"They are from the commandant at
Leipsic," whispered the secretary; "I entreat your excellency to
read them."
Before the count had time, however, to open the dispatch, a still
stranger event took place.
The Prussian ambassador, who, upon the plea of illness, had declined
Count Bruhl's invitation, suddenly appeared in the garden,
accompanied by the four secretaries of his legation, and approached
the royal table. Upon his countenance there was no sign of sickness,
but rather an expression of great joy.
As he neared the tent, the gay song and merry jest ceased. Every eye
was fixed inquiringly upon the individual who had dared to disturb
this fete by his presence. The music, which had before filled the
air with joyous sounds, was now playing a heart-breaking air.
Count Bruhl now arose and advanced. He greeted the Prussian
ambassador in a few cold, ceremonious words.
But Count Mattzahn's only answer to this greeting was a silent bow.
He then said, in a voice loud enough to be heard by the king and
queen:
"Count Bruhl, as ambassador of the King of Prussia, I request you to
demand an audience for me at once from the King of Saxony.
Pages:
318
319
320
321
322
323
324
325
326
327
328
329
330
331
332
333
334
335
336
337
338
339
340
341
342