"Yet it is a cruel story," observed Madaline; "the noblest character in it is Pauline."
"She was very proud; and pride, I suppose, must suffer," said the duchess, carelessly.
"She was not too proud, after all, to love a noble man, when she once recognized him, duchess."
"She learned to love the prince--she would never have loved the gardener," remarked Philippa; "it was a terrible vengeance."
"I do not like stories of vengeance," said Madaline. "After all, though, I love the Claude of the story, and find much true nobility in him--much to admire. When reading the play I am tempted all the time to ask myself, How could he do it? It was an unmanly act."
There was a strange light in the dark eyes, a quiver on the scarlet lips, as Philippa said:
"Do you think so? Suppose some one had offended you as Pauline offended Claude--laughing at the love offered, scorned, mocked, despised you--and that such vengeance as his lay in your power; would you not take it?"
The sweet face flushed.
"No, I would rather die," Madaline replied, quickly.
"I would take it, and glory in it," said the duchess, firmly