"If you threaten Count Gustav, you threaten the whole Patriotic cause; and if I could tell you the things that have been done to build up that great national movement even you might be daunted and turned from your purpose."
"Not while I live," I cried, resolutely.
"You are your father's child. He was as staunch and brave and fearless as any man that ever drew breath, but he was broken, and was but one of many victims. A policy of this stern kind has no bowels of compassion for man, woman, or child. Pray God you may never have to look in vain for that compassion."
"You almost frighten me," I said. His earnestness was so intense.
"No, nothing can do that, I am sure. If I could indeed frighten you out of this purpose of yours, I would; but instead, I will help you. I have many means, of course; and will exhaust them all. Go now, and let me think for you."
As we rose he stumbled against the table on which stood the chess board. He turned to me with a smile.
"I am afraid it will be some time before we play again. But the day will come, Christabel. It shall, or I am no player at this other game."
And with this note of confidence we parted.