“Why not, my friend? Do we spend our leave in town?”
“But here? Why, Horaz, you are never married?”
“And on my honeymoon? No, thank you. I have come for the mountains and a little sport in the forest.”
“So? That is good to hear. I, too, am staying in the forest under canvas for sport. You must join me. The deer-stalking will begin in a few days. It will be glorious. You know Molvar of my regiment? He has deserted me. We arranged the expedition together, and at the last moment he cried off. Ah, well, he could not help it. If you are in earnest you shall take his place. I can promise you fine sport.”
Galabin’s face had become thoughtful, almost business-like. “You are camping in the forest?” he asked. “Anywhere near the Schloss Rozsnyo?”
“At present I am within half an hour’s walk of it. By the way, do you know Count Zarka?”
“Not I. Perhaps you do?”
“I met him just now for the first time.”
“An agreeable fellow, eh?”
“H’m! Yes, doubtless. Now, my dear Horaz, will you join me?”