Without, the snow still fell noiselessly, and laid itself thick and cold on the hard earth; but here two hearts beat warm against one another, ready to meet the future bravely. The old curse, which had so long darkened the lives of both, and appeared as if it must separate them for ever, had been banished by their own hands. Not avenged, but expiated was the crime, and both now felt what the old Praesidentin had said, as the last fragment of the fateful paper sank in dust and ashes; "God be thanked! The evil is at an end!" FOOTNOTES: [Footnote 1: Bridegroom.] [Footnote 2: Belonging to the lower rank, common.] [Footnote 3: Most gracious--a term used in addressing ladies in Germany.] [Footnote 4: Gracious Count.] [Footnote 5: Betrothed, bride. A German lady is always called a bride as soon as she is betrothed.] THE END. * * * * * Printed by Remington & Co., 5, Arundel Street, Strand, W.C.