“Ach, Heinrich,” exclaimed a large-eyed, tow-headed youth, “have you been taking private lessons at the castle?”
A general laugh followed this sally, and the game went on. Suddenly a rich voice arose from a corner of the room that lay concealed in shadow. “Hush, it is Carl! Let’s hear his new song!” cried the group surrounding the gamblers. The four players withdrew the chips they had placed in the centre of the table and suspended their game for a while. No sound interfered with the thrilling effect of the baritone’s clear, full tones.
I.
A king in his castle was gay one day,
And he called for his poker chips.
And he cried: “Ach Gott, for a brave jack-pot,
With the red wine at my lips.”
II.
And he played for stakes with a wight that night
Who came from the world below.