'What a foolish regulation! Don't you think so, wife? But I suppose it is a case in which one must do as others do.'
This settled, I was left, as to my disguise, in peace. But my venerable uncle commenced another attack. 'I must positively have you to go out and look about you, Adolph. I am going to-morrow to see my friends Justitsraad ----, whose country seat is not far from this. You shall drive over there with me; the road is very pretty.'
I was in agony. 'I would, much rather remain at home, uncle; I don't know these people.'
'I will introduce you to them. They are a very amiable, charming family, and you will soon become acquainted with them. You absolutely must go.'
What excuse was I to manufacture? I had recourse to fibs again.
'The Justitsraad and my father are personal enemies--they quarrelled about some matter of business. They are deadly foes--I should be very unwelcome--my name is proscribed at ---- Court.'
'How very strange that I never heard of this before!' exclaimed the unsuspecting old man. 'People should not hate each other for the sake of sinful mammon. We must bring about a reconciliation between them. I shall certainly preach upon the subject of forgiveness next Sunday--a powerful discourse will I give.'
'It is also my wish that they should be reconciled, dear uncle, and therefore, I think it would be most prudent not to mention my name yet. If I make the acquaintance of the Justitsraad without his knowing who I am, I shall feel more at my ease with him. I assure you this will be best.'
'Well--so be it,' said my uncle; 'I will not then mention your being here. But I shall throw out a few hints about forgiveness and Christian feelings--these can do no harm.'
'No--that they cannot,' said my aunt. 'But I quite agree with Adolph. I think his plan a good one.'