read a good French translation of Homer, Horace, and Virgil, with a
master. I have studied the history of Brandenburg, of Germany, and
of America. We have read the immortal works of Voltaire, of Jean
Jacques Rousseau, and of Shakespeare, with many of our modern poets.
My instructor has read all these works aloud to me, and he was much
pleased when I repeated parts of what he had read to me some days
afterward."

"You appear to have had a very learned instructor," remarked the
king, sneeringly. "What is his name?"

"His name, sire, is Prince Frederick William of Prussia. Yes, it is
he who has taught me--he who has made me an intelligent woman.
However young he was when he undertook the task, he has accomplished
it with fidelity, firmness, and patience. He loved me, and would
make me worthy of him, in heart and mind. I shall ever be grateful
to him, and only death can extinguish the love and esteem with which
he in spires me."

"Suppose I command you to leave the prince? Suppose I will no longer
endure the scandal of this sinful relation?"

"I shall never willingly separate myself from my dear prince and
master--from the father of my two children. Your majesty will be
obliged to force me from him," answered Wilhelmine, defiantly.

"Oh, that will not be necessary, mademoiselle," cried the king.
"There are ways enough. I will make known my wishes to the prince; I
will command him to leave you, and have no further communication
with you."