“It is a vow that I have made,” said she.

“And which you will keep, beautiful vestal?”

“I hope so.”

“Apropos,” said the queen, “I remember, that although unmarried, you have a master since yesterday morning.”

“A master, madame?”

“Yes, your dear brother; what do you call him?—Philippe, is it not?”

“Yes, madame.”

“Has he arrived?”

“He came yesterday.”

“And you have not yet seen him? I took you away to Paris, selfish that I was; it was unpardonable.”