Page:Marquis de Sade - Adelaide of Brunswick.djvu/84

 take advantage of this moment to find out from my father how it is that we find him in this place."

"The Prince of Saxony," said the Major, "in forcing me to leave my castle, sent me to command some troops, and since I was in disgrace, I was not happy there. Since I had studied law in my youth, I went into practice and in a few months I was asked to take this position—and it was very fortunate for you and for me since I find again my princess and my daughter.

At this point Bathilda told her father of the desire she had of staying with him, but the good Kreutzer persuaded his daughter that, since the princess was in such an unhappy situation, it was her duty to stay with her and to do all she could to help her. He then turned to the question of their escape.

"If I were freer myself," he said, "I could simply open the doors and let you go. But you cannot realize the severity of this court. I would be put in your place immediately, if I did anything like that. I can only get you out of here secretly, and without being able to get any other clothes for you. I do have four hundred florins which should help you to get to Dresden where I advise you, Milady, to take up again your position in the world."

"Do you suppose that I would return to the man who has had me locked up and whose rage even pursues me in this court? No. I would never do that!"

"Who assures you," said Kreutzer, "that his feelings have not changed and that he is doing the impossible to get you back. It is certain that he is looking for you."

"In order to kill me."

"Ah," said the father of Bathilda, "don't be so harsh toward him."

"My dear Kreutzer, I do not love him, and I cannot be near a man from whom I have so much to fear."

"But will you spend your life running over Germany? Does this role suit the Princess of Saxony?"

"No, I agree, my duty calls me near the one whom my heart rejects. I will wait to see what time brings. When I am convinced that my husband is no longer after me, I will retire to some obscure place and await events."