" Because he is so much attached to you that it pains him to
see his place taken by another, even by woman? No, sweet-
heart. That is not contemptible. But you must change it.
Tell him to be reasonable — "

" Could I say that you are offended with him ?" asked Greif.
" Can I go to Rex and tell him that he must not only be civil
but must be a friend to you ? "



GKEIFENSTBIN. 279

"You are jesting," she answered. "But it is just what I
■would do in earnest — what I will do, if you will let me. He
■would understand that. I would say to him, Herr Rex, you are
Greif s only relation besides ourselves. It is absolutely necessary
for his happiness that we should be on good terms, you and I.
Is it my fault ? He would answer that it was not, for he is
honest. Then it is yours, I would say, and the sooner you turn
yourself into a friend of mine, the better it will be for Greif,
who is the only person you care for in the world. Is not that
common sense ? "

" Do you mean to say that ? " asked Greif rather anxiously.
" If you will let me, I -will," answered Hilda, returning to her
occupation and swinging the old door slowly between her two
hands.
" If I will let you ! " repeated Greif. " Do you think I would
try to prevent you from saying what you please, darling — "

"You ought to, if you think it would be a mistake — at
least, after we are married."

" I am not sure that I could," he answered with a laugh.
