“I should think so,” said the footman, proudly. “This trunk contains my master’s money and jewelry. There are at least twelve gold watches, set with diamonds, and as many snuff-boxes. The Queen of England sent to my master on the day of our departure a magnificent snuff-box, adorned with the portrait of her majesty, and richly set with diamonds: and the snuff-box, moreover, was entirely filled with gold pieces. Come, take hold of the trunk on that side; I shall do so on this, and we will take it directly up to my master’s rooms.”
Just as they entered the hall with their precious load, another carriage drove up to the door. But this time it was only a miserable, rickety old basket-chaise, drawn by two lean jades with lowered heads and heaving bellies.
The porter, therefore, did not deem it worth while to ring the bell for this forlorn-looking vehicle; but he contented himself with leisurely putting his hands into his pockets, sauntering down to the chaise, and casting a disdainful glance into its interior.
There was also a single gentleman in it, but his appearance was less prepossessing and indicative of liberality than that of the former stranger. The new-comer was a little gentleman, with a pale face and a sickly form. His mien was grave and care-worn; his dark eyes were gloomy and stern; his expansive forehead was thoughtful and clouded.
“May I have a room in your hotel?” he asked, in a clear, ringing voice.
“Certainly, sir, as nice and elegant as you may desire,” said the porter, condescendingly.
“I do not require it to be nice and elegant,” replied the stranger. “Only a small room with a comfortable bed; that is all I care for.”
“It is at your disposal, sir,” said the porter; and beckoning the youngest waiter to assist the stranger in alighting, he added: “Take the gentleman to one of the smaller rooms on the first floor.”
“Oh, no,” said the stranger, “I do not ask for a room on the first floor; I shall be satisfied with one on the second floor. Be kind enough to pay my fare to the coachman; he gets ten florins. You may put it down on my bill.”
“And will you give me no drink-money?” asked the coachman, angrily. “The gentleman will assuredly not refuse me drink-money after a three days’ journey?”