THE RHINE FROM BASLE TO ROTTERDAM F. J. K I E F E R. TRANSLATED BY IF. fn. IF. Garnham, B. A. SECOND EDITION. MAYENCE. Published by DAVID KAPP. 1869. Court-Printing-press of Job. Wirth. Mayence. INDEX. Sida Rhine-Life. 1 Basle. One hour in advance 3 Zahringen. Zahringen's Origin 5 Alsace and Breisgau. The holy Odilie 9 Thann in Alsace 12 Staufenberg in Ortenau. The foot on the Wall. 15 Castle Niedeck. The Gigantic toy 19 Strasburg. The Clock and the Cathedral ... 21 Castle T rife Is. Richard Lion-heart 24 Carlsrhue. Charles' rest 30 Philippsburg. The Recruit 31 Speyer. The Clocks 33 Heidelberg. The Wolf's spring 36 The Legend of Wolfs spring ... 38 Seckenheim. Frederic the Victorious 39 Oggersheim. Hans Warsch, the valiant Shepherd 42 Worms. Siegfried 44 The single combat 58 IV Side Florsheim. The maiden of Florsheim . ... 60 Hepperiheim. The Monk at Lorch 68 Frankenstein. George of Frankenstein .... 72 Darmstadt. Walther of Birbach ...... 75 Frankfort. Foundation of the City .... 78 The Knave of Bergen 79 The 9 in the Vane 81 Taunu.s The knight of Falkenstein ... 84 Mainz. Heinrich Frauenlob 87 Rabbi Amram 88 Ingelheim. Charles and Elbegast 91 Eginhard and Emma ..... 97 Queen Hildegard 106 Rudesheim. Gisela 114 Bin gen. The Mouse -tower 120 The holy Rupert 124 The prophetess Hildegard . . . 128 Rheinstein. The Ride to the Wedding . . . 130 Lorch. The Devil's ladder . . . ._ . . 135 The Archer 146 Bacharach. Palatine Count Hermann of Stahleck 150 Kaub. Castle Gutenfels 155 Palatinate near Kaub. Palatinate Count stone . 159 Oberwesel. The seven Virgins 161 Lurlei. Loiclei 164 The Lore-Lei . 171 V Side St. Goar and St. Goarshausen 172 Sternberg and Liebeiistein. The brothers . . 174 Kreuznach. The Ebernburg ". 182 Bornhoven. The inimical Brothers 185 Boppard. Convent Marienburg 187 Rhense. Emperor Wenzel 189 L ah neck. The twelve Templars 192 Laach. Genovefa 194 Hammerstein. The Salic blood ........ 204 Altenaar. The last knight of Altenaar . . . 206 Rolandseck 208 Ko nigs winter. The Drachenfels 216 Heisterbach, in the Siebengebirge. The converted Sceptic 220 Bonn. The Treasure-seeker 223 Aix-la-Chapelle. The foundation of the town . . 232 The Cathedral 235 The hunchbacked Musician . . 239 Kbuigsdorf near Cologne. The Bishop election . 248 Cologne. Ursula and the 11000 Virgins . . 250 The Building of the Cathedral . . 253 The wife, Richmodis of Aducht . . 262 Hermann Joseph 265 The Mayor Gryn 267 The three Kings at Cologne . . . 271 Diinwald near Miihlheim. The Oak-seed . . . 272 VI Side Solingen. The Solinger blades -274 Gerresheim near Dusseldorf. Guuhilde . . . 283 X an ten. Siegfried 285 Cleve. The Swan knight 291 Kevlaar. 295 The Pilgrimage to Kevlaar . . . 296 Gertruidenberg. St. Gertrude's delight .... 300 Zuydersee (Rotterdam). Stavoren 304 Haag. Three hundred and sixty five children 310 As many children as days in a year 311 n the Rhine blooms fine life! the Destruction's dust, ^ J The Ancestors' spirits strife, Which long were the Graves' rust; And songs there resound With harmonious stream, In the spirit again found, And again must I dream. See I the birds flying High the blue air through, See I the ships striving In distant grey-fog anew, Is me, as if in flight The birds words sing, As in quick despite To ships others cling. Spirit-words on the moor And quick moving flood; There round the Convent-door, Where Pilgrims once stood And the Ivy branch waves, So high and sadly wild Binds tendrils round the graves There tone fairy songs so mild. KIEEFE, Legends of the Rhine. 1 Yet the wall regarding Of dilapidated mountain, So rises a slight trembling In my bosom's fountain ; For in the solitary fragment Tones like struggle and storm power, Soon I hear gentle lament From deep dungeon in round tower. Soon speak Ore, Stone, and Wine Of the strange past Times, Sometimes talk the folk on Rhine Of the fabulous old Rhymes. We inherited many traditions And ever believe anew, Who ventures useless additions: Or asks if they are really true? Truthfully I announce to others too, What I once , in old time heard and found, He may wander, believing it not true To our beautiful country bound. And on the heights and foundations Listens he on an evening still The heart can ever make translations, If it only seeks and has the will. Adeiheid v. Stolterfoth. Basel. One hour in advance. asel was once surrounded by enemies and hard- The besiegers were in agreement with the malcontents in the town, and arranged with them to conquer the fortress, by attack on a dark night. The attack was to happen on the clock striking 12, but accidentally the watchman of the Tower heard of the intended storming some minutes before its execution; there was no time left to warn the Commander of the garrison, or the guard. Cunning and reflection alone could help, and the Watchman quickly knew a safe expedient; he prevented in advancing the clock one hour -- the announcement of the midnight hour, and made the hammer strike 1 instead of 12. This caused doubt and misunderstanding both in the town, and among the enemy outside the town, both believing to have neglected the concerted hour, and while they reflected what was most advisable to be done, the Watchman had time to communicate with the Magistrate and Com- mandant The traitorous plan completely mis- 4 BASEL. carried ; and the Enemy at last tired of the siege, retired without having obtained any advantage. The Legend does not relate if the brave Watchman saved the town, or was rewarded, but in remembrance of the remarkable manner by which this safety occurred, the Magistrate ordered that the Town Clock should remain advanced as the Watchman set it, and since, it struck 1 o'clock in Basel, when elsewhere it struck 12 o'clock. This singular regulation, which continued till 1798, gained the inhabitants of Basel the satirical praise, that although they were a Century behind, yet they were an hour in advance. Now, of course, they keep the same time as other towns. Another remarkable thing was the so-called Lallenkonig, a very larr>-e strangely carved head placed on the Clock of the Basel-bridge steeple, which at every movement of the pendulum turned its eyes and thrust out its tongue, this head had been placed there after a dispute, to mock and ridicule the citizens of Little-Basel. In 1839 the tower was pulled down, causing the dis- appearance of the Lallenkonig. Zahringen. Zahringen's Origin. the wooded valleys of Zahringen, there, vhere the First ascends to the summit called the Y Rosskopf once lived a young Charcoal-burner, a stately brave fellow; he could have been satis- fied with his occupation, in which also his pa- rents found a sufficient subsistence, however he could not feel himself happy. Being sent once to the town by his parents , he had an oppor- tunity of seeing a Tournament which excited in the youth an inclination for Chivalry his pa- rents being dead, and iilial duty not binding him more to his paternal hut, he wished to leave the wood for ever, and take service by the most renowned knight, as he was revolving these thoughts an old hermit came to him and said: I know what you meditate, however believe me the means to attain your wish lies only in this wood, and your hitherto occupation, but you must choose a better place than where you have till now burnt Charcoal. Come with me I will show you a better place. In astonishment the youth followed the old man: Here, said the old man, continue to burn your Charcoal, and with these words he disappeared before the Charcoal- burner could ask for an explanation. The old man's words he thought will explain themselves 6 Z^EHRINGEN in time, in every case, it cannot hurt if mean- time I obey him, and with great exertion he hewed down the strong trunks which surrounded the hill, erected a kiln, and covered it, before kindling, with the rocky earth of the eminence; how great was his astonishment as he, after the kiln had burnt-out and taking away the cover, found several pieces of Gold, which had formed themselves by the heat out of the stones ; he prudently concealed the treasure in a near cleft then built a second kiln, and afterwards several others , and all produced similar booty ; so that he soon found himself in the possession of an immense fortune. Occupied with several plans to invest his gold, one evening he went to bed late, the care of his treasure tormented him and he could not sleep. There he thought he heard a light tap at his door, he rose, and in still doubt- ing a strong knock convinced him he was not mistaken. Courageously he opened the door, and by the weak light of the moon he saw be- fore him a man who demanded admittance. The Charcoal-burner was the more astonished at this nocturnal visit, as it was very seldom that a wanderer came in this solitary wilderness , and therefore hesitated to receive the unknown, but as this asserted that he was a pursued unfor- tunate and only concealment could save him, the humane youth did not longer resist to afford him a hospitable sojourn. The deeply hidden situa- Z^EHRINGEN. 7 tion of the hut was the best protection for the fugitive; no pursuer appeared, and the stranger soon recognised in the young Charcoal-burner a faithful upright heart in whom one could trust implicitly. I dare without danger, unconditionally discover myself to you said he therefore one morning to the youth , you are incapable of Treachery, and as it appears to me a man of confi- dence , and such a friend is necessary for me, I could never find my way in these thick woods, therefore I require a guide who will conduct me to my people , know ! young man , who it is to whom you have opened your hospitable doors ; I am your unfortunate Emperor. Attacked by over- whelming enemies I have lost all in an unequal ruinous battle, my army and treasure are gone, and I must fly far from here, to lament in deep concealment my destiny. From you I demand the last service, to lead me by secret paths to those who expect me, a service which I, once so powerful, am not able to recompense. The Char- coal-burner heard these words with astonishment, and in shedding tears of sympathy, he sank on his knee before the Emperor. But then rising he seized the right hand of the illustrious guest and spoke : now I recognise the dispensation of Prov- idence who let me find here, in a wondrous manner , a great treasure which enables me to offer to my dearly beloved sovereign, probably a successful service. See, confined he in leading 8 Z^EHRINGEN. the Emperor to the place near the hut where the gold was hidden. I demand nothing for it, but your permission to count myself to the number of your dependants , and to devote my arm to your just cause. Affected and full of new hopes the Emperor embraced the excellent young man. Still the same evening they departed with the great treasure, and by secret ways, and many nightly adventures they reached trusty friends. The gold enabled the Emperor to levy a new army, and before long, the sovereign saw him- self at the head of a well equipped force, so that he felt himself sufficiently strong to attack the enemy. The bravery of his troops bore-off a complete victory, and before all, and under the eyes of his sovereign the Charcoal-burner acquired honour and celebrity. On the field of battle he was knighted by the Emperor, who gave him the name of Zahringen with the instruction to build a castle for himself and successors, on the dom- inating eminence of that secluded valley. 9 Alsace and Breisgau. The holy Odilie. ,ttich, duke of Alsace had an extraordinary ^2v> beautiful and amiable lady, and for the com- ^ pletion of his happiness he only wanted the enjoyment of a father. But so much as he wished a scion, as often as he prayed to Heaven for mari- tal blessing, his longings never seemed as if they would be accomplished. Once he prayed fer- vently, and vowed that he would devote the child entirely to the service of God , and his prayer was at last heard, the duchess felt the throes of child-bearing, and bore a lovely daughter which was baptised Odilie. Yet the parent's pleasure was not unalloyed at this birth, for the girl (as if Heaven had retained a pledge for the fulfill- ment of the vow), was blind. However Odilie grew a blooming maiden, but still more than by bodily beauty, she early distinguished herself by pre-eminence in goodness and by pious sentiments, and this sentiment increased daily, so that she was the delight of all good persons. But as she wanted the gift of sight , she could only have imperfect ideas of the exterior world and nature, and the more charming descriptions one made her of God's glorious creation, so much the more Odilie deplored her blindness. Ever when so very sad she sought consolation in prayer, and 10 ALSACE AND BREISGAU. in her childlike piety she prayed incessantly to the Almighty to unclose her eyes, and to allow her the high enjoyment of the sight of his beau- tiful world. What nobody expected happened; the Heaven wrought a miracle on Odilie, she saw. With indescribable joy the parents saluted this unexpected happiness, and offered thanksgivings for the costly present, praising the goodness and power of God. But men are too inclined to with- draw from the fulfillment of an engagement, and not to keep a promise for which it was given, when it is completed. Since Odilie enjoyed the light of day, and the glance of her eyes increased the charm of the graceful maiden, she did not want wooers, and the honourable offers which were made to the Duke , caused him often to regret that he had dedicated the child to the service of God. For a time Attich had thoughts of giving notice of such a changement of opinion, and as count Adelhart an excellent knight who had done him great service begged as reward the hand of Odilie, the duke thought it not nec- essary to regard the vow, and gave his consent to the count. With terror the pious maiden heard that she was to marry. She had already hoped, (according to her former destination, and inclina- tion), to be received yi a convent, and she belie- ved to be obliged the more resolutely to resist, the intention of her father as so much the more sinful it appeared to her against God, she there- ALSACE AND BREISGAU. 11 fore ventured to represent to the Duke his wrong, and to declare decidedly her refusal, and seeing that arrangements were making to compel her, she fled from the castle into the wood where she hoped to remain concealed. It was however soon found out whither she had gone, and Attich drew ont his servants and huntsmen to catch her. Soon she heard her pursuers. As a hunted deer she fled before them in the impassable thicket, but at last the fugitive's steps were hemmed-in by a steep broad rocky wall ; already the ser- vants and her father were near, the maiden called on God for help sinking on her knees , and see, the rock opened, took the pursued, and closed after her again. All who saw this stood immov- able from terror and astonishment , but the most perplexed was the Duke, and the wicked- ness of his action was heavy on his conscience. While regarding the rock which hid Odilie, her voice sounded from the stone. w My father if you wish to see me again so fulfill your Vow faith- fully, if you insist on my marrying I am for ever taken away from you." Attich who now distinctly knew that his daughter was irrevocably destined to Heaven, swore not to act more against this destination, and then the rock opened and Odilie stept forward. But in remembrance of the mi- raculous event, and to atone for his wickedness, the Duke had a cloister built where the pious Odilie was withdrawn from her pursuers ; Odilie 12 THANN IN ALSACE. became the first Nun of this Nunnery, and later Abbess. After her death she was declared holy by the Pope. Thann in Alsace. )he drean\y beautifully situated small town 'Thanu is, in a double regard, remarkable to the lover of old romantic legends, not only on account of the steeple but principally of the neigh- bouring Lyingiield. The steeple was built in a time when by great drought and heat, a severely felt want of water dominated, and springs and fountains scarcely yielded sufficient to allay the thirst. .But just at this time the wine had thriven so luxuriantly that persons not prepared for this abundance, could not procure sufficient vessels and barrels to store the rich blessing. Therefore it happened that the citizens of Thann prepared the mortar, for (he building of the steeple, with wine instead of water, which changed the lime to a sort of must , spreading a most lovely fragrance. By such application of the sweet grape-juice it is said not only to have acquired an extraordinary solidity, but even to the present day the walls occasionally yield an agreeable exudation when the delicate plant is in blossom. TIIANN IN ALSACE. 13 One indeed asserts that the tolling is then more euphonious and harmonious. Net so charming but rather terrific and dreadful is the legend of the Lying-field. An uninhabited, barren waste, uncomfortable sterile wilderness, stretches itself before the wanderer's eye, and the defamed field is unwillingly visited, which Nature seems to have chosen as the seat of Death. No tone of a living creature is to be heard, no green ear shoots from the wide pasture, the only change of color on the dark mossy ground is offered by the bleached skulls, which like an obnoxious seed are here scattered about. Once, so says the Le- gend, a wanderer surprised by night, lost him- self on this wide plain. The clocks of the near town announced midnight, and directly the soli- tary was aware of a subterranean strange rust- ling, a rattling as of weapons, and a tumult as of fighters. Suddenly there appeared before him the figure of an armed knight, in menacing posi- tion and harangued the terror-stricken so .,What are you searching here miserable, and why do you venture to enter the field that already since many centuries loaded with the curse, is a field of Terror and Death ?" Are you a stranger in this country, so know that you stand on the place, where once Louis the Pious arranged his army tc struggle in open battle with his enemy. The venerable king wished to stand an honourable battle, but his own sons reflected on treachery, 14 THANN IN ALSACE. and Lothar the Infamous bribed the warriors with gold and. soft words. And as the pious Louis confiding in the faithfulness of his troops would begin the battle, he experienced the shame- ful desertion of his own troops who tore the crown from his head , and delivered him to his antagonists. The deceived old man, with uplifted hands cried with bitterness to Heaven. B There is no more fidelity on earth, for all my warriors betray me. Cursed be they, and this field the witness of such an act, for ever." This curse oh stranger ! has been most terribly fulfilled, n Here under this black plain lie in mile-wide graves, collected bones of the perjured warriors, and as we by our faithlessness robbed our king of happiness and quiet, so our bones will never enjoy repose, and never will the curse be taken from this field, which since that event, is called the Lying-field. After these words the spectral warrior sank in the ground which opened and closed with hollow menaces, but the stranger seized with terror and horror hastened away, and the next day announced what he had experienced on the plain. 15 Staufenberg in Ortenau. The foot on the Wall. the fine times when there were fairies, Iff nymphs , and other lovely creatures of the '$ world of Fable who cultivated a gay and happy intercourse with men, lived at his castle Staufen- berg, a rich young count whose amiability and virile beauty had almost become proverbial in the neighbourhood. He was passionately addicted to the pleasures of the chase, ranged daily moun- tain and wood, and not seldom he made an ex- cursion to the distant banks of the Rhine, which then, were little inhabited. It once happened that tired from the useless pursuit of a stag which had led him to the banks of the stream, he encamped in the shade of a tree and fell asleep. On awak- ing he saw a young maid of incomparable beauty, sitting in the grass who friendly saluted him. Just as much astonished at the unexpected appearance as attracted by her charms, he asked after her origin and dwelling, the sweet maid related him that she was a nymph of the Rhine and her house was built in the rocky-ground of the river. This answer astonished the count still more, and raised in him the impression which the fabulous being had made on him so much, that he, bewitched by the supernatural charm of the nymph , did not separate from her , till 16 STAUFENBERG IN ORTENAU. she had promised to be on the same place the next day. The count directly renounced the chase, and different pleasures which he had had before, he had only mind for the charming enchantress who bound him with magical love-bands. He saw her daily on the quiet confidential place where she first appeared to him, and nothing disturbed the enjoyment of sweet happy love. The oath of eternal true love , which the Fairy demanded of him, the count had willingly given with the assurance that it would be impossible for him, ever to belong to another, for which the beloved promised him continual joys, and a long life. Could you, she said sometimes with warning voice, could you once forget your oath and break your vowed Faith to me, nothing would remain for me than to weep eternally, for I can only love once, and never another than you. But your faithlessness would be ruinous to you, for you would hear my plaintive cry in this castle or wherever you might be, and even if I were in- visible you would see a foot of mine, and this would be a sign, that after 3 days as punishment of your perjury you would become the prey of Death. Long the calm band of love was more than in one manner a blessing for the count, for by the magic of his adored, every endeavour and action succeeded. He was always victor in Tournament, as in serious battle ever his lance struck his adversary, never failed his sword, and STAUFENBERG IN ORTENAU. 17 the high renown of his arms spread wide into the country. No wonder therefore, that many a beauty rivalled for the favour of the beautiful count, yet he remained faithful to his nymph. It happened once that the Emperor, sojourning in the Rhine-country arranged a grand banquet, and as then the most noble knights took part, so also the Staufenberger. The Youth's stately figure and noble manners soon attracted all eyes, but the most the glance of the only daughter of the sovereign. She was inflamed with love for the knight, and did not conceal from her father that she must either be the count's wife, or never marry. The Emperor cordially responded to the wish of his child and sought an opportunity to make the count acquainted with this wish. This declaration was accompanied with such splendid offers, and alluring promises, that the thereby blinded knight declared to the Emperor his oath of love to a nymph of the Rhine, and this was the obstacle which prevented his conducting home, as married wife, the daughter of his powerful master. The emperor opposed, that a love connec- tion with such a being, and that an effected oath, could have no validity, and in every case the Bishop would be able to release the count from the fairy, from all guilt and from all evil conse- quences. Allured by ambition, the count consented to the emperor's offer, and in the loving caresses of the Emperor's love-inflamed daughter, the KIEFER, Legends of the Rhine. ^ 18 STAUFENBERG IN ORTENAU. youth soon forgot all of that threatened him by the nymph, and drunk with joy, he sat at the wedding-feast beside the highly-blessed in beauty, blooming young wife. But see! as all were jovial, and the health of the newly-married was enthu- siastically toasted, there was displayed on the wall, opposite the festal-table an extremely beau- tiful and elegant feminine foot, which visible to the knee, had penetrated through the wall, al- though it remained undamaged. At the same time toned in all ante-rooms a heartrending long continuing wail. By this infelicitous sign the count paled: ,,Woe to me!" he cried that is the punishment for my faithlessness, that is the announcement of my near death. Seized with madness, and as if chased by Furies he ran forth, after 3 days he was found in the near Forest killed by lightning. But the unhappy bride sunk in grief and mourning, renounced the world, and ended her days in a cloister. 19 Castle Niedeck. The Gigantic toy. that time when in the German countries ff still unnatural beings were in abundance, a giant if race had their seat on the castle Niedeck. Al- though this castle is since long in ruins, yet the sayings of the people testify of their, and their former inhabitants, extraordinary size and strength. It was these, so says the legend, immense giants who kept aloof from the impulsive men, and good-natured , hurt nobody. It happened once, that the castle-owner's little daughter in prom- enading, wandered further than usual. The young giantess traversed the adjacent woods and arrived at a wide plain on which fields and meadows extended themselves. She perceived a peasant with horse and plough which she had never seen ! Admiringly she regarded the man for a time, how he ploughed the field, and full of childlike pleasure at the sight, she clapped her hands so that the mountains echoed, and frightened by the noisy sound the good husbandman stopped, and his horse fell. w What a fine toy" cried the giant child and before the husbandman knew whence the words came, the girl had hurried to him, snatched up horse and plough as easily as if they were 20 CASTLE NIEDECK. Tyrolean carved- work, and covered them up in her apron. Joyfully she hastened with them to her father at the castle, ,,look here" said she, beside herself with joy, and placed the peasant with the put-to horse on the table before the giant ,,look here" what charming elegant figures I have found, a living toy. Oh ! that shall make me more pleasure than all my dolls, which are only of leather and immovable. But the father said seriously, my little daughter M Do you know what you have done, and what you have brought with you?" You have taken the peasant from the field, torn him from his work, he the most useful of all the children of men, exerts himself in heat, wind, and rain, that the fields are pro- ductive. Therefore quickly carry the man back with horse and plough, and once for all remark: ,,He who practices injurious play and will on the diligent peasant, draws Heaven's curse on him." And at the father's command, the giant's daughter carried the husbandman with plough and horse to the field whence she had taken them. 21 Strasburg. The Clock and the Cathedral. ,s the world-renowned building of the Stras- burg Dome was completed, the Magistrate had the wish to ornament the high steeple with an artistic clock. Long no master was to be found, to whom one could confide the execution of such a work, but at last one announced himself from a foreign country, named Isaac Habich, an already venerable old man, who offered to arrange an incomparable clock-work on the steeple. The offer was joyfully accepted, and the master be- gan the laborious work. After several years un- remitting endeavours the work was finished, and all who saw it, regained it with justifiable ad- miration. The clock not only indicated the hour, but the day and month of the year, there was also added a large World-ball with the rising and setting of the sun, which as well as the ap- pearances and eclipses of the Moon and Sun each time exactly as they occurred in nature, Mercury standing with his staff pointed out all change- ments , and each constellation stepped forward in its turn as soon as its domination commenced. Besides many artistic arrangements of different sorts, was also remarkable, that beside the clock which announced the hours, stood the personifi- cation of Death , who shortly before the strike 22 STRASBURG. of every quarter advanced to seize the clock- hammer, while at the same time from the other side the figure of the Redeemer appeared and sent back Death; only the full hour Death struck with the hammer. This ingenious clock as well as an excellent chime belonging to it, which toned the most edifying church-psalms seemed to be a real masterwork and the city glorified itself in its possession. But even the excellence of the work excited in the minds of the magistracy the wish that Strasburg might be and remain the only city that could boast of it, and this wish led to the horrible design, that instead of reward- ing the master for his art and diligence, to put- out his eyes. In order to have a pretence for this cursed act, and because they feared to exe- cute such cruelty on a man so highly honored by the people, they took refuge to the easy de- ceptive superstition of that time. They accused the master of not being able to complete the work without demoniacal help, was in connection with the Devil, and effected by imprisonment and torture the master's con- fession of his guilt. However before the infamous men could carry-out their Judgment, the master declared, that he must do the last work to the clock and finish the wheel- work what would be impossible for any one else to complete, and begged to be still once allowed to ascend the steeple. This explanation appeared so weighty STRASBURG. 23 with the chiefs of the city that they could not but comply with it. They had the condemned conducted to the steeple, and after he had filed and altered some time, he declared that all was completed. Immediately afterwards the dreadful act was committed of depriving the old man of sight. But soon it was known that the chimes and works were still. The cruel authors of the inhuman act perceived now too late, that the master of the artistic movement had intentionally destroyed it, to revenge himself on the barbarous vanity and ambition of the Magistracy. And so indeed it was. The badly treated artist said he had annihilated his own work, and that nobody would ever be able to repair it and set it in motion. Even to the present day one shows the im- movable wheel - work to the stranger visiting Strasburg - dome ; whoever regards the endless artistic work and the fine mechanism can only regret that as the blind master predicted, till now no artistic hand had power to order the machine and to bring it into activity. In the clock made by Schwilgue 1838 1842 some parts of the clock were used; at midnight of 31 st Dec. of every year, the clock regulates itself for the next year. 24 Castle Trifels. Richard Lion -heart. n^/n the Upper Rhine boundary of France betweeu Weissenburg , Bergzabern, Landau, Eden- ^ koben, Neustadt on the Hardt and Diirkheiin as far as Griinstadt is one of the finest countries of Germany, possibly of Europe. Provided with woods, vine-clad eminences, and fruitful fields, and richly ornamented with villages and hamlets, and crowned with old castle ruins, this country, although little known, can vie with all. and equal to every other in changement of beautiful and interesting objects. The Vosges the summits of which already begin to incline to the plain have not more the same wild character which surprises the traveller on the Swiss frontier and in Upper Alsace; so much the more lovely and softer is the country, and so much the more fruitful the ground, and only here and there one is reminded of the neighbourhood of the mountain by the proud projecting rocks. One of these eminences allows the free View to the North and South. The Domes of Strasburg and Speyer besides the churches of Worms, on the right bank of the Rhine the ruins of Heidelberg castle, to the left the Donnersberg with its projecting cupolas are the principal objects of a Panorama which charms the spectator. Not far from the Landau and An- CASTLE TRIFELS. 25 weiler lies as if thrown in , a row of wooded mountains and rocks with ruins. Three of these mountains render themselves particularly remark- able, they seem to have belonged to one, and to have been the property of one master who had his dwelling on one of them. The name Trifels signifies this unity, for it is the collective name of the 3 rocky ridges, although also only the most important with its castle-ruins is called so, and the 2 others are named Anebos and Scharfenburg. The ascent of Trifels is tiring, but this labour is repaid a hundred-fold by the lovely prospect of near and distant environs, and particularly of the splendid Rhine-valley with its finely situated districts. Landau before all attracts the notice of the spectator, it lies in the midst of numerous villages and one says therefore there proverbially, that the inhabitants of 200 districts visit its Market without requiring more than 1 day to do so. The founder of the castle Trifels is (as many buildings of the Middle Ages) un- known, one knows only that it is mentioned, in old chronicles, as of the times of the Salic kings, and that it passed over to the Dynasties of Hohen- staufen and Habsburg, but in the year 1410 was the property of the Duke of Zweibriicken. Fred- eric Barbarossa has often, according to the legend, and willingly resided in the castle and enlarged it, and also built the once celebrated marble-hall, of its plan however scarcely a trace remains. 26 CASTLE TKIFELS. In the Middle-Ages Trifels served with its fortifications a three-fold purpose. It was Impe- rial fortress, state prison, and a place of conser- vation for jewels and treasure; and its possession often of great importance, because the height and strength of the place defied every attack. Just on that account it was adapted to hold im- portant prisoners. The blood-thirsty Henry 6 th Barbarossa's successor has here incarcerated many of his enemies and several state-criminals, and had them executed with unheard-of cruelties. About Easter 1193 Richard Lion-heart was delivered as prisoner to Henry 6 th by Leopold of Austria, and by the order of the latter brought to Trifels. For the heroic King a terrible destiny might have been intended, for he was, as so many bloody-victims, thrown into one of the strongest and well built dungeons of which there were several. However the courage of Richard re- mained unconquered, he even amused himself with singing and harp -playing, but there was scarcely a hope that he could escape his bitter enemy, and he was obliged to resign himself to the idea of a cruel death. The king had in England a faithful adherent of his former years a singer by name Blondel. As he learned that his beloved master had disappeared, or rather incarcerated, he vowed with an Oath indefatigably and incessantly to search for the place of sojourn of Richard, and CASTLE TEIFELS. 27 to venture all for his deliverance. Only a few devoted and valiant knights followed the faith- ful Blondel who wandered to Germany, traversing the whole country inquiring at all castles and making inquiries in all towns, and could never discover any traces of his master. Already he had searched out almost all places on the banks of the Danube and Rhine as one day he arrived in the wild valley of Anweiler, and perceived the tower of Trifels. A strange presentiment seemed to strike him that it was the king's prison, and he resolved to arrange his inquiries with the greatest care and prudence. His companions were obliged to conceal them- selves in the wood, while he would inspect the castle. Being on his road there he met a maiden who entered into conversation with him, and who living near Trifels related him many things of the castle, and its sights. As she wished to sep- arate from him Blondel begged her to stav still some minutes, wishing to reward her communi- cation. Thereupon he took his Zither and sang an old moving song which was also Richard's favourite song. w Ah that sounds", indeed said the joyfully surprised, ^exactly as the song which a poor captive kinght, in the north tower of Trifels sings, when I pasture my sheep in the neighbour- hood." With these words spoken so unsuspiciously, but so important for Blondel, the maiden sprang away. Full of happy hope to have at last reached 28 CASTLE TRIFELS. the object of his wandering the singer crept, by twilight, as near as possiple to the marked tower, sang, with accompaniment, the same song, which the king had set to music, and composed. Scarcely had the first strophes ceased , the at- tentive listener heard the continuation of the song, which resounded from the window of the tower, and soon afterwards asked a well-knwn although suppressed voice from the same place: Art thou my faithful Blondel? ,,Yes it is I my royal master", replied the singer, n who thanks Heaven that he has at last found you. Depend upon my , and some friends', zeal to free you." The following day the stranger tried and ob- tained entrance to the castle, but he was ob- liged soon to learn, how dangerous his enterprise was. The tower well watched and provided with a numerous garrison could neither be taken by force nor by surprise. It only seemed possible to attain the desired object by cunning. Blondel's lively manners and gay songs obtained for him the favour of the governor as well as the other guardians, and what was more useful to him also the love of the gaolers daughter with whom he soon was on a confidential footing. After convincing himself that she loved him deeply, and resolved to fly with him, he believed to be able to dis- cover himself. She promised her assistance to liberate the king, and so it was possible to ac- complish the dangerous undertaking. Mathilda CASTLE TRIFELS. 29 so was the name of the maid knew exactly all the passages of the Tower-where her father kept the keys, and how she could imperceived obtain possession of them. On a dark stormy night, Blondel and Mathilda, after having arranged all, proceeded to act, they opened the king's Dungeon, handed him a helmet and > a sword, and con- ducted him to the castle-yard, surprised the two sentinels, and compelled them to open the door. Before the garrison drawn together by the noise, could offer resistance, Blondels companion pene- trated into the open castle, and after a sharp struggle , he succeeded in delivering the king, and to get clear-off with the heroic maiden on a steed which had been before hand kept ready. After long wandering they all fortunately arrived in England. Blondel then conducted his beautiful Mathilde to the Altar, and received from the king the richest reward for his rare lasting fidelity. Also those who had accompanied the valiant Blondel were rewarded with royal liberality. 30 Carlsrhue. Charles' rest. )he Margrave Charles of Baden returned vic- 'torious from the battle-field, where great actions had made his name celebrated. He thought, after long wars, to devote time and strength to the happiness of his subjects in the enjoyment of peace. With his capital Durlach he wished to make the beginning, the same should be enlarged and be embellished with suitable pleasure-grounds ; but obstinacy, and short-sighted court-intrigues opposed so many difficulties to the benevolent intentions of the Margrave that the plan was not carried-out. One day hunting in the Hardt wood for his recreation , it happened that in pursuit of game, he lost his suite and after wearily wandering about reposed himself under an oak-tree. Sleep overcame him, and strange reveries occupied his senses. High over his head in the top of the tree he perceived a crown ornamented with the most precious stones on which glanced the words: w This is the reward of the noble" and round it, stood directly as if by the power of magic, a splendid large city with Towers , Pinnacles , and a noble castle worthy to be the seat of a sovereign. While the charmed Margrave admired this vision, PHILIPPSBUKG. 31 it at once dissolved, he awoke and standing around him the the hunting-party who had discovered their missed master. ! had", said Charles to them, w here a delightful dream. What I saw, around me in spirit, a large fine city I will found, the crown which soared above shall be an idea to me to make the new city my residence, and the place of the tree under which I reposed shall be the spot of my sepulchre." To this dream Carlsrhue owes its foundation, for the Margrave accomplished what he had promised. Philip psburg. The Recruit. ,t a siege of Philippsburg by the French a a storm-attack on the works was ordered, twelve grenadiers were ordered to mount the rampart secretly at a retired, apparently unoccupied place. Here stood, besides a single recruit, riot another man of the garrison , taken from the Imperial- army, because no one supposed that anything would be undertaken against this part of the Fortress. The recruit was however as sentinel, an attentive observer of what happened near him, and stood fully prepared , behind the parapet, 32 PHILIPPSBURG. holding his halberd ready for defence. Suddenly he remarked before him, the face of a moustached inimical grenadier, who was about to place his foot on the wall. B Ho, ho", growled the recruit to himself, w that is an impudent fellow I must show him the way"; and with a strong push , he thrust the enemy from the ladder. But see, a moment after again grinned a bearded grenadier, and a bullet whis- tled past the recruit's ear. W 0h ! that for you", cried the recruit, already there again, have I not struck you well?" and with all his strength he pushed his halberd against the breast of the climbing-up opponent, so that he fell backwards. But how great was the astonishment of the young recruit as the grim face of an attacking face appeared for the third time. The valiant defender of the rampart made if possible a still more effective thrust, and thought: ^With that the so often rejected will have enough", nevertheless the threatening enemies continually appeared; and only after 12 had been precipitated into the trench, did the attack cease. After the lapse of some hours the guard was relieved, and the sergeant asked, if anything had occurred: ^Nothing particularly", answered the recruit, n only that an impudent, inimical grenadier had the boldness to climb the wall , I gave the fellow a couple or two of thrusts, so that he fell backwards into the trench, however he always SPEYER. 33 returned, and only after I had set him right 12 times with my halberd, he has been contented, and not troubled me again. The sergeant had the Trench examined, and there lay to his no little astonishment 12 dead grenadiers, which the brave recruit had success- ively thrust from the storming-ladder. The act was announced to the commandant, who handsomely rewarded the brave recruit. S p e y e r. The Clocks. ^mong all sovereigns who sat on the German ''Imperial- throne none experienced a sadder Destiny, suffered greater humiliation, and found a more lamentable end, than the unfortunate Henry 4* A great part of his sad fate was due to him- self, but not a little due to his tutors. From childhood his wrongly-directed mind, his passions and his irregular character, allowed severity and kindness, firmness and mildness, ever dominate at the wrong time- and all what he did only tended to the disadvantage of himself and his Empire. The world-renowned humiliating spectacle at Canossa was the principal cause which lessened KIEFER, Legends of the Rhine. 3 34 SPEYER. Henry's authority, and attracted the contempt of the Vassals of his empire. His irreconcilable opponent Pope Hildebrand's submission could not reconcile the effected ignominy , nor satisfy the Princes who so unwillingly saw the Imperial crown so disgraced. Numerous enemies conspired against Henry and even his only son was his opponent. After the eldest Conrad had died at Florence; the second Henry attempted the depo- sition of his father, and did not shun cunning and I O intrigue with all filial duty for the attainment of his object. He won by different manners allies: had himself chosen successor by his weak father; and then seized an opportunity to rebel openly, and arranged that the Pope declared outlawry azainst the Emperor, in consequence the Empe- ror's hitherto adherents gradually left their proper master, and went over to the son. Left by all who had obeyed his commands, Henry 4 th saw himself obliged to go into exile to Ingelheim on the Rhine; and in order to ob- tain his personal freedom, at last to sign his renunciation of the throne. Deeply humbled by such strokes of Fate, the dethroned old-man (accompanied by an old servant, Kurt, still with Mm, and singularly devoted to him) made a pil- grimage to Liege. Here died the once mighty Emperor, at a distance from his family, in Poverty and Misery. For several years his corpse was unburied, because the ban of the Pope was still SPEYER. 35 on him, Kurt alone protected it, and under dep- rivations of all kinds he prayed incessantly a, the cofiin of his Royal-master. At last, however admonished by the princes of Germany, and pos- sibly more so by his own conscience, Henry 5 1 . 11 requested of the Pope the abolition of the Bant obtained it, and ordered that his father's rests should be brought to Speyer, and should be sol- emnly interred in the Dome. As they were brought from Liege one found still there, the faithful Kurt, the watcher and guardian of the corpse, and out of respect for his great love, and attachment he was allowed to follow the procession to Speyer, and there witness the interment which was carried out with all the splendid ceremony customary with crowned heads. The long experienced privations, and the great age of the pious servant, the unremitting watch- ing and praying had consumed the old man's strength, and the care which was devoted to him at Speyer could not lengthen his days. He died after some months, and as the legend relates, in the moment of his dying all the clocks of Speyer tolled, without anyone putting them in motion, as if an Imperial-burial had taken place. But even in this city Henry 5^ h was dying, days and years. Horrible were the sufferings which visited the sovereign in his last illness, who had trampled upon the most holy duties, and had 36 HEIDELBERG. made his way to the crown by shameful, unnat- ural treachery. No treasures and no flatterer's words could now quiet the voice of conscience, and the memory of the despised, in misery dying father stood as an apparition before his soul. When at last Death freed him from the nameless torments, hark! there tolled at once (to the as- tonishment of the citizens), strangely from the steeples of the city. It was not tolling which announced the decease of a sovereign, by invis- ible hands rang sharp and clear the bell of the poor sinner; and each asked the other, what criminal one conducted to execution to-day. As the people heard the emperor had just died, horror and terror filled every breast, and silent prayers ascended to Heaven for the soul repose of the departed. Heidelberg. The Wolfs's spring. the Jettenbiihl, near Heidelberg, was still a thick wood there lived in its shade a pro- 2 phetess named Jette. She had a tall , noble figure, and in dignity and grace she resembled an immortal. A noble youth of the Franken-people heard of the prophetess, and resolved to visit HEIDELBERG. 37 her and learn his destiny. His heart knew no fear, but when he stood before her and she ap- peared to him as a maiden from Walhalla, he answered rather hesitatingly to her question. What he wanted? Mighty prophetess you possess the power of Divination, let me know my destiny? Jette threw a penetrating glance at the handsome heroic youth, and a sudden changement seemed to take place in her heart. Come again to-morrow, as soon as the sun is about to set, meantime I will ask the Runen. The youth appeared the next day at the appointed hour. What have the Runen said? asked he. She shook her curly head and sighed. The signi- fication has not been quite clear to me said she, but I fear our natal stars touch each other. Then I should be too happy exclaimed the youth , and sank at her feet, seized her hand wich he cov- ered with burning kisses. Will you join your destiny to mine? asked the maiden. The youth swore it by all the Gods. Our happiness must remain concealed from human eyes said the prophetess, and showed him the spring, now known by the name of Wolf's spring, as the place of their nightly rendez- vous. But in the first night as the youth came to the spring, a fearful spectacle met his view, the maiden lay on the earth, and on her corpse, mangling her tender limbs stood a terrible wolf- The moon illuminated the ghastly scene. The 38 HEIDELBERG. youth immediately drew his sword, and rushed at the monster which defended itself, but in a moment, struck by the deadly steel, it fell dead. The Legend of Wolf's spring. Already glances on the Xeckar's flood the Moon's twinklinghorn, Who wanders quickly and good-huinoured in the wood to the green Born? Beautiful Jetta it is, of Jettenbiihl the holy prophetess Faithful Love's powerful feeling encourages the actress Every evening to the Waldborn came a strange huntsman; A youth bold and loving, who Jetta's love had much won Oft by the moon's dusky light has she to the Nymph listened, When kiss on kiss, the stranger stole from loved lips pinioned ; To-day too she ventured him to homage, by late pilgrim way, From ardent Heart's impatience, how long the path she could not say. So long and anxious, the Moon paled, thoughts were tor- ment's touch, The forest-birds sang blithely, ob Nymph, .Hasten not so much! a Yet now after almost completed course, she sees by bush hidden ; Her gallant already ,,My love look up" He does not as if bidden. The Maided flies languishingly- quick to him with impetuosity Embraces her, not her companion a greedy monstrosity. A Wolf, which there its thirst satisfied, greedily its instinct renewed , By blood, which from her breast gushed is bush and moss, bedewed. SECKENHEIM. 39 O source of grief! Hears no ear her heart-rending scream? O hunter, hunter come forth to preserve thy lover's life-stream. He approaches, he hears, he hurries-to, as lightning struck his blow , The monster sinks, the maid is free, yet deadly cold, and low. She glanced still once at him, happines and death her power gave, ^Farewell dearly-loved hunter my bride-garland falls into the grave." Her eye glazed In Jettenbuhl where living she dwelled There rests the maiden deep and cool by Neckar flood welled. Still complains the Palatinate the legend of Jetta's sorrow, And Wolfs-spring, was the source called from that morrow. Edward Brauer. Seckenheim. Frederic the Victorious. ,bout the middle of the 15 l . h Century the Elee- >tor Louis of the Palatinate, called the bearded, died, and after a few years his successor and eldest son Louis 4* h was deceased, it looked very bad for the welfare of the country, for he to whom the Palatinate should be as inheritance Louis 4 1 . 11 only son, was a child scarcely 1 year old; and a powerful Regent was the more necessary, as. 40 SECKENHEIM. the more dangerous attacks from outwards men- aced, and the greater acts of power exercised by impudent robber knights. The states trans- ferred, although against the will of the Emperor, the government to the Uncle of the Minor, the younger son of Louis the bearded , the valiant Friedrich, and not easy could a choice ever have been more excellent. With energy Friedrich met his opponents, and in powerfully steering the deeply-seated disorder ; he succeeded in introducing prosperity into his country. The respect and the renown which he acquired, excited against him jealousy and enemies. Among these was before all the Archbishop of Mayence, Diether of Isenburg, who laid claim to the prin- cipality of Lorch. But Friedrich conquered the Bishop near Pfeddersheim , and in consequence of this victory, there was made not only peace but also an alliance, offensive and defensive, so that the Victorious, as he was called, could with increased strength now act against his other opponents. These were, namely Earl Ulrich of Wurtemberg, and Charles of Baden, Earl Louis the black of Saarbrucken , and the Bishops of Speyer and Metz , who encouraged by Pope and Emperor collectively formed a League against him. They conducted a desolating war, their hordes infested the Palatinate, burning places, country-houses, mills laid in ashes by the hostile- SECKENHEIM. 4 troops, and the fruitful corn-fields were com- pletely ruined. The banks of the Neckar, and the neighbourhoad of Heidelberg more especially, experienced such devastation; and with despair the Husbandman saw his hopes entirely annihi- lated. But Elector Friedrich who lamented the misery of his subjects, did not allow them to wait long for him; with a select, yet in number feeble troop, he pursued the enemy, resolved to meet them in open battle. Near Seckenheim, not far from Mannheim, he came upon the Allies. An excellent position which he took, favoured his attack. At the head of his brave troops, he pressed irresistibly into the masses of his oppo- nents, scattered their strength, and used his ad- vantage so well , that he not only obtained a brilliant victory, but also got in his power a great number of his enemies, among them many nobles, the Earl of Wurtemberg and the Bishop of Metz. With his victorious army and the prisoners, Friedrich made a splendid entrance into Heidel- berg, but he treated his prisoners magnanimously, and on the same day even, he invited the most noble of them to a grand banquet, which he arranged at the castle. The magnificently spread table savoured of fine dishes and delicious wines, only one was failing the most indispensable ^Bread." The Earl of Wurtemberg who wished it, called a servant, and bade him fetch the mis- sing article, but the Elector Friedrich took the 42 OGGERSHEIM. captive guest by the hand, led him to the win- dow and said. ,,To the warriors, who unmindful of the laws of humanity, devastate the fields, and wantonly stamp down the seeds, and with the villages, burn the mills, belong no bread." Ashamed and with gloomy glances as Friedrich so spoke , the Earl regarded his Allies , but the Victorious soon enlivened them by friendly con- versation, and proved himself during the whole dinner as an attentive and affable host. After the prisoners had been kept in custody a considerable time, Friedrich released them and their knights against considerable ransom, and reciprocal bond, never more to invade the Elec- toral-Palatinate. Oggersheim. Hans Warsch, the valiant Shepherd. in the 30 year's war, a commander of Spanish troops chose the Rhine palatinate as 'y' the object of his enterprise, and in his excur- sion he arrived in the neighbourhood of Oggers- heim. The terrified inhabitants fled in all haste, with their best effects, of all men one only re- mained behind , Hans Warsch the shepherd, who would not leave his just confined sick wife. OGGERSHEIM. 43 When the Spaniards appeared before Oggers- heim; according to war-usage the gates of the town, were closed by the courageous shepherd, and from the watch-tower on which he had placed himself, he answered the enemy's trumpeter who demanded its surrender, that admission should be allowed to the Spaniards, for which their commander would insure the citizens pro- tection for their property 5 in case of refusal of such reasonable conditions, the garrison were resolved to defend themselves valiantly. The commandant of the Spaniards consented to the conditions, and gave his word of honour for the conscientious fulfillment. Thereupon Hans opened the gate, and as the warriors entered Oggers- heim they were astonished to see nobody in the streets, and still more astonished were they, to lind (besides a woman and a baby lying in a hut) not a single person in any of the houses. Inter- rogated by the general the shepherd declared the other inhabitants had fled, but that he, in order not to leave his wife, just in confinement without help, had remained. Such true courage, and devoted affection to wife and child, moved the Spanish commander, he praised the brave shepherd, punctually ful- filled the conditions of the Capitulation, and even stood Godfather at the christening, which Hans Warsch kept in the most joyful manner. 44 Worms. Siegfried. ,fter Siegfried had returned from the Nibe- ^lungenlande, and brought with him great trea- sures, he thought he would again sally forth to search for fresh adventures. This time he wished to go towards the south , for he had heard of Worms, in Upper- Rhine, and of Gunther the powerful king of Burgundy, and of his sister, whose beauty was said to excel all that one had ever seen of admirable beauty. With 12 selected horsemen and numerous retinue, he set-out, and made his entry in the most splendid manner into the finely situated Rhine-town. Clothed in red garments, embroid- ered with gold , and richly ornamented with splendid silver-helms on their heads; shields of the same metal and carrying glittering arms, they rode on fiery noble chargers, so that dif- ferent persons regarded with astonishment the strange guests. At the court of Konigsburg, noble pages and servants received the procession, and announced to the king, that Siegfried, son of the king of the Netherlands was arrived to salute him. As soon as the king, who had already heard of the mighty Dragons layer , learned his arrival he advanced towards him, and conducted him and suite to the knight's saloon, where all WORMS. 45 the notables of the kingdom were assembled, as well as the different members of the royal family. Siegfried was astonished at the gigantic figures he saw here, especially at the members of the royal-house, among whom particularly the brothers of Gunther, Gernot, and Gieselher, as well as their mother Ute. To the combat exer- cised young men in the retinue of the king, be- longed the knight Hagen of Troneck, his brother Dankwart, Ortwin of Metz , Volker of Alzey Rumold, Sindold, Hunold, and many other chosen swords, as Siegfried, by questioning, declared that he was come, because he had heard, here at the court was . to be seen the most valourous king of the world surrounded by the most daring young men, and because he intensely longed for a battle for Life and Death , and for Kingdom and Crown, then regarded the bold with angry looks, and there would certainly have been an unequal struggle, if the King's brother Gernot had not interfered, and by soft words and regal- ing with sweet wine directed their thoughts to other subjects. But more than this , worked on Siegfried the remembrance of the beautiful Chriemhilde whom he desired to see.' He placed himself at table and caroused gallantly with the king and his courtiers. Siegfried passed a whole year, in the most agreeable manner with festivals and tournaments. He conquered in all warlike exercises the most 46 WORMS. powerful opponents, and the renown of his dex- terity in battle spread far into the country. In the chase too, he displayed his bodily strength in overthrowing the Boar, and wrestling with the Bear. To complete his happiness failed only the sight of Chrieiiihilde, which was not yet allowed him, although she, behind the silk curtains of her chamber, had often listened to and pleas- ingly regarded Siegfried, when he pranced his horse in the court of the palace, or broke a lance with others. One day, appeared at Gunther's court ambas- sadors from Leudeger . the Saxon sovereign, and Leudegast the Danish king. They came to an- nounce war, and to inform that within 12 weeks their sovereigns with mighty armies would march to the Rhine, and would attack the Burgundians. This embassy caused the king much anxiety, because he knew the great power of his enemies, but Siegfried calmed him by the promise that he at the head of his 12 young men, would move out with the Burgundian army, and that he cer- tainly should succeed in repelling the Saxons and Danes. After the ambassadors were dismissed, Gunther armed himself with all his might. People were chosen as standard-bearers, and the army was soon together. After the king, at the advice of Siegfried, had consented to remain at home; the troops marched out against Saxony. There stood the collected power of the enemy already WORMS. 47 encamped, and many bitter engagements took place. One day, the valiant Siegfried perceived the Danish king Leudegast in golden armour and immediately dashed at him. A furious combat began, but the gigantic power of Siegfried struck the northern combattant deep wounds , and un- horsed him. Several Danish combattants came to the assistance of their vanquished sovereign, these however were put to flight by the hero Siegfried, who then took the Danish king prisoner and sent him to Worms. After this heroic feat of arms Siegfried tried to engage the Saxon king. As he soon afterwards saw him behind his army , he hurried through the drawn -up warriors, direct to Leudeger. This a still more redoubtable combattant than Leude- gast, received Siegfried with flourishing sword, and both delivered mighty blows. After a mu- tually useless attack, the Saxon king recognised that he fought with Siegfried, the son of King Siegebert, and considered it not advisable to con- tinue the combat. He therefore called to his men to surrender, and delivered himself with 500 of his troops, to the Burgundian. All these prison- ers and many thousand wounded, made by Balmung's sword fell into Siegfrieds power, were sent to Worms, where the message of Victory excited great Joy. The war was now finished, and the valiant troops returned to the Rhine with song and music. 48 WORMS. In Worms Siegfried and his men were joyfully received; and the fair of the town handed them garlands of flowers and laurels. Only Chriem- hilde still did not appear, however, as soon after the return of the victorious army a great festival was celebrated; Gunther did not longer resist Siegfried's entreaty to persuade the sister, and the much praised came to the festival surrounded with the splendour of her beauty. All the knights and magnates of the kingdom who had not seen the Beauty were astonished at the maiden's grace and charm, but the most, Siegfried, who was beside himself, and inflamed with love for the king's sister. From this moment he was her constant companion, and thought no more of re- turning home. The report spread that in the extreme north, on Iceland was living a queen whose beauty ex- ceeded all others in the world, and was at the same time endowed with such bodily strength that she unhorsed the most powerful combattant. She would give her hand, it was said to that knight who could conquer her in wrestling, how- ever many had lost their lives in the attempt. As Gunther learned this, he felt much desire to go to Iceland, and try his chance with the Queen. However his vassals dissuaded him from the dangerous undertaking, but Siegfried prom- ised not only to accompany him, but good success if the King would give him Chriemhilde for WORMS. 49 wife, Gunther was satisfied with this proposal, and it was resolved that besides Hagen , Dank- ward and Siegfried, not any other knight should accompany the kin. Immediately all was arranged in secret, and the 4 brave combattants with chosen servants embarked and sailed to the distant island. On the 12 t . h day, they came to the longed for coast, and disembarked near Isenstein, the capi- tal of Iceland, and the residence of Brunhilden. The Queen herself stood surrounded hy her la- dies on the balcony of a castle, on the sea, and saw the arrival of the strangers. Already at a distance she shone in infinite sweetness, and king Gunther could not wait for the time to see her, face to face. When he had announced him- self at the court, splendid carriages, came to fetch the arrivals, and each could admire, after his pleasure, the glittering court, and the beau- tiful, but at the same time gigantically strong sovereign. As soon as Brunhild learned for what purpose Gunther was arrived, she had everything pre- pared for the approaching struggle, and named the clay on wich it should take place. If Sieg- fried had not excited the king's courage, he would have been discouraged, and not have ventured the battle, for he thought of those conquered by the powerful queen, and he feared to share the destiny of the conquered. KIEFER, Legends of the Rhine. 4 50 WORM-. On the appointed day, Siegfried clandestinely visited the ship, put on the celebrated Tarnkappe, which he had formerly taken in the Nibelungen- lande, and which possessed the property of making its wearer invisible, and then repaired to the field of battle, where the whole court was already assembled. The queen appeared in splendid armour, sword and spear were carried behind her, so heavy, that 4 men could scarcely carry them. King Gunther came glitteringly arrayed, and the first game began. As Brunhilde would throw the immense spear and sword, Siegfried stepped to his side, and seized the royal shield. ^Stand firm", spoke he, ! am here invisibly for your assistance, only make the movements of the battle; I will do all for you." These words encouraged the king very much, he took his position and awaited the throwing of the spear. The throw was so powerful that from it 2 men fell to the ground, but they quickly rose again, and Siegfried who did not wish to wound the queen turned Gunther's spear, and threw it, with such strength at Brunhilden that she also fell to the ground. But as the throws were not decid- ing, so began slinging with heavy stones, Brun- hilde threw one 500 feet. Siegfried thereupon seized a stone of equal weight, and in throwing still further, he decided Gunther's victory. Gunther immediately advanced to the con- quered, who blushed with anger, and said : r Now, WORMS. 51 beautiful Brurihilde, you will give me your hand and accompany me to the Rhine." w That will", not happen she said, .,before I have asked the advice of my generals, and knights whom I have had invited here." Such an answer appeared suspicious to the king, and as he informed Sieg- fried, who meantime had secretly taken off the cap, this said: ^The Queen has some bad inten- tion; I shall immediately depart and fetch assist- ance, in a few days I shall be returned again." With these words he hastened away, embarked and sailed secretly to the country of the Nibel- ungen , where he had formerly experienced Adventures. After a short passage, he landed there, and went to a castle, which he saw in the distance. After knocking and demanding admittance , the door opened, a gross giant came out, and ran against him. A terrible combat ensued, but Sieg- fried in wrestling, threw him to the ground, and bound him fast. By the terrible howling of the giant, the dwarf Alberich hastened to the place, and seeing his friend bound on the ground, he attacked Siegfried running at him with a long spear. The hero would not kill the, to him well- known , guardian to the Nibelungen treasure; therefore he ran against the aggressor, seized him by the ring, he wore on his body, as well as by the long beard, and bound him too. Alberich seeing himself vanquished, regarded the Victor 52 WORMS. and in again recognising Siegfried, he said: _It appears, that I am destined to be your subject, therefore I will now obey you, free me from my bands and command your servant." For which you swear", answered immediately Siegfried, T to place a thousand fighting men at my orders, with the necessary ships to carry them to their destination, and deliver to me the Mbelungen refuge?" Alberich swore to do so, and Siegfried set the 2 captives at liberty. The following day, the Dwarf came with a thousand of the best giants of the country, all splendidly accoutred, and placed them under Siegfried's command. They carried the Nibelung treasure which had been concealed in the rocky clefts, and after embarking, the fleet sailed ro Iceland. Queen Brunhilde stood on the parapet of her palace as the ships arrived ; she recognised Sieg- fried from afar , who with all the giants stood on the deck, and inquired of Gunther the mean- ing of the fleet. He answered it was his suite which he had left on his way to her. Brunhilde now saw, that all resistance was useless against such a power, and consented to accompany him to the Rhine. In all haste preparations were made, then with a numerous, and splendid court- suite; and after a touching farewell from all the Queen entered the ship, and sailed towards her new home, accompanied by Gunther and WORM*. 53 his companions; as well as the warriors of the Nibelung country. As soon as the fleet had reached the mouths of the Rhine, Siegfried, with some servants landed, to hurry on horseback to Worms, for the purpose of announcing the return of the King. Here the Hero's narrative caused much joy; and the beautiful Chrimhilde who received Siegfried particularly friendly presented him , as a token of her favour, a number of gold buckles set with precious-stones. The preparations for the recep- tion of the King and his bride occupied all per- sons. Dame Ute was the most active, and all was carried-out according to her directions. On the day the ship was expected, a number of splendid tents were erected on the banks of the Rhine, and in them was held a grand festi- val, then the whole court, Chriemhilde, Siegfried on splendidly caparisoned steeds rode out to meet the New-comers. As soon as the ship with the royal flag was seen, a shout of Jubilee arose from the people collected on the banks; and with continued cries of joy from the crowd, the sov- ereign pair with suite landed. Gunther con- ducted his bride to the bank, who was embraced and welcome by Dame Ute, and Chriemhilde. Then the others disembarked and reposed in the tents, and the procession was arranged for a solemn entrance into the town. In the royal palace all was prepared for the Marriage and delicate 54 WORMS. Wedding-feast. As the newly married, with the guests had seated themselves at the magnificently illuminated Saloon. Siegfried stepped before Gun- ther and said : M Now, my king, I remind you of your promise, to give me Chriemhilde as wife." And the king turned to his sister and said: ! have promised you as wife to a noble cavalier, will you be his wife?" w Yes% answered she, w inas- much as it is Siegfried the bravest of all com- battants to whom you have destined me." As Siegfried heard this he could not resist from embracing Chriemhilde, and thanked the king who rose, and announced to all the guests that Siegfried and Chriemhilde were about to be married. All were joyful, with the exception of Brunhilde who deeply loved Siegfried, however she appeared contented, and the two lovers were then united. Siegfried enjoyed with Chriemhilde the happi- ness of Love, but from the first it was not so well with Gunther. As he entered with Brun- hilde the bridal-chamber, and strove for the re- ward of his love, she resisted and requested him to desist, for she intended to remain a virgin. As he, nevertheless was the more violent, she seized him with much strength, and so bound him that he could not move, and then hung him on a wall, where she left him till the next morning, when he was freed. The king was extremely angry at this disgrace, and complained to Sieg- WORMS. 55 fried, who promised to assist him the next night; clothed with the invisible cap, he slipped unob- served into the royal sleeping apartment, threw Brunhilde violently to the floor, tore away the magical girdle , and wonderful ring which lent her great strength, and retired unobserved. The Queen believing herself conquered by her hus- band, resigned herself to Gunther's will and re- warded his love. After some time Siegfried felt great desire to remove, with his wife, to his father's court. After being overwhelmed with presents ; and given a splendid suite by the king they embarked, and after 9 days they arrived at the Castle in Xanten. The parents felt great joy in seeing the long missed son, with his beautiful wife, and celebrated magnificent Festivals during several days. King Siegfried being old and requiring rest, transferred his kingdom to his son, and this he governed with justice and clemency. After 10 year's uninterrupted peace, during which his mother died, and Chriemhilde bore a son; came messengers who brought an invitation from the Queen Brunhilde to Siegfried and his wife, to repair to Worms. This invitation was sent in the most cunning intention. She had, often thought with envy, that Siegfried to whom the Nibelung country was subject, and owned the invaluable place of refuge, possessed such great power and riches. She therefore reflected 56 WORMS. on all sorts of ruinous plans. Siegfried, Chriem- hilde and the old king, accompanied by more than 100 knights, set-out on their journey and arrived happily in Worms , where they were received with royal magnificence. Feast suc- ceeded feast, interchanged with combats and other recreations. One day as the Queens regarded the warlike exercises from a balcony, and Chriemhilde praised the dexterity of her husband above all others, not excepting Gunther; the two high ladies fell into a dispute concerning this . which at last was so violent, that Chriemhilde mockingly re- proached her sister-in-law, by saying that in the bridal-night, it was not Gunther who had over- come her, but Siegfried who had snatched away her girdle and magical ring. Raging, Brunhilde ran to her husband, and complained of what she had been obliged to hear, and although Gunther was angry that Siegfried had confided that secret to Chriemhilde, yet he was so mindful of the services rendered to him, that he should cherish hatred against him. But the more furious was the rage in the breast of Brunhilde, and she applied to the knight Hagen, whom she knew did not love Siegfried , because his strength caused himself and other combattants to be dis- regarded. The knights Gernot, Ortwin an several others were gained by him , who , as himself, were of the opinion that Siegfried must be punished WORMS. 57 with death. Hagen knew that Siegfried armed with dragon's fat was insured against thrust and blow, but also that a place on his shoulder had remained free from this arming, and was vul- nerable. At the instigation of Hagen, a great hunt was arranged in the Odenwald by king Gunther, at which Siegfried was present. The strong com- battant accomplished wonders, killed several boars, and wolves, and as an immense bear was being pursued he overtook it in its course, threw it to the ground, and loaded it bound, on his horse. Tired from hunting they encamped for a repast, but wine was wanting, and as the king and Sieg- fried felt thirsty, Hagen proposed to hasten to a near spring. This happened, they took off their .swords and were soon at the place. Siegfried waited till the king had drunk, then he satisfied his thirst, but in drinking in a stooping pasture, Hagen treacherously pierced him deeply in the shoulder with a hunting spear, so that a great stream of blood gushed out. Directly Siegfried seized the assassin by the shoulder, and threw him violently to the ground, however sank soon himself and he had only still time to recommend Chriemhilde to the king Gunther, when his heroic spirit fled, and all bystanders lamented the ter- ribly traitorous act. 58 WORMS. The single combat. At Worms , the old town was announced a Diet of the Empire by the emperor Max 1st to advise concerning the means to restrain the ar- britrariness , and to keep peace and order. At the same time there was arranged a grand Tour- nament, and invitations sent to near and distant princes , knights , and nobles. Each capable of tournament, and even foreigners were to be friendly welcomed. Among the numerous guests, who found them- selves at this feast in Worms, appeared also a French knight, ,,Cla^ide de Barre", sent by his king to guard the renown of the French arms, and there was scarcely a combattant to be found, whose dexterity and strength equalled that of the Frenchman. The character of the Invincible had preceded him; and the gigantic structure of his body, confirmed this fame. Scarcely arrived, the Frenchman had his arms hung over the door of his lodging, and invited, by a Herald, every one to a life and death combat. None of the knights present, would enter the lists against the mighty one. In vain the emperor himself sum- moned the most vigorous combattant to meet properly the derision of the Frenchman. Nobody announced himself for the dangerous combat, and Max saw with pain the increasing haughtiness ol the vain-glorious fellow. The Emperor could WORMS. 59 not longer support the mockery of the faint-heart- edness of the Germans; he himself therefore accepted the challenge, and with admiration, the people saw the arms of Oestrich and Burgundy hanging beside those of the Frenchman. Thousands of spectators, on the fixed day for the combat, pressed round the lists, and expect- atingly beat every heart, as the emperor and his opponent appeared on the plain , completely equipped, and mounting splendid chargers. With immense strength, the disputanls charged each other, and their lances broke without unhorsing either, then they dismounted, and seizing their swords continued the combat on foot. Blow suc- ceeded blow, the powerful strokes of the French- man penetrated the Imperial armour, and blood flowed from gaping wounds. But now Max's strength seemed to double itself, and with renewed power he attacked his opponent, and applied such vigorous blows that the giant fell. Prodigious cries of Joy filled the air, but Maximilian quickly reconciled , magnanimously offered his hand to the conquered, and invited him to the banquet, as well as to the recreations of the following day, but the humbled Frenchman thought in better, still on the same day to leave Worms. 60 Fldrsheirn. The maiden of Flo rsheim. 'ot far from Tripptown situated old ruin Wileu- stein the remains of which still yet overlook ->;' the wood-mountains of Westrich, once lived knight Bodo of Florsheim. He had had a pious, affectionate wife too early taken from him by death, and au only child Adeline, who bloomed in grace and youthful beauty, was the only joy left to him. When Adeline had attained a marriageable age, the charms of the maiden; and the riches of the knight attracted many suitors, but the maiden's heard disregarded all solicitation, for none of those who courted her had made any impression, and she loved her father too much to wish to leave him. In domestic occupations, and the enjoyment of the beautiful free Nature, she passed her days, and no passion dimmed the clear mirror of her soul. One day there appeared at the castle a strange young man of noble fine exterior, however in the costume of a shepherd, and begged permission of the knight Bodo to share the protection and tending of his numerous flocks. The situation of a shepherd, added the youth, was the position of his choice, and he could boast of being so known with it, that it would certainly be of ad- vantage, if the offered service was not refused. FLCERSHEIM. 61 During the conversation the stranger displayed so much knowledge not only of cattle-breeding, but of agriculture, and excellent ideas, that Bodo did not hesitate to transfer to him the superin- tendence of his shepherds and flocks. Only one thing the youth declined to give, his name and home, because he asserted powerful reasons com- pelled him meanwhile to keep it secret. Till he was allowed to declare himself, he begged to be called Otto. The beneficent consequences of his shepherd's position soon showed itself, the flocks flourished and increased in an until now, un- known manner, and the timely care of the enig- matical stranger extended to other, to him not transferred, objects, so that he rendered the knight important service, for which this remunerated him with benevolent gratitude. But notwithstanding the blessing which rested on Otto's arrangements, the youth was not of a joyous disposition. A deep melancholy lodged in his soul, he was oc- cupied with his own thoughts, sought solitude as much as possible, and not seldom, believing himself unobserved, he shed tears. Adeline had heard much from her father of the strange youth; and wath was related of the shepherd excited her complete participation. Till now she had not yet seen him. It happened acci- dentally that once passing through the forest, she met him. The impression which her appearance made on the youth was great and surprising. 62 FL(ERSHEIM. For a time Otto stood speechless, lost in aston- ishment and feeling, and as if the remembrance of a distant dear person suddenly stood before his soul, he regarded the maiden with doubt and admiration. Only slowly he recollected himself as it seemed, then he- begged to be excused on account of his strange conduct, and ventured. Adeline making herself known as the castle maiden, to offer his company. With the utmost attention he listened to each of her words, and as, not far from the castle, he respectfully took his leave, he expressed the hope, that he might, soon be allowed to see her again. Still occupied with the impression which he had just experi- enced, he retired to his country lodging. He confessed to himself, that if it were ever possible to reconcile himself with the world, with which he unfortunately so early already had quarrelled, if he might still hope happiness would smile on him, Adeline could conduct him to it. whose al- most wonderful resemblance with his beloved ah! already departed sister, excited him so powerfully. Also the maiden felt herself magically attracted to the educated stranger, whose pale suffering features bore the expression of deep grief. His noble conduct, the feeling in his discourse spoke for him, and if she did not confess that she felt more than friendly to him, so had however the still dreamy manner that now took the place of FLCERSHEIM. 63 her former joyous spirits , convinced a spectator that in the young heart love was become awake. It was also more than accident, that already the following day Otto and Adeline met again, they saw each other almost always at the same place, sat themselves on a mossy bank, and talked till the setting sun reminded them of the course of time. From that time, they passed each evening together, soon they confessed their feelings to each other, and nothing resembled the bliss with which they swore eternal love, and fidelity to each other. In one of these hours of happy meeting ; Otto confided to his beloved the fate of his former life. Prematurely losing a tender father, who had been a most respected, wealthy knight in Thuringen; Otto had, with a loved younger sister, suffered the cruellest treatment from an avaricious, unfeeling step-father. Then Death had by the loss of their mother, entirely delivered them into the power of the rude man. To escape the igno- miny of being abused as a shepherd, Otto fled at last to a distant uncle, at whose castle he found apportunity to obtain a knightly education, and to exercise himself in arms. After several years he returned home, and found his step-father in possession of all the property, and the dear sister dead. The monster had continually ill- treated the girl, and as she in consequence be- came ill, he left her without care, indeed, 64 FLCERSHEIM. according to well evidenced suspicion, had hastened her death by poison. Beside himself with grief, Otto questioned the villain, challenged him, to answer for the death of the sister, and demanded the immediate delivery of the unjustly retained property. A revolting answer was the decision, and the young man stung thereby to the utmost anger, drew his sword, and stabbed him whom the world called his father. But this rash bloody action had for Otto the most fatal consequences. He was obliged (if he would not be bound by the servants of the murdered and killed), to fly," and secure himself from the pursuers, into the thickest woods. His own uncle till now^favorable, cursed him, and soon shared the property with a near relative of the murdered. Then Otto wandered long till he found admission as shepherd by Adeline's father. With the deepest sympathy the beloved heard the tale. Then she sketched plans for the future. Otto was to discover himself to Bodo, a faithful friend to be sent to Thuringen, to obtain informa- tion of te uncle, and the state of things and the property belonging to the young man, and leave no means untried, to obtain an agreement with the uncle, and what could be obtained of the paternal property. The lovers hoped that no abstacle would oppose their early union. On the day following this confidential com- munication, Bodo sent for his daughter, and said FLCERSHEIM. 65 to her: ^Hitherto you have refused all offers of honourable knights, and I have pardoned this from regard for your youth and inexperience, but retain to myself to assert my paternal respect by the next acceptable suitor, and hope that no longer childish obstinacy, or affectation will be an obstacle to your advantageous con- nection. Such a connection now offers itself. The knight Siegebert has solicited your hand, he is the richest in our district, and has obtained great renown in Palestine, whence he is lately returned. To-morrow he will come to solicit for you, and I confidently expect that you will glad- den him with a friendly promise. Adeline stood as if annihilated, she could not love the strange knight, however rich and re- nowned he might be, and she abjured the father to force on her no husband, to whom her heart did not incline, and not to hazard the happiness of her life , but to leave the choice of a husband to herself. But the knight Bodo remained in- flexible, and excited by the resistance of Adeline he forgot himself so much, that he ill-used her, and even locked her up. The next day the knight Siegebert magnifi- cently accoutred and with a splendid retinue made his entry into the castle. He had chosen Adeline, whose beauty had been praised to him, and hoped to find in the maiden, joy at the prospect of such an advantageous, brilliant connection, but KIEFER, Legends of the Rhine. 5 66 FLCEESHEIM. the striking paleness of her face, and the weep- ing eyes were not witnesses oi a joyful meeting, and Siegebert was disagreeably affected by these discoveries, his vanity was most sensibly offended by his friendly words finding no response in the course of the daj r , and not being favored with a favorable regard. This behaviour embittered the knight Bodo. He confined Adeline in a dark room, and swore that he would send her to a convent, and disin- herit her if she did not give, even on that day her promise to Siegebert. At the same time arrangements were made for a splendid marriage- feast, and invitations sent to the neighbouring castles. Meanwhile Otto passed tormenting days. He had, since his last meeting not seen his lover, heard of the visit of a strange knight, and of preparations for a grand banquet. Besides it was not unknown to him how anxious Bodo was for Adeline's marriage, and therefore with increasing anxiety he expected the hour when he could again speak with the beloved.. But Adeline came not more. He was seized with unspeakable pain, and the thought the beloved had thoughtlessly forgotten her oath, made him take the resolution to leave the country for ever. Like a madman he wandered through the woods , and distant plains , cursing himself and his fate , that had destined him to misery, and so he strayed about FLCERSHE1M. 67 days and weeks; till at last the irresistable power of ardent desire brought him into the neighbour- hood of Florsheim. He wished to hear at least news of Adeline, in fact, he wished to speak with her father, discover himself to him; and if the beloved had not forgotten all faith, beg for Bodo's consent, but as he went to the castle with such intentions, he heard from shepherds whom he met, that on the next day the marriage ceremony with Siegebert was to take place. He was seized with despair on hearing this news, without giving any answer to the shepherds, he turned to a bridge, which led to a deep stream, now swollen by violent rains, and threw himself into the raging-Hood. Adeline was, to the day on which her mar- riage with Siegebert was to take place, so much the more strictly watched, because meanwhile, she had declared to her father her love for Otto. This severity, as well as the exhortations and menaces with which Bodo unremittingly tormented her, and still more so the news, that since some time her lover had disappeared, brought her at last to such a state of mind, that she unwittingly yielded to her father's will. But as she should go to church, dressed in her wedding - garments, as the marriage bells chimed for the nuptial ceremony, the poorest believed to be obliged to escape her misery, and watching a favorable moment she hastened , unobserved out of the 68 HEPPENHEIM. castle-door, and to the place where the beloved one's hut stood, w Otto, Otto", cried she, ,,have you really left me?" and look, there stood a^; the brook some shepherds, who, as it seemed to her, endeavoured to draw a human body out of the water. A terrible presentiment saized her, drove her to the shepherds and oh! horror, a corpse was before her, it was the corpse of Otto which had just been landed. Now the power of despair seized Adeline, and quick was the un- happy maiden's resolution ; before any one could prevent it, she sprang from the lofty bank, and the waves swallowed her. Some days afterwards, the bridal-dressed corpse was washed on shore; and the knight Bodo full of bitter repentance, at the folly of his obstinate severity, had the two lamentable victims buried together in one grave. Heppenheim. The Monk at Lorch. far from the, [on the mountain street ^situated small town Heppenheim, and near _ the place Weschnitz, stands on an island, still the ruins of the formerly rich and powerful Bene- dictine abbey Lorch." Founded under the HEPPENHEIM. 69 government of the French king Pipin ; and richly presented by successive sovereigns, this abbey had existed during centuries. To the devastation of the 30 years war succumbed the fine large building, the treasures and jewels it contained, were lost by the plundering of the war parties. To this abbey, arrived once late in the evening Charlemagne, who according to his habitude travelled through his kingdom, in going from one royal court to another. He wished not only to pass the night there with his retinue, but to repose from the fatigue of a long straining ride, for the great sovereign had reached a high age, and the acts and cares of a very active life had consumed the strength of a former vigorous body. The Abbot and the other inhabitants of the foundation, received respectfully and joyfully the mighty guest, whose piety honored their calling, and whom they had to thank for many gifts. A banquet finished the festival day of so high a visit. It was already midnight, as the king kept awake by harassing thoughts left his chamber, to relieve his heart by prayer in the near church. Alone and unremarked he strode through the consecrated halls, and knelt before the altar. The profound stillness which dominated here, and the feeble light of the eternal light which clothed the objects with a magical half dark shine, raised the impression of the sacredness of 70 HEPPENHKIM. the place, and the Emperor uttered his prayer with so much the more fervent devotion. He would just return, as a noise behind excited his attention. He looked round . and saw with astonishment the figure of a venerable and as it appeared blind monk, who, led by a boy tot- tered along the pillared corridor. Just before the Emperor, the old man sat on a form and then sank on his knees and offered- up a long prayer, often interrupted by sighs: Charlemagne felt himself uncommonly attracted by the ven- erable apparition, he believed to be obliged to honor in him the ideal of a God-devoted ; and it seemed to him, as if a halo surrounded the head of the old man. In the shadow of a pillar. to which he had retired, he waited till the monk had finished his prayer, and had retired with his youthful guide: then he also left the ehureh. and went to his repose. In the morning he related to the Abbot the nightly apparition, and inquired after the name of the old monk, but he could not receive any other information concerning the problematic person, than that some years before, the same person by the name of Bernhardus. arrived from another Convent, of what lineage he was. and the name of the cloister where he had formerly been, he had continually and obstinately refused to mention. Driven by curiosity and sympathy, the Emperor HP:PPENHEIM. 71 had himself conducted to the monk's cell; as he attentively regarded the monk's traits, he seemed to know the features. Many remembrances passed through his memory, and the inconsistency of Fortune sfood clearly before his soul. He re- flected , that descended from princely - lineage, Thassalio once governed the Bavarians : how this duke excited by the, to him married daughter of the dethroned Longobard king, had revolted against the powerful emperor, and lawful feudal lord: how then the iiudutiful, after he had been vanquished and again generously rewarded, again broke his oath of Vassal, and how at last, again in the victor's power was banished to a distant convent of the Franken-country, in order to expiate in strict life-long penitence the past wrong. All these recollections rose lively in his thoughts, inquiringly his regard rested on the sorrow- stricken features of the monk, and a tear of sadness shone in the sovereign's eye. Then he stepped nearer, seized the old man's hand and said: ^Pious father, you and I stood often antag- onistic: however those times of hate and struggle are long since passed. We are now of an age when the passions cease: when the earthly stand in the background, and the thoughts of Heaven are in the soul. Duke Thassalio! you have heavily enough expiated the errors of former years. It is Charlemagne who stands before you, who feels no more rancour against you, and who 72 FRANKENSTEIN. herewith offers you pardon and reconciliation. Let hate flee from your heart , if you still have any against me." A convulsive movement passed through him as Charles named simself, then he fell at the feet of the emperor seized his knees, and said: ! have heavily sinned against you my king and sovereign. Privation and strict atone- ment be my expiation till my death. As I heard of your arrival in the convent, my former life passed before me, and more devoutly than ever have I prayed to Heaven for forgiveness. That you might also pardon me was my last earthly wish." Exhausted by the extraordinary emotion Thassalio fainted, and deeply moved Charles retired, and gave the order that every attention should be given to the neccessitous monk. The next morning, before departing the emperor wished to see Thasalio still once, and beg his pious blessing, but the abbot announced that in the night he old man had quietly de- parted this life. Frankenstein. George of Frankenstein. jfcjn ancient times the neighbourhood of Franken- l^stein on the mountain-way was infested by a V huge monster, which had chosen for its sojourn FRANKENSTEIN. 78 the vale of Modaubachs, covered with reeds and underwood. The monster had a serpent-like figure of powerful length, having a regularly formed thick head and jaws that could have swallowed an ox. The terror which was spread among the inhabitants of the country by the presence of such a monster, was so much the greater, because it not only regarded their flocks and herds, but even men as its booty; and almost daily a human being was its sacrifice. Uselessly some bold champions had made the attempt to destroy the dragon, they were obliged to pay, with their lives, their temerity, and soon nobody more was to be found who had the least wish for a combat with the monster; complete pusillanimity overpowered all spirits, and whoever could, removed far from the country as if the plague ravaged there. Not far from this place of terror, however on the other side of Eberstadt; lived at thai time, George of Frankenstein at a castle, the ruins of which still Look down upon the beautiful Rhine valley, from its far seen woody eminence. He was a brave knight, and celebrated champion, his gigantic bodily form, and the strength of his arm had always procured his arms the victory, so that also in gymnastics nobody ventured to enter the lists with him. George heard the lamentation of the poor inhabitants of the Modaubach valley, who wan- 74 FRANKENSTEIN. clered about homeless, their necessity affected him, and he resolved to try a combat with the monster however furious and terrific it might be. On a war-horse suitable to the size of the champion, armed with sword club, and armour, he rode into the abandoned valley, and soon he saw the monster in the willow-ground, rolled together and comfortably sunning itself. Awakened by the noise of the approaching knight , it rose hissing, and in making a long spring, at the hoped for booty ; opened its immense jaws as if he would swallow, at once, man and horse. But of firm courage, although his horse reared, the knight waited for his monstrous enemy, arid as it was near enough, the courageous made a dexterous side spring, and avoided the greedy snapping of the dragon, and seeing his advantage, he thrust his sword into the neck of the salamander. Then he seized his heavy club, and struck the monster (that attacked him again grazing him with its bloody teethj, so violently on the head . that it fell stunned to the earth, and could be killed without trouble. In the meanwhile the squires of the knight, and many people waited in the distance the announcement of the hero's enterprise , and the result of the struggle, and as now one blew the hunter's horn as joyful sign of the victory, and the hurrying persons saw the monster lying in its blood, a joyous cry arose, and thousands of DARMSTADT. 75 voices praised the heroic act. But suddenly the knight's face was deadly pale, he sank to the earth, and could only say, with weak voice that he felt himself deadly wounded, by the poisonous teeth of the animal. Terrified, the knight's ar- rnour was loosened, and not to be mistaken was seen a slight wound 011 the hip, into which the terrible serpent's gift had penetrated. The general joy for the obtained victory, was now changed into mourning for the hero, like that celebrated Saintly hero George, treading on the dragon's neck, died after some minutes. His memory is still with the grateful inhabitants. In the village of Nieder-Beerbach, one sees near the church-door, still to this day; a grave stone on which is represented by an artistic hand, the knight triumphantly advancing to the dragon. Darmstadt. Walther ofBirbach. alther ofBirbach distinguished himself above j?all knights of his time, by fervent undissemb- led piety. To the holy Virgin Mary particul- arly, he directed early and late his ardent prayer, one could say that he seemed to devote to her his whole existence. 76 DARMSTADT. Once he rode to Darmstadt for Tournament, it was the first time that he would enter the lists, and he knew, that among the many knights were many who exceeded him in bodily strength, and in the dexterous handling of arms. He was there- fore very anxious , that he would not stand the struggle with honour, and perhaps could be over- thrown to the mockery of the spectators. But this thought was increased by thinking on the lady of his heart, whose colours he wore, and who was to be present at the tournament; and he believed not to be able to survive, if he should suffer a shameful defeat before the eyes of his mistress. As Walther fall of tormenting thoughts crossed the fields, suddenly he saw in his way an erected altar, upon which was the figure of the Virgin Mary. Directly he dismounted from his horse, which he tied to a tree ; and performed his devotions, in urgently begging the Holy Mother to assist him in the approaching struggle, and to lend him victory and honour. In the fervency of his prayer he lost his senses; a sort of con- vulsion ran through him, and long he lay there like a dreamer at the foot of the figure. But the holy Virgin had heard the supplication of her zealous worshipper, she descended from the Altar, and unremarked loosened his helmet, armour, and sword, armed herself with them, and mounting his horse hurried away. After a con- siderable time she returned, armed, unperceived DARMSTADT. 77 as before Walther with his own weapons, and again took her place on the altar. Now the pious first recovered his sensibility. He raised himself hastily, bowed still once to the blessed, and gallopped to the oot more distant town. Here at the door of the town he was re- ceived with joyful acclamations, and as he came to the place of combat, his acquaintances crowded around to congratulate him, and with astonish- ment he learned that he, in the already finished tournament, had conquered all champions. At first he did not believe his ears, but soon an in- terior conviction made it clear to him, by what high power he had become the victory and who had stood for him in the lists. In consequence of this tourney; Walther be- came the happy husband of his beloved; and out of gratitude, he built over the figure of Mary on the plain, afine roomy Chapel in honour of the holy Virgin in whose worship, he found happiness and blessing to the end of his life. 78 Frankfort Foundation of the City hen Charlemagne fought against the Saxons 'the fortune of war, often was unfavorable to him, a brave liberty- loving people offered him powerful resistance, and not often, repelled by their superiority he fell into great distress. So also once as he was obliged to retire before them on the banks of the Main. A thick fog covered wood and river, no vessel showed itself, and it was im- possible to find a place which could afford Charles and his army a passage. There sprang, alarmed by the noise of the army, out of the thicket, a deer which bore a young one, and as if she would show the emperor the way to safety, she waded vviih her young one through the river. Charles did not delay to use this discovery, he followed, with his army, the deer, and fortunately escaped the enemy to whom the fog hid the passage. But on the other bank, Charles full of grati- tude for the saving ford, stuck his spear into the sand, and said ,,Here a tow r n shall rise to be called Frankenford" in memory of this event. And as in consequence he completely overthrew the Saxons, he founded Frankfurt, which later became so celebrated by the Imperial coronations, and in beauty and riches still now thriving commercial town on the Main. FRANKFORT. 79 The Knave of Bergen. In Frankfort at the Romer was a great mask- ball , at the coronation festival , and in the illu- minated saloon , the clanging music invited to dance, and splendidly appeared the rich toilets and charms of the ladies, and the festively cos- tumed Princes and Knights. All seemed pleasure, joy, and roguish gaiety, only one of the numerous guests had a gloomy exterior; but exactly the black armour in which he walked about excited general attention, and his tall figure as well as the noble propriety of his movements, attracted especially the regards of the ladies. Who the Knight was? Nobody could guess, for his vizier was well closed, and nothing made him recog- nizable. Proud and yet modest he advanced to the empress; bowed on one knee before her seat, and begged for the favor of a waltz with the Queen of the festival. And she allowed his re- quest. With light and graceful steps he danced through rhe long saloon, with the sovereign who thought never to have found a more dexterous and excellent dancer. But also by the grace of his manner, and tine conversation he knew to win the Queen, and she graciously accorded him a second dance for which he begged, a third, and a fourth, as well as others were not refused him. How all regarded the happy dancer, how many envied him the high favour ; how increased 80 FRAKKFORT. curiosity, who the masked knight could be. Also the emperor became more and more excited with curiosity, and with great suspense one awaited the hour, when according to mask-law, each masked guest must make himself known. This moment came, but although all others had unmasked- the secret knight still refused to allow his features to be seen, till at last the Queen driven by curiosity, and vexed at the obstinate refusal, commanded him to open his vizier. He opened it, and none of the high ladies and knights knew him. But from the crowded spectators, 2 officials advanced, who recognized the black dancer, and horror and terror spread in the saloon, as they said who the supposed knight was. It was the executioner of Bergen. But glowing with rage, the king commanded to seize the criminal and lead him to death, who had ven- tured to dance, with the Queen; so disgraced the empress, and insulted the crown. The culpablethrew himself at the feet of the emperor, and said In- deed 1 have heavily sinned against all noble guests assembled here, but most heavily against you my sovereign and my Queen." The queen is insulted by my haughtiness equal to treason, but no punishment even blood, will not be able, to wash out the disgrace, which you have suffered by me. Therefore oh King ! allow me to propose a remedy, to efface the shame, and to render it as if not done. Draw your sword and knight me, FRANKFOKT. 81 then I will throw down my gauntlet, to every one who dares to speak disrespectfully of my king. The emperor was surprised at this bold proposal, however it appeared the wisest to him ; B You are a knave he replied after a moment's consideration, however your advice is good, and displays prudence, as your offence shows adven- turous courage. Well then, and gave him the knight -stroke, so I raise you to nobility, who begged for grace for your offence now kneels before me, rise as knight; knavish you have acted, and Knave of Bergen shall you be called hence- forth , and gladly the black knight rose ; three cheers were given in honour of the emperor, and loud cries of joy testified the approbation with which the Queen danced still once with the Knave of Berg-en. The 9 in the Vane. Hans Winkelsee the poacher was in bad re- putation with the people of Frankfort; he in- trenched upon their rights, and shot their best game, at last they succeeded in capturing him, and placing him in the tower of the Eschenheimer door, and the gallows was before him. The view he had, from his high prison was possibly not so bad, for if at that time, the town was not surrounded by magnificent promenades , splendid gardens, houses, and cheerful places as now adorn it; he KIEFER, Legends of the Rhine. 6 82 FRANKFORT. could however look over the wall, and see the woody ridges of the Taunus, and his small window allowed him to see the blue sky. But the more extended his view, so much the more Hans felt himself confined in the prison, and when he had tormented himself with longings for liberty during the day , the creaking vane of the tower made his careless sleep disagreeable. He had already passed 9 days and nights there, as he cried out full of ill-humor, cursed wall hole, still more cursed the vane creaking- over my head. If I were allowed, and had my rifle I would leave behind me a memorial for the destroyer of my rest. The Frankforters should see how artistically I can shoot, with 9 bullets I would draw exactly a 9 in the vane. The jailer who well understood how to listen, heard these words. Odds ! murmured he, I should like to see such shooting; and directly he carried his news to the mayor and council what Winkelsee had spoken. To most of these, the poacher's words seemed only the boast of ill -humor. But the mayor said it would ever be for us, and the citizens an amusing sight if we allowed the poacher to make the trial. If he shoot the 9 as he said, we could spare his life and set him in liberty, for such a shooter .would be well worthy of pardon; however we will have him hanged if he fail only by a hair. The proposal was unanimously approved , and communicated to Winkelsee. FRANKFORT: 83 The next morning early, many sight loving people had collected at the Eschenheimer door and young and old waited with impatience, to see the shooting of the 9. Released from prison, Hans stept amongst the crowd, and joyfully he received his rifle, which by his arrest had been taken from him. The trial he had to stand, was so much the more difficult, as the vane just then was set in motion by a strong wind, and there- fore offered no sure aim. But Winkelsee knew how to use the favorable moment, and the first shot struck exact, as well as the 2l d 3? d and all the others , forming 9 holes in the vane. At each shot, the people applauded by each success, the admiration increased, and as the shooter completed the work; there was no end to the joyful cries. Hans Winkelsee spoke the Mayor, you have obtained your liberty, and because you are so clever with the rifle, we will make you the Captain of our shooting corporation. But Winkelsee refused this offer. The vane of the tower, and Frankfort said he, may ever think on me, also I shall not forget the days and nights, 9 in number, which I have passed there, yet longer I do not wish to remain in your town, I prefer the woods. Should you ever see me again you may hang me up there above on the vane; and with these words he went out of the door, and Frankfurt never saw Winkelsee again. 84 Taunus. The knight of Falkenstein. ^,tthe time when Emperor Rudolph of Habsbnrg as endeavouring- to restore order and peace in the empire, and with strong hand resisted the sword-law and disorder of the Robber-knights, lived in the castle of Falkenstein a knight of the name of Kurt, a very venturous and powerful highwayman. Not only did he rob the harmless wanderer, and the peaceful merchant who went quietly on his way with goods, but with his numerous men he surprised very often castles and towns, which he hoped to find unprovided for such attacks. For the sudcess of most of his robberies and to his far feared might, was to be ascribed the circumstance , that he could at the same time multiply himself, for with him he had 7 strong sons, who carried-out his plans equally quick and effective, and occasionally carried out robberies on their own account. The cry for help from the, by Falkenstein oppressed district, echoed soon to the Emperor's throne, and as the warnings sent to the evil doer remained unheeded, the monarch set out from Worms where he was at the time, with a suffi- cient troop against Falkenstein and invested the castle. The knight and his soldiers offered a valiant resistance, but a storm attack, effectively TAUNUS. 85 carried out from all sides, placed the castle at last in the power of the Imperial troops, Kurt and his 7 sons were made prisoners. The emperor had sworn that every knight- robber taken with arms in hand, as well as the accomplices should be executed, and so he com- manded the execution of Falkenstein. On the extensive castle platform, the Im- perial troops formed a circle, in the middle of which the Hangmen waited for their sacrifices ; and Rudolph himself was present, with a numerous retinue to be witness of the execution of his commands. It was a surprising and affecting sight, as Kurt with his 7 sons were led into the circle, the strong old man at the head of his manly fine sons, and among the numerous spec- tators one heard voices, who ventured to beg pardon for at least the sons. Also in the Em- peror's breast there moved feelings of deep pity for these unfortunate sacrifices; and willingly he would have pardoned the youths who had acted more in obedience to their father, than from inclination and so become criminals ; but the Imperial oath was inviolable, and so the monarch could not allow motives of clemency even also not, as among his people many had begged for the life of one at least of his lamented sons. And however to yield somewhat to so many and urgent solicitations, and however re- main firm to his oath, Rudolph permitted the 86 TAUNUS. pardoning of one of the youths, but under con- ditions the fulfillment of which, bordered on im- possibility. ! will grant life and liberty to that one of the Falkensteiners , to which the father, after execution will step, and thereby designate for pardon." And now the old Kurt, with gloomy look until now, regarded Heaven, with the ex- pression of inspired certainty , and courageously offered his neck to the executioner's sword. And see! as the head rolled in the sand, the headless with firm step advanced to the eldest who stood next to him, and from this to the 2, and the 4 others, when staggering to the youngest and last, he suddenly fell to the ground. Astonishment and horror seized all who saw the spectral round visit. But the emperor ordered the 7 sons to be set at liberty, and had them taken into his army, so that by really noble actions they might efface the disgrace of their former lives, and that they might be worthy of pardon and condition of knights. 87 Mainz. Heinrich Frauenlob. leinrich of Meissen according to some reports ''Canon, by others Doctor of Divinity, living in Mainz, at the beginning of the 14 t . h century de- voted himself besides the sciences, especially to Poetry, as then with him is said to have begun the incorporated principal school in Mainz. He dedicated his songs mostly to the holy Virgin Mary, in which he sang the ideal of the highest goodness and piety, but later his poems praise the female sex principally, and especially many separate women, so that with right, he received the name of Frauenlob, and under this name he is also known in the history of German poetry. The love and veneration which the grateful sex paid him was so great, that his death spread a general mourning ., and that the maidens and wives of the named town arranged him a burial as by the fair ones no man had ever before received. The tolling of all bells announced the mourn- ful day, and a long luneral procession moved along the streets, to the Dome, where his grave had been prepared. The greater part of the very numerous train were women in mourning gar- ments, and eight of the most beautiful carried the coi'iin which was adorned with roses, lilies, 88 MAINZ.' and myrtles. At the grave resounded songs of lamentation from female mouths, and a quantity of the most delicious flowers were strown upon it. The favorite drink of the poet, which had so often inspirted his poetry, the delicious, noble Rhine wine, was here in death lavishly spent on him, so that, as the legend relates, the en- trances of the Church were flooded by the Liba- tion. Only late, and amid many tears the women left the grave. A stranger who had come to Mainz on this day, would have believed a great prince, a great benefactor to the country, had been accompanied to his last resting place. In the Dome, on the place of an old damaged Monument of Frauenlob in the year 1842, was erected a figure stone by Schwanthaler (a beautiful female figure in white marble, placing a wreath on the master singer's coffin). Rabbi Amram. This most learned Rabbi was born in Mainz in the 13* h century, and lired in Cologne, where he founded a high Jew's school, of which he was the principal, and by his widely known learning and piety, made renown also in foreign countries. During a severe illness, he expressed the wish to his scholars to be buried beside his parents in Mainz. By the representations of the scholars, MAINZ. 89 that this could not be done without danger, he ordered the following: n When I am dead, clean me, lay me in my coffin, place it in a little vessel on the Rhine, and let it go wherever it chooses." When he died his wish was fulfilled, and the small ship, without guide, floated up the Rhine towards Mainz, as here the people seized the vessel , to draw it on land it floated back, so that it was not possible to hold the vessel. The news of this miracle was heard of by the bishop, who went to the Rhine, to convince himself of the truth of the affair; indeed the whole population of Mainz had streamed to the bank to see the strange and inexplicable ship. Naturally were also Jews on the Rhine, to whom, to the greatest astonishment of the multitude, the ship floated, but if Christians attempted to take it, it floated back, so that apparently the vessel would only go to the Jews. The bishop allowed the Jews to bring the vessel to the bank, in order to see what it contained, meanwhile they had brought the vessel to land, and found in it a coffin with a dead person in a Jewish death shirt, and an inclosed letter, with the following contents: n My dear brethren and friends, Jews of the holy communion of Mainz, I am come to you, for I have died in the holy communion at Cologne, and beg you to bury me beside my parents, who are buried at Mainz, and wish you all much happiness and a long life. This begs 90 MAINZ. the Amram/ The Jews brought the coffin to land, but the Christians struggled with the Jews, to get the coffin, but they could not carry it from the place. The bishop now ordered the coffin to be kept there, that it should not be carried away by the Jews, and had a crypt built over the coffin, from which one formerly believed they have given the name, and origin, to the present St. Emeran's church, which was very large. All applications and requests to keep the coffin were useless. However meantime the Jewish students in Mainz succeeded by cunning to bring away by night the^body of the Rabbi Ami-am; and according to his last wish to bury him with his parents in the present churchyard. On the wall of one of the formerly standing houses, of the streets running to the Rhine from the Bocks street , which disappeared 1850 by building; one remarked a half effaced Fresco, representing a ship driving up the Rhine, and standing on the banks a multitude of people. 91 Ingelheim. Charles and Elbegast. \jg) he Emperor Charles in his palace on the Rhine ^CThadjust fallen asleep oneevening, as indream- ^f ing an angel appeared to him, surrounded with splendour, placed herself^ before the Monarch's bed and said: ,,Rise great Emperor it is the will of Fate that you still in this night go away secretly and alone, for you shall steal. Charles awoke, the dream appeared to him most singular and wonderful. While he reflected upon it, he slept again, and anew the same angel appeared, repeating the warning yet more pres- sing and emphatical. n Do not tarry", she said, ^arise and steal, it is for the honour of yourself and kingdom, it is the order of a higher power announcing its power through me." Alarmed at this repeated warning, he could not more consider it accidental dreaming, the Emperor rose from his bed. But in vain he tried to explain the meaning of the words, which the angel had spoken, the to him more than singular command, to him the richest sovereign of the East, to commit a humiliating dishonorable action. But the appearance had announced to him the will of a higher power, to which Charles was accustomed to yield with pious resignation, and so he resolved to obey implicitly, to set out, 92 INGELHEIM. and to leave the consequences to Heaven. He dressed and armed himself, left the chamber, and after going to the stable, and saddling his favourite charger, he rode out of the castle-gates. But of all this not one of his servants, or the castle -guard had remarked anything, for they all lay, as if bound by magic in a sort of death- like sleep. He took his way to the next forest in saying to himself: ^Because it is evidently the will of the Lord to do what I ever detested, I will submit to the command, but as I do not know how to begin stealing, I could wish that Elbegast the defamed thief whom I have hitherto so much prosecuted were with me. I would re- ward him if he learned me to fulfil the nightly work, or helped me, so that I might not grow faint-hearted." While the king so reasoned with himself he perceived, by the feeble light of the moon a single knight advancing towards him. He also seemed to have remarked Charles, and rode for- wards so that soon they stood opposite each other. The strange knight was in black armour from head to foot, and rode on a black charger with black horse-cloth. He appeared to regard the emperor inquisitively, and the emperor had wil- lingly known who rode so alone through the forest at midnight; the black colour and the silent Being did not seem of good omen, and the Emperor was convulsed with the thought it could INGELHEIM. 93 easily be the Evil one himself, who would cause him damage and mischief in the hour that Hell has power over Men. w Who are you", the stranger first interrupted the silence, that you in full armour wander about by untrodden paths hy night in the forest? Are you a servant of the king, come to find out how you may catch the Elbegast, whose retreat is in this wood 5 then you ride in vain. He is quicker than the wind, more cunning than the council at the Court of Ingelheim, and more known in the wilderness than the fox and the deer." ,, My ways", answered Charles, ,,are not yours, and nobody but the Emperor dare demand an account of my actions, but if my words do not please you, I am ready to give you satisfaction according to the laws of knighthood." So saying he drew his sword, and prepared for battle, in the same moment gleamed the black knight's sword and blow succeeded blow. The stranger delivered such a violent stroke on the Emperor's helmet that his blade flew in pieces, and he stood defenceless. But Charles was ashamed to kill the unarmed, and said to him: I do not wish your blood, but prefer to give you your liberty, if you say who you are, and why you wander about here in the wood." ! am Elbegast". re- plied he, ..since I have lost all my property, and the emperor Charles has driven me out of my country , I procure my subsistence by stealing 94 INGELHEIM. and robbery. Till now, no one has vanquished me, you are my first conqueror. As you act so magnanimously to me, speak, what I can do for you to prove my gratitude." ,,If you", replied Charles, ,,are Elbegast the defamed thief, whom the Emperor already long endeavoured to catch, so prove your gratitude by helping me to steal. I came here to rob the king Charles, and for this business I can use your assistance, come therefore with me, and let us make common work." ! will not rob the king", answered Elbe- gast, ,,for although he has taken my property, and banished me, he did so from evil council, and far be it from me to hurt my sovereign. I only rob those who have amassed treasure unjustly. Do you know Count Eggerich of Egger- monde? Him we will visit, for he has already caused much damage to many honest men. and even he would deprive the Emperor of Life and Honour if he might." Charles learning such faith- ful sentiments, and that he intended well towards himself, was glad in his heart and said: ! will go with you to Eggerich", and so both went to the count's castle. Here with uncommon dexterity Elbegast broke a hole in the thick wall, crept through, and bade Charles follow him. They arrived fortunately in the count's rooms ; then Elbegast understood to open locks noiselessly, and knew to arrange himself everywhere. But the count who slept lightly, remarked something INGELHEIM. 95 and said to his wife: ! hear a noise as of per- sons creeping obout in my house, perhaps there are robbers in my castle, I will get up and see." He really rose, lit a torch, 'and lighted about in all passages and rooms. But because Charles and Elbegast had already slipped under the count's bed where nobody supposed; he found nothing, extiugnished the torch and went to bed again. Then the countess said to Eggerich : w My dear husband certainly no robber has entered our castle, but rather I believe that the inquie- tude of your mind does not allow you to enjoy sleep, and excites your head with imaginary things and dangers. Confess, they are particular plans which keep you awake; confide them to me, so that I can advise you, and reflect for your advantage." w Well!" replied the count, ^because the execution f my intention is decided for to morrow I will not longer conceal it from you. Know then, that I have sworn with 12 equally disposed knights, to murder the Emperor, who has forbidden us encampments on the roads, and take toll from travelling merchants and other wanderers. Nobody knows of our Confederacy, and I forbid you on pain of death to mention a word of it to whomsoever it may be." Not a word of this conversation escaped Charles. Then he slipped, as they were again fallen asleep, away with Elbegast after leaving to him the found valuables, he hastened home, where 96 INGELHEIM. he arrived before day -break, took his charger into the stable, and gained his sleeping apart- ment as unremarked as he had left it. In the morning he summoned his council and said to them: S I dreamt this night that count Eggerich with 12 allies would come here for an evil purpose, he has no less an intention than murdering me on account of the hated peace of the country, which I endeavour to sustain and which does not please the robber-knights. Take care therefore, that a sufficient troop of armed men will be kept concealed to appear at the first signal, and seize the crafty ones." About noon Eggerich came trotting with his accomplices, and demanded to be conducted to the Emperor. As soon as they had ridden into the court of the castle, the doors were closed upon them, the armed men surrounded them, and in tearing open their clothes discovered the hidden arms. Convicted and incapable of deny- ing; the conspirators suffered a shameful death by the hand of the Executioner. But Elbegast, whom Gharles had induced to come to court under the promise of complete pardon, he richly rewarded, and insured him subsistence for life by for ever renouncing the profession of a thief. But in grateful recognition how well he had done in obeying the angel's warning, and how good it is to submit implicitly even to the most obscure dispensations of Providence, the emperor ]NGELHEIM. 97 named the residence where the angel appeared to him ^Engelheim" i. e. in the present day ^Ingelheim" by the so celebrated palace of Charlemagne on the Rhine. Eginhard and Emma. Of several children which the wife of Charle- magne bore him not one stood higher in his favour than his youngest daughter Emma. Not only by great beauty, but excellent understanding, with childish grace, and the softest most attractive manners, she made herself worthy of her father's preference, and the emperor always used when he passed a short time in his family-circle seek- ing recreation from the heavy cares of his gov- ernment, to call the girl his dear Imme. In the palace at Ingelheim his council assembled almost daily. They were the wisest most tried men that he honoured with his confidence, he esteemed and respected them. Several indeed enjoyed his especial affection to such a degree that they in- habited the palace with him, could be called his friends , and were his daily guests. Almost all were in an advanced age, because Charles con- fided in the quiet reflection of riper years a more extended regard, and a more decided wise judgment in state affairs than is to be found in younger men. However the emperor made one exception, regarding age with the young Eginhard who on K1EFER, Legends of the Rhine. 7 98 INGELHE1M. account of his extraordinary talents and know ledge, had been early chosen not only as coun- cillor, but also private secretary to the monarch. Educated at the court, and of fine pleasing manners Eginhard was a favourite of the ladies, and the object of many secret wishes; but he made the deepest impression on the emperor's daughter Emma. The private secretary, constant companion of his monarch, often passed days near Emma, could not fail to observe the still attention with which the high lady favoured him, and he soon discovered that she entertained a secret inclination for him. How could Eginhard, the feeling youth, remain indifferent to this dis- covery, how could he remain cold and without to return her love? He struggled violently to suppress his rising passion, and reminded himself of his duty not to abuse his sovereign and em- peror's confidence; but it was this which rendered more difficult the struggle of duty in charging him to teach his daughter music. The oft un- disturbed society of the two lovers soon led to a mutual understanding, and the oath of eternal fidelity sealed the heart-band. For a long time the veil of secrecy concealed their quiet happiness, it was not seen and be- trayed by any listener, but not satisfied with the hours of day when they were allowed to see each other they claimed soon those of night, and Eginhard clandestinely visited Emma's sleeping 1NGELHE1M. 99 apartment, and enjoyed there the blissful hours of Love. The spring had been the witness of their first confession, and the beautiful summer-nights dis- appeared only too quickly for the4overs. To the summer succeeded the autumn , with its rough November storms; but foolish enough, the lovers anticipated the longer darkness of the coming winter-nights, which should also lengthen and embellish their interviews. So sat they once confidentially talking in Emma's small room. The stormy winter-night had been almost passed in conversation, as the sand-glass showed it was the highest time for Eginhard to return to his apartment. She went with her lover to open and shut the court-door, but who can imagine-their terror, as they found the court covered with snow. It was impossible for Eginhard to pass through the snow without his footsteps betraying him, impossible for him to risk the good reputation of the beloved, or her father's anger. Emma recovered herself first ! know an expedient", whispered she, ,,to free us from the embarassment, it is the only one, and at the same time the most secure. Place yourself on my shoulders dear one, I will carry you over, then only the steps of a woman's feet will be seen, and no suspicion excited." W 0h artifices of women!" laughingly answered Egin- hard, ,,it is only a pity, that for the execution 100 INGELHEIM. your strength fails", and fearing she was not equal to the heavy load, he at first refused to agree to the proposal. However Emma's per- suasion, and the impossibility in any other manner to secure themselves against detection, overcame in him the feeling of delicacy , and he allowed himself to be carried over to his lodging- on the beloved one's shoulders. But unfortunately these nocturnal visits did not remain unperceived. By cares, as they easily visit the sovereign of an immense Empire , ex- tremely excited, the Emperor could not, just in this night find the desired sleep, and unquiet as he was, he rose from his bed, and stepped from his sleeping apartment into the adjoining saloon, where a balcony allowed an open view into the court. There he saw a female figure carrying a man through the snow, and urged by curiosity lie went to the balcony. How great was his astonishment as he recognized in them, Emma and Eginhard. Not without great exertion, did Charles master the violent agitation which this unexpected sight caused him, and just as un- remarked as he stepped to the balcony, he re- turned to his apartment. The next day he called his council, with whom also Eginhard appeared, and laid before them the significant question? what a king's daughter had deserved, who clandestinely and by nightly leisure had received a paramour into her room? INGELHEIM. 101 The council reflected a time, then they decided, that in love affairs the best was pardon, Charles did not make any opposition, but asked further, what a low nobleman deserved who entertained a secret love -intrigue with a king's daughter, and indeed nightly slipped into her apartment? Again the council decided, with the exception of the youngest, for pardon, and only this youngest, it was Eginhard, who had hitherto remained dumb and pale, spoke for punishment. M He deserves Death!" said he loud aud emphat- ically, and surprised by this verdict, the Em- peror stepped before him and answered: w Death would be too severe a punishment; but banish- ment becomes such a transgressor, as well as the duty -forgetting daughter; deprived of her exalted rank, and live with her paramour distant from her home, forgotten by her dear relatives." Silently and in deep meditation wandered, early the next morning two pilgrims along the road to Mainz. From there they walked to the other bank , then they left the public road, and the density of the wood hid them. Towards evening, tired with wandering about, both re- quiring night-quarters, they came to a Charcoal- burner's hut, in which they received refreshment and shelter. The next morning, after they had gone a good distance , they arrived at an open place in the wood, which afforded a most charm- ing prospect and therefore especially pleased them. 102 1NGELHEIM. A murmuring brook sprang from the earth, and a flourishing willow plantation extended to the near bank of a river. Here the lovers rested a time, and here first loosened the anxious timidity, in which both had remained since their exile. In lamentable tenderness they accused each other, of being the cause of such a hard destiny, and they swore, by double tenderness to make each other forget the harshness of their lot. Then they resolved, to remain in this lovely vale and build themselves a cottage. With near dwelling shepherds Eginhard exchanged some of the va- luables, which he had brought with him, for cows , sheep , and the most necessary farming utensils, and he hired rooms in a habitable, spacious cottage, in which love sweetened the meal and did not allow them to miss any of those splendours, by which they had been sur- rounded at court. Six years passed in this soli- tude like so many months . and the lovers bliss was still increased by the growing up of 2 boys, which Emma had presented to her Eginhard. But Emperor Charles grieved meanwhile the loss of the beloved daughter: his hair whitened, his cheeks fell in, and his sad look said distinctly enough that he was not happy. He did not more pass his time in his family circle when the af- fairs of his government allowed him leisure ; but rather hastened with his suite from the castle, to range the woods for game because hunting INGELHEIM. 103 better suited his state of mind. Once he under- took an extended hunting excursion to the forests of the Odenwald. In the pursuit of a splendid stag, he lost himself, and too late he learned that none of his hunting - companions had remained with him. He sounded his horn, but no answer hailed him in return, and discouraged, that he had mistaken his way so much, he dismounted from his horse, bound it to a tree, and seated himself in a shady spot. While reflecting, which direction he should take, to return to his people, sprang a lively boy, attracted by the call of the horn, out of the bushes, and with childlike astonish- ment he regarded the strange man and the stately charger. Charles, glad to see a human being, beckoned friendly to the boy , to approach , and made him soon so confidential , that he played with his weapons. Questioned the boy related, that his father and mother lived in the neigh- bourhood, and he offered to show the way there. Wishing to make the acquaintance of the inhabi- tants of this wilderness, who according to the appearance and conduct of the child could not be without education, the Emperor followed, and soon found himself before a fine, ornamental cottage, in which was a beautiful young wife busied in preparing the supper. Emma for it was his daughter received the stranger with courtesy and offered him a night's lodging, as good as the mean shelter could afford ; then she 104 INGELHEIM. told him, that her husband was hunting, but must soon return, and that he would certainly be glad, to take supper with a doubtless noble knight. Charles could not turn his eyes from the charm- ing wife. Although she was not known to him, yet the sight of her filled him with an inexplicable interest, and the question was at his tongue'send, how it happened, that they had chosen such a remote solitude for their residence? In this mo- ment the husband appeared. Heartily and friendly he saluted the unexpected guest; however the young man in a singular manner, seemed to be known by his exterior, so that Charles could scarcely conceal his astonishment. At last they seated themselves at the table, and the hostess placed, after a simple soup, a dish of venison. Scarcely had the monarch tasted it, when over- come by sad remembrance he called out: Ah, just such a dish my Emma used often to prepare me, as she was still with me and was my fa- vourite!" At these words Emma and Eginhard sprang from their seats and looked fixedly at their guest. At if waking from a dream she cried : ,,Yes, it is my father!" fell at his feet sobbing: n Your daughter, your Emma is at your feet! it is she, who fled here, who far from the noise of the world, has passed her days here with the loved one, and blesses the moment, which is allowed her to see still once the author of her life." Then Eginhard fell at the Emperor's feet INGELHEIM. 105 supplicating pardon and reconciliation. A long pause ensued; on the sovereign's face was reflected an internal struggle; but then succeededa scene of love , rich in embraces and expression of childlike tenderness. Before Emma's tears of joy melted all the rancour of the severe father; he fully pardoned her and Eginhard, and passed the happy hours of the night with them in their cottage, as he passed them in the splendour of his court. Meanwhile his hunting companions, full of anxiety for the missing, had searched through the forest the whole night, and only by daylight they came near the valley, where the three happy ones tarried. The horn signal, constantly blown by the searchers, was at last answered and soon the whole suite stood before the cottage. Holding Emma by one hand and Eginhard by the other, and accompanied by the two little ones, the Emperor stepped out: w Look here", said he, Awhile you sought me, I have made a precious hunting-discovery. I found in this solitude my expelled daughter and my friend Egiuhard again, bitterly wanted by my heart during six long years. They are my children; they shall henceforth not more be separated from me. Hasten and let us return to Irigelheim, so that we can there cele- brate the feast of reunion and alliance, which I herewith bless. Eginhard my son-in-law shall from now again be my councillor; but on the 106 INGELHEIM. place, where my Imme passed so man} 7 happy years and I enjoyed the blissful hours of refind- ing, she shall build a convent Happy- pi ace." And so it happened, and at the place, where the convent was erected stood formerly a town, which after the name of the" founder was called w Happy place" still existing on the Maine. In the churh is still shown the tomb of the couple, whose bones are inclosed in one coffin; bnt this coffin the grand-duke of Hessen has lately pre- sented to the Count of Erbach, who as some assert, is a descendant from a branch of Egin- hard's lineage. Queen Hildegard. When the Emperor Charles marched out, to punish the frequent irruptions of the Saxons into the French empire, and at the same time to spread Christianity among them, he contided his favourite residence, the castle at Ingelheim, and all it contained, to the protection of his half- brother, the knight Talaud. But quite particularly Charles recommended to him the safety of the Empress Hildegard, who remained at Ingelheim, and at the same time he charged the knight, to report, to him after his return, of all that had occurred in the palace. Taland was educated at the court of the Grecian emperor, and unhappily his otherwise INGELHEIM. 107 good character, there spoiled by the dominating loose morals, so that among other things he had lost all belief in female virtue, and entertained the opinion of being able to seduce every wife. But since he had lived at Charles court, he seemed to have renounced the art of seduction, and none of the ladies to have charm for him; for his eye quietly aimed at one, who outshone all other beauties, but for him unattainable, the Queen Hildegard. By the monarch's earnestness and severity retained in the strictest limits of respect, Taland took care, not to betray his pas- sion; but as Charles' departure for the army had taken place, the infamous Taland projected plans to satisfy his illicit inclination, and the charge of a Protector and Commander of the castle gave him sufficient means. He began manifesting his love to the high lady opportunely, by glances and mien, and these remaining without success by impudent indica- tions. As Hildegard allowed these to pass un- observed, the seducer even ventured, to declare himself distinctly when once together, and to assert with the most passionate oaths that he would rather die, than renounce the return of love from the Queen. With astonishment and aversion the high lady had listened to him, and with the dignity and pride of offended virtue she refused him in the most decided manner; but Taland considered this refusal only as a mask, 108 JNGELHEIM. and therefore repeated the next day his shameful courting, even more pressing, passionate, menacing. The noble queen , to avert misfortune and to debarass herself of the troublesome knight, con- trived a trick. She acted, as if she were affected by the violence of liis love, and appointed to meet him on the following evening in a distant wing of the castle, where, as she said, their meeting could take place without disturbance. Highly delighted the knight was at the agreed hour at the indicated place; also Hildegard ap- peared there and she opened the door of a retired apartment, into which she begged the knight to step. But he had scarcely crossed the threshold, as the door was closed and bolted. n There", called the Queen to him, there you may be, honour-forgetting dissolute, brood over your fool- ish love, till my husband returns and withdraws you for merited punishment! 1 ' The outwitted was almost stiffened with fright. He found himself in a small, very remote chamber scarcely provided with the most necessary fur- niture, could only afford him a sad lodging, and there was no possible delivery from this dungeon, than by the clemency of the offended Hildegard. Daily he received very frugal food, which a very discreet chambermaid pushed through a narrow grated door, and as often as the servant appeared, the captive begged her to assure the Queen of his deep, most sincere repentance, and his most INGELHEIM. 109 supplicating entreaty, to be freed from his igno- minious imprisonment. Hildegard refused a long time, distrusting the assurances of the imprisoned; but as she received the news, that her husband would soon return from Saxony, and Taland's entreaties were always more urgent, she released him on the day of Charles's entry into the castle, in pretending, the knight was just returned from a secret embassy. Raging and revengeful the released reflected now on the ruin of te Queen. He hastened to meet the Emperor, and under the appearance of the most zealons devotion he lied to him, that Hildegard had broken the oath of marriage fidelity, that she entertained intercourse with a stranger knight, and even had been surprised by him, the Protector; he added that not longer to be witness of such shameful intidelity, which to punish belonged to the husband and king, con- sequently had gone to another district of the Empire, till he heard of the Emperor's arrival. The more Charles loved his wife, so much the more was he inclined to jealousy and the more easily he believed the words of the calum- niator. Beside himself with anger, he commanded the Queen to be seized conducted into the wood and there decapitated. Taland willingly under- took the execution of this command; he informed the court of the king's will, and surrendered the innocent Queen to two of his minions. These 110 INGELHKIM. roughs dragged her into the forest during the night, arid had already raised the murderous sword, already would Hildegard offer up her last prayer to the Creator, as from the bushes, a white closely veiled figure advanced and in a hollow voice cried out: Stop, wicked wretches ! do not finish the work of Hell, fly, that the vengeance of Heaven does not annihilate you!" The super- stitions rninious fled , and nevertheless informed their master that his orders had been punctually executed. Hildegard found herself again in the arms of her faithful waiting-woman, for it was she who had chased the murderers, fearing that she too, the confident of the Queen could be the object of Taland's revenge, and inspirited with the wish to save her mistress, she had secretly followed the minions from the Castle and had rigthly cal- culated on their superstition for the success of her plan. But there was no security for the two women in the whole neighbourhood ; they were obliged to seek safety at a distance, and after much wandering they came to the hut of an old hermit who received them hospitably. Here Hildegard dwelt a long time with her faithful servant. The queen soon confided in the pious old man, and he offered with her the most fervent prayers to Heaven for the safety and manifestation of her innocence. In this wilderness she learned from the old man the curative effect of different herbs INGELHEIM. Ill and roots, all well as their application, and collected a treasure of beneficent knowledge, which had a decided influence on her later destiny. By the advice of the pious man the two women in disguise at last made a pilgrimage to Rome, where they maintained themselves by means of the learned medical science, and Hildegard was soon very renowned. The Holy Fathei himself consulted her in an illness and recovered by the employed remedies. Hildegard's assumed name Arabella was everywhere mentioned with respect, and even to Germany echoed the news of the almost mi- raculous cures of the enigmatical woman But from the moment however, that Thaland informed him of the pretended execution of the Queen, he had no more peace. He was gloomy and taciturn, avoided intercourse with men, as much as he could, and not seldom hid himself for days in the thickets of the woods. Repentance for the rashly ordered act, the thought, that his wife was not guilty, or perhaps had not been guilty tortured him un- ceasingly, and he prayed to Heaven, to allow him to find a means for the quieting of his soul. The occasion of a campaign against the Longo- barden was welcome to him; he intended, after it was finished to visit the holy Father in Rome, to disclose the him his sad state of mind, and thereby to obtain perhaps alleviation for his tor- mented conscience. Aalland begged to be allowed to accompany him for since his misdeed, the 112 1NGELHEIM. infamous, had been effected, as if for punishment by a consuming malady, and he hoped for recov- ery from the milder air of Italy. His request was allowed, and so left, after victoriously ended war, Charles with Taland for Rome. The reception of the Emperor there was pomp- ous. Among the people concealed and unremarked, Hildegard saw with a beating heart and the most painful emotion the solemn entry of her husband ; but with horror and terror she perceived the trai- torous Taland at. his side. It could not fail, that the with fever seized wicked wretch should soon apply to the renowned Arabella. Already the day after his arrival he visited her, and after Hildegard had heard of his lamentable condition, she said: .,Knight, I shall be able to cure you with the help of God and my art, if you are free from the guilt of a crime, or in case you have com- mitted one, declared and confessed to a priest what deception you have done. If you omit such penitence, your death is certain. Alarmed Taland hastened away; but tortured by accusing con- science and fear of death, he confessed. But as he feared the revenge of Charles, he could not resolve to acknowledge his misdeed, he did not confess it, and deferred the declaration from day to day, so that he became worse and he was soon near death. At last he sent for the Emperor to his sickbed and at the same time Arabella, to declare to the former what he had sinned against INGELHEIM. 113 the innocent Hildegard, and to demand from the latter, if possible remedy for his sickness, in hoping his present condition would effect pardon from his royal brother. Great was Charles's emotion, as he disclosed the net of the lowest wickedness, and pain and repentance almost broke his heart. Yet he soon became consolation and all absorbing joy; for as Hildegard, the called cure-assistant, appeared, she was not able to restrain herself at the sight of her husband. She threw away her disguise and with the words : ,,0h my royal master and husband", she fell at his feet. Surprised and deeply moved, Charles raised Hildegard, in whom he again recognised his wife, and both were united in a long embrace, shedding tears of sadness, joy and thanks to the righteous disposer of Destiny. But deadly pale Taland re- garded what passed, immovably sitting in an arm- chair in which, lamed by surprise he sank down, and as Charles would loudly demand explanation, he found him a corpse. The powerful impression of the moment had killed the wretch. But Rome celebrated a feast, as none had ever been kept, the festival of the reuniting of the ex- cellent pair; the Pope blessed the new bond, and with a more joyful heart than he had ever felt, he returned with his Queen to the Rhine. And also the faithful waiting woman , who continually had remained inseparable from her mistress, saw her Rhine home, and the palace at Ingelheim, and K IEFER, Legends of the Rhine. 8 114 RUDKSHEIM. honored by the Empress, as one only can honor a friend, she was long witness of the happy days which the Queen passed with her beloved King. As thanks for her preservation, and proof of her innocence, which the Heaven had so wonderfully permitted, Hildegard founded the Abbey of Kemp- ten, and the records of this foundation have pre- served the intelligence of the miraculous event. Rudesheim. Gisela. the agitated times of theCrusades, when from fj* nearly all Christian countries numerous knights and horsemen streamed to theHolyLand, to ob- tain possession of the HolyGrave from the Saracens, to establish a kingdom there, and as fanatical priests of all places demanded for this, as they said, God-pleasing work, preached also in the Rhine- countries Bernhard of Clairvoux. Energetically he exhorted, to devote themselves to the great cause of Christianity and to join an army, that was about to set out for Palestine. Among those who obeyed this summons was the Knight Bromser of Rudes- heim. Already a widower and father of an only blooming daughter, to him very dear, and possessor of a splendid castle in the charming Rhine-valley, the paradise of Germany, had the Knight, rich and EUDESHEIM. 115 much esteemed more cause to remain at home, than leave his Gisela, and expose her to the danger, of early becoming an orphan. But the desire of action and unceasing exhortation, to fight for the honor of the Redeemer, overcame every other re- gard, and Bromser left the castle of his ancestors, accompanied by the tears and blessings of his daughter, and set out with his many similarly dis- posed Knights and their men for the Holy Land. After many adventures and difficulties he arrived there, and soon distinguished himself by extreme bravery. His name in the Christian camp was mentioned with renown, his sword feared hy the Infidels, and it was always the knight Bromser who was charged with the execution of such enter- prises, requiring presence of mind and intrepidity. In a rocky mountainous country, not far from the camp, was the sources, which provided the ne- cessary water; but all at once it was impossible to use it, because a terrible dragon had chosen this rocky ravine for its place of residence. The monster was of a remarkable size, coated with scales, legs with sharp claws , its wide jaws armed with a double row of thorny-like teeth. Quick in move- ment every knight unguardedly approaching it be- came its prey. The news of the appearance of this dragon set the whole camp in dismay. In vain the commencing want of water demanded the con- quering of this new enemy, in vain the Emperor Conrad himself who conducted the army, solicited 116 RUDESHEIM. the knights 5 fear rendered every arm powerless. Many regarded the dragon as a punishment of Heaven, sent as chastisement for the outbroken discords between the Christian combattants and for many occured crimes, and this opinion was the cause that even the bravest retired from the jeopardy. The knight Bromser pitied the general misery. He stood before the Emperor, and offered, to stand the combat in God's name. After having armed himself, he rode, accompained by the blessing of all, to the cavern, where the monster couched. Soon it darted on its newly hoped prey ; the knight's horse pranced at the sight of the terrific figure, and Bromser was obliged to dismount, in order to master its movements. Directly the monster was near him, fortunately however he regarded the charger as the first object of its attack, and in precipitating itself on it, it wound the poor animal with its scaly tail and crushed it. The valiant knight profited of this moment, to cut through the tail with a power- ful 'stroke of his sharp sword , before the dragon could uncoil itself from the horse, and so broke the strength of the dragon, and then, as raging with pain, it snapped at Bromser with distended jaws, the resolute knight threw his shield into the monster's mouth, and while it endeavoured to break it to pieces, the fortunate combattant thrust his sword to the hilt into its loins, a stream of blood issued from the wound causing the monster to fall to the ground and die. RUDESHEIM. 117 Glad of the acquired victory, the knight began to return. He had already made the half of his way, when suddeuty a number of Saracens pre- cipitated themselves on him from an ambuscade, and made him a prisoner. With bound hands the noble knight, the deliverer of his colleagues, was dragged into the enemy's camp, exposed to the mockery of the wild hordes, and at last sur- rendered as property to an Emir. This sent him to a fortified castle carefully guarded. Here in the seclusion of the solitary dungeon, in terrible almost hopeless imprisonment, he was seized with a long- ing for his dearly beloved native country. He thought on his beautiful domain, his left Gisela with melancholy, and in the despondency of his heart, he made a still solemn now, that, if he was allowed to return home, he would found a con- vent, and would dedicate his daughter as its first nun. He felt himself consoled and quieted by the vow, and indeed his deliverance was not far distant. On a dark night the Christian army surprised and attacked the castle, in its victorious course took the knight, and led him triumphantly into the camp. He remained only a few months with his comrades, then with the Emperor's permission he returned to Germany. His journey home was fatiguing and dangerous, however he at last arrived well at Ru- desheim. He was received with jubilation, and Gisela wept tears of joy in embracing him, as she had tears of sorrow at his departure. 118 RUDESHEIM. On the day after his arrival a young knight appeared at the castle, and presented himself to Bromser as Kurt of Falkenstein. With candour and confidence he related how he had become attached to Gisela, as well as that she loved him, and that therefore they only required the father's blessing to make them the happiest couple- Bromser seemed in deep thought, and then re- garded his daughter in whose countenance was to be read a confirmation of Falkenstein's word's and said, in seizing their hands, wtih tender sad tones : ,,How willingly I would accord your wishes and bless you as my son, for I knew you father; in the East he often spoke of you, the valiant one, who fell at Edessa lighting against the ene- mies of our faith - - he was my favourite com- panion-in-arms ; but a vow binds my will, and you may never belong to each other. In ignomi- nious captivity with the Saracens , loaded with chains, I vowed, in case I returned home safely, to found a convent to the honour of the Virgin Mary, and that Gisela should be the first nun in it. By the intercession of the Blessed, I was soon after in liberty, it is therefore my duty to fulfill my vow, and, as truly as God helps me! I will earnestly accomplish, what I vowed, therefore in future may no earthly love find place in Gi- sela's breast." As soon as Falkenstein understood this, he rushed, like a madman, out of the saloon, mounted RUBESHEIM. 119 his charger, and galloped away, but Gisela fell insensible to the ground, and from that hour she was deranged. She wandered through, like a spirit, the wide corridors of the castle, and once as a raging storm ploughed through the waves of the Rhine at the midnight hour, and the howl- ing tempest broke the .oaks of the near forest, the unfortunate one crept to her father's bed, whimpered him farewell, hastened then to the balcony, and precipitated herself into the Rhine The hastening after father came too late , to be able to restrain her; he only saw her waving garments disappear in the profound depths. Grief and remorse now embittered the life of the childless old man. It is true he omitted nothing, to restore his diseased mind, and he not only accomplished the building of the convent to calm his conscience, but also tried by other means, indeed even by mixing himself in quarrels, and the pleasures of hunting to procure himself dis- traction; but neither private warfare nor hunting, could deafen the, torment of his conscience. One day a farm servant brought him an insignificant, wooden figure of the crucified, which the plough- ing oxen had turned-up, and Bromser regarded this finding , as a sign from Heaven, to build a church , on the spot where the figure had been found. This he did, and had the figure placed in the temple, and soon it became praised as working miracles, so that pilgrims from far and near visited 120 BENGEN. in. In the same year that he completed the church, which he named the Need of God, the knight died, and strangers, uo sympathising relatives, accom- panied him to his grave. Bingen. The Mouse-tower. latto , bishop of Fulda, wished to obtain the vacant archbishopric ofMayeuce, and employ- ed by the Emperor all passible means, to at- tain the accomplishment of his wish. He knew how to arrange by bribery and other means, that the choice fell upon him although there were more worthy candidates. This advancement stamped still more his ambi- tion, pride, and inhumanity. Principally he let the poor subjects feel his oppression. High taxes were extorted from them, so that he could execute large buildings and satisfy his love of splendour; tolls were imposed and new burdens invented, as if the country was only therefore destined to satisfy the ruler's whims. Below Bingen, but near Bingen loch, he had built a strong tower, opposite the banks of which stand the ruins of Ehrenfels and castle Rhine-stone, in the middle of the foaming waves, so that all passing ships could be easily stopped BINGEN. 121 at this narrow passage, to oblige them to pay toll. Soon after the building of this custom-house, it happened, that a general scarcity visited the Rhine country, and particularly the Bishopric. A terrible drought parched the fields ; vermin and hail-storms destroyed the little that was germinated, and a general Famine was the more threatened, because Hatto had almost bought-up all that was left of the last harvest, and securely locked in his granaries. The feared misfortune occurred in all its terrors, very soon over the whole country, and spread in- expressible misery among the poorer population. It is true the Bishop allowed his stores to be sold, but at suchhigh prices, that the exorbitant demands could not be satisfied by the greater part of his subjects. The poor were therefore obliged to have recourse to means, which produced maladies, and so increased the general misery. In this necessity the unhappy people stormed the prince with the most supplicating and touching prayers. Even his council and friends urged him to pity the deplorable condition of the poor, and to be for them a suc- couring sovereign, instead of an oppressor; but all representations and requests remained useless. The tyrant still continued, to sell his corn only for the highest price, for he was wishing, to build a splendid castle of extraordinary size, for which he required large sums of money. But the increasing distress, and the severity of the archbishop increased the dissatisfaction to 122 RINGEN. exasperation, and as this at last threatened to pass to acts of violence, Hatto opposed with mockery and cruelty. One day the hungry crowd of men. women, and children, after vainly soliciting bread before the Bishop's palace, forced themselves violently into the apartment, where the Prince and his guests sat at a luxurious banquet. Hatto received the intruders with mocking condescension, promised them corn, and begged them to go to a large barn where they should receive the mentioned food. Glad to receive this promise the unfortunates re- tired; but scarcely were they in the barn, as the Barbarian ordered the doors to be fastened, and, oh the inhumanity! set lire to the building, and as the burning sacrifices supplicated lamentably for commiseration and the flames forced their howling- cries of pain, Hatto spoke to those surrounding him: -,Hear how the corn-mice squeak! I do not do anything else with the rebels, than with other mice, which I catch; I burn them." But this terrible act called down the vengeance of Heaven on the infamous author. Out of the ashes of the burned barn crept thousands upon thousands of mice, and as a devastating stream took theirway to the pajace, filling all apartments, and fell even upon the bishop with bold avidity. However he tried to defend himself, and his ser- vants kill thousands, there was no end of them, and the wretch began to recognise, that a higher BINGEN. 123 Judge had undertaken to revenge his crime. Left by his suite, who fled from terror, Hatto hastened to a ship, to escape the pursuers; but in vain. By legions they swam after him, as he was ferried over the Rhine: and as he, in despair landed at the Custom-house near Bingen in thinking there to be protected, his innumerable enemies pursued him still, gnawed and perforated the tower with incredible quickness, dug themselves entrances through the thick walls, and at last reached him whom they sought. Hatto succumbed to the mice, which fell upon him by troops, and hundreds ol thousands, and after consuming him they disappeared entirely. The tower is still called the Mouse-tower. Nobody inhabits, or uses it: its gloomy, half dilapidated walls stand there, as the monumental column of a black, terrible act. haunted, as a warning against such similar crimes to suffering men. The legend appears in a milder light, if one refers to Histoiy concerning Hatto, according to which he appears to have been a clever regent, but imperious Prelate. The emperor Ludwig and the duke Otto then held the regency of the king- dom, and Hatto was the emperor's confident, so that he was called the Heart of the King. A re- presentant of the German clergy and first admin- istrator of 12 rich and powerful abbeys, lie was at the same time the principal founder of that, tern- 124 B1NGEN. peroral power, which the seat of Mayence obtained for itself. Without doubt, his proud despotical character, by which the people were obliged to suffer much, as well as many inventions of his powerful rivals, assisted in producing that terrible legend of the Mouse-tower. The holy Rupert. Under the government of Ludwig the pious, Duke Robolaus dominated in the country of the Saxons. He was not favourable to the Christian religion, besides being of a wild impetuous char- acter, he was also courageous and skilled in arms. Bertha, the daughter of a powerful duke, on the Rhine excited in him a violent passion, and the soft amiable maiden, and pious, devout Christian, was not averse to him, partly because she admired his heroical actions , and also hoped to couvert the future husband to Christianity. Unfortunately this hope was not fulfilled. The rough warrior did not regard Bertha's gracious rep- resentations, and at last he forbad them entirely, and was of so sulky a temperament, that the poor suffering wife was obliged to separate from him, and to reside at a distant castle. Here she gave birth to a son, who was named Rupert, and was her only consolation and favourite. Bertha wished to educate him as a pious Christian, because she BINGEN. 125 regarded the predilection of her husband for war- like life as the cause of their misfortune. She therefore endeavoured, above all things to incul- cate in the young heart mild virtues, and an in- clination for a quiet domestic life. By an invasion, which Robolaus undertook against a neighbouring race, he was in a bloody battle the sacrifice of his temerarious courage. As Bertha heard of his death, she was much afflicted , for then she thought only of his good qualities. She resolved, to leave her present so- journ, and to remove to her parents who inhabited the ducal palace at Bingen. Here many nobles of the country solicited the hand of the beautiful young princess; but she de- clined all, even the most brilliant offers, in wishing to devote her life to the education of her beloved son. He also rewarded her trouble and care in the most beautiful manner. Fortunately he had not inherited from his father the wild pride, but the mother's meekness and piety, and soon developed a spirit of chanty, and this increased with his years to the great joy of Bertha and her parents. Rupert tarried willingly among the poor children of the place; he shared with them what he had, gave to the poorly clad, even of what he himself wore, and once as a troop of half naked, hungry boys were assembled around him, for which his gifts were not sufficient, he conducted them to his mother saying: w Take care of them, dear mother. 126 BINGEN. lor they are also your children." Just so showed itself, as Bertha would erect a splendid building, the charitable feeling of the pious boy, in opposing this intention with the words : ^First feed the hungry and clothe the naked, those who are in need and are our brethren." By such charity Rupert was soon the object of universal love, of which with increasing years he made himself more worthy. All he had and could beg from his mother, he gave away without any regard for himself. Grown to a young man. representations were made to him from all sides, not only on account of his generosity, but his neglect in the practice of knightly arms, it was more suitable to his high position, it was said, to accomplish himself in combatting and exercising his charger, than constant intecrourse with beggars, und cripples. But neither representations nor mockery could make any impression on Rupert; he continued indefatigable in charitableness, und found his reward in the blessing of the necessitous. Once, on a beautiful Spring morning, Rupert slumbered on the banks of the Rhine, where he had lain himself in the shade of a tree, tired from a walk ; he saw in a dream a venerable old man in a long robe standing at the stream, surrounded by a troop of friendly playing boys, the old man took them one after the other, and dipped them into the river, whence they reappeared iiner and more lovely. At the same time there rose in the BINGEN. 127 Rhine an island, charming and splendid as a Fairy- land, full of sweet paradisiacal fruits; a many colored plumaged choir enlivened the fields, and an abundance of delicious blossom-perfume filled the air. To this islet the>old man led the boys, and clothed them in snow wliite garments. Full of de- sire for the wonderful islet, Rupert hastened to the old man, with the request to allow him to share in the charming retreat. But he replied in solemn tones: w Here is not a retreat for you Rupert, your charity and pure pious sense, render you worthy to enjoy the higher delights of Heaven, and to re- gard the face of the Transfigured." And behold at these words arose from the flowery fields of the islet a rainbow in thousand coloured beauty, and as Rupert regarded upwards, he saw a number of angels with golden wings, in their midst the Child- Christ in indescribable brilliancy. At his side knelt respectfully the holy John, and 2 angels soared above, holding a garment which Rupert had lately presented to a poor boy. With the garment they clothed the Redeemer-child, and the latter said: r The clothes you have given to the naked, and fed the hungry; for such works belong the higher re- ward in the splendour of eternal glory." In bliss- ful delight Rupert would stretch out his arms to the lovely Christ-child, as the charming figure dis- appeared and -- he awoke. From this day Rupert wandered about, like one transfigured. lie took the resolution, to make a 128 BINGEN. pilgrimage to Rome, and from there to visit the Holy repulchre, and then end his days in the cap- ital town of Christianity. All representations of his mother, although she had educated him as a pious Chriitian, had however as princess destined him for a knight, obtained from him, nothing else than the promise, to return to her from Rome for a short time; and with that he renounced the princely dignity, and instead of the Purple, he took the pilgrim's staff. On returning after a year, from his wanderings, the fatigues and privations had completely under- mined his, without these, weak bodily health. He died, a youth of scarcely twenty years, in the arms of his mother, who soon followed him. Rupert was later accepted among the number of the saints, and the convent at Eubingen, is said to possess still the garment which he once pre- sented to a poor child, and seen in a dream. The prophetess Hildegard. After the death of holy Rupert and his mother, the possessions of theDukeofBingen fell to several relatives, on which the, not far from Creuznach sit- uated, castle Sponheirn wa built. At the castle lived the knight of Bokelheim with his wife Ma- thilde, who presented him only one child, a daugh- ter, baptized by the name of Hildegard. This child BINGEN. 129 was very early intrusted for her education to an abbess to the convent Dissibodenberg, and so Hildegard passed her youthful days in a convent. She very soon displayed a predilection for reading pious books and legends ; but particularly remarkable were her frequent visions, by means of which, according to her assertion, she could pre- dict future events; and indeed not unlike our mod- ern time is the picture, that at that time, she sketched of the future, in the obscurity of her cell. The immorality and wickedness, in which the powerful ones, but especially the priesthood of that time were sunk, found in Hildegard a severe, judge, and she relentlessly exposed shameful deeds and vices. As on the Rhine the lioly Bernhard preached the crusade, he visited Hildegard and induced her, to support him by her voice. On leaving he pre- sented her a ring with the motto: ! suffer willingly", and this ring is still shown in Wiesbaden. Later Hildegard was abbess of the already mentioned convent, and her reputation increased to such a degree, that troops of believing pilgrims arranged themselves about her and solicited her blessing. Hildegard has left behind her many works written in Latin , which testify of her learning and much knowledge. Although she was bitterly zealous against the priesthood, yet she was later, pronounced holy by the Pope. KIEFER, Legends of the Rhine. 130 Rheinstein. The Ride to the Wedding. the beginning of the thirteenth century in- habited the castle Rheinstein a knieht named Sifrid, just as rich and powerful, as he was de- famed for his robberies and wicked actions. Once returning home heavily laden with booty, from one of his incursions, he brought a female of extraordinary beauty, whom he had taken away from Frankenland. But however he as victor tri- umphed over the captured, he soon felt himself conquered by the gentleness of the beautiful female. The noble Jutta's arrival at the Rheinstein ef- i'ccted a surprising changement in the knight's character. From then no acts of violence, no more robberies: quietly the merchant passed the, at other times feared castle, and fearlessly the ship- per steered past the walls of the rampart. Jutta's flattering voice had persuaded the knight to re- nounce entirely his former manner of life; so much can Love do! Formerly the noisy residence of bold high- waymen. Rheinstein was now the cordial habita- tion of peace and harmless enjoyment. The wild guests gradually left it, and the rough war com- rades, covetous for booty and licence, sought other service; in the service of Sifrid there was no more booty to be gained, since the happiness of quiet RHEINiSTEIN. 131 housekeeping dominated there Jutta had wis- hed it so, and Sifrid highly e'steemed her, as beauty and virtue are honored. But this quiet happiness was not to remain long undisturbed. After a year's household management, Jutta died in giving birth to a daughter. The loss of the beloved wife threw the knight in a deep melancholy, which gradually became gloomy mis- anthropy. Only the consolation, to have in the child a dear remembrance, and the care for this precious pledge alone bound him to life, and he devoted his days to the welfare and education of his daughter. Gerda, the child's name, soon displayed those excellent qualities, the inheritance of her noble mother: as a tender flower gradually develops its beauty, she grew in grace and loveliness under the protecting care of her father. However as retired as Sifrid had lived hitherto, he could not refuse hospitality to tired wanderers, or pious pilgrims, who rested at the foot of the castle, and so the treasure which the castle hid, was soon known, and the report of Gerda's beauty was soon spread in the whole valley and neigh- bourhood. It was not long, before a number of knights of high and low nobility, found themselves at the castle, all wishing to conclude a marriage, which promised a double gain, the charms of the splendid maiden with the great riches of the father. In order to keep off the suitors, which daily in- 132 RHEINSTEIN. creased, the old master of Rheinstein appointed to meet them at Mayence at a Tournament, at which he with Gerda would assist : the hand of the beau- tiful heiress should be the prize of the bravest. Not easily could a tournament number more participators than this, and the knights showy re- tinues and splendid accoutrements increased the magnificence of the festival; but the finest was thought by all to be Gerda, whom to win, many now entered the lists, while from a high balcony she regarded the combattants. Among the knights present two distinguished themselves, Kurt of Ehrenfels, possessor of the same named castle, and Kuno of Reichenstein, of the castle, near Rheinstein, so that both seemed one castle. Both knights were renowned combat- ants aud if Kuno, younger than his opponent the prerogatives of a finer education and a nobler character, so overbid him the rough Kurt, who had the surname of the Bad, in riches and extensive possessions. Sifrid wished from avarice, Kurt to be the gainer, but Gerda however had long had an inclination for the amiable Kuno; but as the cap- rice of Fortune often decides, so it decided this time in favor of those who had willingly seen the victory wrested from love. After Kuno had van- quished all other rivals, and dismounted several, he was obliged to succumb to the superior strength of Kurt, and gladly Sifrid saluted Kurt the wicked, as his future son-in-law. RHEINSTEIN. 133 And so the destined marriage day arrived without Gerda's supplications and tears being able to shake her father's resolution. With pale cheeks and inflamed eyes, she appeared in costly garments and splendid .wedding ornaments, not a happy bride, but like a sacrifice to whom" one dedicated a solemn death. But before she became an offer- ing to the inflexible will of her father, before one forced her to the altar, she would seek consolation and assistance of the mighty protectress of suffer- ing maidens, of her, the Queen of Heaven, throw herself at her feet and pray to her in the chapel of the castle. And so she hastened to the chapel and threw herself before the figure of the Holy- Virgin. Without your help, oh Mary full of grace, am I eternally lost, grief and sorrow will kill me! protect me, save thy child from such misery!" So she supplicated the Holy Virgin, and long lay she there at her feet, when at last impatient, Kurt hastened and impetuously demanded of her to join the marriage procession. But the devout Prayer had marvellously strengthened Gerda's courage, and with a placid mien she advanced to the knight, glanced still once to the side where on the pinnacle of Reichensteiri Kuno gloomy and sad regarded the castle Rheinstein, and followed, full of con- fidence in the mother of the Redeemer, the pre- ceding Kurt. Arrived to the expectant guests of the Feast, she begged, in order to ride to church, they would 134 KHE1NSTEIN. allow her grey ambler to be saddled, which Kuno of Reichenstein had presented her on her 18* birth- day. One did. as she wished, and now the pro- cession went down the mountain to St. Clement's church, the ruins of which are again replaced. Kuno saw the procession from his castle, and irresolute, whether he should revenge himself on his rival or bury himself in a cloister, he regarded, abstractedly sunk in grief, when suddenly an extra- ordinary sight roused him out of his sadness. Just in the moment, as the procession had arrived at the church, Gerda's horse, which till now had kept quiet step, began to prance, and overthrowing all who approached, it broke away furiously. Directly the knights rode after to bring it back; but in vain, it galloped to the Rhine, in which to throw itself Gerda not regarding Kurt's calling, drove it on, for death in the cold stream had been desired by her; however on the banks of the river the faithful animal turned, and quick as an arrow it fled up the steep rock, on the summit of which Reichenstein was with its massive walls : scarcely quick enough could Kuno let down the drawbridge to receive the beloved, who was in so wonderful a manner led to his arms. Then after resigning themselves to the most lively pleasure, he ordered, the doors to be imme- diately closed . care for the embrasures and al- together put all in the most defensive condition, unnecessary trouble however, the Heaven had LORCH. 136 already spoken its judgment. A few minutes after Gerda's arrival, Sifrid her father, was severely wounded by the stumbling of his horse, brought on a bier to the door of Reichenstein; he requested friendly admittance, and blessed, from free in- clination a union which, to accomplish, God un- mistakeably had determined. The given promise to the knight of Ehrenfels had already been dis- charged by Death ; for in the same boat, in which some hours before Kurt exulting was conducted to theRheinstein, one now carried back to Ehren- fels a wedding dressed corpse: chasing in blind rage after the ambler running away with Gerda, the unfortunate had fallen with his charger on a rock of the bank, and had broken his skull. Lorch. The Devil's ladder. n a castle at Lorch, theruins of which one sees not far from Assrnannshausen, once sat knight Gilgen silent and absorbed. Almost an old man, he reviewed his past stirring life and the un- success of his hitherto exertions and actions. As a young man he had been with Bromser of Riidesheim in the Holy Land, and had been a valiant combatant for the conquering of the Holy 136 LORCH. Sepulchre. After his return he had married a beautiful . although poor maiden , an orphan , to whom he was most devotedly attached. But after a years domestic felicity, he lost his wife by the birth of a daughter named Gerlinde. In order to stun the pain of that loss, and if possible forget it, he had mixed himself in the dis- putes and affairs of the neighbourhood, and so defended several years a number of quarrels in the interests of his friends. The consequences were unfortunately the loss of his possessions, and the necessity to satisfy himself with the small income of his family-castle Morosely he retired therefore from every intercourse, and only the dear child, to which he applied all love and care, held him to this world. In such a monotonous life he had passed many years. He was visited by a hermit, whose cell was in the near mountains, and who was re- cognised every where as a magician. He under- stood to awaken in the morose knight the taste for palmistry, astrology and other secrets arts, and after repeated visits, won his interest so much for these things, that instruction in the same formed Gilgens favourite occupation. The knight had the hope by the black-art to open a connection with the world of spirits, and thereby obtain knowledge of hidden treasure, as well as the possibility, to raise them, an endeavour, which in those times was not unusual, and as the legend was, had al- ready often been richlv rewarded. LORCH. 137 Gerlindewas and remained her father's favourite, and his highest joy. For her principally it was that he strove for money and property, so that once, a rich heiress she might be the wish of all knights, not only for her fortune as she promised to be, but by her beauty and grace. Her bodily charms be- gan to develope themselves in a surprising manner, already with her thirteenth year, and as well pro- portioned as her mother, she appeared to have inherited fortunately her virtues, and a quiet al- most melancholy manner rendered her tender traits still more interesting. It was on a spring-evening, that the knight silent and absorbed sat in his armchair. The her- mit had just left him, and his exertions, by all magical operations to find out, according to tradi- tion, an immense treasure in the mountain, had remained without effect. However the chiromancer had left him with the assurance, that he would certainly succeed in pointing out the place, latest in seven days, by the beginning of a complete eclipse of the moon; but the knight doubted so much the more of the success , because already manysimilar assertions of the magician had proved themselves false. The weather was rough and uncomfortable; the wind howled round the towers and bastions of the castle, the weather-vane creaked, and the clouds hurried past. All nature seemed to be in revolu- tion, and only with attention, could one hear, the 138 LORCH. watcher's horn at such an unusual hour. Scarcely had these tones ceased, as a groom entered to announce, there was a strange little man standing before the door who demanded a night's-lodging. His appearance was so singular and strange, that the porter hesitated to open, and therefore had sent to learn the knight's wishes. The knight, in- quisitive to see the guest, went to the door, and perceived by the pale light of the moon, moment- arily shining through the clouds, - A dwarf scarcely six span tall, In scarlet coloured garment, Flowing over his shoulders as a pall, The grey-locked hair seemed to torment. A small yellow cap, in tassels rich, First narrow then wide, as a pear, Ascended almost like a crown, which, The deeply feared -brow seemed to bear. He twirled a small staff in the air And unintelligibly talked - Appearing a Being of precipice rare As if from deep ravine he walked. The hermit bad already warned the knight against an inimical gnome -tribe; he therefore called rudely and indignantly to the dwarf: w What is your wish?" ..Let me enter", it echoed, ! wish LORCH. 139 refreshment and lodging for the night; to-morrow I shall travel father, and will reward you for the service of love." w With nothing", replied Gilgen, whom the deep bass of the stranger highly dis pleased, w such rascality does not come into my castle. Yon were the right one, to bewitch my cattle, and corn and eggs carry awaj r through the air, and as reward to trouble me in some manner. March off, to your equals, and do not trouble me any longer." So calling out, he shut the window and hastened back; the dwarf murmured some- thing to himself, and disappeared in the bushes. The next morning Gilgen went hunting and only returned late in the afternoon, and then learned to his great astonishment that Gerlinde had disappeared. She had not returned from a promenade, which she had taken alone, and not- withstanding all the searchings of the servants, she could not be found. Immediately all the men- servants were obliged to mount and rummage the country in all directons. The knight himself did not regard fatigue and weakness ; he mounted his best charger and searched through mountain and valley, forest and field, in calling out the name of his loved child. Coming to a mountain, called the Kedrich, he met a shepherd boy of whom he in- quired concerning his daughter. The boy informed him, that at noon he had seen three dwarfs in red mantles , who had led - away on horseback , a beautiful maiden of about fourteen years, and they 140 LORCH had disappeared under the alder trees of the mountain. Beside himself with grief Gilgen rode as near as possible to the Kedrich, and there called-ont three times : ^Gerlinde, where are you?" Scarcely had he done so, as he perceived on the summit of the inaccessible mountain-cone his child, that longingly stretched out her arms towards him. But behind the maiden stood the same gnome, who yesterday had demanded admittance to the castle, and mockingly the dwarf called to him: B That is the reward for your Hospitality." What was to be done? To climb the rocky mountain was impossible : Hitherto nobody had ventured, to make the trial, for it was known, the crevices could not be hewn Yet the knight would make himself a road. A number of workmen ap- peared the next day with chisels, axes, and ham- mers : but they could not work the hard rock, and after fatiguing themselves the whole day, a shower of stones fell upon them from the height and drove them away. Despairing of all. the knight hastened, although the night had already commenced, to the hermit's hut. He related to him. what had occurred, / and the old man sank into a deep meditation, then he lit a tire, boiled a beverage from all sorts of herbs, in stirring which sparks crackled, and he muttered unintelligible words, then he poured the fluid into a hole in the wall, where they sparkled in a thousand flames and thereby spoke loudly: LORCH. 141 Regard here from your flaming throne On your servant and faithful sou. Hear my deep, profound request And, be executed my behest. The on Kedrich, living gnomen, A knight's child have stolen ; The father is in pitiful distress For his child, his heart's mistress. Oh! help with your whole might, You master of the midnight, Thee a pair of owls bring I you And a goat as sacrifice true." As soon as he had spoken these conjuring words, there began a fearful noise in the chimney; the wind whistled through doors and windows with cutting tones, so that the knight was overcome with horror and anxiety. After a time the magician murmured articulate sounds , and directly it was again still. Then he said toGilgen: ^Return home, knight, and hope for the best. On the very same day, that I will deliver you a treasure, I hope also, to free your daughter from the malicious power of the dwarf." Somewhat quieted Gilgen returned to his castle, and the next morning the Hermit announced to him, that the subterranean prince, to whom he called, had given the following answer: 142 I.OKCH. ,,A black knight, and horse as black, With fine arms for attack, In dream, he the maid already saw. Whom to save. Kedrich will draw." The denoted black knight must also be waited for. On the third day towards evening a black knight really appeared at the castle, in black ar- mour, and on black charger, and inquired after a very young maiden who had in a dream appeared to him, and whom he was destined to save from some great danger. Who was happier thanGilgen? The guest, who ri amend himself Ruthelm, was heartily welcomed, and the next morning early saw the two knights riding to the Hermit, where further proceedings were spoken about and di- rectly commenced. All three went to a height opposite Kedrich, and crept into a cavern at its btise. Here the ma- gician lit a large tire and threw a quantity of mag- ical perfume into the flame, in omrmimng the form of incantation. The knight Ruthelm was ob- liged to place himself in a circle, which the ma- gician designated on the ground, and before long, it began to be animated in the depths of the cavern. By the light of the clear flaring fire the astonished knight saw a most wonderful apparition: From dark rocky lap well'd Of dwarfs a great multitude bow'd. Soon was the wide cavern held, By the cries of the lamenting crowd. LORCH. 145 It was their chalk-like faces In colour like their clothes. Creeping about as twilight graces Filling- the cavern with living throes. The chief and tallest of them advanced to Ruthelm, bowed seven times to the earth and said: ,,Are you the selected knight, The noble maiden's bold adder. So speak if it please your might, We begin to build the ladder." The knight consented and directly the dwarfs hastened into the wood. Then began carpenting, hammering, sawing, and cutting which lasted till evening. Then the dwarf-king again stepped be- fore the knight and repeated: 5,\Vhat us the master of the depths found, Of water-abj^ss and fire-gulf bound. Commanded , is before dark night Completed by diligence of our might. Then ascend, fighter, plead By seven hundred steps not fatigued The ladder to the mountains rally, To be the tender maiden's ally. There above , are star'd To you cunningness sped ; Therefore be on your guard, Else they will strike you dead. 144 LOKCH. Consider are they The known red gnomes Secure on Kederich's stones Destine you their prey." Scarcely had he said this, so the whole swarm of dwarfish carpenters passed quickly into the cavern and disappeared; but their work, the gi- gantic ladder, stood leaning against the steep wall of the rock. The knight Ruthelm prepared himself, to commence the dangerous ascent; the Hermit put a miraculous ring on his finger, and recom- mended, to turn the Talisman in the moment of danger. The twilight had meanwhile begun, and the party remaining behind passed the night in the wood, curious to learn the success of the ladder-way. Notwithstanding the severe climbing , the knight could not reach the height before day-break. Firstly, as the morning fog from the valley dissipa- ted itself, he saw that he was on a wide plain, on which the most luxuriant landscape, and a charm- ing garden wes spread before him. He could scarcely believe in his eyes; and his astonishment increased as he wandered through the garden; for all the fruits of the tropics grew here in abundance and in incomparable beauty. Soon the adventurer saw a crystal palace, before which two red gnomes, evidently should have stood as sentinels, but for- tunately had fallen asleep. Without much reflec- tion, he cut off their heads, then forced his way LORCH. 14:5 into the castle, and here he met the ravisher of Gerlinde. Immediately they seized their swords, arid began a violent struggle. The little one fought quickly and cleverly, he was obliged to avoid Ruthelm's heavy blows; but as he could do noth- ing against his bravery, he had recourse to magic, and suddenly he sat heavily on the knight's neck. He did not neglect, to turn the ring, and in con* sequence he was able to rid himself of his enemy, and throw him to the ground. He then threw him- self on the sorcerer, and in threatening him with a dagger, he extorted the confession of Gerlinde's place of concealment. Then he stabbed the gnome, and hastened to the place, where he hoped to find the imprisoned. After having wandered through the magical apartments of the miraculous palace, he found the hiding place of Gerlinde. She reposed in an agree- able morning slumber, and the knight thought never to have seen a more charming creature. For a time he stood surprised and dazzled by so much beauty, and he could not resolve, to disturb her sweet sleep. At last he awoke the beauty with a kiss, and in begging her not to be frightened, he told her, he was come, to free her and to conduct her to her father's arms. The dear child believed to dream, as she heard such words from an un- known person; however she willingly resigned herself to the guidance of the knight. Both now traversed the long row of apartments, and after KIEFER, Legends of the Rhine. 10 146 ' LOKCH. they had loaded themselves with the valuable jew- els, which had been employed for ornamenting the rooms, they entered the garden. Scarcely had they passed through it, when it, with castle and beautiful environs, sank into the earth with a ter- rible crash, so that nothing remained but the bare rocks. Horrified they hastened to the ladder, and with great difficulty they descended it; however they fortunately succeeded, and with indescribable joy father and daughter embraced each other. Some weeks afterwards the ki tight Ruthelm led Gerlinde as his wife to a fine castle, which he possessed in Lower -Franken, the father sold his, and not to live alone, left with his children. As the jewels which they had brought from the magic castle were of immense value, the knight Gilgen with his t'cimily possessed riches in abundance, and also the Hermit received a large share of the treas- ure. But in the neighbourhood ofLorch one has since heard nothing more of the malicious gnomes of the Kederich, who had done so much evil to the inhabitants of the vicinity. The Archer. Near Lorch, on the boundary of the Rhine- valley stand the ruins of the former castle Fursten- eck. Knight Oswald, owner of this castle, an ex- cellent archer, lived in bitter enmitv with Wilin LORCH. 147 von rfaueck , a neighbouring nobleman, who at- tempted by all sorts of cunning snares to get him in his power. He succeeded in doing this, in attack- ing Oswald from an ambush, as accompanied by a groom he was returning home. The prisoner was dragged to Saneck, and thrown into the depths of a tower, and soon afterwards cruelly deprived of his sight. At Fiirsteneck it was at first believed he, had been killed by robbers : but as there were no in- dications of such an act, so Edwin, Oswald's only son, knowing the malice and cunning of Saneck, had the suspicion, his father could have fallen into his power. Resolved, to venture all to procure certitude upon this point, Edwin disguised himself as an itinerant singer, in which he was assisted by his dexterity in playing the harp, and wandered to- wards Saneck. Near the castle he rested under a tree, and directed his regards principally to a large tower of the castle, where as a foreboding told him, was his father's prison. He had not long lain there, as a man joined him, who seemed to be a peasant from the neigh- bourhood and accosted him in these terms: Why do you regard so particularly that strong tower? that is a cage, in which they confine birds after they have well plucked off their feathers." ,,Is it a prison then?" asked Edwin. ^Certainly", he replied, and made confidential by the young man's 148 LORCH. friendly conversation, and more so by a touching song which he sung, the unknown related, how he had been an unseen spectator, (hat in that tower a knight and his servant had been imprisoned. Edwin had much trouble, to repress and hide the impression, which this assertion made on him, and tried to learn other particulars , but all, he could learn was, that in some days there would be a grand banquet at Saneck. He determined, to use this circumstance in order to examine the place, to visit the castle disguised as a singer. On the mentioned day he repaired thither. Jubilation and noisy joy echoed from the saloons, and as he en- tered, the heads of the persons present were al- ready much heated by wine. They welcomed the strange singer, and readily listened to his songs; but after drinking so much that they were partly intoxicated, they paid no more attention to him, and he remained unnoticed. More excited by wine than his table-companion, the knight Wilm talked in a very lively manner with him; and the masked singer neared to overhear their conversation. ,,Do you know too" , said the neighbour to Saneck, ,,one suspects you of capturing the knight Oswald of Fiirsteueck, and of having imprisoned him." w Hum", answered the other, w all tales are not lies." ,,0ne asserts too", continued the other, ,,you have even blinded him." ,,Well", answered the other, w what does it signify if a candle is blown out, or goes out, that is the same thing." w But it LORCH. 149 is a pity", said a third, who heard the conversation, w for the art of archery which Oswald possessed in so high a degree." ! will wager, he will still hit his object if one makes it known to him" , said another knight. ,,Done, I will wager that he will not", called out in arrogant inebriation Saneck, arid ordered the pris- oner to be brought before him. Edwin who had heard all, could scarcely restrain himself, for grief and anger almost made him mad, as his father's pity exciting figure entered the saloon. All present sprang to their feet, to be spectators of the result of the quickly known wager. As Wilm made the unfortunate prisoner acquainted with the wager, and ordered bow and arrows to be given to him, a sudden thought seemed to penetrate through the blind knight; convulsively he seized the weapons, and said : Knight Saneck give me a sign where you place the object?" ,,Here", he answered, n on this table, I place the cup which you are to hit." ! shall hit my object", said in the same mo- ment Oswald, the arrow flew deep into the heart of Saneck. A wild cry arose; but Edwin sprang forward, stepped before his father, and called loudly: ! am the son ef this poor, against all laws of chivalry, imprisoned and blinded man! Which- ever of you who loves honour and right, will ap- prove of his act, whoever thinks otherwise. I will answer with my sword." All were astonished, but most of the knights present declared themselves 150 BACHARACH. for Oswald and Edwin, who, crying with sadness and joy embraced each other. Free, Edwin con- ducted his father to his castle, near Lorch: and although he could not restore his lost sight: he sweetened his last days bv filial tenderness. Bacharach. Palatine Count Hermann of Stahleck. the wildly romantic country of Bacharach, ^f equally charmingand engaging for eye, and feel- NJ> ing. is also to be found, as particularly rnemor. able, theso called B ach u s-Al tar. It standsjustbe- low the town, between an islet, and the right bank of the Rhine, but unfortunately it is on\y possible to see it, and read the inscription, now by time become illegible, when the water is very low. This altar is generally considered to be a Memorial of the Romans, who had placed it here to their wine-god, on a later supposed inundated island, and from which, without doubt, the name of the town must have been derived. Above Bacharach . lies picturesquely on the summit of a mountain, the ruin Stahleck. This castle was inhabited, in the middle of the 12^ cen- tury . by Hermann of Stahleck, nephew of the Emperor Conrad 3 rd . equally brave and wise, but BACHARACH. 151 an avaricious knight. With his young amiable wife he could have enjoyed a peaceful existence, if his inquiet spirit, and longing for action had not pre- vented him. It is true, the gentle supplication of his wife exercised so much influence over him, that he did not take the cross and seek danger in the distant Eastern countries ; but so much the more was he occupied at home with the execution of a long entertained plan. He wished to obtain a great part of the country subject to the Arch- bishoprics of Mayence and Trier, to which from more than one reason he believed to have a right of possession. His hatred against every spiritual domination, and particularly to that of the mentioned bishops, excited him still more to put his plan into execu- tion, with the assistance of the faithful ally ne- cessity, and many other knights of the same opinion as himself. He began the war by storming the castle Treis, which , belonging to the diocese of Trier, and situated on the Mosel, was an important and strong place. Adelbert of Monstreil, Archbishop of Metz and Trier, thereupon collected his men, to obtain again the lost castle. But not believing himself sufficiently strong against Hermann's united power, he sought his refuge in spiritual weapons. As a battle was about to take place between the two armies, Adel- bert with a crucifix in his hand, made a speech to his companions-in-arms,in which he said, the angel 153 BACHARACH. Michael had appeared to him the night before, had handed him the held crucifix, and promised him certain victory, if the same combatant in tirm belief on an invisible higher power, would attack the enemy courageously. The speech had the best results; Hermann's troops, perceived the advancing bishop with the crucifix, and the fanatical courage of their opponents, did not remain firm, and fled, withouthaving fought. This unfortunate commence- ment of his enterprise however, did not deter the Palatinate Count, he continued the war with renewed vigor, also against the Archbishop of Maj-ence, Arnold of Selnhofen , and would have completely carried out his intentions, if the spirit- ual gentlemen had not found, and used, another very wonderful party to free themselves from their indefatigable and dangerous enemy. The chaplain of the castle Stall leek was won by them, and seduced by splendid promises to Intrigue arid Treachery. At first he refused abso- lution, by confession, to the wife of Stahleck, be- cause her husband was unjustly warring against high dignitaries of the Church ; and because it was the duty of the wife to use all means in her power, viz: persuasion and supplication, against such crimes; then as in this embarassment the anxious wife did not know how to act; the chaplain urged her to write a letter to Hermann, to conjure him to cease the struggle, and as this remained without success, he proceeded to the forcible shameful BACHARACH. 153 means which he had already long since prepared. Two discharged criminals, unprincipled villains, were hired by him to ride into the camp of Her- mann, announce themselves as soldiers seeking service, and allow themselves to be enlisted. Then they should seize a suitable opportunity to murder the enemy of the hishop, and then return to re- ceive the rich reward of their action, and absolu- tion for past and future sins. Only too well the hardened villains executed their detestable commission. They forced them- selves into the count's tent as the watch was con- fided to them, struck off his head, with which they fled to the Traitor , as proof of their obedience. This offering was however remarked by a ser- vant of the countess who was immediately informed. Beside herself with anger and pain, she forced herself, with dagger in hand, into the chaplain's chamber, and there seeing her dear husband's head on the table, she threw herself, with heart-rending cry: H You are the murderer of my husband" upon the wretch and stabbed him. Then she seized the dear head, and covered it with innumerable kisses, and suddenly changing her conduct, she ran like one insane about the castle. She raved against all who approached her , in a manner , that left no doubt of her insanity, at last fled to the highest garret of the castle and precipitated herself, smashing her bones to pieces. Later a coffin united the rests of the unfortunate 154 BACHARACH. loving wife. The revenging Nemesis however soon overtook the principal planner of the abominable murder, the Archbishop Arnold of Mainz. By op- pressions of all kinds he was since a long time ex- tremely hated by his subjects who forced them- selves, in public revolt, into his palace, destroyed all with fire and sword and chased the tyrant. Not- withstanding he returned, to exercise terrible vengeance on the guilty. In vain his friends warned him, uselessly wrote to him the prophetess Hilde- garde: w Turntothe Lord whom you have forsaken ; it is high time, for the hour of your death is near."' He paid no attention to it, and took, the castle being destroyed, his seat in the abbey of Jakobsberg, outside the town. This circumstance hastened his ruin. The abbot, a secret enemy of the Archbishop, betrayed him, in giving opportunity to the enraged citizens, wo forcibly entered the abbey by night. They overpowered and cut down the garrison, and at last murdered Arnold himself, who had done them so much injury. 155 Kaub. Castle Gutenfels. the middle of the IS 1 . 11 century the castle at was inhabited by Count Philipp of Falken- stein with his extremely beautiful sister Guta. A number of young knights from far and near courted the maiden: however none could boast of the least success, for the countess was insensible to all suitors and refused all decidedly. At that time there was held at Cologne a magnificent Tournament, to which knights from the farthest districts of Germany were invited, and a great multitude of spectators were attracted. Among the nobles present at the diversion, was a knight from England. Nobody besides the Arch- bishop of Cologne knew him; but the Bishop as- sured that the foreigner was lit for theTournament. He was of the Britons a man of the handsomest, most powerful figure, of the most engaging, finest manners, and therefore for the assembled ladies an object of particular attention. The truly royal accoutrement, in which he strode about, the golden lion on his shield, and the excellent charger, which carried him, increased the interest for him. Besides he obtained the most brilliant victories, and the most valiant knight lowered his lance before him. Also the Falkeusleiner and his sister were pres- ent, and Guta. who did not remain an uninterested 156 KAUB. spectator of the acts of the foreigner, wished the time of the B'estival past, so that she could regard his face. This good fortune she enjoyed in the highest degree; but from this moment she lost her peace of mind. She felt an unconquerable passion for the handsome Englishman; she longed for an opportunity, to speak with him and win his regard. But the enigmatical knight appeared to have regarded Guta and to feel for her and as s.he was destined, whether by her own arrangement or by chance, to hand the prize to the Victor, he clearly made the maiden understand his feelings. In the surprise of the moment she dropped her glove, of which the foreigner took quickly possession, in begging her to allow him, to keep it as a remem- brance of that fine hour. He expressed himself more explicitly the same evening, in the banquetting saloon while the music resounded and he was Guta's inseparable companion. He begged secretly for her love, swore to be hers, and in three months return from his country, where duty now called him, and to come to her brother's castle. Then he would publicly sue for her and declare his name, which circumstances bade him still keep secret. Guta could scarce!}' reply, but her glances were sufficiently eloquent. With secret pressure of the hands the lovers separated. Five months were already passed, and the Briton had not yet fulfilled his promise. Germany was at that time (the house of Hohenstauf being KAUB. 157 extinct),niore than ever the battle-iield of the party- struggles for the election of the Emperor. Alphons of Castile, and Richard of Cornwallis, brother of Henry. 3? d king of England, were at last proposed, and Richard having received the most influential votes, chosen for Emperor. After he had been solemnly crowned at Aix-la-chapelle, he began his journey into the interior of the country, subject to his sceptre. On a beautiful spring morning, Guta sat solitary and sad in her chamber. She thought of the foreign knight, whom she believed never to see again, and whom she now accused of the most culpable imprudence, now fancied fallen in battle, and as all hope to possess him, disappeared, she renounced the joys of this life and took the firm resolution , to retire to a convent. Trumpets sounded from the high road, and a splendid pro- cession stopped before the castle. Guta concealed herself, not to be obliged to show her weeping face. But count Falkenstein received the brilliant visit with hospitable kindness and conducted it into the state-room. Here he recognised on entering the English knight, and was much astonished as he addressed him thus : ! am Richard of Cornwallis chosen German Emperor, and come to solicit the hand of your sister, the countess Guta, of whom I became enamoured by the Tournament at Cologne, and with whom I am now resolved to share my throne. I beg you, let her be called, so that she 158 KAUB. can decide concerning my demand." ,,My Imperial Master", replied the knight, w my sister Guta has been ill since mouths; a secret grief seems to afflict her, threatening to wither her youthful bloom, and she appears most unwillingly before strangers." Bring her" , added the Emperor, w this glove, and say, the bearer wishes to speak with her." This surprising message and the sight of her glove changed Guta's mourning into themostliveiy joy. Impetuously she hastened to the beloved, and not yet knowing his high title, she Hew to his arms. But after the first moments of this happy saluta- tion, she remembered that the knight had not once mentioned his name or country, and indescribable was her astonishment, as her brother told her whom she embraced as her futere husband. She regarded this declaration as joking, and even when Richard assured her, that her brother had spoken the truth, she still doubted, till finally the splendour of ihe numerous and noble retinue, and the honours which were shown to the beloved, fully convinced her. With imperial pomp the wedding-festival was celebrated after a few weeks, and the highly blessed Count Falkeustein from that time named his castle near Kaub , in honour of his beloved sister, Guterifels. 159 Palatinate near Kaub. Palatinate Count stone. Conrad of Staut'en, Emperor Friedrich's 11* half ^brother, was possessor of the Palatinate Count stone, that beautiful, firm castle known by the name of the Palatinate, built on a rocky island, below Kaub, seems to meet surprisingly the view. In possession of all riches Konrad only wanted one thing, a son, that could continue his race, and inherit his estates. All the descendants of the knight was a daughter, Agnes, just as gentle as she was charming and sensible, who was beloved by her parents with the greatest tenderness. Powerful Princes solicited her hand, among whom were the Dukes of Bavaria and Brunswick, and even the King of France. But Agnes had already chosen. Henry of Brunswick alone, distinguished by chivalry and a handsome person, had found favour with Agnes, and both resolved to confirm their bond of love by the favor of Agnes' mother. The Count, ignorant of this, had at the same time received news of Henry's exertions for the beauti- ful Agnes, and knowing the Emperor's, his brother's intention, to keep the Palatinate in the family and to marry the maiden to one of their relatives, so he reflected how he could, the best, guard her from the snares of the Bronswicker. For the purpose of effecting this object, to properly finish and 160 PALATINATE NEAR KAUB. strengthen the Rhine-palatinate, so that it could serve the mother and daughter, as a not very accessible, and yet well guarded dwelling. This plan he carried out. But love found in what was intended as an obstacle, exactly a welcome assist- ance. Henry succeeded in entering, disguised as a Pilgrim, and Agnes' clever mother, who had fa- voured his entrance, took care, that the band of love was sanctified by priestly blessing. The united then enjoyed the whole bliss of their iirst, liery love. However the consequences of the, in quietude, effected connexion began to show themselves, and as it would be impossible, ever to conceal them from the Count, Agnes' mother undertook to dis- close it to the father. It is true on being made acquainted with the circumstances that Agnes' father fell into a terrible rage, however he reflected, what had occurred could not be changed, and he therefore resolved to go to the Imperial residence, which then was at Worms and inform the Emperor of all that had happened. Friedrich 1st reflected that a marriage, between a scion of the Welf and a daughter of the Hohenstaufen, concluded, could reconcile the traditional hatred of these races, gave his consent, and the Palatine saw a grand festival that in splendour and magnificence was never equalled. The Palatinate Count who had made the ex- perience, how necessary it was, to guard daughters, OBERWESEL. 161 and to render it easier to his descendants, had the Palatine still more strengthened, and decided that in one of its chambers Agnes should keep her first child-bed, and that it should serve for the same purpose to all future Palatine countesses. This chamber is still shown to all visitors in memory of that event. Oberwesel. The seven Virgins. / ear Oberwesel, on a height, since long in ruins )G )was the castle Schoneberg, once the seat of a family of the same name. Here resided a knight with seven daughters. Because destiny had notpre- sented him with a son, and anticipating the ex- tinction of his race , he grieved extremely and thereby fell into a severe illness, which prema- turely tore him from his children. Unfortunately their education was very defective, their father, early a widow, scarcely troubled himself about them, and a distant relative, who ought to have replaced their mother, had developed in them more vanity and coquetry than domestic virtues. After the death of this relative, the already grown-up daughters were left to themselves, and as they all shone in youthful beauty, to their castle belonged rich estates, they did not want suitors, who an- KIEFER, Legends of the Rhine. 162 OBERWESEL. nounced themselves to try their fortune. But it seemed, as if the hearts of the Orphans were in- capable of feeling the tender passion. Every guest was received most hospitably, and he could remain, as long as he pleased at the castle, however when he thought of making his wooing effective, instead of promises, he found only mockery and sneers. Therefore many left the castle and Jts inhabitants in justifiable contempt, however the beauty and riches of the maidens always attracted new suitors, so that there was always present no inconsiderable number, and a gay and joyous life was led there. Several years the castle maidens had continued this certainly egotistical, but dangerous and con- temptible life, and many knights from far and near, effected by love, sojourned still with the seducing syrens, flattering themselves with hopes, and troubling themselves to supplant their rivals. By a grand banquet two knights fell into a jealous dispute concerning their mistresses, which threatened to end in a bloody duel. Both were too popular not to excite general attention to this dis- turbance, and endeavors to reconcile them. By this occasion several expressed themselves loudly, that one should urge a final decision on the castle- maidens, so that no further discord could happen, and each could know to what he had to trust. This proposal pleased so much the more, because every one believed, to be the favored of her whose love he had troubled himself to win. Urgently therefore O15ERWESEL. 163 the seven charmers were requested , to declare themselves decidedly, and make a choice for marriage. Against this demand was no refuge, and the maidens saw themselves obliged , the next day to note those whom Destiny determined their wooers. At the destined hour the suitors appeared in the roomy State-saloon, where they were assigned, and full of expectation they riveted their eyes on the door, through which the Graces, announcing Fortune and Misfortune, were to enter. A servant appeared, to announce to the waiting knights, that the Virgins expected them in an arbor, on the Rhine. Quickly all the marriage candidates hast- ened there, but how astonished were they, to see their fair ones in a boat, already distant from the bank, on the raised stern of the boat the eldest Prude stood. From where she made the following speech to the Candidates : w lt has never been our intention , to Ipve one of you, or indeed to take as husband. We only love our liberty too much, to like to sacrifice it for any man to be his Slave. With the Confession that we have treated you as fools, we connect the announcement that we leave our castle for a long time, to go to an Aunt in the Netherlands, where we intend to continue the same game with the knights of that Country, that we have played with you. Therefore good-bye, sweet gentlemen, good-bye and do not fret too much." This speech was accompanied by loud laughter 164 LURLEI. from the sistersi, and the boat continued its course. But what happened ! While the ashamed and de- ceived knights followed the mockers with inflamed looks, a sudden storm arose, the boat rocked more and more, struck violently on a hidden rock, and was wrecked, so that the collective Transgressors were drowned. On the spot, where this occurred, there soon arose above the surface of the water seven recks, which to the present day, are called the seven sisters, there stand all the Prudes as warning and terror to all Navigators. L u r I e i. Lorelei. ,s Antiquity willingly peopledits mountains and )castles its fields and rivers withfairies and mag- ical-beings, and to these ascribed benevolent or pernicious influence on Men, so it has been especially to the Rhine to which are connected many a line and romantic legend of Water-witches, Nymphs and Gnomes, recited from father to son, and so preserved to our Times. But no conn try of our fatherland is more adapted to give a certain consistence and color to narra- tions, of which the foundation is partly historical, LURLEI. 165 than the sometimes uncommonly lovely, occasion- ally terribly wild banks of the Middle and Upper Rhine. By regarding the heaven - aspiring as it were out of the stream rising rocks with their per- pendicular, oft projecting walls, by the singular formation of the mountains, by the noise, with which the waves force their way through rocky passages, and rush through the once precipitated stone-mass, one easily believes himself placed in a Fairy-land, and if anywhere, so was here the favourite place of that Being, with which the Imagination occupied itself so willing^. One of the most known and charming Legends is that of the Water-nymph Lore, which at Ley, a rock situated above St. Goarshausen, had her res- idence, from which therefore she was called the Lorelei. To the shippers she appeared on the top of this rock, in the loveliest most charming figure. Picturesquely flowing Garments and Veil of the color of the green waves surrounded her tenderly formed limbs; long blond hair waved from her shoulders, and who regarded her face could never more forget the glance of her animated eyes. As benevolent Fairy she gave favor and hap- piness to all the good inhabitants of the country, but to the evil-doers she showed herself inimical, and many who pertly rowed to the foot of the rock, and ventured to mock her power were seized by the raging waves and drawn into the abyss. Who impudently climbed to her favorite place, were 166 LIRLKl. cast into the shallows, or were seduced by her and lost themselves iii thorns and bushes, where all paths disappeared, so that only after several days exertions could they find their right way. In those times lived in the Ilhin-palatinate, the near magnificent island-castle. Palatinate Count Bruno and his only son Hermann . a handsome young man of twenty years, who was the flower of Chivalry and the delight of his father. Often and much the young knight had heard of the enchant- ing Lore at Lei, and every time, when he perceived the projecting rocks, he wished, to see the water- nymph , to whom he felt himself drawn by an irresistible power. Scarcely a day passed, that he had not this inexplicable feeling when near the mysterious Ley, he wished to be able to announce the feelings of his heart in an affecting manner, in hunting through the neighbourhood, or with his Zither seek out a quiet concealed place. Once already very late in the evening, nearer, than he had ever ventured to the foot of the moun- tain, in a grotto, he expressed his Longing in low singing, and casting his glances to the height, sud- denly there hovered round the top of the rock a brightness of unequalled clearness and color, which, in increasingly smaller circles thickened, was the enchanting figure of the beautiful Lore. An un- intentional cry of joy escaped the youth, he let his Zither fall, and with extended arms he called out the name of the enigmatical Being, who seemed LURLEI. 167 to stoop lovingly to him, and beckon to him in a friendly manner ; indeed, if his ear did not deceive him, she called his name with unutterable sweet whispers, proper to love. Beside himself with delight the youth lost his senses and sank senseless to the earth. Only with the morning-dawn did he recover his senses, and in feverish excitement he hastened to his father's castle. From this moment Hermann was as if changed. Like a dreamer he wandered about, only thinking on the beautiful fairy. He directed, as often as he left his father's dwelling, his steps only to Lei, and if the pleasures of the chase sometimes led him to a distance from the eastern woods, so in returning he was magically drawn to the vicinity, and he never approached, without saluting theplace,where she had appeared to him and had since occupied all his thoughts. The old count saw with affliction this change- ment in his son. He did not know the cause, but he concluded it was some unhappy passion, and therefore resolved to distract the inexperienced youth by serious occupation, and to open to him an active future. For this purpose he wished to send him to the Imperial -camp where the youth could win his knight's spurs. Herman was obliged, however unwillingly, to obey his fathers commands ; for it would have been a disgrace to him to withdraw from a struggle, which every knight zealously wished and obliged to 168 LURLEI. undergo manfully. It was on the evening before his departure, as he wished still once to visit the grotto, and offer to the Nymph of the Rhine his sighs, the tones of his Zither, and his songs. He went, this time accompanied by a faithful squire, whom he had let into the secret, down the stream. The moon shed her silvery light over the whole country; the steep bank mountains appeared in the most fantastical shapes, and the high oaks on either side bowed their branches on Hermann's passing. As soon as he approached the Lei, and was aware of the surf- waves, his attendant was seized with an inexpressible anxiety and he begged permission to land ; but the knight swept the strings of his guitar, directed his looks to the rocky summit and sang : Once I saw thee in dark night. In supernatural Beauty bright; Of Light-rays, was the Figure wove. To share its light locked -hair strove. Thy Garment color wave-dove, By thy hand the sign of love. Thy eyes sweet enchantment. Raying to me, oh! entrancement. Oh vvert thou but my sweetheart- How willingly thy love to part! With delight I should be bound o To thy rocky house in deep ground. LUKLEI. 169 Scarcely had these tones sounded, everywhere there began, tumult and sound, as if of voices above and below the water. On the Lei rose flames, the Fairy stood above, as that time, and beckoned with her right hand clearly and urgently to the infatuated knight, while with a staff in her left she called the waves to her service. They began to mount heavenward; the boat was upset, mocking every exertion ; the waves rose to the gunwale, and splitting on the hard stones, the boat broke into pieces. The youth sank into the depths, but the squire was thrown on shore by a powerful wave. As he, pale with anxiety and terror brought the strange narrative to the unhappy father, the old Count was overpowered with grief and anger. He swore, to be revenged on the Fairy, to seize her if possible with his own hands, and to deliver her to death by fire. For this purpose he hastened, the following night, with some bold comrades to Lei, surrounded and ascended the mountain, to search through it. There he saw, not without terror, the nymph on the top, standing perpendicularly above the water, plaiting her long tresses, the stranger regarded the Fairy with gloomy looks. Where is my son?" cried the Count beside himself. Lore pointed to the dephts, in singing with low, scarcely audible tones, like the sound of a distant Aeolian-harp: 170 LURLKJ. There below stands in the wave's womb Crystal-clear my fine castle tomb, There conducted I niy darling expected, Whom already long since I have selected. When she had finished she threw a glittering stone into the waves; immediately a wave rose and received the Fairy and conducted her below into the stream, where she disappeared to the eyes of the astonished pursuer. The Fairy was never more seen 5 but her en- chanting tones have often been heard. In the beautiful, refreshiug, still nights of spring, when the moon pours her silver light over the country, the listening shipmen hear from the rushing of the waves, the echoing clang of a wonderfully charming voice, which sings a song from the crystal castle, and with sorrow and fear he thinks on the young count Herman, seduced by the nymph. But the rock of the water nymph, formerly Lorelei, now named Lurlei, yields since that event, a beautifully repeating echo which is ever admired and praised as a gift of the Fairy. LURLE1. 171 The Lore-Lei. I do not known what it signifies, That I am so sorrowful? A fable of old Times so terrifies, Leaves my heart so thoughtful The air is cool and it darkens, And calmly flows the Rhine; The summit of the mountain hearkens In evening sunshine line. The most beautiful Maiden entrances Above wonderfully there, Her beautiful golden attire glances, She combs her golden hair. With golden cornb so lustrous. And thereby a song sings , It has a tone so wondrous, That powerful melody rings. The shipper in the little ship It effects with woes sad might ; He does not see the rocky clip, He only regards dreaded height. I believe the turbulent waves Swallow at last shipper and boat 5 She with her singing craves All to visit her magic moat. H. Heine. 172 St. Goar and St. Goarshausen. lowards the middle of the 16th century of the 'Christian era arrived in the then deserted, little inhabited valleys of the Rhine a pious, zealous Believer, the holy Goar. He huilt himself a hut in the wildly romantic country below Lurlei, where the stream, forced into a narrow rocky bed noisily rushes through. He not only communicated to the poor fishermen of the country the mild tenets of Christianity, but he taught these simple folks many useful things, such as the cultivation of the vine and other garden products, as well as a better construction for their vessels, so that the renown of the honored man was very extended. Siegebert, the Frankenking, a pious Christian sovereign, heard the praise of the holy Goar and w ished to make his acquaintance. Accordigly he was called to the Court, and he pleased the King so much, that he named him his friend and raised him to the dignity of Bishop of Trier. However this title did not suit the unassuming, modest man of God; he preferred, to still live among the fishers and be their benefactor. And that he remained, till he was called in a high age, to a better life. The great Reverence and Love, which he so extensively enjoyed, built over his hut an oratory, which was visited by Pilgrims from far and near, ST. GOAR AND ST. GOARSHAUSEN. 173 who came to pray at his grave ; the religions belief of that time ascribed to his Bones, the power of miraculously healing all sorts of maladies. Later this oratory was so enriched by pious gifts, that it was changed into a convent; no Pilgrim travelling along the Rhine, left it unfrequented, and the Legend was indeed spread, that to those who dis- regarded it, some misfortune happened. Even Charles the Great, as he once descended the Rhine, without visiting and praying at the shrine, is said to have experienced the truth of this Legend, in a thick fog suddenly covering the surface of the water and rendering his further travelling danger- ous. Only after the mighty sovereign had repaired his neglect, and performed his devotions at the grave of the holy man. was it again clear and the continuation of his journey possible. Among the many miraculous cures, which took place through the healing powers of Gear's grave, one mentions also the remarkable convalescence of the wife of Charles namely Fastrada, who seek- ing relief here from a dangerous malady found perfect health. And just on this grave too the sons of Louis were reconciled, their father having di- vided the kingdom between them, bloody hate had separated. The continually increasing riches of the convent allured later a numerous band of robbers, to obtain mastery of all its treasures. The fiends then set the convent on tire, and yielded all contained 174 STKKNBEKG AND LIEBKNSTKIN. documents and relics to the flames. But the pious feeling of the Middle-ages rebuilt the church and the continual pilgrimages caused many families to settle around it. Thus gradually rose the friendly small town, which bears the name of the miraculous solitary, as well as the opposite lying St. Goars- hausen. Sternberg and Liebenstein. The brothers. his old ancestral castle Liebeusteiri near } Hirzenach lived Kurt, a knight of that name. He had already experienced many bloody cambats, protected the good right of his Emperor in many a bloody battle, and now thought, of passing his days in quietude and in the joys of his two bloom- ing excellent sons. Heinrich and Conrad deserved to be called the father's pride; bot were equally inspired with genuine chivalrous feeling, a profound feeling for right, and a great predilection for arms; but in every thing else they were very dissimilar. Heinrich, the elder, earnest, still and reserved, was more a friend of domestic joys, as soon as Peace allowed them; while Conrad more lively, more ardent, allowed himself to be dominated by the impulse of the moment, but was also engaging from KTERNBERG AND LIBBENSTE1X. 1 75 his candid, natural nature. At the same time grew up with them Hildegarde, of the family Bromser, a relative and an orphan. The brothers loved her as a sister, because she, from childhood was re- garded so by them. But when they had attained the age of manhood, Kurt considered it necessary, to inform the sons of the true connection, at the same time expressing the wish, one of them would become Hildegarde's husband. From this moment the brothers regarded Hildegarde with other sen- timents; another Love replaced their former affec- tion, and both wooed for the maiden's favour. Heinrich esteemed her with profound sincere feeling, which he seldom expressed, Conrad with the light impetuous sentiment of first youth, less profound, and therefore richer in expressions. He was preferred by Hildegarde: but Heinrich buried in generous self-denial the infinite grief of his heart and was noble enough, to participate openly in his brother's happiness. It is true, the old knight knowing the character of his sons, had preferred to have seen, Heinrich and Hildegarde become a pair, but he did not wish to make any obstacles to her free choice; therefore he did not delay with his consent, and allowed all preparations to be made for a splendid marriage-festival. This however should only take place after the completion of a new castle to be called Sternberg ; and that the Families could enjoy uninterrupted intercourse, he had the castle built near his own. 176 STERNBERG AND L1EBENSTEIN. But Destiny had not decided for the wished for happiness. As little as Heinrich envied his brother the joy, he felt however, that it would be impossible for him to be the constantly quiet witness of it; he therefore longed for an excitable , active life , in which he could forget his unhappy inclination, per- haps could tind an heroical death. With such feelings nothing could have been more welcome to him, than the holy Bern hard of Clairvaux' appeal for Crusade to the Holy Land. With general inspiration this challenge was an- swered, troops of knights and combatants armed themselves ; the crusade flag waved on all castles, and thousands of brave heroic hearts beat with the hope to free and keep the Holy Sepulchre. Heinrich declared to his father he would go to Palestine, and would join the army of the Crusaders. Kurt knew the reasons of his son, and silently approved of them. Before the castle was finished, before the brother's marriage could be celebrated, the youth left his home and marched to the East with a chosen company of combatants. With him marched from that valley of the Rhine knightly youths, and young men of nearly all noble families, Bromser of Riidesheiin, Friedrich of Schwaben, Gilgen of Lorch, and many other friends, inspired like himself with pious zeal. Soon after Heinrich's departure, the knight Kurt became dangerously ill, and on the same day that the castle was finished, he departed this life. This STERNBERG AND LIEBENSTEIN. 177 death did not allow the marriage of the engaged till after the expiration of a year, a circumstance, which, as unwished for to Conrad as it first came, was however the cause of a complete changement of ideas. In company with some wild spirits of the neighbourhood, who, incapable of tender feelings, described the marriage-state to him as a trouble- some, restricting band, and defamed the weaker sex, the young knight learned to regard Hildegarde with indifference, and his love for her decreased so much, as his friends knew to make him more sensitive for the noisy pleasures of the chase and drin king-feasts. After several months, news was heard of Hein- rich from the Holy Land. On different occasions he had distinguished himself, and his name was mentioned with admiration in the Christian army, his sword feared by the Enemy. Conrad heard this news with the most eager participation, and with those feelings, that without to be envious, but rather with reluctance, that he could obtain the same renown and the same honor for his arms, instead of passing his days in inactivity and sense- less occupations. His resolution equally to join the Crusaders was as quickly resolved on, as exe- cuted , and after a hurried farewell from his bride, who melted in tears, he departed. His journey was fortunate; but as he did not possess his brother's despairing bravery, he could not obtain his renown, he was therefore soon tired KIEFER, Legends of the Rhine. 12 178 STERNBERG AND LIEBENSTEIK. of the tedious campaign, the fatigues and privations, and left Palestine after a short sojourn, to return to Europe. But before he embarked at Constan- tinople, he made the acquaintance of an exceed- ingly beautiful Greek lady of whom he became passionately amorous. Zealously he sued for her favor; with his agreeable figure and vivacious engaging manners he soon obtained it, and so he committed the folly, of wedding a lady little known to himself, and of a strange nation, and, notwith- standing the tender engagement at home, he con- ducted his wife there. Meditating and sorrowful Hildegarde sat in her chamber and reflected on her unfortunate destin}-, and as she regarded the beautiful, but uninhabited, and apparently, uselessly built Sternberg, she saw to her astonishment travellers with beasts of burden and baggage moving to that castle. Who could take for his residence her Foster father's castle, belonging to the two absent brothers, without her being informed a word about it? She called her waiting-maid, and ordered, that inquiries should be made ; she received a message, the more unex- pectedly it came, cut her so much the more to the heart, a news, filling her with terror and endless sorrow. Conrad it was said had returned from the war against the Infidels, he had connected himself with a most beautiful Greek-lady, and to-morrow would make his entry into Sternberg, which he had chosen for his residence. STERNBERG AND LIEBENSTEIN. 179 So it happened. The abandoned Hi Idegarde saw the Faithless, saw her engaged, with the stranger wife enter in the most splendid manner. The shameless did not throw one glance across; he avoided intentionally, to look at Liebenstein, not to disturb the bliss of his happiness which he felt at the side of his beautiful wife. Feast succeeded feast. Music and jubilee sounded daily till midnight across from Sternberg, and its hospitable halls were never empty of visiting, congratulating friends, who found themselves very comfortable at the richly appointed luxurious tables. But so much the quieter was it at Liebenstein. Hildegarde avoided the rooms , which looked towards the neighbouring castle, and removed to the most re- tired part of the castle. She passed her solitary hours in diligent occupation for the household and in praying. Late one evening, as all were already in deep sleep at Liebenstein a strange knight with his squire demanded admittance and lodging. Both were already granted by the castle-steward, the strange krUght conducted to his apartments and attended to, without Hildegarde's being acquainted of the arrival till the next morning. How astonished was she. as the knight quite unexpectedly appeared before her, to see the knight Heinrich. He was now returned home; but not because he was tired of war, but because he had heard of his brother's strange marriage, and only the thought of Hilde- 180 STERNBERG AND LIEBENSTEIN. garde's sorrow and abandonment did not allow him to remain at a distance from her. With sadness and reluctance he saw Hildegarde's pale, suffering figure, learned the, oft interrupted by tears, story of her misfortune and the outpour- ing of her grief. Without speaking a word of his intentions, he begged her to be composed, and hope for a happier future, then rested a day from his fatiguing journey, without any one at Sternberg knowing of his return. But on the fourth day he sent a confidant over to his brother, and had him challenged to mortal combat, on account of his unknightly behaviour, and faithlessness to Hildegarde. The challenge was accepted by Conrad, and the following day- break was to witness the terrible spectacle of a brother-duel. On the narrow way separating the two castles, stood, already by day-break the com- batants (who were by Nature destined to the most sincere Love and Concord), opposite each other with drawn Swords, and already had sounded the signal for the beginning of the decisive God's judgment, as a thickly veiled female figure stepped between the brothers and ordered peace. ^What do you wish to do?" said she with respect inspir- ing words, w do you wish to plunge your fratricidal steel into each other's bosom on my account? I forbid this abominable sinful struggle. It would be also useless; for my decision is taken. Still to- day a convent will receive me, where I can pass STERNBERG AND LIEBENSTETN. 181 niy days in quiet and prayer, in praying God that he will pardon your Conrad's falseness to me, as I also pardon you, and that he on you Heinrich may be pleased to pour his richest earthly blessings, as reward for your heroism and your knightly devotion to me." So she spoke; then ascended the mountain to the high road, where her attendants awaited her, and immediately began her way to a neighbouring convent. The brothers were reconciled to each other. Each returned to his castle, and if between both there was no cordial, sincere connection, because Heinrich could not approve of the strange sister- in-law, and fickle temper, with which she accepted his homage , there was however peace between them , and Conrad even visited Liebenstein oc- casionally. But a most unfortunate event for Con- rad however brought the brothers again more together. Already a long time Conrad's wife was in secret correspondence with a young knight who enjoyed hospitality at Sternberg, and at last eloped with her during a dark stormy night. This elope- ment not only convinced Heinrich of the unworthi- ness of his wife but also restrained for ever, his foolish passion for her, and allowed him to recog- nise in its fullest light, his base conduct to Hilde- garde. But with this knowledge and the repentance caused by it awoke in his heart his love to her, whom he had forsaken so shamefully, and he felt himself the more unhappy because the noble one 182 KREUZNACH. was now irretrievably lost to him. Only in his brother's affection he found consolation, and both resided in the castle Liebenstein while Sternberg was deserted. Hildegarde remained faithful to her vow, and bequeathed her rich possessions to the poor of the neighbourhood. Heinrichand Conrad lived together amicably till death separated them; and still now the neighbouring castles, which after the brother's decease fell to Bromser of Riidesheim, are called the Brothers. Kreuznach. The Ebernburg. \j||)wo legends are connected with the name of Wthis castle. By its siege in the 15* h century the provisions of the garrison were almost exhausted. But not to allow the besiegers to remark this, the master of the tower had the last Boar, which they had, bound daily, as if with the intention to slaughter it, but then led into its sty. - The besiegers, by the daily screaming of, according to their opinion, a slaugh- tered Boar, were deceived in their hopes to over- come the garrison by hunger, raised the siege, and from that time the castle was called Ebernburg. KREUZNACH. 183 The second legend is ascribed to the robber- knight Rupert, as possessor of the castle, who so- liciting for the hand of the beautiful Countess of Monfort, she refused the solicitation, as she had already chosen a youthful friend of the Count, the Rhine Count Heinrich. Reflecting on revenge for this abasement, the robber-knight withdrew from his former companions, only amusing himself with hunting in his extensive forests. On returning from such a hunt, a very strong boar, stood at bay near the Rheingrafenstein, never before seen of such a size in these woods, all thrown weapons rebounded broken from his sides ; already Count Rupert stood unarmed before the monster, which made itself ready for an attack with advanced tusks, as sud- denly in this fearful moment the animal lay dead at his feet. It was the Rhine Count Heinrich who had acted so magnanimously towards his adversary. Accidentally coming to the spot, he no sooner saw the despairing condition of the Count, than he directly forgot all animosity, and by a fortunate blow killed the animal. Reconciliation and re- established friendship between the two Counts were the consequences of this noble action, and soon the Rhine Count Heinrich soon led the amiable Monfort to the Altar. In memory of this event, a carved boars-head ornaments the door of the castle (still visible) which received the name w Ebernburg." The Ebernburg was in the 11 th century pos- sessed by the Salic Emperor, from it descended 184 KREUZNACH. 1394 to the Sponheim-Kreuznach line; 1448 Rein- hard of Sickingen obtained it. 1481 .Franz of Sick- ingen was born, through whom the Ebernburg re- ceivid its historical mention. 1515 Franz of Sick- ingen was outlawed, and retired to his Ebernburg, at that time as place of Refuge for many pursued named w the Asylum of Justice." By the besieging of his castle Landstuhl near Kosel in the Rhine- palatinate, Franz of Sickingen was deadly wounded by a ball and died on the 7*. 11 May 1523. After his death the Ebernburg was taken and destroyed. Also Sickingen's wife, the noble and philanthropical Hed wig, died earlier, leaving 3 sons and 3 daughters. The descendants of Sickingen later became Catholics. Charles Ferdinand of Sickingen built in the lbt h century on the declivity of the mountain above the village a castle, of which are still some ruins, in 1794 the French destroyed it. DIE FEI\DL1HEN BRUDER ' ;-'KKkKK F.NNCMIS 185 Bornhoven. The inimical Brothers. ,ear Bornhoven the rotten ruins of an old castle a frown from the height, and reflect themselves in the green waves of the stream. But these remnants are not romantic, they do not salute the wanderer, like so many, old, dilapidated castles and ruins of the Rhine by charming environs, and friendly changeable landscapes; gloomy and sad the grey stone of the castle regards below sur- rounded by dry unfruitful fields, bushes and plains, of miserable huts and the stooping, creeping about figures of the inhabitants. It is a melancholy pic- ture, to which Nature has denied every ornament and charm, and this country makes on the wande- rer that painful uncomfortable impression, for which no one can account, and reluctantly exper- iences, when one unexpectedly sees Prisons and places of Execution. And if you ask, who could have chosen those unfriendly, deserted heights as residences, you are answered, that the curse of heaven rests upon the country, since the unholy actions committed by 2 brothers, in unnatural anger destroyed each other. On that once proud castle lived a powerful, very rich knight, who left behind him 2 sons and 1 daughter, property, and besides a great quantity of gold. But all these possessions had been ob- 186 BORNHOVEN. tained by robbery and oppressions of every kind, and therefore the knight was cursed by young and old, and all believed that at his death, the great riches, obtained unjustly, and kept by avarice, could not bring blessings. The brothers possessed the avarice of their father, the sister on the contrary the softness, piety, and innocence of a too-early lost mother. The poor lamentable maiden was therefore by the effected with shovels, division of the gold most shamefully cheated, because she was incapable of seeing ex- posed with her own eyes, the arbitrariness and cunning of her brothers. She hastened to apply her share to charitable Institutions, to found relig- ious houses, and then to retire to a convent, to close her days in quiet retirement. But the brothers, although enriched by the cheated part of the sister ; were not in agreement as to sharing the booty. Fields, woods and vine- yards gave occasion to contention and dispute, which ended in hatred, animosity and complete separation. Those, destined by Nature, to live in peace and happy concord, attacked each other with unholy blindness, on account of trivial objects of their inheritance, which by their riches should not have occurred, and were continually sworn enemies. There fell at last into the burning mass of their contention, the terrific spark, which blew it into consuming flame, and let loose the fury with the most destructive rage, the spark of Jealousy. Both BOPPARD. 187 loved the daughter of a not far residing knight, who understood to enchain them with coquettish arts. It did not, require more to cause the brothers to draw their swords in duel, from which every humane feeling turned with disgust. As well as by the actions of the brothers, so disaster rested upon this duel. Blind with rage, they attacked one another in running upon each other's sword, and both ended their wicked life in the same hour. Boppard. Convent Marienburg. )he knight Bayer of Boppard was a scion of ''one of the noblest families of the Rhine-coun- try; a young, it is true somewhat wild lighter yet not bad-natured, and capable of tender feelings. He loved Maria, a neighbouring castle maiden of great beauty, found soon return, and was there- upon the engaged and bridegrom of his dear maiden. Passionately devoted to the pleasures of the chase, Konrad often passed a long time with distant friends, having the same inclination, and were collectively bachelors. Whether it was, that these excited in him a repugnance to the marriage-state, or that his sentiments changed, enough, he sent Maria a declaration, that he could 188 BOPPARD. not decide to subject himself to marriage, and that he relieved her of her given word. Some time after Konrad rode alone through the forest. Just arrived at an open place, he saw a strange knight advancing to him, and as if chal- lenging stopped close before him. w Who are you?" asked the surprised, w and what is then your de- mand, that you so place yourself before me?" ^Regard my shield", answered the stranger, n and my arms will be your answer. I am Maria's brother, returned from the East; and 1 meet you here, to demand satisfaction for your shameful unfaithfulness to my sister. Prepare yourself for a Life and Death struggle." This bold challenge excited Konrad's anger. He drew his sword from its scabbard and the struggle began. The opponent's weak arm could only for a short time resist the strong blows of knight Bayer, and deadly wounded he sank to the ground. Konrad now hastened to open his helmet, and regard the unknown face; but how great was his terror, as in the pale features he recognised Maria's traits. w By your hand I wished to fall", said she with a dying voice; without you life would be a burden." In vain he strove to restrain the flowing life of the maiden, but after a few moments she re- signed her heroical spirit. Like a madman, he threw himself upon the deceased, and grief ren- dered him senseless. So his servants found him RHENSE. 189 and only with trouble did they restore him and separate him from the corpse. Maria was buried in the most splendid manner, and Konrad whom from this moment repentance did not allow a moment's rest, had, in a measure to expiate his guilt a convent built over Maria's grave, which he named Marienburg and to which he bequeathed all his property. Then he hastened to the Crusade-army ot Palestine, to seek for the death which should unite him to Mary. Long he sought it in vain; he reaped only Renown and Victory; but at last by the storming of the Fortress Ptolomais, he found it fighting without armour, and being the first to ascend the ladder he re- ceived the deady thrust of an enemy's spear. Rhense. Emperor Wenzel. luring the Confusion, Disturbances and Quarrels f of every description which afflicted the German Empire towards the end of the 14*. h century, Wenzeslaus of the house of Luxemburg, ascended the Imperial throne. But he was not the man, to steer the State-ship with safety, and his mind was not in accordance with serious occupations, and the prosperity of the government ; an open , joyous 190 KHENfeE. disposition, in enjoyment and pleasure, was much more the object of his wishes, and he soon dis- covered, that these were not to be found on a throne, that under purple and ermine an ambitious heart could fine contentment, but not his, to whom Splendour and Renown were vain things. Wenzels favourite sojourn was therefore not the Residence and the Cabinet, his society not that of the Counselors of the Empire: he much more preferred, to sojourn on the smiling banks of the Rhine, and to drink at its source, so to say, its vine -blood. He preferred to dwell at Rhense, where he very often, at the renowned Konigstuhle , celebrated a feast , surrounded by equally minded, gay companions, with song and wine. The Elector Ruprecht of the Palatinate, had already long striven for the Imperial crown, and hoped, that there would not be serious dif- ficulties in the way of Wenzels voluntary ceding, and was his constant companion. He seized every opportunity to make the Emperor sensible of the disagreeables and burdens of the high dignity, and to let him know, that it would be better to free himself from them, especially as discontent dominated since a long time amongst the Elector's subjects, and therefore his deposition was to be feared. Once sat Wenzel again among his friends at Konigstuhle, and the fiery juice of the Assmanns- hauser vine had disposed many to joviality ; the RHENSE. 191 goblets crossed, and gay melodies sounded. The Emperor spoke in jovial arrogance to Ruprecht: w You already long aspired to win the Crown, which was put on my head. I cede it to you, in case you are able, to place before us a wine, which by the company is preferred to. this." Ruprecht rose directly, beckoned to a servant, and gave his orders. A barrel was soon rolled in, from which the cups were directly filled. ,,That is", called the Elector, n of my Bacharacher; taste it, my nobles, and say without shyness, if it pleases you." The wine found general approval, and all drinkers preferred it to the Assmannshauser. As proof of such preference the}' sat longer than ever at the Konigstuhle and revelled the whole night in this delicious grape-juice. Wenzel kept his word, he ceded his Crown to Ruprecht of the Palatinate, for which he gave him 4 waggon-loads of Bacharach wine. 192 Lahneck. The twelve Templars. j,n the beginning of the 14^ century the Order of 1^ Temple-knights, which had been founded prin- ' cipally for religious purposes, and defending Christianity in the East, on account of its ex- tended power, was severely persecuted by several Regents. It was principally Philipp the Beautiful King of France, and the Pope Clemens 5t h who worked at the annihilation of the Templars. The first had for this purpose allured the Grand-master Molay with 60 knights, from the island Cyprus to France, and had them collectively most cruelly executed in Paris; the latter thereupon dissolved the Order by an Edict, and arbitrarily disposed of its property. The remaining knights, rendered timorous by such terrible measures, dispersed themselves in other countries, where they were allowed to reside; however as far as the power of the Pope ex- tended, it was used to effect the ruin of the pursued. The Archbishop of Mainz, Peter of Aichspalt, was summoned to exterminate the residing knights in his diocese, and the obedient Bishop resolved to make a commencement with 12 who held possession of the Lahneck-castle. A strong detachment of the Archbishop's troops suddenly invested the castle, and demanded of LAHNECK. 193 the Garrison directly to surrender unconditionally. But the knights recollecting the Fate of their executed brethren, armed themselves for desperate resistance, resolved to sell their lives dearly. A regular Siege began, and was conducted with all zeal. To the raging attacks of the superior force the Templars opposed the quiet defence which expected nothing than death. Several stormings were repulsed by the heroic-couraged knights, and struck by thrown down stones and shots , many mercenaries fell to rise no more. The Archbishop, inflamed with rage, and stung by shame, that the whole. power of the Besiegers could not overcome the 12 knights, ordered a general and last storming. During a dark night the castle was simultaneously attacked on all sides, and although the renown-worthy Templars executed miracles of bravery, their number was too small to render it possible for them to resist the constantly increasing advance of the Besiegers. Soon the principal entrance was in their powen a part of the knights killed, and the rest obliged to retire to the castle-keep. In this unfortunate struggle, encouraging each other hy cries and reminding each other of their murdered brethren, they fell to the last man, who although bleeding from many wounds, still held his sword menac ingly. Meantime the morning had begun, and the sun illuminated with his first rays the bloody tcene of the castle-keep. The leader of the Arch- KIEFER, Legends of the Bbine. 194 LAACH. bishop's mercenary troops effected by involuntary esteem and admiration for this last combatant, offered him Liberty and Life, if he would cease the useless resistance and beg for Grace. But the Templar without deigning an answer, swung with remaining strength a spear among the oppo- nents, threw himself on their lances and resigned his heroical life. Laach. Genovefa. alatinate Count Siegfried, a noble knight and * vassal of the French King in Austrasien, viz, in the contry between the Rhine, Maas, and Mosel, was married with Genovefa a Princess of Brabant. For several years they resided at the castle Palatinate, at the embouchure of the Mosel and Saar; in the most cordial concord, and, although childless wedlock, in undisturbed happiness; as the Arabs who had conquered Spain, broke into France by the ( Pyrenees. Quickly all Dukes and Knights of the country were obliged to join the King's army, in order to oppose the numerous Barbarians. Also Siegfried could not forget honor and duty by the appeal, and not participate in a struggle which should decide the fate of the whole western Christianity.' LAACH. 195 As painful therefore as was to him the parting from his wife, he felt himself bound to quit her, after intrusting to his friend knight Golo of Drachenfels the administration of his property, particularly recommending the sorrowful wife, house etc. to his protection. Golo was an honourable, upright, but still very young and impassioned man. He was, for a time, faithful to his trust, and as circumstances caused it, he was almost ever the companion of the Countess, whose esteem and friendship he soon acquired. But just this confidential intimacy with the beautiful, charming wife aroused in his heart a dangerous inclination. It is true that at first he tried to struggle against his love, but by daily seeing the Countess it found fresh nourishment, at last his passion caused him to forget all the duties of friendship, and he only thought on the object of his desire. Genovefa had not any idea of what moved the feelings of, as she believed, her faithful protector; but by the line gift of observation, so natural to women, the condition of Golo's mind could not remain long concealed, and inconsiderate expres- sions, which escaped the knight, left her no scruple that it was herself who had lit the consuming love-flame in him. Perhaps Golo if he had been left to his own good principles, would have left a place so dan- gerous to him, and not have discovered his feel- 196 LAACH. ings to any one; but unfortunately for him, a not far residing relative of the Countess, Mathilde of Strahlen, visited her, and soon discovered what was passing in the young knight's heart. Mathilde was artful and envious, imperious and sly. She knew how to win Golo's confidence, and as she regarded the beauty of the Countess the reflection of a beautiful soul, with envious jealousy, and was penetrated by (hat hate which the bad are accustomed to have against the good, she encouraged the knight to sue for the favour of the Lady, in awakeuning in him false hopes, which by the virtue and piety of Siegfried's wife never could be accomplished. The noble Countess was secretly informed that Mathilde and Golo plotted something secretly; but she paid little attention to it; for it is difficult for a pure soul to believe in the designs of reprobates But she was soon to experience, how shamefully her pretended friends could act. Deluded and in- stigated, driven on the way of the wicked, Golo became quite another man. as he had been under the guidance of his worthy friend Siegfried. He did not more attempt to bridle his consuming passion; he only thought on its satisfaction , and every plan that his disreputable friend proposed to him was agreeable. At last the Plotters had arranged all, to act decidedly. Every attempt of Golo's approach to the Countess had remained fruitless; therefore LAACH. 197 Mathilde advised him open and rash procedure. A formal declaration of love, was the first thing that should happen, and if this, as was to be ex- pected remained without result, then force and compulsion should be substituted instead of the hitherto used mild means. Genovefa heard with astonishment and indigna- tion the bold temerarious love-offer of the knight who, destined as her protector and honored with the confidence of her husband, could so forget his duty and all chivalry; she further forbade his appearing before her, and menaced him with the revenge of Siegfried. The first open step was now done, the return barred, and the once commenced road must be followed. An imitated handwriting of the steward Drogones, containing a confession of his illicit intercourse with Genovefa was sent to Siegfried. By this letter the distant knight was to be filled with hate against his innocent wife, and every possible messenger should be made ineffectual. The apprehension however that such could secretly arrive to the Countess, induced Mathilde and Golo to have her watched most strictly, to send away all attached domestics, and only to retain those persons devoted uncon- ditionally to them; indeed, the shameless pair not however contented with this , carried their wickedness so far, as to imprison the noble lady. In this prison the unfortunate wife, after 6 months absence of her husband, was confined of 198 LAACH. a boy, to whom she gave the name of Dolorous, because he was born in such great sufferings. Meanwhile Siegfried had fought bravely with the army. The Cristians unequal to the numerous swarms of Arabs, were obliged to retire in many bloody conflicts, and a gloomy, misfortune impregnated cloud neared the Infidels from the beautiful banks of the Rhine and Loire. Karl Martell advanced to assist with a newly formed army, and enlivened again the courage of the Christian army. At Tours a decisive battle took place. Whether the Crescent, or the Cross, henceforth should dominate in Europe depended on this battle, which in every case must be a mortal combat. At Martell's side fought Siegfried with his men, and did miracles of bravery. In the midst of the enemy's masses waved the feather of his helmet, his powerful blade shone, and many saracens fell by his fist. The Victory was long undecided, at last it was wrested by the perse- vering, not to be resisted courage of the Western countries, and many thousand killed covered the battle-field. Siegfried had remained without wounds almost to the end of the battle; but in the even- ing, when pursuing he was struck by a lance, so that he was obliged to resign himself to a surgeon's aid, and saw himself condemned to in- activity. Then he thought more than ever on his distant solitary wife and the next day he sent LAACH 199 his friend, Karl of Rheingrafenstein to his home, to carry intelligence of his early arrival, and to bring news of Genovefa. The knight arrived just as Mathilde and Golo laid before, an assembled council of several Nobles and Judges, false proofs of Genovefa's Guilt and Infidelity for Judgment and to pronounce Banish- ment on the injured. In vain Karl of Rheingrafen- stein sought to hinder such a detestable procedure; Bribery and Cabal conquered, the unhappy wife was declared guilty, and for Karl there was noth- ing else to do, than to throw down his gauntlet as proof of her innocence. Golo knew, that if he would not give up all as lost, he must accept the challenge, and immediately a day was ap- pointed for the duel. This duel ought to have been a Divine-judgment; but Hell gained the Vic- tory. Karl succumbed to the despairing bravery and strength of Golo and with pierced breast yielded up his ghost. Nothing more was able to avert Genovefa's terrible destiny; after the death of her defender death appeared unavoidable to her; the Tribunal insisted on its verdict, and she would have ended her life on the funeral-pile if a part of her enemies had ventured , to give the Country, where she was honoured and loved, the spectacle of a public execution, on the other side Golo's passion had not resisted the death of the beautiful wife. A secret nightly assassination, in a solitary forest, 200 LAACH. distant from all witnesses , by hired servants' hands, seemed the most advisable to Mathilde. Two bribed grooms received orders, to conduct, during the night, the Countess and child away from there, and as proofs of the accomplished murder, to bring the tongues of the sacriticed victims. The commissioned were ready to execute the fearful deed. Genovefa and her child r Dolo- rous" not able to comprehend his misfortune, saw in the deep wilderness, the daggers pointed at their breasts ; but the melting tenderness , and assertions of the Countess, that she was innocent, at last moved the wicked wretches, to spare her life and that of her child: however they dragged the unfortunates so far into the forest, that return was rendered impossible. Then they were left to their fate, and produced 2 sheeps' tongues as a proof that the order had been strictly executed. Siegfried hastened, as soon as his wounds were healed, to his home. There Mathilde and Golo laid before him the proofs of Genovefa's guilt, and as these as well as the termination of the Divine-judgment only too clearly seemed to fix Genovefa's guilt, so the shamefully deceived nourished not a doubt, and he endeavoured, al- though in vain, to forget the Faithless. Genovefa had, after wandering a long time, found a cavern which afforded her shelter; but deprived of all subsistence, she believed, to be obliged to die here from misery, and pityingly LAACH. 201 she regarded Dolorous, to whom she was not able to give nourishment; at once, there came as if sent by God, a white deer into the cavern, and nestled at the feet of the Forsaken. The d^er must have had young ones lately for her udxler was swollen, and she willingly offered it as Nourishment for mother and child. The tame animal returned daily, and at last remained con- stantly with them. Roots and herbs were soon found by Genovefa, and so passed her sad days, it is true without Hope, yet confiding in the justice of the Almighty, to whom Dolorous daily learned to pray more fervently. For Siegfried, who amid his splendid retinue and at his castle still lived solitary, was no more peace. The memory of his wife followed him as a shadow, and whatever he undertook, to distract himself, nothing could extinguish in him the remem- brance of past times, and his former happiness. His favourite pastime was the chase, to which he devoted himself so much the more as it seemed more suitable to deaden the grief of his soul. One day he arranged a grand hunt, in which he participated. The pursuit of the game had conducted the count further into the forest than ever, and he just thought of returning, as a white deer sprang out of a thicket just before him. He would still hunt it, and pursued it through thorn and bush, across plain and moor. He had already wounded the animal with a drawn spear, 202 LAACH. and already it seemed as if it could not escape the hounds, as it fled to a cavern, and with astonishment he saw a female figure advance from it, to whose feet as if seeking protection, it caressingly laid itself. The presence of a human being in this wilder- ness appeared most singular to Siegfried; but how great was his terror and astonishment, as by approaching nearer, to recognise in the pale afficted woman's face the traits of his wife, and she at the same time called out his name with the expression of fright and joy. Genovefa fell at his feet calling on God and all Saints as wit- nesses, she asserted, that she had ever remained faithful to him, and related, how, persecuted by Golo's passion and Mathilde's malice, she only thanked her preservation to a miracle. The sight of the wife attenuated by grief and misery, whose ragged garments scarcely covered her nakedness, and the words of Genovefa, in which were expressed the deepest suffering of abused virtue, made on the Count a terrible ef- fect, and as the little Dolorous, playing about in the neighbourhood of the cavern, advanced with bashful curiosity and Genovefa pointed him out to Siegfried as their son, the knight could not longer resist the force of the moment, and weep- ing with grief and joy he pressed wife and son to his bosom But then he sounded his hunter's horn, and his retinue hastened towards him, and LAACH. 203 with them also Golo. w Do you know these?" thundered out the Count to the villain, tearing him from the throng and conducting to Genovefa, Golo paled, and all standing round were astonished, as they saw the wife and boj' and learned who they were. Surprised by the terrible unexpected accusation, and not prepared with any exculpa- tion ; he confessed all, and in naming Mathilde as his seducer, he begged for his life. But Siegfried thought of no grace by such an enormous crime. Golo was delivered to justice, and suffered, for his great grievance to the innocent , treachery, and the disgraceful blindness of an unbridled passion, by the executioner's hand. Mathilde fled; pursued however by horsemen, she, on horseback, plunged into the Mosel, the waves of which buried her. Genovefa bloomed in her husband's love a new bliss, and Dolorous, nobly thriving in strength and virtue, was the joy of his parent*: From gratitude to Heaven which so visibly had watched over her, the noble lady founded the Frauenkirche near Laach , in a country , which she preferred above all, and according to her express wish, she was interred in this church , where now her monument is shown to visitors. 204 Hammerstein. The Salic blood. far from the friendly, charming Neuwied, 'rises from steep rocks and surrounded by woody heights, close to the banks of the Rhine, the since long in ruins castle Hammerstein. It is said, according to some chroniclers, to have received its name from its founder, Karl Martell. accord- ing to others owes its name from the rock, on which it is built, similar to the form of a hammer. Here dwelt about the beginning of the ll* h century Count Otto of Hammerstein. This knight conducted with Bishop Erkenbold of Mainz a long bloody struggle, and as the spiritual man could not succeed against the brave powerful Count by force of arms, he sought to ruin him in some other manner, and soon a very welcome oppor- tunity offered itself. Otto had married his beautiful cousin Irmegard. But for such a marriage with so near a relative, was, according to Canon -law, necessary Papal dis- pensation; but the Count had obstinately refused, to request the permission, and therefore Bishop Erkenbold did not neglect, to pronounce Excom- munication against him . and by special Synod verdict to declare his marriage invalid. But as he did not succeed to disturb the happiness of the young couple, as Excommunication and Verdict HAMMERfeTElN. 205 remained without the expected effect, he applied to the reigning Emperor Henry 2*! d with unremitt- ing petitions to give weight to the Ecclesiastical- law by the employment of worldly power for, *he purpose of punishing the incestuous Otto. The Emperor too much devoted to the Clergy, was easily won by the Bishop and personally besieged Hammerstein with a considerable force. However the garrison defended itself with just as much courage as cleverness ; and it seemed that the Siege would, if even successful, be a long one. so that the Emperor tired of this useless struggle, had willingly seized an opportunity to finish it by a compromise. By a sally of the Count, with his heroic wife at his side, both were wounded by arrows, and bleeding were obliged to be carried into the castle. As soon as the Emperor learned this, he said to the Bishop: Indeed! metliinks almost, we shall never be able to humble the courage of these lovers. Therefore and because the blood, against which they sinned has now flowed , they have atoned for their guilt, we will finish the feud. I will have that proposed to the Count, and I think you should, I wish it, marry the pair with all the usages and blessings of the Church." And so it happened. A sincere reconciliation concluded for ever the dispute, and Otto celebrated with his noble guests the most splendid feast, that the halls of Hammerstein had ever witnessed. 206 Altenaar. The last knight of Altenaar. the rocky and narrow valley, which Hows < jjj; through the Aar, now splashing as a torrent, now if foaming and rushing as a wood-stream, lies on the top of one of the many precipitous mountain- cones which wreathe the bank, the ruined re- mains of the formerly powerful castle Altenaar. In times of yore the race of the same named possessor and inhabitant of this castle ended by a terrible death, still known by the people, and never since the seat of a noble of the country, although the castle was long stately and inhabit- able. Kurt of Altenaar, the last of his race, a liberty-loving courageous knight, who energetic- ally opposed the presumption of the Bishops and Princes of his country, suddenly saw himself inclosed in his castle by enemies. The resistance was courageous, and worthy of an honourable knight, the rocks deiied the attacks, and many a mercenary fell by the fists of Kurt and his followers, or was struck by the throw of heavy stones. The Siege however continued, and the want of pro- visions was at last the most dangerous enemy of the garrison. Kurt could name the day on which he should be obliged to share his last loaf among his comrades and then surrender or perish. But there occurred ALTENAAR. 207 on the side of the besiegers, if not want of pro- visions still moroseness and discouragement. The extremity of the garrison was unknown to them, and they believed, never to be able to become masters of the castle, the height and resistance of which mocked their boldest attacks. Already the Bishops and Princes saw the near outburst of discontent in their ranks, daily al- ready a number of their servants and vassals deserted from a dangerous useless struggle, and already revolt and disobedience threatened a complete dissolution of the besieging army , as there appeared on the highest tower of the castle, irradiated by the first morning rays, in splendid, complete equipment and mounted, the venerable Kurt. The tall noble figure, the long silver hair, the marble paleness of his face, over which waved the feather of his helmet the white steel armour on milk coloured charger imparted to the knight something August, almost Spiritual, and expectat- ingly every eye, in a large circle was raised to the tower. The extended right hand of the knight signified that he wished to speak, and as the besiegers listened anxiously, he spoke audibly so: W 8ee here the last man and the last steed of all, which breathed in the tower. Hunger has snatched away wife, child, comrades; none is left. But they died free from hated tyranny and" ignominious yoke. And so I die as I lived, worthy of a knight, unconstrained and free." After these words he 208 ROLANDSECK. spurred his charger to the edge of the rock ; the noble animal reared, but driven by the strength of its rider, it made a mighty spring from the giddy height into the abyss, from rock to rock, accompanied by rattling stones into the waves of the Aar, which closed over knight and charger and buried them for ever. Fright and terror overcame all, who witnessed it, and hastily the besiegers retired; for none of them Wished to enter a castle, which had become a heap of Dead, nor longer remain in a country, which appeared to them the home of terror. Rolandseck. Roland of Angers, contemporary and ^|&? nephew of Charles the Great, a worthy, brave ^f knight and palatin. had distinguished himself in war expeditions and adventures His name was become known in the countries, which he passed through, and in which his sword had chastised many robbers, served unresisting innocence, or had carried away the victory in tournament. He was sojourning in Paris, at his uncle's camp, to rest from the many expeditions, and try to enjoy the leisure enjoyment of the court luxury; but he did not find it to his taste. His inquiet spirit KOLANDHECK. 209 longed for activity and dangers, for the usual vicissitudes of an adventurous expedition, but not for the comfortable quietude of a constant resi- dence and a regular if also splendid life. He therefore requested of his Imperial master and relative, to try in unknown countries his knightly wandering life. His request was granted, and the next morning's sun already saw.Roland mount his celebrated and courageous * charger Brilliador, and followed by a faithful, proved squire, leave the splendid residence. The beautiful plain, through which the Marne flows, and the rough Vosges were the next objects of his journey. Hereupon he turned to Rhein- franken, chastised some robber-knights, and forced them to deliver up their booty; then visited an old friend and companion in- arms, the knight Kurt of Frankenstein, and at last resolved to travel to the beautiful banks of the Rhine, and salute at their castles the resident knights. So he travelled down the Rhine, just as the Spring had spread her charms over the plain, and had clothed the romantic banks with the ornament of fresh green. The knight seemed never to have enjoyed such a beautiful country so much, and as little as he was accustomed to pay attention to the Beauties of Nature, yet he could not resist to lose himself for hours in con- templating the beautiful vicinity. Many a day's journey had he completed, visited many a stately KIEFER, Logends of the Rhiue. 14 210 ROLANDSECK. castle, and every where found the most hospitable reception, as one evening the Drachenburg caught his sight. The walls and pinnacles of the ex- tensive, fine knightly castle glittered in the gold of the declining sun, and shone with the other summits of the Siebengebirge over the twilight valley. The heat of the day had yielded to re- freshing coolness; the flocks returned to their folds , the fatigued vine-dresser to his hut , the iisherman counting the booty of the day, draws his boat on to the bank, and not the least air ruffles the smooth, green crystal-like drops which fall from its sides. This beautiful picture of repose, this peace in Nature, over which the firmament spread its pure azure, made on Roland an unusual, profound impression. For the first time in his life came over him the inexplicable feeling of sweet sad- ness, and it chained him so much, that, at last, his squire was obliged to remind him , that it was the highest time to continue their way, if they wished to reach night quarters. The paladin asked a passer-by, who lived at that high tower? and as he was answered, the knight Heribert, but the castle was called the Drachenburg, he recollected, that it was just this knight to whom he was charged to bring greetings and messages from friends in France and Upper-Rhine. Roland therefore did not hesitate to cross the stream. It was already night, as he arrived at the castle- ROLANDSECK. 211 door. After mentioning his name, he was bid welcome, and knight Heribert received him heart- ily, and with all the marks of distinction, befit- ting such a worthy and high guest. The next day the Host presented to the Hero his only daughter Hildegundis. By the sight of the beautiful maiden, blooming in youthful charms Roland appeared as if enchanted. The courage- ous, for combat and hazard longing knight, in whose heart a noble love had never found room, the battle-accustomed warrior found himself seized with a feeling for this lovely maiden, which was quite new to him, and which overpowered him the more irresistably. From then he was as if changed; he did not converse more of adven- tures and warlike deeds, he praised much more family-life and the delights, which the possession of an affectionate wife must afford ; he did not think of proceeding further, for he wanted the strength, to separate from a being whom he adored. The condition of his heart could not remain concealed from an observer, and therefore was quickly remarked by Heribert. Hildegunde her- self saw with maidenly delight , his inclination for her, he had found favour with her from the first moment, and whose renown and heroic feel- ing was praised in songs and ballads. Roland could not long restrain the powerful feeling of his heart. He confessed it to the dear object of his wishes and found hearing. Heribert 212 ROliANDSECK, had not the least objection, to the very renowned Paladin becoming his son-in-law, and from no side did there seem to be the least obstacle to their happiness. Already they thought of build- ing a castle on the beautiful Rhine, near their parental house, and alread} 7 Roland wished to renounce adventurous wandering, and only live in domestic felicity, when suddenly a message from his Imperial Uncle changed all. The Moors devastated northern Spain, and even France was threatened with their irruptions. Charles sent an army to repel them, and his nephew ought not to fail where, in struggle with the Infidels, Honour and Renown were to be acquired. An order of the Emperor promptly recalled Roland . and such a summons every knight and noble was obliged to obey , if the World should not doubt of their first virtues Bravery and Heroism. How could Roland dis- regard the voice of Honour and Duty? As name- less as was the grief with which he parted from the adored, however much it affected him, he yet tore himself away from her embraces. An indescribable anxiety mastered Hildegunde, as the day of departure arrived, and Roland mounted the charger which was to bear him away in the midst of enemies and battle crowds. His firm, solemn promise, to return as soon as possible quieted the anxious girl very little, and could not scare her secret fears. I ROLANDSECK. 213 After many mutual oaths of eternal Fidelity, which were seldom spoken so candidly and sin- cerely , and after a sad parting from the knight Heribert, Roland left the castle, become so dear to him, and hastened to the army. After bloody combats, and dangerous struggles in which he sword of the Paladin was victorious verywhere; yet one could not foresee the duration of the war. A hot battle in the valley of Ronceval should decide, for the whole Christian army stood op- posed to the Infidels, and the exertions of both were great. The Victory fluctuated a long time, and late in the evening the French made a fu- rious attack on the enemies lines, and wrested a glorious victory. But this success was dearly bought. Many noble knights were slain, and also Roland struck by the club of a gigantic Arab was severely wounded, and in the confusion sank to the ground. The combatants stormed over the fallen; only his faithful squire remained with him, to protect him if really dead, or bury him if a corpse. The army missed him, for some had seen him fall, considered dead, and the news of his glorious death was spread everywhere. Even to Drachenburg arrived the announce- ment that Count Roland, the flower of/ Chivalry had been killed in the Saracen-battle. With what grief Heribert heard of the sad event, with what heartfelt sorrow Hildegunde heart the intelligence it is impossible to describe. But as the first 214 ROLANDSECK. outburst of grief was past she determined to reflect in her chamber on the memory of the departed, and indulge in her sorrow. Seldom was she seen to pass through the halls of the castle, and some weeks after receiving the terrible news, the convent of the near Rhine-island saw her a devoted and zealous novice. Her fervent request and destiny, determined the Bishop to shorten the novitiate, and after a short time the unhappy maiden was allowed to take her irrevocable vows. It is true in that battle Roland struck by a heavy blow had fallen senseless to the earth, but not killed. The faithful squire discerned signs of life in him, and with trouble carried him to a shepherd's hut, where, nursed by benevolent men, and supported by his robust nature, the Paladin recovered. But months passed , before he felt himself strong enough, to leave his sick bed, and travel by short journeys to where his heart called him. It was on a foggy Autumn -evening that he kuocked at the door of Drachenburg; full of glad- some expectation and anxiety, which surrounded him as presentiment of his future. Heribert could not believe his eyes, as he saw Roland stand before him, and as the believed to be dead hastily asked after Hildegunde, the stooping father covered his face, and after a long pause only was he able to pronounce that she had become the bride of Heaven. Roland was as if struck ROLANDSECK. 215 by lightning; speechlessly he stared at the mouth announcing the most terrible news , and in the same hour he left the castle. Opposite the convent, on the left bank of the Rhine is a mountain, seen at a long distance. Here Roland built a castle, ever to be near the beloved, and here he passed days and nights at a window of the castle, affording him a view of the convent. For many years he lived on this height with his faithful squire, and every morning he had the happiness of seeing Hildegunde at a distance, indeed some times it appeared to him as if she saluted. But this sorrowful pleasure was not long allowed him to enjoy. The adored did not appear one morning, and the following day he saw a funeral procession moving to the church- yard. Who was the nun carried to the grave? was it as foreboding seemed to whisper to him, Hildegunde? had sorrow at last plucked the Rose? What his thoughts indicated was only too early confirmed by his squire. From that hour Roland did not speak again. Immovable and with pale face he stared at the churchyard of the convent, and so he was found once by his squire, the half closed eyes still directed to the place of repose of the dear departed. The mountain on which was built the castle is still called Rolandseck. During a stormy night of the winter 18 39 /4o fell a projecting arch of the 216 KONIGSWINTER. last ruin of the castle. On the site of the arch is built a new one , to remind the wanderer of the most faithful and sincerest Love of chivalrous antiquity. Konigswinter. The Drachenfels. )he western summit of theSiebengebirges which projects very near to the bank of the Rhine is called since primeval, antiquated pagan times the Drachenfels. This name was given it by the in- habitants of that country because once a Dragon havocked there , on the south-west declivity in one of the naturally formed Rocky caverns which is now called the Dragon -hole and where the Dragon lived. The Monster had a most frightful figure; an irregularly formed head with jaws, large enough , to swallow several men at once, and armed with a triple row of formidable teeth ; a belly of extraordinary length, armed with scales, which in the sunshine glittered with a thousand tints; a serpent-like long tail, equally expert in twisting itself in a thousand curves, as well as to beat the booty to the ground; the whole body moved on short sharp clawed legs, so the chro- nicle describes the Monster which was the terror of the near and distant neighbourhood. It is not KONIGSWINTER. 217 astonishing that the heathen inhabitants of the valley of the Rhine not able to resist the frightful guest, showed it reverence, and regarded it as a high creature destined for their punishment and correction. The priests believed to be ob- liged to reconcile the anger of the Divinity by sacrifices, and these sacrifices consisted, in those times of Barbarity and superstition, of men which had attracted either the hatred of the priests and people, or had been made prisoners in war. At the time when Christianity began to spread itself on the left bank of the Rhine, dominated in the forests of the right bank Rinbod and Horsrik, two powerful princes and warriors. Blindly de- voted to Paganism, and excited by idol-serving priests to hatred against those who made them- selves acquainted with the mild blessing principles of the Redeemer, they often undertook bloody excursions across the Rhine, and never failed to bring a number of made prisoners to the monster of Drachenfels. It happened once, that the two princes returning from such an inroad, as usual, divided booty and prisoners. Among the latter was a beautiful Christian maiden, whom Rinbod charmed by her youth and _grace, demanded for himself, while Horsrik, who felt not less passion for her. equally de- manded, for his share. A serious quarrel broke out between the two , and the irritable Horsrik would draw his sword, as the High-priest stepped 218 KONIGSWINTER. between the disputants, prevented the combat by his authority, and said: W A believer in strange Gods, a daughter of those Christians which we detest and hate, shall not disunite our Princes to our ruin ; therefore neither will take any share; rather a welcome offering to the Dragon, to be dedicated to-morrow, to the honor of Wodan, our highest God. Against the decision of the priest was no objection, however willingly Rinbod had ventured to save her, for he had felt a more noble love for the maiden than his rival. With terror and horror the unfortunate maiden learned her fate, and only the thought, lent her strength that it was the will of her God and Redeemer to whose commands, she as a good, pious Christian must submit without murmuring. The day of terror arrived , the maiden with many prisoners who were to share her lot were conducted to the summit of the Drachenfels. A number of warriors, and people, with all priests of the tribe followed to be witnesses of a tragedy, that since long had not had this magnitude, and taken place with so much solemnity. Also Rinbod stood above, full of grief and sadness, that such a beautiful holy maiden should be thrown to the monster , and he believed to be obliged to die, as she still and resigned, advanced, orna- mented with the sacrificial band , already not more belonging to the earth seemed equal to a Divine being. KONIGSW1NTER. 219 Iii her hand she held a crucifix, which she had concealed about her; on it the figure of the Redeemer she fixel her eyes, and his sight filled her with confidential hope and salvation. Will- ingly she allowed herself to be conducted to the place of sacrifice where, bound to a tree, she should wait to be swallowed by the monster. It did not last long before it rose from its place; and scarcely had it seen its prey, it rolled itself nearer, to snap her up. Whoever saw the Dragon in its complete deformity and hideousness, was obliged to tremble and be filled with horror; also the maiden almost lost her senses, as de- struction seemed to near her, and in holding, as if for defence the cross before her, she ex- claimed in the great anxiety of her soul: w Lord, my God, help me in this great affliction!" And lo, what happened! The monster, that had al- ready opened its jaws, to swallow the bound offering, retired at the sight of the cross as if struck by lightning, and fell, uttering a frightful wide-echoing howl, into the Rhine, the waves of which covered it for ever. With astonishment the encircling collected crowd of heathens had seen this miracle. They believed not to be able to trust their eyes in seeing the feared and Divinely worshipped monster, annihilated by the small figure of the Christian - God ; but to all it was clear, that this God must be more powerful, and greater than their heathen idols. Rinbod 220 HEISTERBACH, IN THE SIEBENGEB1RGE. was the first to recover from his astonishment. With loud exultation, he hastened to unloose the hands of the maiden , and in triumph led her away. The other captives were freed , and the folk seeing themselves released from the monster by the figure of Jesus, already had secretly ad- mired the confidence of the Christians, now de- manded loudly to belong to a Religion , whose God so visibly helped his people. The maiden undertook, to spread Christianity by her preaching. Eagerly these heathens learned the tenets of the Evangelists, and soon thousands received the holy baptism. But the first and most zealous Christian was Rinbod, and the maiden rewarded him with her hand. Then they built a castle on the same Drachenfels , and he .be- came the founder of the race, of the Drachen- burgers that flourished about ten centuries. Heisterbach, in the Siebengebirge. The converted Sceptic the monks of the cloister Heisterbach distinguished himself by his learning and unremitting study of the Holy Scriptures. To the rich treasure of knowledge of this brother, ever} 7 one, and even the Abbot had recourse, if HEISTERBACH. IN THE yiEBENGEBIRGE. 221 it concerned enlightenment of obscure passages in the writings of the Holy Fathers , and Holy books ; for no other knew , so well as he , how to explain their meaning, and loosen impending scepticism;' But one passage had ever been abstruse to him, and so the constant subject of his thoughts: the words of the Apostle Peter viz: A thousand years are as a day with the Lord." This passage constantly occupied the thoughts of the monk. Often he sat in his cell reflecting on these words; but the more he meditated, so much the more increased his doubts , and the greater was his unbelief. His ideas were sometimes so confused, that his brethren feared for his senses. Lost in speculations, he had once reclined under a tree in a near wood, and at last fallen asleep there. The vesper-bell first awoke him, and reminded him that it was high time to re- turn to the cloister. But with astonishment he did not see the serving brother at the door, but another opened to him. However Aloysius did not pay particular attention to this circumstance ; for already the brethren's hymns resounded in the church, and he hastened to take his stool. But this stool was already occupied; quite an unknown person had possession of it, and this regarded him with the same astonishment as Aloysius felt. Meantime the singing finished, and he noticed that all the monks were as strange 222 HEISTERBACH, IN THE SIEBENGEBIRGE. to him, as he appeared to them; he was asked his name, and what he requested? He announced himself, and as he asserted he belonged to the cloister, he was regarded with more astonish- ment than before , and all were almost inclined to think he was a lunatic. At last one of them remembered to have read in the annals of the cloister, that several centuries before, a certain Aloysius who distinguished him- self bj great learning, had lived in the Abbey, and by a promenade in the wood had completely disappeared. Aloysius now mentioned the Abbot, under whom he had been received in the cloister, as also the time, he had passed there; the books were referred to, and it was clearly proved, that he was a Ressurectionist. During his sleep, ap- pearing to the Sceptic only a few hours, 3 cen- turies had elapsed; but Heaven had worked this miracle, to show that men should not meditate and doubt the words of the Holy scriptures, but believe with child-like heart. 223 Bonn. The Treasure-seeker. the end of the 17* h century, as in Bonn, f 'people began to recover from the oppresions of war, after the raising of the Siege, there lived in the town a young locksmith. He had made his master-piece, and wished to settle atEndenich, where his father performed the duties of a sheriff of the Provost -tribunal. But like many others he had lost his property by the war, his house had been consumed by fire, and he was obliged indeed to live to see, his elder son the lamented sacrifice of excessive zeal in saving his valuables. In deep affliction the old man resolved to pass his remaining days in peace, and to enjoy the presence of his other son, and to find his hap- piness in his. His locksmith business maintained Kourad excellently ; everywhere was building and repairing, and at places moved diligent hands, to obliterate th e traces of destroying war. However the young master's luck did not remain long un- disturbed. He became amorous of another sheriff's daughter of the same place, and this passion was soon so violent, that he believed not to be able to live without the possession of the adored object. Unfortunately Gretchen's father, named Heribert, did not allow the hope of a favourable wooing. It is true he had lost much by the war, accord- 224 BONN. ing to appearances indeed all; notwithstanding one saw with great astonishment his burnt houses and barns again raise themselves from the ashes; his mortgaged fields were free, and he showed riches, which he neither formerly possessed nor could honestly have obtained. The neighbours often consulted together, and communicated their suppositions concerning the enigmatical wealth of Heribert. Some who judged most indulgently, believed, he must have gained much by supply- ing the enemy; others believed he had discovered buried treasure; still others, and the greater part asserted, he was in connection with spirits or goblins, to whom he had sold his soul, or had made a compact with those, who were the terror of the country, with the subterranean infernal Lapp who was contracted to deliver him hidden treasures. The only thing certain, and undoubted by all these suppositions was, that the pride of the sheriff increased with his riches, and that he regarded his fellow-citizens with that contempt, from which, unfortunately, so few can restrain themselves to whom the fickle-goddess turns her favours. Oft the arrogant had declared, that no youth of the village could hope for his daughter's hand: but rather would seek a son-in-law among the rank of the town, either a rich merchant, or a high official person. Therefore for Konrad was no hope by regular means, only rare good fortune could procure the poor young man a favorable prospect. BONN. 225 True lovers never begin with the endeavour to obtain their parents favor; they apply to the object, and the amorous locksmith did the same. Gretchen was a pure guileless maiden, and Konrad the first who had wooed her love. His agreeable figure, his friendly, kind manner, and the power of persuasion, peculiar to him, easily obtained him the inclination of the maiden. What wonder, that he had soon fully won Gretchen's heart, in spite of all fatherly admonitions and instructions, which were calculated to imprint contempt in her mind, against less wealthy persons. The veil of secrecy, which long covered the happiness of the lovers was suddenly torn by Heribert's hand. He surprised them once in the midst of their confidential endearments; foaming with rage he fell upon them, like a flash of lightning from a serene sky, struck Konrad so violently on the head with a heavy stick, that he tottered to the ground, and lugged home his trembling daughter. From that moment he nursed a deadly hate, not only against the lover, but against his father. He laid plans for their ruin, and swore to leave nothing undone, to cause the hated ones to be disgracefully chased from the place and delivered to general scorn. A rich villain has many ways for the carry- ing out his shameful intentions, and Heribert understood how to make use of them. Konrad's KIEFER, Legends of the Rhine. 15 226 BONN. father soon saw himself incommoded, creditors pressed him, the sale of his property was im- minent, his ruin unavoidable all consequences of his enemy's plans. But as successful as these intrigues were, he however did not succeed in destroying the inclination in his daughter's heart, and just as little in preventing the lovers from seeing each other. In the darkness of midnight, when all were slumbering, and the watchers calling the hour, the lovers used to meet and exchange vows of mutual love. Konrad had once climbed to his lover's win- dow by means of the weak spalier of a vine, and while all around lay in deep silence and darkness , the lovers complained and embraced in sweet oblivion. Suddenly another window opened, and the father called out loudly : w Rogue, Thief! off instantly, or I shall shoot you dead!" Surprised and frightened Konrad sprang down, however he recovered his calmness, and stand- ing fearlessly, he cried out to Heribert: Although at night-time you have found me at your window, yet you know my intentions are honest, and love to your daughter attracts me here. You hate me, because I am not rich ; but who knows how you have acquired your riches so quickly and easily. I too could demand much from the devilish Lapp, if I would have intercourse with him; for I under- stand secrecy, as he demands it. Would you not be willing to give me Gretchen as wife , if I BONN. 227 wooed laden with treasures?" A shot was the answer to this impudent question. The bullet missed its object; but the more terribly did des- pair strike his heart, for he now saw clearly and distinctly that he could never hope to become happy, if he did not find means to equal the unfeeling old man in money and property. Lost in gloomy thoughts and reflecting on all kinds of designs, the unhappy young man re- turned to his home. It struck 12, and it seemed as if the tones awoke thoughts in Konrad's soul which hitherto had remained unknown. w How would it be", whispered his evil genius to him, w if I, who am without hope, ventured the last, the only means, that I still can venture; if I really, even also to the loss of my soul, begged, the terrible Lapp for assistance, who living under the graves of the churchyard hears the cry of midnight? Be it so!" he resolved to himself, and hastened to the fatal place. Thrice he called the dreaded name; hollow frightful it reechoed from the walls, and out of the ground there arose a terrible figure, who standing before him with flaming eyes , asked him with a terrible voice : T What do you wish from me?" Konrad almost lost his senses ; he could only stammer out the words: ! demand Gold! help me to it!" The subterraneous imp beckoned to him to follow, conducted him to the depths of a forest, and in pointing to a spot, with its finger on its 228 BONN. lips in token of silence , the figure disappeared. As if driven by Furies, Konrad hastened home, and was in a violent fever during several days. After recovering, he visited the marked spot in a dark night; for he did not doubt that a treasure was buried there, and indeed, after digging a long time, he found an iron chest full of gold and silver-coins of different descriptions, both foreign and domestic. He did not neglect to fill his pockets. The next day he went to Bonn , and bought a house there, conducting his business on a larger scale and living there. Almost every evening he wandered out of the town-door to fetch the other gold, and the dug hole he covered so carefully, that nobody could remark anything particular. As there had been war just previously, it did not surprise anyone, that Konrad had suddenly, become wealthy. Hazardous speculations, dan- gerous service, were largely rewarded during the unquiet times, and many had, fortunately or not, exposed Life and Honor to become rich. The repeated nocturnal visits of the young master had now and then excited attention, and given occasion to ill-natured suppositions. When Konrad had furnished his house, paid his father's debts, released his mortgaged pro- perty, and done all by which he was equal in riches to Heribert, but in splendour and luxury surpassed him, he hastened, to repeat his wooing for the beloved. He found her father now inclined; BONN. 229 for the future son-in-law had become another man, namely rich. The marriage took place, and the happy pair saw their wishes fulfilled. But the obstacles against which Konrad had to contend were not yet finished. The young wife, not less inquisitive than other daughters of Eve. desired to know how her husband had succeeded to acquire his present wealth. She teased and tormented him therefore in confidential hours with unceasing questions, and employed all pos- sible means at the disposal of a beautiful wife during the honeymoon to obtain her object. He was about to confide everything to her, as sud- denly one evening, beadles and officers of justice forced themselves into the house, and arrested Konrad, without any reason, and threw him into prison. He was to give judicial satisfaction as to his wealth, and as he refused every explana- tion, torture was immediately applied. The in- tolerable pain caused him to confess he had found a treasure; the tribunal seemed satisfied with this assertion , and allowed the prisoner some days repose. During this time his deeply afflicted wife visited him, she had been allowed to visit him, so that their conversation could be overheard. Here in the prison , in the brief hour of a pain- fully sweet interview, Konrad confessed all to his beloved wife, of the manner by which he had acquired his wealth, and the listeners hastened to inform the judges of all they had heard. 230 BONN. However for the moment this had no disagree- able results; for although, under the discovered circumstances the treasury could make claim on the taken treasure, yet the treasure-seeker must be set at liberty, and Konrad was directly re- leased indeed still more, the Elector was pleased to consider the whole affair during the process, and determined that if the young man could prove his assertion he should retain all the obtained gold. But just as Konrad was reflect- ing on the proof, the Jews in Bonn raised a great cry, that one of their people, the rich Abraham who had served as a spy to many war parties, and had thereby collected immense sums, had sud- denly disappeared during a journey, and most probably been murdered. It was clearly to be seen that the suspicion rested on the already under examination locksmith , and at that time it did not require more, to arrest again the tor- mented man and torture applied for the accused crime. A higher degree of torture extorted a confession from the unhappy prisoner, that he later recalled, but unfortunately could not weaken. Even those secret nocturnal walks of Konrad, which had formerly induced suspicion, seemed now sufficient witness against him, and accord- ing to the opinion of the judge, it was now only necessary for him to name his accomplice. He said, after repeated applications of the torture, that he had an accomplice by the murder, and BONN. 231 that this assistant had been his father-in-law, who had killed Abraham by shooting. But he made this assertion preferring to ruin Heribert, the cause of his misfortunes, than an innocent person. The result of this confession was the arresting of the frightened sheriff, who after repeated tor- turings confessed all that was desired of him, and both were immediately condemned to be hanged. The day appointed for the execution had al- ready arrived, and both criminals dragged to the place of execution to be a spectacle for the people, as a most unexpected appearance demonstrated Konrad's innocence. A Jew just returned from a long wandering, had entered the town -door, and hearing of the intended execution, hastened with the cry: ,,Stop! Stop!" to the place of execution, and forced his way through the crowd to the judges, it was the dead believed Abraham. Like lightning, the news spread of the return of the Jew among the assembled crowd, and with great exultation the two condemned were conducted to their homes. But as gratifying as was the satisfaction of the saved, yet the fear of death, as well as the suffered torture and disgrace, had made an in- delible impression on Konrad. He was incapable of all work and every enjoyment, and his wife had been ever since melancholy. Both left the town removing to Endenich, where their father 232 AIX-LA-CHAPELLE. now lived in the strictest retirement. Konrad's married-life was childless; therefore he bequeathed, to reconcile by a pious service his crime of hav- ing obtained treasure by the help of an evil spirit, all his gold and property to churches and charita- ble institutions. Aix-la-Chapelle. The foundation of the town. '|^j)h e EmperorCharles the Great had his residence f- 1 now here, now there in his immense empire, once he held his court in Zurich, on the lovely banks of the lake the natural beauties of which ever charm and enchain the traveller. The monarch loving justice, and accessible to all his subjects, had erected, not far from his residence, on a steep place of the bank, where formerly 2 martyrs Felix and Regula had been decapitated, a column, upon which he had fastened a small bell. Every one who had a request of the emperor, only required to toll the bell, and directly the monarch himself appeared, and with all affability listened to the complaints and representations of his subjects, and then decided upon them. One day the bell tolled without any one being found at the Place. The following day the same, and the Emperor AIX-LA-CHAPELLE. % 233 therefore commanded a page, to hide himself near the column the next day, to discover the cause of the tolling. The servant saw with terror, a huge serpent crawl ont of a cavern on the bank, and to his great astonishment set the bell in motion. Directly Charles, who sat at table, was informed of this strange occurrence, he rose to go to the serpent. w Be it animal or man", said he, ! will have justice done to every one who demands it from me." As soon as the serpent saw him, it bowed thrice before him; then returned slowly to its cavern. But the Emperor and his suite followed it, desirous to discover the wishes of the animal. They found before the cavern an immensely large toad, and it seemed as if it wished to be freed from this animal which stopped up the entrance to its cavern. The monarch ordered the toad to be seized and killed, in order to render justice. Some days after this remarkable event, the serpent came, to the great astonishment of all present, into the Emperors banquetting saloon, just as they were about to sit at table, and after bowing thrice respectfully, it crawled to one of the standing drinking cups, dropped in it a jewel of unusual size and beauty, and then disappeared, before the Emperor and his quests could recover from their astonishment. Charles presented the jewel to the Empress and she used to wear it as an ornament for her 234 AIX-LA-CHAPELLE. hair. But this jewel possessed the wonderful property of obtaining the Imperial favor by whoever wore it, and so from this moment the Emperor became so tenderly attached to his wife that he did not wish to leave her at all. But the Empress very soon discovered the reason of the increased attachment of her husband, and therefore never allowed the stone to be separated from her. Feeling in her last illness the approach of death, and fearing it might get into the pos- session of some person unworthy of the Emperor's love, she hid it under her tongue, where it remained till after her death. Charles' attachment for his deceased wife was also even then not extinguished ; he had her corpse embalmed, and carried her in all his .travels with him. This devotion, so singular, awoke in the mind of the Archbishop Turpinus, his companion, at last the suspicion, that it must have a supernatural connection. He took therefore a proper opportu- nity, to search for a hidden talisman, and soon found the miraculous jewel on the corpse. He appropriated it directly, and continually, wearing it, the Emperor's devotion then passed to the Archbishop from his wife, whom he had interred with suitable splendour. He became so attached to the Archbishop, that he was not allowed to leave his Imperial master, and at last was tired of such a troublesome attachment. On a journey through the western part of Germany he rid AIX-LA-CHAPELLE. 235 himself of it, in a fit of ill- humor at that incon- venient love, by throwing the jewel into the water, where it could not be found again. The magic however continued to work, and if Tiirpinus was not more the object of the Emperor's love, it was the country which hid the wonderful jewel. Charles felt since so attached to the place, that he had a palace built there and a town founded. But this town is Aix-la-chapelle, still to-day testified by the Cathedral of Charles the Great. Most pref- erably Charles sojourned at the charming Mead- ows , in the still waters of which the Arch- bishop had thrown the ring. Here he often sat long hours in thoughtful melancholy, and regarded the small charming sea, the concealed jewel of which seemed to enchain him with magical power. To this magic the popular superstition ascribes the salutary power of the warm baths of Aix- la-chapelle, which since, for the health of men, bubble from the bosom of the earth. The Cathedral. As one in Aix-la-chapelle, more than a thou- sand years ago, built the still now celebrated, magnificent Cathedral, the elders of the town had so much miscalculated the costs, that, before half the temple was finished the destined money began to fail. This was so much the more critical as. 236 A1X-LA-CHAPELLE. repeated demands of further pious offerings only yielded an insignificant amount, arid no other means to supply the necessary funds. During the senate, although complete in number was unable to come to a decision concerning this im- portant affair, so that the cessation of the build- ing seemed imminent a stranger had himself an- nounced, with the remark, he wished to propose something important to the full senate. The strange and certainly singular costume of this man, the strongly stamped repulsive features, which allowed one to perceive cold calculation and something mocking, would have made a most unfavorable impression on the meeting, if the unknown had not understood to gain its favor by his fine courtly address. ^Venerable and sage senators," began he: ! have heard, in what a disagreeable position the town finds itself, in wanting money for the completion of the Cathedral. I am the man, to assist you in this emergency, and I am before you, for negotiating the terms on which I am ready to pay the failing money in full weighted, ringing Gold." General and great astonishment followed the speech ot the stranger. Who was the man speaking of millions, as of hollow nuts? Was it a Nabob from India, who converted to Christianity would employ his means for the building of a Temple? Was it a King, or a mountain spirit, in possession of subterranean AIX-LA-CHArELLE. 237 treasures ? or had he indeed, as his appearance almost allowed one to suppose, mocked the whole assembly? The senators asked one another but nobody could give a satisfactory answer. The mayor first recovered from the general sur- prise; he addressed questions concerning con- dition and whereabouts to the generous stranger, and this explained himself as follows: w Of what family and condition I am, your wisdom may guess or not; but so much I can say to my complete legitimation, all necessary funds I will advance, not as a loan but as a present for all times, and I have no other condition to propose than that after the completion of the edifice, and on the day of the dedication of the church, the first entering by the opened door belongs to me skin and hair, body and soul." If before the astonishment of the sages was great, now their terror was indescribable. All sprang off their easy-chairs, and fled to the re- motest corner of the saloon ; for now they un- derstood with whom they had to do. After a long pause of dumb terror the mayor first re- covered. w Remove yourself from here!" He called out repeatedly. But unfortunately this ban- ishment summons remained useless. The dreaded stepped nearer, and said carelessly : Why do you conduct yourselves so singularly and anxiously? Are notmy proposals acceptableand advantageous? Consider only on el demand, while without thought, 238 AIX-LA-CHAPELLE. and often indeed thousands are uselessly sacri- ficed in battle, by Kings and high persons?" And is it not suitable that one is ceded for the benefit of all? Such, and several other produced very cogent reasons, convinced the councillors and their fear was gradually less. To this as- sisted tlie pressing want of money; after brief resistance and reluctance the contract was made, and Master Urian left directly, in recommending himself to the senators, by the chimney, accom- panied by satanical laughter. Before long, he sent by the same canal, a number of gold-filled sacks into the council-chamber, and the mayor after careful examination, found the coins genuine and the sum perfectly sufficient. After a few years the edifice was completed bnt now arrived the day, on which the dedication of the Cathedral should solemnly take place. It is true the dig- nitaries, who had been present at the appearance of the Apparition had vowed to keep the compact with the Evil-one as a profound secret, yet some of them had instrusted it to their wives , so it was, as easily to be imagined , in everybody's mouth, and nobody, as it tolled for church, was willing to pass through the open door. New embarassment ! the mayor did not know what to do; as a little priest appeared, with the assurance he had, to cheat the wicked one, reflected on a plan. It was indeed in the compact, that the first who should pass through the door , was to A1X-LA-CHAPELLE. 239 become the devil's property , but not stipulated what creature it must be and on this defec- tivenes the little priest arranged his plan. Acci- dentally a day before, a trapped wolf was put in a cage, and so placed, that on opening it, the animal would be obliged to run into the church. The Evil-one already watched for his prey, and like lightning he pursued the wolf, as it sprang out of the cage. But indescribable was Satan's choler, as he recognized how he had been out- witted and deceived. Spitting fire he broke the poor wolfs neck, and with terrible howling, and flying away leaving traces of the smell of brimstone, he banged the cathedral-door to, with such force, that it was split. Just on this door is yet shown the imprint of a wolf in brass, together with a fir-cone, to represent the lost soul, and also that crevice is still to be seen, as sign how a priest once knew to tame the devil. The hunchbacked Musician. Formerly there lived in the town of Aix-la- chapelle. 2 musicians, who obtained their live- lihood, by violin-playing at dances, festivals, and other occasions. The one, named Friedel was a lively, gay fellow, full of gaiety, pleasant, and love for his art, which at that time was scarcely above artizan's work, arid had such an agreeably formed face, that he might have been 240 AIX-LA-CHAPELLE. considered beautiful, if he had not been deformed by a natural defect -- that is to say, he was hunchbacked, the other Heinz, had singularly the same defect, but was otherwise deformed. Red bristly hair, small green eyes, with piercing un- certain glance, a malicious movement around the large mouth, all made a disagreeable impression, and it was therefore not astonishing, that in all circles Friedel's violin hat the preference, while Heinze's was seldom requested. Besides Friedel was a better player than Heinz, and the effecting melodious play, with his fine charming conduct, caused him to be welcome everywhere, while his colleague by the discord of his play, as much offended the ear as his repulsive appearance was offensive to the fair sex. As very artist, Friedel's heart soon felt love. Agathe , the only daughter of a rich wine-mer- chant, was the tender object of his loving feelings and to his great joy these, notwithstanding the deformity of his back, fully reciprocated by the maiden a proof, that in love, pleasing manners, persuasion obtain greater triumphs, than simple exterior favorable figure. The lovers could have been happy, if Agathe's father had not been a proud, t.yrannical cit, who esteemed gold above all things, and, as he had often expressed, thought of seeking a son in-law in the noblest families of Aix-la-chapelle. The prospects of the lovers were discouraging, and AIX-LA-CHAPELLE. 241 they did not venture on anything decisive till circumstances should compel them , Agathe was to give her hand, according to her father's will, to a young man, who although rich, was known as a dissipated good-for-nothing; in his despera- tion Friedel ventured to present himself to the merchant, to declare his sentiments, and to beg for the hand of the maiden. A loud laugh of derision was the answer to the wooing. w Do you think", cried the arrogant, ! arn so embarassed for a son-in-law, that I shall throw my daughter away on a musician, who plays for his subsistence? or do you rather think, to be the more agreeable to me, because you are grown with a little vexation which suits you admirably? No, indeed", continued he, B so far is it with me not yet, thank Heaven, that I should take a son-in-law, whose deformity would descend to my grand children , and could expose me to the ridicule of the whole town." He accompanied these words with a wave of his hand, intimating to Friedel that he was dismissed. Wounded to the quick, and full of bitter ran- cour against the man, who had so reproached him on account of his undeserved misfortune, the unhappy youth hastened from the place. He rushed out of the door, and wandered, uncertain where his feet conducted him, about in impass- able ways. Only by the beginning of night, he found himself at the foot a tree, bathed in KIEFKR, Legends of the Rhine. 16 242 AIX-LA-CHAPELLE. perspiration. The country was unknown to him, and the return to town not so easily discovered ; no wonder therefore; if he wandered about a long time, and only reached the town very late. The clock just tolled the hour of midnight, as Friedel walked through the still, deserted streets. Could he have mastered his thoughts and observed what passed around him, he would have remarked much adapted to have excited his horror. A number of owls flew croaking about the old gloomy tower, and the high gable -ended roofs of the town. Daws, and all sorts of nocturnal birds accompanied with disagreeable screamings, and through the air shot pale, ash coloured strips of light, with howling and piercing whistling, while a troop of singular figures moved above the houses. An attentive observer would have easily recognized these figures for a troop of broom riding witches. Collectively they took their way to the fish-market, which the people of Aix-la-chapelle called Perwisch. Also the love- sick, solitary wanderer, to whom all this had not appeared singular, went his way thither; but scarcely had he entered the place as he was surprised by a wonderful sight. A clear light of numerous lights hovering in the air like flames of phosphorous, gave to the market a peculiar magical illumination, by the shine of which, a crowded throng of female figures, increasing every minute by new arrivals moved noiselessly. As AIX-LA-CHAPELLE. 243 great as Fried el's astonishment might be, yet curiosity attracted him nearer, and his natural courage allowed him to advance so near, that he could pretty exactly contemplate the strange company. He was just reflecting that to-day was quarter-day, on which, according to an old say- ing a witches picnic was used to be held here on the fishmarket at midnight; a woman advanced to him, who as regarded dress and behaviour appeared to be the noblest of the society, and had a singular resemblance with the mayoress of the town, took him by the hand, and led him to a table heavily laden with all sorts of delicacies and beverages. She obliged him to refresh him- self, which after he had willingly done, she handed him an excellent violin, with the request, to play the gay society to dancing. She had hitherto occupied herself with the served deli- cacies; but it appeared singular to Friedel, that although the society consisted of ladies, not a syllable was spoken. As soon as he played the first bars a general rising succeeded; tables and forms were moved to the sides, and not without uncomfortable feel- ing saw Friedel, that around him, although no tone fell upon his ear, the most lively conversa- tion took place. Meanwhile they placed themselves for danc- ing the lady-president gave a signal to begin the improvised ball. Friedel who represented the 244 AIX-LA-CHAPELLE. orchestra, played gay airs; but certainly the violin was bewitched , for without his will the tact was always quicker, the couples turned faster, till all was in a confused racing- dance. The violinist at last fell exhausted on a chair, the music ceased and the dancing finished. The same lady who had demanded Friedel to play stepped forward again, and in expressing her satisfaction with his playing, she whispered so as scarcely to be heard: ^Kneel and receive the thanks of us all, for the pleasure you have caused us. u Tii en she whispered strange words over the stooping Friedel, laid her left hand exorcisingly on the excrescence of his back, took away with admirable ease this step-mother gift of Nature, and placed it on an empty dish , which she directly closed. This operation was scarcely ended, as the clock struck a loud 1, and in a moment, disappeared the whole society and all provisions, with tables, forms, and Friedel found himself alone on the market place. Confused by the singular experience, and very excited, he hastened to his lodging, to enjoy quietude; but strange dreams tormented him. Sometimes he fancied himself eloping with Agathei, and the wine -merchant as long legged dwarf pursuing ; then as lover in the figure of the mayoress; then he saw this lady being wedded to Heinz, who had taken the growth of an Adonis. AIX-LA-CHAPELLE. 245 Bo he dreamed till the clear morning, and the forms he had seen in sleep, only inclined him to consider what had passed during the preceding night as a juggling trick of his fantasy. But a glance at the looking glass showed him, that he was freed from his hump, and was become a slender youth, and to his astonishment he found in his flannel jacket a considerable sum of money, which sufficed to place him equal to the wealth- iest men of the town. The joy at this transformation, and his riches drove him to his Agathe's house. Here he met her father, who regarded him doubtfully, not knowing, whether a stranger or the musician stood before him, who the day before, still pro- vided with a hump, had humbly stammered his marriage-petition. After the astonished father was certain there was no doubt, the youth repeated his wooing, and this time with success. However he owed his success not so much to his fine figure, as to the displayed gold, and he promised the marriage should take place in 3 months. Who were now happier than the lovers? But the nightly adven- ture, although Friedel had confided it to his future father-in-law under the promise of strict silence, had not remained a secret, and among others, had reached the ears of the redhaired, hunch- backed Heinz. If Heinz had hitherto hated and envied Friedel as the more clever and popular 246 AIX-LA-CHAPELLE. musician, so he felt now spite and ill-will in the highest degree. Everywhere he endeavoured to spread the most hateful things concerning the happy lover, related whence he had become well- formed and rich , and in ornamenting these re- ports with calumnies, he did not spare allusions which could make the young man be suspected of immoral intercourse with witches. But in hia heart Heinz determined to try his fortune in the same manner next quarter-day. He flattered him- self with the hope, just so as his art colleague, to be bodily ennobled and rewarded. As the quarter-day arrived on which Friedel's marriage was celebrated , Heinz hastened with his violin to the fish-market, resolved not only to free himself from his natural burden, but also, if possible, to be more richlj' rewarded. Quite true, it was the witches feast on the Perwisch. The lights flamed, the dressed wives ate and drank from finely served tables, and everywhere reigned a lively crowd, however without sound and noise. Heinz boldly stepped nearer, and made known by signs bis readiness to play the violin. Directly place was made, and as before, the dance began; but as the mu- sician avariciously regarded the golden vessels, which stood around , and avarice caused him to think more on his gain than on his playing with tact and melody, so he played more discordantly, and at last, scratched so miserably on the, without AIX-LA-CHAPELLE. 247 this, not very musical violin, that the dancers, to whose lusty figures such discord was distaste- ful, raced about wildly. This strange confusion, the violinist considered as a proof of his excel- lent playing, and in his vanity, he was so foolish as to call the names of several wives of the town whom he believed to recognize. But now the indignation of the dancers had reached its highest degree, darting glances of rage, they showed him their fists , and gave him to understand by un- mistakeable signs , that he should cease. Then the lady-president of the feast commanded him to kneel, to receive his reward. This command let Heinz suppose his music had very much pleased, and that it was only the manner of the witches to conduct themselves wrathfully. He therefore considered it time, to request very much, and therefore demanded the valuable drinking- cup, and already stretched out his hand to take it, as a violent blow on his ear punished him. Then the lady took out of a well covered dish, the taken away hump from the good Friedel, and fixed it on the breast of the violinist, before he was aware of the action. In the same moment, the tower clock struck a loud 1, and the fright- ened saw all disappear from his eyes, and found himself alone on the still, deserted market-place. Who can paint the poor man's rage and de- spair, as he saw himself charged with the double burden of two humps? Unfortunately he was 248 K5N1GSDORF NEAR COLOGNE. foolish enough, to relate the affair, and naturally, the object of mockery and laughter everywhere. Friedel alone, felt pity for the mocked and for- saken, and maintained him for the rest of his days. Konigsdorf near Cologne. The Bishop election. jn Cologne there was once agread-dispute for the llf vacant bishops stool. The clergy and citizens Y were divided into several parties, who favored their particular candidates and wished to have elected. As the Emperor Charles the Great, then re- siding in Aix-la-Chapelle heard of this increasing dispute, he resolved to destroy the discontent by his presence, and if necessary, himself seat a bishop. Quite unexpectedly, and without re- tinue, he rode along the road to Cologne, and thoughtful, as he was, he had without remarking it reached Konigsdorf, as the clear tones of a small bell awoke him from his meditations. A number of people were about entering the chapel to hear mass, and the pious Emperor did not neglect to tie his horse to a tree, and unknown mix with the crowd of devout persons. After Divine - service had been ended, he advanced to KONIGSDORF NEAR COLOGNE. 249 the priest, and wished to offer him, as offering a gold piece. But to his great astonishment the priest refused it. W 0ne does not. offer*, said the pious man ,,here so; keep your gold, which I do not require. If you wish io do a good work for this church, so present it with the hide of the first stag or roe you shoot; for my massbook requires a new binding, and as it seems to me you are a hunter.- The truly pious and disin- terested wish , expressed in these words , made a deep impression on Charles, and he deter- mined in his heart to think of the worthy priest. Meanwhile he continued his journey to Cologne. Arrived there, he directly summoned the high clergy and the representatives of the people be- fore him, and gave them to understand, he would personally direct the election of bishop, if they could not agree, he would decide. The different parties tried by all sorts of ways, and by large sums of money to make him favorable for their purpose; Charles however ordered that all the gold offered to him should be used to pay the debts of the bishopric. Then he spoke to them who waited inquisitively for his decision : ,,In vain you have wished to bribe me with thousands, in order to gain the bishopric ; but none of you do I consider so worthy of it, as the priest in that forest chapel near Konigsdorf, who despised my gold, and thinking on his mass-book not on himself, begged no other gift than the hide of 250 COLOGNE. a roe or stag for a new binding. Go and fetch this worthy man , he shall be your Bishop." The plain priest could scarcely recover from his astonishment, in arriving to such a high dig- nity. But as the Grace of God rested on him, he knew how to conduct himself in his new po- sition, and even yet he is not forgotten; it was the Bishop Hildebold, Founder of that St. Peter's dome, on the site of which stands the present cathedral in Cologne. Cologne. Qrsula and the 11000 Virgins fjgn the 13t h century King Vionetus governed over ^Britain. Although extreme Heathenism ruled in y his kingdom, he had however turned to Christian- ity with bis wife and only daughter, because an angel had appeared to the latter with the com- mand to accept the blessing principles of the Redeemer. The same angel also admonished the king's daughter, to prepare herself to suffer for the honor of Christ , and to die by martyrdom. Ursula had taken the firm resolution, with enthusiasm, to obey this admonition, and as a German prince, Agrippinus, sent an ambassador to her father's court, in order to solicit the hand COLOGNE. 251 of the equally pious and beautiful virgin, as wife for his son, she refused decidedly, to marry this or any other king's son; but would rather devote her life entirely to the recognized true God, and his offering for us by Crucifixion. But the angel that had already once appeared to her, intimated to her again to accept the German prince's pro- posal, because she would be able to save his soul by conversion, and to complete a work agreeable to God. The angel further commanded her, to request from her father a retinue of virgins, as numerous as it could be accomplished, to induce all these virgins to adopt Christianity, and take them with her to Cologne to the resi- dence of her future husband. As soon as she was arrived there, she should, before being married, begin, with her whole retinue, a pilgrimage to Rome, but then return to Cologne. Ursula departed soon afterwards with 11000 virgins and 11 ships across the sea, and then up the Rhine to Cologne. Here she was the object of all sorts of honour, but she continued" her journey to Basel, where the Romish governor assisted her further pilgrimage over the Alps. In Rome Pope Cyriakus gave his blessing to Ursula and her attendants, and, as if he knew what would happen to them , he accompanied them on their return, to be near them with his spiritual advice and protection. In Mayence, Coman, son of Agrippinus, waited for his wife. 252 COLOGNE. Her appearance, the reverential presence of the Pope, the splendid suite, and the truth of the new doctrine soon made him a Christian, and after the marriage had been festively completed, they descended the Rhine to Cologne. Just at this time the Huns overran the beautiful fields of Germany. Also they appeared before Cologne with a large army, and notwithstanding the most valiant resistance, the town was stormed. All persons were massacred by these inimical barbarians to Christianity ; especially they per- mitted the Pope as well as Ursula and her at- tendants feel the particular rage of the Cannibals. They were all martyred with fearful torments, Ursula and her husband were the last objects of their rage; but devoutly resigned they retained their constancy, and fearlessness of death, which even astonished the Heathens. A single virgin, so is related, named Cordula, had found an op- portunity to escape the general massacre , and remain concealed. Hut in imagination she saw her companions participating in eternal happiness, and delivered herself, excited by this vision, equally to the Barbarians. On account of her pious life and martyrdom Ursula is honoured as a saint. In Cologne is the church dedicated to her, which bears her name, and in this rest even to the present day the rests of herself and her 11001) virgins. The monument of the saint stands there COLOGNE. 253 to the left of the choir; she reposes formed in Alabaster on Marble, a white pigeon sits at her feet, because such a pigeon is said to have indi- cated the place of the grave on which the church was built. The Building of the Cathedral. It was about the middle of the 13^ century as the then Archbishop of Cologne, Conrad of Hochsteden , took the resolution , to build a Cathedral in this town, which should be larger and more magnificent, than any other temple of Christianity. As Conrad himseli' possessed great riches, which he was ready to sacrifice for religious purposes, and as one could expect, that not only from the town, which the building was to ennoble, but also from far and near great contributions would be made, so there was, concerning the money means no obstacles to oppose the great work; but the great difficulty was to find an architect capable of fully comprehending the sub- lime object and to form a suitable plan. However the architect was found and even in Cologne itr self, where he enjoyed a great reputation , and already had given proofs of his art, which al- lowed not the least doubt, of his capability to 254 COLOGNE. succeed in what to others might seem unat- tainable. The Archbishop sent for this architect, and requested him to sketch a plan for the Cathedral, the plan to be delivered within a year; the Arch- bishop undertaking to prepare all necessary ma- terials for the proposed building. The commission extremely flattered the am- bition of the architect. Full of desire for the renown, which the execution of such a gigantic work must prepare him and be retained for ever, he promised, to reflect on a sketch, and to draw on parchment a work not existing, and wilh diffi- culty would ever be made in size and sublimity of style, splendour and ornament. From .the moment of the Archbishop's relying on this promise, and graciously dismissing the Master, he thought of nothing else but the grand plan. Every other work and every other gain he renounced, to devote himself entirely and alone to the thought, how the grand building was to be arranged , how connected , how the corridors were to be vaulted, and his columns placed, so that the Temple, a monument of the Piety of its time, would also be so for him, the Master, and hand his name to posterity. But as zealously as he reflected and meditated; the many sketches, he had already finished in 10 months, satisfied the expectations of the Bishop jjst as little as they did himself. He had an COLOGNE. 255 Ideal in his soul, which in imagination he often saw realized, but which he could not seize, and actually produce on parchment. As the reflec- tion of a mirror it disappeared again, as soon as in early morning he tried to produce the repre- sentation seen in the excitement of his dreamy night, and it was, as if a malicious demon showed him the noble picture in order not to allow of its being realized. Meantime the period advanced when Conrad of Hochsteden expected the drawings and plans of the Cathedral as the Master had promised him. But out of humor, and absorbed in his own thoughts, he wandered often through field and forest, and the sadness and inquietude of his mind increased continually; for not having yet sketched any plan, he feared to be disregarded both by his Patron and fellow-citizens. He had once -- only 3 days before the ap- pointed time -- wandered far into the forest of the Siebengebirges. The night had begun, and . a fearful tempest poured the rain in streams. No object could be perceived in the thick dark- ness; only when it lightened for a moment could he see the nearest group of trees; but the large trunks appeared like giants menacingly throwing their arms towards him. The lightning and ex- citement in Nature accorded with his feelings so much as not to be frightened by any figure; he reflected only on the hour, which was to cover 356 COLOGNE. him with shame and mockery, thought with de spairing ill-humor, that another would share the renown, of being the builder of the new Cathedral. As he so, as if seized with the fever of mad- ness, cursed his destiny and himself, and alj, that shall complete the work, the lightning struck an oak near him and a fearful thunder-clap ac- companied the burning flash. The trunk burnt brightly, and the terrified saw a man step out of the flames, and quietly advance towards him. The man's appearance was that of a poacher, although his red mantle and the feather of the broad brimmed hat contrasted strangely with the costume of a hunter. n A terrible storm Dom- architect", ejaculated he, in limping still nearer; possible you are more fatigued than I, as I have till now rested behind that tree. How could you wander through the wood in such a fearful night! If you will follow me, I will conduct you by a short way out of the wood and tempest. This speech appeared like bitter mockery to the des- pairing. Did he not name him Dom-architect, and yet it seemed as if at this title a mocking smile was on his lips. Without answering a word the Master turned away from the singular stanger. This however did not daunt him; he beckoned him, to come nearer, sat himself, as if expecting him to do the same for a long conversation, under the protecting branch of a thickly leaved tree, at the same time carefully covering his cloven COLOGNE. 257 feet, and producing a bottle he continued: w Drink once, Master, to our better acquaintance! there is no bad juice in this vessel, and if you have a sorrow, or reflect about anything, you will ex- perience the advantageous effect of the beverage." B My grief, answered the invited, is not effaced by any drink, and no juice gives me insight into that, which to discover I vainly endeavour. Therefore spare the contents of your bottle, and leave me alone with your speech." w You are an unsociable fellow", said the stranger; w but that does not frighten me from offering my services and t to be complaisant to you, as I have already been to others. Still once, drink! and forget your chagrins." With that the importunate held the bottler under his nose, and the Master, at latt wishing to be rid of the too tiresome, took it, and made a hearty draught. Like fire it ran through his veins; he felt himself transformed and strangely strengthened. A never experienced feeling of self-confidence came over him, so that he involuntary called out: Really a genuine Nectar, which you have there, an incomparable cordial!" and in saying. this, he seated himself, returning the tlask , beside the stranger. ,,Ali!" answered the singular benefactor, w my beverage is good and may convince you, that I am capable of other things; I know indeed but do not be frightened -- that you reflect on the plan of a splendid church ; but you will not succeed in KFEKER, Legends of the Rhine. - * 258 COLOGNE. either plan or building, if I do not assist 7011.'* Astonished at these words the Master regarded the unknown with staring eyes. He believed to remark in his traits a grinning malicious laugh, which he did not understand, and the exhilarating drink made incomprehensible. ! see you have not perfect confidence in me", continued the stranger, and yet I am (he only one, who can and will help you. Gay, Comrade! still a draught and you will see, that the best you can do, is to attach yourself to me. My conditions are easy, and I keep my word as faithfully as the most honourable earthly children their oath." The Master had meanwhile again tasted the seductive potion; it began to make him hot and he would just ask, how it was to be done, to complete a plan in 3 day?? as the stranger laughing loudly drew a parchment from his pocket, unrolled it before the eyes of the highly astonished and with flaming eyes showed the figure of the Dome that bad so long hovered before the Master's eyes, and which to draw he had long so vainly at- tempted n Yes. that is it", he exclaimed, w that beautiful complete picture, which T constantly saw in my rnind, and which has always escaped me as if by magic; that is it of which I dreamed waking, confusing my senses pursued me and each time escaped, when I believed to have it in my possession." ,,Well then", said the other, .,1 will cede this plan to you, it shall be yours COLOGNE. 259 One thing only I condition - - a trifle; you must sign this bond with a little of your blood. There read!" continued he, in presenting him a small table, on which in a few words the bond was written , ! have a number of similar con- tracts, and it is my hobby to increase the collection." The Master was almost overpowered with terror; for he had read with horror, to whom he should engage himself. But the thought on renown and shame deprived him of reflection; he signed. Again the lightning struck a near oak; the fiend disappeared and raven-black dark- ness sourrounded the unfortunate. Unconscious he left the place. Gradually however the rain had ceased, and by the light of the dawning morning the Master at last found his way out of the wood to the banks of the Rhine. Here a shipper took him on board who had sheltered himself in a creek during the whole night, and was just preparing to sail to Cologne. Now was the daj r for delivering the plan. An indescribable melancholy was on the traits of the Master, as he appeared before the Bishop and unfolded the drawing. But full of joyful surprise he exclaimed: w What a splendid Cathe- dral! that will be a Temple to which no church in all countries where the Cross is honoured can bear comparison. You are an excellent Master, and your renown will reach to remote time?, as long as the walls stand, which we will now 260 COLOGNE. strongly build to the honour of the Lord. tt The building began with all forces. Thousands of diligent hands were actively employed from morning till evening, and after a few months, one saw here and there the foundations rising from their depths. But as zealously as the Master continued the work, and as quickly as the works proceeded, he was however not in a joyful dis- position. Often he stood gloomy and absorbed, and seemed as if his soul was distant. The Bishop had ordered that the Master's name should be engraved on a brazen plate and walled-in on a suitable place of the Dome, and so it occurred; but thereby just as little as by other favors of the Bishop, was the melancholy conquered which sadness daily increased. The Master <>nly re- flected on the loss of his soul on Hell and Dam- nation, and with Anxiety and Terror he saw the quick completion of his building. Incapable of longer supporting the soul tor- ment, he confided it to his confessor. This prom- ised to assist him by prayer and pious atone- ment exercises, but at the same time advised him to visit a hermit, in the Eifel-mountains, who had exorcised many evil spirits, and therefore enjoyed a great, celebrity. The tormented Master soon went there, and the hermit consoled him with the promise of delivering his soul by continuous mutual prayer, and with the assurance that by pious atonement COLOGNE. 261 the great crime which he had contracted with the Fiend could be annulled. Weeks passed, in which the repentant sinner mortified himself, in hair garments subjected him- self to the most severe chastisements, and pa- tiently fulfilled all commanded by the hoi}' hermit. This at last told him, that he might return home, and continue his great work as long as possible, and if he continued to live a pious repentant life, Satan would have no power over him. With the hermit's blessing the Master returned to Cologne; but he was not allowed to complete his work. Disputes of the Town with the Elector interrupted the building. Full of chagrin and grief ar this obstacle, the Master buried himself in the strictest retirement, and after a few years toe died without being further recollected. In the same night that he died, disappeared also the tablet from the Cathedral-wall on which his name had been placed. Soon afterwards the disputes became so violent, that the building was discontinued and completely stopped. The great work began with the assistance of the Fiend, should, after the escape of his booty, not be ended. By dispute, envy, hatred and dis- cord, the plotter of which was the Evil-one, he had succeeded, to interrupt the building of a Temple, which had become the finest and most sublime monument of active and persevering piety of its century. 962 COLOGNE. Only in onr times has it become possible, to undertake the completion. May the demon of Mankind never again suc- ceed, to disturb the work and to sow (he seeds, as here and there one fears, of discord in the hearts of those united to complete the sublime Temple. The wife, Richmodis of Aducht In the middle, of the 14"? century lived on the New-market in Cologne a certain M r - Aducht, rich and esteemed, with his wife Richmodis. The most tender love with which these persons were united, the never disturbed peace of their house^ and their exemplary lives, had acquired them general estimation, and everybody praised them as models of conjugal happiness. But this happiness was to be painfully dis- turbed. As namely in the year 1357 the Plague raged here and snatched away a number of the inhabitants, Richmodis suddenly became ill, and after a few days the noble lady died. On a solemn burinl was not to be thought of, in such terrible times when hundreds were dying daily; but on the contrary every one hastened as quickly as possible to rid the houses of (ho corpses, and so M r - Aducht, as painful as was the separation from the beloved deceased, allowed his COLOGNE. 263 departed wife to be interred in all quietude in the churchyard of St. Aposteln. However he had in a certain degree, io honor Ihe wife in death given her a costly ornament, and a brilliant ring. This circumstance had not escaped the notice of the grave-diggers; they resolved to open the grave, and get possession of the jewellry. At midnight they descended into the grave. Already they had robbed the corpse of almost all its or- naments, and were just endeavouring to draw the ring from the linger, as the lady opened her eyes, and sat upright - Richraodis had only been in a state of apparent dealh. The thieves in fancy, believed the spirit of the de- ceased would punish the crime, iook to (light and hastened so quickly away, that they left behind the ornament, as well as a lantern, which they had brought with them. Not less great was the out of her lethargy awakened woman , on finding herself in the coffin, and only with great exertion, w.is she able, to calm herself, and by the light of the lantern, leave the vault, and return to her home. There all was in deep sleep, and Richmodis was obliged to knock long at the door, before one of the servants awoke, and from the window demanded, who requested admittance at such an unusual hour? As she gave her name to the questioner, and he recognized her voice, he hastened, full of terror, (o his master, and in- formed him of the terrible apparition. But Aducht 264 COLOGNE. would not believe him, scolded him as a mad fool, tormented by the fear of ghosts, and cried at last, as he affirmed the truth of his assertion with the most energetic oaths: My wife can just as little be risen, and now stand before my house, as it is possible that my horse breaks loose from its stable mounts to the garret, and looks out of the window." However he had scarcely spoken these words, as one heard a violent bumping on the stairs, and with astonishment and fright Aducht saw. that his two grey horses were actually about to climb up to the garret. Taking courage, he himself hastened to open the house-door, and the sight of his entering wife convinced him of the truth of his servant's assertions. The most tender nursing procured Richmodis strength and health again. She lived happily with her husband a number of years, and pre- sented him with 3 sons; however since her res- urrection ever serious and thoughtful. One showed the house of Aducht during many years, which led to the name of the Parrot, and although another house stands on the site, there is, however in a double manner the remembrance of the event retained; viz in that new building are 2 gre}'s represented on wood, looking to the market from the garret, and to the adjoining street one has given the name of Richmodis. COLOGNE 265 Hermann Joseph. Near the church St. Maria in the Capitol, so named, because on the same spot stood the Cap- itol of the Romans, lived a poor shoemaker, who by his handwork supported his family and himself with difficulty. Notwithstanding his needy condition the man felt himself happy; for he had a hopeful scm increasing his pleasure daily. Hermann Joseph the name of the boy, distinguish- ed himself from all others of his age by dili- gence, and morality, and especially by his child- like piety. When he went to school, which was near the church, or even, when he played on the church place, he used to step to the, so called three King's door, and direct a prayer to the Holy Virgin with the infant Jesus there sculptored in stone The prayer of a pious child becomes easily a confidential conversation, and so he entertained himself, with the Mother of God and the child Jesus , which more than the former occupied his child-like mind. Often , as he related to them, what he had learned and what otherwise had happened to him, and begged the boy Jesus, to descend once and play with him, he believed the stone figures participated in his wish and friendly nodded to him; even it, appeared to him once, as if they beckoned to him to come to them, and then he was very afflicted, for the height of the Niche made it im 266 COLOGNE. possible, to obey fhis invitation. r/ Perhaps", thought Hermann Joseph, the dear child Jesus will at last come down to me. it' you give him something 3 ln this pious simplicity one day he offered a fine apple to the figure which his father had given him, and lo! the holy child bent lowly to him, and took the apple. From then, the boy thought of nothing more zealously, than to pro- cure presents which he gave to the figure, whether they consisted of victuals or flowers, and as the child Jesus accepted them most friendly, Hermann soon felt himself very intimate with the object of his love and reverence, which brought him protection, and felicity, in all his actions, and daily life. Hermann Joseph when grown up, had gladly devoted himself to the study of theology but the limited resources of his parents did not allow it. Concerning this the disconso- late youth once complained before the slone figure of the Mother of God , and directly after she bowed with charming words of consolation to him, and notified to him a place in the cross- way of the Church, where under a stone, ho would find what he required. In fact a small treasure was hidden there, which enabled him to apply himself to his favourite study, and after making quick progress in it, he resolved to enter the Order of Benedictines, and had himself ac- cepted in the cloister of Steinfeld. There he devoted himself unceasingly to the Sciences, but COLOGNE. 267 this study zeal was detrimental to his piety, by which alone all hitherto had succeeded and so his scientific studies produced no satisi'actory results. Then he applied again in pious prayer to ihe Hoi} 7 Virgin, an-1 she showed herself to him in a dream exactly os her figure in stone over (he 3 kings'door. With friendly earnestness she admonished him not to neglect Belief and Love to Her, and her Divine Son for the vain sciences, and not further to devote his time too much to study. He awoke and the dream seemed as a wink from Heaven, which he believed to be obliged to obey, and by which he must now regulate his life. Hermann Joseph died at an advanced age, honoured and loved on account of his piety and extensive knowledge. Later times have pro- nounced him holy by ihe mouth of the Pope. His grave is still shewn in the cloister Stcinfefd, and in the church St. Maria in the Capitol his figure in stone is placed, as he offers an apple lo the child Jesus. The Mayor Gryn. At (he time when Engelberg of Falkenburg wns Archliishop of Cologne, the disputes between this spiritual prince and the town had reached their highest decree. On the one side showed 268 COLOGNE. itself the persevering, powerful endeavour to bend the obstinate Citizens under a hated domina- tion, on the other side a stubborn , defiant re- sistance which asserted the good obtained rights of the town, and knew no yielding. It therefore could not fail, that hatred got the upperhand, and both parties welcomed the opportunity to annoy and damage each other. The Archbishop exerted himself to influence the government to compel the town to subject itself to his will. For this purpose he built among others the Bayentower with strong walls and battlements as a solid castle; but the cou- rageous Citizens did not allow themselves to be frightened; they stormed shortly afterwards the erected fortress and chased the inimical mer- cenaries. Among the Mayors of Cologne who particularly took part in the then excitable times in defending the rich trading town, and the rights of the people shone especially the family Over- stolz, and with it, not less, the old Cologne family Hermann Gryn. The courageous opposition of this brave man against the Bishop's public and secret plans, drew on him the hate of the op- posite party, and the clergy of the Bishopric. No intrigue was spared, to attach something to the honourable man, and as this for a long time was not successful, a devilish plan was arranged for his ruin. Two canons endeavoured, under the mask of COLOGNE. 269 hypocritical friendship to be on intimate terms with the Mayor, and with his unsuspicious Char- acter it succeeded only too well. Under all kinds of pretences they had intercourse with him r till their intention was ripe for execution. One day the knight Hermann received an invi- tation, from his mutual friends, lo a banquet which was to be held in the Dome-cloister. At the appointed hour he repaired there., and as of the pretended guests none had yet appeard, one of the canons made the proposal, meantime, to inspect the rooms of the large, seldom visited Foundation building. Giyn was accompanied by his Hosts. He had already passed through sev- eral apartments, when at the extreme end of a corridor a door was opened, through which, by invitation of the Canons, the unsuspicious knight entered a tolerably dark chamber. He was scarcely (here, as the heavy door was suddenly closed and bolted behind him, at the same a roaring lion sprang from a corner, and regarded the entered with flaming eyes. By this unexpected sight the Mayor at first lost his presence of mind, but a moment's consideration, which allowed him to reflect on the cunning of his enemies, and his danger, yielded him per- fect consciousness. Quickly he bound his left arm with his mantle, leaned against the wall, and drew his sword. As soon as the, by several days fasting, excited lion made its spring at the 270 COLOGNE. knight he thrust his protected left arm into its jaws, while his sharp steel pierced its breast, In a few moments the lion was stretched dead. Meantime the traitors, not doubting on the suc- cess of their plan, had called for help with hyp- ocritical nr.xiety for the Mayor, who had been attacked by the Archbishop's lion. At their cry, soon ran together a crowd of persons; the door of the room was forced open , and to the great astonishment of all, they found the master of the town unhurt, and the lifeless animal at his feet. But amidst the exultation, the traitors paled, for their shameful crime was publicly announced by the mouth of the saved knight, and too late they sought their safety in flight. -Seized by the rag- ing people, they were without preceding judical verdict, and without regard to their vocation im- mediately hanged near the Cathedral cloister, there, where from that time stood the so called priest door. But Gryn's action, on which the Citizens of Cologne think with pride, is represented in bas- relief, still to be seen on the portal of the Town-hall. COLOGNE. 271 The three Kings at Cologne. The Emperor Frederic (Barbarossa) besieging the beautiful and grand City of Milan, the prin- cipal citizens concealed the bodies of the 3 Kings sent formerly by the bishop Eustorgius of Con- stantinople. But the City was taken. In the retinue of the Emperor v/as the bishop Reinold of Cologne whom a knight of high rank ur- gently requested to intercede for him with the Emperor so that he might regain his former fa- vour. The knight engaged in case he did so, to show him riie place where the 3 magi were con- cealed Reinold promised to accede to his wishes, and kept his word, and the knight indicated the secret place. The bishop having had the precious relics disinterred, sent them to Cologne; then he re- quested possession of the treasure from the Emperor, who granted his wishes. Reinold after- wards had the 3 kings transported into his Cathe- dral, and the inhabitants of Cologne were very delighted at this event. From that time they have not ceased to regard the 3 kings as pro- tectors and patrons of the City, which since has had 3 Crowns in its arms. God permitted that a number of miracles were effected by the intercession of the Saints whose glory extended to great distances. Pil- grims came from all countries bringing rich 272 DlJNWALD NEAR MttHLHKIM. offerings. The precious remains of the 3 Kings are still in the Cathedral ; and they will be venerated to the end of centuries. Diinwald near Miihlheim. The Oak- seed. monks at Diinwald directed all their med- 'itations and endeavours to increase their, without this, very wealthy cloister, so that it might never fail on means to satisfy their inclination for luxury and good cheer. Once they reflected on annexing a whole district of more than 100 acres, belonging to the neighbouring young nobleman of Schlebusch, and they did riot want pretences , both in their archives and old parchments, by which they tried to substantiate their claim. But the young nobleman was so much the less inclined to recognize this right, because the cov- eted property, from immemorial time, had been the undisputed property of his ancestors; he therefore believed to be obliged to oppose in every manner, the unjust demands of the cov- etous monks. The affair was to be decided by the law; but unfortunately the then being sheriffs ventured, (fearing the influence and spiritual DUNWALD NEAR MUHLHEIM. 273 power of the cloister) no decided judgment; rather they deferred the judicial dispute, so that there was no prospect of a decision. The young nobleman made anxious in every possible way by his powerful opponents, even threatened with outlawry and excommunication, let them know, he was not disinclined to end the long dispute by ceding the claimed premises, conditionally only that he would be allowed to cultivate still one sowing on the disputed land and to let it ripen. The very delighted monks did not reflect a long time; they consented, and there was directly a binding well -claused con- tract planned concerning this compromise, and completed with all necessary formalities. The seed was consigned to the lap of the earth. When the spring was arrived the monks in ex- pectation of early possession regarded the field, in order to see what sort of corn the young nobleman would harvest for the last time But neither Wheat nor Rye, Barley, or other corn sprouted, but rather gradually budded tender leaves from the earth. At first the monks could not properly distinguish what sort of a plant it might be; but soon they recognized, to their consternation, the budding shoots of young oaks. The avidity of the monks the young noble- man had deservedly, and to the satisfaction of all right minded persons, fortunately outwitted. Meanwhile the oak seeds grew to fine trunks. KtEFER, Legends of the Rhine. 274 SOL1NGEN. When the tops af the oaks looked over the cloister its inhabitants had long slept the Eternal sleep, and before even, in course of time the trees of the wood dried and rotted, the high cloister-walls were already in rubbish and dust. Solingen. The Solinger blades. \|)he art to forge blades of a goodness and f' excellence approaching the world renowned Damascenes was not yet known in Solingen in the lO'. 11 century. There was not a want of good forgers , who endeavoured to imitate the skilled Orientals; but none of these had suc- ceeded and many Masters had , by fruitless attempts, prepared their ruin. Among these was also the old Ruthard an ex- perienced man. become grey in the practice ot liis trade ; his favourite idea, the wish, to which he- had already sacrificed a year, the estab- lishment of the art to fabricate Damascene blades, seemed not to succeed with him. Anx- iously he saw his wealth gradually decreasing by the unremitting , tear - time occupying trials, and just an unsuccessful attempt had prepared SOLINGEN. 275 him new grief, as he left his workshop in the worst humour and entered his sitting room. His only daughter, Martha, far from knowing the cause of his grief shown on the wrinkled fore- head of the old man tried in vain to enliven him; for all her friendly questions he had no answer, not once a regard for the favourite dish with which the careful Martha hoped to surprise him, on the holy Christmas-eve. w Thou ought not to have worked on so holy an evening my father" said she, such work never brings luck and bless- ing. You hammer and fatigue yourself, as if you worked for to-morrow's bread, and yet, I should think, you had gained enough to care for your age, and make yourself happy days." A deep sigh was all the Master answered, then he took dumb and melancholy some bits of vic- tuals, and went out of the house. B The father is ill", said discouraged Martha to herself, and certainly little inclined to hear my request , that becomes daily heavier and . completely oppresses my heart, William is in- deed a diligent, orderly young man, the father's stoutest and most zealous workman, therefore to him before all dear and worthy and ought, indeed his poverty be a sufficient reason for me to renounce him?" Just then William entered the room , but not gaily as is customary to Youth, he was pale and disturbed. r Martha", said he, B we have 276 SOLINGEN. no more hope." I have just ventured, to beg the Master for your hand, doubting indeed on account of his inexplicable, gloomy mind, taken since some time, yet in full confidence in his love and inclination, 01 which he has already given me more than one proof, what do you think he replied? T As longas you", drawing out a blade of foreign, white, and singularly veined appear- ance out of the chest , ,,as long as you do not understand to forge such a master -work, your wooing is useless ; only he who can do that will be my son-in-law." And in speaking so, he cut, as proof of the extraordinary hardness of this steel , a nail from the wall , without its receiving the least gap. w Go". continued he, almost mockingly, pushed me out of the door, and learn in foreign countries the art, after which I have vainly endeavoured; through your- self alone can you attain the object of your wishes ; and nothing : I swear will change my will." This report caused the loving girl the deep- est grief; she hung with all the fervour of first love to the chosen of her heart and burst into tears. My happiness is for ever destroyed she said; for it is not possible, that you travel to the distant Damascus and return happily from the war excited country of the Infidels. I should never be able to support the thoughts of know- ing you in constant danger, and should die SOLINGEN. 277 prematurely. And yet, said William, what other means have we left? This journey as dan- gerous as it may be, allows us at least a slight hope, and the sight of your tears, Martha, con- firms my determination, to venture all, and with- out delay I shall prepare myself for the great undertaking. Either you will see me again in a year or never. With these words the young man left the house hastily, and the next morning, without taking leave, he had departed. On the IG 1 . 11 day of his travelling he entered the solitary mountain of the Spessart. and unacquainted with the labyrinths of the road , he lost himself in the forest. Already he had given up all hope to find a lodging for the night, as he saw, late at night the light of a solitary hut. Advancing quickly he had soon reached it; he knocked, an old ugly woman opened the door. w Good evening", said he, can a poor wanderer find a lodging here? A scanty supper, and a straw-bed is all I want, and I will reward you well for the accomo- dation." Step nearer my line fellow , shrieked the old woman in contracting her face in a most ugly manner, and squinting with her red eyes most disagreeably. I will lodge you, if it is not unpleasant to you, that another visitor arrives, whom I expect every instant. Also I can ar- range a retired chamber for you, where nothing will disturb you, and you can quietly sleep till 278 SOLINGKN. morning-dawn. Nothing remained but to accept the proposal. William related, while the old woman prepared his supper, the object of his journey, and after being refreshed he retired to his straw bed. But he could not sleep. The haunted appearance of the old woman, her speech and a disgusting nasal song . which she sang to the accompaniment of 2 cats kept him awake; as well as curiosity to know, what sort of a visit it would be which the old woman expected in these deserted woods. Meantime it had become midnight: the moon began to spread her magical light over all things , and lent to them in the eyes of the excited youth, all sorts of frightful ligures. The wind rose and clattered the loose panes of the rotten, window-frame, sounding like wisperings of approaching men. Thick drops of rain, struck against the thin walls of the hut toned like light steps of an inimical person se- cretly approaching with menace to ihe solitary. Suddenly a report was heard . frightening him from his bed: at the same time he was aware of a rattling as if some heavy object was falling through the chimney, and an exchange of voices, convinced him , that his hostess was not alone. His hair stood on end ; he rose , and peeping through a door -chink the frightened saw the iigure of a man, sitting at the glowing hearth. On the fire something was cooking in a large kettle, and from time to time shot out of it a SOL1NGEN. 279 blue flame, by the shine of which William could see the stranger more distinctly. He wore a buff-coat, and a hat of the same colour; his face was covered with a thick beard, and had con- cealed his feet in the ashes of the hearth. His flashing, piercing eyes regarded the old woman, who stood humbly before him, and his manner bore the expression of anger. What they spoke together, the listener could not understand; it was a secret, zealous talking. He was not the less frightened by the sudden movement of the old woman to his bed. He threw himself hastily on his bed, to give himself the appearance of sleeping, and he had scarcely closed his eyes for this purpose, when his arm was seized. ,,Wake up, young man!* screamed the witch, n quick get up, you are to make the acquaintance of a man from the distant Orient. He can spare you your journey there; for he is full of wisdom. Speak and beg him , to teach you what will be of use to you." William rose, to follow the old woman, he trembled before the unknown, but the desire for the secret art, and the thoughts of his beloved overcame every other consideration. His whole body shook as he stood before the stranger, whose watching eye, the deadly charming glance resembling a serpent's, stared at the young man from the broad brim of his hat. The flame col- oured mantle, which he drew about his shoulders, 280 SOLINGEN. while his half stretched right hand tried to tranquilize the spluttering and bubbling in the kettle, at last the old woman had meantime crept to a corner of the hearth, so that only her face was visible; all this, by the light of the turf fire had something of a demoniacal character, and completely perplexed the young man. In his anxiety he entreated the protection of all the Saints, so that no Evil one could have power over him. For a long time the enigmatical fright- ful guest kept his eye fixed on William, then he asked him in a deep hollow voice, as if it came from a distance: B What do you wish from me?" The young man related, scarcely master of him- self, and in almost unconnected words, his accident and the cause of his journey; he had scarcely spoken, as the fiend broke out into a loud laugh. ! know, what you wish to know", he said with changed, almost inaudible voice, in inclining to William, w but I do nothing without payment. For the means which I here give you and which contains all that is useful to you, I condition only, that you belong to me, from the day when you will make use of your newly obtained art. Seven years and seven months I present to you , that you can procure the advantages I procure you, so as to enjoy your life. If you agree to my proposal , it is good for you , if not you will never return from the Orient to see your Martha again." SOLINGEN. 281 William was too insensible to reflect; besides love was powerful in his breast; he subscribed, therefore with a pen dipped in the boiling fluid, his name on the presented parchment, and re- ceived for it a well sealed letter, which he had scarcely received before the figure disappeared. The unfortunate passed the rest of the night in feverish excitement, and with distressing dreams. Towards morning he enjoyed refreshing sleep, and the sun was already high when he left his bed. In the hut he found neither the old witch, nor any living being, and hastily as if chased by furies, he left the haunted lodging. Half dead with exhaustion, and after long wandering, he found pitying peasants, who nursed him, and conducted him on the way to his home. Master Ruthard was exceedingly astonished, to see his workman , whom he had already be- lieved far away, return so soon. He thought the young man had repented of his intention, and must have reflected on something else. But how frightened was he as William related him all, handed him the lettered secret, on the seals of which was stamped a tongue of flame and a sword. w God avert", said the pious Master after hear- ing all, and after thinking profoundly for some time: w avert God that your great love for my daughter should ruin you eternally. This lucky or unlucky bringing paper shall never unfold either your hands or mine; it shall rest in the 282 SOLINGEN. most concealed corner of my chest, till better days, till once my grand -son, over whom the devilish power can not stretch, unseals and uses it. u And so it happened. William became on the next Christmas-eve the husband of his beloved, highly delighted Martha, and Rut-hard gave him workshop and customers , resigning himself to quietude which his old age required. Diligence and Perseverance accomplish even the most dif- ficult things; after the course of a few years the wealth of the house increased , so that the old man was delighted. After many years, when Rut hard was dead and William advanced in years also deceased, his son found the letter in which was a de- scription how to forge blades equal in quality to the Damascene blades; and from that time the blades of Solingen are so excellent and renowned. 283 Gerresheim near Diisseldorf. Ghmhilde. r unhilde, the pious, moral and in youthful f' gracefulness shining Nun had awakened in her Confessor's heart an impure inclination, the existence of which she had not supposed. The unworthy priest spared nothing to seduce the inexperienced, but all his shameful exertions failed against G-unhilde's innocence. Consumed by passion, and full of impious plans, the seducer at last, tried to persuade her to fly under the promise of r< -turning to the world, and would unite himself with her in the holy bonds of matrimony. G-unhilde did not resist such promises and his oaths. She escaped with the priest, during a dark night from the encircling walls of the cloister, and now he believed his object attained. But it was not so; the anxious maiden resisted with unconquerable constancy every improper request and demanded the fulfillment of his promise. To grant this, the wicked priest was not at all inclined: but resigned himself, in seeing every means to satisfy his passion remained fruitless, to a vagabond, dissipated life. By this daily more demoralized, he was, at last, connected with a band of robbers, in whose society lie committed numerous crimes. 284 GEKRESHEIM NEAR DttSSELDORF. But during a marauding excursion, the former priest was seized, and soon afterwards hanged, as a fitting reward for his vicious life. The news of his terrible death soon reached Gunhilde, who lamented their days in the greatest seclusion and wept their precipitation. She had it is true re- mained innocent: however she was a culpable fugitive, a sinner in the eyes of the world, which is ever inclined, to believe the evil than in virtue and moral greatness. Notwithstanding the un- fortunate determined, to return immediately to the cloister, and to atone for her crime, by sub- jecting -herself to the most severe punishments. She threw herself at the feet of the Abbess, and implored her to accept, an undutiful, lost but yet repentant and unhappy daughter with clemency and mercy. ^Rise", said the superior, n rise my dear child: why do you accuse yourself"? have you not indeed since unceasingly prayed to God in your chamber and honoured with your charm- ing sounding voice, and more pious you stand there, than your sisters, more pleasing to God. than I.* And to her cell the Nuns and Abbess ac- companied the astonished. On entering her cell all was clear to Gunhilde; for from her resting- place an Angel rose and disappeared, who during her absence had been her substitute, prayed for her, and praised God with pious songs. 285 X a n t e n. Siegfried. the very old times Siegmund, a Netherland f!f prince, with his wife inhabited the castle of if Xanten. They had a son Siegfried, whose bodil} 7 strength developed extremely early, but not less his insolent, untamed rnind, which mocked all teaching and admonition. Scarcely 11 years of age, the vigorous boy found the monotonous quietude of his father's' castle insupportable; he fled, therefore, one day in order to wander about the World to seek ad- ventures. He wandered up the Rhine, and met at the foot of the Sieuengebirges the celebrated armourer Mimer, whose occupation pleased him so well, that he resolved, to be apprenticed to him, in order to finish his own arms. Mimer's workmen were very soon obliged to feel the combativeness of Siegfried; very often he threw them down or beat them soundly. As smith he was useless, for he cut through all iron- bars, and by powerful blows drove the anvil into the earth. The Master, in order to get rid of such a wild fellow, sent him, one day, charcoal- burning in a forest where was a fearful Dragon. This Dragon was the giant Fafner, transformed on account of his cruelties, watched an immense treasure of gold, pearls and precious-stones, which 286 XANTEN. at certain times could be seen glistening in the clefts of a hollow cave. Siegfried lit at the place a large charcoal- kiln, and he had just brought it to a glowing- fire, as the Dragon rushed towards him with wide extended jaws, to swallow the new charcoal- burner. ,,Ho, ho!" cried Siegfried, n that will give a very welcome adventure! now it is called, defend yourself." And from the fire he drew an oak trunk, the burning end of which he thrust into the Dragon's jaws, just as one allows a wild boar's onset. Stung by pain to the wildest rage, the dragon rolled on the ground , and tried to overpower Siegfried by the contortions of its strong tail. But he dealt it repeated blows, and knew how to avoid the attacks of the Dragon, and watching his opportunity he cut off the Dragon's head. Then he threw the carcase into the lire; but with astonishment, he saw flow out a large stream of fat, forming a lake at his feet. At the same time a bird sang over his head : You shall bathe yourself in Dragon's fat, That no enemy's sword can on you act, And your body for every struggle dress'd, Be surrounded with scale armour and bless'd. Siegfried did not fail, to obey the received direction; he threw himself undressed into the ^at, and this anointed ail his limbs, with the excep- XANTEN. 287 tion of a spot on his right shoulder, which, by a leaf falling- from a tree had been covered. With the head of the slain Monster, the Blessed returned to the forge. Here he slew the malicious Mimer, and after selecting an excellent sword, as well as splendid armour, and saddled the best charger in the stable, the racer Grani, he left, anxious for new adventures. After travelling down the Rhine to the South, he arrived at the sea and embarked. The storm drove him on a rocky, steep coast; his active charger however climbed up , and brought him near a bewitched castle standing in flames. The young hero was undecided what to do; the bird sang, that had already given him in- structions, with clear voice: Only fresh, with firm courage forwards, And leap into the fire's glow towards! The finest maid to win you can And unloosen this magician's ban. He spurred his horse, but it struggled and reared, and Siegfried himself was almost suffocated by the terrible heat: however he forced the dis- obedient animal an extraordinary leap placed him in the middle of the flames, and directly the fire was extinguished. The castle was now displayed in its complete, and undamaged beauty. The doors sprang open, and Siegfried did not 288 XANTEN. delay to enter and inspect the interior. Admi- ringly he regarded the splendid apartements, in which the stillness of Death reigned; but still more was he astonished to see the inhabitants immovable, and apparently sleeping in the same positions, in which, without doubt they had in the moment of enchantment. The cook stood at the lire-place, the groom with the horses, even the animals stood immovable at their mangers. As Siegfried entered the castle-hall, an ex- clamation of surprise escaped him; for there lay, on a divan as if cast, ornamented with infinite charms, surrounded with royal pomp, but bound with brass bands, as his heart seemed to tell him the promised maid. Hastily he cut her bands, then he pressed a glowing kiss on the rosy lips. This kiss was the sign of deliverance from 100 years enchantment. Brunhilde, so was the beauty called, opened her eyes, thanked the knight, whom to his no little astonishment she called by name, and promised to be his. All in the castle was in the same moment disenchanted, and moved as if it had never been enchanted. Siegfried hoped for the sweet reward of Love/ but Brunhilde knew how to restrain him by the magic of love, too proud, to wish to give herself entirely to a man. So she enchained him a long time, till finally, his restless spirit could not longer support this inactive yearning, and his inclina- XANTEN. 289 tion for adventures, awoke again in him too pow erfully. This propensity was especially stimulated by the known bird, which did not cease to sing be- fore his window of refuges in the Nibelungen- lande, of great actions, still to accomplish, and of beautiful women, whose love was still to be won. So, one day the Hero recovered his cour- age, armed himself with all manfulness against the seductions of Brunhilde , and like a thief in the night, he left secretly the enchanted castle with all it contained of charming and seductive. His guide was the wonderful bird ; turning to the north it flew ever before him , from branch to branch, house to house ; and did the young Hero listen to it in the cool shade, it sang thus: In the North lies, still unknown, The Nibelungen beautiful throne. Lives cunning folk of small measure, Who labour to hide a great treasure, Worth for you, I give my word, A fine cap and magical sword, The former making you invisible, The sword of the latter to enemies, terrible. No wonder, that Siegfried desirer such excel- lent things, and continued his journey with all possible dispatch. After a long tour he reached the Nibelungenland, and in stretching himself KIEFER, Legends of the Rhine. 19 290 XANTEN. fatigued on the earth, a troop of dwarfs surrounded him, who regarded him with looks of admiration, aud then wished to make him their prisoner. The young Hero however resisted energetically, bound their leade- 1 Alberich with his own long hair, and compelled him to disclose where cap and sword were concealed. The acquisition of these treasures was however not easy. Firstly Siegfried was obliged to overpower the furious giant Wolfgrambar, who watched a subterraneous treasure, the dwarf Alberich, who wished to be- tray him still once punish, till he showed him the place, where the invisible cap was concealed, and finally Wolfgrambar was obliged to deliver the sword Balmung to the Hero, who had bound him so well. After all this was accomplished, Siegfried set his enemy at liberty. Having attained his object, and also slain a Dragon guarding an immense treasure, the Hero felt home-sickness, and set out on his return to his father's castle After several months travel- ing, he arrived there, to the greaf joy of his parents, tho whom he" related of his wonderful adventures. 291 Cleve. The Swan knight. )he young Countess of Cleve was profoundly 5 sad and in great distress. A bold daring Vassal f had not only had the temerity to announce his disobedience, but made himself master of her castle, and her liberty, even demanded her hand and with it the government of her lands. She saw no means to save herself from her rebellious subject; for no knight of her country would ven- ture to challenge an opponent, whose dexterity in arms, gigantic figure, and bodily strength al- lowed no hope of a successful result. Unceas- ingly the severely oppressed Lady directed her fervent prayers to Heaven, that an assistant might appear in her need, and the heart of a combat- ant might be roused, to free her from the bur- densome importunate Vassal. -On her chaplet, according to the legend, is said to have hung a small silver bell with the wonderful property, that the lightest tone of it in the distance, how- ever only in a particular direction, won in strength and sound, and a distant king is said to have regarded it as a cry for help, and a demand to send assistance up the Rhine to the oppressed innocent. This, perhaps originating in a dream, the king regarded, as an adventurous opportunity for his only son, and it was accepted 292 CLEVE. by him with that ardour, with which the noble knights of Antiquity seized every occasion, to lend their protecting arms to the weak, and par ticularly to women. A swan appeared on the waves of the stream; by a golden chain it drew a boat, and so placed itself on the bank, as if demanding to be used, from where the king's son longingly regarded the mysterious distance. To the young man it seemed a manifest sign and command of the higher powers, to step into the boat, and scarcely had he done so, when the swan ascended the Rhine, and disappeared from the sight of the astonished king. Meanwhile the day had arrived for the mar- riage of the master become rebel with the Coun- tess, and she could not escape this destiny,- unless she found a knight, bould enough, to challenge the villain to mortal combat. The anxious one, who should drees herself for the festival, and already considered herself as lust, saw from her -window, a swan drawing a boat up the Rhine, in which boat reposed a sleeping knight. Immediately she recollected, that a pious Nun had once prophesied to her, a sleeping youth would once save her from great danger; and joyfully surprised, the miracle amazed her, as the youth awoke and landed, the swan and boat immediately disappearing. The knight turned his steps direct to the CLEVE. 293 castle, fell on one knee before the Countess, and requested to be allowed to combat for her possession. Joyfully the request was granted, and directly preparations were made in the court of the castle for this trial by arms. Furious, like an enraged boar, the proud Vassal accepted the combat. Many participators, partial to the Countess beating hearts, anxiously awaited this, to them, unfortunate struggle, believing the young man, although expert and strong, would be obliged to : succumb to the bodily size of his powerful opponent. But the just cause triumphed; heavily struck by the sword the villain fell dead, and with ex- clamations of joy, the victor knelt to the saved Countess. With glances of sincere love she uttered her thanks; but not. only with words did she praise the Hero, for some weeks later, he con- ducted the Countess to the altar , where they were united in the bonds of matrimony. Not easily could a wife be happier than the Countess was with her husband, who returned her love with the sincerest tidelity. Only one thing inquieted the heart of the Countess; viz no one knew whence the knight came and to what family he belonged. Before he engaged himself with her, she had been ob- liged to give him her solemn promise that she would never ask him concerning his home and name; for on this question, he had warningly 294 CLEVE. alluded his destiny was connected, and if she did so, he would be necessitated, for ever, to leave her. The Countess had vowed to obey his wishes, and years passed without their happiness being disturbed, but increased by the growth of 3 sons promising to be an ornament to Chivalry. But the more excellent and strong the boys grew, so much the more annoying was it to the mother's heart, that they could not enjoy their father's name, which was certainly of a higher origin. Once therefore as she could not more resist the impulse of her heart , she entreated her husband, not to leave her sons without their father's name , which was what the lowest in- herited from his father, and not to wait till they would be regarded as bastards and mocked. Whence he came, and his name, therefore he could not longer keep secret. Pale and frightened he heard her words, and then exclaimed in a most grievous voice : -,Woe, unhappy mother, what have you done! destroyed our happiness by your words ! From this moment I must leave you, and never return." Then he had his silver-horn blown to the waters, and distantly it echoed in the silent night. At day- break the swan appeared swimming over the waves: but not bringing felicity, as before. The husband stepped into the boat, before the eyes of the terrified, chilled Countess, and descending, the mighty swan returned, and was never seen KEVLAAR. 295 afterwards. Grief soon caused the death of the Countess; but her sons became founders of noble families, who till to day are distinguished by swans in their arms. K e v I a a r. ^eligious legends founded this place in the 5 17* h century. The principal legend speaks of a citizen Heinrich Buschmann, who on ajourney, at Christmas 1661, over the Kevlaar-plain, where at that time stood a so-called trembling-cross, prayed most fervently, suddenly heard a .voice which called to him : ,,Here you are to build me a shrine. As the same event happened to him on the same place some days afterwards, without any person being seen near or at a distance, so he resolved, without informing any one of this miracle, to spare some part of his slender means, and gradually amass so much, in order to con- struct the shrine according to the miraculous direction. The winter passed. In the spring, when Buschmann had already the necessary sum, his wife related to him of a nightly apparition, a shrine with the figure of the Holy Mother, where- upon he communicated to his wife of the ex- perienced miracle. The married couple informed KEVLAAR. some monks who had a cloister in the neigh- bourhood, and they assisted in building the shrine, so that already on June II 4 1642 a great multitude of persons from the adjacent country made a pilgrimage to the shrine and exposed Virgin Mary, later these pilgrimages increased, so that finally a number of houses were built and formed the village Kevlaar. In the year 1842 Kevlaar celebrated its 200 year's jubilee, on which occasion 200,000 persons made a pilgrimage to the place. Our patriotic author Heinrich Heine honoured this pious legend by the following poem. The Pilgrimage to Kevlaar. At the window stood the mother, In the bed the son lay. n Will you not rise William, The procession will not stay?" ,.! am so very ill, oh mother, That 1 do not hear and see; I think on the dead Gretchen My thoughts much pain me. ua fl Rise, we will go to Kevlaar, Book and chaplet with might; The Holy Virgin will cure you, And your sick heart quite." KEVLAAR. 297 There wave the church flags , The holy tones I mention ; That is at Collen on the Rhine, There goes the procession. The mother follows the crowd, The; sou whom she leads , They sing both in the chorus; With praised Mary .she pleads!" The Holy Mother at Kcvlaar Wears to-day her best dress; To-day she has much to do. Many sick in great distress. The sick people bring Her there as offer-benefaction , Of wax formed linibs Both feet and hands all waxen. And who a wax-hand offers , Receives on hand the cure ; And who wax-foot offers , The foot will heal that's sure. To Kevlaar went many on crutches, Who now dances so stealthy, Indeed many play now the viol. Who formerly were not healthy. 298 KEVLAAI;. The mother took a waxlight, And formed out of it a heart. ,.Bring that to the Mother of God , Then heals she your smart." The son took sighing the wax-heart, Went to the Holy-figure sighing; Tears welled out of his eyes, The words from his heart trying. ,, n Thou Highly-blessed, Thou immaculate virgin, Thou Queen of Heaven To thee my pain merging! I lived with my mother At Collen in the town, The town where many hundred Chapels and churches are noted down. And beside us lived Gretchen, Yet she is now dead Mary I bring thee a waxen-heart Heal, for her my heart bled. Heal thou my sick heart , Constantly my heart purging Devoutly praying and singing: Praised be thou Holy Virgin!"" KEVLAAR. 299 The sick son and the mother, In a small chamber they slept; There came the Mother of God Entering with very light step. She stooped over the patient, And Heaven-blessing her hand laid Quite softly on his heart, Left, as on her mouth smiles played. The mother beheld all in dream And seen more but hark ! She awoke from her slumber, The dogs so loudly bark, There lay stretched out Her son, and he was dead; There plays on the pale cheeks The clear morning red. The mother folded her hands, It was, she knew not how; Meditatively she sang softly : n Blessed be them, Mary now!" Heioiich Heine. 300 G e rtru i d en berg. St. Gertrude's delight. ^any years ago there lived in the Netherlands, young maiden endowed with rare beauty, and, at that time very seldom. full of innocence and piety. A rich proud knight became unknown to the lovely Gertrude, violently enamoured of her, and only first could she convince herself by his zealous wooing, of the deep impression she had made on him, and how strong was his passion. But her serious thoughts did not think of the delights of love, also not for family happiness, and the joys of a worldly quiet life but from earliest youth had the most longing wish, that she might be allowed to pass her days in re- tirement, in the cloister dedicated to the Holy John. Only a pure heart free from all human weakness, could in early youth, have formed such a resolution ; her breast free from every passion, entertained one only inclination, the innocent and humane of charity, and her only grief was, that with her poverty, she could not satisfy this desire. The knights wooing therefore was without result. But allowing him to see and friendly converse with her, his passion was in- flamed for the rare, most lovely . blooming maiden, and as if entangled by magical bonds, GERTRUIDENBERG. 301 he was involuntarily devoted to the object of all his thoughts and the torments of his love. He was allowed to be her companion, when she visited the huts of poverty in order to sat- isfy charitable intentions, or to console, where she could not help. He was often witness of her sorrow and her tears, when she was only able to give consolation and hopes; therefore he once ventured , to offer her his well provided purse, which she joyfully and hastily accepted. Now there was no end to these charities , also the knight was not tired of giving. But Gertrude really entered the convent in her 18* h year, however much the knight tried to hinder it, and passed a pious still life, divided between prayer and charitable actions. This inclination she was able to satisfy as her admirer sent means to the convent daily for her pious object. Years passed but not the knight's violent love. Property and estates had been sacrificed to gratify this alms-giving, and with deep affliction, he saw the time approach when it would not more be pos- sible, by bringing his gifts to win a sweet grate- ful smile. In giving the last , he took leave of Gertrude, for a journey as he said, but indeed with the firm resolution, to procure money and property, in some manner or the other. He wandered about the country by night, by un- trodden ways, through thorns and moors, full of all sorts of gloomy intentions. . . : ... . 302 (iERTRUIDENBERG. There advanced to him. at midnight, from a thicket, a man of uncomfortable, strange manner, who adressed him in a disagreeable, hoarse voice: ,,What do you want, knight, that you wander through the forest, at such an inopportune time? Confide it to me, who already assisted many with good advice, and still more by deed. Do you want gold? speak one word and I shall help you, as soon as we agree : as much as it may be, I am master of great treasures. As much as you may use in 7 years I will grant you and your chest shall never be empty. For this I condition a trifle, for such help is worth the trouble. Here I have a parchment, on which a contract is drawn; you can read it by that bog- light. According to this contract you resign your- self to me after 7 long years: however you must, only for form's sake, sign it with 3 r our blood; a drop is enough. If agreeable, to you we will now arrange all. and to-day in 7 years, you will be here again.* The deluded, dazzled knight consented and signed. Wildly he hurried from the place, and arrived at home, he found sufficient gold in his chest. Continually he employed his gold for the convent; yet hungered with all his riches, as if there was no other happiness and joy in the world, that to satisfy Gertrude's wishes and re- ceive her thanks. Meanwhile the 7 years passed and the knight GERTRUIDENBERG. 303 saw , with anxiety tormenting the day approach which was to be his last, and for the last time see his adored Gertrude. Despairingly he would begin his terrible ride to the thicket, in taking leave of Gertrude under the pretence of a journey, and then go to Hell. Then she begged him to drink under the protection of her patroness St. Johanna, to her felicity and pious memory, as protection against every danger. He took the drink, and as he emptied the beaker, it seemed to him as if he had never enjoyed such a for- tifying and exhilarating refreshment. But after taking an affectionate farewell, and in riding to the appointed place, he was filled with gloomy thoughts, and trembling he arrived at the spot. There stood already the frightful unknown wait- ing for him; but as soon as he saw the knight, he sprang away terrified, raised a fearful howl, and cried, in tearing the contract : Woe to *ne, I have no power over you. for behind you, on your horse is riding St. Gertrude, whose felicity you last drunk." With these words theEvil-onedisappeared, and a pale brimstone vapour filled the air. The knight was released, Gertrude's charity had cured him; but in his habitation he found a great treas- ure, which in accordance with Gertrude's will, he employed on a charitable object; and in order to be continually worthy of the favour of Heaven, he devoted the rest of his days to the service of God and retired to a cloister. 304 Zuydersee. Stavoren ^mong the commercial sea-towns of Holland G centuries ago Stavoren took the first place. The ships of its merchants covered the seas, and imported the productions of all zones. Such an extensive commerce raised the wealth of this town to an unknown extent. It is true there was here , as elsewhere, many poor ; but the number of the wealthy outnumbered them. But also high-life, luxury, and magnificence, the usual companious of great riches , did not fail, because in foolish pride and ruinous zeal, one tried to excel the other in brilliancy, in the exhibition of valuables , splendid , extravagant feasts. The legend relates, there where many houses, like palaces, built with marble , the interiors orna- mented with the most artistically inlaid-work, covered with the richest stuffs, and provided with the rarest furniture, and the doors ihstead of iron, were bound with precious metals: But of all the Stavoren merchants none could compare in riches with the Virgin Richberta. The good fortune, that each of her speculations was richly rewarded, and not seldom with un- expected profits, seemed to show'inher. to what degree she could lavish her gifts on a mortal, and how long allow her favours to be enjoyed. ZUYDERSEE. 305 The commercial fleet of the Virgin merchant visited the remotest seas, not only returned each time with the richest profits, but with the most expensive wares, with ornaments, pearls, and precious -stones, which were employed in the palace of their mistress, and shone on its walls. Such unexampled good fortune the Virgin Richberta could not support with indifference, with which alone she could have enjoyed it; and if it is true, what a wise man says, that great misfortunes are easier to be borne than immoderate happiness, Richberta was destined to be a glaring proof of the truth of the asser- tion Her pride kept step with the increase of her riches, and she showed it both by contempt for her fellow-creatures, and satisfying if. by the; most luxuriant, extravagant feasts, which she gave less to amuse and gladden the town, than to give her guests opportunities to admire the ever new splendour of her apartments , be as- tonished at the foreign costly food and wine, and envy the giver. At one of these extravagant senseless repasts, offering nothing to the mind , and leaving the heart void, a strange guest was announced to the Virgin Richberta. He came from foreign countries he sent her word, had seen many royal countries, and the splendour of their courts, and had come to admire Richberta's riches of which fame had reported miraculous. KIEFER, Legeuds of the Rhine. *0 306 ZUYDERHiK. The flattered mistress begged the stranger to Cake a seat at her side: he appeared to be still a robust old man. in the picturesque custume of the Orient, his conduct was dignitied mid noble, and stepped to Richberta, expecting the welcome from her hands, which according to the usage of his country was given symbolically by the offering of bread and salt. But there was no bread on the luxurious table, which groaned under the burden of rare, palate-exciting dishes, and from which the simple nourishment of pov- erty was banished. Silently the stranger seated himself, and in taking refreshments he related agreeably and instructively of his travels by land and water, of foreign nations and their customs, of his changes, his pleasures and misfortunes, of the perishableness of earthly goods, and the muta- bility of human happiness. Every ear listened to the sounding words of the enigmatical guest; but not the Virgin Rich- berta. Her vanity could not expect anything else than that the stranger should be loud in his praises of her riches, the brilliancy of her feast, and would make comparisons giving fresh nourish- ment to her pride; but he was silent on such subjects, till finally, demanded by herself, he confessed only by kings to have found such splendour and -extravagance; the more singular, he concluded, to miss here, the best and noblest ZUYDERSEE. 307 what the Earth produced. In vain one tried to obtain a fuller explanation of the strange guest; he remained dumb, and on being questioned too pressingly and importunate, he disappeared and was not seen again. Richberta's pride and curiosity equally excited, allowed her no more quietude. She possessed in valuables all that could be mentioned., pro^ duced by Land and Sea; hov/ever tfie very best should be wanting? She asked scholars and soothsayers, sent for magicians and dream-inter- preters : but none knew to name what she had not long possessed. In her restless desire for the very best she had ships equipped, to cruise all seas and lands, and not to return till it had been found. The commander of her fleet put to sea, un- decided whither to direct his ships. One part he sent to the 'East, and another to the West, while he himself with his ships relied on the favour of the winds. It happened, that by a leak, a part of.the provisions was spoiled, and although there was no want of meat, wine, and other ob- jects of luxury, the flour and bread had become unlit for food , and the want of it was soon felt most severely. In this need the commander rec- ognized clearly, what he was obliged to consider the most delicious and best: not the spices and perfumes of India, the pearls from the bottom of the sea. the gold from the deepest diggings 308 ZUYDERSEE. but the simple everywhere thriving gift of Nature, the indispensable, inestimable nourishing, and reviving bread. He recognized now the sense of the obscure words, spoken by the stranger, and his resolu- tion was quickly taken. He steered to a Baltic harbour where he took a full cargo of the finest wheat, with which he sailed to Stavoren. Scarcely arrived, he appeared before the Virgin Rich- berta, who had not expected him so quickly, and announced to her, that he now knew, what was the most luxurious and best of all possessions; he had found it, and in abundance brought with him. He then related to his astonished mistress, how he had obtained this knowledge, how the mysterious guest could only have meant the failing bread, and as he therefore believed, had executed his order in the most satisfactory manner. But Richberta was not of this opinion, she east reproachful looks at the confounded servant, and painfully suppressing her rage, she asked him, on which side of the ship he had taken the cargo; she was answered it had taken place on the right side. Well then, answered the haughty Richberta, I command you to cast the whole cargo into the sea from the left side. In vain were all representations against this order; uselessly the faithful servant appealed to her heart, in conjuring her, not to annihilate the rich gift of God, but at least to relieve the wants ZUYDERSEE. 309 of the poor with it ; uselessly he sent crowds of needy persons to her to soften her hard proud feelings; all was in vain, and before her eyes, she had the rich wheat cargo which could have given bread to so many, thrown into the sea, amid the bowlings and cursings of the multitude. The bottom of the sea had received the cargo, but the grains became a sowing of ruin. Germinat- ing in the mud, and shooting up , continually covered with new earth, shot up a forest of stalks without ears, in unnatural growth always higher, like sea fungus and spiders to the surface of the water, and as the oft moveable mass of the earth therewith found a support, an immense sand-bank was formed before the harbour of Stavoren which no human power was able to break through. The numerous ships of the town, also those of the rich Richberta did not more (ind an entrance to the port, and were the sacrifices of the raging waves. Commerce and riches were destroyed, and continually recurring strokes of fortune pre- cipitated the proud Virgin Richberta from the pinnacle of her splendour and happiness into want and misery. But the sea, to which an accustomed creek had been closed, raged with ever new anger against the bank, and during the storm of a dark tempest it broke through the dikes, flooded the town, and tore it with the foundations hastily into the sea, like a long wished for booty. 310 KAAG. Where Stavoren once stood rolls now the troubled waves of the Zuydersee. But when the clear water allows its bottom to be seen, the shippers see with horror, still now, on the bot- tom, the proud towers and doors, the streets and the high gables of the palaces of this sunk once such a magnificent town. H a a g. Three hundred and sixty five children. the Countess Henneberg came once, with twins in her arms, an unfortunate wife begging for' charity. Irritated at the unannounced entry into the tine apartment, which was dishonoured by such an unclean presence the proud wife reproached the poor beggar woman , declaring her visit as an insolence; and as she did not leave quickly enough, the hard-hearted countess called' after her: ..Go away directly ! to pity you would be a sin; you are an unchaste wife, for 2 children can never be from one father." By these defaming words the heavily afflicted rose from her humble position , and instead of the hitherto supplicating, expression her traits took a threatening appearance, and an uncom- fortable (ire sparkled from her eyes. ,. Curses strike you, Unmerciful!" screamed she in furious tones. As punishment, for your ignominious words, may you hear as many children as there are days in a year." So crying she left the apartment of the Count- ess; but the haughty laughed loudly and sneered at her, as she thought, impotent menace. However it was not long before the Countess felt herself mother, and 9 months were scarcely passed, she bore, under unspeakable anxiety and torment 365 children successively. But as they were successively born, so they died; and also the mother, become insane, died shortly after their birth and death. In a village church, near the Haag, one still shows the grave of the Countess and her children, as well as the font where the 365 children were christened. As many children as days in a year- You must not believe all one relates and writes , 1 will allow Critics, if they are spiritual lights. An old man from the Haag me lately related. This wonder concerns Countes Henneberg as stated. A beggar-woman came to demand alms , Two screaming twins she had in her arma. So too-richly blessed yet poor in goods and gold, It was demanded how she coifld be so bold. 312 HAAG. Away, impudent wife, called the Countes irritated, Shamelessly you boast with your belly to be mated, ,,Away, away, clean my room of her presence ratlier; Two children can never be from one father." Then spoke the insulted: ,,So I wish you then, hear, That God presents you as many children as days in a year." The wish was expressed, the Countess complained, She felt very strangely, soon was she much pain'd. Three hundred and sixty five the days of the year. Just as many children she bore- with many a bitter tear. Living altogether, given to the holy baptism, Boys and girls were christen'd without schism. Of the little daughters, Elizabeth was the name, Collectively the boys John then became. The christening basin is still shown there, The mother, from terror, tore out her hair. From terror dead, her offspring every one, By holy baptism God's Kingdom soon won. It has happened at Haag not a mile wide, You may see the grave still, if disbelief tried. E. Sim rock. HAAG. 313 At the conclusion of this work, we cannot help thinking on the beautiful and true words of the genial Briton w Byron" , who thus describes the majestic stream. Adieu to thee, fair Rhine ! How long delighted The stranger fain would linger on his way! Thine is a scene alike where souls united Or lonely contemplation thus might stray, And could the ceaseless vultures, cease to prey On self condemning bosoms, it were here, Where Nature, nor too sombre nor too gay, Wild but not rude, awful yet not austere Is to the mellow Earth as Autumn to the year. Adieu to thee again ! a vain adieu ! There can be no farewell to scene like thine, The mind is colour'd by thy very hue ; And if reluctantly the eyes resign Their cherished gaze upon thee, lovely Rhine ! T'is with the thankful glance of parting praise; More mighty spots may rise more glaring shrine , But none unite in one attaching maze . The brilliant, fair and soft, the glories of old days. The negligently grand, the fruitful bloom Of coming ripeness, the white city's sheen. The rolling stream, the precipice's gloom, The forest growth, and Gothic walls between, The wild rocks shaped as they had turrets been, In mockery of man's art; and these withal A race of faces happy as the scene Whose fertile, bounties here extend to all , Still springing o'er thy banks, though Empires near them fall. Byron. llBRAfflt 1 UC SOUTHERN REGIONAL LIBRARY FACILITY A 000 622 637 7 - I j Published In David Kapp in M and to be had HI all boo i Panorama of the Rhine from Mayence to Cologne,, -'. Panorama of the Rhine from Mannheim to Cologne.) [>ric< ;. Pocket-Panorama from Mayence to Cologne. t. The Course of the Rhine from Schaffhausen to the North Sc; "-. New Rhine Album from Heidelberg, Frankfort to Cologne <>. Album of the Rhine 7. Album of the Taunus baths ii. Souvenir of the Rhine wii 10. Goldberg. English interpreter for German emigrants to America, silver coins. : 1C d. 11. Map in colors and boards of the United States of j North America. l'ii. -**