"Why, what a good housewife we shall make of you! There's surely nothing in the world you don't know already. We must look you out a husband now."
"Yes, let's have a husband by all means," laughed Fanny, roguishly clipping Master Boltay round the neck, and kissing his stubbly face with her round red lips. "Daddy Boltay is the husband for me!"
"Go along with you, you rogue!" cried Master Boltay, scarce able to contain himself for joy. "Why, I'm older than your father. Let us look for some one who will suit you."
"All right, Daddy Boltay, the sooner the better. But first go and see Aunt Teresa, and in the mean time I'll run off and get supper ready."
Master Boltay hastened to seek Teresa, and make her acquainted with the interesting situation.
The magnate's proposal overwhelmed her likewise, and she too could promise Alexander very little success. Teresa had often tried the heart of the girl, she had often unexpectedly mentioned the youth's name to her, and the girl had always remained cold. She respected, she praised him, but that is not love.
All through supper Boltay was cracking jokes with his ward, who responded with great alacrity, and gave him back as good as he gave her. At last the servants removed the table, and the three remained together alone.
And now Master Boltay's good humour changed into grave solemnity, and he drew the girl towards him by both hands.
"You have a suitor," said he; "tell me straight out if you suspect who it is."