"Does Herr think that all barmaids are as ignorant as fiction and ill-meaning novelists depict them? I have had a fair education."
"If I ever was guilty of thinking so," said I, answering her question,
"I promise never to think so again."
"And now will Herr go to his breakfast and let me attend to my duties?"
"Not without regret," I said gallantly. I bowed to her as they bowed in the days of the beaux, while she looked on suspiciously.
At the breakfast table I proceeded to bombard the innkeeper. I wanted to know more about Gretchen.
"Is Gretchen your daughter?" I began.
"No, I am only her godfather," he said. "Does Herr wish another egg?"
"Thanks. She is very well educated for a barmaid."
"Yes. Does Herr wish Rhine wine?"
"Coffee is plenty. Has Gretchen seen many Americans?"