ns YOUR
emperors and kings. To them you must address yourselves.--Adieu.'"

Von Arnim could scarcely repress a smile.

"Now we come to the last affair--the salaries and pensions of the French
actors," said the king; "but first tell me the news in Berlin--what
report has trumpeted forth in the last few days."

"Your majesty, the latest news in Berlin, which rumor brings home to
every hearth-side and every heart is, that your majesty has declared war
with Austria on account of the Bavarian succession. Every one rejoices,
sire, that you will humble that proud and supercilious house of Austria,
and enter the lists for Germany."

"Listen!" answered the king, sternly. "I did not ask you to blow the
trumpet of praise, as if your honor, inspector of the theatres, thought
yourself upon the stage, and would commence a comedy with the king of
lamps. So it is known then that my soldiers will enter the great theatre
of war, and that we are about to fight real battles."

"It is known, sire," replied Von Arnim, bowing.

"Then what I am about to communicate to you will not surprise you. The
present juncture of affairs leads us to await very grave scenes--we can
well dispense with comedy. I withdraw the salaries and pensions of the
French actors--your own is included. After you have dismissed the
French comedians, you will be entirely at leisure to pursue your
love-intrigues.--Farewell!"

"Your majesty," cried the baron, amazed, "has your highness dismissed
me?"

"Are you deaf, or have you some of the cotton in your ears which I
presented to you at your recall from Copenhagen?" replied the king.
[Footnote: Baron von Arnim was ambassador to Copenhagen until 1754, when
he begged for his recall, stating that the damp climate was injurious
to his health. The king granted his request, and the baron returned to
Berlin. At the first audience with the king, Frederick handed Baron von
Arnim a carefully-packed box, saying, "I do not wish the government to
lose so valuable a servant; in this box you will find something that
will keep you warm." Arnim could scarcely await his return home, to open
the box; it contained nothing but cotton. Some days afterward, however,
the king increased Von Arnim's income a thousand dollars, and sent him
ambassador to Dresden. Von Arnim was afterward director of the Royal
Theatre until dismissed in the above manner.]

"Sire, I have heard all, but I cannot believe it."

"Yes, yes," interrupted the king, "