At this moment his confidential clerk, Elkish, was announced.
"Even though the 'Magdeburgs' rise ever so high," she answered
ironically.
"But that need not hinder you from receiving the Regierungsrat. We're
still good for something, I suppose. What think you, Elkish?" he called
to him as he entered.
"I do not know to what you refer."
"Well, what else can I refer to but our balance-sheet?"
"As regards that, the firm of Joshua Benas has no need to hide its
head," the old clerk responded proudly.
"Well, do you see, dear child?" he said to his wife. "Do as you think
best, I rely upon your judgment. You always do the right thing."