Attempt > Volume 1 and Select writings

THE ATTEMPT
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unpretending building, standing in the village. On leaving the churchyard we
bethought ourselves of returning homeward, and as the road was a continuous descent
the whole way, we flattered ourselves that we should have a pleasant six miles’ walk.
Alas ! we were doomed to disappointment, for scarcely had we left the village than
a violent shower of rain came on, and never ceased until after we had arrived at our
lodgings thoroughly drenched. As it then cleared up, and continued fair the rest of
the evening, it is not unreasonable to suppose that an ambitious cloud had descended
for the double purpose of soaking us poor wayfarers, and showing us what clouds
nursed amidst the mountains can do when in good earnest.
As no evil consequences ensued, however, the wetting which we received was set
down as an adventure, and therefore rather added to than diminished the interest
with which we treasured up the recollections of our visit to the highest village in
Britain.
Agatha.
(translated from the german.)
Towards the end of the last century a young German nobleman came on a journey
through Italy to Venice. As he liked the city he remained there for some time, and
soon made acquaintance and formed a friendship with some young Venetians. However,
not long afterwards, he observed, and at first not without amusement, that his new
friends held their fatherland far above all the other countries of Europe, and especially
above Germany. One evening they invited him into a company where theatrical
performances were given, and he soon saw himself held up as a butt for their
amusement, while the drunkenness of the Germans was made to play the principal
part. Amongst other things were represented drunken Germans, who reeled about
with bottles in their hands. This was received with great applause. The German
shrugged his shoulders, and promised his friends that he would soon give them an
answer to their entertainment. He kept his word. Hot many days after, he invited
them to his house, and many of them and of their acquaintances appeared, expecting