In the course of the conversation some one happened to remark that
although the arrangements might be countrified enough, the viands
were too town-like; "No country meal is complete without thick
milk." [Note: Milk allowed to stand until it has thickened to the
consistency of curds, and then eaten, commonly with sugar.]

Rebecca at once rose and demanded leave to bring a basin of milk;
and, paying no attention to Mrs. Hartvig's protests, she left the
table.

"Let me help you, Miss Rebecca," cried Max, and ran after her.

"That is a lively young man," said the Pastor.

"Yes, isn't he?" answered the Consul, "and a deuced good business
man into the bargain. He has spent several years abroad, and now
his father has taken him into partnership."

"He's perhaps a little unstable," said Mrs. Hartvig, doubtfully.

"Yes, he is indeed," sighed Miss Frederica.

The young man followed Rebecca through the suite of rooms that led
to the dairy. At bottom, she did not like this, although the dairy
was her pride; but he joked and laughed so merrily that she could
not help joining in the laughter.

She chose a basin of milk upon the upper shelf, and stretched out
her arms to reach it.