Meanwhile a solemn deliberation was going on in Jordan's room. He rose, struck the table with a ruler, and went on to state that a colleague having, as they all knew, left the business, a vacancy had occurred, which Mr. Schroeter himself wished should be filled by Wohlfart; but as his case would thus be made exceptional--he having been an apprentice only two years instead of four--the principal kindly referred the decision to the body of the clerks. An imposing silence succeeded to these words, which was at length interrupted by Mr. Pix proposing punch, and that they should order in the kettle for the tea-drinkers. The other gentlemen preserved a dignified silence, looked with solemnity at the preparations going forward, and each felt his responsibility and his importance as a man and a clerk. The next question was, "How shall we vote?" It was decided that the youngest should begin. Specht was the youngest. "First of all, I have to remark that Herr von Fink is not present," said he, looking around in some excitement. A general murmur arose, "He does not belong to us; he is a volunteer." "In that case," continued Specht, somewhat taken down by this universal opposition, "I am of opinion that Anton ought, according to custom, to remain an apprentice for four years; but, as he is a good fellow, and likely to prove useful, I am also of opinion that an exception should be made in his favor; while I propose that, in order to remind him of his former position, he be appointed to make tea for us during a year, and to mend a hundred pens for each of his colleagues." "Stuff and nonsense!" muttered Pix; "you have always such overstrained notions." "What do you mean by overstrained notions?" inquired Specht, angrily. "I must call you to order," said Mr. Jordan. The rest of the colleagues proceeded to give in their adherence to the plan. Baumann did so with enthusiasm. At last it came to the turn of Pix. "Gentlemen," said he, "what is the use of much talking? His knowledge of business is fair, considering that he is but a young fellow; his manner is pleasant--the servants respect him. According to my notions, he is too tender and considerate; but it is not given to all to manage others. He is a poor hand at cards, and can make little or nothing of punch--that's about what he is. But, as these last peculiarities have nothing to do with the present proposal, I see no reason why he should not, from the present date, become our colleague."