e jests, but the
whole woman was repulsive to me, and the bashful Maria had gained my
heart for ever.

"'You see, brother host of the Sun,' began the man who had brought me,
'You see how we live together, and every day is like this one. Is it
not true, comrades?'

"'Every day like this!' repeated the whole band.

"'If, then, you can resolve to find pleasure in our mode of life,
strike a bargain and be our leader. I have held that post hitherto,
but I will give it up to you. Are you content, comrades.'

"A joyful 'Yes!' was responded from every throat.

"My head was on fire, my brain was turned, and my blood was boiling
with wine and passion. The world had cast me out as infected with the
plague, but here I found a brotherly reception, honour, and comfort.
Whatever choice I made death awaited me, but here I could at least sell
my life for a higher price. Sensuality was my most violent tendency;
hitherto the other sex had only shown me contempt, but here I should
find favour and boundless enjoyment. My determination cost me but
little. 'I stay with you, comrades,' cried I, loudly and resolutely,
and walked into the midst of the band. 'I remain with you,' I cried
again, 'if you will give me my beautiful neighbour.' All agreed to
grant my request, and I was the declared possessor of a harlot, and
owner of a band of robbers."

* * * * *

The following part of the history I entirely pass over; the merely
detestable has nothing instructive for the reader. An unfortunate man
who had sunk to this depth, would at last necessarily allow himself all
that raises the indignation of mankind. He did not, however, commit
another murder, as he himself confessed upon the rack.

The fame of this man shortly spread over the entire province. The high
roads became unsafe; the citizens were rendered uneasy by the
burglaries committed in the night; the name of the "Host of the Sun"
became the terror of the country-people, justice searched for him, and
a reward was offered for his head. He was fortunate enough to
frustrate all attempts made against his liberty, and cunning enough to
turn to the account of his safety the superstition of the wonder-loving
peasantry. His comrades had to spread the report that he had made a
compact with the devil, and understood witchcraft. The district in
which he played his part, belonged less at that time than now to the
enlightened part of Germany; the reports w