l eyes you
have, to be sure! Now, there, it's done; jump backward and forward as
much as you like. He does what's told him, forester; a good-natured
beast--something of your own character, comrade."

The forester laughed. "Do you know how to set about trapping a fox?"

"I should think so," said Karl.

"There are plenty more such fellows here," continued the old man; "if
you like, we will go after them next Sunday."

And so they went together through the wood, all on the best terms
possible. Anton called the forester to his side, and got much
information from him. Certainly, he had nothing very cheering to tell.
Of wood fit for cutting there was hardly enough for the use of the
family and tenants. The old system of plunder had done its worst here.
As they reached the carriage, the forester respectfully touched his hat,
and asked at what hour in the morning he should come to the castle.

Anton rejoiced to have succeeded so well in concealing the feeling of
insecurity which made his present position an irksome one to him.

"You see," said he to his faithful ally, as they both sat over the green
tile stove at evening, "what disturbs me most is that I feel more
ignorant and helpless than any of the servants about, and yet I have got
to maintain their respect. These two last days have taught me how little
mere good-will can do. Now, then, give me some sensible advice. What
shall be our next step?"

"First sell off all the cattle that are out of profit, and instantly
dismiss the good for nothing people who have them in charge. Bring
cattle and horses to the farm-yard, that we may have them under our own
eyes. What can be done in farming with our small means shall be done
regularly, not hurried over. We must buy straw and oats for the present.
Till next year, when a regular bailiff will be wanted, give me the
charge of things; I shall not do much, to be sure, but more than any of
your other people."

It was already late, when a quick step was heard on the stairs. With a
great stable-lantern in his hand, and a face full of bad news, the
landlord made his appearance in Anton's room. "I wished to tell you,
sir, what I have heard. A German from Kunau, who has just passed
through, has brought word that Bratzky never got to Rosmin yesterday."

"Never got there!" cried Anton, springing up.

"About two miles from Rosmin, in the wood, four riders fell upon the
carriage. It was dark; the riders overpowered the gendarme and bou