What else occurred in that assembly is simply a matter of history, but the glory of that day belongs to Ödön Baradlay.
CHAPTER XII.
SPRING DAYS.
It was the 13th of March, 1848, the day of the popular uprising in Vienna.
The Plankenhorst parlours were even on that day filled with their usual frequenters; but instead of piano-playing and gossip, entertainment was furnished by the distant report of musketry and the hoarse cries of the mob. Every face was pale and anxious, and all present were eager to learn the latest news from any newcomer.
At length, toward evening, the secretary of the police department entered. His mere outward appearance indicated but too well that things were going badly for the government. Instead of his official uniform, he wore a common workman's blouse, and his face was pale and careworn. As soon as he was recognised in his disguise, all pressed around him for the latest tidings.
"Well, are you sweeping the streets?" asked the high official of the commissary department, in anxious haste.
"There is no making head against the rascals," answered the secretary in a trembling voice. "I have just left the office and only escaped by means of this disguise. The mob has broken into the building, thrown down the statue of Justice, and wrecked the censor's office."
"But, for heaven's sake, can't more soldiery be sent out against them?"
"We have soldiers enough, but the emperor will not permit any more bloodshed. He is displeased that any lives at all should have been sacrificed."