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 me I knew that a tenderer tie than the mere fondness of a teacher for a gifted pupil bound you to her. But take care, my friend; you remind me of a fly circling round a flame. Do not smile so carelessly and contentedly! If you feel that you are inclined to love her, I advise you as a brother to be planning how to part with her as soon as possible, even though you were sure that she would return your love.”

“Why do you not want me to taste the sweet fruit?”

“Unmerciful is the Felsenburk race, even in love.”

“What do you know about the loves of the Felsenburks?” the harper quickly asked. “I want to know if you have a right to warn me,” he added, trying to appear calm.

“Look at the fate of the deceased Count’s wife, whom he put away; think how he loved as a father. They are all alike at heart, and have always been”

“Always?”