"Now I must not let you see me in tears," said Anna, briskly. "I must not make myself a killjoy in the family. I am naturally of a happy, cheerful temperament, and interested in all that goes on around me. My face shall never frighten people by being pale and wobegone. Just look in the glass! I am as rosy-cheeked as you."
With that she drew Blanka to the mirror, and began to dispute with her as to which could boast the more colour.
"You are happy," she continued, "and will be still happier. Manasseh will turn the earth itself into a paradise for you; just wait till you know him as I do, to the very bottom of his heart."
Blanka could not but smile at the sister's proud claim. Yet Anna was in earnest.
"Perhaps you don't believe me," said she. "Have you ever seen him in anger, with an enemy before him?"
"Yes."
"How did he look?"
"On his forehead were two red spots."
"Yes, and further?"
"His eyes glowed, his face seemed turned to stone, his bosom heaved, and he strove with himself until gradually he recovered his self-control; then his features relaxed, he smiled, and presently he spoke as coolly and collectedly as possible."