He had been
named a privy councillor by Otto, merely that he might profit by the
salary; and as he was never known to attend a meeting, it had
occurred to nobody to cancel his appointment. His present
appearance was the more ominous, coming when it did. Gondremark
scowled upon him; and the non-combatant on his right, intercepting
this black look, edged away from one who was so clearly out of
favour.
'The hour presses, your Highness,' said the Baron; 'may we proceed
to business?'
'At once,' replied Seraphina.
'Your Highness will pardon me,' said Gotthold; 'but you are still,
perhaps, unacquainted with the fact that Prince Otto has returned.'
'The Prince will not attend the council,' replied Seraphina, with a
momentary blush. 'The despatches, Herr Cancellarius? There is one
for Gerolstein?'
A secretary brought a paper.
'Here, madam,' said Greisengesang. 'Shall I read it?'
'We are all familiar with its terms,' replied Gondremark. 'Your
Highness approves?'
'Unhesitatingly,' said Seraphina.
'It may then be held as read,' concluded the Baron. 'Will your
Highness sign?'
The Princess did so; Gondremark, Eisenthal, and one of the non-
combatants followed suit; and the paper was then passed across the
table to the librarian. He proceeded leisurely to read.
'We have no time to spare, Herr Doctor,' cried the Baron brutally.
'If you do not choose to sign on the authority of your sovereign,
pass it on.
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