If his prayer was heard, and his Majesty should decide to battle for the holiest cause, sorrowful anxieties would vanish from his pathway as the mists of dawn scatter before the rising sun.

He well knew the gravity of the demands which every day imposed upon his Majesty, but he could give him the assurance that nothing could be more pleasing to Heaven than that he, who was chosen as its champion, should, by mastering them, enjoy the gifts with which Eternal Love set its board as abundantly for the poorest carter as for the mightiest ruler.
Then he spoke of the surprise of the night before, and how gratefully he had heard that music had once more exerted its former magic power.

Its effect would be permanent, even though physical suffering and sorrowful memories might interrupt it for a few brief hours.
"That," he concluded, "Nature herself just at this season teaches us to hope.

This day of fasting and sadness will be followed by a series of the brightest weeks--the time of leafage, blossom, and bird songs, which is so dear to the merciful mother of God.

May the month of May, called by the Germans the joy month, and which dawns to-day with bright sunshine and a clear, blue sky, be indeed a season of joy to your Majesty!" "God grant it!" replied the Emperor dully, and then, with a shrug of the shoulders, added: "Besides, I can not imagine whence such joy should come to me.