arise from the peculiarity of our situation," said
Balby. "All these little contretemps are annoying and disagreeable; but
seem only amusing to a king in disguise."

"But a disguised king learns many things," said Frederick, smiling;
"from to-day, I shall be no longer surprised to hear the police called a
hateful institution. Vraiment, its authority and power is vexatious, but
necessary. Never speak again of my god-like countenance, or the seal
of greatness which the Creator has put upon the brow of princes to
distinguish them from the rest of mankind. Mons. Niclas saw nothing
great stamped upon my brow; to him I had the face of a criminal--my
passport only made an honest man of me. Come, friends, let us refresh
ourselves."

While eating, the king chatted pleasantly with Balby of the charming
adventures of the day.

"Truly," he said, laughing, as the details of the scene on deck were
discussed, "without the interference of that learned Dutchman, the
King of Prussia would have been in dangerous and close contact with the
respectable peasant. Ah, I did not even thank my protecting angel.
Did you speak to him, brother Henry? Where is he from, and what is his
name?"

"I do not know, sir; but from his speech and manner he appeared to me to
be an amiable and cultivated gentleman."

"Go and invite him to take a piece of pie with us. Tell him Mr. Zoller
wishes to thank him for his assistance, and begs the honor of his
acquaintance. You see, my friend, I am learning how to be polite, to
flatter, and conciliate, as becomes a poor travelling musician. I beg
you, choose your words well. Be civil, or he might refuse to come, and I
thirst for company."

Balby returned in a few moments, with the stranger.

"Here, my friend," said Balby. "I bring you our deliverer in time of
need. He will gladly take his share of the pie."

"And he richly deserves it," said the king, as he greeted the stranger
politely. "Truly, monsieur, I am very much indebted to you, and this
piece of pie that I have the honor to offer you is but a poor reward
for your services. I believe I never saw larger fists than that
terrible peasant's; a closer acquaintance with them would have been very
disagreeable. I thank you for preventing it."

"Travellers make a variety of acquaintances," said the stranger,
laughing, and seating himself on the bench by the king's side, with a
familiarity that terrified Balby. "I count you, sir, among the agreeable
ones, and