“And I do not make you generalissimo!”
“You forfeit your word of honor?”
“No, ask something else, and I will grant it. But this is not feasible. I must myself be the generalissimo of my own troops, or I should no longer be the ruler! Ask, therefore, for something else.”
Munnich was silent. His features indicated a frightful commotion, and his bosom heaved violently.
“I have nothing further to ask,” said he, after a pause.
“But, I will confer upon you a favor without your asking it!” proudly responded the duke. “Count Munnich, I confirm you in your offices and dignities, and, to prove to you my unlimited confidence, you shall continue to be what you were under the Empress Anna, field-marshal in the Russian army!”
“I thank you, sir duke,” calmly replied Munnich. “It is very noble in you that you do not send me into banishment for my presumptuous demand.”
Clasping the offered hand of the duke, he respectfully pressed it to his lips.
“And now go, to kiss the hand of the young emperor, that you may not be accused of disrespect,” smilingly added Biron; “one must always preserve appearances.”
Munnich silently bowed, while walking backward toward the door.