A soiree of Berlin bankers--sub specie oeiernitatis--that would do very well, and you must take out a patent for it." "Students' jokes, my friend, are not arguments.

I am quite in earnest in what I say, and I feel melancholy when I see Loulou and the others playing about like thoughtless animals." "I am going to speak seriously about the joke now, and show you another side to the question.

Is it not in the highest degree foolish of a young man without position, to set against him men who carry the sign of recognition from their king, and the esteem of their fellow-citizens?
Cannot the example of the consideration they enjoy spur us to endeavors to attain the same?
Cannot your acquaintance with them be made useful ?" Wilhelm shook his head.

"No, I prefer all these distinguished men when they are doing their own work.

They do not interest me here, because they have laid aside all the characteristics which make distinguished people of them.