Rudolf's face grew serious, he fell a-thinking, but presently he replied—
"Don't let us talk about it now."
"Why not?"
"It would take too long."
"Ah, Rudolf is sleepy! Poor Rudolf is afraid
the conversation would go on for ever. Well, good night, dear Rudolf. If you want to go and sleep, send in my maid again!"
At these words Rudolf arose, bowed, and prepared to go in real earnest.
Then, naturally, it was the wife's turn to give way.
"Well, remain then, I was only joking," said she. "Even now, you see, you are inclined to be ill-tempered—one may not even jest with you. Come here now, and we will play at guessing riddles. Let us lay a wager that I find out what is the matter with you?"
"Let us see," replied Rudolf, making himself comfortable on the sofa, while Flora leaned her head on his breast, and began counting off her guesses on her fingers.