80
spite of some confusion, gave her pleasure. He, however, felt the tender softness of the little hand, so entirely conceded to him, and there continued before his eyes the black silhouettes of her little foot, and the small slipper which tenderly and fondly enclosed it. There was something exciting and awaking disquietude as he observed her dress and dainty little foot, but with an exertion of will he finally restrained himself. Then he felt within his heart such a joy, such a happiness! His breast felt so free that he longed to sing with all his heart, to hold up his hands to the sky and to cry: “Run, I will run after you!”
From all these usual lover-like desires tears came into their eyes. The shades disappeared, and the dust on the road became gray and cool, but they did not notice that, for they were chirping like birds. Both had already read many
