'You shall have proofs of it, but, in that case, I shall not act without you; only I beg of you to punish him. To Königstein--'
Sulkowski became thoughtful.
'I would pity him,' he said, 'but if he is guilty--'
'I shall not ask the Prince to do that--you must act. I am your servant, your assistant. I am nobody, and I don't wish to be anybody by myself: my warmest wish is to remain Sulkowski's right hand.'
Sulkowski took his hand and said with his usual pride:
'I wish to have you for my friend, only my friend, my dear Brühl, and for my part, I shall serve you as a friend. I need you, and I can be useful to you.'
They shook hands; Brühl played admirably the part of being moved.
'Listen, Brühl, I speak as a friend; many people know that Watzdorf is in love with Frances; if you wish to get rid of him for that reason, believe me they will accuse you and not me.'
Brühl simulated surprise also admirably.
'My dear Count,' he said with animation, 'I am not jealous at all, but I can be for my lord's and your honour. To-day they attack us as well as the throne, to-morrow they will attack our gracious lord alone. We must prevent that.'