of tears flowed into the separating
gulf, without being able to fill it or to clear her vision, while she
now complained of circumstances, and now of her own self, as being the
cause of what she endured.

It was at this time that, partly at the wish of the parents, and partly
also out of his own kind-heartedness, Jacobi began seriously to occupy
himself with Petrea; and he occupied her mind in such a manner as
strengthened and practised her thinking powers, whereby the fermentation
in her feelings and imagination was in some measure abated. All this was
indescribably beneficial to her, and it would have been still more so
had not the teacher been too----but we will leave the secret to future
years.

* * * * *

The Judge received one day a large letter from Stockholm, which, after
he had read, he silently laid before his wife. It came from the highest
quarter, contained most honourable and flattering praise of the services
of Judge Frank, of which the government had long been observant, and now
offered him elevation to the highest regal court of justice.

When Elise had finished the letter she looked up inquiringly to her
husband, who stood beside her. "What think you of it, Ernst?" asked she,
with a constrained and uneasy glance.

The Judge walked more quickly up and down the room, as was his custom
when anything excited him. "I cannot feel indifferent," said he; "I am
affected by this mark of confidence in my sovereign. I have long
expected this occurrence; but I feel, I see that I cannot leave my
present sphere of operation. My activity is suited to it; I know that I
am of service here, and the confidence of the Governor gives me
unrestrained power to work according to my ability and views. It is
possible that he, instead of me, may get the credit of the good which is
done in the province; but, in God's name, let it be so! I know that what
is good and beneficial is actually done, and that is enough; but there
is a great deal which is only begun which must be completed, and a great
deal, an infinite great deal, remains yet to be done. I cannot leave a
half-finished work--I cannot and I will not! One must complete one's
work, else it is good for nothing! And I know that here I am--but I am
talking only of myself. Tell me, Elise, what you wish--what you would
like."

"Let us remain here!" said Elise, giving her hand to her husband, and
seating herself beside him. "I know that you wo