"Well, you know what to do with them. We practiced often enough with a target at Burgsdorf, and you were a good shot. I shall look up the second of your opponent to-morrow morning and send you word then. I have to do that in writing, as I do not enter the house of Herr von Wallmoden."
Willy only nodded. He thought Wallmoden's hostility was being reciprocated, but deemed it best not to make any inquiries upon this point.
"Very well, just write me," he replied. "Arrange things as seems best to you; I shall be satisfied with everything; I have no experience in such things. Here is the address of the second, and now I must go. I have several things to put in order yet, in case the worst happens."
He arose and extended his hand to his friend in farewell, but Hartmut took no notice of it. His eyes were fixed on the floor, as he said in low, hesitating tones: "One thing more, Willy. Burgsdorf is so near Berlin. Perhaps you often see----"
"Whom?" asked Willibald, as Hartmut paused.
"My--my father."
The young lord became visibly embarrassed at the question. He had avoided the mention of Falkenried during the conversation, but did not seem to be aware of his near arrival.
"No," he said, finally; "we hardly ever see the Colonel."
"But does he not come to Burgsdorf as of old?"
"No, he has become very unsocial. But I happened to see him in Berlin when I went to meet Uncle Herbert."