"Y-e-s," she answered hesitatingly, "I will be your wife if--if I can, and if you will take me when you learn who I am. There is no taint of disgrace about me, Max," she added quickly, in response to the look of surprise on his face. "But I am not worthy of you, and I fear that if your father but knew my unworthiness, he would refuse his consent to our marriage. You must not tell him of my boldness. I will tell you all about myself before you leave for Styria, and then, if you do not want me, you may leave me to--to die."
"I shall want you, Yolanda. I shall want you. Have no doubt of that," he answered.
"With the assurance that there is no stain or taint upon me or my family, do you give me your word, Max, that you will want me and will take me, whoever I am, and will not by word or gesture show me that you are angry or that you regret your promise?"
"I gladly give you that promise," answered Max.
"Did you ever tell a lie, Little Max?" she asked banteringly, "or did you ever deliberately break a promise?"
"Did I ever steal or commit wilful murder?" asked Max, withdrawing his arm.
"No, Max; now put it back again," she said.
After a long pause she continued:--
"I have lied."
Max laughed and drew her to him.