The servant brought a glass.
"Try this wine," said Siegwart; "my own growth," he added with some pride.
They touched glasses. Hamm put his glass to his lips, without drinking; Frank tasted the noble liquor with the air of a connoisseur; while Siegwart's smiling gaze rested on him.
"Excellent! I do not remember to have drank better Burgundy."
"Real Burgundy, neighbor--real Burgundy. I brought the vines from France."
"Do you not think the vines degenerate with us?" said Frank.
"They have not degenerated yet. Besides, proper care and attention make up for the unsuitableness of our soil and climate.
"You would oblige me, Herr Siegwart, if you would preserve me some shoots when you next trim them."
"With pleasure. I had them set last year; they shot forth fine roots, and I can let you have any number of shoots."
"Is it not too late to plant them?"