Walter was charmed at the prospect. He had never been in a theatre, but had long wanted to see such a play as Leentje had described. He cared nothing for kings. He would have given a dozen kings for one baron carrying away a girl in the approved manner. The Glorioso influence was still on him.
“We shall see half of the sovereigns of Europe,” said Holsma, “and a dozen candidates——”
Walter wondered what the candidates would do in the “comedy.” Sietske explained.
There was still plenty of time. Holsma was going out to see a patient and promised to stop at Juffrouw Pieterse’s.
For reasons of fashion and feminine finery the play was not to begin till nine o’clock.
Walter heard that Femke, too, was to witness the performance; and from the conversation he gathered that the relations existing between the aristocratic family and the poor wash-girl were most cordial. Mevrouw Holsma sent Sietske to ask Femke to come in; but Femke preferred to remain with little Erich, with whom she was playing at the time.
“Erich?” thought Walter.
“I thought as much,” said Mevrouw Holsma. “That’s why she wasn’t at the table. She would rather stay with the baby.”
“She says, too, that we sit at the table too long for her,” added Sietske.
“She wouldn’t enjoy the play anyway,” observed William. “She’s a good girl, but she’s a little thick-headed. Don’t you think so, mamma?”