Mr. Winter said, "Now this ends what is called 'the great gorge of the Rhine,' and the river will broaden, and the open country, not very interesting, is before you."
Just before reaching Bingen they saw the ruins of Ehrenfels, and in the middle of the river the Mausthurm, or "Mouse Tower."
"O papa, I know the story of that tower," said Alice. "Can I tell it?"
"We are only too glad to hear it," said her mamma.
"Hatto was Bishop of Fulda, and wishing to be made Archbishop of Mayence, used every means in his power to accomplish his purpose. He succeeded, and became very ambitious, proud, and cruel. He taxed the poor to build for himself fine dwellings.
MOUSE TOWER.—Page [61].
"At last he built the tower in the river where it was very narrow, to compel all ships to pay him toll.
"A famine set in, and he, having plenty of money, bought up everything and filled his granaries. He sold his stores at such high prices that only the rich could buy.
"He paid no heed to the supplications of the famishing people, as he intended building a superb palace with his money.