'My dear Count,' said he sweetly, 'you favourites are permitted not to be punctual, but it would be unpardonable in me. I have often acted as a substitute for others, but no one has yet been substituted for me.'
'You wish to imply that no one is able to act as substitute for you,' said Moszynski.
'You are good-humouredly joking at my simplicity. I try to learn that in which you lords are masters.'
Moszynski put out his hand.
'It's dangerous to fight you with words. I would prefer swords.'
Brühl assumed a humble mien.
'I do not think I am superior in anything,' he said quietly.
'Well, I wish you good luck during your service,' said Moszynski. 'Good-bye!'
He left the room.
Brühl breathed more freely. He went slowly to the window, and stood there seemingly looking with indifference into a courtyard paved with stones. Beneath him swarmed a numerous company of busy courtiers. Soldiers in magnificent uniforms, chamberlains in dresses richly embroidered with gold, many lackeys and other servants moved quickly about; several post-chaises stood near the steps and yellow-dressed carriers waited for their masters; further there were carriages with German and Polish harness, hayduks in scarlet, kozaks, all constituting a variegated and picturesque whole. A chamberlain came out from the King.