“If that is one of the conditions, I will enter the prince’s service,” said the young man, evidently suppressing his feelings.
“But Teresa told me you would not enter into service.”
“That is true,” replied the stranger; “but if it is necessary, I will make any sacrifice for her; only, if it were possible, I would be one of the huntsmen rather than a domestic servant.”
“Well,” said the countess, “I will speak of it to the prince, and if he consents—”
“The prince will do all that you wish, madame,” interrupted the young man. “You do not ask, you order; I know that well.”
“But what guarantee have I for your good conduct?” asked the countess.
“My eternal gratitude, madame,” said the young man.
“Still I must know who you are,” said the countess.
“I am a man,” said the stranger, “whom you can make miserable or happy; that is the sum of all.”
“The prince will ask me your name,” said the countess.