + as that belonging to the south, and he will say that is a fairy land. + Couldst thou suddenly remove him from his dark cypresses and olive-trees + to the north, where the fresh snow lies upon the earth, where the white + hoar-frost has powdered the trees over, and the sun shines down from the + blue heaven, then would he recognize the description and call the north a + fairy land. + </p> + <p> + This was the splendor which the friends admired. The large trees upon the + fortification-walls appeared crystallized when seen against the blue sky. + The Sound was not yet frozen over; vessels, illuminated by the red evening + sun, glided past with spread sails. The Swedish coast seemed to have + approached nearer; one might see individual houses in Landskrona. It was + lovely, and on this account there were many promenaders upon the walls and + the Langelinie. + </p> + <p> + “Sweden seems so near that one might swim over to it!” said Wilhelm. + </p> + <p> + “The distance would be too far,” answered Otto; “but I should love to + plunge among the deep blue waters yonder.” + </p> + <p> + “How refreshing it is,” said Wilhelm, “when the water plays about one’s + cheeks! Whilst I was at home, I always swam in the Great Belt. Yes, you + are certainly half a fish when you come into the water.” + </p> + <p> + “I!” repeated Otto, and was silent; but immediately added, with a kind of + embarrassment which was at other times quite foreign to him, and from + which one might infer how unpleasant confessing any imperfection was to + him, “I do not swim.” + </p> + <p> + “That must be learned in summer!” said Wilhelm. + </p> + <p> + “There is so much to learn,” answered Otto; “swimming will certainly be + the last thing.” He now suddenly turned toward the fortress, and stood + still. “Only see how melancholy and quiet!” said he, and led the + conversation again to the surrounding scenery. “The sentinel before the + prison paces so quietly up and down, the sun shines upon his bayonet! How + this reminds me of a sweet little poem of Heine’s; it is just as though he + described this fortress and this soldier, but in the warmth of summer: one + sees the picture livingly before one, as here; the weapon glances in the + sun, and the part ends so touchingly,—‘Ich wollt’, er schösse mich + todt!’ It is here so romantically beautiful! on the right the animated + promenade, and the view over the Sund; on the left, the desolate square, + where the military criminals are shot, and close upon it the prison with + its beam-fence. The sun scarcely shines through those windows. Yet, + without doubt, the prisoner can see us walking here upon the wall.” + </p> + <p> + “And envy our golden freedom!” said Wilhelm. + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps he derides it,” answered Otto. “He is confined to his chamber and + the small courts behind the beam-lattice; we are confined to the coast; we + cannot fly forth with the ships into the mighty, glorious world. We are + also fastened with a chain, only ours is somewhat longer than that of the + prisoner. But we will not think of this; let us go down to where the + beautiful ladies are walking.” + </p> + <p> + “To see and to be seen,” cried Wilhelm. “‘Spectatum veniunt; veniunt + spectentur ut ipsae,’ as Ovid says.” + </p> + <p> + The friends quitted the wall. + </p> + <p> + “There comes my scholar, little Jonas!” cried Wilhelm. “The boy was better + dressed than at his last appearance; quickly he pulled his little cap off + and stood still: a young girl in a wretched garb held him by the hand. + </p> + <p> + “Good day, my clever lad!” said Wilhelm, and his glance rested on the + girl: she was of a singularly elegant form; had she only carried herself + better she would have been a perfect beauty. It was Psyche herself who + stood beside Cupid. She smiled in a friendly manner; the little lad had + certainly told her who the gentlemen were; but she became crimson, and + cast down her eyes when Wilhelm looked back after her: he beckoned to + Jonas, who immediately came to him. The girl was his sister, he said, and + was called Eva. Wilhelm nodded to her, and the friends went on. + </p> + <p> + “That was a beautiful girl!” said Wilhelm, and looked back once more. “A + rosebud that one could kiss until it became a full blown rose!” + </p> + <p> + “During the experiment the rosebud might easily be broken!” answered Otto; + “at least such is the case with the real flower. But do not look back + again, that is a sin!” + </p> + <p> + “Sin?” repeated Wilhelm; “no, then it is a very innocent sin! Believe me, + it flatters the little creature that we should admire her beauty. I can + well imagine how enchanting a loving look from a rich young gentleman may + be for a weak, feminine mind. The sweet words which one can say are as + poison which enters the blood. I have still a clear conscience. Not ONE + innocent soul have I poisoned!” + </p> + <p> + “And yet you are rich and young enough to do so,” returned Otto, not + without bitterness. “Our friends precede us with a good example: here come + some of our own age; they are acquainted with the roses!” + </p> + <p> + “Good evening, thou good fellow!” was the greeting Wilhelm received from + three or four of the young men. + </p> + <p> + “Are you on Thou-terms with all these?” inquired Otto. + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” answered Wilhelm; “we became so at a carouse. There all drank the + Thou-brotherhood. I could not draw myself back. At other times I do not + willingly give my ‘thou’ to any but my nearest friends. <i>Thou</i> has + something to my mind affectionate and holy. Many people fling it to the + first person with whom they drink a glass. At the carouse I could not say + no.” + </p> + <p> + “And wherefore not?” returned Otto; “that would never have troubled me.” + </p> + <p> + The friends now wandered on, arm-in-arm. Later in the evening we again + meet with them together, and that at the house of a noble family, whose + name and rank are to be found in the “Danish Court Calendar;” on which + account it would be wanting in delicacy to mention the same, even in a + story the events of which lie so near our hearts. + </p> + <p> + Large companies are most wearisome. In these there are two kinds of rank. + Either you are riveted to a card-table, or placed against the wall where + you must stand with your hat in your hand, or, later in the evening, with + it at your feet, nay, even must stand during supper. But this house was + one of the most intellectual. Thou who dost recognize the house wilt also + recognize that it is not to be reckoned with those,— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “Where each day’s gossiping stale fish + Is served up daily for thy dish.” + </pre> + <p> + This evening we do not become acquainted with the family, but only with + their beautiful Christmas festival. + </p> + <p> + The company was assembled in a large apartment; the shaded lamp burned + dimly, but this was with the intention of increasing the effect when the + drawing-room doors should open and the children joyfully press in + together. + </p> + <p> + Wilhelm now stepped to the piano-forte; a few chords produced stillness + and attention. To the sounds of low music there stepped forth from the + side-doors three maidens arrayed in white; each wore a long veil depending + from the back of her head,—one blue, the other red, and the third + white. Each carried in her arms an urn, and thus they represented + fortune-tellers from the East. They brought good or ill luck, which each + related in a little verse. People were to draw a number, and according to + this would he receive his gift from the Christmas-tree. One of the maidens + brought blanks—but which of them? now it was proved whether you were + a child of fortune. All, even the children, drew their uncertain numbers: + exception was only made with the family physician and a few elderly ladies + of the family; these had a particular number stuck into their hands—their + presents had been settled beforehand. + </p> + <p> + “Who brings me good luck?” inquired Otto, as the three pretty young girls + approached him. The one with a white veil was Wilhelm’s eldest sister, + Miss Sophie, who was this winter paying a visit to the family. She + resembled her brother. The white drapery about her head increased the + expression of her countenance. She rested her gaze firmly upon Otto, and, + perhaps, because he was the friend of her brother, she raised her finger. + Did she wish to warn or to challenge him? Otto regarded it as a challenge, + thrust his hand into the urn, and drew out number 33. All were now + provided. The girls disappeared, and the folding-doors of the drawing-room + were opened. + </p> + <p> + A dazzling light streamed toward the guests. A splendid fir-tree, covered + with burning tapers, and hung over with tinsel-gold, gilt eggs and apples, + almonds and grapes, dazzled the eye. On either side of the tree were + grottoes of fir-trees and moss, hung with red and blue paper lamps. In + each grotto was an altar; upon one stood John of Bologna’s floating + Mercury; upon the other, a reduced cast in plaster of Thorwaldsen’s + Shepherd-boy. The steps were covered with presents, to which were attached + the different numbers. + </p> + <p> + “Superbe! lovely!” resounded from all sides; and the happy children + shouted for joy. People arranged themselves in a half-circle, one row + behind the other. One of the cousins of the family now stepped forth, a + young poet, who, if we mistake not, has since then appeared among the + Anonymouses in “The New Year’s Gift of Danish Poets.” He was appareled + this evening as one of the Magi, and recited a little poem which declared + that, as each one had himself drawn out of the urn of Fate, no one could + be angry, let him have procured for himself honor or derision—Fate, + and not Merit, being here the ruler. Two little boys, with huge butterfly + wings and in flowing garments, bore the presents to the guests. A number, + which had been purposely given to one of the elder ladies, was now called + out, and the boys brought forward a large, heavy, brown earthen jug. To + the same hung a direction the length of two sheets of paper, upon which + was written, “A remedy against frost.” The jug was opened, and a very nice + boa taken out and presented to the lady. + </p> + <p> + “What number have you?” inquired Otto of Wilhelm’s sister, who, freed from + her long veil, now entered the room and took her place near him. + </p> + <p> + “Number 34,” she answered. “I was to keep the number which remained over + when the others had drawn.” + </p> + <p> + “We are, then, neighbors in the chain of Fate,” returned Otto; “I have + number 33.” + </p> + <p> + “Then one of us will receive something very bad!” said Sophie. “For, as + much as I know, only every other number is good.” At this moment their + numbers were called out. The accompanying poem declared that only a + poetical, noble mind deserved this gift. It consisted of an illuminated + French print, the subject a simple but touching idea. You saw a frozen + lake, nothing but one expanse of ice as far as the horizon. The ice was + broken, and near to the opening lay a hat with a red lining, and beside it + sat a dog with grave eyes, still and expectant. Around the broken opening + in the ice were seen traces of the dog having scratched into the hard + crust of ice. “Il attend toujours” was the simple motto. + </p> + <p> + “That is glorious!” exclaimed Otto. “An affecting thought! His master has + sunk in the depth, and the faithful log yet awaits him. Had that picture + only fallen to my lot!” + </p> + <p> + “It is lovely!” said Sophie, and a melancholy glance made the young girl + still more beautiful. + </p> + <p> + Soon after Wilhelm’s turn came. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “Open the packet, thou shalt see + The very fairest gaze on thee!” + </pre> + <p> + ran the verse. He opened the packet, and found within a small mirror. + “Yes, that was intended for a lady,” said he; “in that case it would have + spoken the truth! in my hands it makes a fool of me. + </p> + <p> + “For me nothing certainly remains but my number!” said Otto to his + neighbor, as all the gifts appeared to be distributed. + </p> + <p> + “The last is number 33,” said the cousin, and drew forth a roll of paper, + which had been hidden among the moss. It was unrolled. It was an old + pedigree of an extinct race. Quite at the bottom lay the knight with + shield and armor, and out of his breast grew the many-branched tree with + its shields and names. Probably it had been bought, with other rubbish, at + some auction, and now at Christmas, when every hole and corner was + rummaged for whatever could be converted into fun or earnest, it had been + brought out for the Christmas tree. The cousin read the following verse:— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “Art thou not noble?—then it in far better; + This tree unto thy father is not debtor; + Thyself alone is thy ancestral crown. + From thee shall spring forth branches of renown, + And if thou come where blood gives honor’s place, + This tree shall prove thee first of all thy race! + From this hour forth thy soul high rank hath won her, + Not will forget thy knighthood and thy honor.” + </pre> + <p> + “I congratulate you,” said Wilhelm, laughing. “Now you will have to pay + the nobility-tax!” + </p> + <p> + Several of the ladies who stood near him, smiling, also offered a kind of + congratulation. Sophie alone remained silent, and examined the present of + another lady—a pretty pincushion in the form of a gay butterfly. + </p> + <p> + The first row now rose to examine more nearly how beautifully the + Christmas tree was adorned. Sophie drew one of the ladies away with her. + </p> + <p> + “Let us look at the beautiful statues,” said she; “the Shepherd-boy and + the Mercury.” + </p> + <p> + “That is not proper,” whispered the lady; “but look there at the splendid + large raisins on the tree!” + </p> + <p> + Sophie stepped before Thorwaldsen’s Shepherd-boy. The lady whispered to a + friend, “It looks so odd that she should examine the figures!” + </p> + <p> + “Ah!” replied the other, “she is a lover of the fine arts, as you well + know. Only think! at the last exhibition she went with her brother into + the great hall where all the plaster-casts stand, and looked at them!—the + Hercules, as well as the other indecent figures! they were excellent, she + said. That is being so natural; otherwise she is a nice girl.” + </p> + <p> + “It is a pity she is a little awry.” + </p> + <p> + Sophie approached them; both ladies made room for her, and invited her + most lovingly to sit clown beside them. “Thou sweet girl!” they + flatteringly exclaimed. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0005" id="link2HCH0005"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER V + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “Hark to trumpets and beaten gongs, + Squeaking fiddles, shouts and songs. + Hurra! hurra! + The Doctor is here; + And here the hills where fun belongs.” + J. L. HEIBERG. +</pre> + <p> + We will not follow the principal characters of our story step for step, + but merely present the prominent moments of their lives to our readers, be + these great or small; we seize on them, if they in any way contribute to + make the whole picture more worthy of contemplation. + </p> + <p> + The winter was over, the birds of passage had long since returned; the + woods and fields shone in the freshest green, and, what to the friends was + equally interesting, they had happily passed through their examen + philologicum. Wilhelm, who, immediately after its termination, had + accompanied his sister home, was again returned, sang with little Jonas, + reflected upon the philosophicum, and also how he would thoroughly enjoy + the summer,—the summer which in the north is so beautiful, but so + short. It was St. John’s Day. Families had removed from Copenhagen to + their pretty country-seats on the coast, where people on horseback and in + carriages rushed past, and where the highway was crowded with + foot-passengers. The whole road presented a picture of life upon the Paris + Boulevard. The sun was burning, the dust flew up high into the air; on + which account many persons preferred the pleasanter excursion with the + steamboat along the coast, from whence could be seen the traffic on the + high-road without enduring the annoyance of dust and heat. Boats skimmed + past; brisk sailors, by the help of vigorous strokes of the oar, strove to + compete with the steam-packet, the dark smoke from which, like some demon, + partly rested upon the vessel, partly floated away in the air. + </p> + <p> + Various young students, among whom were also Wilhelm and Otto, landed at + Charlottenlund, the most frequented place of resort near Copenhagen. Otto + was here for the first time; for the first time he should see the park. + </p> + <p> + A summer’s afternoon in Linken’s Bad, near Dresden, bears a certain + resemblance to Charlottenlund, only that the Danish wood is larger; that + instead of the Elbe we have the Sound, which is here three miles broad, + and where often more than a hundred vessels, bearing flags of all the + European nations, glide past. A band of musicians played airs out of + “Preciosa;” the white tents glanced like snow or swans through the green + beech-trees. Here and there was a fire-place raised of turf, over which + people boiled and cooked, so that the smoke rose up among the trees. + Outside the wood, waiting in long rows, were the peasants’ vehicles, + called “coffee-mills,” completely answering ho the couricolo of the + Neapolitan and the coucou of the Parisian, equally cheap, and overladen in + the same manner with passengers, therefore forming highly picturesque + groups. This scene has been humorously treated in a picture by Marstrand. + Between fields and meadows, the road leads pleasantly toward the park; the + friends pursued the foot-path. + </p> + <p> + “Shall I brush the gentlemen?” cried five or six boys, at the same time + pressing upon the friends as they approached the entrance to the park. + Without waiting for an answer, the boys commenced at once brushing the + dust from their clothes and boots. + </p> + <p> + “These are Kirsten Piil’s pages,” said Wilhelm, laughing; “they take care + that people show themselves tolerably smart. But now we are brushed + enough!” A six-skilling-piece rejoiced these little Savoyards. + </p> + <p> + The Champs Elysées of the Parisians on a great festival day, when the + theatres are opened, the swings are flying, trumpets and drums + overpowering the softer music, and when the whole mass of people, like one + body, moves itself between the booths and tents, present a companion piece + to the spectacle which the so-called Park-hill affords. It is Naples’ + “Largo dei Castello,” with its dancing apes, shrieking Bajazzoes, the + whole deafening jubilee which has been transported to a northern wood. + Here also, in the wooden booths, large, tawdry pictures show what + delicious plays you may enjoy within. The beautiful female horse-rider + stands upon the wooden balcony and cracks with her whip, whilst Harlequin + blows the trumpet. Fastened to a perch, large, gay parrots nod over the + heads of the multitude. Here stands a miner in his black costume, and + exhibits the interior of a mine. He turns his box, and during the music + dolls ascend and descend. Another shows the splendid fortress of + Frederiksteen: “The whole cavalry and infantry who have endured an + unspeakable deal; here a man without a weapon, there a weapon without a + man; here a fellow without a bayonet, here a bayonet without a fellow; and + yet they are merry and contented, for they have conquered the victory.” + [Note: Literal translation of the real words of a showman.] Dutch + wafer-cake booths, where the handsome Dutch women, in their national + costume, wait on the customers, entice old and young. Here a telescope, + there a rare Danish ox, and so forth. High up, between the fresh tree + boughs, the swings fly. Are those two lovers floating up there? A current + of air seizes the girl’s dress and shawl, the young man flings his arm + round her waist; it is for safety: there is then less danger. At the foot + of the hill there is cooking and roasting going on; it seems a complete + gypsy-camp. Under the tree sits the old Jew—this is precisely his + fiftieth jubilee; through a whole half-century has he sung here his + comical Doctor’s song. Now that we are reading this he is dead; that + characteristic countenance is dust, those speaking eyes are closed, his + song forgotten tones. Oehlenschläger, in his “St. John’s Eve,” has + preserved his portrait for us, and it will continue to live, as Master + Jakel (Punch), our Danish Thespis, will continue to live. The play and the + puppets were transferred from father to son, and every quarter of an hour + in the day the piece is repeated. Free nature is the place for the + spectators, and after every representation the director himself goes round + with the plate. + </p> + <p> + This was the first spectacle which exhibited itself to the friends. Not + far off stood a juggler in peasant’s clothes, somewhat advanced in years, + with a common ugly countenance. His short sleeves were rolled up, and + exhibited a pair of hairy, muscular arms. The crowd, withdrawing from + Master Jakel when the plate commenced its wanderings, pushed Otto and + Wilhelm forward toward the low fence before the juggler’s table. + </p> + <p> + “Step nearer, my gracious gentlemen, my noble masters!” said the juggler, + with an accentuation which betrayed his German birth. He opened the fence; + both friends were fairly pushed in and took their places upon the bench, + where they, at all events, found themselves out of the crowd. + </p> + <p> + “Will the noble gentleman hold this goblet?” said the juggler, and handed + Otto one from his apparatus. Otto glanced at the man: he was occupied with + his art; but Otto’s cheek and forehead were colored with a sudden crimson, + which was immediately afterward supplanted by a deathly paleness: his hand + trembled, but this lasted only a moment; he gathered all his strength of + mind together and appeared the same as before. + </p> + <p> + “That was a very good trick!” said Wilhelm. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, certainly!” answered Otto; but he had seen nothing whatsoever. His + soul was strangely affected. The man exhibited several other tricks, and + then approached with the plate. Otto laid down a mark, and then rose to + depart. The juggler remarked the piece of money: a smile played about his + mouth; he glanced at Otto, and a strange malicious expression lay in the + spiteful look which accompanied his loudly spoken thanks: “Mr. Otto + Thostrup is always so gracious and good!” + </p> + <p> + “Does he know you?” asked Wilhelm. + </p> + <p> + “He has the honor!” grinned the juggler, and proceeded. + </p> + <p> + “He has exhibited his tricks in the Jutland villages, and upon my father’s + estate,” whispered Otto. + </p> + <p> + “Therefore an acquaintance of your childhood?” said Wilhelm. + </p> + <p> + “Of my childhood,” repeated Otto, and they made themselves a way through + the tumult. + </p> + <p> + They met with several young noblemen, relatives of Wilhelm, with the + cousin who had written the verses for the Christmas tree; also several + friends from the carouse, and the company increased. They intended, like + many others, to pass the night in the wood, and at midnight drink out of + Kirsten Piil’s well. “Only with the increasing darkness will it become + thoroughly merry here,” thought they: but Otto had appointed to be in the + city again toward evening. “Nothing will come out of that!” said the poet; + “if you wish to escape, we shall bind you fast to one of us.” + </p> + <p> + “Then I carry him away with me on my back,” replied Otto; “and still run + toward the city. What shall I do here at night in the wood?” + </p> + <p> + “Be merry!” answered Wilhelm. “Come, give us no follies, or I shall grow + restive.” + </p> + <p> + Hand-organs, drums, and trumpets, roared against each other; Bajazzo + growled; a couple of hoarse girls sang and twanged upon the guitar: it was + comic or affecting, just as one was disposed. The evening approached, and + now the crowd became greater, the joy more noisy. + </p> + <p> + “But where is Otto?” inquired Wilhelm. Otto had vanished in the crowd. + Search after him would help nothing, chance must bring them together + again. Had he designedly withdrawn himself? no one knew wherefore, no one + could dream what had passed within his soul. It became evening. The + highway and the foot-path before the park resembled two moving gay + ribbons. + </p> + <p> + In the park itself the crowd perceptibly diminished. It was now the + high-road which was become the Park-hill. The carriages dashed by each + other as at a race; the people shouted and sung, if not as melodiously as + the barcarole of the fisher men below Lido, still with the thorough + carnival joy of the south. The steamboat moved along the coasts. From the + gardens surrounding the pretty country-houses arose rockets into the blue + sky, the Moccoli of the north above the Carnival of the Park. + </p> + <p> + Wilhelm remained with his young friends in the wood, and there they + intended, with the stroke of twelve, to drink out of Kirsten’s well. Men + and women, girls and boys of the lower class, and jovial young men, meet, + after this manner, to enjoy St. John’s Eve. Still sounded the music, the + swings were in motion, lamps hung out, whilst the new moon shone through + the thick tree boughs. Toward midnight the noise died away; only a blind + peasant still scratched upon the three strings which were left on his + violin; some servant-girls wandered, arm-in-arm, with their sweethearts, + and sang. At twelve o’clock all assembled about the well, and drank the + clear, ice-cold water. From no great distance resounded, through the still + night, a chorus of four manly voices. It was as if the wood gods sang in + praise of the nymph of the well. + </p> + <p> + Upon the hill all was now deserted and quiet. Bajazzo and il Padrone slept + behind the thin linen partition, under a coverlid. The moon set, but the + night was clear; no clear, frosty winter night has a snore beautiful + starry heaven to exhibit. Wilhelm’s party was merry, quickly flew the + hours away; singing in chorus, the party wandered through the wood, and + down toward the strand. The day already dawned; a red streak along the + horizon announced its approach. + </p> + <p> + Nature sang to them the mythos of the creation of the world, even as she + had sung it to Moses, who wrote down this voice from God, interpreted by + Nature. Light banished the darkness, heaven and earth were parted; at + first birds showed themselves in the clear air; later rose the beasts of + the field; and, last of all, appeared man. + </p> + <p> + “The morning is fairly sultry,” said Wilhelm; “the sea resembles a mirror: + shall we not bathe?” + </p> + <p> + The proposal was accepted. + </p> + <p> + “There we have the Naiades already!” said one of the party, as a swarm of + fishermen’s wives and daughters, with naked feet, their green petticoats + tucked up, and baskets upon their backs, in which they carried fish to + Copenhagen, came along the road. The gay young fellows cast toward the + prettiest glances as warm and glowing as that cast by the sun himself, + who, at this moment, came forth and shone over the Sound, where a splendid + three-masted vessel had spread all her sails to catch each breeze. The + company reached the strand. + </p> + <p> + “There is some one already swimming out yonder,” said Wilhelm. “He stands + it bravely. That is an excellent swimmer!” + </p> + <p> + “Here lie his clothes,” remarked another. + </p> + <p> + “How!” exclaimed Wilhelm: “this is Otto Thostrup’s coat! But Otto cannot + swim; I have never been able to persuade him to bathe. Now, we will out + and make a nearer acquaintance.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, certainly it is he,” said another; “he is now showing his skill.” + </p> + <p> + “Then he must have been all night in the wood,” exclaimed Wilhelm. “Yes, + indeed, he’s a fine bird. Does he fly us? He shall pay for this. Good + night in the water, or in any other improper place? To quit friends + without saying a word does not appertain to the customs of civilized + people. Since you, therefore, show yourself such a man of nature, we will + carry away your garments; it cannot annoy you in puris naturalibus to seek + us out in the wood.” + </p> + <p> + Otto raised his head, but was silent. + </p> + <p> + “Now, will you not come forth?” cried Wilhelm. “Only kneeling before each + of us can you receive the separate articles of your dress, so that you may + again appear as a civilized European.” And saying this he divided the + clothes among the others; each one held an article in his hand. + </p> + <p> + “Leave such jokes!” cried Otto with singular earnestness. “Lay down the + clothes, and retire!” + </p> + <p> + “Aye, that we will, presently,” returned Wilhelm. “You are a fine fellow! + You cannot swim, you say. Now, if you should not kneel”— + </p> + <p> + “Retire!” cried Otto, “or I will swim out into the stream, and not return + again!” + </p> + <p> + “That might be original enough,” answered Wilhelm. “Swim forth, or come + and kneel here!” + </p> + <p> + “Wilhelm!” cried Otto, with an affecting sigh, and in a moment swam forth + with quick strokes. + </p> + <p> + “There he shoots away,” said one of the party. “How he cuts the waves! He + is a splendid swimmer!” + </p> + <p> + Smiling they gazed over the expanse; Otto swam even farther out. + </p> + <p> + “But where will he swim to?” exclaimed, somewhat gravely, one of the + spectators. “He will certainly lose his strength before he returns the + same distance.” + </p> + <p> + They unmoored the boat. Otto swam far out at sea; with quick strokes of + the oars they rowed after him. + </p> + <p> + “Where is he now?” cried Wilhelm shortly afterwards; “I see him no + longer.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, there he comes up again,” said another; “but his strength is leaving + him.” + </p> + <p> + “On! on!” cried Wilhelm; “he will be drowned if we do not come to his + help. Only see—he sinks!” + </p> + <p> + Otto had lost all power; his head disappeared beneath the water. The + friends had nearly reached him; Wilhelm and several of the best swimmers + flung from themselves boots and coats, sprang into the sea, and dived + under the water. A short and noiseless moment passed. One of the swimmers + appeared above water. “He is dead!” were the first words heard. Wilhelm + and the three others now appeared with Otto; the boat was near oversetting + as they brought him into it. Deathly pale lay he there, a beautifully + formed marble statue, the picture of a young gladiator fallen in the + arena. + </p> + <p> + The friends busied themselves about him, rubbing his breast and hands, + whilst two others rowel toward the land. + </p> + <p> + “He breathes!” said Wilhelm. + </p> + <p> + Otto opened his eyes; his lips moved; his gaze became firmer; a deep + crimson spread itself over his breast and countenance; he raised himself + and Wilhelm supported him. Suddenly a deep sigh burst from his breast; he + thrust Wilhelm from him, and, like a madman, seized an article of dress to + cover himself with; then, with a convulsive trembling of the lips, he said + to Wilhelm, who held his hand, “I HATE YOU!” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0006" id="link2HCH0006"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VI + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + —“Art thou Prometheus, pierced with wounds? + The Vulture thou that tugs at his heart?” + J. CHR. V. ZEDLITZ’S Todtenkränze. +</pre> + <p> + Not half an hour after this adventure a carriage rolled toward the city—a + large carriage, containing three seats, but, beside the coachman, there + was only one person within. This was Otto; his lips were pale; death, it + is true, had touched them. Alone he dashed forward; his last words to + Wilhelm had been his only ones. + </p> + <p> + “He has lost his wits,” said one of the friends. + </p> + <p> + “It is a fit of madness,” answered another, “such as he was seized with at + the examination, when he only sent in a scrap of white paper for the + mathematical examination, because he felt himself offended by the + inspector.” + </p> + <p> + “I could quite vex myself about my stupid joke,” said Wilhelm. “I ought to + have known him better; he is of a strange, unhappy character. Give me your + hands! We will mention to no one what has occurred; it would only give + occasion to a deal of gossip, and wound him deeply, and he is an + excellent, glorious fellow.” + </p> + <p> + They gave their hands upon it, and drove toward the city. + </p> + <p> + The same day, toward evening, we again seek Otto. We find him in his + chamber. Silent, with crossed arms, he stands before a print, a copy of + Horace Vernet’s representation of Mazeppa, who, naked and bound upon a + wild horse, rushes through the forest. Wolves thrust forth their heads and + exhibit their sharp teeth. + </p> + <p> + “My own life!” sighed Otto. “I also am bound to this careering wild horse. + And no friend, not a single one! Wilhelm, I could kill thee! I could see + you all lying in your blood! O, Almighty God!” He pressed his hands before + his face and threw himself into a seat; his eyes, however, again directed + themselves toward the picture; it exhibited a moment similar to the + condition of his own mind. + </p> + <p> + The door now opened, and Wilhelm stood before him. + </p> + <p> + “How do you find yourself, Thostrup?” he inquired. “We are still friends + as before?” and he wished to give his hand. Otto drew back his. “I have + done nothing which could so much offend you,” said Wilhelm; “the whole was + merely a joke! Give me your hand, and we will speak no more of the + affair!” + </p> + <p> + “To the man whom I hate, I never reach my hand,” replied Otto and his lips + were white like his cheeks. + </p> + <p> + “A second time to-day you speak these words to me,” said Wilhelm, and the + blood rushed to his face. “We were friends, wherefore cannot we be so + still? Have people slandered me to you? Have they told lies about me? Only + tell me faithfully, and I shall be able to defend myself.” + </p> + <p> + “You must fight with me!” said Otto; and his glance became more gloomy. + Wilhelm was silent; there reigned a momentary stillness. Otto suppressed a + deep sigh. At length Wilhelm broke silence, and said, with a grave and + agitated voice,—“I am so thoughtless, I joke so often, and regard + everything from the ridiculous side. But for all that I have both heart + and feeling. You must have known how much dearer you were to me than most + other people. You are so still, although you offend me. At this moment + your blood is in a fever; not now, but after a few days, you yourself will + best see which of us is the offended party. You demand that I fight with + you; I will if your honor requires this satisfaction: but you must lay + before me an acceptable reason. I will know wherefore we risk our lives. + Let some days pass by; weigh all with your understanding and your heart! + It will still depend upon yourself whether we remain friends as before. + Farewell!” And Wilhelm went. + </p> + <p> + Each of his words had penetrated to Otto’s heart. A moment he stood silent + and undecided, then his limbs trembled involuntarily, tears streamed from + his eyes—it was a convulsive fit of weeping; he pressed his head + back. “God, how unfortunate I am!” were his only words. + </p> + <p> + So passed some minutes; he had ceased to weep, and was calm; suddenly he + sprang up, shot the bolt in the door, drew down the blinds, lighted his + candle, and once more looked searchingly around: the key-hole was also + stopped up. He then flung his coat away from him and uncovered the upper + part of his body. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0007" id="link2HCH0007"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VII + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “The towers pass by, even before we perceive them.” + OEHLENSCHLÄER’S Journey to Fünen. +</pre> + <p> + Early the following morning, whilst Wilhelm still slept and dreamed of his + beloved sisters, well-known footsteps sounded on the stairs, the door + opened, and Otto stepped into the sleeping-room. Wilhelm opened his eyes. + Otto was pale; a sleepless night and sorrow of heart had breathed upon his + brow and eyes. + </p> + <p> + “Thostrup!” cried Wilhelm, with joyous surprise, and stretched forth his + hand toward him, but it again sank; Otto seized it, and pressed it firmly + in his own, adding at the same time, with gravity,—“You have humbled + me! Is that sufficient satisfaction for you?” + </p> + <p> + “We are then friends!” said Wilhelm. “Friends must be very indulgent + toward each other. Yesterday you were a little strange, to-morrow I may be + so; that is the way in which one retaliates.” + </p> + <p> + Otto pressed his hand. “We will never speak again of the occurrence of + yesterday!” + </p> + <p> + “Never!” repeated Wilhelm, affected by the strange gravity of his friend. + </p> + <p> + “You are a noble, a good creature!” said Otto, and bent over him; his lips + touched Wilhelm’s forehead. + </p> + <p> + Wilhelm seized his hand, and gazed frankly into his eye. “You are not + happy!” exclaimed he. “If I cannot assist you, I can, at least, dear Otto, + honestly share the grief of a friend!” + </p> + <p> + “Even on that very point we may never speak!” replied Otto. “Farewell! I + have determined on travelling home; we have only vacation for a few weeks, + and I have not been in Jutland since I became a student. Even a month’s + sojourn there cannot throw me back; I am well prepared for the + philosophicum.” + </p> + <p> + “And when will you set out?” asked Wilhelm. + </p> + <p> + “To-morrow, with the steamboat. It is hot and sultry here in the city: my + blood becomes heated: it will, also, soon be a year since I saw my + family.” + </p> + <p> + “Thostrup!” exclaimed Wilhelm, through whom a thought suddenly flashed, “I + should also like to see my family; they have written to me to come. + Listen: make your journey through Funen, and only remain three or four + days with us. My mother’s carriage shall convey you then to Middelfart. + Say ‘Yes,’ and we will set out this evening.” + </p> + <p> + “That cannot be done!” replied Otto; but half an hour later, as both sat + together over the tea-table, and Wilhelm repeated his wish, Otto + consented, but certainly more through a feeling of obligation than through + any pleasure of his own. Toward evening, therefore, they set out in the + beautiful summer night to travel through Zealand. + </p> + <p> + Smartly dressed families wandered pleasantly through the city gate toward + the summer theatre and Fredericksberg. The evening sun shone upon the + column of Liberty; the beautiful obelisk, around which stand Wiedewelt’s + statues, one of which still weeps, + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “In white marble clothing, + Hand upon the breast, + Ever grief-oppressed, + Looking down upon the gloomy sea,” + </pre> + <p> + where were closed the eyes of the artist. Was it the remembrance which + here clouded Otto’s glance, as his eye rested upon the statues as they + drove past, or did his own soul, perhaps, mirror itself in his eyes? + </p> + <p> + “Here it is gay and animated!” said Wilhelm, wishing to commence a + conversation. “Vesterbro is certainly your most brilliant suburb. It forms + a city by itself,—a little state! There upon the hill lies the + King’s Castle, and there on the left, between the willows, the poet’s + dwelling, where old Rahbek lived with his Kamma!” + </p> + <p> + “Castle and poet’s dwelling!” repeated Otto; “the time will be when they + will inspire equal interest!” + </p> + <p> + “That old place will soon be pulled down!” said Wilhelm; “in such a + beautiful situation, so near the city, a splendid villa will be raised, + and nothing more remind one of Philemon and Baucis!” + </p> + <p> + “The old trees in the park will be spared!” said Otto; “in the garden the + flowers will scent the air, and remind one of Kamma’s flowers. Rahbek was + no great poet, but he possessed a true poet’s soul, labored faithfully in + the great vineyard, and loved flowers as Kamma loved them.” + </p> + <p> + The friends hail left Fredericksberg behind them. The white walls of the + castle glanced through the green boughs; behind Söndermark, the large, + wealthy village stretched itself out. The sun had set before they reached + the Dam-house, where the wild swans, coming from the ocean, build in the + fresh water fake. This is the last point of beauty; nothing but lonely + fields, with here and there a cairn, extend to the horizon. + </p> + <p> + The clear summer’s night attracted their gaze upward; the postilion blew + his horn, and the carriage rolled toward the town of Roeskilde, the St. + Denis of Denmark, where kings turn to dust; where Hroar’s spring still + flows, and its waters mingle with those of Issefjords. + </p> + <p> + They drove to a public-house to change horses. A young girl conducted the + friends into the public room; she lighted the way for them. Her slender + figure and her floating gait drew Wilhelm’s attention toward her; his hand + touched her shoulder, she sprang aside and fixed her beautiful grave eyes + upon him; but their expression became milder, she smiled and colored at + the same time. + </p> + <p> + “You are the sister of little Jonas!” cried Wilhelm, recognizing the young + girl he had seen with him at Christmas. + </p> + <p> + “I must also thank you,” said she, “for your kindness toward the poor + boy!” She quickly placed the lights on the table, and left the room with a + gentle glance. + </p> + <p> + “She is beautiful, very beautiful!” exclaimed Wilhelm. “That was really + quite a pleasant meeting.” + </p> + <p> + “Is it then you, Herr Baron, who honor me thus?” cried the host, stepping + in—an elderly man with a jovial countenance. “Yes, the Baron will + doubtless visit his dear relations in hunch? It is now some little time + since you were there.” + </p> + <p> + “This is our host!” said Wilhelm to Otto. “He and his wife were born upon + my parent’s estate.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” said the host, “in my youth I have shot many a snipe and wild duck + with the Herr Baron’s father. But Eva should spread the table; the + gentlemen will certainly take supper, and a glass of good punch the Herr + Baron will certainly not despise, if he is like his blessed father.” + </p> + <p> + The young girl spread the cloth in an adjoining room. + </p> + <p> + “She is pretty!” Wilhelm whispered to the old man. + </p> + <p> + “And just as pious and innocent as she is pretty!” returned he; “and that + is saying much, as she is a poor girl, and from Copenhagen. She is of good + service to us, and my wife says Eva shall not leave us until she is well + married.” + </p> + <p> + Wilhelm invited the host to join them at a glass. The old man became more + animated, and now confided to him, half mysteriously, what made Eva so + honorable in the eyes of his wife, and what was, indeed, really very nice + of her. “My old woman,” said he, “was in Copenhagen, in search of a + waiting-girl. Yes, there are enough to be had, and they are fine girls; + but mother has her own thoughts and opinions: she has good eyes—that + she has! Now, there came many, and among others Eva; but, good Lord! she + was very poorly clad, and she looked feeble and weak, and what service + could one get out of her! But she had a good countenance, and the poor + girl wept and besought mother to take her, for she was not comfortable at + home, and would not remain at Copenhagen. Now, mother knows how to make + use of her words: it is unfortunate that she is not at home to-night; how + pleased she would have been to see the Herr Baron! Yes, what I would say + is, she so twisted her words about, that Eva confessed to her why she + wished to leave home. You see the girl is petty; and the young gallant + gentlemen of Copenhagen had remarked her smooth face,—and not alone + the young, but the old ones also! So an old gentleman—I could easily + name him, but that has nothing to do with the affair—a very + distinguished man in the city, who has, besides, a wife and children, had + said all sorts of things to her parents; and, as eight hundred dollars is + a deal of money to poor people, one can excuse them: but Eva wept, and + said she would rather spring into the castle-ditch. They represented all + sorts of things to the poor girl; she heard of the service out here with + us. She wept, kissed my old woman’s hand, and thus came to us; and since + then we have had a deal of service from Eva, and joy also!” + </p> + <p> + Some minutes after Eva stepped in, Otto’s eye rested with a melancholy + expression upon the beautiful form: never had he before so gazed upon a + woman. Her countenance was extraordinarily fine, her nose and forehead + nobly formed, the eyebrows dark, and in the dark-blue eyes lay something + pensive, yet happy: one might employ the Homeric expression, “smiling + through tears,” to describe this look. She announced that the carriage was + ready. + </p> + <p> + A keen observer would soon have remarked what a change the host’s relation + had worked in the two friends. Wilhelm was no longer so free toward poor + Eva. Otto, on the contrary, approached her more,—and at their + leave-taking they offered her a greater present than they would otherwise + have given. + </p> + <p> + She stood with Otto at the door, and assisted him on with his travelling + cloak. + </p> + <p> + “Preserve your heart pure!” said he, gravely; “that is more than beauty!” + </p> + <p> + The young girl blushed, and gazed at him with astonishment; in such a + manner had no one of his age ever before spoken to her. + </p> + <p> + “The poor girl!” said Otto; “but I think she is come to good people.” + </p> + <p> + “She has a strange glance!” said Wilhelm. “Do you know that there is + really a certain affinity between you and her? It was to me quite + striking.” + </p> + <p> + “That is a compliment which I cannot accept,” returned Otto, smiling. + “Yet, perhaps, I might resemble her.” + </p> + <p> + It was not yet three o’clock when the friends reached Ringsted. + </p> + <p> + “I have never before been so far in Zealand,” said Otto. + </p> + <p> + “Shall I be your guide?” returned Wilhelm. “Ringsted has a street and an + inn, and one is very badly served there, as you will soon both see and + experience yourself. Meanwhile, one can think of Hagbarth and Signe; not + far from here, at Sigersted, he hung his mantle on the oak, and Signelil’s + abode stood in flames. Now only remain fields and meadows, a cairn, and + the old popular song. Then we rush past the friendly Soroe, that mirrors + itself with the wood in the lake, which forms itself into so many bays; + but we do not see much of it. We have here another romantic spot, an old + castle converted into a church, high up on the hill near the lake, and + close to it the dismal place of execution. We then reach Slagelse, an + animated little town; with the Antvorskov convent, the poet Frankenau’s + grave, and a Latin school, celebrated on account of its poets. It was + there Baggesen and Ingemann learned their Latin. When I once questioned + the hostess regarding the lions of the town, she would only acknowledge + two,—Bastholm’s library, and the English fire-engine. The curtain in + the theatre represents an alley with a fountain, the jets of which are + painted as if spouting out of the prompter’s box; or is this, perhaps, the + English fire-engine? I know not. The scene-decoration for towns represents + the market-place of Slagelse itself, so that the pieces thus acquire a + home-feeling. This is the modern history of the little town; and, with + regard to its older and romantic history, learn that the holy Anders was + preacher here! Yes, indeed, that was a man! He has been also sung of by + our first poets. We end with Korsöer, where Baggesen was born and Birckner + lies buried. In the more modern history of this town, King Solomon and + Jörgen the hatter play a considerable rôle. Besides this, I know that the + town is said once to have possessed a private theatre; but this soon was + done for, and the decorations were sold; a miller bought them, and patched + his windmill sails with them. Upon one sail was a piece of a wood, upon + another a shred of a room, or a street; and so they rushed round one after + the other. Perhaps this is mere slander, for I have my information from + Slagelse; and neighboring towns never speak well of each other.” + </p> + <p> + In this manner Wilhelm gossiped on, and the friends travelled over the way + he had described. Slagelse, and the peasant village of Landsgrav, they had + already behind them, when Wilhelm ordered the coachman to diverge from the + high-road toward the right. + </p> + <p> + “Where will you take us to?” asked Otto. + </p> + <p> + “I will give you a pleasure!” returned Wilhelm. “We shall reach the + weariful Korsöer early enough: the steamboat leaves at ten, and it is not + yet seven. You shall be surprised—I know well that you are half a + Catholic; I will conduct you where you may believe yourself carried back + several centuries, and may imagine yourself in a Catholic country. That is + right pleasant, is it not?” + </p> + <p> + Otto smiled. The friends alighted from the coach and walked over a + corn-field. They found themselves upon a hill, the whole landscape spread + itself out before them—they saw the Belt, with Sprogöe and Funen. + The surrounding country was certainly flat, but the variety of greens, the + near meadow, the dark stretch of wood in the neighborhood of Korsöer, the + bay itself, and all this seen in a warm morning light, produced effect. + The friends diverged to the right; and before them, upon a hill, stood a + large wooden cross, with the figure of the Crucified One. Above the cross + was built a small roof to carry off the rain,—such as one may yet + find in Bavaria. The figure of the Redeemer was of wood, painted with + strong, tawdry colors; a withered garland of corn-flowers still hung + around his bowed head. + </p> + <p> + “It is extraordinary,” said Otto, “to find in our time, in the year 1830, + such a Catholic symbol in Lutheran Denmark! And yet—yes, you will + laugh at me, but I find it lovely: it affects me, moves me to worship.” + </p> + <p> + “That tawdry, tasteless figure!” cried Wilhelm. “Only see how coarse! the + hair is covered with tar to keep off the rain! The peasants here have + their peculiar superstition. If they allow the cross to fall they have no + luck with their lands. It was upon this hill that the holy Anders, the + celebrated preacher of Slagelse, awoke. He visited the sepulchre of + Christ, but through praying there too long the ship sailed without him, + and he was forced to stay behind. Then came a man and took him upon his + horse, and they would ride to Joppa: the holy Anders fell asleep; but when + he awoke he lay here, and heard the bells ringing in Slagelse. Upon a + foal, only one night old, he rode round the extensive city lands, whilst + King Waldemar lay in his bath. He could hang his glove upon the beams of + the sun. This hill, where he awoke, was called Rest-hill; and the cross, + with the figure of the Redeemer erected upon it, which still stands here, + reminds us of the legend of the holy Anders.” + </p> + <p> + A little peasant girl at this moment mounted the hill, but paused when she + perceived the strangers. + </p> + <p> + “Don’t be afraid, my child!” said Wilhelm. “What hast thou there? a + garland! shall it hang here upon the cross? Only come, we will help thee.” + </p> + <p> + “It should hang over our Lord,” said the little one, holding, in an + embarrassed manner, the garland of pretty blue cornflowers in her hand. + Otto took the garland, and hung it up in place of the faded one. + </p> + <p> + “That was our morning adventure!” said Wilhelm, and soon they were rolling + in the deep sand toward Korsöer, toward the hill where the poet watched + the sun and moon sink into the sea, and wished that he had wings that he + might catch them. + </p> + <p> + Melancholy and silent lies the town on the flat coast, the old castle + turned into a farm-house—high grass grows upon the walls. In a + storm, when the wind blows against the city, the surf beats against the + outermost houses. High upon the church stands a telegraph; the black + wooden plates resemble mourning-flags hung above the sinking town. Here is + nothing for the stranger to see, nothing except a grave—that of the + thinker Birckner. The friends drove to the public-house on the strand. No + human being met them in the street except a boy, who rung a hand-bell. + </p> + <p> + “That calls to church,” said Wilhelm. “Because there are no bells in the + tower, they have here such a wandering bell-ringer as this. Holla! there + lies the inn!” + </p> + <p> + “Baron Wilhelm!” cried a strong voice, and a man in a green jacket with + pockets in the breast, the mighty riding-boots splashed above the tops, + and with whip in hand, approached them, pulled his horse-hair cap, and + extended his hand to Wilhelm. + </p> + <p> + “The Kammerjunker from Funen!” said Wilhelm; “my mother’s neighbor, one of + the most industrious and rich noblemen in all Funen.” + </p> + <p> + “You will come one of the first days to me!” said the Kammerjunker; “you + shall try my Russian steam-bath: I have erected one upon my estate. All + who visit me, ladies and gentlemen without any exception, must try it!” + </p> + <p> + “And do the cherry-trees bear well this year?” asked Wilhelm. + </p> + <p> + “No, no,” answered the Kammerjunker, “they are good for nothing; but the + apples are good! All the old trees in the hill-garden stand in full + splendor: I’ve brought them into condition! Two years ago there was not, + on all the trees together, a bushel of fruit. But I had all the horses + which had to be bled led under the trees, and had the warm blood sprinkled + upon the roots; this happened several times, and it has been a real + inoculation for life.” + </p> + <p> + “The wind is certainly favorable,” said Otto, whom this conversation began + to weary. + </p> + <p> + “No, just the contrary!” said the Kammerjunker. “The vane upon the little + house yonder lies; it points always to Nyborg, always shows a good wind + for us when we want to leave. In Nyborg is also a vane, which stands even + as firmly as this, and prates to the folk there of good wind. I regard + both vanes as a kind of guide-post, which merely says, There goes the way! + No, if we had had a wind I should have gone with the boat, and not with + the little splashing thing, as the seamen call the steamboat. The carriage + is doubtless awaiting the young gentleman in Nyborg?” pursued he. “I will + join company with you—my brown horse waits for me at Schalburg. You + should see him! He has sinews like steel springs, and legs like a + dancing-master! He is my own brown.” + </p> + <p> + “No one knows that we are coming,” answered Wilhelm. “We shall, therefore, + take a carriage from Nyborg.” + </p> + <p> + “We will join company,” said the Kammerjunker, “and then you will pay me a + visit with the young gentleman. You shall sleep in the black chamber! Yes, + you will give me the pleasure?” said he to Otto. “If you are a lover of + the antique, my estate will afford you pleasure; you find there moats, + towers, guard-rooms, ghosts, and hobgoblins, such as belong to an old + estate. The black chamber! after all, it is not quite secure there; is it, + Herr Baron?” + </p> + <p> + “No, the deuce remain a night with you!” said Wilhelm; “one gets to bed + late, and even then it is not permitted one to close one’s eyes. You, your + sister, and the Mamsell,—yes, you are a pretty clover-leaf! Yes, + Thostrup, you cannot believe what pranks are hatched upon the + Kammerjunker’s estate! One must be prepared for it! It is said to be + haunted, but if the dead will not take that trouble the living do. The + Kammerjunker is in the plot with his women-folk. They sewed me lately live + cockchafers into my pillow, and they crawled and scrambled about till I + did not know what the deuce it could be! A live cock they had also placed + under my bed, and just in the morning, when I would go to sleep, the + creature began to crow!” + </p> + <p> + “The women-folk had done that,” said the Kammerjunker. “Did they not the + very same night fasten a door-bell to the head of my bed? I never thought + of it; fat Laender slept in the same room, and had fastened along the wall + a string to the bell. I awoke with the ringing. ‘What the devil is that + bell?’ said I, and glanced about the room, for I could not conceive what + it was. ‘Bell?’ asked Laender—‘there is no bell here!’ The ringing + also ceased. I thought I must have dreamed, or that our merry evening must + have left some buzzing in my ears. Again it began to ring. Laender looked + so innocent all the time, I could not comprehend myself; I thought it must + be my imagination. I became quite fainthearted, I denied my own hearing, + and said, ‘No, I have only dreamed!’ and commenced reckoning and counting + to employ my mind; but that did no good, and it nearly drove me mad! I + sprang out of bed, and then I found out the trick: but how Laender + grinned! he was swollen and red in the face with his mirth.” + </p> + <p> + “Do you play such jokes on your estate?” inquired Otto, addressing himself + to Wilhelm. + </p> + <p> + “No, not such refined ones!” returned the Kammerjunker; “perhaps a piece + of wood, or a silly mask, is laid in your bed. Miss Sophie gives us other + clever things for amusement—tableaux and the magic-lantern. I was + once of the party. Yes, what was it I represented? Ah, I played, Heaven + help me! King Cyrus: had a paper crown on my head, and Miss Sophie’s cloak + about me, the wrong side turned outward, for it is lined with sable. I + looked like Satan!” + </p> + <p> + The steamboat passengers were summoned on board, the company went down to + the vessel, and soon it was cutting through the waves of the Belt. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0008" id="link2HCH0008"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VIII + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “See now, Fünen signifieth <i>fine</i>, + And much in that word lies; + For Fünen is the garden fine, + Where Denmark glads its eyes.” + </pre> + <p> + The nakedness which the last aspect of Zealand presents occasions one to + be doubly struck by the affluent abundance and luxuriance with which Funen + steps forth. Green woods, rich corn-fields, and, wherever the eye rests, + noblemen’s seats and churches. Nyborg itself appears a lively capital in + comparison with the still melancholy Korsöer. One now perceives people + upon the great bridge of boats, on the ramparts, and in the broad streets + with their high houses; one sees soldiers, hears music, and, what is + especially animating upon a journey, one comes to an excellent inn. The + drive out through the arched gateway is an astonishment; it is the same + length and breadth as one of the gates of Copenhagen. Villages and + peasants’ houses here assume a more well-to-do aspect than in Zealand, + where one often on the way-side imagines one sees a manure-heap heaped + upon four poles, which upon nearer examination one finds is the abode of a + family. On the highroads in Funen one perceives only clean houses; the + window-frames are painted; before the doors are little flower-gardens, and + wherever flowers are grown, as Bulwer strikingly remarks, the peasant is + in a higher state of civilization; he thinks of the beautiful. In the + ditches along the highway one sees lilac with their white and lilac + flowers. Nature herself has here adorned the country with a multitude of + wild poppies, which for splendor of color might vie with the most admired + and beautiful in a botanic garden. Especially in the neighborhood of + Nyborg do they grow in exceeding abundance. + </p> + <p> + “What a dazzling color!” exclaimed Otto, as the friends rolled past these + beautiful red flowers. + </p> + <p> + “That is a proud color!” said the Kammerjunker, who rode near them upon + his brown steed, “a proud color! but they are manured with the blood of + Andalusian horses. It was just here where the battle between these beasts + took place. You know that sit the year 1808 the Spaniards lay in Funen; + the English ships were cruising about in the Belt, and Romana fled with + his whole army on board, but they could net take their horses with them. + These were the most splendid Andalusian creatures that eyes ever saw. The + Spaniards took off their bridles, and left them here to scamper about the + fields like wild horses. The horses of Nyborg chanced also to graze here, + and as soon as the Andalusian steeds became aware of ours they arranged + themselves in a row, and fell upon the Danish horses: that was a combat! + At length they fell upon each other, and fought until they fell bleeding + to earth. Whilst still a boy I saw little skull of one of these beasts. + This is the last adventure left us from the visit of the Spaniards to + Denmark. In the village through which we shall now pass are some outer + remembrances. Remark the young lads and lasses,—they are of a darker + complexion than the inhabitants of other Funen valleys; that is Spanish + blood, it is said. It was in this village that the story took its rise of + the preacher’s servant-girl, who wept and was so inconsolable at the + departure of the Spaniards. But not on account of her bridegroom did she + weep,—not over her own condition. The preacher consoled her, and + then she said she only wept to think that if the innocent child resembled + its father it certainly would speak Spanish, and then not a soul would + understand it! Yes, such histories as this have we in Funen!” said he + laughingly to Otto. + </p> + <p> + With similar relations, and some agricultural observations, according as + they were called forth by surrounding objects, did our excellent landed + proprietor amuse our young gentlemen. They were already distant several + miles from Nyborg, when he suddenly broke off in the midst of a very + interesting discourse upon a characteristic of a true inhabitant of Funen, + which is, that whenever he passes a field of buckwheat he moves his mouth + as if chewing, and made Wilhelm observe a Viennese carriage, which + approached them by a neighboring road. To judge from the coachman and the + horses, it must be the family from the hall. + </p> + <p> + This was the case—they returned from paying a visit. Where the roads + crossed they met each other. Otto immediately recognized Miss Sophie, and + near to her sat an elderly lady, with a gentle, good-humored countenance; + this was the mother. Now there was surprise and joy. Sophie blushed—this + blush could not have reference to the brother; was it then the + Kammerjunker? No: that appeared impossible! therefore, it must concern + Otto. The mother extended her hand to him with a welcome, whilst at the + same time she invited the Kammerjunker to spend the afternoon with them. + There lay, in the manner with which she proposed this, so much attention + and consideration, that Otto felt the man was here held in greater esteem, + and was otherwise regarded than he, during their short acquaintance, had + imagined possible. + </p> + <p> + Sophie added, smiling, “You must stay!” To which the Kammerjunker replied + with an apology for his travelling-dress. + </p> + <p> + “We are not strangers!” said the mother; “it is only a family meal! You + see the usual circle. You, Mr. Thostrup,” added she, with a most obliging + manner, “I know so well from Wilhelm’s letters, that we are no strangers. + The gentlemen are acquainted with each other!” + </p> + <p> + “I accept the invitation,” said the Kammerjunker, “and I will now show you + into what a gallop I can put my steed! It is Carl Rise, [Translator’s + Note: Name of one of the heroes in Waldemar the Conqueror, a romance by + Ingemann.] as you see, young lady—you called him so yourself!” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, ride forward,” said Sophie, smiling. “By that means you will oblige + my sister. She might otherwise be quite frightened, did she see such a + mighty caravan approach the house, did she had not properly prepared the + dinner-table.” + </p> + <p> + “As my gracious young lady commands!” said the rider, and sprang forward. + </p> + <p> + The country became more woody; the road passed various small lakes, almost + overgrown with water-lilies and shaded by old trees; the old-fashioned, + indented gable-ends of the hall now peeped forth. They drove through an + avenue of wild chestnut-trees; the stone pavement here threatened to smash + the carriage axles. On the right lay the forge, through the open door of + which flew the sparks. A little girl, with bare feet, opened a gate, and + they now found themselves in a large open space before the red-painted + out-buildings. The ground was covered with straw, and all the cows of the + farm were collected here for milking. Here they were obliged to drive, + step by step, until by the gateway they reached the larger courtyard, + which was inclosed by the barns and the principal building itself. This + was surrounded by broad ditches, almost grown over with reeds. Over a + solid bridge, resting upon pillars of masonry, and through a principal + wing which bore the armorial bearings and initials of the old possessor, + they arrived in the innermost court, which was shut in by three wings, the + antique one already mentioned, and two others: the fourth side was + inclosed by a low trellis-work which adjoined the garden, where the canals + lost themselves in a small lake. + </p> + <p> + “That is an interesting old court!” exclaimed Otto. + </p> + <p> + “O, that is not to be compared with the Kammerjunker’s!” returned Wilhelm: + “you should first see his!” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, you must come over some of these days,” said the Kammerjunker. + “Silence, Fingal! Silence, Valdine!” cried he to the barking dogs. A + couple of turkey-cocks spread their feathers out, and gobbled with all + their might. Men and women servants stood at the door: that was their + reception! + </p> + <p> + “Thostrup will have the red room, will he not?” said Wilhelm, and the + friends ascended the stairs together. + </p> + <p> + A pale young girl, not free from freckles, but with eyes full of soul, + hastened toward them; this was Wilhelm’s youngest sister. She pressed her + brother to her breast, and took Otto’s hand with kindness. She is not + beautiful! was the first impression she made upon him. His chamber was + vaulted, and the walls painted in the style of Gobelin tapestry; they + represented the whole of Olympus. On the left was an old fire-place, with + decorations and a gilt inscription; on the right stood an antiquated + canopy-bed, with red damask hangings. The view was confined to the moat + and the interior court. But a few minutes and Otto and Wilhelm were + summoned to table. A long gallery through two wings of the hall, on one + side windows, on the other entrances to the rooms, led to the dining-room. + The whole long passage was a picture-gallery. Portraits the size of life, + representing noble knights and ladies shining forth in red powdered + periwigs, children adorned like their elders, with tulips in their hands, + and great hounds by their sides, together with some historical pieces, + decorated the walls. + </p> + <p> + “Have we no garland on the table?” asked Sophie, as she entered the + dining-room with the others. + </p> + <p> + “Only a weak attempt to imitate my sister!” said Louise, smiling. + </p> + <p> + “But there is not a single flower in the garland! What economy! And yet it + is sweet!” + </p> + <p> + “How tasteful!” exclaimed Otto, examining the garland which Louise had + laid. + </p> + <p> + All kinds of green leaves, with their innumerable shades, a few yellow + linden-leaves, and some from the copper-beech, formed, through their + varied forms and colors, a tasteful garland upon the white table-cloth. + </p> + <p> + “You receive a thistle and a withered leaf!” whispered Wilhelm, as Otto + seated himself. + </p> + <p> + “But yet the most beautiful!” answered he. “The copper beech contrasts so + sweetly with the whitish-green thistle and the yellow leaf.” + </p> + <p> + “My sister Sophie,” said Louise, “lays us each day a different garland;—it + is such a pretty decoration! If she is not here we get none; that would + have been the case to-day, but when I learned that Wilhelm was coming, and + that we,” she added, with a friendly glance, “should have two other + guests, I in great haste, made an attempt, and”— + </p> + <p> + “And wished to show how nicely it could be made without robbing your + flowers!” interrupted Sophie, laughing. “In reality, I am very cruel! I + cut all the heads of her favorites off. To-morrow, as a parody upon her + garland of to-day, will I make one of green cabbage and pea-shells!” + </p> + <p> + “Madeira or port wine?” asked the Kammerjunker, and led the conversation + from flowers to articles of food and drink. + </p> + <p> + “One feels one’s self comfortable here at the hall! Miss Louise cares for + the body, and Miss Sophie for the soul!” + </p> + <p> + “And mamma bestows a good cup of coffee,” said the mother; “you must also + praise me a little!” + </p> + <p> + “I give music after dinner!” cried Wilhelm; “and thus the whole family + will have shown their activity!” + </p> + <p> + “But no voluntaries!” said the Kammerjunker; “no voluntaries, dear friend! + No, a brisk song, so that one can hear what it is! but none of your + artificial things!” A right proper blow on the shoulders was intended to + soften his expression. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0009" id="link2HCH0009"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER IX + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “She sees if the cloth is clean and white + —If the bed has pillows and sheets; + If the candle fits in the candlestick.... + + “Modest she is, although you know + She makes the whole of the place; + And in she slips in the evening glow, + To light the room with her merry face “—OEHLENSCHLÄGER +</pre> + <p> + A quiet, busy house-fairy was Louise; the beautiful, fragrant flowers were + her favorites. Good-humoredly she smiled at the raillery of her sister, + quietly listened to each thoughtless jest; but if any one, in joke, + touched upon what was holy to her soul, she was aroused from her calmness + and attained a certain eloquence. + </p> + <p> + We will now become more nearly acquainted with the sisters, and on this + account pass over to one of the following days. + </p> + <p> + An abode together of a week, at a country-seat, will often bring about a + greater intimacy than if, throughout a whole winter, people had met in + large companies in cities. Otto soon felt himself at home; he was treated + as a near relative. Wilhelm related all he knew of the beautiful Eva, and + Sophie discovered that she was a romantic character. Mamma pitied the poor + child, and Louise wished she had her on the estate: an inn was, after all, + no proper place for a respectable girl. They then spoke of the winter + enjoyments in Copenhagen, of art, and the theatre. Louise could not speak + much with them upon these subjects, although she had seen one play, + “Dyveke:” the amiable nature of the actress had spoken deeply to her + heart. + </p> + <p> + Several days had passed; the sky was gray; the young people assembled + round the table; they were at no loss for a subject of conversation. All + those who have brothers or sons who study well, have remarked how much + they are especially fascinated by the lectures on natural philosophy and + astronomy; the world, as it were, expands itself before the intellectual + eye. We know that the friends, during the past summer, had participated in + these lectures, and, like the greater number, were full of these subjects, + from the contemplation of a drop of water, with its innumerable + animalculae, to the distance and magnitude of stars and planets. + </p> + <p> + To most of us these are well-known doctrines; to the ladies, also, this + was nothing entirely new: nevertheless, it interested them; perhaps partly + owing to Otto’s beautiful eloquence. The gray, rainy weather led the + conversation to the physical explanation of the origin of our globe, as + the friends, from Orsted’s lectures, conceived it to have been. + </p> + <p> + “The Northern and Grecian myths agree also with it!” sail Otto. “We must + imagine, that in infinite space there floated an eternal, unending mist, + in which lay a power of attraction. The mist condensed itself now to one + drop—our globe was one enormous egg-shaped drop; light and warmth + operated upon this huge world egg, and hatched, not alone ONE creature, + but millions. These must die and give way to new ones, but their corpses + fell as dust to the centre: this grew; the water itself condensed, and + soon arose a point above the expanse of ocean. The warmth of the sun + developed moss and plants; fresh islands presented themselves; for + centuries did a more powerful development and improvement show themselves, + until the perfection was attained which we now perceive!” + </p> + <p> + “But the Bible does not teach us thus!” said Louise. + </p> + <p> + “Moses invented his account of the creation,” answered Otto; “we keep to + Nature, who has greater revelations than man.” + </p> + <p> + “But the Bible is to you a holy book?” asked Louise, and colored. + </p> + <p> + “A venerable book!” returned Otto. “It contains the profoundest doctrines, + the most interesting histories, but also much which belongs not at all to + a holy book.” + </p> + <p> + “How can you say such things?” exclaimed Louise. + </p> + <p> + “Do not touch upon religion in her presence,” said Sophie; “she is a pious + soul, and believes, without desiring to know wherefore.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” said Wilhelm, “this winter she became quite angry, and, as I + believe, for the first time angry with me, because I maintained that + Christ was a man.” + </p> + <p> + “Wilhelm!” interrupted the young girl, “do not speak of that; I feel + myself unhappy at this thought; I can and will not see the Holy brought + down to my level, and to that of every-day life. It lies in my nature that + I commit a sin if I think otherwise than I have learned and than my heart + allows me. It is profane, and if you speak longer of religion in this + strain I shall leave the room.” + </p> + <p> + At this moment the mother entered. “The festival has commenced,” said she; + “I have been forced to give my brightest silver skilling. Does Mr. + Thostrup know the old custom which is observed here in the country, when + beer is brewed for the mowing-feast?” + </p> + <p> + A piercing cry, as from a horde of savages, at this moment reached the + ears of the party. + </p> + <p> + The friends descended. + </p> + <p> + In the middle of the brew-house stood a tub, around which danced all the + female servants of the estate, from the dairymaids down to the girl who + tended the swine; their iron-bound wooden shoes dashed against the uneven + flag-stones. The greater number of the dancers were without their jackets, + but with their long chemise-sleeves and narrow bodices. Some screamed, + others laughed, the whole was blended together in a howl, whilst they + danced hand in hand around the tub in which the beer should be brewed. The + brewing-maid now flung into it the silver skilling, upon which the girls, + like wild Maenades, tore off each other’s caps, and with bacchanalian + wildness whirled round the tub. By this means should the beer become + stronger, and work more intoxicatingly at the approaching mowing-feast. + </p> + <p> + Among the girls, one especially distinguished herself by her Strong frame + of body, and her long black hair, which, now that her cap was torn off, + hung in disorder over her red face. The dark eyebrows were grown together. + All seemed to rage most violently within her, and in truth she assumed + something wild, nay almost brutal. Both arms she raised high in the air, + and with outstretched fingers she whirled around. + </p> + <p> + “That is disgusting!” whispered Otto: “they all look like crazy people.” + </p> + <p> + Wilhelm laughed at it. The wild merriment was lost in a joyous burst of + laughter. The girl with the grown-together eyebrows let fall her arms; but + still there lay in her glance that wild expression, which the loose hair + and uncovered shoulders made still more striking. Either one of the others + had had the misfortune to scratch her lip, or else she herself had bitten + it in bacchanalian wildness until it bled: she accidentally glanced toward + the open door where stood the friends. Otto’s countenance became clouded, + as was ever the case when anything unpleasant affected him. She seemed to + guess his thoughts, and laughed aloud. Otto stepped aside; it was as + though he in anticipation felt the shadow which this form would one day + cast across his life. + </p> + <p> + When he and Wilhelm immediately afterward returned to Sophie and Louise, + he related the unpleasant impression which the girl had made upon him. + </p> + <p> + “O, that is my Meg Merrilies!” exclaimed Sophie. “Yes, spite of her youth, + do you not find that she has something of Sir Walter Scott’s witch about + her? When she grows older, she will be excellent. She has the appearance + of being thirty, whereas she is said not to be more than twenty years old: + she is a true giantess.” + </p> + <p> + “The poor thing!” said Louise; “every one judges from the exterior. All + who are around her hate her, I believe, because her eyebrows are grown + together, and that is said to be a sign that she is a nightmare: + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + [Note: This superstition of the people is mentioned in + Thieles’s Danish traditions: “When a girl at midnight + stretches between four sticks the membrane in which the foal + lies when it is born, and then creeps naked through it, she + will bear her child without pains; but all the boys she + conceives will become were-wolves, and all the girls + nightmares. You will know them in the daytime by their + eyebrows grown together over the nose. In the night she + creeps in through the key-hole, and places herself upon the + sleeper’s bosom. The same superstition is also found in + German Grimm speaks thus about it: If you say to the + nightmare,— + + Old hag, come to-morrow, + And I from you will borrow, + + it retreats directly, and comes the next morning in the + shape of a man to borrow something.”] +</pre> + <p> + they are angry with her, and how could one expect, from the class to which + she belongs, that she should return scorn with kindness? She is become + savage, that she may not feel their neglect. In a few days, when we have + the mowing-feast, you yourself will see how every girl gets a partner; but + poor Sidsel may adorn herself as much as she likes, she still stands + alone. It is truly hard to be born such a being!” + </p> + <p> + “The unfortunate girl!” sighed Otto. + </p> + <p> + “O, she does not feel it!” said Wilhelm: “she cannot feel it; for that she + is too rude, too much of an animal.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0010" id="link2HCH0010"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER X + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “Were the pease not tender, and the vegetables fresh and + sweet as sugar What was the matter with the hams, the smoked + goose-breasts, and the herrings? What with the roasted lamb, + and the refreshing red-sprinkled head-lettuce? Was not the + vinegar sharp, and the nut-oil balmy? Was not the butter as + sweet as a nut, the red radishes tender? What?”—VOSS’S + Louise. +</pre> + <p> + “Mr. Thostrup shall see the Kammerjunker’s old country-seat; to-morrow we + must go over.” + </p> + <p> + Louise could not go with them, a hundred small duties chained her to the + house. The most important of them all was ironing. + </p> + <p> + “But that the house-maid can do,” said Sophie. “Do come with us.” + </p> + <p> + “When thou seest thy linen nice and neat in thy drawers,” returned Louise, + “thou wilt certainly pardon me for remaining at home.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, thou art a glorious girl!” said Sophie; “thou dost deserve to have + been known by Jean Paul, and made immortal in one of his books. Thou dost + deserve the good fortune of being sung of by such a poet.” + </p> + <p> + “Dost thou call it good fortune,” answered the sister, “when the whole + world directs its attention to one person?—that must be painful! + unhappy! No, it is much better not to be remarked at all. Take my + greetings with you, and ask for my Claudius back; they have had it now a + whole half year.” + </p> + <p> + “There, they have kept half my sister’s library,” said Sophie, smiling to + Otto. “You must know she has only two books: Mynster’s Sermons, and the + ‘Wandsbecker Boten.’” + </p> + <p> + The carriage rolled away through the chestnut avenue. “There upon the + hill, close by the wood, did I act the elf-maiden,” said Sophie. “I was + not yet confirmed; there were strangers staying with us at the hall, and + we wandered in the beautiful moonlight through the wood. Two of my friends + and I hastened toward the hill, took hold of each other’s hands and danced + in a ring. The day after, two persons of the congregation told the + preacher about three elfin-maidens, clad in white, who had danced upon the + hill in the moonlight. The elfin-maidens were we; but that our backs were + hollow as baking-troughs, and that the hill glanced like silver, was their + own invention.” + </p> + <p> + “And in this oak,” exclaimed Wilhelm, “when a boy, I killed the first bird + which fell from my shot. It was a crow, and was very honorably interred.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, beneath my sister’s weeping-willow,” said Sophie. “We buried it in + an old chapeaubras, adorned with white bows; the grave was decorated with + peony-leaves and yellow lilies. Wilhelm, who was then a big boy, made an + oration, and Louise strewed flowers.” + </p> + <p> + “You were little fools!” said the mother. “But see, who comes here?” + </p> + <p> + “O, my little Dickie, my dwarf of Kenilworth!” exclaimed Sophie, as a + little hump-backed man, with thin legs and an old face, approached. He was + dressed as a peasant, and bore upon his back a little knapsack of red + calfskin, the hairy side turned outward: in this he carried his violin. + </p> + <p> + “Is he called Dickie?” asked Otto. + </p> + <p> + “No, that is only a joke of Sophie’s,” pursued Wilhelm; “she must always + make suitable people romantic. He is called commonly ‘Musikanti.’ The + inhabitant of Funen Italianizes most names; otherwise he is called Peter + Cripple.” + </p> + <p> + “You will hear his tones,” said Sophie. “The day after to-morrow, when we + have the mowing-feast, he will he number one. He understands music with + which you are scarcely acquainted; he will play you the ‘Shoemaker’s + Dance’ as well as ‘Cherry-soup:’ such dances as these have people here in + the country.” + </p> + <p> + “We are now beyond my lands, and upon our neighbor’s,” said the old lady. + “You will see a thorough old mansion.” + </p> + <p> + “Now, I should like to know how the inhabitants will please Mr. Thostrup,” + said Sophie. “The Kammerjunker you know; he is an excellent country + gentleman. His sister, on the contrary, is a little peculiar: she belongs + to that class of people who always, even wily the best intentions, say + unpleasant things. She has for this quite a rare talent—you will + soon experience this; but she does not intend anything so bad. She can + also joke! Thank God that you will not remain there over night, otherwise + you would experience what she and the Mamsell can invent!” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, the Mamsell is my friend!” said Wilhelm. “You will see her work-box + with all the curiosities. That little box plays a great part: it is always + taken out with her when she pays a visit—for the sake of + conversation it is brought out; all is then looked through, and every + article goes the round of the company. Yes, there are beautiful things to + be seen: a little wheelbarrow with a pincushion, a silver fish, and the + little yard-measure of silk ribbon.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, and the amber heart!” said Sophie; “the little Napoleon of cast + iron, and the officer who is pasted fast to the bottom of the box: that is + a good friend in Odense, she lately told to me in confidence.” + </p> + <p> + “See what beautiful stone fences the Kammerjunker has made!” said the + mother. “And how beautifully the cherry-trees grow! He is an industrious + man!” + </p> + <p> + They approached the garden. It was laid out in the old French style, with + straight walks, pyramids of box, and white painted stone figures: satyrs + and goddesses peeped through the green foliage. You now caught sight of a + high tower with a spire; and soon the whole of the old mansion presented + itself to view. The water was conveyed away from the broad moats, where + the weeping willows with bowed heads and uncovered roots stood in the warm + sunshine. A number of work-people were busily employed in clearing the + moats of mud, which was wheeled in barrows on both sides. + </p> + <p> + They soon reached the principal court-yard. The barns and the + out-buildings lay on the opposite side. A crowd of dogs rushed forth + barking toward the carriage—all possible races, from the large + Danish hound, which is known to the Parisian, down to the steward’s little + pug-dog, which had mixed with this company. Here stood the greyhound, with + his long legs, beside the turnspit. You saw all varieties, and each had + its peculiar and melodious bark. A couple of peacocks, with bright + outspread tails, raised at the same time a cry, which must have made an + impression. The whole court-yard had a striking air of cleanliness. The + grass was weeded from between the stones; all was swept and arranged in + its appointed order. Before the principal flight of steps grew four large + lime-trees; their tops, from youth bent together and then clipped short, + formed in spring and summer two large green triumphal arches. On the right + stood upon an upright beam, which was carved and formed into a pillar, a + prettily painted dove-cot; and its gay inhabitants fluttered and cooed + around. The peacock-pigeon emulated the peacock in spreading its tail; and + the cropper-pigeon elevated itself upon its long legs, and drew itself up, + as though it would welcome the strangers with the air of a grand + gentleman. The reddish-brown tiles and the bright window-panes were the + only things which had a modern air. The building itself, from the stone + window-seats to the old-fashioned tower through which you entered, + proclaimed its antiquity. In the vaulted entrance-hall stood two immense + presses: the quantity of wood which formed them, and the artistical + carving, testified to their great age. Above the door were fastened a + couple of antlers. + </p> + <p> + The Kammerjunker’s sister, Miss Jakoba, a young lady of about thirty, + neither stout nor thin, but with a strange mixture of joviality and + indolence, approached them. She appeared to rejoice very much in the + visit. + </p> + <p> + “Well, you are come over, then!” said she to Wilhelm. “I thought you had + enough to do with your examination.” + </p> + <p> + Wilhelm smiled, and assured her that after so much study people required + relaxation. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, you doubtless study in handsome boots!” said the young lady, and in + a friendly manner turned toward Sophie. “Good heavens, miss!” she + exclaimed, “how the sun has burnt your nose! That looks horrible! Don’t + you ever wear a veil? you, who otherwise look so well!” + </p> + <p> + Otto was a stranger to her. He escaped such unpleasant remarks. “They + should spend the whole day there,” insisted Miss Jakoba; but mamma spoke + of being at home by noon. + </p> + <p> + “Nothing will come of that!” said Jakoba. “I have expected you; and we + have cooked a dinner, and made preparations, and I will not have had all + this trouble in vain. There are some especial dishes for you, and of these + you shall eat.” This was all said in such a good-humored tone that even a + stranger could not have felt himself offended. The Kammerjunker was in the + fields looking after his flax; he would soon be back. Squire Wilhelm could + in the mean time conduct Mr. Thostrup about the premises: “he would + otherwise have nothing to do,” said she. + </p> + <p> + No one must remain in the sitting-room; it was so gloomy there! The walls + were still, as in by-gone days, covered with black leather, upon which + were impressed gold flowers. No, they should go to the hall—that had + been modernized since the Baroness was last there. The old chimney-piece + with carved ornaments was removed, and a pretty porcelain stove had taken + its place. The walls were covered with new paper from Paris. You could + there contemplate all the public buildings of that city,—Notre Dame, + Saint Sulpice, and the Tuileries. Long red curtains, thrown over gilt + rods, hung above the high windows. All this splendor was admired. + </p> + <p> + “I prefer the antique sitting-room, after all,” said Sophie; “the old + chimney-piece and the leather hangings. One fairly lives again in the days + of chivalry!” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, you have always been a little foolish!” said Jakoba, but softened + her words by a smile and a pressure of the hand. “No, the hall is more + lively. Ah!” she suddenly exclaimed; “Tine has placed her work-box in the + window! That is disorder!” + </p> + <p> + “O, is that the celebrated work-box, with its many fool’s tricks?” + inquired Wilhelm, as he laughingly took it up. + </p> + <p> + “There are neither fools nor tricks in the box,” said Jakoba. “But only + look in the mirror in the lid, and then you will perhaps see one of the + two.” + </p> + <p> + “No rude speeches, my young lady!” said Wilhelm; “I am an academical + burgher!” + </p> + <p> + The Kammerjunker now entered, attired in the same riding dress in which we + made his acquaintance. He had visited his hay and oats, had seen after the + people who were working at the fences, and had been also in the + plantation. It had been a warm forenoon. + </p> + <p> + “Now, Miss Sophie,” said he, “do you see how I am clearing out the court? + It costs me above five hundred dollars; and still they are the peasants of + the estate who clear away the mud. But I shall get a delicate manure-heap, + so fit and rich that it’s quite a pleasure. But, Jakoba, where is the + coffee?” + </p> + <p> + “Only let it come in through the door,” said Jakoba, somewhat angrily. + “You certainly ate something before you went from home. Let me attend to + the affairs of the ladies, and do thou attend to the gentlemen, so that + they may not stand and get weary.” + </p> + <p> + The Kammerjunker conducted the friends up the winding stone stairs into + the old tower. + </p> + <p> + “All solid and good!” said he. “We no longer build in this manner. The + loop-holes here, close under the roof, were walled up already in my + father’s time. But only notice this timber!” + </p> + <p> + The whole loft appeared a gigantic skeleton composed of beams, one + crossing the other. On either side of the loft was a small vaulted + chamber, with a brick fire-place. Probably these chambers had been used as + guard-rooms; a kind of warder’s walk led from these, between the + beam-palisade and the broad wall. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, here,” said the Kammerjunker, “they could have had a good lookout + toward the enemy. Look through my telescope. You have here the whole + country from Vissenberg to Munkebobanke, the Belt, and the heights of + Svendborg. Only see! The air is clear. We see both Langeland and Zealand. + Here one could, in 1807, have well observed the English fleet.” + </p> + <p> + The three climbed up the narrow ladder and came past the great clock, the + leaden weights of which, had they fallen, would have dashed through the + stone steps, and soon the gentlemen sat on the highest point. The + Kammerjunker requested the telescope, placed it and exclaimed:— + </p> + <p> + “Did I not think so? If one has not them always under one’s eyes they + begin playing pranks! Yes, I see it very well! There, now, the fellows who + are working at the fences have begun to romp with the girls! they do + nothing! Yes, they don’t believe that I am sitting here in the tower and + looking at them!” + </p> + <p> + “Then a telescope is, after all, a dangerous weapon!” exclaimed Wilhelm. + “You can look at people when they least expect it. Fortunately, our seat + lies hidden behind the wood: we are, at all events, safe.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, that it is, my friend,” returned the other; “the outer sides of the + garden are still bare. Did I not, last autumn, see Miss Sophie quite + distinctly, when she was gathering service-berries in her little basket? + And then, what tricks did she not play? She certainly did not think that I + sat here and watched tier pretty gambols!” + </p> + <p> + They quitted the tower, and passed through the so-called Knight’s Hall, + where immense beams, laid one on the other, supported the roof. At either + end of the hall was a huge fireplace, with armorial bearings painted + above: the hall was now used as a granary; they were obliged to step over + a heap of corn before reaching the family pew in the little chapel, which + was no longer used for divine service. + </p> + <p> + “This might become a pretty little room,” said the Kammerjunker, “but we + have enough, and therefore we let this, for curiosity’s sake, remain in + its old state. The moon is worth its money!” and he pointed toward the + vaulted ceiling, where the moon was represented as a white disk, in which + the painter, with much naïveté, had introduced a man bearing a load of + coals upon his back; in faithful representation of the popular belief + regarding the black spot in the moon, which supposes this to be a man whom + the Lord has sent up there because he stole his neighbor’s coal. “That + great picture on the right, there,” pursued he, “is Mrs. Ellen Marsviin; I + purchased it at an auction. One of the peasants put up for it; I asked him + what he would do with this big piece of furniture—he could never get + it in through his door. But do you know what a speculation he had? It was + not such a bad one, after all. See! the rain runs so beautifully off the + painted canvas, he would have a pair of breeches made out of it, to wear + in rainy weather behind the plough; they would keep the rain off! I + thought, however, I ought to prevent the portrait of the highly honorable + Mrs. Ellen Marsviin being so profaned. I bought it: now she hangs there, + and looks tolerably well pleased. The peasant got a knight instead—perhaps + one of my own ancestors, who was now cut up into breeches. See, that is + what one gets by being painted!” + </p> + <p> + “But the cupboard in the pillar there?” inquired Otto. + </p> + <p> + “There, certainly, were Bibles and Prayer-books kept. Now I have in it + what I call sweetmeats for the Chancery-counselor Thomsen: old knives of + sacrifice, coins and rings, which I have found in the horse-pond and up + yonder in the cairns: not a quarter of a yard below the turf we found one + pot upon another; round each a little inclosure of stones—a flat + stone as covering, and underneath stood the pot, with burnt giants’ bones, + and a little button or the blade of a knife. The best things are already + gone away to Copenhagen, and should the Counselor come, he will, God help + me! carry away the rest. That may be, then, willingly, for I cannot use + the stuff, after all.” + </p> + <p> + After coffee, the guests wandered through the old garden: the clearing + away of the mud was more closely observed, the dairy and pig-sty visited, + the new threshing-machine inspected. But now the Russian bath should be + also essayed; “it was heated!” But the end of the affair was, that only + the Kammerjunker himself made use of it. The dinner-table was prepared, + and then he returned. “But here something is wanting!” exclaimed he; left + the room, and returned immediately with two large bouquets, which he stuck + into an ale-glass which he placed upon the table. “Where Miss Sophie + dines, the table must be ornamented with flowers: certainly we cannot lay + garlands, as you do!” He seated himself at the end of the table, and + wished, as he himself said, to represent the President Lars: they had had + the “Wandsbecker Boten” half a year in the house, and it would certainly + please Miss Sophie if they betrayed some acquaintance with books. This + Lars and the flowers, here, meant quite as much as in the south a serenade + under the windows of the fair one. + </p> + <p> + When, toward evening, the carriage for their return drew up before the + door, Otto still stood contemplating some old inscriptions which were + built into the tower-wall. + </p> + <p> + “That you can look at another time,” said Jakoba; “now you must be of use + a little!” And she reached him the ladies’ cloaks. + </p> + <p> + Amidst promises of a return visit and the parting yelping of the dogs the + carriage rolled away. + </p> + <p> + “I have fairly fallen in love with the old place!” said Sophie. + </p> + <p> + “The Kaminerjunker gains much upon nearer acquaintance,” said Otto. + </p> + <p> + They bad now reached the furthest extremity of the garden. A flower-rain + showered itself over them and the carriage. The Kammerjunker, Jakoba, and + the Mamsell, had taken a shorter way, and now waved an adieu to the + travellers, whilst at the same time they scattered hyacinths and stocks + over them. With a practiced hand Jakoba threw, as a mark of friendship, a + great pink straight into Otto’s face. “Farewell, farewell!” sounded from + both sides, and, accompanied by the sound of the evening-bell from the + near village, for it was sunset, the carriage rolled away. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0011" id="link2HCH0011"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XI + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “Dance and stamp + Till the shoe-soles drop!” + —Danish Popular Song. +</pre> + <p> + On the following day should the much-talked-of mowing-festival take place. + It was the hay-harvest which occasioned all this merriment. [Author’s + Note: It is true that serfdom is abolished, but the peasant is still not + quite free; neither can he be so. For his house and land he must pay a + tribute, and this consists in labor. His own work must give way to that of + his lord. His wagon, which he has had prepared to bring home his own + harvest, must, if such be commanded, go to the nobleman’s land, and there + render service. This is, therefore, a kind of tax which he pays, and for + the faithful payment of which he is rewarded by a harvest and + mowing-feast; at the latter he receives a certain quantity of brandy, and + as much ale as he can drink. The dance generally takes place in the middle + of the court-yard, and the dancers themselves must pay their musicians.] + </p> + <p> + During three afternoons in succession, in the inner court and under free + heaven, should a ball be held. Along the walls, rough planks, laid upon + logs of wood, formed a row of benches. At both ends of the court lay two + barrels of the newly brewed ale, which had received more malt than usual, + and which, besides, through the silver skilling, and the magic dance of + the maidens round the tub, had acquired extraordinary strength. A large + wooden tankard, containing several measures of brandy, stood upon a table; + the man who watched the bleaching-ground was placed as a kind of butler to + preside at this sideboard. A bread-woman, with new white bread from Nyborg + upon her barrow, wheeled into the court, and there established her stall + for every one; for it was only liquors the guests received gratis. + </p> + <p> + The guests now entered the court by pairs; the men, part in jackets, part + in long coats which hung down to their ankles. Out of the waistcoat-pocket + protruded a little nosegay of sweet-williams and musk. The girls carried + their “posies,” as they called them, in their neatly folded + pocket-handkerchiefs. Two musicians—one quite a young blade, in a + laced coat with a stiff cravat, mid the other the well-known Peter + Cripple, “Musikanti” as he was called—led the procession. They both + played one and the same piece, but each according to his own manner. It + was both good and old. + </p> + <p> + They now began to draw lots, who should dance before the door of the + family and who before that of the steward; after which the two parties + drew lots for the musicians. The girls seated themselves in a row upon the + bench, from whence they were chosen. The gallantry accorded with the + ball-room,—the hard stone pavement. Not even had the grass been + pulled up, but that would be all right after dancing there the first day. + “Nay, why art thou sitting there?” spoken with a kind of morose + friendliness, was the invitation to dance; and this served for seven + dances. “Only don’t be melancholy!” resounded from the company, and now + the greater portion moved phlegmatically along, as if in sleep or in a + forced dance: the girl with her eyes staring at her own feet, her partner + with his head bent toward one side, and his eyes in a direct line with the + girl’s head-dress. A few of the most active exhibited, it is true, a kind + of animation, by stamping so lustily upon the stone pavement that the dust + whirled up around them. That was a joy! a joy which had occupied them many + weeks, but as yet the joy had not reached its height; “but that will soon + come!” said Wilhelm, who, with his sister and Otto, had taken his place at + an open window. + </p> + <p> + The old people meanwhile kept to the ale-barrels, and the brandy. The + latter was offered to the girls, and they were obliged, at least, to sip. + Wilhelm soon discovered the prettiest, and threw them roses. The girls + immediately sprang to the spot to collect the flowers: but the cavaliers + also wished to have them, and they were the stronger; they, therefore, + boldly pushed the ladies aside, so that some seated themselves on the + stone pavement and got no roses: that was a merry bit of fun! “Thou art a + foolish thing! It fell upon thy shoulder and thou couldst not catch it!” + said the first lover to his lady, and stuck the rose into his + waistcoat-pocket. + </p> + <p> + All got partners—all the girls; even the children, they leaped about + to their own singing out upon the bridge. Only ONE stood forlorn,—Sidsel, + with the grown-together eyebrows; she smiled, laughed aloud; no one would + become her partner. Peter Cripple handed his violin to one of the young + men and asked him to play, for he himself wished to stretch his legs a + little. The girls drew back and talked with each other; but Peter Cripple + stepped quietly forward toward Sidsel, flung his arms around her, and they + danced a whirling dance. Sophie laughed aloud at it, but Sidsel directed + her extraordinary glance maliciously and piercingly toward her. Otto saw + it, and the girl was doubly revolting and frightful in his eyes. With the + increasing darkness the assembly became more animated; the two parties of + dancers were resolved into one. At length, when it was grown quite dark, + the ale barrels become empty, the tankard again filled and once more + emptied, the company withdrew in pairs, singing. Now commenced the first + joy, the powerful operation of the ale. They now wandered through the + wood, accompanying each other home, as they termed it; but this was a + wandering until the bright morning. + </p> + <p> + Otto and Wilhelm were gone out into the avenue, and the peasants shouted + to them a grateful “Good night!” for the merry afternoon. + </p> + <p> + “Now works the witchcraft!” said Wilhelm; “the magical power of the ale! + Now begins the bacchand! Give your hand to the prettiest girl, and she + will immediately give you her heart!” + </p> + <p> + “Pity,” answered Otto, “that the Maenades of the north possess only that + which is brutal in common with those of the south!” + </p> + <p> + “See, there goes the smith’s pretty daughter, to whom I threw the best + rose!” cried Wilhelm. “She has got two lovers, one under either arm!” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, there she goes!” simpered a female voice close to them. It was + Sidsel, who sat upon the steps of a stile almost concealed in the + darkness, which the trees and the hedge increased still more. + </p> + <p> + “Has Sidsel no lover?” asked Wilhelm. + </p> + <p> + “Hi, hi, hi,” simpered she; “the Herr Baron and the other gentleman seek, + doubtless, for a little bride. Am I beautiful enough? At night all cats + are gray!” + </p> + <p> + “Come!” whispered Otto, and drew Wilhelm away from her. “She sits like + some bird of ill omen there in the hedge.” + </p> + <p> + “What a difference!” exclaimed Wilhelm, as he followed; “yes, what a + difference between this monster, nay, between the other girls and Eva! She + was, doubtless, born in the same poverty, in similar circumstances, and + yet they are like day and night. What a soul has been given to Eva! what + inborn nobility! It must be, really, more than a mere freak of Nature!” + </p> + <p> + “Only do not let Nature play her freaks with you!” said Otto, smiling, and + raised his hand. “You speak often of Eva.” + </p> + <p> + “Here it was association of ideas,” answered Wilhelm. “The contrast awoke + remembrance.” + </p> + <p> + Otto entered his chamber—he opened the window; it was a moonlight + night. From the near wood resounded laughter and song. They came from the + young men and girls, who, on their wandering, gave themselves up to + merriment. Otto stood silent and full of thought in the open window. + Perhaps it was the moon which lent her paleness to his countenance. On + what did he reflect? Upon his departure, perhaps? Only one more day would + he remain here, where he felt himself so much at home; but then the + journey was toward his own house, to his grandfather, to Rosalie, and the + old preacher, who all thought so much of him. Otto stood listening and + silent. The wind bore the song more distinctly over from the wood. + </p> + <p> + “That is their joy, their happiness!” said he. “It might have been my joy + also, my happiness!” lay in the sigh which he heaved. His lips did not + move, his thoughts alone spoke their silent language. “I might have stood + on a level with these; my soul might have been chained to the dust, and + yet it would have been the same which I now possess, with which I long to + compass all worlds! the same, endowed with this sentiment of pride, which + drives me on to active exertion. My fate wavered whether I should become + one such as these or whether I should rise into that circle which the + world calls the higher. The mist-form did not sink down into the mire, but + rose above into the high refreshing air. And am I become happy through + this?” His eye stared upon the bright disk of the moon. Two large tears + rolled over his pale cheeks. “Infinite Omnipotence! I acknowledge Thy + existence! Thou dost direct all; upon Thee will I depend!” + </p> + <p> + A melancholy smile passed over his lips; he stepped back into the chamber, + folded his hands, prayed, and felt rest and peace. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0012" id="link2HCH0012"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XII + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “The travellers roll through the world of men, + Like rose leaves in a stream. + The past will ne’er come back again, + But fade into a dream.”—B. S. INGEMANN. +</pre> + <p> + The following day, the last before Otto’s departure, whilst he and Wilhelm + were walking in the garden, Sophie approached them with a garland made of + oak-leaves: this was intended for Otto; they were now really to lose him. + </p> + <p> + “Sophie will scarcely be up so early to-morrow morning,” said Louise; “she + is, therefore, obliged to present her garland to-day. I am never missing + at the breakfast-table, as you well know; and I shall then bring my + bouquet.” + </p> + <p> + “I shall preserve both until we meet again,” returned Otto; “they are + vignettes to my beautiful summer-dream. When I again sit in Copenhagen, + when the rain patters and the winter approaches with cold and a joyless + sky, I shall still see before me Funen with its green woods, flowers, and + sunshine; it will appear to me that it must still be so there, and that + the garland and bouquet are only withered because they are with me in the + winter cold.” + </p> + <p> + “In Copenhagen we shall meet again!” said Sophie. + </p> + <p> + “And I shall see you again with the swallows!” said Louise, “when my + flowers spring up again, when we have again warm summer days! As far as I + am concerned, you belong to the summer, and not to the cold, calm winter.” + </p> + <p> + Early on the following morning was Sophie, after all, at the breakfast + table. That was to honor Otto. Mamma showed herself as the carriage was at + the door. Wilhelm would accompany him as far as Odense. It was, therefore, + a double leave taking, here and there. + </p> + <p> + “We will always remain friends, faithful friends!” said Wilhelm, when they + parted. + </p> + <p> + “Faithful friends!” repeated Otto, and they rolled away toward Middelfart; + thus far should mamma’s own carriage convey the excellent Otto. Wilhelm + remained behind in Odense; his coachman drove Otto, and they discoursed + upon the way. They passed Vissenberg: the high, wooded hills there have + received the name of the Funen Alps. The legend relates of robbers who had + here deep passages underneath the high-road, where they hung bells which + rang when any one passed above. The inhabitants are still looked upon with + suspicion. Vissenberg appears a kind of Itri, between Copenhagen and + Hamburg. [Author’s Note: “Itri,” Fra Diavolo’s birthplace, lies in the + Neapolitan States, on the highway between Rome and Naples. The inhabitants + are not, without reason, suspected of carrying on the robber’s trade.] + Near the church there formerly lay a stone, on which Knud, the saint, is + said to have rested himself when flying from the rebellious Jutlanders. In + the stone remained the impression of where he had sat; the hard stone had + been softer than the hearts of the rebellious people. + </p> + <p> + This, and similar legends, the coachman knew how to relate; he was born in + this neighborhood, but not in Vissenberg itself, where they make the false + notes. [Author’s Note: A number of years ago a band of men were seized in + Vissenberg who had forged bank-notes.] Every legend gains in interest when + one hears it in the place with which it is connected. Funen is especially + rich in such relations. + </p> + <p> + “That cairn elevates itself at Christmas upon four red posts, and one can + then see the dance and merriment of the goblins within. Through that + peasant’s farm there drives every night a glowing coach, drawn by four + coal-black horses. Where we now see a pond overgrown with reeds and roots + there once stood a church, but it sank as the godless desecrated it; at + midnight we still hear their sighs, and hymns of repentance.” + </p> + <p> + It is true that the narrator mixed up together certain leg-ends which + related to other places in the country—that he took little springs, + and mingled his own thoughts with his relations; but Otto listened to him + with great interest. The discourse turned also upon the family at the + hall. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, they are very much liked!” said the coachman; “the gentleman may + believe we know how to value them.” + </p> + <p> + “And now, which of the young ladies is the best?” asked Otto. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, every one is best served by Miss Louise,” returned the fellow. + </p> + <p> + “Miss Sophie is the prettiest,” said Otto. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, she is also very good,—she belongs to the learned ones! She + knows German, that she does! she can act comedy very excellently! I once + got permission with the rest of the people to be up-stairs in the + sitting-room—we stood behind the family; she did not manage her + affairs at all badly.” + </p> + <p> + However much the old legends interested Otto, it seemed as though he + listened with more pleasure to the simple reasonings of the coachman upon + the family who were become so dear to him. Words and thoughts were busied + about the objects there. Wilhelm, however, was and still remained the + dearest; he recollected with what mildness Wilhelm had stretched forth his + hand in reconciliation, when he himself had thrust him from him. Already + the happy summer days which he had spent at the country-seat, the whole + visit, appeared a beautiful but short dream. + </p> + <p> + Otto felt an inward impulse to express his gratitude; his pride even, + which was a fundamental feature of his character, commanded him to do + this. Wilhelm’s affection, his desire for a continued friendship, Otto + thought he must reward; and on this account he added the following words + to the few lines which he gave the coachman before his passage over the + Little Belt:— + </p> + <p> + “Wilhelm, in future we will say thou to each other; that is more + confidential!” “He is the first to whom I have given my thou,” said Otto, + when the letter was dispatched. “This will rejoice him: now, however, I + myself have for once made an advance, but he deserves it.” + </p> + <p> + A few moments later it troubled him. “I am a fool like the rest!” said he, + and wished he could annihilate the paper. He was summoned on board. The + Little Belt is only a river between the two countries; he soon found + himself upon Jutland ground; the whip cracked, the wheels turned round, + like the wheels of fortune, up and down, yet ever onward. + </p> + <p> + Late in the evening he arrived at an inn. From his solitary chamber his + thoughts flew in opposite directions; now toward the solitary country-seat + of his grandfather, among the sand-hills; now toward the animated mansion + in Funen, where the new friends resided. He had opened his box and taken + out what lay quite at the top, the garland of oak-leaves and the beautiful + bouquet of flowers of this morning. + </p> + <p> + Most people maintain that one dreams at night of that which one has + thought much about. According to this, Otto must have thought a deal about + the North Sea, for of it he dreamed the whole night,—not of the + young ladies. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0013" id="link2HCH0013"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XIII + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “The heat-lark warbles forth his sepulchral melodies.” + S. S. BLICHER. +</pre> + <p> + The peninsula of Jutland possesses nothing of the natural beauty which + Zealand and Funen present—splendid beeches and odoriferous + clover-fields in the neighborhood of the salt sea; it possesses at once a + wild and desolate nature, in the heath-covered expanses and the + far-stretching moors. East and west are different; like the green, sappy + leaf, and grayish white sea-weed on the sea shore. From the Woods of + Marselisborg to the woods south of Coldinger Fjord, is the land rich and + blooming; it is the Danish Nature in her greatness. Here rises the Heaven + Mountain, with its wilderness of coppice and heather; from here you gaze + over the rich landscape, with its woods and lakes, as far down as the + roaring Cattegat. + </p> + <p> + The western coast, on the contrary, lies without a tree, without bushes, + with nothing but white sand-hills stretching along the roaring ocean, + which scourges the melancholy coast with sand-storms and sharp winds. + Between these contrasts, which the east and west coasts present, the + Hesperides and Siberia, lies the vast heath which stretches itself from + the Lyneborg sand to the Skagen’s reef. No hedge shows here the limits of + possession. Among the crossing tracks of carriage wheels must thou seek + thy way. Crippled oaks, with whitish-green moss overgrown to the outermost + branches, twist themselves along the ground, as if fearing storms and the + sea-mist. Here, like a nomadic people, but without flocks, do the + so-called Tartar bands wander up and down, with their peculiar language + and peculiar ceremonies. Suddenly there shows itself in the interior of + the heathy wilderness a colony—another, a strange people, German + emigrants, who through industry compel the meagre country to fruitfulness. + </p> + <p> + From Veile, Otto wished to take the road through Viborg, as the most + direct and the shortest to his grandfather’s estate, which lay between + Nisumfjord and Lemvig. + </p> + <p> + The first heath-bushes accosted him as dear friends of his childhood. The + beautiful beech-woods lay behind him, the expanse of heath began; but the + heath was dear to him: it was this landscape which formed the basis of + many dear recollections. + </p> + <p> + The country became ever higher with brown heights, beyond which nothing + was visible; houses and farms became more rare, the cherry orchards + transformed themselves into cabbage-gardens. Only single spots were free + from heather, and here grew grass, but short, and like moss or duckweed + which grows upon ponds: here birds congregated by hundreds, and fluttered + twittering into the air as the carriage drove past. + </p> + <p> + “You know where to find the green spot in the heath, and how to become + happy through it,” sighed Otto. “Could I only follow your example!” + </p> + <p> + At a greater distance rose bare hills, without ling or ploughed land; the + prickly heath looked brown and yellow on the sharp declivities. A little + boy and girl herded sheep by the way-side; the boy played the Pandean + pipe, the little girl sang a psalm,—it was the best song which she + knew how to sing to the traveller, in order to win a little present from + him. + </p> + <p> + The day was warm and beautiful, but the evening brought the cold mist from + the sea, which, however, in the interior of the country loses something of + its power. + </p> + <p> + “That is a kiss of welcome from my home,” said Otto; “the death-kiss of + the mermaid! In Funen they call it the elf maiden.” + </p> + <p> + Within the last few years a number of children have been sent from the + Orphan Asylum to the heath, in order that, instead of Copenhagen rogues, + they may become honest Jutland peasants. Otto had a boy of this + description for his coachman. The lad was very contented, and yet Otto + became low-spirited from his relation. Recollections from his own life + stirred within his breast. “Return thanks to God,” said he, and gave the + lad a considerable present; “on the heath thou hast shelter and a home; in + Copenhagen, perhaps, the sandy beach would have been thy nightly + resting-place, hunger and cold the gifts which the day would bring thee.” + </p> + <p> + The nearer he approached the west, the more serious became his frame of + mind; it was as if the desolate scenery and cold sea-mist entered his + soul. The pictures of the gay country-seat at Funen were supplanted by + recollections of his home with his grandfather. He became more and more + low-spirited. It was only when a single mile separated him from his home + that the thought of surprising his dear friends conquered his melancholy. + </p> + <p> + He caught sight of the red roof of the house, saw the willow plantations, + and heard the bark of the yard-dog. Upon the hillock before the gate stood + a group of children. Otto could no longer endure the slow driving through + the deep ruts. He sprang out of the carriage, and ran more than he walked. + The children on the hillock became aware of him, and all looked toward the + side from whence he came. + </p> + <p> + The slow driving, and his being absorbed in melancholy fancies, had + relaxed his powerful frame; but now in one moment all his elasticity + returned: his cheeks glowed, and his heart beat loudly. + </p> + <p> + From the court resounded singing—it was the singing of a psalm. He + stepped through the gateway. A crowd of peasants stood with bared heads: + before the door stood a carriage, some peasants were just raising a coffin + into it. In the doorway stood the old preacher, and spoke with a man clad + in black. + </p> + <p> + “Lord Jesus! who is dead?” were Otto’s first words, and his countenance + became pale like that of a corpse. + </p> + <p> + “Otto!” all exclaimed. + </p> + <p> + “Otto!” exclaimed also the old preacher, astonished; then seized his hand, + and said gravely, “The Lord gave, and the Lord hath taken away; blessed be + the name of the Lord!” + </p> + <p> + “Let me see the face of the dead!” said Otto. Not a tear came to his eye; + surprise and sorrow were too great. + </p> + <p> + “Shall I take out the screws?” inquired the man who had just screwed up + the coffin. + </p> + <p> + “Let him sleep the eternal rest!” said the preacher. + </p> + <p> + Otto stared at the black coffin in which his grandfather lay. The carriage + drove away with it. Otto followed after with the preacher, heard him throw + earth upon it, heard words which he did not comprehend, saw the last + corner of the coffin, and it was then removed from his sight. All was as a + dream to him. + </p> + <p> + They returned back to the preacher’s abode; a pale figure approached him: + it was Rosalie—old Rosalie. + </p> + <p> + “We have here no abiding-place, we all hasten toward futurity!” said the + old preacher. “Strengthen yourself now with meat and drink! The body + cannot suffer like the soul. We have accompanied him to His sleeping + chamber; his bed was well prepared! I have prayed the evening prayer; he + sleeps in God, and will awaken to behold His glory. Amen!” + </p> + <p> + “Otto! thou dear Otto!” said Rosalie. “The bitterest day brings me this + joy! How have I thought of thee! Amongst strangers shouldst thou receive + the tidings of his death! with no one who could feel for thy sorrow! where + thou shouldst see no eye weep for what thou hast lost! Now thou art here! + now, when I believed thee so far distant—it is a miracle! Thou + couldst only have received the letter to-day which carried the + intelligence of thy grandfather’s death to thee!” + </p> + <p> + “I wished to surprise you,” said Otto. “A melancholy surprise awaited me!” + </p> + <p> + “Sit down, my child!” said the preacher, and drew him toward the covered + table. “When the tree falls which gave us shade and fruit, from which we, + in our own little garden, have planted shoots and sown seeds, we may well + look on with sadness and feel our loss: but we must not forget our own + garden, must not forget to cherish that which we have won from the fallen + tree: we must not cease to live for the living! I miss, like you, the + proud tree, which rejoiced my soul and my heart, but I know that it is + planted in a better garden, where Christ is the gardener.” + </p> + <p> + The preacher’s invitation to remain with him, during his stay, in his + house, Otto declined. Already this first night he wished to establish + himself in his own little chamber in the house of mourning. Rosalie also + would return. + </p> + <p> + “We have a deal to say to each other,” said the old preacher, and laid his + hand upon Otto’s shoulder. “Next summer you will hardly press my hand, it + will be pressed by the turf.” + </p> + <p> + “To-morrow I will come to you,” said Otto, and drove back with the old + Rosalie to the house. + </p> + <p> + The domestics kissed the hand and coat of the young master—he wished + to prevent this; the old woman wept. Otto stepped into the room; here had + stood the corpse, on account of which the furniture had been removed, and + the void was all the more affecting. The long white mourning curtains + fluttered in tire wind before the open window. Rosalie led him by the hand + into the little sleeping-room where the grandfather had died. Here + everything yet stood as formerly—the large book case, with the glass + doors, behind which the intellectual treasure was preserved: Wieland and + Fielding, Millot’s “History of the World,” and Von der Hagen’s + “Narrenbuch,” occupied the principal place: these books had been those + most read by the old gentleman. Here was also Otto’s earliest intellectual + food, Albertus Julius, the English “Spectator,” and Evald’s writings. Upon + the wall hung pikes and pistols, and a large old sabre, which the + grandfather had once worn. Upon the table beneath the mirror stood an + hour-glass; the sand had run out. Rosalie pointed toward the bed. “There + he died,” said she, “between six and seven o’clock in the evening. He was + only ill three days; the two last he passed in delirium: he raised himself + in bed, and shook the bed posts; I was obliged to let two strong men watch + beside him. ‘To horse! to horse!’ said he; ‘the cannons forward!’ His + brain dreamed of war and battles. He also spoke of your blessed father + severely and bitterly! Every word was like the stab of a knife; he was as + severe toward him as ever!” + </p> + <p> + “And did the people understand his words?” asked Otto with a wrinkled + brow. + </p> + <p> + “No, for the uninitiated they were dark words; and even had they possessed + any meaning, the men would have believed it was the sickness which spoke + out of him. ‘There stands the mother with the two children! The one shall + fall upon the flank of the enemy and bring me honor and joy. The mother + and daughter I know not!’ That was all which I heard him say about you and + your mother and sister. By noon on the third day the fever had spent + itself; the strong, gloomy man was become as weak and gentle as a child; I + sat beside his bed. ‘If I had only Otto here!’ said he. ‘I have been + severely attacked, Rosalie, but I am now much better: I will go to sleep; + that strengthens one.’ Smilingly he closed his eyes and lay quite still: I + read my prayers, withdrew gently so as not to wake him; he lay there + unchanged when I returned. I sat a little while beside his bed; his hands + lay upon the coverlid; I touched them, they were ice-cold. I was + frightened, touched his brow, his face—he was dead! he had died + without a death-struggle!” + </p> + <p> + For a long time did they converse about the dead man; it was near midnight + when Otto ascended the narrow stairs which led to the little chamber in + the roof, where as child and boy he had slept. All stood here as it had + done the year before, only in nicer order. Upon the wall hung the black + painted target, near to the centre of which he had once shot. His skates + lay upon the chest of drawers, near to the nodding plaster figure. The + long journey, and the overpowering surprise which awaited him on his + return, had strongly affected him: he opened the window; a large white + sand-hill rose like a wall straight up before it, and deprived him of all + view. How often, when a child, had the furrows made by rain in the sand, + and the detached pieces, presented to him pictures,—towns, towers, + and whole marching armies. Now it was only a white wall, which reminded + him of a winding-sheet. A small streak of the blue sky was visible between + the house and the steep slope of the hill. Never before had Otto felt, + never before reflected, what it was to stand alone in the world, to be + lovingly bound to no one with the band of consanguinity. + </p> + <p> + “Solitary, as in this silent night do I stand in the world! solitary in + the mighty crowd of human beings! Only ONE being can I call mine! only ONE + being press as kindred to my heart! And I shudder at the thought of + meeting with this being—I should bless the thought that she was + dead! Father! thou didst ruin one being and make three miserable. I have + never loved thee; bitterness germinated within my breast when I became + acquainted with thee! Mother! thy features have died out of my + recollection; I revere thee! Thou wast all love; to love didst thou offer + up thy life—more than life! Pray for me with thy God! Pray for me, + ye dead! if there is immortality; if the flesh is not alone born again in + grass and the worm; if the soul is not lost in floods of air! We shall be + unconscious of it: eternally shall we sleep! eternally!” Otto supported + his forehead upon the window-frame, his arm sank languidly, “Mother! poor + mother! thou didst gain by death, even if it be merely an eternal sleep,—asleep + without dreams! We have only a short time to live, and yet we divide our + days of life with sleep! My body yearns after this short death! I will + sleep—sleep like all my beloved ones! They do not awaken!” He threw + himself upon the bed. The cold air from the sea blew through the open + window. The wearied body conquered; he sank into the death-like sleep, + whilst his doubting soul, ever active, presented him with living dreams. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0014" id="link2HCH0014"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XIV + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “Man seems to me a foolish being; he drives along over the + waves of time, endlessly thrown up and down, and descrying a + little verdant spot, formed of mud and stagnant moor and of + putrid green mouldiness, he cries out, Land! He rows + thither, ascends—and sinks and sinks—and is no more to be + seen.”—The Golden Fleece of GRILLPARZER. +</pre> + <p> + Old Rosalie was pouring out coffee when Otto came down the next morning. + Peace and resignation to the will of God lay in her soft countenance. Otto + was pale, paler than usual, but handsomer than Rosalie had seen him + before: a year had rendered him older and more manly; a handsome, crisp + beard curled over his chin; manly gravity lay in his eyes, in which, at + his departure, she had only remarked their inborn melancholy glance. With + a kind of satisfaction she looked upon this beautiful, melancholy + countenance, and with cordial affection she stretched forth her hand + toward him. + </p> + <p> + “Here stands thy chair, Otto; and here thy cup. I will drink to thy + welcome. It seems to me long since I saw thee, and yet it is, now I have + thee again, only a short time. Were that place only not empty!” and she + pointed to the place at the table which the grandfather had used to + occupy. + </p> + <p> + “If I had only seen him!” said Otto. + </p> + <p> + “His countenance was so gentle in death,” said Rosalie. “The severity and + gravity which had settled in his eyes were softened away. I was myself + present when he was dressed. He had his uniform on, which he always wore + upon occasions of ceremony, the sabre by his side and the great hat upon + his head. I knew that this was his wish!” Quietly she made the sign of the + cross. + </p> + <p> + “Are all my grandfather’s papers sealed?” inquired Otto. + </p> + <p> + “The most important—those which have the greatest interest for + thee,” said Rosalie, “are in the hands of the preacher. Last year, the day + after thy departure, he gave them to the preacher; thy father’s last + letter I know is amongst them.” + </p> + <p> + “My father!” said Otto, and glanced toward the ground. “Yes,” continued + he, “there is truth in the words of Scripture,—the sins of the + fathers are visited upon the children unto the third and fourth + generation!” + </p> + <p> + “Otto!” said Rosalie, with a beseeching and reproachful look, “thy + grandfather was a severe man. Thou last known him, hast seen his darkest + moments, and yet then age and cares had softened him: his love to thee + calmed every outbreak. Had he only loved thy father as he loved thee, + things would, perhaps, have ended better: but we may not judge!” + </p> + <p> + “And what have I done?” said Otto. “Thou, Rosalie, knowest the history of + my life. Is it not as if a curse rested upon me? I was a high-spirited + boy, I often occasioned thee tears; yet didst thou always place thyself + between me and punishment. It was my evil blood, the blood of my birth in + which the curse lay, that drove me on!” + </p> + <p> + “But thou didst become good and full of love, as thou art now!” said + Rosalie. + </p> + <p> + “Only when I became acquainted with myself and my destiny. In the + thoughtlessness of childhood, unacquainted with myself and the world, did + I myself have that sign of my misery, which now presses down my soul, cut + into my flesh. Yes, Rosalie! I remember this very well, and have clearly + preserved this, my earliest recollection before my grandfather took me, + and I came here a boy. I remember the great building from whence I was + brought, the number of people who there worked, sang, and laughed, and who + told me extraordinary stories of how badly people were treated in the + beautiful world. This was my parents’ home, thought I, when I began to + ponder upon parents and their connection with children. It was a large + manufactory which they possessed, thought I; I remembered the number of + work-people. All played and romped with me. I was wild and full of + boisterous spirits a boy of only six years old, but with the perseverance + and will of one of ten. Rosalie, thou sawest many proofs of the evil which + lay in my blood; it bordered upon insolence. I remembered well the strong, + merry Heinrich, who always sang at his loom; he showed me and the others + his tattooed breast, upon which he had his whole mournful history + imprinted. Upon his arm were his own and his bride’s names. That pleased + me; I wished to have my name also on my arm. ‘It is painful!’ said he; + ‘then thou wilt pipe, my lad!’ That was spur enough to make me desire it. + I allowed him to puncture my skin, to puncture an O and a T upon my + shoulder, and did not cry,—no, not once whilst the powder burnt into + it; but I was praised, and was proud to bear the initials—proud of + them until three years ago, when I met Heinrich here. I recognized him, + but he did not recognize me. I showed him my shoulder, and besought him to + read the name, this O and T: but he did not say Otto Thostrup; he named a + name which destroyed the happiness of my childhood, and has made me + miserable forever!” + </p> + <p> + “It was a fearful day!” said Rosalie. “Thou didst demand from me an + explanation, thy grandfather gave it thee, and thou wast no longer the + Otto thou hadst formerly been. Yet wherefore speak of it? Thou art good + and wise, noble and innocent. Do not fill thy heart with sorrow from a + time which is past, and which, for thy sake, shall be forgotten.” + </p> + <p> + “But Heinrich still lives!” said Otto; “I have met with him, have spoken + with him: it was as if all presence of mind forsook me.” + </p> + <p> + “When and where?” asked Rosalie. + </p> + <p> + Otto related of his walk with Wilhelm in the park, and of the juggler, in + whom he had recognized Heinrich. “I tore myself from my friends, I + wandered the whole night alone in the wood. O Rosalie, I thought of death! + I thought of death as no Christian ought to do. A beautiful morning + followed, I wandered beside the sea which I love, and in which I have so + often dived. Since that explanation of the initials on my shoulder was + suggested, that explanation which reminded me of my unhappy birth, I have + never uncovered them before any one. O, I have rubbed thorn with a stone, + until they were bloody! The letters are gone, but still I imagine I can + read them in the deep scar—that in it I see a Cain’s mark! That + morning the desire to bathe came upon me. The fresh current infused life + once more into my soul. Just then Wilhelm and several acquaintance came + down; they called to me and carried off my clothes; my blood boiled; all + my unhappiness, which this night had stirred within my soul, again + overwhelmed me: it was as though the obliterated initials on my shoulder + would reveal themselves in the scar and betray the secret of my grief. + Disgust of life seized upon me. I no longer knew what I shouted to them, + but it seemed to me as if I must swim out into the stream and never + return. I swam until it became night before my eyes. I sank, and Wilhelm + rescued me! Never since then have we spoken of this hour! O Rosalie! long + is it since I have been able to open my heart as before thee at this + moment. What use is it to have a friend if one cannot lay before him one’s + whole thoughts? To no one have I been able to unfold them but to thee, who + already knowest them. I suffer, as a criminal and yet am I innocent,—just + as the misshapen, the deformed man, is innocent of his ugliness!” + </p> + <p> + “I do not possess thy knowledge, Otto,” said Rosalie, and pressed his + hand; “have never rejoiced in such a clear head as thine; but I have that + which thou canst not as yet possess—experience. In trouble, as well + as in joy, youth transforms the light cobweb into the cable. + Self-deception has changed the blood in thy veins, the thoughts in thy + soul; but do not forever cling to this one black spot! Neither wilt thou! + it will spur thee on to activity, will enervate thy soul, not depress + thee! The melancholy surprise of thy grandfather’s death, whom thou didst + believe active and well, has now made thee dejected, and thy thoughts so + desponding. But there will come better days! happy days! Thou art young, + and youth brings health for the soul and body!” + </p> + <p> + She led Otto into the garden, where the willow plantations protected the + other trees from the sharp west wind. The gooseberry-bushes bore fruit, + but it was not yet ripe: one bush Otto had planted when a cutting; it was + now large. Rosalie had tied the twigs to a palisade, so that, as an + espalier, it could thoroughly drink in the sun’s rays. Otto regarded the + fetters more than the good intention. + </p> + <p> + “Let it grow free!” said he; “if that brittle palisade should tumble down, + the twigs would be broken.” And he cut the bands. + </p> + <p> + “Thou art still the old Otto,” said Rosalie. + </p> + <p> + They went into her little room, where the crucifix, and before it a small + vase of flowers, adorned the table. Above the cross hung a garland of + withered heather. + </p> + <p> + “Two years ago didst thou give me that, Otto!” said Rosalie. “There were + no more flowers, there was nothing green but the heath, and thou twinedst + a garland of it for me. Afterward I would not take it down from the + crucifix.” + </p> + <p> + They were interrupted by a visit. It was from the old preacher. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0015" id="link2HCH0015"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XV + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “His coal was coarse, its fashion old; + He asked no dress of greater worth + Than that which kept from storm and cold + The Baptist when he preached on earth.” + C. J. BORE. +</pre> + <p> + Not alone of Otto’s affairs, but also of “the city yonder,” as the + preacher called Copenhagen, would he speak. Only once a week came the + “Viborg Collector” to hint, and the Copenhagen papers were a whole month + going their round. “One would willingly advance with the time,” said he. + Yesterday, at the interment, he had not found it seemly to gratify his + desire of hearing dear Otto talk about the city, but to-day he thought it + might well be done, and therefore he would not await Otto’s visit but come + over to pay one himself. + </p> + <p> + “Thou hast certainly seen our good king?” was his first question. “Lord + help the anointed one! he is then as vigorous and active as ever—my + good King Frederik!” And now he must relate a trait which had touched his + heart, and which, in his opinion, deserved a place in the annals of + history. This event occurred the last time that the king was in Jutland; + he had visited the interior of the country and the western coast also. + When he was leaving a public-house the old hostess ran after him, and + besought that the Father would, as a remembrance, write his name with + chalk upon a beam. The grand gentlemen wished to deter her, but she pulled + at the king’s coat; and when he had learned her wish he nodded in a + friendly manner, and said, “Very willingly!” and then turned back and + wrote his name on the beam. Tears came into the old man’s eyes; he wept, + and prayed for his king. He now inquired whether the old tree was still + standing in the Regent’s Court, and then spoke of Nyerup and Abrahamson, + whom he had known in his student days. + </p> + <p> + In fact, after all, he was himself the narrator; each of his questions + related to this or that event in his own life, and he always returned to + this source—his student-days. There was then another life, another + activity, he maintained. His royal idea of beauty had been Queen Matilda. + [Translator’s Note: The unhappy wife of Christian VII. and daughter of our + George III.] “I saw her often on horseback,” said he. “It was not then the + custom in our country for ladies to ride. In her country it was the + fashion; here it gave rise to scandal. God gave her beauty, a king’s + crown, and a heart full of love; the world gave her—what it can give—a + grave near to the bare heath!” + </p> + <p> + Whilst he so perpetually returned to his own recollections, his share of + news was truly not new, but he was satisfied. Copenhagen appeared to him a + whole world—a royal city; but Sodom and Gomorrah had more than one + street there. + </p> + <p> + Otto smiled at the earnestness with which he said this. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, that I know better than thou, my young friend!” continued the old + preacher. “True, the devil does not go about like a roaring lion, but + there he has his greatest works! He is well-dressed, and conceals his + claws and his tail! Do not rely upon thy strength! He goes about, like the + cat in the fable, ‘pede suspenso,’ sneakingly and cautiously! It is, after + all, with the devil as it is with a Jutland peasant. This fellow comes to + the city, has nothing, runs about, and cleans shoes and boots for the + young gentlemen, and by this means he wins a small sum of money. He knows + how to spare. He can now hire the cellar of the house in which thou + livest, and there commence some small trade. The trade is successful, very + successful. It goes on so well that he can hire the lower story; then he + gains more profit, and before thou canst look about thee he buys the whole + house. See, that is the way with the Jutland peasant, and just the same + with the devil. At first he gets the cellar, then the lower story, and at + last the whole house!” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0016" id="link2HCH0016"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XVI + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “Sure ‘tis fair in foreign land, + But not so fair as home; + + Let me but see thy mountains grand + Glaciers and snowy dome! + + Let me but hear the sound that tells + Of climbing cattle, dressed with bells.” + The Switzer’s Homesickness. +</pre> + <p> + Not until after breakfast did the preacher pass over to Otto’s affairs. + His grandfather’s will made him the sole heir to the large property; a man + in Copenhagen, the merchant Berger, should be his guardian, since the + preacher did not wish to undertake the office. Rosalie was not forgotten: + her devotion and fidelity had won for her a relative’s right. Her last + days should be free from care: she had truly striven to remove all care + from the dead whilst yet he lived. An old age free from care awaited her; + but Otto wished that she should also have a happy old age. He imparted his + plan to the preacher; but the latter shook his head, thought it was not + practicable, and regarded it as a mere fancy—a whim. But such it was + not. + </p> + <p> + Some days passed by. One afternoon Rosalie sat upon a small wooden bench + under the cherry-trees, and was making mourning for the winter. + </p> + <p> + “This is the last summer that we shall sit here,” said she; “the last + summer that this is our home. Now I am become equally rooted to this spot; + it grieves me that I must leave it.” + </p> + <p> + “Thou wast forced to leave thy dear Switzerland,” said Otto; “that was + still harder!” + </p> + <p> + “I was then young,” answered she. “The young tree may be easily + transplanted, but the old one has shot forth deeper roots. Denmark is a + good land—a beautiful land!” + </p> + <p> + “But not the west coast of Jutland!” exclaimed Otto. “For thy green + pasture hast thou here heath; for thy mountains, low sand-hills.” + </p> + <p> + “Upon the Jura Mountains there is also heath,” said Rosalie. “The heath + here often reminds me of my home on the Jura. There also is it cold, and + snow can fall already in August. The fir-trees then stand as if powdered + over.” + </p> + <p> + “I love Switzerland, which I have never seen,” pursued Otto. “Thy relation + has given me a conception of the picturesque magnificence of this + mountain-land. I have a plan, Rosalie. I know that in the heart of a + mountaineer homesickness never dies. I remember well how thy eyes sparkled + when thou toldest of the walk toward Le Locle and Neufchâtel; even as a + boy I felt at thy words the light mountain air. I rode with thee upon the + dizzy height, where the woods lay below us like potato fields. What below + arose, like the smoke from a charcoal-burner’s kiln, was a cloud in the + air. I saw the Alpine chain, like floating cloud mountains; below mist, + above dark shapes with glancing glaciers.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, Otto,” said Rosalie, and her eyes sparkled with youthful fire; “so + looks the Alpine chain when one goes from Le Locle to Neulfchâtel: so did + I see it when I descended the Jura for the list time. It was in August. + The trees, with their autumnal foliage, stood yellow and red between the + dark firs; barberries and hips grew among the tall fern. The Alps lay in + such a beautiful light, their feet blue as heaven, their peaks snow-white + in the clear sunshine. I was in a sorrowful mood; I was leaving my + mountains! Then I wrote in my book—O, I remember it so well!—The + high Alps appear to me the folded wings of the earth: how if she should + raise them! how if the immense wings should unfold, with their gay images + of dark woods, glaciers, and clouds! What a picture! At the Last Judgment + will the earth doubtless unfold these pinions, soar up to God, and in the + rays of His sunlight disappear! I also have been young, Otto,” pursued + she, with a melancholy smile. “Thou wouldst have felt still more deeply at + the sight of this splendor of nature. The lake at the foot of the + mountains was smooth as a mirror; a little boat with white sails swam, + like a swan, upon its expanse. On the road along which we drove were the + peasants beating down chestnuts; the grapes hung in large black bunches. + How an impression such as this can root itself in the memory! It is five + and thirty years since, and yet I still see that boat with the white sail, + the high Alps, and the black grapes.” + </p> + <p> + “Thou shalt see thy Switzerland again, Rosalie,” exclaimed Otto; “again + hear the bells of the cows upon the green pastures! Thou shalt go once + more to the chapel in Franche Compté, shalt visit thy friends at Le Locle, + see the subterranean mill, and the Doub fall.” + </p> + <p> + “The mill wheel yet goes round, the water dashes down as in my youth; but + the friends are gone, my relatives dispersed! I should appear a stranger + there; and when one has reached my age, nature cannot satisfy—one + must have people!” + </p> + <p> + “Thou knowest, Rosalie, my grandfather has settled a sum upon thee so long + as thou livest. Now I have thought thou couldst spend thy latter days with + thy beloved ones at home, in the glorious Switzerland. In October I take + my philosophicum; the following summer I would then accompany thee. I must + also see that splendid mountain-land,—know something more of the + world than I have yet known. I know how thy thoughts always dwell upon + Switzerland. Thither will I reconduct thee; thou wilt feel thyself less + lonely there than here in Denmark.” + </p> + <p> + “Thou art carried away by the thoughts of youth, as thou shouldst and must + be, thou dear, sweet soul!” said Rosalie, smiling. “At my age it is not so + easy.” + </p> + <p> + “We will make short days’ journeys,” said Otto, “go with the steamboat up + the Rhine—that is not fatiguing; and from Basel one is soon in + Franche Compté on the Jura.” + </p> + <p> + “No, upon the heath, near Vestervovov, as it is called here, will old + Rosalie die; here I have felt myself at home, here I have two or three + friends. The family at Lemvig have invited me, have for me a place at + table, a little room, and friendly faces. Switzerland would be no longer + that Switzerland which I quitted. Nature would greet me as an old + acquaintance; it would be to me music, once more to hear the ringing of + the cows’ bells; it would affect me deeply, once again to kneel in the + little chapel on the mountain: but I should soon feel myself a greater + stranger there than here. Had it been fifteen years ago, my sister would + still have been living, the dear, pious Adèle! She dwelt with my uncle + close on the confines of Neufchâtel, as thou knowest, scarcely a quarter + of a mile from Le Locle—<i>the town</i>, as we called it, because it + was the largest place in the neighborhood. Now there are only distant + relations of mine living, who have forgotten me. I am a stranger there. + Denmark gave me bread, it will also give me a grave!” + </p> + <p> + “I thought of giving thee a pleasure!” said Otto. + </p> + <p> + “That thou dost by thy love to me!” returned she. + </p> + <p> + “I thought thou wouldst have shown me thy mountains, thy home, of which + thou hast so often spoken!” + </p> + <p> + “That can I still do. I remember every spot, every tree—all remains + so clear in my recollection. Then we ascend together the Jura higher and + higher; here are no more vineyards to be found, no maize, no chestnuts + only dark pines, huge cliffs, here and there a beech, as green and large + as in Denmark. Now we have the wood behind us, we are many feet above the + sea; thou canst perceive this by the freshness of the air. Everywhere are + green meadows; uninterruptedly reaches our ear the ringing of the + cow-bells. Thou as yet seest no town, and yet we are close upon Le Locle. + Suddenly the road turns; in the midst of the mountain-level we perceive a + small valley, and in this lies the town, with its red roofs, its churches, + and large gardens. Close beneath the windows rises the mountain-side, with + its grass and flowers; it looks as though the cattle must be precipitated + upon the houses. We go through the long street, past the church; the + inhabitants are Protestants—it is a complete town of watchmakers. My + uncle and Adèle also sat the whole day, and worked at wheels and chains. + That was for Monsieur Houriet, in Le Locle. His daughters I know; one is + called Rosalie, like myself. Rosalie and Lydia, they will certainly have + forgotten me! But it is true that we are upon our own journey! Now, thou + seest, at the end of the town we do not follow the broad road—that + leads to Besançon; we remain in the lesser one, here in the valley where + the town lies. The beautiful valley! The green mountain-sides we keep to + our right; on it are scattered houses, with large stones upon their steep + wooden roofs, and with little gardens tilled with plum-trees. Steep + cliff-walls shut in the valley; there stands up a crag; if thou climbest + it thou canst look straight into France: one sees a plain, flat like the + Danish plains. In the valley where we are, close under the rock, lies a + little house; O, I see it distinctly! white-washed and with blue painted + window-frames: at the gate a great chained dog. I hear him bark! We step + into that quiet, friendly little house! The children are playing about on + the ground. O, my little Henry-Numa-Robert! Ah, it is true that now he is + older and taller than thou! We descend the steps toward the cellar. Here + stand sacks and chests of flour; under the floor one hears a strange + roaring; still a few steps lower, and we must light the lamp, for here it + is dark. We find ourselves in a great water-mill, a subterranean mill. + Deep below in the earth rushes a river—above no one dreams of it; + the water dashes down several fathoms over the rushing wheel, which + threatens to seize our clothes and whirl us away into the circle. The + steps on which we stand are slippery: the stone walls drip with water, and + only a step beyond the depth appears bottomless! O, thou wilt love this + mill as I love it! Again having reached the light of day, and under free + heaven, one only perceives the quiet, friendly little house. Dost thou + know, Otto, often as thou hast sat quiet and dreaming, silent as a statue, + have I thought of my mill, and the repose which it presented? and yet how + wildly the stream roared in its bosom, how the wheels rushed round, and + how gloomy it was in the depth!” + </p> + <p> + “We will leave the mill!” said Otto, and sought to lead her from her + reflections back to her own relation. “We find ourselves in the wood, + where the ringing of the evening-bell reaches our ear from the little + chapel in Franche Compté.” + </p> + <p> + “There stands my father’s house!” said Rosalie. “From the corner-window + one looks over the wood toward Aubernez, [Author’s Note: A village in the + canton Neufchâtel, lying close upon the river Doub, where it forms the + boundary between Switzerland and France.] where the ridge leads over the + Doub. The sun shines upon the river, which, far below, winds along, + gleaming like the clearest silver.” + </p> + <p> + “And the whole of France spreads itself out before us!” said Otto. + </p> + <p> + “How beautiful! O, how beautiful!” exclaimed Rosalie, and her eyes + sparkled as she gazed before her; but soon her glance became sad, and she + pressed Otto’s hand. “No one will welcome me to my home! I know neither + their joys nor their sorrows—they are not my own family! In Denmark—I + am at home. When the cold sea-mist spreads itself over the heath I often + fancy I am living among my mountains, where the heather grows. The mist + seems to me then to be a snow-cloud which rests over the mountains, and + thus, when other people are complaining of the bad weather, I am up among + my mountains!” + </p> + <p> + “Thou wilt then remove to the family at Lemvig?” asked Otto. + </p> + <p> + “There I am welcome!” returned she. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0017" id="link2HCH0017"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XVII + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “Look at the calming sea. The waves still tremble in the + depths, and stem to fear the gale.—Over my head is hovering + the shadowy mist.—My curls are wet with the filling dew.” + —OSSIAN. +</pre> + <p> + Otto had not as yet visited the sand-hills on the strand, the fishermen, + or the peasants, among whom formerly he had spent all his spare time. + </p> + <p> + The beautiful summer’s day drove him forth, his heart yearned to drink in + the summer warmth. + </p> + <p> + Only the roads between the larger towns are here tolerable, or rather as + tolerable as the country will allow. The by-ways were only to be discerned + by the traces of cart-wheels, which ran on beside each other; at certain + places, to prevent the wheels sinking into the deep sand, ling had been + spread; where this is not the case, and the tracks cross each other, a + stranger would scarcely find the way. Here the landmark places its unseen + boundary between neighboring possessions. + </p> + <p> + Every farm, every cottage, every hill, was an old acquaintance to Otto. He + directed his steps toward Harbooere, a parish which, one may say, consists + of sand and water, but which, nevertheless, is not to be called + unfruitful. A few of the inhabitants pursue agriculture, but the majority + consists of fishermen, who dwell in small houses and have no land. + </p> + <p> + His first encounter upon his wandering was with one of those large covered + wagons with which the so-called eelmen, between the days of St. John and + St. Bartholomew, go with eels toward the small towns lying to the south + and east, and then, laden with apples and garden produce, return home—articles + which are rapidly consumed by the common people. The eelman stopped when + he saw and recognized Otto. + </p> + <p> + “Welcome, Mr. Otto!” said he. “Yes, you are come over abut a sad affair! + That Major Thostrup should have gone off so! But there was nothing else to + be expected from him he was old enough.” + </p> + <p> + “Death demands his right!” replied Otto, and pressed the man’s hand. + “Things go, doubtless, well with you, Morten Chraenseu?” + </p> + <p> + “The whole cart full of eels, and some smoked carp! It is also good to + meet with you, Mr. Otto. Upon the land a preacher is very good, but not + upon the sea, as they say at home. Yes, you are certainly now a preacher, + or will become one?” + </p> + <p> + “No, I am not studying to become a preacher!” answered Otto. + </p> + <p> + “No! will you then become a lawyer? It strikes me you are clever enough—you + have no need to study any more! You will just go and say a few words to + them at home? The grandmother sits and spins yarn for eel-nets. She has + now the cataract on the other eye, but her mouth is as well as ever; she + does not let herself grow dumb, although she does sit in the dark. Mother + provides the baits; she has also enough to do with the hooks.” + </p> + <p> + “But Maria, the lively little Maria?” said Otto. + </p> + <p> + “The girl? She has gone this year with the other fishergirls to + Ringkjoebing, to be hired for the hay and corn harvest; we thought we + could do without her at home. But now, God willing! I must travel on.” + Cordially he shook Otto’s hand, and pursued his slow journey. + </p> + <p> + The brothers of the eelman were active fishermen, as their father had been + before them; and although they were all married they lived together. The + swarm of children was not insignificant; young and old formed one family, + in which the old grandmother had the first voice. + </p> + <p> + Otto approached the dwelling; before it lay a little plot of land, planted + with potatoes and carrots, and also beds of onions and thyme. Two large + bull-dogs, with sharp teeth and wicked eyes, rushed toward Otto. “Tyv! + Grumsling!” shrieked a voice, and the dogs let fall their tails and drew + back, with a low growl, toward the house. Here at the threshold sat an old + woman in a red woolen jacket, with a handkerchief of the same material and + same color about her neck, and upon her head a man’s black felt hat. She + spun. Otto immediately recognized the old blind grandmother. + </p> + <p> + “God’s peace be in the house!” said he. + </p> + <p> + “That voice I have not heard for a year and a day!” replied the old woman, + and raised her head, as if she would see him with her dead eyes. “Are not + you Major Thostrup’s Otto? You resemble him in the voice. I thought, + truly, that if you came here you would pay us a visit. Ide shall leave the + baits and put on the kettle, that you may have a cup of coffee. Formerly + you did not use to despise our entertainment. You have not grown proud + with your journey, have you? The coffee-vetch [Author’s Note: Astragalus + baeticus is used as a substitute for coffee, and is principally grown upon + the sand-hills west of Holmsland. It is first freed from the husk, and + then dried and roasted a little.] is good; it is from Holmsland, and + tastes better than the merchant’s beans.” The dogs still growled at Otto. + “Cannot you stupid beasts, who have still eyes in your heads to see with, + recognize that this is the Major’s Otto?” cried she wrathfully, and gave + them several good blows with her hand. + </p> + <p> + Otto’s arrival created a great stir in the little household that he was + welcome, you might see by every countenance. + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” said the grandmother, “now you are grown much wiser in the town, + could, very likely, were it needful, write an almanac! You will very + likely have found for yourself a little bride there, or will you fetch one + out of Lemvig? for no doubt she must be from a town! Yes, I have known him + ever since he was a little fellow; yonder, on the wall, he made, out of + herrings’ heads, the living devil, just as he lives and breathes. He + thrust our sucking-pig into the eel-cart, between the casks. We sought a + whole day after the sucking-pig without finding him, and he was forced to + make the journey with them to Holstebro. Yes, he was a wild fellow! Later, + when he was obliged to learn so much, he became sad. Yes, yes, within the + last years his books have overdone him!” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, many a time has he put out to sea with my husband!” pursued one of + the daughters-in-law. “One night he remained out with him. How anxious the + French Mamsell at the hall was about him!” + </p> + <p> + “He was never haughtty,” said the grandmother. “He nibbled his dried fish + with the fresh fish, and drank a little cup of water, although he was used + to better things at home. But to-day we have white bread, fresh and good; + it came yesterday from Lemvig.” + </p> + <p> + The brandy-glass, with its wooden, red-painted foot, was placed before + Otto. Under the bed there was an anker of brandy,—“a little stock,” + as all stranded goods are here called. + </p> + <p> + Otto inquired after the married sons. They were with their men on the + shore, ready to embark on their fishing expedition, The grandmother would + accompany him thither; they were not yet departed: she should first take + them provisions. + </p> + <p> + The old woman took her stick, the dog sprang forward, and now commenced + their wandering among the sand-hills, where their huts or booths, built + with rafters and smeared with earth, stood. Around lay the refuse of fish,—heads + and entrails, thrown about. The men were just then busied in carrying the + trough and fishing-tackle [Author’s Note: A “Bakke” consists of three + lines, each of 200 Danish ells, or about 135 yards, and of 200 + fishing-hooks; the stretched “Bakke” is thus about 200 yards, with 600 + hooks; these are attached to the line with strings half an ell long and as + thick as fine twine. To each “Bakke” belongs a square trough, on which it + is carried on board. To a larger fishing-boat are reckoned six lots of + hooks; each lot has eight to nine “Bakkes.”] on board. + </p> + <p> + The open sea lay before them, almost as bright as a mirror, for the wind + was easterly. Near to them paused a horseman; he was partly dressed like a + peasant, with riding-breeches on, which were buttoned down at the sides. + </p> + <p> + “Have you heard the news?” he cried to Otto. “I come from Ringkjoebing. At + Merchant Cohen’s I have read the German paper; there is a revolution in + France! Charles X. is fled with the whole royal family. Yes, in Paris, + there is fine work!” + </p> + <p> + “The French are a wild people!” said the grandmother. “A king and a queen + they have beheaded in my time; now they will do the same with these. Will + our dear Lord suffer that such things be done to His anointed?” + </p> + <p> + “There will be war again!” said one of the fishermen. + </p> + <p> + “Then more horses will go out of the country,” said the stranger, pressed + Otto’s hand, and vanished behind the sandhills. + </p> + <p> + “Was not that the horse-dealer from Varde?” inquired Otto. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, he understands languages,” said the fisherman; “and thus he is + acquainted with foreign affairs sooner than we. Then they are now fighting + in France! Blood flows in the streets; it will not be so in Denmark before + the Turk binds his horse to the bush in the Viborg Lake. And then, + according to the prophecy of the sibyl, it will be near the end of the + world.” + </p> + <p> + Meanwhile, everything was prepared for their embarkation. If Mr. Otto + would take the further oar, and was inclined to pass the night on the sea, + there was a place for him in the boat. But he had promised Rosalie to be + back before evening. The grandmother now prayed, kneeling with the others, + and immediately after quick strokes of the oars the flat boat rowed away + from the shore. The fate of France was forgotten; their calling occupied + the fishermen. + </p> + <p> + The old woman seemed to listen to the strokes of the oars; her dead eyes + rested immovably on the sea. A sea-mew passed close to her in its flight. + “That was a bird!” said she. “Is there no one here beside ourselves?” + </p> + <p> + “No; no one at all,” answered Otto, carelessly. + </p> + <p> + “Is no one in the hut, no one behind the sand-hills?” again asked the + grandmother. “It was not on account of the dried meat that I came here—it + was not to wet my face on the shore; I speak with you alone, which I could + not do in the house. Give me your hand! Now that the old man rests in the + grave, you yourself will guide the rudder; the estate will be sold, and + you will not come again to the west coast. Our Lord has made it dark + before my eyes before He has closed my ears and given me leave to go. I + can no longer see you, but I have you in my thought as you looked before + you left our land. That you are handsomer now I can easily imagine; but + gayer you are not! Talk you certainly can, and I have heard you laugh; but + that was little better than the two last years you were here. Once it was + different with you—no fairy could be wilder than you!” + </p> + <p> + “With years one becomes more quiet,” said Otto, and gazed with + astonishment at the blind woman, who did not leave go his hand. “As a boy + I was far too merry—that could not continue; and that I should now + be grave, I have, as you will see, sufficient reason—I have lost my + last support.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, truly, truly!” repeated she slowly, and as if pondering; then shook + her head. “That is not the reason. Do you not believe in the power of the + devil? our Lord Christ forgive me! do not you believe in the power of + wicked men? There is no greater difference between the human child and the + changeling brat which the underground spirits lay in his stead in the + cradle, than there is between you when you were a boy and you as you + became during the last year of your stay here. ‘That comes from books, + from so much learning,’ said I to other people. Could I only have said so + to myself! But you shall become gay; the trouble of your heart shall + wither like a poisonous weed. I know whence it sprung, and will, with + God’s help, heal it. Will you solemnly promise, that no soul in the world + shall learn what we speak of in this hour?” + </p> + <p> + “What have you to say to me?” asked Otto, affected by the extraordinary + earnestness of the old woman. + </p> + <p> + “The German Heinrich, the player! You remember him well? He is to blame + for your grief! Yes, his name drives the blood more quickly through your + pulse. I feel it, even if I cannot see your face.” + </p> + <p> + “The German Heinrich!” repeated Otto, and his hand really trembled. Had + Heinrich, then, when he was here three years ago, told her and the + fishermen that which no human being must know,—that which had + destroyed the gayety of his youth? “What have I to do with the German + Heinrich?” + </p> + <p> + “Nothing more than a pious Christian has to do with the devil!” replied + she, and made the sign of the cross. “But Heinrich has whispered an evil + word in your ear; he has banished your joyous humor, as one banishes a + serpent.” + </p> + <p> + “Has he told you this?” exclaimed Otto, and breathed more quickly. “Tell + me all that he has said!” + </p> + <p> + “You will not make me suffer for it!” said she. “I am innocent, and yet I + have cooperated in it: it was only a word but a very unseemly word, and + for it one must account at the day of judgment!” + </p> + <p> + “I do not understand you!” said Otto, and his eyes glanced around to see + whether any one heard. They were quite alone. In the far distance the boat + with the fishermen showed itself like a dark speck. + </p> + <p> + “Do you remember how wild you were as a boy? How you fastened bladders to + the cat’s legs and tail, and flung her out of the loft-window that she + might fly? I do not say this in anger, for I thought a deal of you; but + when you became too insolent one might wall say, ‘Can no one, then, curb + this lad?’ See, these words I said!—that is my whole fault, but + since then have lain heavy on my heart. Three years ago came the German + Heinrich, and stayed two nights in our house; God forgive it us! Tricks he + could play, and he understood more than the Lord’s Prayer—more than + is useful to a man. With one trick you were to assist him, but when he + gave you the goblet you played your own tricks, and he could make nothing + succeed. You would also be clever. Then he cast an evil eye upon you, + although he was still so friendly and submissive, because you were a + gentleman’s child. Do you remember—no, you will certainly have + forgotten—how you once took the baits of the hooks off and hung my + wooden shoes on instead? Then I said in anger, and the anger of man is + never good, ‘Can no one, then, tame this boy for me? He was making + downright fun of you to your own face,’ said I to the player. ‘Do you not + know some art by which you can tame this wild-cat?’ Then he laughed + maliciously, but I thought no more of the matter. The following day, + however, he said, ‘Now I have curbed the lad! You should only see how tame + he is become; and should he ever again turn unruly, only ask him what word + the German Heinrich whispered in his ear, and you shall. Then see how + quiet he will become. He shall not mock this trick!’ My heart was filled + with horror, but I thought afterward it really meant nothing. Ei! ei! from + the hour he was here you are no longer the same as formerly; that springs + from the magical word he whispered in your ear. You cannot pronounce the + word, he told me; but by it you have been enchanted: this, and not + book-learning, has worked the change. But you shall be delivered! If you + have faith, and that you must have, you shall again become gay, and I, + spite of the evil words which I spoke, be able to sleep peacefully in my + grave. If you will only lay this upon your heart, now that the moon is in + its wane, the trouble will vanish out of your heart as the disk of the + moon decreases!” And saying this she drew out of her pocket a little + leather purse, opened it and took out a piece of folded paper. “In this is + a bit of the wood out of which our Saviour’s cross was made. This will + draw forth the sorrow from your heart, and bear it, as it bore Him who + took upon Himself the sorrow of the whole world!” She kissed it with pious + devotion, and then handed it to Otto. + </p> + <p> + The whole became clear to him. He recollected how in his boyish wantonness + he had caused Heinrich’s tricks to miscarry, which occasioned much + pleasure to the spectators, but in Heinrich displeasure: they soon again + became friends, and Otto recognized in him the merry weaver of the + manufactory, as he called his former abode. They were alone, Otto asked + whether he did not remember his name: Heinrich shook his head. Then Otto + uncovered his shoulder, bade him read the branded letters, and heard the + unhappy interpretation which gave the death-blow to his gayety. Heinrich + must have seen what an impression his words made upon the boy: he gained + through them an opportunity of avenging himself, and at the same time of + bringing himself again into repute: as a sorcerer. He had tamed him, + whispered he to the old woman,—he had tamed the boy with a single + word. At any future wantonness of Otto’s, gravity and terror would + immediately return should any one ask him, What word did the German + Heinrich whisper into thy ear? “Only ask him,” had Heinrich said. + </p> + <p> + In a perfectly natural manner there lay, truly, enchantment in Heinrich’s + words, even although it were not that enchantment which the superstition + of the old woman would have signified. A revelation of the connection of + affairs would have removed her doubts, but here an explanation was + impossible to Otto. He pressed her hand, besought her to be calm; no + sorrow lay heavy on his heart, except the loss of his dear grandfather. + </p> + <p> + “Every evening have I named your name it my prayers,” said the old + grandmother. “Each time when the harbingers of bad weather showed + themselves, and my sons were on the sea, so that we hung out flags or + lighted beacons as signals, did I think of the words which had escaped my + lips, and which the wicked Heinrich had caught up; I feared lest our Lord + might cause my children to suffer for my injustice.” + </p> + <p> + “Be calm, my dear old woman!” said Otto. “Keep for yourself the holy + cross, on the virtue of which you rely; may it remove each sorrow from + your own heart!” + </p> + <p> + “No, I am guilty of my own sorrow! yours has a stranger laid upon your + heart! Only the sorrow of the guiltless will the cross bear.” + </p> + <p> + The beautiful sentiment which, unconsciously to her, lay in these words, + affected Otto. He accepted the present, preserved it, sought to calm the + old woman, and once more at parting glanced toward the splendid sea + expanse which formed its own boundary. + </p> + <p> + It was almost evening before he reached the house where Rosalie awaited + him. His last scene with the blind fisher-woman had again thrown him into + his gloomy mood. “After all, she really knows nothing!” said he to + himself. “This Heinrich is my evil angel! might he only die soon!” It was + in Otto’s soul as if he could shoot a ball through Heinrich’s heart. “Did + he only lie buried under the heather, and with him my secret! I will have + blood! yes, there is something devilish in man! Were Heinrich only dead! + But others live who know my birth,—my sister! my poor, neglected + sister, she who had the same right to intellectual development as myself! + How I fear this meeting! it will be bitter! I must away. I will hence—here + will my life-germ be stifled! I have indeed fortune—I will travel! + This animated France will drive away these whims, and—I am away, far + removed from my home. In the coming spring I shall be a stranger among + strangers!” And his thoughts melted into a quiet melancholy. In this + manner he reached the hall. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0018" id="link2HCH0018"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XVIII + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “L’Angleterre jalouse et la Grèce homérique, + Toute l’Europe admire, et la jeune Amérique + Se lève et bat des mains du bord des océans. + Trois jours vous ont suffi pour briser vos entraves. + Vous êtes les aînés d’une race de braves, + Vous êtes les fits des géans!” + V. HUGO, Chants du Crépuscule. + + “Politiken, mine Herrer!” + MORTONS’ Lystspil: den Hjemkomne Nabob +</pre> + <p> + “In France there is revolution!” was the first piece of information which + Otto related. “Charles X. has flown with his family. This, they say, is in + the German papers.” + </p> + <p> + “Revolution?” repeated Rosalie, and folded her hands. “Unhappy France! + Blood has flowed there, and it again flows. There I lost my father and my + brother. I became a refugee—must seek for myself a new father-land.” + She wiped away a tear from her cheek, and sunk into deep meditation. She + knew the horrors of a revolution, and only saw in this new one a + repetition of those scenes of terror which she had experienced, and which + had driven her out into the world, up into the north, where she struggled + on, until at length she found a home with Otto’s grandfather—a + resting abode. + </p> + <p> + Everything great and beautiful powerfully affected Otto’s soul; only in + one direction had he shown no interest—in the political direction, + and it was precisely politics which had most occupied the grandfather in + his seclusion. But Otto’s soul was too vivacious, too easily moved, too + easily carried away by what lay nearest him. “One must first thoroughly + enter into life, before the affairs of the world can seize upon us!” said + he. “With the greater number of those who in their early youth occupy + themselves with politics, it is merely affectation. It is with them like + the boy who forces himself to smoke tobacco so as to appear older than he + really is.” Beyond his own country, France was the only land which really + interested Otto. Here Napoleon had ruled, and Napoleon’s name had reached + his heart—he had grown up whilst this name passed from mouth to + mouth; the name and the deeds of the hero sounded to him, yet a boy, like + a great world adventure. How often had he heard his grandfather, shaking + his head, say, “Yes, now newspaper writers have little to tell since + Napoleon is quiet.” And then he had related to him of the hero at Arcole + and among the Pyramids, of the great campaign against Europe, of the + conflagration at Moscow, and the return from Elba. + </p> + <p> + Who has not written a play in his childhood? Otto’s sole subject was + Napoleon; the whole history of the hero, from the snow-batteries at + Brienne to the rocky island in the ocean. True, this poem was a wild + shoot; but it had sprung from an enthusiastic heart. At that time he + preserved it as a treasure. A little incident which is connected with it, + and is characteristic of Otto’s wild outbreaks of temper when a boy, we + will here introduce. + </p> + <p> + A child of one of the domestics, a little merry boy with whom Otto + associated a good deal, was playing with him in his garret. Otto was then + writing his play. The boy bantered him, pulling the paper at the same + time. Otto forbade him with the threat,—“If thou dost that again I + will throw thee out of the window!” The boy again immediately pulled at + the paper. In a moment Otto seized him by the waist, swung him toward the + open window, and would certainly have thrown him out, had not Rosalie + fortunately entered the room, and, with an exclamation of horror, seized + Otto’s arm, who now stood pale as death and trembling in every limb. + </p> + <p> + In this manner had Napoleon awoke Otto’s interest for France. Rosalie also + spoke, next to her Switzerland, with most pleasure of this country. The + Revolution had livingly affected her, and therefore her discourse + regarding it was living. It even seemed to the old preacher as though the + Revolution were an event which he had witnessed. The Revolution and + Napoleon had often fed his thoughts and his discourse toward this land. + Otto had thus, without troubling himself the least about politics, grown + up with a kind of interest about France. The mere intelligence of this + struggle of the July days was therefore not indifferent to him. He still + only knew what the horse-dealer had related; nothing of the congregation, + or of Polignac’s ministry: but France was to him the mighty world-crater, + which glowed with its splendid eruptions, and which he admired from a + distance. + </p> + <p> + The old preacher shook his head when Otto imparted this political + intelligence to him. A king, so long as he lived, was in his eyes holy, + let him be whatever sort of a man he might. The actions of a king, + according to his opinion, resembled the words of the Bible, which man + ought not to weigh; they should be taken as they were. “All authority is + from God!” said he. “The anointed one is holy; God gives to him wisdom; he + is a light to whom we must all look up!” + </p> + <p> + “He is a man like ourselves!” answered Otto. “He is the first magistrate + of the land, and as such we owe him the highest reverence and obedience. + Birth, and not worth, gives him the high post which he fills. He ought + only to will that which is good; to exercise justice. His duties are + equally great with those of his subjects.” + </p> + <p> + “But more difficult, my son!” said the old man. “It is nothing, as a + flower, to adorn the garland; more difficult is it to be the hand which + weaves the garland. The ribbon must be tight as well as gently tied; it + must not cut into the stems, and yet it must not be too loose. Yes, you + young men talk according to your wisdom! Yes, you are wise! quite as wise + as the woman who kept a roasted chicken for supper. She placed it upon a + pewter plate upon the glowing coals, and went out to attend to her + affairs. When she returned the plate was melted, and the chicken lay among + the ashes. ‘What a wise cat I have!’ said she; ‘she has eaten I the plate + and left the chicken!’ See, you talk just so, and regard things from the + same foolish point of view. Do not speak like the rest of them in the + city! ‘Fear God, and honor the king!’ We have nothing to argue with these + two; they transact their business between them! The French resemble young + students; when these have made their examen artium they imagine they are + equal to the whole world: they grow restive, and give student-feasts! The + French must have a Napoleon, who can give their something to do! If they + be left to themselves they will play mad pranks!” + </p> + <p> + “Let us first see what the papers really say,” replied Otto. + </p> + <p> + The following day a large letter arrived; it was from Wilhelm:— + </p> + <p> + “My excellent Otto,—We have all drunk to Otto Thostrup’s health. I + raised the glass, and drank the health. The friendship’s dissonance YOU + has dissolved itself into a harmonious THOU, and thou thyself hast given + the accord. All at home speak of thee; even the Kammerjunker’s Mamsell + chose lately thee, and not her work-box, as a subject of conversation. The + evening as thou drovest over the Jutland heaths I seated myself at the + piano, and played thy whole journey to my sisters. The journey over the + heath I gave them in a monotonous piece, composed of three tones, quite + dissimilar to that composed by Rousseau. My sisters were near despair; but + I told them it was not more uninteresting than the heath. Sometimes I made + a little flight, a quaver; that was the heath-larks which flew up into the + air. The introduction to the gypsy-chorus in ‘Preciosa’ signified the + German gypsy-flock. Then came the thema out of ‘Jeannot and Collin’—‘O, + joyous days of childhood!’—and then thou wast at home. I thundered + powerfully down in the bass; that was the North Sea, the chorus in thy + present grand’ opéra. Thou canst well imagine that it was quite original. + </p> + <p> + “For the rest, everything at home remains in its old state. I have been in + Svendborg, and have set to music that sweet poem, ‘The Wishes,’ by Carl + Bagger. His verses seem to me a little rough; but something will certainly + come out of the fellow! Thy own wishes are they which he has expressed. + Besides this, the astonishing tidings out of France have given us, and all + good people here, an electrical shock. Yes, thou in thy solitude hast + certainly heard nothing of the brilliant July days. The Parisians have + deposed Charles X. If the former Revolution was a blood-fruit, this one is + a true passionflower, suddenly sprung up, exciting astonishment through + its beauty, and as soon as the work is ended rolling together its leaves. + My cousin Joachim, who as thou knowest is just now at Paris, has lived + through these extraordinary days. The day before yesterday we received a + long, interesting letter from him, which gave us—of the particulars + as well as of the whole—a more complete idea than the papers can + give us. People assemble in groups round the post-houses to receive the + papers as they arrive. I have extracted from my cousin’s letter what has + struck me most, and send thee these extracts in a supplement. Thou canst + thus in thy retirement still live in the world. A thousand greetings from + all here. Thou hast a place in mamma’s heart, but not less so in mine. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “Thy friend and brother, + + “WILHELM. +</pre> + <p> + “P. S.—It is true! My sister Sophie begs thee to bring her a stone + from the North Sea. Perhaps thou wilt bring for me a bucket of water; but + it must not incommode thee!” + </p> + <p> + This hearty letter transported Otto into the midst of the friendly circle + in Funen. The corner of the paper where Wilhelm’s name stood he pressed to + his lips. His heart was full of noble friendship. + </p> + <p> + The extract which Wilhelm had made from his cousin’s letter was short and + descriptive. It might be compared with a beautiful poem translated into + good prose. + </p> + <p> + In the theatre we interest ourselves for struggling innocence; but we are + still more affected when the destiny of a whole nation is to be decided. + It is on this account that “Wilhelm Tell” possesses so much interest. Not + of the single individual is here the question, but of all. Here is flesh + of our flesh, and bone of our bone. Greater than the play created by the + poet was the effect which this description of the July days produced upon + Otto. This was the reality itself in which he lived. His heart was filled + with admiration for France, who fought for Liberty the holy fight, and + who, with the language of the sword, had pronounced the anathema of the + age on the enemies of enlightenment and improvement. + </p> + <p> + The old preacher folded his hands as he heard it; his eyes sparkled: but + soon he shook his head. “May men so judge the anointed ones of God? ‘He + who taketh the sword shall perish by the sword!’” + </p> + <p> + “The king is for the people,” said Otto; “not the people for the king!” + </p> + <p> + “Louis XVIth’s unhappy daughter!” sighed Rosalie; “for the third time is + she driven from her father-land. Her parents and brothers killed! her + husband dishonored! She herself has a mind and heart. ‘She is the only man + among the Bourbons,’” said Napoleon. + </p> + <p> + The preacher, with his old-fashioned honesty, and a royalist from his + whole heart, regarded the affair with wavering opinion, and with fear for + the future. Rosalie thought most of those who were made unhappy of the + royal ladies and the poor children. Each followed the impulse of their own + nature, and the instinctive feeling of their age; thus did Otto also, and + therefore was his soul filled with enthusiasm. Enthusiasm belongs to + youth. His thoughts were busied with dreams of Paris; thither flew his + wishes. “Yes, I will travel!” exclaimed he; “that will give my whole + character a more decided bias: I will and must,” added he in thought. “My + sorrow will be extinguished, the recollections of my childhood be + forgotten. Abroad, no terrific figures, as here, will present themselves + to me. My father is dead, foreign earth lies upon his coffin!” + </p> + <p> + “But the office—examination!” said the old preacher, “pass that + first. It is always good to have this in reserve, even if thou dost make + no use of it. Only make this year thy philosophicum.” + </p> + <p> + “And in the spring I shall travel,” said Otto. + </p> + <p> + “That depends upon thy guardian, my son!” said the preacher. + </p> + <p> + Several days passed, and Otto began to feel it solitary in his home—all + moved here in such a confined circle. His mind was accustomed to a wider + sphere of action. He began to grow weary, and then the hours travel with + the snail’s pace. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “...minutterna ligesom räcka og strärka sig. + Man känner behof at göre sa med.” [Note: Sketches of Every-day Life.] +</pre> + <p> + He thought of his departure. + </p> + <p> + “Thou must take the road through Lemvig,” said Rosalie. “I will then visit + the family there for a few days; it will make them quite happy to see + thee, and I shall then be so much longer with thee. That thou wilt do, + wilt thou not?” + </p> + <p> + The day was fixed when they should travel. + </p> + <p> + The evening previous, Otto paid his last visit to the preacher. They spoke + together a long time about the deceased grandfather. The preacher gave up + several papers to Otto; among them also his father’s last letter. + </p> + <p> + In honor of Otto, a bottle of wine was placed upon the table. + </p> + <p> + “To thy health, my son!” said the preacher, raising his glass. “We shall + hardly spend another evening together. Thou wilt have much to learn before + thou comest as far as I. The world has more thorn-bushes than + gold-mountains. The times look unsettled. France commences a new + description of campaign in Europe, and certainly will draw along with it + all young men: formerly it was the conquerer Napoleon who led to the + field; now it is the idea of liberty! May the Lord preserve our good king, + and then it will remain well with us! Thou, Otto, wilt fly out into the + wide world—hadst thou only first passed thy examination for office! + But when and where-ever thou mayest fly, remember on all occasions the + words of Scripture. + </p> + <p> + “We all desire to rule. Phaeton wished to drive the chariot of the sun, + but not understanding how to guide the reins, he set fire to the + countries, precipitated himself from the chariot, and broke his neck. I + have no one in the city of Copenhagen whom I can ask thee to greet for me. + All the friends of my youth are scattered to the east and to the west. If + any of them still be in the city, they will certainly have forgotten me. + But shouldst thou ever go to the Regent’s Court, and smoke with the others + a pipe under the tree, think of me. I have also sat there when I was young + like thee; when the French Revolution drove also the blood quicker through + my veins, and thoughts of freedom caused me to carry my head more high. + The dear old tree! [Author’s Note: At the end of the last century it was + felled, and two younger ones, which are now in full growth, planted in its + stead.] Yes, but one does not perceive in it, as in me, how many years + have passed since then!” + </p> + <p> + He pressed a kiss on Otto’s forehead, gave him his blessing, and they + parted. + </p> + <p> + Otto was in a melancholy mood; he felt that he had certainly seen the old + man for the last time. When he arrived at home he found Rosalie busy + hacking. The following morning, by earliest dawn, they were to travel + toward Lemvig. Otto had not been there within these two last years. In old + times the journey thither had always been to him a festival, now it was + almost indifferent to him. + </p> + <p> + He entered his little chamber; for the last time in his life he should now + sleep there. From the next morning commenced, so it seemed to him, a new + chapter in his life. Byron’s “Farewell” sounded in his ears like an old + melody:— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “Fare thee well, and if forever, + Still for ever fare thee well.” + </pre> + <p> + At break of day the carriage rolled away with him and old Rosalie. Both + were silent; the carriage moved slowly along the deep ruts. Otto looked + back once more. A lark rose, singing above him. + </p> + <p> + “It will be a beautiful day!” said the coachman; his words and the song of + the lark Rosalie regarded as a good omen for Otto’s whole journey. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0019" id="link2HCH0019"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XIX + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “Geske.—Have you put syrup in the coffee? + Henrich.—Yes, I have. + Geske.—Be so good, dear madams, be so kind as to be contented.” + HOLBERG’S Political Pewterer. +</pre> + <p> + Lemvig lies, as is well known, on an arm of the Limfjord. The legend + relates, that in the Swedish war a troop of the enemy’s cavalry compelled + a peasant here to mount his horse and serve as a guide. Darkness came on; + they found themselves already upon the high sand-banks. The peasant guided + his horse toward a steep precipice; in a farm-house on the other side of + the fjord they perceived a light. “That is Lemvig,” said the peasant; “let + us hasten!” He set spurs to his horse, the Swedes followed his example, + and they were precipitated into the depth: the following morning their + corpses were found. The monument of this bold Lemvig peasant consists of + this legend and in the songs of the poets; and these are the monuments + which endure the longest. Through this legend the bare precipice receives + an intellectual beauty, which may truly compare itself with the naturally + beautiful view over the city and the bay. + </p> + <p> + Rosalie and Otto drove into the town. It was two years since he had been + here; everything seemed to him, during this time, to have shrunk together: + wherever he looked everything was narrow and small. In his recollection, + Lemvig was very much larger. + </p> + <p> + They now drew up before the merchant’s house. The entrance was through the + shop, which was decorated with wooden shoes, woolen gloves, and iron ware. + Close within the door stood two large casks of tea. Over the counter hung + an extraordinary stuffed fish, and a whole bunch of felt hats, for the use + of both sexes. It was a business en gros and en détail, which the son of + the house managed. The father himself was number one in Lemvig; he had + ships at sea, and kept open house, as they call it, in the neighborhood. + </p> + <p> + The sitting-room door opened, and the wife herself, a stout, square woman, + with an honest, contented countenance, stepped out and received the guests + with kisses and embraces. Alas! her good Jutland pronunciation cannot be + given in writing. + </p> + <p> + “O, how glorious that the Mamsell comes and brings Mr. Thostrup with her! + How handsome he is become! and how grown! Yes, we have his mark still on + the door.” She drew Otto along with her. “He has shot up more than a + quarter of a yard!” + </p> + <p> + He looked at the objects which surrounded him. + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” said she, “that instrument we have had since you were last here; it + is a present to Maren from her brother. She will now sing; you something. + It is astonishing what a voice she has! Last Whitsuntide she sang in the + church with the musical people; she sang louder than the organ!” + </p> + <p> + Otto approached the sofa, over which a large piece of needlework hung, in + a splendid gold frame. “That is Maren’s name-sampler,” said the mistress + of the house. “It is very pretty. See! there stand all our names! Can Mr. + Thostrup guess who this is? Here are all the figures worked in open + stitch. That ship, there, is the Mariane, which was called after me. There + you see the Lemvig Arms—a tower which stands on the waves; and here + in the corner, in regular and irregular stitches, is her name, ‘Maren, + October the 24th, 1828.’ Yes, that is now two years since. She has now + worked a cushion for the sofa, with a Turk upon it. It went the round of + the city—every one wished to see it; it is astonishing how Maren can + use her hands!” + </p> + <p> + Rosalie inquired after the excellent girl. + </p> + <p> + “She is preparing the table,” said the lady. “Some good friends are coming + to us this evening. The secretary will also come; he will then play with + Maren. You will doubtless, in Copenhagen, have heard much more beautiful + music; ours is quite simple, but they sing from notes: and I think, most + likely the secretary will bring his musical-box with him. That is + splendid! Only lately he sang a little song to the box, that was much + better than to the larger instrument; for I must say he has not the strong + chest which Maren has.” + </p> + <p> + The whole family assembled themselves for the first time at the + dinner-table. The two persons who took the lowest places at table appeared + the most original; these were the shopman and the aunt. Both of them had + only at dinner the honor of being with the family; they were quite shut + out from the evening parties. + </p> + <p> + The shopman, who in the shop was the first person, and who could there + speak a few words, sat here like a quiet, constrained creature; his hair + combed toward one side, and exhibiting two red, swollen hands: no sound + escaped his lips; kissing the hand of the lady of the house, at coming and + going, was all he did beside eat. + </p> + <p> + The aunt, who was not alone called so by the family, but by the whole of + Lemvig, was equally sparing of her words, but her face was constantly + laughing. A flowered, red cotton cap fitted close to the thin face, giving + something characteristic to the high cheek-bones and hanging lip. “She + assisted in the household, but could take no part in genteel company,” as + the lady expressed herself. She could never forget how, at the Reformation + Festival, when only the singers sang in the church, aunt began singing + with them out of her book, so that the churchwarden was forced to beg her + to be silent; but this she took very ill, and declared she had as notch + right as the others to praise God, and then sang in defiance. Had she not + been “aunt,” and not belonged to the family to which she did, she would + certainly have been turned out. + </p> + <p> + She was now the last person who entered and took her place at table. Half + an hour had she been sought after before she was found. She had stood at + the end of the garden, before the wooden trellis. Grass had been mown in + the field behind the garden, and made into a rick; to see this she had + gone to the trellis, the odor had agreeably affected her; she had pressed + her face against the trellis-work, and from contemplation of it had fallen + into thought, or rather out of thought. There she was found, and the + dreamer was shaken into motion. She was again right lively, and laughed + each time that Otto looked at her. He had his seat between Maren and the + lady of the house, at the upper end of the table. Maren was a very pretty + girl—little, somewhat round, white and red, and well-dressed. A vast + number of bows, and a great variety of colors, were her weak side. She was + reading at this time “Cabal and Love.” + </p> + <p> + “Thou art reading it in German!” said the mother. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, it must be a beautiful piece. I speak German very well, but when I + wish to read it I get on too slowly with it: I like to get to the end of a + book!” + </p> + <p> + The husband had his place at the head of the table. A little black cap sat + smoothly on his gray hair, and a pair of clever eyes sparkled in his + countenance. With folded hands he prayed a silent prayer, and then bowed + his head, before he allowed the dinner to be served. Rosalie sat beside + him. Her neighbor on the right seemed very talkative. He was an old + soldier, who in his fortieth year had gone as lieutenant with the land’s + troops, and had permission to wear the uniform, and therefore sat there in + a kind of military coat, and with a stiff cravat. He was already deep in + Polignac’s ministry and the triumph of the July days; but he had the + misfortune to confound Lafitte and Lafayette together. The son of the + house only spoke of bull-calves. The lady at the table was a little + mamsell from Holstebro, who sat beside him, dressed like a girl for + Confirmation, in a black silk dress and long red shawl. She was in grand + array, for she was on a visit. This young lady understood dress-making, + and could play upon the flute; which, however, she never did without a + certain bashfulness: besides this, she spoke well, especially upon + melancholy events. The bottle of wine only circulated at the upper end of + the table; the shopman and aunt only drank ale, but it foamed gloriously: + it had been made upon raisin-stalks. + </p> + <p> + “He is an excellent man, the merchant, whom you have received as guardian, + Mr. Thostrup,” said the master of the house. “I am in connection with + him.” + </p> + <p> + “But it is strange,” interrupted the lady, “that only one out of his five + daughters is engaged. If the young ladies in Copenhagen do not go off + better than that, what shall we say here?” + </p> + <p> + “Now Mr. Thostrup can take one of them,” said the husband. “There is + money, and you have fortune also; if you get an office, you can live in + floribus!” + </p> + <p> + Maren colored, although there was no occasion for coloring; she even cast + down her eyes. + </p> + <p> + “What should Mr. Thostrup do with one of them?” pursued the wife. “He + shall have a Jutland maiden! There are pretty young ladies enough here in + the country-seats,” added she, and laid the best piece of meat upon his + plate. + </p> + <p> + “Do the royal company give pretty operas?” asked Maren, and gave another + direction to the conversation. + </p> + <p> + Otto named several, among others Der Freischütz. + </p> + <p> + “That must be horrible!” said the lieutenant. “They say the wolf-glen is + so natural, with a waterfall, and an owl which flutters its wings. + Burgomaster Mimi has had a letter from a young lady in Aarhuus, who has + been in Copenhagen, and has seen this piece. It was so horrible that she + held her hand before her face, and almost fainted. They have a splendid + theatre!” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, but our little theatre was very pretty!” said the lady of the house. + “It was quite stupid that the dramatic company should have been unlucky. + The last piece we gave is still clear in my recollection; it was the + ‘Sandseslöse.’ I was then ill; but because I wished so much to see it, the + whole company was so obliging as to act it once more, and that, too, in + our sitting-room, where I lay on the sofa and could look on. That was an + extraordinary mark of attention from them! Only think—the + burgomaster himself acted with them!” + </p> + <p> + In honor of the strangers, coffee was taken after dinner in the garden, + where, under the plum-trees, a swing was fixed. Somewhat later a sailing + party was arranged. A small yacht belonging to the merchant lay, just + unladen, near the bridge of boats. + </p> + <p> + Otto found Maren and the young lady from Holstebro sitting in the arbor. + Somewhat startled, they concealed something at his entrance. + </p> + <p> + “The ladies have secrets! May one not be initiated?” + </p> + <p> + “No, not at all!” replied Maren. + </p> + <p> + “You have manuscript poems in the little book!” said Otto, and boldly + approached. “Perhaps of your own composition?” + </p> + <p> + “O, it is only a memorandum-book,” said Maren, blushing. “When I read + anything pretty I copy it, for we cannot keep the books.” + </p> + <p> + “Then I may see it!” said Otto. His eye fell upon the written sheet:— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “So fliessen nun zwei Wasser + Wohl zwischen mir und Dir + Das eine sind die Thränen, + Das andre ist der See!” + [Note: Des Knaben Wunderhorn.] +</pre> + <p> + he read. “That is very pretty! ‘Der verlorne Schwimmer,’ the poem is + called, is it not?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, I have copied it out of the secretary’s memorandum-book; he has so + many pretty pieces.” + </p> + <p> + “The secretary has many splendid things!” said Otto, smiling. + “Memorandum-book, musical snuff-box”— + </p> + <p> + “And a collection of seals!” added the young lady from Holstebro. + </p> + <p> + “I must read more!” said Otto; but the ladies fled with glowing cheeks. + </p> + <p> + “Are you already at your tricks, Mr. Thostrup?” said the mother, who now + entered the garden. “Yes, you do not know how Maren has thought of you—how + much she has spoken of you. You never wrote to us; we never heard anything + of you, except when Miss Rosalie related us something out of your letters. + That was not nice of you! You and Maren were always called bride and + bridegroom. You were a pair of pretty children, and your growth has not + been disadvantageous to either of you.” + </p> + <p> + At four o’clock the evening party assembled—a whole swarm of young + ladies, a few old ones, and the secretary, who distinguished himself by a + collection of seals hanging to a long watch-chain, and everlastingly + knocking against his body; a white shirt-frill, stiff collar, and a cock’s + comb, in which each hair seemed to take an affected position. They all + walked down to the bay. Otto had some business and came somewhat later. + Whilst he was crossing, alone, the court-yard, he heard, proceeding from + the back of the house, a fearful, wild cry, which ended in violent + sobbing. Terrified, he went nearer, and perceived the aunt sitting in the + middle of a large heap of turf. The priestess at Delphi could not have + looked more agitated! Her close cap she had torn from her head; her long, + gray hair floated over her shoulders; and with her feet she stamped upon + the turf, like a willful child, until the pieces flew in various + directions. When she perceived Otto she became calm in a moment, but soon + she pressed her thin hands before her face and sobbed aloud. To learn from + her what was the matter was not to be thought of. + </p> + <p> + “O, she is only quarrelsome!” said the girl, to whom Otto had turned for + an explanation. “Aunt is angry because she was not invited to sail with + the company. She always does so,—she can be quite wicked! Just + lately, when she should have helped me to wring out the sheets, she always + twisted them the same way that I did, so that we could never get done, and + my hands hurt me very much!” + </p> + <p> + Otto walked down to the bay. The sail was unfurled, the secretary brought + out his musical-box, and, accompanied by its tones, they glided in the + burning sunshine over the water. + </p> + <p> + On the other side tea was to be drunk, and then Maren was to sing. Her + mother asked her to sing the song with the strong tones, so that Otto + might hear what a voice she had. + </p> + <p> + She sang “Dannevang.” Her voice had uncommon power, but no style, no + grace. + </p> + <p> + “Such a voice, I fancy, you have not heard in the theatre at Copenhagen?” + said the secretary, with dogmatical gravity. + </p> + <p> + “You might wish yourself such a chest!” said the lieutenant. + </p> + <p> + The secretary should now sing; but he had a little cold, which he had + always. + </p> + <p> + “You must sing to the musical-box!” said the lady, and her wish was + fulfilled. If Maren had only commenced, one might have believed it a trial + of skill between Boreas and Zephyr. + </p> + <p> + They now walked about, drank tea, and after this they were to return to + the house, there to partake of fish and roast meat, a piece of boxed ham, + and other good things. + </p> + <p> + Otto could by no means be permitted to think of leaving them the following + morning; he must remain a few days, and gather strength, so that in + Copenhagen he might apply himself well to work. But only one day would he + enjoy all the good things which they heaped upon him. He yearned for other + people, for a more intellectual circle. Two years before he had agreed + splendidly with them all, had found them interesting and intellectual; now + he felt that Lemvig was a little town, and that the people were good, + excellent people. + </p> + <p> + The following play again brought capital cookery, good foul, and good wine—that + was to honor Mr. Thostrup. His health was drunk, Maren was more + confidential, the aunt had forgotten her trouble, and again sat with a + laughing face beside the constrained shopman. They must, it is true, make + a little haste over their dinner, for the fire-engine was to be tried; and + this splendor, they maintained, Otto must see, since he so fortunately + chanced to lie there. + </p> + <p> + “How can my mother think that this will give Mr. Thostrup pleasure?” said + Maren. “There is nothing to see in it.” + </p> + <p> + “That has given him pleasure formerly!” answered the mother. “It is, also, + laughable when the boys run underneath the engine-rain, and the stream + comes just in their necks.” + </p> + <p> + She spoke of the former Otto and of the present one—he was become so + Copenhagenish, so refined and nice, as well in the cut of his clothes as + in his manners; yet she still found an opportunity of giving him a little + hint to further refinement. Only think! he took the sugar for his coffee + with his fingers! + </p> + <p> + “But where are the sugar-tongs, the massive silver sugar-tongs?” asked + she. “Maren, dost thou allow him to take the sugar with his fingers?” + </p> + <p> + “That is more convenient!” answered Otto. “I do that always.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, but if strangers had been here,” said the hostess, in a friendly but + teaching tone, “we must, like that grand lady you know of, have thrown the + sugar out of the window.” + </p> + <p> + “In the higher circles, where people have clean fingers, they make use of + them!” said Otto. “There would be no end of it if one were to take it with + the sugar-tongs.” + </p> + <p> + “They are of massive silver!” said the lady, and weighed them in her hand. + </p> + <p> + Toward evening Rosalie went into the garden under the plum trees. + </p> + <p> + “These, also, remind me of my mountains,” said she; “this is the only + fruit which will properly flourish there. Lemvig lies, like La Locle, in a + valley,” and she pointed, smiling, to the surrounding sand-hills. “How + entirely different it is here from what it is at home on thy grandfather’s + estate! There I have been so accustomed to solitude, that it is almost too + lively for me here. One diversion follows another.” + </p> + <p> + It was precisely this which Otto did not like. These amusements of the + small towns wearied him, and he could not delight himself with them, no + longer mingle in this life. + </p> + <p> + He wished to set out early the following morning. It would be too + exhausting to drive along the dry road in the sun’s heat, they all + declared; he must wait until the afternoon, then it would be cooler; it + was, also, far pleasanter to travel in the night. Rosalie’s prayers + decided him. Thus, after dinner and coffee, the horses should be put into + the carriage. + </p> + <p> + It was the last day. Maren was somewhat in a grave mood. Otto must write + in her album. “He would never come to Lemvig again,” said she. As children + they had played with each other. Since he went to Copenhagen she had, many + an evening, seated herself in the swing near the summer-house and thought + of him. Who knows whether she must not have done so when she copied out of + the secretary’s memorandum-book, the verses,— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “So fliessen nun zwei Wasser + Wohl zwischen mir and Dir?” + </pre> + <p> + The sea certainly flows between Aarhuus and Copenhagen. + </p> + <p> + “Maren will perhaps go over for the winter,” said the mother; “but we dare + not speak too much about it, for it is not yet quite settled. It will + really make her gayer! lately she has been very much inclined to + melancholy, although God knows that we have denied her no pleasure!” + </p> + <p> + There now arrived a quantity of letters from different acquaintance, and + from their acquaintance: if Mr. Thostrup would have the goodness to take + care of this to Viborg, these to Aarhuus, and the others as far as + Copenhagen. It was a complete freight, such as one gets in little towns, + just as though no post went through the country. + </p> + <p> + The carriage stopped before the door. + </p> + <p> + Rosalie melted into tears. “Write to me!” said she. “Thee I shall never + see again! Greet my Switzerland when thou comest there!” + </p> + <p> + The others were merry. The lady sang,— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “O could I, like a cloud, but fly!” + </pre> + <p> + The young lady from Holstebro bowed herself before him with an Album-leaf + its her hand, upon which she must beg Mr. Thostrup to write her something. + Maren gave him her hand, blushed and drew back: but as the carriage rolled + away she waved her while handkerchief through the open window: “Farewell! + Farewell!” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0020" id="link2HCH0020"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XX + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “Stop! cried Patroclus, with mighty, thundering voice.” + —WILSTER’S Iliad. +</pre> + <p> + The parting with Rosalie, the hospitality of the family, and their sincere + sympathy, touched Otto; he thought upon the last days, upon his whole + sojourn in his home. The death of his grandfather made this an important + era in his life. The quiet evening and the solitary road inclined him + still more to meditation. + </p> + <p> + How cheering and interesting had been a visit to Lemvig in former times! + Then it furnished matter for conversation with Rosalie for many weeks; it + now lay before him a subject of indifference. The people were certainly + the same, therefore the change must have taken place in himself. He + thought of Copenhagen, which stood so high, and of the people there. + </p> + <p> + “After all, the difference is not so great!” said he. “In Copenhagen the + social foci are more numerous, the interests more varied; each day brings + a fresh topic of conversation, and one can choose one’s society. The + multitude, on the contrary, has something citizenish; it obtrudes itself + even from beneath the ball-dress which shows itself at court; it is seen + in the rich saloon of the wholesale merchant, as well as in the house of + the brandy distiller, whose possessions give to him and his two brewers + the right of election. It is the same food which is presented to us; in + the small towns one has it on earthenware, in Copenhagen on china. If one + had only the courage, in the so-called higher classes, to break through + the gloss which life in a greater circle, which participation in the + customs of the world, has called forth, one should soon find in many a + lady of rank, in many a nobleman who sits not alone in the theatre, on the + first bench, merely that empty common earthenware; and that, as with the + merchant’s wife in Lemvig, a déjeuner or a soirée, like some public event, + will occupy the mind before and after its occurrence. A court-ball, at + which either the son or daughter has figured, resembles the most brilliant + success in an examination for office. We laugh at the authorities of + Lemvig, and yet with us the crowd runs after nothing but authorities and + newspapers. This is a certain state of innocence. How many a poor officer + or student must play the subordinate part of the shopman at the table of + the rich, and gratefully kiss the hand of the lady of the house because + she has the right of demanding gratitude? And in the theatre, with the + multitude, what does not ‘an astonishing chest’ do? A strength of voice + which can penetrate right through the leather of the mind gains stormy + applause, whilst taste and execution can only be appreciated by the few. + The actor can be certain of applause if he only thunder forth his parting + reply. The comedian is sure of a shout of bravo if he puts forth an + insipidity, and rubs his legs together as if replying with spirit and + humor. The massive plate in the house gives many a lady the boldness to + teach that in which she herself might perhaps have been instructed. Many a + lady, like the Mamsell from Holstebro, dresses always in silk and a long + shawl, and if one asks after her profession one finds it consists at most + in dress-making; perhaps she does not even possess the little accompanying + talent of playing the flute. How many people do not copy, like Maren, out + of other people’s memorandum-books, and do not excel musical-boxes! still + one hears a deal of musical snuff-box music, and is waited upon by voices + which are equally as insignificant as the secretary’s.” + </p> + <p> + These were pretty much Otto’s reflections, and certainly it was a good + feeling which lay at the bottom of them. Let us remember in our judgment + that he was so young, and that he had only known Copenhagen <i>one</i> + year; otherwise he would most certainly have thought <i>quite differently</i>. + </p> + <p> + Night spread itself over the heath, the heavens were clear. Slowly the + carriage wound along through the deep sand. The monotonous sound, the + unchanging motion, all rendered Otto sleepy. A falling star shot like a + fire column across the sky—this woke him for a moment; he soon again + bowed his head and slept, fast and deep. It was an hour past midnight, + when he was awoke by a loud cry. He started up—the fire burnt before + them; and between it and the horse stood two figures, who had taken hold + of the leather reins. Close beside them was a cart, under which was placed + a sort of bed, on which slept a woman and some children. + </p> + <p> + “Will you drive into the soup-kettle?” asked a rough voice, whilst another + scolded in a gibberish which was unintelligible to Otto. + </p> + <p> + It had happened to the coachman as to him, only that the coachman had + fallen asleep somewhat later; the horses had lost their track, and + uncertain, as they had long been, they were now traversing the impassable + heath. A troop of the so-called Scavengers, who wander through these + districts a nomadic race, had here taken up their quarters for the night, + had made a fire and hung the kettle over it, to cook some pieces of a lamb + they had stolen on their journey. + </p> + <p> + “They were about half a mile from the highway,” said an elderly woman who + was laying some bushes of heath under the kettle. + </p> + <p> + “Half a mile?” replied a voice from the other side of the cart, and Otto + remarked a man who, wrapped in a large gray riding-cloak, had stretched + himself out among the heather. “It is not a quarter of a mile to the + highway if people know how to direct their course properly!” + </p> + <p> + The pronunciation of the man was somewhat foreign, but pure, and free from + the gibberish which the others employed in their speech. The voice seemed + familiar to Otto, his ear weighed each syllable, and his blood ran quicker + through his veins: “It is the German Heinrich, the evil angel of my life!” + he felt, and wrapt himself closer in his mantle, so that his countenance + was concealed. + </p> + <p> + A half-grown lad came forward and offered himself as a guide. + </p> + <p> + “But the lad must have two marks!” said the woman. + </p> + <p> + Otto nodded assent, and glanced once more toward the man in whom he + believed he recognized the German Heinrich; the man had again carelessly + stretched himself among the heath, and did not seem inclined to enter into + farther discourse. + </p> + <p> + The woman desired the payment in advance, and received it. The boy led the + horses toward one side; at the moment the fire flare up between the + turf-sods, a great dog, with a loose cord about his neck, sprang forward + and ran barking after the carriage, which now travelled on over the heath + in the gloomy night. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0021" id="link2HCH0021"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXI + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “Poetry does not always express sorrow; the rainbow can also + arch across a cloudless blue firmament.”—JEAN PAUL. +</pre> + <p> + We again find ourselves in Copenhagen, where we meet with Otto, and may + every day expect Wilhelm, Miss Sophie, and the excellent mamma; they would + only stay a few weeks. To learn tidings of their arrival, Otto determined + to pay a visit where they were expected; we know the house, we were + present at the Christmas festival: it was here that Otto received his + noble pedigree. + </p> + <p> + We will now become somewhat better acquainted with the family. The husband + had a good head, as people sat, had an excellent wine-cellar, and was, as + one of the friends maintained, a good l’hombre player. But the soul of the + house, the animating genius, which drew into this circle all that + possessed life and youth, was the wife. Beautiful one could by no means + call her, but, enchanted by her natural loveliness, her mind, and her + unaffectedness, you forgot this in a few moments. A rare facility in + appreciating the comic of every-day life, and a good-humored originality + in its representation, always afforded her rich material for conversation. + It was as if Nature, in a moment of thoughtlessness, had formed an insipid + countenance, but immediately afterward strove to make good her fault by + breathing into it a soul, which, even through pale blue eyes, pale cheeks, + and ordinary features, could make her beauty felt. + </p> + <p> + When Otto entered the room he heard music. He listened: it must be either + Weyse or Gerson. + </p> + <p> + “It is the Professor Weyse,” said the servant, and Otto opened the door + softly, without knocking. + </p> + <p> + The astral-lamp burnt upon the table; upon the sofa sat two young ladies. + The mistress of the house nodded Otto a friendly welcome, but then smiling + laid her finger on her lips, as a sign of silence, and pointed to a chair, + on which he seated himself, and listened to the soft tones, which, like + spirits, floated from the piano at which the musician sat. It was as if + the slumbering thoughts and feelings of the soul, which in every breast + find a response, even among the most opposite nations, had found a voice + and language. The fantasies died away in a soft, spiritual piano. Thus + lightly has Raphael breathed the Madonna di Foligno upon the clouds; she + rests there as a soap-bubble rests upon velvet. That dying away of the + tomes resembled the thoughts of the lover when his eye closes, and the + living dream of his heart imperceptibly merges and vanishes in sleep. + Reality is over. + </p> + <p> + Here also the tones ceased. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “Der Bettelvogt von Ninive + Zog hinab zum Genfersee, + Hm, hm!” + [Author’s Note: An old popular German song.] +</pre> + <p> + commenced the musician once more, with an originality and spirit which + influenced the whole company. Far too soon did he again break off, after + he had enchanted all ears by his own treasures, as well as by the + curiosities of the people’s life in the world of sound. Only when he was + gone did admiration find words; the fantasies still echoed in every heart. + </p> + <p> + “His name deserves to be known throughout Europe!” said the gracious lady; + “how few people in the world know Weyse and Kuhlau!” + </p> + <p> + “That is the misfortune of a musician being born in a small country,” said + Otto. “His works become only manuscript for friends; his auditory extends + only from Skagen to Kiel: there the door is closed.” + </p> + <p> + “One must console one’s self that everything great and good becomes at + length known,” said the cousin of the family, who is known to us by his + verses for the Christmas-tree. “The nations will become acquainted with + everything splendid in the kingdom of mind, let it bloom in a small or in + a large country. Certainly during this time the artist may have died, but + then he must receive compensation in another world.” + </p> + <p> + “I truly believe,” returned the gracious lady, “that he would wish a + little in advance here below, where it is so ordered that the immortal + must bow himself before the mortal.” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly,” replied Otto; “the great men of the age are like mountains; + they it is which cause the land to be seen from afar, and give it + importance, but in themselves they are bare and cold; their heights are + never properly known.” + </p> + <p> + “Very beautiful,” said the lady; “you speak like a Jean Paul.” + </p> + <p> + At this moment the door opened, and all were surprised by the entrance of + Miss Sophie, Wilhelm, and the dear mamma. They were not expected before + the following evening. They had travelled the whole day through Zealand. + </p> + <p> + “We should have been here to dinner,” said Sophie, “but my brother could + not get his business finished in Roeskelde; then he had forgotten to order + horses, and other little misadventures occurred: six whole hours we + remained there. Mamma contracted quite a passion there—she fell + fairly in love with a young girl, the pretty Eva.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, she is a nice creature!” said the old lady. “Had I not reason, Mr. + Thostrup? You and my Wilhelm had already made her interesting to me. She + has something so noble, so refined, which one so rarely meets with in the + lower class; she deserves to come among educated people.” + </p> + <p> + “Otto, what shall our hearts say,” exclaimed Wilhelm, “when my good mother + is thus affected?” + </p> + <p> + They assembled round the tea-table. Wilhelm addressed Otto with the + confidential “thou” which Otto himself had requested. + </p> + <p> + “We will drink together in tea and renew our brotherhood.” + </p> + <p> + Otto smiled, but with such a strangely melancholy air, and spoke not a + word. + </p> + <p> + “He’s thinking about the old grandfather,” thought Wilhelm, and laid his + hand upon his friend’s shoulder. “The Kammerjunker and his ladies greet + thee!” said he. “I believe the Mamsell would willingly lay thee in her own + work-box, were that to be done.” + </p> + <p> + Otto remained quiet, but in his soul there was a strange commotion. It + would be a difficult thing to explain this motive, which belonged to his + peculiarity of mind; it entered among the mysteries of the soul. The + multitude call it in individuals singularity, the psychologist finds a + deeper meaning in it, which the understanding is unable to fathom. We have + examples of men, whose strength of mind and body were well known, feeling + faint at the scent of a rose; others have been thrown into a convulsive + state by touching gray paper. This cannot be explained; it is one of the + riddles of Nature. A similar relaxing sensation Otto experienced when he, + for the first time, heard himself addressed as “thou” by Wilhelm. It + seemed to him as though the spiritual band which encircled them loosened + itself, and Wilhelm became a stranger. It was impossible for Otto to + return the “thou,” yet, at the same time, he felt the injustice of his + behavior and the singularity, and wished to struggle against it; he + mastered himself, attained a kind of eloquence, but no “thou” would pass + his lips. + </p> + <p> + “To thy health, Otto,” said Wilhelm, and pushed his cup against Otto’s. + </p> + <p> + “Health!” said Otto, with a smile. + </p> + <p> + “It is true,” began the cousin, “I promised you the other day to bring my + advertisements with me; the first volume is closed.” And he drew from his + pocket a book in which a collection of the most original Address-Gazette + advertisements, such as one sees daily, was pasted. + </p> + <p> + “I have one for you,” said the lady; “I found it a little time since. ‘A + woman wishes for a little child to bottle.’ Is not that capital?” + </p> + <p> + “Here is also a good one,” said Wilhelm, who had turned over the leaves of + the book: “‘A boy of the Mosaic belief may be apprenticed to a + cabinet-maker, but he need not apply unless he will eat everything that + happens to be in the house.’ That is truly a hard condition for the poor + lad.” + </p> + <p> + “Almost every day,” said the cousin, “one may read, ‘For the play of + to-day or to-morrow is a good place to be had in the third story in the + Christenbernikov Street.’ The place is a considerable distance from the + theatre.” + </p> + <p> + “Theatre!” exclaimed the master of the house, who now entered to take his + place at the tea-table, “one can soon hear who has that word in his mouth; + now is he again at the theatre! The man can speak of nothing else. There + ought, ready, to be a fine imposed, which he should pay each time he + pronounces the word theatre. I would only make it a fine of two skillings, + and yet I dare promise that before a month was over he would be found to + pay in fines his whole pocket-money, and his coat and boots besides. It is + a real mania with the man! I know no one among my young friends,” added + he, with an ironical smile at Wilhelm,—“no, not one, who has such a + hobby-horse as our good cousin.” + </p> + <p> + “Here thou art unjust to him!” interrupted his wife; “do not place a fine + upon him, else I will place thee in a vaudeville! Thy life is in politics; + our cousin’s in theatrical life; Wilhelm’s in thorough-bass; and Mr. + Thostrup’s in learned subjects. Each of you is thus a little nail in the + different world-wheels; whoever despises others shows that he considers + his wheel the first, or imagines that the world is a wheelbarrow, which + goes upon one wheel! No, it is a more complicated machine.” + </p> + <p> + Later in the evening, when the company broke up, Otto and Wilhelm went + together. + </p> + <p> + “I do not think,” said Wilhelm, “that thou hast yet said thou to me. Is it + not agreeable to thee?” + </p> + <p> + “It was my own wish, my own request,” replied Otto. “I have not remarked + what expressions I have employed.” He remained silent. Wilhelm himself + seemed occupied with unusual thoughts, when he suddenly exclaimed: “Life + is, after all, a gift of blessings! One should never make one’s self + sorrows which do not really exist! ‘Carpe diem,’ said old Horace.” + </p> + <p> + “That will we!” replied Otto; “but now we must first think of our + examination.” + </p> + <p> + They pressed each other’s hands and parted. + </p> + <p> + “But I have heard no thou!” said Wilhelm to himself “He is an oddity, and + yet I love him! In this consists, perhaps, my own originality.” + </p> + <p> + He entered his room, where the hostess had been cleaning, and had arranged + the books and papers in the nicest order. Wilhelm truly called it + disorder; the papers in confusion and the books in a row. The lamp even + had a new place; and this was called order! + </p> + <p> + Smiling, he seated himself at the piano; it was so long since they had + said “Good day” to each other! He ran over the keys several times, then + lost himself in fantasies. “That is lovely!” he exclaimed. “But it is not + my property! What does it belong to? It melts into my own feelings!” He + played it again. It was a thema out of “Tancredi,” therefore from Rossini, + even the very composer whom our musical friends most looked down upon; how + could he then guess who had created those tones which now spoke to his + heart? His whole being he felt penetrated by a happiness, a love of life, + the cause of which he knew not. He thought of Otto with a warmth which the + latter’s strange behavior did not deserve. All beloved beings floated so + sweetly before his mind. This was one of those moments which all good + people know; one feels one’s self a member of the great chain of love + which binds creation together. + </p> + <p> + So long as the rose-bud remains folded together it seems to be without + fragrance; yet only one morning is required, and the fine breath streams + from the crimson mouth. It is only one moment; it is the commencement of a + new existence, which already has lain long concealed in the bud: but one + does not see the magic wand which works the change. This spiritual + contrast, perhaps, took place in the past hour; perhaps the last evening + rays which fell upon the leaves concealed this power! The roses of the + garden must open; those of the heart follow the same laws. Was this love? + Love is, as poets say, a pain; it resembles the disease of the mussel, + through which pearls are formed. But Wilhelm was not sick; he felt himself + particularly full of strength and enjoyment of life. The poet’s simile of + the mussel and the pearl sounds well, but it is false. Most poets are not + very learned in natural history; and, therefore, they are guilty of many + errors with regard to it. The pearl is formed on the mussel not through + disease; when an enemy attacks her she sends forth drops in her defense, + and these change into pearls. It is thus strength, and not weakness, which + creates the beautiful. It would be unjust to call love a pain, a sickness; + it is an energy of life which God has planted in the human breast; it + fills our whole being like the fragrance which fills each leaf of the + rose, and then reveals itself among the struggles of life as a pearl of + worth. + </p> + <p> + These were Wilhelm’s thoughts; and yet it was not perfectly clear to him + that he loved with his whole soul, as one can only love once. + </p> + <p> + The following forenoon he paid a visit to Professor Weyse. + </p> + <p> + “You are going to Roeskelde, are you not?” asked Wilhelm. “I have heard + you so often play the organ here in Our Lady’s church, I should very much + like to hear you there, in the cathedral. If I were to make the journey, + would you then play a voluntary for me?” + </p> + <p> + “You will not come!” said the musician. + </p> + <p> + “I shall come!” answered Wilhelm, and kept his word. Two days after this + conversation he rolled through the streets of Roeskelde. + </p> + <p> + “I am come for a wager! I shall hear Weyse play the organ!” said he to the + host, although there was no need for an apology. + </p> + <p> + Bulwer in his romance, “The Pilgrims of the Rhine,” has with endless grace + and tenderness called forth a fairy world. The little spirits float there + as the breath of air floats around the material reality; one is forced to + believe in their existence. With a genius powerful as that which inspired + Bulwer, glorious as that which infused into Shakespeare the fragrance we + find breathed over the “Midsummer-night’s Dream,” did Weyse’s tones fill + Wilhelm; the deep melodies of the organ in the old cathedral had indeed + attracted him to the quiet little town! The powerful tones of the heart + summoned him! Through them even every day things assumed a coloring, an + expression of beauty, such as Byron shows us in words, Thorwaldsen in the + hard stone, Correggio in colors. + </p> + <p> + We have by Goethe a glorious poem, “Love a Landscape-painter.” The poet + sits upon a peak and gazes before him into the mist, which, like canvas + spread upon the easel, conceals all heights and expanses; then comes the + God of Love and teaches him how to paint a picture on the mist. The little + one now sketches with his rosy fingers a picture such as only Nature and + Goethe give us. Were the poet here, we could offer him no rock on which he + might seat himself, but something, through legends and songs, equally + beautiful. He would then sing,—I seated myself upon the mossy stone + above the cairn; the mist resembled outstretched canvas. The God of Love + commenced on this his sketch. High up he painted a glorious still, whose + rays were dazzling! The edges of the clouds he made as of gold, and let + the rays penetrate through them; then painted he the fine light boughs of + fresh, fragrant trees; brought forth one hill after the other. Behind + these, half-concealed, lay a little town, above which rose a mighty + church; two tall towers with high spires rose into the air; and below the + church, far out, where woods formed the horizon, drew he a bay so + naturally! it seemed to play with the sunbeams as if the waves splashed up + against the coast. Now appeared flowers; to the fields and meadows he gave + the coloring of velvet and precious stones; and on the other side of the + bay the dark woods melted away into a bluish mist. “I can paint!” said the + little one; “but the most difficult still remains to do.” And he drew with + his delicate finger, just where the rays of the sun fell most glowingly, a + maiden so gentle, so sweet, with dark blue eyes and cheeks as blooming as + the rosy fingers which formed the picture. And see! a breeze arose; the + leaves of the trees quivered; the expanse of water ruffled itself; the + dress of the maiden was gently stirred; the maiden herself approached: the + picture itself was a reality! And thus did the old royal city present + itself before Wilhelm’s eyes, the towers of the cathedral, she tay, the + far woods, and—Eva! + </p> + <p> + The first love of a pure heart is holy! This holiness may be indicated, + but not described! We return to Otto. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0022" id="link2HCH0022"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXII + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “A man only gains importance by a poet’s fancy, when his + genius vividly represents to our imagination a clearer, but + not an ennobled image of men and objects which have an + existence; then alone he understands how to idealize.”—H. + HERTZ. +</pre> + <p> + We pass on several weeks. It was toward the end of September, the examen + philosophicum was near. Preparations for this had been Otto’s excuse for + not yet having visited the family circle of his guardian, the merchant + Berger. This was, however, brought about by Otto’s finding one day, when + he went to speak with his guardian, the mistress of the house in the same + room. We know that there are five daughters in the house, and that only + one is engaged, yet they are all well-educated girls—domestic girls, + as their mother assured her friend upon more than one occasion. + </p> + <p> + “So, then, I have at length the honor of making your acquaintance,” said + Mrs. Berger, “this visit, truly, is not intended either for me or the + children, but still you must now drink a cup of coffee with us. Within it + certainly looks rather disorderly; the girls are making cloaks for the + winter. We will not put ourselves out of the way for you: you shall be + regarded as a member of the family: but then you must come to us in a + friendly way. Every Thursday our son-in-law dines with us, will you then + be contented with our dinner? Now you shall become acquainted with my + daughters.” + </p> + <p> + “And I must to my office,” said the husband; “therefore let us consider + Thursday as an appointment. We dine at three o’clock, and after coffee + Laide gives us music.” + </p> + <p> + The lady now conducted Otto into the sitting-room, where he found the four + daughters in full activity with a workwoman. The fifth daughter, Julle, + was, as they had told him, gone to the shops for patterns: yesterday she + had run all over the town, but the patterns she received were not good. + </p> + <p> + The lady told him the name of each daughter; their characteristics he + naturally learnt later. + </p> + <p> + All the five sisters had the idea that they were so extremely different, + and yet they resembled each other to a hair. Adelaide, or Laide, as she + was also called, was certainly the prettiest; that she well knew also, + therefore she would have a fur cape, and no cloak; her figure should be + seen. Christiane was what one might call a practical girl; she knew how to + make use of everything. Alvilde had always a little attack of the + tooth-ache; Julle went shopping, and Miss Grethe was the bride. She was + also musical, and was considered witty. Thus she said one evening when the + house-door was closed, and groaned dreadfully on its hinges, “See now, we + have port wine after dinner.” [Translator’s Note: A pun which it is + impossible to translate. The Danish word Portviin according to sound, may + mean either port wine or the creaking of a door.] The brother, the only + son of the house, with whom we shall become better acquainted, had written + down this conceit; “but that was only to be rude toward her,” said Miss + Grethe. “Such good ideas as this I have every hour of the day!” + </p> + <p> + We ought really to accuse these excellent girls of nothing foolish; they + were very good and wise. The lover, Mr. Svane, was also a zealous wit; he + was so lively, they said. Every one with whom he became a little familiar + he called immediately Mr. Petersen, and that was so droll! + </p> + <p> + “Now the father has invited Mr. Thostrup to come on Thursday!” said the + lady. “I also think, if we were to squeeze ourselves a little together, he + might find a place with us in the box; the room is, truly, very confined.” + </p> + <p> + Otto besought them not to incommode themselves. + </p> + <p> + “O, it is a large box!” said the lady, but she did not say how many of + them were already in it. Only eleven ladies went from the family itself. + They were obliged to go to the theatre in three parties, so that people + might not think; if they all went together, there was a mob. One evening, + when the box had been occupied by eighteen persons, beside several + twelve-year old children, who had sat in people’s laps, or stood before + them, and the whole party had returned home in one procession, and were + standing before the house door to go in, people streamed together, + imagining there was some alarm, or that some one had fallen into + convulsions. “What is the matter?” they asked, and Miss Grethe immediately + replied, “It is a select company!” [Translator’s Note: A select or + shut-out company. We regret that this pun, like the foregoing one, is + untransferable into English.] Since that evening they returned home in + separate divisions. + </p> + <p> + “It is really a good box!” said Alvilde; “if we had only other neighbors! + The doors are opening and shutting eternally, and make a draught which is + not bearable for the teeth. And then they speak so loud! the other night I + did not hear a single word of the pretty song about Denmark.” + </p> + <p> + “But did you lose much through that?” asked Otto, smiling, and soon they + found themselves very much at variance, just as if they had been old + acquaintances. “I do not think much of these patriotic scraps, where the + poet, in his weakness, supports himself by this beautiful sentiment of + patriotism in the people. You will certainly grant that here the multitude + always applauds when it only hears the word ‘Father-land,’ or the name of + ‘Christian IV.’ The poet must give something more; this is a left-handed + kind of patriotism. One would really believe that Denmark were the only + country in the world!” + </p> + <p> + “Fie, Mr. Thostrup!” said the lady: “do you not then love your + father-land?” + </p> + <p> + “I believe I love it properly!” returned he: “and because it really + possesses so much that is excellent do I desire that only what is genuine + should be esteemed, only what is genuine be prized.” + </p> + <p> + “I agree in the main with Mr. Thostrup,” said Miss Grethe, who was busied + in unpicking and turning her cloak, in order, as she herself said, to + spoil it on the other side. “I think he is right! If a poem is well spoken + on the stage, it has always a kind of effect. It is just the same as with + stuffs—they may be of a middling quality and may have an unfavorable + pattern, but if they are worn by a pretty figure they look well after + all!” + </p> + <p> + “I am often vexed with the public!” said Otto. “It applauds at improper + places, and sometimes exhibits an extraordinary innocence.” + </p> + <p> + “Those are ‘the lords of the kingdom of mind,’” said Miss Grethe, smiling. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + [Note: “We are the lords of the kingdom of mind! + We are the stem which can never decay!” + —Students’ Song, by CHRISTIAN WINTHER.] +</pre> + <p> + “No, the <i>neighbors</i>!” replied Otto quickly. + </p> + <p> + At this moment Miss Julle entered. She had been wandering from shop to + shop, she said, until she could bear it no longer! She had had the stuffs + down from all the shelves, and at length had succeeded so far as to become + possessed of eight small pieces—beautiful patterns, she maintained. + And now she knew very well where the different stuffs were to be had, how + wide they were, and how much the yard. “And whom did I meet?” said she; + “only think! down the middle of East Street came the actor—you know + well! Our little passion! He is really charming off the stage.” + </p> + <p> + “Did you meet him?” said Laide. “That girl is always lucky!” + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Thostrup,” said the mother, presenting him, for the young lady seemed + to forget him entirely, so much was she occupied with this encounter and + her patterns. + </p> + <p> + Julle bowed, and said she had seen him before: he had heard Mynster, and + had stood near the chair where she sat; he was dressed in an olive-green + coat. + </p> + <p> + “Then you are acquainted with each other!” said the lady. “She is the most + pious of all the children. When the others rave about Spindler and Johanne + Schoppenhauer, she raves about the clergyman who confirmed her. You know + my son? He became a student a year before you. He sees you in the club + sometimes.” + </p> + <p> + “There you will have seen him more amiable than you will find him at + home,” said Adelaide. “Heaven knows he is not gallant toward his sisters!” + </p> + <p> + “Sweet Laide, how can you say so!” cried the mother. “You are always so + unjust toward Hans Peter! When you become better acquainted with him, Mr. + Thostrup, you will like him; he is a really serious young man, of + uncorrupted manners. Do you remember, Laide, how he hissed that evening in + the theatre when they gave that immoral piece? And how angry he is with + that ‘Red Riding Hood?’ O, the good youth! Besides, in our family, you + will soon meet with an old acquaintance—in a fortnight a lady out of + Jutland will come here. She remains the winter here. Do you not guess who + it is? A little lady from Lemvig!” + </p> + <p> + “Maren!” exclaimed Otto. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, truly!” said the lady. “She is said to have such a beautiful voice!” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, in Lemvig,” remarked Adelaide. “And what a horrible name she has! We + must christen her again, when she comes. She must be called Mara, or + Massa.” + </p> + <p> + “We could call her Massa Carara!” said Grethe. + </p> + <p> + “No; she shall be called Maja, as in the ‘Every-day Tales,’” said + Christiane. + </p> + <p> + “I am of Jane’s opinion!” said the mother. “We will christen her again, + and call her Maja.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0023" id="link2HCH0023"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXIII + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + Men are not always what they seem.—LESSING. +</pre> + <p> + Our tale is no creation of fancy; it is the reality in which we live; bone + of our bone, and flesh of our flesh. Our own time and the men of our own + age we shall see. But not alone will we occupy ourselves with every-day + life, with the moss on the surface; the whole tree, from the roots to the + fragrant leaves, will we observe. The heavy earth shall press the roots, + the moss and bark of every-day life adhere to the stern, the strong boughs + with flowers and leaves spread themselves out, whilst the sun of poetry + shall shine among them, and show the colors, odor, and singing-birds. But + the tree of reality cannot shoot up so soon as that of fancy, like the + enchantment in Tieck’s “Elves.” We must seek our type in nature. Often may + there be an appearance of cessation; but that is not the case. It is even + so with our story; whilst our characters, by mutual discourse, make + themselves worthy of contemplation, there arises, as with the individual + branches of the tree, an unseen connection. The branch which shoots high + up in the air, as though it would separate itself from the mother-stem, + only presses forward to form the crown, to lend uniformity to the whole + tree. The lines which diverge from the general centre are precisely those + which produce the harmony. + </p> + <p> + We shall, therefore, soon see, though these scenes out of every-day life + are no digression from the principal events, nothing episodical which one + may pass over. In order still sooner to arrive at a clear perception of + this assertion, we will yet tarry a few moments in the house of Mr. + Berger, the merchant; but in the mean time we have advanced three weeks. + Wilhelm and Otto had happily passed their examen philosophicum. The latter + had paid several visits, and was already regarded as an old friend of the + family. The lover already addressed him with his droll “Good day, Mr. + Petersen;” and Grethe was witty about his melancholy glance, which he was + not always able to conquer. She called it “making faces,” and besought him + to appear so on the day of her funeral. + </p> + <p> + The object of the five sisters’ first Platonic love had been their + brother. They had overwhelmed him with caresses and tenderness, had + admired and worshipped him. “The dear little man!” they called him; they + had no other. But Hans Peter was so impolite and teasing toward the dear + sisters, that they were found to resign him so soon as one of them had a + lover. Upon this lover they all clung. Each one seemed to have a piece of + him. He was Grethe’s bridegroom, would be their brother-in-law. They might + address him with the confidential thou, and even give him a little kiss. + </p> + <p> + Otto’s appearance in the family caused these rays to change their + direction. Otto was handsome, and possessed of fortune; either of which + often suffices to bow a female heart. Beauty bribes the thoughtless; + riches, the prudent. + </p> + <p> + Maren, or as she was here called, Maja, had arrived. The young ladies had + already pulled off some of her bows, arranged her hair differently, and + made one of her silk handkerchiefs into an apron; but, spite of all this + finesse, she still remained the lady from Lemvig. They could remove no + bows from her pronunciation. She had been the first at home; here she + could not take that rank. This evening she was to see in the theatre, for + the first time, the ballet of the “Somnambule.” + </p> + <p> + “It is French!” said Hans Peter; “and frivolous, like everything that we + have from them.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, the scene in the second act, where she steps out of the window,” + said the merchant; “that is very instructive for youth!” + </p> + <p> + “But the last act is sweet!” cried the lady. “The second act is certainly, + as Hans Peter very justly observed, somewhat French. Good heavens! he gets + quite red, the sweet lad!” She extended her hand to him, and nodded, + smiling, whereupon Hans Peter spoke very prettily about the immorality on + the stage. The father also made some striking observation. + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” said the lady, “were all husbands like thee, and all young men like + Hans Peter, they would speak in another tone on the stage, and dress in + another manner. In dancing it is abominable; the dresses are so short and + indecent, just as though they had nothing on! Yet, after all, we must say + that the ‘Somnambule’ is beautiful. And, really, it is quite innocent!” + </p> + <p> + They now entered still deeper into the moral: the conversation lasted till + coffee came. + </p> + <p> + Maren’s heart beat even quicker, partly in expectation of the play, + through hearing of the corruptions of this Copenhagen Sodom. She heard + Otto defend this French piece; heard him speak of affectation. Was he then + corrupted? How gladly would she have heard him discourse upon propriety, + as Hans Peter had done. “Poor Otto!” thought she; “this is having no + relations, but being forced to struggle on in the world alone.” + </p> + <p> + The merchant now rose. He could not go to the theatre. First, he had + business to attend to; and then he must go to his club, where he had + yesterday changed his hat. + </p> + <p> + “Nay, then, it has happened to thee as to Hans Peter!” said the lady. + “Yesterday, in the lecture-room, he also got a strange hat. But, there, + thou hast his hat!” she suddenly exclaimed, as her eye fell upon the hat + which her husband held in his hand. “That is Hans Peter’s hat! Now, we + shall certainly find that he has thine! You have exchanged them here at + home. You do not know each other’s hats, and therefore you fancy this + occurred from home.” + </p> + <p> + One of the sisters now brought the hat which Hans Peter had got in + mistake. Yes, it was certainly the father’s. Thus an exchange in the + house, a little intermezzo, which naturally, from its insignificance, was + momentarily forgotten by all except the parties concerned, for to them it + was an important moment in their lives; and to us also, as we shall see, + an event of importance, which has occasioned us to linger thus long in + this circle. In an adjoining room will we, unseen spirits, watch the + father and son. They are alone; the family is already in the theatre. We + may, indeed, watch them—they are true moralists. It is only a moral + drawn from a hat. + </p> + <p> + But the father’s eyes rolled, his cheeks glowed, his words were + sword-strokes, and must make an impression on any disposition as gentle as + his son’s; but the son stood quiet, with a firm look and with a smile on + his lips, such as the moral bestows. “You were in the adjoining room!” + said he. “Where it is proper for you to be there may I also come.” + </p> + <p> + “Boy!” cried the father, and named the place, but we know it not; neither + know we its inhabitants. Victor Hugo includes them in his “Children’s + Prayer,” in his beautiful poem, “La Prière pour Tous.” The child prays for + all, even “for those who sell the sweet name of love.” + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + [Note: “Prie!... Pour les femmes échevelées Qui vendent + le doux nom d’amour!”] +</pre> + <p> + “Let us be silent with each other!” said the son. “I am acquainted with + many histories. I know another of the pretty Eva!”— + </p> + <p> + “Eva!” repeated the father. + </p> + <p> + We will hear no more! It is not proper to listen. We see the father and + son extend their hands. It appeared a scene of reconciliation. They + parted: the father goes to his business, and Hans Peter to the theatre, to + anger himself over the immorality in the second act of the “Somnambule.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0024" id="link2HCH0024"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXIV + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “L’amour est pour les coeurs, + Ce que l’aurore est pour les fleurs, + Et le printemps pour la nature.”—VIGUE. + + “Love is a childish disease and like the small-pox. Some + die, some become deformed, others are more or less scarred, + while upon others the disease does not leave any visible + trace.”—The Alchemist, by C. HAUCH. +</pre> + <p> + “Be candid, Otto!” said Wilhelm, as he one day visited his friend. “You + cannot make up your mind to say thou to me; therefore let it be. We are, + after all, good friends. It is only a form; although you must grant that + in this respect you are really a great fool.” + </p> + <p> + Otto now explained what an extraordinary aversion he had felt, what a + painful feeling had seized upon him, and made it impossible to him. + </p> + <p> + “There you were playing the martyr!” said Wilhelm, laughing. “Could you + not immediately tell me how you were constituted? So are most men. When + they have no trouble, they generally hatch one themselves; they will + rather stand in the cold shadow than in the warm sunshine, and yet the + choice stands open to us. Dear friend, reflect; now we are both of us on + the stream: we shall soon be put into the great business-bottles, where we + shall, like little devils, stretch and strain ourselves without ever + getting out, until life withdraws from us!” He laid his arm confidentially + upon Otto’s shoulder. “Often have I wished to speak with you upon one + point! Yes, I do not desire that you should confess every word, every + thought to me. I already know that I shall be able to prove to you that + the thing lies in a region where it cannot have the power which you + ascribe to it. In the cold zones a venomous bite does not operate as + dangerously as in warmer ones; a sorrow in childhood cannot overpower us + as it does in riper age. Whatever misfortune may have happened to you when + a child, if in your wildness—you yourself say that you were wild—whatsoever + you may have then done, it cannot, it ought not to influence your whole + life: your understanding could tell you this better than I. At our age we + find ourselves in the land of joy, or we never enter it!” + </p> + <p> + “You are a happy man!” exclaimed Otto, and gazed sorrowfully before him. + “Your childhood afforded you only joy and hope! Only think of the solitude + in which mine was passed. Among the sand-hills of the west coast my days + glided away: my grandfather was gloomy and passionate; our old preacher + lived only in a past time which I knew not, and Rosalie regarded the world + through the spectacles of sorrow. Such an environment might well cast a + shadow upon my life-joy. Even in dress, one is strangely remarkable when + one comes from afar province to the capital; first this receives another + cut, and one gradually becomes like those around one. The same thing + happens in a spiritual relation, but one’s being and ideas one does not + change so quickly as one’s clothes. I have only been a short time among + strangers, and who knows?” added he, with a melancholy smile, “perhaps I + shall come into equilibrium when some really great misfortune happens to + me and very much overpowers me, and then I may show the same carelessness, + the same phlegm as the multitude.” + </p> + <p> + “A really great misfortune!” repeated Wilhelm. “You do, indeed, say + something. That would be a very original means of cure, but you are an + original being. Perhaps lay this means you might really be healed. ‘Make + no cable out of cobweb!’ said a celebrated poet whose name does not occur + to me at this moment. But the thought is good, you should have it + embroidered upon your waistcoat, so that you might have it before your + eyes when you droop your head. Do not look so grave; we are friends, are + we not? Among all my young acquaintance you are the dearest to me, + although there are moments when I know not how it stands with us. I could + confide every secret to you, but I am not sure that you would be equally + open with me. Do not be angry, my dear friend! There are secrets of so + delicate a nature, that one may not confide them even to the dearest + friend. So long as we preserve <i>our</i> secret it is our prisoner; it is + quite the contrary, however, so soon as we have let it escape us. And yet, + Otto, you are so dear to me, that I believe in you as in my own heart. + This, even now, bears a secret which penetrates me with joy and love of + life! I must speak cut. But you must enter into my joy, partake in it, or + say nothing about it; you have then heard nothing—nothing! Otto, I + love! therefore am I happy, therefore is there sunshine in my heart, life + joy in my veins! I love Eva, the beautiful lovely Eva!” + </p> + <p> + Otto pressed his hand, but preserved silence. + </p> + <p> + “No, not so!” cried Wilhelm. “Only speak a word! Do you I’m in a + conception of the world which has opened before me?” + </p> + <p> + “Eva is beautiful! very beautiful!” said Otto, slowly. “She is innocent + and good. What can one wish for more? I can imagine how she fills your + whole heart! But will she do so always? She will not always remain young, + always lovely! Has she, then, mind sufficient to be everything to you? + Will this momentary happiness which you prepare for her and yourself be + great enough to outweigh—I will not say the sorrow, but the + discontent which this union will bring forth in your family? For God’s + sake, think of everything!” + </p> + <p> + “My dear fellow!” said Wilhelm, “your old preacher now really speaks out + of you! But enough: I can bear the confession. I answer, ‘Yes, yes!’ with + all my heart, ‘yes!’ Wherefore will you now bring me out of my sunshine + into shade? Wherefore, in my joy over the beauty of the rose should I be + reminded that the perfume and color will vanish, that the leaves will + fall? It is the course of life! but must one, therefore, think of the + grave, of the finale, when the act begins?” + </p> + <p> + “Love is a kind of monomania,” said Otto; “it may be combated: it depends + merely upon our own will.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah, you know this not at all!” said Wilhelm. “But it will come in due + time, and then you will be far more violent than others! Who knows? + perhaps this is the sorrow of which you spoke, the misfortune which should + bring your whole being into equipoise! That was also a kind of search + after the sorrowful. I will sincerely wish that your heart may be filled + with love as mine is; then will the influence of the sand-hills vanish, + and you will speak with me as you ought to do, and as my confidence + deserves!” + </p> + <p> + “That will I!” replied Otto. “You make the poor girl miserable! Now you + love Eva, but then you will no longer be able. The distance between you + and her is too great, and I cannot conceive how the beauty of her + countenance can thus fill your whole being. A waiting-girl! yes, I repeat + the name which offends your ear: a waiting-girl! Everywhere will it be + repeated. And you? No one can respect nobility less than I do—that + nobility which is only conferred by birth; it is nothing, and a time will + come when this will not be prized at all, when the nobility of the soul + will be the only nobility. I openly say this to you, who are a nobleman + yourself. The more development of mind, the more ancestors! But Eva has + nothing, can have nothing, except a pretty face, and this is what has + enchained you; you are become the servant of a servant, and that is + degrading yourself and your nobility of mind!” + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Thostrup!” exclaimed Wilhelm, “you wound me! This is truly not the + first time, but now I am weary of it. I have shown too much good nature, + and that is the most unfortunate failing a man can be cursed with!” + </p> + <p> + He seated himself at the piano, and hammered away. + </p> + <p> + Otto was silent a moment, his checks glowed, but he was soon again calm, + and in a joking tone said: “Do not expend your anger upon that poor + instrument because we disagree in our views. You are playing only + dissonances, which offend my ear more than your anger!” + </p> + <p> + “Dissonances!” repeated Wilhelm. “Cannot you hear that they are harmonies? + There are many things for which you have a bad ear!” + </p> + <p> + Otto knew how to lead his anger to different points regarding which they + had formerly been at variance, but he spoke with such mildness that + Wilhelm’s anger rather abated than increased. + </p> + <p> + They were again friends, but regarding Eva not one word more was said. + </p> + <p> + “I should not be an honest and true friend to him, were I to let him be + swallowed up by this whirlpool!” said Otto to himself, when he was alone. + “At present he is innocent and good but at his age, with his gay + disposition!—I must warn Eva! soon! soon! The snow which has once + been trodden is no longer pure! Wilhelm will scarcely forgive me! But I + must!” + </p> + <p> + On the morrow it was impossible for him to travel to Roeskelde, but the + following day he really would and must hasten thither. + </p> + <p> + Still, in the early morning hour, Eva occupied his thoughts; she busied + Wilhelm’s also, but in a different way: but they agreed in the purity of + their intentions. There was still a third, whose blood was put in motion + at the mention of her name, who said: “The pretty Eva is a servant there! + One must speak with her. The family can make an excursion there!” + </p> + <p> + “You sweet children!” said the merchant’s wife, “the autumn is charming, + far pleasanter than the whole summer! The father, should the weather + remain good, will make an excursion with us to Lethraborg the day after + to-morrow. We will then walk in the beautiful valley of the Hertha, and + pass the night at Roeskelde. Those will be two delightful days! What an + excellent father you have! But shall we not invite Mr. Thostrup to go with + us? We are so many ladies, and it looks well to have a few young gentlemen + with us. Grethe, thou must write an invitation; thou canst write thy + father’s name underneath.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0025" id="link2HCH0025"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXV + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “These poetical letters are so similar to those of Baggesen, + that we could be almost tempted to consider the news of his + death as false, although so well affirmed that we must + acknowledge it.”—Monthly Journal of Literature. + + “She is as slender as the poplar-willow, as fleet as the + hastening waters. A Mayflower odorous and sweet.”—H. P. + HOLST. + + “Ah, where is the rose?”—Lulu, by GUNTELBURG. +</pre> + <p> + The evening before Otto was to travel with the merchant’s family to + Roeskelde he called upon the family where Miss Sophie was staying. Her + dear mamma had left three days before. Wilhelm had wished to accompany him + to Roeskelde, but the mother did not desire it. + </p> + <p> + “We have had a pleasure to-day,” said Sophie, “a pleasure from which we + shall long have enjoyment. Have you seen the new book, the ‘Letters of a + Wandering Ghost?’ It is Baggesen himself in his most perfect beauty, a + music which I never believed could have been given in words. This is a + poet! He has made July days in the poetry of Denmark. Natural thoughts are + so strikingly, and yet so simply expressed; one has the idea that one + could write such verses one’s self, they fall so lightly.” + </p> + <p> + “They are like prose,” said the lady, “and yet the most beautifully + perfect verse I know. You must read the book, Mr. Thostrup!” + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps you will read to us this evening?” said Sophie. “I should very + much like to hear it again.” + </p> + <p> + “In a second reading one shall enter better into the individual beauties,” + said the lady of the house. + </p> + <p> + “I will remain and listen,” said the host. + </p> + <p> + “This must be a masterpiece!” exclaimed Otto,”—a true masterpiece, + since all are so delighted with it.” + </p> + <p> + “It is Baggesen himself; and truly as he must sing in that world where + everything mortal is ennobled.” + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “‘Meadows all fragrance, the strongholds of pleasure, + Heaven blue streamlets, +</pre> + <p> + That speed through the green woods in musical measure,’” began Otto, and + the spiritual battle-piece with beauty and tone developed itself more and + more; they found themselves in the midst of the winter camp of the Muses, + where the poet with + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + ...“lyre on his shoulder and sword at.... +</pre> + <p> + Hastened to fight with the foes of the Muses.” Otto’s gloomy look won + during the perusal a more animated expression. “Excellent!” exclaimed he; + “this is what I myself have thought and felt, but, alas! have been unable + to express.” + </p> + <p> + “I am a strange girl,” said Sophie; “whenever I read a new poet of + distinguished talent, I consider that he is the greatest. It was so with + Byron and Victor Hugo. ‘Cain’ overwhelmed me, ‘Notre Dame’ carried me away + with it. Once I could imagine no greater poet than Walter Scott, and yet I + forget him over Oehlenschläger; yes, I remember a time when Heiberg’s + vaudevilles took almost the first place among my chosen favorites. Thus I + know myself and my changeable disposition, and yet I firmly believe that I + shall make an exception with this work. Other poets showed me the objects + of the outer world, this one shows me my own mind: my own thoughts, my own + being he presents before me, and therefore I shall always take the same + interest in the Ghost’s Letters.” + </p> + <p> + “They are true food for the mind,” said Otto; “they are as words in + season; there must be movement in the lake, otherwise it will become a + bog.” + </p> + <p> + “The author is severe toward those whom he has introduced,” said the lady; + “but he carries, so to say, a sweet knife. A wound from a sharp + sword-blade is not so painful as that from a rusty, notched knife.” + </p> + <p> + “But who may the author be?” said Sophie. + </p> + <p> + “May we never learn!” replied Otto. “Uncertainty gives the book something + piquant. In such a small country as ours it is good for the author to be + unknown. Here we almost tread upon each other, and look into each other’s + garments. Here the personal conditions of the author have much to do with + success; and then there are the newspapers, where either friend or enemy + has an assistant, whereas the being anonymous gives it the patent of + nobility. It is well never to know an author. What does his person matter + to us, if his book is only good? + </p> + <p> + “‘Crush and confound the rabble dissolute That desecrate thy poet’s + grave?’” read Otto, and the musical poem was at an end. All were enchanted + with it. Otto alone made some small objections: “The Muses ought not to + come with ‘trumpets and drums,’ and so many expressions similar to ‘give a + blow on the chaps,’ etc., ought not to appear.” + </p> + <p> + “But if the poet will attack what is coarse,” said Sophie, “he must call + things by their proper names. He presents us with a specimen of the + prosaic filth, but in a soap-bubble. We may see it, but not seize upon it. + I consider that you are wrong!” + </p> + <p> + “The conception of idea and form,” said Otto, “does not seem to be + sufficiently presented to one; both dissolve into one. Even prose is a + form.” + </p> + <p> + “But the form itself is the most important,” said the lady of the house; + “with poetry as with sculpture, it is the form which gives the meaning.” + </p> + <p> + “No, pardon me!” said Otto; “poetry is like the tree which God allows to + grow. The inward power expresses itself in the form; both are equally + important, but I consider the internal as the most holy. This is here the + poet’s thought. The opinion which he expresses affects us as much as the + beautiful dress in which he has presented it.” + </p> + <p> + Now commenced a contest upon form and material, such as was afterward + maintained throughout the whole of Copenhagen. + </p> + <p> + “I shall always admire the ‘Letters of a Wandering Ghost,’” said Sophie,—“always + rave about these poems. To-night I shall dream of nothing but this work of + art.” + </p> + <p> + How little men can do that which they desire, did this very moment teach. + </p> + <p> + When we regard the fixed star through a telescope and lose ourselves in + contemplation, a little hair can conceal the mighty body, a grain of dust + lead us from these sublime thoughts. A letter came for Miss Sophie; a + traveller brought it from her mother: she was already in Funen, and + announced her safe arrival. + </p> + <p> + “And the news?” said the hostess. + </p> + <p> + “Mamma has hired a new maid, or, rather, she has taken to be with her an + amiable young girl—the pretty Eva in Roeskelde. Mr. Thostrup and + Wilhelm related to us this summer several things about her which make her + interesting. We saw her on our journey hither, when mamma was prepossessed + by her well-bred appearance. Upon her return, the young girl has quite won + her heart. It really were a pity if such a pretty, respectable girl + remained in a public-house. She is very pretty; is she not, Mr. Thostrup?” + </p> + <p> + “Very pretty!” answered Otto, becoming crimson, for Sophie said this with + an emphasis which was not without meaning. + </p> + <p> + The following day, at an early hour, Otto found himself at the merchant’s. + </p> + <p> + Spite of the changeable weather of our climate, all the ladies were in + their best dresses. Three persons must sit upon each seat. Hans Peter and + the lover had their place beside the coachman. It was a long time before + the cold meat, the provision for several days, was packed up, and the + whole company were seated. At length, when they had got out of the city, + Christiane recollected that they had forgotten the umbrellas, and that, + after all, it would be good to have them. The coachman must go back for + them, and meantime the carriage drew up before the Column of Liberty. The + poor sentinel must now become an object of Miss Grethe’s interest. Several + times the soldier glanced down upon his regimentals. He was a Krähwinkler, + who had an eye to his own advantage. A man who rode past upon a load of + straw occupied a high position. That was very interesting. + </p> + <p> + Otto endeavored to give the conversation another direction. “Have not you + seen the new poem which has just appeared, the ‘Letters of a Wandering + Ghost?’” asked he, and sketched out their beauty and tendency. + </p> + <p> + “Doubtless, very heavy blows are dealt!” said Mr. Berger, “the man must be + witty—Baggesen to the very letter.” + </p> + <p> + “The ‘Copenhagen Post’ is called the pump!” said Hans Peter. + </p> + <p> + “That is superb!” cried Grethe. “Who does it attack besides?” + </p> + <p> + “Folks in Soroe, and this ‘Holy Andersen,’ as they call him.” + </p> + <p> + “Does he get something?” said Laide. “That I will grant him for his milk + and water. He was so impolite toward the ladies!” + </p> + <p> + “I like them to quarrel in this way!” said the merchant’s lady. “Heiberg + will doubtless get his share also, and then he will reply in something + merry.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” said Mr. Berger, “he always knows how to twist things in such a + manner that one must laugh, and then it is all one to us whether he is + right or not.” + </p> + <p> + “This book is entirely for Heiberg,” said Otto. “The author is anonymous, + and a clever man.” + </p> + <p> + “Good Heavens! you are not the author, Mr. Thostrup?” cried Julle, and + looked at him with a penetrating gaze. “You can manage such things so + secretly! You think so highly of Heiberg: I remember well all the + beautiful things you said of his ‘Walter the Potter’ and his ‘Psyche.’” + </p> + <p> + Otto assured her that he could not confess to this honor. + </p> + <p> + They reached Roeskelde in the forenoon, but Eva did not receive them. The + excursion to Lethraborg was arranged; toward evening they should again + return to the inn, and then Eva would certainly appear. + </p> + <p> + The company walked in the garden at Lethraborg: the prospect from the + terrace was beautiful; they looked through the windows of the castle, and + at length came to the conclusion that it would be best to go in. + </p> + <p> + “There are such beautiful paintings, people say!” remarked the lover. + </p> + <p> + “We must see them,” cried all the ladies. + </p> + <p> + “Do you often visit the picture-gallery of the Christiansborg?” inquired + Otto. + </p> + <p> + “I cannot say that we do!” returned Mrs. Berger. “You well know that what + is near one seldom sees, unless one makes a downright earnest attempt, and + that we have not yet done. Besides, not many people go up: that wandering + about the great halls is so wearying.” + </p> + <p> + “There are splendid pieces by Ruysdal!” said Otto. + </p> + <p> + “Salvator Rosa’s glorious ‘Jonas’ is well worth looking at!” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, we really must go at once, whilst our little Maja is here. It does + not cost more than the Exhibition, and we were there three times last + year. The view from the castle windows toward the canal, as well as toward + the ramparts, is so beautiful, they say.” + </p> + <p> + The company now viewed the interior of Lethraborg, and then wandered + through the garden and in the wood. The trees had their autumnal coloring, + but the whole presented a variety of tints far richer than one finds in + summer. The dark fir-trees, the yellow beeches and oaks, whose outermost + branches had sent forth light green shoots, presented a most picturesque + effect, and formed a splendid foreground to the view over old Leire, the + royal city, now a small village, and across the bay to the splendid + cathedral. + </p> + <p> + “That resembles a scene in a theatre!” cried Mrs. Berger, and immediately + the company were deep in dramatic affairs. + </p> + <p> + “Such a decoration they should have in the royal theatre!” said Hans + Peter. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, they should have many such!” said Grethe. “They should have some + other pieces than those they have. I know not how it is with our poets; + they have no inventive power. Relate the droll idea which thou hadst the + other day for a new piece!” said she to her lover, and stroked his cheeks. + </p> + <p> + “O,” said he, and affected a kind of indifference, “that was only an idea + such as one has very often. But it might become a very nice piece. When + the curtain is drawn up, one should see close upon the lamps the + gable-ends of two houses. The steep roofs must go down to the stage, so + that it is only half a yard wide, and this is to represent a watercourse + between the two houses. In each garret a poor but interesting family + should dwell, and these should step forth into the watercourse, and there + the whole piece should be played.” + </p> + <p> + “But what should then happen?” asked Otto. + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” said the lover, “I have not thought about that; but see, there is + the idea! I am no poet, and have too much to do at the counting-house, + otherwise one might write a little piece.” + </p> + <p> + “Heavens! Heiberg ought to have the idea!” said Grethe. + </p> + <p> + “No, then it would be a vaudeville,” said the lover, “and I cannot bear + them.” + </p> + <p> + “O, it might be made charming!” cried Grethe. “I see the whole piece! how + they clamber about the roofs! The idea is original, thou sweet friend!” + </p> + <p> + By evening the family were again in Roeskelde. + </p> + <p> + The merchant sought for Eva. Otto inquired after her, so did Hans Peter + also, and all three received the same answer. + </p> + <p> + “She is no longer here.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0026" id="link2HCH0026"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXVI + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “I wish I was air, that I could beat my wings, could chase + the clouds, and try to fly over the mountain summits: that + would be life.”—F. RÜCKERT. +</pre> + <p> + The first evening after Otto’s return to Copenhagen he spent with Sophie, + and the conversation turned upon his little journey. “The pretty Eva has + vanished!” said he. + </p> + <p> + “You had rejoiced in the prospect of this meeting, had you not?” asked + Sophie. + </p> + <p> + “No, not in the least!” answered Otto. + </p> + <p> + “And you wish to make me believe that? She is really pretty, and has + something so unspeakably refined, that a young gentleman might well be + attracted by her. With my brother it is not all quite right in this + respect; but, candidly speaking, I am in great fear on your account, Mr. + Thostrup. Still waters—you know the proverb? I might have spared you + the trouble. The letter which I received a few evenings ago informed me of + her departure. Mamma has taken her with her. It seemed to her a sin to + leave that sweet, innocent girl in a public-house. The host and hostess + were born upon our estate, and look very much up to my mother; and as Eva + will certainly gain by the change, the whole affair was soon settled. It + is well that she is come under mamma’s oversight.” + </p> + <p> + “The girl is almost indifferent to me!” said Otto. + </p> + <p> + “Almost!” repeated Sophie. “But this almost, how many degrees of warmth + does it contain? ‘O Vérité! Où sont les autels et tes prêtres?’” added + she, and smiling raised her finger. + </p> + <p> + “Time will show how much you are in error!” answered Otto with much + calmness. + </p> + <p> + The lady of the house now entered, she had made various calls; everywhere + the Ghost’s Letters were the subject of conversation, and now the + conversation took the same direction. + </p> + <p> + It was often renewed. Otto was a very frequent guest at the house. The + ladies sat at their embroidery frames and embroidered splendid pieces of + work, and Otto must again read the “Letters of the Wandering Ghost;” after + this they began “Calderon,” in whom Sophie found something resembling the + anonymous author. The world of poetry afforded subjects for discourse, and + every-day life intermingled its light, gay scenes; if Wilhelm joined them, + he must give them music, and all remarked that his fantasies were become + far richer, far softer. He had gained his touch from Weyse, said they. No + one thought how much one may learn from one’s own heart. With this + exception he was the same joyous youth as ever. No one thought of him and + Eva together. Since that evening when the friends had almost quarreled, he + had never mentioned her name; but Otto had remarked how when any female + figure met them, Wilhelm’s eyes flashed, and how, in society, he singled + out the most beautiful. Otto said jokingly to him, that he was getting + oriental thoughts. Oehlenschläger’s “Helge,” and Goethe’s Italian sonnets + were now Wilhelm’s favorite reading. The voluptuous spirit of these poems + agreed with the dreams which his warm feelings engendered. It was Eva’s + beauty—her beauty alone which had awoke this feeling in him; the + modesty and poverty of the poor girl had captivated him still more, and + caused him to forget rank and condition. At the moment when he would + approach her, she was gone. The poison was now in his blood. If is gay and + happy spirit did not meanwhile let him sink into melancholy and + meditation; his feeling for beauty was excited, as he himself expressed + it. In thought he pressed beauty to his heart, but only in thought—but + even this is sin, says the Gospel. + </p> + <p> + Otto, on the contrary, moved in the lists of philosophy and poetry. Here + his soul conceived beauty—inspired, he expressed it; and Sophie’s + eyes flashed, and rested with pleasure on him. This flattered him and + increased his inspirations. For many years no winter had been to him so + pleasant, had passed away so rich in change as this; he caught at the + fluttering joy and yet there were moments when the though pressed upon him—“Life + is hastening away, and I do not enjoy it.” In the midst of his greatest + happiness he experienced a strange yearning after the changing life of + travel. Paris glanced before his eyes like a star of fortune. + </p> + <p> + “Out into the bustling world!” said he so often to Wilhelm, that the same + thought was excited in him. “In the spring we will travel!” Now were plans + formed; circumstances were favorable. Thus in the coming spring, in April, + the still happier days should begin. + </p> + <p> + “We will fly to Paris!” said Wilhelm; “to joy and pleasure!” + </p> + <p> + Joy and pleasure were to be found at home, and were found: we will + introduce the evening which brought them; perhaps we shall also find + something more than joy and pleasure. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0027" id="link2HCH0027"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXVII + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “A midsummer day’s entertainment—but how? In February? Yea, + some here and behold it!”—DR. BALFUNGO. +</pre> + <p> + With us the students form no Burschenschafts, have no colors. The + professors do not alone in the chair come into connection with them; the + only difference is that which exists between young and old scholars. Thus + they come in contact with each other, thus they participate in their + mutual pleasures. We will spend an evening of this kind in the Students’ + Club, and then see for ourselves whether Miss Sophie were right when she + wished she were a man, merely that she might be a student and member of + this club. We choose one evening in particular, not only that we may seek + a brilliant moment, but because this evening can afford us more than a + description. + </p> + <p> + An excursion to the park had often been discussed in the club. They wished + to hire the Caledonia steam-packet. But during the summer months the + number of members is less; the majority are gone to the provinces to visit + their relations. Winter, on the contrary, assembles them all. This time, + also, is the best for great undertakings. The long talked of excursion to + the park was therefore fixed for Carnival Monday, the 14th of February, + 1831. Thus ran the invitations to the professors and older members. “It + will be too cold for me,” replied one. “Must one take a carriage for one’s + self?” asked mother. No, the park was removed to Copenhagen. In the + Students’ Club itself, in the Boldhuus Street, No. 225, was the park-hill + with its green trees, its swings, and amusements. See, only the scholars + of the Black School could have such ideas! + </p> + <p> + The evening of the 114th of February drew near. The guests assembled in + the rooms on the first floor. Meanwhile all was arranged in the second + story. Those who represented jugglers were in their places. A thundering + cracker was the steamboat signal, and now people hastened to the park, + rushing up-stairs, where two large rooms had, with great taste and humor, + been converted into the park-hill. Large fir-trees concealed the walls—you + found yourself in a complete wood. The doors which connected the two rooms + were decorated with sheets, so that it looked as if you were going through + a tent. Hand-organs played, drums and trumpets roared, and from tents and + stages the hawkers shouted one against the other. It was a noise such as + is heard in the real park when the hubbub has reached its height. The most + brilliant requisites of the real park were found here, and they were not + imitated; they were the things themselves. Master Jakel’s own puppets had + been hired; a student, distinguished by his complete imitation of the + first actors, represented them by the puppets. The fortress of + Frederiksteen was the same which we have already seen in the park. “The + whole cavalry and infantry,—here a fellow without a bayonet, there a + bayonet without a fellow!” The old Jew sat under his tree where he + announced his fiftieth park jubilee: here a student ate flax, there + another exhibited a bear; Polignac stood as a wax figure outside a + cabinet. The Magdalene convent exhibited its little boxes, the drum-major + beat most lustily, and from a near booth came the real odor of warm + wafer-cakes. The spring even, which presented itself in the outer room, + was full of significance. Certainly it was only represented by a tea-urn + concealed between moss and stones, but the water was real water, brought + from the well in Christiansborg. Astounding and full of effect was the + multitude of sweet young girls who showed themselves. Many of the youngest + students who had feminine features were dressed as ladies; some of them + might even be called pretty. Who that then saw the fair one with the + tambourine can have forgotten her? The company crowded round the ladies. + The professors paid court to them with all propriety, and, what was best + of all, some ladies who were less successful became jealous of the others. + Otto was much excited; the noise, the bustle, the variety of people, were + almost strikingly given. Then came the master of the fire-engines, with + his wife and little granddaughter; then three pretty peasant girls; then + the whole Botanical Society, with their real professor at their head. Otto + seated himself in a swing; an itinerant flute-player and a drummer + deafened him with dissonances. A young lady, one of the beauties, in a + white dress, and with a thin handkerchief over her shoulders, approached + and threw herself into his arms. It was Wilhelm! but Otto found his + likeness to Sophie stronger than he had ever before noticed it to be; and + therefore the blood rushed to his cheeks when the fair one threw her arms + around him, and laid her cheek upon his: he perceived more of Sophie than + of Wilhelm in this form. Certainly Wilhelm’s features were coarser—his + whole figure larger than Sophie’s; but still Otto fancied he saw Sophie, + and therefore these marked gestures, this reeling about with the other + students, offended his eyes. When Wilhelm seated himself on his knee, and + pressed his cheek to his, Otto felt his heart beat as in fever; it sent a + stream of fire through his blood: he thrust him away, but the fair one + continued to overwhelm him with caresses. + </p> + <p> + There now commenced, in a so-called Krähwinkel theatre, the comedy, in + which were given the then popular witticisms of Kellerman. + </p> + <p> + The lady clung fast to Otto, and flew dancing with him through the crowd. + The heat, the noise, and, above all, the exaggerated lacing, affected + Wilhelm; he felt unwell. Otto led him to a bench and would have unfastened + his dress, but all the young ladies, true to their part, sprang forward, + pushed Otto aside, surrounded their sick companion and concealed her, + whilst they tore up the dress behind so that she might have air: but, God + forbid! no gentleman might see it. + </p> + <p> + Toward evening a song was commenced, a shot was heard, and the last verse + announced:— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “The gun has been fired, the vessel must fly + To the town from the green wood shady. + Come, friends, now we to the table will hie, + A gentleman and a fair lady.” + </pre> + <p> + And now all rushed with the speed of a steamboat downstairs, and soon sat + in gay rows around the covered tables. + </p> + <p> + Wilhelm was Otto’s lady—the Baron was called the Baroness; the + glasses resounded, and the song commenced:— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “These will drink our good king’s health, + Will drink it here, his loyal students.” + </pre> + <p> + And that patriotic song:— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “I know a land up in the North + Where it is good to be.” + </pre> + <p> + It concluded with— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “An hurrah + For the king and the rescript!” + </pre> + <p> + In joy one must embrace everything joyful, and that they did. Here was the + joy of youth in youthful hearts. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “No condition’s like the student’s; + He has chosen the better way!” + </pre> + <p> + so ran the concluding verse of the following song, which ended with the + toast,— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “For her of whom the heart dreams ever, + But whom the lips must never name!” + </pre> + <p> + It was then that Wilhelm seemed to glow with inward fire; he struck his + glass so violently against Otto’s that it broke, and the wine was spilt. + </p> + <p> + “A health to the ladies!” cried one of the signors. + </p> + <p> + “A health to the ladies!” resounded from the different rooms, which were + all converted into the banquet-hall. + </p> + <p> + The ladies rose, stood upon their chairs, some even upon the table, bowed, + and returned thanks for the toast. + </p> + <p> + “No, no,” whispered Otto to Wilhelm, at the same time pulling him down. + “In this dress you resemble your sister so much, that it is quite horrible + to me to see you act a part so opposed to her character!” + </p> + <p> + “And your eyes,” Said Wilhelm, smiling, “resemble two eyes which have + touched my heart. A health to first love!” cried he, and struck his glass + against Otto’s so that the half of his wine was again lost. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> +The champagne foamed, and amidst noise and laughter, as during the +carnival joy, a new song refreshed the image of the nark which they had +just left:— “Here if green trees were not growing + Fresh as on yon little hill, + Heard we not the fountains flowing, + We in sooth should see them still! + Tents were filled below, above, + Filled with everything but love! + + *** + + Here went gratis brushing-boys— Graduated have they all! + Here stood, who would think it, sir? + A student as a trumpeter!” + </pre> + <p> + “A health to the one whose eyes mine resemble!” whispered Otto, carried + along with the merriment. + </p> + <p> + “That health we have already drunk!” answered Wilhelm, “but we cannot do a + good thing too often.” + </p> + <p> + “Then you still think of Eva?” + </p> + <p> + “She was beautiful! sweet! who knows what might have happened had she + remained here? Her fate has fallen into mamma’s hands, and she and the + other exalted Nemesis must now conduct the affair: I wash my hands of it.” + </p> + <p> + “Are you recovered?” asked Otto. “But when you see Eva again in the + summer?” + </p> + <p> + “I hope that I shall not fall sick,” replied Wilhelm; “I have a strong + constitution. But we must now hasten up to the dance.” + </p> + <p> + All rushed from the tables, and up-stairs, where the park was arranged. + There was now only the green wood to be seen. Theatres and booths had been + removed. Gay paper-lamps hung among the branches, a large orchestra + played, and a half-bacchanalian wood-ball commenced. Wilhelm was Otto’s + partner, but after the first dance the lady sought out for herself a more + lively cavalier. + </p> + <p> + Otto drew back toward the wall where the windows were concealed by the + boughs of Fir-tree. His eye followed Wilhelm, whose great resemblance to + Sophie made him melancholy; his hand accidentally glided through the + branches and touched the window-seat; there lay a little bird—it was + dead! + </p> + <p> + To increase the illusion they had bought a number of birds, which should + fly about during the park-scene, but the poor little creatures had died + from fright at the wild uproar. In the windows and corners they lay dead. + It was one of these birds that Otto found. + </p> + <p> + “It is dead!” said he to Wilhelm, who approached him. + </p> + <p> + “Now, that is capital!” returned the friend; “here you have something over + which you may be sentimental!” + </p> + <p> + Otto would not reply. + </p> + <p> + “Shall we dance a Scotch waltz?” asked Wilhelm laughing, and the wine and + his youthful blood glowed in his cheeks. + </p> + <p> + “I wish you would put on your own dress!” said Otto. “You resemble, as I + said before, your sister”— + </p> + <p> + “And I am my sister,” interrupted Wilhelm, in his wantonness. “And as a + reward for your charming readings aloud, for your excellent conversation, + and the whole of your piquant amiability, you shall now be paid with a + little kiss!” He pressed his lips to Otto’s forehead; Otto thrust him back + and left the company. + </p> + <p> + Several hours passed before he could sleep; at length he was forced to + laugh over his anger: what mattered it if Wilhelm resembled his sister? + </p> + <p> + The following morning Otto paid her a visit. All listened with lively + interest to his description of the merry St. John’s day in February. He + also related how much Wilhelm had resembled his sister, and how unpleasant + this had been to him; and they laughed. During the relation, however, Otto + could not forbear drawing a comparison. How great a difference did he now + find! Sophie’s beauty was of quite another kind! Never before had he + regarded her in this light. Of the kisses which Wilhelm had given him, of + course, they did not speak; but Otto thought of them, thought of them + quite differently to what he had done before, and—the ways of Cupid + are strange! We will now see how affairs stand after advancing fourteen + days. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0028" id="link2HCH0028"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXVIII + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “Huzza for Copenhagen and for Paris! may they both flourish!” + The Danes in Paris by HEIBERG. +</pre> + <p> + Wilhelm’s cousin, Joachim, had arrived from Paris. We remember the young + officer, out of whose letters Wilhelm had sent Otto a description of the + struggle of the July days. As an inspired hero of liberty had he returned; + struggling Poland had excited his lively interest, and he would willingly + have combated in Warsaw’s ranks. His mind and his eloquence made him + doubly interesting. The combat of the July days, of which he had been an + eye-witness, he described to them. Joachim was handsome; he had an elegant + countenance with sharp features, and was certainly rather pale—one + might perhaps have called him worn with dissipation, had it not been for + the brightness of his eyes, which increased in conversation. The fine dark + eyebrow, and even the little mustache, gave the countenance all expression + which reminded one of fine English steel-engravings. His figure was small, + almost slender, but the proportions were beautiful. The animation of the + Frenchman expressed itself in every motion, but at the same time there was + in him a certain determination which seemed to say: “I am aware of my own + intellectual superiority!” + </p> + <p> + He interested every one: Otto also listened with pleasure when Cousin + Joachim related his experiences, but when all eyes were turned toward the + narrator, Otto fixed his suddenly upon Sophie, and found that she could + moderate his attentions. Joachim addressed his discourse to all, but at + the points of interest his glance rested alone on the pretty cousin! “She + interests him!” said Otto to himself. “And Cousin Joachim?” Yes, he + relates well; but had we only traveled we should not be inferior to him!” + </p> + <p> + “Charles X. was a Jesuit!” said Joachim; “he strove after an unrestrained + despotism, and laid violent hands on the Charter. The expedition against + Algiers was only a glittering fire-work arranged to flatter the national + pride—all glitter and falseness! Like Peirronnet, through an embrace + he would annihilate the Charter.” + </p> + <p> + The conversation now turned from the Jesuits to the Charter and Polignac. + The minute particulars, which only an eyewitness can relate, brought the + struggle livingly before their eyes. They saw the last night, the + extraordinary activity in the squares where the balls were showered, and + in the streets where the barricades were erected. Overturned wagons and + carts, barrels and stones, were heaped upon each other—even the + hundred year-old trees of the Boulevards were cut down to form barricades: + the struggle began, Frenchman fought against Frenchman—for liberty + and country they sacrificed their life. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + [Note: + “Ceux qui pieusement sont morts pour la patrie + Ont droit qu’à leur cerceuil la foule vienne et prie: + Entre le plus beaux noms, leur nom est le plus beau. + Toute gloire, près d’eux, passe et tombe éphèmere + Et, comme ferait une mère, + La voix d’un peuple entier les berce en leur tombeau!” + —VICTOR HUGO.] +</pre> + <p> + And he described the victory and Louis Philippe, whom he admired and + loved. + </p> + <p> + “That was a world event,” said the man of business. “It electrified both + king and people. They still feel the movement. Last year was an + extraordinary year!” + </p> + <p> + “For the Copenhageners also,” said Otto, “there were three colors. These + things occupied the multitude with equal interest: the July Revolution, + the ‘Letters of a Wandering Ghost,’ and Kellermann’s ‘Berlin Wit.’” + </p> + <p> + “Now you are bitter, Mr. Thostrup,” said the lady of the house. “The + really educated did not occupy themselves with these Berlin ‘Eckensteher’ + which the multitude have rendered national!” + </p> + <p> + “But they hit the right mark!” said Otto; “they met with a reception from + the citizens and people in office.” + </p> + <p> + “That I can easily believe,” remarked Joachim; “that is like the people + here!” + </p> + <p> + “That is like the people abroad!” said the hostess. “In Paris they pass + over still more easily from a revolution, in which they themselves have + taken part, to a review by Jules Janin, or to a new step of Taglioni’s, + and from that to ‘une histoire scandaleuse!’” + </p> + <p> + “No, my gracious lady, of the last no one takes any notice—it + belongs to the order of the day!” + </p> + <p> + “That I can easily believe!” said Miss Sophie. + </p> + <p> + The man of business now inquired after the Chamber. The cousin’s answer + was quite satisfactory. The lady of the house wished to hear of the + flower-markets, and of the sweet little inclosed gardens in the Places. + Sophie wished to hear of Victor Hugo. She received a description of him, + of his abode in the Place Royale, and of the whole Europe littéraire + beside. Cousin Joachim was extremely interesting. + </p> + <p> + Otto did not pay another visit for two days. + </p> + <p> + “Where have you been for so long?” asked Sophie, when he came again. + </p> + <p> + “With my books!” replied he: there lay a gloomy expression in his eyes. + </p> + <p> + “O, you should have come half an hour earlier—our cousin was here! + He was describing to me the Jardin des Plantes in Paris. O, quite + excellently!” + </p> + <p> + “He is an interesting young man!” said Otto. + </p> + <p> + “The glorious garden!” pursued Sophie, without remarking the emphasis with + which Otto had replied. “Do you not remember, Mr. Thostrup, how Barthélemi + has spoken of it? ‘Où tout homme, qui rêve à son pays absent, Retrouve ses + parfums et son air caressant.’ In it there is a whole avenue with cages, + in which are wild beasts,—lions and tigers! In small court-yards, + elephants and buffaloes wander about at liberty! Giraffes nibble the + branches of high trees! In the middle of the garden are the courts for + bears, only there is a sort of well in which the bears walk about; it is + surrounded by no palisades, and you stand upon the precipitous edge! There + our cousin stood!” + </p> + <p> + “But he did not precipitate himself down!” said Otto, with indifference. + </p> + <p> + “What is the matter?” asked Sophie. “Are you in your elegiac mood? You + look as I imagine Victor Hugo when he has not made up his mind about the + management of his tragic catastrophe!” + </p> + <p> + “That is my innate singularity!” replied Otto. “I should have pleasure in + springing down among the bears of which you relate!” + </p> + <p> + “And in dying?” asked Sophie. “No, you must live. ‘C’est le bonheur de + vivre Qui fait la gloire de mourir.’” + </p> + <p> + “You speak a deal of French to-day,” said Otto, with a friendliness of + manner intended to soften the bitterness of the tone. “Perhaps your + conversation with the lieutenant was in that language?” + </p> + <p> + “French interests me the most!” replied she. “I will ask our cousin to + speak it often with me. His accent is excellent, and he is himself a very + interesting man!” + </p> + <p> + “No doubt of it!” answered Otto. + </p> + <p> + “You will remain and dine with us?” said the lady of the house, who now + entered. + </p> + <p> + Otto did not feel well. + </p> + <p> + “These are only whims,” said Sophie. + </p> + <p> + The ladies made merry, and Otto remained. Cousin Joachim came and was + interesting—very interesting, said all. He related of Paris, spoke + also of Copenhagen, and drew comparisons. The quietness of home had made + an especial impression on him. + </p> + <p> + “People here,” said he, “go about as if they bore some heavy grief, or + some joy, which they might not express. If one goes into a coffee-house, + it is just as if one entered a house of mourning. Each one seats himself, + a newspaper in his hand, in a corner. That strikes one when one comes from + Paris! One naturally has the thought,—Can these few degrees further + north bring so much cold into the blood? There is the same quiet in our + theatre. Now I love this active life. The only boldness the public permits + itself is hissing a poor author; but a wretched singer, who has neither + tone nor manner, a miserable actress, will be endured, nay, applauded by + good friends—an act of compassion. She is so fearful! she is so + good! In Paris people hiss. The decoration master, the manager, every one + there receives his share of applause or blame. Even the directors are + there hissed, if they manage badly.” + </p> + <p> + “You are preaching a complete revolution in our theatrical kingdom!” said + the lady of the house. “The Copenhageners cannot ever become Parisians, + and neither should they.” + </p> + <p> + “The theatre is here, as well as there, the most powerful organ of the + people’s life. It has the greatest influence, and ours stands high, very + high, when one reflects in what different directions it must extend its + influence. Our only theatre must accommodate itself, and represent, at the + same time, the Theatre Français, the grand Opera, the Vaudeville, and + Saint-Martin; it must comprehend all kinds of theatrical entertainments. + The same actors who to-day appear in tragedy, must to-morrow show + themselves in a comedy or vaudeville. We have actors who might compare + themselves with the best in Paris—only <i>one</i> is above all ours, + but, also, above all whom I have seen in Europe, and this one is + Mademoiselle Mars. You will, doubtless, consider the reason extraordinary + which gives this one, in my opinion, the first place. This is her age, + which she so completely compels you to forget. She is still pretty; round, + without being called fat. It is not through rouge, false hair, or false + teeth, that she procures herself youth; it lies in her soul, and from + thence it flows into every limb—every motion becomes charming! She + fills you with astonishment! her eyes are full of expression, and her + voice is the most sonorous which I know! It is indeed music! How can one + think of age when one is affected by an immortal soul? I rave about + Léontine Fay, but the old Mars has my heart. There is also a third who + stands high with the Parisians—Jenny Vertprè, at the Gymnase + Dramatique, but she would be soon eclipsed were the Parisians to see our + Demoiselle Pätges. She possesses talent which will shine in every scene. + Vertprè has her loveliness, her whims, but not her Proteus-genius, her + nobility. I saw Vertprè in ‘La Reine de Seize Ans,’—a piece which we + have not yet; but she was only a saucy soubrette in royal splendor—a + Pernille of Holberg’s, as represented by a Parisian. We have Madame + Wexschall, and we have Frydendal! Were Denmark only a larger country, + these names would sound throughout Europe!” + </p> + <p> + He now described the decorations in the “Sylphide,” in “Natalia,” and in + various other ballets, the whole splendor, the whole magnificence. + </p> + <p> + “But our orchestra is excellent!” said Miss Sophie. + </p> + <p> + “It certainly contains several distinguished men,” answered Joachim; “but + must one speak of the whole? Yes, you know I am not musical, and cannot + therefore express myself in an artistical manner about music, but certain + it is that something lay in my ear, in my feeling, which, in Paris, + whispered to me, ‘That is excellent!’ Here, on the contrary, it cries, + ‘With moderation! with moderation!’ The voice is the first; she is the + lady; the instruments, on the contrary, are the cavaliers who shall + conduct the former before the public. Gently they should take her by the + hand; she must stand quite foremost; but here the instruments thrust her + aside, and it is to me as if each instrument would have the first place, + and constantly shouted, ‘Here am I! here am I!” + </p> + <p> + “That sounds very well!” said Sophie; “but one may not believe you! You + have fallen in love with foreign countries, and, therefore, at home + everything must be slighted.” + </p> + <p> + “By no means! The Danish ladies, for instance, appear the prettiest, the + most modest whom I have known.” + </p> + <p> + “Appear?” repeated Otto. + </p> + <p> + “Joachim possesses eloquence,” said the lady of the house. + </p> + <p> + “That has developed itself abroad!” answered he: “here at home there are + only two ways in which it can publicly develop itself—in the pulpit, + and at a meeting in the shooting-house. Yet it is true that now we are + going to have a Diet and a more political life. I feel already, in + anticipation, the effect; we shall only live for this life, the newspapers + will become merely political, the poets sing politics the painters choose + scenes from political life. ‘C’est un Uebergang!’ as Madame La Flèche + says. [Author’s Note: Holberg’s Jean de France.] Copenhagen is too small + to be a great, and too great to be a small city. See, there lies the + fault!” + </p> + <p> + Otto felt an irresistible desire to contradict him in most things which he + said about home. But the cousin parried every bold blow with a joke. + </p> + <p> + “Copenhagen must be the Paris of the North,” said he, “and that it + certainly would become in fifty, or twice that number of years. The + situation was far more beautiful than that of the city of the Seine. The + marble church must be elevated, and become a Pantheon, adorned with the + works of Thorwaldsen and other artists; Christiansborg, a Louvre, whose + gallery you visit; Öster Street and Pedermadsen’s passage, arcades such as + are in Paris, covered with glass roofs and flagged, shops on both sides, + and in the evening, when thousands of gas-lamps burnt, here should be the + promenade; the esplanades would be the Champs Elysées, with swings and + slides, music, and mâts de cocagne. [Author’s Note: High smooth poles, to + the top of which victuals, clothes, or money are attached. People of the + lower classes then try to climb up and seize the prizes. The best things + are placed at the very top of the pole.] On the Peblinger Lake, as on the + Seine, there should be festive water excursions made. Voilà!” exclaimed + he, “that would be splendid!” + </p> + <p> + “That might be divine!” said Sophie. + </p> + <p> + Animation and thought lay in the cousin’s countenance; his fine features + became striking from their expression. Thus did his image stamp itself in + Otto’s soul, thus did it place itself beside Sophie’s image as she stood + there, with her large brown eyes, round which played thought and smiles, + whilst they rested on the cousin. The beautifully formed white hand, with + its taper fingers, played with the curls which fell over her cheeks. Otto + would not think of it. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0029" id="link2HCH0029"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXIX + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “And if I have wept alone, it is my own sorrow.”—GOETHE +</pre> + <p> + Latterly Otto had been but seldom at Mr. Berger’s. He had no interest + about the merchant’s home. The family showed him every politeness and mark + of confidence; but his visits became every week more rare. Business + matters, however, led him one day there. + </p> + <p> + Chance or fate, as we call it, if the shadow of a consequence shows + itself, caused Maren to pass through the anteroom when Otto was about + taking his departure. She was the only one of the ladies at home. In three + weeks she would return to Lemvig. She said that she could not boast of + having enjoyed Mr. Thostrup’s society too often. + </p> + <p> + “Your old friends interest you no longer!” added she, somewhat gravely. + With this exception she had amused herself very well in the city, had seen + everything but the stuffed birds, and these she should see to-morrow. She + had been seven times in the theatre, and had seen the “Somnambule” twice. + However, she had not seen “Der Frieschütz,” and she had an especial desire + to see this on account of the wolf-glen. At Aarhuus there was a place in + the wood, said she, called the wolf-glen; this she knew, and now wished to + see whether it resembled the one on the stage. + </p> + <p> + “May I then greet Rosalie from you?” she asked at length. + </p> + <p> + “You will still remain three weeks here,” said Otto: “it is too soon to + speak of leave-taking.” + </p> + <p> + “But you scarcely ever come here,” returned she. “You have better places + to go to! The Baron’s sister certainly sees you oftener; she is said to be + a pretty and very clever girl: perhaps one may soon offer one’s + congratulations?” + </p> + <p> + Otto became crimson. + </p> + <p> + “In spring you will travel abroad,” pursued she; “we shall not then see + you in Jutland: yes, perhaps you will never go there again! That will make + old Rosalie sad: she thinks so incredibly much of you. In all the letters + which I have received here there were greetings to Mr. Thostrup. Yes, I + have quite a multitude of them for you; but you do not come to receive + them, and I dare not pay a visit to such a young gentleman. For the sake + of old friendship let me, at least, be the first who can relate at home of + the betrothal!” + </p> + <p> + “How can you have got such a thought?” replied Otto. “I go to so many + houses where there are young ladies; if my heart had anything to do with + it, I should have a bad prospect. I have great esteem for Miss Sophie; I + speak with her as with you, that is all. I perceive that the air of + Copenhagen has affected you; here in the city they are always betrothing + people. This comes from the ladies in the house here. How could you + believe such stories?” + </p> + <p> + Maren also joked about it, but after they had parted she seated herself in + a corner, drew her little apron over her head and wept; perhaps because + she should soon leave the lively city, where she had been seven times to + the theatre, and yet had not seen the wolf-glen. + </p> + <p> + “Betrothed!” repeated Otto to himself, and thought of Sophie, of the + cousin, and of his own childhood, which hung like a storm-cloud in his + heaven. Many thoughts passed through his mind: he recollected the + Christmas Eve on which he had seen Sophie for the first time, when she, as + one of the Fates, gave him the number. He had 33, she 34; they were united + by the numbers following each other. He received the pedigree, and was + raised to her nobility. The whole joke had for him a signification. He + read the verse again which had accompanied it. The conclusion sounded + again and again in his ears:—“From this hour forth thy soul high + rank hath won her, Nor will forget thy knighthood and thy honor!” + </p> + <p> + “O Sophie!” he exclaimed aloud, and the fire which had long smouldered in + his blood now burst forth in flames. “Sophie! thee must I press to my + heart!” He lost himself in dreams. Dark shapes disturbed them. “Can she + then be happy? Can I? The picture which she received where the covering of + ice was broken and the faithful dog watched in vain, is also significant. + That is the fulfillment of hopes. I sink, and shall never return!” + </p> + <p> + The image of the cousin mingled in his dreams. That refined countenance + with the little mustache looked forth saucily and loquaciously; and + Sophie’s eyes he saw rest upon the cousin, whilst her white hand played + with the brown curls which fell over her cheek. + </p> + <p> + “O Sophie!” sighed Otto, and fell asleep. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0030" id="link2HCH0030"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXX + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + ...”We live through others, + We think we are others; we seem + Others to be... And so think others of us.” + SCHEFER. +</pre> + <p> + When the buds burst forth we will burst forth also! had Otto and Wilhelm + often said. Their plan was, in the spring to travel immediately to Paris, + but on their way to visit the Rhine, and to sail from Cologne to + Strasburg. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, one must see the Rhine first!” said Cousin Joachim; “when one has + seen Switzerland and Italy, it does not strike one nearly as much. That + must be your first sight; but you should not see it in spring, but toward + autumn. When the vines have their full variety of tint, and the heavy + grapes hang from the stems, see, it is then the old ruins stand forth. + These are the gardens of the Rhine! Another advantage which you have in + going there in autumn is that you then enter Paris in winter, and that one + must do; then one does not come post festum; then is the heyday of gayety—the + theatre, the soirées, and everything which can interest the beau monde.” + </p> + <p> + Although Otto did not generally consider the cousin’s words of much + weight, he this time entered wonderfully into his views. “It would + certainly be the most prudent to commence their journey toward autumn,” he + thought: “there could be no harm in preparing themselves a little more for + it!” + </p> + <p> + “That is always good!” said Joachim; “but, what is far more advantageous + abroad than all the preparations you can make at home, is said in a few + words—give up all intercourse with your own country-people! Nowadays + every one travels! Paris is not now further from us than Hamburg was some + thirty years ago. When I was in Paris I found there sixteen or seventeen + of my countrymen. O, how they kept together! Eleven of them dwelt in the + same hôtel: they drank coffee together, walked out together, went to the + restaurateur’s together, and took together half a bench in the theatre. + That is the most foolish thing a person can do! I consider travelling + useful for every one, from the prince to the travelling journeyman. But we + allow too many people to travel! We are not rich, therefore restrictions + should be made. The creative artist, the poet, the engineer, and the + physician must travel; but God knows why theologians should go forth. They + can become mad enough at home! They come into Catholic countries, and then + there is an end of them! Wherefore should book-worms go forth? They shut + themselves up in the diligence and in their chambers, rummage a little in + the libraries, but not so much as a pinch of snuff do they do us any good + when they return! Those who cost the most generally are of the least use, + and bring the country the least honor! I, thank God! paid for my journey + myself, and am therefore free to speak my opinion!” + </p> + <p> + We will now hear what Miss Sophie said, and therefore advance a few days. + </p> + <p> + “We keep you then with us till August!” said she, once when she was alone + with Otto. “That is wise! You can spend some time with us in Funen, and + gather strength for your journey. Yes, the journey will do you good!” + </p> + <p> + “I hope so!” answered Otto. “I am perhaps able to become as interesting as + your cousin, as amiable!” + </p> + <p> + “That would be requiring too much from you!” said Sophie, bantering him. + “You will never have his humor, his facility in catching up character. You + will only preach against the depravity of the Parisians; you will only be + able to appreciate the melancholy grandeur of Switzerland and the solitude + of the Hungarian forests.” + </p> + <p> + “You would make a misanthrope of me, which I by no means am.” + </p> + <p> + “But you have an innate talent for this character!” answered Sophie. + “Something will certainly be polished away by this journey, and it is on + account of this change that I rejoice.” + </p> + <p> + “Must one, then, have a light, fickle mood to please you?” asked Otto. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, certainly!” answered Sophie, ironically. + </p> + <p> + “Then it is true what your cousin told me!” said Otto. “If one will be + fortunate with the ladies, one must at least be somewhat frivolous, fond + of pleasure, and fickle,—that makes one interesting. Yes, he has + made himself acquainted with the world, he has experience in everything!” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, perfectly!” said Sophie, and laughed aloud. + </p> + <p> + Otto was silent, with contracted brow. + </p> + <p> + “I wish you sunshine!” said Sophie, and smiling raised her finger. Otto + remained unchanged—he wrinkled his brow. + </p> + <p> + “You must change very much!” said she, half gravely; and danced out of the + room. + </p> + <p> + Three weeks passed by, rich in great events in the kingdom of the heart; + it was still a diplomatic secret: the eyes betrayed it by their pantomimic + language, the mouth alone was silent, and it is after all the deciding + power. + </p> + <p> + Otto visited the merchant’s family. Maren had departed just the day + before. In vain had she awaited his visit throughout the three weeks. + </p> + <p> + “You quite forget your true friends!” said the ladies. “Believe us, Maja + was a little angry with you, and yet we have messages. Now she is sailing + over the salt sea.” + </p> + <p> + This was not precisely the case; she was already on land, and just at this + moment was driving over the brown heath, thinking of Copenhagen and the + pleasures there, and of the sorrow also—it is so sad to be forgotten + by a friend of childhood! Otto was so handsome, so clever—she did + not dream at all how handsome and clever she herself would appear at home. + Beauty and cleverness they had discovered in her before she left; now she + had been in the capital, and that gives relief. + </p> + <p> + The little birds fluttered round the carriage; perhaps they sang to her + what should happen in two years: “Thou wilt be a bride, the secretary’s + lovely little bride; thou shalt have both him and the musical-box! Thou + wilt be the grandest lady in the town, and yet the most excellent mother. + Thy first daughter shall be called Maja—that is a pretty name, and + reminds thee of past days!” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0031" id="link2HCH0031"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXXI + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “The monastery is still called ‘Andersskov’ (the wood of + Anders) in memory of its being the habitation of the pious + Anders. + + “The hill on which he awoke, comforted by sleep, is still + called ‘Hvile höi’ (the hill of rest). A cross having a + Latin inscription, half-effaced, marks the spot.”—J. L. + HEIBERG. +</pre> + <p> + It was spring, fresh, life-bearing spring! Only one day and one night, and + the birds of passage were back again; the woods made themselves once more + young with green, odorous leaves; the Sound had its swimming Venice of + richly laden vessels; only one day and one night, and Sophie was removed + from Otto—they were divided by the salt sea; but it was spring in + his heart; from it flew his thoughts, like birds of passage, to the island + of Funen, and there sang of summer. Hope gave him more “gold and green + woods” than the ships bear through the Sound, more than Zealand’s bays can + show. Sophie at parting pressed his hand. In her eyes lay what his heart + might hope and dream. + </p> + <p> + He forgot that hope and dreams were the opposites of reality. + </p> + <p> + Cousin Joachim had gone to Stockholm, and would not return either in the + spring or summer to Funen. On the contrary, Otto intended to spend a few + weeks at the country-seat; not before August would he and Wilhelm travel. + There would at least be one happy moment, and many perhaps almost as + happy. In his room stood a rose-bush, the first buds formed themselves, + and opened their red lips—as pure and tender as these leaves was + Sophie’s cheek: he bent over the flower, smiled and read there sweet + thoughts which were related to his love. A rose-bud is a sweet mystery. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “The myriad leaves enmaze + Small labyrinthine ways + Where spicy odor flows, + Thou lovelv bud o’ the rose!” + </pre> + <p> + The day came on which Otto, after he had comfortably terminated his visits + of leave-taking, at midday, in the company of three young students + travelled away through Zealand. They had taken a carriage together as far + as Slagelse, where, like Abraham’s and Lot’s shepherds, they should + separate to the right and left. Otto remained alone, in order to travel + post that night to Nyborg. It was only four o’clock in the afternoon, Otto + had no acquaintance here, therefore it was but to take a walk. + </p> + <p> + “There still exist remains of the old Antvorskov convent, [Author’s Note: + The convent was founded by Waldemar I., 1177.] do there not?” asked he. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, but very little!” answered the host. “The convent became a castle, + the castle a private house, and now within the last few years, on account + of the stones, it has been still more pulled down. You will find nothing + old remaining, except here and there in the garden a piece of a red wall + standing out. But the situation is beautiful! If you will only take the + road toward the large village called Landsgrav, you are on the way to + Korsöer, and close to the cross of the holy Anders. It is a right pleasant + excursion!” + </p> + <p> + “Convent ruins and the holy cross!” said Otto; “that sounds quite + romantic!” And he commenced his wanderings. + </p> + <p> + A few scholars from the Latin school, with their books held together by a + strait, and then a square built lancer, who greeted in military style an + elderly-young lady, who was seated behind a barricade of geraniums and + wall flowers, were the only individuals he met with on his way. Yet Otto + remarked that the windows were opened as he passed; people wanted to see + who the stranger might be who was going up the street. + </p> + <p> + A long avenue led from the town to the castle. On either side the way lay + detached houses, with little gardens. Otto soon reached the remains of old + Antvorskov. The way was red from the stones which were flung about, and + were now ground to dust. Huge pieces of wall, where the mortar and stone + were united in one piece, lay almost concealed among the high nettles. + Rather more distant stood a solitary house of two stories. It was narrow, + and whitewashed. A thick pilaster, such as one sees in churches, supported + the strong wall. This was half of the last wing of the castle,—a + mingling of the ancient and incident, of ruin and dwelling-house. + </p> + <p> + Otto went into the garden, which was laid out upon the hill itself, and + its terraces. Here were only young trees; but the walks were everywhere + overgrown. The view stretched itself far over the plain, toward the Belt + and Funen. He descended from the terrace down to the lowest wall. In this + there yet remained a piece of an old tombstone, of the age of the convent, + on which you perceived the trace of a female form; and near to this the + figure of a skeleton, round which was twined a snake. Otto stood sunk in + contemplation, when an old man, with two water-buckets suspended from a + yoke on his shoulders, approached a near well. + </p> + <p> + The old man was very ready to commence a conversation. He told of + excavations, and of an underground passage which had not been discovered, + but which, according to his opinion, was certainly in existence. So far + they had only found a few walled-round spaces, which had most probably + been prisons. In one of these was an iron chain fastened into the wall. + But with regard to the underground passage, they had only not yet + discovered the right place, for it must exist. It led from here, deep + under the lake and forest, toward Soröe. There were large iron gates + below. At Christmas one could hear how they were swung to and fro. + “Whoever should have that which is concealed there,” said the old man, + “would be a made man, and need not neither slip nor slide.” + </p> + <p> + Otto looked at the solitary wing which rose up over the terrace. How + splendid it had been here in former times! + </p> + <p> + Close to the large wood, several miles in extent, which stretches itself + on the other side of Soröe, down to the shore of the King’s Brook, lay the + rich convent where Hans Tausen spoke what the Spirit inspired him with. + Times changed; the convent vanished; + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “Halls of state + Tower upon that spot elate; + Where the narrow cell once stood;” + [Author’s Note: Anders-skov, by Oehlenschläger.] +</pre> + <p> + where the monks sang psalms, knights and ladies danced to the sound of + beating drums: but these tone’s ceased; the blooming cheeks became dust. + It was again quiet. Many a pleasant time did Holberg ride over from Soröe, + through the green wood, to visit the steward of Antvorskov. Otto + recollected what one of his daughters, when an old woman, had related to a + friend of his. She was a child, and lay in the cradle, when old Holberg + came riding there, with a little wheaten loaf and a small pot of preserve + in his pocket—his usual provision on such little excursions. The + steward’s young wife sat at her spinning-wheel. Holberg paced up and down + the room with the husband; they were discussing politics. This interested + the wife, and she joined in the conversation. Holberg turned round to her,—“I + fancy the distaff speaks!” said he. This the wife could never forget. + [Translator’s Note: Rokkehoved, distaff, means also dunce in Danish.] + </p> + <p> + Otto smiled at this recollection of the witty but ungallant poet, quitted + the garden, and went through a winding hollow way, where the luxuriant + briers hung in rich masses over the stone fence. Slagelse, with its high + hills in the background, looked picturesque. He soon reached Landsgrav. + The sun went down as he walked over the field where the wooden cross + stands, with its figure of the Redeemer, in memory of the holy Anders. + Near it he perceived a man, who appeared to kneel. One hand held fast by + the cross; in the other was a sharp knife, with which he was probably + cutting out his name. He did not observe Otto. Near the man lay a box + covered with green oil-cloth; and in the grass lay a knapsack, a pair of + boots, and a knotty stick. It must be a wandering journeyman, or else a + pedlar. + </p> + <p> + Otto was about to return, when the stranger rose and perceived him. Otto + stood as if nailed to the earth. It was the German Heinrich whom he saw + before him. + </p> + <p> + “Is not that Mr. Thostrup?” said the man and that horrible grinning smile + played around his mouth. “No, that I did not expect!” + </p> + <p> + “Does it go well with you, Heinrich?” asked Otto. + </p> + <p> + “There’s room for things to mend!” replied Heinrich “It goes better with + you! Good Lord, that you should become such a grand gentleman! Who would + have thought it, when you rode on my knee, and I pricked you in the arm? + Things go on strangely in this world! Have you heard of your sister? She + was not so much spoiled as you! But she was a beautiful child!” + </p> + <p> + “I have neither seen her nor my parents!” replied he, with a trembling + which he strove to conquer. “Do you know where she is?” + </p> + <p> + “I am always travelling!” said Heinrich; “but thus much I know, that she + is still in Funen. Yes, she must take one of us, an unpretending husband! + You can choose a genteel young lady for yourself. That’s the way when + people are lucky. You will become a landed proprietor. Old Heinrich will + then no doubt obtain permission to exhibit his tricks on your estate? But + none of its will speak of former times!—of the red house on the + Odense water!” This last he whispered quite low. “I shall receive a few + shillings from you?” he asked. + </p> + <p> + “You shall have more!” said Otto, and gave to him. “But I wish us to + remain strangers to each other, as we are!” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, certainly, certainly!” said Heinrich, and nodded affirmatively with + his head, whilst his eyes rested on the gift Otto had presented him with. + “Then you are no longer angry with my joke in Jutland?” asked he with a + simpering smile, and kissed Otto’s hand. “I should not have known you + then. Had you not shown me your shoulder, on which I saw the letters O and + T which I myself had etched, it would never have occurred to me that we + knew each other! But a light suddenly flashed across me. I should have + said Otto Thostrup; but I said ‘Odense Tugt-huus.’ [Note: Odense house of + correction.] That was not handsome of me, seeing you are such a good + gentleman!” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, now adieu!” said Otto, and extended to him unwillingly his hand. + </p> + <p> + “There, our Saviour looks down upon us!” said the German Heinrich, and + fixed his eyes upon the figure on the cross. “As certainly as He lives may + you rely upon the silence of my mouth. He is my Redeemer, who hangs there + on the cross, just as he is etched upon my skin, and as he stands along + the high-roads in my father-land. Here is the only place in the whole + country where the sign of the cross stands under the free heaven; here I + worship: for you must know, Mr. Thostrup, I am not of your faith, but of + the faith of the Virgin Mary. Here I have cut into the wood the holy sign, + such as is placed over every door in my father-land,—an I, an H, and + this S. In this is contained my own name; for H stands for Heinrich; I, + for I myself; and S means Sinner; that is, I, Heinrich, Sinner. Now I have + completed my worship, and you have given me a handsome skilling, I shall + now go to my bed at the public-house; and if the girl is pretty, and lets + one flatter her, I am still young enough, and shall fancy that I am Mr. + Thostrup, and have won that most glorious, elegant young lady! Hurrah! it + is a player’s life which we lead!” + </p> + <p> + Otto left him, but heard how Heinrich sang: + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “Tri, ri, ro, + The summer comes once mo! + To beer, boys! to beer + The winter lies in bands, O! + And he who won’t come here, + We’ll trounce him with our wands, O! + Yo, yo, yo, + The summer comes once mo!” + </pre> + <p> + As, suddenly on a clear sunny day, a cloud can appear, extinguish the warm + sunshine, conceal the green coast, and change everything into gray mist + forms, so was it now with Otto, who had but just before felt himself so + happy and full of youthful joy. + </p> + <p> + “You can sleep quietly!” said the host, when Otto returned to Slagelse; + “you shall be wakened early enough to leave with the mail.” + </p> + <p> + But his rest was like a delirium. + </p> + <p> + The post-horn sounded in the empty street; they rolled away—it was + at daybreak. + </p> + <p> + “Is that a gallows?” inquired one of the travellers, and pointed toward + the hill, where at this distance the cross looked like a stake. + </p> + <p> + “That is the cross of the holy Anders!” replied Otto; and livingly stood + before him the recollections of the evening before. + </p> + <p> + “Does that really exist?” said the stranger. “I have read of it in the + ‘Letters of a Wandering Ghost.’” + </p> + <p> + This was a beautiful morning, the sun shone warmly, the sea was smooth as + a mirror, and so much the faster did the steamboat glide away. The vessel + with the mail, which had set sail two hours earlier, still lay not far + from land. The sails hung down loosely; not a breeze stirred them. + </p> + <p> + The steamboat glided close past her; the passengers in the mail-vessel, + the greater portion coachmen, travelling journeymen, and peasants, stood + on the deck to see it. They waved greetings. One of the foremost leaned on + his knotty stick, pulled off his hat, and shouted, “Good morning, my noble + gentlefolk!” It was the German Heinrich; he then was going to Funen. + Otto’s heart beat faster, he gazed down among the rushing waves which + foamed round the paddle, where the sunbeams painted a glorious rainbow. + </p> + <p> + “That is lovely!” said one of the strangers, close to him. + </p> + <p> + “Very lovely!” returned Otto, and stilled the sigh which would burst forth + from his breast. + </p> + <p> + Scarcely two hours were fled—the cables were flung upon the Nyborg + bridge of boats, and the steamboat made fast to the island of Funen. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0032" id="link2HCH0032"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXXII + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “It is so sweet when friendly hands bid you a hearty + welcome, so dear to behold well-known features, wherever you + turn your eyes. Everything seems so home-like and quiet + about you and in your own breast.” HENRIETTE HAUCK. +</pre> + <p> + Otto immediately hired a carriage, and reached the hall just about + dinner-time. In the interior court-yard stood two calashes and an Holstein + carriage; two strange coachmen, with lace round their hats, stood in + animated discourse when Otto drove in through the gate. The postilion blew + his horn. + </p> + <p> + “Be quiet there!” cried Otto. + </p> + <p> + “There are strangers at the hall!” said the postilion; “I will only let + them know that another is coming.” + </p> + <p> + Otto gazed at the garden, glanced up toward the windows, where mine of the + ladies showed themselves only out of a side building a female head was + stretched out, whose hair was put back underneath a cap. Otto recognized + the grown-together eyebrows. “Is she the first person I am to see here?” + sighed he; and the carriage rolled into the inner court. The dogs barked, + the turkey-cocks gobbled, but not Wilhelm showed himself. The Kammerjunker + came—the excellent neighbor! and immediately afterward Sophie; both + exclaimed with smiles, “Welcome!” + </p> + <p> + “See, here we have our man!” said the Kammerjunker; “we can make use of + him in the play!” + </p> + <p> + “It is glorious you are come!” cried Sophie. “We shall immediately put you + under arrest.” She extended her hand to him—he pressed it to his + lips. “We will have tableaux vivants this evening!” said she: “the pastor + has never seen any. We have no service from Wilhelm; he is in Svendborg, + and will not return for two days. You must be the officer; the + Kammerjunker will represent the Somnambulist, who comes with her light + through the window. Will you?” + </p> + <p> + “Everything you desire!” said Otto. + </p> + <p> + “Do not speak of it!” returned Sophie, and laid her finger on her lips. + The mother descended the steps. + </p> + <p> + “Dear Thostrup!” said she, and pressed, with warm cordiality, both his + hands. “I have really quite yearned after you. Now Wilhelm is away, you + must for two whole days put up with us alone.” + </p> + <p> + Otto went through the long passage where hung the old portraits; it was as + if these also wished welcome. It only seemed a night full of many dreams + which had passed since he was here; a year in the lapse of time is also + not so long as a winter’s night in the life of man. + </p> + <p> + Here it was so agreeable, so home-like; no one could have seen by the + trees that since then they had stood stripped of leaves and covered with + snow; luxuriantly green they waved themselves in the sun’s warmth, just as + when Otto last gazed out of this window. + </p> + <p> + He had the red room as before. The dinner-bell rang. + </p> + <p> + Louise met him in the passage. + </p> + <p> + “Thostrup!” exclaimed she, with delight, and seized his hand. “Now, it is + almost a year and a day since I saw you!” + </p> + <p> + “Yes much has happened in this year!” said the Kammerjunker. “Come soon to + me, and you shall see what I have had made for pastime—a + bowling-green! Miss Sophie has tried her skill upon it.” + </p> + <p> + The Kammerjunker took the mother to dinner. Otto approached Sophie. + </p> + <p> + “Will you not take the Kammerjunker’s sister?” whispered she. + </p> + <p> + Mechanically, Otto made his bow before Miss Jakoba. + </p> + <p> + “Take one of the young ladies!” said she; “you would rather do that?” + </p> + <p> + Otto bowed, cast a glance toward Sophie; she had the old pastor. Otto + smiled, and conducted Jakoba to table. + </p> + <p> + The Mamsell, renowned through her work-box, sat on his left hand. He + observed the company who, beside those we have already mentioned, + consisted of several ladies and gentlemen whom he did not know. One chair + was empty, but it was soon occupied; a young girl, quiet in her attire, + and dressed like Louise, entered. + </p> + <p> + “Why do you come so late?” asked Sophie, smiling. + </p> + <p> + “That is only known to Eva and me!” said Louise, and smiled at the young + girl. + </p> + <p> + Eva seated herself. It was, perhaps, the complete resemblance of their + dress which induced Otto to observe both her and Louise so closely, and + even against his own will to draw comparisons. Both wore a simple dark + brown dress, a small sea-green handkerchief round the neck. Louise seemed + to him enchanting—pretty one could not call her: Eva, on the + contrary, was ideal; there lay something in her appearance which made him + think of the pale pink hyacinth. Every human being has his invisible + angel, says the mythos; both are different and yet resemble each other. + Eva was the angel; Louise, on the contrary, the human being in all its + purity. Otto’s eyes encountered those of Sophie—they were both + directed to the same point. “What power! what beauty!” thought he. Her + mind is far above that of Louise, and in beauty she is a gorgeous flower, + and not, like Eva, a fine, delicate hyacinth. He drew eloquence from these + eyes, and became interesting like the cousin, although he had not been in + Paris. + </p> + <p> + The Kammerjunker spoke of sucking-pigs, but that also was interesting; + perhaps be drew his inspiration out of the same source as Otto. He spoke + of the power of green buckwheat, and how the swine which eat it become + mad. From this doubtless originated the legend of the devil entering into + the swine. It is only coal-black pigs which can digest green buckwheat; if + they have a single white speck upon them, they become ill at eating. “This + is extraordinary,” exclaimed he. + </p> + <p> + In his enthusiasm his discourse became almost a cry, which caused Miss + Jakoba to say that one might almost think that he himself had eaten green + buckwheat. + </p> + <p> + Otto meantime cut out of the green melon-peel a man, and made him ride on + the edge of his glass; that withdrew Sophie’s attention from the + Kammerjunker. The whole company found that this little cut-out figure was + very pretty; and the Mamsell begged that she might have it—it should + lie in her work-box. + </p> + <p> + Toward evening all were in preparation for the approaching tableaux. + </p> + <p> + Eva must represent Hero. With a torch in her hand she must kneel on a + table, which was to be draped so as to represent a balcony. The poor girl + felt quite unhappy at having to appear in this manner. Sophie laughed at + her fear, and assured her that she would be admired, and that therefore + she must and should. + </p> + <p> + “Give way to my sister,” said Louise, in a beseeching voice; and Eva was + ready, let down her long brown hair, and allowed Sophie to arrange the + drapery. + </p> + <p> + Otto must put on an officer’s uniform. He presented himself to the + sisters. + </p> + <p> + “That gold is not sewn fast on the collar,” said Sophie, and undertook to + rectify it. He could easily keep the uniform on whilst she did this, said + she. Her soft hand touched Otto’s cheek, it was like an electric shock to + him; his blood burned; how much he longed to press the hand to his lips! + </p> + <p> + They all burst out laughing when the Kammerjunker appeared in a white + petticoat which only reached a little below the knee, and in a large white + lady’s dressing-jacket. Miss Sophie must arrange his hair. She did it + charmingly; her hand stroked the hair away from his brow, and glided over + his cheeks: he kissed it; she struck him in the face, and begged him not + to forget himself! “We are ladies,” said he, and rose in his full + splendor. They all laughed except Otto; he could not—he felt a + desire to beat him. The spectators arranged themselves in a dark room, the + folding doors were opened. + </p> + <p> + Eva as Hero, in a white linen robe, her hair hanging down on her + shoulders, and a torch in her hand, gazed out over the sea. No painter + could have imagined anything more beautiful; the large dark-blue eyes + expressed tenderness and melancholy; it was Eva’s natural glance, but here + you saw her quiet. The fine black eyebrows increased the expression, the + whole figure was as if breathed into the picture. + </p> + <p> + Now followed a new picture—Faust and Margaret in the arbor; behind + stood Mephistophiles, with his devilish smile. The Kammerjunker’s Mamsell + was Margaret. When the doors were opened she sent forth aloud cry, and ran + away; she would not stay, she was so afraid. The group was disarranged, + people laughed and found it amusing, but the Kammerjunker scolded aloud, + and swore that she should come in again; at that the laughter of the + spectators increased, and was not lessened when the Kammerjunker, + forgetting his costume as the Somnambule, half stepped into the frame in + which the pictures were represented, and seated the Mamsell on the bench. + This group was only seen for one moment: the dorors were again closed; the + spectators applauded, but a whistle was heard. Laughter, and the hum of + conversation, resounded through the room; and it was impossible to obtain + perfect quiet, although a new picture already shone in the frame. It was + Sophie as Correggio’s “Magdalene”: her rich hair fell in waves over her + shoulders and round arms; before her lay the skull and the holy book. + </p> + <p> + Otto’s blood flowed faster; never had he seen Sophie more beautiful. The + audience, however, could not entirely forget the comic scene which they + had just witnessed; there was heard a faint suppressed laughter. + </p> + <p> + This at length was able to take its free course when the following picture + presented itself, where the Kammerjunker, as the Somnambule, his hand + half-concealing the extinguished light, showed himself at the open window. + </p> + <p> + A most stormy burst of applause was awarded to the actors. + </p> + <p> + “Miss Sophie has arranged the whole!” cried the Kammerjunker, and now her + name sounded from the lips of all the audience. + </p> + <p> + Not before two days did Wilhelm return. He and Otto slept in the same + apartment. Otto told of the tableaux, and said how lovely Eva had been as + Hero. + </p> + <p> + “That I can well believe,” replied Wilhelm, but did not enter further into + the subject; he laughed about the Kammerjunker and the disarranged group. + </p> + <p> + Otto again named Eva, but Wilhelm lightly passed over this subject in his + replies. Otto could not fathom their connection. + </p> + <p> + “Shall we not go to sleep?” said Wilhelm; they wished each other + good-night, and it was quiet. + </p> + <p> + The old man Sleep, as Tieck has described him, with the box out of which + he brings his dream-puppets, now commenced his nightly dramatic + adventures, which lasted until the sun shone in through the window. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0033" id="link2HCH0033"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXXIII + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “He draws nearer and nearer to her. + ‘O, give my hope an answer by this pink-flower.’ + She sighs: ‘O, I will—no—I will not.’” + The Dancer, by PALUDAN-MÜLLER +</pre> + <p> + “I shall get to know!” thought Otto. “This violent love cannot be + evaporated.” He paid attention to every little occurrence. Eva was the + same quiet, modest creature as formerly—a house-fairy who exercised + a friendly influence over all. Wilhelm spoke with her, but not with + passion, neither with affected indifference. However, we cannot entirely + rely upon Otto’s power of observation: his glance was directed too often + toward a dearer object—his attention was really directed to Sophie. + </p> + <p> + They walked in the garden. + </p> + <p> + “Once as you certainly know,” said Otto, “your brother had a fancy for the + pretty Eva. Is it not, therefore, somewhat dangerous her living here? Has + your mother been prudent?” + </p> + <p> + “For Wilhelm I am quite unconcerned!” answered Sophie. “Only take care of + yourself! Eva is very amiable, and has very much changed for the better + since she came here. My sister Louise quite raves about her, and my mother + regards her almost as an adopted daughter. You have certainly remarked + that she is not kept in the background. Yet she is weak; she resembles the + tender mountain-flowers which grow in ice and snow, but which bow their + heads in the soft mountain air, when it is warmed by the sun. It really + seems to me that she is become weaker since she has enjoyed our care and + happy days. When I saw her at Roeskelde she was far more blooming.” + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps she thinks of your brother—thinks of him with quiet + sorrow?” + </p> + <p> + “That I do not think is the case,” replied Sophie; “otherwise Louise would + have heard something of it. She possesses Eva’s entire confidence. You may + make yourself easy, if you are jealous!” + </p> + <p> + “What make you conjecture this? My thoughts are directed above, and not + beneath me!” said he, with a kind of pride, “I feel that I could never + fall in love with Eva. Feel love toward her? no! Even when I think of it, + I feel almost as though I had some prejudice against her. But you joke; + you will rally me, as you have so often done. We shall soon part! Only two + months longer shall I remain in Denmark! Two long years abroad! How much + may occur in that time! Will you think of me—really think of me, + Miss Sophie?” He bent, and kissed her hand. + </p> + <p> + Sophie became crimson. Both were silent. + </p> + <p> + “Are you here!” said the mother, who came out of a side walk. + </p> + <p> + Otto stooped lower, and broke one of the beautiful stocks which hung over + the border. + </p> + <p> + “Are you taking Louise’s favorite flowers?” said she, smiling. “This bed + is declared to be inviolable.” + </p> + <p> + “I was so unfortunate as to break it!” said Otto, confused. + </p> + <p> + “He wished to gather the dark-red pink for my table-garland!” said Sophie. + “If he took it, my conscience would be clear!” + </p> + <p> + And they all three walked along speaking of cherries, gooseberries, of the + linen on the bleaching-ground, and of the warm summer’s day. + </p> + <p> + In the evening Eva and the two sisters sat at their work, Otto and Wilhelm + had taken their seats beside them. They spoke of Copenhagen. + </p> + <p> + Sophie knew how to introduce a number of little anecdotes, which she had + gathered among the young ladies there. Otto entered into her ideas, and + knew cleverly how to support what she said. What in reality interested + young ladies was discussed. + </p> + <p> + “When a girl is confirmed, all manner of fancies awake!” said Otto. “She + experiences a kind of inclination for the heart of man; but this may not + be acknowledged, except for two friends to the clergyman and the + physician. For these she has quite a passion, especially for the former; + she stands in a kind of spiritual rapport with him. His physical + amiability melts into the spiritual. Thus her first love one may designate + clergyman-love.” + </p> + <p> + “That is well said!” exclaimed Sophie. + </p> + <p> + “He preaches himself so deeply into her heart!” pursued Otto. “She melts + into tears, kisses his hand, and goes to church; but not for the sake of + God, but on account of the sweet clergyman!” + </p> + <p> + “O, I know that so well!” said Sophie, and laughed. + </p> + <p> + “Fie! you do not mean so!” said Louise; “and I do not know how you can say + such a thing Mr. Thostrup! That is frightful! You do not in the least know + a young girl’s soul! do not know the pure feeling with which she inclines + herself to the man who has laid open before her the holy things of + religion! Do not make sport of the innocent, the pure, which is so far + removed from every earthly impression!” + </p> + <p> + “I assure you,” said Otto, smiling, “were I a poet, I would make the + clergyman-love ridiculous in a hundred witty epigrams; and were I a + teacher, I would protest against it from the chair.” + </p> + <p> + “That would be scattering poison into a well!” said Louise. “You, as a + man, do not know the pure, the holy sentiment which exists in a young + girl’s bosom. Eva, thou art certainly of my opinion?” + </p> + <p> + “Neither is this Mr. Thostrup’s opinion?” answered she, and looked at him + with a mild gravity. + </p> + <p> + Wilhelm laughed aloud. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0034" id="link2HCH0034"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXXIV + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “Alas, I am no sturdy oak! + Alas, I’m but the flower + That wakes the kiss of May! + And when has fled its little hour, + Will voice of Death obey.”—RUCKERT. +</pre> + <p> + The following afternoon came visitors—two young ladies from Nyborg, + friends of Sophie and Louise. Before dinner they would take a walk through + the wood to an inclosure where the flax was in bloom. Otto was to + accompany them. + </p> + <p> + “I am also of the party!” said the Kammerjunker, who just galloped into + the court-yard as the ladies, with Otto, were about setting out on their + excursion. Thus the whole company consisted of five ladies and two + gentlemen. + </p> + <p> + “The cows are not in the field over which we must go, are they?” asked + Eva. + </p> + <p> + “No, my good girl!” returned Sophie; “you may be quite easy! Besides, we + have two gentlemen with us.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes; but they would not be able to protect us from the unruly bullocks!” + said Louise. “But we have nothing to fear. Where we are going the cows do + not go until after they are milked. I am no heroine! Besides, it is not + long since one bullock nearly gored the cowherd to death. He also gored + Sidsel a great hole in her arm just lately: you remember the girl with her + eyebrows grown together?” + </p> + <p> + “There is also in the wood a wild sow, with eleven sucking pigs!” said + Sophie, in ironical gravity; “it would not be agree able to meet with + her!” + </p> + <p> + “She is almost as dangerous as the bullocks!” said the Kammerjunker, and + laughed at Eva. + </p> + <p> + The conversation took another turn. + </p> + <p> + “Shall we not visit Peter Cripple?” asked Sophie. “The gentlemen can then + see the smith’s pretty daughter; she is really too beautiful to be his + wife!” + </p> + <p> + “Is Peter Cripple married?” inquired Otto. + </p> + <p> + “No, the wedding will be held on Sunday!” replied the Kammerjunker; “but + the bride is already in the house. The bans were published last Sunday, + and they immediately commenced housekeeping together. This often takes + place even earlier, when a man cannot do without a wife. She has taken him + on account of his full money-bags!” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, with the peasant it is seldom love which brings about the affair!” + said Louise. “Last year there was quite a young girl who married a man who + might have been her grandfather. She took him only, she said, because he + had such a good set of earthenware.” + </p> + <p> + “These were very brittle things to marry upon!” remarked Otto. + </p> + <p> + Meantime they were nearly come to the edge of the wood. Here stood a + little house; hops hung luxuriantly over the hedge, the cat stood with + bent back upon the crumbling edge of the well. + </p> + <p> + Sophie, at the head of the whole company, stepped into the room, where + Peter Cripple sat on the table sewing; but, light and active as an elf, he + sprang down from the table to kiss her hand. The smith’s pretty daughter + was stirring something in an iron pot in the hearth. St. John’s wort, + stuck between the beams and the ceiling, shot forth in luxuriant growth, + prophesying long life to the inhabitants of the house. On the sooty + ceiling glittered herrings’ souls, as a certain portion of the herring’s + entrails is called, and which Peter Cripple, following the popular belief, + had flung up to the ceiling, convinced that so long as they hung there he + should be freed from the ague. + </p> + <p> + Otto took no part in the conversation, but turned over a quantity of songs + which he found; they were stitched together in a piece of blue + tobacco-paper. The principal contents were, “New, Melancholy Songs,” “Of + the Horrible Murder,” “The Audacious Criminal,” “The Devil in Salmon + Lane,” “Boat’s Fall,” and such things; which have now supplanted, among + the peasants, the better old popular songs. + </p> + <p> + With Louise, Eva, and one of the ladies from Nyborg, Otto slowly preceded + the others, who had still some pleasantries to say before leaving Peter + Cripple and his bride. + </p> + <p> + “Shall we not go over the inclosure to the cairn?” said Louise. “It is + clear to-day; we shall see Zealand. The others will follow us; here, from + the foot-path, they will immediately discover us.” + </p> + <p> + Otto opened the gate and they went through the inclosure. They had already + advanced a considerable way, when the Kammerjunker and his ladies reached + the foot-path from which they could see the others. + </p> + <p> + “They are going to the cairn,” said he. + </p> + <p> + “Then they will have a little fright!” said Sophie. “Down in the corner of + the inclosure lie the young cattle. They may easily mistake them for cows, + and the wild bullocks!” + </p> + <p> + “Had we not better call them back?” asked the other lady. + </p> + <p> + “But we must frighten them a little,” said Sophie. “Shout to them that + there are the cows!” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, that I can do with a clear conscience!” said the Kammerjunker; and + he shouted as loud as he could, “There are the cows! Turn back! turn + back!” + </p> + <p> + Eva heard it the first. “O God!” said she, “hear what they are calling to + us!” + </p> + <p> + Otto glanced around, but saw no cows. + </p> + <p> + “They are standing still!” said Sophie; “call once again!” + </p> + <p> + The Kammerjunker shouted as before, and Sophie imitated the lowing of the + cows. At this noise the young cattle arose. + </p> + <p> + Louise now became aware of them. “O heavens!” exclaimed she; “there, down + in the corner of the inclosure, are all the cows!” + </p> + <p> + “Let us run!” cried Eva, and took to flight. + </p> + <p> + “For God’s sake, do not run!” cried Otto; “walk slowly and quietly, + otherwise they may come!” + </p> + <p> + “Come away, away!” resounded from the wood. + </p> + <p> + “O Lord!” shrieked Eva, when she saw the creatures raise their tails in + the air as soon as they perceived the fugitives. + </p> + <p> + “Now they are coming!” cried the lady who accompanied them, and sent forth + a loud scream. + </p> + <p> + Eva fled first, as if borne by the wind; the lady followed her, and Louise + ran on after them. + </p> + <p> + Otto now really saw all the cattle, which, upon the ladies flight, had + instinctively followed, chasing over the field after them in the same + direction. + </p> + <p> + Nothing now remained for him but, like the others, to reach the gate. This + he opened, and had just closed again, when the cattle were close upon + them, but no one had eyes to see whether the cattle were little or big. + </p> + <p> + “Now there is no more danger!” cried Otto, as soon as he had well closed + the gate; but the ladies still fled on, passing among the trees until they + reached the spot where the Kammerjunker and his two ladies awaited them + with ringing laughter. + </p> + <p> + Sophie was obliged to support herself against a tree through all the + amusement. It had been a most remarkable spectacle, this flight; Eva at + the head, and Mr. Thostrup rushing past them to open the gate. Louise was + pale as death, and her whole body trembled; the friend supported her arm + and forehead on a tree, and drew a long breath. + </p> + <p> + “Bah!” again cried Sophie, and laughed. + </p> + <p> + “But where is Eva?” asked Otto, and shouted her name. + </p> + <p> + “She ran here before me!” said Louise; “she is doubtless leaning against a + tree, and recovering her strength.” + </p> + <p> + “Eva!” cried Sophie. “Where is my hero: ‘I want a hero!’” [Author’s Note: + Byron’s Don Juan.] + </p> + <p> + Otto returned to seek her. At this moment Wilhelm arrived. + </p> + <p> + The Kammerjunker regretted that he had not seen the race with them, and + related the whole history to him. + </p> + <p> + “O come! come!” they heard Otto shout. They found him kneeling in the high + grass. Eva lay stretched out on the ground; she was as pale as death; her + head rested in Otto’s lap. + </p> + <p> + “God in heaven!” cried Wilhelm, and flung himself down before her. “Eva! + Eva! O, she is dead! and thou art to blame for it, Sophie! Thou hast + killed her!” Reproachfully he fixed his eyes on his sister. She burst into + tears, and concealed her face in her hands. + </p> + <p> + Otto ran to the peasant’s cottage and brought water. Peter Cripple himself + hopped like a mountain-elf behind him through the high nettles and + burdocks, which closed above and behind him again. + </p> + <p> + The Kammerjunker took Eva in his strong arms and carried her to the + cottage. Wilhelm did not leave hold of her hand. The others followed in + silence. + </p> + <p> + “Try and get her home,” said Wilhelm; “I myself will fetch the physician!” + He rushed forth, and hastened through the wood to the ball, where he + ordered the men to bring out a sedan-chair for the invalid; then had + horses put into one of the lightest carriages, seated himself in it as + coachman, and drove away to Nyborg, the nearest town, which, however, was + distant almost twenty miles. + </p> + <p> + Sophie was inconsolable. “It is my fault!” she said, and wept. + </p> + <p> + Otto found her sitting before the house, under an elder-tree. She could + not endure to see Eva’s paleness. + </p> + <p> + “You are innocent,” said Otto. “Believe me, to-morrow Eva will be + completely restored! She herself,” added he, in an assuaging tone, + “behaved in an imprudent manner. I warned her not to run. Her own terror + is to blame for all.” + </p> + <p> + “No, no,” returned Sophie; “my folly, my extravagance, has caused the + whole misfortune!” + </p> + <p> + “Now it is much better,” said the Kammerjunker, coming out of the house. + “She must be devilish tender to fly before a few calves! I really must + laugh when I think of it, although it did come to such an end!” + </p> + <p> + The men now arrived whom Wilhelm had sent with the sedan-chair. + </p> + <p> + Eva thought she could walk, if she might lean upon some one; but it would + be better, her friends thought, if she were carried. + </p> + <p> + “Dost thou feel any pain?” asked Louise, and gave her a sisterly kiss on + the brow. + </p> + <p> + “No, none at all,” replied Eva. “Do not scold me for having frightened you + so. I am so fearful, and the bullock were close behind us.” + </p> + <p> + “They were, God help me, only calves!” answered the Kammerjunker; “they + wished to play, and only ran because you ran!” + </p> + <p> + “It was a foolish joke of mine!” said Sophie, and seized Eva’s hand. “I am + very unhappy about it!” + </p> + <p> + “O no!” said Eva, and smiled so pensively, yet happily. “To-morrow I shall + be quite well again!” Her eye seemed to seek some one. + </p> + <p> + Otto understood the glance. “The physician is sent for. Wilhelm has + himself driven over for him.” + </p> + <p> + Toward the middle of the wood the mother herself approached them; she was + almost as pale as Eva. + </p> + <p> + All sought to calm her; Eva bowed her head to kiss the good lady’s hand. + The Kammerjunker told the story to her, and she shook her head. “What an + imprudent, foolish joke!” said she; “here you see the consequences!” + </p> + <p> + Not before late in the afternoon did Wilhelm return with the physician; he + found his patient out of all danger, but prescribed what should still be + done. Quiet and the warm summer air would do the most for her. + </p> + <p> + “See,” said Otto, when, toward evening he met Sophie in the garden, + “to-day Wilhelm did not conceal his feelings!” + </p> + <p> + “I fear that you are right!” returned Sophie. “He loves Eva, and that is + very unfortunate. Tell me what you know about it.” + </p> + <p> + “I know almost nothing!” said Otto, and told about little Jonas and the + first meeting with Eva. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, that he has told us already himself! But do you know nothing more?” + Her voice became soft, and her eyes gazed full of confidence into Otto’s. + </p> + <p> + He related to her the short conversation which he had had last autumn with + Wilhelm, how angry he had been with his candid warning, and how since then + they had never spoken about Eva. + </p> + <p> + “I must confide my fear to our mother!” said Sophie. “I almost now am glad + that he will travel in two months, although we shall then lose you also!” + </p> + <p> + And Otto’s heart beat; the secret of his heart pressed to his lips; every + moment he would speak it. But Sophie had always still another question + about her brother; they were already out of the garden, already in the + court-yard, and yet Otto had said nothing. + </p> + <p> + Therefore was he so quiet when, late in the evening, he and Wilhelm + entered their chamber. Wilhelm also spoke no word, but his eye repeatedly + rested expectantly on Otto, as if waiting for him to break the silence. + Wilhelm stepped to the open window and drank in the fresh air, suddenly he + turned round, flung his arms round Otto, and exclaimed, “I can no longer + endure it! I must say it to some one! I love her, and will never give her + up, let every one be opposed! I have now silently concealed my feelings + for some months; I can do so no longer, or I shall become ill, and for + that I am not made!” + </p> + <p> + “Does she know this?” asked Otto. + </p> + <p> + “No, and yes! I do not know what I should answer! Here at home I have + never spoken alone with her. The last time when Weyse played on the organ + at Roeskelde I had bought a pretty silk handkerchief, and this I took with + me for her; I know not, but I wished to give her pleasure. There came a + woman past with lovely stocks; I stood at the open window; she offered me + a bouquet, and I bought it. ‘Those are lovely flowers!’ said Eva, when she + entered. ‘They will fade with me!’ said I; ‘put them in water and keep + there for yourself!’ She wished only to have a few, but I obliged her to + take them all: she blushed, and her eyes gazed strangely down into my + soul. I know not what sort of a creature I became, but it was impossible + for me to give her the handkerchief; it seemed to me that this would + almost be an offense. Eva went away with the flowers, but the next morning + it seemed to me that she was uneasy; I fancied I saw her color come and go + when I bade her adieu! She must have read the thoughts in my soul!” + </p> + <p> + “And the handkerchief?” interrupted Otto. + </p> + <p> + “I gave it to my sister Sophie,” said Wilhelm. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0035" id="link2HCH0035"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXXV + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “Tell me + What would my heart? + My heart’s with thee, + With thee would have a part.” + GOETHE’S West-östlicher Divan. + + “There stands the man again— + The man with gloomy mien.” + Memories of Travel, by B. C. INGEMANN. +</pre> + <p> + Several days passed; the fine crimson again returned to Eva’s cheeks. The + first occasion of her going out with the others was to see the rape-stalks + burned. These were piled together in two immense stacks. In the morning, + at the appointed hour, which had been announced through the neighborhood + that no one might mistake it for a conflagration, the stalks were set fire + to. This took place in the nearest field, close beside the hall, where the + rape-seed was threshed upon an out-spread sail. + </p> + <p> + The landscape-painter, Dahl, has given us a picture of the burning + Vesuvius, where the red lava pours down the side of the mountain; in the + background one sees across the bay as far as Naples and Ischia: it is a + piece full of great effect. Such a splendid landscape is not to be found + in flat Denmark, where there are no great natural scenes, and yet this + morning presented even there a picture with the same brilliant coloring. + We will study it. In the foreground there is a hedge of hazels, the nuts + hang in great clusters, and contrast strongly with their bright green + against the dark leaves; the blue chicory-flower and the blood-red poppy + grew on the side of the ditch, upon which are some tall rails, over which + the ladies have to climb: the delicate sylph-like figure is Eva. In the + field, where nothing remains but the yellow stubble, stand Otto and + Wilhelm; two magnificent hounds wag their tails beside them. To the left + is a little lake, thickly overgrown with reeds and water-lilies, with the + yellow trollius for its border. In the front, where the wood retreats, + lie, like a great stack, the piled-together rape-stalks: the man has + struck fire, has kindled the outer side of them, and with a rapidity like + that of the descending lava the red fire flashes up the gigantic pile. It + crackles and roars within it. In a moment it is all a burning mound; the + red flames flash aloft into the blue air, high above the wood which is now + no longer visible. A thick black smoke ascends up into the clear air, + where it rests like a cloud. Out of the flames, and even out of the smoke, + the wind carries away large masses of fire, which, crackling and cracking, + are borne on to the wood, and which fill the spectator with apprehension + of their falling upon the nearest trees and burning up leaf and branch. + </p> + <p> + “Let us go further off,” said Sophie; “the heat is too great here.” + </p> + <p> + They withdrew to the ditch. + </p> + <p> + “O, how many nuts!” exclaimed Wilhelm; “and I do not get one of them! I + shall go after them if they be ripe.” + </p> + <p> + “But you have grapes and other beautiful fruit!” said Eva smiling. “We + have our beautiful things at home!” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, it is beautiful, very beautiful at home!” exclaimed Wilhelm; + “glorious flowers, wild nuts; and there we have Vesuvius before us!” He + pointed to the burning pile. + </p> + <p> + “No,” said Sophie; “it seems to me much more like the pile upon which the + Hindoo widow lays herself alive to be burned! That must be horrible!” + </p> + <p> + “One should certainly be very quickly dead!” said Eva. + </p> + <p> + “Would you actually allow yourself to be burned to death, if you were a + Hindoo widow—after, for instance, Mr. Thostrup, or after Wilhelm,” + said she, with a slight embarrassment, “if he lay dead in the fire?” + </p> + <p> + “If it were the custom of the country, and I really had lost the only + support which I had in the world—yes, so I would!” + </p> + <p> + “O, no, no!” said Louise. + </p> + <p> + “In fact it is brilliant!” exclaimed Sophie. + </p> + <p> + “Burning is not, perhaps, the most painful of deaths!” said Otto, and + plucked in an absent manner the nuts from the hedge. “I know a story about + a true conflagration.” + </p> + <p> + “What is it like?” asked Wilhelm. + </p> + <p> + “Yet it is not a story to tell in a large company; it can only be heard + when two and two are together. When I have an opportunity, I shall tell + it!” + </p> + <p> + “O, I know it!” said Wilhelm. “You can relate it to one of my sisters + there, whichever you like best! Then I shall—yes, I must relate it + to Eva!” + </p> + <p> + “It is too early in the day to hear stories told!” said Louise; “let us + rather sing a song!” + </p> + <p> + “No, then we shall have to weep in the evening,” replied Wilhelm. And they + had neither the song nor the story. + </p> + <p> + Mamma came wandering with Vasserine, the old, faithful hound: they two + also wished to see how beautiful the burning looked. It succeeded + excellently with the rape-stalks; but the other burning, of which the + story was to be told, it did not yet arrive at an outbreak! It might be + expected, however, any hour in the day. + </p> + <p> + In the evening Otto walked alone through the great chestnut avenue. The + moon shone brightly between the tree-branches. When he entered the + interior court Wilhelm and Sophie skipped toward him, but softly, very + softly. They lifted their hands as if to impress silence. + </p> + <p> + “Come and see!” said Sophie; “it is a scene which might be painted! it + goes on merrily in the servants’ hall; one can see charmingly through the + window!” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, come!” said Wilhelm. + </p> + <p> + Otto stole softly forward. The lights shone forth. + </p> + <p> + Within there was laughter and loud talking; one struck upon the table, + another sung,— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “And I will away to Prussia land, + Hurrah! + And when I am come to Prussia land, + Hurrah!” [Note: People’s song.] +</pre> + <p> + Otto looked in through the window. + </p> + <p> + Several men and maids sat within at the long wooden table at the end of + this stood Sidsel in a bent attitude, her countenance was of a deep + crimson; she spoke a loud oath and laughed—no one imagined that they + were observed. All eyes were riveted upon a great fellow who, with his + shirt-sleeves rolled up, and a pewter tankard in his hand, was standing + there. It was the German Heinrich, who was exhibiting to them his + conjuring tricks. Otto turned pale; had the dead arisen from the bier + before him it could not have shocked him more. + </p> + <p> + “Hocus-pocus Larifari!” cried Heinrich within, and gave the tankard to a + half-grown fellow, of the age between boy and man. + </p> + <p> + “If thou hast already a sweetheart,” said he; “then the corn which is + within it will be turned to flour; but if thou art still only a young + cuckoo, then it will remain only groats.” + </p> + <p> + “Nay, Anders Peersen!” said all the girls laughing, “now we shall see + whether thou art a regular fellow!” + </p> + <p> + Sophie stole away. + </p> + <p> + The echoing laughter and clapping of hands announced the result. + </p> + <p> + “Is it not the same person who was playing conjuring tricks in the park?” + inquired Wilhelm. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, certainly,” replied Otto; “he is to me quite repulsive!” And so + saying, he followed Sophie. + </p> + <p> + Late in the evening, when all had betaken themselves to rest, Wilhelm + proposed to Otto that they should make a little tour, as he called it. + </p> + <p> + “I fancy Meg Merrilies, as my sister calls Sidsel,” said he, “has made a + conquest of the conjuror, although he might be her father. They have been + walking together down the avenue; they have been whispering a deal + together; probably he will to-night sleep in one of the barns. I must go + and look after him; he will be lying there and smoking his pipe, and may + set our whole place on fire. Shall we go down together? We can take + Vasserine and Fingel with us.” + </p> + <p> + “Let him sleep!” said Otto; “he will not be so mad as to smoke tobacco in + the straw! To speak candidly, I do not wish to be seen by him. He was + several times at my grandfather’s house. I have spoken with him, and now + that I dislike him I do not wish to see him!” + </p> + <p> + “Then I will go alone!” said Wilhelm. + </p> + <p> + Otto’s heart beat violently; he stood at the open window and looked out + over the dark wood, which was lit up by the moon. Below in the court he + heard Wilhelm enticing the dogs out. He heard yet another voice, it was + that of the steward, and then all was again silent. Otto thought upon the + German Heinrich and upon Sophie, his life’s good and bad angels; and he + pictured to himself how it would be if she extended to him her hand—was + his bride! and Heinrich called forth before her the recollections which + made his blood curdle. + </p> + <p> + It seemed to him as if something evil impended over him this night. “I + feel a forewarning of it!” said he aloud. + </p> + <p> + Wilhelm came not yet back. + </p> + <p> + Almost an hour passed thus. Wilhelm entered, both dogs were with him; they + were miry to their very sides. + </p> + <p> + “Did you meet any one?” inquired Otto. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, there was some one,” said Wilhelm, “but not in the barn. The stupid + dogs seemed to lose their nature; it was as if there was a somebody + stealing along the wall, and through the reeds in the moat. The hounds + followed in there; you can see how they look!—but they came the next + moment back again, whined, and hung down their ears and tails. I could not + make them go in again. Then the steward was superstitious! But, however, + it could only be either the juggler, or one of the servant-men who had + stilts. How otherwise any one could go in among the reeds without getting + up to their necks, I cannot conceive!” + </p> + <p> + All was again perfectly still without. The two friends went to the open + window, threw their arms over each other’s shoulders, and looked out into + the silent night. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0036" id="link2HCH0036"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXXVI. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “Bring’ häusliche Hülfe + Incubus! incubus. + Tritt herhor und mache den Schluss.” + GOETHE’s Faust. + + “Es giebt so bange Zeiten, + Es giebt so trüben Muth!”—NOVALIS. +</pre> + <p> + The next morning Wilhelm related his evening adventure at the + breakfast-table; the sisters laughed at it. The mother, on the contrary, + was silent, left the room, and after some time returned. + </p> + <p> + “There have been thieves here!” said she, “and one might almost imagine + that they were persons in the household itself. They have been at the + press where the table-linen is kept, and have not been sparing in their + levies. The beautiful old silver tankard, which I inherited from my + grandmother, is also missing. I would much sooner have given the value of + the silver than have lost that piece!” + </p> + <p> + “Will not the lady let it be tried by the sieve?” asked the old servant: + “that is a pretty sure way!” + </p> + <p> + “That is nothing but superstition,” answered she; “in that way the + innocent may so easily be suspected.” + </p> + <p> + “As the lady pleases!” said the servant, and shook his head. + </p> + <p> + In the mean time a search through the house was instituted. The boxes of + the domestics were examined, but nothing was discovered. + </p> + <p> + “If you would only let the sieve be tried!” said the old servant. + </p> + <p> + In the afternoon Otto went into the garden; he fell into discourse with + the gardener, and they spoke of the theft which had occurred. + </p> + <p> + “It vexes every one of us,” said he, “because we think much of the lady, + and of the whole family. And some one must, nevertheless, be suspected. We + believe that it was Sidsel, for she was a good-for-nothing person! We + folks tried among ourselves with the sieve, but however, at the mention of + her name, if it did not move out of its place. We had set it upon the + point of a knife, and mentioned the name of every person about the place, + but it stood as if it were nailed quite fast. But there was really + something to see, which not one of us would have believed. I’ll say no + more about it, although we had every one of us our own thoughts. I would + have taken my oath of it.” + </p> + <p> + Otto pressed him to mention the person who was suspected. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, to you perhaps, I may mention it,” replied he; “but you will not say + anything about it? As we were standing today, at noon, around the sieve, + and it did not move at Sidsel’s name, she became angry, because a word bad + been let fall which could not be agreeable to her if she were innocent. + She drew herself up as if in a passion, and said to us, ‘But there are + also in the hall a many people besides us, who may slip and slide! There + are strangers here, and the fine Mamsell, and the farmers. Yes, I suspect + no one, but every one ought to be named!’ + </p> + <p> + “And so we did it. Yes, we mentioned even your name, Mr. Thostrup, + although we knew very well that you were guiltless of the charge; but we + would not excuse any one. The sieve stood quite entirely still until we + mentioned Eva’s name, and then it moved. Not one of us actually could + believe it, and the servant Peter said also that it was because of the + draught from the chimney. We mentioned yet once more all the names, and + the sieve stood still until we came to Eva’s, and then we perceived very + plainly a movement. The servant Peter at the same moment gave a great blow + to the sieve, so that it fell to the ground, and he swore that it was a + lie, and that he would answer for Eva. I would have done so too; but yet + it was very extraordinary with the sieve! Most of the folks, however, have + their own thoughts, but no one venture to express them to the gentry who + think so much of her. I cannot, however, rightly reconcile it to myself!” + </p> + <p> + “She is innocent!” said Otto; and it amazed him that any one should cast + the slightest suspicion on Eva. He thought of German Heinrich and Sidsel, + who alone appeared to him suspicious. There then occurred to him an + experiment of which he had heard from Rosalie. It now seemed to him + available, and, physiologically considered, much more certain than that + with the sieve. + </p> + <p> + “Probably it may lead to a discovery,” said he, after he had communicated + his whole plan to Sophie and the steward. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, we mast try it!” said she; “it is excellent! I also will be put to + the proof, although I am initiated into the mystery.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, you, your sister, Wilhelm, Eva, we all of us must,” said Otto. “Only + I will not do the speaking: that the steward must do.” + </p> + <p> + “That is proper, very proper!” replied she: “it shall be tried this + evening when it is dark.” + </p> + <p> + The time came; the steward assembled the people. + </p> + <p> + “Now I know,” said he, “how we shall find the thief!” + </p> + <p> + All were to remain in the first room: within a side-room, which was quite + dark, there stood in a corner on the right hand a copper kettle; to this + every person as they came in, one by one, were to go and lay their hand + down on the flat bottom of the kettle. The hand of every one who was + innocent would be brought out again white and pure, but the hand of the + criminal would be severely burned, and would become black as a coal. + </p> + <p> + “He who now,” said the steward, addressing them, “has a good conscience, + may go with this and our Lord into the innermost room, lay his hand upon + the bottom of the kettle, and show it to me. Now I go to receive you all!” + </p> + <p> + The daughters went, the friends, Eva, and all the household. The steward + questioned them as they came in: “Answer me, upon thy conscience, did thy + hand touch the flat bottom of the kettle?” + </p> + <p> + All replied, “Yes!” + </p> + <p> + “Then show me your hand!” said he; and they showed them, and all were + black: Sidsel’s alone was white. + </p> + <p> + “Thou art the thief!” said the steward. “Thy evil conscience has condemned + thee. Thou hast not touched the kettle; hast not laid thy hand upon it, or + it would have become as black as that of the others. The kettle was + blackened inside with turpentine smoke; they who came with a good + conscience, knowing that their hands would remain pure like their + consciences, touched the kettle fearlessly and their hands became black! + Thou hast condemned thyself! Confess, or it will go worse with thee!” + </p> + <p> + Sidsel, uttered a horrible cry and fell down upon her knees. + </p> + <p> + “O God, help me!” said she, and confessed that she was the thief. + </p> + <p> + A chamber high up in the roof was prepared as a prison; here the + delinquent was secured until the affair, on the following day, should be + announced to the magistrate. + </p> + <p> + “Thou shalt be sent to Odense, and work upon the treadmill!” said Wilhelm: + “to that thou belongest!” + </p> + <p> + The family assembled at the tea-table. Sophie joked about the day’s + adventure. + </p> + <p> + “Poor Sidsel!” said Eva. + </p> + <p> + “In England she would be hanged,” said Wilhelm; “that would be a fine + thing to see!” + </p> + <p> + “Horrible!” replied Louise; “they must die of terror in going to the + gallows.” + </p> + <p> + “Nay, it is very merry,” said Wilhelm. “Now you shall hear what glorious + music has been set to it by Rossini!” And he played the march from “Gazza + Ladra,” where a young girl is led to the gallows. + </p> + <p> + “Is it not merry?” asked he. “Yes, he is a composer!” + </p> + <p> + “To me it seems precisely characteristic,” answered Otto. “They are not + the feelings of the girl which the composer wished to express; it is the + joy of the rude rabble in witnessing an execution—to them a charming + spectacle, which is expressed in these joyous tones: it is a tragic opera, + and therefore he chose exactly this character of expression!” + </p> + <p> + “It is difficult to say anything against that,” replied Wilhelm; “yet what + you assert I have not heard from any other person.” + </p> + <p> + “When a soldier is executed they play some lively air,” said Otto; “the + contrast in this case brings forth the strongest effect!” + </p> + <p> + The servant now entered, and said with a smile that Peter Cripple, the + “new-married man,” as he called him, was without and wished to speak to + the Baron Wilhelm. + </p> + <p> + “It is about a waltz,” said he, “which the Baron had promised to him!” + </p> + <p> + “It is late for him to come into the court!” said Sophie “the peasants + generally go to bed with the sun.” + </p> + <p> + In the lobby stood the announced Peter in his stocking-feet, with his hat + in one hand and a great stick in the other. He knew, he said, that it was + still daytime with the gentlefolks; he was just coming past the hall and + thought that he could, perhaps, have that Copenhagen Waltz which the Baron + had promised him: he should want it to-morrow night to play at a wedding, + and, therefore, he wished to have it now that he might practice it first + of all. + </p> + <p> + Sophie inquired after his young wife, and said something merry. Louise + gave him a cup of tea, which he drank in the lobby. Otto looked at him + through the open door; he made comical grimaces, and looked almost as if + he wished to speak with him. Otto approached him, and Peter thrust a piece + of paper into his hand, making at the same time a significant gesture + indicative of silence. + </p> + <p> + Otto stepped aside and examined the dirty piece of paper, which was folded + together like a powder and sealed with a lump of wax. On the outside + stood, in scarcely legible characters, + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “TotH’ WeL-borne, + Mr. Odto Tustraab.” + </pre> + <p> + He endeavored, in the first place, to read it in the moonlight; but that + was scarcely possible. + </p> + <p> + After considerable labor he made out the meaning of this letter, written, + as it was in a half-German, half-Danish gibberish, of the orthography of + which we have given a specimen in the direction. The letter was from the + German Heinrich. He besought Otto to meet him this evening in the wood + near Peter Cripple’s house, and he would give to him an explanation which + should be worth the trouble of the walk. It would occasion, he said, much + trouble and much misery to Mr Thostrup if he did not go. + </p> + <p> + A strange anxiety penetrated Otto. How could he steal away without being + missed? and yet go he both must and should. An extraordinary anxiety drove + him forth. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, the sooner the better!” said he, hastening down the steps and + leaping in haste over the low garden-fence lest the gate should, perhaps, + make a noise. He was very soon in the wood: he heard the beating of his + own heart. + </p> + <p> + “Eternal Father!” said he, “strengthen my soul! Release me from this + anxiety which overpowers me! Let all be for the best!” + </p> + <p> + He had now reached Peter Cripple’s house. A figure leaned against the + wall; Otto paused, measured it with his eye to ascertain who it was, and + recognized German Heinrich. + </p> + <p> + “What do you want with me?” inquired Otto. + </p> + <p> + Heinrich raised his hand in token of silence, beckoned him forward, and + opened a little gate which led to the back of the house. Otto mechanically + followed him. + </p> + <p> + “It goes on badly at the hall,” said Heinrich. “Sidsel is really put in + prison, and will be taken to-morrow to Odense, to the red house by the + river.” + </p> + <p> + “It is what she has deserved!” said Otto. “I did not bring it about.” + </p> + <p> + “O no!” answered Heinrich; “in a certain way we bring nothing about; but + you can put in a good word for her. You must see that this punishment does + not befall her.” + </p> + <p> + “But the punishment is merited!” replied Otto; “and how can I mix myself + up in the affair? What is it that you have to say to me?” + </p> + <p> + “Yet, the good gentleman must not get angry!” began Heinrich again; “but I + am grieved about the girl. I can very well believe that he does not know + her, and therefore it gives him no trouble; but if I were now to whisper a + little word in his ear? She is your own sister, Mr. Thostrup!” + </p> + <p> + All grew dark before Otto’s eyes; a chill as of death went through his + blood; his hands held firmly by the cold wall, or he must have sunk to the + earth; not a sound escaped his lips. + </p> + <p> + German Heinrich laid his hand in a confidential manner upon his shoulder, + and continued in a jeering, agitated tone, “Yes, it is hard for you to + hear! I also struggled a long time with myself before I could make up my + mind to tell you. But a little trouble is preferable to a great one. I had + some talk with her yesterday, but I did not mention you, although it + seemed queer to me at my heart that the brother should sit at the first + table with the young ladies, and the sister be farm swine-maiden. Now they + have put her in prison! I am very sorry for her and you too, Mr. Thostrup, + for it is disagreeable! If the magistrate come to-morrow morning, and she + fall into the claws of the red angel, it will not be so easy to set her at + liberty again! But yet you could, perhaps, help her; as, for instance, + to-night! I could make an opportunity—I would be in the great avenue + beyond the hall. If she could get thus far she would be safe; I would then + conduct her out of this part of the country. I may as well tell you that + we were yesterday half-betrothed! She goes with me; and you can persuade + the gracious lady at the hall to let the bird fly!” + </p> + <p> + “But how can I? how can I?” exclaimed Otto. + </p> + <p> + “She is, however, always your sister!” said Heinrich, and they both + remained silent for a moment. “Then I will,” said Heinrich, “if all be + still at the hall, wait in the avenue as the bell goes twelve.” + </p> + <p> + “I must!” exclaimed Otto; “I must! God help me!” + </p> + <p> + “Jesu, Maria, help!” said Heinrich, and Otto left him. + </p> + <p> + “She is my sister! she, the most horrible of all!” sighed he; his knees + trembled, and he leaned against a tree for support: his countenance was + like that of the dead; cold sweat-drops stood upon his brow. All around + him lay the dark night-like wood; only to the left glimmered, between the + bushes, the moonlight reflected from the lake. + </p> + <p> + “Within its depths,” sighed he, “all would be forgotten—my grief + would be over! Yet, what is my sin? Had I an existence before I was born + upon this globe? Must I here be punished for sins which I then committed?” + </p> + <p> + His dark eye stared lifelessly out of his pale countenance. Thus sit the + dead upon their graves in the silent night; thus gazes the somnambulist + upon the living world around him. + </p> + <p> + “I have felt this moment before—this moment which now is here; it + was the well-spring whence poison was poured over my youthful days! She is + my sister! She? unhappy one that I am!” + </p> + <p> + Tears streamed from his eyes, it was a convulsive weeping; he cried aloud, + it was impossible to him to suppress his voice; he sank half down by the + tree and wept, for it was night in his soul: silent, bitter tears flowed, + as the blood flows when the heart is transpierced. Who could breathe to + him consolation? There lay no balsam in the gentle airs of the clear + summer night, in the fragrance of the wood, in the holy, silent spirit of + nature. Poor Otto! + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “Weep, only weep! it gives repose, + A world is every tear that flows,— + A world of anguish and unrest, + That rolleth from the troubled breast. + + “And hast thou wept whilst tears can flow, + A tranquil peace thy heart will know; + For sorrow, trivial or severe, + Hath had its seat in every tear. + + “Think’st thou that He, whose love beholds + The worm the smallest leaf enfolds,— + That He, whose power sustains the whole + Forgets a world—thy human soul?” + </pre> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0037" id="link2HCH0037"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXXVII + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “Mourir! c’est un instant de supplice: mais vivre?” + —FRÉDÉRIC SOULIE. +</pre> + <p> + The physician from Nyborg, who had been on a visit to a sick person in the + neighborhood, took this opportunity of calling on the family and inquiring + after Eva’s health. They had prayed him to stay over the night there, and + rather to drive hone in the early morning than so late in the evening. He + allowed himself to be persuaded. Otto, on his return, found him and the + family in deep conversation. They were talking of the “Letters of a + Wandering Ghost.” + </p> + <p> + “Where have you been?” asked Sophie, as Otto entered. + </p> + <p> + “You look so pale!” said Louise; “are you ill?” + </p> + <p> + “I do not feel well!” replied Otto; “I went therefore down into the garden + a little. Now I am perfectly recovered.” And he took part in the + conversation. + </p> + <p> + The overwhelming sorrow had dissolved itself in tears. His mind had raised + itself up again from its stupefaction, and sought for a point of light on + which to attach itself. They were talking of the immense caves of + Maastricht, how they stretch themselves out into deep passages and vast + squares, in which sound is lost, and where the light, which cannot reach + the nearest object, only glimmers like a point of fire. In order to + comprehend this vacuity and this darkness, the travellers let the guide + extinguish his torch, and all is night; they are penetrated, as it were, + with darkness; the hand feels after a wall, in order to have some + restraint, some thought on which to repose itself: the eye sees nothing; + the ear hears nothing. Horror seizes on the strongest mind: the same + darkness, the same desolate emotion, had Heinrich’s words breathed into + Otto’s soul; therefore he sank like the traveller to the earth: but as the + traveller’s whole soul rivets itself by the eye upon the first spark which + glimmers, to kindle again the torch which is to lead him forth from this + grave, so did Otto attach himself to the first awakening thought of help. + “Wilhelm? his soul is noble and good, him will I initiate into my painful + secret, which chance had once almost revealed to him.” + </p> + <p> + But this was again extinguished, as the first spark is extinguished which + the steel gives birth to. He could not confide himself to Wilhelm; the + understanding which this very confidence would give birth to between them, + must separate them from each other. It was humiliating, it was + annihilating. But for Sophie? No, how could he, after that, declare the + love of his heart? how far below her should he be placed, as the child of + poverty and shame! But the mother of the family? Yes, she was gentle and + kind; with a maternal sentiment she extended to him her hand, and looked + upon him as on a near relation. His thoughts raised themselves on high, + his hands folded themselves to prayer; “The will of the Lord alone be + done!” trembled involuntarily from his lips. Courage returned refreshingly + to his heart. The help of man was like the spark which was soon + extinguished; God was an eternal torch, which illumined the darkness and + could guide him through it. + </p> + <p> + “Almighty God! thou alone canst and willest!” said he; “to thou who + knowest the heart, do thou alone help and lead me!” + </p> + <p> + This determination was firmly taken; to no human being would he confide + himself; alone would he release the prisoner, and give her up to Heinrich. + He thought upon the future, and yet darker and heavier than hitherto it + stood before him. But he who confides in God can never despair the only + thing that was now to be done was to obtain the key of the chamber where + Sidsel was confined, and then when all in the house were asleep he would + dare that which must be done. + </p> + <p> + Courage and tranquillity return into every powerful soul when it once sees + the possibility of accomplishing its work. With a constrained vivacity + Otto mingled in the conversation, no one imagining what a struggle his + soul had passed through. + </p> + <p> + The disputation continued. Wilhelm was in one of his eloquent moods. The + doctor regarded the “Letters of the Wandering Ghost” as one of the most + perfect books in the Danish literature. Once Sophie had been of the same + opinion, now she preferred Cooper’s novels to this and all other books. + </p> + <p> + “People so easily forget the good for the new,” said Wilhelm; “if the new + is only somewhat astonishing, the many regard the author as the first of + writers. The nation is, aesthetically considered, now in its period of + development. Every really cultivated person, who stands among the best + spirits of his age, obtains, whilst he observes his own advance in the + intellectual kingdom, clearness with regard to the development of his + nation. This has, like himself, its distinct periods; in him some + important event in life, in it some agitating world convulsion, may + advance them suddenly a great leap forward. The public favor is unsteady; + to-day it strews palm-branches, to-morrow it cries, ‘Crucify him!’ But I + regard that as a moment of development. You will permit me to make use of + an image to elucidate my idea. The botanist goes wandering through field + and wood, he collects flowers and plants; every one of these had, while he + gathered it, his entire interest, his whole thought—but the + impression which it made faded before that of its successor: nor is it + till after a longer time that he is able to enjoy the whole of his + treasures, and arrange them according to their worth and their rareness. + The public seizes alike upon flowers and herbs; we hear its assiduous + occupation with the object of the moment, but it is not yet come into + possession of the whole. At one time, that which was sentimental was the + foremost in favor, and that poet was called the greatest who best knew how + to touch this string; then it passed over to the peppered style of + writing, and nothing pleased but histories of knights and robbers. Now + people find pleasure in prosaic life, and Schröder and Iffland are the + acknowledged idols. For us the strength of the North opened heroes and + gods, a new and significant scene. Then tragedy stood uppermost with us. + Latterly we have begun to feel that this is not the flesh and blood of the + present times. Then the fluttering little bird, the vaudeville, came out + to us from the dark wood, and enticed us into our own chambers, where all + is warm and comfortable, where one has leave to laugh, and to laugh is now + a necessity for the Danes. One must not, like the crowd, inconsiderately + place that as foremost which swims upon the waters, but treasure the good + of every time, and arrange them side by side, as the botanist arranges his + plants. Every people must, under the poetical sunshine, have their + sentimental period, their berserker rage, their enjoyment of domestic + life, and their giddy flights beyond it; it must merge itself in + individuality before it can embrace the beauty of the whole. It is + unfortunate for the poet who believes himself to be the wheel of his age; + and yet he, with his whole crowd of admirers, is, as Menzel says, only a + single wheel in the great machine—a little link in the infinite + chain of beauty.” + </p> + <p> + “You speak like a Plato!” said Sophie. + </p> + <p> + “If we could accord as well in music as we do in poetry,” said Otto, “then + we should be entirely united in our estimation of the arts. I love that + music best which goes through the ear to the heart, and carries me away + with it; on the contrary, if it is to be admired by the understanding, it + is foreign to me.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, that is your false estimation of the subject, dear friend!” said + Wilhelm: “in aesthetics you come at once to the pure and true; but in + music you are far away in the outer court, where the crowd is dancing, + with cymbals and trumpets, around the musical golden calf!” + </p> + <p> + And now the aesthetic unity brought them into a musical disunity. On such + occasions, Otto was not one to be driven back from his position; he very + well knew how to bear down his assailant by striking and original + observations: but Otto, this evening, although he was animated enough—excited, + one might almost say—did not exhibit the calmness, the decision in + his thoughts and words, which otherwise would have given him the victory. + </p> + <p> + It was a long hour, and one yet longer and more full of anxiety, which + commenced with supper. The conversation turned to the events of the day. + Otto mingled in it, and endeavored therefrom to derive advantage; it was a + martyrdom of the soul. Sophie praised highly his discovery. + </p> + <p> + “If Mr. Thostrup had not been here,” said she, “then we should hardly have + discovered the thief. We must thank Mr. Thostrup for it, and really for a + merry, amusing spectacle.” + </p> + <p> + They joked about it alai laughed, and Otto was obliged to laugh also. + </p> + <p> + “And now she sits up there, like a captive, in the roof!” said he; “it + must be an uncomfortable night to her!” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, she sleeps, perhaps, better than some of us others!” said Wilhelm: + “that will not annoy her!” + </p> + <p> + “She is confined in the gable chamber, out in the court, is she not?” + inquired Otto: “there she has not any moonlight.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, surely she has!” answered Sophie; “it is in the gable to the right, + hooking toward the wood, that she is confined. We have placed her as near + to the moon as we could. The gable on the uppermost floor is our keep.” + </p> + <p> + “But is it securely locked?” inquired Otto. + </p> + <p> + “There is a padlock and a great bar outside the door; those she cannot + force, and no one about the place will do such a piece of service for her. + They dislike her, every one of them.” + </p> + <p> + They rose up from the table; the bell was just on the stroke of eleven. + </p> + <p> + “But the Baron must play us a little piece!” said the physician. + </p> + <p> + “Then Mr. Thostrup will sing us the pretty Jutlandish song by + Steen-Blicher!” exclaimed Louise. + </p> + <p> + “O yes!” said the mother, and clapped Otto on the shoulder. + </p> + <p> + Wilhelm played. + </p> + <p> + “Do sing!” said Wilhelm; all besought him to do so, and Otto sang the + Jutlandish song for them. + </p> + <p> + “See, you sang that with the proper humor,” said Sophie, and clapped her + hands in applause. With that all arose, offered to him their hands, and + Wilhelm whispered to him, yet so that the sisters heard it, “This evening + you have been right amiable!” + </p> + <p> + Otto and Wilhelm went to their sleeping-room. + </p> + <p> + “But, my good friend,” said Wilhelm, “what did you really go into the + garden for? Be so good as to confess to me: you were not unwell! You did + not go only into the garden! you went into the wood, and you remained a + long time there! I saw it! You made a little visit to the handsome woman + while the fiddler was here, did you not? I do not trust you so entirely!” + </p> + <p> + “You are joking!” answered Otto. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, yes,” continued Wilhelm, “she is a pretty little woman. Do you not + remember how, last year at the mowing-feast, I threw roses at her? Now she + is Peter Cripple’s wife. When she comes with her husband then we have, + bodily, ‘Beauty and the Beast.’” + </p> + <p> + That which Otto desired was, that Wilhelm should now soon go to sleep, + and, therefore, he would not contradict him; he confessed even that the + young wife was handsome, but added that she, as Peter Cripple’s wife, was + to him like a beautiful flower upon which a toad had set itself,—it + would be disgusting to him to press the flower to his lips. + </p> + <p> + The friends were soon in bed. They bade each other good night, and seemed + both of them to sleep; and with Wilhelm this was the case. + </p> + <p> + Otto lay awake; his pulse throbbed violently. + </p> + <p> + Now the great hall clock struck twelve. All was still, quite still; but + Otto did not yet dare to raise himself. It struck a quarter past the hour. + He raised himself slowly, and glanced toward the bed where Wilhelm lay. + Otto arose and dressed himself, suppressing the while his very breathing. + A hunting-knife which hung upon the wall, and which belonged to Wilhelm, + he put in his pocket; and lifted up, to take with him, the fire-tongs, + with which he intended to break the iron staple that held the padlock. Yet + once more he looked toward Wilhelm, who slept soundly. He opened the door, + and went out without his shoes. + </p> + <p> + He looked out from the passage-windows to see if lights were visible from + any part of the building. All was still; all was in repose. That which he + now feared most was, that one of the dogs might be lying in the lobby, and + should begin to bark. But there was not one. He mounted up the steps, and + went into the upper story. + </p> + <p> + Only once before had he been there; now all was in darkness. He felt with + his hands before him as he went. + </p> + <p> + At length he found a narrow flight of stairs which led into a yet higher + story. The opening at the top was closed, and he was obliged to use his + whole strength to open it. At length it gave way with a loud noise. This + was not the proper entrance; that lay on the opposite side of the story, + and had he gone there he would have found it open, whereas this one had + not been opened for a long time. + </p> + <p> + The violent efforts which he had made caused him great pain, both in his + neck and shoulders; but he was now at the very top of the building, close + before the door he sought, and the moonlight shone in through the opening + in the roof. + </p> + <p> + By the help of the hunting-knife and the fire-tongs he succeeded in + forcing the door, and that without any very considerable noise. He looked + into a small, low room, upon the floor of which some dirty coverlets were + thrown. + </p> + <p> + Sidsel slept deeply and soundly with open mouth. A thick mass of hair + escaped from beneath her cap, upon her brow; the moonlight fell, through + the window-pane in the roof, upon her face. Otto bowed himself over her + and examined the coarse, unpleasing features. The thick, black eyebrows + appeared only like one irregular streak. + </p> + <p> + “She is my sister!” was the thought which penetrated him. “She lay upon + the same bosom that I did! The blood in these limbs has kinship with that + in mine! She was the repelled one, the rejected one!” + </p> + <p> + He trembled with pain and anguish; but it was only for a short time. + </p> + <p> + “Stand up!” cried he, and touched the sleeper. + </p> + <p> + “Ih, jane dou! [Author’s Note: An exclamation among the common people of + Funen, expressive of terror.] what is it?” cried she, half terrified, and + fixed her unpleasant eyes wildly upon him. + </p> + <p> + “Come with me!” said Otto, and his voice trembled as he spoke. “German + Heinrich waits in the avenue! I will help you out! Hence; to-morrow it + will be too late!” + </p> + <p> + “What do you say?” asked she, and still looked at him with a bewildered + mien. + </p> + <p> + Otto repeated his words. + </p> + <p> + “Do you think that I can get away?” asked she, and seized him by the arm, + as she hastily sprang up. + </p> + <p> + “Only silently and circumspectly!” said Otto. + </p> + <p> + “I should not have expected theft from you!” said she. “But tell me why + you do it?” + </p> + <p> + Otto trembled; it was impossible for him to tell her his reasons, or to + express the word,—“Thou art my sister!” + </p> + <p> + His lips were silent. + </p> + <p> + “To many a fellow,” said she, “have I been kinder than I ought to have + been, but see whether any of them think about Sidsel! And you do it! You + who are so fine and so genteel!” + </p> + <p> + Otto pressed together his eyelids; he heard her speak; an animal + coarseness mingled itself with a sort of confidential manner which was + annihilating to him. + </p> + <p> + “She is my sister!” resounded in his soul. + </p> + <p> + “Come now! come now!” and, descending the steps, she followed after him. + </p> + <p> + “I know a better way!” said she, as they came to the lowest story. She + seized his arm and they again descended a flight of steps. + </p> + <p> + Suddenly a door opened itself, and Louise, still dressed, stepped forth + with a light. She uttered a faint cry, and her eye riveted itself upon the + two forms before her. + </p> + <p> + But still more terribly and more powerfully did this encounter operate + upon Otto. His feet seemed to fail him, and, for a moment, every object + moved before his eyes in bright colors. It was the moment of his severest + suffering. He sprang forth toward Louise, seized her hand, and, pale as + death, with lifeless, staring eyes, half kneeling, besought of her, with + an agitated voice:— + </p> + <p> + “For God’s sake, tell no one of that which you have seen! I am compelled + to serve her—she is my sister! If you betray my secret I am lost to + this world—I must die! It was not until this evening that I knew + this to be the case! I will tell you all, but do not betray me! And do you + prevent tomorrow any pursuit after her! O Louise! by the happiness of your + own soul feel for the misery of mine! I shall destroy myself if you betray + me!” + </p> + <p> + “O God!” stammered Louise. “I will do all—all! I will be silent! + Conduct her hence, quick, that you may meet with no one!” + </p> + <p> + She seized Otto’s hand; he sank upon his knee before her, and looked like + a marble image which expressed manly beauty and sorrow. + </p> + <p> + Louise bent herself with sisterly affection over him; tears flowed down + her cheeks; her voice trembled, but it was tranquillizing, like the + consolation of a good angel. With a glance full of confidence in her, Otto + tore himself away. Sidsel followed him and said not a word. + </p> + <p> + He led her to the lowest story and opened for her, silently, a window, + through which she could descend to the garden, and thence easily reach the + avenue where German Heinrich waited for her. To have accompanied her any + further was unnecessary; it would have been venturing too much without any + adequate cause. She stood now upon the window-sill—Otto put a little + money into her hand. + </p> + <p> + “The Lord is above us!” said he, in a solemn voice. “Never forget Him and + endeavor to amend your life! All may yet be well!” He involuntarily + pressed her hand in his. “Have God always in your thoughts!” said he. + </p> + <p> + “I shall get safely away, however,” said she, and descended into the + garden; she nodded, and vanished behind the hedge. + </p> + <p> + Otto stood for a while and listened whether any noise was heard, or + whether any dog barked. He feared for her safety. All was still. + </p> + <p> + Just as sometimes an old melody will suddenly awake in our remembrance and + sound in our ear, so awoke now a holy text to his thoughts. “Lord, if I + should take the wings of the morning, and should fly to the uttermost + parts of the sea, thither thou wouldst lead me, and thy right hand would + hold me fast! Thou art near to us! Thou canst accomplish and thou willest + our well-being! Thou alone canst help us!” + </p> + <p> + In silence he breathed his prayer. + </p> + <p> + He returned to his chamber more composed in mind. Wilhelm seemed to sleep; + but as Otto approached his bed he suddenly raised himself, and looked, + inquiringly, around him. + </p> + <p> + “Who is there?” exclaimed he; “you are dressed! where have you been?” He + was urgent in his inquiry. + </p> + <p> + Otto gave a joking reason. + </p> + <p> + “Let me have your hand!” said he. Otto gave it to him, he felt his pulse. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, quite correct!” said he; “the blood is yet in commotion. One sees + plain enough that there is no concealing things! Here was I sleeping in + all innocence, and you were running after adventures. You wicked bird!” + </p> + <p> + The thoughts worked rapidly in Otto’s soul. If Louise would only be + silent, no one would dream of the possibility of his having part in + Sidsel’s flight. He must allow Wilhelm quietly to have his joke. + </p> + <p> + “Was not I right?” asked Wilhelm. + </p> + <p> + “And if now you were so,” replied Otto, “will you tell it to any one?” + </p> + <p> + “Do you think that I could do such a thing?” replied Wilhelm; “we are all + of us only mortal creatures!” + </p> + <p> + Otto gave him his hand. “Be silent!” he said. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, certainly,” said Wilhelm; and, according to his custom, strengthened + it with an oath. “Now I have sworn it,” said he; “but when there is an + opportunity you must tell me more about it!” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, certainly,” said Otto, with a deep sigh. Before his friend he no + longer stood pure and guiltless. + </p> + <p> + They slept. Otto’s sleep was only a hateful dream. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0038" id="link2HCH0038"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXXVIII + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “...Wie entzückend + Und süss es ist, in einer schönen Seele, + Verherrlicht uns zu fühlen, es zu wissen, + Das uns’re Fruede fremde Wangen röthet, + Und uns’re Angst in fremdem Busen zittert, + Das uns’re Leiden fremde Augen nässen.” + SCHILLER. +</pre> + <p> + “How pale!” said Wilhelm the next morning to Otto. “Do you see, that is + what people get by night-wandering?” + </p> + <p> + “How so?” inquired Otto. + </p> + <p> + Wilhelm made a jest of it. + </p> + <p> + “You have been dreaming that!” said Otto. + </p> + <p> + “How do you mean?” replied Wilhelm; “will you make me fancy that I have + imagined it? I was really quite awake! we really talked about it; I was + initiated in it. Actually I have a good mind to give you a moral lecture. + If it had been me, how you would have preached!” + </p> + <p> + They were summoned to breakfast. Otto’s heart was ready to burst. What + might he not have to hear? What must he say? + </p> + <p> + Sophie was much excited. + </p> + <p> + “Did you, gentlemen, hear anything last night?” she inquired. “Have you + both slept?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, certainly,” replied Wilhelm, and looked involuntarily at Otto. + </p> + <p> + “The bird is flown, however!” said she; “it has made its escape out of the + dove-cote.” + </p> + <p> + “What bird?” asked Wilhelm. + </p> + <p> + “Sidsel!” replied she; “and, what is oddest in the whole affair is, that + Louise has loosed her wings. Louise is quite up to the romantic. Think + only! she went up in the night to the topmost story, unlocked the + prison-tower, gave a moral lecture to Sidsel, and after that let her go! + Then in the morning comes Louise to mamma, relates the whole affair, and + says a many affecting things!” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, I do not understand it,” said the mother, addressing Louise. “How + you could have had the courage to go up so late at night, and go up to <i>her</i>! + But it was very beautiful of you! Let her escape! it is, as you say, best + that she should. We should all of us have thought of that last evening!” + </p> + <p> + “I was so sorry for her!” said Louise; “and by chance it happened that I + had a great many things to arrange after you were all in bed. Everything + was so still in the house, it seemed to me as if I could hear Sidsel sigh; + certainly it was only my own imagination, but I could do no other than + pity her! she was so unfortunate! Thus I let her escape!” + </p> + <p> + “Are you gone mad?” inquired Wilhelm; “what a history is this? Did you go + in the night up to the top of the house? That is an unseasonable + compassion!” + </p> + <p> + “It was beautiful!” said Otto, bending himself involuntarily, and kissing + Louise’s hand. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, that is water to his mill!” exclaimed Wilhelm. “I think nothing of + such things!” + </p> + <p> + “We will not talk about it to anyone,” said the mother. “The steward shall + not proceed any further in it. We have recovered the old silver tankard, + and the losing that was my greatest trouble. We will thank God that we are + well rid of her! Poor thing! she will come to an unfortunate end!” + </p> + <p> + “Are you still unwell, Mr. Thostrup?” said Sophie, and looked at him. + </p> + <p> + “I am a little feverish,” replied he. “I will take a very long walk, and + then I shall be better.” + </p> + <p> + “You should take a few drops,” said the lady. + </p> + <p> + “O, he will come to himself yet!” said Wilhelm; “he must take exercise! + His is not a dangerous illness.” + </p> + <p> + Otto went into the wood. It was to him a temple of God; his heart poured + forth a hymn of thanksgiving. Louise had been his good angel. He felt of a + truth that she would never betray his secret. His thoughts clung to her + with confidence. “Are you still unwell?” Sophie had said. The tones of her + voice alone had been like the fragrance of healing herbs; in her eye he + had felt sympathy and—love. “O Sophie!” sighed he. Both sisters were + so dear to him. + </p> + <p> + He entered the garden and went along the great avenue; here he met Louise. + One might almost have imagined that she had sought for him: there was no + one but her to be seen in the whole avenue. + </p> + <p> + Otto pressed her hand to his lips. “You have saved my life!” said he. + </p> + <p> + “Dear Thostrup!” answered she, “do not betray yourself. Yon have come + happily out of the affair! Thank God! my little part in it has concealed + the whole. For the rest I have a suspicion. Yes, I cannot avoid it. May + not the whole be an error? It is possible that she is that which you said! + Tell me all that you can let me know. From this seat we can see everybody + who comes into the avenue. No one can hear us!” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, to you alone I can confide it!” said Otto; “to you will I tell it.” + </p> + <p> + He now related that which we know about the manufactory, which he called + the house, in which German Heinrich had first seen him, and had tattooed + his initials upon his shoulder; their later meeting in the park, and + afterwards by St. Ander’s Cross. + </p> + <p> + Louise trembled; her glance rested sympathizingly upon Otto’s pale and + handsome countenance. He showed her the letter which had been brought to + him the last evening, and related to her what Heinrich had told him. + </p> + <p> + “It may be so,” said Louise; “but yet I have not been able to lose the + idea all the morning that you have been deceived. Not one of her features + resembles yours. Can brother and sister be so different as you and she? + Yet, be the truth as it may, promise me not to think too much about it. + There is a good Ruler above who can turn all things for the best.” + </p> + <p> + “These horrible circumstances,” said Otto, “have robbed me of the + cheerfulness of my youth. They thrust themselves disturbingly into my + whole future. Not to Wilhelm—no, not to any one have I been able to + confide them. You know all! God knows that you were compelled to learn + them. I leave myself entirely in your hands!” + </p> + <p> + He pressed her hand silently, and with the earnest glance of confidence + and truth they looked at each other. + </p> + <p> + “I shall speedily leave my native country,” said Otto. “It may be forever. + I should return with sorrow to a home where no happiness awaited me. I + stand so entirely alone in the world!” + </p> + <p> + “But you have friends,” said Louise; “sincere friends. You must think with + pleasure of returning home to Denmark. My mother loves you as if she were + your own mother. Wilhelm and Sophie—yes, we will consider you as a + brother.” + </p> + <p> + “And Sophie?” exclaimed Otto. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, can you doubt it?” inquired Louise. + </p> + <p> + “She knows me not as you know me; and if she did?”—He pressed his + hands before his eyes and burst into tears. “You know all: you know more + than I could tell her,” sighed he. “I am more unfortunate than you can + believe. Never can I forget her—never!” + </p> + <p> + “For Heaven’s sake compose yourself!” said Louise rising. “Some one might + come, and you would not be able to conceal your emotion. All may yet be + well! Confide only in God in heaven!” + </p> + <p> + “Do not tell your sister that which I have told you. Do not tell any one. + I have revealed to you every secret which my soul contains.” + </p> + <p> + “I will be to you a good sister,” said Louise, and pressed his hand. + </p> + <p> + They silently walked down the avenue. + </p> + <p> + The sisters slept in the same room. + </p> + <p> + At night, after Sophie had been an hour in bed, Louise entered the + chamber. + </p> + <p> + “Thou art become a spirit of the night,” said Sophie. “Where hast thou + been? Thou art not going up into the loft again to-night, thou strange + girl? Had it been Wilhelm, Thostrup, or myself who had undertaken such a + thing, it would have been quite natural; but thou”— + </p> + <p> + “Am I, then, so very different to you all?” inquired Louise. “I should + resemble my sister less than even Mr. Thostrup resembles her. You two are + so very different!” + </p> + <p> + “In our views, in our impulses, we very much resemble each other!” said + Sophie. + </p> + <p> + “He is certainly not happy,” exclaimed Louise. “We can read it in his + eyes.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, but it is precisely that which makes him interesting!” said Sophie; + “he is thus a handsome shadow-piece in everyday life.” + </p> + <p> + “Thou speakest about it so calmly,” said Louise, and bent over her sister, + “I would almost believe that it was love.” + </p> + <p> + “Love!” exclaimed Sophie, raising herself up in bed, for now Louise’s + words had become interesting to her; “whom dost thou think that he loves?” + </p> + <p> + “Thyself,” replied Louise, and seized her sister’s hand. + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps?” returned Sophie. “I also made fun of him! It certainly went on + better when our cousin was here. Poor Thostrup!” + </p> + <p> + “And thou, Sophie,” inquired Louise, “dost thou return his love?” + </p> + <p> + “It is a regular confession that thou desirest,” replied she. “He is in + love—that all young men are. Our cousin, I can tell thee, said many + pretty things to me. Even the Kammerjunker flatters as well as he can, the + good soul! I have now resolved with myself to be a reasonable girl. + Believe me, however, Thostrup is in an ill humor!” + </p> + <p> + “If the Kammerjunker were to pay his addresses to you, would you accept + him?” asked Louise, and seated herself upon her sister’s bed. + </p> + <p> + “What can make you think of such a thing?” inquired she. “Hast thou heard + anything?—Thou makest me anxious! O Louise! I joke, I talk a deal; + but for all that, believe me, I am not happy!” + </p> + <p> + They talked about the Kammerjunker, about Otto, and about the French + cousin. It was late in the night. Large tears stood in Sophie’s eyes, but + she laughed for all that, and ended with a quotation from Jean Paul. + </p> + <p> + Half an hour afterward she slept and dreamed; her round white arm lay upon + the coverlet, and her lips moved with these words: + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “With a smile as if an angel + Had just then kissed her mouth.” [Note: Christian Winther.] +</pre> + <p> + Louise pressed her countenance on the soft pillow, and wept. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0039" id="link2HCH0039"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXXIX + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “A swarm of colors, noise and screaming, + Music and sights, past any dreaming, + The rattle of wheels going late and early,— + All draw the looker-on into the hurly-burly.” + TH. OVERSKOU. +</pre> + <p> + A few days passed on. Otto heard nothing of German Heinrich or of his + sister. Peter Cripple seemed not to be in their confidence. All that he + knew was, that the letter which he had conveyed to Otto was to be unknown + to any one beside. As regarded German Heinrich, he believed that he was + now in another part of tire country; but that at St. Knud’s fair, in + Odense, he would certainly find him. + </p> + <p> + In Otto’s soul there was an extraordinary combating. Louise’s words, that + he had been deceived, gave birth to hopes, which, insignificant as the + grain of mustard-seed, shot forth green leaves. + </p> + <p> + “May not,” thought he, “German Heinrich, to further his own plans, have + made use of my fear? I must speak with him; he shall swear to me the + truth.” + </p> + <p> + He compared in thought the unpleasing, coarse features of Sidsel, with the + image which his memory faintly retained of his little sister. She seemed + to him as a delicate creature with large eyes. He had not forgotten that + the people about them had spoken of her as of “a kitten that they could + hardly keep alive.” How then could she now be this square-built, + singularly plain being, with the eyebrows growing together? “I must speak + with Heinrich,” resolved he; “she cannot be my sister! so heavily as that + God will not try me.” + </p> + <p> + By such thoughts as these his mind became much calmer. There were moments + when the star of love mirrored itself in his life’s sea. + </p> + <p> + His love for Sophie was no longer a caged bird within his breast; its + wings were at liberty; Louise saw its release; it was about to fly to its + goal. + </p> + <p> + St. Knud’s fair was at hand, and on that account the family was about to + set out for Odense. Eva was the only one who was to remain at home. It was + her wish to do so. + </p> + <p> + “Odense is not worth the trouble of thy going to see,” said Sophie; “but + in this way thou wilt never increase thy geographical knowledge. In the + mean time, however, I shall bring thee a fairing—a husband of honey + cake, ornamented with almonds.” + </p> + <p> + Wilhelm thought that she should enjoy the passing pleasure, and go with + them; but Eva prayed to stay, and she had her will. + </p> + <p> + “There is a deal of pleasure in the world,” said Wilhelm, “if people will + only enjoy it. If one day in Paris is a brilliant flower, a day at Odense + fair is also a flower. It is a merry, charming world that we live in! I am + almost ready to say with King Valdemar, that if I might keep—yes, I + will say, the earth, then our Lord might willingly for me keep heaven: + there it is much better than we deserve; and God knows whether we may not, + in the other world, have longings after the old world down here!” + </p> + <p> + “After Odense fair?” asked Sophie ironically. + </p> + <p> + Otto stood wrapped in his own thoughts. This day, he felt, would be one of + the most remarkable in his life. German Heinrich must give him an + explanation. Sophie must do so likewise Could he indeed meet with success + from them both? Would not sorrow and pain be his fairings? + </p> + <p> + The carriage rolled away. + </p> + <p> + From the various cross-roads came driving up the carriages of the gentry + and the peasants; the one drove past the other; and as the French and + English Channel collects ships from the Atlantic Ocean, so did the King’s + Road those who drove in carriages, those who rode on horseback, and those + who went on foot. + </p> + <p> + Behind most of the peasant-vehicles were tied a few horses, that went + trotting on with them. Mamsells from the farms sat with large gloves on + their red arms and hands. They held their umbrellas before their faces on + account of the dust and the sun. + </p> + <p> + “The Kammerjunker’s people must have set off earlier than we,” said + Sophie, “otherwise they would have called for us.” + </p> + <p> + Otto looked inquiringly at her. She thought on the Kammerjunker! + </p> + <p> + “We shall draw up by Faugde church,” said Sophie. “Mr. Thostrup can see + Kingo’s [Author’s Note: The Bishop of Funen, who died in 1703.] grave—can + see where the sacred poet lies. Some true trumpeting angels, in whom one + can rightly see how heavy the marble is, fly with the Bishop’s staff and + hat within the chapel.” + </p> + <p> + Otto smiled, and she thought also about giving him pleasure. + </p> + <p> + The church was seen, the grave visited, and they rapidly rolled along the + King’s Road toward Odense, the lofty tower of whose cathedral had hailed + them at some miles’ distance. + </p> + <p> + We do not require alone from the portrait-painter that he should represent + the person, but that he should represent him in his happiest moment. To + the plain as well as to the inexpressive countenance must the painter give + every beauty which it possesses. Every human being has moments in which + something intellectual or characteristic presents itself. Nature, too, + when we are presented only with the most barren landscape, has the same + moments; light and shadow produce these effects. The poet must be like the + painter; he must seize upon these moments in human life as the other in + nature. + </p> + <p> + If the reader were a child who lived in Odense, it would require nothing + more from him than that he should say the words, “St. Knud’s fair;” and + this, illumined by the beams of the imagination of childhood, would stand + before him in the most brilliant colors. Our description will be only a + shadow; it will be that, perhaps, which the many will find it to be. + </p> + <p> + Already in the suburbs the crowd of people, and the outspread earthenware + of the potters, which entirely covered the trottoir, announced that the + fair was in full operation. + </p> + <p> + The carriage drove down from the bridge across the Odense River. + </p> + <p> + “See, how beautiful it is here!” exclaimed Wilhelm. + </p> + <p> + Between the gardens of the city and a space occupied as a bleaching ground + lay the river. The magnificent church of St. Knud, with its lofty tower, + terminated the view. + </p> + <p> + “What red house was that?” inquired Otto, when they had lost sight of it. + </p> + <p> + “That is the nunnery!” replied Louise, knowing what thought it was which + had arisen in his mind. + </p> + <p> + “There stood in the ancient times the old bishop’s palace, where Beldenak + lived!” said Sophie. “Just opposite to the river is the bell-well, where a + bell flew out of St. Albani’s tower. The well is unfathomable. Whenever + rich people in Odense die, it rings down below the water!” + </p> + <p> + “It is not a pleasant thought,” said Otto, “that it rings in the well when + they must die.” + </p> + <p> + “One must not take it in that way now!” said Sophie, laughing, and turned + the subject. “Odense has many lions,” continued she, “from a king’s garden + with swans in it to a great theatre, which has this in common with La + Scala and many Italian ones, that it is built upon the ruins of a convent. + [Note: That of the Black Brothers.] + </p> + <p> + “In Odense, aristocracy and democracy held out the longest,” said Wilhelm, + smiling; “yet I remember, in my childhood, that when the nobles and the + citizens met on the king’s birthday at the town-house ball, that we danced + by ourselves.” + </p> + <p> + “Were not, then, the citizens strong enough to throw the giddy nobles out + of the window?” inquired Otto. + </p> + <p> + “You forget, Mr. Thostrup, that you yourself are noble!” said Sophie. “I + was really the goddess of fate who gave to you your genealogical tree.” + </p> + <p> + “You still remember that evening?” said Otto, with a gentle voice, and the + thoughts floated as gayly in his mind as the crowd of people floated up + and down in the streets through which they drove. + </p> + <p> + Somewhere about the middle of the city five streets met; and this point, + which widens itself out into a little square, is called the Cross Street: + here lay the hotel to which the family drove. + </p> + <p> + “Two hours and a quarter too late!” said the Kammerjunker, who came out to + meet them on the steps. “Good weather for the fair, and good horses! I + have already been out at the West-gate, and have bought two magnificent + mares. One of them kicked out behind, and had nearly given me a blow on + the breast, so that I might have said I had had my fairing! Jakoba is + paying visits, drinking chocolate, and eating biscuits. Mamsell is out + taking a view of things. Now you know our story.” + </p> + <p> + The ladies went to their chamber, the gentlemen remained in the saloon. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, here you shall see a city and a fair, Mr. Thostrup!” said the + Kammerjunker, and slapped Otto on the shoulder. + </p> + <p> + “Odense was at one time my principal chief-city,” said Wilhelm; “and still + St. Knud’s Church is the most magnificent I know. God knows whether St. + Peter’s in Rome would make upon me, now that I am older, the impression + which this made upon me as a child!” + </p> + <p> + “In St. Knud’s Church lies the Mamsell with the cats,” said the + Kammerjunker. + </p> + <p> + “The bishop’s lady, you should say,” returned Wilhelm. “The legend + relates, that there was a lady of a Bishop Mus who loved her cats to that + degree that she left orders that they should be laid with her in the + grave. [Author’s Note: The remains of the body, as well as the skeletons + of the cats, are still to be seen in a chapel on the western aisle of the + church.] We will afterward go and see them.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, both the bishop’s lady and the cats,” said the Kammerjunker, “look + like dried fish! Then you must also see the nunnery and the military + library.” + </p> + <p> + “The Hospital and the House of Correction!” added Wilhelm. + </p> + <p> + The beating of a drum in the street drew them to the window. The city + crier, in striped linsey-woolsey jacket and breeches, and with a yellow + band across his shoulders, stood there, beat upon his drum, and proclaimed + aloud from a written paper many wonderful things which were to be seen in + the city. + </p> + <p> + “He beats a good drum,” said the Kammerjunker. + </p> + <p> + “It would certainly delight Rossini and Spontini to hear the fellow!” said + Wilhelm. “In fact Odense would be, at New Year’s time, a city for these + two composers. You must know that at that season drums and fifes are in + their glory. They drum the New Year in. Seven or eight little drummers and + fifers go from door to door, attended by children and old women; at that + time they beat both the tattoo and the reveille. For this they get a few + pence. When the New Year is drummed-in in the city they wander out into + the country, and drum there for bacon and groats. The New Year’s drumming + in lasts until about Easter.” + </p> + <p> + “And then we have new pastimes,” said the Kammerjunker. + </p> + <p> + “Then come the fishers from Stige, [Author’s Note: A fishing village in + Odense Fjord.] with a complete band, and carrying a boat upon their + shoulders ornamented with a variety of flags. After that they lay a board + between two boats, and upon this two of the youngest and the strongest + have a wrestling-match, until one of them falls into the water. The last + years they both have allowed themselves to tumble in. And this has been + done in consequence of one young man who fell in being so stung by the + jeers which his fall had occasioned that he left, that same day, the + fishing village, after which no one saw him. But all the fun is gone now! + In my boyhood the merriment was quite another thing. It was a fine sight + when the corporation paraded with their ensign and harlequin on the top! + And at Easter, when the butchers led about a bullock ornamented with + ribbons and Easter-twigs, on the back of which was seated a little winged + boy in a shirt. They had Turkish music, and carried flagons with them! + See! all that have I outlived, and yet I am not so old. Baron Wilhelm must + have seen the ornamented ox. Now all that is past and gone; people are got + so refined! Neither is St. Knud’s fair that which it used to be.” + </p> + <p> + “For all that, I rejoice that it is not so!” said Wilhelm. “But we will go + into the market and visit the Jutlanders, who are sitting there among the + heath with their earthenware. You will stand a chance there, Mr. Thostrup, + of meeting with an old acquaintance; only you must not have home-sickness + when you smell the heather and hear the ringing of the clattering pots!” + </p> + <p> + The ladies now entered. Before paying any visits they determined upon + making the round of the market. The Kammerjunker offered his arm to the + mother. Otto saw this with secret gladness, and approached Sophie. She + accepted him willingly as an attendant; they must indeed get into the + throng. + </p> + <p> + As in the Middle Ages the various professions had their distinct streets + and quarters, so had they also here. The street which led to the market + place, and which in every-day life was called the “Shoemaker Street,” + answered perfectly to its name. The shoemakers had ranged their tables + side by side. These, and the rails which had been erected for the purpose, + were hung over with all kinds of articles for the feet; the tables + themselves were laden with heavy shoes and thick-soled boots. Behind these + stood the skillful workman in his long Sunday coat, and with his + well-brushed felt-hat upon his head. + </p> + <p> + Where the shoemakers’ quarter ended that of the hatters’ began, and with + this one was in the middle of the great market-place, where tents and + booths formed many parallel streets. The booth of galanterie wares, the + goldsmith’s, and the confectioner’s, most of them constructed of canvas, + some few of them of wood, were points of great attraction. Round about + fluttered ribbons and handkerchiefs; round about were noise and bustle. + Peasant-girls out of the same village went always in a row, seven or eight + inseparables, with their hands fast locked in each other; it was + impossible to break the chain; and if people tried to press through them, + the whole flock rolled together in a heap. + </p> + <p> + Behind the booths there lay a great space filled with wooden shoes, coarse + earthenware, turners’ and saddlers’ work. Upon tables were spread out + toys, generally rudely made and coarsely painted. All around the children + assayed their little trumpets, and turned about their playthings. The + peasant-girls twirled and twisted both the work-boxes and themselves many + a time before the bargain was completed. The air was heavy with all kinds + of odors, and was spiced with the fragrance of honey-cake. + </p> + <p> + Here acquaintances met each other-some peasant-maidens, perhaps, who had + been born in the same village, but since then had been separated. + </p> + <p> + “Good day!” exclaimed they, took each other by the hand, gave their arms a + swing, and laughed. + </p> + <p> + “Farewell!” + </p> + <p> + That was the whole conversation: such a one went on in many places. + </p> + <p> + “That is the heather!” exclaimed Otto, as he approached the quarter where + the Jutland potters had their station; “how refreshing is the odor!” said + he, and stooping down seized a twig fresh and green, as if it had been + plucked only yesterday. + </p> + <p> + “Aye, my Jesus though! is not that Mr. Otto!” exclaimed a female voice + just beside him, and a young Jutland peasantwoman skipped across the + pottery toward him. Otto knew her. It was the little Maria, the eelman’s + daughter, who, as we may remember at Otto’s visit to the fisher’s, had + removed to Ringkjoebing, and had hired herself for the hay and cornharvest—the + brisk Maria, “the girl,” as her father called her. She had been betrothed + in Ringkjoebing, and married to the rich earthenware dealer, and now had + come across the salt-water to Odense fair, where she should meet with Mr. + Otto. + </p> + <p> + “Her parents lived on my grandfather’s estate,” said Otto to Sophie, who + observed with a smile the young wife’s delight in meeting with an + acquaintance of her childhood. The husband was busily employed in selling + his wares; he heard nothing of it. + </p> + <p> + “Nay, but how elegant and handsome you are become!” said the young wife: + “but see, I knew you again for all that! Grandmother, you may believe me, + thinks a deal about you! The old body, she is so brisk and lively; it does + not trouble her a bit that she cannot see! You are the second acquaintance + that I have met with in the fair. It’s wonderful how people come here from + all parts of the world! The players are here too! You still remember the + German Heinrich? Over there in the gray house, at the corner of the + market, he is acting his comedy in the gateway.” + </p> + <p> + “I am glad that I have seen you!” said Otto, and nodded kindly. “Greet + them at home, and the grandmother, for me!” + </p> + <p> + “Greet them also from me!” said Sophie smiling. “You, Mr. Thostrup, must + for old acquaintance sake buy something. You ought also to give me a + fairing: I wish for that great jug there!” + </p> + <p> + “Where are you staying!” cried Wilhelm, and came back, whilst the rest + went forward. + </p> + <p> + “We would buy some earthenware,” said Sophie. “Souvenir de Jutland. The + one there has a splendid picture on it!” + </p> + <p> + “You shall have it!” said Otto. “But if I requested a fairing from you, I + beseech of you, might I say”— + </p> + <p> + “That it possibly might obtain its worth from my hand,” said Sophie, + smiling. “I understand you very well—a sprig of heather? I shall + steal!” said she to the young wife, as she took a little sprig of heath + and stuck it into his buttonhole. “Greet the grandmother for me!” + </p> + <p> + Otto and Sophie went. + </p> + <p> + “That’s a very laughing body!” said the woman half aloud, as she looked + after them; her glance followed Otto, she folded her hands—she was + thinking, perhaps, on the days of her childhood. + </p> + <p> + At St. Knud’s church-yard Otto and Sophie overtook the others. They were + going into the church. On the fair days this and all the tombs within it + were open to the public. + </p> + <p> + From whichever side this church is contemplated from without, the + magnificent old building has, especially from its lofty tower and spire, + something imposing about it; the interior produces the same, nay, perhaps + a greater effect. But as the principal entrance is through the armory, and + the lesser one is from the side of the church, its full impression is not + felt on entering it; nor is it until you arrive at the end of the great + aisle that you are aware rightly of its grandeur. All there is great, + beautiful, and light. The whole interior is white with gilding. Aloft on + the high-vaulted roof there shine, and that from the old time, many golden + stars. On both sides, high up, higher than the side-aisles of the church, + are large Gothic windows, from which the light streams down. The + side-aisles are adorned with old paintings, which represent whole + families, women and children, all clad in canonicals, in long robes and + large ruffs. In an ordinary way, the figures are all ranged according to + age, the oldest first, and then down to the very least child, and stand + with folded hands, and look piously with downcast eyes and faces all in + one direction, until by length of time the colors have all faded away. + </p> + <p> + Just opposite to the entrance of the church may be seen, built into the + wall, a stone, on which is a bas-relief, and before it a grave. This + attracted Otto’s attention. + </p> + <p> + “It is the grave of King John and of Queen Christina, of Prince Francesco + and of Christian the Second,” said Wilhelm; “they lie together in a small + vault!” [Author’s Note: On the removal of the church of the Grey Brothers, + the remains of these royal parents and two of their children were + collected in a coffin and placed here in St. Knud’s Church. The memorial + stone, of which we have spoken, was erected afterwards.] + </p> + <p> + “Christian the Second!” exclaimed Otto. “Denmark’s wisest and dearest + king!” + </p> + <p> + “Christian the Bad!” said the Kammerjunker, amazed at the tone of + enthusiasm in which Otto had spoken. + </p> + <p> + “Christian the Bad!” repeated Otto; “yes, it is now the mode to speak of + him thus, but we should not do so. We ought to remember how the Swedish + and Danish nobles behaved themselves, what cruelties they perpetrated, and + that we have the history of Christian the Second from one of the offended + party. Writers flatter the reigning powers. A prince must have committed + crimes, or have lost his power, if his errors are to be rightly presented + to future generations. People forget that which was good in Christian, and + have painted the dark side of his character, to the formation of which the + age lent its part.” + </p> + <p> + The Kammerjunker could not forget the Swedish bloodbath, the execution of + Torben Oxe, and all that can be said against the unfortunate king. + </p> + <p> + Otto drove him completely out of the field, in part from his enthusiasm + for Christian the Second, but still more because it was the Kammerjunker + with whom he was contending. Sophie took Otto’s side, her eye sparkled + applause, and the victory could not be other than his. + </p> + <p> + “What is it that the poet said of the fate of a king?” said Sophie. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “Woe’s me for him + Who to the world shows more of ill than good! + The good each man ascribes unto himself, + Whilst on him only rest the crimes o’ th’ age.” + </pre> + <p> + “Had Christian been so fortunate as to have subdued the rebellious + nobles,” continued Otto, “could he have carried out his bold plans, then + they would have called him Christian the Great: it is not the active mind, + but the failure in any design, which the world condemns.” + </p> + <p> + Louise nevertheless took the side of the Kammerjunker, and therefore these + two went together up the aisle toward the tomb of the Glorup family. + Wilhelm and his mother were already gone out of the church. + </p> + <p> + “I envy you your eloquence!” said Sophie, and looked with an expression of + love into Otto’s face; she bent herself over the railing around the tomb, + and looked thoughtfully upon the stone. Thoughts of love were animated in + Otto’s soul. + </p> + <p> + “Intellect and heart!” exclaimed he, “must admire that which is great: you + possess both these!” He seized her hand. + </p> + <p> + A faint crimson passed over Sophie’s cheeks. “The others are gone out!” + she said; “come, let us go up to the chancel.” + </p> + <p> + “Up to the altar!” said Otto; “that is a bold course for one’s whole + life!” + </p> + <p> + Sophie looked jestingly at him. “Do you see the monument there within the + pillars?” asked she after a short pause; “the lady with the crossed arms + and the colored countenance? In one night she danced twelve knights to + death, the thirteenth, whom she had invited for her partner, cut her + girdle in two in the dance and she fell dead to the earth!” [Author’s + Note: In Thiele’s Danish Popular Tradition it is related that she was one + Margrethe Skofgaard of Sanderumgaard, and that she died at a ball, where + she had danced to death twelve knights. The people relate it with a + variation as above; it is probable that it is mingled with a second + tradition, for example, that of the blood-spots at Koldinghuus, which + relates that an old king was so angry with his daughter that he resolved + to kill her, and ordered that his knights should dance with her one after + another until the breath was out of her. Nine had danced with her, and + then came up the king himself as the tenth, and when he became weary he + cut her girdle in two, on which the blood streamed from her mouth and she + died.] + </p> + <p> + “She was a northern Turandot!” said Otto; “the stony heart itself was + forced to break and bleed. There is really a jest in having the marble + painted. She stands before future ages as if she lived—a stone + image, white and red, only a mask of beauty. She is a warning to young + ladies!” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, against dancing!” said Sophie, smiling at Otto’s extraordinary + gravity. + </p> + <p> + “And yet it must be a blessed thing,” exclaimed he, “a very blessed thing, + amid pealing music, arm-in-arm with one’s beloved, to be able to dance + life away, and to sink bleeding before her feet!” + </p> + <p> + “And yet only to see that she would dance with a new one!” said Sophie. + </p> + <p> + “No, no!” exclaimed Otto, “that you could not do! that you will not do! O + Sophie, if you knew!”—He approached her still nearer, bent his head + toward her, and his eye had twofold fire and expression in it. + </p> + <p> + “You must come with us and see the cats!” said the Kammerjunker, and + sprang in between them. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, it is charming!” said Sophie. “You will have an opportunity, Mr. + Thostrup, of moralizing over the perishableness of female beauty!” + </p> + <p> + “In the evening, when we drive home together,” thought Otto to himself + consolingly, “in the mild summer-evening no Kammerjunker will disturb me. + It must, it shall be decided! Misfortune might subject the wildness of + childhood, but it gave me confidence, it never destroyed my independence; + Love has made me timid,—has made me weak. May I thereby win a + bride?” + </p> + <p> + Gravely and with a dark glance he followed after Sophie and her guide. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0040" id="link2HCH0040"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XL + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “In vain his beet endeavors were; + Dull was the evening, and duller grew.”—LUDOLF SCHLEF. + + “Seest thou how its little life + The bird hides in the wood? + Wilt thou be my little wife— + Then do it soon. Good! + —A bridegroom am I.”—Arion. +</pre> + <p> + Close beside St. Knud’s Church, where once the convent stood, is now the + dwelling of a private man. [Author’s Note: See Oehlenschläger’s Jorney to + Funen.] The excellent hostess here, who once charmed the public on the + Danish stage as Ida Munster, awaited the family to dinner. + </p> + <p> + After dinner they wandered up and down the garden, which extended to the + Odense River. + </p> + <p> + In the dusk of evening Otto went to visit the German Heinrich; he had + mentioned it to Louise, and she promised to divert attention from him + whilst he was away. + </p> + <p> + The company took coffee in the garden-house; Otto walked in deep thought + in the avenue by the side of the river. The beautiful scene before him + riveted his eye. Close beside lay a water-mill, over the two great wheels + of which poured the river white as milk. Behind this was thrown a bridge, + over which people walked and drove. The journeyman-miller stood upon the + balcony, and whistled an air. It was such a picture as Christian Winther + and Uhland give in their picturesque poems. On the other side of the mill + arose tall poplars half-buried in the green meadow, in which stood the + nunnery; a nun had once drowned herself where now the red daisies grow. + </p> + <p> + A strong sunlight lit up the whole scene. All was repose and summer + warmth. Suddenly Otto’s ear caught the deep and powerful tones of an + organ; he turned himself round. The tones, which went to his heart, came + from St. Knud’s Church, which lay close beside the garden. The sunshine of + the landscape, and the strength of the music, gave, as it were, to him + light and strength for the darkness toward which he was so soon to go. + </p> + <p> + The sun set; and Otto went alone across the market-place toward the old + corner house, where German Heinrich practiced his arts. Upon this place + stood St. Albani’s Church, where St. Knud, betrayed by his servant Blake, + [Author’s Note: Whence has arisen the popular expression of “being a false + Blake.”] was killed by the tumultuous rebels. The common people believe + that from one of the deep cellars under this house proceeds a subterranean + passage to the so-called “Nun’s Hill.” At midnight the neighboring + inhabitants still hear a roaring under the marketplace, as if of the + sudden falling of a cascade. The better informed explain it as being a + concealed natural water-course, which has a connection with the + neighboring river. In our time the old house is become a manufactory; the + broken windows, the gaps of which are repaired either with slips of wood + or with paper, the quantity of human bones which are found in the garden, + and which remain from the time when this was a church-yard, give to the + whole place a peculiar interest to the common people of Odense. + </p> + <p> + Entering the house at the front, it is on the same level as the + market-place; the back of the house, on the contrary, descends + precipitously into the garden, where there are thick old walls and + foundations. The situation is thus quite romantic; just beside it is the + old nunnery, with its dentated gables, and not far off the ruins, in whose + depths the common people believe that there resides an evil being, “the + river-man,” who annually demands his human sacrifice, which he announces + the night before. Behind this lie meadows, villas, and green woods. + </p> + <p> + On the other side of the court, in a back gate-way, German Heinrich had + set up his theatre. The entrance cost eight skillings; people of condition + paid according to their own will. + </p> + <p> + Otto entered during the representation. A cloth constituted the whole + scenic arrangement. In the middle of the floor sat a horrible goblin, with + a coal-black Moorish countenance and crispy hair upon its head. An old + bed-cover concealed the figure, yet one saw that it was that of a woman. + </p> + <p> + The audience consisted of peasants and street boys. Otto kept himself in + the background, and remained unobserved by Heinrich. + </p> + <p> + The representation was soon at an end, and the crowd dispersed. It was + then that Otto first came forward. + </p> + <p> + “We must speak a few words together!” said he. “Heinrich, you have not + acted honestly by me! The girl is not that which you represented her to + be; you have deceived me: I demand an explanation!” + </p> + <p> + German Heinrich stood silent, but every feature eloquently expressed first + amazement, and then slyness and cunning; his knavish, malicious eye, + measured Otto from top to toe. + </p> + <p> + “Nay; so then, Mr. Thostrup, you are convinced, are you, that I have been + cheating you?” said he. “If so, why do you come to me? In that case there + needs no explanation. Ask herself there!” And so saying he pointed to the + black-painted figure. + </p> + <p> + “Do not be too proud, Otto!” said she, smiling; “thou couldst yet + recognize thy sister, although she has a little black paint on her face!” + </p> + <p> + Otto riveted a dark, indignant glance upon her, pressed his lips together, + and tried to collect himself. “It is my firm determination to have the + whole affair searched into,” said he, with constrained calmness. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, but it will bring you some disagreeables!” said Heinrich, and + laughed scornfully. + </p> + <p> + “Do not laugh in that manner when I speak to you!” said Otto, with + flushing cheeks. + </p> + <p> + Heinrich leaned himself calmly against the door which led into the garden. + </p> + <p> + “I am acquainted with the head of the police,” said Otto, “and I might + leave the whole business in his hands. But I have chosen a milder way; I + am come myself. I shall very soon leave Denmark; I shall go many hundred + miles hence shall, probably, never return; and thus you see the principal + ground for my coming to you is a whim: I will know wherefore you have + deceived me; I will know what is the connection between you and her.” + </p> + <p> + “Nay; so, then, it is <i>that</i> that you want to know?” said Heinrich, + with a malicious glance. “Yes, see you, she is my best beloved; she shall + be my wife: but your sister she is for all that, and that remains so!” + </p> + <p> + “Thou couldst easily give me a little before thou settest off on thy + journey!” said Sidsel, who seemed excited by Heinrich’s words, and put + forth her painted face. + </p> + <p> + Otto glanced at her with contracted eyebrows. + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” said she, “I say ‘thou’ to thee: thou must accustom thyself to + that! A sister may have, however, that little bit of pleasure!” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, you should give her your hand!” said Heinrich, and laughed. + </p> + <p> + “Wretch!” exclaimed Otto, “she is not that which you say! I will find out + my real sister! I will have proof in hand of the truth! I will show myself + as a brother; I will care for her future! Bring to me her baptismal + register; bring to me one only attestation of its reality—and that + before eight days are past! Here is my address, it is the envelope of a + letter; inclose in it the testimonial which I require, and send it to me + without delay. But prove it, or you are a greater villain than I took you + for.” + </p> + <p> + “Let us say a few rational words!” said Heinrich, with a constrained, + fawning voice. “If you will give to me fifty rix-dollars, then you shall + never have any more annoyance with us! See, that would be a great deal + more convenient.” + </p> + <p> + “I abide by that which I have said!” answered Otto; “we will not have any + more conversation together!” And so saying, he turned him round to go out. + </p> + <p> + Heinrich seized him by the coat. + </p> + <p> + “What do you want?” inquired Otto. + </p> + <p> + “I mean,” said Heinrich, “whether you are not going to think about the + fifty rix-dollars?” + </p> + <p> + “Villain!” cried Otto, and, with the veins swelling in his forehead, he + thrust Heinrich from him with such force, that he fell against the worm + eaten door which led into the garden; the panel of the door fell out, and + had not Heinrich seized fast hold on some firm object with both his hands, + he must have gone the same way. Otto stood for a moment silent, with + flashing eyes, and threw the envelope, on which his address was, at + Heinrich’s feet, and went out. + </p> + <p> + When Otto returned to the hotel, he found the horses ready to be put to + the carriage. + </p> + <p> + “Have you had good intelligence?” whispered Louise. + </p> + <p> + “I have in reality obtained no more than I had before!” replied he; “only + my own feelings more strongly convince me than ever that I have been + deceived by him.” + </p> + <p> + He related to her the short conversation which had taken place. + </p> + <p> + The Kammerjunker’s carriage was now also brought out; in this was more + than sufficient room for two, whereas in the other carriage they had been + crowded. The Kammerjunker, therefore, besought that they would avail + themselves of the more convenient seat which he could offer; and Otto saw + Sophie and her mother enter the Kammerjunker’s carriage. This arrangement + would shortly before have confounded Otto, now it had much less effect + upon him. His mind was so much occupied by his visit to German Heinrich, + his soul was filled with a bitterness, which for the moment repelled the + impulse which he had felt to express his great love for Sophie. + </p> + <p> + “I have been made Heinrich’s plaything—his tool!” thought he. “Now + he ridicules me, and I am compelled to bear it! That horrible being is not + my sister!—she cannot be so!” + </p> + <p> + The street was now quiet. They mounted into the carriage. In the corner + house just opposite there was a great company; light streamed through the + long curtains, a low tenor voice and a high ringing soprano mingled + together in Mozart’s “Audiam, audiam, mio bene.” + </p> + <p> + “The bird may not flutter from my heart!” sighed Otto, and seated himself + by the side of Louise. The carriage rolled away. + </p> + <p> + The full moon shone; the wild spiraea sent forth its odor from the road + side; steam ascended from the moor-lands; and the white mist floated over + the meadows like the daughters of the elfin king. + </p> + <p> + Louise sat silent and embarrassed; trouble weighed down her heart. Otto + was also silent. + </p> + <p> + The Kammerjunker drove in first, cracked his whip, and struck up a wild + halloo. + </p> + <p> + Wilhelm began to sing, “Charming the summer night,” and the Kammerjunker + joined in with him. + </p> + <p> + “Sing with us man,” cried Wilhelm to the silent Otto, and quickly the two + companies were one singing caravan. + </p> + <p> + It was late when they reached the hall. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0041" id="link2HCH0041"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XLI + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “Destiny often pulls off leaves, as we treat the vine, that + its fruits may be earlier brought to maturity.”—JEAN PAUL. +</pre> + <p> + It was not until toward morning that Otto fell into sleep. Wilhelm and he + were allowed to take their own time in rising, and thus it was late in the + day before these two gentlemen made their appearance at the + breakfast-table; the Kammerjunker was already come over to the hall, and + now was more adorned than common. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Thostrup shall be one of the initiated!” said the mother. “It will be + time enough this evening for strangers to know of it. The Kammerjunker and + my Sophie are betrothed.” + </p> + <p> + “See, it was in the bright moonlight, Mr. Thostrup, that I became such a + happy man!” said the Kammerjunker, and kissed the tips of Sophie’s + fingers. He offered his other hand to Otto. + </p> + <p> + Otto’s countenance remained unchanged, a smile played upon his lips. “I + congratulate you!” said he; “it is indeed a joyful day! If I were a poet, + I would give you an ode!” + </p> + <p> + Louise looked at him with an extraordinary expression of pain in her + countenance. + </p> + <p> + Wilhelm called the Kammerjunker brother-in-law, and smiling shook both his + hands. + </p> + <p> + Otto was unusually gay, jested, and laughed. The ladies went to their + toilet, Otto into the garden. + </p> + <p> + He had been so convinced in his own mind that Sophie returned his passion. + With what pleasure had she listened to him! with what an expression had + her eye rested upon him! Her little jests had been to him such convincing + proofs that the hope which he nourished was no self-delusion. She was the + light around which his thoughts had circled. Love to her was to him a good + angel, which sung to him consolation and life’s gladness in his dark + moments. + </p> + <p> + Now, all was suddenly over. It was as if the angel had left him; the flame + of love which had so entirely filled his soul, was in a moment + extinguished to its last spark. Sophie was become a stranger to him; her + intellectual eye, which smiled in love on the Kammerjunker, seemed to him + the soulless eye of the automaton. A stupefying indifference went through + him, deadly as poison that is infused into the human blood. + </p> + <p> + “The vain girl! she thought to make herself more important by repelling + from her a faithful heart! She should only see how changed her image is in + my soul. All the weaknesses which my love for her made me pass over, now + step forth with repulsive features! Not a word which she spoke fell to the + ground. The diamond has lost its lustre; I feel only its sharp corners!” + </p> + <p> + Sophie had given the preference to a man who, in respect of intellect, + stood far below Otto! Sophie, who seemed to be enthusiastic for art and + beauty, for everything glorious in the kingdom of mind, could thus have + deceived him! + </p> + <p> + We will now see the sisters in their chamber. + </p> + <p> + Louise seemed pensive, she sat silently looking before her. + </p> + <p> + Sophie stood thoughtfully with a smile upon her lips. + </p> + <p> + “The Kammerjunker is very handsome, however!” exclaimed she: “he looks so + manly!” + </p> + <p> + “You ought to find him love-worthy!” said Louise. + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” replied her sister, “I have always admired these strong + countenances! He is an Axel—a northern blackbearded savage. Faces + such as Wilhelm’s look like ladies’! And he is so good! He has said, that + immediately after our marriage we shall make a tour to Hamburg. What dress + do you think I should wear?” + </p> + <p> + “When you make the journey to Hamburg?” inquired Louise. + </p> + <p> + “O no, child! to-day I mean. Thostrup was indeed very polite! he + congratulated me! I felt, however, rather curious when it was told to him. + I had quite expected a scene! I was almost ready to beg of you to tell him + first of all. He ought to have been prepared. But he was, however, very + rational! I should not have expected it from him. I really wish him all + good, but he is an extraordinary character! so melancholy! Do you think + that he will take my betrothal to heart? I noticed that when I was kissed + he turned himself suddenly round to the window and played with the + flowers. I wish that he would soon go! The journey into foreign countries + will do him good—there he will soon forget his heart’s troubles. + To-morrow I will write to Cousin Joachim; he will also be surprised!” + </p> + <p> + Late in the afternoon came Jakoba, the Mamsell, the preacher, and yet a + few other guests. + </p> + <p> + In the evening the table was arranged festively. The betrothed sat + together, and Otto had the place of honor—he sat on the other side + of Sophie. The preacher had written a song to the tune of “Be thou our + social guardian-goddess;” this was sung. Otto’s voice sounded beautifully + and strong; he rang his glass with the betrothed pair, and the + Kammerjunker said that now Mr. Thostrup must speedily seek out a bride for + himself. + </p> + <p> + “She is found,” answered Otto; “but now that is yet a secret.” + </p> + <p> + “Health to the bride!” said Sophie, and rung her glass; but soon again her + intellectual eye rested upon the Kammerjunker, who was talking about + asparagus and stall-feeding with clover, yet her glance brought him back + again to the happiness of his love. + </p> + <p> + It was a very lively evening. Late in the night the party broke up. The + friends went to their chamber. + </p> + <p> + “My dear, faithful Otto!” said Wilhelm, and laid his hand on his shoulder; + “you were very lively and good-humored this evening. Continue always + thus!” + </p> + <p> + “I hope to do so,” answered Otto: “may we only always have as happy an + evening as this!” + </p> + <p> + “Extraordinary man!” said Wilhelm, and shook his head. “Now we will soon + set out on our journey, and catch for ourselves the happiness of the + glorious gold bird!” + </p> + <p> + “And not let it escape again!” exclaimed Otto. “Formerly I used to say, + To-morrow! to-morrow! now I say, To-day, and all day long! Away with + fancies and complainings. I now comprehend that which you once said to me, + that is. Man <i>can</i> be happy if he only <i>will</i> be so.” + </p> + <p> + Wilhelm took his hand, and looked into his face with a half-melancholy + expression. + </p> + <p> + “Are you sentimental?” inquired Otto. + </p> + <p> + “I only affect that which I am not!” answered Wilhelm; and with that, + suddenly throwing off the natural gravity of the moment, returned to his + customary gayety. + </p> + <p> + The following days were spent in visiting and in receiving visitors. On + every post-day Otto sought through the leathern bag of the postman, but he + found no letter from German Heinrich, and heard nothing from him. “I have + been deceived,” said he, “and I feel myself glad about it! She, the + horrible one, is not my sister!” + </p> + <p> + There was a necessity for him to go away, far from home, and yet he felt + no longing after the mountains of Switzerland or the luxuriant beauty of + the south. + </p> + <p> + “Nature will only weaken me! I will not seek after it. Man it is that I + require: these egotistical, false beings—these lords of everything! + How we flatter our weaknesses and admire our virtues! Whatever serves to + advance our own wishes we find to be excellent. To those who love us, we + give our love in return. At the bottom, whom do I love except myself? + Wilhelm? My friendship for him is built upon the foundation,—I + cannot do without thee! Friendship is to me a necessity. Was I not once + convinced that I adored Sophie, and that I never could bear it if she were + lost to me? and yet there needed the conviction ‘She loves thee not,’ and + my strong feeling was dead. Sophie even seems to me less beautiful; I see + faults where I formerly could only discover amiabilities! Now, she is to + me almost wholly a stranger. As I am, so are all. Who is there that feels + right lovingly, right faithfully for me, without his own interest leading + him to do so? Rosalie? My old, honest Rosalie? I grew up before her eyes + like a plant which she loved. I am dear to her as it! When her canary-bird + one morning lay dead in its cage, she wept bitterly and long; she should + never more hear it sing, she should never more look after its cage and its + food. It was the loss of it which made her weep. She missed that which had + been interesting to her. I also interested her. Interest is the name for + that which the world calls love. Louise?” He almost spoke the name aloud, + and his thoughts dwelt, from a strong combination of circumstances, upon + it. “She appears to me true, and capable of making sacrifices! but is not + she also very different from all the others? How often have I not heard + Sophie laugh at her for it—look down upon her!” And Otto’s better + feeling sought in vain for a shadow of self-love in Louise, a single + selfish motive for her noble conduct. + </p> + <p> + “Away from Denmark! to new people! Happy he who can always be on the wing, + making new friendships, and speedily breaking them off! At the first + meeting people wear their intellectual Sunday apparel; every point of + light is brought forth; but soon and the festival-day is over, and the + bright points have vanished.” + </p> + <p> + “We will set off next week!” said Wilhelm, “and then it shall be— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + ‘Over the rushing blue waters away! + We will speed along shores that are verdant and gay!’ +</pre> + <p> + Away over the moors, up the Rhine, through the land of champagne to the + city of cities, the life-animating Paris!” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0042" id="link2HCH0042"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XLII + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “A maiden stood musing, gentle and mild. I grasped the hand + of the friendly child, but the lovely fawn shyly + disappeared.... From the Rhine to the Danish Belt, + beautiful and lovely maidens are found in palaces and tents; + yet nobody pleases me.”—SCHMIDT VON LÜBECK. +</pre> + <p> + The last day at home was Sophie’s birthday. In the afternoon the whole + family was invited to the Kammerjunker’s, where Jakoba and the Mamsell + were to be quite brilliant in their cookery. + </p> + <p> + A table filled with presents, all from the Kammerjunker, awaited Miss + Sophie; it was the first time that he had ever presented to her a birthday + gift, and he had now, either out of his own head or somebody’s else, + fallen on the very good idea of making her a present for every year which + she had lived. Every present was suited to the age for which it was + intended, and thus he began with a paper of sugar-plums and ended with + silk and magnificent fur; but between beginning and end there were things, + of which more than the half could be called solid: gold ear-rings, a boa, + French gloves, and a riding-horse. This last, of course, could not stand + upon the table. It was a joy and a happiness; people walked about, and + separated themselves by degrees into groups. + </p> + <p> + The only one who was not there was Eva. She always preferred remaining at + home; and yet, perhaps, to-day she might have allowed herself to have been + overpersuaded, had she not found herself so extremely weak. + </p> + <p> + Silently and alone she now sat at home in the great empty parlor. It was + in the twilight; she had laid down her work, and her beautiful, thoughtful + eyes looked straight before her: thoughts which we may not unveil were + agitating her breast. + </p> + <p> + Suddenly the door opened, and Wilhelm stood before her. Whilst the others + were walking he had stolen away. He knew that Eva was alone at home; + nobody would know that he visited her, nobody would dream of their + conversation. + </p> + <p> + “You here!” exclaimed Eva, when she saw him. + </p> + <p> + “I was compelled to come,” answered he. “I have slipped away from the + others; no one knows that I am here. I must speak with you, Eva. To-morrow + I set off; but I cannot leave home calmly and happily without knowing—what + this moment must decide.” + </p> + <p> + Eva rose, her checks crimsoned, she cast down her eyes. + </p> + <p> + “Baron Wilhelm!” stammered she, “it is not proper that I should remain + here!” She was about to leave the room. + </p> + <p> + “Eva!” said Wilhelm, and seized her hand, “you know that I love you! My + feelings are honorable! Say Yes, and it shall be holy to me as an oath. + Then I shall begin my journey glad at heart, as one should do. Your assent + shall stand in my breast, shall sound in my ear, whenever sin and + temptation assail me! It will preserve me in an upright course, it will + bring me back good and unspoiled. My wife must you be! You have soul, and + with it nobility! Eva! in God’s name, do not make a feeble, life-weary, + disheartened being of me!” + </p> + <p> + “O Heavens!” exclaimed she, and burst into tears, “I cannot, and—will + not! You forget that I am only a poor girl, who am indebted for everything + to your mother! My assent would displease her, and some time or other you + would repent of it! I cannot!—I do not love you!” added she, in a + tremulous voice. + </p> + <p> + Wilhelm stood speechless. + </p> + <p> + Eva suddenly rang the bell. + </p> + <p> + “What are you doing?” exclaimed he. + </p> + <p> + The servant entered. + </p> + <p> + “Bring in lights!” said she; “but first of all you must assist me with + these flowers down into the garden. It will do them good to stand in the + dew.” + </p> + <p> + The servant did as she bade; she herself carried down one of the pots, and + left the room. + </p> + <p> + “I do not love you!” repeated Wilhelm to himself, and returned to the + company which he had left, and where he found all gayety and happiness. + </p> + <p> + The supper-table was spread in the garden; lights burned in the open air + with a steady flame; it was a summer-evening beautiful as the October of + the South; the reseda sent forth its fragrance; and when Sophie’s health + was drunk cannon were fired among the lofty fir-trees, the pines of the + North. + </p> + <p> + The next morning those countenances were dejected which the evening before + had been so gay. The carriage drew up to the door. The dear mother and + sisters wept; they kissed Wilhelm, and extended their hands to Otto. + </p> + <p> + “Farewell!” said Louise; “do not forget us!” and her tearful glance rested + upon Otto. Eva stood silent and pale. + </p> + <p> + “You will not forget me!” whispered Otto, as he seized Louise’s hand. “I + will forget your sister!” + </p> + <p> + The carriage rolled away; Wilhelm threw himself back into a corner. Otto + looked back once more; they all stood at the door, and waved their white + handkerchiefs. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0043" id="link2HCH0043"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XLIII + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “In one short speaking silence all conveys— + And looks a sigh, and weeps without a tear.” + MRS. BROWNING. + + “Forgive us our debts as we + The debts of others forgive; + And lead us not in tempting ways; + Apart from evil let us live.” + A. VON CHAMISSO. +</pre> + <p> + We will not accompany the friends, but will remain behind in Funen, where + we will make a bolder journey than they, namely, we will go back + one-and-twenty years. We will allow the circumstances of Otto’s birth + again to come before us. It is a leap backward that we take from 1830 to + 1810. We are in Odense, that old city, which takes its name from Odin. + </p> + <p> + The common people there have still a legend about the origin of the name + of the city. Upon Naesbyhoved’s Hill [Author’s Note: Not far from the + city, by the Odense Channel; it is described in Wedel Simonsen’s City + Ruins.] there once stood a castle; here lived King Odin and his wife: + Odense city was not then in existence, but the first building of it was + then begun. [Author’s Note: The place is given as being that of the now + so-called Cross Street.] The court was undecided as to the name which + should be given to the city. After long indecision it was at last agreed + that the first word which either King or Queen should speak the next + morning should be the name given to it. In the early morning the Queen + awoke and looked out from her window over the wood. The first house in the + city was erected to the roof, and the builders had hung up a great + garland, glittering with tinsel, upon the rooftree. “Odin, see!” exclaimed + the Queen; and thenceforward the city was called Odensee, which name, + since then, has been changed by daily speech to Odense. + </p> + <p> + When people ask the children in Copenhagen whence they have come, they + reply, out of the Peblingsöe. The little children of Odense, who know + nothing about the Peblingsöe, say that they are fetched out of Rosenbaek, + a little brook which has only been ennobled within the few last years, + just as in Copenhagen is the case with Krystal Street, which formerly had + an unpleasant name. This brook runs through Odense, and must, in former + times, when united with the Odense River, have formed an island where the + city at that time stood; hence some people derive the name of Odense from + Odins Ei, or Odins Ö, that is, Odin’s Island. Be it then as it might, the + brook flows now, and in 1810, when the so-called Willow-dam, by the West + Gate, was not filled up, it stood, especially in spring, low and watery. + It often overflowed its banks, and in so doing overflowed the little + gardens which lay on either side. It thus ran concealed through the city + until near the North Gate, where it made its appearance for a moment and + then dived again in the same street, and, like a little river, flowed + through the cellars of the old justice-room, which was built by the + renowned Oluf Bagger. [Author’s Note: He was so rich that once, when + Frederick the Second visited him, he had the room heated with cinnamon + chips. Much may be found about this remarkable man in the second + collection of Thiele’s Popular Danish Legends. His descendants still live + in Odense, namely, the family of the printer Ch. Iversen, who has + preserved many curiosities which belonged to him.] + </p> + <p> + It was an afternoon in the summer of 1810; the water was high in the + brook, yet two washerwomen were busily employed in it; reed-matting was + fast bound round their bodies, and they beat with wooden staves the + clothes upon their washing-stools. They were in deep conversation, and yet + their labor went on uninterruptedly. + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” said one of them, “better a little with honor, than much with + dishonor. She is sentenced; to-morrow she is to go about in the pillory. + That is sure and certain! I know it from the trumpeter’s Karen, and from + the beggar-king’s [Author’s Note: Overseer of the poor.] wife: neither of + them go about with lies.” + </p> + <p> + “Ih, my Jesus!” exclaimed the other, and let her wooden beater fall, “is + Johanne Marie to go in the pillory, the handsome girl? she that looked so + clever and dressed herself so well?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, it is a misfortune!” said the first; “a great misfortune it must be! + No, let every one keep his own! say I every day to my children. After the + sweet claw comes the bitter smart. One had much better work till the blood + starts from the finger-ends.” + </p> + <p> + “Ih, see though!” said the other; “there goes the old fellow, Johanne + Marie’s father. He is an honest man; he was so pleased with his daughter, + and to-morrow he must himself bind her to the pillory! But can she really + have stolen?” + </p> + <p> + “She has herself confessed,” returned she; “and the Colonel is severe. I + fancy the Gevaldiger is going there.” + </p> + <p> + “The Colonel should put the bridle on his own son. He is a bad fellow! Not + long ago, when I was washing yarn there, and was merry, as I always am, he + called me ‘wench.’ If he had said ‘woman,’ I should not have troubled + myself about it, for it has another meaning; but ‘wench,’ that is rude! + Ei, there sails the whole affair!” screamed she suddenly, as the sheet + which she had wound round the washing-stool got loose and floated down the + stream: she ran after it, and the conversation was broken off. + </p> + <p> + The old man whom they had seen and compassionated, went into a great house + close by, where the Colonel lived. His eyes were cast upon the ground; a + deep, silent suffering lay in his wrinkled face; he gently pulled at the + bell, and bowed himself deeply before the black-appareled lady who opened + to him the door. + </p> + <p> + We know her—it was the old Rosalie, then twenty years younger than + when we saw her upon the western coast of Jutland. + </p> + <p> + “Good old man!” said she, and laid her hand kindly on his shoulder. + “Colonel Thostrup is severe, but he is not, however, inhuman; and that he + would be if he let you tomorrow do your office. The Colonel has said that + the Gevaldiger should stay at home.” + </p> + <p> + “No!” said the old man, “our Lord will give me strength. God be thanked + that Johanne Marie’s mother has closed her eyes: she will not see the + misery! We are not guilty of it!” + </p> + <p> + “Honest man!” said Rosalie. “Johanne was always so good and clever; and + now”—she shook her head—“I would have sworn for her, but she + has confessed it herself!” + </p> + <p> + “The law must have its course!” said the old man, and tears streamed down + his cheeks. + </p> + <p> + At that moment the door opened, and Colonel Thostrup, a tall, thin man, + with a keen eye, stood before them. Rosalie left the room. + </p> + <p> + “Gevaldiger,” said the Colonel, “to-morrow you will not be required to act + in your office.” + </p> + <p> + “Colonel,” returned the old man, “it is my duty to be there, and, if I may + say a few words, people would speak ill of me if I kept away.” + </p> + <p> + On the following forenoon, from the early morning, the square where lay + the council-house and head-watch, was filled with people; they were come + to see the handsome girl led forth in the pillory. The time began to + appear long to them, and yet no sign was seen of that which they expected. + The sentinel, who went with measured step backward and forward before the + sentry-box, could give no intelligence. The door of the council-house was + closed, and everything gave occasion to the report which suddenly was put + into circulation, that the handsome Johanne Marie had been for a whole + hour in the pillory within the council-house, and thus they should have + nothing at all to see. Although it is entirely opposed to sound reason + that punishment should be inflicted publicly, it met with much support, + and great dissatisfaction was excited. + </p> + <p> + “That is shabby!” said a simple woman, in whom we may recognize one of the + washerwomen; “it is shabby thus to treat the folks as if they were fools! + Yesterday I slaved like a horse, and here one has stood two whole hours by + the clock, till I am stiff in the legs, without seeing anything at all!” + </p> + <p> + “That is what I expected,” said another woman; “a fair face has many + friends! She has known how to win the great people to her side!” + </p> + <p> + “Do not you believe,” inquired a third, “that she has been good friends + with the Colonels son?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes; formerly I would have said No, because she always looked so steady, + and against her parents there is not a word to be said; but as she has + stolen, as we know she has, she may also have been unsteady. The Colonel’s + son is a wild bird; riots and drinks does he in secret! We others know + more than his father does: he had held too tight a hand over him. Too + great severity causes bad blood!” + </p> + <p> + “God help me, now it begins!” interrupted another woman, as a detachment + of soldiers marched out of the guard-house, and at some little distance + one from the other inclosed an open space. The door of the council-house + now opened, and two officers of police, together with some of the guard, + conducted out the condemned, who was placed in the pillory. This was a + sort of wooden yoke laid across the shoulders of the delinquent; a piece + of wood came forward from this into which her hands were secured: above + all stood two iron bars, to the first of which was fastened a little bell; + to the other a long fox’s tail, which hung down the lack of the condemned. + </p> + <p> + The girl seemed hardly more than nineteen, and was of an unusually + beautiful figure; her countenance was nobly and delicately formed, but + pale as death: yet there was no expression either of suffering or shame,—she + seemed like the image of a penitent, who meekly accomplishes the imposed + penance. + </p> + <p> + Her aged father, the Gevaldiger, followed her slowly; his eye was + determined; no feature expressed that which went forward in his soul: he + silently took his place beside one of the pillars before the guard house. + </p> + <p> + A loud murmur arose among the crowd when they saw the beautiful girl and + the poor old father, who must himself see his daughter’s disgrace. + </p> + <p> + A spotted dog sprang into the open space; the girl’s monotonous tread, as + she advanced into the middle of the square, the ringing of the little + bell, and the fox-tail which moved in the wind, excited the dog, which + began to bark, and wanted to bite the fox’s tail. The guards drove the dog + away, but it soon came back again, although it did not venture again into + the circle, but thrust itself forward, and never ceased barking. + </p> + <p> + Many of those who already had been moved to compassion by the beauty of + the girl and the sight of the old father, were thrown again by this + incident into a merry humor; they laughed and found the whole thing very + amusing. + </p> + <p> + The hour was past, and the girl was now to be released. The Gevaldiger + approached her, but whilst he raised his hand to the yoke the old man + tottered, and sank, in the same moment, back upon the hard stone pavement. + </p> + <p> + A shriek arose from those who stood around; the young girl alone stood + silent and immovable; her thoughts seemed to be far away. Yet some people + fancied they saw how she closed her eyes, but that was only for a moment. + A policeman released her from the pillory, her old father was carried into + the guard-house, and two policemen led her into the council-house. + </p> + <p> + “See, now it is over!” said an old glover, who was among the spectators; + “the next time she’ll get into the House of Correction.” + </p> + <p> + “O, it is not so bad there,” answered another; “they sing and are merry + there the whole day long, and have no need to trouble themselves about + victuals.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, but that is prison fare.” + </p> + <p> + “It is not so bad—many a poor body would thank God for it; and + Johanne Marie would get the best of it. Her aunt is the head-cook, and the + cook and the inspector they hang together. It’s my opinion, however, that + this affair will take the life out of the old man. He got a right good + bump as he fell on the stone-pavement; one could hear how it rung again.” + </p> + <p> + The crowd separated. + </p> + <p> + The last malicious voice had prophesied truth. + </p> + <p> + Three weeks afterward six soldiers bore a woven, yellow straw coffin from + a poor house in East Street. The old Gevaldiger lay, with closed eyes and + folded hands, in the coffin. Within the chamber, upon the bedstead, sat + Johanne Marie, with a countenance pale as that of the dead which had been + carried away. A compassionate neighbor took her hand, and mentioned her + name several times before she heard her. + </p> + <p> + “Johanne, come in with me; eat a mouthful of pease and keep life in you; + if not for your own sake, at least for that of the child which lies under + your heart.” + </p> + <p> + The girl heaved a wonderfully deep sigh. “No, no!” said she, and closed + her eyes. + </p> + <p> + Full of pity, the good neighbor took her home with her. + </p> + <p> + A few days passed on, and then one morning two policemen entered the poor + room in which the Gevaldiger had died. Johanne Marie was again summoned + before the judge. + </p> + <p> + A fresh robbery had taken place at the Colonel’s. Rosalie said that it was + a long time since she had first missed that which was gone, but that she + thought it best to try to forget it. The Colonel’s violent temper and his + exasperation against Johanne Marie, who, as he asserted, by her bad + conduct, had brought her old, excellent father to the grave, insisted on + summoning her before the tribunal, that the affair might be more narrowly + inquired into. + </p> + <p> + Rosalie, who had been captivated by the beauty of the girl and by her + modest demeanor, and who was very fond of her, was this time quite calm, + feeling quite sure that she would deny everything, because, in fact, the + theft had only occurred within the last few days. The public became aware + of this before long, and the opinion was that Johanne Marie could not + possibly have been an actor in it; but, to the astonishment of the greater + number, she confessed that she was the guilty person, and that with such + calmness as amazed every one. Her noble, beautifully formed countenance + seemed bloodless; her dark-blue eyes beamed with a brilliancy which seemed + like that of delirium; her beauty, her calmness, and yet this obduracy in + crime, produced an extraordinary impression upon the spectators. + </p> + <p> + She was sentenced to the House of Correction in Odense. Despised and + repulsed by the better class of her fellow-beings, she went to her + punishment. No one had dreamed that under so fair a form so corrupt a soul + could have been found. She was set to the spinning-wheel; silent and + introverted, she accomplished the tasks that were assigned her. In the + coarse merriment of the other prisoners she took no part. + </p> + <p> + “Don’t let your heart sink within you, Johanne Marie,” said German + Heinrich, who sat at the loom; “sing with us till the iron bars rattle!” + </p> + <p> + “Johanne, you brought your old father to the grave,” said her relation, + the head-cook; “how could you have taken such bad courses?” + </p> + <p> + Johanne Marie was silent; the large, dark eyes looked straight before her, + whilst she kept turning the wheel. + </p> + <p> + Five months went on, and then she became ill—ill to death, and gave + birth to twins, a boy and a girl—two beautiful and well-formed + children, excepting that the girl was as small and delicate as if its life + hung on a thread. + </p> + <p> + The dying mother kissed the little ones and wept; it was the first time + that the people within the prison had seen her weep. Her relation the cook + sat alone with her upon the bed. + </p> + <p> + “Withdraw not your hand from the innocent children,” said Johanne Marie; + “if they live to grow up, tell them some time that their mother was + innocent. My eternal Saviour knows that I have never stolen! Innocent am + I, and innocent was I when I went out a spectacle of public derision, and + now when I sit here!” + </p> + <p> + “Ih, Jesus though! What do you say?” exclaimed the woman. + </p> + <p> + “The truth!” answered the dying one. “God be gracious to me!—my + children!” + </p> + <p> + She sank back upon the couch, and was dead. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0044" id="link2HCH0044"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XLIV + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “Ah! wonderfully beautiful is God’s earth, and worthy it is + to live contented.”—HÖLTY. +</pre> + <p> + We now return to the hall in Funen, to the family which we left there; but + autumn and winter are gone whilst we have been lingering on the past. Otto + and Wilhelm have been two months away. It is the autumn of 1832. + </p> + <p> + The marriage of the Kammerjunker and Sophie was deferred, according to her + wish, until the second of April, because this day is immortal in the + annals of Denmark. In the house, where there now were only the mother, + Louise, and Eva, all was quiet. Through the whole winter Eva had become + weaker; yet she did not resemble the flowers which wither; there was no + expression of illness about her—it was much more as if the spiritual + nature overpowered the bodily; she resembled an astral lamp which, filled + with light, seems almost resembled be an ethereal existence. The dark-blue + eyes had an expression of soul and feeling which attracted even the simple + domestics at the hall. The physician assured them that her chest was + sound, and that her malady was to him a riddle. A beautiful summer, he + thought, would work beneficially upon her. + </p> + <p> + Wilhelm and Otto wrote alternately. It was a festival-day whenever a + letter came; then were maps and plans of the great cities fetched out, and + Louise and Eva made the journey with them. + </p> + <p> + “To-day they are here, to-morrow they will be there,” cried they. + </p> + <p> + “How I envy them both, to see all these glorious things!” said Louise. + </p> + <p> + “The charming Switzerland!” sighed Eva. “How refreshing the air must be to + breathe! How well one must feel one’s self there!” + </p> + <p> + “If you could only go there, Eva,” said Louise, “then you would certainly + get better.” + </p> + <p> + “Here all are so kind to me; here I am so happy!” answered she. “I am + right thankful to God for it. How could I have hoped for such a home as + this? God reward you and your good mother for your kindness to me. Once I + was so unhappy; but now I have had a double repayment for all my sorrow, + and all the neglect I have suffered. I am so happy, and therefore I would + so willingly live!” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, and you shall live!” said Louise. “How came you now to think about + dying? In the summer you will perfectly recover, the physician says. Can + you hide from me any sorrow? Eva, I know that my brother loves you!” + </p> + <p> + “He will forget that abroad!” said Eva. “He must forget it! Could I be + ungrateful? But we are not suited for each other!” She spoke of her + childhood, of long-passed, sorrowful days. Louise laid her arm upon her + shoulder: they talked till late in the evening, and tears stood in + Louise’s eyes. + </p> + <p> + “Only to you could I tell it!” said Eva. “It is to me like a sin, and yet + I am innocent. My mother was so too—my poor mother! Her sin was + love. She sacrificed all; more than a woman should sacrifice. The old + Colonel was stern and violent. His wrath often became a sort of frenzy, in + which he knew not what he did. The son was young and dissipated; my mother + a poor girl, but very handsome, I have heard. He seduced her. She had + become an unfortunate being, and that she herself felt. The Colonel’s son + robbed his father and an old woman who lived in the family: that which had + been taken was missed. The father would have murdered the son, had he + discovered the truth; the son, therefore, sought in his need help from my + poor mother. He persuaded her to save him by taking the guilt on herself. + The whole affair as regarded her was, he intended, only to come from the + domestics. She thought that with her honor all was lost. She, indeed, had + already given him the best of which she was possessed. In anguish of + heart, and overpowered by his prayers, she said, ‘Yes; my father has been + angry and undone already.’” + </p> + <p> + Eva burst into tears. + </p> + <p> + “Thou dear, good girl!” said Louise, and kissed her forehead. + </p> + <p> + “My poor mother,” continued Eva, “was condemned to an undeserved + punishment. I cannot mention it. For that reason I have never had a desire + to go to Odense. The old lady in the Colonel’s family concealed, out of + kindness, her loss; but by accident it was discovered. The Colonel was + greatly embittered. My mother was overwhelmed by shame and misfortune: the + first error had plunged her into all this. She was taken to the House of + Correction in Odense. The Colonel’s son shortly afterward went away in a + vessel. My unhappy mother was dispirited: nobody knew that she had + endured, out of despair and love, a disgrace which she had not deserved. + It was not until she lay upon her death-bed, when I and my brother were + born, that she told a relation that she was innocent. Like a criminal, in + the early morning she was carried to the grave in a coffin of plaited + straw. A great and a noble heart was carried unacknowledged to the dead!” + </p> + <p> + “You had a brother?” inquired Louise, and her heart beat violently. “Did + he die? and where did you, poor children, remain?” + </p> + <p> + “The cook in the house kept us with her. I was small and weak; my brother, + on the contrary, was strong, and full of life. He lived mostly among the + prisoners. I sat in a little room with my doll. When we were in our + seventh year, we were sent for to the old Colonel. His son died abroad; + but before his death he had written to the old man, confessing to him his + crime, my mother’s innocence, and that we were his children! I resembled + my father greatly. The old gentleman, as soon as he saw me, was very + angry, and said, ‘I will not have her!’ I remained with my foster-mother. + I never saw my brother after that time. The Colonel left the city, and + took him with him.” + </p> + <p> + “O God!” cried Louise; “you have still some papers on this subject? Do you + not know your brother? It is impossible that it should be otherwise! You + are Otto’s sister!” + </p> + <p> + “O Heavens!” exclaimed Eva; her hands trembled, and she became as pale as + a corpse. + </p> + <p> + “You are fainting!” cried Louise, throwing her arm around her waist and + kissing her eyes and her cheeks. “Eva! he is your brother! the dear, good + Otto! O, he will be so happy with you! Yes, your eyes are like his! Eva, + you beloved girl!” + </p> + <p> + Louise related to her all that Otto had confided to her. She told her + about German Heinrich, and how Otto had assisted Sidsel away, and how they + had met. + </p> + <p> + Eva burst into tears. “My brother! O Father in heaven, that I may but + live! live and see him! Life is so beautiful! I must not die!” + </p> + <p> + “Happiness will make you strong! There is no doubt but that he is your + brother! We must tell it to mamma. O Heavens! how delighted she will be! + and Otto will no longer suffer and be unhappy! He may be proud of you, and + happy in you! O, come, come!” + </p> + <p> + She led Eva out with her to her mother, who was already in bed; but how + could Louise wait till next morning? + </p> + <p> + “May the Lord bless thee, my good child!” said the lady, and pressed a + kiss upon her forehead. + </p> + <p> + Eva related now how the Colonel had, given a considerable sum to her + foster-mother; but that was all she was to receive, he had said. + Afterward, when the foster-mother died, Eva had still two hundred + rix-dollars; and on consideration of this the sister of the deceased had + taken Eva to live with her. With her she came to Copenhagen and to + Nyboder, and at that time she was ten years old. There she had to nurse a + little child—her brother she called it—and that was the little + Jonas. As she grew older, people told her that she was handsome. It was + now four years since she was followed one evening by two young men, one of + whom we know—our moral Hans Peter. One morning her foster-mother + came to her with a proposal which drove her to despair. The merchant had + seen her, and wished to purchase the beautiful flower. Upon this Eva left + her home, and came to the excellent people at Roeskelde; and from that day + God had been very good to her. + </p> + <p> + She sank down upon her knees before the elderly lady’s bed. She was not + among strangers: a mother and a sister wept with the happy one. + </p> + <p> + “O that I might live!” besought Eva, in the depths of her heart. As a + glorified one she stood before them. Her joy beamed through tears. + </p> + <p> + The next morning she felt herself singularly unwell. Her feet trembled; + her cheeks were like marble. She seated herself in the warm sunshine which + came in through the window. Outside stood the trees with large, + half-bursting buds. A few mild nights would make the wood green. But + summer was already in Eva’s heart; there was life’s joy and gladness. Her + large, thoughtful eyes raised themselves thankfully to heaven. + </p> + <p> + “Let me not die yet, good God!” prayed she; and her lips moved to a low + melody, soft as if breezes passed over the outstretched chords:— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “The sunshine warm, the odorous flowers, + Of these do not bereave me! + I breathe with joy the morning hours, + Let not the grave receive me! + There can no pleasant sunbeams fall, + No human voice come near me; + There should I miss the flow’rets small, + There have no friends to cheer me. + + Now, how to value life I know— + I hold it as a treasure; + There is no love i’ th’ grave below, + No music, warmth, or pleasure. + On it the heavy earth is flung, + The coffin-lid shuts tightly! + My blood is warm, my soul is young! + Life smiles—life shines so brightly!” + </pre> + <p> + She folded her hands: all became like flowers and gold before her eyes. + Afar off was the sound of music: she reeled and sank down upon the sofa + which was near her. Life flowed forth from her heart, but the sensation + was one of bliss; a repose, as when the weary bow down their heads for + sleep. + </p> + <p> + “Here is a letter!” cried Louise, full of joy, and found her white and + cold. Terrified, she called for help, and bent over her. + </p> + <p> + Eva was dead. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0045" id="link2HCH0045"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XLV + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “Knowest thou the mountain and its cloudy paths? where the + mule is seeking its misty way.”—GOETHE. +</pre> + <p> + The letter was from Wilhelm; every line breathed life’s joy and gladness. + </p> + <p> + “MIA CARA SORELLA! + </p> + <p> + “Does it not sound beautifully? It is Italian! Now then, I am in that + so-often-sung-of Paradise, but of the so much-talked-about blue air, I + have as yet seen nothing of consequence. Here it is gray, gray as in + Denmark. To be sure Otto says that it is beautiful, that we have the + heaven of home above us, but I am not so poetical. The eating is good, and + the filth of the people strikes one horribly after being in Switzerland, + the enchanting Switzerland! Yes, there is nature! We have made a crusade + through it, you may think. But now you shall hear about the journey, and + the entrance into ‘la bella Italia,’ which is yet below all my + expectations. I cannot at all bear these feeble people; I cannot endure + this monk-odor and untruthfulness. We are come direct from the scenery of + Switzerland, from clouds and glaciers, from greatness and power. We + travelled somewhat hastily through the valley of the Rhone; the weather + was gray, but the whole obtained therefrom a peculiar character. The woods + in the lofty ridges looked like heather; the valley itself seemed like a + garden filled with vegetables, vineyards, and green meadows. The clouds + over and under one another, but the snow-covered mountains peeped forth + gloriously from among them, It was a riven cloud-world which drove past,—the + wild chase with which the daylight had disguised itself. It kissed in its + flight Pissevache, a waterfall by no means to be despised. In Brieg we + rested some time, but at two o’clock in the morning began again our + journey over the Simplon. This is the journey which I will describe to + you. Otto and I sat in the coupée. Fancy us in white blouses, shawl-caps, + and with green morocco slippers, for the devil may travel in slippers—they + are painful to the feet. + </p> + <p> + “We both of us have mustaches! I have seduced Otto. They become us + uncommonly well, and give us a very imposing air; and that is very good + now that we are come into the land of banditti, where we must endeavor to + awe the robbers. Thus travelled we. It was a dark night, and still as + death, as in the moment when the overture begins to an opera. Soon, + indeed, was the great Simplon curtain to be rolled up, and we to behold + the land of music. Immediately on leaving the city, the road began to + ascend; we could not see a hand before us; around us tumbled and roared + the water-courses,—it was as if we heard the pulse of Nature beat. + Close above the carriage passed the white clouds; they seemed like + transparent marble slabs which were slid over us. We had the gray dawn + with us, whilst deep in the valley lay yet the darkness of night; in an + hour’s time it began to show itself there among the little wooden houses. + </p> + <p> + “It is a road hewn out of the rocks. The giant Napoleon carried it through + the backbone of the earth. The eagle, Napoleon’s bird, flew like a living + armorial crest over the gigantic work of the master. There it was cold and + gray; the clouds above us, the clouds below us, and in the middle space + steep rocky walls. + </p> + <p> + “At regular distances houses (relais) are erected for the travellers; in + one of these we drank our coffee. The passengers sat on benches and tables + around the great fire-place, where the pine logs crackled. More than a + thousand names were written on the walls. I amused myself by writing + mamma’s, yours, Sophie’s, and Eva’s; now they stand there, and people will + fancy that you have been on the Simplon. In the lobby I scratched in that + of Mamsell, and added ‘Without her workbox.’ Otto was thinking about you. + We talked in our, what the rest would call ‘outlandish speech,’ when I all + at once exclaimed, ‘It is really Eva’s birthday!’ I remembered it first. + In Simplon town we determined to drink her health. + </p> + <p> + “We set off again. Wherever the glaciers might fall and destroy the road + the rocks have been sprung, and formed into great galleries, through which + one drives without any danger. One waterfall succeeds another. There is no + balustrade along the road, only the dark, deep abyss where the pine-trees + raise themselves to an immense height, and yet only look like rafters on + the mighty wall of rock. Before we had advanced much further, we came to + where trees no longer grew. The great hospice lay in snow and cloud. We + came into a valley. What solitude! what desolation! only naked crags! They + seemed metallic, and all had a green hue. The utmost variety of mosses + grew there; before us towered up an immense glacier, which looked like + green bottle-glass ornamented with snow. It was bitterly cold here, and in + Simplon the stoves were lighted; the champagne foamed, Eva’s health was + drunk, and, only think! at that very moment an avalanche was so gallant as + to fall. That was a cannonade; a pealing among the mountains! It must have + rung in Eva’s ears. Ask her about it. I can see how she smiles. + </p> + <p> + “We now advanced toward Italy, but cold was it, and cold it remained. The + landscape became savage; we drove between steep crags. Only fancy, on both + sides a block of granite several miles long, and almost as high, and the + road not wider than for two carriages to pass, and there you have a + picture of it. If one wanted to see the sky, one was obliged to put one’s + head out of the carriage and look up, and then it was as if one looked up + from the bottom of the deepest well, dark and narrow. Every moment I kept + thinking, ‘Nay, if these two walls should come together!’ We with carriage + and horses were only like ants on a pebble. We drove through the ribs of + the earth! The water roared; the clouds hung like fleeces on the gray, + craggy walls. In a valley we saw boys and girls dressed in sheep-skins, + who looked as wild as if they had been brought up among beasts. + </p> + <p> + “Suddenly the air became wondrously mild. We saw the first fig-tree by the + road-side. Chestnuts hung over our heads; we were in Isella, the boundary + town of Italy. Otto sang, and was wild with delight; I studied the first + public-house sign, ‘Tabacca e vino.’ + </p> + <p> + “How luxuriant became the landscape! Fields of maize and vineyards! The + vine was not trained on frames as in Germany!—no, it hung in + luxuriant garlands, in great huts of leaves! Beautiful children bounded + along the road, but the heavens were gray, and that I had not expected in + Italy. From Domo d’Ossola, I looked back to my beloved Switzerland! Yes, + she turns truly the most beautiful side toward Italy. But there was not + any time for me to gaze; on we must. In the carriage there sat an old + Signorina; she recited poetry, and made: with her eyes ‘che bella cosa!’ + </p> + <p> + “About ten o’clock at night we were in Baveno, drank tea, and slept, + whilst Lago Maggiore splashed under our window. The lake and the Borromaen + island we were to see by daylight. + </p> + <p> + “‘Lord God!’ thought I, ‘is this all?’ A scene as quiet and riant as this + we—have at home! Funen after this should be called Isola bella, and + the East Sea is quite large enough to be called Lago Maggiore. We went by + the steamboat past the holy Borromeus [Author’s Note: A colossal statue on + the shore of Lago Maggiore.] to Sesto de Calende; we had a priest on + board, who was very much astonished at our having come from so far. I + showed him a large travelling map which we had with us, where the Lago + Maggiore was the most southern, and Hamburg the most northern point. ‘Yet + still further off,’ said I; ‘more to the north!’ and he struck his hands + together when he perceived that we were from beyond the great map. He + inquired whether we were Calvinists. + </p> + <p> + “We sped through glorious scenes. The Alps looked like glass mountains in + a fairy tale. They lay behind us. The air was warm as summer, but light as + on the high mountains. The women wafted kisses to us; but they were not + handsome, the good ladies! + </p> + <p> + “Tell the Kammerjunker that the Italian pigs have no bristles, but have a + coal-black shining skin like a Moor. + </p> + <p> + “Toward night we arrived at Milan, where we located ourselves with + Reichmann, made a good supper, and had excellent beds; but I foresee that + this bliss will not last very long. On the other side of the Apennines we + shall be up to the ears in dirt, and must eat olives preserved in oil; but + let it pass. Otto adapts himself charmingly to all things; he begins to be + merry—that is, at times! I, too, have had a sort of vertigo—I + am taken with Italian music; but then there is a difference in hearing it + on the spot. It has more than melody; it has character. The luxuriance in + nature and in the female form; the light, fluttering movement of the + people, where even pain is melody, has won my heart and my understanding. + Travelling changes people! + </p> + <p> + “Kiss mamma for me! Tell Eva about the health-drinking on the Simplon, and + about the falling avalanche: do not forget that; that is precisely the + point in my letter! Tell me too how Eva blushed, and smiled, and said, ‘He + thought of me!’ Yes, in fact it is very noble of me. My sweet Sophie and + her Kammerjunker, Jakoba and Mamsell, must have a bouquet of greetings, + which you must arrange properly. If you could but see Otto and me with our + mustaches! We make an impression, and that is very pleasant. If the days + only did not go on so quickly—if life did not pass so rapidly! + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “‘Questa vita mortale + Che par si bella, a quasi piuma al vento + Che la porta a la perde in un momento,’ [Note: Guarini] +</pre> + <p> + as we Italians say. Cannot you understand that? + </p> + <p> + “Thy affectionate brother, + </p> + <p> + “WILHELM.” + </p> + <p> + Otto wrote in the margin of the letter, “Italy is a paradise! Here the + heavens are three times as lofty as at home. I love the proud pine-trees + and the dark-blue mountains. Would hat everybody could see the glorious + objects!” + </p> + <p> + Wilhelm added to this, “What he writes about the Italian heavens is stupid + stuff. Ours at home is just as good. He is an odd person, as you very well + know! + </p> + <p> + “‘Addic! A rivederci!’” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0046" id="link2HCH0046"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XLVI + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “Thou art master in thy world. + Hast thou thyself, then thou hast all!” + —WAHLMANN. +</pre> + <p> + In the summer of 1834 the friends had been absent for two years. In the + last year, violet-colored gillyflowers had adorned a grave in the little + country church-yard. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “A heart which overflowed with love, + Was gone from earth to love and God,” + were the words which might be read upon the grave-stone. +</pre> + <p> + A withered bouquet of stocks had been found by Louise, with the + certificate of Eva’s birth and her hymn-book. These were the flowers which + Wilhelm had given her that evening at Roeskelde. Among the dry leaves + there lay a piece of paper, on which she had written,—“Even like + these flowers let the feelings die away in my soul which these flowers + inspire it with!” + </p> + <p> + And now above her grave the flowers which she had loved sent forth their + fragrance. + </p> + <p> + It was Sunday; the sun shone warm; the church-goers, old and young, + assembled under the great lime-tree near Eva’s grave. They expected their + young preacher, who to-day was to preach for the third time. + </p> + <p> + The gentlefolks would also certainly be there, they thought, because the + young Baron was come back out of foreign parts, and with him the other + gentleman, who certainly was to have Miss Louise. + </p> + <p> + “Our new preacher is worth hearing,” said one of the peasant women; “such + a young man, who actually preaches the old faith! as gentle and as meek in + conversation as if he were one of ourselves! And in the pulpit, God help + us! it went quite down into my legs the last time about the Day of + Judgment!” + </p> + <p> + “There is Father!” [Note: The general term applied to the preacher by the + Danish peasants.] exclaimed the crowd, and the heads of old and young were + uncovered. The women courtesied deeply as a young man in priest-robes went + into the church-door. His eyes and lips moved to a pious smile, the hair + was smooth upon his pale forehead. + </p> + <p> + “Good day, children!” said he. + </p> + <p> + It was Hans Peter. He had, indeed, had “the best characters,” and thus had + received a good living, and now preached effectively about the devil and + all his works. + </p> + <p> + The singing of the community sounded above the grave where the sun shone, + where the stocks sent forth their fragrance, and where Eva slept: she + whose last wish was to live. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “There is no love i’ th’ grave below, + No music, warmth, or pleasure.” + </pre> + <p> + The earth lay firm and heavy upon her coffin-lid. + </p> + <p> + During the singing of the second hymn a handsome carriage drove up before + the church-yard. The two friends, who were only just returned to their + home in Denmark, entered the church, together with the mother and Louise. + </p> + <p> + Travelling and two years had made Wilhelm appear somewhat older; there was + a shadow of sadness in his otherwise open and life-rejoicing countenance. + Otto looked handsomer than formerly; the gloomy expression in his face was + softened, he looked around cheerfully, yet thoughtfully, and a smile was + on his lips when he spoke with Louise. + </p> + <p> + There was in the sermon some allusion made to those who had returned home; + for the rest, it was a flowery discourse interlarded with many texts from + the Bible. The community shed tears; the good, wise people, they + understood it to mean that their young lord was returned home uninjured + from all the perils which abound in foreign lands. + </p> + <p> + The preacher was invited to dinner at the hall. The Kammerjunker and + Sophie came also, but it lasted “seven long and seven wide,” as Miss + Jakoba expressed herself, before they could get through all the unwrapping + and were ready to enter the parlor, for they had with them the little son + Fergus, as he was called, after the handsome Scotchman in Sir Walter + Scott’s “Waverley.” That was Sophie’s wish. The Kammerjunker turned the + name of Fergus to Gusseman, and Jacoba asserted that it was a dog’s name. + </p> + <p> + “Now you shall see my little bumpkin!” said he, and brought in a + square-built child, who with fat, red cheeks, and round arms, stared + around him. “That is a strong fellow! Here is something to take hold of! + Tralla-ralla-ralla!” And he danced him round the room. + </p> + <p> + Sophie laughed and offered her hand to Otto. + </p> + <p> + Wilhelm turned to Mamsell. “I have brought something for you,” said he, + “something which I hope may find a place in the work-box—a man made + of very small mussel-shells; it is from Venice.” + </p> + <p> + “Heavens! from all that way off!” said she and courtesied. + </p> + <p> + After dinner they walked in the garden. + </p> + <p> + Wilhelm spoke already of going the following year again to Paris. + </p> + <p> + “Satan!” said the Kammerjunker. “Nay, I can do better with Mr. Thostrup. + He is patriotic. He lays out his money in an estate. It is a good bargain + which you have made, and in a while will be beautiful; there is hill and + dale.” + </p> + <p> + “There my old Rosalie shall live with me,” said Otto; “there she will find + her Switzerland. The cows shall have bells on their necks.” + </p> + <p> + “Lord God! shall they also be made fools of?” exclaimed Jakoba: “that is + just exactly as if it were Sophie.” + </p> + <p> + They went through the avenue where Otto two years before had wept, and had + related all his troubles to Louise. He recollected it, and a gentle sigh + passed his lips whilst his eyes rested on Louise. + </p> + <p> + “Now, do you feel yourself happy at home?” asked she; “a lovelier summer’s + day than this you certainly have not abroad.” + </p> + <p> + “Every country has its own beauties,” replied Otto. “Our Denmark is not a + step child of Nature. The people here are dearest to me, for I am best + acquainted with them. They, and not Nature, it is that makes a land + charming. Denmark is a good land; and here also will I look for my + happiness.” He seized Louise’s hand; she blushed, and was silent. Happy + hours succeeded. + </p> + <p> + This circle assembled every Sunday; on the third, their delight was + greater, was more festal than on any former occasion. + </p> + <p> + Nature herself had the same expression. The evening was most beautiful; + the full moon shone, magnificent dark-blue clouds raised themselves like + mountains on the other side the Belt. Afar off sailed the ships, with + every sail set to catch the breeze. + </p> + <p> + Below the moon floated a coal-black cloud, which foretold a squall. + </p> + <p> + A little yacht went calmly over the water. At the helm sat a boy—half + a child he seemed: it was Jonas, the little singing-bird, as Wilhelm had + once called him. Last Whitsuntide he had been confirmed, and with his + Confirmation all his singer-dreams were at an end: but that did not + trouble him; on the contrary, it had lain very heavy upon his heart that + he was not to be a fifer. His highest wish had been to see himself as a + regimental fifer, and then he should have gone to his Confirmation in his + red uniform, with a sabre at his side, and a feather in his hat half as + tall as himself. Thus adorned, he might have gone with the girls into the + King’s Garden and upon the Round Tower, the usual walk for poor children + in Copenhagen. On Confirmation-day they ascend the high tower, just as if + it were to gain from it a free view over the world. Little Jonas, however, + was confirmed as a sailor, and he now sat at the helm on this quiet night. + </p> + <p> + Upon the deck lay two persons and slept; a third went tranquilly up and + down. Suddenly he shook one of the sleepers, and caught hold on the sail. + A squall had arisen with such rapidity and strength, that the vessel in a + moment was thrown on her side. Mast and sail were below the water. Little + Jonas uttered a shriek. Not a vessel was within sight. The two sleepers + had woke in time to cling to the mast. With great force they seized the + ropes, but in vain; the sail hung like lead in the water. The ship did not + right herself. + </p> + <p> + “Joseph, Maria!” exclaimed one of them, a man with gray hairs and + unpleasing features. “We sink! the water is in the hold!” + </p> + <p> + All three clambered now toward the hinder part of the vessel, where a + little boat floated after. One of them sprang into it. + </p> + <p> + “My daughter!” cried the elder, and bent himself toward the narrow + entrance into the cabin. “Sidsel, save thy life!” and so saying, he sprang + into the boat. + </p> + <p> + “We must have my daughter out,” cried he. One of the ship’s cabin windows + was under water; he burst in the other window. + </p> + <p> + “We are sinking!” cried he, and a horrible scream was heard within. + </p> + <p> + The old man was German Heinrich, who was about to come with this vessel + from Copenhagen to Jutland: Sidsel was his daughter, and therefore he + wished now to save her life a second time. + </p> + <p> + The water rushed more and more into the ship. Heinrich thrust his arm + through the cabin-window, he grasped about in the water within; suddenly + he caught hold on a garment, he drew it toward him; but it was only the + captain’s coat, and not his daughter, as he had hoped. + </p> + <p> + “The ship sinks!” shrieked the other, and grasped wildly on the rope which + held the boat fast: in vain he attempted to divide it with his + pocket-knife. The ship whirled round with the boat and all. Air and water + boiled within it, and, as if in a whirlpool, the whole sunk into the deep. + The sea agitated itself into strong surges over the place, and then was + again still. The moon shone tranquilly over the surface of the water as + before. No wreck remained to tell any one of the struggle which there had + been with death. + </p> + <p> + The bell tolled a quarter past twelve; and at that moment the last light + at the hall was extinguished. + </p> + <p> + “I will go to Paris,” said Wilhelm, “to my glorious Switzerland; here at + home one is heavy-hearted; the gillyflowers on the grave have an odor full + of melancholy recollections. I must breathe the mountain air; I must + mingle in the tumult of men, and it is quite the best in the world.” + </p> + <p> + Otto closed his eyes; he folded his hands. + </p> + <p> + “Louise loves me,” said he. “I am so happy that I fear some great + misfortune may soon meet me; thus it used always to be. Whilst German + Heinrich lives I cannot assure myself of good! If he were away, I should + be perfectly tranquil, perfectly happy!” + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + + + + + +End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of O. T., by Hans Christian Andersen + +*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK O. T. *** + +***** This file should be named 7513-h.htm or 7513-h.zip ***** +This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: + http://www.gutenberg.org/7/5/1/7513/ + +Produced by Nicole Apostola, and David Widger + + +Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions +will be renamed. + +Creating the works from public domain print editions means that no +one owns a United States copyright in these works, so the Foundation +(and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United States without +permission and without paying copyright royalties. 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