"Well, Bräsig, you know them both, and I have often thought I should like to ask your opinion."
"I can't tell, Karl, till I have seen how they go. Young farmers are like colts, one can't judge merely by looking at them, one must see them put through their paces. See, there goes your young nobleman; call him a little nearer, and let me examine him."
Habermann laughed, but complied with Bräsig's request, and called the young man.
"Hm," said Bräsig, "a firm gait, not too rapid, holds himself together well, and has his limbs under control. He'll do, Karl. Now the other one!"
"Herr von Rambow," said Habermann as the young man came up, "where is Triddelsitz?"
"In his room," was the answer.
"Hm," said Bräsig, "resting himself a little."
"I don't know."
"Tell him to come down," said Habermann, "and come back yourself. Coffee will be ready presently."
"Karl," said Bräsig, when they were alone, "you will see, the apothecary's son has been taking a nap."