o2-t ^ Ten Years of my Life. 



cnrried to the church, which was draped in black, and high 

 iiiass was celebrated. Minna," the mother of Florentine, had 

 arrived. All the daughters of my brother-in-law were present, 

 and also Prince Alfred, junior, who having left recently the 

 Austrian service could not take part in the war and remained 

 at home with his wife, Princess Rosa. Let me pass over de- 

 tails. It is too painful for me to dwell long on this sad period. 



When all was over, and poor Felix placed near his father 

 and mother, together with Florentine, in the family vault, it 

 was as if a great load had been taken off my mind. I had 

 faithfully fulfilled my duty and kept my vow. I felt that my 

 dear husband's soul was at rest now, and peace came over 

 mine also. But I felt that I must not trust it ; that it was 

 dangerous to ponder over my woes. Had I, as my brother- 

 in-law desired me to do, remained in Anholt until the end of 

 the war, I should have gone mad. I knew that I must forcibly 

 tear myself away, and battle against the inclination of nursing 

 my grief, and that I could only conquer it by help of great 

 activity. Therefore, I had resolved to return to the army 

 immediately, and attend still more assiduously than before to 

 my duty. 



The last token of love I received from my dear husband 

 was a postal card, written immediately before the battle of 



Gravelotte. Here it is : — 



* In one hour we begin the great battle. With God we will be re- 

 united ; but if I should be killed, darling, beloved Agnes, I beg your 

 pardon for every trouble I ever have made you, and that I always have 

 loved you, and that I take this only love with me in my grave. My 

 brother will take care of you. Keep me in your kind remembrance. 

 From all my soul, ^ 



* Your true and loving husband, 



* Felix. 



* (Kiss little Jimmy). 



' In the field, near Mctz, the i8th of August, 1870. 

 ' Dear, God bless you. Thanks for your love and everything you have 

 dune for me.' 



