r tried to make the slightest
alteration in the existing order of things was always considered, by
those who derived advantages therefrom, to be a foe to the State and to
society in general-a robber and a revolutionist. The early Christians
enjoyed exactly the same reputation as the Socialists to-day. They were
looked upon as enemies of the whole human race, and were torn to pieces
by wild beasts, though--doubtless to your regret--it has not come to
that with, the Socialists. And nevertheless, though lions and tigers
are a good deal worse than police officers, the principles of
Christianity have triumphed, and there is nothing to prove that the
principles of Socialism will not triumph in their turn."

"Prophet of evil omen!" cried Paul.

"Not necessarily so. Where would be the misfortune? I am firmly
persuaded that a Socialist State would not differ in any important
point from the accepted forms of government of the day. The
administrative power would merely be transferred from the hands of the
military and the landed aristocracy to another class. To those who do
not want a share in the governing power, it is all the same who wields
it. You see, human nature remains the same, and its organization alters
only very gradually, almost imperceptibly, though it sometimes changes
its name. Christianity promised to be the beginning of the thousand
years' reign, but in the main, everything has gone on just as it was
before. A Socialist State would not be able to make the sun rise in the
west, or do away with death any more than we can. They would have
ministers, custom-house officers, policemen, virtue, vice and ambition,
self-interest, oppression and brotherly love just as we do, and if the
Socialists come into power, they will soon pass special acts and
prosecute the followers of other opinions just as they are being
prosecuted to-day. That is all upon the surface, and does not touch the
root of things. Why excite yourself about a mere shadowplay?"

"In practical matters," answered Paul, laughing, "I consider I am the
better man, but you certainly beat me at metaphysics. Prophecy
decidedly comes under the heading of metaphysics, so I strike my colors
before you."

"The sooner the better," said Malvine; "especially as it is quite
unpardonable of you to start off on a long discussion when our poor
friend must be so tired and sleepy."

It was eight o'clock by this time, and Wilhelm really felt the want of
rest. But before g