"Herr Inspector," begged Fritz, "you must come."
"What is it?" cried Habermann, dropping his cards, and jumping up. "Is anything on fire?"
"No," stammered Fritz, "I--me--something has happened to me."
"What has happened to you?" said Bräsig, across the table.
"My chestnut mare has a colt," said Fritz, in an anxious tone.
"Well, that has often happened," said Bräsig, "but you make a face like a funeral; it is rather a joyful occasion, under the circumstances."
"Yes," said Fritz, "but--but--it is so queer. You must come with me, Herr Inspector."
"Why, is the colt dead?" asked Habermann.
"No," said Fritz, "it is well enough; but it looks so queer. Krischan Däsel says he should think it was a young camel."
"Well," said Habermann, "we can finish the game afterwards, we will go out with you."