Maximilian frowned sullenly at this rather lame explanation. But to express open disbelief in it must have meant the immediate resignation of the Minister, probably of the entire Ministry—in short, a declaration of open war. And he was still on the wrong side of the door of No. 79. Nor were these the only considerations present to his mind, as he rather ungraciously responded—
“Well, sir, I will say no more on the subject. You will of course order the immediate release of all the persons arrested at the meeting.”
Herr Moritz bowed.
“Your Majesty has only to sign an order to that effect.”
The King looked somewhat relieved. Then a sudden thought seemed to cross his mind, and he gave a bitter smile. An instant after his manner changed again, and he addressed Herr Moritz in a more friendly tone than he had yet used.
“Be seated; I have something more to say to you.”
Up till now the Minister had remained standing. He now obeyed the King with an expression of face which showed that he, too, felt that a critical moment had been safely passed.
“What is your age, Herr Moritz?”
“Forty-four, Sire,” replied the Minister, with an intonation of surprise at the question.
“And the Count von Sigismark’s?”