"It is cheaper, at the same time," added Herr Rupius. "Yes, I assure you it is cheaper even if you throw in the cost of the journey. Why don't you follow my wife's example?"
"In that way, Herr Rupius?"
"Why, in regard to your frocks and hats! You are young and pretty, too!"
"Heavens above! On whose account should I dress smartly?"
"On whose account! On whose account is it that my wife dresses so smartly?"
The door opened and Frau Rupius entered in a bright spring costume, a red sunshade in her hand and a white straw hat, trimmed with red ribbon, on her dark hair, which was dressed high. A pleasant smile was hovering around her lips, as usual, and she greeted Bertha with a quiet cheerfulness.
"Are you making an appearance in our house once more?" she said, handing her sunshade and hat to the maid, who had followed her into the room.
"Are you also interested in pictures, Frau Garlan?"
She went up close behind her husband and softly passed her hand over his forehead and hair.
"I was just telling Frau Garlan," said Rupius, "how surprised I am that she never goes to Vienna."