Laura's arms were around his neck. Eugene drew her passionately to his heart. "Must I then go without thee?" murmured he.
"Yes, my Eugene; this time thou goest alone. But be patient and hopeful, and thy spouse will find means to escape from her jailer."
"I cannot go," cried Eugene, despairingly. "Nor can I leave my enemy's house like a frightened cur, while the woman I love remains to bear his anger. He must—he shall renounce my wife!"
"That is, you would see me murdered before your eyes!" exclaimed
Laura, well knowing what argument would move him most to discretion.
"Eugene, he has sworn to assassinate me, if I ever speak to you—
and, believe me, he will keep his oath."
"And I must leave my treasure in his bloodthirsty hands?" cried the prince, pressing her still more closely in his arms.
"The tiger will do me no harm, Eugene, if thou wilt go before he sees thee."
"Your highness," said Victorine, imploringly through the portiere, "for God's sake, tarry no longer!"
Laura, freeing herself from his embrace, led him to the door. "Farewell, my beloved," said she. "God is merciful, and will reunite us."
"One more look into those dear eyes, one more kiss from those sweet lips."
"Oh, your highness!" whispered Victorine, a second time.