"Our court-organist," he said, "appears to have distinguished acquaintances."
"The livery was the lord premier's," remarked Philip.
"Indeed!" asked Sebastian. "You know his excellency, my son?"
"The note came from his niece, the Countess Natalie," answered Friedemann, in a confusion which he could not conceal.
"And you visit the young countess?"
"She is my pupil in music. She has sent for me to arrange a concert, which she is to give on her aunt's birthday."
"I thought M. Hasse managed all those matters."
"I can't well avoid the commission; and such things help one's reputation," faltered the young man. "As to M. Hasse, he has left Dresden."
"Hasse gone—the excellent Hasse!" exclaimed Sebastian.
The good, pious composer was grieved to hear of his unhappiness. Then, changing the subject, he began innocently to advise his son as to the polished manners necessary in the house of the premier. Friedemann pressed his hand and thanked his unsuspecting monitor.