so polished and seducing, were at bottom
frivolous, unfeeling and insincere. I turned from the Inhabitants of
Paris with disgust, and quitted that Theatre of Luxury without heaving
one sigh of regret.

I now bent my course towards Germany, intending to visit most of the
principal courts: Prior to this expedition, I meant to make some
little stay at Strasbourg. On quitting my Chaise at Luneville to take
some refreshment, I observed a splendid Equipage, attended by four
Domestics in rich liveries, waiting at the door of the Silver Lion.
Soon after as I looked out of the window, I saw a Lady of noble
presence, followed by two female Attendants, step into the Carriage,
which drove off immediately.

I enquired of the Host, who the Lady was, that had just departed.

'A German Baroness, Monsieur, of great rank and fortune. She has been
upon a visit to the Duchess of Longueville, as her Servants informed
me; She is going to Strasbourg, where She will find her Husband, and
then both return to their Castle in Germany.'

I resumed my journey, intending to reach Strasbourg that night. My
hopes, however were frustrated by the breaking down of my Chaise. The
accident happened in the middle of a thick Forest, and I was not a
little embarrassed as to the means of proceeding.

It was the depth of winter: The night was already closing round us;
and Strasbourg, which was the nearest Town, was still distant from us
several leagues. It seemed to me that my only alternative to passing
the night in the Forest, was to take my Servant's Horse and ride on to
Strasbourg, an undertaking at that season very far from agreeable.
However, seeing no other resource, I was obliged to make up my mind to
it. Accordingly I communicated my design to the Postillion, telling
him that I would send People to assist him as soon as I reached
Strasbourg. I had not much confidence in his honesty; But Stephano
being well-armed, and the Driver to all appearance considerably
advanced in years, I believed I ran no danger of losing my Baggage.

Luckily, as I then thought, an opportunity presented itself of passing
the night more agreeably than I expected. On mentioning my design of
proceeding by myself to Strasbourg, the Postillion shook his head in
disapprobation.

'It is a long way,' said He; 'You will find it a difficult matter to
arrive there without a Guide. Besides, Monsieur seems unaccustomed to
the season's severity, and 'tis possible that unabl