connections bear their own curse and punishment with them. Hasten to
avoid them. Lastly, I would add, never dare to mingle your impure
hands in the affairs of state. I have been obliged to give the order
to the state councillors in appointments and grants of office, not
to regard the protection and recommendation of a certain high
personage, as you are the real protectress and bestower of mercy.
Take care, and never let it happen again. You will never venture to
play the little Pompadour here, nor anything else but what your
dishonor allows you; otherwise you will have to deal with me! You
say that you have read Homer; then, doubtless, you remember the
story of Penelope, who, from conjugal fidelity, spun and wove,
undoing at night what she had woven by day. It is true, you bear
little resemblance to this chaste dame, but you might emulate her in
spinning and weaving; and if you are not in future retiring, I can
easily make a modern Penelope of you, and have you instructed in
spinning, for which you will have the best of opportunities in the
house of correction at Spandau. Remember this, and never permit
yourself to practise protection. I will keep the spinning-wheel and
the wool ready for you; that you may count upon. Remember, also,
that it is very disagreeable to me that you visit my park, as I like
to breathe pure air. Direct your promenade elsewhere, and avoid
meeting me in future."

"Your majesty, I--"

"Silence! I have heard sufficient. You have nothing more to say to
me. Go, hide your head, that no one may recognize your shame, or the
levity of the prince. Go--and, farewell forever!" He motioned
impatiently to her to retire, fastening his eyes with a fiery,
penetrating glance upon her pale, agitated face, her bowed, humble