Of course, I gladly accepted the offer, and promised to serve him truly and well. He is an excellent man, and a kind master. The duties of the situation are light, and he pays me handsomely for them. Having a great deal of writing to do, he requested me to copy two sheets for him, and he was so well pleased, that he now occupies a considerable part of my time in that employment, and pays me specially for it. Many a rich farmer's son with full pay, and an allowance from home, is not half so comfortable as I am. The captain calls me Mr. Secretary. The changes that have recently occurred in the seat of war, will soon bring us into open conflict with the enemy. It is good and noble to fight for fatherland; how goes the song,—
"On in the van,
Man to man,
Whoe'er a falchion's hilt can span."
And it is a noble thing to die for fatherland, if it comes to that; but let us hope, dear sister, that God will save us from much bloodshed, and soon give peace to Germany. Meanwhile, believe me—
Your affectionate brother,
GEORGE KAURNER.
[LETTER VI.]
MARGARET TO HER MOTHER.
DEAREST MOTHER:—God be praised, it is peace once more. Bonfires have been lighted in the square. Fireworks have been exhibited in the public places. The bells of all the churches have been ringing. I have been watching the crowds that throng the streets welcoming the soldiers on their return from the war. How many happy meetings there have been already. Husbands with their wives, fathers with their children, brothers with their sisters.