"You may remain, jufvrouw," he said in an altered voice.
Gretel had already disappeared.
In one corner of the cottage was a small closet where her rough, box-like bed was fastened against the wall: none would think of the trembling little creature crouching there in the dark.
Dr. Boekman took off his heavy coat; he filled an earthen basin with water and placed it near the bed. Then turning to Hans he asked:
"Can I depend upon you, boy?"
"You can, mynheer."
"I believe you. Stand at the head, here—your mother may sit at your right—so," and he placed a chair near the cot.
"Remember, jufvrouw, there must be no cries, no fainting."
Dame Brinker answered him with a look.
He was satisfied.