These families are continually filling the ear of
the empress with accusations against the unfortunate prisoner, well
knowing that he cannot defend himself. You must appear to have
forgotten that poor Trenck is languishing in prison while his
property is being guarded by stewards who pay themselves for their
heavy labor with the old colonel's money. It is dangerous,
therefore, to meddle with this wasp's nest. To serve Trenck, the
interceder must be so harmless and insignificant that no one will
consider it worth while to watch him, so that Trenck's enemies, not
suspecting him, can place no obstacles in his path."
"Lives there such a one?" said the princess.
"Yes, your royal highness."
"Where is he? What is his name? What is he?"
"The fireman in the apartments of the empress. He is a poor
Savoyard, without name, without rank, without position, hut with
credit and influence."
"A fireman?" cried the princess, with amazement.
"An old, ugly, deformed fellow, called by the other servants Gnome
because of his stubborn silence, his want of sociability, his rough
manner and voice, his caring for nothing but his service, which he
performs with great method.
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