On the stroke of eight a gentleman, well-horsed but entirely unattended, rode up the carriage drive.

Bernenstein, crying "Ah, it is the count!" ran to meet him.

Rischenheim dismounted, holding out his hand to the young officer.
"My dear Bernenstein!" said he, for they were acquainted with one another.
"You're punctual, my dear Rischenheim, and it's lucky, for the king awaits you most impatiently." "I didn't expect to find him up so soon," remarked Rischenheim.
"Up! He's been up these two hours.

Indeed we've had the devil of a time of it.

Treat him carefully, my dear Count; he's in one of his troublesome humors.