He had a big cocked-hat, with a white feather [hat aged, worn soft as duffel, equal to most caps; "feather" is not perpendicular, but horizontal, round the inside of the brim], on his head.
"The King took off his hat very graciously, when I was perhaps ten steps from him; and said in French (our whole Dialogue proceeded in French): 'Come nearer, M.Zimmermann.' "I advanced to within two steps of the King; he said in the mean while to Catt: 'Call Schmucker in, too.' Herr Schmucker came; placed himself behind the King, his back to the wall; and Catt stood behind me.

Now the Colloquy began.
KING.

"'I hear you have found your health again in Berlin; I wish you joy of that.' EGO.

"'I have found my life again in Berlin; but at this moment, Sire, I find here a still greater happiness!' [ACH!] KING.

"'You have stood a cruel operation: you must have suffered horribly ?' EGO.