d yet
his father's claims and filial duty prevailed.

CHAPTER II.

THE WEATHER-CROSS.

The next morning Richard was out with the early larks, and returned
after a few hours in a peculiar frame of mind. As he was entering his
room, he saw through the open door his father standing in the saloon.
Herr Frank was carefully examining the arrangements, as the servants
were carrying books into the adjoining room and placing them in a
bookcase. Richard, as he passed, greeted his father briefly, contrary
to his usual custom. At other times he used to exchange a few words
with his father when he bid him good-morning, and he let no occasion
pass of giving his opinion on any matter in which he knew his father
took an interest.

The young man walked to the open window of his room, and gazed into the
distance. He remained motionless for a time. He ran his fingers through
his hair, and with a jerk of the head threw the brown locks back from
his forehead. He walked restlessly back and forth, and acted like a man
who tries in vain to escape from thoughts that force themselves upon
him. At length he went to the piano, and beat an impetuous impromptu on
the keys.

"Ei, Richard!" cried Herr Frank, whom the wild music had brought to his
side. "Why, you rave! How possessed! One would think you had discovered
a roaring cataract in the mountains, and wished to imitate its
violence."

Richard glanced quickly at his father, and finished with a tender,
plaintive melody.

"Come over here and look at the rooms."

Richard followed his father and examined carelessly the elegant rooms,
and spoke a few cold words of commendation.

"And what do you say to this flora?" said Herr Frank pointing to a
stepped framework on which bloomed the most beautiful and rare flowers.

"All very beautiful, father. The doctor will be much pleased, as he
always is here."

"I wish and hope so. I have had the peacocks and turkeys sent away,
because Klingenberg cannot endure their noise. The library here will
always be his favorite object, and care has been taken with it. Here
are the best books on all subjects, even theology and astronomy."

"Frankenhoehe is indeed cheerful as the heart of youth and quiet as a
cloister," said Richard "Your friend would indeed be ungrateful if this
attention did not gratify him."

"I have also provided that excellent wine which he loves and enjoys as
a healthfu