There are to be twelve plates more at table today. [Meaningfully.] Thirty-six thalers are set aside for the dinner—everybody to appear in full court dress.
SECKENDORF.
A dispatch from Hanover-grand cordon—sword of state—twelve plates extra—thirty-six thalers—the combination, Grumbkow—we must find the combination!
EVERSMANN.
When he had torn the seal from the dispatch, he wept two big tears and said: "I'll make them all happy if I have to beat them to a jelly to do it." And now he's all eagerness and would like to invite the whole city to dinner.
GRUMBKOW.
On thirty-six thalers?
EVERSMANN.
The orphans in the asylum are to have new clothes.
GRUMBKOW (startled).