“If I can be of the least service to you, have the goodness to call me, and give me your commissions.”
“Indeed I will, although I do not believe it practicable.”
“I hope miss will not betray me to Frau von Werrig or old Trude.”
“No, I promise you that, and here is my hand upon it.”
The servant kissed the extended hand respectfully. “I will enter into the service of my young lady at once, and tell her she must prepare for the worst: Herr Ebenstreit just said, ‘The diploma of nobility has arrived.’”
Marie turned deadly pale, and for an instant it seemed as if she would sink down from fright, but she recovered herself and conquered her weakness.
“Thank you, it is very well that I should know that; I will go down directly,” said she.
With calm, proud bearing Marie entered the sitting-room of her parents, and returned the salutations of her betrothed, who hastened toward her with tender assiduity.
“My dear Marie,” cried her mother, “I have the honor to present to you Herr Ebenstreit von Leuthen. The certificate of nobility arrived this morning.”
“I congratulate you, mother—you have at last found the long-desired heir to your name.”