Hans Peter looked down at a pair of copper-toed shoes, which were to him the insignia of an unusual occasion.
“It seemeth to the simple one of Zanah that it is wise for the stranger to be far away when the prophetess doth pledge herself to love only God and the angels.”
“I intend to go to the Untersuchung, Hans Peter, and I want you to find a good place from which I can look on during the hours when the people give their testimonies concerning the state of their souls.”
“Thou canst not sit among the colonists,” said Hans Peter. “The men and women of Zanah have turned against thee. They will not permit thee to mingle with them on the most solemn day of all the year.”
“Whether or not they permit me, I shall go to the Untersuchung,” Everett replied. “Would it not be safe for me to wait behind the line of poplars not far off from the platform upon which the elders will sit?”
“If thou shouldst go out there early, and stay where the wild hop-vine might hide thee, there is a chance no one would behold thee,” admitted the simple one.
“When does the prophetess go before the elders?” Everett inquired. “I know nothing of to-day’s arrangements, because here at the inn no one will give me any information. You are my only friend, Hans Peter. I expect you to tell me all you know.”
“Thou forgettest that the fool hath no memory.”
“Where are your gourds? Is there not one that will help me to find out when to hide among the poplars?”
Hans Peter twirled his cap.