lf-grown boys; for Peter was an adept at ten-pins.

CHAPTER L.

Landolin was suddenly in the midst of the crowded meadow, and the first
person that he hit against was the one-handed man who had been his
substitute in the army.

"Come here, I'll give you something," said Landolin, putting his hand
into his pocket. The one-handed man hesitated to reach out his left
hand, but at length he did it; for he couldn't bear to refuse a gift,
although he was earning good wages, especially just now; for Anton had
bought him some pictures of the heroes of our day, which he was hawking
about, and he well understood the art of praising his wares. Titus
watched Landolin as he gave the man something, and their eyes met, but
neither greeted the other. Titus was of the opinion that Landolin
should speak to him first in a very humble manner; and Landolin
expected the man of unsullied honor to make the first advances.

Landolin saw Fidelis. The servant who had formerly been in his employ,
passed by as though he didn't know him; perhaps he was annoyed that his
master had been acquitted notwithstanding his damaging testimony.
Landolin was inclined to speak to him and be friendly, but he heard
Titus call him (for Fidelis was now in his service) and say: "Enjoy
yourself as much as you can--your honor is without a stain--and I will
pay for what you eat."

The maids of honor with wreaths on their heads went past, walking arm
in arm. Their number had evidently been increased. They were the
daughters of the district forester, of Titus, and of another farmer;
but what would they all have been beside Thoma, had she been there?

The men shook hands and congratulated one another upon the pleasant day
and the fine celebration. Landolin rubbed his cold hands--no one had
touched his hand--was there blood sticking on it? Had he not been
acquitted?

"What can be the matter with Anton Armbruster? What has kept him from
coming?... The best part is wanting when he is away.... Thoma wouldn't
let him come to the celebration.... No, their engagement is broken
off.... I'll tell you; Anton is ashamed of Landolin, whose acquittal
was such an atrocity. Look! There he goes now."

Such, and still more biting words Landolin heard from every group, as
he went around like one risen from the dead, with whom no one would
have anything to do. "I have not deserved this, not this----" said
Landolin, angry and at the same time sad