'I will copy it from memory,' said Brühl quietly.
'What a keen secretary I have now!' exclaimed Augustus. 'Pray give orders that he is to be paid the three hundred thalers.'
When Brühl approached to thank him, the King put out his hand to be kissed, an especial sign of favour.
A moment later a courier, having taken the sealed letter, conveyed it away at a gallop, blowing his trumpet. Brühl slipped out into the ante-room. Here the story of the letter and his unexpected promotion, told by the chamberlain Frisen, aroused curiosity and envy. When Brühl appeared all eyes turned to him, but in the new favourite of the King, one could see no trace of pride--on the contrary, he was as humble as if he were ashamed of his deed.
Moszynski rushed to him.
'What do I hear?' he exclaimed. 'Brühl his Majesty's amanuensis? When? How?'
'Let me come to myself from fear and astonishment,' said Brühl quietly. 'I do not know how it happened. Providence watched over me, un pauvre cadet de famille. My love for the King worked a miracle. I am dazed.'
Moszynski looked at him.
'If your good luck continues, you will soon be ahead of us all. We must recommend ourselves to your favour.'
'Count, be merciful, and do not mock a poor boy like me.'