He had become the minister of a
place which lay a few hours' journey from Oberweissbach, and at this
moment was staying with my parents. My father at once told him of what
he considered my useless, if not indeed injurious occupation; but my
brother saw it differently. I ventured, therefore, to continue, with the
silent permission of my father. And indeed the work proved of actual
service to me, for it brought a certain order, breadth, and firmness
into my ideas which had the most beneficial effect upon me.
My father now strove to procure me a settled position in my chosen
calling; or at all events to provide some active work which would bring
me into nearer connection with it. And for this purpose a fortunate
opportunity soon offered. Some of my father's relatives had property in
the district of Hildburghausen, managed by a steward. The friendly
footing on which my father stood with these relatives permitted me to
study practical farming under this steward. There I took part in all the
ordinary farming occupations. These, however, did not attract me
greatly, and I ought to have at once discovered what an unsuitable
career I had chosen, if I had but understood my own nature.
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