own is doomed: we shall do little business here for some
time to come; remember that, and be firm." And, turning to the Pole, he
said, "I request you to allow my fellow-traveler to pay a few business
calls in the company of our agent."

"If your agent will answer with his person for the gentleman's return,"
returned the Pole, with some reluctance, "I consent."

The light of day had exercised its gracious office of giving color to
flowers and courage to the faint-hearted, even in favor of the agent. He
declared himself ready to accompany Anton upon the terms proposed.
Accordingly, under the protection of the great cockade upon his
companion's hat, Anton hurried from house to house, pale indeed from
loss of rest, but with an undaunted heart. Every where he was received
with amazement not always free from confusion. "How could people think
in such a time about winding up matters of business, with the noise of
arms all round, and in deadly fear of a horrible future?"

Anton coolly replied, "Our firm is not accustomed to trouble itself
about rumors of war when not absolutely obliged to do so. All times are
suited for the fulfillment of obligations; and if this be a fit season
for us to come here, it is also a fit season for you to arrange matters
with me;" through which representations he succeeded here and there in
obtaining definite promises, commissions, nay, even reimbursement.

After a few hours' hard work, Anton met his principal in the agent's
house. When he had made his report, the merchant said, reaching out his
hand to him, "If we can succeed in getting our wagons safely out of the
town, we shall have done enough to enable us to bear the unavoidable
losses that we must undergo. Now, then, to the commandant." He gave a
few further instructions to the agent, whispering to him in parting, "In
a few days our troops will enter; I take it for granted that you will
not leave your house till then. We shall thus meet again."

With upraised hands the agent invoked the protection of all the saints
in the calendar upon the travelers, locked and bolted the house door
behind them, and hid his revolutionary cockade in the stove.

Our friends now hurried on through the tumult, led by the Pole. The
streets were full again; bands of armed men passed by, the populace was
in wilder excitement, and the noise greater than on the previous
evening. The houses were thundered at, and an entrance insisted on.
Brandy-casks were rolled on