of all kinds its scope. Nothing was more apt to make him melancholy,
than to hear of persons of talents dying without having their chance.
A failure is nothing; it may be deserved, or it may be remedied. In the
first instance, it brings self-knowledge; in the second, it develops a
new combination usually triumphant. But incapacity, from not, having a
chance of being capable, is a bitter lot, which Sidonia was ever ready
to alleviate.

The elder Baroni possessed Herculean strength, activity almost as
remarkable, a practised courage, and a controlling mind. He was in the
prime of manhood, and spoke several languages. He was a man, according
to Sidonia's views, of high moral principle, entirely trustworthy. He
was too valuable an instrument to allow to run to seed as the strolling
manager of a caravan of tumblers; and it is not improbable that Sidonia
would have secured his services, even if he had not become acquainted
with the Baroni family. But they charmed him. In every member of it he
recognised character, and a predisposition which might even be genius.
He resolved that every one of them should have a chance.

When therefore Baroni, wearied and a little disgusted with an
unpromising journey, returned from Berg in the evening, and, in
consequence of the message of his children, repaired instantly to the
hotel of Sidonia, his astonishment was great when he found the manager
converted into a millionaire, and that too the most celebrated in
Europe. But no language can convey his wonder when he learnt the career
that was proposed to him, and the fortunes that were carved out for
his children. He himself was to repair, with all his family, except
Josephine and her elder brother, at once to Vienna, where he was to be
installed into a post of great responsibility and emolument. He was made
superintendent of the couriers of the house of Sidonia in that capital,
and especially of those that conveyed treasure. Though his duties would
entail frequent absences on him, he was to be master of a constant and
complete establishment. Alfred was immediately to become a pupil of the
Academy of Painters, and Carlotta of that of dancing; the talents of
Michel were to be watched, and to be reported to Sidonia at fitting
periods. As for Adele, she was consigned to a lady who had once been
a celebrated prima donna, with whom she was to pursue her studies,
although still residing under the paternal roof. 'Josephine will repair
to Paris at o