As far as the gate, which I opened quickly and then he disappeared.
Brauer.
[_To the others_.] Now, what do you say to that? [George _shrugs his shoulders_.] There is something queer about it all. [_To_ Marie.] And that is what upset you so?
Marie.
Oh, I am already much composed.
Brauer.
[_Raises her head_.] Yes--you look it.
Gertrude.
Oh, papa, don"t torment her so.
Brauer.
Now, then, go and take a good nap.
Marie.
Not yet, papa dear, I can"t. I must speak with George first. About the large bookcase--I really don"t know where to place it.
Brauer.
But you can do that later, can"t you?
Marie.
I fear I might forget it.
Brauer.
Very well; I am going down to look after the cow. Will you come, wife?
Mrs. Brauer.
[_Rising and putting up her handwork_.] Yes, dear.
Brauer.
[_To_ Marie.] And one thing more,--don"t you put your foot outside of the gate without an escort hereafter! Understand? Not once!
Marie.
But why not, papa dear?
Brauer.
After what has happened? But I never heard of such a thing--never, as long as I----
Mrs. Brauer.
But, Henry, in broad daylight, it is hardly necessary----
Brauer.
No matter; I have my reasons for that; besides--well, I"ll tell you later.
Mrs. Brauer.
[_In pa.s.sing taps_ Marie _on cheek_.] Now, pet, go and take a good rest. [_Both exit_.]
Marie.
You must go, too, Gertrude!
Gertrude.
[_Peevishly_.] But why should I?
Marie.
You know, dear, your future home----
Gertrude.
Ah, yes; those stupid furnishings! Do you know, I don"t think a wedding half so much fun as Christmas. Now don"t be long, will you? [_Exit_.]
[_Pause_.]
George.
Why so deep in thought, suddenly?
Marie.
I--? Oh, I was thinking. I was picturing to myself that cosy little nook, your corner room!
George.
Marie, dear, how can I ever thank you for all the----
Marie.
Don"t speak of it, George, for I take great delight in having the furniture moved about; and then, I say to myself: "Here is where they will take their tea, and there they will while away their leisure hours"--so---- But, what I meant to tell you! Yesterday we had an accident--the large mirror in the parlor was broken. I know it portends ill----