Veronica stood still on the other side of the door until she heard his
retreating footsteps; then she opened it and went out again. She went
over to the sexton's house. Blasi stood in the doorway, in a despondent
attitude, with his hands in his pockets. He was brooding over the
melancholy reflection that he had paid away the last penny of the coin
that Judith had given him, for last evening's glass at the Rehbock, and
that he had no credit. He saw no glimmer of hope in the prospect before
him, and looked disconsolately at the ground. Suddenly Veronica stood
before him. He stared at her with surprise.

"Blasi, will you do me a favor?" she asked in a friendly tone, "I will
return it sometime when you need help."

Here was an unexpected chance. He opened his eyes yet wider with delight.

"Tell me what it is, Veronica," he said; "I will go through fire and
water for you."

"It is only to go through the wood for me, to-morrow evening, and every
evening till the days grow longer again. Will you? You can have your
evening glass afterwards at my expense."

Blasi stood speechless; staring at Veronica, who waited for his answer.

"Why; do you want two of us?" he said presently, "I don't see why. Jost is
going too, for you told him to go and meet you every evening."

Veronica's dark eyes flashed forth a fire that dazzled poor Blasi.