"Then he is
no stranger to you?"
"I do not say that. We were, however, in the same cavalry, only in
different troops. Grumbach, you have your honorable discharge with you?"
Grumbach went into his wallet still again. This document the chancellor
read with an interest foreign to the affair under his hand. Presently he
laughed softly. Why, he could not readily have told.
"I am sorry, Herr Grumbach. All this unnecessary trouble simply because
of the word Bavaria."
"No trouble at all, your Excellency," restoring his papers. "I have seen
the inside of a real palace, and I never expected such an honor."
"How long will you be making your visit?"
"Only a few days, your Excellency. Then I shall proceed to Bavaria."
"Your excellency has no further orders?" said the head gardener
patiently.
"Good Heaven, Breunner, I had forgotten all about you! There is nothing
more. Gentlemen, your pardon for having detained you so long. Herr
Captain, you will return with me to the ball-room?"
"If your excellency will excuse me, no. I am tired. I shall return to
the hotel with Herr Grumbach."
"As you please. Good night."
The three left the cabinet under various emotions. The sub-chief bowed
himself off at the gates, and Carmichael and Grumbach crossed the Platz
leisurely.
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