The baron recalled him, and he stood still in that bent and ridiculous attitude.

At that moment he looked the weakest and oddest of men.

The warning letter must have confounded the poor book-keeper with his master.

At all events, it was easier to deal with this man than with any other.
"Can you tell me of any way in which I may satisfy your claim without paying down the sum this day ?" Veitel's eyes flashed like those of a bird of prey, but he shook his head and shrugged his shoulders long in pretended reflection.

"Gracious baron," said he, at length, "there is one way--only one way.