s own interest in favor of faith and morality, he
deserves great respect for it."

"Has it gone so far? Do you openly take part with the ultramontane
against your father?"

"I take no part; I express frankly my views," answered Richard
tranquilly.

"The views of father and son are very different, and we may thank your
intercourse with the ultramontanes for it."

"Your acquaintance, father, with that excellent family is very
desirable. You would soon be convinced that you ought to respect them."

"I do not desire their acquaintance. It is near midnight; go to rest,
and forget the hasty step of to-day."

"I will never regret what has taken place with forethought and
reflection," answered Richard firmly. "I again ask your consent to the
happiness of your son."

"No, no! Once for all--never!" cried Frank hastily.

The son became excited. He was about to fly into a passion, and to show
his father that he was not going to follow blind authority like an
inexperienced child, when he thought of what Angela said, "Speak to
your father in love;" and his rising anger subsided.

"You know, father," he said hesitatingly, "that my age permits me to
choose a wife without reference to your will. As the consent is
withheld without valid reasons, I might do without it. But Angela has
urgently requested me not to act against your will, and I have promised
to comply with her wishes."

"Angela appears to have more sense than you. So she requested this
promise from you? I esteem the young lady for this sentiment, although
she be a child of Siegwart, who shall never have my son for a
son-in-law."

The young man arose.

"It only remains for me to declare," said he calmly, "that to Angela,
and to her alone, shall I ever belong in love and fidelity. If you
persevere in your refusal, I here tell you, on my honor, I shall never
choose another wife."

He made a bow and left the room. It was long past midnight, and Herr
Frank was still sitting on the sofa, drumming on his knees and shaking
his head.

"An accursed piece of business!" said he. "I know he will not break his
word of honor under any circumstances. I know his stubborn head. But
this Siegwart, this clerical ultramontane fellow--it is incompatible;
mental progress and middle-age darkness, spiritual enlightenment and
stark confessionalism--it won't do. Angela certainly is not her father.
She is an innocent country creature; does not wear crinoline, dresses
in blue like a b