"Where is my home?" echoed he sadly. "It is in Vienna. Can you put me on the road thither?"
"That can we, sir; but it is a long way for such a gentleman as you to travel on foot."
"Let us go, then, to the highway, and perhaps I may there find some conveyance."
"Well, then," cried the gleeful Kathi, "forward, march!"
"Not yet, Kathi. Not until I have thanked you for the great service you have rendered me. Let me give you some testimony of my gratitude. Before we part, let me gratify some wish of yours. Speak first, Kathi."
"H'm," said Kathi, "I have many wishes. It is not so easy to say what I want."
"Well, take time, and think for a moment, child."
Kathi looked as if she were making a bold resolve.
"That ring upon your finger—it is the prettiest thing I ever saw. Will you give it to me?"
"Kathi!" exclaimed Marianne, "how can you ask such a thing?"