active list, Mr. Spoelmann. I am à la suite of my regiment. I wear the uniform, that's all."
"I see, make believe," said Mr. Spoelmann harshly. "What do you do all day, then?"
Klaus Heinrich had stopped drinking tea, had pushed his things away in the course of the conversation which demanded his undivided attention. He sat upright and defended himself, feeling the while that Imma Spoelmann's big, black, searching eyes were resting on him.
"I have duties at Court, with the ceremonies and big occasions. I have also to represent the State in» a military capacity, at the swearing-in of recruits and the presentation of colours. Then I have to hold levies as deputy for my brother, the Grand Duke. And then there are little journeys on duty to the provincial centres for unveilings and dedications and other public solemnities."
"I see," said Mr. Spoelmann. "Ceremonies, solemnities, food for spectators. No, that sort of thing's beyond me. I tell you once for all, that I wouldn't give a farthing for your calling. That's my standpoint, sir."
"I entirely understand," said Klaus Heinrich. He sat up stiffly in his uniform and smiled uneasily.
"Of course it needs practice like everything else," Mr. Spoelmann went on in a little less bitter tone of voice—"practice and training, I can see. For myself I shall never as long as I live cease feeling angry when I am obliged to play the prodigy."
"I only hope," said Klaus Heinrich, "that our people are not wanting in respect.…"
"Thanks, not so bad," answered Mr. Spoelmann. "The people are at least friendly here; one doesn't see. murder written in their eyes."
"I hope, Mr. Spoelmann," and Klaus Heinrich felt more at his ease, now that the conversation had turned, and the questioning lay with him, "that, notwithstanding the
