story goes he can
transform himself into any animal.

HOST.

It is true, and then he travels around _incognito_ and spies out
the sentiments of his subjects; that's the very reason why we trust no
cat, no strange dog or horse, because we always think the ruler might
probably be inside of them.

LORENZ.

Then surely we are in a better position, too. Our king never
goes out without wearing his crown, his cloak, and his sceptre; by
these, he is known three hundred paces away. Well, take care of
yourselves.

[_Exit._]

HOST.

Now he is already in his own country.

KUNZ.

Is the border line so near?

HOST.

Surely, that very tree belongs to the king; you can see from
this very spot everything that goes on in his country; this border
line here is a lucky thing for me. I should have been bankrupt long
ago if the deserters from over there had not supported me; almost
every day several come.

MICHEL.

Is the service there so hard?

HOST.

Not that; but running away is so easy, and just because it is so
strictly forbidden the fellows get such an exceptional desire to
desert. Look, I bet that's another one coming!

[_A soldier comes running._]

SOLDIER.

A can of beer, host! Quick!

HOST.

Who are you?

SOLDIER.

A deserter.

MICHEL.

Perhaps 'twas his love for his parents which made him desert.
Poor fellow, do take pity on him, host.

HOST.

Why if he has money, there won't be any lack of beer. (_Goes
into the house_.)

[_Two hussars come riding and dismount_.]

1ST HUSS.

Well, thank God, we've got so far! Your health, neighbor!

SOLDIER.

This is the border.

2D HUSS.

Yes, Heaven be thanked! Didn't we have to ride for the sake
of that fellow? Beer, host!

HOST (_with several glasses_).

Here, gentlemen, a fine, cool drink;
you are all pretty warm.

1ST HUSS.

Here, you rascal! To your health!

SOLDIER.

Best thanks, I will meantime hold your horses for you.

2D HUSS.

The fellow can run! It's good that the border is never so
very far away; for otherwise it would be deucedly hard service.

1ST HUSS.

Well, we must go back, I suppose. Good-bye, deserter! Much
luck on your way!

[_They mount and ride away_.]

HOST.

Will you stay here?

SOLDIER.

No, I am going away; why I must enlist with the neighboring
duke.

HOST.

Say, come and see