What the character of the woman's illness was Gretchen hadn't an idea, but there could be no doubt that she was ill, desperately, had the goose-girl but known it. Her face was thin and the bones were visible under the drum-like skin; her hands were merely claws. But she would have no doctor; she would have no care save that which Gretchen gave her. Sometimes she remained in bed all the day. She had been out of the house but once since she came. She mystified the girl, for she never complained, never asked questions, talked but little, and always smiled kindly when the pillow was freshened.
"Good morning, Fräu," said Gretchen.
"Good morning, Liebchen."
"I have brought you a brick this morning, for it will be cold till the sun is high."
"Thank you."
Gretchen pulled the deal table to the side of the cot, poured out the coffee, and buttered the bread.
"I ought not to drink coffee, but it is the only thing that warms me. You have been very patient with me."
"I am glad to help you."
"And that is why I love you. Now, I have some instructions to give you this morning. Presently I shall be leaving, and there will be something besides crowns."
"You are thinking of leaving?"