ear too
eager to oblige, however, he asked why Herr Weidmann had not made the
request himself.

This seemed to embarrass the Major somewhat, for he could not explain
that the suggestion had originated with himself, and that Weidmann had
sharply refused to have any dealings with Sonnenkamp.

Sonnenkamp asked if he might be informed of the names of the persons in
the neighborhood who belonged to the body, and found, upon looking over
the list the Major handed him, that there were not enough names of
consideration among them; even Herr von Endlich having withdrawn his,
since his elevation to the ranks of the nobility. Sonnenkamp therefore
declined, but requested the Major to bring about, in some way, a nearer
acquaintance between himself and Weidmann.

"I know an excellent Way," said the Major. "Herr Weidmann is very
desirous of receiving a visit from Roland and Eric. Send them to him."

This, too, Sonnenkamp declined, thinking it not his place to make
advances towards a man who kept aloof as Weidmann did. The following
day, as he was riding, he almost dropped the bridle from his hand, on
meeting a carriage in which sat Weidmann, and, beside him, a man who
ought to be on the other side of the ocean.

The man was remarkably tall, and had a strikingly fresh and youthful
appearance. As Sonnenkamp rode by, Weidmann bowed. His companion seemed
surprised, but raised his hat also, and in so doing showed a head which
could not be mistaken. The thick, wavy hair, the high forehead, the
kindly expression, in the glance of the blue eyes, were all
unmistakable. Sonnenkamp could not help looking back, to make sure that
he had not been deceived. The stranger in the wagon also had risen and
was looking back, and Sonnenkamp's eye detected something like a nod,
such as a man might make who found his suspicions confirmed.

Sonnenkamp reined in his horse, feeling weak and paralyzed, as if he
could no longer keep his seat in the saddle. Yes, 'tis he! 'Tis his
deadly enemy, his most violent antagonist! How happens he here now? He
listened until he no longer heard the rattling of the wheels, and then
turned and walked his horse towards home. But shortly after, gathering
up the reins, and whipping and spurring his black steed, he rode toward
the Major's.

He did not find him at home. Fraeulein Milch, whom he always disliked,
was there, and told him that the Major was at the castle.

He rode to the castle, and in a very natural way spoke