er mother's descended from one of the oldest families
in Sweden, she inherited at the same time a burning desire for personal
advancement and an enthusiasm for the glory of her native land. Wedded
to a handsome, daring, impetuous youth of twenty-one, the nation's
favorite, she entered with her whole heart into all his projects, and
was among his most valuable counsellors whether in peace or war. In
force of character and in personal bravery she was scarce inferior to
her heroic husband, and yet she lacked not discretion or even
shrewdness. She was the idol of the Swedish people, and before many
years were passed was to have an opportunity to test their love.

Another personage at court, with whom we have already become acquainted,
was Hemming Gad. Although of humble birth, this man had received a
careful education, and during twenty years of his early life had held
the post of Swedish ambassador at the court of Rome. On his return to
Sweden he had been elected bishop of the diocese of Linkoeping, but had
never entered on his duties owing to the opposition of the pope. He was
not indeed a priest. Diplomacy was above all else the field in which he
shone. A warm supporter of the Stures, he had more than once averted
trouble by his powers of conciliation, and was regarded as an
indispensable servant of the people's cause. Fearless, eloquent,
untiring, conciliatory, persuasive, perhaps not too conscientious, he
was the most influential person in the Cabinet and one of the very
foremost statesmen of his time. It was to this man, then seventy-four
years of age, that the care of the young Gustavus was intrusted when he
came to court.

Affairs at this time were in a state of great confusion. King Hans of
Denmark had died a year before, and after several months of hostile
demonstration had been succeeded by his son. This person, known as
Christiern II., was as vile a monster as ever occupied a throne. Gifted
by nature with a powerful frame, tall, burly, with large head and short
thick neck, broad forehead and high cheek-bones, prominent nose, firmly
compressed lips, a plentiful supply of shaggy hair on his head and face,
heavy overhanging eyebrows, his eyes small, deep-set, and fierce,--his
appearance furnished an excellent index to his character. Firm,
courageous, by no means wanting in intellect or executive ability, he
was sensual, gross, and cruel. Though often full of hilarity and hearty
animal spirits, there was ever hangi