He felt sure that she would gladly do this, for she loved both children tenderly, as she had formerly loved their parents.
The boy had been absolutely right when he supposed that Mrs.Maxa would be glad to help them, but she had to tell Bruno frankly that there was no advice she was able to give.

She had no authority over the children and could therefore do nothing, as everything depended on Salo's early completion of his studies so that he could choose an occupation.

This would have to be settled by the gentleman of whom Salo had spoken.

He was probably a relation of their mother's who had undertaken the care of the children.
Bruno was terribly cast down when he heard this.

When his mother did not give him help and counsel right away, she usually gave him some hope by saying, "We shall see." As she had not said this to-day, he felt certain that nothing could be done.