Mendelssohn then presented me, saying, gently and almost proudly, "This is my wife."
I bowed deeply.
"You are from England?" said the lady, with the sweetest of smiles; "I declare I am quite jealous of your country, my husband loves it so much."
"We are very proud of his affection," I replied.
She turned to Schumann and said softly, "And how is Clara?"
"Oh, she is well;" he replied with a glad smile.
"And the father?" she added.
"We have been much worried," he said gravely; "but we shall marry this year in spite of all he may do."
"She is worth all your struggles," said Mendelssohn warmly; "she is a charming lady, and an excellent musician. You will be very happy."
"Thanks, thanks," replied Schumann, with evident pleasure.