was cooled or seasoned enough he took
the basin and went to Thekla, and said something very low; she lifted up
her head, and I could see her face; pale, weary with watching, but with
a soft peaceful look upon it, which it had not worn for weeks. Fritz
Mueller began to feed her, for her hands were occupied in holding his
child; I could not help remembering Mrs. Inchbald's pretty description
of Dorriforth's anxiety in feeding Miss Milner; she compares it, if I
remember rightly, to that of a tender-hearted boy, caring for his
darling bird, the loss of which would embitter all the joys of his
holidays. We closed the door without noise, so as not to waken the
sleeping child. Lottchen brought me my coffee and bread; she was ready
either to laugh or to weep on the slightest occasion. I could not tell
if it was in innocence or mischief. She asked me the following
question,--

"Do you think Thekla will leave to-day, sir?"

In the afternoon I heard Thekla's step behind my extemporary screen. I
knew it quite well. She stopped for a moment before emerging into my
view.

She was trying to look as composed as usual, but, perhaps because her
steady nerves had been shaken by her night's watching, she could not
help faint touches of dimples at the corners of her mouth, and her eyes
were veiled from any inquisitive look by their drooping lids.

"I thought you would like to know that the doctor says Max is quite out
of danger now. He will only require care."

"Thank you, Thekla; Doctor ---- has been in already this afternoon to
tell me so, and I am truly glad."

She went to the window, and looked out for a moment. Many people were in
the vineyards again to-day; although we, in our household anxiety, had
paid them but little heed. Suddenly she turned round into the room, and
I saw that her face was crimson with blushes. In another instant Herr
Mueller entered by the window.

"Has she told you, sir?" said he, possessing himself of her hand, and
looking all a-glow with happiness. "Hast thou told our good friend?"
addressing her.

"No. I was going to tell him, but I did not know how to begin."

"Then I will prompt thee. Say after me--'I have been a wilful, foolish
woman----'"

She wrenched her hand out of his, half-laughing--"I am a foolish woman,
for I have promised to marry him. But he is a still more foolish man,
for he wishes to marry me. That is what I say."

"And I have sent Babette to Frankfort with the pastor. He is goi