“It ain’t my fault,” she said. “You had ought to haf had a doctor, und not vaited so long⁠—it vas too late already ven I come.” Once more there was deathlike stillness. Marija was clutching Jurgis with all the power of her one well arm.

Then suddenly Madame Haupt turned to Aniele. “You haf not got someting to drink, hey?” she queried. “Some brandy?”

Aniele shook her head.

“ Herrgott! ” exclaimed Madame Haupt. “Such people! Perhaps you vill give me someting to eat den⁠—I haf had notting since yesterday morning, und I haf vorked myself near to death here. If I could haf known it vas like dis, I vould never haf come for such money as you gif me.”