Page:Fashions for Men And The Swan Two Plays (NY 1922).pdf/238

 —I implore you, tell me. I[Hopefully.] Tell me. Obey your heart. Take courage, and tell me what above all things in the world I want to hear

—No, no; you are misunderstanding me again. But it's my fault. What I have to tell you is quite painful.

—What is it, your highness?

—It's about a deception that has been practiced on you.

—A deception? [There is a pause.]

—You are a gentleman, and you respect me.

—Your highness

—And I can rely on your discretion.

—Yes.

—Absolutely?

—Absolutely.

—Yes I know you to be a man of honor and a friend of the family and I feel that I shall never have peace of mind again until I tell you My family my mother has but one ambition in life,—to restore our family to its throne. And to that end she wants me to marry the Crown Prince You will understand it is not easy for me to tell you this Every word I speak is like blood flowing from a wound.