"You here?" exclaimed Anna, holding out both hands. She was more than usually pleased to see him.
"Manske had a pile of letters for you, and could not get them to you because he has a pastors' conference at his house. I was there and saw the letters, and thought you might want them."
"Oh, I don't want them—at least, there is no hurry. But the letters are only an excuse. Now isn't it so?"
"An excuse?" he repeated, flushing.
"You want to see the new arrivals."
"Not in the very least."
"Oh, oh! But as you have come one minute too soon, and happened to meet me outside the door, your plan is spoilt. Are those the letters? What a pile!" Her face fell.
"But you are looking for nine more ladies. You want a wide choice. You have still the greater part of your work before you."
"I know. Why do you tell me that?"
"Because you do not seem pleased to get them."