THE EMPEROR AND SOLDIER.

Auckland Chronicle and New Zealand Colonist, Volume 2, Issue 25, 24 January 1844, Page 4

THE EMPEROR AND SOLDIER.

The- Eraperor Joseph the 2nd, like the Caliph Haroun Alraschid, often amused himself by visiting various towns of hi 3 extensive dominions, preserving-the strictest incognito, by which he obtained an insight into the grievances of the people, which it would have been almost impossi> hie for him to attain through any other means. J» one of his visits to Brussels, in 1789, inhabiting always by choice the then (as it is still) delicious palace of Lacken, he one day was driving into the town in a simple caleche, dressed as a private individual, and wholly unattended. He had scarcely driven two hundred yards when he met a straggler, evidently fatigued, and proceeding slowly towards the town,who hailed him, and by signs gave him to understand that he wished a place by his side* The Emperor immediately stopped his carrage, seeing that the persou was an old soldier, and after telling him he was welcome to a seat, entered into familiar conversation with him.— “Ah” said the soldier, “ I have been to to see a friend of mine, one of the Royal gamekeepers, with whom I have breakfasted in a superb manner.” Emjteror : what have you eaten so superior, my friend ? Soldier : Guess. Emperor : I scarcely know how; some soup a la bier, perhaps. Soldier: Bah? soup; Better than that. Emperor : some Brussels sprouts? Soldier : Better than that. Emperor: some veal roasted ? Soldier: Better thanfall that, I teSI you. Emperor ; By my faith, I cannot guess any more. Soldier: well then, what think you of a pheasant —one taken from the preserves of his Majesty? (accompanying the speech by a familliar tap on the shoulder), Emperor : Indeed, I agree with you; a pheasant from the imperial preserves will only eat the finer Soldier : I’ faith, I believe so. As they approached the town, the rain continuing to fall heavily, Joseph asked his humble companion in what part he lodged, or where he wished to be put down ? r Soldier: This is abusing your kindness Emperor: No, no, tell me your residence. Soldier: well, since you insist, be it so (giving the address ) but now inform me in turn who are you ? Emperor : Guess. Soldier : Like myself, a soldier, doubles. Emperor :As you say. Soldier: A Lieutenant ? Emperor; A Lieutenant ! better than that. Soldier : A Captain, then ? Emperor: Better-still. Soldier: Colonel, perhaps? Emperor Better than that I tell you Soldier (who began to be alarmed): Are you a Generator Field Marshal? Emperor : Still better, my Friend. Soldier : Heavens ! It is the Emperor? Emperor : As you say. I here was not a possibiltiy of falling on his knees in the carriage,' but, trembling, he threw himself on the Emperor’s generosity, and begged at once to alight. “ No, no,” said the Sovereign, “ after eating my pheasant you ought not to be in such a hurry to get rid of me, so I am determined to see you safe home.” And accordingly he put him down] at his onw door. ,