57/61 You can have the satisfaction of having done something unique. It is hardly a usual thing to refuse the Iron Cross." As he went out with a distant bow, Dr.Schrotter came in, and said, smiling: "What the adjutant said about the tragedy is very true. Decoration appears very theatrical to me, but you might take it quietly and put it in your pocket. I have got quite a collection of such things which I never wear." "But do you blame the men who despise these outward forms in order to give an example to others ?" "My friend, when one is young one hopes to guide others, as one grows older one grows more modest." This objection struck Wilhelm, and he grew confused. Dr.Schrotter laid his hand quietly on his shoulder, and said: "That does not matter. |