Sigismund will not submit to sell himself , and so is in disgrace for a time . '' `` Palsdorf ! -- was not that the name of the count or baron we heard them talking of at Coblentz ? '' said Helen to Amy , with a well-feigned air of uncertainty . `` Yes ; I heard something of a duel and a broken betrothal , I think . The people seemed to consider the baron a wild young man , so it could not have been your friend , sir , '' was Amy 's demure reply , glancing at Helen with mirthful eyes , as if to say , `` How our baron haunts us ! '' `` It is the same , doubtless . Many consider him wild , because he is original , and dares act for himself . As it is well known , I may tell you the truth of the duel and the betrothal , if you care to hear a little romance . '' Casimer looked eager to defend his friend , and as the girls were longing to hear the romance , permission was given . `` In Germany , you know , the young people are often betrothed in childhood by the parents , and sometimes never meet till they are grown . Usually all goes well ; but not always , for love can not come at command . Sigismund was plighted , when a boy of fifteen , to his young cousin , and then sent away to the University till of age . On returning , he was to travel a year or two , and then marry . He gladly went away , and with increasing disquiet saw the time draw near when he must keep his troth-plight . '' `` Hum ! loved some one else . Very unfortunate to be sure , '' said the major with a sigh . `` Not so ; he only loved his liberty , and pretty Minna was less dear than a life of perfect freedom . He went back at the appointed time , saw his cousin , tried to do his duty and love her ; found it impossible , and , discovering that Minna loved another , vowed he would never make her unhappiness as well as his own .
The old baron stormed , but the young one was firm , and would not listen to a marriage without love ; but pleaded for XXXXX , wished his rival success , and set out again on his travels . ''
Amy Casimer Germany Helen Minna Palsdorf Sigismund University duel year