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 this in relation to the patriotic feelings of all the indignant company, the instructed wisdom that had restored Bohemia from prostration to comparative prosperity, the wholesome knowledge that promised to elevate the land in scientific industry and wealth, the practical education that gave life and direction to aptitude and skill, all denounced with malignant abhorrence as magic and the diabolism of the great fiend, appealed to righteous resentment, and created a loathing, a contempt for the new spirit which had invaded the palace of Bohemia that demonstrated an established divergence between the people and the deluded prince. Necessarily the first impulse turned towards gates, and walls, and barriers. Witek, a rugged soldier more than a statesman, and Wok, a cadet of the house and obeying the orders of his elders, at once visited the outposts, and summoned warders and retainers to the ramparts and drawbridges. Drda took his place where ordered, and soon the danger of surprise had passed. Stones were collected, weapons examined, and missiles placed in readiness. Visitors quickly departed, each diffusing a vague sense of danger, none able to divine what might happen first. All preparations indicated a resolute resistance.

Ere the closing of the gates, and with the departure of the most reluctant guests, glided forth in the gloom the dark figure of a veiled woman, whose presence had been scarcely heeded in the throng and the gaiety. Quickly now she sped away, and hid herself in the night.