To save Loulou he at last took the step which no respect for his own peace or honor had allowed him to take before.
He went to the Ellrichs' house the next day at the usually early hour of eleven o'clock, and asking for the young lady, he was shown into the little blue boudoir, where he hoped to find Loulou alone.

But he was painfully surprised.

Herr von Pechlar sat there, and appeared to be in the middle of a conversation with Loulou.

She smiled at Wilhelm, and beckoned to him to come and sit near her, without embarrassment.
Wilhelm stayed a moment at the door irresolute, then he went forward, and bowing to her without looking at the hussar, said earnestly: "I came in the hope of speaking to you alone, gnadiges Fraulein.

Perhaps I may be so fortunate another time." At these unexpected words Loulou opened her eyes wide.