The self-possessed, quiet manner of Mrs. Birkenfeld had an excellent effect on Mrs. Ehrenreich, and she acquiesced in this proposal without the slightest demur.  Indeed the path of the future, that had looked so beset with difficulties, seemed now to lie smooth before her, and all her prospects were brightened.  She spoke with great thankfulness on her husband’s account; for he already found himself so improved by the fresh air and quiet of the summer house, and he was so thoroughly comfortable and contented there, that he could hardly bear to leave it, even to come in at night.

When Mrs. Birkenfeld rose to go, she cordially invited Aunt Ninette to come often to see her in the garden, saying that she must find it lonely in the cottage, and that the open air would be good for her also.  Aunt Ninette was much gratified by this courtesy, and accepted it with pleasure; quite forgetting the noise of the children, which had been so great a bugbear to her.

Dora had sprung out of bed that morning as soon as she opened her eyes, for the thought of the pleasure before her made her heart dance for joy.  She had to curb her impatience however for a time, for Mrs. Ehrenreich did not approve of imposing upon people who were inclined to be neighborly.  It was not till Mrs. Birkenfeld had come over to the cottage, and after talking some time with the aunt had asked after Dora and repeated her invitation, that the little girl was allowed to go.  This time she did not stand still and look shyly about; with a few springing steps she reached the house, and at the door of the sitting-room she was received with a chorus of welcoming voices; while Wili and Lili and little Hunne and Paula all ran out to meet her, and draw her in among them.  Julius, just returned from his ride, had thrown himself as usual into an arm-chair, stretching out his legs, as an intimation that he should like to have his boots pulled off.  Dora ran forward and offered her services, frankly desirous of making herself useful.  But Jule instantly drew in his long legs.

“No, no, Dora; not for the world; what are you thinking about?” he cried, jumping up and very politely offering Dora his chair.  Before she could take it, the twins pulled her away; saying “Come with us!” and Hunne tugged at her dress behind, calling loud, “Come with me!” while Paula reaching over him, whispered softly in her ear, “Go first with the twins; or they will keep this up all day; bye and bye I will come to you, and then we can have some comfort together.”

“Dora,” said Jule, waving off the three noisy creatures, “I advise you to stay by me; it is your only hope of a happy existence in this house-hold; for I can tell you if you go with Paula, you will grow too romantic; you will scarcely breathe the fresh air, and will lose your appetite completely.  If you take Rolf for your companion, your whole existence will become one great perpetual riddle.”

“That it will be at any rate,” remarked Miss Hanenwinkel, who was passing through the room at that moment.