" In God's peace," said Wastei, lifting his small hat from his
head. " Or wherever else they may be," he added, putting it
on again.
GKEIFENSTBLN. 315

There was a pause, during which Berbel reflected upon the
situation, and Wastei leaned back against the grey wall, watch-
ing a hawk that was circling above the distant crags.
" What will you do with it? " asked Berbel, at last.
" Burn it, or give it to you — whichever you like."

" You have not read it?"

" It is not the sign-board of an inn — if it were, I could.
Besides, it is sealed. There is writing on the back, and I think
there is a capital G among the letters. You see there was more
than the spot on the collar to tell me whose the coat was."

"It is true that the baron always expected to find a letter
from his father," said Berbel. "It looks probable, this story
of yours."

" Do you want the paper ? "

" Yes. I will keep it in a safe place. In ten years, when
there is no more sorrow about the old people, the baron may
like to know that his father thought of him."

"Better burn it," suggested Wastei, pulling out a match-box,
and fumbling in his unfamiliar pockets for the letter.
" I am not sure of that," said Berbel, who knew that if she
insisted, he would destroy it in spite of her. " After all, Wastei,
it is neither yours nor mine."

"I bought it with the coat. I can burn it if I like," said
Wastei, striking a match and watching the white flame in the
sunshine.
" Of course you can, if you like," replied Berbel unmoved.
