"Yes," she said, and changed the subject. "The riding is quite good, I understand. They are off for Lauterbrunnen."
"I see," said he. "There is a splendid inn there, I am told."
"They will return here for luncheon, of course," she said, raising her eyebrows slightly. His heart became a trifle lighter at this. "Mr. White is a lifelong friend and acquaintance of the family," she volunteered, apropos of nothing.
"Oh, his name is White?" with a quiet laugh.
"If you have nothing better to do, Mr. Schmidt, why not come with me to the Kursaal? The morning concert will begin shortly, and I—"
"I think you will find that the band plays in the square across the way, Mrs. Gaston, and not in the Casino. At least, that has been the programme for the last two mornings."
"Nevertheless, there is a concert at the Casino today," she informed him. "Will you come?"
"Gladly," he replied, and they set off for the Kursaal. He found seats in the half-empty pavillion and prepared to listen to the music, although his real interest was following the narrow highway to Lauterbrunnen—and the Staubbach.
"This is to be a special concert given at the request of the Grand Duke who, I hear, is leaving this afternoon for Berne."
"The Grand Duke? I was not aware of the presence of royalty," said he in surprise.