Konrad and Alexandra (pdf) - Rolf Gross

permission and allow Alexandra to participate in this expedition?"
Dadiani twirled his mustache, embarrassed by Konrad’s insensitive approach to the
touchy subject. "Alexandra mentioned that you had invited her. She is an excellent rider and
has been to parts of the highlands that you plan to visit. She would be of great value to you.
She speaks three East-Georgian dialects, and besides you may have an incomplete idea of the
wild tribes who live in these regions and of their old feuds. These mountain men show limitless
hospitality towards a stranger, but great tact and circumspection is required not to offend their
unwritten tribal rules. Alexandra has this knowledge and could serve you in more ways than as
a translator."
Dadiani lowered his gaze and concentrated on the walnut-filled aubergines and the
spinach puree on his plate. After a few bites he continued. "I have considered the question of
Alexandra’s participation in your expedition. It is unthinkable in our society that a young woman
would participate in such an undertaking without a chaperon. You as the teacher and leader of
the group would have this responsibility. I respect you as a considerate and thoughtful man
whom I trust, but I am not convinced that you are equal to her."
Konrad, finally made aware that his bluntness had been a mistake, waited quietly for an
elaboration. Dadiani looked at him thoughtfully and when Konrad blushed under his gaze,
Dadiani overlooked it tactfully. "You hardly have an idea of the determination and the willpower
of this girl. She has put it into her head to participate in your expedition and neither you nor I
will be able to talk her out of it. I could only forbid her to participate and would like to avoid
that."
Such honesty! He saw the dilemma of this father. Not to reveal his affection for
Alexandra he chose to remain silent.
"I am less worried about my daughter than about you, Herr Rost. Alexandra’s willpower
can be dangerous for a man."
Dadiani bent over the table, reached for the wine carafe and filled their glasses. When
he looked up again he smiled enigmatically. "To a long friendship," he said when they clinked
glasses.
Darkness had fallen. They had finished their meal. The servant cleared the table,
brought a storm light and another decanter, this time with cognac. Dadiani filled the snifter
glasses, and Konrad discovered that the cognac was of the best quality.
"This is another product from Tsinandali. In this case it compares well with French
cognac."
They were silent for a while. Dadiani looked into the candle and sipped his cognac.
Konrad was moved, but still could not fathom Dadiani’s intentions nor understand what was
happening to himself.
"Do you have any plans for tomorrow morning?" Dadiani asked. "The easiest thing
would be for you to stay overnight. A room has been prepared for you, and in this way you will
meet my wife tomorrow morning."
Konrad accepted happily. He felt comfortable in the presence of this man. Where would
Dadiani’s conversation lead? The question fascinated and ensnared him. And in any case,
Dadiani had not yet given his permission for Alexandra to join his expedition.
"What do you know about the dark sides of Georgia?" Dadiani asked. "You think, of
course, that we are extroverts, because we gesticulate with our hands and talk a great deal.
That is a misunderstanding. As you become more familiar with Georgia you will find that we are
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