although I know that, after paying all of his debts, there must have
been a handsome penny left, and I could have recovered that money if I
had cared to see about it. I have earned for myself a respected position
and a decent living, and I expect to do better yet. So thanks to you for
your kind intention, but I am not the man you want."

"Yes, you are, and the more so because you do not worship the golden
calf, and do not want to hurry me into my grave as the others do. To
tell you all: I wish to settle everything on you while I live, the
estate, the house, the money, and all--no, don't run away! I am not
crazy, and you need not be afraid that I want you to live here with me
in this old hall as it is, mouldy and dirty and desolate. Neither do I
want you to share my diet of fruits and raw vegetables, eggs and milk,
and baked potatoes. On the contrary, I want you to come to me and live
like a gentleman, as a Dumany should, and let me enjoy life with you."




IX.

A SLAVONIC KINGDOM.


"You see, my dear boy," continued the old man, fondly taking my hand and
pressing it, "it is a princely domain that I offer you, and a princely
income. The station I invest you with is that of a king in its way, and
not a small way, either. Now listen to me! For a great number of years I
have lived here on this spot, like one of those hermits of bygone times,
living on roots and other primitive food, and never tasting of a decent