He was decided upon not permitting any expression of reproach, but, if he should be recognized, to request the Ambassador in the most decided manner to consider certain old connections, with which he had so totally broken, as no longer existing. With this conclusion he emerged into the open air.
Herbert Wallmoden sat with his sister upon the little veranda of the inn. The Chief Forester had been too much occupied with the approaching arrival of the court, the hunting expeditions of which he had to arrange, to accompany the party. The betrothed couple had also remained at home; but the day for the little trip could not have been more pleasant.
"This Hochberg is really worth seeing," said Frau von Eschenhagen, her eyes roaming over the country. "We have almost the same view here as upon the top of the tower. Why climb and overheat oneself and lose one's breath on those never-ending steps?"
"Adelaide was of a different opinion," replied Wallmoden, with a casual glance at the tower. "She does not know fatigue nor how to get overheated."
"And also how not to catch cold. She proved that the day before yesterday, when she came home drenched through. She did not catch the least cold."
"Nevertheless, I have requested her to take an escort for her future walks," said the Ambassador, calmly. "To get lost in the forest, wade a creek, and be guided to the right path by the first hunter one comes across are things which must not occur again. Adelaide agreed with me and promised immediately to obey my wishes."
"Yes, she is a sensible woman, a thoroughly healthy nature from which anything romantic or adventurous is far removed," complimented Regine. "But there seem to be more visitors upon the tower. I thought we should be the only guests to-day."
Wallmoden looked indifferently at the tall, slender gentleman who now emerged from the small tower door and walked toward the inn. Frau von Eschenhagen also looked at him carelessly; but suddenly her glance grew keener, and she started.
"Herbert--look!"
"Where?"