Page:The Works of J. W. von Goethe, Volume 5.djvu/156

138 ever, that I could discern this much generally, that he, feeling the superiority of his mental gifts, in the most naïve manner, always considered himself somewhat wiser and more shrewd than his correspondents, whom he treated rather ironically than heartily. If this held good only of single cases, it applied to the majority, as far as my own observation went, and was the cause that I never felt a desire to approach him.

On the other hand, a kindly literary communication between Herder and us was maintained with great vivacity; though it was a pity that he could not keep himself quiet. But Herder never left off his teasing and scolding; and much was not required to irritate Merck, who also contrived to excite me to impatience. Because Herder, among all authors and men, seemed to respect Swift most, he was among us called the "Dean;" and this gave further occasion to all sorts of perplexities and annoyances.

Nevertheless, we were highly pleased when we learned that he was to have an appointment at Bückeburg, which would bring him double honour; for his new patron had the highest fame as a clear-headed and brave, though eccentric, man. Thomas Abbt had been known and celebrated in this service: his country still mourned his death, and was pleased with the monument which his patron had erected for him. Now Herder, in the place of the untimely deceased, was to fulfil all those hopes which his predecessor had so worthily excited.

The epoch in which this happened gave a double brilliancy and value to such an appointment; for several German princes already followed the example of the Count of Lippe, inasmuch as they took into their service, not merely learned men, and men of business, properly so called, but also persons of mind and promise. Thus, it was said, Klopstock had been invited by the Margrave Charles of Baden, not for real business,