"'It has not been easy for you, Anna Maria?'
"She raised her hand, defensively. 'I love Klaus very much,' she said, gently.
"'When did you speak with Susanna, Anna Maria; may I know?'
"'This morning,' she replied. 'I went to her, as Klaus wished. He wishes the marriage to be very soon, and will return just a little while before, so that Susanna may not need to seek another shelter beforehand. So she will pass her time of being engaged without her lover. He does not wish that the engagement should be made public, either; he does not intend to give notice of his marriage until after the ceremony is over.'
"She had spoken very fast, and was silent now, drawing long breaths.
"'And did he write you everything, Anna Maria, in that letter, day before yesterday?'
"'Everything, aunt.'
"'And Susanna?'
"'I do not know,' she replied; 'I did not look at her, and she did not speak. Perhaps happiness makes one dumb?' she added, questioningly. It sounded as if she meant: 'I do not know—I am sure I do not know—what happiness is.'
"'Tell me just one thing, dear, good child,' I begged, seizing her hands. 'Did the thought really never come to you that Klaus might have a feeling of affection for this beautiful young creature?'