Page:German Stories (Volumes 2–3).djvu/410

220 answer one word; and it seemed to me a proof that my suggestions had made a deep impression, as he began to dance more furiously than ever. In vain the old Countess begged that he would have some regard for his health; only Libussa’s earnest entreaties prevailed on him at last to sit down, when he was quite breathless and exhausted. Not long afterwards, I saw the bride glide gently out of the room, and, as I thought, tears were visibly glistening in her eyes. It was certainly Libussa; I could not be mistaken, for I stood as near her when she passed, as I now am to you, my Lady Countess. It struck me as remarkable, therefore, that she should return in a very few moments, with an expression of the utmost cheerfulness on her features. I followed her, and, with great surprise, observed, that on coming up to the bridegroom, she immediately led him out among the dancers, and instead of dissuading him as before, seemed to enter into their amusements with as much animation as he did. I observed, too, that after one waltz, the Duke went to bid his father-in-law and the Countess good night. They shook hands, and he retired with Libussa by a private door leading to their bed-room.