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the old hermit the story of my wonderful ex- 
periences in the mountain wilderness. Several 
times during its rehearsal I was compelled to 
raise my hand warningly to quiet the old her- 
mit’s almost uncontrollable feelings. When I 
finished my story, he sat like a statue in his 
chair, as if benumbed with the weight of his 
joy ; then, with a sob, he requested me to show 
him the little trinket with which I had been 
entrusted. When I placed the locket in his 
trembling hand he opened it with difficulty be- 
cause of his emotion, and when he viewed the 
beautiful face that smiled from its golden resting 
place, his pent up feelings burst forth in un- 
controllable joy. 
‘God be praised; it is she, it is she; my lost 
darling,” exclaimed the over-joyed father. Then 
giving full vent to his emotions, his powerful 
frame shook with great sobs of joy. 
Fully sharing the old hermit’s great happi- 
ness, I patiently waited till he was calm again 
before continuing the discussion of the happy 
theme. 
“ Heaven’s blessing rest on you, my Fritz. 
You have been a messenger of peace and happi- 
ness to me. Now, when can I go to her, my 
dear Fritz?” 
“Be patient, my dear Count. We can wait 
the full development of my carefully laid plans. 
You will remain here, and I will bring her to 
your arms in a few sbort hours.” 
“ Be it as you decide; I am so happy that a 
