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 And the Emperor, glancing once more to the windows of the proud Felsenburk Palace, rode away in his very best mood.

In the afternoon the Countess, reclining in an armchair, was resting in her chamber. The room looked more like an art gallery than the private apartment of a young lady. Its walls were covered with paintings representing all the castles, mansions, estates and cities which at that time the Felsenburk family had in their possession, and whose mistress she was to become after her father’s death. The Count had the paintings hung there that his daughter, as she rose and retired, might have her enormous wealth before her and take delight in looking at it. On a table by the Countess stood the goblet which the Emperor had given her. Thoughtfully she looked at it.

Quite unexpectedly her father came in; he never came to see her at that hour. His step and manner were prouder than ever. Quietly he seated himself before his daughter, first taking a long, significant look at her and then at the cup.