Was it impossible that he might notice her?
would be grateful for her sympathy?
and perhaps--who knows--later--he might seek consolation from her--who was so ready to give it?
The concluding chapter of this girlish romance remained her own secret, but the beginning she boldly declared.

She explained to her grandmother, as well as to Paul, that now Dr.Eynhardt was in need of being comforted, it was the duty of his friends to try to overcome his sorrow.

She proposed that Paul should bring him as often as possible, and she obtained from Frau Brohl the unwonted permission of inviting him to the Sunday luncheon.

Wilhelm had little pleasure in going into ordinary society, especially to strangers, but this invitation was so warm and pressing that he could not bring himself to refuse it.
When Wilhelm was there Paul was put completely in the background.
Malvine had no words or glances for any one but Wilhelm, and if she spoke to Paul it was only to thank him for having brought Dr.Eynhardt to the Lutzowstrasse.

If Paul came alone he was mortified to see a shadow pass over Malvine's face, and he was forced to listen to a string of inquiries after his friend.