He drew the younger Minister along with him, and they proceeded to the royal cabinet together.
On the way they encountered the man whose irreverent tongue had so greatly provoked the old Count. Von Sigismark glared at him fiercely, when, to his surprise, Von Stahlen put on an air of the greatest sympathy, and respectfully accosted him.
“My dear Chancellor, has it come to this. I am inexpressibly grieved.”
“Why, what do you mean, sir?” cried the bewildered Von Sigismark.
“I hope I am not taking a liberty, but I inferred that you and the Herr Moritz were on your way to tender the resignations of the Ministry to his Majesty.”
The Chancellor received this ill-timed jest with a furious look, and turned away. But Moritz, who was not disposed to submit to such remarks without making any retort, stopped long enough to say—
“At all events, my lord, I am glad to think there will be no vacancy in the office of Court fool.”
Von Stahlen bit his lip. His comrade, the Baron, glanced at him apprehensively. He felt that his reputation was at stake, and trembled. Then, before the Minister could get out of reach, he responded—
“Thanks, Herr. You shall have my good word with the new Premier, Herr Mark. But no doubt you and he have met already.”
Herr Moritz took this as an insulting allusion to his humble extraction, and flushed angrily. But there was no time for further recrimination, unless he wished to be left behind. So he hurried off after the Chancellor, leaving Von Stahlen to enjoy the felicitations of his faithful admirer.