pictures on the walls, a handsome sideboard of plate, a rich Turkey carpet
an unusual thing in Germany--on the floor, and a richly gilt pillar, at
the end of the room farthest from us, the base of which contained a stove,
which, through the joints of the door of it, appeared to be burning
cheerily.

There were some very handsome sofas and ottomans scattered through the
room, and a grand piano in one corner, the furniture being covered with
yellow, or amber--coloured velvet, with broad heavy draperies of gold
fringe, like the bullion of an epaulet. There was a small round table
near the stove, on which stood a silver candlestick, with four branches
filled with wax tapers; and bottles of wine, and glasses. At this table
sat an officer, apparently about forty five years of age. There was n
othing very peculiar in his appearance; he Was a middle--sized man, well
made apparently. He sat on one chair, with his legs supported on another.

His white--topped boots had been taken off, and replaced by a pair of
slipshod slippers; his splashed white kerseymere pantaloons, seamed with
gold, resting on the unfrayed velvet cushion; his blue coat, covered with
rich embroidery at the bosom and collar, was open, and the lappels thrown
back, displaying a crimson--velvet facing, also richly embroidered, and an
embroidered scarlet waistcoat; a large solitary star glittered on his
breast, and the grand cross of the Legion of Honour sparkled at his
buttonhole; his black neckerchief had been taken off; and his cocked hat
lay beside him on a sofa, massively laced, the edges richly ornamented
with ostrich down; his head was covered with a red velvet cap, with a
thick gold cord twisted two or three turns round it, and ending in two
large tassels of heavy bullion; he wore very large epaulets, and his sword
had been inadvertently, as I conjectured, placed on the table, so that the
steel hilt rested on the ornamental part of the metal stove.