r husband is entertaining Prince Henry while the princess dances the
first waltz with Count Kalkreuth. All the world is dancing, playing, and
chatting, and, while looking at the prince and princess, have for one
moment forgotten the beautiful Louise du Trouffle. I alone could not do
this, and as I learned from Lady Elliot that you were here, I dared
to follow you, and seek in one glance a compensation for what I have
endured this day. Ah, tell me, worshipped lady, must I be forever
banished from your presence."

The words of the young man would have seemed insincere and artificial to
every unprejudiced ear, but they filled the heart of the vain Louise du
Trouffle with joy; they convinced her that she was yet beautiful enough
to excite admiration.

"All will be well, Emil," said she; "I have convinced my husband that
I am wise as Cato and virtuous as Lucretia. He believes in me, and will
cast all slander from his door. Remain here, and let me return alone to
the saloon. Au revoir, man ami."

She threw him a kiss from the tips of her rosy fingers, and hastened
away.

CHAPTER IV. THE KING IN SANS-SOUCI. The ceremonies and festivities of
the reception were ended. The king could at length indulge himself in
that quiet and repose which he had so long vainly desired. At length, he
who had lived so many years to perform the duties of a king, who had
in reality lived for his country, might after so many cares and
sorrows seek repose. The warrior and hero might once more become the
philosopher; might once more enjoy with his friends the pleasure of
science and art.

The king entered the carriage which was to bear him to Sans-Souci with
a beaming countenance--his deeply-loved Sans-Souci, which had seemed a
golden dream to him during the dreary years of the war--a bright goal
before him, of which it consoled and strengthened him even to think.
Now he would again behold it; now he would again enter those beautiful
rooms, and the past would once more become a reality.

He seemed enraptured with the road which led him to Sans-Souci. Every
tree, every stone appeared to welcome him, and when the palace became
visible, he was entirely overcome by his emotions, and sank back in his
carriage with closed eyes.

The Marquis d'Argens, however, the only one who had been allowed to
accompany the king in this drive, sprang from his seat, and waving his
hat in greeting, exclaimed:

"I greet you, Sans-Souci, you temple of wisdom an