Page:Buddenbrooks vol 1 - Mann (IA buddenbrooks0001mann).pdf/110

RV 98 (BUDDENBROOKS) usque tandem&mdash;Catalina’. . . ahem. Oh, I have not forgotten quite all my Latin.”

“I disagree with my late Father on this point,” the Consul said. “I have always objected to the perpetual occupation of young heads with Greek and Latin. When there are so many other important subjects, necessary as a preparation for the practical affairs of life&mdash;”

“You take the words out of my mouth,” Herr Grünlich hastened to say. “It is hard reading, and not by any means always unexceptionable&mdash;I forgot to mention that point. Everything else aside, I can recall passages that were positively offensive&mdash;”

There came a pause, and Tony thought “Now it’s my turn.” Herr Grünlich had turned his gaze upon her. And, sure enough: he suddenly started in his chair, made a spasmodic but always highly elegant gesture toward the Frau Consul, and whispered ardently, “Pray look, Frau Consul, I beg of you.&mdash;Fräulein, I implore you,” he interrupted himself aloud, just as if Tony could not hear the rest of what he said, to keep in that same position for just a moment. Do you see,” he began whispering again, “how the sunshine is playing in your daughter’s hair? Never,” he said solemnly, as if transported, speaking to nobody in particular, “have I seen more beautiful hair.” It was as if he were addressing his remarks to God or to his own soul.

The Consul’s wife smiled, well pleased. The Consul said, “Don’t be putting notions into the girl’s head.” And again Tony drew her brows together without speaking. After a short pause, Herr Grünlich got up. “But I won’t disturb you any longer now&mdash;no, Frau Consul, I refuse to disturb you any longer,” he repeated. “I only came on business, but I could not resist&mdash;indeed, who could resist you? Now duty calls. May I ask the Consul&mdash;”

“I hope I do not need to assure you that it would give us pleasure if you would let us put you up while you are here,” said the Frau Consul. Herr Grünlich appeared for the

RV 98 (98)