The empress waved her hand impatiently. "Enough," said she, "let me go my way!"
"But I have a petition to make, and as it is the last favor I shall ever ask, I hope your majesty will not deny me."
"Speak your wish," replied Maria Theresa hastily.
"I beg of your majesty to allow me to quit your service," replied the man moodily. "I cannot forget the words of Maria Theresa. I will not skulk away from the world while I have strength to work. I am tired of the idle life I lead. It is summer, and there is no fire to kindle. As for the poor unfortunates whom I used to visit, I can do them no good; their benefactress is no more. I must do something, or life will be a burden; and if your majesty will condescend to give me leave, I shall seek another place."
"Another place, Stockel!" said the empress. "What other place?"
"A place in the household of the REIGNING empress," answered Stockel with a low inclination.
Maria Theresa raised her head, and her astonishment was visible in her large, open eyes.
"The reigning empress?" said she musing. "Who can that be?"
"The wife of the reigning emperor, your majesty," said Stockel grimly.
The empress threw back her proud head, and drew her mantle convulsively around her.