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 for her was so ardent that an old tradition about the evil deeds of one of her forefathers would pain you so desperately. Do not weep; that bloody deed has been drowned in the depths of forgetfulness. No one in this world but you and I knows anything about it; it will never reach the Countess. Let her enjoy her wealth and glory in peace; no one denies her the right to them; no one envies her position; no one will trouble her with these ancient stories.”

But the harper seemed to take no heed of the consoling words, abandoning himself to the wildest despair. At last, with a deep sigh, he rose to his feet, and faintly said:

“I thank you for what I have just heard more than for all the preceding; it is possible to expiate the old crime. The Countess must know this, that she may reconcile the”

“What? And why?”

“Surely, you will not refuse to forgive, if you are asked to become reconciled?”