Frau von Sigmundskron was somewhat surprised when she saw Greif enter the room without Hilda. Greif went up to her with the determination of a man who means to lose no time in getting through an unpleasant business.
'Aunt Therese,' he said--he called his father's cousin 'aunt,' after the German manner--'I told Hilda that I wanted to speak with you alone --do you mind?'
'On the contrary,' answered the baroness. 'Sit down. I will work while you talk. It will help me to understand you.'
'The matter is very simple,' said Greif, seating himself. 'I want to ask whether you are still of the same opinion in regard to my marriage with Hilda, as before I was taken ill.'
'Of course I am--' She looked up, in some surprise.
'Because I am not,' said Greif, delighted with himself at having found a w
