"Have the kindness to announce me to his majesty."
"Has his majesty sent for you?" said Fredersdorf, carelessly.
"He has not sent for me, but please say to his majesty that I am come to speak with him on important business."
Fredersdorf stepped into the adjoining room, and returned quickly, saying with a triumphant and malicious smile: "The king says he will send for you when he wishes to speak with you. These were his exact words; accommodate yourself to them in future."
The minister's countenance was perfectly calm; his lip slightly trembled; but he spoke in his usual grave, composed manner: "The king may not desire to see me; but I, as an officer and minister of state, have the most urgent reasons for desiring an audience. Go and tell him this."
"These are proud, disrespectful words," said Pollnitz, smiling blandly.
"Which I will faithfully report to his majesty," said Fredersdorf.
"I fear your excellency will pay dearly for this speech," whispered Pollnitz.
"Fear nothing for me," said Boden, with a quiet smile.
"His majesty awaits you," said Fredersdorf, still standing at the door. Boden walked proudly by Fredersdorf, casting upon him a look of contempt, who returned it with a mocking grin.