er, finding in his workroom all that he
needed of excitement, of joy and sorrow, of elation and despondency, did
not miss the pleasures of social life, nor did he heed the idle gossip
of which he was the subject.

It need hardly be said that such a man had but few acquaintances; yet a
few he had, and among them one who is worthy of especial note--a wealthy
citizen who aspired to a position of civic honour in Strassburg. In
appearance he was lean, old, and ugly, with hatchet-shaped face and
cunning, malevolent eyes; and when he pressed his hateful attentions on
the fair Guta she turned from him in disgust.

One day this creature called on the clockmaker, announced that he had
been made a magistrate, and demanded the hand of Guta, hinting that it
would go ill with the master should he refuse.

The clockmaker was taken completely by surprise, but he offered his
congratulations and called the girl to speak for herself as to her hand.
When Guta heard the proposal she cast indignant glances at the ancient
magistrate, whereupon he, without giving her an opportunity to speak,
said quickly:

"Do not answer me now, sweet maid; do not decide hastily, I beg of you,
for such a course might bring lasting trouble on you and your father. I
will return to-morrow for your answer."

When he was gone Guta flung herself into her father's arms and declared
that she could never marry the aged swain.

"My dear," said the clockmaker soothingly, "you shall do as you please.
Heed not his threats, for when I have finished my great work we shall be
as rich and powerful as he."

On the following day the magistrate called again, looking very important
and self-satisfied, and never doubting but that the answer would be
favourable. But when Guta told him plainly that she would not marry him
his rage was unbounded, and he left the house vowing vengeance on father
and daughter.

Scarcely was he gone ere a handsome youth entered the room and looked
with some surprise at the disturbed appearance of Guta and her
father. When he heard the story he was most indignant; later, when the
clockmaker had left the young people alone, Guta confessed that the
attentions of the magistrate were loathsome to her, and burst into
tears.

The young man had long loved the maiden in secret, and he could conceal
his passion no longer. He begged that she would become his bride, and
Guta willingly consented, but suggested that they should not mention
the matter to he