Allmers.

Then I went without any guidance into a side valley. I thought that by that way I could push on over the heights and between the peaks—and then down again on the other side of the lake.

Rita.

Oh, and you lost yourself, Alfred!

Allmers.

Yes; I mistook the direction—for there was no path or track. And all day I went on—and all the next night. And at last I thought I should never see the face of man again.

Rita.

Not come home to us? Oh, then, I am sure your thoughts were with us here.

Allmers.

No—they were not.