"That's the way," said Hansei. "If he's angry, it's no reason why I should be."
The mother nodded her approval.
Although the service had both edified and satisfied them, it did not prevent Hansei from having a mighty appetite at dinner that day, and he said:
"I think the freeholder can eat more than ever, but I'll see to it that he works right bravely, too."
Hansei was quite merry, but he did not climb the cherry-tree again.
The doctor and his wife paid them a visit that afternoon. Walpurga showed the pretty gifts she had received, and Frau Hedwig was all admiration.
"I shall lay this beautiful dress aside for my child's wedding. You can't begin thinking of the outfit too soon."
The doctor had brought a good supply of bottle food. He placed the bottles on the table and said:
"Hansei, they tell me that you're doing dry penance, and as I'm a heretic, I'll pour out the wine for you."
He proceeded to do so most generously.