The shoemaker was already astir, and
presently knocked at his door.
"Yes, yes," the soldier cried, "I am astir."
And as his host rattled the door he opened it. He had unrolled his
long cavalry cloak, and wore it over his wet clothes.
"You never told me your name," said the shoemaker. A suspicious man
is always more suspicious at the beginning of the day.
"My name," answered the other carelessly. "Oh! my name is Max
Brunner."
CHAPTER VII. THE WAY OF LOVE.
Celui qui souffle le feu s'expose a etre brule par les
etincelles.
It was said that Colonel de Casimir--that guest whose presence and
uniform lent an air of distinction to the quiet wedding in the
Frauengasse--was a Pole from Cracow. Men also whispered that he was
in the confidence of the Emperor. But this must only have been a
manner of speaking. For no man was ever admitted fully into the
thoughts of that superhuman mind.
De Casimir was left behind in Dantzig when the army moved forward.
"There will be a great battle," he said, "somewhere near Vilna--and
I shall miss it."
Indeed, every man was striving to get to the front. He who,
himself, had given a new meaning to human ambition seemed able to
inspire not only Frenchmen but soldiers of every nationality with
fire from his own consuming flame.
"Yes! madame," said de Casimir; for it was to Desiree that he spoke,
"and your husband is more fortunate than I. He is sure of a staff
appointment.
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