Upon the eldest aunt’s suggestion, yes;

She much preferred a place as governess—

Falk.

But of all this I never heard a word!

Svanhild [smiling].

No wonder; they took care that none was heard.

They trembled at the risk “my future” ran

If this were whispered to unmarried Man.

Falk [after gazing a moment at her in meditative sympathy].

That such must be your lot I long had guessed.