m the town, that she
might hear more of Manna and the enigmatical telegram; but she had a
second purpose in view, and an opportunity of carrying it out soon
presented itself.

The Justice's wife complained that Captain and Doctor Dournay--"what is
one to call him--?"

"Call him simply doctor."

That Doctor Dournay, then, had paid a visit to the priest, to the
major, and to the physician. The Major's housekeeper had told the
beadle a great deal about him. But very singularly, though he seemed to
be a man of excellent manners, he had neglected the very central point
of the town, which was certainly the Justice's court. He had certainly
apologized very humbly when he spent the night at the doctor's, and the
doctor's wife said that he was soon to return and enter Sonnenkamp's
service with a salary more than double that of a Justice. Herr von
Pranken had done a very kind thing in getting this position for the
young man, who, it was to be hoped, would show himself worthy of his
recommendation.

Bella nodded acquiescingly, and praised the Justice's wife for
acknowledging in so friendly a manner the kindness which it was a duty
to show to an unfortunate man, but added that she must certainly see
the danger also, that an untrustworthy man could be injured in no way
more than by benefits, which served only to nourish enemies, who lay in
wait for the right moment to show themselves in their true light.

The Justice's wife was delighted with the manner in which this lady of
acknowledged intellect dressed up her own plain commonsense so finely.
She assented, and felt much pleased with the idea, that, as soon as one
enjoyed personal intercourse with the Countess Wolfsgarten, one could
think more clearly and understand everything better. Both ladies smiled
contentedly, and each declared that the other was dressed most
becomingly and tastefully, though of course with the acknowledgment
that Frau Bella was the most marked in this respect, for to attempt to
rival her would be folly.

Bella certainly looked very animated. She spoke lightly--for the matter
must not be misrepresented--of the slight attack of illness which the
Count had had at Villa Eden, when "Herr Dournay" who had lifted him had
behaved right bravely. The Justice's wife launched out in praise of the
Count, and of the care which was taken of his life.

Frau Bella led the conversation back, and with cautious circumspection
insinuated that Eric had omitted a visit to