For fourteen generations have we worn it!" "But," said I, sadly, "the very children on the street hate me and spit on me as I pass; the maids will not so much as speak to me.

They scyrry in-doors and slam the wicket in my face.

Think you that is pleasant?
And when as a lad of older years I set out to woo, whither shall I betake me?
For what door is open to a Gottfried, to him who carries the sign of the Red Axe ?" "Ah, lad," said my father, patiently, "life comes and life goes.

It is nigh on to forty years since even thus my father held out the curt mantle for me.

And even so said I.Time eats up all things but the hearts of men.