Much as he would have liked it, Vinzi did not dare that, for Stefeli had been left alone long enough. But he would return the next day, and gladly, if it might be so. Still he could not quite believe his great good fortune, but because Alida was so sure, his doubt was conquered and he ran off in great excitement. What would Stefeli think of the plan? This was his chief thought as he ran.
When he reached the pasture, he saw the cows resting as he had left them, though Schwarzeli was wandering back and forth quietly.
"It took you a long time," Stefeli said. "What did she say?"
Seating himself on the grass beside Stefeli, Vinzi related all that had happened, explaining that he had not promised definitely to go each day for the hour's practise because he must first learn what she would say about being left alone. Stefeli considered for a moment, then said eagerly, "You can do it very easily, Vinzi, and it will bring you great joy; I know that quite well."
"I know it too," agreed Vinzi, his eyes aglow. "Do you think anything might happen to the cows during that time? They are still quiet today."
"There is nothing to worry about," his sister assured him. "All the time you were away, they lay quiet and looked around, and Schwarzeli took a little walk. That is the way it always is in the afternoon."
Vinzi himself knew this was true, but was glad of Stefeli's assurance. There was now so much to talk over concerning the coming days and their consequences that they sat engrossed in conversation until horns sounded from here, there, everywhere. This was the signal for the herders that milking time had arrived and the cattle should be driven home.
Vinzi leaped up from the ground in great surprise that evening had come so quickly and Stefeli took the basket on her arm and went to fetch the wandering Schwarzeli. Her brother whistled his cows together and then the two children gleefully marched off behind their small herd to the stable where their father awaited them.
[CHAPTER III]
UNEXPECTED EVENTS