What sort of gentlemen!
CARL.
They say: A deputation from the voters.
COLONEL.
Show them in. This confounded newspaper was right, after all.
Enter PIEPENBRINK, KLEINMICHEL and three other gentlemen. They bow, the COLONEL likewise.
PIEPENBRINK (solemnly).
My Colonel: A number of voters have sent us as a deputation to you to inform you on this special day that the whole town considers you a most respectable and worthy man.
COLONEL (stiffly).
I am obliged for the good opinion.