He was suddenly seized with as strong a desire for active life, as he formerly possessed for easy rest, and he felt himself in no safety except when at a distance from the mansion, for he knew that Ragnar possessed too much honor to entrap him in an ambuscade.
One morning, when he, as had been his custom for the previous week, went to his wife with the information that he was compelled to take a short journey, she sharply accosted him:
"Man, what does all this restlessness mean? Are you insane? Am I always to be left at home alone?"
"Ah, my dear," replied Mr. Fabian, "you are aware that I must attend to my business."
"I know that not long since you found it difficult to take care of yourself. This sudden change in your disposition will never do."
"Dear Ulgenie, I acknowledge your superior judgment; but to-day I really must attend the auction at Rorby, there is to be a sale of some genuine Spanish sheep."
"Ah! as that is really some business, you may go; but come home early."
"I hope to return before eleven o'clock."
Mrs. Ulrica presented him her hand to kiss, and after he had pressed it to his lips with all the gallantry which was still left him, he quickly turned away from her.
Mrs. Ulrica during the entire day was filled with wonder at the sudden change that had taken place in her husband, and if she could have for a moment entertained such a thought, she would have believed that her husband had become acquainted with some intriguing female.