"Na, na!" she answered. "What a thing to say—and so unlike you too!
No, but tell me!"
"Well, I am telling you the truth," he replied. "If you won't believe me, ask Fräulein herself."
"I have asked her," said Frau Steinhart, "and she told me to ask you."
The Disagreeable Man was much amused. 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.
"Fräulein will come again?" she whispered eagerly.