She was accustomed to say that, by transplanting their manners into Austria, the Princes of that house had laid the foundation of the unassailable popularity enjoyed by the imperial family.

She frequently related to me the interesting manner in which the Ducs de Lorraine levied the taxes.

"The sovereign Prince," said she, "went to church; after the sermon he rose, waved his hat in the air, to show that he was about to speak, and then mentioned the sum whereof he stood in need.

Such was the zeal of the good Lorrainers that men have been known to take away linen or household utensils without the knowledge of their wives, and sell them to add the value to their contribution.

It sometimes happened, too, that the Prince received more money than he had asked for, in which case he restored the surplus." All who were acquainted with the Queen's private qualities knew that she equally deserved attachment and esteem.