At least if I fall behind you in those other qualities of youth I shall not fall behind you in devotion.

Come, Maret," continued the grand marshal.
The two worthies turned away and went out.

The long room sank into silence.

A soldier came in after a while and replenished the fire, saluted and passed out.

The pen of the busy secretary, the only one left of the group, ceased scratching on the paper.