"That is evidently intended for flattery," 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 every thing 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 stranger. "Doctor Lutz, professor of history in our university," said Frank, introducing him. "Doctor Lutz--professor of history," said Klingenberg musingly. "Your name is familiar to me, if I am not mistaken; are you not a collaborator on Sybel's historical publication?" "I have that honor," answered the professor with much dignity. They began to eat. "You read Sybel's periodical?" asked the professor. "We must not remain entirely ignorant of literary productions, particularly the more excellent."