“The king!” cried the chamberlain of the day, as he threw open the folding doors of the antechamber. “The king!”
And amid the profound silence of his courtiers, who bowed their proud heads respectfully, King Frederick William entered the audience chamber, on his return from the visit of condolence paid to the mourning widow of Frederick. He cast a quick glance around the chamber, and, observing the Chamberlain von Voss, beckoned him to approach.
In obedience to the king’s command, the chamberlain walked forward. “Well,” said the king in a low voice, “what does your sister say?”
“Your majesty, she said but little to me, but she will have a great deal to say to your majesty.”
“She is then ready to receive me?” said the king, his countenance radiant with joy.
“Your majesty, my sister is awaiting you, and I will conduct you to her, if your majesty will graciously follow.”
“Come,” replied the king, and, without honoring his courtiers with a glance, the king followed the Chamberlain von Voss out of the audience-chamber.