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At the chief entrance to the palace, however, an official came

running out to meet him, and learning that he was a special

messenger led him to another entrance.

"To the right from the corridor, Euer Hochgeboren! There you will

find the adjutant on duty," said the official. "He will conduct

you to the Minister of War."

The adjutant on duty, meeting Prince Andrew, asked him to wait,

and went in to the Minister of War. Five minutes later he

returned and bowing with particular courtesy ushered Prince

Andrew before him along a corridor to the cabinet where the

Minister of War was at work. The adjutant by his elaborate

courtesy appeared to wish to ward off any attempt at familiarity

on the part of the Russian messenger.