Litchfield enquirer., 1862-09-11

'Neverp replied Charlotte; shall never havs coutage. If you like to go in my stead, added she, T will 4ake over the two hundred forins to you" -
 T will accept half,' replied o.thsFipe, quick 1 ly; I've shall thus both have doRry, and who knows9 perhaps be married tomorrow l Letter in hand, Catherine soon reached the fortress, the gates of which were opened to her at the sight of the mysterious seal. She was much pleased with the dsferencs which was paid her, and she made up her mind that the strang- CT must have been some great parsonage, and that the letter contained something important. she examined it oyer and over again, burning with curiosity to know the contents. She en- deavored to peep into the envelope, but in vain. If should, without knowing it. cause a coMp d'etat or Feyqlution!" exclaimed she. But, after all, what are the secrets of peace and war to mel The great thing is to ascertain if Lud. wig and Albert are here.' . The commander, a crabbed-looking old sold fer, who had grown gray in the service of his king and country, now entered to relieve her sus- penss. Having eyed hes from head to foot, he said:
 'One of the fair sex asked for me- It was you, young girl. Here am, What can ] do for you?'
 sIs it Major Keller, commander at Marien burg, to whom I have the honor of speaking?'
 IVhe same'
 I am commissioned to give this letter into your hands, major,' said Catherine, presenting the letter.
 From whom did y9u receive it?' continued he.
 From stranger who passed down the road about an hour ago.
 Let me see,' said be as be recognized the seal, and, taking of his hat, he made military salute.
 Catherine was quite astonished to find that the despatch of which she was the bearer, received as much honor as herself
 Having read the letter, Keller burst into sudden fit of laughter, then as suddenly grew grave again, and, taking out a double eye-glass, silently regarded her for some time.
 Would you like to be Viuaudiere asked the determined major.
 NvandierT That would depend on the reg imeat. lift were, for instance, in the third -.
 What is your dowry?' interrupted he.
 Catherine. thinking the majors question very original, and wondering what be would say next, answered, Not large sum-ope hundred gold forins; the carriage of the letter which 1 have given you.'
 Well, that isa dowry for soldier
 Certainly for sergeant But you have not told me if the fifth company of the third regiment.-'
 Yes, yes; we will zee about that. It is Q company of picked men, measuring five feet six inches; and l doubt if your fgure---. Per nit pe, mademoiselle,' said be, drawing his sword, and taking her measure with the blade.
 Five feet, at least. Not amiss, not amiss 1!
 Major, do you wish to enrol me in the king s army 2 exclaimed she. It is already done, my darling. have but to choose the corps, and Ithink you will belong to the Grenadiers.' To the Grsn.diersl Ah, we'll What does it matter? You are joking, commander
 'Joking-with this letter! Stay, there is no longer any mystery. You may read cad the letter yoursels'
 Catherine took the letter from Major Keler's hand and read as follows,
 'Qrder to Major Keller to choose one of the handsomest men in the regiment, and t2 marry him to the young gisl-ths bearer of this dis patch
 [Signed,] KING FREDERICK II.
 'The King It was the King Good heay. sns?
 The king himself. Are you not delighted to have made his acquaintane?'
 Catherine was stupe6ed, and exclaimed To marry me! will never give my consentr
 Your consentp replied Keller, showing hel the letter. Of that there is no mention in this order,'
 Saying these words, he rapg the bell, and said to the soldier who aan.ssyered bis sssRmons: An oEdeg from the king for the chaplain, 4 marriage to be solemnized in half an hour 'Ip half an hourr cried Catherine. 1t is i'm possible! It is a wilful injury
 When say half an hour, perhaps a quarter will suffice. The time to measure eight or ter grenadiers, and to choose one among them 0 the right proportions said he, measuring Cathe rine with his eye. 'About five feet four or si1 inches. A fair conplexion to form contrast Mademoiselle,' he continued with military Sd Ilute, I shall be at your service in . few min utes.' I Presently Keller returned, holding paper ii his Asad.
 Il have found your man. said he; and you are to sign this promise of marriage with him fo the chaplain, as the lsv requires the consent ( the parties s, .. l sCstherias, recovering from hsr objection, e' claimed: Consent! An! qndsrstand yo' then, at last. Ah this paper has to be 1igned You must have my napet Well, major. wi allow myself to be cat isto pieees rather tha sign that paper.' added she, standing in ap aitt tude of determination before Maj. Keller, ! Really. yos yoald make ap admirable grsn' j. dier,' said he. He then read aloud the prom, , of marriage, as folloss: We the undsrsigns > tyou will add yqsr nans), and Sergeant Hoste ? of the third regiment of ths Grenadisrs=' ;. at |