“You are quite right, Herr Captain,” interjected Bleibtreu. “That is the worst of these little garrisons, especially those located near the frontier. After living in one of them for a number of years, one becomes impossible in decent society. This continual gossip, these ceaseless bickerings, are enough to destroy the temper and, to some extent, the reputation of an angel. Add to this the fact that all sorts of men ‘with a past’ are stuck into these little garrisons, and the mischief is done. Every little while we hear the phrase: ‘Punished by transference to Moerchingen, Lyck,’ and a whole number of similar holes.” “Quite true,” König replied. “For the most part, officers who are sent to these frontier garrisons are relegated there to get rid of them. But H. M. does not consider the fact that to place such doubtful elements in large numbers into that sort of garrison renders them even more harmful than if they were sent to larger garrisons, where they would be subjected to the influence of respectable and well-bred comrades. That is how so many scandalous affairs happen amongst the officers near the frontier. If only the officers had at least an opportunity of cultivating respectable society and of following a refined taste, permitting them regular attendance at good theatres, concerts, and the like! But unfortunately that is not the case; their whole social intercourse and their sole diversion consist in frequenting the Casino. And what can you expect, then?” “There is much truth in what you say,” put in Bleibtreu. “By rights the transference to a frontier regiment ought to be a distinction, because there they are closest to the enemy, and would have the first chance to exercise their profession and to show the stuff that’s in them at the outbreak of a real war. But to-day that is a mere illusion. Every day the prospect of a war becomes less, and therefore the chances of marching against the enemy exist only on paper.” When these two shook hands on parting that night, it was in a sad state of mind. A couple of weeks later Bleibtreu’s resignation had been accepted, and he doffed his uniform and stepped out into the life of a plain citizen. The Council of Honor decided, after many delays, that Captain König deserved censure because of “endangering his professional honor.” The explanation was added that no officer must put himself in such a position as to expose himself to the unfavorable opinion of the world; and since in the present case this had been done, it was necessary to point out to Captain König that his proceeding at the time in question had been incorrect and injurious to his honor as an officer. König read this official communication calmly, while a scornful smile played around his lips; and on that same night his resignation had been filed at the regimental headquarters.