Hitherto Georg had gazed silently at the floor. Now he raised his head, saying:
“If I can obtain leave of absence, I will place myself at your disposal;—but my lady’s color is blue, and I am permitted to wear no other.”
Henrica’s lips quivered slightly, but the young nobleman continued:
“Captain Van der Laen is my superior officer. I’ll speak to him at once.”
“And if he says no?” asked Maria.
Henrica interrupted her and answered haughtily: “Then I beg you to send me Herr Wilhelm, the musician.”
Georg bowed and went to the tavern.
As soon as the ladies were alone, the young girl asked:
“Do you know Herr von Dornburg’s lady?”
“How should I?” replied Maria. “Give yourself a little rest, Fraulein. As soon as the Junker comes back, I’ll bring him to you.”