Smyrna Times

A CURIOUS LOVE STORY.—A very curious love story is told by several of the ancient writers respecting Eginhard, a secretary to Charlemagne, and a daughter of that emperor. The secretary fell in love with the princess, who at length allowed him to visit her. One winter night he stayed with her very late, and in the meantime a deep snow had fallen. If he left his footmarks would be observed, and yet to stay would expose him to danger. At length the princess resolved to carry him on her back to a neighboring house, which she did. It happened, however, that from the window of his bedroom the emperor saw the whole affair. In the assembly of his lords the following day, when Eginhard and his daughter were present, he asked what ought to be done with the man who compelled the king's daughter to carry him on her shoulders, through frost and snow in the middle of a winter's night? The lovers were alarmed. But the emperor addressing Eginhard, said: 'Had'st thou loved my daughter thou should'st have come to me, thou art worthy of death, but I give thee two lives. Take thy fair porter in marriage, fear God, and love one another.'