"Since I have been at the Court the life there has disgusted me; every one avoids me; I haven't a friend, a protector; I have no one!"
"But to wish to choose me as a friend and protector, is as good an idea as the breaking the horseshoes was. Man, if I could break anvils, I would not break a straw, for fear of exciting the jealousy of others; I should not like to be in your place."
"That is why I thought that at least Frölich would pity me."
The old fool's eyes dilated, then suddenly his face grew stern and sad, and he folded his arms across his breast: then, advancing towards Zaklika, he took hold of his hand, and began to feel his pulse, as though he had been a doctor.
"I am afraid you have lost your common sense," said he quietly.
"I shouldn't be surprised," said the youth, smiling.
The fool's face brightened again, as though from habit.
"What is the matter in question?" he inquired.
"I wish to get discharged from the King's service."
"That's very easily done," said the fool. "Do some stupid thing, then they will build a scaffold in the new market, and you will be hanged."