As he turned away he
was startled by a hand being placed on his shoulder with a weight
suggesting an action of arrest rather than a greeting of friendship. He
turned quickly, and saw the Lieutenant who had so discourteously used
him in the square. There was, however, no menace in the officer's
countenance.
"Still thrusting your sword at people?"
"Yes, Lieutenant, and very harmlessly. 'Tis a bloodless combat I wage
with the sword. I praise its construction, and leave to superiors like
yourself, sir, the proving of its quality."
"You are an energetic young man, and we of Mayence admire competence
whether shown by mechanic or noble. Was the letter you handed in just
now addressed to his Lordship?"
"Yes, Lieutenant."
"'Twill be quite without effect."
"It grieves me to hear you say so, sir."
"Take my advice, and make no effort to see the Archbishop until after
the Election. I judge you to be a sane young fellow, for whom I confess
a liking. You are the only man in Frankfort who has unhesitatingly told
me the exact truth, and I have not yet recovered from my amazement.
Pages:
535
536
537
538
539
540
541
542
543
544
545
546
547
548
549
550
551
552
553
554
555
556
557
558
559