Terrified, all trembling, she drew back her head; her face was pale, her eyes looked feverish, her hands hung down by her side.
Presently the footsteps of the visitor were audible on the staircase.
They heard some one outside making inquiries in an arrogant tone, and then the antechamber also was invaded.

Would he presume, then, to come into their room also?
Fanny leaped from her chair, and, rushing despairingly to her aunt, knelt down before her and hid her face in her bosom, sobbing loudly.
"Don't be afraid! don't be afraid!" whispered Teresa; but every muscle in her body trembled.

"I am here." But at that moment the outer door also opened, and Mr.Boltay entered the antechamber in time to receive the newly arrived guest.
"Ah, good day!" cried that gentleman with friendly condescension, as he caught sight of the artisan.

"Mr.Boltay, I presume?
Ah, I thought so, my worthy fellow! You have a great reputation everywhere; they praise your workmanship to the skies, my good, honest fellow.

Fresh from your workshop, eh?
Well, that, now, is what I like to see.