"I have the honor."
Bella looked at the modest person whom she was desiring to demolish, and then said:—
"Ah, yes, I recollect. The Major's housekeeper, if I do not mistake?"
"Fräulein Milch is my friend," interposed the Professorin.
"Your friend? I was not aware of that. You are very kind."
"Fräulein Milch is my friend, and is my noble assistant in the work of charity."
"Ah, yes, you peddle out the money of Herr Sonnenkamp."
It was uncertain whether this was addressed to both the ladies present, or solely to Fräulein Milch.
Bella saw how the Professorin's face quivered, and she felt greatly encouraged. Now she had found out the point to begin at. This Professorin had inflicted a wound upon her by means of her son—no, not that, but she had wounded her personally, she had assumed a first part that did not belong to her.
And Bella continued:—