“You do injustice to my fair friend Nina,” said the merchant; “she has kindness of heart, feeling, and”—
“No more of her!” interrupted the artist: “I have made up my mind what to do, and am determined to offer my hand to Caroline!”
“Well,” said his old friend, “then I will say no more. But the how, and when? You had better do it in writing; for you cannot easily find an opportunity of speaking alone with her. I will be the bearer of your letter—your postillon d’amour.”
Louis agreed with joy, and promised to bring the letter next morning.
After he had returned home, he considered the step he was about to take; and asked himself earnestly, if he believed a noble apprehension and feeling for a noble art, a sufficient pledge for nobility and purity of soul? He thought of instances in which the highest taste in art had seemed to be accompanied by a mean and unworthy spirit; but further attention convinced him that in all these cases the taste had been perverted or vitiated, or else the world’s judgment had mistaken the character of the individuals.
After some reflection, he wrote a letter containing a formal offer of his hand to Caroline. He confessed his former partiality for Nina, and that his affection had been won by the feeling and soul evinced in her singing. On that security for mind and heart he was willing to rest the happiness of his life!
The letter was given next morning to Heissenheimer, who promised to deliver it. About noon, the impatient artist called again on the merchant, who had left for him the following note:
“Dear Louis:
“Your letter was delivered; but I have no answer for you, for I could only slip it into Caroline’s hand, her mistress being present. Ricco and his daughter are gone into the country. They sent to invite you to join them; but you were not at home. Pressing business prevents my seeing you. I send you information, however, as the circumstances may be favorable to you; it is possible you may find Caroline alone at the house. This evening I shall expect to hear from you.
“Heissenheimer.”