“That fact cannot make him untrue to the Fatherland,” said Fräulein, reproachfully. “What a strange idea you Americans have of patriotism. Your father would say so if he were living to-day.”
“I don’t think he would,” said Gretel, decidedly. “He might still love his country, but he would not approve of the terrible things Germany has done. He would be loyal to America, where he had lived so many years. Hasn’t your uncle made most of his money here?”
“Money, money,” repeated the German woman, scornfully, “you Americans are always thinking of money. As if getting rich were the only important thing in this world. My uncle would not allow such a sordid consideration to interfere with his duty. He is a true patriot, and his country comes before everything else.”
“You like him better than you used to, don’t you?” said Gretel, innocently. “You always said he was so hard and unkind, and did not make your aunt very happy.”
Fräulein colored and bit her lip.
“I did not understand him as well as I do now,” she explained. “One sometimes makes mistakes. I have learned many things in these sad months.”
“I am glad you like him better,” said Gretel; “it must make living in his house much pleasanter. Are you looking for another position?”
“Not just now. Positions for Germans are not easily found in these days. I shall probably spend the summer with my uncle and aunt. I am helping them in many little ways, and they seem to enjoy having me with them. But tell me about yourself, and how it is that all the rugs and ornaments are put away? Are you leaving town at once?”
“We are going to Washington next week,” said Gretel, and she repeated what her sister-in-law had told her of their summer plans. Fräulein looked much interested.
“Washington will be interesting,” she said; “you will meet people and hear things. I suppose there is no hope of their wanting a governess or companion for you during the summer?”