General Brandis was silent.
"I know so little of Arentschildt," said the king, thoughtfully; "what do you think of him, General Brandis?"
"Arentschildt is a clever general, and an honourable man," said the minister of war.
"Do you think he is the man to command the army?" asked the king.
"Your majesty, the proof of a general is his success. I am an old soldier, and I can only judge of a soldier in the field."
The king leant his head on his hand and sat for some time in silence.
At last he raised himself.
"My country and the whole future of my family are at stake," he said seriously. "I must sacrifice my personal wishes and opinions, where such great interests are concerned. I could never forgive myself if success were imperilled through my own fault; no time must be lost, the decision must be made at once. My poor brave Tschirschnitz," he said in a low voice, shaking his head; "it will be a heavy blow to him. Whom do they feel confidence in as adjutant-general?" he inquired.
"They speak of Colonel Dammers," said the crown prince, who had left the window and again approached the king.
"Colonel Dammers?" asked the king.