Page:Heidi - Spyri - 1922.djvu/253



HE kind doctor who had given the order that Heidi was to be sent home was walking along one of the broad streets toward Herr Sesemann’s house. It was a sunny September morning, so full of light and sweetness that it seemed as if everybody must rejoice. But the doctor walked with his eyes fastened to the ground and did not once lift them to the blue sky above him. There was an expression of sadness on his face, formerly so cheerful, and his hair had grown grayer since the spring. The doctor had had an only daughter, who, after his wife’s death, had been his sole and constant companion, but only a few months previously death had deprived him of his dear child, and he had never been the same bright and cheery man since.

Sebastian opened the door to him, greeting him with every mark of respectful civility, for the doctor was not only the most cherished friend of the master and his daughter, but had by his kindness won the hearts of the whole household. “Everything as usual, Sebastian?” asked the doctor in his pleasant voice as he preceded Sebastian up the stairs.

“I am glad you have come doctor,” exclaimed Herr Sesemann as the latter entered. “We must really have another talk over this Swiss journey; do you still adhere to your decision, even though Clara is decidedly improving in health?”

“My dear Sesemann, I never knew such a man as you!”