"

"Mr. Wohlfart!" cried Lenore, clasping her hands.

"Your good opinion is more to me than that of all others," said he,
blushing; and proceeded rapidly to state the whole story, assuring her
that he had known nothing of it.

"I believe you," said Lenore, cordially; "and, indeed, papa said that it
was all most probably an idle tale. And because of this you will give up
our dancing-parties!"

"I will," said Anton; "for, if I do not, I run a risk of being
considered an intruder or an impostor."

Lenore tossed her little head. "Go, then, sir!" and she turned away.

Anton stood like one annihilated. Had he been ten years older, he might
have interpreted her anger more favorably. As it was, a bitter pang
thrilled through him. But the thought of what was still to be done
nerved him to overcome it, and he walked steadily, nay, proudly to where
Frau von Baldereck was doing the honors. All the most distinguished
members of the party were around her. The gaunt old countess sat
drinking a cup of tea. The baroness was there; and near her a tall,
handsome man, whom Anton knew instinctively to be Lenore's father. As he
advanced to make his bow to the lady of the house, his glance took in
the whole scene at once. Years have passed since then; but still he
knows the color of every dress, could count the flowers in the bouquet
of the baroness, ay, and remembers the gilt pattern on the countess's
tea-cup. Frau von Baldereck received his obeisance with a gracious
smile, and was about to say something flattering, when Anton interrupted
her, and in a voice that shook a little, perhaps, but was audible
throughout the room, began his address, which was soon listened to in
profound silence. "Madam, I have this day heard that a rumor has been
spread of my possessing lands in America, and exciting an interest in
certain high quarters. I now declare that this is all false. I am the
son of a late accountant in Ostrau, and I inherit from my parents hardly
any thing beyond an unsullied name. You, madam, have been kind enough to
invite me, an insignificant stranger, to take part in your _reunions_
this winter. After what I have just heard, I dare do so no longer, lest
I should thus substantiate the idle reports I have mentioned, and be
suspected of imposing upon your hospitality. Therefore I have only to
thank you sincerely for your past kindness, and to take my leave."

The whole party was struck dumb. Anton bowed, and turned to go.

Just