dear sir, in many respects
I am quite an old-fashioned man; for example, I have read a great deal
in the Old Scriptures for instruction. I have read, 'Put not your trust
in princes.' These words seem wise to me, and you must allow me to
interpret them literally, and act accordingly."

Gellert withdrew, and hastened home. The major returned to the king,
admiring, almost envying, Gellert's modest, independent, and beautiful
character.

"Quintus," said the king, "I thank you sincerely for my new German
acquaintance. The poet is better than the philosopher. Gellert is
the wisest and cleverest poet of his time--a much worthier man than
Gottsched, with all his pompous knowledge. Gellert's fame will outlive
his. He is perhaps the only German who will not be forgotten. He
attempts but little, and succeeds well."

CHAPTER XIV. THE KING AND THE VILLAGE MAGISTRATE.

In the little village of Voiseilvitz, near the Silesian frontier, there
was a great stir and excitement. The quartermaster of the army had just
arrived and announced the king's approach. He then went on to the next
village to seek quarters for the army. After their many sufferings and
wants, the weary soldiers were much in need of rest and refreshment.
They had passed many, many miserable weeks, during which the most
patient had become disheartened. The king alone had retained his
courage, his presence of mind, his activity and energy. He had borne,
without complaint, every want and privation. Surrounded by powerful
enemies, his great and clear mind had contrived the intrenchments which
encompassed his camp, and which had filled his enemies with wonder.
Neither Daun, Loudon, Butterlin, nor Ternitschow, dared attack the camp
that had suddenly become a strong fortress. They gazed in wild amazement
at their daring, invincible enemy, whom they had so often thought to
ruin, and who had continually with his lion strength broken the nets
they had laid for him. Not daring to attack him with their cannon
and their swords, the allies relied upon another much more fearful
weapon--hunger! It was impossible for the king, surrounded as he was by
enemies, to obtain food for his troops and fodder for the horses. But
Frederick did not cease to hope: he turned night into day and day into
night; thus he was prepared for any movement. During the day he could
observe all that passed in the enemy's camp; a few slight guards were
placed in the intrenchments, while the rest of th