I will write the instructions immediately, so that you may receive them to-day." Herr Behnisch bowed, backing out toward the door.
"One thing more," cried the king, motioning with his Staff to the tutor.
"In order that you may ever remember our interview, I will present you with a souvenir." He opened the drawer of his private writing-table, and took out a gold snuff-box, with his initials set in brilliants upon the cover; handing it to Herr Behnisch, he motioned him to retire, and thus spare him the expression of his gratitude.
"Your majesty," stammered Herr Behnisch, with tears in his eyes, "I--" "You are an honest man, and so long as you remain so, you can count upon me.

Adieu!--Now," said the king, as the door closed, "have you recovered the plaything ?" "Here it is, your majesty," shouted the prince, as he held up triumphantly the battledoor and shuttlecock high in the air.
"You deserve your reward, and you shall have it.

You can stay with me and play with it here.

Take care and not make too much noise, as I wish to write." The king now seated himself, to draw up the instructions for Herr Behnisch.

While he was thus occupied, the little prince tossed his shuttlecock, springing lightly after it on tiptoe to catch it; sometimes he missed it, and then he cast an imploring look at the king, as it fell upon the furniture; but he observed it not.