“I am eighteen, Sabina,” said Gustav, not altogether successful in camouflaging his annoyance.

“Of course. I’d forgotten about your birthday.”

“You were at my party.”

“I remember now.”

“How could you forget? You danced with me most of the evening.”

“Forgive me. It just slipped my mind, that’s all.”

“Slipped your mind! It was the biggest social event Niedersdorf has seen in years. Your cousin said it was the equal of any party in Berlin.”

“I was wrong. I’m sorry I forgot about your birthday. Now, I have apologized twice. What do you want from me, Gustav?” said Sabina, at last becoming exasperated.

“You might accept my mother’s invitation to dinner. She is beginning to think you do not like her.”

“That is ridiculous, Gustav. I have a suspicion you’re just saying that to get back at me. I don’t think your mother has said anything of the kind.”

Gustav did not reply immediately, shifting awkwardly on his feet. “At least, then, would you like to go for a ride?” he asked after a moment. “I have my new automobile.”

“I don’t think so. I do not think it would be right for me to leave my guest like that.”

“Your guest?”

“Our guest, then.”

“Then shall we at least take a walk in your father’s garden before I return home?” said Gustav, doing his best to moderate his vexation and put a pleasant tone over his tense features.

“I don’t think so, Gustav. I’m afraid I’m not in the right mood for a walk.”

“You used to take me to the garden all the time. We played there nearly every day when we were children. You used to tell me the name of every plant, every tree, every exotic shrub your father had imported. Surely you have not forgotten.”

Sabina said nothing.

“Have things really changed so much that you do not even want to go into the garden with me? I’m sure your mother would be as disappointed as mine to hear of it, Sabina.”

“I’m sorry, Gustav. We’ll walk in the garden the next time you come. I promise. But I just cannot today. Give your mother my best. Good day.”

Sabina turned and reentered the house, leaving Gustav at the base of the steps, standing as still as the rearing horse behind him.

And with similar expression in his eyes.

20 The Invalid

20

The Invalid