The last piece we gave is still clear in my recollection; it was the 'Sandsesloese.' I was then ill; but because I wished so much to see it, the whole company was so obliging as to act it once more, and that, too, in our sitting-room, where I lay on the sofa and could look on.

That was an extraordinary mark of attention from them! Only think--the burgomaster himself acted with them!" In honor of the strangers, coffee was taken after dinner in the garden, where, under the plum-trees, a swing was fixed.

Somewhat later a sailing party was arranged.

A small yacht belonging to the merchant lay, just unladen, near the bridge of boats.
Otto found Maren and the young lady from Holstebro sitting in the arbor.
Somewhat startled, they concealed something at his entrance.
"The ladies have secrets! May one not be initiated ?" "No, not at all!" replied Maren.
"You have manuscript poems in the little book!" said Otto, and boldly approached.

"Perhaps of your own composition ?" "O, it is only a memorandum-book," said Maren, blushing.