Truly this northern empire, this great white land, is a country in which it is good to be an emperor, a prince, a noble, but not a poor man.
Paul passed through the ranks of his retainers, himself a head taller than the tallest footman, a few inches broader than the sturdiest keeper.

He acknowledged the low bows by a quick nod, and passed up the staircase.

Steinmetz--in evening dress, wearing the insignia of one or two orders which he had won in the more active days of his earlier diplomatic life--was waiting for him at the head of the stairs.
The two men bowed gravely to each other.

Steinmetz threw open the door of the great room and stood aside.

The prince passed on, and the German followed him, each playing his part gravely, as men in high places are called to do.