The gray-haired grandmother kissed and blessed him, her tears falling on his head, the girls went with him to the shore and, while Julietta clung about his neck, the others lingered behind, in order not to disturb the sweet mysterious whispers of the lovers.
"When shall you return?" asked the girl.
"When I can make you happy."
"Your love alone can do that. You need not sail the sea for my happiness, it could be gained by seeing you always at my side."
"That is what children think. I wish we could never outgrow the belief. But—in the hands of the poor everything is poor, even happiness."
The young girl shook her head.
Meanwhile they reached a copse which concealed the shore, and here the young man stopped.
"Don't go any farther; my companions are rough sailors, I do not wish them to disturb our parting. Turn back now. Our grandmother is expecting you."
The two sisters, with many kisses, embraces, and tears, turned back, but Julietta still clung to her departing lover, whispering in stifled tones.
"Take me with you."