The doctor whipped the horses, who now went off at full speed.
A few minutes later the carriage was at the great portal of the château. Every window was bright with light. From the supper-room loud music was heard. The servants were busily running to and fro.
When they entered Bruno's room. Baron Oldenburg rose from the bed, over which he had been bending.
"God be thanked that you are coming," he said; "I have watched by many a sick-bed, but I have never felt a longer hour than this."
He wiped his brow; his sad face was pale; he seemed to be deeply moved.
Dr. Braun examined the patient; then he remained standing by the bedside, without looking at the others.
"Is there no hope?"
"None."
Then Bruno raised himself slightly.
"Is that you, mamma? Do you come to sing me to sleep? How was the old song?"