So, possibly, it might be from his friends, who by some stupid mischance had gone to the wrong station, and--Gott im Himmel!--it was hideously stupid, yet possible, got on the wrong train! The Herr, a little pale, but composed, thought it WAS possible.

No; he would not telegraph to the next station--not yet--he would inquire.
He walked quickly away, reaching the hotel breathlessly, yet in a space that seemed all too brief for his disconnected thought.

There were signs of animation in the hall, and an empty carriage was just reentering the courtyard.

The hall-porter met him with demonstrative concern and apology.

Ah! if he had only understood his Excellency better, he could have saved him all this trouble.