Shortly afterward he asked one of the lads what his name was.

'Why,' responded the youth, 'how does it come that you don't know my name--you who know everything ?'" "I cannot see why you thought it necessary to relate this anecdote to me," observed the count, without a smile.
"I introduce it because I am compelled to inquire your worship's name and title, in order to draw up the contracts properly." This, then, was the strategem by which he proposed to learn the name which no one yet had been able to decipher on the count's letters?
The count gazed fixedly for several seconds at his questioner, then replied quietly: "My name is Count Ludwig Vavel de Versay--with a _y_ after the _a_." "Thanks.

I shall not forget it; I have a very good memory," said Herr Bernat, who was perfectly satisfied with his success.

"Allow me, also, to inquire the family name of the worshipful Frau Countess ?" At this question the count at last removed his hands from his back, and with the sort of gesture a man makes who would tear asunder an adversary.

At the same time he cast upon Herr Bernat a glance that reminded the valiant official of the royal commissioner, as well as of his energetic spouse at home.