II
KARL, THE COURIER
"Three days, at least, before we reach Baden. How tiresome it is that uncle won't go faster!" said Amy, as she tied on her hat next morning, wondering as she did so if the baron would take the same boat.
"As adventures have begun, I feel assured that they will continue to cheer the way; so resign yourself and be ready for anything," replied Helen, carefully arranging her bouquet in her travelling-basket.
A tap at the door, which stood half open, made both look up. A tall, brown, gentlemanly man, in a gray suit, with a leathern bag slung over his shoulder, stood there, hat in hand, and meeting Helen's eyes, bowed respectfully, saying in good English, but with a strong German accent,—
"Ladies, the major desired me to tell you the carriage waits."
"Why, who—" began Amy, staring with her blue eyes full of wonder at the stranger.
He bowed again, and said, simply,—
"Karl Hoffman, at your service, mademoiselle."
"The courier—oh, yes! I forgot all about it. Please take these things."