At last the widow paused, saying: "Perhaps the Prince has sent a messenger for Peter.

In such times, after such blows, everything is possible.

You might have seen correctly." "It was surely he," replied Maria positively.
"Poor fellow!" said the other.

"It must be a sad ride for him! Much honor, much hardship! You've no reason to despond, for your husband will return tomorrow or the day after; while I--look at me, Maria! I go through life stiff and straight, do my duty cheerfully; my cheeks are rosy, my food has a relish, yet I've been obliged to resign what was dearest to me.

I have endured my widowhood ten years; my daughter Gretchen has married, and I sent Cornelius myself to the Beggars of the Sea.