"He wears the uniform of our regiment!" remarked another.
"That is unaccountable," said the third, shaking his head.
"The horse is nothing extraordinary: a mere campaigning beast."
"You would have him knock up his best chargers, I suppose? They have ridden far. The horses show that."
The room door opened.
"Be so obliging as to step in here for a short time," said the innkeeper. "Your apartment shall be got ready immediately. Here you will find some gentlemen comrades."
The stranger officer entered. He was a tall, slender, and yet powerful man, with features delicately chiselled, and an air of insolent superciliousness in his whole bearing and appearance. He greeted the occupants of the room with engaging courtesy.
"Ah! comrades!" said he, "I have the honour to introduce myself—Prince of Amberg! I am transferred to your regiment—to this squadron. I recommend myself to your friendship and good fellowship!"
The senior of the three officers continued the introduction: "Von der Gruben; Von Martini; my name is Count Engelhart. We are delighted to make a good comrade welcome." They shook hands.
"May I inquire," said Prince Amberg, "where the captain is, that I may report myself to him? Duty before everything."