every opinion, all sorts and conditions of men.  What the ruling classes say against them to-day has been said against the adherents of all new ideas since the beginning of time.  Whoever tried to make the slightest alteration in the existing order of things was always considered, by those who derived advantages therefrom, to be a foe to the State and to society in general-a robber and a revolutionist.  The early Christians enjoyed exactly the same reputation as the Socialists to-day.  They were looked upon as enemies of the whole human race, and were torn to pieces by wild beasts, though—­doubtless to your regret—­it has not come to that with, the Socialists.  And nevertheless, though lions and tigers are a good deal worse than police officers, the principles of Christianity have triumphed, and there is nothing to prove that the principles of Socialism will not triumph in their turn.”

“Prophet of evil omen!” cried Paul.

“Not necessarily so.  Where would be the misfortune?  I am firmly persuaded that a Socialist State would not differ in any important point from the accepted forms of government of the day.  The administrative power would merely be transferred from the hands of the military and the landed aristocracy to another class.  To those who do not want a share in the governing power, it is all the same who wields it.  You see, human nature remains the same, and its organization alters only very gradually, almost imperceptibly, though it sometimes changes its name.  Christianity promised to be the beginning of the thousand years’ reign, but in the main, everything has gone on just as it was before.  A Socialist State would not be able to make the sun rise in the west, or do away with death any more than we can.  They would have ministers, custom-house officers, policemen, virtue, vice and ambition, self-interest, oppression and brotherly love just as we do, and if the Socialists come into power, they will soon pass special acts and prosecute the followers of other opinions just as they are being prosecuted to-day.  That is all upon the surface, and does not touch the root of things.  Why excite yourself about a mere shadowplay?”

“In practical matters,” answered Paul, laughing, “I consider I am the better man, but you certainly beat me at metaphysics.  Prophecy decidedly comes under the heading of metaphysics, so I strike my colors before you.”

“The sooner the better,” said Malvine; “especially as it is quite unpardonable of you to start off on a long discussion when our poor friend must be so tired and sleepy.”

It was eight o’clock by this time, and Wilhelm really felt the want of rest.  But before going to his room he asked after his godson, little Willy.  Malvine was evidently expecting this, she ran to the door and called into the next room:  “Come here, Willy—­come quick—­ Uncle Eynhardt is here and wants to see you.”  Whereupon the boy came bounding in, and threw himself with a shout of delight upon Wilhelm’s neck.