Page:The Betrothed.pdf/12

 "I had hoped, my daughter, it was in voluntary humiliation; ill do the gay robes of the bride suit with the meek prayers to be offered in the presence of the dead."

"I pray you to speak your meaning at once!" and Josepha grew pale as marble.

"Your royal highness knows it is your turn to watch and pray by the tomb of the Archduchess Caroline."

Josepha sank fainting against the wainscot of the room.

"The empress will never permit it," cried Pauline, as she sprung to support her mistress; "why, we all know that the archduchess died of the small-pox, and not a creature will enter the chapel."

"I have her grace's commands, who wills that so pious a duty be not neglected. I am sent by her even now to conduct the Duchess of Parma to pay the last duty to her illustrious house."

"Your father—appeal to him," whispered the girl, "but I know that will be of no avail. I conjure you, see your mother yourself!"

"I have seen her," said the duchess, "we parted just now."

Pauline hid her face in her hands.

"I wait your highness's pleasure to conduct you to the chapel."

Josepha rose and prepared to follow.