This is the curious mythical account; incorrect in some unessential particulars, but in the main and singular part of it well-founded.

Elector Friedrich, according to Pollnitz and others, after failing in many methods, had sent 100,000 _ thalers _ (say 15,000 pounds) to give, by way of--bribe we must call it,--to the chief opposing Hofrath at Vienna.

The money was offered, accordingly; and was refused by the opposing Hofrath: upon which the Brandenburg Ambassador wrote that it was all labor lost; and even hurried off homewards in despair, leaving a Secretary in his place.

The Brandenburg Court, nothing despairing, orders in the mean while, Try another with it,--some other Hofrath, whose name they wrote in cipher, which the blundering Secretary took to mean no Hofrath, but the Kaiser's Confessor and Chief Jesuit, Pater Wolf.

To him accordingly he hastened with the cash, to him with the respectful Electoral request; who received both, it is said, especially the 15,000 pounds, with a _ Gloria in excelsis; _ and went forthwith and persuaded the Kaiser.