Frau von Baldereck received his obeisance with a gracious smile, and was about to say something flattering, when Anton interrupted her, and in a voice that shook a little, perhaps, but was audible throughout the room, began his address, which was soon listened to in profound silence.

"Madam, I have this day heard that a rumor has been spread of my possessing lands in America, and exciting an interest in certain high quarters.

I now declare that this is all false.

I am the son of a late accountant in Ostrau, and I inherit from my parents hardly any thing beyond an unsullied name.

You, madam, have been kind enough to invite me, an insignificant stranger, to take part in your _reunions_ this winter.