from Berlin.

ADELBERT VON CHAMISSO.



CHAPTER I.



After a prosperous, but to me very wearisome, voyage, we came at
last into port. Immediately on landing I got together my few
effects; and, squeezing myself through the crowd, went into the
nearest and humblest inn which first met my gaze. On asking for a
room the waiter looked at me from head to foot, and conducted me to
one. I asked for some cold water, and for the correct address of
Mr. Thomas John, which was described as being "by the north gate,
the first country-house to the right, a large new house of red and
white marble, with many pillars." This was enough. As the day was
not yet far advanced, I untied my bundle, took out my newly-turned
black coat, dressed myself in my best clothes, and, with my letter
of recommendation, set out for the man who was to assist me in the
attainment of my moderate wishes.

After proceeding up the north street, I reached the gate, and saw
the marble columns glittering through the trees. Having wiped the
dust from my shoes with my pocket-handkerchief and readjusted my
cravat, I rang the bell--offering up at the same time a silent
prayer. The door flew open, and the porter sent in my name. I had
soon the honour to be invited into the park, where Mr. John was