They were given places at the head of the table. For a moment we all
looked at one another with an eena-deena-dina-do expression. Then the Frau
Oberregierungsrat:

"I hope you are not tired after your journey."

"No," said the sister of the Baroness, smiling into her cup.

"I hope the dear child is not tired," said the Frau Doktor.

"Not at all."

"I expect, I hope you will sleep well to-night," the Herr Oberlehrer said
reverently.

"Yes."

The poet from Munich never took his eyes off the pair. He allowed his tie
to absorb most of his coffee while he gazed at them exceedingly soulfully.

Unyoking Pegasus, thought I. Death spasms of his Odes to Solitude! There
were possibilities in that young woman for an inspiration, not to mention a
dedication, and from that moment his suffering temperament took up its bed
and walked.

They retired after the meal, leaving us to discuss them at leisure.

"There is a likeness," mused the Frau Doktor. "Quite. What a manner she
has. Such reserve, such a tender way with the child."