"And your majesty does well," said the countess, whose wrinkled,
yellow countenance was now illuminated by a strange fire. "The anger
of God will rest upon this heretical nation that has turned from her
salvation, and left the holy mother church in haughty defiance. The
King of Poland cannot even appoint true Catholic-Christians as his
officers--every position of any importance is occupied by heretics.
But the deluge will surely come again upon this sinful people and
destroy them."

The queen crossed herself, and prayed in a low voice.

The countess continued: "This Frederick stimulates these heretical
Saxons in their wicked unbelief. He, who it is well known, laughs
and mocks at every religion, even his own--attended, yesterday, the
Protestant church, to show our people that he is a protector of that
church."

"Woe, woe to him!" said the queen.

"With listening ear he attended to his so-called preacher's sermon,
and then loudly expressed his approval of it, well knowing that this
preacher is a favorite of heretics in Dresden. This cunning king
wished to give them another proof of his favor. Does your majesty
wish to know of the present he made this, preacher?"

"What?" said the queen, with a mocking laugh. "Perhaps a Bible, with
the marginal observations of his profligate friends, Voltaire and La
Mettrie?"

"No, your majesty; the king sent this learned preacher a dozen