That will pour oil on the flames, and they must blaze up high; I'd stake both my hands on it, much as I need them.

But if it results as I expect, my darling, don't forget old Lerch, who loves you even more than your own mother did.

How beautiful and stately she was! But she forgot her little Wawerl only too often.

I have a faithful nature, child, and understand life.
If, sooner or later, you need the advice of a true, helpful friend, you know where to find little old Lerch." These warnings had sounded impressive enough, but Barbara had by no means listened attentively.

Instead, she had been anticipating, with torturing impatience, her appearance before the great man for whom she was adorned and the songs which she would have to sing.