And we some sprigs of oak and birch, with their pretty green leaves. If we deck the walls with them the room will look like a fresh, luxuriant arbour.
And my present is a fine cigar. It did not cost very much, but it is mellow and strong, and will be a splendid thing to dream over.
And I have brought her a new pink hair-riband. When she has bound up her hair with it she will look so neat and charming! It was given me by my sweetheart, but I have many ribands, whereas she has only one.
And what have you brought with you, little girl? Surely you have brought some present for our good neighbours?
No, nothing—nothing. At least, I have brought my cough with me, but they would not care for that, would they, neighbour?
No, no, little girl; no more than they would for my crutches. Ah, dear child, who would care for crutches?
But you leave good wishes behind you, Grandfather, do you not?
Yes, yes, my dear. And so, I know, do you. Now we must go, good neighbours, for it is getting late.
[The Neighbours begin to leave the room—some of them yawning as they go, the little girl coughing badly, and the old man stumping along on crutches.]
Yes, we must go now, we must go now.