“This house has no bells,” he said in a nasal voice; “it has a tendency to discourage one.”
“Yes,” said Greta gravely, “there is a bell, but it does not ring now, because my uncle is so ill.”
“I am very sorry to hear that. I don't know the people here, but I am very sorry to hear that.
“I would be glad to speak a few words to your sister, if it is your sister that I want.”
And the stranger's face grew very red.
“Is it,” said Greta, “that you are a friend of Herr Harz? If you are a friend of his, you will please come and have some tea, and while you are having tea I will look for Chris.”
Perspiration bedewed the stranger's forehead.
“Tea? Excuse me! I don't drink tea.”
“There is also coffee,” Greta said.
The stranger's progress towards the arbour was so slow that Greta arrived considerably before him.