You are under a delusion; I have no grandchild, and I must bid you good-bye." At mention of the name "Vestentrop", Sally had grown very red; and she trembled all over, during the conversation that followed.

Now she restrained herself no longer.

Tears poured from her eyes, and with the greatest agitation she sobbed: "Indeed, indeed, he is, I know it, he has told me himself; but I dared not tell it to anyone." "Well, the boy has found at least one good friend and defender," said the colonel well-pleased, and wanted to pat Sally's cheeks, but she withdrew quickly, for she first wanted to know whether the gentleman would believe and recognize Erick, before she would let him touch her.
The mother too was struck to the core by this incredulity.

Her husband had whispered a few words to her, so she understood at once the whole situation.
"Colonel," she now said, placing herself before him, "do not act in such haste.

Let me prevail on you to stay a few days, yes, even this one day! The dear child must, and will be found, please God! See him first.