'It is curious and even consoling to see the limitations of Crœsus,' she replied. 'But she is lucky—she just recovered in time.'
'In time for what?'
'Can't you hear?'
Indeed, the shrill notes of an amateur soprano had been rending the air throughout, but they had scarcely penetrated through his exaltation. He now shuddered.
'Do you mean it is she singing?'
The girl laughed outright. 'She sing! No, no, she is a sensitive receiver. She receives; she gives out nothing. She exploits her soul as her husband exploits the globe. There isn't a sensation or an emotion she denies herself—unless it is painful. It was to escape the concert that she has left her couch—and sought refuge in a friend's cabin. You see, here sound travels straight from the dining-hall, and a false note, she says, gives her nerve-ache.'
'Then she can't return till the close of the concert,' he said eagerly. 'Won't you come outside and walk a bit under this beautiful moon?'
She came out without a word, with the simplicity of a comrade.
'Yes, it is a beautiful night,' she said, 'and very soon I shall be in Russia.'
'But is Mrs. Wilhammer going to Russia, then?' he asked, with a sudden thought, wondering that it had never occurred to him before.