He had never thought of Bernardine in that way.
He paid the bill, and then did something which rather astonished Frau Steinhart, and half convinced her.
He took the bill to Bernardine, told her the amount of her share, and she repaid him then and there.
There was a twinkle in her eye as she looked up at him.

Then the composure of her features relaxed, and she laughed.
He laughed too, but no comment was made upon the episode.

Then began the goodbyes, and the preparations for the return journey.
Bernardine bent over Catharina, and kissed her sad face.
"Fraeulein will come again ?" she whispered eagerly.
And Bernardine promised.

There was something in Bernardine's manner which had won the poor girl's fancy: some unspoken sympathy, some quiet geniality.
Just as they were starting, Frau Steinhart whispered to Robert Allitsen: "It is a little disappointing to me, Herr Allitsen.

I did so hope you were betrothed." August, the blue-spectacled driver, cracked his whip, and off the horses started homewards.
For some time there was no conversation between the two occupants of the sledge.