“I can’t deny that something has happened to me!”
“In Heaven’s name, what?”
“You will find out soon enough. Let us go up!”
She relinquished Helmer’s arm and took Frau Eleonore’s instead. “Good-bye for now, Chlodwig; we shall meet at luncheon. I am going to write Prince Victor Adolph now. Come, Eleonore!” And she pulled her companion toward the entrance.
Helmer bowed and went off in another direction.
As soon as she reached her salon, Franka threw her hat and parasol down and with a long, long breath sank into an easy-chair.
Frau Eleonore took her place facing her.
“Dear Franka, forgive me, but”—she was at a loss for the right words—“I know you do not like me to be preaching ... but don’t you think that such walks with Herr Helmer.... As far as I am concerned, it is nothing.... I know what an old harmless friendship means ... but don’t you think that perhaps the prince....”
“Oh, thank you for reminding me of the prince—I must write to him. Has any telegram come for me?”
“No, but here is a letter from the Sielenburg.”