It is not nice of you not to want to go
when he is expecting us."
Maezli had talked so eagerly that she not only became absolutely convinced
herself that it would be the greatest wrong if she did not go to see the
Castle-Steward, but produced a similar feeling in Leonore.
"I shall gladly go with you, if you think the sick gentleman does not
object," she said; "I only didn't know whether he would want us."
Maezli was satisfied now, and, gaily talking, led Leonore toward the lofty
iron door. The path led up between fragrant meadows and heavily laden
apple trees, and when they reached their destination, they found it quite
superfluous to ring the bell. Mr. Trius had long ago observed them and
stood immovably behind the door. Hoping that he would open it, the
children waited expectantly, but he did not budge.
"We want to pay a visit to the Castle-Steward," said Maezli. "You'd
better open soon."
"Not for two," was the answer.
"Certainly. We both have to go in, because he is expecting us," Maezli
informed him. "I promised to bring Leonore, so you'd better open."
But Mr. Trius did not stir.
"Come, Maezli, we'd better go back," said Leonore in a low voice. "Can't
you see that he won't open it? Maybe he is not allowed."
But it was no easy matter to turn Maezli from her project.
"If he won't open it I'll scream so loud that the Castle-Steward will
hear it," she said obstinately. "He is sure to say something then, for
he is waiting for us.
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