The man was now gone that raised me from nothing, and showered favours on me; that sun was set in whose lustre I shone with borrowed light. The veil fell off, and, seized with horror and remorse, I at once sunk again into my original insignificancy. I shook as if I had been touched by the chilling hand of death, and scarce had recollection enough to desire Mousons to order post-horses, to empty the King’s strong box, and to take possession of his large diamond and his pocket-book. At that instant an officer entered with twenty-four men, and informed me, that, by order of the new King, I was his prisoner. Mousons was immediately taken into custody, and within twenty-four hours transported to Magdeburg. Thunderstruck, I stared at the officer, collected all the effrontery I still could muster, and, with a haughty countenance and tone of voice, asked him, Who dared to arrest a Countess?--No one but the Emperor dared do so. _The Officer._--It may be so; but at present I have the order of the King my master, which both you and I must obey. Should the King be mistaken, and wrong you, Madam, I am sure he will give you ample satisfaction. I was a prisoner; my papers were sealed up; the cursed pocket-book and the King’s ring were taken from me, and a select committee were appointed to examine my treasonable practices against the King and his subjects. I am criminal before my own conscience; I am so in the eye of the law. To whom must I appeal? Who will protect the wretch who thus has outraged humanity? Who can save me? and what have I to expect? Mercy alone I must have recourse to, and what will not mercy do? What is mercy but to forgive the criminal? And is not forgiveness the most glorious prerogative of regal power? I own my crimes are boundless; they call to Heaven for vengeance,--but all may be well yet; the King is just--but he is merciful--and I am a frail woman! ORIGINAL PAPERS OF THE COUNTESS LICHTENAU, COMMONLY CALLED _MINNA ENCKE_.