It is directed against all morals, and against marriage; therefore it was forbidden." [Footnote: The tragedy of "Stella" was represented in Berlin with great applause, and denounced by the king as immoral, in the year 1776, and the further representation forbidden .-- See Plumke, "History of the Berlin Theatres."] "But, sire, Herr Goethe has not only written 'Stella,' but 'Clavigo' also, which--" "Which he has copied exactly from the 'Memoires de Beaumarchais,'" interrupted the king.

"That is not a German, but a French production." "Allow me to cite a genuine German production, which Johann Wolfgang Goethe has written.

I mean the drama 'Gotz von Berlichingen.'" "Stop!--it is sufficient.

I do not wish to hear any thing more," cried the king, indignant, and rising.

"It is bad enough that such pieces should appear upon the German stage as this 'Gotz von Berlichingen.' They are nothing less than abominable imitations of the bad English pieces of Shakespeare! The pit applauds them, and demands with enthusiasm these very disgusting platitudes.