I am sorry to say that through it we lose him, for his
majesty desires him, as soon as we leave the table. to hasten to
Sans-Souci to receive his commission. And now, gentlemen, fill your
glasses, we will drink to the lieutenant-general's welfare."
All arose to drink the toast except Count Kalkreuth. His head was
bent almost upon his breast, as if he were ashamed to show his pale,
agitated countenance. He would have given all he possessed to have
flown from the hall. Princess Wilhelmina sat opposite, she had not
yet looked at him, but she now threw him a glance full of
inexpressible pity, and raised her glass hastily to her lips. It was
not wine, but her own tears that she drank.
The prince now led the princess to the reception-room. He stood
beside her when Kalkreuth approached. The guests were grouped about
the room, every eye was fixed eagerly upon this trio.
Count Kalkreuth was still pale and unmanned; with tottering,
trembling steps he advanced toward the princely couple.
The prince turned laughingly to his guests, saying: "See the strange
effect of joy. It has transformed our gay and witty count. He is
stern and solemn as if, instead of an honor, he had received a
degradation.
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