o
arm you? Really your old sword with its hacked hilt and notched and
rusty blade, would not have become your new suit.'

'You have done well, worthy lady,' said Dorn, proving the blade by
pressing its point against the floor and bending it in every direction.
'The old sword had indeed become dear to me, like an old friend who had
always remained true in times of necessity and danger; but I never
reflect upon the deeds I have performed with it without shuddering. It
seems to me that it is possessed by an evil spirit which impels my hand
to deeds of blood against my will, and I therefore do not like to touch
it. This has as yet drank no blood, and, so help me God, I will
preserve it unstained unless I am compelled to draw it in defence of
the hearth where I, a friendless stranger, have been so hospitably
received.'

'Or in defence of religion,' added the parson.

'The true religion, most worthy sir,' answered Dorn, 'needs not the aid
of the sword!'

The reverend man had already opened his mouth to refute this bold
proposition, when the master of the house entered with a clouded
countenance, holding two open letters in his hand. He briefly greeted
the parson, gently put aside the children who gathered about him in
their noisy joy, and handed one of the letters to his wife.

'From your mother, at Sagan,' said he; and while she proceeded to read
it with visible terror, he drew the book-keeper to a window.

'I have a sudden and disagreeable business for you,' said he to Dorn.
'The terrible Wallenstein conducts himself in his new dukedom with a
tyranny almost unheard of among christians. He has determined to send
all the orphan sons of burghers of Sagan to the school he has recently
established at Gitschin. Those whom he has found in the place, have
been forcibly sent to Bohemia. Their property and relatives are held
answerable for the absent. As you already know, my mother-in-law's
nephew, young Engelmann, is at present studying at the gymnasium in
this city; and the tyrant has thrown his uncle and guardian into prison
until the pupil shall be forthcoming. No other course remains, but to
send the poor boy home as soon as possible; and, that he may, in these
dangerous times, reach Sagan with safety, it is my wish that you would
accompany him. When there, you may also be able to assist me in another
affair. I have loaned a thousand gilders upon the two houses of the
joiner Eckebrect. My debtor now informs me that the ho