Leonie looked very incredulous at this assertion and listened with increasing surprise.
"All in all, a man with whom one might live happily," wound up the doctor with great self-complacency. "Do not you agree with me that this is so?"
"Why, yes, but----"
"Well, then say 'yes,' then the story is done."
Leonie started from her chair and blushed crimson.
"Doctor--what does this mean?"
"What does it mean? Ah, yes, I have quite forgotten to make you a regular offer. But that will do to repeat. There, now--I offer you my hand and beg for your consent--let us shake hands on it!"
He stretched out his hand, but the lady of his choice drew three steps back and said sharply: "You must take account of my surprise; I have really never deemed it possible that you could honor me with an offer."
"You think so, because you have nerves!" said Hagenbach, quite unconcernedly. "Oh, that is nothing, I'll soon rid you of them, because I am a doctor."
"I only regret that I shall give you no opportunity for this," was the cool response, that made the doctor open his eyes in astonishment.