And the general also left the room.
The king drew a deep breath.
"So," he cried, "the worst is over. Now for the new appointments, and God grant the choice may be happy. General Brandis, will you prepare the papers?" he said, turning to the minister of war, "and see that General Arentschildt comes to me immediately to receive the command; and also Colonel Dammers, that he may at once commence the duties of adjutant-general."
Gravely and silently the general withdrew.
Count Platen approached the king, and said,--
"Count Ingelheim had just arrived when your majesty sent for me. He requests an audience."
"Let him come," cried the king with satisfaction.
Count Platen went out, and soon returned, accompanied by the ambassador of the Emperor Francis-Joseph.
Count Ingelheim was a tall, slender man of fifty-eight years of age, with short, light hair, which was changing to grey. His amiable and pleasing face was pale, and without beard or moustache. He wore black, with the star of the Order of Guelph and the Maltese cross.
"I am rejoiced, my dear count, to see you here," cried the king cheerfully. "You have not, then, shunned the tumult of war?"