Page:The German Novelists (Volume 2).djvu/394

384 “Alas; there is a Ludibert occurs, likewise, in my own history. But go on! go on! Dear master. Was he then, the man who deprived you of your angelic daughter?”

“He! he! no other on earth!” replied the old man; his face growing darker and darker as he spoke. “Right well did the cunning seducer know how to apply himself to my noble art; never had I an apprentice half so skilful, for he possessed fine talents, and in more branches than one. He could play the flute beautifully, and could sing as well; while with his rapier he was a perfect master.”

Nordenholm earnestly signified his assent, and the old man continued, without noticing it.

“During our leisure hours he amused himself with instructing the rest of the apprentices and their companions in the noble science of defence, and having myself been a soldier, fond of the sword exercise, it afforded me no slight pleasure to witness their feats with the foil. On all occasions the young master exhibited the greatest politeness and good breeding in his conduct, and daily established himself more firmly in my good graces. This continued for the space of two years; when suddenly the scales fell from my deluded eyes, and I stood lost in astonishment and dismay. The young students had engaged in a similar piece of work to that we have witnessed this evening; and one of those who returned no