. His eyes burned as they
sought a friendly glance. He not only felt that all the people at the
celebration disliked him because of what he had done, and delighted to
wound him by ignoring his presence, but he also saw plainly that they
were particularly angry at him, because on his account Anton was
absent. Here, at the very place where, on the day of the fair, he had
vaingloriously boasted that he considered Anton of lower station than
himself--here he was made to hear how universally the man whom he might
have called son was beloved and honored.

Landolin turned to go. Why should he stay? But "Hush! Stand still!" was
heard from all sides; for a trumpet sounded, and the district forester
mounted the platform. He said that Anton Armbruster had been selected
to welcome their friends and comrades.

Cries of "Hurrah for Anton!" arose here and there; but silence was
commanded, and the forester, in simple words, welcomed the guests, and
explained the significance of the celebration. He said he intended to
be brief, for hungry stomachs do not like to be fed with words; and he
concluded with a cheer for the Fatherland.

"To dinner! To dinner!" was now the cry. The tables were soon crowded,
while the band played lively airs. Titus sat at a table with the other
rich farmers. Landolin took a chair, and saying, "With your leave," sat
down with them.

"So, Mr. Ex-bailiff, you here too?" Landolin heard himself addressed,
and turning around, saw Engelbert, the shepherd of Gerlachseck, who had
wanted to hire out to him. He now wore a large white apron, for the
hostess of the Sword had engaged him as an assistant for the day.
Landolin did not answer.

His companions at table ate and drank heartily, and talked loudly, but
no one spoke a word to Landolin, until at length Titus said: "Well, how
is it, Landolin? I hear you're going to sell your farm. If that's so,
I'm a purchaser. I'll pay a good price. You can have a valuation put on
it."

"Who said that I was going to sell?"

"Oh, it's generally reported that you're going to leave the
neighborhood."

"If I knew who started that story, I'd pull his tongue out of his
throat."

"I wouldn't do that," laughed Titus; "you certainly ought to know that
that isn't a good plan."

"'Twas you," cried Landolin, "that started it--you!"

Titus gave no answer, but got up and walked away; the others soon
followed him, and Landolin was left alone at the table.

Music filled the air. Ther