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 everywhere, even where no one yet has ever ruled—in my heart!”

“I take you at your word, illustrious master,” the young lady exclaimed. “But I do not wish to rule, I only ask to be allowed to speak the truth to you, to be allowed to advise, and to be heard and regarded. In return for such favor I promise the most profound and unlimited devotion.”

And the Countess pressed the Emperor’s hand, which still held hers, not, however, rapturously, as he had wished and expected, but sincerely and respectfully. It was a queenly form standing before him in the purple evening light, dressed in a gown of violet velvet; and the head, from which hung a long black veil fastened here and there to her curls with pearl pins, was indeed worthy of a crown.

The Emperor’s eyes were still resting on Maria Felicia’s face, but she continued in the same earnestness, heeding not his feeling, and considering not the footing on which she closed the agreement with him.

“I will at once proceed according to your