The salary of the abbess amounts to
seventeen thousand thalers, and I think this addition to your
fortune will be welcome. Your income will now be forty thousand
thalers."
"Lodging and fuel included," said Amelia, with a sarcastic laugh.
"Look you, sire, I see that I have nothing to complain of. My
hospital is splendidly endowed, and if I should ever become miserly,
I may be able to lay aside a few thalers yearly."
"I will gladly put it in your power to lay aside a larger sum, if
you become covetous," said the king; "and I beg you, therefore, to
allow me the pleasure of raising your salary as princess, six
thousand thalers." [Footnote: History of Berlin and Court.]
Amelia looked at him distrustfully. "You are very gracious to me to-
day, my brother. You grant favors before I ask them. I confess to
you this alarms and agitates me. You have perhaps some bad news to
disclose, and fearing I will be crushed by it, you desire,
beforehand, to apply a balsam."
The king's glance was tender and sympathetic. "Poor Amelia! you
will, then, never believe in my affection," said he, mildly. "You
distrust even your brother! Oh, Amelia! life has hardened us both.
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