"I only did my duty," replied she, quietly.
"Oh, no, you have done much, much more!"
The man's former embarrassment now gave place to warm heartiness.
"You merely undertook the duty of instructing the children, and you have been the most loving guardian to them, the most faithful support to my orphaned household. Only since you came have I once more known that I possess a home, a happy domestic circle."
Gertrud was perfectly calm and unsuspecting.
"I have done what I could. But of course a stranger cannot ever fill the mother's place."
"Ah, that was just what I wanted to speak to you about," interrupted the pastor, hastily. "In spite of all your goodness, I cannot deny to myself that my children need a mother, and my house the superintendence of a lady, whilst I--" He suddenly stopped, for Gertrud had shrunk back with an involuntary movement of fright. "Do you wish me to be silent?"
She had become pale, but she shook her head gently.
"Please go on."
He got up and seized her hand.