'Your friend has been trying to shoot a kuttengeier again, I suppose,' said her niece, with a smile. 'He is very adventurous.'
'And you are very heartless.'
Wanda did not deny the charge; but she went into the house, saw the doctor, and requested him to take everything with him of linen, wines, food, or cordials that might possibly be wanted.
'And stay as long as you are required,' she added, 'and send mules over to us for anything you wish for. Do not think of us. If my dear aunt should ail anything I can dispatch a messenger to you, or call a physician from Salzburg.'
Herr Joachim said a very few words, thanked her gratefully, and took his departure behind two sure-footed mountain cobs that could climb almost like chamois.
'I think one of the Fathers should have gone too,' said Mme. Ottilie, regretfully.
'I hope he is not in extremis,' said her niece. 'And I fear if he were he would hardly care for spiritual assistance.'
'You are so prejudiced against him, Wanda!'
'I do not think I am ever prejudiced,' said the Countess von Szalras.
'That is so like a prejudiced person!' said the Princess, triumphantly.