ry," said he. "The professor's
chair is my vocation. He who does not hold his vocation as the acme of
all attraction is indeed a perfect man. Besides, it will appear to you,
who consider everything in the world, not excepting even the fair sex,
with blank stoicism--it will appear even to you that the rostrum is
destined to accomplish great things. Ripe knowledge in mighty
pulsations goes forth from the rostrum, and permeates society. The
rostrum governs and educates the rising young men who are destined to
assume leading positions in the state. The rostrum overthrows
antiquated forms of religious delusion, ennobles rational thought,
exact science, and deep investigation. The rostrum governs even the
throne; for we have princes in Germany who esteem liberty of thought
and progress of knowledge more than the art of governing their people
in a spirit of stupidity."

Frank smiled.

"The glory of the rostrum I leave undisputed," said he. "But I beg of
you to conceal from the doctor your scientific rule of faith. You may
get into trouble with the doctor."

"I am very desirous of becoming acquainted with this paragon of
learning--you have told me so much about him; and I confess it was
partly to see him that I made this visit. Get into trouble? I do not
fear the old syllogism-chopper in the least. A good disputation with
him is even desirable."

"Well, you are forewarned. If you go home with a lacerated back, it
will not be my fault."

"A lacerated back?" said the professor quietly. "Does the doctor like
to use _striking_ arguments?"

"Oh! no; but his sarcasm is as cutting as the slash of a sword, and his
logical vehemence is like the stroke of a club."

"We will fight him with the same weapons," answered Carl, throwing back
his head. "Shall I pay him my respects immediately?"

"The doctor admits no one. In his studio he is as inaccessible as a
Turkish sultan in his harem. I will introduce you in the dining-room,
as it is now just dinner-time."

They betook themselves to the dining-room, and soon after they heard
the sound of a bell.

"He is just now called to table," said Richard. "He does not allow the
servant to enter his room, and for that reason a bell has been hung
there."

"How particular he is!" said the professor.

A door of the ante-room was opened, quick steps were heard, and
Klingenberg hastily entered and placed himself at the table, as at a
work that must be done quickly, and then observed the st