When she withdrew her hand, something cold and hard remained in her palm.

Wonders of all the world! It was a piece of gold.

Her eyes went up quickly, but the giver smiled reassuringly and put a finger against his lips.
"But, Herr," she remonstrated.
"Keep it; I give it to you.

Do not question providence, and I am her handmaiden just now.

Go along with you." So Gretchen in a mild state of stupefaction turned away.