The Orpheus C. Kerr Papers, Series 2

  LETTER LXXIII.

  MAKING MENTION OF ANOTHER MEETING OF THE COSMOPOLITAN CLUB, AT WHICH THE TURKISH AND RUSSIAN MEMBERS READ THEIR STORIES.

  WASHINGTON, D. C., October 8th, 1862.

  At the meeting of the Cosmopolitans last evening, my boy, N. E.Ottoman, the Turkish chap, related the tale of

  THE SULTAN'S FAVORITE.

  "In all Circassia, there was no woman to be compared with Zara, forbeauty. Her eyes were like the stars, her hair was threads of gold, herteeth were pearls, her complexion more white and pure than the marbleof Patras, and her form was like those of the houris, whom Allah haslocked up in paradise, for the benefit of all true believers.

  "The father of this beautiful girl was a mountain chieftain, much notedfor his physical strength, bravery, and insatiable avarice. His wifedied in giving birth to Zara, and upon her child he lavished all theaffection which his iron heart could nourish; but gold overcame thefiner feelings of a parent, and Nemyl beheld the bud of childhoodbursting forth into the soul-subduing woman with thoughts in whichthere was far more speculation than love.

  "'You shall be sold to the Sultan,' said he to her, 'and he will soonbecome your most devoted slave. You may make him do what you will, andI shall become respected and rich, as the father of a Sultan'sfavorite.'

  "Zara made no reply to such anticipations; for, although she honoredthe _alem penali_ of mankind, her affections had lighted upon anotherobject.

  "During the war between the Russians and Circassians, truces of a fewdays' duration were quite frequent, and at such periods those of bothparties who were upon the plains, intermingled, and spoke words ofpeace to each other. On one of these occasions, a Russian detachmentwas quartered near the habitation of Nemyl, and a young officer, whobeheld Zara, fell in love with her at first sight, although he sawnothing but her form; for her face was covered.

  "Garstoff (for such was his name) made various attempts to havecommunication with the insensible object of his passion; but, for somedays, his efforts were in vain--the Circassians being very ready tokeep truce with his countrymen, but very jealous, also, of anyattention bestowed upon one of their own nation. The officer beheld thebrief period of peace fast drawing to an end, and was about to resignhis darling object, when fortune unexpectedly befriended him.

  "One evening as he was returning to his camp, a sound of clashing steelfell upon his ear, and, turning in the direction from whence it came,he observed a horseman bravely defending himself against the assaultsof four men in Turkish costume. Swift as lightning, his sword flew fromhis scabbard, and going to the assistance of the rider, he made two ofthe assailants bite the dust, while the others took to their heels andquickly disappeared.

  "'Your assistance was most timely, and I owe my life to you,' said thehorseman, dismounting from his steed, and peering into the face of hisnew ally.

  "'I am happy to have been of service to a brave man,' replied Garstoff,'but who were those scoundrels?'

  "'I know them not,' answered the other, 'but suppose them to belong toa band of mountain thieves, who are prowling about the camps in searchof plunder. I perceive, by your uniform, that you are one of ourenemies. But we are at peace now, and as you have saved my live, Iextend the hand of friendship to you. Come with me to my house, and wewill eat salt together.'

  "'May I know the name of my new friend?' asked the Russian.

  "'I am Nemyl, and I put my trust in God.'

  "'I cannot refuse your kind invitation,' said Garstoff. And Nemylremounting his horse, the two set off at good speed not saying anotherword until they arrived at the house of the chieftain. It was aspacious but rude habitation, and the only attendant who welcomed thepair was a pretty little girl of scarce ten years. Nemyl fastened thehorses of himself and visitor under a low shed, and then proceeded toan apartment where _rabols_, viands, various fruits, mountain herbs,and large vessels filled with coffee and eastern wines, were placedupon a table with covers for three persons.

  "'We sup here,' he said, motioning Garstoff to a seat beside the board,and taking one himself. 'I expected to have met one of our chiefsto-night, and brought him to my house, but those fellows stopped me,and I changed my company. Eat--What is your name?'

  "'Major Garstoff.'

  "A shade passed over the features of Nemyl, at the sound of that name,and he grasped the hilt of his scymetar, for he had heard of theofficer's attempt to speak with Zara, and it was only a thought ofrecent events that restrained him from rushing upon the bold barbarianwith the fury of a tiger.

  "Garstoff beheld the change in his host's manner, and had grasped hisown weapon, to defend himself from any sudden attack, when a door wasopened, and Zara entered the department, preceded by the little slave,looking more beautiful than ever.

  "The officer was filled with various emotions by her presence; for heat once recognised her as the idol of his heart, and all feelings ofanger disappeared at once.

  "'This is my child Zara,' said Nemyl, with affected indifference. 'Thegreat Sultan has an apartment for her in his seraglio, and his Aga hasalready bargained with me for her purchase.'

  "Garstoff watched the girl's countenance, while her father spoke thus,and was delighted to perceive that she was discomposed by his words;but resolving to avoid a quarrel with his entertainer, he replied:

  "'Happy must be the man, whether sultan or renegade, who is destined toclaim so much beauty for his own.'

  "The suspicions of Nemyl were lulled to sleep by such disinterestedexpressions, and he ate and drank with his visitor, in all good will,while Zara listened in silence to their conversation. At length, thefumes of the liquors which he had swallowed, mounted to his brain, andafter giving vent to some incoherent oaths, the Circassian fell uponthe floor in a state of insensibility. His visitor was quite astonishedby such a catastrophe; but as it afforded him an opportunity toconverse with Zara, he rather rejoiced at it.

  "'Fair lady,' said he, 'can it indeed be true that your charms aredestined to wither in the Sultan's harem?'

  "'It is true, stranger,' answered Zara, in mournful tones, 'the Aga ofSoliman, spoke with my father at Constantinople, and I am to be bornethither soon.'

  "'Does such a fate please you, Zara?' asked the officer.

  "'No!' replied the beautiful Circassian, with emphasis. 'But it is thewill of Allah, and I must submit.'

  "She arose from her seat, and beckoning for the attendant, was about toleave the apartment, when Garstoff, laid his hand upon her arm, andgently restrained her.

  "'Forgive my rudeness,' he said, with much earnestness; 'but, Zara, Icannot behold your sacrifice, without endeavoring to avert it. I am astranger to you; but you are not a stranger to me; for I have seen you,when you thought yourself unobserved, and a fire has been kindled in mybreast, which nothing but possession of you can ever abate. Tell me toperform some deed, that I may prove the ardor of my love; let me saveyou from the fearful doom that threatens you--'

  "'Stop! Christian,' interrupted the maid; 'I have never seen your facebefore, and how can I trust a stranger? Go! or Nemyl shall punish youwhen he awakes. I can hear your words no longer.'

  "'Think not that I fear your father,' answered Garstoff, 'though Istand in his house; yet I will no longer excite your anger by stayinghere.'

  "He arose, and would have departed, had not the daughter of Nemylplaced herself in his way.

  "'What would you do for me?' she asked hurriedly.

  "'I would sacrifice my life, if necessary.'

  "'That would not help me, Christian. Dare you appear in the field as arival to the sultan, for my favor?'

  "'As a rival to ten thousand sultans, for such a reward.'

  "'Why do you not _buy me_, then?'

  "The Russian staggered back and turned pale at the suggestion; for itreminded him how wholly the woman was beyond his reach, and filled himwith despair.

  "'What sum would do it?' he asked.

  "'Fi
ve thousand doblas,' answered Zara, composedly; 'the great sultanwill give _four_ thousand, and if you offer _five_, my father willsurely sell me to you.'

  "'Alas! what a curse is poverty!' exclaimed Garstoff, smiting hisforehead. 'I have only my pay, and it would not amount to that sum inthree years. What shall I do?'

  "His sorrow evidently affected Zara, and for some moments they remainedsilent. At length, her eyes brightened, and she said in peremptorytones;

  "'You can bear me away to your own country.'

  "'That is true!' ejaculated the Russian, kissing her willing hand inecstasy. 'Then indeed have I not suffered in vain. I will take you to acountry where the sovereign will smile upon you as my bride, and youshall forget a land where women are sold like dogs. Bless you for thesuggestion, dear Zara, I thought of it before; but dared not anticipateso much happiness. When will you fly with me?'

  "'At this hour, two days hence, I will be in the garden alone!'responded the girl, with a familiar glance.

  "'It is enough!' said Garstoff. 'I will be here with horses and arms,and morning shall behold you in the camp of my countrymen. Till then,farewell.'

  "The lovers separated so hastily, because Nemyl had commenced to move;Zara going with the mute attendant to her apartment, and Garstoffdeparting for his encampment. When both had disappeared, Nemyl arose tohis feet, while a dim, but grim smile, played about his lips, and allsigns of intoxication vanished.

  "'Oh, ho!' he muttered, between his set teeth. 'The son of a dog wouldrob me of my daughter and four thousand doblas. I will take good careto be in the garden two days hence, and the son of Shitan shall findwhat it is to rival the sublime sultan. They thought me drunk withgrape juice, but they shall suffer for it. By Allah! they shall!' andhe threw himself upon a couch, where he soon fell asleep, to dream ofgold and vengeance.

  "The truce was within three days of its expiration and Garstoff,overjoyed at the success of his impious design, hastened to prepare forits execution. He procured horses, assistants, and arms; and on thenight appointed proceeded towards the house of Nemyl. When within ashort distance of the garden, he dismounted from his horse and leavingthat together with the others provided, in care of a few soldiers whocomposed his guard, he drew his sword and walked cautiously towards theplace of rendezvous. Climbing to the top of the wall, he paused for amoment to survey the scene beneath; but all was still as the grave, andhe sprang into the garden. A few fleecy clouds had hitherto obscuredthe moon; but now she sailed beyond their shade, and by her silverlight the Russian discovered a figure dressed in white, at a shortdistance in front of him.

  "'Zara,' he said, in low, distinct tones, going toward it.

  "'Christian, I am here,' answered Zara (for she it was,) and in anothermoment she was in his arms.

  "'We must haste away,' said Garstoff, when the first rapture of theirmeeting was over, and she hung upon his arm.

  "'Yes! yes! I am afraid Nemyl has discovered us. There have beenstrange men about the house to-day,' replied Zara, looking timidlyabout her; for guilt is ever suspicious, even in broad day.

  "Garstoff said no more, but quickly regained the wall; and, drawingforth a rope-ladder from under his coat threw it over the wall, so thatit hung down on either side, and having fastened it in the middle,descended after Zara. Catching her in his arms, he darted back; and, ina few seconds, was standing with her upon the path.

  "'Whose steps are those?' she exclaimed, in terror, as the sound ofadvancing footsteps fell upon her ears.

  "'They are my soldiers, dearest,' answered her lover, applying awhistle to his lips, and blowing a shrill blast; although he washimself astonished that they approached before the signal agreed uponwas given.

  "'Draw your sword, captain--we are surprised!' shouted his followers,as they rode hastily up; and almost before the annoyed Garstoff couldclasp his weapon, a troup of fierce Circassians surrounded him, whileanother party attacked his soldiers with great fury.

  "'Surrender, dog of a Christian!' shouted Nemyl, in a voice of thunder.

  "'Not while I live!' answered the officer.

  "'Then disarm him, my men; but harm him not at your peril!' said theCircassian; and, after a desperate resistance, Garstoff was made aprisoner, Zara lay fainting in the arms of two stout mountaineers, andevery Russian soldier bled to death.

  "'To the house with them!' said Nemyl, in his usual tones, leading theway with an air of triumph.

  "Garstoff soon found himself in the apartment where he had supped withthe father of Zara, who now stood before him as his captor.

  "'You have repaid my hospitality with a vengeance,' said Nemyl.

  "'Beware how you abuse a Russian officer!' he answered, proudly.

  "'Remember, Christian, the truce expires to-morrow, and if I keep you aprisoner until then, you will be treated as a prisoner of war.'

  "'I know it.'

  "'You are now completely in my power; and there is but one feeling thatwithholds my sword from your heart. Do you know what feeling that is?'

  "'Fear!'

  "'No, Christian devil! Nemyl knows no such word! It is _gratitude_ forthe preservation of my life towards my preserver. _You are free._Depart in peace.'

  "'I honor the nobility of your sentiments,' answered Garstoff, filledwith admiration of such magnanimity; 'yet I would willingly yield mylife to preserve Zara from the fate you promise her.'

  "'Mention not her name. She deserves the bowstring, instead of theSultan's embraces,' said Nemyl, sternly.

  "'Are you then so insensible to----'

  "'Will you give me five thousand doblas for her?'

  "'A hundred thousand, if I had them!'

  "'But you have them not?'

  "'Alas, no!'

  "'Then you cannot have Zara. Depart in peace.'

  "Garstoff looked frantically about him for a moment and then rushedfrom the apartment like one demented.

  "'My friends,' continued Nemyl, turning to the mountaineers, who stoodbehind him--'I wished you to aid me in recovering a lost treasure, andyou drew your swords for me. My daughter is delivered from theChristian robber, and six of his soldiers are sent to Eblis. I gave thedog his life, because he saved mine, when it was nearly forfeited; butwe shall soon meet in battle, and then let the Giaour beware! Depart inpeace, my friends.'

  "As I have before stated, Zara fell into a swoon, immediately after thefirst appearance of her father, on the evening of her attempted flight,and was carried to her chamber, unconscious of how the affray resulted.For two days, she was kept a prisoner in her own apartment, seeing noone but the little mute. At the end of that period, her father made hisappearance, while she slept, and rudely pulled her from the couch onwhich she lay.

  "'Holy Prophet, have mercy!' she exclaimed, in an agony of fear,imagining that he intended to slay her.

  "'Dress, and prepare to depart!' thundered Nemyl. 'We must be on theroad before day-break.'

  "Trembling like an aspen, Zara suffered the attendant to array her, andthen asked, with quivering lips--

  "'Where do you intend to take me!'

  "'_To the Sultan!_' exclaimed Nemyl; and, as she sank upon her knees athis feet, he added, furiously, 'Base girl, you would have covered mewith disgrace by following a Christian dog; but Allah gave me strength,and I slew the barbarian in his toils.'

  "In silence the girl rose to her feet, and signified her readiness todepart by a low salaam.

  "At the street door stood the litter prepared for her reception, andNemyl pushing her into it, drew the curtains, and gave the signal tothe drivers, while he mounted his horse and accompanied them. Onarriving at the city of the Sultan (which they did after a tediousjourney), Nemyl conveyed his daughter to the grand bazaar; for, infact, he never received an offer from the Sultan, but spread the reportthat other purchasers might present themselves, whose positions wouldfail to gratify the desires of his inordinate ambition. Not long had heremained there with the litter, when the Kislar Aga of Soliman enteredthe bazaar, and made directly towards him, with long stride
s.

  "'What animal have you in your litter that you keep it closed like acage?' asked the Aga.

  "'Your slave will show you that you may judge of it for yourself,'answered Nemyl, and drawing the curtains, disclosed Zara, with tearsupon her cheeks.

  "The Aga started back in amazement at beholding such a display ofbeauty, and all his anger vanished like snow beneath a sunbeam. He wellknew that the addition of such an ornament to the Sultan's harem,through his instrumentality, would add greatly to his consequence; andhis satisfaction was so evident, that Nemyl beheld it with delight,and--profited by it.

  "'How much gold do you want for the girl?' asked the Aga, endeavoringto appear indifferent.

  "'Five thousand doblas,' answered Nemyl, composedly.

  "'Five thousand doblas! _Bismillah!_ dare you laugh at our beards? Thatmoney would buy a dozen women.'

  "'I was offered that by a Russian officer,' said the Circassian,without moving his eyes.

  "For a moment the Aga hesitated, but the idea of selecting a favoritespeedily overcame all his scruples, and bidding Nemyl follow him withthe litter, he proceeded to a private door of the imperial seraglio,and gave Zara in charge of two female slaves.

  "Thus was the fairest flower of Franquistan placed in the imperialgarden, and he who had trained it was soon on his way home, with fivethousand doblas in his pocket.

  "What pencil could portray the delight of his sublime highness, or whattongue could repeat the language of his immaculate lips, when he beheldhis Aga's new purchase.

  "'_Barek Allah!_' praise be to God; 'what an hour!' he exclaimed,kissing her passionately.

  "'She is already a favorite,' said the Aga, and smiled.

  "'She will be a favorite,' said the queen's mother, and frowned.

  "Zara wept, and would not be comforted during the first few days of herresidence at the seraglio; but finally the kind words of his sublimehighness conquered her obstinacy, and throwing herself at his feet, shemade a full confession of her fondness for Garstoff, and his vainattempt to carry her away by stratagem.

  "The Sultan was much afflicted by this news, for he really loved Zara,and was aware, that, should her defection become known, his honor wouldcompel him to plunge her lifeless body into the Bosphorus.

  "'My dear Zara,' he said, encircling her waist with his arms, 'you havebeen frank with me, but beware that you speak of this affair to no oneelse, or your life will surely be sacrificed. This Garstoff is dead,and can now be nothing to you; do not waste your affections upon askeleton; but let them revert to me, and Soliman will become the slaveof your will.'

  "In such a manner did the Refuge of Mankind talk to the daughter ofNemyl, until she gradually drew the veil of forgetfulness over pastsorrows, and respected his sublime highness, if she did not love him.Taking the highest rank in the harem, no wish of hers remainedunanswered; masters of every art were furnished as her instructors;subservient slaves were ever ready to do her bidding, and costlypresents of every description rolled in upon the favorite, from thosewho had--axes to grind.

  "Each day the Sultan became more deeply in love with her, and in thesame proportion, she became each day more odious to those, whom, fromold age, or satiety, the magnificent Soliman had quitted for Zara.Among the most violent enemies of the new favorite, was the queenmother, who suborned the Kislar Aga to her will, and through him,maintained a thorough system of espionage upon every word and action ofthe object of her hatred; but Zara rendered all her efforts futileuntil one day while going abroad, she observed a person dressed in thejanissary uniform, whose form appeared familiar; and what was heremotion, when he turned his face toward her, and discovered thefeatures of _Garstoff_!"

  * * * * *

  Here the English member interrupted the reader, and says he:

  "Good gracious! I thought that fellow was dead."

  "No, sir," says the Turkish chap; "you should remember that Nemylspared his life."

  "I don't remember anything about it," says the British chap, crustily;"but I suppose you told that part of the story when I was asleep.Proceed."

  * * * * *

  "The Kislar Aga, who stood behind her litter, noted Zara's emotions andtheir apparent cause, and when he returned to the palace, made hisinstigatress acquainted with her rival's strange conduct. The wilywoman at once perceived that Zara was partially in her power, andinstructed her instrument to watch the favorite closely, and gainfurther information. Meanwhile, their intended victim suffered thepangs of remorse, and old feelings awakened from their long sleep,struggled fiercely with the usurping passions in her bosom.

  "The sight of the Russian, whom she believed to be in his grave, madeher frantic with sorrow, and she resolved to speak with him, althoughby so doing, she would risk discovery and an ignominious end.

  "To accomplish her purpose she called upon the Aga, as he had alwaysappeared devoted to her special interests, and, describing the personof her lover, asked him to carry a billet to Garstoff, and thus gain arich reward.

  "'Aga,' she said, with composure, 'you must find this man, and ask himif his name is not Garstoff. Should he start, and answer yes, give himthis slip of paper, and say no more.'

  "With many vows of fidelity, the Aga received the billet, and carriedit direct to--the queen mother.

  "The latter person did not hesitate to open it, and read as follows:

  "'GARSTOFF: I have seen you, and would speak with you. Meet me near themosque of Omar, to-morrow, at the tenth hour.'

  'ZARA.'

  "'She is caught at last,' said the triumphant plotter; 'but we must letthe affair run on, until the Sultan may be convinced by his own eyes ofher guilt.'

  "Accordingly, the slave departed in search of the disguised Russian,whom he soon discovered from the description given him by Zara.

  "'Is not your name Garstoff?' he asked.

  "'Great heavens!--yes, it is!' answered the janissary, in greatconfusion.

  "'Then here is something for you,' said the Aga; and, handing him thebillet, turned upon his heel.

  "Great was the surprise of Garstoff when he read the letter; but joyquickly overcame wonder, and he hastened to procure a suitable disguisefor the strange meeting.

  "At the appointed hour he stood before the mosque, and presently amuffled figure approached him, whom his beating heart proclaimed to bethe long lost object of his adoration. It was indeed Zara, and, in onemoment, they were in each other's arms.

  "The Russian hastened to relate his adventures since they last saw eachother, and finished by saying:

  "'I gave up my commission, dearest Zara, to seek for you, and now thatwe once more behold each other, let us never part again. This hateduniform I assumed to facilitate my search; it shall be thrown aside nowand forever.'

  "Then Zara commenced her narrative, but was quickly interrupted.

  "'Zara, tell me, for heaven's sake, have you listened to the Sultan'swords of love? Are you, are you--his--slave?' gasped Garstoff,staggering against the wall.

  "Zara looked to the ground.

  "'I see it all,' he continued, in frantic accents. 'Zara, you are lost!lost to me forever! I go to my death. Zara, a last farewell!' He wasabout to leave her, when she caught his arm, and hissed in his ear:

  "'Is this your love that you once boasted of?'

  "'Zara, let me go; I am almost mad.'

  "'And I am _quite_ mad. Listen to me, faithless Christian. I beheld youin the streets when you saw me not, and have risked honor, life, everything, to come to you, and be your slave. How could I help what haspassed? My father--'

  "'Zara, you should have _died_ first.'

  "For a time she remained silent, with her head bowed, and then said, inlow tones:

  "'Christian, you are right; I should, indeed, have preferred death tomy present fate; but it is too late now. I will return to my _master_;yet do I hope to see you once again. Will you not grant me that favor?'
/>
  "'Once more,' answered Garstoff mechanically.

  "'Then come here to-morrow, and you will find a large chest; placeyourself in it, and two slaves will bring you to me. Do you promise?'

  "'I do, Zara,' and, in deep sorrow, Garstoff turned away.

  "'Base dog!' muttered Zara, as she again muffled her features, 'youhave rejected the daughter of Nemyl, and she sleeps not while you pressthe earth.'

  "The favorite sped hastily back to the palace, and entered by a secretdoor, while the Kislar Aga, who had concealed himself near her at themosque, and witnessed the interview, hastened to the queen mother, andmade his report, when she exclaimed:

  "'Allah be praised! this Circassian will soon be under the Bosphorus;for Zara will meet her gallant, and his serene highness shall beholdhimself dishonored.'

  "Knowing the extreme affection entertained for Zara by Soliman, thecautious woman was wary in her communication, and did not reveal thewhole matter, until the Sultan's suspicions had been aroused by herhints. He first ridiculed, then listened silently, then believed; and,finally, agreed to conceal himself in the Sultana's apartment, andjudge for himself.

  "He waited until the moment of assignation approached, and was lookingupon the unconscious object of his gaze with returning confidence, whena curtain of the apartment was raised, and two negro slaves entered,bearing a large chest between them.

  "Zara motioned for them to leave it and depart; and then raising thelid, Garstoff stepped forth, and the Sultan uttered an inward groan.

  "'Drink this, and it will give you strength,' said Zara, presenting agoblet of liquor to the janissary.

  "Garstoff raised the cup to his lips, and drained it at a draught; onwhich the fair Circassian burst into a fit of hysterical laughter.

  "'Is this a moment for merriment?' asked Garstoff, sternly.

  "'Wine makes me merry!' she answered, drinking from another goblet.'And now, Christian, do you know what you came here for?'

  "'To see you for the last time.'

  "'That is true, follower of Isauri--_you go not hence alive!_'

  "'What mean you, woman?' exclaimed Garstoff, starting from his seatwith pallid cheeks.

  "'_I mean that you have swallowed poison!_' screamed Zara, the fire ofinsanity blazing from her eyes. 'You scorned the daughter of Nemyl, andshe has taken revenge! Pray to Isauri--pray to--'

  "Garstoff dropped upon the floor, a disfigured corpse, and the Sultanbounded from his place of concealment upon Zara; but the purple veinsof her forehead were swelling out like cords, and before he could speakto her she was--_dead!_"

  * * * * *

  "Really," says Vitchisvitch, the Russian member, drawing a long breath,"there is too much of the 'blood and thunder' style about that story tosuit me; but here is something more quiet."

  And he proceeded, my boy, to make known unto us

  THE LITTLE MAN IN GREEN.

  "On a clear, cold night in December, Nicholas Dimitri, a young officerof Cossacks, was walking slowly through a public street of St.Petersburg, with a military cloak thrown over his shoulder, and lookingsteadfastly to the ground, as though intent upon some prospect of noordinary interest. Acquaintances of all ranks were constantly passinghim, but their silent salutes met no return, and many a surmise washazarded as to what his mission was, that it caused such evidentabstraction in one so generally admired for his flow _d'esprit_.Unconscious of attracting attention, Nicholas strode onwards wrapped inthought, until he became aware of violent collision with some persongoing in an opposite direction, and almost immediately a hoarse voiceexclaimed:

  "'What, in the name of all that's good, are you about? Are not thewalks wide enough for both of us, that you must needs knock a man'sbreath out of his body in this way? By the Admiral's wig! I've a mindto return the compliment with my fists, you lubber.'

  "The officer of Cossacks started involuntarily, as his reverie was thusbroken, and beheld standing before him a very stout individual, ratherbelow the ordinary height in stature, with iron-grey hair, prominentfeatures much embrowned, and clad in a plain green uniform, such as wasworn by the privates in the army. The little man stood directly in hispath, with an expression of good natured defiance resting upon hiscountenance, and flourishing a short cane in his right hand.

  "'I beg your pardon, sir,' said Nicholas, somewhat provoked, 'but I washardly conscious of being in the street at all. Allow me to pass, sir,I am in haste.' He attempted to get by the little gentleman, but thatperson had no idea of allowing such a move, and in the coolest possiblemanner linked his arm with that of the impatient officer.

  "'It's my watch now,' he said, with a short laugh, 'and as you don'tbunk in just yet, we may as well be company for each other. I ain'tparticular about which way you go, so up with your irons and we'llscud.'

  "'I can permit no such familiarities,' replied Nicholas, angrily,attempting to release his arm. 'Are you intoxicated, that you do notperceive I am an officer? Let go my arm, sir, or I will call thepatrol, and place you under guard.'

  "Notwithstanding this threat, the little man still hung on, and walkedboldly beside him with great good humor.

  "'Ha! ha! you think I belong to the army, Mr. Officer,' he observed,with much jocularity. 'I know rather more about the sea, and never tipmy cap to anything less than a frigate captain. But never mind that.This street should be better lighted, and yet if it had been, I shouldnever have known you--don't you think so? Now really don't you thinkthe Emperor or Czar should pay more attention to lighting the streets?I should think the people would grumble about it--don't they?'

  "Seeing that his new acquaintance was determined to walk beside him,the officer had resolved to let him talk without venturing a reply, butthis slur upon the Czar wounded his pride, and he answered impatiently,

  "'You cannot be a Russian, sir, or you would not dare speak thusdisrespectfully of the greatest, noblest, and best living sovereign.Why should we need more light, sirrah, when the moon is shiningbrightly? Let me warn you not to speak this way before others, or youmay receive rough treatment. Every Muscovite honors and loves the Czaras a father, and a slighter cause than that just given by you has costmany a foreigner his life in St. Petersburg.'

  "As the young man spoke, he seemed to forget his companion, and yieldedhis whole soul to the enthusiasm of loyalty.

  "'I like you,' said the little man, heartily.

  "'Indeed!'

  "'Yes, and will help you.'

  "'Help me?' asked Nicholas, stopping suddenly in his walk, eyeing hiscompanion with mingled astonishment and suspicion.

  "'I said so. Is there anything extraordinary in that!'

  "'Who are you?' demanded the officer, sternly.

  "'No matter about that. I am your friend.'

  "'How do I know that?' asked Nicholas, still more astonished.

  "'I will prove it. You are in love!'

  "'Most men are at some periods of their lives.'

  "'Very true, but _you_ are in love _now_, and the lady of youraffection is far above you in station.'

  "'How in heaven's name do you know this? Who are you?' exclaimed theofficer, completely thrown off his guard, and staring wildly at his oddcompanion.

  "'It matters not how I know, or who I am. Let it suffice to say that I_do_ know, and can aid you,' said the little man, with a more dignifiedair than he had before assumed. 'Restrain your feelings, and merelyanswer yes or no, to what I am about to say. You are loved by the lady?'

  "'I believe--or, rather, trust so.'

  "'She is the Countess Walewski?'

  "'No.'

  "'Her ward Olinska?'

  "'I shall answer no more questions,' said Nicholas, compressing hislips.

  "'Then, Mr. Officer, I will ask no more questions, but confine myselfstrictly to statements. You love Olinska, and have a rival in AdmiralPraxin, who is favored by the Czar. So strong are your rival's claimsthat you have no resource save a clandestine marriage. You are now onyour way to the
hotel of the Countess, intending to perfect your planswith her aid, and baffle the Czar in his designs for the advantage ofAdmiral Praxin. Don't say a word to me now, you will receive a messagebefore long. Good night, Nicholas Dimitri.'

  "The little man nodded his head most knowingly, and fairly ran off,leaving the astounded lover looking at the moon.

  "Nicholas remained perfectly still for some moments, looking vacantlyupward, and then went on his way, like one who had just awakened from astrange dream.

  "'What can this mean?' he asked himself. 'This man, whom I never sawbefore, has told me of things which no mortal save myself should know,and he is even acquainted with my name. This matter must be quicklysettled, or I shall be placed under arrest, with no hope for thefuture.'

  "Arriving presently at the door of an aristocratic mansion, he sent uphis card, and was speedily ushered into an elegant boudoir, where abeautiful and richly-dressed lady was waiting to receive him. TheCountess Walewski was not a young woman, yet the bloom of earlier yearsstill lingered on her cheek, and the sprightly vivacity of girlhoodshot forth from her dark brown eyes.

  "'My dear Nicholas, you are behind time,' she said, giving her hand tothe young officer, and causing him to take a seat beside her on avelvet couch. 'Lovers are not often tardy in keeping theirappointments, but as I am not the lady, I must excuse you. Upon myword--I did not observe it before--you look discontented. Nothing hashappened, I hope?'

  "'Dearest lady, we are betrayed!' answered Nicholas, gloomily.

  "'You are jesting.'

  "'Would to God, I were! A strange man encountered me in the street as Icame hither--' and Nicholas gave a full account of his interview withthe little man in green.

  "The Countess appeared much alarmed by the narration, and, for somemoments after its conclusion, remained silent, but at length sherecovered sufficient courage to reply,

  "'This is strange indeed--and yet, Nicholas, this man may be a memberof the police, who, as you know, make themselves masters of our verythoughts. You say he expressed a desire to assist you, and declaredhimself your friend; he may have some object in this we know not of--'

  "'No living man shall rob me of my prize,' interrupted Nicholas,passionately. 'Olinska will be guided by me, and before morning we willbe far from the capital. There is no time to lose; we must hastentowards Moscow this very night. Where is she? Why is she not here tomeet me?'

  "'Restrain your passion; be prudent, I entreat you,' exclaimed theCountess, grasping his wrists. 'Olinska loves you, and you alone; but Iam her guardian, and she submits to my wishes, as duty bids her. Beyourself, Nicholas, and avoid any rash action. You cannot see Olinskato-night.'

  "'Has your ladyship combined with my enemies to make a madman of me?'asked the officer, with great bitterness.

  "'Have my actions been those of an enemy?' responded the Countess, witha reproachful smile. 'My dear Nicholas, I would have spared you a pang,but you compel me to tell all. My ward is to have an interview withAdmiral Praxin to-morrow, by order of the Czar.'

  "'With Admiral Praxin!' exclaimed Nicholas, starting to his feet.

  "'Such is the truth. I do not believe that Peter will compel Olinska;but his command was imperative, and must be obeyed at all risks. Do notfear for Olinska--she is wholly yours, though a king should ask herhand. The Admiral can only sue to be rejected, and after that you mustfly.'

  "'Lady, I submit to your wishes,' said Nicholas. 'I honor the Czar, asall Russians should honor him, but Olinska shall be mine, though heshould send a dozen admirals to thwart me.'

  "After some further consultation of a desultory character, the officerof Cossacks took his leave, and retired to a bed rendered sleepless bydoubts and fears.

  "On the following morning, before he had completed his toilet, aservant entered the apartment to announce a visitor, followed by alittle creature, not more than three feet in height, dressed in alivery of blue and silver.

  "'This gentleman desired to speak with you, sir, immediately,' said thegrinning servant, pointing to the new comer, and bowing himself out ofthe room.

  "The minute specimen of humanity said not a word, but assumed an air ofgreat consequence, and with much ceremony presented a letter. Nicholascould not repress a smile at the messenger's grotesque appearance, buthis mirth sobered into surprise when he read as follows:

  "'NICHOLAS DIMITRI: The bearer of this missive is my servant, who willbe of great service to both you and myself, in events about totranspire. Answer his questions without hesitation, and rest assuredthat Olinska shall be yours, despite the Czar and Admiral Praxin, or Iam much mistaken. I will be present at the wedding. Your friend,

  "'THE LITTLE MAN IN GREEN.'

  "The young officer dropped the note from his hand, and eyed the dwarfin silent amazement.

  "'Is that your death warrant?' asked the latter, ironically.

  "'Who wrote this?' demanded Nicholas.

  "'My master.'

  "'And who is your master?'

  "'The Little Man in Green. Ha! ha!' laughed the dwarf.

  "'His name? I must know his name!' exclaimed Nicholas.

  "The abbreviated Mercury placed a finger beside his little nose, in avery knowing manner, at the same time winking sagaciously.

  "'I can answer no such question,' he said; 'my master desires to remain_incog._ at present. My name is Orloff, and I wish you to answer oneinquiry: Does the ward of the Countess Walewski have an interview withAdmiral Praxin to-day?'

  "'She does.'

  "'That is sufficient; you will hear from me soon,' and Orloff fledthrough the open door, with a speed truly marvelous.

  "Nicholas called after him in vain, and then called his servant todress him, with a vague apprehension of evil, and a belief that nolover ever had so many to assist his wooing as himself.

  * * * * *

  "Olinska, the daughter of a noble Polish family, was deprived of herparents at an early age, and selected for her guardian the high-mindedCountess Walewski. Her childish years were spent in Warsaw, the city ofher forefathers; but the Countess was obliged to remain at St.Petersburg, being a member of the Czarina's household, and thither shecalled her ward, to be presented at court, and drown the memory of hersorrows in the gaieties of the capital.

  "Young, beautiful and unsophisticated, chaperoned by an illustriouslady, and reputed to be heiress of great wealth, the Polish maidenspeedily became the magnet and toast of a brilliant circle, and a prizefor which scores of young nobles contended. But the heart of Olinskawas not to be purchased with titles, and while the scions ofaristocracy knelt vainly at her feet, she bestowed her virginaffections upon Dimitri, whose silent homage defeated that of allothers, with its proud, peculiar dignity. Military rank is esteemed bythe Russians as little inferior to that of inheritance; yet theyacknowledge a difference, and the line drawn between them by the usagesof society cannot be overstepped with impunity. The young officer,although admitted into court circles, was aware of the distance betweenhimself and the lady in a social sense; but the encouragement she gavehim, so insensibly drew them together, that disparity of birth wasforgotten, and love--the great leveller of conditions--reignedparamount.

  "However misanthropically a man may express his indifference to theworld's opinion, we are all, more or less, its most subservient slaves,and although Nicholas Dimitri assured his idol that the gossip offashionables was nothing to him, he deemed it proper to solicit thekind offices of the Countess, as a go-between; and apparently visitedthe guardian, when, in reality, the fair ward was the object of hisintentions.

  "Peter the Great, who, at that period, occupied the throne of Russia,had an unpleasant habit of rewarding his bachelor friends for worthydeeds, with the hand of some fair maiden of his court; and, havingbeheld the Polish lady, he resolved to bestow her upon Admiral Praxin,who, though often regarded with suspicion by his sovereign, had latelyrendered 'the state good service.' Olinska repulsed the old sailor'sadvances with disda
in; but the Czar requested her to grant him aprivate interview, and a request from such a source being synonymouswith a command, the lady felt obliged to grant it.

  "Alone she sat, in a gorgeously furnished apartment, when the Admiralwas announced, her sable locks shading a neck and bosom that rivalledthe snow in their whiteness, and supporting her head with a hand ofnature's choicest modeling.

  "Admiral Praxin was a man in the 'sere and yellow leaf' of meridianlife. His form was firm and upright, and his costume was that of ayouthful courtier; but deep wrinkles tracked his brow with thefootprints of age, and his hair had caught the snow-flakes of themountain's farther side. That foretaste of eternal torments, the gout,had rather confused the measure of his tread, and the stout old Admiralentered the lady's presence with an ungraceful limp.

  "As he passed into the room, a little figure clad in blue and silver,followed him noiselessly and, with wonderful agility, darted behind acurtain of the window.

  "Olinska received her admirer with some embarrassment, which he seemedat first to reciprocate; but at length, after many leers and grimaces,his countenance assumed a determined expression, and he went directlyto the point.

  "'Madam,' he said, 'you can scarcely be ignorant of the object forwhich I now visit you; nor can you feel more deeply than I theextremely unpleasant position in which we are both placed, by thedesire of Peter. Aside from the duty I owe my sovereign of submittingentirely to his will, I have a sentiment in my heart, which, should itfind a reflection in yours, will make me the happiest of men. My titleand fortune are trifles; but the sentiment of love for yourself, unitedto that of loyal obedience, may, perhaps, be deemed by you as morepowerful suitors for your hand and heart.'

  "'It were foolish in me to pretend to misunderstand you, my lord,'replied Olinska, with dignity. 'I am aware that the Czar favors yoursuit, and looks upon me as a fitting bride for one whom he delights tohonor; but, greatly as I honor and respect both my sovereign andyourself, I must positively refuse obedience in this instance, andassume the right to act for myself. I am deeply grateful to you, mylord, for your intended kindness, but must, with all due respect,reject your offer, and close our interview.'

  "As she spoke, her bosom heaved with emotions boiling within, her eyeflashed, and the right of woman to maintain her prerogative shone fromevery feature.

  "'Consider well, lady, before you drive me to despair by such cruelty!'exclaimed the Admiral, with vehemence. 'Consider what you are castingaside as worthless. I have influence at court beyond that of the mostpowerful; the very Czar fears to offend me, and the wife of AdmiralPraxin will be second only to the imperial Catherine in grandeur anddominion. Let me hope that this is only maiden coyness, and thatdeliberation may alter your decision.'

  "'I will not deceive you, my lord,' responded the lady, 'by awakinghopes which can never be realized. My hand shall never be yielded toany man by compulsion, or implied claims which I do not acknowledge;nor do I recognize any other right than my own to dispose of it. Dwellupon the subject no longer, or your title to the name of friend will beforfeited. Allow me to retire.'

  "Dismay was betrayed in every lineament of the sailor's countenance, ashe marked the firm tones in which these words were spoken; but angerquickly took its place as he asked, with a glance of suspicion,

  "'Lady, have I a rival?'

  "Olinska answered not, and arose to leave the apartment, when Praxinquickly intercepted her, and fell upon his knees.

  "'Olinska, you shall not leave me thus!' he exclaimed, in tones hoarsewith excitement. 'If love will not incline you to accept me, letambition do it. _I have the power to place you on the throne ofRussia_, if you but say the word; your own countrymen, the refugeesfrom Sweden, and twenty thousand discontented serfs will rise at mybidding; the navy is mine, and, by a wave of the hand, I can become anEmperor.'

  "With a look of the most unmitigated disdain, the lady regarded thesupplicant at her feet.

  "'I will not parley longer with a _traitor_,' she said, in tones socold and piercing that he involuntarily recoiled from her, and shewalked from the apartment with a queenly air.

  "'I'll be revenged for this,' muttered the discarded suitor, as, with afrowning brow, he took his departure.

  "Then forth sprang Orloff from his place of concealment, with a smileof no ordinary magnitude distorting his little face.

  "'Good! and now for the Countess!' he exclaimed, following the Admiral.

  "Meanwhile, Nicholas had wandered about the city in a most pitiablestate of apprehension, and was about to rush madly to the hotel of theCountess, when he beheld the dwarf hastening toward him, carrying aletter at arm's length.

  "'Here--from the Countess,' ejaculated Orloff, panting for breath, andhanding him the missive. Nicholas hastily tore it open, and read:

  "'DEAR NICHOLAS:--Olinska has had an interview with the Admiral, and,from its results, I fear the worst. Have a chaise and four, at theprivate door of my hotel before sunset to-day. You may trust Orloff.

  "'In haste, WALEWSKI.'

  "'Shall I engage the conveyance?' asked the dwarf, with a grin.

  "'Yes! I will trust you,' replied the excited officer.

  "'You will find all in readiness, at the private door, by fouro'clock!' said Orloff, and he disappeared as quickly as he came.

  "At the appointed hour, Nicholas repaired to the spot where a chaiseand its attendants were awaiting him, and right speedily a muffledfigure emerged from the private door, and touched his arm.

  "'Olinska, dearest Olinska.'

  "'Let us hasten, Nicholas, I fear we are betrayed,' answered Olinska,trembling in his arms.

  "The officer quickly placed her in the chaise, and the horses had madetheir first spring forward when a great tumult arose in the street, andlooking forth from a window of the vehicle, Nicholas beheld, to hisdismay, half a score of imperial cavalry galloping furiously toward him.

  "'Onward! onward!' he shouted to the drivers, and sank back upon hisseat beside the fainting girl.

  "At the top of their speed fled the four chaise horses, making thevehicle bounce from the earth as though it were composed entirely ofsprings; but they were no match for the full-blooded animals of thecavalry, and the latter soon came up with them.

  "'Stop, in the name of the Czar,' said the leader, drawing his sword.

  "At the command, the postillions dropped their reins, and the chaisecame to a dead halt. Then the door was burst open; and Nicholas, with apistol in each hand, sprang into the road.

  "'Gentlemen,' he said hurriedly, 'you must allow me to proceed; the dieis cast, and there is no turning back. Stand aside, sirs, I do not wishto shed your blood.'

  "'Colonel Dimitri,' answered the leader, 'we are sorry that such is ourduty, but the Czar has ordered us to apprehend you and your companion;and carry you before him; I therefore apprehend you in the name ofCzar.'

  "'This is tyranny and I will resist it to the last,' exclaimed theexcited lover. 'I have not broken the laws, and am no politicalcriminal. Why should I be treated thus? You may take me gentlemen, butnot alive.'

  "'We must do our duty,' answered the other. 'Surround and disarm him,'he added, turning to his followers.

  "The soldiers approached to obey his orders, and the desperate colonelhad levelled his weapons, when Olinska, sprang from the chaise andknelt upon the ground before him.

  "'Submit, Nicholas; for my sake submit,' she exclaimed, energetically,clasping her hands towards him.

  "Nicholas regarded her attentively for a moment, and then lowered hisweapons.

  "'I am your prisoner,' he said; 'take me where you will.'

  "The captured pair, were returned to the vehicle, the horses' headswere turned, and in silence they proceeded to the palace of the Czar.

  "The imperial mansion was very different in those days from what it nowis. No gaudy trappings, neither external nor internal, proclaimed theabode of royalty; for Peter the Great appealed to hearts, not the eyesof his subjects, an
d for the inspection of foreigners he had an army,unrivaled in discipline and accoutrements, by any in Europe. A smallante-chamber, plainly furnished, and adorned with various models ofships, paintings, and rude implements of warfare led into the hall ofaudience, equally unostentatious, and the imperial dining saloon, plainas that of an ordinary tradesman.

  "Into the latter apartment, Nicholas and Olinska were led by theircaptors, pale and silent, but undismayed.

  "A long table, bearing on its centre an immense pie, was loaded with arich repast; and about it, were seated the most distinguished noblesand generals of the empire, and Admiral Praxin; while at its head, onelevated seats, appeared the Czar and Czarina.

  "'Ha! here are the two fugitives!' exclaimed Peter, observing theentrance of the party and approaching them.

  "Nicholas started at the sound of that voice, and looking up,recognized in his sovereign, _The Little Man in Green_.

  "'Your pardon, sire!' he exclaimed falling upon his knees, andremembering with the great trepidation how scurvily he had treatedroyalty in disguise.

  "'Arise, Colonel Dimitri,' said the Czar kindly; 'you need not think ofwhat has past; I am satisfied that you are a true and loyal subject.But what possessed you to run away with this little rebel, man? Did younot know that she was affianced to Admiral Praxin?'

  "'Pardon me sire, I did not,' answered Nicholas.

  "'And you Olinska; you have disregarded our wishes, and thrown thegallant admiral overboard?' continued Peter, addressing the tremblinggirl, with a mixture of severity and good-nature.

  "Olinska bowed her head.

  "'What say you Praxin? Are you willing to yield your bride to the army,and let the navy remain a bachelor?'

  "The Admiral had turned all colors, at the first entrance of Olinska,but marking that she remained silent, he plucked up sufficient courageto reply.

  "'I cannot accept the lady's hand without her heart.'

  "'Did you sue for them like a man?' demanded Peter, sternly.

  "'I hope so, your majesty.'

  "'You lie, base traitor!' thundered the Czar, eyeing him with a glancethat chilled his blood.

  "'Has _she_ betrayed me?' ejaculated Praxin, turning deadly pale, andinvoluntarily clutching the handle of his sword.

  "'No,' answered Peter in hoarse tones, 'witness, come forth.'

  "At that moment, the upper covering of the great pie was observed tomove, and in another instant, it was thrown back, discovering themighty Orloff, seated within the dish.

  "'God save the Czar!' said the dwarf, rising and stepping forth uponthe table, with a bow of studied politeness.

  "'Orloff, point out the traitor,' said Peter.

  "Orloff assumed an air of great penetration, and pointed toward theAdmiral, who stood alone, with his back against the wall, a perfectpicture of despairing guilt.

  "'That is the man,' said the dwarf.

  "'Give your proof.'

  "'Your majesty must know, that I was present while Admiral Praxin waswooing the lady Olinska, and heard him say that your majesty dared notoffend him; he also declared that she had but to say the word, and hewould make her an Empress, explaining how he had the Poles, the Serfs,the Swedish refugees, and the navy at his command, ready at his biddingto make him Emperor of Russia.'

  "'What say you to this charge?' demanded Peter.

  "Praxin had regained somewhat of composure during the dwarf's speech;and at its conclusion he approached the Czar and falling upon hisknees, surrendered his sword and belt.

  "'I am guilty,' he said, in firm tones. 'Take my sword, gracioussovereign, and with it receive back the commission I have foreverdisgraced. In a moment of ungovernable passion I spoke words whichshould have choked me ere I uttered them, and which I would give mylife to recall. I desire no mercy; yet I would ask forgiveness ofOlinska, for daring to breathe treason in her presence.'

  "'Let us both forget it,' said Olinska, gently.

  "'Alas _I_ can never forget it,' he replied, pressing her hands to hislips, and resuming his former attitude.

  "The Czar gazed some moments attentively and silently upon the face ofPraxin, as though to read his inmost soul, and then turning toNicholas, he said:

  "'Colonel Dimitri, it is but just that I should explain my conduct toyou and Olinska, as it was by making an unconscious tool of you that Ihave ferreted this matter out. I intended that Olinska should havewedded the Admiral, not knowing that her affections had been given toanother; but lately I have distrusted him and ordered a spy of thepolice to watch him closely. My agent speedily brought me news of_your_ engagement, and your intended course; and I resolved to throwmyself in your way, and gain a slight knowledge of your character. Youknow how I succeeded in that attempt. I also requested Olinska toreceive the Admiral privately, and sent Orloff to be present--thoughconcealed--at the interview. The Countess Walewski was made acquaintedwith my plans, by the dwarf, and hence your presence here. As apunishment for an attempt to outwit me, I command that you be marriedbefore you leave the palace. As for you, Admiral,' he continued,turning to Praxin, 'in consideration of the many services you haverendered us, I grant you a free pardon. You have been humiliated in theeyes of your friends, and have failed to win a prize worthy of my bestsubject. May you learn the lesson that passion will not always excusedangerous words, nor is a sovereign's leniency everlasting.'

  "Universal rejoicings followed this generous speech, and the victims ofthe royal whim retired from the imperial palace, married--for better orworse."

  This Russian tale sent us all home very thirsty, my boy; for its effectwas very dry.

  Yours, weariedly, ORPHEUS C. KERR.