The Opposite House: A Novel — page 97: what you’re looking at

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

92 Lhe Opposite House. he went back to usher the visitors through the long suite of apartments to the baroness’s drawing-room. Frau von Rotterswyl rose slowly and greeted the newcomers with a slight bend of the head. “Tam glad that Doctor Brand has accompanied you, Verja!’ she said curtly, inviting them, by a wave of the hand, to be seated. “I have long de- sired to make your acquaintance, Herr Brand. I noticed you as you rode by.” The gentleman bowed respectfully. The old lady’s singularly abrupt manner somewhat confused him. “Tf I had suspected, baroness, that I should be permitted to call, I would have done myself the honor of paying a visit here earlier. I have had the good fortune of making your daughter’s acquaint- ance.” “T know it,” replhed the baroness, her keen eyes resting searchingly upon the pallid features of her companion. Then she turned to Verja. ‘‘ Wouldn't you like to go up to Marie’s room? She would be delighted to have a visit from you.” The young wife’s white brow was contracted by a slight frown. “There will be time for that afterward,” she said; “but if you wish—”’ “Yes, I do wish it,” repeated Baroness von Rot- terswyl, calmly ; and Verja, rising, left the room. CoOmicbook<s 5}