But Maria longed to reach home, and when she said she must go, Aquanus offered his company.
Georg von Dornburg was standing in the entry and stepped back with a respectful bow, but the innkeeper called to him, saying: "There is much to be done to-day, for many a man will doubtless indulge himself in a glass of liquor after the good news.

No offence, Frau Van der Werft; but the Junker will escort you home as safely as I--and you, Herr von Dornburg--" "I am at your service," replied Georg, and went out into the street with the young wife.
For a time both walked side by side in silence, each fancying he or she could hear the beating of the other's heart.

At last Georg, drawing a long breath, said: "Three long, long months have passed since my arrival here.

Have I been brave, Maria ?" "Yes, Georg." "But you cannot imagine what it has cost me to fetter this poor heart, stifle my words, and blind my eyes.

Maria, it must once be said--" "Never, never," she interrupted in a tone of earnest entreaty.