Malcolm spent much of his spare time with the Count and Countess of
Mansfeld, who, irrespective of their gratitude for the assistance
he had rendered them in time of need, had taken a strong liking to
the young Scotchman.
"You are becoming quite a court gallant, Graheme," one of
his comrades said at a court ball where Malcolm had been enjoying
himself greatly, having, thanks to the Countess of Mansfeld, no
lack of partners, while many of the officers were forced to look
on without taking part in the dancing, the number of ladies being
altogether insufficient to furnish partners to the throng of officers,
Swedish, German, and Scottish. Beyond the scarf and feathers which
showed the brigade to which officers belonged, there was, even when
in arms, but slight attempt at uniformity in their attire, still
less so when off duty. The scene at these balls was therefore gay
in the extreme, the gallants being all attired in silk, satin, or
velvet of brilliant colours slashed with white or some contrasting
hue. The tailors at Maintz had had a busy time of it, for in so
rapid a campaign much baggage had been necessarily lost, and many
of the officers required an entirely new outfit before they could
take part in the court festivities.
There was, however, no lack of money, for the booty and treasure
captured had been immense, and each officer having received a fixed
share, they were well able to renew their wardrobes.
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