"First give me my money," said their guide, holding out his hand; the
money was given, and the three and Pixy ran up the long steps, Fritz
saying as he ran, "Come on, boys, we have found Aunt Steiner and she is
glad to see us."

"Did you write that you were coming to-day, dear?" asked his aunt when
all hands were seated and the boys had laid aside their knapsacks.

"No, aunt. You know I wrote two weeks ago and told you that Franz and I
were coming as soon as school was done; and we thought you would not
mind if we brought Paul."

"No, I am really glad he is with you; I met Paul and his parents when I
was at your home in the country and am glad to welcome him as well as
Franz, whose parents are dear friends of mine. The only reason that I
would be glad if you had written is that I might have provided another
bed. There is only one in my spare room."

The boys looked at each other with anxious glances. It seemed to them a
hopeless case for they had tried the experiment of three in a bed at the
Swan inn, and it had not been a success.

"Don't feel concerned, dear boys," said Mrs. Steiner kindly; "there is a
wide lounge in the room with a head-piece which serves as a pillow. One
of you can sleep upon it."

"Let Franz and Paul have the bed, aunt. I am perfectly willing to sleep
on the lounge."