"I began to play, and felt as happy as a skilful swimmer breasting the waves. I played on and on, forgetting where I was; and when I stopped and looked around, I saw a fine-looking old man and a lovely, blooming maiden standing in the doorway.
"I suppose I need not tell you more.
"I remained in the hospitable house over-night, and soon discovered that my host was a refugee, and had been a comrade of father's. Constance, or, as she was familiarly called, Conny, became my betrothed, and afterwards my wife; and our son, who was born on the anniversary of Mozart's birthday, received his name.
"Our marriage is a happy one, blest with perfect harmony in thought and feeling.
"When I entered the army my wife merely said, 'You are doing right.'
"When my eldest son died, she was deeply afflicted, but soon resigned herself to the thought that all must make sacrifices.
"I was not a good commander--not that I was deficient in courage or endurance; but soldiering must be studied just like other things. My long experience in topographical studies, was, however, of great use to me. I had a quick eye for the advantages and the disadvantages of positions on our side, or that of the enemy. On the other hand, the Southerners had much better leaders than myself and many others who, like me, had not studied the art of war.
"Now you know the most important facts; and I must stop, for I see Conny and Richard coming."
They came, and Annette had enough self-command not to betray what she had just heard.