Some join it while others depart; there remain a young, corpulent artist by the name of Milde, and an actor with a snub nose and a creamy voice; also Irgens, and Attorney Grande of the prominent Grande family. The most important, however, is Paulsberg, Lars Paulsberg, the author of half a dozen novels and a scientific work on the Atonement. He is loudly referred to as the Poet, even though both Irgens and Ojen are present. The Actor buttons his ulster tightly and shivers. "No--spring-time is a little too chilly to suit me," he says. "The contrary here!" exclaims the Attorney. "I could shout all the time; I am neighing inwardly; my blood sings a hunting chorus!" And the little stooping youth straightens his shoulders and glances secretly at Paulsberg. "Listen to that!" says the Actor sarcastically. "A man is a man, as the eunuch said." "What does that remark signify?" "Nothing, God bless you! But you in your patent leathers and your silk hat hunting wolves--the idea appealed to my sense of humour." "Ha, ha! I note the fact that Norem has a sense of humour! Let us duly appreciate it." They spoke with practised ease about everything, had perfect control over their words, made quick sallies, and were skilled in repartee. A number of cadets were passing. "Did you ever see anything as flabby as these military youths!" said Irgens. "Look at them; they do not walk past like other mortals, they _stalk_ past!" Both Irgens and the Artist laughed at this, but the Attorney glanced quickly at Paulsberg, whose face remained immovable. Paulsberg made a few remarks about the Art Exhibition and was silent. The conversation drifted to yesterday's performance in Tivoli, and from there to political subjects. Of course, they could refuse to pass all financial bills, but--And perhaps there was not even a sufficient majority to defeat the government budget. It certainly looked dubious-- rotten--They cited quotations from leading parliamentarians, they proposed to put the torch to the Castle and proclaim the republic without delay. The Artist threatened a general revolt of the labouring classes. "Do you know what the Speaker told me in confidence? That he never, _never_ would agree to a compromise--rather let the Union sink or swim! 'Sink or swim,' these were his very words. And when one knows the Speaker--" Still Paulsberg did not say anything, and as the comrades were eager to hear his opinion, the Attorney finally ventured to address him: "And you, Paulsberg, you don't say a word?" Paulsberg very seldom spoke; he had kept to himself and to his studies and his literary tasks, and lacked the verbal facility of his comrades. He smiled good-naturedly and answered: "'Let your communication be Yea, yea, and Nay, nay,' you know!" At this they all laughed loudly. "But otherwise," he added, "apart from that I am seriously considering going home to my wife." And Paulsberg went. It was his wont to go when he said he would.