Spring! My window is wide open. Late last evening Gretel and I looked out on to the street. The air was warm and balmy. And when I looked at the corner, where the street lamp spreads a weak light, I suddenly saw a shadow. I saw it and I did not — I know that I did not see it — I closed my eyes and I could suddenly see through my eyelids. There stood the miserable creature, in the pale lamp light, and I saw her face very clearly, as if the yellow sunshine were on it, and I saw in the pale, emaciated face those wounded eyes. Then I walked slowly away from the window and sat down at my desk; the candle sputtered in the breeze. And I remained motionless, for I knew that the poor creature was standing at the corner, waiting. If I had dared to touch the faded flowers I would have taken them out of the vase and brought them to her. Thus I thought, and I did so sincerely, yet I knew all the while that it was foolish. Now Gretel also left the window and came over to the back of my chair where she remained a moment to touch my hair with her lips. Then she went and left me alone.