With many tears she had given a confused and broken account of the interview with Wilhelm, begging Frau Brohl to comfort her and foretell that it should end well.

Frau Brohl explained that Malvine was now in her room, meaning that Paul must not try to see her just at present.

Such a silly, inexperienced creature must have time given her to learn to be reasonable, beside, she (Frau Brohl) would take care of everything, and Herr Haber could call her grandmamma now if he liked.

He kissed her hand, deeply moved and grateful, and her eyes filled with tears.

She then explained the situation to Frau Marker, who, after looking very much surprised, also embraced her son-in-law.