Page:Life in the Old World - Vol. I.djvu/150

166 The weather became calm and beautiful, yesterday afternoon, when we set off from Küssnacht, for the ascent of Rhigi; I, on a lazy Rosinante, which had much more desire to graze on the side of the road, than to go along it. Calm and blue, like heavenly mirrors, lay the lakes which we left below us, and which seemed to become ever smaller and smaller, as we clambered upwards. The road is broad, and in excellent condition, the whole way, and the views magnificent. After the ascent of three hours, we approached Rhigi. Reaching its lowest station or “Rhigi Scheideck,” we were informed that the hotel at Rhigi Culm, was quite full; that it would be impossible for us to pass the night there, so many travelers having lately arrived on account of the fine weather. Nevertheless, I was determined to make the attempt. But when, half an hour afterwards, we approached the great hotel, at the summit, we saw on all sides, troops of travelers arriving on horseback, and in chairs. One fat gentleman was carried by eight men. Sighing, and yet jocundly, I told my friend that I foresaw what my fate would be; I should have to pass the night “à la belle étoile, under my umbrella.”

Arrived at the hotel, we were met by the information, “that every place was full. A hundred guests had already secured rooms for themselves.”

The kind, agreeable, hostess, however, added consolatorily for me;

“Wait, a little! Don't be uneasy! I will manage so that you shall have a little room. But you must be content with what you can get!”

“With any thing!” I assured her. “All I wanted,