"Except these here," said Thugut, pointing at Mr. Wenzel and his
unfortunate companions, who vainly tried to hide themselves in their
corner. "But that is unnecessary, inasmuch as they have given us
their names already, and informed us of their wishes Then, sir, the
whole honorable meeting of the people is caught in my house as in a
mouse-trap?"

"Yes, we have got them all," said the chief. "Now, I would like to
know of his excellency, the minister of police, what is to be done
with them."

"I beg you, my dear count," said Thugut, turning to Count Saurau,
"let me have my way in this matter, and treat these men in a spirit
of hospitality. I have opened them the doors of my palace and
admitted them into my presence, and it would be ungenerous not to
let them depart again. Do not read the list of the names which the
chief holds in his hand, but permit him to give it to me, and order
him to withdraw his men from my house, and let the prisoners retire
without molestation, and with all the honors of war."

"Your will shall be done, of course, your excellency," said the
count, bowing respectfully. "Deliver your list to the prime
minister, and go down-stairs to carry out the wishes of his
excellency."

The chief delivered the list of the captured rioters, and left the
room, after saluting the two dignitaries in the most respectful
manner.