"How dost thou know that? Well, yes, I wanted to see how it went with thee, and how he keeps thee--the Gothic Earl!"
"Like the apple of his eye!" cried Rauthgundis joyfully.
"Indeed? Why, then, is he not at home with wife and child in his house and farm?"
"He serves in the King's army."
"Yes, that is just it! What has he to do with service and a king? But, tell me, why dost not wear a golden bracelet? A Gothic woman once came our way from the Italian valleys, five years ago; she had gold a hand broad. Then I thought, such thy daughter wears. And I was pleased, and now----"
Rauthgundis smiled.
"Shall I wear gold to please my maids? I only put on ornaments when Witichis sees me."
"Indeed! May he deserve it! But thou hast golden brooches and rings, like other Gothic wives down here?"
"More than others--chests full. Witichis brought a great booty from the wars."
"So thou art quite happy?"