“Most careful nurse!” cried Madame Berger, smiling ironically.
“Most indefatigable—most kind,” exclaimed Hamilton, warmly.
“And most domineering,” added Madame Berger.
“I have not found her so.”
“Because you have never contradicted her, perhaps. For instance, what would you take now to refuse this cup of beef-tea when she brings it to you?”
“That would be ungrateful—almost rude,” said Hamilton.
“It will be bad enough to afford you an excuse, and I promise to assist you to brave her anger,” said Madame Berger, laughing.
Hamilton shook his head and looked a little embarrassed.
“Tell the truth, and say at once you dare not do it. She rules you, I perceive, as she does her sister Crescenz, all in the way of kindness, but no thraldom can be more complete. How I shall enjoy seeing you swallow the scalding water dignified with the name of beef-tea. I dare say this time there will be salt enough in it.”
“How mischievous you are,” cried Hamilton; “I do believe you want us to quarrel merely for your amusement, after having remained for three weeks the best of friends possible.”