The former felt compensated by
the consciousness of their rank and worth for any deficiency in mere
outward signs of grandeur, the latter tried by the glitter of their
pearls, diamonds, silks, and laces to appear easy and fearlessly
familiar. Among the men, the soldiers had everything in their favor.
The orders which the civilians wore fastened on the lapels of their
dress coats were hopelessly thrown in the shade by the epaulettes of
the officers, and the medals decorating their colored uniforms.
Herr Ellrich made a good host, passing quickly but quietly from one
group to another. His blight blue eves were cold and tired-looking
as ever, and took no part in the rather banal smile which played
over his lips, as if the accustomed expression of indifference could
never be obliterated. The indolent lines about his mouth were not
those of temperament, because if he spoke to a Finance Minister or
other notability, although there was no arrogance in his manner, it
might be noticed that the instinctive consciousness of his own
millions never left him. He had a naturally honorable disposition,
which showed itself in every line, and made any cringing an
impossibility. The guests praised everything, especially the costly
refreshments handed by the servants in faultless liveries.
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