Dr. Cervini laughed. "Oh, you would have little to fear on that score!" Then, tapping the hand of the invalid, "But you and I, Doctor, we professional sinners!—well—that would indeed be humiliating! Our crosses would be heavy!"
The invalid smiled, then looked at the Diva. And the Diva laughed, blushed and shook her head.
"What does he say?"
"It's too foolish to repeat. He's a silly boy."
"I insist upon knowing."
"He says——. No, no. I couldn't repeat it! His brain is affected. His blond wits are wandering."
Dr. Cervini frowned and looked his fiercest. "What manners! Secret messages in the very presence of a guest!"
"Well—he says the unspoken thoughts of a grateful world might intoxicate me, and he doesn't enjoy drunkards."
Dr. Cervini laughed. "No, you are mistaken, Doctor. She has already survived that test. No living conqueror has sailed in triumph on such seas of glory. No other queen or goddess has achieved her victory without losing something of the simplicity, the freshness and the charm of youth. The hearts of men are hers. To entrance the world, to——"