Strona 37 z 483

Now my desires were complied with, and it would, indeed, have

been folly to repent.

I had sufficient leisure for these and many other reflections

during my journey to Ingolstadt, which was long and fatiguing. At

length the high white steeple of the town met my eyes. I alighted

and was conducted to my solitary apartment to spend the evening

as I pleased.

The next morning I delivered my letters of introduction and paid

a visit to some of the principal professors. Chance-or rather the

evil influence, the Angel of Destruction, which asserted

omnipotent sway over me from the moment I turned my reluctant

steps from my father's door-led me first to M. Krempe, professor

of natural philosophy. He was an uncouth man, but deeply imbued

in the secrets of his science. He asked me several questions

concerning my progress in the different branches of science

appertaining to natural philosophy. I replied carelessly, and

partly in contempt, mentioned the names of my alchemists as the

principal authors I had studied. The professor stared. "Have

you," he said, "really spent your time in studying such

nonsense?"