Collected works > Edinburgh edition, 1894-98 - Works of Robert Louis Stevenson > Volume 9, 1895 - Romances Volume II

IN WHICH THE PRINCE
' The reason ? The place is to be sold : three
thousand crowns,' replied Mr. Gottesheim. ' Had it
been a third of that, I may say without boasting
that, what with my credit and my savings, I could
have met the sum. But at three thousand, unless I
have singular good fortune and the new proprietor
continues me in office, there is nothing left me but
to budge.'
Otto's fancy for the place redoubled at the news,
and became joined with other feelings. If all he
heard were true, Griinewald was growing very hot
for a sovereign Prince ; it might be well to have a
refuge; and if so, what more delightful hermitage
could man imagine ? Mr. Gottesheim, besides, had
touched his sympathies. Every man loves in his soul
to play the part of the stage deity. And to step
down to the aid of the old farmer, who had so
roughly handled him in talk, was the ideal of a Fair
Revenge. Otto's thoughts brightened at the pro-
spect, and he began to regard himself with a renewed
respect.
* I can find you, I believe, a purchaser,' he said,
'and one who would continue to avail himself of
your skill.'
' Can you, sir, indeed ? ' said the old man. ' Well,
I shall be heartily obliged ; for I begin to find a man
may practise resignation all his days, as he takes
physic, and not come to like it in the end.'
'If you will have the papers drawn you may even
burthen the purchase with your interest,' said Otto.
' Let it be assured to you through life.'
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