merchant prince of Hamburg, I suppose you are the possessor of a large
fortune."

"My life has been both interesting and successful, but I have not got
what is best after all. I long for a sphere of activity in keeping with
my disposition. I am a soldier, as my forbears have been for centuries
before me. Had I entered the Prussian army in 1866, I might to-day be
in command, and might perhaps in a short time have the honour to lead my
corps into the field under the eyes of our Emperor himself."

"You believe Germany will be brought into this war? Against whom should
we fight?"

"If our Emperor is really the sharp-sighted and energetic spirit for
which I take him--"

The monarch did not care to let the gentlemen talk on longer in
ignorance of his presence.

"Hallo! gentlemen!" he called out merrily. "Do not betray your secrets
without knowing who is listening!"

"His Majesty!" the Count said under his breath, taking off his hat
and bowing low. His companion followed his example, and as the Emperor
looked at him with a questioning glance, said--

"At your Majesty's command; Grubenhagen, of Hamburg."

The monarch's eyes travelled over the tall, broad-shouldered figure of
the fine man, and he asked smilingly--