Page:Victor Hugo's Works (Guernsey Edition) v14.djvu/62

44 If you had seen how good she was, how gently

She soothed my fears,—for I was sore afraid,—

I'm sure you 'd love her.

Did you learn her name?

I asked it, first, to set it in my prayers,

And then, that you might pray for her.

Her name? [Aside.] I pray!

The Countess Malatesta.

Count Malatesta's wife protect my child!

You have not seen her since?

No; though she urged me

So hard to come to her; and asked my name,

And who my parents were, and where I lived.

You did not tell her?

Who my parents were?

How could I, when I must not know myself?

Patience, my darling; trust thy father's love,

That there is reason for this mystery!