"How long will you be in Dreiberg ?" "I do not know," said Grumbach truthfully.
"Is there anything I can do for you ?" "There is only one thing," answered Grumbach, "but you may object, and I shall not blame you if you do.

It will be a great favor." "What do you wish ?" more listlessly.
"An invitation to the military ball at the palace, after the maneuvers," quietly.
Carmichael sat up.

He had not expected so large an order as this.
"I am afraid you are asking something impossible for me to obtain," he replied coldly, thumbing the leaves of his book.
"Ah, Mr.Carmichael, it is very important that I should be there." "Explain." "I can give you no explanations.

I wish to attend this ball.

I do not care to meet the grand duke or any one else.