But the Staatsräthin took up her basket of keys. "I am very sorry, but I must see to the arrangement of Fräulein von Hartwich's bedroom. The servants are all very busy just now."
"Mother, let Regina attend to all that, and do you stay with us," Johannes entreated, with something of reproach in his tone. "Other things can be left until to-morrow."
"The silver at least must be attended to. And Fräulein von Hartwich is in great need of repose."
"I am so sorry to give you so much trouble," said Ernestine, really grieved.
"Oh, I assure you it is a pleasure!" With these brief words the Staatsräthin left the room.
Ernestine sat there pale and exhausted. Johannes took her hand. "Patience, patience, Ernestine. She will soon--you will soon learn to know each other."
Ernestine silently shook her head. Her brow was clouded. "There is no home for me here!"
"Not yet, but it will become one!"
"No, never!"
Johannes compressed his lips. "Ernestine, you do not dream how you pain me!"