"Then I shall go," said Schramm, "but so long as I am in Dresden I shall speak the truth."
"And you will preach to deaf people," retorted the Count sarcastically, shrugging his shoulders as he spoke. "But enough of this, do what you please, I should be glad if I could protect myself. I told you to keep quiet. In these times you must flatter or you will be trampled on, and perish. Sodom and Gomorrah indeed! Good-bye, I have no more time."
Schramm bowed without a word, cast a pitying glance on Hoym's wife, and then, after gazing on the Count for a moment in silent surprise, he turned to leave the room.
Hoym pitied him.
"I am sorry for you; go! I will do my best to help you; but read your Bible and say nothing. This is the last time I shall advise you."
Schramm went, and husband and wife were left alone.
CHAPTER III.
Even now Hoym did not greet his wife, evidently he was at a loss what to say, and was in consequence embarrassed and angry. Seizing his wig, he began to pull at it.
"Why did you summon me so hastily?" said the Countess proudly, with reproach in her tones.
"Why?" exclaimed Hoym, raising his eyes, and rushing to and fro across the room like a madman. "Why? Because I was crazy! Because those scoundrels made me drunk! Because I did not know what I was doing! Because I am an idiot and an ass!"