ountry, a person with whom she had so often discussed the
emptiness and worthlessness of the amusements of society, and was
therefore anxious to have all brought into the vortex, that none need
have to fear the reproachful glances of another; but besides this, it
was perfectly true that Sonnenkamp without the von Burgholz would never
accomplish what with her aid would be an easy matter.

Bella was malicious enough to tell Sonnenkamp that the Cabinetsraethin
fleeced him, while in society she disowned him, and described their
connection as one purely of necessity and neighborhood.

Sonnenkamp was doubly incensed, but had to look unconcerned.

The play came off. Roland's beauty and ready grace were the theme of
general admiration. Even Bella, whose versatility was admirably
displayed by the numerous changes of costume and character that her
part had demanded, was quite thrown into the shade by the enthusiasm he
excited.

The Queen summoned Roland to her side and conversed for some time with
him; both were observed to smile as they talked together. The King came
himself to Sonnenkamp and his wife, and congratulated them upon their
brilliant son, at the same time asking when he was to enter the school
of cadets.

"When a name shall have been graciously bestowed upon him," replied
Sonnenkamp calmly.

The King frowned, bowed, and passed on.

Sonnenkamp drew a long breath. He had evidently made a mistake to
introduce the matter at such a time and in such a way; but it could not
be helped now, and forward was the word. He cast angry glances around,
as if he would like to have doubled the whole glittering assembly up in
his fists, and kneaded it into what shape he pleased.

His temper was not improved by Pranken coming up, and asking what he
could have said to the King that had so ruffled him. Sonnenkamp did not
consider it necessary to acknowledge his mistake.

Eric looked with melancholy upon the scene around him; near the pillar
against which he was leaning, a beautiful palm languidly drooped its
fan-shaped leaves. It perishes in the sultry air under this bright
flood of gas-light, he thought, as he gazed at the plant; if it be
restored to a favorable atmosphere, it still pines and perhaps perishes
utterly. Will it be so with Roland too? How expect him to strive after
the ideal, after a higher activity, when all this splendor and homage
have been offered him?

Eric found himself, he could hardly tell why, imagining