'What would the army—what would all Paris, say?'
'I will marry you with joy, Nicola, and take you home to my own dear country. The Countess—'
'Countess again!'
'Pardon me, dearest, I am not about to praise her, but merely to say that she has promised that through the powerful interference of Richelieu and King Louis, the cruel act which proscribes me shall be rescinded; and I know she will keep that promise. At home, I have lands, broad acres of corn and meadow, that lie by the banks of the Dee; I have fell and forest, a tower and hall, where your merry laugh shall make the echoes joyous again; and all that I have, with my heart and love, will I share with you, Nicola,' said I, borne away by the honest ardour of my passion, and the impulses of youth.
I felt her tremble still more, and her tears fell fast upon my cheek.
'Were I to admit that I loved you, would you be more devoted to me?'
'Impossible! I could not be more devoted than I now am.'
'Oh, silly M. Blane! I heard you once say nearly the same thing to that woman d'Amboise.'
'No more of these memories, dearest Nicola, or I shall sink with shame!'
'Then let us be silent!'