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Rh Flavia's residence. I was recognized as I went, and heartily cheered. I played my part, and made shift to look the happy lover. In spite of my depression I was almost amused at the coolness and delicate hauteur with which my sweet love received me. She had heard that the king was leaving Strelsau on a hunting expedition.

"I regret that we cannot amuse your Majesty here in Strelsau," she said, tapping her foot lightly on the floor. "I would have offered you more entertainment, but I was foolish enough to think——"

"Well, what?" I asked, leaning over her.

"That for just a day or two, after—after last night—you might be happy without much gayety; "and she turned pettishly from me, as she added, "I hope the boars will be more engrossing."

"I'm going after a very big boar," said I; and, because I could not help it, I began to play with her hair, but she moved her head away.

"Are you offended with me?" I asked in feigned surprise, for I could not resist tormenting her a