The Opposite House: A Novel — page 116: what you’re looking at

Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.

The Opposite House. 2 Then the curtain was drawn back, and Verja pushed Gretchen upon the stage. “There are afew minutes yet. I'll come pres- ently and arrange the tableau. Refreshments are being served to the audience.” Then she vanished, and the young girl stood alone before Traugott, confused and blushing. Gerrald involuntarily advanced a step toward her as she timidly raised her blue eyes to gaze in silent astonishment at the striking beauty of his appear- ance. “Aunt Verja told me that you would take Count Launers’s place, Herr Gerrald. I thank you for the kindness.” She uttered the few words timidly, almost in a whisper, and scarcely ventured to meet his radiant eyes. “The kindness is to me, baroness,” he answered, hastily. ‘‘ Accept my heartfelt thanks. I can scarcely believe this sudden good fortune—cannot yet grasp the thought which seemed so unattain- able and was so suddenly realized! Forgive me if I perhaps advance to your side too boldly—obey your aunt’s summons too willingly !” Marie looked up, smiling and happy. At last the stage was set for Wartha’s garden. “Isn’t Doctor Brand ready yet?” Verja called back. Comicloo® S 5}