and he set off, doubtless with the secret determination never again to
traffic in merchandize which possesses no value when it can be either
bought or sold.

About two years after his marriage, the Count de Witt obtained leave of
absence, and, accompanied by his wife, he visited the different courts
of Europe. Sophia's beauty, which derived piquancy from a certain
Oriental languishment of manner, was every where the theme of
admiration. The Prince de Ligne, who saw her at the Court of France,
mentions her in his Memoirs, in terms of eulogy, which I cannot think
exaggerated; for when I knew her at Tulczin, though she was then upwards
of forty, her charms retained all their lustre, and she outshone the
young beauties of the court, amidst whom she appeared like Calypso
surrounded by her nymphs.

I now arrive at the second period of Sophia's life, which forms a sequel
perfectly in unison with the commencement. Count Felix Patocka, at the
commencement of the troubles in Poland, raised a considerable party by
the influence of his rank and vast fortune. During a temporary absence
from the Court of Poland, he made a tour through Italy, and on his
return, he met the Count and Countess de Witt at Hamburgh, when he fell
deeply in love with Sophia. Not to weary you with the details of the
romance, I will come to the _dénouement_ at once.

Nothing is so easy as to obtain a divorce in Poland. The law extends
so far on this point, that I knew a gentleman, M. Wortrel, who had no
less than four wives, all living, and bearing his name. Count Patocka,
therefore, availing himself of this advantage, and having previously
made every necessary arrangement, one morning called on Count de Witt,
and, without further ceremony, said--"Count, I love your wife, and