Augustus was still standing motionless, when Charles greeted him cheerfully, exclaiming,--
"Well, brother! how are you?"
Countess Cosel turned purple, and, seizing the King by the arm, whispered,--
"For God's sake, consent!"
It seemed as though Charles XII. had overheard her words, for his face grew stern, and Augustus, turning to the Countess, said stiffly,--
"I beg you; I command you to leave us!"
The Countess, with her accustomed vivacity, was about to make some reply, when the King, frowning angrily, exclaimed,--
"Go!"
Cosel withdrew, glancing angrily at Charles, who stood quietly looking at the armour. She took Flemming's arm; that courtier's eyes were also glowing with anger. He shrugged his shoulders. Augustus cast on them a glance that commanded them both to be silent, and then greeted his visitor politely,--
"We have heard much talk of your strength," said Charles, sneeringly, "and we should be pleased to see one of those miracles you perform so easily."