"Is everything right?" said Herr Frank to the driver.
"All is fixed, sir, as you required."
"Is the box of books taken out?"
"Yes, sir."
The coach moved up the street. The dark mountain-side rose into view, and narrow, deep valleys yawned beneath the travellers. Fresh currents of air rushed down the mountain and Herr Frank inhaled refreshing draughts.
Richard gazed thoughtfully over the magnificent vineyards and luxurient orchards.
The road grew steeper and the wooded summit of the mountain approached. A light which Frank beheld with satisfaction glared out from it. Its rays shot out upon the town that, amid rich vineyards, topped the neighboring hill.
"Our residence is beautifully located," said Herr Frank. "How cheerful it looks up there! It is a home fit for princes."
"You have indeed chosen a magnificent spot, father. Everything unites to make Frankenhöhe a delightful place. The vineyards on the slopes of the hills, the smiling hamlet of Salingen to the right. In the background the stern mountain with its proud ruins on the summit of Salburg, the deep valleys and the dark ravines, all unite in the landscape: to the east that beautiful plain."