"Shall we go?"
They went downstairs.
Outside stood Richmond. He was a dark-haired young man with brown eyes that sparkled with youth and life. The frost had reddened his cheeks.
"Are you cold?" said Camilla, flying up to him.
Her voice trembled with emotion. Suddenly she hurried back to Johannes, put her arm through his and said:
"Excuse me for not asking whether you were cold. You didn't put on your overcoat; shall I go up and get it? No? Well, anyhow button your jacket."
She buttoned his jacket.
Johannes offered his hand to Richmond. He was in a strangely absent mood, as though what was happening did not concern him. He gave an uncertain half-smile and muttered:
"Glad to meet you again."
Richmond showed no sign of guilt or of dissimulation. As he shook hands the pleasure of recognition flashed across his face and he made a polite bow.