The first day that he left his bed, the Count came to him in a transport of joy:—"My dear Ferdinand, we are successful, I have this moment received an express, your commission is granted, and the Emperor wishes to see you without delay. I am happy, my dear brother, in being the messenger of such agreeable and wished-for intelligence."
The agitations of Ferdinand were inexpressible; he hesitated whether he should accept or refuse the commission procured for him. The Count seemed surprised: "You are silent, my dear brother, have your sentiments undergone any change that I am unacquainted with?"
"They have indeed, (answered Ferdinand, with a deep sigh;) the danger I was in a few days since has alarmed me for the future welfare of my family. I know well (added he, fixing his eyes steadily on Rhodophil, whose own fell under the penetrating glance) how much I may depend upon your brotherly kindness; but you may marry, little
