said Amy , as she tied on her hat next morning , wondering as she did so if the baron would take the same boat . `` As adventures have begun , I feel assured that they will continue to cheer the way ; so resign yourself and be ready for anything , '' replied Helen , carefully arranging her bouquet in her travelling-basket . A tap at the door , which stood half open , made both look up . A tall , brown , gentlemanly man , in a gray suit , with a leathern bag slung over his shoulder , stood there , hat in hand , and meeting Helen 's eyes , bowed respectfully , saying in good English , but with a strong German accent , -- `` Ladies , the major desired me to tell you the carriage waits . '' `` Why , who -- '' began Amy , staring with her blue eyes full of wonder at the stranger . He bowed again , and said , simply , -- `` Karl Hoffman , at your service , mademoiselle . '' `` The courier -- oh , yes ! I forgot all about it . Please take these things . '' Amy began to hand him her miscellaneous collection of bags , books , shawls and cushions . `` I 'd no idea couriers were such decent creatures , '' whispered Amy , as they followed him along the hall . `` Do n't you remember the raptures Mrs. Mortimer used to have over their Italian courier , and her funny description of him ? ` Beautiful to behold , with a night of hair , eyes full of an infinite tenderness , and a sumptuous cheek . ' '' Both girls laughed , and Amy averred that Karl 's eyes danced with merriment as he glanced over his shoulder , as the silvery peal sounded behind him . `` Hush ! he understands English ; we must be careful , '' said Helen , and neither spoke again till they reached the carriage . Everything was ready , and as they drove away , the major , leaning luxuriously back , exclaimed , -- `` Now I begin to enjoy travelling , for I 'm no longer worried by the thought of luggage , time-tables , trains , and the everlasting perplexity of thalers , kreutzers , and pfenniges . This man is a treasure ; everything is done in the best manner , and his knowledge of matters is really amazing . '' `` He 's a very gentlemanly-looking person , '' said Amy , eying a decidedly aristocratic foot through the front window of the carriage , for Karl sat up beside the driver . `` He is a gentleman , my dear .
Many of these XXXXX are well born and educated , but , being poor , prefer this business to any other , as it gives them variety , and often pleasant society .
German Helen Hoffman Italian Karl couriers kreutzers night thalers time-tables