Ten times, at least, I have purposely passed by where Rudolf was standing, and Rudolf took not the slightest notice of me." While she was saying these words Rudolf succeeded in securing one of the threatening little hands, and, placing it first to his lips and then to his breast, compelled his beloved wife to sit down beside him again on the sofa.
"Let me make good my fault," said he.

"For three hours I have not been near you, therefore for three days I will not quit your side, although I know that in that case it will be the innocent party who bears the punishment." "Ah, Rudolf, that was but a poor jest, I don't like such witticisms.

I want you to give an account of yourself.

Why are you in such a bad humour ?" "There was something unpleasant in the installation speeches." "Ah, my friend, that won't do; you don't deceive me.

You would tell me a falsehood, eh?
You would lie in despite of that honest open face of yours, in spite of those transparent eyes?
And you would lie to me, who exchanged souls with you?
It cannot be so; tell me the truth!" Rudolf's face grew serious, he fell a-thinking, but presently he replied-- "Don't let us talk about it now." "Why not ?" "It would take too long." "Ah, Rudolf is sleepy! Poor Rudolf is afraid the conversation would go on for ever.