"By the Countess's express desire I officiated."
"I thought so! They summoned me by telegraph to Berkheim to the death-bed."
"And you went?"
"Of course, although I gave up practice long ago for the professorial chair. This was an exceptional case. I can never forget how the Steinrücks befriended me, employing me when I was a young, obscure physician, upon your recommendation, to be sure, but they placed every confidence in me. I could, indeed, do nothing for the Count except to make death easier, but my presence was a satisfaction for the family."
Michael's entrance interrupted the conversation. He came to say that the sacristan wished to speak for a moment with his reverence, and was waiting outside.
"I will come back immediately," said Valentin. "Put away your books, Michael; there will be no lessons to-day."
He left the room, and Michael began to gather up the books and papers. The Professor watched him, and said, casually, "And so the Herr Pastor teaches you?"
Michael nodded and went on with his occupation.
"It's just like him," murmured Wehlau. "Here he is tormenting himself with teaching this stupid fellow to read and write, probably because there is no school in the neighbourhood. Let me look at that."
And he took up one of the copy-books, nearly dropping it on the instant in his surprise. "What! Latin? How is this?"