"Three thousand ducats," answered Ernest. "But I can give you no security for the payment."
"Your note of hand is sufficient," said the lady, handing the young man a package of notes. "Please to count those, and see if the sum is correct. Here are writing materials."
Ernest did as he was bid—counted the money, and then sat down at the desk.
"Write at my dictation," said the lady.
Ernest took up a pen and commenced.
"The date," said the lady.
Ernest wrote it.
"Received of Anna Von Berlingen the sum of three thousand ducats."
Ernest wrote and repeated, "three thousand ducats."
"In consideration whereof, I promise to marry the aforesaid Anna Von Berlingen."