The maid entered quickly, announcing the minister.
Natalie retreated to the sofa.
"Ha! M. Bach," said the count, as he came in. "I am delighted to see you again."
"Is it all arranged about the concert, my dear niece?"
"I hope so, uncle," answered Natalie.
"Charming, charming! Madame von Bruhl will be enchanted, M. Bach. You will certainly arrange all for the best. Come very often to visit us; very often. I assure you, my highest esteem is yours."
Friedemann, somewhat bewildered, bowed his thanks, and took leave. The minister looked after him, while he took a pinch from his jewelled snuff-box.
"He has great, very great talent," he said musingly; and added other praises. Then he chatted a little on other subjects, and, looking at his watch, touched the white forehead of his niece with his lips, suffered her to kiss his hand, and retired from the room.
Friedemann left the house with confused thoughts. Suddenly M. Scherbitz ran round the corner, and seized his hand.
"I am going home," said young Bach.