They seemed to be known to the servants, for as soon as they appeared the headwaiter and his subordinates rushed toward them, and with many bows and scrapes took their wraps from them and ushered them to their places.
Wilhelm, who possessed very little knowledge of society, was somewhat at a loss.

Ought he to recognize the young lady?
If he followed his inclination, he certainly would do so.

But her parents! They seemed to be cold and reserved-looking.

Happily all fell out for the best.

The Ellrichs walked straight to the table where he was sitting, and in a moment Wilhelm was greeting his lovely acquaintance with a low bow.