“Recognized both the tutor and the child, too! I am wrong, thought he recognized them, both living, cheerful, happy, and flourishing, the one in a green old age, the other in the flower of his youth. Judge after that what truth can be attributed to the rumors which are circulated, or what faith, after that, placed in anything that may happen in the world! But I am fatiguing your majesty; it was not my intention, however, to do so, and I will take my leave of you, after renewing to you the assurance of my most respectful devotion.”
“Stay, duchesse; let us first talk a little about yourself.”
“Of myself, madame! I am not worthy that you should bend your looks upon me.”
“Why not, indeed? Are you not the oldest friend I have? Are you angry with me, duchesse?”
“I, indeed! what motive could I have? If I had reason to be angry with your majesty, should I have come here?”
“Duchesse, age is fast creeping on us both; we should be united against that death whose approach cannot be far off.”
“You overpower me, madame, with the kindness of your language.”
“No one has ever loved or served me as you have done, duchesse.”
“Your majesty is too kind in remembering it.”
“Not so. Give me a proof of your friendship, duchesse.”