rnness. And in such a case you would scarcely be under
obligations to him; obligations, Colonel, which might work injury to
the whole country. Besides, he has no chance of being elected if you
accept, for you will defeat him by a majority not large but sure.

COLONEL.

Are we so perfectly certain of this majority!

SENDEN.

I think I can guarantee it. Blumenberg and the other gentlemen have
made very thorough inquiries.

COLONEL.

It would serve the professor quite right if he had to withdraw in my
favor.--But no--no; it will not do at all, my friend.

SENDEN.

We know, Colonel, what a sacrifice we are asking of you, and that
nothing could compensate you for it save the consciousness of having
done your country a great service.

COLONEL.

To be sure.

SENDEN.

It would be so regarded in the capital, too, and I am convinced that
your entering the House would also cause pleasure in other circles
than those of your numerous friends and admirers.

COLONEL.

I should meet there many old friends and comrades. (_Aside_.) I should
be presented at Court.

SENDEN.

The minister of war asked very warmly after you the other day; he too
must have been one of your companions in arms.

COLONEL.

Yes indeed! As young blades we served in the same company and played
many mad pranks together. It would be a pleasure to see him now in the
House, drawing his honest face into dark lines. He was a wild devil in
the regiment, but a fine boy.

SENDEN.

Nor will he be the only one to receive you with open arms.

COLONEL.

In any case, I should have to think the matter over.

SENDEN.

Don't be angry, Colonel, if I urge you to decide. This evening we have
to introduce their candidate to our citizen guests. It is high time,
or all is lost.

COLONEL (_hesitating_).

Senden, you put a knife to my throat!

[SENDEN, _from the door, motions the gentlemen in the garden to come
in_.]

BLUMENBERG.

We venture to urge you, knowing that so good a soldier as you,
Colonel, makes up his mind quickly.

COLONEL (_after struggling inwardly_).

Well, so be it, gentlemen, I accept! Tell the committee I appreciate
their confidence. This evening we will talk over details.

BLUMENBERG.

We thank you, Colonel. The whole town will be rejoiced to hear of your
decision.

COLONEL.

Good-by until this evening.

[_Exeunt the visitors_;

COLONEL _alone, thoughtfully_.]

I fear I ought not to have accepted so quickly; bu