The Civil Servant

Civil servant

The "Amtmann" in Lübeck is really a merchant with cloak and spurs.

The image of the "Amtmann" actually represents a merchant. He wears spurs on the heels of his boots for long travels and a cloak for protection against rain and sleet. In the background is a fleet of trade ships.

See the pages about Jacob von Melle and Wilhelm Mantels for details.

Ludewig Suhl	Translation
der Tod Du zeigest nach Gebrauch ein saures Amtsgesicht, Iedoch was acht ich das? ich bin kein Bauer nicht, Muß dieser schon dein Amt ganz tief gebücket ehren, So ruf ich: Amtmann fort! du must den Reihen mehren.	Death You show a sour official face as is usual, but what do I care? I am not a peasant. If he has to honor your office with a very deep bow, then I call: "Official, begone! You must increase the number".

Der Amtmann Den Bauern schaft ich Recht, den Obern war ich treu, So blieb mein Wandel rein, und mein Gewissen frey, Nun merk ich, daß der Tod die Tugend wenig schätzt, Er ruffet: fort mit dir! man hat dich abgesetzt.	The Civil Servant I did justice to the peasants, I was loyal to my superiors. Thus my conduct remained pure and my conscience free. Now I notice that Death has little regard for virtue. He calls: Away with you! You have been deposed.

Thomas Nugent
XXXIV. Death to the Steward. Thou lookest sour, what care I ? I know you cannot from me fly ; Your office, friend, I value not, Nor for it care a single jot. Make haste, man ; nay, don't be untoward, My message, sir, is for the steward.	XXXV. The Steward's answer. I tenderly consider'd peasants, To poor was ever making presents Of this or that I could afford, Yet ever just unto my lord. Then why am I of Death afraid, Or wish that he had longer stay'd ?