Page:Surprising adventures and sufferings of Frederick Baron Trenck.pdf/22

22 were just going away, the poor little animal darted in, climbed up my legs, seated itself on my shoulder, and played a thousand tricks, to express its joy. Every one was astonished at this striking instance of animal sensibility. The Major carried the mouse away, and gave it to his wife, who had a little cage made for it; but the little animal refusing to eat, was, in a few days after, found dead.

In this seclusion the Baron remained about nine years, when the King probably tired of punishing, consented to his release. After which, he retired to Vienna, where he was confined a short time at the instigation of those who enjoyed his property, under a false charge of madness. He found himself necessitated to withdraw his pecuniary claims, and for all his losses, only received the brevet rank of Major in the Austrian service.

No doubt the Revolution in France pointed out that country as a place where he might finish his days in liberty and peace. What then must be the reader’s astonishment at the tragical fate which the Baron at last met in that nation! It does not appear what part he took in politics; or upon what specific charges he was sentenced to the Gullotine, upon the downfall of Robespierre's party.

‘, who hitherto has enabled me, amidst a thousand perils, to act the part of an honest man, and of a real martyr to the cause of Truth, will, I trust, protect and strengthen me in the last scene of tragedy, nor suffer my fortitude to fail me, when I meet with obstacles insurmountable.’