That will give us good grounds to separate them." The prospect of a horrible fight was, however, no consolation to Mrs.
Maxa.

But she said nothing more for the matter was irrevocably settled.
"I have to tell you something now which will put you into a happier mood," he began, clearly relieved that his unpleasant communication had been made.

"Yesterday evening the two ladies from Hanover who were my travelling companions some time ago came to me to ask my advice about something which troubled them very much.

They have received an urgent call to return home to their aged mother, who has fallen very ill and has asked to see them.

The little girl who is in their care, however, has been so sick for a few days that they had to call the doctor.