"I spoke truly, you see, Miss Leslie," he said. "I cannot tell you with what joy and pride—yes, pride!—Signor Alfero's words filled me. But we will not speak of them again to-night; though I trust they have made you as happy as they have made me."
There was something in his voice which half frightened Margaret, and, as she looked up to reply, she found his eyes fixed upon her with a light in them which caused hers to droop, though why she knew not.
"The signor—every one—has been too good to me," she said.
"No," he said, with a suppressed earnestness. "That no one who knows you could be."
He was silent a moment, then he looked round.
"Ah, how glad I am to be at home!" but as he spoke his eyes returned to her face.
"And they are all glad to have you, prince," said Margaret.
"All?" he said. "May I include you, Miss Leslie?"
A faint flush rose to Margaret's face, then it grew pale again.
"I?" she said. "Oh, yes, I am glad!"