This experienced impertinence gave me back my self-confidence. 'You are mistaken, I do not need a cab.' God bless you, darling mother, for your veil, which allowed me to observe him while he could see nothing but my black helmet. With some uncertainty in his glance, he tried in vain to pierce through my mask. Then he said, feeling his way, 'Is it worth while sending the cab away at once? I mean one is always more sheltered.' I said quickly, 'Please, send it away,' and I rejoiced in my cold-bloodedness. He bowed slightly to me, went back to the cab, paid the driver and gave him a message, and the cab went quickly away in the direction of the Boulevard.
We were alone. I said, 'Let us walk on,' and I went towards the Klampenborg Station, he following at my side. After a short pause he said, 'Well?'
'Well,' I repeated.
'Well, dear lady, what was it you wanted to ask me?'
Unfortunately I had quite forgotten to have a question ready, and to gain time I said, 'It is a wager between a man and myself. He has bet me six bottles of French perfume.'
'And it is I who have to decide the wager?'
'Yes, if you will be so kind. It means a great deal to me.'
'Six bottles of French perfume. Well, let me hear.'
'I should like very much to know—please do tell me—is Mörch your real name or your theatrical name?'
