far as we can hear, with his old comrades only, in praise of THEIR
prowesses; as a simple human being, not as a supreme of captains;
and at times acknowledges, in a fine sincere way, the omnipotence
of Luck in matters of War.

One of the most characteristic traits, extensively symbolical of
Friedrich's intentions and outlooks at this Epoch, is his
installing of himself in the little Dwelling-House, which has since
become so celebrated under the name of Sans-Souci. The plan of
Sans-Souci--an elegant commodious little "Country Box," quite of
modest pretensions, one story high; on the pleasant Hill-top near
Potsdam, with other little green Hills, and pleasant views of land
and water, all round--had been sketched in part by Friedrich
himself; and the diggings and terracings of the Hill-side were just
beginning, when he quitted for the Last War. "April 14th, 1745,"
while he lay in those perilous enigmatic circumstances at Neisse
with Pandours and devouring bugbears round him, "the foundation-
stone was laid" (Knobelsdorf being architect, once more, as in the
old Reinsberg case): and the work, which had been steadily
proceeding while the Master struggled in those dangerous battles
and adventures far away from it, was in good forwardness at his
return. An object of cheerful interest to him; prophetic of calmer
years ahead.

It was not till May, 1747, that the formal occupation took place:
"Mayday, 1747," he had a grand House-heating, or "First Dinner, of
200 covers: and May 19th-20th was the first night of his sleeping
there." For the next Forty Years, especially as years advanced, he
spent the most of his days and nights in this little Mansion;
which became more and more his favorite retreat, whenever the