' experience, such as
I have had. At first I shuddered, but I was always angry with myself
for it; now I have learned from my husband what stands me in the best
stead."

"What is that?"

"Rude bluntness, the only effectual thing. Each one is thinking about
himself, but why talk about myself?"

She expressed her satisfaction at becoming acquainted with the Mother.
The two ladies smiled when Roland said:--

"We went to the church, and from there we came to you, and we think we
are much better off here."

The wine came, and Eric and Roland drank the health of the Doctor's
substitute. Then they went to the study of the Physician, and Eric
explained the anatomical charts to Roland.

The Mother urged the Doctor's wife, with whom she was visiting, to
return her visit soon, and expressed the hope of great good to result
to Frau Ceres from her resolute nature.

"I should be afraid of being too blunt," answered the Doctor's wife,
whose nature was in reality exceedingly gentle and considerate.

"I trust you will pardon my boldness; is it true that Manna is to be
taken from the convent, and have her education completed by you?"

The Mother was amazed. What was to her only a vague thought, was the
gossip of the neighborhood. She could not imagine what had given rise
to it, and the Doctor's wife could not tell where she had heard it.

When the Mother now made particular inquiries about Manna, the Doctor's
wife said that Roland was the only one of Sonnenkamp's family whom she
knew. She knew nothing at all about Manna; but Lina, the Justice's
daughter, had been her friend, and from her something definite might be
learned.

The Physician joined them, but did not stay long. He waited only to
get, as soon as he could, the report from his wife.

The Mother took leave, and Frau Petra did not urge her to remain,
saying that she had still to speak with several of the patients before
they went.

In lively spirits they left the house.

They had to wait longer at the Justice's, for wife and daughter must
first make their toilet. When they finally appeared, they had many
apologies to make for the disorderly appearance of the room, and for
their own hurried toilet; yet dress and room were as neat and pretty as
one could wish.

The messenger was sent after the Justice, who was taking his Sunday's
glass; and when at last the Professorin had taken a seat in the corner
of the sofa, where one could hardly find room among the embroid