They were sitting around the fire-place. The steam of the tea-kettle and the smoke of the cigars which the gentlemen had lighted, rose in clouds up to the Olympic Zeus, who now became a comfortable Zeus Xenius. Franz was in a peculiarly elated humor, which Sophie placed on the ground of the favorable turn in her father's disease, but which had a very different reason. It was the nervous excitement which overcomes even the bravest before the beginning of a battle; for Franz felt and knew that to-day the battle of life had commenced for him in good earnest. He had assumed most serious obligations, which might have incalculable consequences for his own future and for Sophie's future. The very heaviest responsibility was henceforth resting on his shoulders. He saw of a sudden the ocean, on which the vessel which contained their joint fortunes was sailing, filled with most dangerous reefs, which it would require an always clear head, an always bold heart, and an always steady hand to clear successfully. Sophie did not suspect what her betrothed was then experiencing; she began, with Bemperlein's aid, to draw a picture of the future--a little paradise, full of peace and comfort, quiet and sunshine. "You must get married too, Bemperlein," she cried. "With the greatest pleasure," replied Mr. Bemperlein "if you will find the main thing." "What is that?" "A girl who is willing to love me, and whom I can love." "I'll pick you out one, Bemperlein. I know your taste, and I know exactly what the future Mrs. Bemperlein must be like." "I am rather curious to hear," aid Mr. Bemperlein, comfortably ensconcing himself in his chair. "In the first place," said Sophie, "as regards the exterior--for you do attach some importance to appearances, Bemperlein, do you not?" "Certainly," said Bemperlein, eagerly. "Well, then, your future wife must not be tall." "Why not?" "Because you are not a giant yourself Bemperlein; and, you know, like and like ... I therefore submit that she ought to be delicate and well made, a nice little figure, with dark hair and dark eyes, clever, active, gay, and mobile. Are you content?" "Hem!" said Mr. Bemperlein. "Not so bad! not so bad! Go on!" "Then, as regards fortune; she must not be rich. You know why." "Because I would not know what to do with the money." "Exactly so. Am I right?" "Perfectly. But now tell me why said lady must necessarily have brown hair and brown eyes?" "As far as I recollect, I have only spoken of dark hair and dark eyes; but if you have a decided preference for brown, Bemperlein----" "Preferences" said Bemperlein, almost anxiously "I have a preference! What do you mean?" "Bemperlein, you blush! That is a very suspicious sign. Do not you think so too, Franz?" "Very suspicious," replied Franz. "I propose that the accused be examined most rigorously, and persuaded by every available means to make an open and full confession."