"It was really remarkable!" said the cousin, and added with a
smile which perhaps was somewhat ironical: "And did you then
resolve to remain unmarried, until the unknown letter-writer
should come and redeem his vow?"
"I will not say that," answered Ingeborg, who quickly became more
guarded; "but the letter perhaps contained some stronger
requirements than under the circumstances could be fulfilled."
"So! and now?"
"Now I have presented the letter to Miss Brandt."
"You gave it away? Why?"
"Because I learned that the man, who perhaps or probably wrote it
in his youth, has spoken about it publicly, and is counsellor in
one of the courts."
"Oh, I understand," said the cousin, half audibly: "when the ideal
is found out to be a counsellor, then--"
"Then it is not an ideal any longer? No. The whole had been
spoiled by being fumbled in public. I would get away from the
temptation to think of him. Do court to him, announce myself to
him as the happy finder,--I could not."
"That I understand very well," said the cousin, putting her arm
affectionately around Ingeborg's waist; "but why did you just give
Miss Brandt the letter?"
"Because she is acquainted with the counsellor, and indeed, as far
as I could understand, feels somewhat for him. They two can get
each other; and what a wonderful consecration it will be when she
on the marriage-day gives him the letter!"
The cousin said musingly: "And such secrets can live in one whole
year, without another surmising it!" Suddenly she added: "But how
will Miss Brandt on that occasion interpret the word 'Geb'?"
"Oh! I suppose a single syllable is of no consequence; and,
besides, Miss Brandt is a judicious girl," answered Ingeborg, with
an inexpressible flash in the dark eyes.
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