"These are the shoes of the great Master Beckmesser," Sachs answered, smiling a little at the thought of the bumptious old fellow.
"In heaven's name put plenty of pitch in them, that he may stick, and not be able to come after me," she cried.
"What—you do not favour Beckmesser, then?"
"That silly old man," she said scornfully.
"Well, there is a very scanty batch of bachelors to sue for thee, or sing for thee," Hans answered, looking lovingly at her, with a little smile.
"Well, there are some widowers," Eva said returning his friendly look. Hans laughed outright.
"Ah, dear Evchen, it is not for an old chap like me to snare a young bird like thee. At the trial to-day, things did not go well," he ventured, trying to turn the conversation.
Instantly Eva was all attention, and she got from him the story of Walther's failure and unfair treatment, just as Magdalene called from the house over the way.
"St—st," she whispered. "Thy father has called for thee."
"I'll come presently," Eva answered. Then to Hans: "But tell me, dear Hans, was there not one who was his friend? Is there no hope?"