t could forgive them.

It was so excellent a joke for my scoundrel servant, that he did as much
as possible by his sharp remonstrances to confirm the good people in
their opinions. He gave me a most amusing account of his proceedings;
and as he saw it animated me, he thought to add to my enjoyment by a
display of his own knavish tricks. Shall I confess it? I was not a
little flattered by even the illusion of being mistaken for the head of
the kingdom.

I ordered a feast to be provided on the following evening, under the
trees which overshadowed the expanse in front of my house, and the whole
town to be invited. The mysterious virtue of my purse, the exertions of
Bendel, and the dexterous contrivances of Rascal, succeeded in doing
wonders in the trifling space of time. It is really astonishing how
richly and beautifully everything was arranged in so short a period. Such
pomp and superfluity were exhibited there, and the richly-fanciful
illuminations were so admirably managed, that I felt quite at ease; I had
nothing to find fault with, and I could not but praise the diligence of
my servants.

Evening darkness came on; the guests appeared, and were introduced to me.
The word "majesty" was no more whispered; but I often heard, uttered in
deep awe and humility, "the Count." What could I do? The word count
satisfied me, and from that moment I was Count Peter. But in the midst
of the festive crowd I sought but one; at last she appeared; she _was_
the crown, and she wore it. She followed her parents modestly, and
seemed not to know that she was the loveliest of the assemblage. The
forest-master, his wife, and daughter were introduced. I said much that
was agreeable and obliging to the old people; but I stood before their
daughter like a checked boy, and could not utter a single word. At last
I stammered forth a request that she would honour the festival by
undertaking that office whose badge she bore. With a touching look she
begged blushingly that I would excuse her; but more abashed before her
than she herself, I, as her first subject, offered her my humble tribute;
and my glance served as a command to all the guests, each of whom seemed
anxious to meet it. Over this joyful festivity presided majesty,
innocence, and grace allied with beauty. Mina's happy parents believed
that out of respect for them, their child had been elevated to these
unexpected honours, and I was in an unspeakable transport of joy. I