"And to Sigismundingen."
"Yes, Sigismundingen, if papa wishes."
"But what do you wish, Othomar?"
He looked at her gently, smiling, shrugged his shoulders:
"But, aunt, what wish have I in the matter?"
"Could you grow fond of Valérie?"
"I think so, aunt; I think she is very sweet and very capable and thorough."
"Yes, that she certainly is, Othomar! Would you not speak to her before you go?"
"Aunt...."
"Why shouldn't you?"