"He shall be astonished," exclaimed Laura.
The allied ladies sat down around the sofa-table, feeling the importance of the task which was before them.
"When I am talking with him," began Mrs. Struvelius, solemnly, "have the kindness to attend accurately to his answers, that you may in case of necessity repeat them, and thus be my supporters and witnesses."
"I can write quickly," exclaimed Laura, "I will write down what he answers, then he cannot deny it."
"That would be too much like a trial," interposed Ilse, "and will only make him suspicious."
The furious bark of a dog was heard outside.
"He is coming," said Mrs. Struvelius, drawing herself up with dignity.
A loud step was heard on the stairs, Susan opened the door, and Magister Knips entered. He did not look dangerous. He was a short, crooked man; it was doubtful whether he was young or old. He had a pale face, prominent cheek bones, on which were two red spots, screwed up eyes such as short-sighted people generally have, and red from much night-work by dull lamps. He stood there, in a threadbare coat, with his head bent on one side, a humble servant, perhaps a victim of learning. When he saw the three ladies sitting, all stern and solemn, where his heart had only hoped to find one, and among them the wives of important men, he stopped confounded at the door; he composed himself, however, and made three low bows, probably one to each lady, but refrained from speaking.
"Sit down, Magister," began Laura, condescendingly, pointing to an empty chair opposite the sofa.
The Magister approached hesitatingly, pushed the chair further out of reach of the three goddesses of fate, and with another bow seated himself on the corner of the chair.