He never could thank him enough for all that he had done for him.

He was his only champion.

He longed for a chance to prove his gratitude, to die for him if necessary.
His wife admired him with enthusiasm as "the most gifted knight in the world." And Desnoyers received their devotion in gratified silence, accepting the German as an excellent comrade.

As he controlled absolutely the family fortune, he aided Karl very generously without arousing the resentment of the old man.

He also took the initiative in bringing about the realization of Karl's pet ambition--a visit to the Fatherland.