“Horse, my gracious lady? That is out with the rest of them. All horses were ordered out, except these two lame ones,” and he pointed at the two sorry steeds. “What? My horse ordered out? What new insolence is this? Let it be brought to me instantly. One of the corporals can go on foot.” But this moment she heard steps approaching, and seeing Borgert she called out to him in dulcet tones: “Ah, what a pleasure, my dear First Lieutenant! So early out on duty? I was just about to give some sugar to my husband’s horses, but find them already gone. My dear husband is so excessively punctual in all that concerns the service.” “Your interest for the squadron is most praiseworthy, my gracious lady,” said Borgert with a malicious twinkle in his eye. “I have often remarked you with secret admiration when issuing orders to the men about the stable.” “Orders? Scarcely that, my dear Borgert. Once in a while I am the messenger of my dear husband when he has forgotten something. Of course, I take an interest in all that concerns him and the squadron.” “Frau Captain is quite right, and I can only congratulate you on the successful way in which your interest in the squadron and in the whole regiment takes concrete form.” “You are always jesting. But I suppose I shall see you at the Casino to-night?” “Assuredly, we are to meet at five to talk over some service matters.” “Yes, you remind me. But that will not last long. It concerns only some trifling affairs.” “Much obliged for the exact information.” “Oh, of course, I take an interest in everything, as I said. I called the colonel’s attention to divers things, and I presume he will talk them over with you gentlemen.” “I am curious to learn what they can be. But, pardon me, I see Captain König coming, with whom I have to transact some business. Good morning, my most gracious lady!” “Good morning, _mon cher_!” And she held her hand up high to him,--a big hand, which was encased in a soiled, worn-out gauntlet of her husband’s. Then she turned once more to the sergeant-major, while Borgert hastened to intercept König, who was on the point of turning into the big courtyard of the third squadron. “Good morning, Herr Captain! I must beg you to excuse me if I interfere with your liberty for a moment, but a very pressing matter induces me to ask of you a great favor.” “You astonish me. What is the matter? Is it anything of importance?” retorted the captain. “This afternoon the colonel will doubtless mention the unpaid Casino bills, and it would be extremely painful to me, especially in the presence of the junior officers, to have my name spoken of in that connection.” “My dear fellow,” said Captain König, “you’ll have to go elsewhere for the money. It was difficult enough for me to raise that hundred for you a week ago.”