Next when he went to call at the house in the Bree Straat he was told that both Lysbeth and his cousin Clara had gone out sleighing, which he did not believe, for as a thaw had set in the snow was no longer in a condition suitable to that amusement.

Moreover, he could almost have sworn that, as he crossed the street, he caught sight of Cousin Clara's red face peeping at him from between the curtains of the upstairs sitting-room.

Indeed he said as much to Greta, who, contrary to custom, had opened the door to him.
"I am sorry if Mynheer sees visions," answered that young woman imperturbably.

"I told Mynheer that the ladies had gone out sleighing." "I know you did, Greta; but why should they go out sleighing in a wet thaw ?" "I don't know, Mynheer.

Ladies do those things that please them.