mother, however, on further consideration, decided to say nothing on the
subject to Veronica, for she thought the whole thing would be the sooner
forgotten if not spoken of, and she believed it unwise to stir up the
terrors of the past.

The next afternoon, Dietrich left home much earlier than usual, determined
not to be belated again, and hoping to escape altogether his too insistent
companions. But scarcely had he reached the garden gate when he came upon
Blasi, who was lying in wait for him. Dietrich tried to pass him quickly,
and to show him that his company was not desired, but in vain Blasi had
not been waiting round half an hour to be turned off like that. He
explained that he was in worse trouble than ever to-day, and wished to
borrow more money than ever before; promising, of course, to pay it back
very soon; "that is, as soon as possible," he added.

"Oh yes, well, when will it be possible, I wonder. How much have you paid
me back, as yet, since you began to borrow of me?" said Dietrich angrily.
"Let me go, Blasi, I've no time to spare."

But Blasi went along by his side, and before he had done talking, Jost
joined them and held Dietrich fast by the other arm.

"Come, come," he cried, "I have something to tell you that will make you
open your eyes, I guess. I came in a hurry on purpose not to miss you.
I've just come from the Rehbock, and I told them to keep the little back
room for us, so that we can talk quietly, without danger of being
interrupted. Come along, I say."

"I will not," said Dietrich, freeing his arm from the other's detaining
grasp. "I haven't time, and I don't believe you have anything special to