oung men here in Balak, no, not the citizens. They are slow, but
the soldiers, the regiment attached to the Royal Household. I've met a
Lieutenant Fustics--oh, he's lovely, belongs to the oldest family in
Serbia, is young, handsome and so fine in his uniform. He is crazy over
music and America, and says he will never bear to be separated from me.
Of course he's in love and of course he's foolish, for I'm too young to
marry--fancy, not eighteen yet, or, is it nineteen?--this place makes me
forget my name--besides, pa wouldn't hear of such a thing. Herr
Lieutenant Fustics asked my father's business, and told me all Americans
were millionaires, and I just laughed in his face. I play for him in
the salon--oh, no, not in my room--that would be a crime in this
tight-laced old town. Now, Bella, _don't_ tell mamma this time. Why
don't you write oftener? Love to all.

Your devoted IRENE.

P.S.--Bella, he's lovely.

_To William Murray, Esq._

BALAK, _May 12_.

DEAR PA,--Yes, I need $500, and Herr Klug says if I stay a year
more I can play in public when I go back. Five hundred dollars will be
enough _now_.

Your loving daughter, IRENE.

_To Miss Bella Seymour_

BALAK, _May 25_.

DEAR, SWEET BELLA,--I'm gone; Hector, that's his name, proposed
to me--and proposed a secret marriage--he says that I can study quietly,
inspired by his love, for a year, for his regiment will stay in Balak
for another year. Oh, Bella, I'm so happy. How I wish you could see him.
I simply don't go near the piano. Old Klug is cross with me and I'm
sure the Ransoms are jealous. Good-by, Bella, don't tell mamma.
Remember I trust you.

Your crazy IRENE.

P. S.--I'm wild to get married!

_To Frau Wilhelm Murray_

BALAK, _June 25_.

HIGH RESPECTED AND HONORABLE MADAME,--I've not seen your
daughter, the Fraeulein Irene Murray, since April, although she has been
in Balak. I fear she has more talent for a military career than as a
pianist. She does owe me for two lessons. Please send me the amount--40
marks. Send it care of Frau Klug--Frau Emma Klug. With good weather,

ARMIN KLUG.

_To William Murray, Esq._

_August 1._

DEAR WILLIAM,--I've found her--my heart bleeds when I think of
her face, poor child--miles from Balak. Of course she followed the
regiment when the wretch left, and of course he is a married man. Oh!
William, the disgrace, and all for some miserable music lessons. Send
the draft