A few small tables
remained in the corners. The place was lighted by a corona of gas-jets,
and was on the whole as bright and roomy a fencing ground as the heart
of a Korps student could desire. The proprietor, who entered with
enthusiasm into the scheme, moved about, followed by a confidential
waiter in his white apron, examining every detail, adjusting the
position of the tables and chairs, turning the principal key of the
gas-jets a little so as to obtain the best possible flame, and every
now and then running to the door which opened to the outer chambers, as
he fancied that he heard some one tapping at the street entrance. The
whole effect of the preparations suggested something between a concert
and the reception of a deputation, and no one would have suspected that
a party of young men were about to engage in a serious tournament
amidst the fantastic decorations and the shadows of the beautiful
plants, beneath the flood of light that bathed everything in warm
lustre.
Presently the expected signal was heard, and the proprietor rushed
breathlessly to the outer door. Greif, Rex and their companions entered
swiftly and silently, followed by the liveried servant of the Korps who
carried an extraordinary collection of bags and bundles, which he
dropped upon the floor with a grunt of satisfaction as soon as he was
inside. Then he took up his burden again, at the command of the burly
second, and carried his traps into the illuminated hall.
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