Mrs Mansen therefore had had a twofold object in sending her out of the room: first, to stop her malapropos remarks about Annchen Vander Heyden, and secondly, that she might be informed respecting Rudolf’s visit. Thyrza herself, however, did not anticipate any more important communication than that possibly her stepfather had purchased a new dress for her in Zeerust. She was a good deal surprised when he inquired of her what might be her exact age.
“Nineteen last December, father,” she answered.
“Nineteen,” he repeated gravely; “it is an early age at which to marry.”
“I daresay it would be,” she answered, somewhat startled; “but then, I am not going to marry.”
“You do not know that,” he observed gravely. “An offer of marriage has been made for you—in most respects a suitable one.”
“An offer of marriage to me!” repeated Thyrza in astonishment.
“I did not say to you, but for you,” he replied; “the offer will not be made to you just yet.”
“And who is to make it?” inquired the damsel hastily.
“You know my neighbour, Mynheer Kransberg of Malopo’s Kloof?”
“Yes, but I suppose he doesn’t want to marry me?” cried Thyrza.