"And in what and why would you be wanting in honour, if you did not marry Mlle. Antonine?"
"Because we have sworn before Heaven to belong to each other, monseigneur," replied Frantz, with restrained energy.
The prince, half reassured, added, however:
"And pray, under what circumstances have you exchanged this oath?"
"Fearing to displease you, monseigneur, or fatigue your attention, I discontinued my story."
"Well, continue it."
"Monseigneur, I fear—"
"Continue,—omit nothing. I wish to know all of this affair."
"The uncle of mademoiselle went out in the evening, monseigneur, and she remained at home alone. The season was so beautiful that Mlle. Antonine spent all her evenings in the garden. We grew better acquainted with each other; we talked long together many times,—she, on the little bench, I, leaning on my elbow on the wall; she told me all about her life; I told her about mine, and, above all, monseigneur, my respectful affection for you, to whom I owe so much. Mlle. Antonine shares this moment my profound gratitude to your Royal Highness."
At this point of the conversation, the sound of a gradually approaching step attracted the attention of the prince. He turned and saw one of his aids, who advanced, but stopped respectfully at a little distance. At a sign from the archduke, the officer came forward.