"How young the earth looks," says she dreamily.
Erwin draws her to him. I do not know whether he loves her even more now when she is pale and ill; at any rate he is more conscious of his feeling for her, and treats her more tenderly, is more thoughtful of her, and she leans on him like a sick child. Her whole being has become softer, less independent.
"I received a letter from Felix to-day," says Garzin after a pause.
"Ah!" murmurs Elsa somewhat bitterly. "Does he write for money again?"
"Yes, I am to raise some money for him," says Erwin looking troubled.
"Ah!"
"He has a fine property, but that cannot last," he remarks thoughtfully.
"If it makes him happy," Elsa shrugs her shoulders, and her voice sounds harsh.
"Hm! To ruin one's self is at the time a very pleasant occupation, but to be ruined--a very unpleasant condition, especially with a wife like Linda. I do not believe that Felix will be willing to live on the income of his wealthy wife."
During this remark Elsa continues silent.