“what do you understand, then?”

“That which your royal highness wishes me to understand,” said Raoul, trembling, notwithstanding his command over himself, as he pronounced these words.

“In point of fact,” murmured the princess� “it seems cruel, but since I have begun — ”

“Yes, Madame, once your highness has deigned to begin, will you condescend to finish — ”

Henrietta rose hurriedly and walked a few paces up and down her room.

“What did M. de Guiche tell you?” she said, suddenly.

“Nothing, Madame.”

“Nothing! Did he say nothing? Ah! how well I recognize him in that.”