Mr. Conrad maintained his reserve, and asked but few questions. Even Carl, habitually profuse, studied brevity in his answers, as he knew from experience that Gerlach, Senior, was singularly averse to the use of many words.
"How is business?"
"Very dull, sir; the times are hard."
"Did you sustain any losses through the failures that have recently taken place in town?"
"Not a farthing. We had several thousands with Wendel, but fortunately drew them out before he failed."
"Very prudent. Has your father entered into any new connections in the course of his travels?"
"Several, that promise fairly."
"Is Louise well?"
"Her health is as good as could be wished."
"General prosperity, then, I see, for you both look cheerful, and Seraphin is as blooming as a clover field.