Hatred and adoration,
fear and that dread tightening of the heart-strings which is caused
by the shadow of the superhuman, had sprung into being at the mere
sound of its approach.
When therefore it passed across the Frauengasse, throwing its dust
upon Desiree's wedding-dress, it was only fulfilling a mission.
When it broke in upon the lives of these few persons seeking dimly
for their happiness--as the heathen grope for an unknown God--and
threw down carefully constructed plans, swept aside the strongest
will and crushed the stoutest heart, it was only working out its
destiny. The dust sprinkled on Desiree's hair had fallen on the
faces of thousands of dead. The unrest that entered into the quiet
little house on the left-hand side of the Frauengasse had made its
way across a thousand thresholds, of Arab tent and imperial palace
alike. The lives of millions were affected by it, the secret hopes
of thousands were undermined by it. It disturbed the sleep of half
the world, and made men old before their time.
"More troops must have arrived," said Desiree, already busying
herself to set the house in order, "since they have been forced to
billet this man with us. And now they have sent for Charles, though
he is really on leave of absence."
She glanced at the clock.
"I hope he will not be late. The chaise is to come at four o'clock.
There is still time for me to help you."
Mathilde made no answer.
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