Sulkowski stood before her ready to listen.
'Well, we have lost our great magnificent Augustus.'
She sighed, so did Sulkowski.
'It's a pity that he died, but between ourselves, he lived long enough, he abused his life a great deal--I cannot speak about that: des horreurs! What will become now of you, poor orphans? The Prince? He is inconsolable in his grief? True? Yes? I came from my court with condolences to my august and dearest pupil.'
She bent a little and leaned on the arm of the chair, raising the fan to her mouth.
'What news? My dear Count, what news? I already know that you have been appointed to a position due to you. We are all glad of it, for we know that our court can count on you.'
Sulkowski bowed.
From those words it was easy to guess that the new-comer was sent by the Austrian court. She was a famous teacher of the Archduchess Josephine, Fräulein Kling, whom they used to send where a man would attract too much attention. Fräulein Kling was one of the most able diplomats in the service of the Austrian court.
'I suppose you already know about everything.'
'Dear Count, I don't know anything; I know only that the Kürfurst loves you, that Brühl is going to help you. But pray, tell me, who is this Brühl?'