It is falling down again," said Leonore regretfully.

"We ought to have a ribbon.

If I only had one and a thread and needle!--but perhaps we could come again to-morrow--" Leonore became quite frightened suddenly at her boldness and remained silent from embarrassment.

But Maezli got her out of this trying situation.

Full of confidence she announced that they would return the next day with everything necessary.
The gentleman now asked Leonore where she came from and where she lived.
She related that she had been living in a boarding school for several years, ever since the death of her great-aunt, with whom both she and her brother had found a home.
"Have you no other relations ?" the gentleman asked, keenly observing her the while.
"No, none at all, except an uncle who has been living in Spain for many years.