No More Learning

_ And that's the reason I would have us less so:
I thought our bustling guest without had said
You were a chance and passing guest, the counterpart
Of me and my companions.

_Wer. _ Very true. 320

_Gab. _ Then, as we never met before, and never,
It may be, may again encounter, why,
I thought to cheer up this old dungeon here
(At least to me) by asking you to share
The fare of my companions and myself.

_Wer. _ Pray, pardon me; my health----

_Gab. _ Even as you please.
I have been a soldier, and perhaps am blunt
In bearing.

_Wer. _ I have also served, and can
Requite a soldier's greeting.

_Gab. _ In what service?
The Imperial?

_Wer.
_ (_quickly, and then interrupting himself_).
I commanded--no--I mean 330
I served; but it is many years ago,
When first Bohemia[167] raised her banner 'gainst
The Austrian.

_Gab. _ Well, that's over now, and peace
Has turned some thousand gallant hearts adrift
To live as they best may: and, to say truth,
Some take the shortest.

_Wer. _ What is that?

_Gab. _ Whate'er
They lay their hands on. All Silesia and
Lusatia's woods are tenanted by bands
Of the late troops, who levy on the country
Their maintenance: the Chatelains must keep 340
Their castle walls--beyond them 'tis but doubtful
Travel for your rich Count or full-blown Baron.
My comfort is that, wander where I may,
I've little left to lose now.

_Wer. _ And I--nothing.

_Gab. _ That's harder still. You say you were a soldier.

_Wer.