"But a week, Your Highness."
"Walther speaks well of you. The Walthers have served the Auerspergs for
centuries and his judgment and loyalty are to be trusted."
John's heart, stanch republican that he was, rose in rebellion at the
thought that one family should serve another for a thousand years, but
of course he was silent.
"Walther tells me also," resumed the prince, "that you can handle an
automobile with skill and that you understand them."
"Herr Walther is very kind to me, Your Highness."
"It was you also who rode the horse of Pappenheim. A great feat. It
showed ability and courage. For these reasons I am selecting you to do a
deed of trust, one of great importance to me. I am informed by Walther
that you are from Lorraine and that your name is Castel."
"Yes, Your Highness, I'm Jean Castel and I was born near Metz, a subject
of His Imperial Highness, the German Emperor, the Winner of Victories."
Auersperg smiled and continued to stroke his great brown beard. The
young peasant pleased him. Though of humble station and ignorant of the
higher world he was undoubtedly keen and intelligent. He was just the
man for his task, and fortune had put this useful tool in his hand.
"Go back to the stables, Castel," he said, "and make ready for the high
duty to which I am going to assign you.
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