The Spell of Belgium

t sixty years of age, of a venerable aspect, whose features expressed mildness and benevolence. This was Hochstetter. Not far from him was seated in a hea

ss, and from time to time he stopped to bestow upon his son a regard full of tenderness, but the cont

my father for an explanation he answered me that it was not yet time but that he would give me one later. I cannot comprehend it-my father who has appeared to love me so tenderly and has always gratified all my wishes-to treat me suddenly with so much severity, so much cruelty. What can I say? He knows that I love you, and what adds to my grief is not to be able to tell you my troubles, and not to see you. He is not ignorant that I suffer and weep almost continually. I fear you will ascribe my silence to other sentiments. He has kept me from your father and all my friends who could speak to me of you. He has also changed so much that it astonishes me; he is always agitated, filled with a continual fear which it is impossible for me to understand; he trembles and turns pale at the slightest noise, speaks of thieves and robb

nish Hochstetter much, but his dis

wards his son, "Carl," said he, taking his hand, "calm yourself, you see that all is not lost

Carl, "her father. I av

marriage for my only son, whose fortune is larger than that of any other in the city! He has seen this attachment in the games of your infancy and has always approved of it. If I regret one thing it is not the interruption of our commercial relations, or the loss of his friendship, but the sudden disappointment of the hopes which this union had made me form for you. Alas! do not be discouraged, my son; you have not so much to complain of, it appears to me. The young girl loves you, you cannot d

and of Katharina of what use will al

onsent; but if he persists in his absurd obstinacy will you consent to marry h

were the daughter of t

that my offers will be accepted. Console yourself; all will be