science, so strict, so dead to the
world, it is, as I think, the highest compliment to our place."

Richard did not question his father's opinion. He knew his unbounded
esteem for the learned doctor.

The road grew steeper and steeper. The horses labored slowly along. The
pleasant hamlet of Salingen lay a short distance to the left. A single
house, separated from the village, and standing near the road in the
midst of vineyards, came into view. The features of Herr Frank darkened
as he turned his gaze from Frankenhoehe to this house. It was as though
some unpleasant recollection was associated with it. Richard looked at
the stately mansion, the large out-houses, the walled courts, and saw
that everything about it was neat and clean.

"This must be a wealthy proprietor or influential landlord who lives
here," said Richard. "I have indeed seen this place in former years,
but it did not interest me. How inviting and pleasant it looks. The
property must have undergone considerable change; at least, I remember
nothing that indicated the place to be other than an ordinary
farmhouse."

Herr Frank did not hear these observations. He muttered some bitter
imprecation. The coach gained the summit, left the road, and passed
through vineyards and chestnut groves to the house.

Frankenhoehe was a handsome two-story house whose arrangements
corresponded to Frank's taste and means. Near it stood another,
occupied by the steward. A short distance from it were stables and
out-houses for purposes of agriculture.

Herr Frank went directly to the house, and passed from room to room to
see if his instructions had been carried out.

Richard went into the garden and walked on paths covered with yellow
sand. He strolled about among flower-beds that loaded the air with
agreeable odors. He examined the blooming dwarf fruit-trees and
ornamental plants. He observed the neatness and exact order of
everything. Lastly, he stood near the vineyard whence he could behold
an extensive view. He admired the beautiful, fragrant landscape. He
stood thoughtfully reflecting. His conversation made it evident to him
that his feelings and will did not agree with his father's wishes. He
saw that between his inclinations and his love for his father he must
undergo a severe struggle--a struggle that must decide his happiness
for life. The strangeness of his opinion of women did not escape him.
He tested his experience. He tried to justify his convictions, an