Panna became much dispirited and out of temper. She again saw beloved
illusions disappear. She had imagined everything to be far smoother,
more simple, easier, and now here also there were difficulties. She
dejectedly followed her guide into an office, where she had all sorts
of questions to answer about her name, residence, etc., and the purpose
which brought her here. To the last inquiry she gave the curt
information: "I am seeking justice from the king against an unjust
sentence." Then she received a card with a number and a date, and was
dismissed with the remark that she must be there again with her
petition a fortnight thence, on Thursday, punctually at twelve o'clock,
noon.
She had desired to keep her purpose a secret from every one in the
village; but this was now impossible, for she could not prepare the
petition alone. So she went to the gardener, who had obtained another
place, and initiated him into her plans. He eagerly dissuaded her from
the step, since nothing would come of it, but Panna remained immovable
in her confidence in the result.
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