"As usual."
"You have taken such good care of my things--"
"One must, when the men are wandering about the country."
"You well know, aunt, that I did not remain so long away for release from labor, nor entirely on my own account. Nor was my journey useless. The business that took me to New York is so arranged that you and others will be satisfied."
"So!" said Ursul.
"And I have likewise brought with me for you a young female friend, whom you will love as she deserves, and whom you will receive kindly as you do all who need your help."
"So!" said Aunt Ursul.
The path was so narrow that two could not walk abreast. Ursul did not turn about, but Lambert now did so and observed that Catherine was quite pale, and that tears stood in her eyes. The sight cut him to the heart, as he had but a little before seen the beautiful face radiant with happiness. "Have good courage, my girl," said he softly. "She does not mean unkindly."
Catherine tried to smile through her tears, and bowed as if she would say: "Let it pass. Since you love me I can bear anything."
"Lambert!" called Ursul, who was vigorously walking on, "come here!"