A fortnight later the three, with maid and manservant, had left Krogskogen.
THE SCEPTRE CHANGES HANDS
Two years and a half passed, during the course of which Krog was at home several times, unaccompanied by the others. Then it was determined that they should all spend a summer at Krogskogen. With this project in view the three were in a draper's shop in Vienna. Mrs. Dawes and Marit were to have new clothes, Marit especially being in need of them, as she had grown out of hers. It was the first week of May; summer dresses were to be chosen.
"We think, both your father and I, that you must have long dresses now. You are so tall."
Marit looked at her father, but the materials which lay spread out in front of him engaged his attention. Mrs. Dawes spoke for him.
"Your father says that when you are walking with him, gentlemen look at your legs."
Krog began to fidget. Even the lady behind the counter felt that there was thunder in the air. She did not understand the language, but she saw the three faces. At last Anders heard Marit answering in a curious, but quite pleasant voice:
"Is it because Mother had long dresses when she was my age that I am to have them?"
Mrs. Dawes looked with dismay at Anders Krog; but he turned away.