"The tower gate was closed and locked. He asked where were the keys, and as I said in the pocket of the wardress, who slept within, he sent me there to get them.
"Five minutes after we were in the street. I took his arm and we ran to the end of Subiaco village. A hundred paces beyond the last house a postchaise was waiting, all ready. We got in, and off it went at a gallop."
"And no violence was done you? No threat was proffered? You followed the man willingly?"
Lorenza remained mute.
"Her royal highness asks you, Lorenza, if by threat or act I forced you to follow me."
"No; I went because I loved you, darling."
With a triumphant smile, Count Fenix turned round to the royal princess.