"May God bless your entrance!" he said, pathetically, yet cordially. "May he reward your generosity. I cannot express myself in words, but--"
"But, Herr Trachtenberg," Agenor said, remonstratingly. His glance rested on Judith, who stood near, pale and trembling.
"I hope you, are not ill?" he cried.
"No--"
"I was afraid--the result of that excitement."
She was embarrassed, and he felt awkward, very much because this pale girl was such a contrast to the vision which had been present to his imagination.
Her father took her hand.
"Are you not going to thank our most gracious count?" he asked. "Please excuse the child," he added--"the recollection of this most painful episode. She can generally find an answer."
"Herr von Wolczinski has learned that. But thanks are unnecessary in this case. Any one would have acted as I did. It is a duty I must have fulfilled towards any lady."
Judith's face brightened. "Any lady?" she repeated, hastily.