I waited till I had come some paces nearer, and said: “Fair one, I give you greeting.” She started in surprise at my jesting tone. Alas, I knew not what I was saying. She smiled timidly, and looked at me. “Have you been up in the hills to-day?” she asked. “Then you must be wet. I have a kerchief here, if you care for it; I can spare it... Oh, you don't know me.” And she cast down her eyes and shook her head when I did not take her kerchief. “A kerchief?” I answer, grinning in anger and surprise. “But I have a jacket here--won't you borrow it? I can spare it--I would have lent it to anyone. You need not be afraid to take it. I would have lent it to a fishwife, and gladly.” I could see that she was eager to hear what I would say. She listened with such attention that it made her look ugly; she forgot to hold her lips together. There she stood with the kerchief in her hand--a white silk kerchief which she had taken from her neck. I tore off my jacket in turn. “For Heaven's sake put it on again,” she cried. “Don't do that! Are you so angry with me? _Herregud!_ put your jacket on, do, before you get wet through.” I put on my jacket again. “Where are you going?” I asked sullenly. “No--nowhere ... I can't understand what made you take off your jacket like that ...” “What have you done with the Baron to-day?” I went on. “The Count can't be out at sea on a day like this.” “Glahn, I just wanted to tell you something ...” I interrupted her: “May I beg you to convey my respects to the Duke?” We looked at each other. I was ready to break in with further interruptions as soon as she opened her mouth. At last a twinge of pain passed over her face; I turned away and said: “Seriously, you should send His Highness packing, Edwarda. He is not the man for you. I assure you, he has been wondering these last few days whether to make you his wife or not--and that is not good enough for you.” “No, don't let us talk about that, please. Glahn, I have been thinking of you; you could take off your jacket and get wet through for another's sake; I come to you ...” I shrugged my shoulders and went on: “I should advise you to take the Doctor instead. What have you against him? A man in the prime of life, and a clever head--you should think it over.” “Oh, but do listen a minute ...” Æsop, my dog, was waiting for me in the hut. I took off my cap, bowed to her again, and said: “Fair one, I give you farewell.” And I started off. She gave a cry: