What Paul had thought was a curled wig or
powder was the old negro's own white knotted wool, and the
astounding livery he wore was carried off as no one but George
could carry it.
But he was still more amazed when the old servant, in a German as
exaggerated, as incoherent, but still as fluent and persuasive as
his own native speech, began an extravagant but perfectly dignified
and diplomatic translation of his master's protests. Where and
when, by what instinct, he had assimilated and made his own the
grotesque inversions and ponderous sentimentalities of Teutonic
phrasing, Paul could not guess; but it was with breathless wonder
that he presently became aware that, so perfect and convincing was
the old man's style and deportment, not only the simple officials
but even the bystanders were profoundly impressed by this farrago
of absurdity. A happy word here and there, the full title and rank
given, even with a slight exaggeration, to each individual, brought
a deep and guttural "So!" from lips that would have found it
difficult to repeat a line of his ceremonious idiocy.
In their preoccupation neither the colonel nor George had perceived
Paul's entrance, but, as the old servant turned with magnificent
courtesy towards the bystanders, his eyes fell upon Paul.
Pages:
129
130
131
132
133
134
135
136
137
138
139
140
141
142
143
144
145
146
147
148
149
150
151
152
153